Miscellaneous, etc.

Buffet Patience

2011-04-28T08:39:00.001-07:00

You patient 'lil birds! Life is good & busy. Right? My dance recital is on Saturday & I can no longer touch my toes. For a dancer it's a little humiliating, but I'm coping with poking & prodding my sweet "peanut" as he nudges me back. Oh for the things to come lovey. :)

So we are in the works of a great room transformation! We figure since we will be in our house for a few more years instead of moving... we'll make some changes to freshen it up & make it new to us. Luckily we know how to do it cheap.
The first of many changes to come...

WE SOLD OUR ENTERTAINMENT CENTER!!!!!

And lookie here what's replaced her...

A big beautiful wall!

Remember her?

& her. {sigh} She's had a complete face lift.
And although she's not fully decorated yet... she will be very soon.

A new t.v. Welcome to the digital age Hinzes.

new hardware from Lowe's & Hobby Lobby.

Total cost of buffet transformation?
Buffet: $100
Paint: $10 for a quart (Dove white from Valspar)
Hardware: $45

$155
Not bad since I was coveting this from Ballard Design for a whopping $800...

Other things in the works...

pictures
repainted bookcase
new Craigslist Nightstands
new picture wall
NEW PAINT COLOR!!!!

Can't wait! Is this called nesting? Hm...
Well our nest is going to be lovely.

Hallelujah!

2011-03-31T14:05:00.001-07:00

Lookie here at what I just picked up today.  Been lookin' for one for months & holy cow you'll never guess how I found her.  {Story to come...I promise.}

Take a look at her.  Can't wait to get my paintin' hands on her great bones.  She's a great one & only cost me $100. 
Check back next week to see what I do with her.

Now I just have to sell this Razmataz puppy.  Any takers?

Yawn

2011-03-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

see image here

see image here
Next month Hus & I will be celebrating our 10-year-anniversary.

How did that happen?  Where does the time go? 

Old people usually give their random two cents with cheesy grins at the grocery store. (In an old person voice), "Enjoy those kids because 'time goes so fast.'" This statement is usually followed by a sentimental expression that makes me want to smack their wrinkled old cheek because my kids are running around asking for sugary cereal or fighting over who gets to ride on the "fun side" of the dang cart. Usually I want to mutter, "Seriously? Do you not see this? This is going to last FOREVER!!!" But yesterday when I was sitting at my kitchen counter with two littles on my lap & one squirming in my belly I thought,
"Time goes so fast. How in the world did I get 3 kids?"

Old people are so wise.

10 years of marriage & 12 years together, I'm still learning stuff about Hus. Most recently last night while lying in bed, I began to wind down & yawned deeply as my body relaxed & sunk further into our plush mattress.

Hus laughs. "I can't stand how you yawn like that. So airy & loud."

My body stiffens slightly. "What?"

"It's kind of obnoxious."

Shocked a bit. "You are annoyed by my yawns?"

He pauses. "Only because you do it every night about 15 times before you go to sleep." He pauses again. "Every night for ten years."

I smile because I know he's not really mad. But I can't control it. I yawn again.

"Oh come on!"

"I can't help it. It's what my body does." I feel a little self conscious as I feel another one creeping on, aching to make it's way free. I slowly open my mouth & try to be quiet & as I do so, Hus joins in with his own yawning imitation. I stop in mid yawn unsatisfied by the anticlimactic effect of relaxation, feeling jipped.

I try again & he joins in--mocking me yet again.

RRR... now my blood starts to boil making all my previous yawns worthless.

He releases another yawn in a sudden gust & I roll my eyes in the darkness.

It's quiet for a moment & his voice changes. "Hm... that actually feels really good. My eyes are watering. Why are my eyes watering? I have tears."

I chuckle. "So are mine. That's what happens when you yawn like that."

"Wow. They're like relaxing tears. It seriously feels really good."

I want to laugh out loud, but I contain myself. "So you're saying my obnoxious yawns are awesome?"

"Yeah, I guess I am."

It was a hilarious exchange that could have ended very differently--like him sleeping on the couch. But instead it brought us closer. My supposed weakness is now fantastic & I can't wait to see if obnoxiously yawning will become a nightly routine for both of us now.

Here's to marriage & male evolution.

The Arizona Renaissance Festival

2011-03-11T12:00:00.000-08:00

The last time I visited the Renaissance Festival was the spring of 1994.   My shorts were short, my Nike's were white & my hair was straight  & parted in the middle.  But the only thing that seemed to be  different nearly 15 years later at this grand festival... was me.   I guess that's the nostalgia of the Renaissance.  It's a magical place  stuck somewhere in time, unchanged, in which we can go & visit for a  short time.

Husband & I thought it would be a fun & "out  of the box" family experience to take the kids to this seasonal 30-acre  village.  Well it was.   We chowed on bread bowls & cold brews, bought mythical crafts,  laughed at the acrobat comedians, chatted with the village folk, got  sprinkled with fairy dust, watched a jousting tournament & shouted  for our favorite knight, pet day old lambs, rode the butterfly rides,  the dragon slide & jumped on the ginormous trampoline apparatus.   Phew... I'm just tired writing it... you can imagine my pregnant exhaustion after the entire hullabaloo.

So  although a bit more cleavage may have been seen than I'd like  (especially by Son) & some interesting folks came out of the  woodwork in the later hours... it was well worth it.

My only regret is not splurging on a turkey leg.  Son would have LOVED it.

Grainy.... I know.

The kids' favorite part - Twig the Fairy. She reaches in her pouch, hands them a star, glass stone & sprinkles their hands with fairy dust. It was magical.

She mesmerized Dot by playing her flute.

My knight & princess

Don't let go Dad. Hhhhheavy!

The Dragon slide was a thumbs up!

That's just awesome.

Royalty.

The car ride home.

Nighty night.

Can't wait until next year!

With one more knight of course.

Irish Time - Week One - Corned Beef & Cabbage

2011-03-08T13:18:00.001-08:00

My father {Marty, as I like to call him. Because he's Martha incarnate in the male form}, is one of the best cooks EVER. He taught me everything I know about cooking {besides you Mom} & his daring innovative in the kitchen makes him a marvel to watch.

We were always blessed with good home-cooked meals filled with wholesome ingredients, time & love. I try to exemplify this in my cooking for my family & now I'm passing along some of our traditional meals for this festive time of year. One will come today {Corned beef & Cabbage} & one will come next week {Corned beef Sandwiches - Rubens}. Be sure to cook the first on March 17th & use the leftover meat for the next recipe meal. Double Irish score. And although I'm mostly Scottish, it's the same island, so close enough.

Corned Beef & Cabbage
allrecipes.com

Ingredients

3 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet
10 small red potatoes
5 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces
1 large head cabbage, cut into small wedges

Directions

Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender.
Add whole potatoes and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove meat and let rest 15 minutes.
Place vegetables in a bowl & cover. Add as much broth (cooking liquid reserved in the Dutch oven or large pot) as you want. Slice meat across the grain.

Enjoy mates!

Happy Birthday Hus!

2011-03-04T09:56:00.000-08:00

Oh life has been busy.  And I PROMISe I have so many fun things to post.  Raising a righteous seed, teaching dance, being a good wife & growing this baby have taken up a wee bit of time this month.

HOWEVER... I could not let Hus' b-day go by without telling the world I am so fortunate to be married to the funniest, kindest, most compassionate, loving, talented, handsomest person I've ever met.

I hope your day was filled with as much love as intended.  Thank you for making our life bliss.

Happy Birthday Hinze!

New Reads

2011-02-10T12:16:00.000-08:00

It's always fun to take the kids to the library to find some new reads. On our last outing we found this gem called "The Cheese" by Margie Palatini. I thought it appropriate because the kids have been singing "The Farmer in the Dell" for months & this book has a fun twist on the bizarre nursery rhyme. So we've been enjoying this in our nightly repertoire for reading time the past week or two.

After taking Son to school today, Dot & I returned for an afternoon snack. I opened one of our coveted canned peaches & scooped it with a big spoonful of cottage cheese. Dot looked at me warily & began eating her peaches. When her peaches were digesting nicely in her tummy she started to get down without touching, or looking at her helping of cottage cheese.

I simply said, "What about your cottage cheese?"

With seriousness & resolve she continued climbing down off her stool & looked at me in the eyes like I'd forgotten an important rule, "But the cheese stands alone Mom."

She toddled off as I bit my lip & giggled at my child's conclusion. That smart cuss.

How do I argue with that? Apparently the cheese does stand alone.

Chick-fil-A

2011-02-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

The kids are big fans of Chik fil A. When my Mom showed us this clip we got a good laugh. Look up Tim's other videos. Hil-arious! Enjoy!

Mmm... waffle fries.

And boys... watch & learn.

Fletcher Family Chicken Noodle Soup

2011-02-01T12:07:00.000-08:00

Supposedly this recipe is older than dirt & has been in our family since Great Grandma used to hang her noodles to dry in the attic. However, I have given it just enough Heather to make it feel like my very own. I cook with reckless abandonment so I'll do my best to give "precise" measurements.

There is nothing better on a cold day or night. There is nothing that suffices a runny nose or hacking cough. And there is definitely NOTHING that simply warms your belly & makes you feel oh-so-good like homemade chicken noodle soup. Buckle up. This could get messy.

Egg Noodles: (Repeat this recipe 3-4 times rolling your mixture into little balls)
1 egg
1 T. milk (I used rice milk)
3/4 c. flour
dash of sea salt

Mix together then knead with your hands to form into balls while you make another. Roll out your various balls of dough one at a time on a floured surface. Cut your noodles into your desired strip width & length using a pizza cutter. Toss with flour & you can let them sit to dry on your counter in preparation for the remaining steps. They'll keep.

Chicken Stock:
1 whole free-range chicken 2 organic carrots, 3 stalks of celery, leaves & hearts too 2 garlic cloves 1 bay leaf 2 sprigs of fresh parsley 1/2 medium sized onion, halved 1/2 T. sea salt
1/8 t. pepper (more if you'd like) 3-4 q. water

Fresh Vegetables:
4 organic carrots, peeled & chopped into cute lil circles
4 celery stalks, peeled & chopped
handful of parsley, finely chopped

Fill large stock pot with 3-4 quarts of water, enough to immerse the entire chicken. Cook on medium heat until boiling. Add stock vegetables & lower heat to cook for 1 1/2 - 2 hours, partially covered, until the chicken is done. Add more water to keep chicken covered while simmering.

Carefully remove the whole chicken & allow to cool on a cutting board. When it is cool enough to work with discard the skin & bones & hand shred the meat placing it in a large bowl.

Strain the remaining broth into another bowl separating the vegetables from your broth. Place your strained broth back into your stockpot adding your fresh chopped vegetables. Simmer for 5 minutes. Add your noodles to the stockpot gradually so they do not stick together. Add chicken & let soup simmer for another 30 minutes.

When noodles are tender, dish out & enjoy with homemade rolls or bread & season more with salt & pepper if desired.

{We lucked out because as we sat for dinner last night a family came by selling freshly baked bread to help support their brother on a mission, like they do every Monday night. We like to help out, but we were especially grateful for it last night. Yum!}

Enjoy!

Mommy Perks

2011-01-31T13:40:00.000-08:00

{image found here}

Do any of you out there play mind games? Well, I never supposed I did. Not saying it's beneath me, but I'm a direct person. Even with myself. So as the years have gone by if there has been something I've needed or wanted I've either saved for it, or gotten it for myself. Now this is not to say I get everything I want. Husband's frugal-ness has rubbed off a great deal to my previous spoiled child self. But... I've never looked at these things as rewards or perks.

Until today.

I realized today Mommy Perks are fabulous. Not only are they are great idea -- I think they are a must for not only sanity, but our self identity as well. What do I mean? Nothing extravagant. Just something everyday to remind yourself you are a thinking, breathing, individual with a brain, heart & soul who needs a momentary break from wiping bums, cutting crust, scrubbing grout & creating crafty crap.

So I began to wonder what are some of my Mommy Perks I give myself? Things I can do each day to make me feel... what's the word... balanced. My list of one-a-day perks grew & grew & grew in my mind until I starting becoming excited about my little treasures.

A hot {childless} bath with candles & music
Weekly DATE NIGHT... a must. It reminds us why we were so great together to begin with.
4 Trader Joe's chocolate raspberry sticks
A car wash by someone else
Reading my scriptures in the quiet morning before the kids awaken
My hour at the gym everyday
Conjuring up a new recipe I've never thought of before & making it
Watching an Alias with Hus (we're on the final season)
Treating myself to a new Lavender bar of soap from Trader Joe's
Actually doing my eye make-up, eye-liner, primer, shadow... the works
Time to e-mail a good friend just to say hi & how great she is
Taking a dance class
Cleaning by my lonesome, but playing Coldplay or Pandora
Girls Night
Cleaning my wedding ring, making it shine like it once had
Watching a really good DVRed Oprah
Writing
Nightly time with Hus filled with laughter & compliments
Monthly pregnancy massage with Kara... my FAVORITE!

Creating this made me think of what other Mommies must indulge in. What are some of your Mommy Perks? Let me know. What are those saving graces you have for yourself so that you don't wind up on the news or in some Looney Bin? I know when I get one of these a day I am a better Mom. I hope you all take the time & genuinely invest in yourself so you are a better wife, mother, person, friend... ect. to all around you. Enjoy.

P.S... Oh, & since we are having some rainy cool weather, I've decided to make some homemade chicken noodle soup this evening to warm us up -- a family recipe & a favorite. Check out tomorrow's post for the recipe. Now that's a perk.

Trucks, Blue & ... gulp.... Circumcisions

2011-01-24T13:33:00.000-08:00

Baby number 3 was not shy last week. He - yes - HE! let it all hang out. Husband, Son & I pensively sat waiting for news about his health & then held our breath as our doctor stilled our baby's bum on the screen. This wasn't anything like our first ultrasound appointment in which the screen resembled a galaxy in outer space where bizarre shapes & creatures reside; we're old pros now knowing our femurs from our umbilical cords & baby tenders.

After the exciting news, we settled in to see his sweet face & rapid heart. We laughed as he squirmed & wiggled with ease. My eyes misted when his little head bowed looking as if he was saying a humble prayer. I knew I was. Is he healthy? Are all of his parts there? Does everything look normal?

"Yes, yes & yes" were all the consoling answers from our doc. "He's perfect & growing healthy." Phew. Thankfully the onion rings from Joe's Farm House Grill did not affect him. (I've been craving no-no foods for the past 3 months. When I was out with my friend Kara for a girls night & she saw I ordered onion rings she gasped, "That's how I know you're pregnant. You never eat food like that!") Alas... they were delicious.

So I must break out all of Son's boy paraphernalia from storage. We've already looked at a new bunk bed from IKEA this past weekend. The plans are in the works. Bring on the blue, the mud, the burps, the rocks & sticks, the capes, the Legos, the superhero underwear, the sweaty puppy smell & yes even the Vaseline for that poor little circumcised wiener. We are all getting excited to meet our new addition.

And if Son gets his way, his name will be Rico. That gave me a good laugh.

P.S... I'd post our ultrasound pic, but our scanner is busted. Dang kids.

Women are like Blogs

2011-01-17T12:10:00.000-08:00

(image found here)

Below is an e-mail I found thought provoking, funny, ironic... & many other adjectives I'm sure you'll discover on your own. But before I share it with you, I have a few thoughts of my own. Shocker.

Women are like blogs. Some are whimsical, some are analytical, some are all fluff & no substance. All have different backgrounds. Some with fast moving icons, some with shabby chic scrapbook paper & some with beautiful simplistic color. All different. All blogs.

We are interesting creatures. We have needs & desires. We have goals & aspirations. We have good days & bad. All different, all unique.
Some of us have been dreaming of a white picket fence with a porch swing, kissing a husband goodbye in a tailored suit carrying a brief case as a child's soft sun-kissed ringlet curls wrapped in satin ribbons dance streaming across the lawn chasing the yellow lab.

Others have had their childhood dreams filled with diplomas, accolades, a high-rise apartment overlooking the park paid by a high-profile occupation that most men would kill for.

All different.

This article is about a secular, nonreligious woman who finds herself enamored by so-called "Mormon Mommy Blogs." Myself being Mormon, I found this concept intriguing because I find myself somewhere in the middle. A college educated, ex-corporate American, now stay-at-home mommy of almost 3. However it seems there are numerous unmarried, childless, educated high-rise corporate women using their lunch breaks to log on to domestic blogs to catch a glimpse of our foreign lifestyles.

Reading this article I had to chuckle to myself. I sit in my sweaty gym clothes with my hair in a disarrayed pony, my sink full of dishes, listening to my children argue over who has the smellier feet & wondering what her different life might be like.

Being able to take a shower all by myself.
Wearing high heels other than to church.
Leaving the house in under an hour.
Going to lunch with girlfriends because I want to.
A two-door coupe.
Taking a job out of state because I can.
Escaping for a spontaneous vacation.
Sleeping in because it's a weekend.
Buying pretty, lacy underwear.
Making an appointment for the spa without checking 4 calendars.

The grass is always greener.................... from afar.

Perspective & gratitude are the words that need to come to mind when such thoughts & emotions fleet.

So as I reevaluate & I listen to my surroundings further, I notice the the arguing has stopped. The children are hugging each others' feet with loving affection admiring both of their nasty smelliness. The dirty house is a home & the husband may not be wearing a suit or toting a briefcase, but he's adoringly lovely & all mine. Our goals are the same & we are committed to one another & our sweet, fragile family for all of time, not just life; through postpartum crazies, hair loss, financial blunders & unemployment.

So I have to agree with Ms. Matchar. Although life is NOT perfect & we are NOT perfect, I believe us Mormon Mom bloggers try to inspire & promote family, no matter what that definition is to our readers personally, we view it as the most simplistic happiness gifted to us mortals. Money cannot buy, projects cannot create & the world's view cannot destroy. The greatest successes we will ever accomplish will be within the walls of our homes. The more we try to live this concept, the happier I believe we will be.

Enjoy my friends. It's a clever, thoughtful read.

I'm a young, feminist atheist who can't bake a cupcake. Why am I addicted to the shiny, happy lives of these women?

BY EMILY MATCHAR

Natalie Holbrook

A still from Nat the Fat Rat, a Mormon blog.

At first glance, Naomi and Stacie and Stephanie and Liz appear to be members of the species known as the "Hipster Mommy Blogger," though perhaps a bit more cheerful and wholesome than most. They have bangs like Zooey Deschanel and closets full of cool vintage dresses. Their houses look like Anthropologie catalogs. Their kids look like Baby Gap models. Their husbands look like young graphic designers, all cute lumberjack shirts and square-framed glasses. They spend their days doing fun craft projects (vintage-y owl throw pillow! Recycled button earrings! Hand-stamped linen napkins!). They spend their weekends throwing big, whimsical dinner parties for their friends, all of whom have equally adorable kids and husbands.

But as you page through their blog archives, you notice certain "tells." They're super-young (like, four-kids-at-29 young). They mention relatives in Utah. They drink a suspicious amount of hot chocolate. Finally, you see it: a subtly placed widget with a picture of a temple, or a hyperlink on the word "faith" or "belief." You click the link and up pops the official website of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Yep, Naomi and Stacie and Stephanie and Liz are Mormons. They're members of a large, close-knit network of Mormon lifestyle bloggers -- young stay-at-home-moms who blog about home and hearth, Latter-day Saint-style. From Rockstar Diaries (Naomi) to Underaged and Engaged(Stacie) to Nie Nie Dialogues (Stephanie) to Say Yes to Hoboken (Liz), Mormon lifestyle bloggers occupy their very own corner of the blogosphere.

Their lives are nothing like mine -- I'm your standard-issue late-20-something childless overeducated atheist feminist -- yet I'm completely obsessed with their blogs. On an average day, I'll skim through a half-dozen Mormon blogs, looking at Polaroids of dogs in raincoats or kids in bow ties, reading gratitude lists, admiring sewing projects.

I'm not alone, either. Two of my closest friends -- both chronically overworked Ph.D. candidates -- procrastinate for hours poring over Nat the Fat Rat or C. Jane Enjoy It. A recent discussion of Mormonism on the blog Jezebel unleashed a waterfall of confessions in the comments section from other young non-religious women similarly riveted by the shiny, happy domestic lives of their Latter-day Saint sisters.

"They have lovely homes, picture-perfect kids, loving, super-attentive husbands, and things seem very normal and calm," writes a commenter named BrookeD, who admits to reading five Mormon blogs daily.

"I thought I was the only one!!" responds another commenter.

"THANK YOU," adds a third. "I'm another closet non-Mormon reader of Mormon mommy blogs."

So why, exactly, are these blogs so fascinating to women like us -- secular, childless women who may have never so much as baked a cupcake, let alone reupholstered our own ottomans with thrifted fabric and vintage grosgrain ribbon? It's not as though we're sniffing around the dark side of the faith, à la "Big Love." And it's not about religion. As someone married to a former Saint (my husband left the church as a teenager), I certainly have no illusions about what life as a Mormon would be like, and I'm sure it's not for me, which makes my obsession with these blogs all the more startling.

Well, to use a word that makes me cringe, these blogs are weirdly "uplifting." To read Mormon lifestyle blogs is to peer into a strange and fascinating world where the most fraught issues of modern living -- marriage and child rearing -- appear completely unproblematic. This seems practically subversive to someone like me, weaned on an endless media parade of fretful stories about "work-life balance" and soaring divorce rates and the perils of marrying too young/too old/too whatever. And don't even get me started on the Mommy Blogs, which make parenthood seem like a vale of judgment and anxiety, full of words like "guilt" and "chaos" and "BPA-free" and "episiotomy." Read enough of these, and you'll be ready to remove your own ovaries with a butter knife.

"It seems that a lot of popular culture wants to portray marriage and motherhood as demeaning, restrictive or simple, but in the LDS church, motherhood is a very important job, and it's treated with a lot of respect," says Natalie Holbrook, the New York-based author of the popular blog Nat the Fat Rat. "Most of my readers are non-LDS women in their late 20s and early 30s, college educated, many earning secondary degrees on the postgraduate level, and a comment I often get is, 'You are making me want kids, and I've never wanted kids!'"

Indeed, Mormon bloggers like Holbrook make marriage and motherhood seem, well, fun. Easy. Joyful. These women seem relaxed and untouched by cynicism. They throw elaborate astronaut-themed birthday parties for their kids and go on Sunday family drives to see the fall leaves change and get mani-pedis with their friends. They often have close, large extended families; moms and sisters are always dropping in to watch the kids or help out with cake decorating. Their lives seem adorable and old-fashioned and comforting.

"I've gotten e-mails from readers thanking me for putting a positive spin on marriage and family," Holbrook says. "It's important to acknowledge the hard parts -- and I think we all do -- but why not focus more on the lovely and the beautiful? That positive attitude is a very common theme throughout all aspects of the Mormon faith."

This focus on the positive is especially alluring when your own life seems anything but easy. As my friend G. says, of her fascination with Mormon lifestyle blogs, "I'm just jealous. I want to arrange flowers all day too!" She doesn't, really. She's just tired from long days spent in the lab, from a decade of living in a tiny apartment because she's too poor from student loans to buy a house, from constant negotiations about breadwinning status with her artist husband. It's not that she or I want to quit our jobs to bake brownies or sew kiddie Halloween costumes. It's just that for G., Mormon blogs are an escapist fantasy, a way to imagine a sweeter, simpler life.

There's been a lot of talk in recent years about "the New Domesticity" -- an increasing interest in old-fashioned, traditionally female tasks like sewing, crafts and jam making. Some pundits see this as a sign that young women yearn to return to some kind of 1950s Ozzie and Harriet existence, that feminism has "failed," that women are realizing they can't have it all, after all. That view is utterly nonsense, in my opinion, but I do think women of my generation are looking to the past in an effort to create fulfilling, happy domestic lives, since the modern world doesn't offer much of a road map. Our parents -- divorced, stressed-out baby boomers -- are hardly paragons of domestic bliss. Nor are the Gen X "Mommy War" soldiers, busy winging snowballs of judgment at each other from across the Internet. (Formula is poison! Baby wearing is child abuse!)

If those are the options, I'll take a pass, thanks.

Enter the Mormon bloggers, with their picture-perfect catalog lives. It is possible to be happy, they seem to whisper. We love our homes. We love our husbands.

Of course, the larger question is, are these women's lives really as sweet and simple as they appear? Blogs have always been a way to mediate and prettify your own life; you'd be a fool to compare your real self to someone else's carefully arranged surface self. And Mormons are particularly famous for their "put on a happy face" attitude. The church teaches that the Gospel is the only authentic path to true happiness. So if you're a faithful follower, you better be happy, right?

The phenomenon of the happier-than-thou Mormon housewife blogger is so well-recognized it's even spawned a parody blog, Seriously So Blessed, whose fictional author brays things like "We have non-stop fun all the time and are LOVING married life!" and "Speaking of fall, I kind of sometimes want to start a non-profit to help moms who go all of fall without blogging pics of their kids in pumpkin patches, because it seriously breaks my heart!"

So why are Mormon women such prolific bloggers? "It probably has something to do with the fact that Mormons are the world's biggest journal-keepers," says my husband, offering a partial explanation. Church elders have long encouraged members to keep regular journals for the dual purposes of historical record-keeping and promoting spiritual insight, and as a result Mormons are champion journalers and scrapbookers. In the 2000s, church elders began officially promoting new media technologies like blogs as a way of spreading the gospel, and the Mormon blogging community soon became so large it earned itself a punny nickname: the Bloggernacle.

For many LDS women, blogging about the domestic arts is a natural fit. As ex-Mormon designer Emily Henderson explains on her blog, The Brass Petal, growing up in large families engenders an attitude of make-do thriftiness -- homemade bread, recycled soda can Christmas ornaments, Salvation Army fashion. With the rise of DIY culture across secular America, all of a sudden those skills have become trendy, even bankable.

"Blogging is something they/we can do that feels productive, can potentially make money for our families and can be done from the home at any time," Henderson writes. For young Mormon women, who face immense cultural pressure to stay home with children rather than pursue a career, blogging about their adventures in homemaking becomes a sort of creative outlet, a way of contributing to the larger world beyond the home.

The bloggers I read may be as happy with their lot as they seem. Or not. While some Mormon women prosper under the cultural norms for wife- and mother-dom, others chafe. Utah is, after all, the state with the highest rate of prescription antidepressant use, a statistic the president of the Utah Psychiatric Association attributes to the pressure among Mormon women to be ideal wives and mothers. The creator of Seriously So Blessed, an anonymous Mormon woman, addresses this pressure in an online archive of Mormon women interviews called the Mormon Women Project: "In any highly homogeneous culture we all feel pressure to be and look and think and act a certain way," she says. "You start to think you need to be absolutely perfect in every area."

Clearly, life for the Mormon wife is not all crafts and cupcakes. Even if it were, I seriously doubt that crafts and cupcakes are all that much fun when you do them all day, every day.

But the basic messages expressed in these blogs -- family is wonderful, life is meant to be enjoyed, celebrate the small things -- are still lovely. And if they help women like me envision a life in which marriage and motherhood could potentially be something other than a miserable, soul-destroying trap, I say, "Right on." I won't be inviting the missionaries inside for hot cocoa now or ever, but I don't plan on stopping my blog habit any time soon.

Granola & more... you're welcome

2011-01-13T13:58:00.000-08:00

I feel like Ariel. It's a whole new world this week. I'm feeling good & I want to shout a "Hallelujah" from the rooftops. I felt so good today, in fact, I made some of my favorite granola from one of my favorite 'lil sites. Check it out & please do your body good & enjoy some Chobani Greek yogurt with it (it's sold at Costco now... word up!). While your at it... sprinkle some blueberries on the top & call it a morning, or afternoon, or snack, or... whatever. I'm so glad food is enjoyable again.

"Splashin' your fins you don't get too far..."

Crap. That's gonna be in my head the rest of the day. Oh well. It could be worse. Enjoy!

Hiatus

2011-01-10T15:38:00.000-08:00

hi·a·tus

[hahy-ey-tuhs] -noun, plural-tus·es, -tus.action,

1. a break or interruption in the continuity of work, series, action, etc.

{Sounds very similar to motherhood huh?}

Hm... that sounds accurate. Holidays, birthdays, family, growing fetus... so many hiatic {I just totally made that word up, but I'm too tired to care & frankly I think it sounds like it should be} things that blogging has become almost a burden. {Gasp if necessary. You all know what I mean.} Everything seems to be arduous during this pregnancy. I've morphed into Pregnant Heather -- someone I don't recognize & if we're being honest... I don't really like all that much. Is it possible to not like yourself?

Well Pregnant Heather is kind of a drag. She's always tired, is kind of dumb, saying nonsensical things & at times is a negative shrew. Things like dishes, charging a camera battery & taking a shower are difficult tasks. How pathetic is that? However life is definitely getting better - all except the trash debacle today. (See below.) While being proactive Pregnant Heather decided it was time to clean up after a whirlwind weekend. Mondays usually leave Normal/Awesome Heather feeling energized ready to take on the week & world. That is... usually. Today Pregnant Heather was a bit too proactive attending an advanced step class at the gym that she hasn't attended in two months. Proudly she stayed for the whole thing & did surprisingly well for being... Pregnant Heather.

When returning home, a shower & getting ready was quick. Wow. A follow-up visit for Dot's arm was hardly a big deal. Super. Returning home & getting lunch for the kids felt like life-as-usual again. Oh bless-ed day. Has Normal Heather returned to reclaim her throne? Is Pregnant, Sick, Wenchy Heather been exorcised? The hope that crept into my little, fragile, baby logged brain brought with it a sense of extreme euphoria. A surge of endorphins must have followed as I began cleaning the kitchen; scrubbing plates, wiping cabinets, opening the kitchen's garbage to take out the trash... an unfortunate inhale of breath involuntarily took over as I simultaneously ingested the foulest smell wafting from the opening.

Wretch. Saliva. Dry heave.

It was all I could do but run into the backyard & expel all of my breakfast into the frozen, dead lantanas.

Pregnant Heather.

So yes... I apologize if it sounds like I'm complaining, but I am Pregnant Heather... what do you expect. BUT... life is returning. I'm cracking more jokes, I'm blogging & I actually watched Food Network for the first time in 4 months. Hello food! So recipes to come. Activities to come. Humorous anecdotes to come as well. The new year is here & I'll enter it as Heatherlicous as I can muster.

Hello to all... if you're still there...

Phew... It's Off... Now what?

2010-12-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

It's official. It's off. She was a gem... as usual. Even the doctor & the nurses were surprised. I'm really, really, really upset I didn't get a picture of the pins. Pins is an understatement. They were more like nails. Yikes. Dot was a trooper & now begins hiding the ladder to the trampoline & such.

Great job Dad for keeping her calm with suckers & stories. Good job to Son for repeatedly saying, "This is so cool!" Good job to Mom for remembering the camera.

Thanks for all your kind words. This has been an interesting experience & we are so grateful to have be blessed with a speedy recovery & excellent care & support. Now where's the all-sensitive lotion for that itchy skin? Eek.

before

after (See the "pins?" Barf.)

Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle. What a brave girl! Way to go Dot!

It's Harvest Time!

2010-12-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

Being a first time gardener, I've learned a lot this planting season. How to keep birds out, how to water, how to shade my little darlings from the blistering Arizona sun... but, nothing could prepare me for this!

I found the firstborn of our zucchini harvest today "hiding" under a massive leaf. I shouted for Son & let him do the pickin' honors. He was so thrilled with our green beaut he took it to preschool to show all of his classmates {since they are taking about plants today}. Meant to be.

I'm very excited for our fall harvest to begin, but I'm even more excited for our stir-fry dinner tonight! Delish!

It's a Thanksgiving Miracle!

2010-11-29T18:58:00.001-08:00

Today there is much to be thankful for. Today I awoke to minimal queasiness. Today I was told Dot's arm is healing so rapidly her cast will come off a week from today. Hooray! Today I cleaned my whole house for the first time in a month. Seriously. {It was near the point of being condemned. That's why none of you have been invited over.} Today I bought a gingerbread house kit for the kids & smores for the fire we will be building tonight. Today I made the William-Sonoma chicken pot pie recipe without dry heaving.

Oh Lord, thank you for all of my many blessings. Thank you for my sweet family's patience & support this month. Thank you for your kindness even through difficult times. I know they are opportunities to become better. Thanks for still loving me when those opportunities backfire. Thank you for providing me with the knowledge that gratitude is to be expressed all the year through.

So... thank you wide world for all the good there is in you. Thank you to those out there who do kind, considerate things for others. Thank you to me for realizing there is much good to be seen in a time where it seems scarce.

Today has been a gift that I wanted to share with you. Hopefully you can have one tomorrow.

Ella Jo Giveaway Winner

2010-11-29T18:52:00.000-08:00

And the winner is....

Brittney Smith!

Congrats my friend. Nicole will be contacting you asap. Hugs & kisses! To the rest of you, Nicole's prices are dynamite for the holidays. Order soon to enjoy all the cuteness!

Giving Mood

2010-11-25T08:44:00.001-08:00

I'm in the giving mood, so I'm going to extend the GIVEAWAY to Monday evening. Enjoy this wonderful day. There is much to be thankful for.

Motherhood

2010-11-22T15:59:00.001-08:00

Wow.

Each day is a new day. Yesterday I thought I'd be on the 10 o'clock news for doing something unmotherly because in the middle of church my supposedly "sweet" child screamed, "NO!" while slapping me across the face. It continued with Son getting perturbed by one of my comments & consequently concluding with him sticking his tongue out at me in a most crude & defiant manner in front of possibly 50 reverent onlookers.

I'm not sure if it's because of the hormones or what... {hormones} but my eyes filled with tears. I picked up my nearly 5-year-old son & stormed out to find a quiet room. The tears began to spill as we entered a space where I could let go. We sat next to each other & I began to cry.

This apparently terrified Son. Who is this person? is I'm sure what he was thinking. Not my Mom. My Mom's tough. He gazed at me with wide eyes as I asked, my voice shaking, "Don't you like me?" I immediately felt like I was indeed the five-year-old; but still, my feelings were real & bruised.

His lip jetted out & his eyes reddened. He nodded his head slowly.

I continued letting him know it hurts my feelings when he says & does mean things. This seemed to really get through to him as he came to me with a hug & apology. We went home after church & immediately made a list for Son & Dot. This list included things like:

Talk nicely
Do something nice for someone in my family
Have a good attitude
Eat dinner happily
Brush my own teeth
Get dressed in the morning all by myself
Help out Mom
Clean up my room
Be a good friend...

I told each child when they awoke in the morning they would have their own Reward Chart. They rose excited & I presented them with their charts. Today has been glorious. Every time we have an issue I remind them, "You can get a sticker for a happy attitude..." They quickly get a smile on their face & say something sweet in an angelic voice.

I don't know how long this utopia will last, but I'm going to ride the Reward Train for as long as possible. Each week we can modify the charts to target what each child is struggling with at the moment. Who knows? Maybe it'll get me past this first trimester. :)

It's time for a GIVEAWAY.

2010-11-16T12:07:00.000-08:00

When life gets crazy... like it is... I think to myself, "It's time for a giveaway."

So my virtual friends, if you like cute stuff, this is the giveaway for you. Nicole of Ella Jo Customs would like to give you a customized gift for the holidays. All you have to do is make sure you are a follower HERE at Miscellaneous & then leave a comment. The rest is up to luck.

Visit her site & see what you like. {My favorite is the "I {heart} Turkey" shirt.} Pick one item, OR {THREE} bows & let her know what you want & see her work her magic! Thanks Nicole & good luck to all you holiday wanna-be winners!

The deadline for this giveaway is Wednesday evening, November 24th.

Yep... She Sure Did.

2010-11-10T21:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, our sweet baby girl broke her humerus {which it's not} last night. I was just finishing up teaching dance when our babysitter brought her in crying. I didn't know what was wrong at first since it wasn't obvious. After asking her what hurts she lifted her puffy, little arm & said, "My arm."

Worst. Blood rushed to my face & water filled my eyes. Hus, Jones, Dot & I immediately headed to our favorite PCH urgent care for treatment. X-rays confirmed our fears & she'll get her cast on Monday.

Two. She's blasted two years old.

In case you're wondering, the culprit is the big hunk of metal in our backyard. She got popped a wee too high on the tramp & landed "twisty" on her arm. The sitter didn't see the spill as her back was turned as she played with Son, but this was the conclusion. Poor, sweet Dot.

She ran around the triage room laughing & singing. The nurses were astounded by how tough she was. I was glad I gave her meds before we left the house because I remember the pain a fractured arm can create {OUCH!} & it was obviously helping her spirits.

So both of our kids have had broken bones before the age of 3. {Son's collar bone 2 days before Christmas. Merry.} I don't like this rite of passage. Perhaps we can figure something else out. Until then, it's Baby Einstein on a loop & plenty of Popsicles.

Posing. She's an angel.

Doesn't she look miserable?

Showing "Lizzy the Lizard" {our "pet" geckos) her broken arm.

Dad saving the day.

What Gym?

2010-11-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

My physical life has been interrupted. Mostly by the unseen. A little life growing inside of me that has an aversion to most things like breathing, saliva, swallowing, food & walking. Luckily, I know this will pass & I must be patient in obeying the demands of this little fetus.

My mornings are usually a whirlwind. Jumping out of bed, getting the kids dressed, cutting up apple slices & buttering toast for the car ride to our beloved gym. I get an hour or two to relieve some aggression & the kids get playtime with friends. Win, win. After the gym it's nearly time for lunch & then off to school for Son & a nap for Dot.

Well it's been over a week since I've stepped foot in the gym & I've realized just how much time in the day there really is because I don't feel like cooking, cleaning, playing... wow, do the minutes drag. However, I might have stumbled on a concoction that helps. Today although I might not feel "gym ready," I might feel taking the kids to the park ready.

So alas, small victories are still victories. Although I already feel the abdominals weakening, I also feel my heart growing. Funny how that works.

See you soon gym. I'm not down for the count inevitably.

What's Better?

2010-11-05T16:07:00.000-07:00

&...

?

What's better than an awesome Mom? Not much. I'm not talking about myself, I'm talking about my mother. She's got to be the most loving, compassionate mother in the entire world. And not only that, she's an amazing grandma too. SCORE.

How many moms take a day off just to help their daughter with her crazy life? Get lunch for us, help clean up around the house & then take the kids for a day of fun? I am so, so blessed. I want to be that kind of a mom.

We just found out not long ago we are expecting our third child at the beginning of this summer. We thought it was time to start trying for this new little addition & apparently that was all the notice that was necessary. Not immaculate, but very, very prompt.

Adjusting to the new hormones has been an added shock. {How is shock possible by baby #3?} Nauseous, tired, ponytails, puke... all things that usually come with the first trimester, yet this time it's like I'd forgotten just how crappy it feels. Every night at its worse, I squeeze the cheeks of my little ones, puckering their lips to stare into their large, dark eyes. They usually say something funny & I remember why in the world I'm doing this.

But, what's better?

To have a healthy baby growing inside of me. To have an amazing husband who tries his hardest to make all of us blissfully happy. To have a wonderful, supportive family who loves me. To have amazing friends who give great hugs & warm smiles.

Today is a good day. Held down a Chick-fil-a sandwich & a cherry limeade. Made my bed. Almost took a shower. And... for the icing... I posted!

Welcome sweet baby. I'm trying to make a safe, loving home for you in there. And I promise, I'll love you even more in the second trimester. :)

Happy Weekend to all!

VOTE!

2010-11-02T10:18:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to vote today. Left, right, up, down... what have you. Let your voice be heard. No matter what the voice, it's a lot better than silent complaisance.

Happy voting day!

Just another reason...

2010-10-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

Here's just another reason the kids & I are so lucky. He'll do anything for a laugh {even if it is at his own expense} & today we laughed... a lot.

Congratulations "BEST costume workers of 2010" @ Husband's work. You so deserve all the acclamations of prestige!

Best first reactions from the kids regarding his disco/porn/sleazy get-up.

Son: You don't look like my dad, but you sound like him.

Sage: Dad, you crazy!

Happy Halloween to all! Find your inner child & let it shine.

Paypay, Craigslist.... BEWARE!

2010-10-28T22:53:00.000-07:00

So I've begun posting a few large furniture items on Craigslist & to be honest, I've had some strange correspondence with some real crack-a-loos.

Here's my ad...

Selling beautiful large entertainment center. Exquisite detail work, glass inlays, recessed lighting & TONS of storage! Very sad to part with it, but we don't have the room. Contact soon, this is an excellent deal! Dimension in center piece 42" for t.v. (602) 31X-XXXX. Only serious inquiries please.

And then here is a crack-a-loo example:

Hi, im interested in purckasing this furniture.mail me back if its not yet sold

Purckasing, huh? That's unfortunate. Next, same buyer.

hello
im interested im the purchase of this furniture kindly get back to me with its condition

Hm... annoyed because his grammar is beyond atrocious. Anyway... me, with correct punctuation & capitalization mind you.

Pretty much perfect. We've only had it for about 2 years & we've kept it in excellent condition. No scratches, dings, or blemishes. You are welcome to come look at it. I have another interested buyer, so please just know the first buyer with cash will receive this beautiful new piece. Thanks!

Now, this is where it gets really, really fishy.

aThanks For Getting back to me ..I am buying this furniture for my brother in-law as i promised him early of this year and i am a military presently on a mission,and due to ethics of this mission, phone calls,and visiting of website are restricted but i squeezed out time to check this advert.I really want it to be a surprise for my brother in-law so i wont let him know anything about it until it gets delivered to him, i am sure he will be more than happy with it.i don't have access to my bank account online as i don't have internet banking, but i can pay from my paypal account, as i have my bank a/c attached to it,I don't mind paying additional $50 for it in order for you to take the ad down from craigslist and also to be assured that it is already mine.i will need you to give me your paypal email address so i can make the payments asap for the item and pls if you don't have paypal account yet, it is very easy to set up, go to www.paypal.com and get it set up, after you have set it up i will only need the e-mail address you used for the registration with paypal so as to put the money through. I have a pick up agent that will come and pick it up after i have made the payments

Although I laughed right out loud when I got to the section about his military "mission," I began to feel a bit queasy in my gut after finishing the e-mail in its entirety. Instinct. This is a bloody scam! I quickly googled paypal scams on Craigslist & a bunch of stories came up with similar e-mails, almost worded identical to this genius'. I knew it! I should no doubt be Sherlock Holmes for Halloween. Get myself a little pipe. That would be awesome. So we'll see if he e-mails back. I'd love to see his response.

But in the meantime...

Are you freaking kidding me? Do I sound like a moron? Do I seem to be without cognitive function in these e-mails? Who gets away with this kind of crap? I'm kind of a smart A if you haven't quite caught on... & this tends to reflect in my writing... hm... a lot. But, I tried to hide my sarcasm enveloping it in a smidge of fluffy patronization so he wouldn't get too upset & become all... you know... Craigslist stalker crazy. My response:

Sorry, but as stated, I will only accept cash. If you'd like to paypal (put in italics for subtle sarcastic emphasis) your "agent" the money, they could bring the cash when they pick up the item... otherwise... hopefully you can find what you're looking for for your brother-in-law.

Best of luck...

The fact of the matter is I've had more luck posting my things on my blog anyway. {Thanks Kimberly!} Couches sold thanks to Miscellaneous. Hopefully so will our beautiful entertainment center.

{Sigh of relief.} At least I didn't get suckered this time. And this is a kind word to the wise for the rest of you. Beware of crack-a-loos with deplorable grammar.

I Love Technology

2010-10-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who came & enjoyed our party this year. We had so much fun! I appreciate you all indulging me as I accosted you with games, quizzes, questions & jokes. Everyone always does a superb job dressing up & my cheeks were literally sore from laughing so hard all evening. Nothing makes me happier than good food, good friends & of course Husband dressed up like a ridiculous wuss.

Happy Halloween to all...

Love,

Kip & LaFawnduh

In case you've lived under a rock for 10 years. We are a couple from the "Napoleon Dynamite" movie.

P.S... It's unfortunate you don't get the luxury of hearing Husband's uncanny rendition of Kip's vocal stylings. It's really an out of body experience.

Preparing

2010-10-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

Deep breaths, check lists, spiders, cobwebs, food, table cloths, candle sticks, jack-o-lanterns, wig, heels, mustache...

Preparations for our annual couple costume party can get intense. However, this being our 4th year, I am predicting our costume is going to make it all worth it!

2006 - John McEnroe & Chris Evert. (Tennis Players from the 70's.) Wasn't on the ball enough to get a digital photo & too lazy to find the Polaroid.

2007 - 80's Aerobics Instructors

2008 - Surprisingly too offensive to post on the Internet. Don't want to get blackmailed when Husband runs for office someday. Ha ha...

2009 - This was our WHITE TRASH year

2010 you ask? Oh, stay tuned my friends. It won't disappoint.

Here's to dressing up & acting like complete morons!

Upgrade

2010-10-18T21:50:00.000-07:00

I've been desiring to own a sectional for the simplistic purpose of its functionality. I LOVe curling up on a long, comfy couch with my loved ones & then still having room to stretch out my freakishly long extremities. Are there cuter, less functional seating options out there? Of course.

But, when I saw this classic style on Pottery Barn earlier in the week...

I thought it was SO attractive {that's for you Can}! Then when viewing Craigslist two days later, I knew it must be fate when nearly the SAME couch was listed in my own dang city {but for 2 grand cheaper}! (I know the Almighty doesn't necessary care about furniture, but he obviously cares about my happiness.)

So here is our old seating.

And here is our NEW seating! {This picture doesn't do it justice. Darn my photography skills.}

Bon Voyage to our first BIG purchase as a family in our very first home. You've been good to us, but now it's time to say goodbye & send you to a new loving home. Any takers?

Now for pillows...

Deceptive Winner

2010-10-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Congratulations...

CAMMAC!!!

Lady Luck has smiled kindly on you today. My apologies, but I am more than likely on my way west as you read this so your gift will be in the mail at the beginning of next week after my much anticipated excursion.

Enjoy making marvelous creations. She inspired me to even create some things of my own, so hopefully you will catch the deceptive fire as well!

Here's to being sneaky!

Cookbook Giveaway!

2010-10-08T16:03:00.000-07:00

The giveaway for this celebratory week is...

Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld

A good friend of mine gifted me Jessica's cookbook a few years back & I've enjoyed it so. So I picked up another to share with you. This is a fun, staple cookbook to have on hand. She has some interesting purees included in a lot of her recipes to give us Moms some more ideas for breakfasts & lunches. {Which I've been in a rut with lately.} So although it may not revolutionize the world... it's still important & fun to discover new, healthy ways to entice your kids to eat.

Enjoy! Please leave a comment & BE or BECOME a follower to be eligible to win. Have a great weekend. The deadline is Monday @ midnight, October 11th & the winner will have their gift shipped to their home.

Also, join me Monday to see our fabulous, new, huge! addition to our family room. Yay!

FREE 3-month long PHOENIX ZOO Pass

2010-10-07T10:37:00.000-07:00

Just another perk of birthing a child... Here's the fine print below from the Banner site... ENJOY your trips to the zoo this winter! Visit here to enter.

This FREE three-month family membership to the Phoenix zoo is for women who have delivered a child at a Banner Health facility. Participant must have received a Direct Mail piece from Banner Health in order to receive the zoo membership gift. Registrants will receive a copy of "Your Growing Child" Health Guide from Banner Thunderbird Children's Center along with their zoo membership gift.
Start Date: 01/01/2099 {2009} Thursday
Cost : 0.00
Enrollment Criteria: ONLY ONE GIFT PER HOUSEHOLD.

Chicken Tacos... Hinze style

2010-10-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

Living in Arizona I can get sick of eating Mexican. There, I've said it. However, this recipe is a winner jam packed with fresh ingredients & splendid flavors. I could eat these puppies all the day long.

Enjoy them.

Chicken Tacos

Chicken Tenders
Corn Tortialls
Yellow Peppers, sliced
Vine Tomatoes, quartered
Red Onion, finely diced
Ripened Avocado, diced
Lemon
Garlic, two cloves
Coconut oil
Mozzarella Cheese (we only eat white cheese in our home, but you can use what your family enjoys)
**Homemade Salsa, or fresh from the deli

Thaw out chicken. Place in a bowl with the juice from half a lemon, one clove of garlic & a dash of salt & pepper. Cover & chill in fridge for an hour or so. Heat up some coconut oil in a saucepan (2 T.) & saute chicken with another clove of garlic & the juice from the other half of lemon on each side for 3 minutes-ish until golden brown. Throw in the peppers for 2 minutes. Next onions for 1 minute. Next tomatoes for 1 minute. Take off heat. Place cheese between two corn tortillas & heat on stove or grill. Adorn tortilla will veggies & a chicken tender or two. Top with avocados & salsa & serve immediately.

**Please contact me (telephone on my sidebar) if you have a dynamite homemade salsa recipe we all can't live without one day longer. I'd love to share it!

Welcome new Miscellaneous Followers!

100 POSTS!

2010-10-04T10:40:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I've written 100 Miscellaneous posts! Thanks to all of you who have "listened" to me ramble. I hope I've offered encouragement, honesty & inspiration to many of you. Your comments put a smile on my face & I'm lucky to have discovered new, amazing friends through this process.

On my 100th post however, I thought I would show off a photo of my third child I've so diligently been creating...

Now go create something that makes you happy. Even if it's lunch for your kiddos. Find joy in the things you do today & be grateful for all in which you've been blessed.

Stop on by for a surprise giveaway coming this FRIDAY to celebrate 100 posts. It is my goal to get 100 followers by then as well. Ambitious?... sure! BUT trust me... you won't want to miss it!

It's Zoo Time again...

2010-10-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

I love going to the zoo, especially as the weather gets nicer. Year passes are awesome & economical when shared with a friend or two. Here's some inspiration for you to take your lil's to view all the wonders of God's glorious animal creations. Even the creepy ones. We ran into a jolly fellow at the petting zoo. He was kind enough to give us a grin. The kids thought that was pretty darn funny & I think I scared a few goats with my loud bellow after viewing the moment I'd captured. Who says animals can't find joy in their dominion?

Too bad Hus & I weren't in it. It would have definitely made the Christmas card this year. Photoshop?

Women

2010-09-30T22:06:00.000-07:00

I love being a woman. We're so lucky. We have so many fantastic characteristics. I love being loved by other women because they know exactly what to do & say when guys don't have a clue. {No offense Hus, you did nothing wrong, it's just a generalization.}

Today was a day of busy-ness. Lots going on. I was running from here to there & coordinating my kids from place to place... or should I say from friend to friend. Teaching dance is a blast, but sometimes I do feel guilty for farming my kids out. It is only twice a week & for that I feel immensely blessed because some Moms work a heck of a lot more than that.

But the point of this post is about the bonds of womanhood.

I have so many lovely women in my life that inspire me. I depend on them, trust them & love them. That knowledge is indispensable. We should all lean on each other & give each other the benefit of the doubt. Caring for each other is such a blessing & it should be what life is all about.

Hugs all around today. The service was flowing. Being a recipient is good, but tomorrow I must pass it along. Spread the sunshine & feel it's warmth on my face as I share it. That was totally a cheesy Hallmark saying, but I feel cheesy today so no apologies.

Be aware of the wonderful women in your life & let them know it. Everyone likes to feel appreciated & loved so don't hold back. Call, write, e-mail, stop by for a visit... you choose.

P.S... After reading this to Husband he serenaded me with his horrible rendition of "Lean On Me..." while doing a lame dance to make known his feelings of this cheesy post. A woman would never do that. Thanks for proving my point Hus. Women rock so hard.

Kids Say Funny Crap

2010-09-27T15:16:00.000-07:00

On more than one occasion my dear father has kindly reminded me to watch my mouth. I'm not a sailor, but perhaps I could be a deck hand. I've tried over the years to adapt my vocabulary to new words, but it seems I've reached into the past for some of my favorites such as: blast, drat, criminy, oh my laws, dag nammit, shucks... the list goes on & on.

But then there are those words... You know the ones. The ones that escape from your lips when you stub your toe, the birds eat your garden, or when a wee child tries to independently change their own poopy diaper, wipes & all. Those are the times these vulgar gems are the only vocabulary words known in your brain & ready at such instances.

Hence Son's new selection that I'm desperately trying to remedy without too much attention.

"Damn birds."

Every time I have to squeeze my lips together in a tight line to not crack a giggle because he says it like a farmer with such conviction & disdain.

At least he doesn't quite understand a lot of words yet. Like yesterday when we were in the car & a commercial was advertising chicken breasts. He giggles in the backseat as I wince. He can't possibly know what breasts are. Can he? We call 'em boobies in our house anyway.

"Mom... that guy said chicken breath!"

Exhale... & then a loud, loud laugh. Son's awesome.

Tip for Kitchen

2010-09-22T15:40:00.000-07:00

This is a small tip, but in my kitchen it has created a HUGE impact. I purchased these inexpensive containers at Wal-Mart; they came in a two-pack for about $2. Ridiculous. Since I'm a grain fanatic, putting my grains & other misc. items in organized, larger containers has made my shelves look orderly & systematized. TWELVE of these beauts fit like a glove in my two pull out shelves.

When my things are in order I can better manage my food inventory, spend less money on duplicate items, rotate them regularly & buy only the essentials I need for our weekly meal plans or our needed food storage.

You can go as far as labeling each bin according to its contents if you'd like, something I've meant to do, but realize it's not a necessity. {They're see-through for pity sake. We gotta stop somewhere fellow OCD crazies.}

Measure your shelves' dimensions before purchasing containers so you can maximize your space. In small spaces, every inch counts.

Good luck!

Sprouting Garden + Grackles = A Foul Death Wish

2010-09-20T22:24:00.000-07:00

Last year, Husband seeded our backyard lawn for winter grass. He was becoming perplexed as doves began to eat our seed, making his task all the more arduous. Finally, Husband became so fed up with our pesticide problem he reverted back to his teenage days & purchased a BB gun.

Oh laws. Testosterone mixed with pellets. No good can come from this.

At first I thought it was to "scare" the birds. Something loud & obnoxious to get them to go away. Well, to my horror, one beautiful fall day I came into the backyard after Son excitedly ran in to tell me...

"Dad shot a bird! And there's blood!"

I raced into the backyard to see a trail of dove blood on our cement walkway. I followed this trail as my eyes filled with tears. (This moment solidified what century we live in.) Husband's face couldn't be anymore classic.

"My scope's off," he shrugs.

Long story short, he wasn't really aiming at the little darling, but was trying to figure out how "off" his scope really was. Whoops.

"Then it just wouldn't die," he justified.

The tears streamed down my cheeks & Son's worried face showed me he was realizing this wasn't a game. A bit traumatic for all of us that day & could have very well been a satirical parody on Saturday Night Live.

BUT... that was before these dang things...

got a hold of my sweet, sprouting baby vegetables.

I've put countless hours prepping our garden for this year's growing season. I bought organic soil, organic plants, organic food, built a shade cover, watered diligently... the list goes on... But in my ignorant bliss I'd overlooked one BIG hazard. BIRDS!

To my credit, these creatures aren't cute, tender doves. They are ugly, raven like, wrinkly taloned, razor beaked EVIL. Look at those beady, yellow eyes. I can't even make that stuff up it's so malevolent.

So after returning from church yesterday, I went out into our backyard to see my pride & joy. What do I find? Dang birds ripping out my young, sprouting tenderlings! I screamed the most guttural, horrible scream you've ever heard & then thought I might just cry. Shaking my fists at the sky, I spewed hateful words into the air as they all flew, hovering above, mocking me I'm sure.

How did I not know this part of the process? How did I not know stupid grackle birds like to eat baby sprouts?

Well I do now.

What did I do today, you ask? I bought a bird blocker. Yep. I rigged my precious square foot garden with that baby & it now looks like Alcatraz. {Pictures to come--swear.} I'd like to see a crappy bird try to get in there.

This experience has enlightened me how farmers could kill little critters that got into their gardens. I used to stick out my bottom lip when I'd hear those stories thinking how inhumane those brutes must have been. I'm no brute. I just want to grow my own freaking veggies.

So it's on. Your move grackles. Back off. 'Cuz I got a gun with a shoddy scope.

Organization 101

2010-09-15T17:42:00.000-07:00

It has been established that I am a wee bit compulsive. Guilty. It's a fact--a reality. I've come to accept this characteristic in my DNA. I've tried to embrace it, letting it flourish. Squashing or smothering these tendencies could be disastrous, so why not indulge them in a healthy manner?

Hence... organization. (I'm salivating already.) I'm a homemaker {Is there a better, cooler, hipper word for our profession? Suggestions welcome.} & I would list my "organization skills" {slash, OCD tendencies} as a plus. Because let's be honest... a home alive with children is chaotic, as it should be, but can't we mitigate the chaos? ABSOLUTELY!

Introducing (dun-dun-dun-da!) Oraganization 101! I have a few tricks up my sleeve to help all you moms, dads, singles, dudes... out there who need help. I'm no expert & I'm certainly not certified, but I AM organized, so there you go. I'm bequeathing the liberty upon myself. You are welcome. Over the next few weeks I'll go through various rooms in my house--like in every house--that have a tendency to become unstable. Follow me friends to...

MY closet.

This is our alter universe in which we costume ourselves according to the occasion. I have things in my closet that could make me unrecognizable to most & I have other things that scream "HEATHER!" I don't know about you, but I don't have a "Classy Closet." I don't even have an appealing closet. But I make do & so can you.

ONE - I organize my closet by COLOR. Yep. Don't you think most days you feel like wearing a certain color? Sure do. So why not have them all in the same location? This also helps you determine what you need. Do it!

TWO - Clean out your closet REGULARLY. A good rule of thumb is to hang all of your hangers one direction & when you wear the item return it to your closet & change the hanger to face in the opposite direction. At the end of the year, all the unchanged hangers display those articles you haven't worn in a whole dang YEAR. Time to say goodbye. Sell it, donate it, or make a weird project with it. I don't care. Just get it outta there!

THREE - If you buy something, get rid of something. This will keep the pile-up to a minimum.

FOUR - GET RID of clothes... that don't fit you, those skinny clothes, those fat clothes, those clothes that will someday make a comeback. It's not gonna happen. {Peace out CK overalls from high school.} The hardest clothes to get rid of are the clothes that have sentimental value. Part with the cloth, keep the memory.

FIVE - Shoes. Bear with me girls. YOU DO NOT NEED 100 PAIRS OF SHOES. If you think you are in need of a shoe intervention.... please get help. GET CONTROL of YOUR LIFE!

Lastly... CAUTION on the trend of fad SPENDING. **In my opinion, fashion is becoming quite idolatrous.** I'm all for lookin' good, but please, take a moment & step away from the madness. Does it matter what the label on the inside of your shirt says? In the grand scheme of things, should it? (If you say an UNDENIABLE, hands down all of the time emphatic YES!... please stop reading my blog. Just kidding.) Should it be glorified when a celebrity wears something "to die for?" Why do some purses cost more than a down payment on a Ford Focus? Is this sounding like a soapbox? Whoopsies. Just be aware. Any thoughts?

So what have we learned? Organizing your closet can bring you peace. It can be liberating. Purge it clean & keep only those things you ADORE. Simplify. Now go clean those skeletons.

P.S. Next year I should have a purging closets party. We can all trade clothes & not buy anything. Whose in?

P.S.S. Join me next week for.... KITCHENS!

MUST DO's

2010-09-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

Two pick me ups for this week:

1 - Go see Knight & Day. And if you've already seen it, please for my sake, see it again. I completely underestimated this film. What a fresh change of pace. I thought it was going to be action crap with cheesy one-liners as something blows up in the distance. However, it was surprisingly hysterical. Husband & I laughed & laughed & laughed. A rarity for me at movies because I never laugh out loud. I know bizarre. But it's at the dollars now, so that's fantastic. I'm going to classify this genre as a dark comedy so don't be offended to learn my favorite line from the film is... "JUST... DIE!" Classic. Way to go Tom & Cam.

2 - Nielsen's Frozen Custard's PEACH COBBLER made with fresh Utah peaches. Are you kidding me? I know I'm not one for sugar, but come on... I'm a human & I'm female. There are few things in this terrestrial world that are better. {Sorry you out of towners.)

Enjoy! Get a sitter & make it a date. Go on.

Recycled Thoughtfulness

2010-09-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

I like to make things but I am also "frugal." Thus, this project was perfect. Here is an idea to use up those scraps of paper you've got lying around {using that creative feminine thing we've all got instilled in us} & in turn, putting a smile on the face of a special someone... Make them in bulk so you have more to use on whatever the occasion suits.

Here's one I made for a friend's hip, vintage wedding.

Things of summer that made me OH SO HAPPY

2010-09-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

This summer was a delight. It came, it was hot & it went.
There are so many memorable, miscellaneous
things that made me feel warm & fuzzy inside.
Here's just a few... in no particular order.

Except particularly him. He's always #1.

Mi Familia. La Costa, Carsbad

The beach. Laguna Beach, CA

Tiny footprints.

Happy, blissful, sandy moments.

Dot's fascination with "mate-up."

Dressing Son up as a girl is always fun.

In case any of you are wondering, Husband outdid himself this year. He planned an overnight excursion to Arizona's #1 Resort, the Intercontinental Montelucia Resort & Spa. It was RIDICULOUS. Ridiculous. ridiculous. Please look at the website & go if you get the chance. It was an experience. If I had never been to Arizona before & I went to this resort... I would desperately want to move here.
We were in the midst of mountains, palms & endless sunsets.

Happy 30th. We snuggled outside by the pool in a dark corner & listened to a fantastic band. We were grownups. We then headed to Houston's for my favorite chicken salad, Biltmore Special & rhubarb cherry crisp with a vanilla scoop to celebrate.

Thank you Hus for planning an amazing birthday getaway.
Looking forward to 30 more years with you please. Lucky, lucky girl.

This kitty & all her cleverness.
Humor is definitely a sign of intelligence in our home & is rewarded as such.

Hail in Hell. Since when does it hail in AZ in August? Thank you UP stairs.

The bookcase project. From dark to light.

My kids & their photography skills catching me at my most beautiful.

Husband's famous Whole Wheat Pancakes every Sunday morning.

The porch swing project; a family affair.

Happy 9th in Seattle

Butchart Gardens, Victoria, B.C.

My goofy friends. How you make my world go round.
Thanks for a radical summer. See ya on the flip side.

A Dancing GIVEaway

2010-09-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

Restrain the urge to pinch their cheeks through the computer screen.

I start teaching dance again next week. Hooray! I'm really looking forward to seeing all my fun little ladies again, plus new ones & sculpting them into marvelous dancers. :) If any of you are interested in signing up your darlings, contact me asap. I have a few spots I'd like to fill up with fantastic personalities.

LEAVE A COMMENT & SIGN UP WITH ME BEFORE MONDAY & YOU WILL BE ENTERED IN TO WIN A FREE MONTH OF DANCE. {$35 value!}

Thanks! Tell your friends & spread the WORD! This year is going to be fantastic!

Here's the schedule: {If there is a waiting list for the class you desire, but you want in... contact me. Sometimes people have to drop at the last minute.}

Tuesday: {Miss Heather}
Jazz 5 - 3:10 - 4:00 p.m.
Jazz 7 - 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (waiting list)
Jazz 8 - 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. (2 spots left)

Wednesday: {Miss Michelle}
Jazz 3 - 3:10 - 4:00 p.m.
Jazz 4 - 4:00 - 4:50 p.m. (waiting list)

Thursday: {Miss Heather}
Jazz 6 - 3:10 - 4:00 p.m.
Jazz Preteen - 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (2 spots left)
Jazz 13+ - 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. (waiting list)

Okay... go ahead & pinch em.

It'll Grow

2010-08-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

"It's just hair.  It'll grow."

I despise when people say this. First off, they've either never had a bad hair cut or an unfortunate incident with a wave iron {story for another time}. I've had both. But this post isn't prompted by my sudden nostalgia for my horrible hair catastrophes; it's about my kids'.

Son.

A few weeks ago Son received a haircut for the new school year. It had been long for quite some time & I enjoyed it. He looked like a little skateboard hoodlum & for some reason I thought that was cute. Nonetheless, this unfamiliar haircut episode piqued Son's creative interest. After returning from a shopping excursion for Dot's birthday I entered our home to see Son sitting on a chair, calmly watching a show in the midst of his own locks surrounding him on the wood floor. After seeing the scissors on the desk in front of him, my brilliant mind put two & two together.

He's cut his freaking hair.

Now, I didn't freak out at Son because we hadn't had this conversation before. However I did kind of freak out on Husband who was unawaringly mowing the backyard.

So, Thursday morning after reading my scriptures I came out of my bedroom ready to greet the day & my glorious children. I was ready to cook them a hearty breakfast & then head off to the gym. Instead of giving smiles & hugs I stopped in my tracks at Son's doorway. There on the carpet laid a two-inch golden lock; a lock that looked vaguely familiar. I know that lock. It was a lock that had taken Dot TWO GOSH DARN YEARS to grow!

I gasped & with that inhalation I was possessed by an evil woman. A woman who's face is ugly & contorted & who's shrill scream would make even the most brave man wither. She strikes fear into the faces of little children that should make her feel remorseful, but it only fuels her. It wasn't pretty & now looking back... the remorse is there.

I LOST IT.

It must have been a combination of feeling like my patience of the previous incident didn't matter. He didn't learn a darn blasted thing. Simply stating...

"Dot wanted a haircut."

Looking at Dot's mangled hair almost made me vomit. It was hacked & sharp. She looked like a mental patient. {My apologies to any mental patients whom you may know. It's just a fact.} So out of sheer anger I spanked Son; {twinge of sadness still pains me} something I regret doing. I had to leave his room. I was so angry. I shut the door fuming in my humanness as I mumbled incoherently.

Somehow I still managed to get us all to the gym on time, because heaven knows I needed to relieve some aggression. But as we entered the child care, the nightmare continued. Dot looked at the lady workers & with her sweetest little voice said... "Look I got a haircup! And Mama beat Son."

Oh laws. Here comes the cuffs.

After explaining the situation, {saying beat really means spank} I was taught by my children of my transgressions. Patience is a Godly trait & I am far from it. These situations help us refine those traits. After getting composure, Son & I had a nice talk & we all apologized to one another. Now it's my turn to LEARN from the experience & try harder next time to not let the evil woman let loose.

So yes, it'll grow. But seriously... shut up.

A bit ashamed.

Hack

Sure lucky to have that cute face.

Wand Winner

2010-08-28T18:16:00.000-07:00

Dear Miss Leigh {Comment niner},

I don't know if it's by your sheer determination or the full moon, but thank the random.org elves because by golly you WON! Hooray! Please e-mail me with your address & I will get that darling magical wand to you asap. Your little gal can cast some lovely spells on her siblings if desired. Or perhaps you if she's so bold... which I assume she is.

Enjoy my friend!

And for you others... until the next giveaway...

Happy 30th Birthday to Me

2010-08-26T22:07:00.000-07:00

Thirty. 30. 3-0. Treinta.

I've had many assumptions on how I would feel about this day. The first day of my 30th year of life. There have been numerous questions filtering through my subconscious throughout the years. How many kids will I have? Will I have crows feet yet? How's the bod holding up?

It started like any other. Son awakening me to a sweet kiss in bed & a puppy breathed "Good Morning Mom." A read chapter from the good book, a kiss goodbye from Husband & a trip to the gym filled with sweat & a birthday song sung by a room full of fit friends. Smiles abounding, the kids & I got in the car ready to head home for more birthday celebrations when my car sputtered. Uh-oh.

So what was my first gift for my birthday? Yep, a new battery! Joy! However it hasn't fazed my excitement for the day. Husband has planned an overnight surprise, so not much is going to affect me today. Luckily... Son butchered Dot's hair yesterday & not today. That most certainly would have put a damper on my day. (Haircut blunder story & pictures to follow on Pick Me Up Monday. Perhaps by then it might be funnier. Stop laughing. I'm not there yet.)

So I'm not going to write about how age is just a number & how 30's the new 20 because frankly that's a stupid rational to make people feel better about aging. My point is I'm genuinely happy to be 30. I'm happy to have two kids & live in the suburbs & be a stay at home mom. I'm happy I have a wonderful husband who supports me in my hobbies that help me fulfill my inner desires & personal goals. I'm blessed to have a healthy body & mind.

Do you ever feel like everything you've ever done has led you to a certain place? At 30 I'm happy to say that place feels like home. Yeah, maybe I do have a few wrinkles & spider veins, but I also have an interesting feeling that 30 is going to be fantastic.

Wahoo... I'm a grown up!

Chicken Stir-Fry with Quinoa & Rice

2010-08-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

Oh you patient little quinoa followers you. Your time has come. I've held out on you long enough & for that you have my apologies. This is a delicious, healthy recipe full of textured grains, proteins & vitamin-laden vegetables. I made this a few weeks back & when I went to take a picture of my beautiful masterpiece my camera practically shouted at me... "Change Battery!!!!"

Perfect.

So sorry, but you'll get the jist from this borrowed, yummy image.

One of my favorite things about stir-fry is the ability to be flexible with the recipe. Basically anything goes. Don't have bok choy on hand? So what? Use spinach. I did & it was fantastic! Only have one carrot? So what? Grate it to make it stretch further & add color. So if you don't have everything I used in this recipe {don't be scared of the list}... get creative. There aren't any rules.

Enjoy!!! Your bellies will thank me. And p.s... my kids gobbled it up. It was a quinoa miracle!

Chicken Stir Fry with Quinoa & Rice

2 T. Coconut Oil
6 cloves Garlic, minced (or T.J.'s Dorot cubes)
1 t. grated Fresh Ginger (or ground)
1 t. Salt
1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into cubes or strips
3-4 Green Onions, chopped
1/2 Onion, thinly sliced
2 c. spinach
Broccoli florets
3 carrots, chopped
1 c. Sugar Snap Peas (I used frozen peas)
1 c. Chicken Broth
2 T. Soy Sauce (Bragg's Liquid Aminos)
2 T. Honey
2 T. Cornstarch
1 c. Sweet Brown Rice
1/2 c. red quinoa
1/2 c. white quinoa

Boil 3 c. water. Add rice & quinoa & simmer for about 15-20 minutes until moisture is gone then fluff. While rice is cooking heat coconut oil in a large saucepan or wok. Add 3 cloves minced garlic, green onions, ginger root & salt. Add chicken & stir-fry until chicken is no longer pink. Add remaining cloves minced garlic & stir. Stir fry 1 minute. In a small bowl, add soy sauce, honey, cornstarch & 1/2 c. chicken broth. Add sweet onions, spinach, peas, carrots, broccoli & 1/2 c. chicken broth to stir-fry & cook for 1-2 minutes. DON'T OVERCOOK! {Mushy veggies are barf!} Add sauce mixture & stir-fry 1 minute. Serve immediately, over hot rice & quinoa. Delish!

Your welcome.

Magical Wand Giveaway

2010-08-20T23:13:00.000-07:00

I created an extra fancy schmancy wand & I figure... I might as well give it away because it's been a while. Don't you agree? But seriously, why am I asking you... I already know you're all suckers for free stuff. So scroll down below to see it. I have TWO so good luck. Giveaway ends {on the day of my birth} Friday, August 27th @ midnight. Wait shouldn't I be the one receiving gifts? Whatever.

Rules for entry:

1) Leave a sweet little comment.
2) Become or BE a follower.

Your tiny dancer/princess/fairy will LOVE it! Bippity, boppity BOO!

The Birth of Dot

2010-08-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

{amazing photos by Kami}

There are few & far in between days that are better than the day one of your children is born. This day is unsurpassed with moments of beauty, wonder & awe. My life got even better {which I didn't think was possible} when I met Dot for the first time. She was puffy & red & even a little ugly, but man did I love her. She was the most beautiful ugly thing I'd ever seen.

Dot brought with her all the characteristics that you'd hope for your baby to have. Gentleness, contentment, sweetness, a slumber sleeper, an easy eater... a joyful bundle. Her birth also brought out some interesting issues within me that have made me a stronger individual in uncountable ways. This little being was made from me & for me. She is wise. Her baldness reminds me of a meditative monk ready to enlighten me about the ways of men & God. Her brown, richly tilled eyes make me want to see the world through their innocent lenses. Her mischievous grin reminds me what it's like to be a child in heart & mind. She's a delight. My mind often wonders what kind of relationship the two of us had in heaven. I know hands down she's more intelligent, beautiful & here to teach me a thing or two.

Dot is two today & even typing that makes me cry. She's my precious as Smeagol would say (yes, I looked up the spelling. I am technically a journalist). She's everything I'd hoped my first little lady to be.

Happy, happy, happy birthday sweet girl. You will forever be my happy angel.

We had an fantastical girlie party for our little princess filled with sugar {oops, didn't know how to get around that one}, lots of sparkly pretties, fluffy tulle, dress up clothes & darling little friends.

Big hat from Goodwill added with some satin ribbon & a large peony was just fun. So were the stickies.

Dot's dresser drawer was a cute last minute idea I thought.

Some fun wands I imagined up.

tissue pom pom tutorial {here}

However, I've had my fill of pink for a spell.

Very Berry Shortcake

2010-08-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

{image found here}

Since we've been celebrating quite often at our home lately, {but we try to stay away from lots of sugar...} here's one of my favorite, homemade summer recipes that lets us enjoy the natural, sweet things of life:

Very Berry Shortcake
adapted from Better Homes & Gardens Cook Book

2 c. strawberries, sliced
2 c. blueberries
2 c. raspberries
2 c. flour
1/4 c. sugar
2 t. baking powder
1/2 c. butter
1 egg, beaten
2/3 c. milk
1 c. whipping cream, whipped (with 2 T. added sugar)

In a small bow stir together the strawberries & 1/4 c. of the sugar; set aside. Stir together remaining flour, sugar & baking powder. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Combine egg & milk; add to flour mixture. Stir just to moisten. Drop dough into 8 mounds on an ungreased baking sheet; flatten each mound with the back of a spoon until about 3/4 inch thick. Bake in a 450 degree oven about 10 minutes or until golden. Cool & cut shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon berries & whipped cream over bottom layers. Replace top of shortcake & ENJOY!

P.S... For all of you faithful followers... Do not fear. Although the comment quota was not achieved the quinoa recipe will be revealed. Thou shalt not be punished. :)

School Days

2010-08-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

A momentous thing happened today in the Hinze home... Son's first day @ preschool!

He was so super excited to go to this new, older preschool. He looked so dignified telling me about all of the super fun things they are planning on doing. I was impressed to be sent home with a list full of questions to ask & items to talk about with him so I would understand what he's doing at school each & every day.

He's also super jazzed about his aunt being one of his teachers. He loves her to pieces & is pretty stoked about being able to call her by her first name when all the other kids have to call her Mrs...

I love you Son. I love your tenacity, I love your toothless smile & I LOVE your hugs. Have fun getting learned!

A celebratory ice cream of course.

Quinoa

2010-08-13T11:28:00.000-07:00

For all of you wondering... quinoa is pretty easy to find. Firstly I dry canned a bunch from Preparing Wisely when I became all gung-ho about grains. Buying in bulk might pinch a little because it seems expensive, but it will save you money in the long run. I've also purchased it from Sprout's & Costco. I found a big bag of white quinoa at Costco the other day for $9. So... keep those comments a-comin!

Stay tuned for pictures from Dot's 2nd birthday party. Today is all about Dot & the magical things of girls. Check out Birthday Girl for inspirational party planning ideas to tide you over. Darling!

Have a great weekend!

Red Quinoa Taco Salad

2010-08-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

I adore red quinoa. I was informed about this "Super Grain" a few years back & have been experimenting with it ever since. As a tidbit of history knowledge quinoa (keen-wa) comes from the Andes Mountains in South America. It was used in the Inca civilization as a staple food & was respected as the "Mother grain." It contains more protein than any other grain & is considered a complete protein with an essential amino acid balance close to that of milk.

I think it's great as a substitute for ANY grain, but it's also a FANTASTIC substitute for meat. I didn't want to shock you too drastically, so instead I slipped it into this recipe with meat & beans. Talk about a jam packed protein meal! And delicious to boot. So fill those sweet little bellies with goodness.

Red Quinoa Taco Salad
30 minutes

1 lb. of beef (Sprout's organic grass fed beef is fantastic)

1/2 c. red quinoa, cooked (boil 1 cup of water, add 1/2 c. red quinoa, reduce heat & cover for 15 mins., fluff with a fork)
1 packet of McCormick's TACO seasoning (Or make your own. More power to ya.)
1 can of kidney beans, drained & rinsed
tortilla chips (I used the Trader Joe's Veggie & Flax Seed Chips. Great for taste & color.)
Guacamole (I used T.J.'s fresh guacamole kit. If you do, make it fast, they don't keep long, but it's DIVINE.)
spinach or romaine
1 tomato, diced
cheese
sour cream

Brown meat & drain off the fat while cooking the quinoa in a separate saucepan. Add taco seasoning & follow the directions on packet. Combine beans & cooked quinoa & simmer until thoroughly warmed. Dice necessary ingredients & let everyone build their own creations.

Enjoy!

P.S... If the comment tally on this post can reach 20 comments before the weekend... I'll leave my other favorite recipe for quinoa on Saturday for the weekend... Something I NEVER do. It will BLOW your minds! How bad do you want it? Go buy some red & white quinoa pronto.

Love Is In the Air

2010-08-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

Love makes me happy.

I enjoy seeing two people relishing in one another's embrace. Shiny new love or aged love like a fine merlot; both are delightful to witness. It's nice to know there truly is someone out there for everyone.

I was lucky enough to be apart of two weddings this weekend. One for my cousin & one for a long time friend. Each were contrasting to the other, but identical in theme. Love. Ogling & googling into each other's eyes, hand clutching, longing glances & sappy smiles. I've been there.

Going to weddings reminds me how happy I am to be married to Husband. They remind me how surreal that day was & how monumentous those milestone experiences are to our identity. It reminds me of the first boob grab in the car after the ceremony or how fantastic it was to cuddle next to him & not have to say goodbye when the night was over. It brings back memories of brushing our teeth together in our little apartment or cooking rice & potatoes over & over because that was all our meager college student budget could afford.

Weddings remind me of my marriage & help me reflect & take the pulse of my relationship. Are we as giddy as we were on that fun day? Do I still smile sappily when he does his stupid ugly dance or horrible imitations? Am I compelled to kiss him everyday?... I'm happy to say heck yes. I'm so, so, happy {nearly 11 years later} to be with that same good looking, long haired boy I met in the parking lot at SCC gripping a tennis racket.

So if you don't have any weddings coming up to help remind you about the blessed day the two of your souls made a family, look at some pictures or watch your wedding video. Remember how it felt & remember how blessed you are to share your life with someone special.

Fill your home with love today. And kiss him like you mean it. :)

Happy, happy Monday.

You Can't Make Me Come Back

2010-08-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

I'm extending our stay in Cali because frankly I want to. We were supposed to come back today but I don't wanna {I'm sticking out my tongue p.s.}. Instead we drove in the opposite direction of AZ heading for Laguna Beach. Fortunately my sister lives in the hills & as I type I'm overlooking the ocean. Man I'm blessed. Blessed to have an amazing sis, blessed to have the option of staying here & blessed to not have to pay this mortgage. :)

We had a lovely family reunion at La Costa in Carlsbad filled with a Sea World outing, 70 degree weather, hot tub dunkings, pro tennis tournament viewing, water slide contests & really, really, really good food. It fulfilled my mother's hope of having a over-the-top vacation & in effect has now made me a serious hotel snob.

So soon I'll return to my everyday wonderful life, but for now... I'll settle for my unrealistic fantastic one.

See you soon!

Things That Make Mondays Delightful

2010-07-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

Sometimes after the weekend I secretly look forward to Mondays. Here's why...

*Get to sing & dance to "Addicted to Love" while sweeping the kitchen. {Or mopping... this can really be done with anything I can sing into or use as a guitar.}

*Go to one of my favorite classes at the gym & sweat like there's no tomorrow. Humidity... what's that?

*Take a shower & straighten my hair for the first time in seriously months. It's SO long!

*Put on my early birthday earrings for myself.

*Call my favorite YW in the ward to come clean my bathrooms & floors.

*Pack for our vacation to Cali.

*Go to the library with the kids.

*Laugh at Dot as she prances around in her new ice cream cone panties.

*Watch Son line up rocks & secret treasures in his room, not believing how big he's getting.

*Making more totes with my sister-in-law for all of our precious ones.

*Thawing out some yummy whole wheat pizza dough to make delicious Broccoli Calzones for dinner.

*Merrily work on my query letter to send out to agents.

And my favorite...

*Watch Husband install our new, improved porch swing that we of course scored for free! He washed it, sanded it & with a fresh coat of paint it's the perfect addition to our ficus in the front yard. And then he got a big, fat kiss. You can find us cuddled up here everyday at about sunset.

It's Done & On It's Way!

2010-07-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

Oh Christie, {you lucky patient giveaway winner} your prize .. is done & on it's way to you & your little gal. I hope she enjoys her library tote, or whatever she chooses to use it for. I think it turned out quite cute, but I'm biased.

I had my nieces over yesterday & helped each one of them make their own. However I don't speak sewing so the tutorial confused me a bit because at the last step I was thinking... how in the world is this gonna work? This is a disaster. But then I turned it right side out & it was magically a whole complete bag with lining, a boxed out bottom & straps to boot! How did that happen? Now that I'm proficient at creating them... I can make one in about a half hour. So give it a go. There's nothing like a fun, cheap project to lift the spirits while spending time with the kiddos! After all we are creators. :)

Enjoy! Happy Weekend.

Crises

2010-07-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

{Image here}

Yes, crises. As in plural.

I don't like complainers. I don't like when people complain about their lots. Sometimes in the presence of your mother or your best friend a weak moment is needed, but publicly... complaining is a no, no. So I'm not going to complain per se. I'm going to talk about why I don't like baseball.

I've never really liked baseball. I think it's too long of a game, with crappy food & not much action. {Sorry, if you love baseball, this is mostly for analogue purposes.} A poignant thing that life & baseball have in common is curveballs. You know those sneaky, fast, loopy balls that make you swing forcefully, but the only contact you achieve is air & dirt when you land on your butt?

This month has been abundantly filled with curveballs. High ones, low ones, wide ones... you name it. The last one hit me square between the shoulder blades crippling me to the ground. What do I do? Dust myself off? Take the walk? Run for the pitcher with my bat & start a riot? The choices are up to me I suppose. I couldn't do much about the curve ball, but at least I have the choice to react to the curve ball.

{This metaphor might be getting old to you, but it's helping me sort this all out so bear with me.} Curveballs help us become better ball players. We need to learn how to not only hit curveballs, but how to learn from a miss as well.

So if you've missed me lately it's been because I've spent a lot of time I'm my butt this week in the box. But since I've got some Spray N' Wash handy, I'll make sure my uniform is clean for the next game & the numerous curveballs to come.

And hey... at least I didn't strike out.

Banana Bread

2010-07-13T12:56:00.001-07:00

Got any too ripe bananas hanging around like specimen 7? Well if so, I've got a recipe for you. I've adapted it from numerous recipes to make it my own &... well, it's delicious. Take something yucky & make it scrumptious. :) But after eating a few pieces... go for a walk. And if it's too hot... do some water aerobics. Ha ha...

Nutty Heather's Banana Bread
Yield: 2 loaves

3/4 c. butter
3/4 c. honey
3 ripe bananas, mashed
3 eggs
1 t. vanilla
1/2 c. (soured milk, buttermilk, plain yogurt or sour cream)
2 c. flour (freshly ground whole wheat preferably)
1 t. baking soda
1 t. baking powder
1 t. cinnamon
3/4 t. salt
1/2 c. walnuts, chopped (optional)
1/8 c. brown sugar (optional)

In a large bowl, cream together the butter & honey thoroughly. Blend in bananas, eggs, milk (buttermilk, yogurt, sour cream...) & vanilla. In another bowl sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt & cinnamon. Combine dry ingredients to creamed mixture & mix well. In (another) separate bowl, mix together the walnuts & brown sugar. Pour into greased loaf pans & sprinkle nutty crumble on top evenly Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. DON'T OVERCOOK! Enjoy!

Summer KIDS projects

2010-07-09T13:36:00.001-07:00

Gotta love those fun e-mails from Martha. I recently received one advertising Family-Friendly Summer Projects. Hm... yes please! Take a look {here} at some of these super easy, cheap, fun crafts to do with the kiddos over the next month before school starts. My favs...

Bubble Wands
Frog Rocks
Wave Ware Picnic Plates
Sponge Ball
Bookworm Game!! {If you have kids from 4-10, this is a MUST! Genius Martha team.}
Tie-Dyed Tees & Tanks
Ring-Bound Travel Books
Sun Print Cards

Okay Super Moms. You've got some new ideas so... off you go! Enjoy your summer weekend in all its Popsicle glory!

Inklings

2010-07-08T17:13:00.000-07:00

Please act upon all inklings you may have. It can brighten someone's day, make them feel love & very possibly change their life.

Happy Day.

The Northwest

2010-07-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

I've been to the the South, the Caribbean, Mexico, the Midwest, the isles of the sea, the North & of course I live in the Southwest. {And I do have a longing to go to New England someday as well as... the entire rest of the world...} But I've never been to the Northwest. I've always been curious about trees, vegetation, great bodies of water, rain & all the other forces & designs of nature I don't get enough of in the desert.

So we went. And where exactly did we go?...

We spent 3 days in Seattle, Washington & 3 days in the pristine town of Victoria, British Columbia.
{Good job to some of you world travelers for your correct guesses.}

Husband & I had a glorious time walking, reading, chatting, cuddling, eating ice cream, riding scooters & being with each other doing whatever we wanted whenever we wanted. Heaven. Reconnecting is a must. Life in all of it's fantastic, routine mundaneness can be great, but there's something about spontaneity & adventure that breaths new life & romance back into a relationship. Not saying our relationship needed CPR, but these sorts of trips fortify our connection & reminds us how much we really do like each other.

I love Husband deeply. I love the big things he does for me as well as the small. Thank you love for whisking me away to a different land & making me feel like a lady. Thank you for looking at me like I'm beautiful & laughing at my jokes. Thanks for a dynamite excursion. I love you more everyday. But I love you the best in Victoria... & possibly the Caribbean.

And a BIG, gigantic THANK you to all of the wonderful friends & family for loving on our kids while we were gone. There's no better people in all the world. :)

Here's a collage of our travels for your viewing entertainment:

{Forgive the just woke up hair & lack of makeup.}
The main reason for visiting Seattle is our dear friends David & Dianna from Grad school. They recently had a new addition to their family, Alex, so we were thrilled to spend time with them as they embark on parenthood. They were the ideal hosts & forever will be our amiogs.
{We love you! Thank you so much. :)}

They had 3-yes-3 Rainier cherry trees on their property. Yum, yum, yum!

Next we were on to Gas Works Park.
{10 Things I Hate About You was partially shot here.}

Us with the view of Seattle's skyline. 65 degrees. Glorious.

Ballard Locks, where the ships pass through.

To our chagrin, we were just in time for the Gay Pride Parade in downtown Seattle.

David & Dianna took us to Ivar's Fish Bar for a local favorite. Fish & Chips of course.

Me literally on Pike Place.

Ready to head into the famous Pike's Market. We bought excellent produce for some fantastic homemade salsa for dinner.

Aw...

We also stopped by to see the Seattle Temple.

Husband's blasphemous rendition of the fig leaf he'd need. Please.

All of these pictures at the temple are a bit fuzzy. Celestial I suppose you could say.
Husband took this artsy pic of the angel Moroni. Quite lovely.

A quick shout out to the Space Needle. Gotta have one of those.

We met Husband's Aunt Sandy for a LOVELY meal at Roy's Boathouse. I was bummed I couldn't change from my sightseeing getup & get all dolled up. But surprisingly everyone is pretty casual in Seattle. It's located right on the water of the Puget Sound. It has won numerous awards for their menu & it did not disappoint. We ordered their fish sampler with salmon, stablefish & Alaskan halibut. Thanks Aunt Sandy!

And then we took the Clipper across the Puget Sound & the Pacific to Victoria, British Columbia.
Here is Parliament.

We stayed right in the harbor. It was a beaut.

The legendary Empress Hotel

We also went to The Butchart Gardens; the most exquisite place ever. Breathtaking. So much so when we walked in we looked at each other & started laughing. Out... of... control. I told Husband it was perfect, like the Garden of Eden. He said if that were the case I'd be naked.
Ha ha...
And if that were the case we'd still be in Canada incarcerated.

The Sunken Garden

Dashing.

Are you freaking kidding me? Imagine this surrounding you. 360 fetching beautiful degrees.

We rented a scooter & drove up the coast for a beautiful day. On our way we saw...

Craigdarroach Castle. Straight out of Pride & Prejudice, I swear.
And this is the backyard.

So these are hydrangeas? We can only have artificial ones in AZ. :(

The house I'd love to live in.

Gonzales Bay

Downtown Victoria.

The final view from our balcony. Adieu Canada.

Few Things Are Better

2010-07-02T21:56:00.000-07:00

Few things are better than a walk through one of the most beautiful gardens in the world.
Few things are better than 14 hours of uninterrupted sleep.
Few things are better than a sunset dinner on the water.
Few things are better than a cool breeze & a caramel apple with slivered almonds on a park bench.
Few things are better than finishing a book in 2 days without neglecting your children.
Few things are better than meeting friends from faraway lands.

BUT...

These two things are better than them all.

{This is Son's "ninja" outfit. And yes... that is a breast pump apparatus tied around his waist.
As Moms we can't even dream this stuff up. That was a good moment.}

We missed you little rug rats. Happy to be home.
Well... contented.

{And... it's coming... MONDAY... see you then.}

Sneak peek.

Weakling

2010-06-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

So would you believe I made it until Friday @ 6:30 p.m. without spending more than $1 on crap I don't need? Believe it, because it's truer than Royal Norman's forecast for this hotter than heck weekend. {Later suckas.}

I had the genius idea of going to--where of all places--to buy necessary items for our trip?

Target.

{Yes, you may judge me. Laugh & clap your hands with jubilee at my expense. Go ahead I know you want to.} This was a horrible, horrible idea. This enchanting store sucks all of the will power out of my spirit like a thirsty, hot, pouty vampire. I've done a post previously stating how Lucifer is the CEO of this establishment for the simple reason there's temptation & lust around every fabulous corner. I went to get...

cotton balls
condoms (sorry Mom, I do have sex.)
travel sized toiletries for my carry-on

That should have been it, right? Well it wasn't. You should have seen me justifying both points of view in the aisle ways.

I can put the items on hold & come back in the morning because then it will be Saturday & the challenge will be over.

What sense does that make? That's semi cheating anyway.

Well then I can just say the challenge ends at 6 o'clock like a normal work day.

Lamer. You are so, so weak.

So, both of these crazy personalities have good solid arguments. Well maybe not good. And--alright--definitely not solid. But points. I decided it was a stupid idea to have a challenge for myself just before leaving the country on vacation. I should have at least given myself a day to purchase fun, trippy items. So, I went ahead & purchased a few things that will be great to have on my trip. And I bought one item just for me--well, maybe Husband.

BUT I have to say from really Sunday, June 20th to Friday, June 25th @ 6 o'clock p.m., I did not buy ANYTHING that me or my family didn't need. {Except a sucker from Sprout's to keep Dot happy while I shopped. 6 for $1.} So, I believe this week was quite a success.

I'm afraid to ask, but how did you do?

Bon Voyage

2010-06-25T07:30:00.000-07:00

There is much to do. But before I pack my scarf & boots {because it's in the 50's & 60's where we're heading - hallelujah!}, I must inform you of the winner of the library tote.

Six-pack Momma!

Congrats. Please e-mail me your address & your preference if you'd like one for a lad or lass. I will happily mail you your new darling bag within 2 weeks.

Although we will be off soon {to arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world} please look for a few misc. posts next week & I promise to post all about our adventures & travels when we return. If you have an inkling where we're going... leave a comment. I'd LOVE to see some of your guesses.

{}

Well hello there Husband. It's been quite a while since we've had a conversation that hasn't been interrupted by the word bum or fart. Yes, you may most certainly hold my hand. Please do pick me that flower. Why aren't you handsome. I knew I married you for a reason. For lots of them actually.

Strawberry Lime Popsicles

2010-06-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

Tis the season for strawberries. Especially since I just purchased 10 pints for 25 cents each. What!? Yup. $2 fiddy. So I've made strawberry jam this week, strawberry shortcake, strawberry smoothies & yes... I have another blasted recipe for all you strawberry loving freaks.

{I wrote strawberry 5 times in the first paragraph in case you were keeping track.}

Sorry if you are all tarted out, but I'm not a wasteful person, so I must use them up before they get all shriveled & moldy. Luckily I've got just the ticket to finish up that last pint!

Popsicles anyone?

If you have a Popsicle mold, good for you, but if you don't, Dixie cups work great & are so cute. Also tongue depressors work great for sticks. Again... cute.

See the rest of the recipe here. Mmm... Enjoy the 110+ degree heat in style. The kids will devour them & you'll feel good knowing they were made with minimal, healthy ingredients & of course ...

love.

Mmm... Smoothies

2010-06-22T17:08:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick recipe for a summery, cool, refreshing treat. {I make these in a variety of flavors, so don't be intimidated to throw whatever into the blender.}

4 oz. juice (freshly squeezed o.j. is my fav)
4 oz. organic rice milk
1/2 c. yogurt (I have a homemade recipe for yogurt. Look for it next week.)
6-8 frozen strawberries
1 banana
1-2 handfuls of spinach
*1 scoop of protein powder (This is a must after the gym, but if you don't like it, omit it.)

I make these for the kids too. I buy the cups at Wal-Mart with the detachable, washable lids & then toss the straws that come with them. I purchase the inexpensive, flexible straws that fit perfectly into the holes & DON'T spill. This way the kids can also get a healthy snack with leafy greens but without making a mess. Easy solution & a win, win for kids & moms. :)

Enjoy!

Spending Fluff

2010-06-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Last week I proposed a challenge. A financial challenge that had nothing to do with crafting or cooking or {I'm sure some of you were arguing not blog worthy} fun. I know some eyes were rolled at my typed words & that's okay. So perhaps I'm the only one answering my challenge. But am I a huge nerd {or maybe a tad competitive} to take a challenge & do my best to learn everything I can from it? Those of you who know me know that winning never hurts either. Even against myself. :)

I'm hoping this challenge will at least wake up some of you comatose aisle wanders & $1 bin ransackers. {You know who you are.} Hopefully it will inspire you to be aware of your consumption habits & take back the control to be resourceful & responsible with every incoming penny.

Discretionary income is income after subtracting taxes and normal expenses (such as rent or mortgage, utilities, insurance, medical, transportation, property maintenance, child support, inflation, food and sundries, &c.) to maintain a certain standard of living. It is the amount of an individual's income available for spending after the essentials (such as food, clothing, and shelter) have been taken care of:

Discretionary income = Gross income - taxes - necessities

(Find Wikipedia resource here)

I knew this challenge was coming so I was able to compensate the week prior to make sure I was prepared. But are we always prepared for a lost job, or an injury, or an accident, or car failures? Um... no & that's why we ALL need a nice cushion in savings to help get us through rough patches. Spending all of our disposable income on stuff is frivolous. And some families do this every month & that's why debt is so abundant.

The whole concept of discretionary/disposable income can be deceiving to some. Most of this category should be labeled SAVINGS or mission fun or college fund or retirement fund or emergency fund ... the list goes on... It is acceptable to have numerous saving funds. :)

It's quite easy to keep track of your spending when using your debit card because you can look up all of your purchases on-line & then categorize them according to your household's budget.

Here's my DISCRETIONARY spending from Monday, June 14th - Friday, June 18th:

Monday:
$7.46 - Nielsen's Frozen Custard

Tuesday:
$10ish - Wal-Mart {not needed snacks}

Wednesday:
$-59.93 - Ross {return of not needed FLUFF}

Thursday:
$18.38 - Pachucha {lunch with Husband & kids}
$1.50 - Costco Smoothies
$26.99 - Father's Day gift
$21.75 - The Home Depot {sudden urge to paint an ugly bookcase} $19.85 - Barnes & Noble {The Overton Window for Father's Day}

Friday:
$15.64 - The Home Depot {Father's Day gift}
$20 - Pei Wei {Dinner with family}

------------------------------------------

Total: $81.64

Yikes. That would have been way worse if I wouldn't have returned that Ross merchandise. Granted it was Father's Day & I bought gifts... but it still was quite a week of consumption. And I overshot our budget for "entertainment," "eating out" & "gifts."

To motivate & revolutionize your home this week, please ponder this question when consuming temptation arises. {Because that's exactly what it is..
a temptation & for some an addiction.}

What does a good deal really mean if you don't need it in the first place?

Let the spending stop in our home's first. Good luck!

Summer Reads & Library Bags... + giveaway

2010-06-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's because I profess to be a writer that people constantly feel compelled to ask me

"what good books have you read lately?"

Okay people.  It's confession time.  I haven't been the hugest reader these days.
Do you know how much time it takes to write a freaking novel?  
Ha ha...  seriously?
So, to be quite honest, I'm wondering what my next read should be? Husband & I will be leaving the country next week & between plane & ferry rides,
I would like to read to consume the time.
{No editing on this trip.
And there's only so much talking Husband can take.}

My question is... what's good?  I need some assistance.
What are your favorite reads?  Don't be shy.  We all have our different styles & genres.  I like everything so don't hold back.  {Except sleaze.  Surprisingly I don't like sleaze.  Go figure.}

Your help please.

So let's segue from sleaze to kids...

To get the kids involved, here is the most darling idea {& template} for those frequent library outings this summer.

These bags are so versatile. They could be used for crafts, church, babysitting bags... The kids will love to have their own bags & the name tag & holder for their library cards are super clever as well.

Happy Reading to all!
Don't forget to leave your recommendation.
P.S... sneaky, sneaky...
Leave a comment & perhaps I'll make an extra for your kiddo too.

Two's better than ONE & a recipe for luck

2010-06-17T08:04:00.001-07:00

A beautiful bouquet was a wonderful pick me up from a friend this week.
{I have amazing friends.}

Oh... & so was this T.J.'s gift card I won from their weekly bring your own bag raffle.
It must be a law of the universe. All the free advertising I've been plugging for them...
Karma's awesome.

And for those who desire this bless-ed recipe for this summer's canning season... enjoy

Strawberry-Lime Jam

Yield: 6-7 pints. We doubled this recipe & had jam coming out our ears!

Wash, stem, and mash all of your strawberries. I used my friend's hand held mixer things to mash them. I gotta get me one of those this year. Here's a general recipe, but you can modify it to your liking. Less sugar, more limes. Whatever.

5 C mashed strawberries
the juice and zest of 2 limes
8 Tbsp maxigel
2 C sugar - or whatever sweetener you'd like.
If the strawberries are really sweet, use less sweetener

Mix all ingredients together in a large pot and bring to a simmer. Spoon hot jam mixture into hot jars and process in a boiling water canner for 20 minutes.

*Strawberries were on sale at Superstition Ranch Market for 50 cents! I bought an entire flat & then some. Stock up & freeze them for smoothies, or can then for jam. I did both. Mmm...

Free Stuff

2010-06-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

Ha! I've tricked you. You're not gonna get any free stuff from this post. It's about free stuff. So please keep reading, even if you think I'm a huge buzz-kill.

I've noticed many of you like the idea of free stuff. How do I know? {All of my comments on giveaway days. Da. Apparently these are the only days I get a whole lotta love.} But you know how I really know this? Because I'm a free stuff sucker as well. Love it. I love feeling like I'm getting a deal. Like I'm smarter than everyone else & have sniffed out the big sale on my own bargain shopper merit.

Wrong.

This is delusional. I was just suckered into the ploy by retail businesses with all of the other saps buying crap they don't need. Why? What's wrong with all of us? Do we have that much extra time & moola that we have the luxury to go to a store & pick out another mundane chachki to sit upon our mantle; until we of course get sick of it in a few months time & have to buy another, better replacement? No! {Do they worry about chachkies in third world countries? I doubt it. So why do I?}

Distraction.

Distraction enough to keep me from doing responsible things like putting it in savings, or spending time with my crazy kids or helping someone else in need.

Am I even aware of others in need?

I've been trying to limit my consumption of things over the past few months to see the difference it makes. I've had my falls off the wagon, {$14.99 pair of jeans @ Ross} but I've got to tell you, it feels good to know I don't need stuff to make me happy. And with the economy in the toilet, there's really no better time than now to get our acts together.

So starting this week... I'd like to put forth a challenge... {keep reading, I know it's a little frightening, but you can do it}... take inventory of your discretionary income this week. {I feel like Suze Orman.} Tally it up. After you are aware of your spending for the entire week starting next Monday, June 21st, there will be NO DISCRETIONARY SPENDING FOR 5 DAYS!

This means things other than food {groceries, NOT eating OUT}, bills, gas, etc. are off limits. {The shirt at Forever 21, the pedicure, the shoes for daughter.} Nope.

Take back the control. Tighten up that cute belt a notch & see if it makes a difference for the week. Who knows? It might actually make a dent in your waistline. :)

I'll be posting my results. What an experiment. I feel like a bonafide scientist! Oh laws. Good luck!

Friends are Treasures

2010-06-10T12:41:00.000-07:00

Few things are better than a quiet knock, a warm, smiling face & a scrumptious flat of strawberries.

Thank you dear friend.

Now it's time to break out that summer Strawberry & Lime Jam recipe.

Breath & Remember Why...

2010-06-09T13:12:00.000-07:00

Some days it's too hot. Some days the scale should be tossed out with all the other rubbish. Some days I forget how important I am.

Not today.

Today I realize exactly how blessed I am. I realize "I am the master of my fate. I am the captain of my soul."

So what.
So what if Dot pooped in her pants... It'll clean.
So what if Son has eight freaking cavities... They'll fill. {I swear we brush everyday.}
So what if my neighbor doesn't like me... I can serve them.
So what if I can't get to washing the baseboards this month... They'll keep.
So what if our family has its problems... I have a family.
So what if I haven't shaved my legs in a week... Their blond.
So what if my house doesn't have 4 bedrooms... I have a home.
So what if my boobies sag... Husband still like em.
So what if I don't agree with government policies... I can vote.
So what if my winter grass is died & gone... I have a lawn.
So what if I don't always have the right answer... I can learn.
And on & on & on...

This poem is a classic & always proffers no matter my circumstance. I always have the power & ability to choose my attitude. I have the luxury of having a voice & following my inner compass. No matter how challenging or difficult my situation, I have the right to choose to be better. And this right is a gift.

"Invictus"
by William Earnest Henley

Out of the night that covers me
black as the pit from pole to pole
I thank whatever gods may be
for my unconquerable soul

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud
Under the bludgeonings of chance
my head is bloody, but unbowed

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
looms but the horror of the shade
and yet the menace of the years
finds, and shall find me, unafraid

It matters not how strait the gate
how charged with punishments the scroll
I am the master of my fate
I am the captain of my soul

Today's lesson: So what? Bring it.

Things That Make Me Grit My Teeth & Clench My Fists

2010-06-07T20:00:00.000-07:00

We all have those things that make our skin crawl with revulsion & get our nerves rivaled into a tizzy.

Here are some of mine:

The words moist & tender
Clutter
When people speak & use the words uh, um, ah... every 7th word
The word "NO" defiantly shouted from a child {mine or otherwise}
The stench of dirty dishes
Arrogant/obnoxious people
Perms
Men in their late 50's who drive convertibles
The sound of a metal fork scraping along someone's front teeth
Women who don't wear bras
Ungrateful Americans
Flies in my house {killed 12 today - close the dang door kids!}
Male BO
Too much unrestrained cleavage
The cellulite that has bought real estate on the back of my thighs
Negativity
Crabby Drivers
The middle finger {It's so long & vulgar when it stands alone}
Close mindedness
Rude neighbors that call the police on you
When people say supposebly instead of supposedly {if you do this, please stop}
Panty lines
When I breakout like a pubescent adolescent {what the crap!?}
Untrimmed & unruly chest, arm & leg hair
The words gyrate & member
And... when I get woken up from a DEEp sleep

I know there are others, but I'm sleepy.

You got any?
I'd like to feature my favorites. Make em good.

Chalkboards Made Easy

2010-06-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

I think on chalkboards fondly. Why? I don't know. Maybe because I had one growing up & I used it to assign all of my pretend students their math homework. My little fingers always seemed to be dusted with chalk remnants. And it was an exceptionally happy day if my Mom purchased colored chalk. Oh boy!

Perhaps this is why I wanted my kids to have one. To create their own fond memories of play. I thought it would be easy enough & I was right.

Here are the ingredients:

MDF (I used 2'X 4' & 2'X 2')
Baseboard Molding
Nails
Liquid Nails (& caulk gun)
Anchors
Chalkboard Paint
Desired Paint for Base

Buy a thin sheet of MDF at Home Depot & have cut it to your desired dimensions (mine are above). (I don't know if they cut base for you at Home Depot. We have a saw that cuts 45 degree angles so we just did our base cuts at home to make sure they were perfect.)
Also buy all of your other remaining needed supplies.
At home, paint your MDF with chalk board paint (you might need multiple coats) & your base with your desired color & let it dry overnight. (I sanded my painted base to distress it.)
Next, adhere anchors to the back of your MDF so you can fasten it to the wall securely.
Then apply a layer of liquid nails adhesive to your base & frame it out around the edges of your MDF. You can also secure the base to the MDF with some nails. (Sink your nails, cover the sinkholes with caulk & lightly sand the surface to leave a smooth finish.)

Buy some chalk & you are good to go. I have one in Son's room & one in my kitchen to help keep our meal plans organized among other activities for the week.

Hopefully, you too have a fondness for chalkboards... & if so... enjoy the dust. You're kids sure will.

Funny story: {Maybe not laugh out loud, ha-ha funny, but nonetheless, worthy of documentation.}

So, I was up late last night shuffling around the house happy to be alone with my thoughts in the quiet. Have you ever stayed up late even though you're tired but because it's quiet & you {FINALLY!} have time to yourself, you can't help but relish in the midnight calm? Well, this was my position last night. I was finishing this post & thought I'd take a picture of my kitchen chalkboard. {Which is darling if I do say so myself.}

So I begin to erase the contents {which are lame} so I can write new, more clever things upon it for the picture {not simplifying} & what happens you ask??? The whole darn thing comes crashing down from off the wall.

I deserve it I suppose. What a hypocrite.

I shriek of course. One, out of fright & another out of sheer anger. An obscenity might have grumbled low in my chest as well. I'm obviously not perfect. Shocker.

So, if you are wondering why I've forgone the kitchen chalkboard picture it's because it's lying upon my floor in shambles waiting patiently for me to adorn it back onto it's proper perch. But until then... enjoy your weekend & projects. And please... go buy some chalk for the kids. Even if it is just for the sidewalk. You don't dust out there anyway.

Bella Band Winner!

2010-06-04T00:09:00.001-07:00

Oh my sweet friend... Enjoy Melina!

Thanks so much Michelle. Please visit Michelle's site for other darling Bella Bands!

Happy Weekend!

Bella Band Giveaway!

2010-05-28T07:02:00.000-07:00

Darling. Darling. Darling.

These Bella Bands are the giveaway this week. {Thanks to Michelle who is their creator. Visit her site here.}

Quickly, here are the rules because I'm on my way to Cali. {Later suckas.}:

1 - Leave a comment, specifying which Bella Band you'd like to win.
{Platinum Couture, Hocus Pocus, or Queen Phyllis}
2 - Make sure you're a friendly mate/follower
3 - To make it interesting, if you refer a friend & they become a follower, you can leave two comments by entering TWICE!
4 - Go to Michelle's site & leave a comment & you can be entered in THREE times.

Please just make sure you leave the appropriate number of comments on MY blog. This will up your chance of winning. On your honor gals. :)
The cutoff for the giveaway is Thursday, June 3rd @ midnight.

So, good luck! The prize is worth it!

Happy Memorial weekend! Ya'll be safe.

GINORMOUS Decopaged Letters

2010-05-28T07:01:00.000-07:00

ALPHA-BET your bottom dollar these are cute.

I am a tad obsessed with alphabet letters. Especially ginormous ones. I bought an H for my family room & painted it black.

I bought one for Dot's room & painted it green {of course}.
And... yes, I even bought one for Son's room. But I did something a bit different for his. He helped me pick out the paper, cut & glue.

Buy your paper mache letter at JoAnn Fabric & Craft Store. {$8.99}

Buy some Mod Podge while you're there & a foam brush.
You'll also need {three} sheets of scrapbook paper.

{mine all matched, but I suppose they don't have to.}

Put you letter facing downward on your scrapbook paper pretty side down.

2. Trace the outline of the front of your letter. Then trace the curved sides of the letter. A little tricky, but you'll manage. {I tried to match up the pattern to make it look continuous.}

3. Glue your scrapbook cut outs to your letter with Mod Podge & then let it dry for a half hour or so.

4. Brush a thin layer of Mod Podge over your paper glued letter to finish it with a nice sheen & semi protectant.

5. I made a hole in the back of my letter & then hammered a nail into the wall to fasten it. If it tilts you can use an adhesive to make it stick, or I just nailed a bitty nail to the side of it to keep it vertical.

This would also be cute on a focal wall using their entire name using the same paper or various patterns.
Simple, inexpensive & again... something the kids can do with you!

How To Apply Makeup & Be Beautiful in 7 minutes!

2010-05-26T12:25:00.001-07:00

Kristin was one of my winners of the make-up application & hair style giveaway. As a side note, Kristin is my longest life long friends. I believe we "met" when we were a mere 18months old. So to say we are quite comfortable around each other is a bit of an understatement.

I asked her to come over fresh from the shower. And that she did.

Today I will be focusing on the MAKEUP.

First things first. Don't buy crap. Go through your makeup bag & get rid of practically 80%. It's probably rotted, bad for you & ugly. You don't need a lot of products. Just choose them wisely. They also don't have to be expensive. Again, choose wisely.

My camera did something weird, but it doesn't matter. You get the jist right? Most of your bags look like this I'm sure. Reduce. Make a separate bag for your little gal to play with & then chuck the rest.

FACE:

I started off by applying a good concealer to trouble spots. Under eyes, blemishes, broken capilaries around the nose... we all have them. I do this with my middle finger to avoid applying too much pressure. I then take my trusty concealer brush & I blend. Blending is KEY to looking fresh & natural.

I use Bare Escentuals make-up, so I of course used this on Kristin. But feel free to use whatever foundation/base/powder you use. Just follow the steps. I really like the Bare Escentuals line because it is light & easy. I've always HATED powders because they go on cakey. But not this one. You can apply as much or as little coverage as is necessary. I blend my brush in the powder, tap of the excess & buff into the skin, working from the jaw bone to the inside of the face & forehead. Repeat as many times as is necessary to give you an even complexion.

Next, I use a bronzing color to add warmth to the face. Everyone likes to be tan right? I start from the top of the cheek bone & sweep to the apple of the cheeks. Don't forget the apples, they are the prime spot for a natural glow. (NOT the cheekbones as the 80's would have you believe.) :) I also lightly sweep some warmth around her chin, forehead & nose to even out the color.

Lastly, I put on a mineral veil to seal, minimize lines, absorb oil & add glow to her face. It works like an airbrush to lock makeup in place weightlessly. LOVE IT.

On to the eyes. Kristin has amazing green eyes & I couldn't wait to get my anxious, little hands on them. Green, hazel & brown eyes can really be played up on by using plums, eggplant & brown colors which is exactly what I wanted to do.

Easy steps for dramatic eyes: (Go darker for night & lighter by day by using the same steps.)

1 - BROWS: Don't forget about them. Don't pluck & wax & then leave them there naked. Find an angle brush for your makeup gear. Then use a shade (I just use eyeshadow) similar to your own browns, but warmer. Browns are always good. Use your angle brush & brown shadow to lightly sweep the color through your brows, defining the larger portion closer to your nose & the ends to get an even, strong brow. (Eyebrows thin with age & a defined brow will balance your face & add a frame for your eyes.) BUT!... Don't go over board.

2 - EYES: TWO colors are needed for your eyes. A highlighter shadow & a contour shadow. (However, I DO use a primer from MAC under my shadow. This will make your shadow stay put, not crease & enhance the color of whatever shadow you put over it.) LOVE IT.

Apply the primer all over lid & just below the orbital bone (feel the bone which your eyebrow lies on & let your finger slide down to feel where it stops). Next, use a light highlighter color (like below) & sweep it just under the brow. This will make your eye appear more open. You can also sweep that color on the inside & outside corners of your eyes, as well as all over your lid.

Next I take my contour color & apply it just UNDER the orbital bone with my shadow brush. The important part of this step is to blend. You must blend both colors so there isn't a hard line where they intersect. I do this by sweeping the contour color just under the orbital bone & then with circular motions, blend the colors with my brush until I get the desired shade.

These are the only other contour shadows I have & it's all I need.
{Bed Head shadow palette image here.}

Highlighting eyeshadow.
{Ricepaper MAC eyeshadow image here.}

3 - LINER. Girls. Put down your liners. Please for the LOVE, stop applying eye-LINER. It shouldn't be called that. I am not a fan of seeing a line drawn on the top of someone's lid. I think a eyeliner should enhance the illusion of a thicker lash base & define the eye, not the line. This means get the line as close to the lashes as possible. Then smudge the line subtly with you finger or with a Q-tip. You can do this on the bottom for a more dramatic eye, but please do it ON TOP of the lash line. NOT below. I would recommend a liner in a deep plum, brown or graphite color. And if you don't think I've written the word LINE enough... LINE.

Check this out. But please, forgo the blue liner for your grocery errands. :)

Eyeliner:
How To Apply Pencil Eyeliner

4 - Apply mascara. Less is more girls. Start at the lash root base & extend toward the ends. Work your way around & then hold your brush perpendicularly & touch up the ends to get maximum length.

5 - Finish your face with a cool, summer gloss. Surpringly my favorite is from Bath & Body Works, Co. Bigelow Mentha Lip Tint. My fav is Plum Mint. Each shade is infused with peppermint oil & makes your lips not only shine with color, but tingle with a cooling sensation. And as a nifty, little perk, it doesn't make your breathe too bad either. :) I gave some to Kristin to try since I usually buy in bulk when they're on sale.

Viola!
I hope all of these little tips help. I'm excited because I will be doing my first wedding application this month. FUN!

Now go get beautiful like Kristin! It's easy. I saw Kristin the next morning & I laughed... "Did you sleep with your makeup on?" And she said, "No I did it myself!" I was so proud. She also got to choose from my closet & accessories for the fun of it. I hope you had fun on your hot date Kris. You deserved it! You're gorgeous inside & out. Hugs.

Death

2010-05-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Some of my loudest laughs that I've ever bellowed have occurred in the dark while lying in bed talking to Husband. These are the moments I am my most relaxed. The kids are snug in their beds, sound asleep, I am cleansed, toned, moisturized & flossed & I am in comfy p.j.'s. All is right & this is when Husband & I get unusually giddy.

We talk about everything from how the day went, to why hair grows on knuckles. I enjoy these little chats & validations. To know there is another being on the planet that is just as quirky & as strange as me. To be able to share my life, my sorrows, my giggles & my most clandestine secrets.

I was relaying a story to Husband of how I'd seen a fire truck pull into one of the retirement communities close to our neighborhood. This made me sad as it didn't have its lights & sirens blaring. I knew that this was probably because their patient was already with the angels.

A few years ago, our next door neighbor passed away in the night. The fire trucks & ambulance had come without our knowledge & when I asked how that was possible I was informed it was because he was already gone by the time his wife had dialed 9-1-1. {Hence, they don't need the bells & whistles.}
This of course prompts one of my favorite games of... "What if when we're old I die in the middle of the night right here next to you. What will you do?"

With barely a pause he quips, "Well... I'll give you a kiss & then put on your wig because I know you'd want it that way."

Husband knows my fear of female hair loss in my elder years & he's playing up my geriatric insecurities. I punch him in the arm, but not without cracking a huge smile. {I'm glad we're in the dark so he can't see my weakness.} But after a moment I can't help it soon we are both rolling with laughter.

I'm glad he knows me so well. But even more so, I'm glad he'll love me even when I'm bald.

The picture at the top is to remind me that I did once have hair.
And this photo is possibly a candidate for later down the road.

TWO WINNERS!

2010-05-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

You ready to get all beautified?

Congratulations...

Candice & Kristin!

Get a sitter for tomorrow night & meet at my house @ 5:00 p.m! And afterward go out for a romantic evening with your honey.
Please bring you make-up bags too for a little lesson. :)

Son's Day Of Fun

2010-05-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

As you recall last Friday's post was about Son's Day Of Fun. And that it was. We made a darling list & this is what it said:

See that first one there? Get Clay Popsicles.

Clay is one of Son's buddies. He had his tonsils taken out last week, so Son thought it would be nice to go "get him some Popsicles for his hurt throat." When he said these words I nearly burst into tears. On my boy's Day Of Fun he wanted to do something kind for someone else. Oh there is a Heaven above! There is an Omnipotent Being aware of me & my efforts! It was a proud moment for me to call myself his mother.

So I think we should all follow Son's example today. Ask your kids what they would like to do for someone else today. Pull someone's weeds, bake some bread (NO COOKIES remember!), visit someone who's sick, or lonely, color Grandma a picture, iron Daddy's shirts... I'm starting to catch on that these little humans really do observe the good & the bad from us. Get them involved in as much good as possible & they won't even recognize it as service. That's just what people do for each other. Love.

{}

Another fun thing Son & I worked on the other week was a display gallery to showcase all of his masterpieces. It was an easy project. The wood was left over from a friend's project that she gave to me. For a while I thought I was going to make a growth chart out of it until my sister-in-law gave me these fun clips she found at a garage sale of some sort. I put the two & two together & came up with this... What'cha think?

Stop on by each Friday for my 4-part series of easy-cheesy projects for your kids' rooms. Fun ideas you can do together!

So Happy Friday!

And... Here's a Happy Anniversary shout out to my love. {May 22, 2001.} It's been a GLORIOUS 9 years of blissful marriage. Here's to forever & ever. I'm sorry bud. You're stuck with me.

Baked Goods Boycott!

2010-05-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Why is it that when we want to do something nice for someone, we bake them something that will ultimately hurt them? Cookies, brownies, cupcakes. Put down the spatula & refined sugar, gals. Now don't get all offended, I'm guilty as well. But isn't this odd?

Here's what I propose: In the busy-ness of everyone's lives with e-mail & blogs & kids & texting & IMing & Facebook {don't get me started}... do any of us remember how to physically write? Seriously? When is the last time you wrote something longer than a grocery list or your name on a check? Do you even own stationary? Or a pen?

Think of someone today that might need a kind word. That might feel your love through the loop in your Y or the dot in your I & send them a note in the mail. A full on addressed, stamped, enveloped keepsake. Do it today. It's easy & will mean a lot to that friend receiving your words. And who doesn't like getting something other than junk mail or bills anyway?

May your words be filled with your heart's message. {That sounds like a Hallmark card, huh?} Oh well. Hopefully you all don't get cramps in your hand from this assignment.

And remember... NO COOKIES for service for an entire month! Why gift someone with cottage cheese on their saddlebags? Think out of the box - literally, you Betty Crockers.

Ooo... And if you haven't left a comment & become a follower... DO because apparently my giveaway is awesome & the cut off is TONIGHT @ midnight. But, there has been a change of plans. Husband is whisking me away for a 24-hour anniversary delight Friday night. Hip, hip! So, if you don't mind... the day off the makeover will now be on Saturday! So, win or not, you all must go out with your lover for a night of fun & romance Saturday evening. And next week I'll post some tips from my arsenal of shallow knowledge for the masses! Run along now & comment...

How To Do It All... wisely

2010-05-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

I don't like this phrase. All? What is all? All to me might be something entirely different than what it means to you. I remember a while back one of my dearest friends asked me, "Where in the world do you find time to do the things you do? How do you do it all?"

This question stumped me.

At the time she was referring to my obsession with:

organic cooking,

summer canning,

getting ready for another year of dance,

choreographing a piece for Mesa High's Euporea Dance Company's concert,

raising two kiddos, {in good times & in...}

finishing my first novel...

... all things I enjoy. It wasn't until after she'd mentioned my long list of activities that I started to realize... dang, that's a lot of stuff. But here's the crux of the matter... they are all things I enjoy. She has her things, I have mine. Perhaps she'd rather die than can {but seriously, how could you not love that plink sound?}, or the thought of teaching dance seems exhausting, or writing a novel seems arduous.

We are all our own people. Your all might seem like boredom & death to me, just like my all might seem like misery & pain to you. You see where I'm going?

Do it all, gosh darn it. As long as it makes you happy & you aren't compromising yourself for the sake of doing. Whoopsie Daisy. Guilty. I've learned something about myself by starting this blog. {*A Heather first, pay attention!*} I bite off more than I can chew at times. I like to call it ambition or gumption. Husband calls it foolishness. When I told Husband about my concept for this blog, he looked at me confused. "How is that simplifying your life -- by writing everyday?" Ba-hum-bug, I wanted to shout.

That just made me want to do it more. {I like to call that tenacity. Husband calls it defiance.}

I was all jazzed about writing everyday on this thing until I realized I have to edit my novel someday. Spending time & energy thinking up what I'm going to write about on here, writing it & then going to try & edit my novel later... it leaves me creatively zapped with nothing to add to my editing process. {Husband knew this would happen. He's like a freaking Jedi.}

Husband's right! Shh... don't tell him. It'll go right to his handsome, little head. In this instance I can't do it all because it's compromising what I love to do for the sake of doing it. Dang you Heather!

So here's the deal. I need to cut down on my posts for the time being. Not dramatically, just enough to take the pressure off myself. If I tell myself I don't HAVE to write everyday... phew, that helps my messed up psyche. And who am I kidding? I LOVE to write. But this solution makes it possible for me to choose my time wisely between two fun things & hopefully do a good job at both of them. However, editing has turned out to be not so fun, but if I really want to make a go of this dream, I've got to give it my all. {Maybe I should scrap it & start fresh. Ha ha... I think I might vomit.}

So to all my 62 followers, Miscellaneous lives on. Please let me know if you're liking it & have a clever idea for a guest post. I'd love it! Also let me know if you have any good ideas or giveaways... I'd love to feature you!

So you can do it ALL. Just in doses.

And besides... these are my ALLs.

Chipotle-Like Burros

2010-05-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

I've been battling aliments the past few weeks that have been obnoxiously reminding me that I'm now in my 30th year. Jiminy Christmas. Is getting older inevitable?

It began with a tweeked wrist after playing tennis one afternoon. Later I picked up Dot & heard a crack. Ouch! I cringed with pain. But it was on with our family fun Saturday schedule to take the kids bowling & I wasn't going to miss it. Ouch more. I'll take it easy. But I started off with two unprecedented strikes, thus beating Husband & I couldn't stop. Not even for my possibly fractured, aching wrist. {What's wrong with me?} After an entire week of pain & limited mobility, I nearly caved to go get it X-rayed, but it was the week of my recital... there wasn't a free moment.

Next came the random ankle pain. Sometimes it hurts, other times it doesn't. It's been like a phantom infirmity - taunting & mocking me.

So here I've been. Walking around like Igor looking pathetic & gimpy. And heels have of course been out of the question {as I learned from an embarrassing episode}.

BUT... today was the first day neither ailment has hindered my activity. I had fun at my advanced step challenge class today, sweating & huffing at every chance. Swimming with the kids. Sword fighting with Son. This 30-year-old body isn't down & out by a long shot! Eat that aliments! Stubbornness combined with... well anything for that matter, is a troublesome formula. But nonetheless I will be on my knees tonight thanking the Lord for health & strength.

And for you... my hungry little friends, a new little recipe I adapted & made last night. {We're BIG Chipotle fans.} It will definitely be a new staple meal at our house. Hopefully at yours as well.

{without the chicken}
Chipotle-Like Vegetarian Burros

by Heather

2 cans of black or pinto beans
1 c. frozen corn or fresh
1/2 bunch of cilantro, chopped
1/2 red onion
1 green pepper
2 ripe avocados
1 c. cheese (I used mozzarella)
1 c. white rice (Jasmine from T.J.'s... YUMMY!)
1 lime
1 T. coconut oil
salt & pepper
flour tortillas (I like the uncooked ones from Costco)
pico de gallo or salsa (optional)

Boil 2 cups of water & add your rice. Turn down your heat & let it cook for about 8-10 minutes covered. {Have a helper working on the tortillas if available, otherwise get a movin on those.} Dice red onion, green pepper & finely chop cilantro. {fajita peppers} Saute peppers & half the amount of chopped red onion in EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) for 2-3 minutes & take off heat & season with salt & pepper. Heat up beans on the stove top. {guacamole} Mash avocados, mixing 1-2 T. cilantro & a squeeze of 1/2 the lime. {corn relish} Combine corn, 2 T. cilantro & the other remaining onions into a separate dish. {cilantro-lime rice} When the rice is tender, add the coconut oil, 2 T. cilantro, 1/4 t. salt & the other 1/2 lime to the rice & stir.

Layer tortillas with cheese, beans, fajita peppers, cilantro-lime rice, corn relish, guacamole & enjoy!

All Because...

2010-05-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

{full on babies}

Husband's little brother came to dinner last night with his new girlfriend. Relishing in their newness took us back to a time in which we were new & all aflutter.

I met husband in 1999 when shorts were short & thongs were not on your feet. This was the year after I'd graduated high school & entered the foreign terrain of big league dating. It's a strange transition - the day after graduation. It suddenly becomes acceptable to date returned missionaries (21 year old boys, back from serving two year missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints). What?!! It's kind of fun & kind of creepy all at the same time.

So here I was, not wanting to date boys who were about to go on missions, because that's just asking for a heartache, but also wary of dating boys home from missions because they wanted to get married. Yikes! So this odd transition of there not being any 19 or 20 year old guys around was peculiar. And something I'd never really given much thought about until I was being hunted by both parties like an exotic kill.

While still trying to sort out this strange new territory, I went on a date with a boy I'd been hunting myself. Interestingly enough, he was one of Husband's best friends. And although things didn't work out between my original target & I, I sacked my best prize yet.

Husband.

So last night while we watched little bro & gal snuggle close & whisper sweet nothings into each others' ears, our own eyes met while cutting Dot's meat & pouring Son's milk. I notice he's more handsome today than he was all those years ago. His new hairs of gray above his ears are lovely because we earned them together. {Who knows what I've got going on under all these highlights & color. Eek!}

I have no regrets babe. I'd do it all over again everyday. I know why I fell for you & I know now I love you even more than ever.

It's nice to be reminded that we don't want to be with anyone else. It's nice to know I'm the only one for him & he's everything I could have ever dreamed of.

Hence, I'm glad you fell into my trap Husband. And thank you for not escaping.

Your homework: Remember why you feel in love today & then show that person you've never forgotten.
And if you need help with ideas... just see the "Business Time" post.
That should do it.

Tutus Winner!

2010-05-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you Nicole for your sweet giveaway.
The lucky winner is...

Ami Bethea!

I will send your contact info to Nicole so you two can coordinate your cuteness. She will then mail you your prizes. :) Congratulations!
You've been one lucky girl as of late. See what you get for having babies. :)

Enjoy my friend.

Thank you to all that entered.

Just For Son

2010-05-14T07:01:00.000-07:00

I love that face.

Son has been in a rut the past few days. He's been a bit negative {but, so have I}, a bit ornery, {but, so have I}, a bit pretentious... {you know where this is going}. So I called my mom for some advice after Son made some disparaging remarks.

Me: {With a little desperation in my voice.} "What do I do?"

Mom: {Thoughtful breath.} "Well maybe you should do something just for him. You know, spend some time together."

Spend some time together? I spend ALL of my time with him. But then it hit me. Just for him. Oh my sweet boy.

So today we are off to do things Son wants to do. We are making a list & going to accomplish as many as possible & then cross them off with his favorite blue crayon. We'll laugh, eat & not worry about being anywhere else all day. It'll be just us kids. And after having a fun filled day in the eyes of a 4-year-old, I'm hoping we'll all come home & be ready for a nice long nap! {That's for sure on my list.}

Enjoy your weekend. And do something just for them.

Here's some ideas to get you thinking.