scraps of me...

Monday Meanderings

Outside my window...
it's a winter wonderland...well...not quite. But we did get a light dusting of snow last night and it's still coming down.

I am thankful for...
sweet little daycare babies. good books to read. a warm house. our life group.

On my to-do list...
-create the template for our 2011 blurb photo book
-Five in a Row lesson plans for the remainder of the year

From the kitchen...
We are loving all the new emealz recipes we've tried so far! Fighting over leftovers is a good thing, right?
Mon - bbq burgers w/slaw, baked chips, fruit
Tue - spinach manicotti, ceasar salad, garlic bread
Wed - chicken & rice enchiladas, sauted zucchini, black beans
Thu - chicken & sausage jambalaya, cornbread, green beans
Fri - pot roast, peas, wheat rolls
Sat - baked chicken spaghetti, salad
Sun - taco pizza, apple wedges

On my bookshelf...
I finished "Like Dandelion Dust" and started "Unlocked" by Karen Kingsbury. Still working on the book by Chantel Hobbs though. I hope to finish it this week.

With the kids...
Creative writing didn't start last week, but this week it's a for sure. I bought a new book with two journaling prompts for every day of the year. I'm excited to start it today. We're continuing our study of blood in anatomy as well as "Stopping by Woods..." by Robert Frost in Five in a Row.

On the go...
It's a crazy week...
Mon - Austin: dr. appt to take out his stitches, Kaitlin: dance, Amy: daycare training
Tue - Troy, Meghand, and Austin: eye dr. appt
Wed - grocery shopping
Thu - Amy: women's Bible Study
Fri - our only night home together
Sat - Kaitlin & Daddy: fun day together, Meghan & Mom: going to Angelfire for the first time, Austin: hanging out w/Papa, then church
Sun - cousin b-day party, then life group and Konnect

On my desk...
I thought it was piled high last week...but there's even more this Monday. I've discovered that my desk is a dumping ground on the weekends and I spend most of Monday digging myself out of it. :)

I am remembering...
what it was like to be a "cowgirl". My family had horses from the time I was 7 until I graduated high school and we moved to Oklahoma. This weekend, we went shopping for cowboy boots for Meghan. I even triend on a pair. I couldn't resist.

I am pondering...
all the wise words that were spoken at life group last night. How to put God first...what does it mean to "take up my cross" and follow him...why is it so hard to give up control...what does it look like to incorporate God in ALL we do...how do I find the time to sit, be quiet, and listen to Him? I think the thing that hit me the most was a line from a Dave Matthews song that someone mentioned. "We're supposed to be changing the world, but the world is changing us." wow.

Monday Meanderings...

Outside my window...
the sun is starting to lighten up the sky. It must be cold out...the horses in the back field have their colorful blankets on.

I am thankful for...
the past two weeks with my family. Troy and I were both off of work. We took a long break from lessons as well. Christmas in Indiana was wonderful...even if it was really cold. :) I'm ready to get back into our normal routine today though...at least I think I am.

On my to-do list...
-lesson planning for homeschooling and daycare
-make homemade applesauce
-finish our 2010 blurb book for our "Project 365" photos
-get back into posting on my blog regularly

From the kitchen...
Mon - veggie pizza, applesauce
Tue - grilled chicken sausage, cous cous, mixed veggies
Wed - baked potato bar
Thu - black bean soup, tortilla chips
Fri - spicy shrimp, pasta, salad
Sat - italian wedding soup, garlic rolls
Sun - greek chicken casserole, roasted asparagus, baked pita wedges

On my bookshelf...
I'm reading Karen Kingsbury's book, Like Dandelion Dust. It was recently made into a movie that hit the theaters in September. I believe it's coming out on dvd sometime this month. I need to finish it before then.
I also recently discovered Chantel Hobbs. I have all three of her books, and I'm currently reading Never Say Diet. Love it so far!

With the kids...
It's back to lessons this week...for the first day in almost a month! I'm hoping today...and this week...goes smoothly.
Five in a Row - Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by: Robert Frost
Anatomy - Circulatory System
Mystery of History - Ancient Greece and Mesopotamia
I'm going to try to incorporate more creative and journal writing into our days as well. We've been lacking in this area for awhile now.

On the go...
Mon - Kaitlin's first night of dance classes! She's so excited. The rest of us will probably go to the library while she's in class.
Thu - grocery shopping and other errands
Sat - church
Sun - Konnect and Life Group

On my desk...
there is too much stuff! Lesson plans...my new emealz menu plan...my new Bible (which I love!)...and my devotional that I plan to start today.

I am pondering...
All the years past in which I've made many of the same "resolutions" that I'm thinking about this week. This year will be different. I'm commited to making some changes.

A Glance...

at my coming week.

Outside my window...it's snowing...big fluffy flakes. The kids are building a snowman and having snowball fights.

I am thinking...about how great it was to get up early this morning...to exercise, read my Bible, and get my day started.

I am thankful for...my wonderful husband who spent most of the day outside yesterday, digging in the mud and replacing plumbing, just so I can use the dishwasher again.

I am wearing...my "uniform"...scrubs. They're apple green today.

I am remembering...how cute and snuggly Austin was when he was little. It's hard to believe he'll be ten in less than 2 weeks.

I am going...to my weight watchers meeting tonight, bookclub tomorrow night, lifegroup Wednesday, church and a valentine's party on Saturday, and life group on Sunday.

I am reading...Dear John by Nicholas Sparks. I just started it this morning. I'm also enjoying my new book I ordered from amazon, First Place 4 Health.

I am hoping...to have a great week with all the kids. I've been in kind of a slump for the last few weeks.

On my mind...weight loss. exercising. doing the next right thing to help my golas become a reality.

Pondering these words... "Change is a given. We will either change for the better or for the worse, but we will change. I also know that we have a choice when it ocmes to every positive change in our life, and until we make that hcoice, we are still changing - but not for the better." (First Place 4 Health book)

From the kitchen...
Mon - blt's
Tue - chef salads
Wed - calzones
Thu - pulled pork bbq sandwiches
Fri - ? having friends over for dinner...I need to decide what to make. any ideas?
Sat - meatloaf
Sun - grilled chicken

Around the house...getting Austin's bday party invites in the mail, getting Meghan's girl scout patches on her sash, and maybe editing and ordering photos.

One of my favorite things...a basket full of library books just waiting to be read.

01.25.2010

On my Bookshelf...
I can't believe it's taking me so long to finish this last book club novel. I will finish it this week. I also picked up a lot of books from the Friends of the Library book sale this past Saturday. I can't wait to dive into some of them!

On my To-Do List...
--plan February's daycare curriculum
--February daycare newsletter
--combine all 3 of my blogs into this one (it's just too much to keep up with)
--order photos for the large picture frame in the dining room

On our Dinner Table...
Mon - veggie pizza
Tue - baked potatoes
Wed - black bean and corn quesadillas
Thu - chicago-style pan pizza
Fri - tatertot casserole
Sat - grilled chicken

On the Go...
Mon - Amy: daycare training, Troy and Kids: library
Tue - Parenting Q&A
Wed - Amy and girls: lifegroup, Troy and Austin: Thunder game
Fri - Scentsy party
Sat - kids haircuts, grocery shopping, church
Sun - lifegroup #2

On my Desk...
a few magazines that I'm in the process of reading and that's about it. I really need to do a layout this week...or two or three.

On my Heart and Mind...
Last week, I did some thinking about my to-do lists...what was working...what wasn't. I came up with a new system that I'm starting today. We'll see how it works...to keep me on track and focused, while simplifying things as well. I also started reading the book, Simple Abundance. I've got a journal...and I'm hoping it will help me think about some things that I normally tend to push down and ignore. I want to discover who I am beyond a wife, mother, teacher, caretaker, etc.

01.18.2009

On my bookshelf...
the same book that was there last week. I just haven't had much time to read this past week. I'm also reading Educating the Whole Hearted Child. It's quite a gem. While I don't follow a lot of the teaching principles in this book, the back half, which is mostly about homemaganagement and your homeschooling lifestyle is fabulous!

On my to do list...
--put felt on the bottom of some baskets so they don't continue scratching the bookshelves.
--lesson plans for next week
--ironing
--plan some fun activities for our unplugged day next Sunday

On our dinnertable...
Mon - grilled turkey burgers, coleslaw
Tue - chef salads, garlic breadsticks
Wed - turkey smoked sausage, corn, applesauce
Thu - tacos, chips, salsa
Fri - baked potato bar, cheesey broccoli
Sat - spaghetti, salad

On the go...
Mon - Troy: CNA shift
Tue - Meghan: Brownie mtg
Wed - life group
Thu - Kaitlin: Daisy mtg
Fri - Amy: haircut and grocery shopping
Sat - church
Sun - unplugged day

On my desk...
a calendar with journal prompts for the kids, a few books I need to take back to the library, and Kaitlin's new language arts book that she's so excited to start on tomorrow

On my Heart and Mind...
Pretty much the same as last week. Margin. How to find some. How to be more intentional with our family. How to simplify. How to say "no" to the good things so that we're free to say "yes" to the best things.

This Week...

On my bookshelf...
I'm currently reading the third book in the Sisters of the Quilt series by Cindy Woodsmall. I can't wait to discuss the first one with my bookclub gals on Tuesday. After I finish this one, I have a few books by Beverly Lewis on my nightstand that I borrowed from the library. I've never read any of hers, but they look good.

On my to-do list...
-catch up on my quicken and filing for daycare
-baked cupcakes for bookclub
-make and mail a few birthday cards
-exercise (Mon, Thu, Sat, and Sun)
-ironing

On our dinnertable...
Mon - veggie pizza, apple wedges
Tue - santa fe corn cakes, turkey bacon, muffins
Wed - beef stew, cornbread, applesauce
Thu - chef salads, garlic breadsticks
Fri - bbq meatballs, red potatoes, green beans
Sat - italian dijon tilapia, pesto orzo, carrots

On the go...
Mon - Troy's working a CNA shift 7-11 pm
Tue - Bookclub meeting
Wed - Life Group (excited about this!)
Fri - J.R. and Jennifer are comning over
Sat - Callie's bday party, then church
Sun - Girl Scout cookie rally

On my Desk...
Lesson plans for next week, create a layout for Janna Wilson's layout challenge, my devotional and journal notebook, and my new bloggy schedule (that I'm hoping to stick to)

On my Heart and Mind...
How to create margin in our life...what can I eliminate, cut-back on or simplify to have more time, more resources, etc. I'm realizing that I am more of a human-doer than a human-being. I need to slow down. I need to be still. I need to rest in Him.

01.04.2010

Outside my window...
It's blustery and cold! I'm ready for some spring-like weather.

I am thankful for...
the fact that we don't have 14 inches of snow on the ground like Troy's parents do back in Indiana.

I am thinking...
about how good it is to be back to our school lessons and our routine.

With the kids...
we're geared up and back to work...with a few changes made to our daily schedule. We're starting to do a state study each week and a new art 'curriculum' as well. It's going to be fun!
The daycare kids theme this week is "Artic Blast", so we'll be making some snowmen and other wintery crafts.

From the kitchen...
Mon - homemade pizza, salad
Tue - chef salads
Wed - lime-jalapeno chicken, corn salad, sweet potatoes
Thu - vegetable soup
Fri - honey mustard chicken, salad, wheat rolls
Sat - bbq meatballs, red potatoes, green beans

I am reading...
the third book in a series by Cindy Woodsmall. I also picked up a few new amish books by Beverly Lewis at the library this weekend.

I am hoping...
that my first week with a new daycare baby goes smoothly. She's so precious and sweet!

I am creating...
some snowflakes to hang in the windows. I'll plan on sharing more later in the week about these. Fun!

I am going...
to focus on the word JOY. More about this later this week as well. It's too much to go into right now.

I am hearing...
Kaitlin crying because she doesn't want to do her spelling today and Austin singing along with his ipod while he's doing his lessons.

Around the house...
we're trying to stay warm...bundled up in blankets and robes. It's so chilly outside...which seems to make it so much colder inside as well.

One of my favorite things...
Troy being home for the past week and a half. I was sad to see him go back to work today.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - Troy has a washing machine to work on in Edmond
Tue - Meghan's girl scout award ceremony
Thu - Daisies for Kaitlin
Sat - church

I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

12.28.2009

Outside my window...
the snow is slowly melting in the bright sun...but it's still so very cold out.

I am thankful for...
Troy being home with us all this week. I'm just wishing I had paid vacation time as well.

I am thinking...
about some of the projects I'd like to work on this week.

With the kids...
we're taking this week off...from daycare crafts and homeschooling. They're enjoying their new ipods and video games instead.

From the kitchen...
Mon- chili
Tue - fish stick po'boys
Wed - spaghetti
Thu - JUNK FOOD FEST
Fri - chicken stirfry
Sat - tacos
Sun - chicken 'n dumplings

I am reading...
an incredible series of books. The first one was chosen as our book club selection...but I couldn't resist reading the second one as well. A friend is finishing up the third one and I can't wait to dive into it in the next day or so.

I am hoping...
that we don't get another blizzard in the next day or so. It looks like there's more snow coming our way.

I am creating...
and finishing our 2009 photo book this week. I'm also working on editing photos from Aug - Dec so I can place an order to get them printed.

I am going...
to start exercising again. On the 1st. After our junk food fest on New Year's Eve.

I am hearing...
not much of anything. Daycare kids are napping. Meghan's painting. Kaitlin's playing Barbies. Troy and Austin...well...I'm not sure where they are or what they're doing right now.

Around the house...
there's not much to do. I spent a lot of time yesterday cleaning from top to bottom...ceiling fans, mini blinds, the works.

One of my favorite things...
It's actually a new favorite thing...unplugging for a day. No tv, computer, phone, ipods, video games. Just peace, quiet, and lots of family time.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Tue - eye dr appt for Troy, Austin, and Meghan
Sat - church

I hope everyone has a wonderful week and a Happy New Year!

12.21.2009

Outside my window...
it's dark...although we enjoyed the sunshine earlier today.

I am thankful for...
this wonderful time of year and the real reason for Christmas.

I am thinking...
about what to accomplish tonight after the kids go to bed and before Troy gets home from work.

With the kids...
we're finishing up light units in every subject in the next day or so. We'll be done by Christmas and ready for a break the rest of this week and next.

From the kitchen...
Mon- leftovers
Tue - italian beef, creamy corn salad, chips, and apple dumplings
Wed - one dish chicken bake, salad
Thu - Hawaiin Bacon Pizza
Fri - Merry Christmas! Breakfast casserole and cinnamon rolls in the am; ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans for lunch; sandwiches at Erin's in the evening
Sat - enchilada pie, rice
Sun - chicken stir-fry and rice

I am reading...
lots of Christmas books to the kids.

I am hoping...
to get a lot of things done in the next week or so while most of my daycare kids are on vacation.

I am creating...
a few layouts here and there. I actually scrapbooked with Erin last Friday night and did 4 layouts!!

I am going...
to enjoy every minute this week with my family and friends.

I am hearing...
the kids are playing with a bouncy ball and giggling like crazy.

Around the house...
it's cozy and festive and I'll be kind of sad to take all the decorations down next week. It'll look so plain afterwards.

One of my favorite things...
finding boxes sitting on my front bench that the mail man delivered.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - Troy: CNA shift
Thu - Church
Fri - Merry Christmas!!
Sun - unplugged day (from all electronics)

I pray that everyone has a blessed Christmas!

12.14.2009

Outside my window...
It's partly cloudy and windy. It's supposed to get really cold later today.

I am thankful for...
getting our Christmas shopping done this weekend. Now we just need to wrap it all.

I am thinking...
about how I need to stop answering the phone in the morning while trying to do lessons with the kids. It's not fair to them to have to wait on me...they deserve all of my attention and focus.

In the daycare room...
we'll be doing some Christmas crafts and activities this week...making some ornaments and decorating some handprint Christmas trees.

We are learning...
a lot about dinosaurs while we're reading the first Magic Tree House book. We made pterandon paper airplanes last week and this week, we'll be making a dinosaur game by creating our own game board. fun!

From the kitchen...
Mon - gnocchi w/sausage and spinach (and bake a cake for Troy to take to work)
Tue - chef salads and garlic bread
Wed - chicken pot pie
Thu - bbq porkchops, mashed potatoes, cheese broccoli
Fri - spinach enchiladas, rice
Sat - baked potato soup
Sun - ?

I am reading...
my Bible each day, but not much of anything else. I'm waiting for our new bookclub selection to get to the library so I can pick it up and get started on it.

I am hoping...
to make it through this busy week so I can look forward to the next few weeks that seem to be a lot less crazy...at least for now.

I am creating...
one last Christmas gift for a special someone this week. shhhh. I can't tell you about it though.

I am going...
to make the time this week to watch the new Harry Potter movie Troy suprised me with yesterday.

I am hearning...
the daycare kids playing with all the weeble-wobbles.

On my to-do list...
schedule a scentsy party, bake sugar cookies and chex mix, wrap gifts, make the grocery list, and call the consignment store (pick up money, if I get any)

One of my favorite things...
a basket full of library books to read with the kids.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - life group and Troy's working a CNA shift
Tue - Brownie meeting
Wed - Troy's working a CNA shift and the kids are going with friends to look at Christmas lights
Thu - Daisy meeting
Fri - Troy's working a CNA shift
Sat - church
Sun - Troy's working a CNA shift, the kids and I will be baking

Have a great week!!

11.30.2009

Outside my window...
it's dark, except for the glow of our Christmas lights.

I am thankful for...
the long weekend with Troy and the kids.

I am thinking...
about how much I want to do vs. how much I need to do. There is a difference. It's sometimes hard to determine what goes on which list though.

From the daycare room...
the theme this week is 'Our Families'. The kids decorated manilla evelopes today to take home and fill with family photos. I can't wait to see them when they bring them back on Friday.

From the kitchen...
it's the week of quick and easy meals. I'm not going to have much time to cook due to evening activities, so I won't bore you with the list. :)

I am reading...
a little of this book and a little of that...most of them are listed over in the sidebar.

I am hoping...
to get all my files transferred over onto the new laptop this week.

I am creating...
an large Christmas tree made from paper to hang on the wall so each of us can write some of our favorite stuff about Christmas on the construction paper ornaments and hang them on the tree each day.

I am going...
to be so excited next week knowing that Troy is done with school! It'll be so wonderful to have him home with us every night once again.

I am hearing...
the dishwasher swishing all the yuck from the dishes. I'm so glad to have a dishwasher after not having one for over 10 years!!

Around the house...
it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. The tree is up and decorated. The nativity set is in place. The Christmas movies are getting watched. The Christmas ipod playlist is filling the air. And the shelves are filled with all our favorite Christmas books.

One of my favorite things...
seeing the kids faces when they get mail just for them.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - pick up Troy's car from the repair shop
Tue - CMA course (Troy), Brownie mtg (Meg)
Wed - CMA course (Troy), Library
Thu - CMA course (Troy), The Big Show!!
Fri - Life Group Christmas get-together
Sat - The Journey to Bethlehem
Sun - Church

Have a great week everyone!!

11.16.2009

Outside my window...
it's still dark. There's condensation on the window pane, so I'm guessing that it must be pretty chilly out there.

I am thankful for...
so many things right now - my husband, a great weekend, homeschooling, family movie nights...

I am thinking...
about some small changes I need to start making in my life...mainly in the area of my health.

From the daycare room...
we doing the theme 'Happy Harvest' this week. We'll be making cute little scarecrows among other things.

From the kitchen...
Mon - chicken alfredo, salad
Tue - hodge podge soup, cornbread
Wed - bbq meatballs, mashed potatoes, green beans
Thu - pumpkin pancakes, maple sausage
Fri - leftovers?
Sat - primavera pizza, salad
Sun - spinach turkey enchiladas, chips, salsa
*Pumpkin Cookies for the cookie of the month

I am reading...
not a lot these days. I'm finding that I have very few hours in my day leftover for leisurely things. But I'm slowly still working my way through a few books (listed in the sidebar). The kids and I are reading the Little House books together each day as well. We're getting very excited to go see the musical next weekend!

I am hoping...
to finish organizing the studio (aka: office/scrapbook/school room). We have all the new furniture from Ikea put together and now I just need to get all the stuff where I want and need it.

I am creating...
various art projects with the kids...but I haven't done any scrapbooking in a very long time. I'm beginning to wonder why I even keep it all. Maybe someday?

I am going...
to update my weight loss blog...hopefully today. I need some accountibility.

I am hearing...
my fingers tip-tapping across they keyboard. That's it. Everyone is still asleep, although a few daycare kids should be arriving soon.

Around the house...
there's been quite a change. There's artwork hanging everywhere. Books and pencils scattered around. And I'm loving it...having the kids here with me all day...learning...creating.

One of my favorite things...
the way Troy makes me laugh!

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - chiropractor, life group
Tue - Brownie mtg
Wed - CMA course, library
Thu - CMA course, Daisy mtg
Fri - family micro mission trip
Sat - church
Sun - Little House on the Prairie musical

Have a great week, everyone! :)

11.02.2009

Outside my window...
the sun is shining and the kids can't wait to go out and play.

I am thankful for...
the opportunity to teach the kids at home.
a wonderful weekend.
my fabulous husband who has worked so hard on the playroom/office makeover.

I am thinking...
about this new journey we're on. So excited!

From the daycare room...
we're talking about different types of homes...skyscrapers, teepee's, igloos, etc.

From the kitchen...
Mon - homemade pizza, salad
Tue - hoppin' john, green beans, cornbread
Wed - biscuits 'n gravy, fruit salad
Thu - oven burritos, chips, salsa
Fri - grilled pork chops, mashed potatoes, carrots
Sat - baked potato bar
Sun - chicken spaghetti, broccoli

I am reading...
a lot of homeschooling books as well as a Karen Kingsbury book.

I am hoping...
to relax and really enjoy having the kids home.

I am creating...
binder covers with the kids, as well as editing photos from the past few months to order.

I am going...
to start reading the Little House on the Prairie books to the kids. We're going to see the play on Nov. 22nd.

I am hearing...
Kaitlin, sounding out words and writing them on the dry-erase board and Austin, outside riding his skateboard.

Around the house...
I'm putting away Halloween stuff and planning to start on some Thanksgiving decorations with the kids.

One of my favorite things...
warm oatmeal for breakfast.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Troy has his CMA course 2 nights, Life Group, Brownies for Meghan, Daisies for Kaitlin, and church.

I hope everyone has a fabulous week! :)

10.26.2009

Outside my window...
it looks a lot warmer than it really is. There's so many leaves falling from the trees, our lawn is covered.

I am thankful for...
our weekend filled with great friends.

I am thinking...
about the changes our life group is going through.

From the daycare room...
our theme this week is Pumpkins.

From the kitchen...
Mon - mexican meatloaf
Tue - tuna casserole
Wed - red beans 'n rice w/sausage
Thu - chef salads
Fri - taco soup
Sat - Life Group party
**diped pretzels for the kids' Halloween parties at school

I am reading...
a lot of homeschooling books. I just finished Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. Wow! If you haven't read this book, you need to!

I am hoping...
to figure out a Halloween costume for Austin. We might just be lazy and go get something at Walmart.

I am creating...
a plan for the first week of homeschooling.

I am going...
to try to stay off the computer this week and get some stuff done. :)

I am hearing...
Micky Mouse Clubhouse and one of my daycare kiddos singing "Old MacDonald".

Around the house...
there are a lot of piles...of books...of curriculum...I can't wait to go to Ikea for the new desks and organizational stuff.

One of my favorite things...
warm soup on a chilly autumn day.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Tue - Meghan: Brownies, Me: Parenting Q&A meeting
Wed - Troy: CMA course
Thu - Troy: CMA course
Sat - Life Group party

Hope everyone has a great week!!

10.19.2009

Outside my window...
it's a beautiful sunny afternoon. I love this fall weather.

I am thankful for...
a wonderful visit with Troy's parents last week.

I am thinking...
about the projects I need to finish up in the next few weeks.We've got a lot going on right now.

From the daycare room...
it's all about dinosaurs this week. Roar!

From the kitchen...
Mon - tortellini, salad, garlic bread
Tue - baked fish, sweet potatoes, broccoli
Wed - ham and broccoli pastry, carrots and dip
Thu - chicken tender salad, breadsticks
Fri - pizza at the Schmedt's pumpkin carving party!
Sat - baked potato soup

I am reading...
a lot of different books, mostly homeschooling ones.

I am hoping...
that we sell the desks we have listed on Craig's List so we have a little extra money to take to Ikea with us in a few weeks. And I'm hoping the girls' beds are ready to be picked up this week (they're getting refinished).

I am creating...
nothing. All my scrapbook stuff is packed up until we get back from Ikea and I have a new desk and shelving unit.

I am going...
to finish planning daycare curriculum this week and maybe even get my photos (on the computer) organized so I can blog some of them from the past 3 weeks.

I am hearing...
the wind blowing through the open windows and my tap-tapping of the keyboard. All else is quiet...everyone is napping.

Around the house...
just the basic cleaning and organizing.

One of my favorite things...
having a productive weekend. We got so much yard work done and a lot of rearranging on the inside of the house done. Troy did most of it! He's just awesome!

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Tue - Meghan: Brownie mtg.
Wed - Troy: CMA class
Thu - Kaitlin: Daisy mtg.
Fri - pumpkin carving party!!
Sat - two birthday parties to go to
Sun - church and grocery shopping

Hope ya'll have a great week!

10.05.2009

Outside my window...
it's cloudy and damp and cool...all signs that fall has arrived in Oklahoma. yay!

I am thankful for...
the wonderful day I had yesterday...home...in our pj's...with the kids...all day. It would've only been better if Troy had been home with us too. ;(

I am thinking...
about a lot of changes that will be taking place in our family in the upcoming months. I'm excited...and nervous...and trying to be patient about it.

From the daycare room...
we're working on the theme "Trees and Leaves" this week.

From the kitchen...
Mon - apricot chicken
Tue - cheeseburger pie
Wed - chicken quesadillas
Thu - chicken and rice bake
Fri - mandarin pork chops
Sat - salsa sirloin salad
Sun - crockpot tortellini
*and s'mores cupcakes for book club Wednesday night.

I am reading...
a few informational books I picked up at the library this weekend.

I am hoping...
to cross off a few big projects this week that I've been working on for too long.

I am creating...
a new day-to-day schedule and maybe...just maybe...a layout or two. I said maybe, Erin. :)

I am going...
to find some time to exercise this week...I don't know how...but I just have to.

I am hearing...
the washing machine filling up for the rinse cycle and the kids playing blocks.

Around the house...
I'm organizing and cleaning the playroom and office this week. It's not too bad since we just did a big reorganization about a month ago before my Dad's garage sale.

One of my favorite things...
looking up the kid's Bible verses from church with them each night.

A few lot of plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - clean the house
Tue - Meghan: Brownies
Wed - Troy: CMA class, Amy: bookclub
Thu - Troy: CMA class, Kaitlin: Daisies
Fri - Amy: haircut and highlight! YAY! and grocery shopping
Sat - Meghan: friend's bday part, Whole Family: a friend's wedding
Sun - our only day with NOTHING!!

09.28.2009

Outside my window...
it's dark...and not because I'm up early, but because I'm late getting around to blogging today (tonight).

I am thankful for...
Troy doing all the kids homework with them tonight.

I am thinking...
I need to get to bed early tonight. I'm just feeling really drained lately.

From the daycare room...
our theme this week if "On the Farm". We'll be making some cute little feathered ducks, pink pigs, a cow puppet, and some "chicken feed" for a snack.

From the kitchen...
Mon - swiss chicken, rice, strawberries
Tue - spinach quiche, salad, garlic bread
Wed - thai chicken thighs, rice, coleslaw
Thu - beef and bean tacos, chips, salsa
Fri - hamburger pizzas, salad
Sat - beef and broccoli stirfry, rice
Sun - enchiladas, chips, salsa

I am reading...
the same Karen Kingsbury book. I also picked up a few new ones at the library this weekend...not that I have time to read them, but I just can't resist having a pile of books on my nightstand.

I am hoping...
that I can figure out a way to fit some exercise into my day-to-day routine and schedule. How did I do it before?

I am creating...
our 2009 photo book and a plan for daycare curriculum for upcoming months. Erin's nagging me to scrapbook too...so I may try to do at least one layout this week.

I am going...
to finally post a "Tasty Tuesday" recipe tomorrow. Somebody hold me accountable for this. :)

I am hearing...
Troy outside playing with Shelby for a few minutes before he brings her inside to her kennel for the night.

Around the house...
I'm focusing on the kitchen this week. Organizing and cleaning out the fridge, freezer, cabinets and drawers. It's a big job.

One of my favorite things...
listening to Kaitlin read Biscuit books...her favorite.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Wed - Troy: CMA course
Thu - Troy: CMA course, Kaitling: Daisies
Fri - date night with Erin, Andy, and another couple
Sat - grocery shopping, church, life group
Sun - Troy: CNA shift, The kids and I: library

Hope ya'll have a great week! :)

09.21.2009

Outside my window...
it's dark and really windy. I'm enjoying the cold front that's rolled through in the past hour or tow.

I am thankful for...
a good night's sleep and feeling refreshed for today.

I am thinking...
about how much I enjoy Troy being home in the evenings and how much things are going to change when he starts back at school later this week.

From the daycare room...
our theme is "Apples", so we're doing some apple prints, making apple trees, and baking some apple muffins.

From the kitchen...
Mon - creamy chicken, biscuits
Tue - meatloaf, red potatoes
Wed - french dip sandwiches, sliced cucumbers
Thu - spinach quiche, salad
Fri - oriental chicken salad, garlic bread
Sat - swiss chicken, rice
Sun - mexican chicken skillet, salad
I also need to make a special snack for Kaitlin's birthday treat for school.

I am reading...
a fun little weight loss book as well as the Karen Kingsbury book...both listed over there in the side bar.

I am hoping...
that last week's Biggest Loser episode is posted online soon...my dvr didn't record it and I really want to watch it.

I am creating...
our 2009 photo book, as well as another layout (or two). I actually scrapbooked last Friday, for the first time in probably close to 6 months. It was great...and I actually can't wait to have a bit of time to sit down and scrap some more.

I am going...
to get back on track...counting calories...exercising...taking time for me. It's long overdue.

I am hearing...
the dishwasher (it's loud).

Around the house...
I'll be cleaning the living room and entryway this week.

One of my favorite things...
my new scrubs/uniform. They're so comfy and I truthfully I couldn't wait to put them back on this morning. :)

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Wed - Troy: school
Thu - Troy: school
Fri - birthday party for PaPa
Sat - haircuts for the girl's, Wildlife Expo, then church
Sun - Kaitlin's birthday party

09.14.2009

Outside my window...
it's raining and cloudy again. The rain really needs to stop...I'd love to see the sun and the yard needs to dry out so we can mow it.

I am thankful for...
Erin and Andy keeping the kids this past Saturday so Troy and I could have the day to ourselves. It was much needed...and greatly appreciated.

I am thinking...
that today is just flying by! The kids will be up from nap in less than a half hour.

From the daycare room...
we're working on the Five Senses this week...making binoculars, smelling flowers, taste tests, and lots of other fun activities.

From the kitchen...
Mon - lasagna pizza, salad
Tue - bbq pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw
Wed - company chicken, rice, green beans
Thu - parmesan baked fish, pasta, carrots
Fri - grilled ham 'n cheese sanwiches, chips
Sat - creamy chicken and biscuits, salad

I am reading...
a Karen Kingsbury book called Moment of Weakness. I started it last Wednesday and I'm maybe 20 pages into it. I need to start going to bed earlier so I can read before I get too tired.

I am hoping...
that I can get back on track this week...eating right, exercising, following my weekly plan, and maybe even doing a bit of scrapbooking.

I am creating...
our photo books. I just finished our 2008 one today and I'm going to start on our 2009 one later this week.

I am going...
to enjoy having a new little baby in the house. Ally is only 3 months old and simply precious. It's been almost 3 years since I've had one so young...it's going to be an adjustment...but wonderful at the same time.

I am hearing...
complete quiet. Everyone is sleeping.

Around the house...
I need to work on the organizing and cleaning the kids bedrooms...I never got around to it last week. I should probably do some ironing as well.

One of my favorite things...
cooler weather. I love having the a/c turned off and the windows open.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Tuesday - Me: chiropractor, Meghan: Brownie mtg
Thursday - Kaitlin: Daisy mtg
Friday - garage sale set up at Dad's
Saturday - garage sale, church, and life group
Sunday - Troy: CNA shift

09.07.2009

Outside my window...
it's partly cloudy after the stormy night. It's making me feel cozy today.

I am thankful for...
my hard-working husband.
a productive weekend.
reorganized spaces.
fresh watermelon.
the kids' imaginations.

From the daycare room...
this week we're starting our curriculum. We're doing some fun 'Back to School' type crafts, like a magnet to hang their art work from at home, and decorating a can to hold their crayons. I'm looking forward to it.

From the kitchen...
Mon - homemade supreme pizza and salad
Tue - spinach-sausage gnocchi and steamed carrots
Wed - chef salads and ranch bread
Thu - blueberry pancakes and sausage links
Fri - grilled chicken, bbq lentils, and cheesey broccoli
Sat - DATE NIGHT with Troy!
Sun - grilled ham 'n cheese sandwiches and zucchini fries

I am reading...
not a thing. I just haven't had the time to pick up any books lately. :(

I am hoping...
that I don't have strep and that the tickle I'm feeling in my throat is just a little cold or allergies.

I am creating...
our 2008 photo book. I slacked off on this last week. I'm determined to finish it this week.
I also haven't scrapbooked since the retreat waaaay back in March! But lately, I've been thinking more and more about possibly doing a layout. I'm not sure I remember how...maybe this week will be 'the week'.

I am going...
to repaint the frames of the two bulletin boards I hang in the daycare room. I might 'borrow' some of Erin's leftover sunshine-y yellow paint from her playroom instead of just doing plain 'ole white (which is all I have here at the house).

I am hearing...
Austin's NFL football game he's playing on the Wii. He loves this new game!

Around the house...
I'm cleaning and organizing the kid's bedrooms this week. They need it! I'd like to start on it today, but I know if I do it tomorrow, when they're at school, I can toss a lot more of the junk they've collected. :)

One of my favorite things...
a freshly mowed yard. :)

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - Troy: working, Kids and I: hanging out at Erin's for awhile
Tue - Troy: going on a motorcycle dinner run
Wed - Kids and I: chiropractor appt.
Sat - Kids: to Erin's, Troy and I: DATE!!!

Have a great week everyone and enjoy the extra day off!!

08.31.2009

Outside my window...
it's an absolutely perfect day! The high is only 79* today, so the windows are open and the fresh breeze is blowing through the house. love it!

I am thankful for...
the day at home yesterday...we got so much done while feeling so relaxed and refreshed at the same time.

I am thinking...
about my new Bible Study I'm starting today. I'm excited about it and wish I had found it a year ago.

From the daycare room...
I'm gearing up to start our curriculum next week. The room needs some reorganization this week so that can happen.

From the kitchen...
Mon - mexican beans 'n rice, chips, queso
Tue - hashbrown casserole, fruit salad
Wed - chef salads, garlic breadsticks
Thu - beef stroganoff, egg noodles, peas
Fri - white bbq chicken, pesto potatoes, green beans
Sat - grilled steaks, mashed potatoes, carrots

I am reading...
my Mom's novel...I need to get moving on it, book club is in two weeks.

I am hoping...
to start exercising again this week...it's been far too long...and the scale is letting me know. :(

I am creating...
and finishing our 2008 photos of the day book this week.

I am going...
to start thinking about Kaitlin's birthday party. We're thinking about maybe having a little party at the drive-in for her.

I am hearing...
the kids playing with the big bucket of blocks and other little toys. The little eight month old I watch each day just waved at me. So cute!

Around the house...
the focus this week is the kids' bathroom and the laundry 'room' (it's more like a closet). They'll be getting a good cleaning and a bit or organizing.

One of my favorite things...
a freshly mowed yard. :)

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - Meghan: doctor appt (to recheck her ears) and Brownie meeting
Tue - Open House at all 3 schools
Thu - Kaitlin: Daisy meeting
Sat - drop off my too big clothes at the consignment store, church, then life group
Sun - Troy: CNA shift

Have a wonderful week, everyone! :)

08.24.2009

Outside my window...
the sun is shining and Shelby is chasing another squirrel.

I am thankful for...
a busy...yet fun-filled weekend with the kids and Troy...and friends.
school starting (Is it wrong to be thankful for this?!?)

I am thinking...
about my plan for the day...when to accomplish what.

From the kitchen...
Mon - pepperoni loaf, corn on the cob
Tue - bbq beef and vegetable skillet, cheese biscuits
Wed - florentine chicken, steamed carrots
Thu - hashbrown and sausage casserole, strawberries
Fri - mexi beans and rice, chips 'n queso
Sat - turkey burgers, coleslaw
Sun - beef stroganoff, peas

I am reading...
Mom's Novel, Peace of the Heart...slowly but surely. I feel like I already know it word-for-word, but I still want to read it along with the book club this month.

I am hoping...
that the kids really enjoy their first full week of school and make some new friends in their classes.

I am creating...
our 2008 photo book. I'm working on a month each day for the next 2 weeks...today is March.

I am going...
to start a new Bible study with Erin next week. I'm really excited about it!

I am hearing...
the little kids playing happily with all the zoo animals.

Around the house...
I'm organizing and deep-cleaning Troy's and my bedroom and bathroom this week. I'm starting up my zones after taking the summer off. It's so overdue.

One of my favorite things...
baby smiles and giggles.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Tue - CPR training and a chiropractor appointment
Sat - moving the Keller family and church
Sun - Troy CNA shift

Have a great week, everyone!!

08.17.2009

Outside my window...
It's still mostly dark. The sun is starting to creep up. The days are definitely starting to get shorter already.

I am thankful for...
a wonderful weekend...of relaxation, planning, organization, movie watching, baking, and family fun.

I am thinking...
about how this week will go...meeting new teachers, the 1st day of school, new daycare kids, and some daycare kids starting school and leaving me...lots of changes.

From the kitchen...
Mon - chef salads and hidden valley ranch bread
Tue - mini meatloaves, sweet potatoes, green beans
Wed - chicken puffs, broccoli, apple wedges
Thu - beef pot pie, fruit salad
Fri - grilled turkey burgers, coleslaw
Sat - BBQ beef and veggie skillet, cornbread

I am reading...
My Mom's novel, Peace of the Heart, with the bookclub this month. I'm so excited to finally have it in paperback and to be able to share it with the group!
I also picked up a few new books at the library Saturday. I need to update my list over in the sidebar.

I am hoping...
that everyone can adapt smoothly to the changes this week...my kids, the new daycare baby, and even me.

I am creating...
our 2008 photo of the day book this week and next. I'm hoping to work on one month each day.

I am going...
to work on updating my household binder this week as well...addresses, zone cleaning plan, weekly schedule, etc.

I am hearing...
Austin coughing and sniffling...his allergies are not doing well today.

Around the house...
I'm going to try to relax and not 'freak out' about all the toys and stuff that gets left out. I want the kids to enjoy their last few days of summer w/out me constantly 'nagging' them to clean up this or that. Note to self: It can all get picked up before bed...it doesn't have to been clean all day.

One of my favorite things...
cat naps on a Sunday afternoon.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - deliver the cookies of the month to Mrs. Blair
Tue - Meet the Teacher day at all 3 schools, bake cookies for teachers, Meghan - Brownie meeting
Wed - chiropractor appt for me
Thu - 1st Day of School!!!
Sat - Clydesdale Ranch in Yukon w/Girl Scouts, church

Have a great week, everyone!

08.03.2009

Outside my window...
the sun is shining and the clouds are white and fluffy. I heard a few rumbles of thunder this morning...but nothing happened beyond that.

I am thankful for...
all the great blogs I enjoy reading...that teach me so much about myself.
a great weekend with the kids.
fresh new journals just waiting to be filled.

I am thinking...
about slowing down...losing my agenda...parenting more...being less selfish with my time (thank you, Cindy)

From the kitchen...
Mon - turkey manicotti, salad, garlic bread
Tue - easy jambalaya, fresh green beans, cornbread
Wed - homemade pizza, salad
Thu - apple baked french toast, turkey bacon
Fri - russian chicken, brown rice, broccoli
Sat - chicken tortilla casserole, salad

I am reading...
a new book from the library called The Fixer Upper. I'm only on chapter 3, but so far, I like it. I also read the entire new Stephanie Plum book yesterday. They're such quick, fun reads...and so hard to put down.

I am hoping...
to get to go out and finish weed-whacking tonight. I just did it for the first time yesterday, but only got the front yard finished. I'm actually looking forward to doing the back yard tonight.

I am creating...
nothing exciting. I haven't scrapbooked (beyond making cards) since March. It's so sad. But I have been getting a lot of other misc. projects done that have been on my to-do list for a long time. This week, I'm working on editing photos from January - July, so I can place an order next week sometime. yikes. I don't know why I slack off on this.

I am going...
to do some ironing today as well. ugh. One of my most dreaded household chores.

I am hearing...
the faint whisperings of a movie the kids are quietly watching in the front living room.

Around the house...
just the basics...vacuuming, dusting, bathrooms, and kitchen.

One of my favorite things...
watching 'What Not to Wear'...we've been hooked on it lately. Sometimes I wish soebody would nominate me for the show. lol. I need some serious help.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Tue - Brownies with Meghan
Thu - Daisies with Kaitlin
Fri - Girl Scout Pool Party
Sat - baby shower for a friend and church
Sun - CNA shift for Troy, the library for the kids and I

Have a fabulous week everyone and we'd love to have you join in with us here each Monday. :)

07.27.2009

Outside my window...
it's cloudy and raining! I'm so happy to see it!

I am thankful for...
a great weekend with Troy and the kids.

I am thinking...
about the new season I'll be entering into when school starts and all 3 of our kids are in school all day. I've got a few new infants starting in the daycare and my day-to-day schedule and routine is going to change quite a bit. I need to get organized and be ready.

From the daycare room...
We've taken the summer off from crafts, etc. But I'm currently planning activities for the coming year. I'm choosing a weekly theme and incorporating the basics (abc's, 123's, colors, shapes) into each week. I'm hoping to create a years worth of curriculum and use it year after year with maybe a few tweaks depending on the ages of the daycare children I have enrolled.

From the kitchen...
Still loving e-mealz menu planning. It saves me so much time!
Mon- burritos, chips, salsa
Tue - russian chicken, rice, broccoli
Wed - italian casserole, caesar salad, garlic bread
Thu - bacon-cheese strata, biscuits, cinnamon apples
Fri - hawaiian pizza, salad
Sat - hodge-podge soup, cornbread

I am reading...
not a lot of anything. I have a few books from the library, (about habits, fasting, and one titled The Power of a Woman's Words) but nothing I've dug into yet.

I am hoping...
the rain continues for at least a few days. I'd love to see the grass green once again instead of brown and crispy.

I am creating...
piles of school supplies around the house...one for each of the kids. New shoes, backpacks, lunch boxes, and bags of fresh crayons, notebooks, and pencils.

I am going...
to keep this blog updated this week. We've had so much going on that sadly, this has fallen to the bottom of my priority list lately.

I am hearing...
Austin and Gavin playing the V-Tech spiderman game. The girls are in the bedroom playing Barbies.

Around the house...
I'm just keeping up with the basic cleaning. I can tell that my 'zones' have been neglected this summer. The ceiling fans, mini blinds, and baseboards are really needing a good cleaning...but I think it'll have to wait until the kids are back in school.

One of my favorite things...
fresh blueberries...in oatmeal...with strawberries...in yogurt...or just plain. So yummy!

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Wed - chiropractor appt. for Austin and I
Sat - grocery shopping and church
Sun - Troy works a CNA shift

Hope everyone has a great week!

Join in here each Monday. 

06.29.2009

Outside my window...
the sun is shining bright. It's another warm day...but at least it's not 100*+ like it was all last week.

I am thankful for...
family, long walks, VBS, our freedom, and good books

I am thinking...
about when I'm going to get my exercise in today. It's been a bit of a hectic day so far.

From the kitchen...
Mon - hoppin'john, green beans, cornbread
Tue - warm chicken pasta over salad
Wed - pepper steak, rice, yellow squash
Thu - ham bake, steamed broccoli
Fri - baked french toast, turkey bacon, berries
Sat - grilled sausage, corn on the cob, coleslaw
Sun - ???

I am reading...
I just finished Kiss by Ted Dekker. Loved it. I need to see what other books I have borrowed from the library and choose one of them to start.

I am hoping...
for another great weigh-in this week.

I am creating...
our 2007 Photo-of-the-Day book. I can't wait to see it printed.

I am going...
to enjoy my day off on Friday.

I am hearing...
the a/c running and the kids watching the disney channel in the other room.

Around the house...
just the usual constant straightening and cleaning.

One of my favorite things...
feeling 'free' when I'm out on my evening walks.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - VBS, meeting with a possible new daycare parent, and Troy's working late
Tue - VBS
Wed - VBS
Thu - VBS
Fri - dentist appt, WW mtg, grocery shopping, Troy CNA shift 3-?
Sat - parade, family fun, fireworks (I love the 4th of July!!)
Sun - library

Have a great week everyone!!

06.22.2009

Outside my window...
the sun is peeking up. It's going to be another 100*+ day here in Oklahoma. ugh.

I am thankful for...
the wonderful weekend and all the friends and family we shared it with.

I am thinking...
that I've got to go take some tylenol for this headache that I woke up with.

From the kitchen...
Mon - lasagna, salad, garlic bread
Tue - leftovers
Wed - creamy crockpot chicken, noodles, green beans
Thu - taco bean salads, rice, fruit
Fri - bbq chicken, baby potatoes, corn
Sat - bacon cobb pitas, chips, fruit
Sun - not sure yet...

I am reading...
Kiss by Ted Dekker (for bookclub) and Finally Thin by Kim Bensen (for motivation). I'm really enjoying both of them.

I am hoping...
to get the house cleaned today.

I am creating...
lots of cards this week for birthdays and anniversaries. I'd like to get them done for the rest of the year, but that's a whole lotta cards to make.

I am going...
to stay away from all the tasty leftovers that are hanging out in the fridge and pantry from this weekend's gatherings.

I am hearing...
just the tip-tap of the keyboard. The kids are all still asleep.

Around the house...
there's not much to do besides the basic cleaning. yay.

One of my favorite things...
sore muscles. seriously. It makes me feel like I'm really working when they still hurt a day or so later.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
It's quiet this week, for the first time in a long time. I'm so looking forward to it.
Tue - Troy's going on a 'Dinner Run' with some other motorcycle riders, mostly from church
Wed - our last night of Financial Peace University, Meghan's going to Pizza Hut with her girl scout troop
Thu - I have a chiropractor appointment
Sat - WW mtg, groceries, church
Sun - Troy works a CNA shift, the kids and I will go to the library

Hope ya'll have a great week too! :)

06.08.2009

Outside my window...
the sun is shining despite the thunderstorm that rolled through last night.

I am thankful for...
another day with only a few daycare kids.
my sweet husband who folded a bunch of laundry for me yesterday.
a fridge full of healthy food.

I am thinking...
about the big projects I want to work on this week.

From the kitchen...
Mon - florentine chicken, angel hair pasta, strawberries
Tue - white chicken chili, corn muffins, apple-peanut coleslaw
Wed - footlong BLT, sweet potato fries, grapes
Thu - beef and broccoli stirfry, rice, pineapple
Fri - beef macaroni casserole, salad
Sat - quiche, blueberry muffins, mixed fruit
Sun - mushroom-swiss burgers, mashed potatoes, peas
*I also need to bake some cookies (for my new neighbors), bake cupcakes (for bookclub), and make manicotti (for friends with a new baby).

I am reading...
Sunset, by Karen Kingsbury

I am hoping...
to slow down, rest more, hurry less.

I am creating...
some organization for the kids' school work as well as a little scrapbook/binder for house decorating ideas.

I am going...
to keep exercising and keep eating well this week. I'm expecting a loss for sure this coming Saturday at WW.

I am hearing...
some David Crowder Band on pandora.com radio

Around the house...
we're cleaning today. I need to go out and give my flowers a little drink today too.

One of my favorite things...
my kids voluntarily helping out around the house. I love their willingness to jump in and mop the floor or help make lunch.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - Troy's looking at someone's broken dishwasher after work
Tue - book club
Wed - Financial Peace University
Thu - Kaitlin's first Daisy meeting
Fri - take meal to friends, family movie night
Sat - WW meeting, grocery shopping, yard work, church
Sun - Troy CNA shift, library visit for the kids and I

Have a great week!

06.01.2009

Outside my window...
it's bright and sunny. It's going to be another warm, borderline hot, day.

I am thankful for...
a great weekend!
Troy, who is always calm despite my busy-ness. We're such a perfect balance.
chore charts.

I am thinking...
about rest. slowing down. less hurry. more patience.

From the Kitchen...
Mon - BBQ chicken dinner paks, biscuits
Tue - crockpot tortellini, salad
Wed - cheeseburger pie, corn
Thu - gravy chicken, stuffing, green beans
Fri - parmesan crusted chicken, brccoli, rice
Sat - grilled sausage hoagies, coleslaw, chips
Sun - creamy pesto ravioli, salad

I also have to make sugar cookies for Meghan's Girl Scout bridging ceremony.

I am reading...
Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat? It's a really good book...I just haven't been taking the time to read during the day.

I am hoping...
to get some sewing done this week.

I am creating...
Google calendars. They're so cool. I love the color-coding and organization of it!
The kids and I are also considering starting a blog just for them.

I am going...
to get up and exercise every morning this week.

I am hearing...
the swish-swish as Austin's mopping the floor.
the daycare kids barking like puppies.
Meghan organizing the jar full of markers.

Around the house...
there are a bunch of kids. :) It's summertime, for sure.

One of my favorite things...
going to the library with the kids each weekend.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - chiropractor and Wal-mart
Tue - girl scouts
Wed - Financial Peace University
Fri - a scrapbook party at Ali's
Sat - weight watchers mtg, grocery shopping, helping a friend move, and church
Sun - Meghan's Girl Scout Bridging Ceremony

Have a great week! :)

05.18.2009

Outside my window...
the sun is shining and I'm enjoying the cool morning with all the windows open.

I am thankful for...
great neighbors.
new notebooks.
antibiotic drops (for Meghan's pink eye).

I am thinking...
about our June budget...our vacation to Illinois to visit Troy's family this week...and about what I want to do today.

From the daycare room...
I can't decide if I want to plan some crafts, etc for the summer or just let the kids lead the way creatively and go day-by-day.

From the kitchen...
I'm keeping it super simple this week...
Mon- baked potatoes
Tue- chef salads w/ grilled chicken
Wed- black bean quesadillas, ships, salsa
Thu- grilled smoked sausage, mac 'n cheese, broccoli
Fri thru Mon- vacation

I am reading...
some great books from the library. I'll update my list over in the sidebar.

I am hoping...
my shoulders and neck start feeling better soon. I miss exercising and toning...and as much as I love my chiropractor, I'm tired of going to see him twice a week.

I am creating...
lists of things to pack, end-of-the-year teacher gifts, kids chore charts for this summer, and maybe covering a few to-do notebooks

I am going...
to get the rest of the garage sale stuff priced before we leave on Friday.

I am hearing...
Jonas fussing. He must be ready for some breakfast and his morning nap.

Arond the house...
just keeping up with the straightening and regular cleaning.

One of my favorite things...
Meghan and Kaitlin's new polka dotted flip flops from Old Navy.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Mon - chiropractor and summer clothes shopping for me
Wed - dentist for Kaitlin and me, Financial Peace University
Thu - packing, packing, packing
Fri thru Mon - vacation!

Hope ya'll have a great week!! :)