Tales from a Blue Minivan

Saturday Night Fun!!!

2010-05-15T20:07:00.000-07:00

I love when I get the whole house to myself! It's Saturday night, the kids are all asleep and the hubby is out with some friends.......I have folded clothes, organized my closet and caught up on some emails. It is crazy how much I can get done when I have the house to myself! I LOVE the quiet. I love getting to watch whatever I want on TV with no complaints! Unfortunately, there is nothing good on the tube tonight.

It is funny how times changed since my 20's. If this would have been my Saturday night 10 years ago, I would have been thoroughly depressed....but not today. Today, this Saturday night is just what I needed. Depressing....NO....relaxing.....YES!!!! This is life. It's not always full of fruffy drinks and slinky outfits! In fact, I am typing this in a ripped t-shirt and striped cozy pants. My hair is a mess and makeup....I know I put some on this morning.....But it is a good life!!! Just look....

I live with a super model....

Prince Charming....(poor boy has TERRIBLE allergies!)

And of course....My little Princess!!!

She cracks me up!!!

Long Time No Post....

2010-05-12T12:58:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh.....I have not written in new post in far too long!!! I have been busy, busy, busy. I have decided that it may be time for me to turn in my "stay at home" apron and dust off my old teaching certificate. With the Captain's job change, it would really help out if I went back to work....I have mixed feelings about it. The Red Head will be in Kindergarten and The Brunette is three so preschool would be great for him. It is my little Blond One that worries me. She is my side kick, my little friend when the other two are off at school. She is really attached to me and it makes me want to cry when I think about dropping her off somewhere.....I know it will be fine and she will be fine. I am sure it will even be an easier transition for her then me!! But, it is hard all the same. So we shall see. My application has been turned into 3 districts around my house so there is no turning back!!!

I am also excited at the possibility of going back. AND..... New clothes would be a must!!! I'll keep ya posted!! In the meantime, The Blond is off and running, literally!!! She mastered walking and has now discovered that she can get places faster by running. It is seriously adorable. May is a crazy month. We have dance recitals, preschool graduations and lots of birthdays to celebrate. Summer is right around the corner and then my first baby, starts Kindergarten. I just can't believe it. Time sure flies....

We don't have too much planned for the summer. A lot of relaxing, swimming, and fun!!!

Spring is in the Air!

2010-04-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

My favorite time of year is Christmas, so of course my favorite season has to be winter. I just love bundling up (I live in Texas so it kinda depends on if we are getting a good winter which we totally did this year) ANYWAY, I love bundling up and walking outside and smelling the crisp winter air. You know when you can smell neighbors fires burning. I love a cold and cloudy day. Call me crazy, but I do. Not to mention, I have much cuter winter clothes, maybe I need to go shopping. Well, winter is gone. I have put away my turtlenecks and long sleeved tee's. Spring is here. I love the cold, but I am really enjoying the spring temps and the outdoor activities. By the way, I even invested in a cute new pair of capris jeans!

We recently went for a family outing to a nearby park. We had a lot of fun enjoying the fresh air. I just love watching my kids play outside. They LOVE it!!

We couldn't get to the park fast enough. The Red Head was ready to play.

The Blond One was ready with anticipation. This was the first time she could walk at the park and not have to be held or strolled around!

I love to watch her explore her surroundings. Of course, that involves putting a lot of wood chips in her mouth!!

My boy, he never lets go of that bear. It literally goes EVERYWHERE!!!

My big girl. Walking all over. She is truly amazing. I could watch her for hours!!

Pretty soon she will be sliding on her own. How is that these precious days fly by...

She is truly a daddy's girl. What could be more fun then having your daddy push you high as the sky.

If you look really close, you can see The Brunette's eyes peeking through the top hole.

Did I mention how much he loves that bear? He calls him Bear Bear.

The hardest part of taking them to the park is leaving. Mommy and Daddy are ready to go, but the kids...not so much. It is such a fight getting them to the car. Oh the joys!! I am going to enjoy the time we have until summer.

I HATE summer's in Texas. They are miserable. It is HOT. So so very HOT. The kind of hot that the minute you step outside you have trouble breathing and feel as though you need to take another shower, even though you just took one. Your car is like an inferno, even when it is parked in the garage.

But for now....spring is in the air.

Enjoying the Peace!!!

2010-04-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

I am having a rare moment that I am actually just sitting down! The Red Head and the Brunette are at preschool and the Blond One is taking a nap. I should be dusting or vacuuming, but instead....Ahhhhh...I am enjoying the peace of the moment. Lately it seems like we are going NONSTOP! March seems to have flown by. We had a party of some kind almost every weekend. Don't get me wrong, I love a good party with a yummy piece (or two) of cake. But I have to admit, I am glad we do not have any plans this weekend. I will, however, be getting ready for the Brunette's party later this month.

My boy turned three on the 6th. We (mainly me) have pushed his party to the end of the month. He had school on his birthday so I took some cupcakes up for a celebration. That night, we had a small cake for him at home. He was thrilled! I'll say it again. I can't believe how FAST the time goes by. Three years have FLOWN by and I want them to slow down. Here are some pics for your viewing enjoyment of his BIG day!!!

As you can see, he was EXCITED!! Even threw some gang signs!

Silly boy!

Three cuties one Birthday boy!!!

This was his 10.99 Tom Thumb cake. It was quite tasty and the boy was thrilled!

I wonder what he wished for...

Birthdays are so much fun. He will have his party at a Bounce House place by our house. Well my friends, my time has come to an end...I hear the Blond One in her crib. She is shouting the sounds that tell me my moments of peace are up....I enjoy the quiet, but I LOVE the look she gets on her face when I walk into her room. She will get soooo excited jumping up and down and reaching up to me. For now....I am her everything...So even though peace and quiet is good, playing with my excited almost 15 month old is better!!!

Some Easter Pics!!

2010-04-06T19:54:00.000-07:00

The Brunette had his first Easter Party at school. He was so excited!!

He was so proud of his eggs!!!

We alternate Easters every year. It works out great and we don't have to try and fit everyone's house in one day! This year was spent at the in-laws. They had a DELICIOUS meal of ham and lots of fatty carbs!! I took 9 million pictures but will only post a few.

The Red Head loves her jewels! This particular necklace is from the dollar bin at Target (our favorite store!)

Family Shot! Thanks camera timer.

I LOVE this shot. She is such a daddy's girl. Love a man in a pink shirt!

The hunt was on!!!

The Blond One lost her outfit!! She spilled water all over it so she hunted in her diaper!

My boy!!!!

We had a great day. The weather was a little hot for my taste, but hey, I live in Texas. We did not dress fancy and all the kids sported outfits from Target. That's us....Pretty casual!!!

Not Me Monday!!!

2010-04-05T12:49:00.000-07:00

Fess Up Everyone!!!! http://www.mycharmingkids.net/

I did NOT eat a piece of Strawberry Cake and Death by Chocolate at Eater dinner. NEVER. Especially when I am trying to lose the last of the baby weight (and by the way, the baby is NOT almost 15 months old) Not ME!!

I am NOT in denial at all that my BABY is walking. She is NOT walking (even though she can go across the room on two legs without falling). She is a baby and can't walk yet. NOT ME. I would NEVER be in denial about such important milestones only to keep her "my baby" forever!!!!

I do NOT sneak chocolate eggs when nobody is looking. I would NEVER EVER do that. That is soooo Not me!!!

My family and I did not miss church on Sunday (especially Easter Sunday). Not US.

I most certainly did not bribe the Red Head with candy so that she would NOT wear the horrible headband my mom bought her (sorry mom). It really didn't go with her outfit. Not me. I NEVER resort to bribery with food.

I did not bypass all of the healthy foods, salad, veggies at Easter dinner and instead load up on mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese (ohhhh sooooo good!!!). Not me!

Thanks for stopping by and seeing what a PERFECT mom and dieter I am!!!!! Ha!!!

Little Guppy Big Pond

2010-03-31T17:49:00.000-07:00

Seriously, this is too much!! I had to register my first born for Kindergarten today AND then pay for her cap and gown for her preschool graduation. Are you kidding me??? She was just a tiny baby (5 lbs and 14 oz to be exact!). Now she is a red haired ball of fire that is going to sport a cap and gown in May and start school in the fall. I thought I would be really excited about her going to school from 8-3 Monday-Friday, but I walked in and the school looked HUGE...Way bigger then her little church school she goes to. She is like a little guppy in a big pond.

I am excited to join PTA and take her back to school shopping!! I am not excited that she has to be in her seat by 8 am or she is tardy. YIKES!!! Well, life is changing and babies are growing...Welcome to our new chapter!!

Calling all Savvy Shoppers!!!

2010-03-25T09:52:00.000-07:00

Ok, so being a stay at home mom (the whole one income family thing), you would think I would be an expert coupon user. I JUST don't understand the whole system. Seriously...I have a sister in law that stays home with her kids. She is ALWAYS finding deals. Not just at the grocery store, but on-line. I swear at Christmas she spends NOTHING but gives really cool gifts. She has all kinds of codes, points, whatever. You would be AMAZED at the steals she gets. She can also go to the store and spend over 300 dollars on groceries and then after coupons, her bill is like 60 bucks. I know she is not the only one that can save a mean dollar.

Why can't I??? Am I lazy...I tried the whole coupon thing a few years ago. Every Saturday, the husband would bring a newspaper home. I would cut through the coupons. I even had a cute file thingy to put them in. But you know what...I kept buying things I didn't need simply because I had a coupon. I mean seriously, sometimes I don't need 3 boxes of something in order to get the 50 cents off. Also, many times I can get the generic brand for cheaper then what the brand that I have a coupon. Take diapers. I have started buying the Target Up and Up brand (which I LOVE). I can get a box of 84 for 13.49 versus pampers or huggies 19 something and then a 2 or 3 dollar coupon (still the Target ones are cheaper).

I buy the same things most weeks. Literally, we have our staple meals (quick and easy). I wish I could be more savvy about my shopping. I would LOVE to come home and say, "Honey, I just saved us 60 dollars on our weekly bill." But for some reason, I DESPISE coupons. Even when I have a coupon, I never HAVE it when I need it. It is usually left at home on the counter or in my other purse...

I have even spent LOTS of time looking at other people's blogs, message boards, and websites all devoted to saving a buck....I want to be thrifty, honest. But then I just get all stressed out trying to figure out how people get things FREE using a coupon on double or triple coupon day. I wish there was a REALLY easy class to take or something. Any tips would be great!!!

Late Night Guilty Pleasures!!

2010-03-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I always get sucked into late night TV shows. Last night, I was soooo tired and needed to go to bed early. Instead, I stayed up watching the show, Hoarders. WOW....it was interesting to say the least. The woman on the show hadn't thrown away a single piece of trash in over a year. Her house was LITERALLY floor to ceiling of stuff and a TON of trash. Seriously, pizza boxes, food to go boxes, old to go cups...It was really sad. I don't understand how that happens. I can see holding on to sentimental things, but a pizza box? In any case, I couldn't stop watching. I kept staring at the clock and thinking how I needed to go to sleep, but NOPE. I watched the entire show.

I have the opposite problem. I am a freak about clutter. I don't save anything. I wish I was a little more sentimental. I mean, I save special baby clothes and artwork from the kids, but that's about it. I keep thinking I need to start saving cards I receive for special occasions, but what do I keep them in? A hat box or something...

ANYWAY, not only did I stay up way too late, I ended up having dreams of my house being infested with rodents and (scuse my grossness) BIG rodent poop....GROSS and DISGUSTING!!!!!

On a not so gross note, take a look at the latest photo I took of the blond one.

Seriously, is she adorable or what???

I am having a lot of fun editing my photos. This is another excuse I have been using to stay up late. Needles to say, I am tired and DRAGGING on this Monday. OH, and I have been assigned next Tuesday at 9:30 to officially register the Red Head in Kindergarten. I can't believe it. I have been told that once they start school the time even goes faster....How is that possible??? The time goes too fast as it is. I want to push the pause button or something.

Well, if you have any great suggestions on how to keep cards and small sentimental things NEATLY tucked away, I would appreciate your suggestions!!!

Spring is Here!!

2010-03-18T19:46:00.000-07:00

This week the Red Head and the Brunette have been on spring break. We have been having a lot of fun outside because the weather has been GORGEOUS. I'll say it again, we live in Texas and pretty soon it is going to be 100 degrees so we are going outside as much as possible.

The Blond One has also started taking steps. I am not ready for her to walk yet...(though she is almost 14 months). She is still my baby. She is so cute and looks so proud when she takes her steps. I suspect she will be walking in the next couple weeks.

I have been staying up WAY too late playing with the photo shop program. I only have it for 27 more days.....I am still learning, but here are some pics of some outdoor adventures!!

She LOVES being outside!

The wonders of weeds!!

He is one handsome fella!!

Hmmm....I was trying to be artistic....I still need to work on that!!!

This is not from our outdoor adventures, but I just love the photo!!! By the way, I made that hat!

Tomorrow is Friday and spring break will just about be over. We have had a great time this week going on a few play dates and just relaxing. OH, and next week....I actually have to register my first BABY for Kindergarten. REALLY....where does the time go???

So, my last baby is about to be walking and my first baby going to school....I am not sure I am ready for all this growing up!!!

Lightroom is AWESOME!!!

2010-03-15T23:09:00.000-07:00

I am doing a free trial of this photoshop program for 30 days. I want it!!! This is why the hubs should buy it for me....

I love this pic...

I mean really, I could never take this myself.

Pleeeaaasseee.....I want this program.

Think of all the money we can save of prof pics!

I was just playing around with this program. I am sure it does way cooler stuff. I need to work with it more. But sadly, after 30 days it miraculously goes off my computer. Not sure how that works, but whatev... I am enjoying it now!!!!

Not Me Monday!!!

2010-03-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by McKmama

I was not super excited to meet my friend and her daughter and my mom to take the two girls to American Girl. Only to have the Brunette PUKE in the car all over himself not once but twice on the way to drop him off at his other grandma's house. Then, I was definitely NOT annoyed at him that I would have to cancel my trip with the girls to American Girl. NOT ME. I would never be annoyed at one of my kids for getting sick!

Oh, and I did not ask him 9 million times if he was sure he didn't feel good. And if he was SURE he didn't want to go for his special day with his grandma. NOT ME!!!

It also NEVER crossed my mind that I could drop him off anyway and pretend like the throwing up never happened (except he had no shirt on and was as white as a ghost). NOT ME.

I did not stay in bed on Sunday until 10. NOT ME. Never happened.

I did not curse the time change.

What's Your Theme Song?

2010-03-11T21:22:00.000-08:00

It seems like I have always somehow associated my life with some type of theme song. You know, the kind you listen to over and over again and sing at the top of your lungs! I think I do this because I am (and I admit this freely) a bit of a drama queen! Being a drama queen, I always think I am the leading lady in my own movie. So of course I need a theme song, right?

When I was in junior high, I would say my theme song was Girl's Just Want to have Fun.

High School, definitely Elevate My Mind. Just read the lyrics!! My friend (now sister in law, story for another time!) and I would drive around in her Buick singing it at the top of our lungs... Give me a break people. I was a teen in the 90's.

College was such a roller coaster that I can't pinpoint one song...I had MANY!

Of course, during the big break up with my husband (boyfriend at the time), I Will Survive. Although, I am pretty sure that is every girl's "break up" theme song. I would listen to it every morning on the way to work. Well, not so much listening as YELLING the lyrics. Gloria Gaynor knew what she was doing when she wrote that song!!! Of course, he came to his senses and we got back together to live happily ever after!!

So, I was thinking tonight...what is my theme song for this point in my life....I'm not really sure. I don't think I really have one. I mean, there are a lot of songs that I sing (loudly) in the blue minivan. My Daughter's Eyes (The Red Head calls this our song), Anyway, and This One's for the Girls (we love Martina McBride). Honestly, we sing lots of songs in the car, but none have really been dubbed (by me) my theme song.

Maybe I don't have a theme song anymore... Is it possible that I am no longer a leading lady? Am I NOW the MOTHER of the leading lady??

What's your theme song?

Thank You Thursday!!!!

2010-03-11T10:42:00.000-08:00

I love this day!! Another edition of Thank You Thursday! Brought to you by Our Imperfect Life.

I am thankful for the great weather we have been having. Texas doesn't get spring for too long. Pretty soon I will be cursing the HEAT!!

I am thankful for my wonderful mom that has done so much for me and is taking the girls and I on our first trip to American Girl!!!

I am thankful for my also wonderful mother-in-law who is taking my son for the day on his own "special" day so he does not feel left out!

I am thankful for sticking to my laundry a day routine....Really does make laundry easier.

I am thankful for a little girl that I never met teaching me that life is short so ENJOY every minute (even when the minutes don't seem so enjoyable!)

As always, I am thankful for my three babies. I love them more then I ever thought possible!!!

What a Day...

2010-03-09T20:51:00.000-08:00

Today is bitter sweet. I have mentioned Layla Grace in several of my blog posts. This little girl has touched so many lives it is truly amazing. Almost every blog I read has at some point talked about Layla's battle with neuroblastoma. She has been suffering in pain for quite awhile. I have read her parent's blog (every post) and it has broken my heart. I have looked at her pictures and cried. A little girl, I have never met, that thousands have never met, has forever left an imprint on my heart. She lost her battle this morning and is now at peace in Heaven. I can't imagine what her parents are going through. I can't imagine watching one of my children fighting for their life and not being able to do anything about it. I admire their strength and courage and her parent's absolute faith in God. So today, I am sad for Layla's family. I am sad that they will never get to watch their beautiful girl experience life. But what Layla accomplished in two short years, is more then most will accomplish in 50. She brought strangers together in prayer, closer to families and closer to God. Layla Grace is truly an angel...

So today, instead of picking up toys all day and constantly doing the dreaded chores (while the older two were at school). I played. I got on the floor with the Blond One and tickled her so much her laughing made me laugh. I kissed her a thousand times and told her how much I love her. We went to pick up the Red Head and Brunette from school and I couldn't have been more happy to see them. When we got home, we thew our things inside. I grabbed the camera and we went outside to enjoy the beautiful spring day (Texas doesn't have many of those!) So enjoy the MANY pictures I took today...

What is more fun then big wheels??

Still trying to figure out the "perfect" camera settings!

My dreamy baby!!

Love those hands!

Sisters...need I say more?

My world...My three kids (if they would only look at the camera)

My Red Head...what a helper.

My Boy. I love his smile.

She is her mommy's daughter!!

How I love those cheeks!

The Brunette loves his sisters dearly!

That is me going for an "artistic" angle!!

Sidewalk chalk. It is messy, but today...I didn't care!

There she is...The Blue Minivan!! True inspiration, don't you think???

I am truly blessed. Today, I am thankful my three babies are sleeping soundly in their beds. Safe. Happy. They don't know how much they have changed my life.

Once a Year!

2010-03-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one who spends more time getting ready for the dreaded yearly gyno appointment, then I did my wedding night? I mean seriously, I took a long hot bath and groomed myself with more time and technique then I have in a LONG time!!! I even pulled out my special lotion so I could smell pretty. I had to laugh at myself (which I do a lot). Honestly, is my doctor really going to notice the extra care I took in getting ready!! The poor hubby thought he was going to get lucky...I had to quickly burst his bubble.So even though I dread the uncomfortableness of lying, stirrups and all, at least I know that I took the extra time to make myself presentable!!

I am the first to admit that, at times, I can be a slacker mom. Sometimes, my kids eat cereal for dinner because I don't feel like cooking. Every once in awhile, we skip bath night just because I don't feel like wrestling the three in the tub. WEll, tonight was one of those slacker nights. The Red Head and I usually go to dance on Monday nights. It's one of those things where I don't feel like driving the 30 minutes in traffic, but once I get there I am glad I did. Tonight...it was pouring rain and my house was very cozy. I wanted pizza instead...SO, I told the Red Head that dance class was cancelled because of the storm...We stayed home, ate pizza and played. Life is short. There are no guarantees so Slacker or Mom or not, it was worth it!!!

Cute as a Button!!

2010-03-07T18:35:00.000-08:00

I have been really busy over the weekend so I haven't had much time to sit down and write. I have been working on something and I will be sharing it with you very soon! In the mean time, here are some too cute pics of the Blond One. She is at the best age. She even took two steps yesterday...I am not ready for her to walk yet...She is still my little baby.

She loves playing with her toys!!

I love watching her. She loves to push the buttons and watch the toys light up and make noise.

I LOVE this picture!!! The look on her face is priceless. Like I caught her doing something she shouldn't!!

And look at her feet. Can't they stay little and cute forever? Baby feet are my favorite!!!

She is getting big way too fast, but don't they all? I mean, just yesterday I gave birth to my first born, the Red Head. Now she is FIVE. Then in a blink of an eye, I had baby number two, the Brunette, and now he is almost THREE. Why does the time go so fast? I mean honestly, every day goes by faster then the next. Life is short...I want to keep them young and innocent forever. I want freeze these moments in time. When feet are little and cute and you just want to eat them up!!

2010-03-04T21:36:00.001-08:00

Brought to you by Kelly's Korner What is Your typical day like?

Being the mom of three (5,2, and 1) can vary up the daily ritual somewhat. Tuesdays and Thursdays are school days for the Red Head and the Brunette. BUT a typical day (no school) goes something like this...

5 am (gross) Captain's alarm goes off (I don't hear it) he is out the door by 5:45... I am still asleep.

7ish the Brunette comes in bed with me. Hands me the remote, I turn on Nickelodeon. The blond is usual stirring on the baby monitor, so I (don't judge) turn it down...and try to catch a few more z's.

7:30ish Red Head comes in gets in bed with me and the Brunette and watches more Nickelodeon.

8ish Go get the Blond One and feed the kids a gourmet breakfast!!! (usually cereal bars or waffles) I am no Martha Stewart....During this time, I make my coffee and sit in front of the computer. Check some emails, blogs and of course the ever so popular facebook.

Kids play and I do morning chores.

10ish The Blond One goes for nap. I go for some elliptical machine. Other two kids...play.

11ish lunch

Somewhere during this time I get ready and do MORE chores.

1ish The Brunette goes for nap. The Red Head has quiet time, the Blond One plays.

3ish Run errand if need be.

4ish Captain gets home from work

I start dinner (Yes we EAT dinner at FIVE!!!)

5 on the dot...DINNER (I guess we are on the Senior Citizens schedule!!)

5:30 Bathtime

7ish (sometimes sooner) Bedtime for kiddos!!!! Hey, I am with them ALL DAY. They go to bed EARLY!!

7-11:30 or 12 ME TIME!!!!!!!

For the record...my friend in real life make fun of me for eating at 5 and kids to bed at 7!!!

It's a Big Wide Bloggingful World...

2010-03-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

I have spent a lot of time in the last few days blog hopping. It is funny, I find myself totally engrossed in reading about complete strangers' lives. Some blogs are hilarious, some are inspiring, some are so heartbreaking I have actually cried. How lucky are we that in this era we can be drawn into lives of people all over? We can offer support to mom's, wives, sisters, and friends (new and old). WE can even win cool stuff on blogs. Who knew?? I was clueless about the big wide blogging world. I am glad that I have jumped on the bandwagon.

I am not sure that I will ever have anything to write that inspires you...I HOPE that I never have to write a blog that breaks your heart, but let's face it, sad things happen...I hope that I can share some stories that will make you laugh...But mostly, I hope to take you on a journey, up's and down's, twists and turns and we will be stylen' in the Blue Minivan!!!

Thank You Thursday!!!! (one day early!!)

2010-03-03T17:04:00.000-08:00

I found this on another blog, Our Imperfect Life, and decided to participate. After all, I have a lot to be thankful for!
I am thankful for 3 healthy beautiful children

I am thankful for nights out with friends and some adult beverages!!
I am thankful for a supportive husband.
I am thankful for my new blog friends!
I am thankful for the ability to laugh at myself.
I could go on and on and on for things I am thankful for, but I won't bore you!!
Please continue to keep Layla Grace in your prayers. She is still holding on.

Don't Ask...

2010-03-02T21:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know how I managed to become a follower of my own blog....Can you tell I am still getting the hang of this. Well, oh well. At least I am in the double digits now!!!

Just Another Manic Monday

2010-03-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

Really Regis and Kelly....you don't think this little girl should have made the top 10 Beautiful Baby Search???

I mean seriously, look at those BIG blue eyes...Oh well, we didn't need that 125,000 dollar college scholarship anyway, after all, The Blond one is really advanced for her age so I am sure she is going to get a full scholarship to the college of her choice!!

I have been experimenting lately with the most efficient way to get the laundry done. The amount of laundry that the five of us go through is insane, I mean literally, I spend a lot of my time drowning in a sea of dirty clothes. Soooo, I have tried out different ways to get it all done. Well, as much done as can get done; laundry is one of those chores that is NEVER done. My new system, you ask....Doing one family member's laundry a day. That is five days of laundry and two off (that means no laundry on the weekend!) I have been experimenting with this for a couple of weeks and thus far, I think I like it.

The Red Head and I had our usual Monday date to Starbucks, she gets a chocolate milk and I get a Grande Skinny Vanilla Latte. Then we go to dance. That is social time for me! I love catching up with all the mom's and lets face it, I LOVE the adult interaction. Tonight was open curtain night. It is really funny watching the four and five year olds...I think I may have a future Prima Ballerina on my hands!!!

Well, I promised to post some easy recipes so tonight is my first. I have to give credit to my sister in law. This recipe is soooo GOOD and VERY easy. Especially if you love crock pot meals. May I present to you Pulled Chicken. I must say, my kids (very picky eaters) even like it.

Mix all toppings together in crock pot before adding chicken.

3 cloves garlic

1 cup bbq sauce...(I put a little bit more)

1/2 cut ketchup

1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar

1 Tbsp. soy sauce

1 Tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce

1/2 Tsp. hot pepper flakes

1 and 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar

1/2 Tbsp. ground mustard

Once all ingredients are well mixed, add chicken. Cover chicken completely in sauce. Cook on slow for 7 hours. Pull chicken apart at 6 hours and let cook for an additional hour or more.

Not Me Monday!!!

2010-03-01T07:40:00.000-08:00

Not me Monday is a fun way to confess your little imperfections of the week! This comes from a really cute mom blog McKmama. Check her blog out it is really funny! This should be fun!

I did NOT turn the baby monitor down and let the Blond One scream in her crib (for who knows how long) and go back to sleep, only to finally go check on her and find a huge diaper full of diarrhea and a VERY RED bottom and vajayjay. NOT ME, I would NEVER do that.

There is NO way I would EVER let the Red Head and the Brunette eat Happy Meals TWO days in a row....NEVER EVER, not me!

Because I am trying to lose the last 10 lbs of my baby weight, I most certainly did not eat chips and queso THREE days in a row. I am much to dedicated to my weight loss plan. NOT ME.

Finally, I would never NOT WASH my hair and run a blow dryer through dirty hair to try and spruce it up a little and not look quite so greasy. How gross would that be...NOT ME!!!!

A Miracle...

2010-02-28T22:08:00.000-08:00

I have mentioned Layla Grace in two of my previous posts. I am amazed at how many other bloggers are also mentioning prayers for this brave two year old. I learned about her only a few days ago. I joined the facebook page for little Layla. It is incredible how many people, strangers are praying for this sweet angel. Her parents use twitter as a way of updating family and friends of Layla's condition. So many people are following the story that they now have over 25,000 followers. She is quickly losing her battle with neuroblastoma. I am in awe at how one little girl has touched so many thousands of people in such a short time. Prayers upon prayers are being said for a little girl that many have never even met. Layla's parents did not receive the miracle they were seeking, for their daughter to be healed from the vicious cancer. But what a miracle they did receive...their angel, Layla, if only for a short time. She has touched the hearts of thousands.

The Box

2010-02-27T19:51:00.000-08:00

So the Captain and watched an interesting movie tonight, The Box . I thought it was pretty good. I guess it was kind of a Sci Fi/Thriller. I won't give the whole movie away, but basically a typical suburban family, with some pretty major financial problems is faced with a dilemma. Do they push a button in a box, causing someone they don't know an untimely death, and receive one million dollars. Or do they not push the button and the offer goes to someone else...Hmm.....interesting proposal. Anyway, I won't tell you what they decided to do, however, it is not that hard to figure out seeing they made a whole movie of it!

It was pretty good, not realistic, but hey, isn't that why we watch movies? To escape our own lives for a little while. Anyway, if you like suspenseful movies then you should check this one out. Plus it has Cameron Diaz, and how cute is she?

This coming week, I am going to start posting easy recipes in my blog! I am not gonna lie, I hate don't really enjoy cooking all that much. I realize that I am a stay at home mom, and I should LOVE cooking; but honestly, I don't find much pleasure in being in the kitchen at all. Soooo, I cook super easy things that don't require much prep work. Remember, we are a one income household so not only do I make easy meals, they are pretty inexpensive! Be sure to check back!!

Show Us Your Life (Collections)

2010-02-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

I totally did this wrong and linked my blog to Kelly's Korner http://www.kellyskornerblog.com/? before posting this...sorry!!! Anyway, today is Collections. I have been collecting crosses for a LONG time. When I lived in my old house, I had an entire wall of crosses. Now we have a much smaller house with much less wall space. I don't have all of my crosses up, but I do have some of my fav's displayed! I love crosses and I am pretty sure I have at least one in every room. Here is a sample of just a few.

This is in my kitchen, a mini wall of crosses!

Silver, I have many silver crosses!!

Ok, I totally have been meaning to lower the cross. It is too high, but you get the idea!

Just trying out different angles!!

In the Brunette's room!!

Like I said, I have lots more that is just a sample!! Thanks for stopping by!!!

Life Happens

2010-02-26T08:17:00.000-08:00

When I started this blog(all of yesterday!), I thought this was going to be a funny account of the daily grind of being a stay at home mom of 3. I planned to be funny and witty and hopefully learn to laugh at myself more! Then I came across little Layla Grace www.laylagrace.org and her story. Suddenly, I don't feel so funny or witty. I don't know why this little girl has made such an impact on me. I am not naive, I know that there are way too many sick kids in this world. I have read and heard many stories of children suffering. But this particular little girl is affecting me in a way I can't understand. I have never met Layla or her family. So what is it about her? Is it her piercing blue eyes? Her angelic little face? Maybe it is because when I look at her I think of my youngest, the Blond One. She is just 13 months and also has the biggest blue eyes you've ever seen. Maybe when I look at little Layla, I see my own baby girl.

Maybe it is just the fact that I am a mother, who takes for granted the little things in life. I have days when I feel like NOTHING goes right. I feel beat down by the loads of laundry, toys piled up everywhere, the Red Head talking back, the Brunette pooping his pants, and I just want to drive away. I get so caught up with the little things...BUT that's just it. They are such little things. I can't imagine watching my child sleeping and knowing that there is a possibility that he or she won't wake up. I admire the strength and courage of all the parents of sick and suffering children. I don't know if I could EVER find that kind of strength or courage.

So in the meantime, I will continue to pray for Little Layla Grace. I pray for that she finds peace and comfort during her last days. I will also try to let the "little" things go.

Praying for Little Layla Grace

2010-02-25T10:32:00.000-08:00

I have recently been following the story of a little girl named Layla Grace www.laylagrace.org/. She is a two year old suffering from Neuroblastoma. I won't go into her whole story, because it is not mine to tell, but you should go to her mom's blog. It is very touching and I have been thinking about her a lot. I can't imagine what it must be like to watch your child suffer from such a horrible disease. I am amazed at the strength and courage from such a small being. I am also amazed at the strength of her family.

It makes me realize how lucky I am. I know that often we get so busy throughout the day. We miss special moments with our children so we can fold one more load of laundry or quickly empty the dishwasher. So often, I am annoyed at the constant, "Mooommmmyyyy......." I look forward to the times when peace and quiet it finally mine!! But not today. Today, I am thinking of Layla and all of the special moments that her family will miss with her, not because of chores, but because she will no longer be with them. What they wouldn't give to hear, "Moooommmmmyyy".

Party for 5

2010-02-24T21:39:00.000-08:00

If you would have told me 10 years ago that I would be the Co Captain of a minivan, I would have laughed in your face. My husband, the Captain, would have probably laughed harder. NEVER would we drive one of those obnoxious cars that I constantly sped passed. Even if I had kids, I would drive a cute sporty SUV. HA!! My older self laughs in the face of my younger self. I had a cute sporty SUV, leather seats, sun roof, the whole nine yards. That was TWO kids ago!! I traded that in for a much more spacious means of transportation. Do you have any idea how convenient the sliding doors and captain's chairs are for THREE, yes THREE car seats. Not to mention all the space in the back for the double stroller, pack and play, and a trunk full of groceries. You'd be surprised at how much stuff you can fit into the back of a minivan. Leather seats?? Who needs them. After all, the purpose of a minivan is for practicality. Think of all the juice spills, crunched up cheerios, throw up (yes, my van has been puked in many times), why spend the extra money on such luxuries. So, cloth seats it was!

So, that's what I did...traded my old life (cute sporty SUV) for my new one (blue minivan). I wouldn't trade back for anything!!