It has been a hot summer, some days brutally with a 120 heat index. Rain has been scarce. We have had storms the last couple of days though providing needed moisture and cooler temperatures. Yesterday was cool enough that Eric was jumping on the trampoline. I should say that I didn't mind him being on the trampoline. Eric does not care about the heat; he just loves being outdoors. While he was outside I heard a thunderclap. I went to the door to call him inside but need not have bothered. He was booking it inside as fast as his legs could carry him.
The start of school is slowly approaching for both me and my kids. They start the 17th. I start the 20th. I am looking forward to both events because of the routine. Life won't be less busy, rather it will require more choreography among schedules, activities, and homework to prevent a train wreck. I don't think the earlier wake times are going to be very popular though, and there will be a few 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. voluntary bedtimes for a few days. I would volunteer now if my kids would cooperate. They just raid the pantry if I go to bed before they do.
The most exciting news this past week was the loss of power. We managed to keep power during the thunderstorm during the night, but lost it when it was clear and sunny about 8:30 the next morning. Nothing like losing power on a Sunday morning as you are trying to get ready for church. Something blew as there was a gunshot-sounding explosion when the power went out. We finally had power restored about 5:00 that evening. The one thing about losing power is the ability to get kids to stop dwaddling about a shower. Once you explain that any hot water will shortly vanish due to the inability to heat any more, there is a run on the bathroom. It did kill the sinner plan of a crock-pot meal ready to eat when we got home from church. We had leftovers instead - so exciting.
See? It was a rather dull week or in other words life as normal in this house.
Showing posts with label rambling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label rambling. Show all posts
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Sunday, January 17, 2010
2010: The Year of Repairs
Just over two weeks into the new and I am ready to scream, "DO OVER!" The joys and blessings of owning a home have allowed us to pay for furnance and dryer repairs, buy a new dishwasher and now septic tank repair.
The dryer was dying when the furnace and dishwasher decided to break on the same day. We do not live in a warm climate like Arizona or Hawaii. We do have friends with space heaters, plenty of quilts and a fireplace to ward off the chill. The furnance was repaired (new blower motor). The dishwasher was pronounced DOA (burnt out washer motor that would cost as much to repair as a new model). The first dryer repair (DYI) was some help but not much. The second fixed the problem. I think I am helping pay for the appliance repairman's daughter's wedding. Oh yeah, I had to buy a new toaster too that week.
Yesterday started with a flat tire on the van. It was discoverd after I tried to back it out of the driveway and got it stuck on the ice. It culminated into a broken stereo with the library's CDs stuck in it. The climax was this morning when it was discovered the septic tank had backflowed into our basement. ICK! The huge electric because of 3 hour drying time or constantly on dishwashers or even really cold temperatures did not help cheer our spirits.
Blessings, blessings, there's got to be blessings in all this. I know there has to be blessings.
1. I love my new dishwasher. It is sooo cool. It was also on sale and a cheaper price we found was matched (savings equaling over $200) plus it was the last one in stock so we were able to take it home that day.
2. I paid $5.79 for a new toaster thanks to a gift certificate and free shipping.
3. The furnance was repaired the day before the snowstorm and following negative degree temperatures.
4. We had friends offering us a place to stay as well as space heaters. Also we do have a second furnance upstairs so there was a place to warm ourselves while watching some good movies.
5. The flat tire was discovered at home and not as a blow out or out while driving.
6. We have a camping potty in our trailer to use as a toilet plus a outdoor port-a-potty at the park behind our house (not to mention lots of trees).
7. Thank goodness for equal pay so we can slowly pay off the electric/gas bill.
8. We haven't lost electricity in addition to lack of ability to flush or use the sinks.
*Knock on Wood* for that last one.
Yeah, it could be worse. It could be so much worse. It just seems to be overwhleming paying for all these repairs on top on my tuition right now when there are no raises or incentive pay for employees at Clint's company. At least he is still employed!
Here's hoping that this year has done it's time coming in like a lion and now it can be a lamb. Studying Psychology this semester doesn't seem very lamb-like though.
The dryer was dying when the furnace and dishwasher decided to break on the same day. We do not live in a warm climate like Arizona or Hawaii. We do have friends with space heaters, plenty of quilts and a fireplace to ward off the chill. The furnance was repaired (new blower motor). The dishwasher was pronounced DOA (burnt out washer motor that would cost as much to repair as a new model). The first dryer repair (DYI) was some help but not much. The second fixed the problem. I think I am helping pay for the appliance repairman's daughter's wedding. Oh yeah, I had to buy a new toaster too that week.
Yesterday started with a flat tire on the van. It was discoverd after I tried to back it out of the driveway and got it stuck on the ice. It culminated into a broken stereo with the library's CDs stuck in it. The climax was this morning when it was discovered the septic tank had backflowed into our basement. ICK! The huge electric because of 3 hour drying time or constantly on dishwashers or even really cold temperatures did not help cheer our spirits.
Blessings, blessings, there's got to be blessings in all this. I know there has to be blessings.
1. I love my new dishwasher. It is sooo cool. It was also on sale and a cheaper price we found was matched (savings equaling over $200) plus it was the last one in stock so we were able to take it home that day.
2. I paid $5.79 for a new toaster thanks to a gift certificate and free shipping.
3. The furnance was repaired the day before the snowstorm and following negative degree temperatures.
4. We had friends offering us a place to stay as well as space heaters. Also we do have a second furnance upstairs so there was a place to warm ourselves while watching some good movies.
5. The flat tire was discovered at home and not as a blow out or out while driving.
6. We have a camping potty in our trailer to use as a toilet plus a outdoor port-a-potty at the park behind our house (not to mention lots of trees).
7. Thank goodness for equal pay so we can slowly pay off the electric/gas bill.
8. We haven't lost electricity in addition to lack of ability to flush or use the sinks.
*Knock on Wood* for that last one.
Yeah, it could be worse. It could be so much worse. It just seems to be overwhleming paying for all these repairs on top on my tuition right now when there are no raises or incentive pay for employees at Clint's company. At least he is still employed!
Here's hoping that this year has done it's time coming in like a lion and now it can be a lamb. Studying Psychology this semester doesn't seem very lamb-like though.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Zeke
I have enjoyed watching the different relationship dynamics since having Zeke. Since we have had some super cold weather as of late, Zeke has been inside so it makes watching him more fun. His antics are funny as he not the most graceful dog. His ear has a habit of turning inside out giving him a lopsided look. He loves the outdoors, and I think the snow is his favorite. He just runs and bounds through with a doggy grin on his face. The outdoors only comes in second to being with his family. We are glad to have saved him from the shelter as he brings us much laughter.
Zeke has a different relationship with each family member. Take me for instance, Zeke is just like my children, I swear. I am the Alpha, the one in charge and the disciplinarian. When Zeke is doing something wrong, I am usually the one that punishes him. What is funny is when I haven't caught him in a no-no situation, but he will see me and start running away. Zeke will keep out of my reach or hide behind another family member when he knows he is in trouble. The dog acts guilty even if not caught (just like my kids). It is not all fear as Zeke does find me me a suitable companion albeit boring sometimes.
Kalynne is the caretaker, and Zeke adores her. He knows she is a pushover. She is his playmate and whimpers when she leaves his sight. It makes going to the bathroom or even piano practice difficult for Kaly.
Clint is Zeke's buddy and best friend. Both Zeke and Eric wait at the door to greet Clint when they see his car drive up. It is hard to tell who is more excited. Clint is pretty enamored himself and loves having Zeke.
Charissa is the one who rough-houses with Zeke. He loves wrestling with her, and it is quite funny to watch. To knock down his opponent Zeke jumps at and hits them broadside. Also Zeke doesn't fight fair if he is losing and goes for the toes. That hurts!
Eric and Zeke are quite the duo. Eric loves Zeke while Zeke tolerates him. The only incident was when Zeke nipped Eric on the lip. Eric was repeatedly poking Zeke in the eye. A poor dog can take only so much. Zeke knew he was in major trouble when he did it. Zeke has come to the understanding that Eric is not low man on the totem pole here. Now to solve the being contstantly bothered, Zeke has learned a method that is acceptable. He nibbles (lips only) Eric's toes or fingers. That grosses Eric out and stops the annoying action.
I witnessed it when Eric was holding on to the tip of Zeke's tail following Zeke around. Zeke tired of the game quickly and nibbled Eric's fingers to stop the game. Zeke does give Eric kisses and once Eric realizes whiskers are not meant to be pulled, perhaps Zeke will not run from Eric so much. There are times Zeke looks so worn out from entertaining and avoiding Eric. I think he is almost begging to be locked in the crate to be able to sleep. I can so sympathize, Zeke!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
And just when life slows down...
I don't think life in this household ever stops. If you fall off, you just have run and try to jump back on. Summer is over, and the first term of school has been wrapped up. Soccer season ended this weekend at least until Spring. Cross Country is over (Jana did that). Life is starting to take a manageable pace or as manageable as it can with 8 kiddos and their activities as well as mine and Clint's.
Clint's activities are going to change a bit. At church he will now be serving as the Stake Young Men's President. It looks like stake youth dances are going to be re-added to our cheap date nights. Clint says that he and I do the same job now -- Nursery Leader. Hahahaha!
I still work in the nursery at church. I enjoy it, and the kids are really set to the routine. I can leave the door open and not have any escapees or distraught children if a parent walks by. That is the biggest accomplishment. I am still the PTO President at the elementary school too. I get to add one more hat though come Spring. I will also be a college student. I am going to the community college here for an Associate in Arts & Science to transfer to a 4-year college. I then will pursue an Early Childhood Education Degree.
It is something I have always wanted to be. It will be done at a pace so not to add any real hardship to my family. I am hoping that by the time that the kids start becoming college students and missionaries that I will have my degree. Eric will be in school too. I can then substitute teach at the kids' school (or area schools) to get my foot in the door. If needs be, I can get a job at the kids' school when the position opens up. That way I can be near my kids and on the same schedule. It always pays to be prepared at least.
I ought to get our pictures posted from our summer and other trips. I guess life hasn't slowed down that much.
Clint's activities are going to change a bit. At church he will now be serving as the Stake Young Men's President. It looks like stake youth dances are going to be re-added to our cheap date nights. Clint says that he and I do the same job now -- Nursery Leader. Hahahaha!
I still work in the nursery at church. I enjoy it, and the kids are really set to the routine. I can leave the door open and not have any escapees or distraught children if a parent walks by. That is the biggest accomplishment. I am still the PTO President at the elementary school too. I get to add one more hat though come Spring. I will also be a college student. I am going to the community college here for an Associate in Arts & Science to transfer to a 4-year college. I then will pursue an Early Childhood Education Degree.
It is something I have always wanted to be. It will be done at a pace so not to add any real hardship to my family. I am hoping that by the time that the kids start becoming college students and missionaries that I will have my degree. Eric will be in school too. I can then substitute teach at the kids' school (or area schools) to get my foot in the door. If needs be, I can get a job at the kids' school when the position opens up. That way I can be near my kids and on the same schedule. It always pays to be prepared at least.
I ought to get our pictures posted from our summer and other trips. I guess life hasn't slowed down that much.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
SURPRISE!
Our family will be growing. No, not that way ... sort of. We are hosting an exchange student for the 20099-2010 school year. Our information packet arrived this week. I guess there was no criminal records found and our references were nice. Gotta remember to mail them the check.
Her name is Jana. She will be 17 this month and currently lives in Germany. She shares a lot of common interests with us like love of reading, music and nature. That is good because other things like family size are different than with what she is aquainted. She has just one brother and lives in apartments so even the large house in the country will be different.
We have already exchanged a couple of e-mails as we try to get to know her more, answer questions and let her get to know us. I think it will be a good experience for all of us. We are impressed with what we know so far about Jana. And what is one mouth mouth and body around here?
Her name is Jana. She will be 17 this month and currently lives in Germany. She shares a lot of common interests with us like love of reading, music and nature. That is good because other things like family size are different than with what she is aquainted. She has just one brother and lives in apartments so even the large house in the country will be different.
We have already exchanged a couple of e-mails as we try to get to know her more, answer questions and let her get to know us. I think it will be a good experience for all of us. We are impressed with what we know so far about Jana. And what is one mouth mouth and body around here?
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Life Happens
Geez, it has been a while since I posted anything. There has been plenty going on though, mundane along with the not so mundane. Where to begin?
The weather can't decide if it wants to be Spring or Winter. I am just glad for our new sump what with the rain and thawing we have been having. It has most likely saved us a few wet floors in the basement. Thank goodness for tax refunds that can pay for it too.
Thank goodness for tax refunds that can cover the loss of income from a temporary lay-off too. All those kids and deductions can come in handy. It seems that Clint gets to take a week off of work and not be paid for it. It most likely will be two, but at least it won't be back-to-back ... sort of. The first one is at the end of March. We had just bought a trip to Branson for a 15th anniversary get-away. We were going to take it when the kids had Spring Break. We are going to go when Clint doesn't have to work now. We found a sitter and made our reservations. Something good besides the enormous amount of yard clean-up has to happen that week.
We also bought a porch swing. We have only been here 6 years. We finally found the right one. We ordered it, and it will be ready in time for Mother's Day. You know where to find me (with my nose in a book) this summer.
Eric is quite the chatterbox now. He has plenty of examples around here. He can say school (when he sees the bus come and the kids get on). There is thank you, welcome, bye-bye, night, and what's that? as well. Oh, I am "mom" now unless Eric is showing his imp-ish sense of humor. Then he goes around the house calling every dad and just laughing about it. I get "What!?" when I call his name. That is also due to the plenty of examples around here. I heard him say stuck the other day as well. He can also say Charissa's and Kaly's names or at least an understandable variation.
I am surprised I don't hear stuck more often as Eric is a climber. I am always have to rescue him. He loves water too. Toilet seats have to stay down and bath tubs emptied. I found out the hard way about the tubs when I found towels, blankets, clothes, toys, and a couple of pillows thrown in the water.
Scholastic Bowl season is wrapping up. Charissa did well as JV captain. Kalynne has her last meet this coming week. both girls love it and earn their team plenty of points.
Oren didn't make it to state for his National Geographic Geography Bee. The poor kid was so heartbroken. He studied really hard too. We are all smarter now, because he shared all his information with us.
Joanna busted her chin open in PE a couple of weeks ago. It is to match the back of her head, I guess. She also was out this past week for three days with a bug that just made you feel yucky and lethargic with a low grade fever.
Jonathan had Pinewood Derby last month but didn't win any races. He was so bummed, and then broke his trophy since he won a specialty category. It was just not his night. He is looking forward to summer camp so I better get him signed-up!
Cara has stayed free of injury, illness and disappointment unless you count having been made to practice piano. She is struggling with that right now. I get to teach her as her dad is about as exasperated as she is.
I am staying busy with PTO (finished one project last week and moving on to the next, a fundraiser next week). Church keeps me going too. What with my responisibilities, the activities and everyone else's responsibilities and activities ... ugh! Okay, it is not bad just busy. I also pamper myself by working out three times a week. I started attending Curves. So far the effort has paid off with 11.5 pounds and 14 total inches lost. The photo from Thanksgiving was motivation and a shocker about how I let the weight creep back on again. I actually enjoy exercise or maybe it is the me time. A friend watches Eric 2 hours twice a week so I can workout and run errands during the week. I also go Saturday mornings. I try to squeeze in walks the other days. hopefully the weather will decide on sunny spring days so it is possible.
Now I better get to bed. I just realized I had typed this entire rambling news bit in my cooking blog. Thank goodness for copy and paste!
The weather can't decide if it wants to be Spring or Winter. I am just glad for our new sump what with the rain and thawing we have been having. It has most likely saved us a few wet floors in the basement. Thank goodness for tax refunds that can pay for it too.
Thank goodness for tax refunds that can cover the loss of income from a temporary lay-off too. All those kids and deductions can come in handy. It seems that Clint gets to take a week off of work and not be paid for it. It most likely will be two, but at least it won't be back-to-back ... sort of. The first one is at the end of March. We had just bought a trip to Branson for a 15th anniversary get-away. We were going to take it when the kids had Spring Break. We are going to go when Clint doesn't have to work now. We found a sitter and made our reservations. Something good besides the enormous amount of yard clean-up has to happen that week.
We also bought a porch swing. We have only been here 6 years. We finally found the right one. We ordered it, and it will be ready in time for Mother's Day. You know where to find me (with my nose in a book) this summer.
Eric is quite the chatterbox now. He has plenty of examples around here. He can say school (when he sees the bus come and the kids get on). There is thank you, welcome, bye-bye, night, and what's that? as well. Oh, I am "mom" now unless Eric is showing his imp-ish sense of humor. Then he goes around the house calling every dad and just laughing about it. I get "What!?" when I call his name. That is also due to the plenty of examples around here. I heard him say stuck the other day as well. He can also say Charissa's and Kaly's names or at least an understandable variation.
I am surprised I don't hear stuck more often as Eric is a climber. I am always have to rescue him. He loves water too. Toilet seats have to stay down and bath tubs emptied. I found out the hard way about the tubs when I found towels, blankets, clothes, toys, and a couple of pillows thrown in the water.
Scholastic Bowl season is wrapping up. Charissa did well as JV captain. Kalynne has her last meet this coming week. both girls love it and earn their team plenty of points.
Oren didn't make it to state for his National Geographic Geography Bee. The poor kid was so heartbroken. He studied really hard too. We are all smarter now, because he shared all his information with us.
Joanna busted her chin open in PE a couple of weeks ago. It is to match the back of her head, I guess. She also was out this past week for three days with a bug that just made you feel yucky and lethargic with a low grade fever.
Jonathan had Pinewood Derby last month but didn't win any races. He was so bummed, and then broke his trophy since he won a specialty category. It was just not his night. He is looking forward to summer camp so I better get him signed-up!
Cara has stayed free of injury, illness and disappointment unless you count having been made to practice piano. She is struggling with that right now. I get to teach her as her dad is about as exasperated as she is.
I am staying busy with PTO (finished one project last week and moving on to the next, a fundraiser next week). Church keeps me going too. What with my responisibilities, the activities and everyone else's responsibilities and activities ... ugh! Okay, it is not bad just busy. I also pamper myself by working out three times a week. I started attending Curves. So far the effort has paid off with 11.5 pounds and 14 total inches lost. The photo from Thanksgiving was motivation and a shocker about how I let the weight creep back on again. I actually enjoy exercise or maybe it is the me time. A friend watches Eric 2 hours twice a week so I can workout and run errands during the week. I also go Saturday mornings. I try to squeeze in walks the other days. hopefully the weather will decide on sunny spring days so it is possible.
Now I better get to bed. I just realized I had typed this entire rambling news bit in my cooking blog. Thank goodness for copy and paste!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The Exciting Life
According to a recent letter from family, your life is mundane, dull and quite normal if not plagued with flood, pestilence and famine. Well, I thought my life was dull, but I guess not. We have had floods (in our basement), pestilence (mouse took up residence in my car) and famine (my kids always think they are starving).
The flooding was taken care of with a new sump pump. It was a tricky endeavor for the contractor. It seems our basement flooring is three times as thick as normal. The guess was it chipped and cracked at first laying so a second layer was added. The poor contractor worked the entire day just breaking through the concrete.
The stupid mouse in my car ruined a coat, outfit of Eric's, bottle nipple and my stash of McDonald's napkins and ketchup. It ate a hole in my backpack I use for a diaper bag too. I was not a happy camper. I discovered the nest (see photo) in my glove box as we were driving. I had asked Oren to get me a tissue. He opened it, and I was hollering at him to close it fast. The last thing I needed was a terrified mouse and screaming boys as I do 70 down the interstate.
The flooding was taken care of with a new sump pump. It was a tricky endeavor for the contractor. It seems our basement flooring is three times as thick as normal. The guess was it chipped and cracked at first laying so a second layer was added. The poor contractor worked the entire day just breaking through the concrete.
The stupid mouse in my car ruined a coat, outfit of Eric's, bottle nipple and my stash of McDonald's napkins and ketchup. It ate a hole in my backpack I use for a diaper bag too. I was not a happy camper. I discovered the nest (see photo) in my glove box as we were driving. I had asked Oren to get me a tissue. He opened it, and I was hollering at him to close it fast. The last thing I needed was a terrified mouse and screaming boys as I do 70 down the interstate.
The mouse is gone though. Oren set a trap slathered with peanut butter. It caught the mouse and sprayed peanut butter all over the driver side when it went off. What it even grosser (skip to next paragraph if you don't want to read) is it was freezing outside. Okay, that isn't the gross part, but the mouse frozen to the trap is. Clint was trying to get it out of the trap to feed to the cat. I think Clint was quickly becoming sick judging by his facial expression. He finally threw the whole kit and kaboodle at the cat who gnawed the mouse off and had a nice breakfast. The kids were grossed out but couldn't keep their eyes away too long.
You, that is the excitement around here. We are back to the dull, mundane life. Our yard is a bog with the warmer temps melting the snow but not quite the frozen ground. The rain yesterday and today is not helping to dry out things. Just don't wear slip on shoes. You will become shoeless as the mud sucks them off your feet. At least our basement is staying dry. I just need to figure out how to stop the supposed famine as the plague of locusts descend on my food each day.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Deja Vu
I think I need to copy and paste the post from when the kids went back to school after their Christmas break. It feels like it all over again. Due to thing beyond our control (which soon would include the children), the kiddos had a 6 day weekend. Yeah.
We had snow Wednesday that closed the schools. Then we were all frozen with sub-zero temperatures and nasty windchills. I think the high on Thursday was only -13. The windchill had gotten down to -36. Ick! Due to the extreme cold school was cancelled Thursday and Friday since the temperatures stayed low. Then you have the weekend, and my kids had yesterday off from school for MLK day.
The worst part about being home for so long was that it was so cold, you can't go outside. At temperatures like we had Thursday, frostbite can happen in minutes. At least we are having a heat wave now. It is supposed to be up to 32 tomorrow.
That ice storm we had earlier really helped as we had firewood from downed trees and also from the dead ones we cut down since we were already outside cutting up fallen trees and limbs. The fires have kept us toasty warm as long as I remember to add wood to it.
Oh yeah, we didn't have any frozen pipes since ours are mostly inside due to our full basement. The water main in town isn't though. It decided to burst after Clint's shower Sunday and before mine. So we are scrambling (Clint actually had left already for meetings so was blissfully ignorant until I called to complain) to get water to take care of the animals and sponge bathe. On the way to church I grabbed our 5 gallon container and a couple of gallon ones to fil at the church. I also borrowed 2 five- and a three-gallon containers from our scout troop supplies so I could have water on hand. The water was back on by the time we got home, but we are on boil order.
Yeah, I almost could enjoy that we have water to do laundry except that I ran out of laundry soap. I am definitely enjoying the quiet. I think that deserves a nap.
We had snow Wednesday that closed the schools. Then we were all frozen with sub-zero temperatures and nasty windchills. I think the high on Thursday was only -13. The windchill had gotten down to -36. Ick! Due to the extreme cold school was cancelled Thursday and Friday since the temperatures stayed low. Then you have the weekend, and my kids had yesterday off from school for MLK day.
The worst part about being home for so long was that it was so cold, you can't go outside. At temperatures like we had Thursday, frostbite can happen in minutes. At least we are having a heat wave now. It is supposed to be up to 32 tomorrow.
That ice storm we had earlier really helped as we had firewood from downed trees and also from the dead ones we cut down since we were already outside cutting up fallen trees and limbs. The fires have kept us toasty warm as long as I remember to add wood to it.
Oh yeah, we didn't have any frozen pipes since ours are mostly inside due to our full basement. The water main in town isn't though. It decided to burst after Clint's shower Sunday and before mine. So we are scrambling (Clint actually had left already for meetings so was blissfully ignorant until I called to complain) to get water to take care of the animals and sponge bathe. On the way to church I grabbed our 5 gallon container and a couple of gallon ones to fil at the church. I also borrowed 2 five- and a three-gallon containers from our scout troop supplies so I could have water on hand. The water was back on by the time we got home, but we are on boil order.
Yeah, I almost could enjoy that we have water to do laundry except that I ran out of laundry soap. I am definitely enjoying the quiet. I think that deserves a nap.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Extreme Home Makeover
I always find it cool to read a book or see a show and know exactly what or where it is. I was able to see the EHM show about the Grys family in Pekin (finally). As the show opens I knew where all of those landmarks are located. I pass by the new house often. I know one of the workers at Sears that helped shop for the family. She was able to pick out clothes for Jake. I know someone whose son was in Jake's kindergarten class and know the family. It is so neat to see and adds a bit of reality to the show for me because I can relate. Yeah, I saw the excavators cleaning up after demolition. I even went to see the house as it was being built. Some of the flooring trucks arrived while I was there. It was so cool to watch and there was a party at our area civic center for the show.
The only thing I didn't like was not seeing anyone I know personally caught on camera-- not that I wasn't looking!
The only thing I didn't like was not seeing anyone I know personally caught on camera-- not that I wasn't looking!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Guess what! Guess, guess, guess!
What is that sound? No, not Eric crying or the sound of Cheerios being thrown ... bbrb ... Oh, sorry. That took longer than I thought. It seems my dear son has learned all about the spirit of giving these past few weeks. He gave me a blow-out and coated my arm with ... you don't really want to know, do you?
What was I saying? What is that sound? It is the is the sound of silence. Eh, quiet is more like it. I don't think my house will ever be silent with washing machines, dishwashers, dryers and various other appliances running. The kids went back to school today. I was a bit more excited than they were.
Don't get me wrong. I like my kids. I even love them. It isn't having them home that is the problem. Well, when they won't share our new Wii, it is. Besides that, I like having them around. It is what happens to my schedule. I do not handle being off schedule over an extended period very well. What with hubby and the kids home for two weeks that constitutes an extended period. I am just going to enjoy getting back on my schedule. So what do I do? Why, I sit here on the computer telling you all about it. Hey, do you know how hard it is to get computer time with 9 people in the house? Like I said ... Back to the regularly scheduled program.
What was I saying? What is that sound? It is the is the sound of silence. Eh, quiet is more like it. I don't think my house will ever be silent with washing machines, dishwashers, dryers and various other appliances running. The kids went back to school today. I was a bit more excited than they were.
Don't get me wrong. I like my kids. I even love them. It isn't having them home that is the problem. Well, when they won't share our new Wii, it is. Besides that, I like having them around. It is what happens to my schedule. I do not handle being off schedule over an extended period very well. What with hubby and the kids home for two weeks that constitutes an extended period. I am just going to enjoy getting back on my schedule. So what do I do? Why, I sit here on the computer telling you all about it. Hey, do you know how hard it is to get computer time with 9 people in the house? Like I said ... Back to the regularly scheduled program.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Christmas Funnies & Riddles
Charissa shared these with me after she got them from her school newspaper. I got a chuckle out of them. I hope you will too. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Christmas Carols for the Psychiatrically Challenged
Schizophrenia - Do You Hear What I Hear?
Multiple Personality - We Three Kings of Disoriented Are
Dementia - I Think I'll Be Home for Christmas
Narcissistic - Hark the Herald Angels Sings (About Me)
Paranoia - Santa Claus is Coming to Town to Get Me
Mania - Deck the Halls and Walls and House and Lawn and Streets and Office and Town
Personality Disorder - You Better Watch Out, I'm Goin' to Cry, I'm Goin' to Pout, Then MAYBE I'll Tell You Why
What do you get if you deep-fry Santa Claus?
Crisp Cringle
Why did Santa Claus trade Rudolph?
He wanted change for a buck
What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus?
Claus-trophobic
Ha-ha-ha and Ho-ho-ho ... Have a safe holiday season!
Christmas Carols for the Psychiatrically Challenged
Schizophrenia - Do You Hear What I Hear?
Multiple Personality - We Three Kings of Disoriented Are
Dementia - I Think I'll Be Home for Christmas
Narcissistic - Hark the Herald Angels Sings (About Me)
Paranoia - Santa Claus is Coming to Town to Get Me
Mania - Deck the Halls and Walls and House and Lawn and Streets and Office and Town
Personality Disorder - You Better Watch Out, I'm Goin' to Cry, I'm Goin' to Pout, Then MAYBE I'll Tell You Why
What do you get if you deep-fry Santa Claus?
Crisp Cringle
Why did Santa Claus trade Rudolph?
He wanted change for a buck
What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus?
Claus-trophobic
Ha-ha-ha and Ho-ho-ho ... Have a safe holiday season!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Ice Ice , Baby!
There is ice everywhere, coating everything. It makes for some fast sledding and cool wipeouts. The landing isn't as soft as snow though. It was funny to watch the slipping and sliding from a warm house thanks to good insulation and a warm fireplace. Eric loved the show and stood at the window watching the kids who had an extra day added to their Christmas break.
The ice storm sent tree limbs snapping and breaking because of the accumulation. Nothing like being woken up from sleep from the trees snapping outside your window. We lost power about 5 a.m. and didn't get it restored until 1 p.m. We were prepared (food, generator and fuel) and fared well. We didn't have to bring out the generator, but will have to bring out the chainsaw.
The clothesline was a casualty of a fallen tree branch (the branch behind the one trunk that looks like it is suspended is resting on the line). I had been after hubby to cut the branch for the last two years. He can check that off his to do list now.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
They're dropping like flies ...
Merry Christmas to me, Merry Christmas to me ... NOT!
First it was Charissa as her dad sped her home from seminary. She had her head hanging out the window. Hubby's car made it, but my stairs were not so lucky. BLECH! Then it was Joanna last Sunday who missed church and was nursed by her daddy.
Then it was Cara, but she was faking it although I still let her stay home. I made sure life was boring as possible for her. You need plenty of rest when sick, right? Yeah, she won't being repeating that anytime soon.
Now it is the biggest baby of all ... hubby. I know he is sick when he doesn't fight when told to stay home from work. That means he will hog the computer, and I actually gotta look like I work all day. I think I might leave him and Charissa home (she has a free pass on finals due to good grades and attendance so is out of school until January) with Eric so I can finish some shopping. Eric takes a 3 hour nap from 9:30 to about 1 p.m. or so. Yeah, I'm spoiled.
I guess it is better that hubby be sick now since on Sunday I have to teach two lessons (10-12 year old) and my 12-13 year old young women. Clint also got us into a family musical number that we are performing. I don't whether to wish that they all get sick now and not ruin my holiday (but wouldn't mind not singing) or just hope for the best that hubby is the last hit. Our room is under quarantine as I hang on to hope.
Sigh ... I better start acting ... er ... cleaning.
Edited to Add: ARRRGGGHHHH! Not 15 minutes later another bites the dust ... Oren had to make sure my two sets of stairs were a matching set. He just nailed the downstairs ones.
First it was Charissa as her dad sped her home from seminary. She had her head hanging out the window. Hubby's car made it, but my stairs were not so lucky. BLECH! Then it was Joanna last Sunday who missed church and was nursed by her daddy.
Then it was Cara, but she was faking it although I still let her stay home. I made sure life was boring as possible for her. You need plenty of rest when sick, right? Yeah, she won't being repeating that anytime soon.
Now it is the biggest baby of all ... hubby. I know he is sick when he doesn't fight when told to stay home from work. That means he will hog the computer, and I actually gotta look like I work all day. I think I might leave him and Charissa home (she has a free pass on finals due to good grades and attendance so is out of school until January) with Eric so I can finish some shopping. Eric takes a 3 hour nap from 9:30 to about 1 p.m. or so. Yeah, I'm spoiled.
I guess it is better that hubby be sick now since on Sunday I have to teach two lessons (10-12 year old) and my 12-13 year old young women. Clint also got us into a family musical number that we are performing. I don't whether to wish that they all get sick now and not ruin my holiday (but wouldn't mind not singing) or just hope for the best that hubby is the last hit. Our room is under quarantine as I hang on to hope.
Sigh ... I better start acting ... er ... cleaning.
Edited to Add: ARRRGGGHHHH! Not 15 minutes later another bites the dust ... Oren had to make sure my two sets of stairs were a matching set. He just nailed the downstairs ones.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
O Christmas Tree
You would think they (aka family) would now the routine by now. It happens the same way everytime. Maybe they are just slow learners. Or maybe they just block the traumatic experience from their minds. They could just be gluttons for punishment or hopeful that this time might be different. Remind me not to send them to Vegas.
We don't just get a tree. We go to a tree farm and hike around for 30 minutes to find the perfect tree, but are so frozen at the end of 30 minutes that we settle for any tree so we can end the fun family adventure. Looking for Mr. Right has got to be easier than looking for the right tree.
This past Saturday we went to get a Christmas tree. We left Eric at home because of the cold weather. Charissa was more than willing to watch him for us. Oren wanted to stay home too. They probably lost hope.
We don't just get a tree. We go to a tree farm and hike around for 30 minutes to find the perfect tree, but are so frozen at the end of 30 minutes that we settle for any tree so we can end the fun family adventure. Looking for Mr. Right has got to be easier than looking for the right tree.
First, we ride to tractor and trailer out to the far reaches of the farm. We are headed to the soft needle trees. What happens next is Mom spots "The Tree". We all hop off in high hopes that in deed it is the one. Upon closer inspection, the needles are the wrong color, the tree is too skinny, the tree is too fat, the tree isn't full enough, etc. The first tree is NEVER the right one. You would think we would have learned that.
So off we trek to find the one tree destined to grace our living room. This year Cara has a checklist. Hubby insists on soft needles. I insist on the right shade of green. Joanna says it can't be too fat. Hubby asks her if she loves him anyway which earns him a mighty eye-rolling. Jonathan and Kalynne insist the tree be found soon. So on we go walking halfway back up to the entrance eliminating tree after tree while the cold eliminates all feeling in our ears, fingers and toes.
Finally when are about to grab the nearest bush and pass it off as a tree, we find THE TREE. It is the perfect shape, color, not-too-fat and has soft needles to boot. We freeze some more while the children try to cut it down. It is hard to do that with frozen fingers.
Hubby finishes the job, and he and Kalynne haul it to the side of the road so we can ride the tractor back. Kalynne is a big fan of creating family memories. She wants to hurry and end the family activity so it can be a memory.
There the tree is shaken, tied and paid for by hubby while the rest of us enjoy some hot cider and try to get feeling back in our toes (and tongues after scalding it in a hurry to warm ourselves up). Once the tree is tied to the car, we head home proud of our find and hoping it doesn't fall off. One tree-hunting adventure a year is enough.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Must be all the wind ...
It swept me away. That is why I have been absent from my posting. Actually it is the whirlwind of activities that have happened in the last 3 weeks. The wind is strong and bitterly cold enough though right now to sweep you away.
For Thanksgiving we all travelled out to SE Utah to see family and spend Thanksgiving week. The kids thought missing two days of school was an early Christmas gift. For the week before I was busy cleaning, washing clothes, packing and taking care of obligations I have at church and with our school's PTO.
Then there was the travelling. We left Friday (21st) about 5 p.m. and drove into Iowa. We took off the next morning to be hit with a snow storm on I-80. The snow was creating icy and slick roads. Some of the kids thought Dad was just being cool by swerving all over the road. I was trying to not have a full-blown anxiety attack. We made it through the storm and had good weather, perfect travelling weather in fact, the rest of the way. We arrived in Utah early Sunday evening. That many hours with that many people smashed together in a van and hotel rooms gets old fast.
While the kids had grandma and grandpa all to themselves, we rode the four wheelers, went hiking to see ruins and had a picnic at the sand dunes. I was dumping sand out of jeans for days. On Wednesday, everyone started showing up. The excitement of the evening is when Joanna split the back of her head open. There is no hospital in hubby's small hometown, and the urgent care was closed early. Super Glue, butterfly bandages and a trained Brother-in-law go a long to fixing up a distraught little 5 year old.
Joanna didn't even know she split her head open. She was trying to get outside to be with her cousins when the door handle came off in her hand. She fell. She was more upset she broke grandpa's door. It was her uncle that noticed the blood running down the back of her head. I think it was the mention of staples that made her hysterical.
For Thanksgiving we packed 35 people in one large room. It was full of fun, food and laughs. We had a family white elephant gift exchange later followed by games. The major entertainment for the young kids was taking a foam mattress down the stairs at grandma's house. Joanna tried to get back into the game after we patched her up, but I was a meanie and made her wait until the following day.
Joanna was the only major injury. Hubby was sure there would be one with Cara on the four-wheeler. It amazes me that the child that tattles on every little slight can be so fearless when it comes to rides and roller coasters. Cara was driving with Clint riding on the same four-wheeler behind her. She took a corner a bit fast and had two wheels off the ground. She laughed, and her daddy informed her to slow down. I think he invoked a speed limit after that. ;)
Coming home we took the I-40 route home since I-80 through the mountains in Colorado was going to be in poor travelling condition. We didn't need a fishtailing van on mountain roads as the flat roads occurrence was scary enough. That lengthened our trip home a bit. We avoided snow until our last day which was spent the entire day (8 hours of driving) in it.
Once we got home, we stretched our limbs and enjoyed our rooms and own beds. The next few days were catch up with laundry, unpacking, doctor appointments and all of our normal obligations. Things are still slowly returning to normal or what is normal around here for us.
Pictures will be posted soon throughout next week.
For Thanksgiving we all travelled out to SE Utah to see family and spend Thanksgiving week. The kids thought missing two days of school was an early Christmas gift. For the week before I was busy cleaning, washing clothes, packing and taking care of obligations I have at church and with our school's PTO.
Then there was the travelling. We left Friday (21st) about 5 p.m. and drove into Iowa. We took off the next morning to be hit with a snow storm on I-80. The snow was creating icy and slick roads. Some of the kids thought Dad was just being cool by swerving all over the road. I was trying to not have a full-blown anxiety attack. We made it through the storm and had good weather, perfect travelling weather in fact, the rest of the way. We arrived in Utah early Sunday evening. That many hours with that many people smashed together in a van and hotel rooms gets old fast.
While the kids had grandma and grandpa all to themselves, we rode the four wheelers, went hiking to see ruins and had a picnic at the sand dunes. I was dumping sand out of jeans for days. On Wednesday, everyone started showing up. The excitement of the evening is when Joanna split the back of her head open. There is no hospital in hubby's small hometown, and the urgent care was closed early. Super Glue, butterfly bandages and a trained Brother-in-law go a long to fixing up a distraught little 5 year old.
Joanna didn't even know she split her head open. She was trying to get outside to be with her cousins when the door handle came off in her hand. She fell. She was more upset she broke grandpa's door. It was her uncle that noticed the blood running down the back of her head. I think it was the mention of staples that made her hysterical.
For Thanksgiving we packed 35 people in one large room. It was full of fun, food and laughs. We had a family white elephant gift exchange later followed by games. The major entertainment for the young kids was taking a foam mattress down the stairs at grandma's house. Joanna tried to get back into the game after we patched her up, but I was a meanie and made her wait until the following day.
Joanna was the only major injury. Hubby was sure there would be one with Cara on the four-wheeler. It amazes me that the child that tattles on every little slight can be so fearless when it comes to rides and roller coasters. Cara was driving with Clint riding on the same four-wheeler behind her. She took a corner a bit fast and had two wheels off the ground. She laughed, and her daddy informed her to slow down. I think he invoked a speed limit after that. ;)
Coming home we took the I-40 route home since I-80 through the mountains in Colorado was going to be in poor travelling condition. We didn't need a fishtailing van on mountain roads as the flat roads occurrence was scary enough. That lengthened our trip home a bit. We avoided snow until our last day which was spent the entire day (8 hours of driving) in it.
Once we got home, we stretched our limbs and enjoyed our rooms and own beds. The next few days were catch up with laundry, unpacking, doctor appointments and all of our normal obligations. Things are still slowly returning to normal or what is normal around here for us.
Pictures will be posted soon throughout next week.
Monday, November 10, 2008
I think I caught sight of myself
coming as I was going. Man, oh man! It has been hectic and then some. I have had to pick up the slack in some things which has added to my load and stress. November will probably be my busiest month this year.
For November, I have:
Kalynne's Birthday
Church Lessons
Church Meetings
Youth Fireside (at my home)
School Meetings
Orthodontist Appointments
Family Game Night at the Elementary (planning and running)
Dentist the & Doctor Appointments
Youth Wednesday Night Activities (planning and running)
Church Activities (just attending)
Hosting Company
Planning a Birthday Party for Jonathan
22-hour Road Trip
Normal Mommy Stuff (cooking, cleaning, chauffering, shopping, etc)
The bright side is I have to teach one less Sunday this month due to our trip. I am off the hook for one school meeting due to travelling as well. I guess the hardest part is that I have over a week cut off my month. I am trying to do all of this in weeks. At least we can relax with family the last week. I will think of it as a reward for making it until then. What I won't think of is the 22-hour road trip back home at the end of the month. Or Jonathan's birthday the day after we get home with party later in the week (at least it will be planned out ahead of time).
Whew! I feel like this frog sometimes with life being the stork ...
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Extreme Home Makeover
Extreme Home Makeover is building a home for a family 15 minutes from here. The kids and I like watching the show so had to go look at the building site. The road where the house is situated is closed off for 8-10 blocks. In order to see the home, you need to park and walk. There is a spectator shuttle site where you can ride the shuttle for a donation of canned goods that will be donated to area food banks. It has been nasty weather-wise this week. We have had rain half of it. Cold all of it. The wind is really bad today making it feel colder. It has been miserable for the makeover workers, I bet.
On demolition day the kids and I drove by and could see the large equipment cleaning up the lot. Cement footers were poured later that night. Just tonight I conned hubby into driving by the house. We parked and walked to take a look. It was neat to see all the people. There is a lot of behind the scenes stuff going on to that doesn't make it to television. We passed by an area food business that had a food station open to feed the volunteers/workers. There are the law enforcement workers that direct both vehicle and people flow.
When hubby and I looked at the house this evening, the landscaping was being installed. As we were leaving we saw the flooring being brought in for the new home (carpeting, tile & hardwod flooring) to some cheers of the workers. It is amazing to see it all come together so fast.
The community has been coming together too. There are collections and fundraisers to raise money to help pay off the selected family's mortgage (for old home). There is the can drive as well as a blood drive tomorrow. The family is to come home tomorrow. Watching when the episode airs later will be a must watch for us. We might see people we know!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Is That a Challenge?
I read an on-line article and watched the video for a local article about raising awareness for the area food banks and raising funds. I have no problem with helping out so that isn't the issue. Things happen and change in the blink of an eye. I realize that there might be a time I need help.
What gets me is the article and attitudes expressed which is why I had to comment on the article. The article/video "$25 Challenge" comments how hard and near impossible it would be to live on $25 per person per week. I find it really realistic as I do that every single week for my family. I even blogged about living for under $100 a week for my family in my Cornbread & Cookies blog.
That isn't what I budget normally for food alone, but I wanted to find out if my family could make do on less if required. We can. It takes time and planning which is one problem I perceive with people not being able to make it for $25 a week per person. We are busy people. Forget the busy as a bee cliche. It needs be busy as a human. Society as a whole seems to have a I-want-it-now-I-can't-wait attitude.
What does that have to do with the article? People buy convienence. It may because we over-schedule ourselves. It may be we just don't know how to cook from scratch or plan a menu. Those all can create havoc with the food budget.
The reporter said she tried the challenge. The first two things I noticed that set her up for failure are (1) she went shopping without a plan (no menu, no list), and (2) she went shopping at one of the higher priced grocery chains in the area. There is an Aldi right across the street from that Kroger she used. I find some great loss leader prices at Kroger. Their brand chocolate milk is the best (when on sale). Their brand of milk also freezes well when I stock up on a good buy. So I do shop Kroger just not only Kroger.
Other things I have issues with (I got a lot of issues actually ;P) is the reporter's comment of having to buy store brand or generic. There is nothing wrong with that. There are some items I do buy name brands because of quality or whatnot. Some generics are gross and poor quality. I got that. Not all of them are though.
Another issue is the Food Bank Director saying how unrealistic $25 is. Yet when I watched the video I saw Chex Mix (love the stuff btw). It never struck me that was a staple and neccesity. No wonder the budget is shot. Junk food will eat the budget up fast. Do I have junk food? Yeah, sure I do. Sunday nights are for sundaes in my house so I have ice cream and toppings. I have pretzels in a jar on the counter for snacking along with animal crackers in another. Off-brand Honeycomb are in a third jar. My kids snack on those, and I don't have to answer the I'm-hungry-what-can-I-eat question seven times an hour. I do buy junk and snack foods. I just don't buy a lot for nutritious reasons as well as cost.
How do I cut costs? One is where I live. I live in the midwest in an area that has a lower cost of living than say the east or west coasts. I grow my own produce and herbs. I buy locally for things like produce and fresh meat. While meat might costs a little less at the store, I find the quality makes it far suberb in taste. We drink "clear kool-aid" for dinner. That is our nickname for water. I tell the kids it has no added sugars, colors or preservatives. It was funny until a wiseguy added flavor to list of don't haves. LOL! Almost a funny as the time we did really serve clear Kool-aid. The kids' reactions were hilarious when they took the first swallow.
I also don't generally cook meat and potatoes meals. A grilled steak or pork chop tastes good, and boy you gotta have it sometimes. I find that taking that same steak and making Fajitas or Broccoli-Beef are also yummy meals. I use up leftovers as a different dish. Oren says it is a leftover for a reason. Haha ... Leftover green beans and mashed potatoes become Shepherd's Pie. Leftover roast is shredded to make BBQ Beef Sandwiches. I use leftover scrambled eggs and bits of veggies to make Fried Rice.
I plan. That means I make a menu though some weeks are better than others. I check out the local ads. I can do that on-line even. I find what is on sale and plan my menu around it. Right now I have a freezer full of meat so I haven't had to buy too much meat lately. Then I check my pantry to see what I have and what I need. The shopping list is made and off I go. Another budget saver is using area programs like AngelFood Ministries. For the units I bought (3 of them this month for $90), I will get 14 dinners out of them for my family. I plan how I can best use what is included. With the leftover money in the food budget I supplement with fruits/vegetables and other perishables I might need. I also use SHARE foods which supplies me with 3-5 meats and fresh fruits/vegetables for $16 a unit.
There are classes offered at local churches, home extension offices, libraries to teach these things. You can find inforomation in books, magazines and the internet which are all offered for free at libraries. There is a wealth of information out there that can help living on $25 a week a bit easier and very realistic.
What gets me is the article and attitudes expressed which is why I had to comment on the article. The article/video "$25 Challenge" comments how hard and near impossible it would be to live on $25 per person per week. I find it really realistic as I do that every single week for my family. I even blogged about living for under $100 a week for my family in my Cornbread & Cookies blog.
That isn't what I budget normally for food alone, but I wanted to find out if my family could make do on less if required. We can. It takes time and planning which is one problem I perceive with people not being able to make it for $25 a week per person. We are busy people. Forget the busy as a bee cliche. It needs be busy as a human. Society as a whole seems to have a I-want-it-now-I-can't-wait attitude.
What does that have to do with the article? People buy convienence. It may because we over-schedule ourselves. It may be we just don't know how to cook from scratch or plan a menu. Those all can create havoc with the food budget.
The reporter said she tried the challenge. The first two things I noticed that set her up for failure are (1) she went shopping without a plan (no menu, no list), and (2) she went shopping at one of the higher priced grocery chains in the area. There is an Aldi right across the street from that Kroger she used. I find some great loss leader prices at Kroger. Their brand chocolate milk is the best (when on sale). Their brand of milk also freezes well when I stock up on a good buy. So I do shop Kroger just not only Kroger.
Other things I have issues with (I got a lot of issues actually ;P) is the reporter's comment of having to buy store brand or generic. There is nothing wrong with that. There are some items I do buy name brands because of quality or whatnot. Some generics are gross and poor quality. I got that. Not all of them are though.
Another issue is the Food Bank Director saying how unrealistic $25 is. Yet when I watched the video I saw Chex Mix (love the stuff btw). It never struck me that was a staple and neccesity. No wonder the budget is shot. Junk food will eat the budget up fast. Do I have junk food? Yeah, sure I do. Sunday nights are for sundaes in my house so I have ice cream and toppings. I have pretzels in a jar on the counter for snacking along with animal crackers in another. Off-brand Honeycomb are in a third jar. My kids snack on those, and I don't have to answer the I'm-hungry-what-can-I-eat question seven times an hour. I do buy junk and snack foods. I just don't buy a lot for nutritious reasons as well as cost.
How do I cut costs? One is where I live. I live in the midwest in an area that has a lower cost of living than say the east or west coasts. I grow my own produce and herbs. I buy locally for things like produce and fresh meat. While meat might costs a little less at the store, I find the quality makes it far suberb in taste. We drink "clear kool-aid" for dinner. That is our nickname for water. I tell the kids it has no added sugars, colors or preservatives. It was funny until a wiseguy added flavor to list of don't haves. LOL! Almost a funny as the time we did really serve clear Kool-aid. The kids' reactions were hilarious when they took the first swallow.
I also don't generally cook meat and potatoes meals. A grilled steak or pork chop tastes good, and boy you gotta have it sometimes. I find that taking that same steak and making Fajitas or Broccoli-Beef are also yummy meals. I use up leftovers as a different dish. Oren says it is a leftover for a reason. Haha ... Leftover green beans and mashed potatoes become Shepherd's Pie. Leftover roast is shredded to make BBQ Beef Sandwiches. I use leftover scrambled eggs and bits of veggies to make Fried Rice.
I plan. That means I make a menu though some weeks are better than others. I check out the local ads. I can do that on-line even. I find what is on sale and plan my menu around it. Right now I have a freezer full of meat so I haven't had to buy too much meat lately. Then I check my pantry to see what I have and what I need. The shopping list is made and off I go. Another budget saver is using area programs like AngelFood Ministries. For the units I bought (3 of them this month for $90), I will get 14 dinners out of them for my family. I plan how I can best use what is included. With the leftover money in the food budget I supplement with fruits/vegetables and other perishables I might need. I also use SHARE foods which supplies me with 3-5 meats and fresh fruits/vegetables for $16 a unit.
There are classes offered at local churches, home extension offices, libraries to teach these things. You can find inforomation in books, magazines and the internet which are all offered for free at libraries. There is a wealth of information out there that can help living on $25 a week a bit easier and very realistic.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
A Day of (un)Rest
I knew I would be watching 4 extra children this morning. I was to get them to church. That was it. As the story of my life goes, that changed as fast as the weather here.
I got a phone call from my hubby at 5:30 a.m. saying that the extra children were on their way (an hour earlier than planned). You see I watched these kids yesterday too. Their mother is expecting twins and was put into the hospital with pre-term labor this week. Their dad is military and had drill this weekend. I volunteered to watch the children. I was the only one with a big enough vehicle to haul everyone in one trip so I figured I qualified.
The reason my hubby called me is because he left for Vegas yesterday afternoon. The children's dad called him to let him know. Unfortunately, Vegas is 2 hours different so Clint got the phone call at 3:30 his time. So the message was relayed, and the children arrived just after 6 a.m. The reason for the phone tag was the hospital had called our friend with the news that his wife's water broke. She is just 30 weeks gestation.
So I had to feed 11 children breakfast. We had French toast, bananas, apple juice. I got them all ready for church or at least the ones that needed help. We were not only on time but ten minutes early too. We took up a whole pew. Charissa was at one end while I was at the other. That was to block any wandering strays.
Back to getting ready ... I went to check on Eric. Complete nastiness awaited me. Eric had a major, major blow-out. It was smeared all over the bed and him. Did I mention how nasty gross it was? So in the tub Eric went. After he was ready and clean, I had to do a load of wash. Then I got ready while Eric ate some dry cereal in his chair. The carseats (5 of them) went into our 12 passenger van. That took some planning arranging seats. I had to take into account of who fights when together and all that fun stuff. I couldn't have any "His leg is on my side!" or "She's looking at me!"
I get through church which I had a lesson to teach too. I got as many kids in the van to go home as I did coming. I think they are the same ones too. I made some pizza for lunch even. Whoever said neccesity is the mother of creativity is right. That sauce I had in the freezer was not tomato sauce as I thought (lesson on labelling things better). It was enchilada sauce. Ya know what? With some Italian Seasoning it makes good pizza sauce. I had just enough cheese and toppings (crumbled leftover breakfast sausage, canadian bacon & pepperoni) for a meat and a cheese pizza. I was even told it was the best pizza.
So now I am about to take my well-deserved nap. To be sure that I get it, I told my oldest that if she made sure I had at least a good hour nap, I would lift her computer grounding. I think I am going to get a good nap.
I got a phone call from my hubby at 5:30 a.m. saying that the extra children were on their way (an hour earlier than planned). You see I watched these kids yesterday too. Their mother is expecting twins and was put into the hospital with pre-term labor this week. Their dad is military and had drill this weekend. I volunteered to watch the children. I was the only one with a big enough vehicle to haul everyone in one trip so I figured I qualified.
The reason my hubby called me is because he left for Vegas yesterday afternoon. The children's dad called him to let him know. Unfortunately, Vegas is 2 hours different so Clint got the phone call at 3:30 his time. So the message was relayed, and the children arrived just after 6 a.m. The reason for the phone tag was the hospital had called our friend with the news that his wife's water broke. She is just 30 weeks gestation.
So I had to feed 11 children breakfast. We had French toast, bananas, apple juice. I got them all ready for church or at least the ones that needed help. We were not only on time but ten minutes early too. We took up a whole pew. Charissa was at one end while I was at the other. That was to block any wandering strays.
Back to getting ready ... I went to check on Eric. Complete nastiness awaited me. Eric had a major, major blow-out. It was smeared all over the bed and him. Did I mention how nasty gross it was? So in the tub Eric went. After he was ready and clean, I had to do a load of wash. Then I got ready while Eric ate some dry cereal in his chair. The carseats (5 of them) went into our 12 passenger van. That took some planning arranging seats. I had to take into account of who fights when together and all that fun stuff. I couldn't have any "His leg is on my side!" or "She's looking at me!"
I get through church which I had a lesson to teach too. I got as many kids in the van to go home as I did coming. I think they are the same ones too. I made some pizza for lunch even. Whoever said neccesity is the mother of creativity is right. That sauce I had in the freezer was not tomato sauce as I thought (lesson on labelling things better). It was enchilada sauce. Ya know what? With some Italian Seasoning it makes good pizza sauce. I had just enough cheese and toppings (crumbled leftover breakfast sausage, canadian bacon & pepperoni) for a meat and a cheese pizza. I was even told it was the best pizza.
So now I am about to take my well-deserved nap. To be sure that I get it, I told my oldest that if she made sure I had at least a good hour nap, I would lift her computer grounding. I think I am going to get a good nap.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Fresh Berries
With the price of groceries steadily rising in time to the appetites of this plague of locusts that live here, I try to find ways to coax some pennies from our budget. Gasoline ain't very cheap around here either and is needed to go to the store. I could ride my bike, but it is 7+ miles of hills which really doesn't appeal to me. I am imagining the steep hill right before my house with bike trailer full of groceries to feed my crew for two weeks. Can you even cram that much in a bike trailer?
One way I coax pennies from our budget is to grow my own food or find a place I can pick some for free. Luckily the place loaded with fresh berries is right on our own property. We have some woods on our property that houses a few blackberry vines and a couple of mulberry trees. We have some blackberry vines we transplanted in beds next to our house too. The biggest, juiciest and most flavorful blackberries are in the woods though, right in the middle of a huge patch of poison ivy.
That is why I take my kids with me. They think it is because of bonding experiences. You see, I am highly allergic to poison ivy. I can walk near some on a windy day and catch it. And when I catch it, I catch it. It goes beyond a patch of itchy skin. I am one of the lucky ones that it goes systematic on ... joy! So not to eat up our savings in doctor and prescription costs, I have the kids pick the berries while I yell encouragement like, "You missed one" or "That snake is harmless." We have a three foot black rat snake that lives in our woods.
See? It's harmless. Remind me not to share that bit of info of where it lives with hubby though as he freaks out even more than the kids when it comes to snakes. I was just trying to show him how cool it was and he went inside (rather quickly) and tried to lock the door on me.
Snakes are not the only obstacle though. I like to make granola and have the berries on top on that. Yum! There are so many berries this year that I can even have enough to make a cobbler. I picked just shy of a pound of berries last night alone. By getting the ladder I could even pick the higher up ones. I hate being short some days. I would have enough for cobbler except for this obstacle. He loves berries too.
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