tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36973150956074363082024-03-13T09:07:44.212-07:00365 Days of Living, Giving, and LaughterA journey of a stay at home mom to make the most of life by trying something new everyday for 365 days. The goal is simple, to life, give, love, and to laugh.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-20621101525303886912011-03-09T23:00:00.000-08:002011-03-09T23:00:44.208-08:00Being Sick SucksYep, I said it, being sick sucks. I wish I had another word to describe how I feel but sucks is as good as it gets. It seems these past couple months have been a roller coaster ride, a ride I did not want to get on, nor would I ever wish to get on. Long story short, after umpteen doctor visits, blood draws, prescriptions, vitamins and ups and downs, it finally seems I am starting to feel good again. I am so happy winter is almost over and the flower bulbs are starting to grow. Spring can be a beautiful time of year.<br />
<br />
Enough about my woes, and on to something new......<br />
If I hadn't mentioned this before, I am gluten free. I love soft bread rolls and pizza but because of a health issue I was advised to stay away from it, it has been almost a year. I swear I mourned over it for a good 3 months and every so often I still want to kick something. I have found some good substitutes, and it really doesn't bother me anymore, but nothing can compare to a soft roll, scones or good old pizza crust made with regular white flour. One of my new things for the day included a new recipe that was better than any flour mix I have ever tried and it is gluten free. Gluten Free Corn Bread. My girls couldn't tell the difference and I couldn't stop eating it. <br />
<br />
Gluten Free Corn Bread<br />
<a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/gluten-free-sweet-corn-bread-muffins-376155">http://www.food.com/recipe/gluten-free-sweet-corn-bread-muffins-376155</a><br />
<br />
Now that I am on the road to feeling good again, I plan to write more, and try more new things.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-38888104065438857322011-01-15T15:51:00.000-08:002011-01-15T15:53:09.525-08:00No Computer ~ Day 38Holy Smokes, my new thing for the day was by no choice. This put me in panic mode, to say the least. My computer went dead on me. Literally would not do anything. My husband tried messing with it for a few hours and could not fix and we decided to let it rest a day. That whole day I can't tell you how many times I went to the computer to check email, look up something, print out worksheets, look at weather, only to find it ignoring me and laughing as I squirmed. The spent the whole day off the computer and it made me realize I probably spend too much time on it. It takes away time from other things in my life and maybe I should have a set time a day that I allow myself. That is what my new thing for the day taught me, seems I learn something new every day about myself.<br />
<br />
My new thing for the day was no computer. It is now working, and I am getting caught up on the posts I wasn't able to write.<br />
<br />
<b>Fly Lady Challenge <br />
Day 7 ~ Pick out your clothes the night before<br />
</b>Same as yesterday with putting out hotspots added and now the new challenge laying out your clothes the night before<br />
<a href="http://flylady.net/pages/bbd7.asp">http://flylady.net/pages/bbd7.asp<br />
</a><br />
Funny thing about that is, I do that for my girls but never thought about doing it for myself. It definitley will reduce stress of getting ready in morning.<br />
<br />
We were also still doing the kitchen which included cleaning out the fridge and all around it. My kitchen is looking AWESOME these days!! (Just don't look in the office please.)~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-65352904766613330082011-01-14T08:28:00.000-08:002011-01-14T08:28:32.031-08:00YOGA ~ Day 37I thought since I tried Zumba, I should try Yoga. It was great!! The funniest part of the whole thing was not the positions we tried, or the movements, or the stance I had to hold for minutes at a time, but the music that was on shuffle. It went from Enya to Eminem and I found my head bobbing and a little laughter escape from me when I realized I just heard the F bomb on the loud speakers during Yoga. The instructor also laughed and explained it must be on shuffle. With a variety of music that included Twisted Sister, and Def Leppard, I would say it was not what I was expecting, but I really enjoyed it and will try it again.<br />
<br />
<b>Fly Lady Challenge<br />
Hot Spots ~ Day 6<br />
</b>Same as day before with a new thing, putting out hotspots<br />
<a href="http://flylady.net/pages/FLYFaq.asp#hotspot">http://flylady.net/pages/FLYFaq.asp#hotspot</a> <br />
<br />
I am still in the kitchen zone and I wiped down the doors of my cabinets and it was planning day to plan my week out.<br />
<a href="http://www.flylady.net/pages/df_Tuesday.asp">http://www.flylady.net/pages/df_Tuesday.asp<br />
</a><br />
The kitchen is really looking good!!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-38048027998576305202011-01-10T22:06:00.000-08:002011-01-11T08:30:44.130-08:00ZUMBA ~ Day 36Today I tried my first Zumba class. It is something that was on my list of things to try for the new year. I LOVED IT!! I have to admit, I am a little sore... I hope I am able to move tomorrow. I want to try it again this week!<br />
<br />
My new thing for the day was ZUMBA, and it rocked!<br />
<br />
<b>FLY LADY CHALLENGE<br />
Write down what you hear - Day 5<br />
</b>- Getting Dressed when I wake up<br />
- Keep your sink shining<br />
- Read messages and stories<br />
- Start writing things down<br />
- Change the negative you hear in your head to positive self talk<br />
<br />
This week she is also focusing on the kitchen, so she said to look up and get all the dust and webs and all that fun stuff. No webs here, but the top of the fridge and cabinets had so much dust my black clothes looked grey. YUCK. OK so I never look there, you caught me.<br />
<br />
Also I had to spend 10 minutes on each:<br />
•Vacuum <br />
•Dust <br />
•Quick Mop <br />
•Polish Mirrors and Doors - had the kids do this <br />
•Purge magazines/catalogs - I don't have any laying around<br />
•Change Sheets <br />
•Empty all trash cans - had the kids to this<br />
<br />
Love doing the 10 minute timed thing. Hate spending too much time on one thing. This made the house look pretty darn good. My husband even gave me a "Wow, it looks really nice in here". The pat on the back I needed, but don't pat too hard, it hurts from ZUMBA!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-10318065918180204302011-01-10T21:52:00.000-08:002011-01-10T21:52:14.993-08:00A Special Treat ~ Day 35Today I surprised my lovely girls with a yummy treat, I saw this idea on One Charming Party. I modified the drink but non the less, it was so good! First hot cocoa with marshmellow, I let it sit to melt the marshmellows some and then added cold milk with a snickerdoodle on top. Warm chocolate milk with marshmellows and snickerdoodles, could anything be any yummier.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtfofVBBaUAiseL8K4IrUzQYLcUR5nJd_qWUVH7-CX-OMs9U4tZ-oZQIfHSpPbJa0NBrApPHtO2vEjoj1giZLW32hyphenhyphenAAiFmeLP9MMsLfx4NTaDGrRxW6cehMK7kcXlRFqF7wJjD6Bcks/s1600/chocolatemilk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="331" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtfofVBBaUAiseL8K4IrUzQYLcUR5nJd_qWUVH7-CX-OMs9U4tZ-oZQIfHSpPbJa0NBrApPHtO2vEjoj1giZLW32hyphenhyphenAAiFmeLP9MMsLfx4NTaDGrRxW6cehMK7kcXlRFqF7wJjD6Bcks/s400/chocolatemilk.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<b>FLY LADY CHALLENGE<br />
Write things down - Day 4<br />
</b>- Getting Dressed when I wake up<br />
- Keep your sink shining<br />
- Read messages and stories<br />
- Start writing things down<br />
She wants me to make notes so I can remember things, that is actually a great idea. The stories give great ideas on how to get rid of clutter and such. So far, so good<br />
<a href="http://www.flylady.com/pages/bbd4.asp">http://www.flylady.com/pages/bbd4.asp<br />
</a><br />
So far so good, the house is looking better every day. Little things like keeping my sink clean is a wonderful thing to come down to in the morning!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-3153231533143777002011-01-09T21:22:00.000-08:002011-01-10T08:10:11.955-08:00Wall Street ~ Day 34Today I took it easy, feeling a little under the weather. My new thing for the day was Wall Street Money Never Sleeps. Never sleeps, huh, sounds like me. I did like it and so did my husband. I was very tired and it was my new thing for the day. Sleep sounds pretty good!<br />
<br />
<b>FLY LADY CHALLENGE<br />
Day 3 ~ Do what we have already done<br />
</b>-Getting up and dressing to lace up shoes<br />
-Keeping your sink shining <br />
-Signed up for daily tips<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flylady.com/pages/bbd3.asp">http://www.flylady.com/pages/bbd3.asp<br />
</a><br />
<br />
Like the clean sink, get up and getting dressed right aways is OK, I like my breakfast first and a little waking up first but I will stick with it. Asked me how I feel in two weeks, I may change my mind. :)~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-35910641020679524072011-01-09T21:05:00.000-08:002011-01-09T21:09:28.159-08:00Chapters Books and Coffee ~ Day 33My friend introduced me to a new coffee shop. It is not new, but is new to me and is something I want to kick myself about. I cannot believe I haven't been there before. It was the best coffee shop with a variety of books and teas and was HUGE, with a small coffee house feel. They even offered soy, rice, coconut and almond milk for us girls who don't drink milk. All I can say is I LOVED IT!!<br />
<br />
My new thing for the day, Chapters Books and Coffee, I plan on going back very soon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxUq5MAy-v3fZAyKX_rfqDY7GFFjxQGV1LQSZd7RaDsGDjzW5EzIvc2ljByziRwtb3Z0ciqtV7M8K3FIrmsV8jI_4eht0O14giAfEimNooH88TgMT8lnq8JOJRpBsOi3vJeQ6cm1C2F4/s1600/chapters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="220" width="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxUq5MAy-v3fZAyKX_rfqDY7GFFjxQGV1LQSZd7RaDsGDjzW5EzIvc2ljByziRwtb3Z0ciqtV7M8K3FIrmsV8jI_4eht0O14giAfEimNooH88TgMT8lnq8JOJRpBsOi3vJeQ6cm1C2F4/s400/chapters.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a href="http://chaptersbooksandcoffee.com/">http://chaptersbooksandcoffee.com/</a><br />
<br />
<b>FLY LADY CHALLENGE<br />
Day 2 Get dressed to lace up shoes <br />
</b>I had to get ready first thing when I woke up UGH!!! <br />
Sine my sink before bed too, I kinda like this!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-8658693249606632782011-01-07T22:10:00.000-08:002011-01-08T10:35:11.703-08:00The Fly Lady ~ Day 32Who is the fly lady you asked? I came across the fly lady through several recommendations from friends. My house feels like constant Chaos with toys, clothes, mail, you know the drill. She defines CHAOS as Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome. Needless to say I decided to check her out and have decided to do her 31 day challenge. In fact, I have a few different challenges I will try this month.<br />
<br />
My new thing for day was taking on the fly lady challenge. Check it out for yourself. <a href="http://www.flylady.com/pages/begin_babysteps.asp">http://www.flylady.com/pages/begin_babysteps.asp <br />
<br />
</a><b>Day One ~ Go shine your sink!<br />
</b>There is a method to a shiny sink, you can see it for yourself at <a href="http://flylady.net/pages/FLYingLessons_Shine.asp">http://flylady.net/pages/FLYingLessons_Shine.asp</a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93q0B9GlaOLMyprKv-BfU11ab6UL4_fqJ-7Wf7cUA4HwYUMrsLXnhX0M_sywqCNd-fIZxjdufXr-MpXF1816zzzyIoBeVaG4GF-brDt3-yZ-lk9BtOr_Zi_zmQBuZFi2yWpzDOx36c2Y/s1600/sink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="281" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93q0B9GlaOLMyprKv-BfU11ab6UL4_fqJ-7Wf7cUA4HwYUMrsLXnhX0M_sywqCNd-fIZxjdufXr-MpXF1816zzzyIoBeVaG4GF-brDt3-yZ-lk9BtOr_Zi_zmQBuZFi2yWpzDOx36c2Y/s400/sink.jpg" /></a></div>Make it shine like the top of the chrysler building!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-8832348158764236612011-01-07T09:03:00.000-08:002011-01-07T09:14:08.876-08:00Portland's Art Museum ~ Day 31My new thing for the day was the Portlands Art Museum, I loved it. I had never been there before, it was a site to see. I wish I had some pictures to show unfortunately you can't take pictures inside the museum which I understand so instead I grab a few shot outside the building as we left walking in the rain. The best part about the trip was the fact I was there with my oldest. We talked about our favorite pieces and what must inspired these people to create the things they did. All I can say is the mind of a child is amazing. She saw things in pieces that others would have missed and talked about the sculptures the rest of the evening. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9gkjkVXKjjybhKK8V7iKGxCD55YG9IPZ21v0NtnOROOXll7lcajJrO53cWmaq049TYoB5q0XypJTGzPaKJf8EA05YXAQ_wycIZRigapTLvkPtlRWvsYS0EbcsmKC75kNXShJ8D0JQcA/s1600/part.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9gkjkVXKjjybhKK8V7iKGxCD55YG9IPZ21v0NtnOROOXll7lcajJrO53cWmaq049TYoB5q0XypJTGzPaKJf8EA05YXAQ_wycIZRigapTLvkPtlRWvsYS0EbcsmKC75kNXShJ8D0JQcA/s400/part.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAr-MAiCR_5k_6juMed3Xb2ATWZYjBqtpnHlogeFzOIahqyYyPQ4MHatMr73dO1_BvA61NwTCfqeg_SYES8Za-WSXWGe0vjq8Ey3aPzDiaI73Z0jgk2hherdGmkfG-8i_Tp454L_FvYos/s1600/statue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAr-MAiCR_5k_6juMed3Xb2ATWZYjBqtpnHlogeFzOIahqyYyPQ4MHatMr73dO1_BvA61NwTCfqeg_SYES8Za-WSXWGe0vjq8Ey3aPzDiaI73Z0jgk2hherdGmkfG-8i_Tp454L_FvYos/s400/statue.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vTOJOMeW4BYJcPpPC_DLz9y5iH0fcEQwD2AsaJEwW_LlS4pUPJ0URsUkefC1HXhtSsrKc6QCbhkS02wLnZ0YkUIGwa2qV_FiD0OrcSTFD3Kuy5FZs6Mrsl3uqs6CV5b7QGQNSkvaABg/s1600/tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vTOJOMeW4BYJcPpPC_DLz9y5iH0fcEQwD2AsaJEwW_LlS4pUPJ0URsUkefC1HXhtSsrKc6QCbhkS02wLnZ0YkUIGwa2qV_FiD0OrcSTFD3Kuy5FZs6Mrsl3uqs6CV5b7QGQNSkvaABg/s400/tree.jpg" /></a></div>I loved this tree, there was something about it that seemed so alive to me.<br />
<br />
<br />
My new thing for the day was the Portland Art Museum, something everyone should see. I plan on going back.<br />
<br />
Check it out at <a href="http://portlandartmuseum.org/">http://portlandartmuseum.org/</a>~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-32975036134057874062011-01-05T22:25:00.000-08:002011-01-06T17:52:37.526-08:00Calming Sea ~ Day 30I have been having some difficulty falling asleep at night. Ok, a lot of difficulty, and I have resorted to numerous things to try to help my ease into slumber. I have used bedtime tea, reading before bed, no TV before bed, no computer before bed, no sugar, no caffeine, just about everything to help me to fall asleep. My new thing for the day was the Calming Sea CD, which has music with waves in the background. It is wonderful, I love the sound of the ocean, it always sets me at peace. Did I fall asleep a little easier, no, but I would say it did help me relax.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOU4Liyj9sZygXQJSKbrygpl60XmK1CxplpnAtKtpbfI8ExtS8Xsy1AcAhUxI0lQJA4J-F0KJ8hoRAoz0JgN41PHiy0GFvMxPl-S20L5hMw-IWC4joB_f9RrsDKU75tLqGBTceBKeNWz0/s1600/41dtUOmTvaL__SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOU4Liyj9sZygXQJSKbrygpl60XmK1CxplpnAtKtpbfI8ExtS8Xsy1AcAhUxI0lQJA4J-F0KJ8hoRAoz0JgN41PHiy0GFvMxPl-S20L5hMw-IWC4joB_f9RrsDKU75tLqGBTceBKeNWz0/s400/41dtUOmTvaL__SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My new thing for the day, was the Calming Sea. Although I wish I was on the beach hearing the waves for myself, in my bikini, with my feet in the sand, the sun on my skin and not a grey cloud in site, it was the closest thing to it.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-66022293178439023462011-01-04T20:35:00.000-08:002011-01-04T20:37:05.284-08:00Karaoke Baby ~ Day 29<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLSHnoWDkvkaiqbE2vd_UnYA4Nxf1ckmrLSfwyLqjT7CWyKr6JqoFHaf6JTwd6fVYI8VUwAFd0BTnvyj1l4CghHae29bbg66PB8GB3I-rU1NVF4CSNrpc8O__Yh_l6ih7oPW8eZOEE2G8/s1600/karaoke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLSHnoWDkvkaiqbE2vd_UnYA4Nxf1ckmrLSfwyLqjT7CWyKr6JqoFHaf6JTwd6fVYI8VUwAFd0BTnvyj1l4CghHae29bbg66PB8GB3I-rU1NVF4CSNrpc8O__Yh_l6ih7oPW8eZOEE2G8/s400/karaoke.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
For Christmas my brother got the girls a karaoke machine and it just arrived. I love to sing, but I don’t know who loves it more, the girls or myself. We unpacked it and each took turns at singing. It is funny, I love to sing but singing in front of others is a whole new story. When the microphone is to your mouth and your voice is amplified, it is a little nerve racking at first, but who am I kidding... I let loose and sang as loud as I could. It was AWESOME. The kids and my husband sat around and clapped when I finished and even if I stunk, they thought I was great, and that is all that matters. I swear everyone needs one of these things!!!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL4_ZUTppd2TGr7xpQBOz65ASUDPiaZU2OoX0tiVgLlXmK0MLojEgwE0vVH2wQ5oOJo8PdxTVS_QRTZ01u8ho0vkgJqz-Z4CCBstlbx9G3xcyfDmnoVyj_qZfdMJ3H1o8sF78p151RJU/s1600/taylorswiftk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="282" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL4_ZUTppd2TGr7xpQBOz65ASUDPiaZU2OoX0tiVgLlXmK0MLojEgwE0vVH2wQ5oOJo8PdxTVS_QRTZ01u8ho0vkgJqz-Z4CCBstlbx9G3xcyfDmnoVyj_qZfdMJ3H1o8sF78p151RJU/s400/taylorswiftk.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Our new thing for the day was a Karaoke Machine, and it rocks. <div <br />
Did I mention I bought the Taylor Swift Fearless Karaoke CD too, I, I mean the kids, love it!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-44323377513242609302011-01-03T19:26:00.000-08:002011-01-03T19:26:45.039-08:00The Daily Dialogue ~ Day 28I am a worrier. I admit it. I wish I wasn't, but I often worry about things that are just out of my control. One of my goals for 2011 is to worry less and turn things over to God. Mathew 6:34 says "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." <br />
<br />
I started reading Simple Abundance, a book I bought years ago but never finished. She talks about buying a spiral notebook and just writing your worries down, just let them spill out onto the paper and then let them go, come back to them later, if need be. That is what I did, I wrote down my worries and tried to let them go, and turn them over to God. Simple Abundance says it so well, "Life never calms down long enough for us to wait until tomorrow to start living the lives we deserve." I believe God truly wants us to live our life to the fullest, everyday. <br />
<br />
Today I made a choice to let go, and put the worries on the paper. My new thing for the day was a Daily Dialogue.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-87160381830857174342011-01-02T22:29:00.000-08:002011-01-02T22:29:05.440-08:00First Sleep over ~ Day 27My 6 year old had a friend spend the night for the first time. Her older sister was going to a slumber party, so I thought it would be a fun thing for her to bring in the new year. Both girls had a blast, popcorn, movies, cookies, dancing, playing. She cried when her friend left but I was so glad to have done this for her. <br />
<br />
Hailey had her first sleepover and she said, "It was awesome!" I agree!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-xziDIky9TlEavnOn86RakTDP_tEKNUDizWESM5wdJQEpgIcKxXkIr3QGO8RUrzw7tzW7NK6ug9UNF_1-0g08tTPnJ658HR-P8h5ZfpqnKYPwli3__AIPCtHDg6jekzbtE4KaRB4hD74/s1600/slumber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-xziDIky9TlEavnOn86RakTDP_tEKNUDizWESM5wdJQEpgIcKxXkIr3QGO8RUrzw7tzW7NK6ug9UNF_1-0g08tTPnJ658HR-P8h5ZfpqnKYPwli3__AIPCtHDg6jekzbtE4KaRB4hD74/s400/slumber.jpg" /></a></div>~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-17623093979555138892011-01-01T23:31:00.000-08:002011-01-01T23:31:46.678-08:00New Years Eve ~ Day 26Last night proved to be a fun New Years Eve. This is the first year we have taken the girls out and celebrated New Years together. Since we had children we have spent most of our New Years at home and if we did go out, which was rare, we got a babysitter. Our new thing for the day was going out for New Years Eve and celebrating as a family.<br />
<br />
We first took the girls to dinner, it is always fun surprising them. They had all gotten dressed up for a night out on the town, and each fought to sit next to Dad at the table. I lost and my oldest won, she couldn't have been more happy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtND5xLJfOdmkZGZ890LbLpw8sVnarM3bn8CPK6Ri7aCuxIWHUr3e9kLOReA3uqGIsVeZ3zvP4kZVnxPtF54vl1vVZ0KDy02CvjW6FS6fTepa8q8KDJQ3LsSIbp5Yz1rHcKcvE2xg398/s1600/pizzaanddad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtND5xLJfOdmkZGZ890LbLpw8sVnarM3bn8CPK6Ri7aCuxIWHUr3e9kLOReA3uqGIsVeZ3zvP4kZVnxPtF54vl1vVZ0KDy02CvjW6FS6fTepa8q8KDJQ3LsSIbp5Yz1rHcKcvE2xg398/s400/pizzaanddad.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
After dinner we went and got everyone their favorite piece of candy and then went to a friend's house. They laughed most of the night and our youngest was so tired she crashed out in my arms. She made it until 10. The two oldest made it until 11:00 at which time we knew it was time for us all to go home and get some pjs on. They were so tired they couldn't make it until 12 am and crashed in bed around 11:45 pm. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNaZkxiHUmpj5TGQNI1nDEAeMCjOfpHkoXmMR_dq7XXX0wvWw3YGA38muzyuDOZGO6ZQ_7IJmzi0ZmoA3lGjjAbOMe26Giv9vKgNlGt2xB1WiFpD95Hgk8XZmQyEkcZweZM8khQ9nH2s/s1600/tiredbaby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNaZkxiHUmpj5TGQNI1nDEAeMCjOfpHkoXmMR_dq7XXX0wvWw3YGA38muzyuDOZGO6ZQ_7IJmzi0ZmoA3lGjjAbOMe26Giv9vKgNlGt2xB1WiFpD95Hgk8XZmQyEkcZweZM8khQ9nH2s/s400/tiredbaby.jpg" /></a></div><br />
They woke up talking about how much fun they had and that next year, they would make it until midnight. Once again it was just my hubby and I when the clock struck 12. While we sat on our couch, he kissed me and I thought there is no place in the world I would rather be than there with him in our home, snuggled on the couch together. <br />
<br />
2010 was a little tough, but we made it and we are very happy, and very blessed. I am looking forward to a new year and I wish you all a beautiful New Year full of laughter and love.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-17039224211035606152010-12-30T23:12:00.000-08:002010-12-30T23:12:07.181-08:00Illustrator Class ~ Day 25I did it!!! I register for an Illustrator class and I am so excited. I have wanted to learn how to take my art and creativity and put it on the computer but have been limited by my skills. I feel like I am taking a step in the right direction. YIPEEE! Yup, I will say it again YIPEEE!<br />
<br />
My new thing for the day is going back to school. I have to say I am ecstatic!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-39773797655906608942010-12-29T23:14:00.000-08:002010-12-29T23:14:47.460-08:00Blue Nails, Whats the big deal ~ Day 24<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkQLWFoh1R9JdJ2mcR1SnPOEB-DXM-OQ9QDcH5lP0dDc3SO_nqenFbi-Gn36ty-YNrz_SKuyjqeZX8bby7HUfXjPfk5BhMgUxYAtAI4jDFiIlJjTpimMIBmTW2A5PQydUk6GuDDSbPw1k/s1600/nails2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="246" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkQLWFoh1R9JdJ2mcR1SnPOEB-DXM-OQ9QDcH5lP0dDc3SO_nqenFbi-Gn36ty-YNrz_SKuyjqeZX8bby7HUfXjPfk5BhMgUxYAtAI4jDFiIlJjTpimMIBmTW2A5PQydUk6GuDDSbPw1k/s400/nails2.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Part of trying something new every day, is trying new things that might make me uncomfortable. I don't know what it is but I do not like my finger nails painted, my toe nails yes, my fingers no. It makes me uncomfortable, it looks strange to me, it reminds me of the 90's and I hate it. It literally makes my skin crawl. Today after looking through different fashion blogs, and beauty blogs, I thought why not, I need to get over it. I went with what they label as the lastest trend; blue, grey, black and even matte polish. I decided on blue. Even as I painted it, I was ready to take it off, but I am determined to keep them painted for at least a few days. Check them out, blue nails, big deal, hell yeah it is. Well see how I feel tomorrow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4T96jnMY-XAcyEzOMldIjyVkcQjEJKFkkSO2ZPKOdqZej4hrx3j8inarYF5yZT5F10xvT_HmGQQQTtLTwTvnq5iTZEjWzaWaNdpkLtE1yD4-KQIRV62NAH0oYt9c_nySopXMl0kspg8Q/s1600/nails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4T96jnMY-XAcyEzOMldIjyVkcQjEJKFkkSO2ZPKOdqZej4hrx3j8inarYF5yZT5F10xvT_HmGQQQTtLTwTvnq5iTZEjWzaWaNdpkLtE1yD4-KQIRV62NAH0oYt9c_nySopXMl0kspg8Q/s400/nails.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-30418956341389484482010-12-29T10:08:00.000-08:002010-12-29T21:29:03.364-08:00Knight and Day ~ Day 23Last night we watched the movie Knight and Day with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. I have to say the first 15 minutes I wasn't sure what I thought, but by the end of the movie I was smiling and both of us enjoyed it. There was a lot of action, but at the same time it came across like a romantic comedy. Both of us liked it, a good rental. It was a funny flick, not meant to be a heavy drama. <br />
<br />
My new things for the day, a new movie and I started a new book. The book doesn't count until it is finished though, that will keep me motivated to stay with it. :)~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-69759331137750091512010-12-27T23:41:00.000-08:002010-12-28T11:47:58.310-08:00Ooey Gooey Butter Cake ~ Day 22My new thing today came about because my BFF since 4th grade called. Yep, we still joke and say BFFs because we have known each other that long. She knows what I am thinking before I say it, and knows every story about me. My whole family thinks of her like family. She couldn't get rid of us if she tried.<br />
<br />
Well, she is in Bass Lake for Christmas with no internet. She calls with a favor, "Can you find Paula Deen's Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for me online?" So I do, and start asking questions while I read her the directions. What is this cake, why is it so important, and should I try it? Her answers were as follows: It is amazing, seriously soooooo good, we absolutely need to make it, and yes, yes, you should definitely try it, it is that good.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Q-sToMaB8xEBtnFMFF45zB8t3AXnNDdj51lHC_WJi3VxsOtd_5IzzH3SCCAuOFlGGCrExP1qZk6aAHM4orAvOeHC19_pKNDSdighoXPLaaWSbW95Lrp3SLhNIER50jPXq4W6WMOruU0/s1600/ooeygooey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Q-sToMaB8xEBtnFMFF45zB8t3AXnNDdj51lHC_WJi3VxsOtd_5IzzH3SCCAuOFlGGCrExP1qZk6aAHM4orAvOeHC19_pKNDSdighoXPLaaWSbW95Lrp3SLhNIER50jPXq4W6WMOruU0/s400/ooeygooey.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Our new thing for the day was Paula Deen's Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Gluten free style. Butter baby, Paula loves the butter. <a href="http://www.pauladeen.com/recipes/view2/gooey_butter_cake/">http://www.pauladeen.com/recipes/view2/gooey_butter_cake/</a> I substituted the yellow cake mix for a Pamela's gluten free vanilla cake mix and added an extra egg. It was VERY GOOD. Paula's seems a little more gooey than mine but I knew my family would say ooey if it was too gooey. I thought it was perfect. My neighbor came over and ate two pieces, can anything made with butter taste bad? The fact she said MMMMM MMMM several times made me think it was a hit. It is worth making, try it for yourself this week, you won't be disappointed.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-50554575528623115382010-12-26T23:33:00.000-08:002010-12-27T23:44:38.235-08:00Jo Malone's Orange Blossom ~ Day 21We had our annual gathering at our friend’s home for Christmas. This has become a tradition for us over the past few years and I look forward every year it draws near. <br />
<br />
My friend and I both have three girls, all very close in age. They are more like family than friends, and each Christmas we gather together to exchange gifts and have our own Christmas celebration. We had another wonderful evening with great food and great friends. Sarah is my friend who understands me and often seems to spoil me too. She will go out of her way to do things to just make me smile or feel special, not just with a gift, but with her actions and her words. If I ever need to talk or to laugh she is there, she is truely one of a kind. Tonight she surprised me with something she knew I really, really, wanted. I mean I really, really, wanted it bad. Her first question Christmas morning was "Did you get that perfume you are dying for?" I answered "No, but I did get a lot of things I am super happy about." Little did I know she had already gotten it for me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZSdqt2bhmHVVv3nuHwKfPbmooed_VDk_mJtfbNU1UhmtEnxyW_1udFQs7x-6kD43SOFxacXQMjDuB4zXXZlyMdPzb6Q64k48BDjg1t90uhndaO3xkyiK7w7ob9FNpf7tFrgnd64xNxU/s1600/orangeblossom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZSdqt2bhmHVVv3nuHwKfPbmooed_VDk_mJtfbNU1UhmtEnxyW_1udFQs7x-6kD43SOFxacXQMjDuB4zXXZlyMdPzb6Q64k48BDjg1t90uhndaO3xkyiK7w7ob9FNpf7tFrgnd64xNxU/s400/orangeblossom.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My new thing for the day was the most wonderful scent of Orange Blossom by Jo Malone. If it isn't something you haven't smelled, you need to, it is heavenly.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-57505968737381820712010-12-26T11:16:00.000-08:002010-12-26T13:24:18.601-08:00Christmas Blessings ~ Day 20Christmas was amazing. The girls woke up at 7 am ready to rip it up, literally. Watching their faces and my husband’s face while opening presents, was the best feeling on earth. The excitement and joy they receive from even the littlest things brings such joy to my heart. It makes all the madness of shopping, traffic and late nights of wrapping worth it. <br /><br />This year I received a few new things that I have never owned before, or had since a child. First was a sleeping bag, my very own. I haven't had one since elementary school, that one was red with a giant Garfield on it. My new one is green, no Garfield this time. I am officially ready for camping this summer.<br /><br />Next was a blue tooth. Yes, you probably can't believe I haven't gotten one already but I always hated it when people walked around with one it their ear. I could never tell if they were talking to me or were on the phone. It drove me crazy. My husband thought it was about time I got one, and I think he is right. I tried it on yesterday and I kept tripping out because I felt like I needed something in my hand, so I grabbed a cloth and started to clean the counter. I am sure it will take time to get use to. <br /><br />I also got a mp3 player, all I can say is I am stoked. I can't believe how small those things are. The last player I had required a tape, and when you went for a jog or walk, the deck was so heavy it would start to pull down your pants. I was blessed this year, my family really took time to look for things they thought I would love, it was very much appreciated. I feel very lucky. <br /><br />Our whole family had a new thing this year. We had Christmas dinner with a very good friend on our street. It is hard not living close to family, especially around the holidays but sometimes great friends become like family, and they really help make the holidays something special. So off we went with our ham over to our neighbors. Not only is she an amazing cook, but an amazing friend. We all had a wonderful time and left with a FULL belly. I had to include pictures of the beautiful meal she made.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZR9ydB49nSQR_We3xZ8xOCTshfJpwFUH_on5jDmWPrfjr_izBfA14PVi_ktwyxe8jU3Gnv8c-eNp52Qygmo7EcpS8SuX9loC_wypyYaxzamSj8GFjE7nMQGAuYfMrGYHH01rwhUy5cRc/s1600/steak.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZR9ydB49nSQR_We3xZ8xOCTshfJpwFUH_on5jDmWPrfjr_izBfA14PVi_ktwyxe8jU3Gnv8c-eNp52Qygmo7EcpS8SuX9loC_wypyYaxzamSj8GFjE7nMQGAuYfMrGYHH01rwhUy5cRc/s400/steak.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555080751032503442" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNvLXzUXXR6C5dEW2VCi8aSQRz_tjAr7VSniAGSz3jMAw1fgXl0g9XYQVdWBtLrv6IYqmYgej_xOq9PccXt3aecz9rtPHxvr9AAoxvugdvfSwxXz9gGLw8cvRTfgdTAI313HjgVc9UbI/s1600/carrotsandpotatoes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 335px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNvLXzUXXR6C5dEW2VCi8aSQRz_tjAr7VSniAGSz3jMAw1fgXl0g9XYQVdWBtLrv6IYqmYgej_xOq9PccXt3aecz9rtPHxvr9AAoxvugdvfSwxXz9gGLw8cvRTfgdTAI313HjgVc9UbI/s400/carrotsandpotatoes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555080746658952002" /></a><br /><br />I feel so blessed in life. Today included so many new and fun things, but the best parts are the family and friends we share it with.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-15458578751862946542010-12-25T11:12:00.000-08:002010-12-25T12:23:04.568-08:00Chocolate, Chocolate and Chocolate ~ Day 19Last night we spent Christmas Eve at our Friends home. I really miss my family that live in another state, but felt very fortunate to spend time with such wonderful friends. It seems we spent the evening talking and taking in chocolate of all kinds. <br /><br />The new things for the evening include chocolate gluten free brownies with peanut butter chips, and a yummy chocolate martini. Both were outstanding. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbn_3KkbfokuecVzMpXDcwryQJr1ghCWR6uEq_13N2moYiebGMTIGIDGb6BwGQyqhMQhVU7MC91OzS5OenDkeWHvTduaDB6cHOFpq60m-IQsmFLB9UPsNwVoYOxtmYKq7IPPfnyyIk6Ro/s1600/martinichoco.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 380px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbn_3KkbfokuecVzMpXDcwryQJr1ghCWR6uEq_13N2moYiebGMTIGIDGb6BwGQyqhMQhVU7MC91OzS5OenDkeWHvTduaDB6cHOFpq60m-IQsmFLB9UPsNwVoYOxtmYKq7IPPfnyyIk6Ro/s400/martinichoco.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554701532714890370" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg501eWlz8DgP6Tb7W5vy9F_gDRKcIzdEHrb4zSNWOjnSDzfpp51dObV4XZHWGjCs6pd9TzDJecjHuUSy-cQpCS5DcgzhXaOHj_FH3rJ-i36I9OIfLZVuDTdbhapwaX_2RODF104RlKNu8/s1600/chocopeanutbutter.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 326px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg501eWlz8DgP6Tb7W5vy9F_gDRKcIzdEHrb4zSNWOjnSDzfpp51dObV4XZHWGjCs6pd9TzDJecjHuUSy-cQpCS5DcgzhXaOHj_FH3rJ-i36I9OIfLZVuDTdbhapwaX_2RODF104RlKNu8/s400/chocopeanutbutter.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554715968424485458" /></a><br /><br />Two new things for the evening and wonderful friends to share Christmas Eve with. It was a fantastic day.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-92159652584726467332010-12-24T11:28:00.000-08:002010-12-24T11:58:04.212-08:00Starbucks - Day 18What kind of person are you? Do you go to through the line at Starbucks looking for something different or do you already know what you want 30 minutes before you get there. When it comes to Starbucks, I know what I want before I arrive. If it is the winter months I want a Decaf Soy Pumpkin Spice Latte with whip on top please. <br /><br />I got in line with my husband and was arguing with myself. Yes, I was protesting something new. Why try something new when I already know what I like, why chance it? I may hate it, I may waste $5 dollars on a latte I don't like. Besides, it is just a coffee, why not do something else. The goal is not to stick with the same old, same old, it is to try something new, so damn it, I did it. It doesn't have to be a huge thing, it just has to be a new thing. It is to the break the patterns and the routine and to enjoy new things. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENqHCQYqGB9SYX4G4Qi7QMkObHRYyflqbZVWPTGWbMRvZKwW-x3gNwcTvMkkp1HfY2V8AUgHTXKt1tZD0GEx-ClM7TamdvXpeuDBKpXsjfNxbDXqSJHo052-SlHqlTuJdw0RSgP0aEX4/s1600/coffee.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENqHCQYqGB9SYX4G4Qi7QMkObHRYyflqbZVWPTGWbMRvZKwW-x3gNwcTvMkkp1HfY2V8AUgHTXKt1tZD0GEx-ClM7TamdvXpeuDBKpXsjfNxbDXqSJHo052-SlHqlTuJdw0RSgP0aEX4/s400/coffee.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554336627411316210" /></a><br /><br />All I can say is, Caramel Brulée Lattes are AWESOME, I love the candies on top. It was my new thing for the day.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-37483760773688092072010-12-22T19:40:00.001-08:002010-12-22T19:43:31.775-08:00Calling all my Peeps!!!!I am looking for some fun new things to do this new year. If you have any ideas or things, food, places to go, things I shouldn't be living with out, activities or anything, send them my way. I would love to hear them!!~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-16175590897971811552010-12-22T19:02:00.000-08:002010-12-22T19:30:05.648-08:00Shepherds Pie ~ Day 17I have always wanted to make Shepherds pie but never have because of the meltdown I knew would follow. For some crazy reason, 2 of 3 children in this house hate mash potatoes. Tonight I decide too dang bad, mamas making a Shepherds pie!!<br /><br />I got the recipe off of food network <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/shepherds-pie-recipe2/index.html ">http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/shepherds-pie-recipe2/index.html </a> It had 5 stars, so I had hope. I altered a few things, gluten free flour instead of regular all purpose, ground beef instead of lamb and 1 cup of corn instead of corn and peas, because well, I was all out of peas. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4PwiqxoAUK_RYQmWLlFuhUH0ajR2lJsLzzU4WEm9kafSmQXkJc0gHE63r9zQucXLQr9qt030HN6DV6q_WfpScDIfB0Xx0eBqt3Ml5wiQWfrTY3DQCJa2zHag86UoCcIiHOwAWmu235I/s1600/shepard.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4PwiqxoAUK_RYQmWLlFuhUH0ajR2lJsLzzU4WEm9kafSmQXkJc0gHE63r9zQucXLQr9qt030HN6DV6q_WfpScDIfB0Xx0eBqt3Ml5wiQWfrTY3DQCJa2zHag86UoCcIiHOwAWmu235I/s400/shepard.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553710367822873346" /></a><br /><br />The outcome was a surprise success. Even though it had mashed potatoes, the kids ate it and they all loved it. My oldest asked for seconds and my two that "didn't like mashed potatoes" mixed it all up together and threw it down. Our six year old kept telling me, "I can't believe I like this, it must be a different kind of mashed potatoes." "Sure it is", I said winking at her. <br /><br />My new thing for the day was Shepherds pie and I am heading back for seconds.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3697315095607436308.post-68516687757558400922010-12-22T09:49:00.001-08:002010-12-22T10:09:10.758-08:00Yogi Tea, a Monkey Bar, and a Mineral Soak ~ Day 16Have you ever been at a store and thought...hmm I would like to try that! Well, that is what I did today. I tried 3 new things.<br /><br />Whole Foods has such an amazing selection of food. I love to just walk around and look at all the different things they have. Our first new thing was in the bakery. I got the girls cupcakes and myself a monkey bar. Going gluten free is hard in the treat section, but this was gluten free and some how the combo of coconut, bananas and chocolate chips sounded good. Well, almost anything with chocolate sounds good. I did like it, but it was a little too sweet for me. Although, anything with chocolate it good. Next time the gluten free whoopie pie has my name all over it! <br /><br />Next I bought Yogi's sleepy time tea to help me ease into bed at night and, oh my, the tea was so good. I would say it was the best sleepy tea I have ever had. This is going to be something I continue to buy, it is something you need to go out and get yourself. It is that good. The Aura Cacia Aromatherapy Mineral Bath was awesome too. I choose Tranquility. The smell filled the bathroom and into my bedroom. I laid in the bath thinking..."this is the life." There is something about a bath that can wipe clear all the stresses and worries of the day. It is almost like a reset button. A cup of tea and a hot bath, who could ask for more after a long day.<br /><br />My new things for the day monkey bar, tea, and the tranquility mineral bath. A happy end to a crazy day.~Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07411340982251351825noreply@blogger.com0