Illustrator Class ~ Day 25

I 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!

My new thing for the day is going back to school. I have to say I am ecstatic!

Blue Nails, Whats the big deal ~ Day 24

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.

Knight and Day ~ Day 23

Last 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.

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. :)

Ooey Gooey Butter Cake ~ Day 22

My 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.

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.

Our new thing for the day was Paula Deen's Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Gluten free style. Butter baby, Paula loves the butter. http://www.pauladeen.com/recipes/view2/gooey_butter_cake/ 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.

Jo Malone's Orange Blossom ~ Day 21

We 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.

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.

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.

Christmas Blessings ~ Day 20

Christmas 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.




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.

Chocolate, Chocolate and Chocolate ~ Day 19

Last 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.

The new things for the evening include chocolate gluten free brownies with peanut butter chips, and a yummy chocolate martini. Both were outstanding.





Two new things for the evening and wonderful friends to share Christmas Eve with. It was a fantastic day.

Starbucks - Day 18

What 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.

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.



All I can say is, Caramel Brulée Lattes are AWESOME, I love the candies on top. It was my new thing for the day.

Calling 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!!

Shepherds Pie ~ Day 17

I 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!!

I got the recipe off of food network http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/shepherds-pie-recipe2/index.html 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.



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.

My new thing for the day was Shepherds pie and I am heading back for seconds.

Yogi Tea, a Monkey Bar, and a Mineral Soak ~ Day 16

Have 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.

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!

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.

My new things for the day monkey bar, tea, and the tranquility mineral bath. A happy end to a crazy day.

Crab for Dinner ~ Day 15

Inspired by Julie and Julia, the movie I watched last night, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and cook something I have never cooked before. I was at Costco and they have whole crabs for a very good price. Although the look of them scared the children, I decide "why not?". I grabbed two and stressed the whole way home.

I don't know what it is about seafood that scares me. Don't get me wrong, I love to eat it, I just have no idea how to cook it. I went to college in Monterey and my husband and I use to love to go out to eat at the local restaurants and seafood was our favorite.



The man at the counter told me to steam it with onions and garlic and I would love it. Worried I may some how mess it up, I looked and looked online for suggestions. Finally after 30 minutes I went with the onions and garlic. Well, the funniest part about the whole thing is they were already cooked. You would think I could figure that out but like I said, I do not cook seafood. Regardless, I steamed the crab for 15 minutes with the garlic and onion and have to say it was AWESOME. Everyone loved it but our youngest who still was freaked out by the whole thing.

We bought crab tonight and cooked it and loved it!!!! It was so easy, definitely something I will do again. Maybe next time I will try buying it live. Talk about freaking out the children.

Homemade Ornaments ~ Day 14

I laughed so hard tonight watching Julie and Julia, a movie I have seen several times and love. I can relate to so many things in both women's lives and I find myself writing down quotes through out the movie that make me laugh or that scream "me". My quote for the day, "I probably need a deadline. Why? Because it will be like everything else I do, and lets face it, I never finish anything. It's true. you know why, I think it is ADD. It is why I am so bad at housework. Oh is that it?" Written for Julie and Julia yet a statement that would come straight from my mouth. So true Julie, so true!!! :) That is also why I gave myself a deadline, to stick with it and to be held accountable. To know that someone, if only one person a day would read this and know. Who ever you are out there, thanks for reading. It is what keeps me writing and trying new things.

Today's new thing included the whole family. To my wonderful mother and mother in law. If you are reading this....STOP NOW. You do not want to ruin your surprise from the girls.

We all sat around the table cutting snowflakes, singing and talking. I finished my gift cards for my nieces and nephews who are now at an age where a giant candy bar and cash makes them smile bigger than spiderman pjs my 4 year old nephew is going to love. I could explain what we made or just show you pictures. I am sure pictures would be much easier.




I laminated them so they would hold up for years to come, and we all had fun. Even my husband, who is not so much of the arts and crafts guy, proved to be the master snowflake maker. Although, he just arrived home and the craft stuff is still on the table, and I just heard him mutter Holy Shit. ADD or not, I think I will clean that up tonight.

Our new thing for the day was homemade ornaments for our family, I really hope they enjoy them.

Grilled Cheese and S I T C ~ Day 13

I haven't had a grilled cheese since I was a kid. I just didn't see what all the hoopla was all about. My husband makes them for my kids but I was never interested. The kids were begging for them tonight and so I decided to try one myself. I used both a cheddar and a sharp vintage cheddar mix and browned them on both sides with butter. Yes, I know probably not the healthiest choice but I am trying something new and if I am going to do it, I am going to do it right. It was delicious, I see what that fuss is. I even used my Gluten free Udis bread and it was so good I was tempted to make one for breakfast. I didn't, but sure thought about it.

The next new thing was Sex in the City 2. That movie made me laugh out loud several times. A little raunchy at times, but over all a very good movie that made laugh, appreciate being a mom, and love my lovely hubby.

Two new things, Grilled Cheese and Sex in the City, both a thumbs up.

Surprise Gifts for Special People ~ Day 12

I spent the afternoon shopping for two special someones, and it is going to be a big surprise. As a mother I know that too often Christmas is about our kids and with such a tight budget, there is little to go around. I'd love to get everyone something special but with funds tight, it can be pretty hard. This year I wanted to focus on two people who are very important to me. I can't say anymore because they read my blog but two very important women in my life are going to receive special gifts, something I hope they love and something that is long over due.

My new thing for the day was shopping for two lovely ladies, It was a GREAT day!!

Treat Baskets and Caroling ~ Day 11

Well, I finished my treat baskets today, and I am so whipped. I was baking for 6 straight hours. After I was finished with the baking and decorating, the girls and I went and delivered them with a carol, Joy to the World. We love to sing but singing on the porch of someone's home is a new thing for this family, and I will say that it can be a little intimidating. Thank goodness the girls show no fear, I on the other hand, made no eye contact. If you will listen, they will sing.



It was worth the work, the mess, and the frost bite. The girls seemed to love it they are hoping to go singing again tomorrow night. Maybe not tomorrow night but this is definitely something we will do again next year.

Chocolate and Caramel Dipped Marshmallows ~ Day 10

Chocolate and Caramel Dipped Marshmallows need I say more. I found this recipe on a site called One Charming Party http://onecharmingparty.com/2010/12/09/holiday-treats-chocolate-and-caramel-dipped-marshmallows/.



I decided to make goodie baskets for my girls teachers and amazing friends in my life. I thought this looked delicious, and not to mention I LOVE marshmallows. It wasn't a hard sell.



One hour later, I'm finished. I have chocolate on my clothes, face, I smell of peppermint, I burnt my finger, have a large blister but let me say, they are sooooooo good. They were pretty easy to make, but the burn is all my fault. The caramel just look so good and here is a reminder, melted caramel sticks like glue from a hot glue gun..bad idea. What can I say, I am a hands on girl. Mine may not look as pretty as the ones on the site, but they sure taste UMMM UMMM Good!!

My new thing for the day Chocolate and Caramel Dipped Marshmallows.

New Ring ~ Day 9

Today I got to go over to my friends home, the fabulous fashionista Holly. This is something we have talked about doing all year and finally did it. She is not just an amazing person with fun and spunk, but what I would like to call a mama fashionista. She is the mother of three and she always looks good, she is beautiful both inside and out. When I really needed a lift today she made me laugh, smile, and even gave me a little gift which is my new thing for the day. My husband said, hmm it is a little big but my girls all yelled squealed and asked to wear it. I must say I felt the same way the girls did. I love it! It is fun and spunky, just what a girl needs.

My new thing for the day... tea at my friend Hollys home and my new ring.


note to self....my hands are looking old and are in desperate need of lotion

Christmas Cards ~ Day 8

I have a little secret. It is almost embarrassing to admit. I haven't sent out Christmas cards in about 2 to 3 years. I guess it had to do with a lot, but cost and time all seemed to be a factor. I really appreciate all my family and friends who continued to send me cards and pictures even though I was such a jerk, and did not do the same. This year is different. I got a great shot of the kids in front of the tree, got on to Costco’s site, and whap bam boom, clicked that order button. Whala, a Christmas card!! I know I love getting cards, and love cards with pictures, so I decided it is about time I get off my butt and start sending some Christmas cheer!

My new thing for the day was doing something I should have never stopped doing, my Christmas cards. May sounds silly, but I am excited to pick them up.

Fame ~ Day 7

I love the arts, especially the performing arts. I can't explain how it makes me feel to see a live performance, it is almost electrifying. I thought at one time that the only thing I would want to do would be to perform in theater and when I see others dance, act and sing it just brings that joy back into my heart.

Now, you are probably wondering what Fame has to do with any of that. Tonight my new thing was watching the movie fame. Although it didn't get the highest ratings, I really enjoyed it and love watching a film where people were chasing their dreams through a variety of the performing arts. It was a feel good movie, and I enjoyed it!! When it ended I had a smile on my face, and a desire to search and see what productions will be coming to town.

A new movie for tonight, my new thing for the day.

Pizza, Party and a Game of Farkel ~ Day 6

Last night we got home late and to honest, I was much too tired to write. We had another fun filled night with friends, food and a new game whose name reminds me of a smurfs cartoon character or something someone says when they stub their toe.

Last night my husband and I went on a date. We headed to a local pizza place we both hadn't been to before, and it was outstanding. I was told this summer that I needed to stay away from gluten for health reason. Gluten is in EVERYTHING! This has really limited where I can eat, what I can eat, and let me tell you, I miss pizza. Pizza and sub sandwiches call my name several times a month. Finding a local place, that served gluten free pizza and subs, made my day!

After our pizza date we went to a friend’s house for a game of Farkel. Never heard of it, never played it, but it was so much fun. There were two tables set up and about 16 players. We all laughed, rolled dice and yelled out FARKEL when we could no longer play. My friend Wendy made me a pear martini, something I had never had before, and it tasted more like a treat than a drink. I swear that girl has skills, she is an amazing cook and now I am adding drink mixer to her title. I had an absolutely wonderful time and had a chance to get reconnected with a very good friend, this was definitely an added bonus to the day.

My new things for the day including AWESOME pizza at the Olde Pizza Shoppe, a pear martini, and the crazy game of Farkel.

The Best Birthday EVER ~ Day 5

My morning started with breakfast in bed, and a morning where my husband took care of getting the children ready for the day. One child ended up staying home, she was sick earlier in the week and I was giving her one more day to kick the flu, one had the day off, and one went smiling and giggling on her way to class and I didn't have to do a darn thing. Thanks to my husband, I woke up feeling wonderful.

I received a phone call later that day from a friend, inviting us to the movies. My daughter saw the doctor, was in the clear, I had all three girls with me now, so why not? So off we went and met our friend and her three girls. Movie choice, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. There we were, my friend Sarah, myself, and our 3 girls each in tow, a total of 6 little ones lined up in their seats, candy in hand, and smiles from ear to ear. It was the first time I had ever taken my 3 year old to the movies and she even loved it. This was all Sarah’s doing. She was making not just my Birthday special for me, but special for all the girls. She is one of the most giving people I know. I just sat there feeling so happy. I could feel their joy.

After the movies we made a trip to see Santa. We got the girls pictures done, plus a group shot. This is now a tradition that we will keep for years to come. My youngest jumped up on his knee and the two older girls crowded around him with wishes and sparkles in their eyes. "We have been good girls Santa", they told him. My oldest, who is 8, still very much believes in Santa. I know this will not last for too much longer and her sweetness and innocence touched my heart. It is a moment that froze in time. It will stay in my heart forever, when she is 16, when she is 24 and when she is 42 I will remember her face and how much hope and innocence it held in that very moment. Those are the moments people call priceless.





After Santa, we went on to dinner at PF Changs and once again this was Sarah’s doing. We all sat and laughed and the girls sang Christmas songs at the table. At the end of our meal came dessert. YUM is all I can say. We got up to leave and I walked to the table that was seated next to us to apologize if the girls were so noisy. We were celebrating and sometimes it is hard to keep the noise level down. The older couple told me we had made their meal. That they enjoyed the girls so much and that both my friend and I are so blessed. "How lucky you are", they said, "to have such beautiful loving children." That right there was the icing on my cake.

To end the day my youngest was in her very first Christmas program and she stood on stage with such pride. Smiling and winking at her Daddy, singing as loud as she could. It is hard to believe she is getting so old.

At the end of the day I can honestly say this is one of the best Birthdays I have ever had. My new things for the day included a new movie, Santa group shots, chocolate moouse dessert with dinner and a first time performance from the youngest in our family.
Thank you to my husband, my daughters, my friend Sarah and to all my family and friends for their Birthday wishes. 36 ROCKS!!!

My Gratitude Journal ~ Day 4

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. ~ Melody Beattie

My mother and I purchased the book Simple Abundance written by Sarah Ban Breathnach some years ago. I would even say it has been close to almost 10 years since I first purchased this book. It has so many good insights and good ideas but one of my favorites is the idea of a Gratitude Journal. In this Gratitude Journal you write 5 things you are grateful for everyday. These blessing could be the smell of your favorite candle to the roof over your head. This is to help you focus on the blessing and abundance we have in our lives because we all have things to be grateful for everyday. It helps you focus on what you have rather than what you don't. I really love this idea, and is something I would like our whole family to focus on this coming year.

Today my new thing for the day was buying three gratitude journals for myself and my two oldest girls. We sat down together and wrote 5 things and shared them with each other and tonight we will share them with you.



I am grateful for:
1. Running into friends at the grocery store, I actually enjoy this!
2. I am thankful that even though my parents don't live close I can still call them every day and that they are still here and a part of my life
3. I am thankful for my oldest brother who always comes running in any emergency, stays calm and takes charge of the situation.
4. Hands down, for a hard working loving hubby,
5. I am thankful for 3 wonderful healthy children.

My 6 year old said she was thankful for
1. Sarah giving her so many stickers
2. Her mommy
3. Her daddy
4. Her sisters
5. School

My 8 year old said she was thankful for
1. Food
2. Her Sisters
3. Her Christmas tree
4. Family
5. Uncles and Aunts
6. Toys
7. TV
8. A Home

The best apart about this is my 8 year old wanted to know if she could write more than five. She told me, "There are so many things I am thankful for mom, I am not sure this book has enough pages."

Homemade Christmas Cards Save Me From Grumpville ~ Day 3

I woke up this morning with a headache the size of Texas, my stomach was in knots and I was TIRED. You ever wake up and think....lord please just give me another 20 minutes. This was one of those mornings. The afternoon went OK, but I swear someone must have kicked the crap out of me while I slept last night because every bone in my body hurt. I came to the conclusion by 4:00pm (yes it took me until then when I passed out during my daughters reading of Junie B. Jones) that I must have some sort of bug.

I am the first to admit I do not like being sick. I just do not have the patience for it. It makes me grumpy and bah hum bug and cranky to say the least. I went all day without doing something new and then at 7:15 we had a visitor. Our friends drop by some sweet treats for the holidays, her children sang us a song and it put a smile on all our faces. That is when I realized a great way to get rid of my foul mood, do something nice for someone else. I wanted to do something that would make someone smile like what they did for us. Since the flu was waging war againist my body, I knew singing tonight was out of the question but something else came to mind. Something that brought about my Christmas spirit. I decided to make Christmas cards for my nieces and nephews. I remember being so excited to receive something in the mail as a child and I hope this does the same for them. I went online and found a cute design, Rudolph singing his heart out. I hope this will put a smile on their faces.

My new thing for the day was making Christmas cards for my wonderful nieces and nephews. The truth is I haven't sent Christmas cards to the kids before, Christmas cards are normally sent to the adults. Valentines yes, but never Christmas cards. My plan is to stick them in the mail tomorrow and enclose a candy cane. The little ones will actually recieve their cards and they will signed from Santa. The older kids cards are from us and a little different. The should get them in a few days and I am excited to hear about their reactions. I can honestly say that I am going to bed with joy in my heart.

The Five Love Languages ~ Day 2

The Five Love Languages was recommended to me by my amazing friend Sarah. Today I finished it and I have to say I learned a lot. It talks about how we all feel love in different ways. Some feel love through Words of Affirmation, some through Quality Time. Others feel love through Receiving Gifts, others Acts of Service and some through Physical Touch. Gary Chapman calls these the love languages. I found out with my husband my biggest love language was quality time. What I desire most is to be able to have quality time together and quality time with the kids. His on the other hand, is acts of service. He works two jobs and works hard at everything he does to express love to his family. Now my job is to figure out ways to express more love to him on his love language and because he loves me he will now read the book and make more effort to do the same. I think marriage is a combination of love and work. We have our highs and lows but we know that at the end of each day there is no one we would rather be there with than each other. There are some days when there is more work but I can honestly say there is ALWAYS love. The love dare refers to this as agape, unconditional love. I have also been reading the Love Dare which is an amazing book. My dare for the day is to do something out of the ordinary for my spouse - something that proves that my love is based on choice and nothing else. To demonstrate love to them for the sheer joy of being their partner in marriage.

So for today I did two new things. I read the Five Love Languages, which I HIGHLY recommended to any married couple and I also cleaned the downstairs spotless for my husband who loves a tidy home. Let me tell you cleaning and scrubbing floors after the kids are in bed is not my first choice, but my hubby is.

Making a List ~ Day 1

Today I had a wonderful conversation with a dear friend. We talked about choices and how these choices that we make every day, affect who we are and where we are at. We shared that too often the things we are told, can affect us years later, and how we shouldn't base our choices on those statements. She had mentioned how she loved the Nike logo Just do it. So many times the choices we make, or even don't make, are based on fear and or insecurities. That sometimes you have to step out and Just do it.

She made a statement about being the heroine in your own life. Picture your life like a movie; what would you want the heroine to do? I thought about that all day today. Too often I think we can even act the villain, telling ourselves we aren't smart enough, thin enough, or even good enough. I love the idea of being the heroine. When I look at my life/movie I would like to see more comedy, more action and more adventure for our family. I would like to have more romance time for my hubby and myself, and I would like my life/movie to inspire others. This evening I sat and made a list, lets call it a plan for my movie. I listed over 100 things I would like for myself, the heroine, to do. Although I started this list, I know that sometimes what inspires a heroine to take that leap of faith is in the moment. We can't always plan the new things that come our way, but if we have an open heart, I feel the possibilities are endless.

My new thing for the day was making a list of dreams and adventures and staring as the lead role in my amazing wonderful life.

Starting Over

So here I am again, attempting the impossible. I had an interesting year to say the least. I feel like this year has been series of roller coaster rides, but I guess that is life... we have highs and lows but the important thing is to live each day to the fullest and to not take the little things in life for granted. Sooooo long story short...I am at it again. I read through my blog and thought, why did I stop? Life is always going to through you curve balls but sticking with it and deciding not to let it get you down is what will always keep your spirits high. So yes... I am starting over. I am going to try something new every day. Yes....every stinking day!!! I may just list the challenge and the verdict but everyday I will remind myself just how blessed I am because I am.... I am so very blessed.

Day 85 ~ Pitching Clinic

My new thing for the day was a pitching clinic with my oldest daughter. I had as much fun as the kids did.

I use to love to pitch. I would pitch for hours against a wall outside our house. It has been years since I have pitched a softball and I didn't realized how much I missed it until I had a chance to play again.

My daughter and I both had a great time and I plan on the next sunshine day I will take my hubby outside and have him catch some pitches, not just my daughters pitches but mine!

Day 84 ~ Dinner Party

Our new thing for the day was a Dinner Party. We had 2 couples over and their children and is was a blast.

I have to say I am so glad we have our new play room. The kids enjoyed playing upstairs with Lego's and things and then we were able to put a movie on later and they all crowed around to watch the show. All the adults were able to eat and visit and it was so nice enjoying the evening together. It made me wonder why we don't have these more often. We normally invite one couple, but was so glad we had more, and I loved sitting around laughing at the craziness of life.

Our new thing for the day was a smaller dinner party. Next attempt is a large BBQ this summer. I can't wait!!

Day 83 ~ Carmel Corn

My husband is the best popcorn maker in town. I don't mean the kind of popcorn you stick in the microwave, I mean the kind you put in a pan with oil cook, my friend comes over sometimes just for my hubby popcorn.

He really outdid himself this time, and we had something new. He made homemade Carmel corn. It was so good you couldn't stop eating it and my mouth waters thinking of it. Here is the recipe he followed but this is not for the weak stomach. I say this because it is impossible to eat less than a huge bowl full. It was DELICIOUS!!

Here is the link and the recipe:
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/My-Amish-Friends-Caramel-Corn/Detail.aspx

My Amish Friend's Caramel Corn
7 quarts plain popped popcorn
2 cups dry roasted peanuts (optional) We skipped the peanuts
2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup We used dark
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup margarine We used good old fashion butter!
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
Place the popped popcorn into two shallow greased baking pans. You may use roasting pans, jelly roll pans, or disposable roasting pans. Add the peanuts to the popped corn if using. Set aside.
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). Combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, margarine and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring enough to blend. Once the mixture begins to boil, boil for 5 minutes while stirring constantly.
Remove from the heat, and stir in the baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will be light and foamy. Immediately pour over the popcorn in the pans, and stir to coat. Don't worry too much at this point about getting all of the corn coated.

Bake for 1 hour, removing the pans, and giving them each a good stir every 15 minutes. Line the counter top with waxed paper. Dump the corn out onto the waxed paper and separate the pieces. Allow to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or resealable bags.

Day 82 ~ Dessert First!

"Save room for cake!" How often have we all heard this? Our new thing for the day was having our cake to start off dinner.

It was a wonderful day. We spent a hour at the park and another two at a friends. She is one of the best cooks I know and she whipped us up some lemon cake while we sat and visited. It was 5:30and she asked the question, "Do you want me to wrap this up for you so you can have it after dinner or would you like to eat it now?" The mom in me thought we should save it for after dinner, but the fun me blurted out, "CAKE TIME!!!" My kids were so happy, and so was I. Who said cake should come last? I say bah hum bug to them.

Our new thing for the day was cake for dinner and it was AWESOME!

Day 81 ~ My Mom

My mom is the greatest! I admire her so much for so many reason and she is one of the strongest and most compassionate people I know. Over the years my mom has become one of my very best friends and I hope to be half the woman she is someday. I have been writing poetry for years, since I was a child. I wrote something for my mother in college and I never shared it with her and thought I would post it so others could see what a wonderful woman she was and learn a little of her story. Unfortunately, after hours of searching for this poem, I came up empty and realized it must be in one of the boxes in the garage. What I did come across was something I wrote for my mom in Elementary school. It has different words but the same meaning.

My Mom is the Best

My mom is the best because she doesn't have a heartache when my cat breaks her plants. Also because when my dog threw up, she didn't make me clean it up. When I got sick and threw up on her she didn't get mad at me. She doesn't always make me do the dishes. I love my mom very much. She always cares for me and loves me.
By: Jenni

I wrote that some time in Elementary school and after all these years I can still say, My mom is the best.

My new thing for the day is recognizing one of the most important people in my life and letting her know that 35 years later, I still think she is the best.

Day 80 ~ Jewelry

I am so excited about my new thing for the day. I went and got new jewlery, for about next to nothing. I literally got each piece for 1 to 2 dollars on clearance and I love them. They are funky and fun and make me feel a little less out dated. They are different than anything I own but I like that, it makes it a little more fun to wear.
My new thing for the day is my new costume jewlery, and I love it!

Day 79 ~ Play Room

I got this wild idea to make the girls share a room and make the other room into a playroom.

I wondered to myself, after I was done, why haven't I done this before? I put the two youngest in a room together and put all the toys in the other room. I have to say, it is perfect. Once I did it, it was like I wanted to kick myself. Why haven't I done this before, I think I must love to torture myself. Sometimes a little change, works out to be the best move ever. The girls played in there and went to bed with ease. They are so happy to share a room, it was almost surprising.

My new thing for the day was a new play room!

Day 78 ~ No more cribs

It is hard to believe but my baby girl is no longer in a crib but a big girl bed. The funniest part about it was my reaction to the whole thing, I swear it hurt my heart and didn't phase her one bit. I figured she would want me lay down by her for awhile, that it would take her time to get use to it, but it was the opposite. I asked her and she said no. I said "Are you sure?" and I swear she said "OK Mommy" for my sake alone. I laid down by her and within 5 seconds she looks at me and tells me "Go away now mommy". Within 5 minutes she was asleep and slept the night through. She woke up the next morning yelling for us to get her out of bed. I am not sure why, but I think she is so use to us getting her out of her crib, she has not realized yet that she can get out now by herself.

My new thing for the day was a life with no more cribs!

Day 77 ~ Coach

As I had mentioned in an earlier post I would be an assistant coach. There is now a change, I will the The Coach. I have always wanted to do this and although at first I wanted only the assisant position, when they couldn't find a head coach I decided to step up. I think it is going to be great and I am excited. This is definitely a new thing for the day!

Day 76 ~ Corn Beef and Cabbage

In honor of St. Patricks day I made corn beef and cabbage tonight, and it was sooooooo good!

The kids were not all that thrilled but I love cabbage. I love anything with cabbage. I have been doing great on the clean eating but since I would not be celebrating St. Patty's day with green beer, I did the next best thing, corn beef and cabbage baby! Now, if only I can get the rest of the family to love it like I do, I could be a very happy girl. Oh well, more for me!(;

Day 75 ~ Assistant Coach

My new thing for the day was becoming an assistant coach to my daughter’s softball team. I have always loved softball and played it most of my younger years. My daughter is thrilled and I am thrilled. It is definitely a new thing for the year. Something I have always wanted but never volunteered for. I know it will be challenging but I am very happy about it and look forward to the season!

Day 74 ~ Softball

My new thing for the day was watching my daughters first try outs for softball. It wasn't so much a try out as an assetment of what the girls could do. She did so great and I sat for 1 1/2 with a giant grin on my face. She was having so much fun and boy does that girl have an arm on her. I can't wait for the season to begin and see her make the same kind of memories I made playing ball so many years ago. You never want to force your favorite sport on your child, but what a joy it is to see them love it as much as you did.

Day 73 ~ Season 3 Sopranos

We did it! We finished season 3 of the Sopranos. I think I cried 3 times in the season finale. After a late night, I think all the energy we had was put into watching the remaining episodes.

Day 72 ~ Limo Ride

Our new thing for the day was celebrating our friends 40th with a hummer limo ride down town. We had so much fun, dinner, martinis, and great company!! Just look at the smile on everyones face!!

Day 71 ~ Helping Others

My new thing for the day was to focus on helping others. Everybody has talents and mine is my creativity so I used that to help a friend. I spent about 4 hours making gigantic flowers for her preschool room along with a rainbow and green vines. It is amazing how helping others really makes you feel. She was so happy when she saw the finished product. I think this is something I need to do more often.

Day 70 ~ Welcome to the 50s

I love aprons. I love how they look, the idea of them, what they represent, and how they make me feel.



My new thing for the day was this adorable apron I got on sale at Fred Meyers. I love it. I feel cute and sassy and it saves my clothes from being messy. I started an apron collection this last year and this is my latest addition. I chose the M for many reasons. My last name, my maiden name and the fact I am commonly know as Mom. I love all that they represent to me. Aprons remind me of a simpler time, my grandmother, my mother, and a sense of pride that comes with being a mother. I often wonder what my great grandmother felt when she wore hers to prepare dinner for her 12 daughters and husband. If only aprons could talk.

My new thing put a smile on my face and on my heart.

Day 69 ~ Out Of My Comfort Zone

My new thing for the day was stepping out of my comfort zone, and getting something I wouldn't normally get.

This Saturday is going to be a VERY FUN night. We are going out with friends for a Birthday celebration. Over the past 7 years, I have seen my sense of style go out the window. Comfort has won over, and fashion has left me. I would like to find something that combines both words, comfortably fashionable into one but that doesn't always seem to work. I stepped outside my comfort zone and got a new pair of earrings for my outfit for this Saturday that are not like anything I own. I am comfortable with stones, I like a sparkly stones in my ear, but I know I am playing it safe so my earrings for Saturday are big, dangly and fun. My 2 year old loved them. She kept telling me pretty mommy, pretty! Lets see if anybody even notices the change! The sales woman even suggested skinny jeans with my sweater, but I don't own a pair and my question is, "Doesn't your butt and hips have to be skinny to fit in a pair of those?"

I stepped out my safety earring zone and I am kinda excited to see what my husband thinks.

Day 68 ~ A Piece Of The Beach

I love the ocean, I love the beach. I think I took it for granted for so long, and now that it is so far away, I have tried to preserve a little piece of it.

My new thing for the day was the little piece of the beach in my bathroom. I bought three cylinder vases from the dollar store and filled them with turquoise marbles, seashells and rocks we collected from Santa Cruz and a candle on top. I put them behind the tub where my photos from Carmel will be going. I must say, it looks pretty nice. Isn't funny how little things can bring back memories, or a sense of peace, or a little smile.

I created something new today, a little piece of the beach.

Day 67 ~ Attention all Shoppers

Have you ever wanted something but put off buying it? I have wanted a CD organizer for over a year and have put it off because of the inner battle in my head of need vs. want!

While shopping the isles of Target for some new school supplies for my daughter, I found an amazing CD organizer. I have been eyeing them over the past year but always felt like they were too much money. I need something that holds over 300 CDs, so I needed the biggest one they had. While walking through the photo areas they had these books on clearance. They look like nice photo albums from the outside but they actually hold CDs or DVDs. I grabbed one of them, like a kid after the pinata busts going in for candy. I started looking through it, and it was PERFECT, so I got two to fit all our CDs. The total was $12 dollars. I was so STOKED! Yes, STOKED!!! I came home and starting organizing the CDS and the funniest part of the whole thing was my husbands reaction. I kept all the booklets and placed them in there case but was getting rid of the plastic cases. My husband keeps everything he owns in perfect condition, so he was a little disturbed buy me throwing away the original case. I offered a suggestion. He could store them in the garage, but that bothered him more, since he hates clutter, so out they went and everyone is happy.

My new thing for the day was my new CD case, and boy I am a happy shopper!!

Day 66 ~ A Day With My Brother

My oldest brother does not live here but he flew out and spent the weekend with us.

We spent the day hanging out. I know it doesn't sound like a big deal, but it was. We don't get to see our extended family too much so having my brother here was a great treat. We watched movies, played outside, went and picked up some subs, and it was an awesome day. The girls just laughed and giggled the whole day and had a lot of fun. I watched my brother run around the yard playing dodge ball, and laughed at how they would all jump on him and he would smile from ear to ear. They often call him "The Spoiler" because he is known to spoil them rotten, and he often does. We were all sad to see him go.

My new thing for the day was a long over due day with my brother and I am so glad he came.

Day 65 ~ A Date With My Hubby

My husband and I got to go on a date, and we had so much fun!


My husband and I went to dinner at Crazy Sushi and to see Avatar. Our dinner was amazing as usual. We tried a new roll called the Alaskan that was so yummy and so spicy it made my eyes water. We both love spicy food so watery eyes and watery noses are a good thing when it comes to food for us. We sat at the sushi bar this time and the chef would hand us different things to try. I loved watching them as they prepared the different meals, it looked as though they were creating a piece of art, everything so colorful and in a design that pleased the eyes and the taste buds.

After our meal we headed to the movies and finally saw the movie Avatar. I will say that is one of the best movies I have seen. I LOVED IT. I am hoping for an AVATAR II. The beauty of the scenery of the planet was so overwhelming you wished you could see it for yourself. I loved how everything would glow at night. I wondered if Disney one day would make a ride that took you on a tour of the land of Pandora, and if so I would be the first in line. This will be a movie that I buy when it comes out on DVD.

It was so nice to get out and have some alone time with my husband. To focus on each other with no distractions, laugh with each other, and just enjoy each others company. He is my best friend and everything seems more fun with him around.

Our new thing today was going on a date, something we rarely get to do.

Day 64 ~ Evergreen Aviation Museum

We went to The Evergreen Aviation Museum for the first time and is was one of the best museums I have seen.

This place was nothing less than awesome. I have lived near it for 5 years and never have been inside, but tried something new and took a step into a time machine. It changed how I looked at things and put parts of history in a different perspective. They even had the Howard Hughes' Spruce Goose there, and I could not believe the size of the plane, it almost seemed unreal.

One of the things that I noticed, that made such an impression on me, was all the fighter planes. They had all types, from all time areas, and I was shocked at just how open and terrifying it must have been. Open glass areas with guns everywhere, or even planes with no glass, just open and guns. It kept running through my head what these guys must have been thinking, and how scary it must have been. It puts a new perspective on things, and although I have always thought war to be terrifying, it just made me realize the sacrifice so many make for my freedom. I just walked away feeling so blessed and really taking into account all that has been done for me and my children. It was pretty amazing.





The girls had such a great time and they even had a section of different things the girls could get into and sit or pretend to fly. They loved the hands on area and so did I.



They had all sorts of planes, helicopters, cars, tanks, and motorcycles and of all the things I saw, I decided I would love one of these. I can imagine myself in one and the fun my hubby and I could have. It is a dream, but a nice one!



They also have a space museum and that will be my next thing on my list. If you haven't been there I would highly recommend it and I know you will not be disappointed.

Day 63 ~ Planting

I love flowers, I love to see how things bloom in the spring.
My new thing for the day was planting 7 different plants!

There is something to be said about spring, and the way it makes people feel. To watch the yard come to life brings a sense of joy, happiness and excitement about the season coming. The color and smell of flowers puts a smile on my face. It is such a welcome interruption of the gray days and the gloominess of winter. I wanted to look out my kitchen window and see some green so I focused on some of my shady areas, and open spaces. I can not wait to see what they look like as they grow this spring and summer. It is almost like a present, waiting to be opened.

I planted 7 new plants and I think I will plant another 7 before the week is up. My backyard needs some landscaping!!

Day 62 ~ A New Book

I started a new book called Shopaholic Takes Manhattan. It is the same writer as Confessions of a Shopaholic, and I loved the movie so I thought, "Why not?"

I do like to read but never do. I read the Twilight series and loved it, but that is the last time I really got into a book, and that was last year. Honestly, I haven't read many book since college. I think I burned myself out and now reading seems to take so much effort. The Twilight series was easy but is hard for me to find a book I can get into. I find myself reading and within a few minutes I get bored and my eyes hurt. #1 I think I need reading glasses, #2 I think I need a good story. My friend recommended the series written by Sophie Kinsella so I will let you know what I think when I am done. So far, so good.

I also started Season 3 of the Sopranos, I watched 3 episodes in one night. I love that show!

If you have any great suggestions for books, please let me know!

Day 61 ~ Refried Beans

By now you must know I love to cook. This time I attempted to make homemade refried beans.

I love Mexican food. I mean I LOVE MEXICAN FOOD!! My goal is to find some recipes I love that are healthy and tasty. My first attempt at that was making homemade pinto beans. It started by soaking my beans over night. I had no idea they would take so long to cook the next day. I printed out 3 different recipes, and picked out the things I like about each and went to work. 2 1/2 hours later they were done. Thank God I soaked them over night because once they were done, I was done, and wanted nothing more to do with refried beans. I was literally angry at those beans until I heard my girl's reaction to them. They loved them! To find something every one of my kids love, and want more of, was awesome. Not to mention the fact, they were very healthy. Thankfully they made a large containers worth, and I will have some for the week.

Next time I think I will cook them in a crock pot.

Day 60 ~ The Beginning of a New Chapter

It was the first day of work for my husband's new job. It began a new chapter in life.

I finally felt like I could exhale when he got home from work. The funny thing is, I never even realized I was holding my breath. We have had so many ups and downs the past three years, I guess I was a little nervous something would happen before his first day. When he came home, he said to me, "You can exhale now." I laughed. We were both smiling, I can honestly say I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. When things are rough, and something good comes along, it is hard to believe it is real. Could my husband really have found his career, could we really be OK now? We aren't going to lose the house, we all have insurance, retirement and life insurance, and we can pay the bills. Is this real? For so long, we took those things for granted, now it feels like a huge blessing in life. These past few years have been rough, but I know we have learned so much about us, our love, and hard work. We have also learned how to suck it up, and push through. What is new is a new chapter in our life. It will forever be marked as a new beginning. A new beginning with unlimited possibilities in life.

Day 59 ~ A New Chair

I have been searching on craigslist for 2 new chairs to go with my kitchen table. It has been a pain in the butt, but it finally paid off.

My new thing today was my 2 new chairs. As you can see in the photo, they are not a perfect match but they match well enough for me. They are a little smaller than the chairs I have but the best part about it was they were free! That is right. I had written the seller about the chairs and they offered them to me free, they just wanted them gone. I never go to get anything from craigslist alone so my husband drove over after work and picked them up. They were a nice couple and he said thank you and left. Can you believe it? Talk about my lucky day! It is nice that there are people like that out there!

Day 58 ~ Pump it Up and The Invention of Lying

All three girls went to a Birthday party at Pump it up and it was the first time for my youngest daughter. She was climbing, jumping and sliding with the big kids and as I watched I felt my heart squeeze, my baby is not a baby anymore.

Pump it Up is "The Inflatable Party Zone" with huge bounce houses, tall blown up slides, and large blown up obstacle courses. I was climbing and jumping in with my youngest and was laughing and giggling like I was one of the birthday kids. I kept thinking how great it would be with a few adult friends, to just go and spend an hour. Guaranteed everyone would have as much fun as the kids did, and it would bring out that inner child. There aren't too many things today that really bring out the kid inside us and allow us to do a face plant and still laugh it off! By the end of the party the kids were whipped and so was I, it was a good time. Side note... button up shirts aren't ideal for the obstacle course, unless your plan is to become the entertainment, if you know what I mean! NEVER AGAIN!

Another new thing for the day was the movie The Invention of Lying. Anything Ricky Gervais is in I can almost be guaranteed a good laugh. I admit the first scene threw me off, and I wasn't sure how much I would like it, but by the end of the movie I had laughed and cried and I loved it! It is definitely an adult movie, the humor can be a little crude at times, but if you need a good laugh, you are sure to have a few with this one!

Day 57 ~ Dinner and Champagne

Last night, my neighbor did something very special for us. She made us dinner, and brought us champagne.

My wonderful neighbor wanted to do something special for my family, in honor of the fact my husband has gotten a new great job. It has been a rough couple of years, and she has been there for me through it all. The plan was to go to her house, but then one of her children got sick, so she brought everything to our house and it was delicious. She is an amazing cook. She also surprised us with a bottle of champagne. I admit, I am not a champagne girl, I tend to prefer a cold beer, but I thought I would give it a try especially after all she did. Can I just say YUMMMMMMM... it was so good. I had tried champagne a long time ago at my brothers wedding but didn't like it. This though, this was so tasty it reminded me of apple cider, but better. I kept asking, "This is champagne, really, it is?" I couldn't believe how good it was. This must be what all the fuss is about. This must be why some people talk about it like it is candy. We have a very special bottle of champange we have been saving for our annivsary, I am now looking forward to it. I realize not all bottles are the same, but I also know tastes buds change over the years. What ever it is, me likey! We had a great night, with an unexpected surprise, from an absolutely wonderful friend.

In case you were wondering the champagne is called:
Martini & Rossi
Asti
Sparkling Wine
Imported from Italy

Day 56 ~ OMSI

Today I went on a field trip with my daughter's 2nd grade class to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. It was awesome.

I have never been to OMSI in Portland before. It is an amazing place with so many different things to check out. It was so much fun just spending time with my oldest and looking at all the exhibits. My daughter's favorite exhibit was the ball room and the T-Rex skeleton named Samson, mine was the IMAX movie. Part of the field trip included watching an IMAX movie on their dome screen..I have to say, it freaked me out a little. This is probably how my mother's generation felt when the TV came around. The IMAX was incredible. It was so real I felt myself wanting to smack things out of my face and even at times felt like I was submerged in the ocean water. It was a totally new experience.

I would say the best part of the whole day was just hanging out with my daughter. She is such a happy, jolly little girl who is growing so fast. She makes me smile and I love her with all I have.

Day 55 ~ Ziti and a Dance off

My husband and I started the second season of The Sopranos. Tomorrow we get the last disc of the season, so tonight I tried making Ziti for the The Sopranos' marathon.

On Sopranos, Mrs. Soprano is always making Ziti, warming it up, or taking it out of the freezer. I had no idea what it was, so in honor of our marathon tomorrow, I made it tonight and stuck it in the fridge for tomorrow. It looks good, tastes good, and I can't believe I have never had it before. I even made a low fat version and still loved it. It think it will be something that I continue to make and keep in my freezer too! I have another 5 or more Sopranos seasons to go, so I am sure I will make it a staple of our diet. If you have a good Ziti recipe please send it my way!

Another new thing I did today was a dance off. I call it that because I was on a mission to dance off my bad mood. Holy smokes I was in such a yucky mood this evening I couldn't even stand myself. I would have liked to punch myself in the eye if I could have. I kept thinking, what can I do to shake this crap off, so that is what I did, I shook it! I went into my computer room, shut the blinds, turn up the radio and danced. I danced with my eyes closed and danced, danced, danced until I couldn't stop smiling. Maybe I was smiling because I was laughing at myself, but the truth is I felt great. I like to turn the music on and dance with the girls because they love it, but tonight was just for me. Most of the time I dance because I am happy, not mad, but this time it was different. All the kids were in bed and it was just me in the room, shaking my thang! Within 20 minutes I felt amazing. Next time you are in a bad mood try it. It may work for you too!

Day 54 ~ Swing Lessons

I have been trying to talk my husband into taking swing lessons with me for 9 years. Today I signed us up!

Starting in April my husband and I will be taking swing lessons once a week for a month. I am beyond excited. He was so against it for a very long time, but today I decided to sign us up any way. When I told him, he wasn't thrilled to say the least. He frowned, then half smiled, and then gave me the "Whatever fine" look which means I have won!!! I think once we take a few lessons he will change his mind. I may have to make him a drink before the class begins though, it may be the only way to get him out the door.

Day 53 ~ One of the Talks

My new thing for the day was "the talk" with my two girls. No, it wasn't "THE TALK", but it was the talk about becoming a woman.

It actually started kinda funny. One of my daughters asked me, "Mom what is a period?" My other daughter answered, "It is the little dot that goes on the end of a sentence." So myself and my two girls sat and talked about what it was, and what it meant, and I left it open for questions. They asked a couple and then it was done. The funny part was when my husband entered the room. He realized what we were talking about and made a 180 back to the safety of the BBQ outside without a word, but with a look of terror. It actually went well though, and while one daughter decided she was never going to grow up, the other couldn't believe that in 3 or 4 years she would begin the first steps into becoming a woman. To be honest, I can't believe it either. I think I would like them to stay young a little while longer. How about a whole lot longer.

Day 52 ~ It is all about the Yum Yums

I am starting to see a pattern. I like food, I like to cook, I like trying new dishes, tastes, meals, especially treats. Tonight I once again made a new dish and it was delicious.

Tonight I cooked another recipe from the Clean Eating magazine called Moroccan Buffalo and Chickpea Chili. Sounds strange, but oh man, it was so good.
The recipe is as follows:

1lb top-rounded buffalo steak or lean beef stew meat cut into 1-inch cubes. (I used beef stew)
2 tbsp garlic, minced
2 1/2 cups yellow onion, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
2 cups carrots, cut into matchsticks
1 tbsp cumin, ground
2 tsp dried coriander
1 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp saffron (optional)
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
3 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
1 cup frozen corn (no need to thaw)
2 cups tomatoes, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 6-oz jar tomato paste
2 lemons (optional) used them and added a great taste to chili!

Step One: In a large nonstick pot, cook steak for 2 min. over medium-high heat. Add garlic, onion, celery, carrots and all spices. Cook for 5 minutes. Then add chickpeas, cooking for 2 more minutes.

Step Two: Turn up heat to high and pour in 4 cups water, corn tomatoes and bay leaf,. Bring to a boil and stir in tomato paste. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, uncovered, for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid reduces and chili thickens. Squeeze juice of both lemons into chili, if desired, and stir.. Remove bay leaf before serving.

After my yumo meal, and once the girls were in bed I sat and watched a new movie. It was one of those movies I saw and thought, hey why not? It was called Garden State and it was actually pretty good. I loved to be surprise by a movie, when you don't expect much, but you end up enjoying it. I guess that is where they came up with the term pleasantly surprised.

I tried something new today and was pleasantly surprised by a good meal and some laughter.

Day 51 ~ A Nap

As a mother of three I can honestly say I don't get much sleep. Today I took the time for a little me time, that included a nap.

You say, "A nap, what is the big deal, how is that something new?" Well, anyone who has kids will understand that as a mom, you don't get naps anymore. In fact it seems that once you have kids, you really never sleep well again.

I can remember as a kid when my mom would have me go lay down for a nap, and I would fight it, cry, and lay there struggling to keep my eyes open, just so I didn't have to nap. Now as an adult I dream of napping, relaxing, and having quiet time to close my eyes during the day. Today was my lucky day, and it was spectacular. The sun was shining so I pulled my wonderful hammock out of the garage and placed it in the back yard in the sun. The two older girls had play dates and the youngest was sleeping in her crib with Dad on the computer inside. I decided to take full advantage of the situation, and crashed on my hammock. The air smelled so clean, and the slight breeze helped the hammock to gently sway back and forth until I felt myself falling into dreamland. I awoke to my daughter crawling in beside me and sharing all her amazing stories of the day, and we laid there and snuggled a little more.

It is almost unbelievable what a little sleep can do for a tired Mommy. I think I need to start making this a weekend thing!

Day 50 ~ Flank Steak Roll with Spinach and Garlic

Today I made a new recipe, Flank Steak Roll with Spinach and Garlic. It was easy and VERY good. Believe it or not, but this is one of the Clean Eating recipes. I have to admit, after I had cooked it and put it on the table, I felt kinda fancy. Oh la la.

I asked my husband what he thought about the clean eating and he told me as long as I cook meals like tonight there is no way he will say no. I have to admit though, I am fiending for some treats and chocolate right now. It is Friday night movie night and everyone is having something sweet but me. I think there are some healthy treats in the magazine, I think I need to check them out.

My new thing for today felt like a gourmet meal, with little or no work.

Day 49 ~ Clean Eating

I started something new today, a diet. Well, they say it is not a diet but a lifestyle change. Whatever you call it, it wasn't too bad.

Today I also gave up Soda pop. It didn't even bother me until I got in the car to go somewhere and normally I pick up a pop for the drive. I swear I was twitching. Today it was water. I had water, water, water and some more water. I enjoy my soda pop, but lets be honest, there is nothing but crap in it. After a day of no pop I figured I would have a horrible headache but I actually feel pretty good tonight. I ate clean foods all day, no perservatives, all natural, and maybe it is just me, but I feel a little different. We'll see how this goes. Wish me luck, I got some pounds to lose!

Day 48 ~ Home Sweet Home

We made it, barely. I am so tired I feel like I could sleep standing up. We drove 14 hours today with the kids, and although we will miss the family, it is so good to be home. Today didn't leave me with a lot of time to try something new, but one thing I did do was spend a lot of the drive reading through a magazine called Clean Eating. The idea of it is consuming food in its most natural state. This includes colorful fruits and veggies, whole grains, lean protein and lots of water. I couldn't believe how great the recipes looked and they were recipes I could easily make. I like to cook but I don't like spending all day doing it. I have decided to try Clean Eating for two weeks straight and see if I noticed a difference in how I feel, and my energy level. I am definitely not as healthy as I would like to be and to be completely honest, Cheez-its and Pop will be so very hard to give up. If you are interested in checking it out, here is the website: http://www.cleaneatingmag.com/minisite/ce_index.html

For now I am off to bed, if I can make it up the stairs! I was able to down load all my pictures tonight and hope to update my blogs photos tomorrow.

Day 47 ~ Carmel

I think Carmel has to be one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. I was unable to upload my pictures today but will tomorrow, because it is truly a majestic place.



I figure with this being our last day, my husband would not be up for going anywhere, but he surprised us by taking the kids and me to Carmel. It had to be 70 degrees and the sky was blue. We walked around the shops and stopped for coffee and treats, and I swear the smile on my face was so big people probably thought I was up to no good. Everyone around on the streets would smile and say hi and comment, "Isn't it a beautiful day?" We would agree because honestly it was the thing that you were saying over and over again in your head, "This is such a beautiful day!" So many were out walking their pets and we happened to run into a horse dog. I call it that because it had to be the biggest dog I have ever seen in my life. White and fluffy and sweet as could be. The girls happily petted the dog and it would just turn and nuzzle them and lick their hands.



After a walk around the town we headed down to the beach and parked and we all played in the sand and chased waves. The waves were so powerful and the crash of them on the beach sand seemed to shake the earth. It was nothing less than beautiful. It had been 7 years since I set foot on that beach and as we drove away I promised myself I would never wait 7 years to return.

Day 46 ~ Santa Cruz

Today my husband and I spent some time looking through the local shops in Santa Cruz. This was my first time and all I can say is I can not wait for summer!!! The weather was outstanding and I was able to wear a T-shirt and shorts. Back home I would be in pants and a sweatshirt. Although I do love Oregon, you can't deny the Cali love. My husband and I both grew up close to the beach, and although he is from NorCal, and I am from SoCal, the beach just brings a smile out in both of us. It is hard to believe tomorrow is our last day.

We also watched a new movie tonight and laughed our butts off. Couples Retreat was hilarious and with my in-laws 60 inch TV, it was just as good as a movie theater. We made popcorn, and had candy, and enjoyed one of our last nights here. I have to say I am pretty lucky to have the in-laws I do. I hear so many horror stories of peoples in-laws being a little on the crazy side, but mine are pretty fabulous.

New shops with a new movie was a pretty great way to spend the day. Tomorrow is our last day and I plan on enjoying it and the sun as much as possible.

Day 45 ~ Lover's Point

Today the family headed out to Lover's Point in Pacific Grove. It was a beautiful, perfect day.

I haven't been to Monterey in 7 years. It is a beautiful place. The sun was shining, the waves were crashing, and we all just looked around taking in the beauty of the scenery. People from all around the world come to this place for its beauty, and when you get here and just look around, you see why.



After we sucked in as much ocean air as we could, we went and had lunch with the whole crew. Can you come to this place and not have seafood, I think not. I ordered fried calamari with cocktail sauce and it was so good. I wish it was labeled a vegetable so I could have it every day. It was that good. We have been enjoying ourselves so much on this trip, but we only have a few more days and it will come to an end. I am going to make sure theses last few really count!!!