Molly's Musings

It's What's for Dinner

2012-02-12T20:09:00.000-08:00

Sunday- Corn Chowder like the one The Pioneer Woman made this week on Food Network.
Monday- Chicken taco salads and quesadillas.
Tuesday- Officially family dinner night at my parents.
Wednesday- I'll be working late so Breakfast for dinner.
Thursday- Orzo with cheese and asparagus.
Friday- Polenta with meaty marinara sauce and roasted cauliflower.
Saturday- Chicken and White Bean Enchiladas

The ABC's of Me

2012-02-08T20:29:00.000-08:00

I'm being a copycat here, thanks Mama Bub!

A. Age- 31.
B. Bed Size- King.
C. Chore you Hate- Laundry, specifically putting it away.
D. Dogs- Lucy (or Dewy in Charlotte talk) Dog is five.
E. Essential Start to your day-Coffee, every morning Charlotte sits patiently on the counter while I make my coffee. She sweetly says mama coffee, dada coffee.
F. Favorite Color-Aqua
G. Gold or Silver- Gold for jewelry, silver for our house.
H. Height- 5'5"
I. Instruments that I play- I'm not musically inclined. None.
J. Job Title- Branch Director.
K. Kids- Proud mama of two girls! Work with hundreds of kids daily.
L. Live-In the same city my whole life.
M. Mom's Name- Carol.
N. Nicknames- Boo, Eva, Moll
O. Overnight Hospital Stays- Three nights when C was born, one before and two after.
P. Pet Peeves- Being late, bad customer service.
Q. Quote from a Move- I can never remember quotes.
R. Right or Left handed- Right.
S. Siblings- Two sisters, one older & one younger.
T. Travel Favorite- Warm sandy beaches with pretty water.
U. Underwear- I need some new ones.
V. Vegetables you hate- Not a fan of eggplant or squash.
W. What makes you run late- Making sure we have everything we need to leave the house.
X. X-Rays you've had- Teeth.
Y. Yummy food you make- Dinner, popcorn, banana pancakes, roasted vegetables.
Z. Zoo animal- Zebras, giraffes, monkeys.

Real Reasons to Celebrate Valentines Day

2012-02-06T21:03:00.000-08:00

Charlotte and I were crafting Valentine's tonight. It was messy and fun and lovely and followed immediately by a bath. Tonight I was just overwhelmed by love for my family. Charlotte and I were singing snuggle puppy, reading books, saying prayers. And Mr. S. I couldn't have asked for a better husband and father to my daughters. I came home today to a quiet house; Char and dada were in the backyard each with a shovel in their hands diggin' in the dirt. While I got the crafting supplies out after dinner Mr. S build a block house around Char. He ran the bath and brushed her teeth. I love that we parent so well together. Sharing duties, taking turns, thanking and supporting each other.
And, in just four months are whole world is going to change. Charlotte's going to be the big girl not the baby. This lovely (sleep) schedule we've finally carved out for our family is going to fly out the window. How are we going to juggle a two (!) year old and a newborn? Will Charlotte be ready to sleep in a bed by the time baby is out of her Moses basket? Will she be out of diapers by May? Should we buy a double stroller? One thing we've already figured out is the vehicle situation. Last week we traded in Dada's truck and joined the world of families with mini-vans, something we totally weren't expecting but are pretty happy about now. Five sunroofs for the Mister and heated seats for me.

And, we've named this little muffin. Which makes me so happy.

All Books Read- January

2012-02-02T20:56:00.000-08:00

I'm hijacking this idea from Princess Nebraska, I haven't read nearly as many books over the last month (maybe 6 weeks if I'm being honest) as she has, but I would like a record of what I've read/how many books I read in 2012.

1. This is Where I leave You by Jonathan Tropper. This book was a bizarre story from a man's point of view (most books I read are written from a woman's p.o.v.) about sitting Shiva when his father dies and his wife leaves him. I enjoyed it.

2. Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout. I really liked how this book was written with glimpses into people's lives and seeing how they intertwine. It even made me cry a little which as you know is indicative of a good book.

3. The Beach House by Jane Green. This was a easy read, I forgot about it the moment I stopped reading it.

4. Chasing Harry Winston by Lauren Weisberger. Chick lit, not at it's finest, but enjoyable.

5. Hate Mail From Cheerleaders: And Other Adventures in the Life of Reilly by Rick Reilly. I bought this as Amazon's deal of the day. I always enjoyed reading Rick Reilly's columns in Sports Illustrated; this compilation of his columns didn't disappoint although it got a little boring to read column after column...

6. Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri. This was probably my favorite book I read in January. It was a collection of short stories about Bengali Indians living in the United States. I loved the characters and the relationships in the stories. I'd like to read Jhumpa's other book of short stories now too.

7. Stillwatch by Mary Higgens Clark. I re-read this book in a day. I love MHC.

Pinning and More

2012-01-30T21:15:00.000-08:00

I've been so obsessed by Pinterest lately I've completely abandoned all other forms of social networking. I get home and think, oh, I wonder what's new on Pinterest. The good thing is I'm finding lots of inspiration. The bad thing is I'm not really doing anything.
OK, slight lie I did make this bread and I'm planning to make these delectable looking little sandwiches, that Mr. S calls Spill Donnas, for the Super Bowl. I helped my sister with her daughter's 5th birthday party by making this game but we didn't use it. And, Sister also thoughtfully printed me these lovely pieces of kitchen art that now I just need to find frames for...I've also started to get my gardening plan together. As a beginning gardener, I appreciate tips. I did some research, made some lists and ordered some seeds. My seeds are here and I'll be starting them in the next month or so.

Just think in six months these meal plans just might include vegetables from my very own garden!

With out further ado, this weeks meals:

Tomorrow- Kielbasa, roasted carrots and mashed cauliflower.
Wednesday-Ground turkey patty melts, broccoli and roasted potatoes.
Thursday- Halushki a cabbage noodle dish that I had never even heard of before reading about it on food lush.
Friday- Quiche

Speaking of food after a long hiatus I'm back to loving shopping at Costco. Having the freezer stocked with chicken breasts and ground turkey along with what's left of the half pig we bought makes me feel like anything is possible for dinner. Our whole family is obsessed with the fruit and nut mix, but don't buy it on Amazon for double the prize as in Costco stores.

I can barely go a day without eating a Healthy Choice Fudgecicle that I buy at Costco in large quantity (I'm claiming it's a pregnancy craving). Strangely enough the fudgecicles at Costco are 100 calories per bar not 80 like the measly six pack I linked. Lastly whenever possible buy your cheese and jelly beans at Costco, I promise you will not be disappointed.

It's What's for Dinner

2012-01-22T21:05:00.000-08:00

Sunday- Chicken & Biscuits I used Rachael Ray's Recipe. So good, I'm having left overs for lunch. Banana pudding parfaits for dessert.
Monday- The mister and I will be at a work function.
Tuesday- 1,2,3 and a green salad
Wednesday- Italian marinated chicken and roasted cauliflower
Wednesday- Pasta with bacon & Brussels sprouts
Friday- My favorite Kielbasa Dish
Saturday- Dinner with friends. If I'm ambitious I'll be making The Pioneer Woman's Tres Leches Cake.
Sunday- Tamale Pie and a green salad

Lately dinner has felt like a simple rotation of the same meals over and over again so, I'm trying to incorporate some new meals to this week's plan. Looking over some of my archived meal plans has been helpful. But, of course I'd like your ideas too.

Snow Days

2012-01-18T19:57:00.000-08:00

It's been freezing here, we're enjoying the cozy family time at home though. The snow makes everything so beautiful. Turns out we desperately need new windows, most of ours are original to the house and we had ice on the insides of windows all day long. The temperature never raised above the teens today so outside play was pretty much out of the question. Besides this brief trip outside to test out the new sled.

She obviously loved it!

We passed the day tickling, playing with play-doh, making cookies and bird feeders. We had to make the bird feeders twice since watching the birds eat and fight over the apples was such a hit. I had some old apples from the backyard trees that I cut a small hole into (to let the birds have easy access to the apple) then coated with peanut butter and rolled them in bird feed. I hung some and placed some on the ground around the yard. The apples on the ground were eaten clean, the birds just left the core and peel.

I think the snow has given me some of my favorite pictures of the year.

Trivial Tuesday

2012-01-17T20:17:00.000-08:00

I've just about given up on Trivial Tuesdays but I have some tidbits I want to share and since it's Tuesday, well... this one's from you Reanna.

I made quiche for dinner tonight. OMG, why don't I make this more often? So good and easy. Plus it's versatile, we were out of bacon but ham was just as good.
I ordered compostable bags for our kitchen bin. I'm ridiculously excited about this.
I've been stashing leftovers in the freezer in single serve portions. Great alternative to a lean cuisine for a quick, healthy lunch. Bonus points for not wasting food and giving me a chance to not be sick of what I'm cooking.
Tomorrow marks day four of snow and it's 10* at out house. I'm putting out a bird feeder first thing in the morning. I feel so much better about feeding the birds now that our cat never wants to go outside.
Pinterest is giving me a birthday party/DIY addiction.

It's What's For Dinner

2012-01-15T10:38:00.000-08:00

Monday- Mussels with pasta & red pepper sauce
Tuesday- Broccoli, bacon, cheddar quiche (a rollover from last week)
Wednesday- Pork chops, smashed potatoes & cabbage bake with apple sauce (another roll over)
Thursday- Stir Fry with chicken & veggies
Friday- Tortilla Pie with some kind of vegetable

Today I'm making sweet & spicy turkey meatballs and hot artichoke dip for my mom's 60th birthday party!

Sometimes it's just the little things

2012-01-13T21:24:00.000-08:00

I was doing the dishes tonight and passing the time by thinking of all the little things that make me ridiculously happy right now.

The peppermint foaming BBW soap in the kitchen.
Using Efferdent to clean my vases.
Cleaning out the fridge, doing the dishes and having all of my Pyrex Tupperware clean.
Following my meal plan for the week.
Our new kitchen rug

Finally figuring out why everyone loves Pinterest.

The promise that Mr. S is going to clean out the garage by February.

The kitchen finally being clean.

The possibility of snow days.

Ordering random things that we actually need on amazon because it's such a good deal.

What is helping you get through these cold, dark days?

This Life we Live

2012-01-10T21:25:00.000-08:00

Oh, you guys remember how not even a week ago I said how much fun 22 months is? Well, it's also maddening. Besides deciding that a pre 6am wake up is the new norm, Charlotte is whining and crying and fighting diaper changes and teeth brushing and getting dressed for the day. It's maddening. Like Apryl I think I'm pretty patient; I try to distract Charlotte with kisses and songs and games. I try to give her choices. This or that. Now or in five minutes. Unfortunately we aren't to the being able to reason with her stage yet. Sometimes I get frustrated but I don't loose my cool.
It makes me wonder what kind of full time stay at home mom would I be? Would I still be patient even knowing there's no day care to drop her off after a rough morning at home? Would we get into a good routine of outside play? Regular play dates with friends? Would I turn to the TV more to entertain her and have more time to myself? Would we snack all day? Would I feel like all I ever do is clean up, cook, entertain? Would I discover I don't miss work at all? Would I finally figure out how to budget my money and time?

Chances are I'm not going to get the chance to find out and that makes me sad. Three or four hours a day with my constantly changing almost two year old just doesn't feel like enough. I can't imagine how I'm going to feel with two babies at home.

It's What's for Dinner

2012-01-08T21:43:00.000-08:00

I've already messed up this weeks meal plan so here it is revamped. We have an unexpected ton of broccoli in the house so I'm trying to work that into the menu too.

Monday- Slow cooker stroganoff and cabbage bake
Tuesday- Grilled cheese & soup, broccoli with cheese sauce
Wednesday- Chicken Taco Salad with corn and my favorite tortilla chips
Thursday- Broccoli, bacon, cheddar quiche and cooked carrots
Friday- Some kind of pasta bake and (hopefully) the last of the broccoli
Saturday- Pork chops, mashed potatoes and apple sauce

Have you tried any good & quick new meals this winter?

Bottle up this love

2012-01-05T21:20:00.000-08:00

I think that 22 months might be my favorite age yet. Why? So many reasons...

She uses her manners. Especially thanks mama, thanks dada, sorry Dewy, sorry mama, sorry dada.
Answering & asking questions.
Expressing her opinions and being able to tell us what she needs and wants.
Being on a good routine. Especially sleep.
She sings along to the songs we sing and listen to in the car.
How she learns new words and phrases everyday. Recent additions, no way & hot dog, as an expression not a food, and "I eat the food".
Kissing owies better. Both her kissing us and us kissing her.
Hugs and kisses in general.
Watching her run.
Her giggle. Making jokes together.
Zurberts.
Drawing, coloring, painting, and playing play-doh together.
Finding her playing or "reading" contently by herself.
Her memory.
Watching her form relationships with family & friends.
She's just starting to understand that we're going to have a new baby and she says sister. Heart melting.
Serious cuteness.

Sisters

2012-01-03T21:54:00.000-08:00

I have a sister and she's pretty dang great. We've always been the best of friends. When she was born I was happy to have "my baby" and help my mama with all things baby. Since having Charlotte I've always wanted her to have a sister too. Someone to play with, laugh with, share secrets and make-up with. Today we had an ultrasound and saw our healthy, four chambered heart, feet kicking baby girl. My heart is full of joy. And my sister was there to share that joy too.

It's What's for Dinner

2012-01-02T20:41:00.000-08:00

Please excuse the boring meal plan this week. I need to do some grocery shopping, so I'm working with what we have on hand. At least that means I'm off to a good start with my resolutions!

Tuesday- Spaghetti bake.
Wednesday- We're picking up a new to us fridge after work...so something easy like take & bake pizza.
Thursday- Loaded baked potatoes from the slow cooker
Friday- Kielbasa & black bean one pot dish.

Here's hoping your meals this week are more exciting than ours.

Goals for 2012

2012-01-02T16:19:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again, let's make some resolutions!

#1 grocery shop less, meal plan more. I know if I can do some good prep on Sundays each week our weekday meals will be healthier and less stressful.

#2 get outside with the dog and Charlotte more. I need to exercise more and Lucy sorely misses her twice daily walks.

#3 plant a vegetable garden. Must have vegetables include asparagus, peas, cauliflower, cucumbers & carrots.

#4 clean out the garage. I cringe every time I'm in there. We still have boxes to unpack. And, If the garage gets cleaned out we will have some space to do some projects like recovering chairs and painting furniture.

#5 get organized. We have a ton of storage (cabinets & closets) but when we moved in we just filled them up willy nilly, I know if I invest the time to organize our house I will be very happy.

#5 new window coverings. The blinds the previous owners left on all of the windows are fine but they aren't very attractive. Our bedroom and the living room are top priority.

Last year's resolutions were semi successful. I failed again to make and stick to a budget so that should defiantly be #6 on this years list.

What are your goals for this year?

Ringing in the New Year

2012-01-01T20:05:00.000-08:00

This year, as in many years past, I wanted to host a fun, festive dinner fete for NYE. Unlike other years, last night I got my party. We had a small group of friends over. Everyone arrived early to give the kids plenty of time to play and the grown ups time to munch on yummy appetizers and indulge in some adult beverages.

By 8pm all 5 of the little ones were snug in their beds and I started getting dinner out of the oven. I'd been smart and prepped everything earlier in the day so all that I had to do once our friends arrived was throw everything in the oven. On the menu, engagement chicken, twice baked potatoes and Brussels sprouts roasted in bacon drippings.

We talked, laughed, ate entirely too much and played a few rounds of Catch Phrase (let it be noted the girls won each time!). Just before midnight I poured the champagne and put out the ice-cream sundae buffet.

Kisses at midnight, surrounded by friends with my sweet babe sleeping sweetly in her bed. Perfection.

Happy 2012

2011 in Review

2011-12-31T07:44:00.000-08:00

This year was good. I'm fatter, richer and happier. What more can you ask for? Especially considering the fatter means I'm carrying another baby!

The year in review:

January: Charlotte started walking and got her first 4 teeth! It snowed.

February: We spent a weekend at the Cabin on the Island with some friends. We had a romantic valentines day at home and Charlotte started using sign language more! I received a promotion at work.

March: Charlotte turned one and she was showered with love by all of our friends and family. The cat attacked Charlotte regularly. We finally received and accepted an offer on our condo!

April: We had our first round of swim lessons, I was relieved that Charlotte enjoyed the pool. We moved out of our condo and in with my parents. Charlotte didn't sleep well this month, meaning no one else did either. At work we put on a huge Easter Egg hunt!

May: My sister, niece and nephew came to visit for my Cousin's wedding. I had my only hangover in recent memory! I made a delicious asparagus tart numerous times and Mr. S made eggs Benedict for my mom & I on Mother's Day, it's since become his breakfast specialty. Mr. S was laid off but luckily found a new job quickly.

June: I spent my first two nights away from Charlotte ever. I had my annual huge work event.

July: Danny's sister visited from England. This was the first time Charlotte and her cousin N got to play! I made jam for the first time and I will be making it again each year! We finally found the house we wanted to buy. Living with my parents over the summer afforded Mr. S and I the ability to enjoy long evenings out of the house, we did some bike riding and bar hopping.

August: We took our first real family vacation, 5 nights in Seaside, Oregon. Charlotte loved the beach and it was a perfect relaxing week, I can see this becoming an annual tradition. My sister and her family were back for a visit and with 6 adults and 3 toddlers the house was crowded but fun! We got the keys to our new house and immediately began cleaning & painting.

September: We officially moved into the new digs. Slowly but surely settling in...We enjoyed the beautiful roses in our gardens, the fruit trees (especially the plum) and had an epic Ikea trip. I started cooking again. Charlotte started irregularly sleeping through the night, and unfortunately started climbing out of her crib. I got knocked up and knew it immediately.

October: I cooked more good food. We finally started entertaining again! I stopped nursing Charlotte and sleep got so much better for all of us on a regular basis. We all dressed up for Halloween and Charlotte was the cutest little bee.

November: Life felt really good. I announced my pregnancy. I was really sick over Thanksgiving. I flew to Fort Worth for work. Charlotte continued to charm everyone she knows. And dang does she talk a lot!

December: Danny brought Charlotte on her first airplane ride, to meet me in Texas. We spent a long weekend with good friends and took Charlotte to the zoo for the first time. We enjoyed advent and Christmas with family. My sister and her family made the long cross country drive to move back home!

2011 was truly a year of change, growth and challenge but I think it's been one of my best years yet.

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T20:47:00.000-08:00

From church all advent, saying "Santa says ho ho ho", playing with her "baby Jebus" nativity scene, singing Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer to ripping open all of her gifts (and mine) Charlotte was in the Christmas spirit this year. We celebrated at her grammy & poppy's house so Santa will come a day late to our house this year. The stockings are hung, we've set out cookies and carrots and Charlotte's snug in her bed.
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-12-20T22:09:00.000-08:00

Today I hosted the second of three holiday gatherings I'm "responsible" for this week. The house is clean, the fridge is full and the dishwasher is running for the second time today.
We've had a lot of kids at our house the last few days and these cardboard blocks have been a huge hit with everyone from toddler to 10 years old. Plus the dads all love them too.
Tomorrow is the last day I work until January 3rd.
I bought myself an early Christmas present, these slippers in gray. If you have cold feet in the winter I highly recommend you buy them. Seriously just $15.
I finished 90% of my wrapping last night. I am so happy with the simple brown craft paper and red ribbon I used this year.
I'm exhausted and my alarms set to go off in just 8 hours. Good night!

Cookie Exchange year 3

2011-12-19T19:32:00.000-08:00

It's officially a tradition if you do it for three years in a row right? This year was the best year yet. Maybe I'm biased because I'm so happy to have people over to our house and feel like there is plenty of room. I loved that this year we included kids and menfolk and made it a Christmas party instead of "just" a cookie exchange.

We ate. Hot spinach artichoke dip, crackers, spicy pretzels, vegetables and ranch and for dinner broccoli cheddar soup and warm bread. We drank. The best hot cocoa made in the crock pot, hot buttered rum, and lots of ice-water to wash it all down.

The kids all played so well together. There were eight of them from 6 months old to 12 and I loved having space for them to play and watching the bigs and littles interact with each other. So fun.

We women exchanged cookies. Peppermint blossoms, ginger bread star sandwich cookies with lemon frosting, almond roca cookies, rice crispies covered with chocolate, spice cookies with cream cheese frosting, triple chocolate cranberry chunk oatmeal cookies, classic chocolate chip cookies and my humble offering of eggnog cookies with an eggnog rum glaze. I have entirely too many cookies in my house.

Tonight I must wrap presents. I've been saying that every night for a week and still nothing. Tonight I'll bribe myself with cookies and a cup of left over cocoa if I wrap just a few presents even.

FaLaLaLaLa

2011-12-14T07:18:00.000-08:00

Last night, I put Charlotte down for bed and amazingly she fell asleep without crying or a fit. It was so nice. Ten minutes later I'm enjoying my evening and the dog starts to growl and bark. The door bell rings. We have carolers. Now any other time I'd be thrilled but not tonight. Mr. S cut them off before verse one was over. The dog wouldn't stop barking till they'd made it down the driveway. We both felt so rude. But, oh my there will be no waking the baby.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

Charlotte is addicted to sleeping in our bed. Every night it's the same chorus "mama bed, dada bed", then the litany of reasons she can't go to bed "rock, poop, eat" and when that fails "mama, dada, baba, nana, lucy". We had a good month of going to bed easily and sleeping in her crib. I'm missing that month. Can I add one more complaint? She's climbing out of her crib regularly and that makes everything worse.
I may or may not have lost my wedding ring.
Totally not trivial but I'll but it here none the less, the muffin made her/his presence known yesterday. I love feeling my baby move. So amazing.
I still haven't done the grocery shopping for the week, so meals are being shuffled around. Tonight breakfast for dinner because we have everything on hand.
There are some things going on at work that I really don't like right now.
That's all I've got.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2011-12-12T18:54:00.000-08:00

All of the blogs I'm reading are making me feel terribly behind on Christmas. I've barely begun my Christmas shopping and this was the first weekend we did anything Christmassy at all. I'm not stressing yet, I have shopping plans and most of next week off. Although I do have two Christmas parties between now and next Tuesday to prepare for...

But hey as of Sunday we have our tree and it's decorated with 5 strings of lights and ornaments that Charlotte likes to tear off!

On Saturday my mom and I took Charlotte and my niece and nephew to our local jingle bell walk where we sang Jingle Bells loud and proud to the participants, saw some crazy costumes, multiple Santas running and in general had a very jolly time. Gabby was an angel and got to cheer with some high school cheer leaders, definitely a highlight of the day!

Since I've seen this project come up in my google reader a few times and then Mama Bub made one for Christmas I thought I should make one too. Luckily my sister was spending the night and helped me by making the felt flowers and tying the bow.

Isn't it pretty

I've done a few other crafting projects and the house is nearly completely decorated save for hanging the stockings. And speaking of stockings, making Charlotte one is on my to do list. Somehow she managed to go without for her first Christmas.

I'd better get going. Although after a cursory proofread of this post I'd say I'm not far behind at all.

It's Whats for Dinner

2011-12-11T13:59:00.001-08:00

Yay, a meal plan, now I just need to grocery shop!

Today- French dips with tator tots and salad
Monday- Kielbasa, slow cooker baked potatoes and smashed peas
Tuesday- Mac and Cheese with roasted cauliflower
Wednesday- Chicken salsa in the the crockpot with tortillas and corn & bean salad
Thursday- Grilled cheese and soup
Friday- Breakfast for dinner
Saturday- Pork chops, smashed potatoes, cabbage bake & applesauce

Sunday I am hosting a cookie exchange we'll have hot chocolate with various add in's (marshmallows, peppermints, whipped cream & sprinkles) and egg nog or coke and rum for the adults. For dinner I'm serving brocoli chedder soup with rolls.

Last night we made our own pizzas with my sister, niece and nephew, next time I think we'll need to cans of olives!

What are you making to keep warm this December?

chopped

2011-12-07T20:06:00.001-08:00

My trip to Texas was a mixed bag. I was in Fort Worth for work; lots of talking to strangers, sleeping alone in a king size bed, 2 days straight not breathing fresh air. And then, my family joined me and we drove to Abilene to visit one of my oldest and dearest friends and her family; 3 of us in one room for four nights, spending days and late nights with some of the people that know me best in the world, giggling and playing and relaxing.

Being with Jasmine and having our families together made me wish we all lived closer. But, they are there and we are here and that means we make the best of what time we do have together.

The first night at Jasmine's house we were talking about our mutual love of Chopped and well one thing led to another and Mr. S and I found four ingredients for Jasmine's own black basket dessert.

Lemon yogurt
Peppermint Marshmallows
Nutter Butters
Tofu

What she came up with looked amazing: Chocolate cream pie with a lemon sauce and a nutter butter crisp cookie. Unfortunately it tasted terrible. The fun we had in our own 30 minute Chopped session is one of my favorite memories of the trip.

One day soon I'm going to challenge my sister to our own Chopped competition.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-12-06T06:06:00.001-08:00

Good morning. We're experiencing a lot of early mornings around here thanks to traveling and time changes.
Charlotte hasn't slept through the night in nearly a week. Last night I watched her climb out of her crib at 4am.
Not so fun. And, hoping this is all just temporary.
Our trip to Texas was great.
Charlotte was a trooper on the plane. So proud of her.
Now we are home and I've just begun unpacking this morning.
Somehow we came home to a not so clean house. One of my biggest dislikes.
Last night I was too tired to clean and we don't have any Christmas decorations up.
I'm anxious to decorate for Christmas.
Charlotte loved the lights and tree and ornaments at our friends house.
This year she is actually excited about Christmas things which is so fun.
She is talking about "Baby Jebus" and Santa and I'm trying to teach her to say Merry Christmas. She's got the Merry part down.
I think I'll give vacuuming a go while I have the time.
Happy Tuesday!

In between

2011-11-27T12:20:00.001-08:00

I'm finally feeling a bit better. Gotta love antibiotics and lot's of rest. My conjunctivitis is gone unfortunately I can't say the same about my cough. Thanksgiving was lovely and I'm really so glad that my parents and in-laws get along so well. It's a blessing to be able to celebrate holidays with both sides of our family. Charlotte loved all of the time she got to spend with both sets of grandparents.
And, now I'm getting ready to leave for a week. Although I'm excited about aspects of my upcoming trip I'm also so not ready. Between some time consuming work events, being sick and Thanksgiving I am completely unprepared for a week away from home. Plus I'd really love to be home organizing and decorating the house for Christmas.
Today to get ready for my trip I'm doing laundry and we took a trip to Target to pick up a few (non)essentials like a new book for the plane ride and snacks for the hotel room. I have yet to pack.
To sooth my need to make merry and bright I went to church and celebrated the first Sunday in advent. I had to change the table setting at least so I dumped the gourds in the compost, ditched the autumn table cloth in favor of red and white and snagged some holly from the neighbors tree. Add some white candles, turn on the fireplace and Merry Christmas.

:(

2011-11-23T19:30:00.001-08:00

Today I'm having a really hard time finding something to be thankful for... I'm sick, work has been uber busy and I don't get a four day weekend. Not to mention I'm going to Texas, for work, on Monday and haven't even thought about packing or preparing for that trip. So here I am complaining on Thanksgiving eve. My apologies.

Really I'm thankful for my parents, coworkers, Charlotte and my husband. Could I be anymore generic?

Trivial Tuesday

2011-11-22T06:45:00.000-08:00

Last night's dinner was a big hit. I made the mashed potatoes and cabbage bake during Charlotte's nap and Mr. S just had to throw them in the oven and grill the pork chops. It made a delicious and easy meal for everyone. And I love coming home to dinner on the table!
I've caught Charlotte's cold and it's no fun. I totally know why she was waking up multiple times during the night crying.
I'm trying to fight said cold by lot's of sleep and fluids. Plus two Tylenol every 6 hours.
Lots of ladies having been writing about advent calendars and preparing for Christmas. These bloggers have inspired me to make my sister and her family an advent calendar. I'm shopping for items tonight, please share any ideas you might have!
I haven't prepped for dinner yet, maybe on my lunch break today...
Time to get ready for work, eat an orange and hope I feel better. Happy Tuesday!

2011-11-21T20:06:00.001-08:00

We've been in our house nearly three full months (has it really only been that long?) Of course we have a never ending list of "things to do". Perhaps posting them here will help me check them off the list.

Find new bedding for our bed.
Buy a bed frame and (or make) a headboard for our bed.
Finish touching up the paint in the hall bath.
Replace the hall bath floor.
Paint phase 2 of the kitchen cabinets.
Paint phase 3 of the kitchen/hall cabinets.
Replace kitchen lights.
Add shelves to Charlotte's room.
Clean the carpets and sofa.
Replace kitchen sink faucet with a sprayer.
Paint the trim.
Paint the kitchen/dining room/living room.
Finish the fence.
Trim all roses and hydrangeas.
Replace oven light/buy new stove.
Create a "gallery" in the dining room.
New window coverings, everywhere but Charlotte's room.
Reupholster occasional chairs.
Paint the white bookshelf.
Finish unpacking the garage!

I don't think we will ever have a fully completed to do list, but one can dream.

Today I'm thankful for a flexible work schedule that allowed me to come home and nap mid morning.

Sunday- Thankful for my mom and going to church together.

Saturday- Thankful for my friends, many of whom have been my friends since early elementary school.

Friday- Thankful for my sister and her family who will be moving back home soon.

It's What's for Dinner

2011-11-20T19:46:00.001-08:00

This week I have my mom to thank for most of our meals! In addition to Thanksgiving Thursday at my parents, they bought us a small locavore box from Acme Farm & Kitchen. The locavore box is almost like a CSA but you get everything you need for three meals.I love the concept of supporting our local farms and eating fresh local food. We've had the Mac n Cheese before and it was great. Tonight I made the leek quiche with a potato crust. It was good and healthy too.
On the menu for the rest of the week:
Monday- Pork chops & mashed potatoes with apple sauce (carry over from last week)
Tuesday- Asian chicken soup again from the locavore box. (I'm sick with Charlotte's cold...if I'd done the prep I'd make this for tomorrow)
Wednesday- Spaghetti squash something or other from the locavore box (I'm too lazy to get up and find the exact recipe name).
Thursday- Thanksgiving! I'm in charge of the green bean casserole.
Friday- Leftovers

What are you eating this week? Big Thanksgiving plans?

May 27

2011-11-19T13:10:00.001-08:00

Today I am 13 weeks pregnant. Charlotte is going to be a big sister. We are going to have two little ones in our house. This kind of blows my mind.
With this baby I knew I was pregnant immediately. Despite a negative pregnancy test (too early to detect!) I knew that we'd be having a baby in May. Mr. S was shocked when the second test I took in late September came back positive. I said, haven't you been listening to me I told you I was pregnant. Never mind that negative test at 2 weeks!
So far this pregnancy, like my first, has been easy and good. No morning sickness, plenty of sleep and my jeans are just starting to become the tiniest bit too tight.
This pregnancy is different too. I don't feel the same need to know exactly what is going on this week in my womb, I even forgot how many weeks I was the other day. Not to say we are any less excited about our newest addition. It's just so different when you already have one sweet babe running around, giggling and demanding all of your time and attention.
13 weeks and counting.

PV

2011-11-16T19:24:00.000-08:00

It's so cold all of the sudden. Winter is setting in early, I've heard reports of snow flurries all day and the forecast calls for high winds and slush. And, although I love winter, wearing boots and cozy sweaters wool socks and hearty meals out of the slow cooker. I don't feel like I had enough of a summer to be ready for all of this cold weather already.

My feet are cold and I'm dreaming about laying on the beach in Puerto Vallarta.

I'd like a good book and a pina colada please. I want to get so hot I have to jump into the ocean. I want to walk down the beach to the little fish tacqueria. I want a Coke Lite.

I'd like to smell like sunscreen. Honestly I'd love some nice dark tan lines and some sun to bleach my hair!

I'd like to practically burn my feet the sand feels so hot.

Too bad Mr. S refuses to go to Puerto Vallarta.

Today I'm thankful for my favorite hooded wool jacket. I swear it's absolutely perfect.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-11-15T21:07:00.000-08:00

I just wrote a whole bunch of thank you cards for work while watching Sister Wives and Iron Chef America.

Since my job requires writing so many thank you cards I feel like I've been slacking on my personal thank you cards. I haven't written a thank you card since Charlotte's birthday last March. That's pretty terrible.

Tonight I had dinner made and on the table 20 minutes after walking in the door. Love easy grilled cheese sammies with tomato soup.

My kitchen needs a good cleaning and the fridge needs to be cleaned out. I always feel so wasteful after cleaning out the fridge.

If I didn't have so many lunch meetings I might do a better job eating leftovers.

I'm off to go read in bed. I'm in the middle of a mediocre book that I can't seem to put down!

Today I'm thankful for Charlotte's relationship with my parents. She spends every Tuesday with my dad and she loves her baba and nana so much.

From here to there

2011-11-14T19:23:00.000-08:00

Target has rows of Christmas goodies out already. As much as I love Thanksgiving I'm really ready for Christmas. Advent, candles, decorations, wrapping paper, shopping, cookies, wreaths, lights. Eating candy cane kisses and cinnamon m&m's has me ready to watch It's a Wonderful Life and Love Actually. I'm stashing presents in cupboards and wondering if I should make or buy Charlotte's stocking.
It's hard to believe Thanksgiving is just two weeks away. This year has gone by so quickly. And, I've totally failed on all my 2011 resolutions.
Looking at pictures from last November I'm amazed at how much Charlotte has grown and changed. Her hair no longer sticks out all over the place, she's not only walking but running and climbing and talking.

She still takes my breath away. I love her so much. Even those mornings when I think my God child let us sleep. Her giggles, smiles and sloppy zurberts make me laugh and squeeze her sweet little body. I'm so thankful for a happy, healthy smart daughter who sleeps through the night!!!

Meals For the Week

2011-11-13T19:24:00.000-08:00

Today I finally wrote down what we will be eating this week. I had to take a quick trip to the store to pick up vegetables, milk and other perishables but otherwise our freezer is full and our pantry is stocked!
Sunday- BBQ pork pizza and carrot raisin salad, like grandma used to make.
Monday- Freshly caught local salmon and an orzo/asparagus/spinach bake (already made just waiting to be heated up tomorrow!)
Wednesday- I'm working late so Mr. S is in charge....quesadillas or mac n cheese is my guess.
Thursday- French Onion Soup (already made too!)
Friday- Pork chops & applesauce with mashed potatoes and cabbage bake

Today I'm thankful for a couple hours spent in the kitchen that will make the week so much easier!

Saturday I was extremely thankful for a long nap.

Shopping

2011-11-10T20:24:00.000-08:00

Last night I went and spent too much money on me. But, I figure that's one of the perks of working, I have to spend money on work clothes every once in a while...Some of my favorite finds of the night included:

this long tee from old navy, admittedly this one isn't for work. perfect with leggings.
ok this this shift dress isn't for work either. great for the holiday parties. mine is sapphire blue.
I love this ruffled eternity scarf from kohls. which I totally will wear to work.

I also picked up a few blouses and a pair of jeans but sadly no new slacks. I was pretty much loving everything in Old Navy except these crazy long maxi sweater dresses. Ridiculous.

What fall trends are you loving and hating?

Habit or Hobby

2011-11-09T18:49:00.000-08:00

I've always enjoyed being in the kitchen. It's where people congregate, snack, talk, growing up it's also where we danced.
Lately I've been cooking a lot. Making a good meal, a decadent dessert or preserves from scratch has been bringing me a tremendous amount of satisfaction.
I spend hours each week reading recipes, planning meals, grocery shopping. Then I cook. Sometimes from a recipe sometimes not. Finding good crock pot recipes has become like a treasure hunt. Tonight I think I hit the jackpot! Pork carnitas* are one of my favorites and this recipe is so easy. I omitted the chilies because I didn't have them and they still turned out delicious. I ate mine as a carnitas salad, Mr. S had his in warm taco shells.
And desserts. I'm always surprised how easy baking actually is, especially cookies. I'm making
pumpkin butterscotch cookies tomorrow partly to use up the pumpkin I roasted today and partly because I know Mr. S and Reanna will love them.
For Christmas (because yes I already have my list going) I'm asking for a number of kitchen utensils and a cook book or two. Feeding the habit.

*Obviously I'm thankful for finding this recipe today, but in a broader outlook I'm so thankful to have the internet and to be able to read and learn from the blogs of so many awesome women, cooks and not.

Things I should be doing instead of blogging

2011-11-08T22:04:00.000-08:00

cleaning the living room
cleaning my bedroom and hanging up clean work clothes
folding Charlotte's clean clothes
putting away clean, folded towels
taking the recycling out
prepping tomorrow's dinner
painting my nails

instead I'm here on the Internet, fretting that my grape jelly isn't set, procrastinating my chores.

hitting publish means I have to get up and clean.

tonight I'm thankful the kitchen is already clean (I may have done that twice today already but none the less.)

Trivial Tuesday

2011-11-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

My Christmas cactus is in full bloom. It's a week or so later than last year (Halloween) but, I'm so glad it survived both moves this year!
Today I'm making baked potatoes in the crock pot. Fully loaded baked potatoes are one of my favorite meals so I'm really hoping this works.
My applesauce from the crock pot (just apples!) turned out so good. It's now packaged in one cup portions in the freezer for baking with and eating this winter.
Charlotte has become anti-bath. Last night I tried taking her into the shower instead. That wasn't any better. Does anyone have any tips? I'm hoping this is just a stage and she'll grow out of it.

I'm very much looking forward to Thanksgiving but, I'm cheating and already working on getting ready for Christmas.

Better get going. Have a great Thursday!

This morning I'm thankful for my sweet happy baby who gives the best hugs ever.

Balance

2011-11-07T21:14:00.001-08:00

Today like most days, was a rush to get out of the house. Compromising blow drying my hair to read Charlotte a few books before walking out the door. Making a healthy lunch for Charlotte and throwing an orange into my purse for later. Running out the door at work even though it's busy and we're short staffed but, it's nearly 6pm and I want to be home for dinner with my family. Coming home and eating, playing, bathing, reading and good night. Splitting the chores*. Reading, writing, creating. Thinking I should really get to bed. Six in the morning comes quickly and we've got the whole thing to do over again tomorrow.

*Today I'm thankful for my husband. He did all the household chores including cleaning up the dog puke. Love that man.

Weekend of Thanks

2011-11-07T20:27:00.000-08:00

Saturday November 5th- Went walking with my mom & Charlotte. It was cold and Char kept pulling off her hat. We stopped by a holiday bizarre. Charlotte napped for 2 hours and I spent that time doing exactly as I please. Today I'm thankful for a nearly perfect relaxing day at home.

Sunday November 6th- The new freezer my parents ordered us was delivered. Charlotte and I walked the dog around the neighborhood and enjoyed kicking up leaves. Charlotte took another long nap and so did I. I made grape juice (soon to be jelly) and applesauce in the crock pot all with fruit from our yard. Mr. S made dinner. Today I'm thankful for my family.

This weekend was lovely. Cold and crisp. Full of food, family and friends. Lots of sleep and way too much money spend at the grocery store. I'm also totally recommending you buy these cookies.

20 Months

2011-11-04T20:10:00.001-07:00

Today Charlotte is 20 months old. She is a joy. I absolutely love watching her play and learn. We have so much fun! Full of smiles and giggles.

Obsessed with babies and books.

At 20 months Charlotte likes to sing along to the ABC's, tries to snap her fingers, helps me empty the dishwasher by putting the silverware away and eats frozen blueberries by the cupful. She says no when she means yes and no when she means no. She dances to Michael Jackson and is scared of Lucy when we walk in the door. She is shy around strangers but once she warms up to you she is cuddly and loving and wild.

I'm so thankful to have Charlotte's sweet kisses and hugs. She gives the absolute best hugs you can ever imagine.

Exhaustion

2011-11-03T19:41:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been tired. When I was driving home from visiting these two sweeties on Sunday I almost fell asleep. I'm so not used to driving long distances, the husband is the driver in the family.

K is a natural mom, she was so calm and collected and little H was only 5 days old!

Today while Mr. S and Char were playing I nearly dozed off on the couch. Last night I worked from 10pm-midnight setting up for a big event and was back at the venue by 6:30 this morning. Last night when I set my alarm it cruelly told me "this alarm is set for 5 hours 9 min from now". Cruel.
Tonight we ate leftovers (the chili is even better the second day) and the house is a bit of a mess. Instead of cleaning up and being productive I'm lounging, watching the new season opener of Top Chef Texas and blogging.
Today I'm grateful for a comfortable bed to sleep in and my sweet husband to cuddle with.

Heat

2011-11-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

We woke up to frost this morning. My sweet husband scraped the car windows for me before he left for work.
It was cold all day. Luckily I'd planned and prepared a warm meal, chili in the crock pot. Mr. S was skeptical about the pumpkin but, he had two bowls. Charlotte and I dug it too. Healthy and easy, I'll definitely be making this again.
Today I'm grateful for heat. My space heater in my office, our warm house and a warm meal.

November-National Blog Posting Month

2011-11-01T19:51:00.000-07:00

This month is NaBloPoMo and since I've been wanting to write more I thought I'd try this again. Plus Jessika and Mama Bub are both doing it and Katie's posting a month of thanks so I'm going to try and incorporate that too.

Today's prompt is about food, specifically what food would you want to eat if you knew it would be your last meal. For sure it would not be tonight's disappointing dinner but I suppose that's a different story. Can I say though it really sucks when you put in a lot of effort to prep dinner and try something new and it turns out badly. OK, I might as well put the whole story out there I made fresh clam spaghetti and when the clams opened they were sandy and gritty and really unappetizing, they ruined the dish for me. Charlotte ate the noodles but the husband and I ditched dinner in favor of leftover chicken on Hawaiian rolls*. We still ate the broccoli.

If I had to pick my last meal I'm really tempted to say a really good burger and fries. But, after those chicken sandwiches tonight I think I'm more in the mood for leftover Thanksgiving turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce on dinner rolls with all the leftover sides including green bean casserole.

I guess I'm ready for Thanksgiving dinner!

*Today I'm thankful for my Mr. S making the mini sandwiches after my gourmet dinner failed.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

We had over 40 trick or treaters last night. We turned off the lights just before 8pm to get the girl to bed.

I'm missing crafting and organizing and decorating lately. But, it's all I can do to clean the kitchen after dinner and collapse on the couch after Charlotte goes to bed. Usually I get a second wind around 9pm and do some prep for tomorrow's dinner or fold a load of laundry.

This week I'm trying to keep on top of my laundry. A load a day and and fold it as soon as it's dry.

I think if I didn't get sucked into the Internet I'd get a lot more done. Do you think the Internet could be addictive?! I do!

I am making mental Christmas lists. I think I should probably start writing everything down. I had a dream that I didn't buy a gift for my sister or a friend and was rushing around the store at the last minute in a panic searching for gifts. I want to avoid that scenario so the goal is to shop early.

Speaking of writing things down I still need to figure out this weeks meal plan.

In my head I've planned a few things including a sort of clam spaghetti for tonight and this pumpkin chili. Last month I went to a chili cook off and loved the pumpkin chili I tried so I'm hoping this one will be as good. Plus any meal out of the crock pot makes life so much easier!

Happy November!

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

Halloween started early at our house! Friday night Charlotte stayed the night with her grandparents and Mr. S and I had J&T over for dinner before heading out to a costume party. Good times. Saturday we met up with some friends and did the crazy busy downtown trick or treat. Charlotte was a little shy at first...

But, after she got putting the candy in the bucket down and we had an early dinner she was having a blast!

Running with dad and her friend LG.

So much fun!

Our little buzzing bee, ready to fly!

Tonight Mr. S will take Charlotte around the neighborhood to trick or treat (candy for mom & dad!) and I will stay home with Lucy Dog to pass out candy. I'm hoping we get a few trick or treaters.

On a side note...This year everywhere we went we saw amazing costumes. A girl dressed as the house from Up (balloons and all), the cutest sheep I've ever seen, Edward Scissor Hands, and Mr. S' personal favorite Will Farrell as "more cowbell" !

Hoping you have a great Halloween as well!

Fall Pictures

2011-10-30T19:53:00.000-07:00

Because Charlotte is so stinking cute I have to share a few photos from the last month or so.

We are really missing being able to hang out in the backyard after dinner. But, to make up for it we are doing things like building with giant blocks and making forts out of blankets. Good times.

On my mind

2011-10-24T20:54:00.000-07:00

I've got some random thoughts running through my head. And since the husband is watching football and I'm between books I thought I'd write. I'm eating the best chocolate zucchini bread I've ever had. After Sunday dinner I was sent home with half a loaf. Dangerous. It's so good. Reanna, I need the recipe. Next year.

Speaking of desserts a friend brought the cutest little pumpkin cupcakes over this weekend. They were frosted orange of course but the reason they were so cute were the little green tissue paper stems. In the spring you could use the same idea and make the stems longer and, walla, carrots! I need to make something for a bake sale this Friday and I'm thinking about making individual servings of dirt or maybe these creepy cookies. It's a bake sale for kids. I think either would go over smashingly.

Do you have cable? We do and our bill is ridiculous. We're thinking about subscribing to
hulu plus. The husband isn't sure if it will work because how would he watch sports. Non-issue for me.

Halloween is only a week away and I don't have a costume. I was starting to stress about this when I realized I don't need a costume. We aren't going to a party. I think I might skip this year. A total first for me. Charlotte on the other hand has the most adorable bee costume! And, it's a hand me down. Score.

If I wasn't so lazy I'd find my dead camera and share the pictures of the bee with you but that's not in the cards tonight. Also, I'm not sure how to charge my camera. I've got to figure that out. We went to the pumpkin patch sans camera Saturday. Total parent failure.

I've got to go to bed. The house stinks- Mr. S is drinking scotch and it smells terrible plus I think he has a little Charlotte throw up on his shirt and a skunk totally sprayed somewhere nearby. Gross.

Good night!

Trivial Tuesday

2011-10-18T19:37:00.000-07:00

We are out of tp. Really. I'm not sure how I forgot two days in a row to go to the store for this necessity. Now I'm stuck at home waiting for the husband to buy some after his soccer game.

Today I almost fell asleep at my desk. Literally. I haven't been this exhausted in ages.

I have a rather large stack of magazines to read. I'm flipping though Everyday Food and there's quite a few recipes I want to try like these rolls. Yum.

I bought Nefertiti for a friend's birthday. Honestly I picked this book because I wanted to read it. Being the good friend she is, she read it and immediately passed it on. I couldn't put it down.

Now I'm reading The Little Lady Agency. I know it's fall because I'm reading, reading, reading. And cooking.

Off to read some more!

Pork Chile (not) Verde

2011-10-17T19:44:00.000-07:00

This is my Aunt Mary's recipe. A recipe my cousins love and one I made for the first time Saturday. I'm pretty sure if you want it to be VERDE you should use crushed or whole canned tomatillas but on Saturday I just went with the recipe and it turned out great even if it wasn't green.

In a 5-6 quart pan, over medium heat combine 2.5 lbs of pork with .5 cups chicken stock and 6 gloves of garlic. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.
Remove the lid and cook stirring often until liquid caramelizes and meat browns- about 20 minutes. Add .5 cups chicken stock, 2 cans Mexican or Italian stewed tomatoes, 1 medium onion chopped and 2 tsp minced fresh oregano or 1 tsp dried oregano. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours or until meat pulls apart. Serve with warm tortillas or over rice. Lime wedges to squeeze over pork are good.

While this recipe takes some time, it does not take a lot of effort. And it is such a warm, filling, dish. Perfect for a Sunday meal in the fall and winter. Enjoy.

Mini House Tour

2011-10-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

I've finally got around to taking a few pictures of the house...Here's the mini tour...

This is the front room, where we spend most evenings. It's the most "done" although still needs the curtains replaced and a few other finishing touches.I love our bay window, we get great light in here. I had to show our new area rug. After weeks and weeks of searching we finally ordered it on Overstock.com It's big and bold and I am glad we found it.

Here's a peek-a-boo into Charlotte's room

Our dining room and fireplace. We bought this chandelier for Char's room but it didn't work so it's here temporarily while I find something a little bigger and convince Mr. S that it's the perfect light for our bedroom. And, the view the other way. There's our emptyish living room/"playroom". Obviously we need to acquire some more furniture! And, a little peak into the kitchen from the dining room. Notice the top cabinets have been painted but I still don't have the gumption to finish the bottom ones!

It's a work in progress, but after a month and a half it's definitely home.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-10-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

Wow, this is my 701st post! November will mark my 4 year blogiversary.

I'm trying to think of some positive things to talk about. Let's see what I can come up with.

I found The Wonder Years on Netflix. This is Mr. S' all time favorite show. So we're both pretty excited.

Mr. S made homemade ravioli for dinner tonight.

I'm looking forward to a slice of my mom's apple pie for dessert tonight. Maybe ala mode.

Really, all I can think of is how hard having a 19 month old is. And the sleep. Maybe I should say lack of sleep.

Charlotte is going through a stage where she is refusing to go to sleep. Couple that with multiple night time wakings.

You can imagine our house is a lot of fun at night.

She's crying as I type. I better go try putting her back to bed.

Wish us luck.

The good with the bad

2011-10-09T20:45:00.001-07:00

This weekend was good because we had a lot of time with family and friends and all together too much good food.
Stephanie had the girls over Friday night for a pizza party. And again today, a whole houseful of us, for our 3rd annual turducken Canadian Thanksgiving feast. The desserts this year were killer- Loved the pear torte & pumpkin trifle! Steph's house was full of kids and Charlotte was so fascinated by the dancing, the running and games. The whole ride home she chattered and laughed. By the time we got home and she showed us how fast she can run and was so exhausted she dropped into bed in minutes. I'm hoping she'll sleep well tonight!
I made The Pioneer Woman's zuppa tuscana for lunch with my parents and sister, BIL and nephew. This is seriously a perfect gold weather Sunday meal. Next time I'm serving it with hot out of the oven bread sticks, just like Olive Garden.
This weekend was not perfect though. I had a mini meltdown in the kitchen as I did dishes for the umpteenth time this week. Crying. Charlotte was so sweet and concerned coming over to me and patting my leg looking up. Sometimes I feel like my life is all work, cooking and cleaning. I'm constantly struggling to keep the house as clean as I'd like, keep our meals healthy and homemade, trying to balance work with motherhood. Fighting Charlotte to change her diaper and go to sleep everyday is so hard. It's all hard and I get so tired. But, I'm grateful for the life I'm living. My loving husband, my sweet daughter, my (undecorated & always messy) house, my supportive family and friends. I know I have it good.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

I can not wait for the fruit flies to vacate our kitchen. We've moved the compost bin outside but the flies persist.

Charlotte is back to nursing but not at night. Sleep is iffy at best still.

The cobbler from last night was so good. Next summer I'm making it all the time.

I want to make chicken pot pies and soups in the crock pot. With plenty of good bread and butter.

We still have some painting touch up work to do. The house is coming together so slowly.

I have almost 2 rooms done. Our front room and C's bedroom.

We really need some new bedding and art in our bedroom.

I need a good new book to read. Any recommendations?

Off to treat myself to a Salted Carmel Mocha.

Happy Tuesday!

It's What's for Dinner (and more)

2011-10-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

I'm still on a cooking kick. I've got a Marion berry cobbler (with ww flour and the last of the berries from our garden, that makes it healthy right?!) in the over and pasta boiling for tomorrow's dinner as I type.

Sunday I made the best French Onion Soup with a green salad and for dessert caramel covered pears. Hello fall!

Here's the meal plan for the week:
Today- Mr. S made taco salads. As previously mentioned this is one of our favorite go to meals.
Tomorrow- baked ziti and broccoli
Wednesday- Fish & Chips with smashed peas (Reanna, Danny did I gross you out?)
Thursday- Quesadillas & corn on the cob
Friday- 1,2,3

I'm also going to make this Charlotte friendly Italian prune crisp tomorrow. And, lastly I did make this cake. Yes it was delicious totally worth the four hours it took me to make. Unfortunately I didn't get seconds or take any pictures!

Food Lush

2011-09-29T20:26:00.001-07:00

Do you guys read Food Lush? If you don't you totally should. These food lovers have been providing me with a lot of inspiration lately. I love the variety of recipes shared everything from simple (I am totally making these biscuits and gravy Saturday morning) to complex (I just went out and bought everything to make this cake). Plus they talk about all kinds of other foodie fun stuff from restaurants to kitchen appliances and more. It's one of my very favorite blogs and today it inspired me to make these crispy oven fries for dinner. Mr. S called them the greatest homemade fries he's ever eaten.

Since I was home extra early from work I wanted to try a new recipe and make a good meal for my family. I saw the fry recipe and my menu just came together. The pineapple I'd picked up earlier at Haggen was the perfect inspiration to turn the chicken breasts in the fridge into teriyaki chicken burgers. I made a quick marinade of soy, garlic and rice wine vinegar and let the chicken soak it up for about an hour. I ended up throwing the chicken in the oven (in the marinade) along with the fries and they came out perfectly together. In separate pans obviously. I topped the burgers with pineapple and fresh from the farmers market sweet onion slices. Yum.

I wish I had the time to cook a good, new meal every night. But, till then I read food lush and food-dream.

Milestone Day

2011-09-29T19:42:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day. I felt more like myself than normal. I wore leggings for the first time this season. I love leggings. I caught up at work. I took the afternoon off and hung out with Charlotte. I cooked a good dinner. The dog and I took a walk.

Charlotte didn't nurse all day. For the first time ever. It's bitter sweet. I can't believe she's never going to nurse again. Both Char and I have enjoyed these last almost 19 months of nursing. It's our special time together and makes me feel better about leaving her all day while I work. I knew though it couldn't last forever.

We've been struggling the last four nights with not nursing at night. Up until this week I've been a complete sucker and nursed my baby every time she's woken up and cried for me. Sometimes two, three times a night. I finally decided enough is enough. I think I waited to long. I mean come on, she's running, in a toddler bed, climbing everything, talking up a storm. So we stopped. This week I nursed her before bed and again in the morning but not at night when she awoke. She's not quite sure how to put herself back to sleep without nursing so needless to say our family of three have been awake entirely too much between the hours of midnight and six in the morning. Of course we've tried everything to get her back to sleep. Rocking in the glider, walking around the house with her, putting her in bed with us, letting her cry it out, we even tried giving her a bottle. No success. She cries and bangs on the door, saying mama, mama, dada. We calm her down and she falls to sleep. And just when we lay back down and say good job babe, I'm exhausted. She wakes back up. And we start all over.

Except for the night she slept ten hours straight. Pure bliss. Crossing my fingers for a good night to end this good day.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-09-27T19:47:00.000-07:00

I'm procrastinating my chores for the night. Hello Internet!

The cat is curled up beside me and since she's not shedding it's kind of nice.

We had our first overnight guests last weekend. It's so nice to have a spare bedroom.

I'm thinking about taking a day off work just to get a pedicure, massage and facial. It seems so luxurious that I can't quite convince myself to do it.

Maybe a manicure too. My nails are either really long or have just broken. Basically I'm a mess.

What's the going rate for babysitters these days?

The Mister and I are both going to be out on Saturday night- at different friend's birthday parties. Divide and conquer.

I've been meal planning and Mr. S has been cooking. I think it's working on quite nicely.

Time to go face reality and clean my room.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-09-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

My husband is a gem. He spent all last night putting together Ikea dressers for me.

The shopping trip to Ikea was epic. So much good stuff. Including the cutest rattan chair for Char.

I cleaned the kitchen for well over an hour last night. Nooks & crannies, floors, new flowers, garbage/food+/recycling out.

Preparing for my MIL to be here this weekend.

Hoping our new rug comes soon. And, hoping we love it.

Seriously glad we didn't have to pay a mortgage this month. So much to buy for the house.

It must be (un)officially fall. I had my first pumpkin spice latte of the season and used the crock pot for dinner.

Already thinking about Halloween costumes.

And, planning a vacation to Florida in the middle of winter!

Loved hanging out with my girlfriends this weekend. This probably deserves it's own post.

Tonight's to do list- work on the garage. It's killing me.

The Joy of Painting*

2011-09-15T21:30:00.001-07:00

Life's feeling a little overwhelming lately- Work, keeping the house clean, laundry, a dirty car & truck...Despite all of the stress I'm feeling right now there are a few things I'm really excited about too. So I'm making another list:

The fall crocuses that just came up in my front garden. Beautiful surprise.

October parties like Turduckin for Canadian Thanksgiving and a kid friendly Halloween bash.

Buying a dresser.

Getting the boxes in the garage emptied and/or organized. Slowly but surely.

Rediscovering a pair of jeans that I love.

Sweaters. Albeit light sweaters.

Hanging more art on the walls. It's on my Saturday to do list.

Fall veggies- roasted cauliflower, cabbage bake, potatoes & carrots with a roast in the crock pot.

*I can't help but look on the positive side of things while watching Bob Ross paint.

More Random Thoughts

2011-09-13T21:27:00.000-07:00

Have I told you what beautiful roses we have? Seriously I think roses are my new favorite flower since moving here. Our hydrangeas are pretty amazing too. I feel so lucky to have found a house with an established yard. And the fruit. We don't need to buy any right now- apples are ripe, the plums are huge and juicy (not to mention molding quickly!), the marionberrys are ripe and sour but Char doesn't seem to mind. I think the grapes will be purple soon.

Tonight while I was making lunch for tomorrow I opened a fresh jar of jam. I think it's the best jam I've ever tasted. Rhubarb raspberry. I'm pretty impressed with my jam skills.

Can I complain a little too. Why do I feel like everyone looks at me like I'm pregnant? Is it because I've gained weight? Only a few pounds. Or is it because they expect me to be popping out a little brother or sister for Charlotte any month now? Lastly could it all be in my head? I try to head people off before they ask if I'm pregnant but it's getting old.

I'm on a good routine of getting to bed before 10pm. I better go wash my face & brush my teeth. Does anyone else dislike getting ready for bed like me?

Trivial Tuesday

2011-09-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

I don't think C is ready for a toddler bed. Any one have any advice or luck with a crib tent?

I'm nervous/excited about my overnight without the baby this Saturday.

I'm really looking forward to a fun girls night out. Grown up dinner!

And, the trip to Ikea.

So many things we need. Dressers, rugs, sofa, buffet, more art.

Not that I think we will buy it all at Ikea.

I found a great glider for the girl's room on craigslist.

Time to go unpack a box before work.

That's how she rolls.

2011-09-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

Can I tell you all what a big girl Charlotte is becoming?

Yesterday she was climbing out of her crib. I swear we should have another 4 inches of growth before we have to worry about this. Today we turned her crib into a toddler bed. Nap was a success, only rolling out once. I just put her down for bed. Now, she's crying "mama, mama...poops". Better go check.

She wasn't lying. I've rocked her to sleep and laid her down. Her floor is lined with pillows, just waiting for the fall. I'm hoping our transition will be as smooth as her cousin's has been.

Char's also fighting a mild case of croup. Welcome back to the world of daycare baby girl. Combine that with a night in our bed (to keep her safe from climbing out of her crib) and we've taken two steps backwards in my quest to stop nursing at night. I know she's ready to sleep through the night with no wake-ups to nurse. I swear we've tried to do everything right, she's just one of the babies who have the propensity to cry without abandon. Tonight I'm hoping we can not nurse but if we have to I'm going to try not to let it discourage me. Again, wish us luck.

What a weekend.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-09-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

Some days just call for an ice-cream sandwich while you sit on the couch not moving. Today was one of those days.

Charlotte was not ok not nursing last night. After about 2 hours of being up I caved.

I'm thinking teething is not helping my cause.

I have a long story about calling customer care for my cell phone because I can't make calls from my house but it's not interesting enough to warrant more than this sentence.

How ridiculous is it that I can't make calls from home. So frustrating.

I really don't want to shell out another $40 for a land line. Unless it's my choice not because my cell phone sucks.

I have some plants that desperately need to be re-potted.

I've decided against planting fall bulbs and will instead be waiting to see what appears in the spring.

We still aren't finished unpacking.

That's all I've got. Thank goodness this is a short week. Hope it's a good one for you.

Our backyard

2011-09-05T21:42:00.000-07:00

What really sold us on our house is the backyard. This weekend was sunny, warm and we spend 99% of our time outside. Mr. S took a few pictures of the yard, I'm sure you'll see why we are so smitten.

The long view!I can't wait to use our green house

The peach, 2nd apple and cherry treesI am so happy we have a Italian plum tree And our apples are yummy too

If you find your self in our neighborhood I hope you'll stop by for a cold drink on the lawn and please when you leave remember to take a bag of fruit!

1.5 in Pictures

2011-09-05T21:33:00.000-07:00

Pool fun with Riley Sweeping is the best!

Getting ready for our morning walk

Bath, books & bedtime

Climbing anything & everything

1.5

2011-09-05T13:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Charlotte,
Yesterday marked your one and a half year old birthday. You are such an amazing little girl, so sweet and smart.
You give the best hugs running for your mom or dad or grandpa or grandma arms outstretched smiling ear to ear. And, when you pat my back while giving me a squeeze my heart melts. You blow kisses and say bye-bye. You give good-night kisses. Such a loving girl you are. Once you start giving high fives you have to make sure everyone in the house gets one, sometimes over and over.
I'm awed by your ability to communicate. You sign, you talk, you point, sometimes you throw fits. The point is you know how to get what you need/want. Words you've just started saying include "moto" for motorcycle, out for outside, blues for more blueberries. Your daycare provider asked us what it meant when brush your fingers down your face, we let her know you were signing sleep. So smart.
Speaking of sleep you are (knock on wood) on a great nap schedule, daily you give us all a rest from 12:30-2:30 or so...We've finally decided no more nursing at night. I'm hoping and praying this means you'll start sleeping through the night. We all need it. Truthfully your dad and I probably need it more than you.
Some of your favorite things at 18 months include: playing outside, climbing anything you can reach, hugging the cat, playing fetch with the dog, eating fruit, making animal noises, picking berries, visiting neighborhood chickens, singing songs especially ones with hand signs to go along with the lyrics and reading books. We have so much fun with you. You run so fast in the backyard, you eat apples from the trees core and all, you try and do everything we do.
You are such a pretty, smart, happy, loving girl. I couldn't ask for a better daughter.
Love, Mama

Home

2011-09-01T22:28:00.000-07:00

Tonight marks 6 nights at our new address and, it already feels like our home not just a house. Despite the mess, the boxes that still need to be unpacked, the lack of furniture and decor; We are making the best of it which frankly isn't hard because we totally love our house.

Top 3 moments in the house so far:

Evenings in the back yard all three of us playing, gardening and enjoying the last moments of summer.

Walking the dog as a family in the morning around our new neighborhood.

Reading book after book in Charlotte's bedroom.

So excited about making more great moments here.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-08-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

I think I injured myself painting. Pushing that roller is hard work.

I did a big grocery shop for the new house.

Moving is expensive.

I'm looking for some healthy and delicious quick meals or meals for the crockpot. Please send any recipes my way.

I get off work when Charlotte is used to eating dinner. Should be interesting.

I'm stocking up on Annie's mac n cheese just in case.

Plus lots of frozen veggies.

I'm really, really hoping we can get this girl to sleep through the night once we are all settled in to our new house.

Don't you feel sorry for me now that you know my almost year and a half year old daughter is up multiple times during the night.

She's slept all night without waking exactly once.

That's all I've got. Sleep deprivation at it's finest.

Keys!

2011-08-21T23:18:00.001-07:00

Friday I left work and drove 6 minutes to our new house! Can I say how amazing a 6 minute commute would be?! Too bad Char's daycare is 10 minutes away.

Our great realtor met us at the new house to give us our key. (Yes only one. Mr. S is using the garage door opener as his key, I get the front door key.) She also had this welcome mat made for us. Love it.

We had a celebratory beer and left to have dinner and put the girl down for bed.

This weekend has been a whirlwind of trips to the hardware store, weeding, meeting neighbors and painting late (late) into the night all with little to no sleep. Really, I should be in bed now.

But, I'm so excited about our new house. I can't wait till we are sleeping there. Next weekend is the plan. Saturday night to be exact.

We've still got some work to do but we've already painted Char's room, our bedroom, the hall bath, and half the kitchen cabinets. I still don't love painting but at least I'm better and faster than I used to be.

The to do list for the week includes:

Buy a King size bed/mattress

Call and change over all of the utilities

Finish the cabinets

Contact paper the drawers

Paint the front room

MOVE ALL OF OUR STUFF!

Excuses in advance for light posting...

Wish us luck.

Pixie Dust

2011-08-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

Tonight we purchased 5 rollers, 4 replacements, 2 paint brushes, 3 drop clothes, 2 edgers, frog tape in varying sizes, 1 gallon of stinky primer, 1 gallon of pale bloom, 1 gallon of pixie dust and a can of metallic silver spray paint. Let the painting begin!
Actually we won't start painting till Saturday. My guess is we will be back at Home Depot buying more paint or that forgotten item by Saturday afternoon.

I can't wait to see how it turns out.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-08-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Keep your fingers crossed, we are hoping to get the keys to our new house Friday!

I've got to finish picking out paint colors, shop for light fixtures and find someone to recover a few chairs. Taking recommendations for the reupholstering please.

This summer is flying by. I can't believe August is half over. I'm still a little disappointed I haven't gotten to swim or get a tan.

After two weeks of being barefoot or in flip flops my first day back to work in heals left me with blisters.

My sissy leaves tomorrow :( we didn't go on a bike ride. But, we did go on a boat ride.

Vacation

2011-08-14T13:34:00.001-07:00

I've taken a vacation not just from work but from the internet too. Too many kids to tickle, meals to share, parks to explore, friends to visit, cars to wash and paints to pick out to bother with blogging or facebook.

I had my first haircut and highlight in I don't know how long. At least my hair's ready to go back to work tomorrow.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-08-09T08:56:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to me!
I'm super excited about the new camera my hubby got me.
Not to mention the fashionable red wallet purse from my dear sister.
Waking up to warm Bagelry bagels started the day off just right.
Charlotte did not sleep in for my birthday present.
Traveling with a little one is a double edged sword.
You want to go places but man, does it mess with their sleep.
Or maybe it's just my high maintenance daughter and her cousins.
Off to enjoy the rest of the day!

Sand! Sun! Seaside!

2011-08-07T16:40:00.000-07:00

The Mister and I are half way through our two week vacation from work. And, let me tell you it's pretty great not working. If only the paychecks would keep rolling in. Se la vie.

Look how happy Mr. S is to be at the beach and not work!

We spent the last four days or so in Seaside where the beach is absolutely amazing. Charlotte is pretty much in love with all things beach...the sand, the waves, destroying her dad's sandcastles. She loved it. Until she had to take a shower to get all that sand out of every crevice.

To tell the truth I got a little tired of the twice daily showers too.

We totally lucked out with our little trip. The sun was out more often than not and our room had the best view of the ocean. We visited the aquarium where the seals slapped their bellies for fish, we waded in the waves and got scared out by some big crabs, a rainy afternoon was spent in a really great toy store, we ate a delicious dinner at Doogers, I recommend the shrimp salad with honey mustard and their yummy clam chowder. Best of all-lot's of really great moments on the beach.

Feeling brave, here' s me in my new swim suit!

Of course there were a few not so great moments too. Charlotte didn't (and continues to not) sleep well, the carousel was pretty to look at but none of us enjoyed the ride, the hotel room didn't have a balcony.

The good out weighed the bad by far and I'm so glad we took this trip. I can totally see Seaside being an annual pilgrimage for our family.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-07-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

Now that we've found the house I'm mentally decorating, painting, organizing.

And, can't wait to shop on craigslist, the goodwill, garage sales.

Refinishing, repainting, reusing. Old furniture can be our new furniture.

A house and all of the projects that come along with it should make good blogging material.

Charlotte is going to miss living at Grandma & Grandpa's.

They'll miss her too.

We will have to start daycare shopping if the deal goes through.

I wonder how Callie Cat will like the new neighborhood?

I'm going to be devastated if the inspection or appraisal aren't okay.

Painting party before we move in. Who's in?!

Mr. S says fencing the yard is our #1 project.

I foresee a lot of house talk in the near future. Hope you don't mind.

Home Sweet Home?!

2011-07-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

Cross your fingers that this time next month we'll be sitting on this deck, enjoying that gorgeous backyard!

We offered, they countered, we accepted. Now for the hard part, waiting (and an appraisal, financing & inspection)...

Jam!

2011-07-24T12:20:00.001-07:00

What's cooking? Rhubarb raspberry jam!
This morning Charlotte and I got up nice and early. The raspberries we'd picked yesterday needed to be used. I ran outside and picked some rhubarb. I wanted to try Andrea's jam recipe. I love rhubarb. By 8am my jam was cooked and sealed. I can't wait to eat it this winter. Up next blackberry jam.

If you'd like to make some jam check out Stephanie's giveaway. I was the lucky recipient of some of her delicious jam already!

Totally checking off make jam from my Summer List!

House Hunting

2011-07-21T22:29:00.001-07:00

I can't stop looking at houses. It's keeping us up late at night. The search expands, our price range increases. We get excited. We change our minds. The houses start running together. We drive around neighborhoods we love searching for the right house. Sometimes the outside can be deceptive. So can pictures. Nearly always the house isn't as nice as the pictures make it out to be. I email the realtor. The husband sends me house links via instant messenger. Repeat.
Could this be the house? If only...fill in the blank... bigger bedrooms, different neighborhood, a garage, it had a fireplace. The list goes on and on.

I keep wondering are we too picky? Are we over thinking the process?

So please tell me how did you know when you found the exact right house?

July

2011-07-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

I was sitting here thinking about how much life has changed in just one year. Allow me to share.

Last July I was just going back to work, Charlotte was four months old. Barely standing. This year I have made an advancement in my career and am working harder than ever, Charlotte is running around the block in boots.

Somethings never change though. I have a summer cold again this July (and so does everyone else in the house), We have a end of the month camping trip planned with the same friends we camped with last year. This year I will be drinking.

What hasn't changed one iota...Charlotte is still the joy of my life, the cutest girl I know, my sweet, smart, strong baby girl.

July 2010

July 2011

Trivial Tuesday

2011-07-19T20:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday over a long lunch I got my first sunburn in recent memory.

Today has been windy, cloudy and only 65*.

Where did summer go?

Callie Cat is annoying me to no end.

She needs to go outside. Asap.

When we get a house she's not spending so much time inside.

Speaking of houses...we almost put in an offer today.

I woke up and had completely changed my mind.

The bedrooms were too small.

Luckily I have an amazing husband.

He woke up feeling better about putting in the offer.

We went with my gut feeling.

I'm drinking a rum & (caffeine free) coke.

Time to change out of my work clothes.

Summer To Do's

2011-07-13T15:09:00.000-07:00

Everyone is making summer to do lists and I want to make one too. Here it goes:

Go to a free outdoor concert once a week.

Make my grandma's lime daiquiris.

Swim at Lake Samish.

Swim across Padden with my dad a dozen times.

Watch the sunset from the kayak with Danny.

Take Charlotte to the ocean to play on the beach.

Ride the train with Charlotte one afternoon.

Make jam.

Pick blueberries and blackberries.

Go on a bike ride with my sister.

Spend a long weekend at the Cabin on the Island.

Do something fun with friends over Labor day weekend.

Find a house.

What's on your summer to do list?

Trivial Tuesday

2011-07-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Over IM at work yesterday Mr. S challenged us to give up drinking and McDonald's for the rest of July. Except we can drink when we go camping. I readily agreed. No problem. He drank a Mike's after dinner last night.

Our new My Touch phones should come in the mail today or tomorrow. I'm pretty excited. I've never had a smart phone before. Any app recommendations?

My toe nails are still bare naked. I've almost painted them everyday but am holding out for some bizarre reason.

We saw 5 houses Sunday. A few nice ones, one that I thought I wanted based solely on the location and walk-by and then that dream was crushed when the door was opened. Nothing we saw made us think this is our new home. Still looking.

Did I tell you we are going to Seaside for 6 nights in August. I'm really, really hoping it's sunny and warm while we are there.

Summer Camp

2011-07-11T21:04:00.000-07:00

Since I didn't get my free slurpee or Mallards Ice-Cream fix today and I haven't been blogging I'm joining Calliope's Summer Camp. And, you're right the lack of cold sweet things actually has nothing to do with blogging.
Today, day 11(because I'm late joining the fun) the prompt is how are you different/similar to your parents. I'm asking Mr. S for his input.
Ummm....
It's got both of us stumped. Maybe I should quit this whole summer camp before I've even started.

I hope you at least got your free slurpee today.

Summer Pictures

2011-07-06T08:09:00.000-07:00

I love that Charlotte has cousin's so to her in age if not proximity.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-07-05T20:12:00.001-07:00

The weekend was good, not as relaxing as I'd hoped but I think that's just how life with a 16 month old is.

I went bike riding tonight. Perfect evening for it.

There's all kinds of free outdoor music here this month. I'd like to go listen somewhere at least once a week.

I went on a bath product shopping spree at TJ Maxx today. Looking forward to using the coconut body scrub I bought.

I'm trying to go regularly to get my eyebrows threaded. I also want to get a real haircut and schedule a day at the spa.

The Mr. and I also need to find a night to go to our Steak House.

I'm very much enjoying this summer and the sun.

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

This long weekend is just what I need. My weekend has begun and it's already off to good start. The sun is shining and I'm drinking a bud light while I pack.

Some of my goals for this weekend:

catch up on sleep. This means go to bed early because Charolotte is not sleeping in.

take some pictures. June's picture folder is empty.

get some sun. I need a tan.

not over indulge. In food or alcohol. My waistline can't handle it.

enjoy quality time with my husband and daughter.

Wishing you a safe & happy 4th of July, whatever you may be doing.

Happy Shopper

2011-06-29T22:11:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to go shopping for a few weeks now. More specifically I've been wanting to go shopping at Ross. I need summer clothes, dresses, work appropriate shirts to pair with all my skirts. If you know the Ross in Bellingham, you know why I've been hesitant to go. But, tonight I bit the bullet and decided bargain's were more important than a pleasant shopping experience. It took me a few rows before I got into my groove but after two trips to the dressing room I was happy. Five dresses, four tops, one cardigan all for less than $150. Love it!

Trivial Tuesday

2011-06-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

June was/is a long month. My work thing is over, now I'm just tying up loose ends. And, writing hundreds of thank you notes.

Today was the first day that really felt like summer. The humidity had something to do with it.

I'm trying to eat less junk. June was not my healthiest month.

I'm looking forward to some time off in the near future.

Mr. S and I haven't been bike riding in too long.

I bought new yoga pants and am living in them.

On the other hand, the new swim suit I bought hasn't been worn once.

I had my first night (2 actually) apart from Charlotte over the weekend. She was a doll for her dad.

The house hunting continues.

BFF's

2011-06-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

I have the best girlfriends. They come when called, support when needed, spend money to help make my event successful. Basically they are the best. xo.

17 days

2011-06-08T19:53:00.000-07:00

Work is kind of crazy right now. Instead of letting Charlotte cry it out and then going for a walk with my hubby I should drive back to my office. The hours seem to slip by more quickly then I can fathom. Suddenly it's 4pm I realize I've down nothing but make phone calls and write e-mails. Things that need to be done yes, but, not the things I need to check off my list.

It got so bad this afternoon I found myself having a mini-melt down sitting at my desk with tears welling up in front of my number one helper.

The count down is on. 17 more days and the auction will be over. For this year anyway.

Trivial Tuesday

2011-06-07T19:51:00.000-07:00

You don't think I'd skip Trivial Tuesday two weeks in a row do you? Don't worry I'm just late.

Charlotte is trying to push her bedtime till 8 or later. I'm not sure how I feel about that.
We are officially house hunting. Actually we are kind of in love with a house.
Saturday was our first day in 249 days to break 70*.
I wore my favorite hot pink trench coat today.
I just read The Hunger Games. I couldn't put it down. Obviously I will be reading the others.
My sister found a copy of the Hunger Games at the airport on her way home. I think she'll like it as much as I did.
I'm thinking a bike ride might be in order tonight after the girl finally falls asleep.

XO

2011-06-06T20:11:00.000-07:00

Charlotte loves her cousin E, basically she loves boys. Like mother like daughter.

Dear God

2011-06-03T20:33:00.000-07:00

Tonight my sister is out with friends. I had the pleasure of tucking her little girl into bed. She wanted to say her own prayer.

Dear God in heaven, please keep my mama safe. I love her so much. Amen.

So sweet.

What I Bought at Target

2011-06-02T20:03:00.000-07:00

I have seen both Swistle and Katie post their Target purchases and like Sarah I am trying to blog more in June, so today you are getting my Target list. Feel free to play along too, who doesn't love Target?!
I fully realize this is the most practical and boring Target shopping trip ever. My savings account thanks me.

Huggies Diapers
Baby Orajel toothpaste & lavender tooth brush
Johnson & Johnson nighttime bubble bath
Method clementine hand soap
Method pink grapefruit hand soap refill bag
Shower puff
Sonicare refills
Nail file
White organic cotton sheets
Charmin TP
Cat litter
Cat food
Prilosec
Chuck Beef x2
Lint Roller
Creamer
Princess Tupperware x2

Grand Total = $166.68

Brain Fart

2011-06-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

I've been avoiding posting anything on here. Lately I don't feel like myself and frankly I don't feel like I have anything interesting to say.
But, I've enjoyed my staycation (I cringe saying that word) and being with my sister and niece and nephew. I've loved the heck out of being home with Charlotte and having lazy mornings around the house.
It's unofficially summer here. I wish the sun would get the memo. The forecast calls for a cool and wet June. I'm not excited about that.
I had my first hangover in 2 plus years this weekend. I must have drank a dozen glasses of white wine at my cousin's wedding. I danced all night long. The next day was hell.
Mr. S and I haven't been out exercising the last week or two.
Charlotte slept through the night for the first time last month. It was a fluke.
I finally cleaned today. I sleep better in a clean room.
We took Charlotte to her first parade over Memorial Day weekend. The fire engine horns and marching bands made her shake they were so loud. She loved the free popcorn.
My sisters and I went for lunch today at Olive Garden. I don't recommend taking a one, two and four year old with you if you'd like to catch up and relax over a meal.
That's it. Happy June!

Trivial Tuesday

2011-05-24T21:31:00.000-07:00

Drinking a gin gimlet.

Mr. S is better at making them than me.

Cupcakes in the oven, my favorite coconut cupcakes.

I'm making them for my cousin's rehearsal dinner Thursday night.

I found a dress in my closet to wear to the wedding.

But, I need new shoes.

We put up new "black out" curtains in Charlotte's room.

I'm hoping the curtains help her sleep later in the morning.

The 5 o'clock hour comes way too early.

Again, I'm off to read, only 10% of my book left.