Sweet Tea for Me

Blonde Brothers

2011-09-06T22:08:00.000-04:00

That is what Andy thought about naming his band. Music Maniacs is the other option. Aaron didn't like either one. It didn't help when I said they were both "cute." Who knew that after 3 weeks of guitar lessons, we'd be naming a band? Love that ambition. :)

Confessions of a Pixie Newbie

2011-08-03T23:33:00.001-04:00

Wow. I must admit I really wasn't prepared for that. I knew FREE dining would be a big deal. It's always been a big deal to me. But when you are working for other people- it becomes an even bigger deal. I prepared until the wee hours of the morning getting my stack ready and making sure I had everyone's info. I got up early to check all the sites for final dates and rules. I called in at 6:58. 6:59. 7:00. I got right in and figured I would be holding for 30 minutes or so. I really wasn't prepared for the 3+ hour hold. Wow. I really should have showered before this. I really should have had more than 4 hours of sleep. I really should have called from my cell phone. Lessons learned.

BUT- everything went off without a hitch. I got it for everyone in my stack- plus a few more. It was every bit as exciting as a big score on Black Friday. Snagging a Disney deal is my kind of fun. I love helping people stretch their Disney dollar. I love being a part of other peoples excitement and vacation plans. I love being a Pixie.

Back and Ahead

2011-08-02T10:08:00.000-04:00

July came and went with a blur. We slowed down one week to enjoy a nice relaxing vacation at Sunset Beach. Man we love that place. The weather was great, the waves were great (from the reclined position of my chair) and the company was great. We even had a vacation visitor that we all love. Thanks Miss Stacie for hanging with us. I like our beach chats.

I finally broke down and started using Google calendar. Life changing. Love love love it. I love the reminders, I love the color coding. I love how nothing has to be scratched out and it all lines up beautifully. As Martha would say, "it's a good thing." Having it on my new phone is an even better thing. We ordered Five Guys on Saturday just because "I have an app for that!"

The kids have had a million things on the calendar this summer too. Swim, drums, music, sewing, appointments, and always a bazillion extra kids at the house have made it go by even faster. But now it is August...the month of many changes. I am sooooo looking forward to the Disney trip (that'll get its own post soon) in a couple weeks but I am sooooo not looking forward to going back to school the following week. It'll be ok once we get back into the groove but man I love summer. I love the late nights. I love the grilling. I love the sun shining at 8pm. I just love the sun. School means that fall and those 6pm sunsets are around the corner. Blah. Is it too early to countdown to summer 2012?

Forever Reign

2011-07-26T00:11:00.002-04:00

My current favorite and daily prayer. Listen and worship.
And for any Baptists that might be reading this, it is even ok to lift your hands on this one.
I won't tell. ;)

Quotes of the Day & Other Smiling Times

2011-07-17T00:30:00.001-04:00

Andy- (when we drove onto the island) "Yes! This is where all the good stuff happens."

Aaron- "I have sand in all my nooks and crannies."

Maci helped Aaron pick out some Axe spray deodorant at Walgreens. They were smelling ALL of them. Contemplating. Aaron was really listening to Maci's opinions and Maci was really trying to help Aaron make a good choice on his deodorant scent. When did they get so grown up?

Later I taught the kids how to play Balderdash. We laughed so hard we probably disturbed the neighbors. They are really good at it. Andy wanted to learn too. He is still a little young to get the whole concept which made things even more entertaining. I could tell you all the stories but they really are those "had to be there kind." I'll just note this one so we'll always remember it...When it was Andy's turn to be the reader, he wrote down the correct definition and then mixed it in with our fake ones. He read all the "fake definitions" and then prefaced the last one with, "Now. Here's mine." Bless him. :)

Remember Me?

2011-07-13T02:23:00.000-04:00

I really don't have much to say. Yet I feel I should post. I feel I should just stand up and wave, "I'm still here." I know things have gotten crazy the last couple weeks. I'm working. Working. Working. But you know how people talk about when you are doing what you love, it doesn't seem like work. They are spot on. I haven't minded getting up early or staying up late. I thought I knew so much about Disney only to discover how much I have yet to learn. I thought I was confident in my writing skills only to be given an opportunity that makes me doubt. Yes. It has been a crazy couple of week. But in a good way. And I'm still here. I'm starting to find the groove. I really didn't have to stay up this late tonight. Except I had 2 All My Childrens, 2 One Life to Lives, and 1 Bachelorette to catch up on. I couldn't even start them until all the boys were in bed. Funny how those boys don't like watching any of those shows with me. Maci does though. We watched together. The soap opera legacy lives on...at least until September. Sigh. Yes, I heard the news about the internet...but do you really think Susan Lucci is going to settle for an internet soap? Not likely.

So. As I said, not much to say except that I'm still here. Keep the tea coming...

Follow Me Over Here!

2011-07-06T20:24:00.000-04:00

Blatant plug here. I started a Disney blog. Yep. You knew that was coming. Sweet Tea isn't going anywhere. This is still my personal 'journal, vent, share the love' blog.

All Mouse. All the Time however is going to be just that. All about Disney all the time. Please stop by. Please sign up to follow me. Please help spread the word.

Stepping off my blatant plug soap box now. Thank you.

Catching Up

2011-07-05T23:12:00.002-04:00

Yes, we do have some catching up to do. On one blog page I have birthday wishes for all 3 kids. That is a big indicator that I have been less than consistent in my blogging. Oopsie. I meant to. I have blog intentions.

Moving on...in case you didn't hear my screams of excitement or haven't seen my Facebook blast on the subject, I have officially become a Pixie! I am a Disney Vacation Planner for Pixie Vacations. If you know me at all, you know how thrilled this makes me to be a true "on the payroll" Disney vacation planner! I offer full concierge level services on all things Disney and there is NEVER a fee for the client.

Being a DVP is one thing but being on the Pixie team is what really pushed this over the edge of excitement for me. Pixie Vacations are known in the Disney realm. They have connections. They have special offers. They have webistes, blogs, and podcasts. Now I am a part of that "they." I don't even know if that made sense...I've had very little sleep since signing on.

I already completed the entire College of Disney Knowledge. I've learned about marketing, Florida and California destinations, the cruise line, and am now working on training for Disney's Hawaiian resort- Aulani. It's been a bit of a whilrwind but I do love it.

So....Disney anyone?

Happy Birthday Maci Joy

2011-07-02T02:22:00.001-04:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Aaron's Birthday 6/22/11

2011-06-22T13:07:00.002-04:00

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

From Pastel to Pop!

2011-05-29T14:35:00.001-04:00

Work Ahead

2011-05-27T00:18:00.002-04:00

I've been told I create work. I've even been compared to Lucy Ricardo! Like I just sit around and think of things to do? Well. That isn't exactly how it happens...

Last Saturday I came upstairs to take a shower. We'd been to the gym, Lowes, and then in the yard -- I needed that shower badly (way way badly) but something in Aaron's room caught my eye. One thing led to another which ended with me cleaning out 2 closets and then deciding the boys needed to swap bedrooms. Right then. That minute- before my much needed shower. Yes, I do think I may have a touch of ADD and possibly OCD but the combination allows us to get some great things done at the house.

Anyway, we've never liked the color of the blue bedroom. After painting the gameroom (sunroom) it was the only pastel room in the house and Brad and I both detest pastels. Detest. Blech. Baby colors are for babies type detest. But we've lived with the blue for 16 months because a) we don't really like to paint and b) no one was ever in that room. We *called* it Aaron's room but he never actually spent time in there. He hung out in the playroom. He slept in the playroom. The blue room was basically just the drum room attached to the closet where he kept his clothes. (We couldn't let him use the closet in the playroom or else the other kids might figure out that he really had a sweet deal with two bedrooms.)

Andy originally got the big red and blue (bright- not pastel) room because of the really nice super hero fatheads that were already on the walls. It looks great and it was easy. It is also at the far end of the hall so we didn't often notice how crazy messy it can become. Last Saturday, I noticed. After spending way too much time trying to find the bottom on Andy's closet, I realized this child had much more space than he needed or could properly care for.

Time to move ~~Grandpa~~ Aaron into that space. ~~Grandpa~~ Aaron will keep it clean AND appreciate the space. Within a couple hours Andy was in the blue room (the pastel one- blech) and Aaron moved to the "men in tights room." ~~Happy Go Lucky~~ Aaron let us know the men in tights were really cramping his style and he'd like some assistance in the matter. That meant we'd need to move them to Andy's new room. AKA the blechy blue room. Are you following me here? Moving the men means first biting the bullet and painting the room. Goodbye baby blue- hello Bright Red and Some-funkycolor-name Yellow. :) And That is the work ahead. See now. Makes perfect sense. I didn't just *create* work. It just finds me.

I'd post before pictures but I haven't seen my camera since Aaron's drum concert at Stumptown Park... another blog for another day...so I trust you are imagining the before pictures and I'll try to find that camera soon to take the after pictures.

PS- Yes. I did eventually get that shower.

Thank God for Uniforms

2011-04-02T18:54:00.002-04:00

No, I never thought I would utter those words. But I did literally just thank God for uniforms. At least I know what Maci wears to school everyday- or at least in some variation. We just went through a 20 minute ordeal having her change clothes tonight before she left for SNS. (The Saturday night get together for middle schoolers at the Y) The denim skirt (whose is that anyway?!) and converse didn't work for me or her dad. She left in jeans.

After going through her closet and offering several suggestions I was told that her style is vintage. My style is prissy (or so I was told) and our styles just clash. That we can agree on.

It was like one of those scenes from the movies where I am picturing her as a 4 year old wishing I could still put her in those adorable red check seersucker dresses with the lady bugs on the bottom. No, I didn't say that outloud to her. I told her I appreciate her artistic abilities and style and I also like vintage. We need to go shopping together to find an artistic vintage look that fits her style but doesn't make her look homeless. She told me we will be going to Forever 21. I guess Dillards would be out of the question.

Coming Soon

2011-03-31T22:20:00.000-04:00

I know. I know. My promised pieces sometimes take months to appear- like the Christmas pics in February. But I am planning on the following blogs.

*Surviving the wisdom teeth- with little dignity.
*Mamakuh 2011. Best one yet I do believe.
*Brad's garden additions
*My new hair cutting career (can you call it a career when you only have 3 clients and no one pays you?)
*Countdown to all the important things...last day of school, beach trip that has yet to be scheduled, and Disney trip 2011 that has be scheduled
*A new installment (or 3) of "Corners"

There. It's in print. Now it has to happen. Eventually.

Learning to be a Pineapple

2011-02-18T18:32:00.001-05:00

Five years ago we drove away in the Durango.We left our hometown, fully aware that we were leaving behind everything and everyone we knew and loved. Excitement was mixed with apprehension. Yet we knew - KNEW- this was our journey. We knew we were being led to Charlotte, NC for a reason.

I looked for that reason almost daily the next couple of years. I expected God to open the sky and show me the plan- the reason. Time went on and I kept asking...what are we supposed to do in Charlotte? What impact are we supposed to have? I guess I expected it to be one big thing or one big event.

The last few months I've heard God answering me. But His answer is different than my expectations. We are here for a reason. But the reason is much more complex and yet much simpler than I ever imagined. We are here to live. We are here to love. We are here to grow- both as a couple and as children of God. We are here to raise our kids. We are here to care for others and be cared for by others. We are here to be pineapples. Yes, pineapples.

Our last Wednesday night in Oklahoma, Pastor Greg was preaching at COTM. He spoke about when he and his wife made the move to Tulsa. They left behind their friends and family as well. They had to. God wanted them to be pineapples and pineapples didn't grow where they were from. Sometimes God moves us to grow us. He moves us to give us the environment we need to become the person He knows we can be.

But even after 5 years, I'm a long way from being that pineapple. Right now I'm probably more like the generic brand of pineapple chunks. God has a lot work left to do in me. I know I mess up. I've messed up this week. I let my humanity seep out more than I let Jesus seep out.

But now I know. I know the reason. I know we are home. We'll happily continue living, loving, growing, raising, and caring. I'll keep striving to be that pineapple.

Greater things have yet to come and greater things are still to be done in this city...

Oopsie

2011-02-09T20:05:00.002-05:00

Is it bad to still be posting Christmas pictures the week of Valentines Day? I hate it when I am scrolling and see that I said I was going to post this or that and then totally forgot about it! My mind...I'm concerned. That's all I'm saying...I'm concerned.

The colors are sooo much brighter and poppier in person. Yes. I said poppier.

The elves got rowdy by New Year...

Traditional Christmas Eve Jammies opening

Christmas snow.

True Story

2011-02-08T19:37:00.001-05:00

Don't laugh at my 7 years sign. I so wish the whole monthly sign pictures had been invented when my kids were babies. I'm going to pretend that we've done this all along...

Anyway, 7 years ago-- four year old Aaron informed me "Baby Andrew is going to be born today." I was hopeful so we skipped church to go walk the mall. We walked and and walked. No Baby Andrew. We ate at Sonic. No Baby Andrew. We took an afternoon nap. No Baby Andrew. Finally I told Aaron that I didn't think he was going to be born that day- it was already almost 4pm. Aaron suggested that maybe Andrew forgot...he proceeded to climb up on the bed and lean over me to remind him. "Baby Andrew- today is your day to be born." He kissed me and hopped down. Such confidence. Feeling no contractions at all, I sent Aaron and Brad on to Awanas. (Maci was still napping) They had been gone about 15 minutes when I heard and felt that familiar POP. My water broke. Baby Andrew was going to be born that day after all!

Aaron's teacher was also pregnant. When he returned to school she asked when her baby was going to be born. Aaron looked at her very serious and said, "I don't know. I only knew about Baby Andrew."

True Story.

Happy Birthday Andy Bear.

Keys to Couponing

2011-01-31T05:48:00.000-05:00

#1 KNOW your prices- There are many ways to do a price book. You can keep it simple or really detailed. I'm still working on the best format for me but here is a great explanation of the price book AND a template to get you started from Centsablemomma.

#2- STOCK UP when the prices are at their rock bottom low. This means you need to get familiar with sale cyles. (hence the importance of the price book) I have learned to buy LOTS and LOTS canned veggies in November when they drop to 50cents (or less) per can. NEVER buy them when they are over 75 cents. I'm in the process here but what I have started to do is jot down when the big sales hit (like buy 1 get 1 on roast at HT) so I know how many to purchase in order to fill my need until the next sale.

#3- Know what you can get for FREE. You should rarely to never pay money for toothpaste or dental floss. If you aren't picky about brands you should also be able to get dishwashing soap, hand soap, and deodorant for free. There are some things I am a brand snob about (Charmin toilet paper for one!) I will probably never find Charmin for free but I can keep track and make sure I only buy it when it is priced at the bottom of the cycle.

#4- Stock up but don't overstock. I am fully aware that many die hards would disagree here (have you ever watched Extreme Couponing on TLC?) but I don't think anyone needs 500 toothbrushes. I don't care if they are free! The stockpile should be enough to keep you supplied until the next sale cycle not until the next millennium

#5- Treat it like a game. Maybe this is where I cross the line but there is a high that comes with walking out of the store with free (or incredibly cheap) products. What other high is legal, good for your finances, and doesn't harm your health in any way? Make it a game and celebrate your success by splurging in another area.

Some people save for the sake of saving. For me, I like to save money on the necessities so that we can have splurges in other areas. We love vacations. We love the beach. We love Disney. The coupon game makes those splurges even sweeter.

That's about as much knowledge as I have on the subject. I'm not one of the gurus out there but I think I know enough to be a decent gamer. What about you? Have any other tips to share?

Bargain Update

2011-01-30T06:27:00.002-05:00

I've recently renewed my couponing commitment. It was sorta like starting over because I had forgotten so many tricks. As I get back into it I am weeding out my sources. I have found that a good site basically has contributions from other good sites so you don't have to visit them all. Per Ashley's request- here is my updated hit list:

Deal Seeking Mom- This is an all time favorite. Mom has a little bit of everything. She is on top of it. The only con is the amount of posts. I suggest that you subscribe to her daily newsletter. This allows you to scan all her daily posts in your inbox. You don't miss anything AND you don't waste any time.

Coupon Teacher- Teacher does super matchups. I love that about her site! She covers both CVS and Walgreens as well as Harris Teeter. The only con is she doesn't cover Lowes Foods. In addition to the match ups she also posts coupon finds, freebies, and basic points of interest in the coupon world.***update--Coupon Teacher DOES cover Lowes Foods!***

I Heart the Mart- This guy has WalMart covered top to bottom. I snagged some fabulous deals on tissue paper, gift boxes, and other random Christmas stock from his tips. He has a great $1 section too. No cons with this site.

Totally Target- Just as the title suggests, this couponer keeps us up to date on all things Target. She covers other deals to an extent but it pretty much is all about Target. Thanks to her tips I have enough mac and cheese for the next 4 months. Some of it I paid a minimal amount for and some of it was FREE.

There are many many many other sites out there but these have become my main sources of info. I've also started a price list so that I can keep track of rock bottom prices. It's amazing how HT will advertise a "hot deal" that isn't as cheap as WalMarts daily price.

I'll give you some time to visit these sites and post my key couponing concepts tomorrow.

Thanks Lisa!

2011-01-29T11:26:00.000-05:00

While I would love to take credit for this find...it wasn't my find. Several days ago Lisa (whom I usually just call Crosby) sent me this link. It is an easy peasy set up. Weekly menus are available for an entire year- complete in a downloadable form WITH a shopping list that is divided by produce, meat, etc. etc. If only she had coupon match ups...
I know what you are thinking....and yes they do look like good recipes. They are simple and *normal type* foods. My love affair started when I read her post about Ro-Tel. Any chick that loves rotel is a friend of mine. The deal was sealed when I saw her recipe for 50s Prime Time meatloaf. Yep. THAT 50s Prime Time diner. Rotel and Disney- the way to my heart.
Head on over for a visit. Tiffany will have you cooking up something good every night this week!

Before / After

2011-01-11T11:22:00.000-05:00

I'll have to go back and see if I can find true "before" pictures. The mantel was brown when we moved in. We didn't waste any time painting that but it took awhile to figure out how we wanted to replace the tile/rock.

This wasn't an "easy" job. Removing the tile was tedious and difficult. However, it seemed easy as Brad moved on to getting the rock off the top. But ya'll know Brad- he gets it done! He gets it done right.

And here is the "after." We love love love it. I wish you could see the texture and variance of the stones in the picture. Some are marble. Some are black glass. Some are sea glass. The photos don't do it justice. (yes, I'm going to have to paint those tall candles...we're thinking of a crackled gold--but we can't get to Walmart today because of this ICE storm!!!)

A before close up...

and finally...a fireplace we love to go with a house we love!

Retro Banjos

2010-12-22T22:11:00.001-05:00

Here is a blast from the past...Christmas 2008. All the kids have changed since this was recorded but it is really hard to believe that sweet little baby voice at the end is Andy. The video and lights are courtesy of Lake Park's Dave and Lisa Brown. We love the show every year but I happen to think that 2008 year was the best. ;)

Dualing Banjos Introduction - Lake Park Lights 2008 from David Brown on Vimeo.

Tough To Be A Dog

2010-12-21T10:19:00.000-05:00

Spicy rests his head on a pillow and enjoys the fire. Lucy stops bothering G-mama long enough to pose for the picture. Yes friends, it is tough to be a dog at the Horner house. Someone should come rescue these pups.

Loser Loser

2010-12-14T20:07:00.001-05:00

In keeping with the loser theme, I just noticed I'm a day late in joining the Home Tour. Sorry Nester. I am a slacker. I do plan to join but it likely won't happen until the weekend. I still have 2 boxes of Christmas decorations on the floor in the craft room. (shhh...don't tell the neighbors...the wreaths on the windows make them think I have it all together.) In all honesty, I may not even put out anything else. I'm sorta feeling the "less is more" sentiment this year. We don't even have stockings hung. (gasp) Yes, I know. Here is the reasoning I gave to Mr. Traditions (aka Aaron): We always have the fireplace going. Our stockings might catch on fire, or at least melt. Here is some additional information that I withheld from Mr. Traditions: I don't like our stockings. I wanted new ones from Hobby Lobby. I was too cheap to buy them at the beginning of the season. Now they are gone. I'm still pouting.

If Only...

2010-12-12T19:28:00.002-05:00

If only the road to blogspot was paved with good intentions... I've had such good intentions of blogging. I have written several mental blog posts. Sadly I've lacked the follow through of actually typing them up. In my defense, I have been slightly ~~psychotic~~ concerned about finishing up this last class for my masters. As of today, I have turned everything in. I should be finished. I say *should be* because this is the week my professor looks through my portfolio and lets me know if there is anything else she needs from me. (please no...please no...please no) Grades should be posted by Dec. 27 and I anticipate that beautiful diploma to arrive shortly after the first of the year.

So. Sad day for me. I'm a blogging loser these days. But rest assured, we're still here. The Christmas wreaths are up so the southern hospitality patrol won't come knocking and the banisters look lovely. (thanks to Maci). I will post pictures. For real. Just not today...or tomorrow...maybe next weekend.

Happy Birthday Mr. Disney

2010-12-05T00:00:00.003-05:00

2010-11-27T23:13:00.005-05:00

I'm not a violent person and we never allow yelling in our house. But tonight the stars aligned... Oklahoma bedlam came to Charlotte television. I haven't watched a bedlam game in years. Years. That may be a good thing because tonight I have heard myself yelling at the tv a *teensy* little bit. Yelling phrases like "throw him down", "tear him up", and GET HIM!!!" The kids said, "Mom- why are you so growly?" Growly? No worries, it's just bedlam dear.

But honestly, must they play Boomer Sooner every freaking time those boys do the slightest little thing? Puh-lease. Just because OSU has a crappy fight song...how does that fight song go anyway?

So the game continues...Brad watches from upstairs. I watch from downstairs. This ensures a happy marriage after the 4th quarter.

I promise I'll keep my yelling to a minimum.

UPDATE- interceptions release me from that promise. stinking freaking piece of crap game.

UPDATE 2- Freaking play the entire game. I don't care who it is. I don't care what the score is. Play the whole game. Seriously. Other than that- good game!

Elf Vision

2010-11-27T22:07:00.000-05:00

Andy's favorite Christmas decoration is Santa's house. I picked the set up a few years ago from a "giveaway" pile at school. One mans trash has been Andy's treasure. He looks forward to playing with this little set every season.

This year, Santa's house is decorating the downstairs "powder room." Andy was opposed to this location for obvious reasons but he soon realized it was indeed a decent home. (and "there is a fan in there if you need it") He rearranges the elves often- its a new scene almost every time I visit the powder room.

Here is a picture of the most recent scene. Apparently one elf may have had a bit too much to drink. I'll keep you posted on the elf happenings as the season continues...

Aw Man...

2010-11-21T20:20:00.001-05:00

Don't you hate it when your pouting inadvertently turns into napping?

Its That Time of Year Again

2010-11-06T16:31:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone remembers my little spiel about the Happy Day shoppers vs the Sad Day shoppers from last year. If you would like to be a Happy Shopper, it is now time to start checking BF ads for the latest ad releases. Wal-Mart claims they are holding their ad until 11/21 but they also claim that they won't start the sale until 5am and we all know the end to that story. I'm still annoyed by the way.

As ads are trickling in I have already circled a couple things in Walgreens ad and just this morning I snagged the early Itunes gift card deal ($50 gift card for $35 at Walmart). Please don't tell my children.

So as much as I love summer- and I do love summer. Black Friday excitement will keep me warm for a little while.

I'm No Preacher...But Sometimes I Preach

2010-10-31T16:13:00.002-04:00

Love. Love. Love this worship song...my favorite part starts at 3:23-You make all things work together for my good. I'm going to hang out there for a minute....

"You make all things work together for my good." This is pulled straight from the Word (Romans 8:28) which means we can bank on it. Some people get hung up here on a misunderstanding. This verse does not imply that God puts junk in our lives so He can then make it good. WE put junk in our lives. We do that because of our sinful nature. Still don't believe me? Ask yourself--would YOU make your child sick just so you could give her medicine to make her better? Absolutely not. Then why would we believe a sovereign God would work way?

Let me say it again- WE bring the junk into our lives because of OUR sinful nature. But in God's goodness, He still loves us. He still chooses to take our junk and make it work for our good. Now please know we can't sit in our crap and expect God to make it a bed of roses. He won't. We have to acknowledge the crap, seek forgiveness, and turn from it. Then God WILL restore us. He WILL make ALL things work together for my good. His love never fails. There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning.

See why that is my new favorite worship song?

Listen and worhsip.

Woulda. Coulda. Shoulda

2010-10-28T19:08:00.001-04:00

I should be posting about the tragic state of education in this state but I don't feel like dealing with it right now.

I would have posted about it this morning when I was all fired up. --random side note-- I used to have a principal that would go around saying, "what is Mrs. Soandso all fired up about?" Do you know I have taught for 7 principals in 9 years. What does that you tell? See. I'm sure that tragic state of education post is on the horizon. Trust me. I'll get fired up again.

I could have had a profitable career in the travel industry. Darn you college algebra!

Disney Firsts

2010-10-24T17:42:00.001-04:00

One thing I wanted to be sure I jotted down is a list of "Disney Firsts" from our last trip. People ask how many times we are going to go to Disney or haven't we seen it all yet. The answers are "as many as we can" and "no- we haven't come close to seeing it all yet." There are always new things to do or see (or eat) at Disney. Always. So in our quest to discover more...we had quite a list of firsts...

Firsts in 2010
*Taking the Keys to the Kingdom Tour which included our first time to go backstage and even down into the utilidors.
*Behind the Seeds tour at the Land in Epcot.
*New restaurants- Columbia Harbour House, Ohanna, Rose and Crown
*Riding the boat from DHS to EPCOT.
*Making it to rope drop at DHS.
*Seeing the Kiss Goodnight at Magic Kingdom (twice!)
*Slowing down to watch some shows- Little Mermaid, Beauty & the Beast, and the film in France
*Strolling down Main Street to take time noticing the details- this was actually part of the KTTK tour but we promised each other we will make a true effort to slow down in the parks and enjoy the scenery.
*Experiencing Epcots Food and Wine Festival.
*Seeing Disney with fall decorations (very nice but not as magical as Disney at Christmas)

Even with all those firsts...we still have a Disney To Do list...
*Stay at the Contemporary
*Take family pictures in Canada (Epcot)
*Be at Epcot for rope drop
*Resort hop to visit Animal Kingdom Lodge, Boardwalk, & Pop Century
*Eat at Sci Fi
*Eat the bakery in France
*Have a Dole whip
*Stay in a Magic Kingdom room at the Contemporary & watch the fireworks from our balcony
*Watch Fining Nemo at Animal Kingdom
*Go to that Conservation area at Animal Kingdom (I actully don't like Animal Kingdom...but if I have to go there...I need to see these areas)
*Draw Minnie Mouse at the animation studio
*See all of Downtown Disney
*Spend a little bit of time at Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach (ok, so this isn't on my to do list...but it is on the kids)
*Take the Epcot backstage tour
*Take the Walt tour
*Stroll instead of sprint
*Stay awake during the Hall of Presidents presentation
*Watch them retire the flag at dusk at Magic Kingdom
*Make my kids watch the 360 degree Canada film like I remember having to do as a kid.
*Ride the Astro Orbiters (I chicken out every.single.time because of the height!)

See. We do need to go back next year. And the next. And the next...

That Boy...

2010-10-19T20:58:00.000-04:00

First he tells us about a dream he had. It involved disco lights, dancing, and "good outfits." Then he tells us his prayer request (that he gave his group leader during his small group)- he asked for them to pray that he'll go to a college on the beach.

Today he was rocking a tie with his t-shirt.

Confidence? Check.

Style? Check.

Worried like crazy about this kid? Check.

Things My Mother Has Taught Me

2010-09-22T22:28:00.001-04:00

In no particular order....
#1. Never return a pan empty.
#2. Babies should nap in their beds.
#3. Wear shoes during a thunderstorm.
#4. Rats make nests in messy drawers.
#5. Always run a sink of soapy water when you're cooking.
#6. Always ask yourself "what would Grandmama think..."
#7. You just feel better when the refrigerator is cleaned out.
#8. Downsize leftovers frequently. (must be tied to #7)
#9. Red fingernail polish makes people think you are a floosy (aka- a Jezebel).
#10. Never. Never whisper in public. Never.
#11. Don't call people after 10 pm.
#12. Watch who brings in what food at a covered dish party.
#13. Your jewelry pieces should never add up to more than 10. Each earring counts separately.
#14. Your hose should never be darker than your shoes.
#15. Floss.
#16. Gargling with warm salt water solves a myriad of problems.
#17. Underwear should be white cotton.
#18. Cake in milk is a perfectly acceptable breakfast choice.
#19. Garages are for your cars- not your junk.
#20. Make your bed.
#21. ASDFJKL;

Simply for Grandmamas entertainment---Andy wanted to add the things he has learned-
"I have air coming out my pants!"
"We gotta put clothes on when we get home- you naked people."

Happy birthday Mother!!!

Note to Self

2010-09-19T16:25:00.002-04:00

This is your life.
Be purposeful.
With your family.
With your job.
With the dreams that you are living.
With the dreams you're still trying to capture.
With the people you allow to speak into your life.
With your attitude.
With your time.
With your finances.
In everything.
Be purposeful.
This is your life.

Birthday Wishes

2010-09-15T06:25:00.003-04:00

Wow. It kinda feels like birthday season again. Today is my sister's birthday. I'd calculate her age but she'd probably rather I not. Let's just say she is ~~old~~ older than I am. She would want me to clarify that the above picture was taken during our girly tea party at the beach last summer. She wouldn't normally be wearing a green boa...or that hat.

Happy birthday Connie! Love you bunches...see you soon.

Coffee in Heaven

2010-09-11T08:53:00.000-04:00

In the past 3 weeks, my family has lost my aunt Delores on my dad's side and my uncle Jimmy on my mom's side. Both losses were pretty unexpected- certainly we weren't prepared for them. As a Christian we know this isn't the end. But as a human it is an awfully difficult time to endure.

These are the times it really really sucks to be 1000 miles away. I also find it difficult to grasp the reality of the situation when I'm not there. Maybe that's how I protect myself a little bit...

Today I am focusing on the picture that Grandmama has Jimmy's company running in the daisies and I firmly believe they will be continuing the Sunday coffee tradition in the morning. Oh yes. There is coffee in heaven you know.

Lots of Love

2010-09-09T21:00:00.001-04:00

I love this picture. I love that boy and I love that girl. And man oh man does my boy love that girl! Happy birthday my dear Stacie!

Legal Again

2010-08-30T17:51:00.001-04:00

For those of you that were concerned...and I know there were many....I'm no longer driving with an expired license. I know the little angry man at the Kansas City airport would be happy.

I spent my 40 minutes of wait time studying for the signs test. I seriously studied. But just so you know- that test is a rip off. Do you know what this sign is?

Me either! The lady tried to tell me it was the railroad crossing sign. What the heck? I told her that in the real world the railroad sign has a big X across it. She said "well this is a shape recogniton test." Lady- I teach kindergarten. I know my shapes! Fortunately missing one won't fail a person.

More good news- I don't have to worry about renewing again until 2018.

Little Paws Apparel

2010-08-25T17:12:00.001-04:00

I found this talented lady on Ebay and wanted to share! Here is the link for Little Paws Apparel. That is her blog. Here is her ebay store. Soooo many cute things for those of us with little furries around. (big furries too!) You know I will be posting pictures of Lucy in her zebra harness with matching bow as soon as they arrive!

Ok. Ok. Ok. I'll Go Back.

2010-08-25T06:32:00.001-04:00

and for this reason....we must return. Happy Back to School.

Holy Tea Cups

2010-08-22T20:59:00.001-04:00

Now they are saying the Teacups will also be down for refurbishment during our trip. First Its a Small World, then One Man's Dream, and now Mad Tea Party. I think I deserve a partial refund.

Funniness

2010-08-16T15:47:00.001-04:00

Nester featured this blogger last week and she has quickly become one of my favorite reads. This made me laugh out loud. Truly. Like shaking the bed because I was trying to hold it in because it was late at night and Brad was sleeping next to me kind of laugh out loud.

What? More puppy talk?!

2010-08-13T10:22:00.001-04:00

I know. I should get a grip and post about something else but I'm up to my eyeballs in puppy training. (if you aren't in to puppies or puppy training you can stop reading now) I wish I had blogged about Spicy's progress as a pup so I would have a reference for Lucy.

We've learned alot about Lucy. She plays hard and then when she is tired she will climb into her bed and sleep hard. She likes to bury her head to block out light when she naps. She prefers to sneak a piece of Spicy's kibble than eat her own. She has adjusted very well to sleeping in the crate at night. She sleeps all night amazingly. Unfortunately I wake up multiple times to check on her. She is learning her name and comes pretty well too. When I read over that, it sounds easy. Let me tell you- it isn't. Puppies are sooooooo rewarding but they are also sooooooo much work. The kids "take shifts" to watch her and Aaron has especially taken an active role in "raising her."

Spicy is doing quite a bit better with her. They aren't friends yet but he is learning that she isn't going to hurt him. They both had check ups yesterday. Spicy weighed 11.3 and Lucy is still 2.8 lbs. Spicy had to get a couple shots AND have his microchip inserted. He was a real trooper. Brad told him how proud he was of him many times. Many times. It was cute.

Like a baby...you have to get things done while the puppy sleeps. So...I'm going to get some homework done. Yuck. Good news though- I will be inbetween classes during the Disney trip. (thank goodness!) and I will be totally finished in December. I can't even tell you how glad I will be to be finished. Again, sooooo rewarding but sooooo much work.

Just a few more pics...

2010-08-10T13:12:00.001-04:00

Oh, she is a sassy girl.

She really wants to play with Spicy but...

Spicy in his "safe place" on the couch....feeling a bit pouty.

Introducing...

2010-08-09T23:22:00.001-04:00

Lucy McBee Horner

Born May 25, 2010

Currently 11 weeks and 2lb 8 oz.

When Maci and I finally talked Brad into a *little* girl, we went on the search for another fabulous breeder. We found one!!! Miss Melissa and Mr. John from Mustardseed Meadows have been in breeding for 20 years. We knew right away that this was a fit. We brought Lucy (and all the goodies Melissa sent with her!) home tonight.

From doing the research, we knew to introduce her to Spicy on neutral territory. We arranged a meeting at the gazebo behind the house. Lucy was ready to play right away. Spicy was not so sure. He is afraid of this tiny little girl. We're easing into it slowly and I believe they will be best friends- eventually. And as long as Spicy does everything Lucy wants. Brad has now declared that Spicy is "his" dog. Like we didn't already know that.

I can't wait to get pictures of them together....can you imagine....teacup with teapot!

Pop Quiz

2010-08-09T10:20:00.003-04:00

Can you speak low country? Aaron and I were doing some research on how to pronounce "McBee," (a small little town in South Carolina known for its peaches and speed traps.) Not only had we been pronoucing it incorrectly all this time but we've been pronouncing many of these names like a big ol yankee outsider. I'm shocked that the southern police (the same ones that come get you if you don't have your wreaths hung in all the windows by the first weekend in December) haven't stopped by with a large pitcher of sweet tea and a long lesson in low country. Quiz yourself.

McBee            =    MAC bee
Belin              =    BLANE (I so would have said bell in)
Cheddar         =    SHED ur (Andy would've gotten that one right.)
Clinton           =    Clin on (do they not see that t?)
Huger             =     HU gee (again, see that r?)
Lancaster      =     lank uh ster
Legare           =     le GREE
Newry           =     NEAR ree
Tammassee   =    tuh MAH see

I guess this explains Wingate (wing it) Pineville (pine vul) too.  Oklahoma has some crazy town names(Tahlequah, Oologah, Muskogee) but at least we utlize phonics.

Testing Sucks But...

2010-08-06T12:51:00.000-04:00

we still rocked it! Scores are in. Love it or hate it scores in North Carolina are of HUGE importance. Being a new school this year we didn't have a baseline so I had no idea what to expect. We had great results. 87.3% was our rocking number. That places us as a school of distinction and is less than 3% away from the highest honor- school of excellence. 2010-2011 is our year. Way to go Patriots!

Help Wanted

2010-08-05T00:43:00.000-04:00

I've gone back and forth on whether or not to blog on this. The Bible says not to boast about fasting...it should be a private thing. However, when a church is doing a fast together part of that silence is lifted. And believe me, this isn't boasting...this is begging for help! In this particular case, our church is getting prepared to start the Daniel Fast. Brad and I are participating and I want you to help keep me accountable in this. I am quite the carnivore. I drink coffe- with milk- every morning. Every. Single. Morning. This is going to be a struggle. The basics of the Daniel fast are to have a diet of fruit and vegetables. We will omit meat, dairy, sugar, and heavily processed foods. I say heavily processed because Brad and I have decided we will eat whole grain bread and some canned vegetables. Does that make us less holy? I actually don't think so.

I'm going to be really honest here (when am I ever NOT really honest on here?) but I've never fully understood how a fast is helpful in seeking God because I would think one would be soooo totally focused on food that nothing else would consume their thoughts. I am trusting to come out of this experience with new beliefs and knowledge in this area.

So, if you happen to be a blog reader that prays for us, please pray heavily from August 8th-August 21st. We start at 6pm on the 8th...so yes...you will see me with coffee at church Sunday morning. Please don't think I have already fallen off the wagon by 10am!

If you have participated in the Daniel fast and have encouragement (AND RECIPES) to share...please send them our way.

No Mother, the kids aren't participating. They will still get all the milk and meat they need. They might see a few new vegetables around here though.

Creatures of Habit

2010-08-02T21:05:00.001-04:00

Thanksgiving 07 above and Summer 08 below

Summer 2010 above and Summer 2008 below

Is it just me or has Maci changed the most?

This & That

2010-07-31T14:38:00.001-04:00

Just random thoughts today...

My lips are sunburned. I hate it when that happens. It hurts like a big dog. I got all kinds of stuff to put on them but most of it says to contact poison control if its swallowed. Would that be a concern to anyone else?

We ate at Bucas last night. Crazy place. Next time we are going to make reservations for the table in the kitchen. That looked way fun. I'm thinking that'll be a good night of entertainment the next time my parents are in town. Super good food too.

We spent an hour in the Disney store last night. 56 days...until the REAL Disney store.

Andy bought some Toy Story stuff. I swear we had all of it before though. Like 10 years ago. If only we'd known we needed to prepare for the comeback.

Boarhead Cajun turkey = yummo. I'm not sure what kind of mustard to put with it though. Honey dijon wasn't the right choice.

July is my very favorite month and today is the very last day. Goodbye July. I will miss you dearly.

Summer at Sunset

2010-07-29T11:57:00.002-04:00

See. That was a teensy tiny little break. We are home already. I dusted the sand off the camera. Literally. Here are a few pictures from Sunset. As I looked through the pictures I realized they look just like last year...and the year before that...then I realized that is kinda a cool because it highlights our traditions. We did have some firsts this summer though...

Maci had her first try of sushi. She liked it...now Brad will have a full time sushi eating buddy. Great.

We skipped Margaritaville for Yamatos and it was a good swap.

Brad and I biked to the beach early one morning. 40th Street Access doesn't have stairs but it does have some hills. Holy crap I am out of shape.

Maci and I trekked all the way around the island. We survived some treacherous landscaping to get it done but we made it!

We went to the Planetarium!

We found a fabulous deli that will be a new tradition.

Happy Summer!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

A Teensy Tiny Little Break

2010-07-26T14:08:00.004-04:00

My July blog run has been good! So good I felt I could harass some other bloggers on their recent slackedness. (like that word? I don't know if it is a word but I'm calling it one)

However, this is the last of my pre blogs so I must admit...I'm actually not even at home right now. Yes, this is a previously recorded blog. We are beaching it for a few days so I'll be back to live blogs in a few with a much better tan and few pictures to share. See you then.

Just Save It

2010-07-25T10:52:00.002-04:00

I don't remember when or how but one time I stumbled into this site. Save that link. Super fabulous information we all should have access to.

No, that isn't my grandma up top. I don't know who that is actually. I just googled "vintage Grandma" and I thought she looked like a winner. Much better than this one.

I'm sure she is a lovely lady and all but that sweater choice would make me second guess any advice she had to offer.

A Little Summer Redo

2010-07-23T13:58:00.000-04:00

It's hot. Like super hot. That means I had to go shopping for a summer conforter. We have a great raging red winter set that I adore but it's hot. So I went to TJMaxx (love that place) and picked up a dandy Ralph Lauren set for well under $100! Cha-ching.

To complete the redo I had to take down the red curtains. The "new" curtains are mistreatments. $5.99 pillow cases from another favorite store- Target (read that with the fancy accent). The rods were ~~stolen~~ borrowed from Brad's office. Which works perfectly because the old red curtains are now in Brad's office. His old curtains? They are in my bathroom. Did you follow? That my friend is called "shopping the house" which is my other favorite place to shop.

Before you take a peek at the pics let me apologize (yet again) for my lack of photog skills. Our bedroom is loooonnngg and kinda skinny. Which works well for me to fulfill a life long dream of a corner/diagonal bed- but it isn't great for taking pictures. It also means I have a big empty space at the other end of my bedroom...anyone want to donate furniture to the cause?

Before- Raging Red

After- Summer Blue

The little stairs are for Spicy. Honest. Here is proof. He is spoiled rotten.

The Hippie Chick

2010-07-22T19:06:00.000-04:00

So we've already covered the fact that many of you are no longer blogging. I had no choice but to move on. I even deleted some of you from the list. It's not personal. It's business. (Yes, that is from You've Got Mail) No updates. No linky for you.

In my quest to find some linky worthy blogs I started with Jana's list. I went down the whole thing. Many (most) of them bored me. It's not personal. I bore easily. But one of them- one of them is funny. It's Aud's blog and it is funny I tell you. I also noticed she goes to The Nester. That settles it. Any friend of The Nester is a friend of mine. So even though I don't really know this self proclaimed hippie girl (although I think I maybe I was at her house for a shower once??)I'm adding her to the Linky list.

And Aud...if you ever read this...don't do the home birth in the bathtub...even hippie chicks gotta draw the line somewhere sweetie.

Hey, Where Did Everyone Go?

2010-07-21T20:22:00.001-04:00

Look over there at the blogs I read section...it is a sad day. Out of the 13 or so blogs listed only 3 are even updated anymore. Not naming names but some of you have small children or are newlyweds or recently moved or all of the above. You have lots of blogging material. What's the deal? Doesn't anybody blog anymore?

I know the "pros" like Nester and Vintage are still kicking but where are the rest of you? It's too quiet...I see you reading but no one is talking back to me anymore...Hello? Hellllloooo? Is this thing on?

Trash & The Grouch

2010-07-20T23:51:00.004-04:00

Let me preface this with a defensive statement-- In all of my adult life, I have never ever had a separate bill for trash collection. Never.

In Oklahoma it was included on our electric bill. I never gave it a thought. In Lake Park it was included in our tax bill. (I assume) So again I never gave it a thought. For the first 5 1/2 months in this house I never gave it a thought. And then...it happened. We got skipped. Humph. That wasn't nice. We only have pick up once a week so we had alot of extra trash coming into the following week. Guess what. We were skipped again! This time ~~Oscar~~ Brad was none too happy. He called the trash people and demanded an explanation. They gave him one. We aren't customers.

WHAT? We've lived here for almost 6 months and our trash has been taken every week for 6 months (minus the last 2). We asked if possibly the previous owners had paid in advance and it just ran out. They said no. They say our address isn't even in the system. What inthetrashcollectingworld is going on here. Apparently we scored free trash collection for quite some time. I don't think it is considered stealing when we didn't know we were supposed to be paying. Do you?

Another week has passed. As I type, ~~Oscar~~ Brad is hauling a crapload of trash to the curb AND placing a little envelope with a check enclosed under the door mat. That is our peace of mind that tomorrow morning all the trash will be taken away.

If not...the kids and I are going to have to bury it in the back yard before Brad gets home. He really (really) will lose it if we have to hang on to 3 weeks of trash. Really.

:::UPDATE:::

They took the trash. They dropped off a recycle bin. The check is still under the mat. 5 more free months? Kidding!!!

Mrs. Brown's Shrimp Fettuccine

2010-07-20T13:12:00.001-04:00

1 package fettuccine
1 1/2 lbs shrimp (peeled, deveined- I use frozen)
1/2 c unsalted butter (or you could substitute extra virgin olive oil)
1/4 c minced fresh parsley (or 2T dried)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
2T lemon juice
2T chicken brother
1/2 t salt
1/8 t pepper
1/2 c shredded parmesan cheese

Then my additions to the recipe...
1 bag of fresh spinach
small container of cherry or grape tomatoes (cut in half)

Cook noodles as directed. In a large skillet saute shrimp in the butter for 4 minutes. Add parsley, garlic, lemon juice, broth, salt, & pepper.

Add the spinach handfuls at a time so it can wilt. Add the tomatoes at the end. Stir a bit more until the tomatoes look right. (I don't know...that's just the kind of cook I am...eyeball it.)

Drain the noodles and put them in a large bowl. Pour the shrimp mixture over them. Mix with 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese.

Voila. Mrs. Brown's yummy spinach fettuccine- with a summer twist.

The Science of Snacks

2010-07-19T13:35:00.002-04:00

So initially you may think that researching where to use your Disney snack credits is a bit over the top. But I gotta tell you- not all snacks are created equal. With the dining plan every person receives one snack credit per day. If these aren't strategically planned out, one might waste their credit on Coke, popcorn, or bagged cookies. A little bit of research will lead you to The Disney Food Blog- the Bible of all things food Disney. Before long you will be salivating over something like this chocolate peanut butter cupcake from Disney's Hollywood Studios. It's ok. Go ahead...scroll and drool. I'll wait.

Yes, that would be chocolate shavings on top of peanut butter icing on top of chocolate cake with more peanut butter icing in the center. Of course if you are some alien being and don't find the combo of chocolate and peanut butter to be the end all of all snacks. There are many more options. Like this runner up for me...

The carrot cake cookie available at The Writers Shop (also in DHS). Yummo.

Another option- the Butterfinger cupcake.

Moving to EPCOT...here is our very own snack try from Sunshine Seasons (along with Brad's counter service meal).

This was butterfinger cheesecake, strawberry shortcake, and chocolate cake.

Now, you understand why snack research is essential. Plan wisely and you can eat your way through the World. (for free!!!)

I beg of you- for the love of all things Disney- do not waste a snack credit on Dr.Pepper!

Christmas in July

2010-07-18T12:32:00.001-04:00

You know how the first Christmas in a new house is so exciting- I'm in that zone right now. I have a great banister that will need lots of garland and lots of "stuff" stuck in it. Luckily, I bought *lots* of garland at Hobby Lobby last year- dirt cheap- AFTER Christmas. I love it when that happens!

It's the "stuff" I need ideas for. I know clear twinkle lights are a given. What else though? I don't want fancy or fru fru. I want fun and bright, bold colors. Have you seen our house? It is bright, bold colors. I was thinking a candy theme possibly...I've been searching online but I haven't found "it." The decorating will begin in roughly 4.2 months. I gotta get this together.

Here are a couple more views. Don't you love how Spicy thought that top picture was all about him?

The Office- Horner Style

2010-07-17T11:50:00.002-04:00

Not sure that I've posted a picture of Brad's office before. Partly because I'm never happy with my pictures. The realtor for this house did such a great job showing the rooms. I can not. Imagine. French doors for the opening. 2 book cases on the left wall. 2 windows on the right with a chalkboard/memo holder in between. Pretty (in a manly way) stuff on the walls. My man sitting at his desk with the laptop, his phone, and a mound of paperwork. That's my view most afternoons. I love it. Home office. Fabulous concept.

How To: Disney

2010-07-16T11:59:00.005-04:00

Sure. You could get a basic package, grab a guide map at the entrance, and wing it. You could do that. That's just not how I do it. When I do Disney- there is alot involved. The travel dates are strategically picked based on crowd records, weather trends, and current promotions. This September will be our 2nd trip not paying for any food. That is not a coincidence.

I price everything. I book everything. I settle on ADRs (advance dining reservations) as early as possible. (Disney dining can be booked 180 days out.) Meals are planned according to park happenings. You wouldn't want to be in EPCOT on the night Spectromagic is happening at Magic Kingdom :gasp:

I buy the best guide book ever. I write down all ADR confirmation numbers on the corresponding date page. I highlight the attractions of utmost importance. Then I put together daily touring plans based on variables such as EMHs (extra magic hours), park hours, parades, fireworks, and our family must do list.

All of this is done WEEKS in advance. Weeks. Has to be. Planning ahead makes the last few days before the trip open to just plain excitement.

Upon arrival, grab the daily itinerary and set yourself on autopilot. Does everyone not have a DisneyWorld autopilot button? I thought it was standard issue. If you don't have that button, you should travel with someone that does. That is the only way to see it all. Do it all. Experience it all.

When you pass under the train station...it is pure magic. Turn the corner. Wait for it...wait for it...ahhh...there it is- your first glimpse of The Castle. Be sure to have cameras ready if it is anyones first time to see the castle.

I promise you- this is the point where Tinkerbell sits on your shoulder and whispers, "Welcome home." What? You've never heard her? You better go back and listen again. She is a quiet little thing.

So. That's it. That's how I do Disney. Sure, it takes time and energy and work. Doesn't everything worth having take time, energy, and work? But at the end you will be rewarded with fabulous family time, a vacation to end all vacations, and memories to talk about for years.

The Business Woman

2010-07-16T11:37:00.004-04:00

Maci and Moriah had a little lemonade stand the other day. They made some money and memories in the process. Just good ol fashioned summer time fun.

Whaaaaaat???

2010-07-13T09:29:00.003-04:00

I almost had a panic attack seeing all the Back to School stuff at Target last night. What are they talking about- back to school?? Then it hit me. They don't mean "me." They are talking about those poor unfortunate souls that have year round school. They go back in less than 2 weeks. I am safe for another 6.

Whew. That was a close one.

So Thats How They Do It

2010-07-12T16:09:00.002-04:00

Who knows exactly where this pumpkin might be found? The answer of "Disney World" is not specific!

Wondering

2010-07-10T15:26:00.003-04:00

I was talking with a friend recently who was upset with herself for being annoyed about something that really shouldn't annoy her. Sadly I know all too well what she means. I've found myself angry or annoyed or even hurt by things that I really should have just let go of immediately. I do wonder why we are like that. Is it a girl thing? Guys don't seem to get annoyed nearly as often. Are they better at getting over things or are they simply better at pretending to?

Summer Television

2010-07-09T12:47:00.004-04:00

Summer is the time I catch up on daytime television. I mostly stick to Discovery Health and TLC with a bit of The Travel Channel thrown in for good measure. I don't watch any of the wedding shows...Rock the Receptions, Say Yes to the Dress, and all that mess does not interest me. I do however watch every episode I can of Birth Day, A Baby Story, Deliver Me, and Adoption Stories. Will I ever "outgrow" this stage? I hope not.

Let me just say if you can watch an episode of Adoption Stories without crying- check your pulse. That one gets me every time.

Those docs on Deliver Me are way to intervention happy but I am still oh so jealous of them. Who wouldn't want to be an OB with two of your best friends?!

A Baby Story is better than it used to be. They are adding more baby and less story. I like that. For me, it's all about the birth. I don't care how you met or what your nursery is going to look like. Just tell me about the birth. (I am pretty good at predicting outcomes after the first 5 minutes of the show by the way.)

Next week Discovery Health is premiering NICU during their Baby Week. I soooo can't wait for this one.

Does it ever occur to anyone else that I am really in the wrong profession?

Every Home Needs One...or Two...

2010-07-07T13:33:00.006-04:00

We have 2 utility sinks. One is in the laundry room and one in the garage. I love love love them both. In fact I just got finished rinsing out paint brushes and rollers in the laundry room sink. I have no idea why the previous owners wanted two...but I have been surprised at how often we use them both. At the risk of sounding like the Lowes man, I went ahead and priced them for ya. The one pictured above runs just over $100. Bargain I tell you!!! Still not convinced? Here are some of the uses I have found for mine.

*Clean the grill equipment without worry of scratching the pretty sink.

*Wash the dog- its nice and deep- (and not as yucky as using the kitchen sink)

*Scrub shoes in it.

*Work on laundry stains.

*Rinse out anything dusty, dirty, or just yucky.

*Wash hands/clean up after yard work before you go into the house.

*Rinse out paint brushes/rollers. Or set a paint brush here in a cup of water to use later- I do this ALOT and no one (Brad) even yells at me because it's in the utility sink!

There you have it. Totally random post- I know. But once you get one, you'll thank me!

Maci's 13th Birthday

2010-07-02T18:53:00.002-04:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Sleepy

2010-06-26T10:03:00.003-04:00

Being birthday season around here, there has been quite a bit going on. Like last night we had 439 boys spend the night for Aaron's birthday. What? You don't believe it was 439? I was awake all night listening to them run and laugh and play games and theorize about how the hover craft works. Trust me. It was 439. Who knew they were going to stay up ALL NIGHT LONG? I certainly didn't. Aaron is a bit of an old man. Early to bed- early to rise kind of guy. I mistakenly thought that would mean easy breezy (quiet) night. Whatthecrapever.

Anyway. The night is over. The 439 extra boys are gone. I have surveyed the damage and actually they are more loud than destructive. I don't see any major issues...unless they hid some broken something... I am a huge bit sleepy and a slight bit grumpy. But hooray for me....next week we do it all again with 439 girls!

Aaron's Birthday

2010-06-22T12:42:00.002-04:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Refurbishment Trouble

2010-06-19T00:53:00.005-04:00

Brace yourself. Walt Disney- One Man's Dream will be closed for refurbishment August 16- November 2nd. Sad sad day for us because our trip falls smack in the middle of that refurb time. This is one of those inspiring, educational attractions that everyone must sit through. Multiple times. Learning of Walt's journey...how it really didn't all start with a mouse...how he was such a risk taker...believing in his dreams. Beautiful. Some have even been known to get a bit teary during the film at the end. (Don't tell Brad I told you.)

Also disturbing...It's a Small World will be on the refurb schedule during our visit as well. That is most disappointing for baby Cade. He will be at the perfect age to enjoy the simplicity of the attraction- and not be left humming that song for the rest of the day.

Don't worry family...I have a plan. If I start now- perhaps I could whip up several multicultural puppets and we could put on our own version of Small World for CaderTot. Anyone have a boat? Practice the song people....practice the song.

Yum-O

2010-06-17T15:36:00.002-04:00

Magazines PILE up around here during the school year. I never even flip through them until summer is looming. Then, I mark them. I go through the Kraft Food and Family ones first and mark all the new recipes I am going to try before school starts. I love those recipes because they are for real people with real lives and real kids- kids that will offer their real opinions.

Aaron and I began by working on this one together. Of course we started with a dessert! They call these "Buckeye Bars" but we just call them Peanut Butter Squares. YUM-O.

What you need:
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
3/4 cup crunchy peanut butter
22 NILLA Wafers, crushed
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 of 8-oz. tub COOL WHIP Whipped Topping (Do not thaw.)
3 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate

LINE 8-inch square pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides. Beat butter and peanut butter with mixer until blended. Mix in wafer crumbs. Gradually add sugar, mixing well after each addition. Press onto bottom of pan.

MICROWAVE COOL WHIP and chocolate in microwaveable bowl on HIGH 1 min.; stir. Microwave 15 to 30 sec. or until chocolate is melted; stir until blended. Spread over peanut butter layer.

REFRIGERATE 2 hours. Use foil handles to lift dessert from pan before cutting to serve.

Did I mention YUM-O? Recipe courtesy of Kraft Food & Family

Corners

2010-06-16T21:11:00.001-04:00

I am really enjoying this corner of the house. It is in the front room. We call it the front room because it's in the front of the house and I refuse to have a "formal living room." I'm just not a "formal living room" kind of girl. We love the Welch's idea of a media room but we don't currently have any media equipment so that name didn't stick. The kids call it the empty room...which is pretty true...except it is home to my favorite chair.

The chair just happens to totally match the drapes. People say God doesn't care about such fashionista things but when I found this chair I knew better. God must enjoy fabric harmony.

The Mud Room

2010-06-15T20:57:00.003-04:00

At the "old house" I put all the kids' artwork on the walls of my closet. In the "new house" I'm hanging it all in the laundry room. I think it is adorable.

As a side note, I tried to call this space "the mudroom"- just because I've always wanted a mud room I guess. Also because there is a sink in there and I think that qualifies it as a mudroom. But the name didn't stick. No one else called it "the mudroom." And when I would say something was in the "mudroom" they would always say, "Huh? You mean the laundry room?" So there you have it. Cute art on the wall of the ~~mudroom~~ laundry room.

My Class 2009-2010

2010-06-14T20:36:00.001-04:00

Finally. A way to post my kids without breaking any privacy laws. Here are 17 of my 21 loves from this year. 1 was absent and 3 were too cool to participate. Sad day for them. On this particular day we were celebrating flip flops. We do that sort of thing in my class. It wasn't even my idea actually. But still. We do that sort of thing in my class. We do educational things too of course.

Aaron...

2010-06-13T20:40:00.001-04:00

Seems like we went from this...

to this....

to this....

and this...

in the blink of this...

Congratulations Patriot of Academics! Off to middle school you go!!!

Pre Blogging

2010-06-12T20:50:00.004-04:00

I'm preblogging for the next few days. So far I have completed the entry below about Gracie, one on my class, a crafty idea, and one for Aaron's graduation. They'll post over the course of the next few days. Is this cheating? Maybe. But at least I will make my newly sanctioned blogging quota for the month. I've been such a blogging slacker lately.

PS- Don't you just LOVE my new chalkboard stand thingy?! I LOVE LOVE LOVE it! Found it on clearance at Kirklands Home. I almost bought two. I don't need two but I love it that much! It's two sided by the way. (Kirklands off Providence Rd. by On the Border...hurry...go get one!)

Love and Gracie

2010-06-12T20:26:00.004-04:00

Andy remained "single" for awhile as his heart mended after Stacie's wedding but you know the song....you can't keep a good man down. The love bug has bit him again. This new love isn't quite as tall but she is a brunette. She also has quite a sense of style. These are the deep qualities Andy looks for. He picked her out of the kindergarten crowd early on in the year and has remained loyal ever since. Bless her little heart she is smitten as well.

I'm saving this picture...just in case I need it for a wedding slide show someday.

Sweet 15

2010-06-03T14:58:00.005-04:00

Happy Anniversary to us. Happy Anniversary to us. Happy 15 year anniversary dear us. Happy Anniversary to us. I couldn't let this day pass without some type of post. However, we are waiting on a new cord for our wireless stuff (how ironic that we need wires for our wireless). Anyway, a proper anniversary post will follow with pictures and music when internet access is fully restored. I love you Brad...15 years...seems so long yet to quote your "favorite" artist, "we've only just begun."

Rated PG-13 for Language

2010-05-23T15:33:00.002-04:00

I just spent an hour plus tearing up my hands (and fingernails) trying to thin our monkey grass. During the process I decided it should actually be named "Pain in the A$$ Grass." Brad said that probably wouldn't sell as well.

Catching Up

2010-05-15T07:46:00.005-04:00

I've been a little quiet lately. Not in real life...just in blog life. I'm never quiet in real life! I've thought of many things to post but most of it seems trivial after my last post. However, a very very important little guy made his entrance into the world since my last entry. Welcome Cade Matthew!!! Maci and I can't wait to see you in a couple weeks. (and finally kiss those cheeks!)

Jana didn't have the easiest labor dealt to her. Actually, she endured alot of pain, alot of frustration, and a lot of plain ol crap BUT she did a fabulous job and I am so very proud of her. The end result was a healthy momma and a healty baby. Who could ask for more? I gotta say this was one of the very hardest times for me to be 1000 miles away.

School is winding down which means we are CRAZY busy with lit cards, math summatives, DRAs, writing assessments, non negotiable lists, monster spelling tests, and cummulative folders. Here in Union County we believe is assessing, assessing, and then assessing some more. As big of a pain as it is, it is also very rewarding to compare the data. These kiddos have learned sooooo much which means I must have taught them a thing or two. ;) Now it's time to show off with our Kindergarten Celebration. (my favorite day of the year!!!)

I'm still walking around here saying, "I love this house." I don't want that to come out wrong...it's just that truly...I love this house! Typically the new house giddiness wears off after a few weeks but not with this one. Sure we love all the space but I think what I love the most is all the color. If you don't LOVE your house, figure out why and change it. Please don't be afraid of paint...that could be a whole entry in itself....and I think it will be....

Here is the song for the day....must be listened to LOUD...

He Is

2010-04-25T09:01:00.005-04:00

It's been one of those times lately. As I am praying for the total healing of one of my friends and for a family that just lost their child, I am struggling to speak the Words of faith. I often go to music- music that speaks the Word so I can get that tune in my head and sing it over and over. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word. Nothing is better than memorizing and speaking the scriptures of promise. But this song is the one I am also replaying over and over right now. I hope you will too.

Agree with me in prayer. He is. He was. He always will be. His promises are true.

I disabled my playlist for awhile. Use the popup links after this video to listen to other Mark Schultz songs- like Love Has Come.

Forgotten Favorites

2010-04-17T22:09:00.008-04:00

Before the move, I scavenged the internet for decorating / organizing ideas. I even created a folder for the saved pictures. Fabulous idea. If only I had remembered. By accident I came across the folder tonight and thought, "what's this?" Yes. I really did think that. My ADD seems to be getting worse these days as does my short term memory.

Anyway....where was I....oh yes....so I found these pictures of fabulous ideas. I especially love the shutters for mail holders. I still might implement this. You know I actually saw shutters for sale at my favorite consignment store last week when Kendra was here. I didn't buy them. Dadgumit.

Here are some more ideas I'm really going to try hard to remember...these are easy little summer projects.

Why I Love Spray Paint

2010-03-31T19:54:00.004-04:00

I found this beaut at the Salvation Army for $50. I talked him down to $25 (go right at closing).- It's solid wood. It was one of those pieces that I didn't know exactly where it was going to go but I knew it was a deal. There were doubters (*cough*Ashley*cough*) that thought it was junk. Sure, it stayed in the garage at the old house for awhile. Then it moved into the garage at the new house. Finally an opportunity presented itself- TV/Wii/Xbox/whatthecrapever-other-game-systems-we-have-up-there stand for the playroom. One can of spray paint later and I think it looks fabulous. Judge for yourselves...

Random

2010-03-29T17:00:00.005-04:00

I stole this from Jana's blog and then added a bit of commentary and trimmed off the ones I wasn't so crazy about to accomodate my apparent ADD.

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die. (at least the catty emails)

2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5. How the heck are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

7. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection . . . again.

8. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

9. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

10. Sometimes, I'll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the heck was going on when I first saw it. (or any episode of Threes Company!)

11. I would rather try to carry 10 plastic grocery bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in. (this is soooooooo me!)

12. The only time I look forward to a red light is when I'm trying to finish a text. (or waiting to dip my Chick filet nugget in the sauce)

14. How many times is it appropriate to say "What?" before you just nod and smile because you still didn't hear or understand a word they said?

15. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!

16. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

17. Even under ideal conditions, people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I'd bet my last dollar everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time!

18. Even when opportunity knocks, you still have to get off your rear end and open the door.

Sickies

2010-03-16T16:53:00.002-04:00

It's a bit sicky around here. Andy started it Saturday night and Aaron had an encore presentation last night. Why does it always strike at night? This thing seems to come on quickly and I've already warned Maci that sleeping in her loft bed may not be wise for the next few nights.

I remember Kate Gosselin catching flack for haivng her kids sleep on the bathroom floor when they were sick. That is a bit extreme but I did move the extra mattress into our room and put it right up to the bathroom doors for easy access. In fact, Andy was still sleeping in there last night when Aaron came in. No problem, I just pulled his mattress off the frame and moved him in too. I'm loving this big bedroom! This morning looked a bit like an infirmary (spelling?) but it served the purpose. Today everything was washed on the sanitary cycle and the Sprite is flowing. I even got a little Windexing done.

However, no one is in the mood for bbq sandwiches or chicken enchiladas so tonight is a cereal night. But hey, is that really a problem? I think not!

Gameroom Before / After

2010-03-15T18:55:00.006-04:00

Before...

Baby blue...soooooo not me....the only room in this house that I just couldn't live with...

After- faded clay. I so love faded clay. I so love this chaise sofa too!

We added the scoreboard as well. LOVE chalkboard paint. Maci is going to work her artistic magic on the board when we get the chalk markers but until then I had to improvise. BAMS needed a sign! What is BAMS? Come on now...Brad, Aaron, Andy, Maci, Mindy, & Spicy!

So my daddy might be mad that the baby blue is gone but even he will have to admit that the faded clay is sooooo much better in here!

My Love/Hate Relationship with Pier 1

2010-03-08T19:05:00.003-05:00

I love Pier 1's stuff.

I hate their price tags.

I love the clearance items on their website.

I hate that you can't shop off the website.

I love that the store has a clearance section too.

I hate that I can never find the same fabulous things in person that I do online.

I love that they have so much cool stuff though that there is always something great on clearance.

I love the new orange and yellow throw pillows I got on clearance for the gameroom.

I hate that the room is only 1/2 way painted and so I can't show it to you yet.

I love the huge chalkboard I painted with chalkboard paint in that 1/2 painted game room.

I hate that it has to dry for a few days before I can try it out.

I love that this is my blog and it doesn't matter that this post ventured off topic. At least I posted!~

Charlotte- We Have Snow

2010-02-13T09:46:00.007-05:00

It started yesterday afternoon with these decent sized flakes. Lots and lots of them. Lots. In a couple hours the flakes had been supersized and just kept on falling down. You could hear the excitement of all the neighborhood kids. Anticipation was building...

Here is the view out of the game room (sunroom) window. See? Pretty decent amount of snow! Certainly the most we have ever seen here. I don't know how long it will last but for now it is pretty. Great Saturday "snuggle down type of weather". Not so great- "Andy's birthday party will most likely be a bust weather". I'm trying to prepare Andy for a slim turnout...like maybe just the two boys from next door. People here don't drive in snow. They just don't. Unless they are driving to Harris Teeter for an abundance of bread and milk. That is common. Bless their hearts.

More good news, we found a great deal on a game table on Craigslist yesterday so the game room actually has a game table! And Andy has a distraction from his party issues. Oh, and let the record show that I beat Brad AND Aaron in foosball last night. Twice.

That picnic table snow looks perfect for some snow icecream...hmmm....where is that recipe....I'll have to google it.

Snipets

2010-02-10T16:09:00.009-05:00

Just a few snipets today...here are Grandmama's canisters. They have found their place in the kitchen. Finally, enough room to display ALL of them without feeling I have taken up too much room.

My new favorite piece of furniture. I love love LOVE this chair. It is a gorgeous chair and a half that perfectly matches the drapes in the front room AND was a bargain find as well. What could be more perfect?

My favorite rug on CLEARANCE from Pier 1. I so love Pier 1 but I so refuse to pay their prices. Thank goodness this beauty was 50% off.

Nieghbor kids are here....we are really loving the doorbell ringing all the time. I also really love that they already knew to leave shoes at the door.

If only they knew the shoes are supposed to go here! It'll come....it'll come...

and more pictures will come too...one snipet at a time.

In Case You're Wonderin'

2010-02-09T21:38:00.003-05:00

We are still around....we are pretty well settled in but still not caught up on rest. We have a new phone number, email if you would like it. (new address too obviously) I'll post some more pics as I get around to it...don't hold your breath. ;)

Blogging Break

2010-01-10T00:05:00.003-05:00

Taking a bit of a blogging break while we move. Go make yourself a pot of tea (or 10) and we'll catch you in a few...

For Those Better Than Me

2009-12-30T08:55:00.005-05:00

I am posting this for all you domestic divas out there. Have you ever started cookies or brownies only to realize you don't have enough eggs? AOL homepage headlines offer some hope as it teases about a "great idea" for egg substitutes. I quickly clicked over to be enlightened by this ground breaking information that would change the way I bake forever.

My excitement quickly turned to annoyance as I read, " For each replaced egg, grind a tablespoon of flax seed and dissolve it in 3 tablespoons of water. "

Seriously? Seriously AOL? If I am out of eggs do you honestly think I have a tablespoon of flax seed lying around? And even if I could scrape up some flax seed, do you think I would have the tools to grind it or even know how to grind it?? Whatthecrapever.

I'm putting away my apron and opening up some Oreos. No egg requirement there.

2009-12-24T20:51:00.001-05:00

The stockings are stuffed and so are we...must be Christmas Eve. Merry Christmas to all.

Dear Mrs. Tresher...

2009-12-23T14:33:00.003-05:00

Andy brought this note to me this afternoon. "Mom, see what I'm giving Mrs. 'Twesher'," he said. As Kindergarten teachers we ask them to "write what they hear." He did that. It just gets a little complicated when you happen to pronounce all of your "R"s with the "W" sound. Bless his heawt.

Mandy's People Chow

2009-12-21T18:41:00.004-05:00

Get out your little index cards girls because you'll want to add this one to the files--Mandy's People Chow. YUM. Maybe it isn't *new* but it was *new* to me. I thought Mandy was talking about the ol Puppy Chow or White Trash recipe but this is way better than that- plus there's no white mess on your sweater when you're done!

Pour a box of Honey Graham cereal in a big bowl. Set aside. Melt a block of white chocolate/vanilla candy bar. (I melted mine in the microwave and it was much less mess than stove top.) Add 2 (or 3) little boxes of raisins to the melted chocolate. Pour over the cereal. Stir. Keep Stirring. Stir some more. It takes quite a bit of stirring to get all the cereal covered. Add in M&Ms. Not too many...just enough to give it some color. Stir a bit more. Pour the mixture out onto a BIG piece of wax paper. Let sit to harden. Break apart, bag it up for your friends, and save some for your family.

Next time I am going to swap Reeses Pieces for the M&Ms to add a little peanut butter flavor. Ya'll know I never can follow a recipe exactly.

Voila. People Chow! Or as we like to call it, Neighbor Chow!

Cue the Christmas Music

2009-12-19T11:47:00.005-05:00

As you prepare for the holidays, I hope you are listening to some lovely vintage Christmas music. (of course Buble counts!)To get you started I added a few to my playlist...some vintage remakes (love that Buble) and some real deals. Oh yeah, a dash of the present was sprinkled in for good measure. Turn up the volume and enjoy the season. Every. Single. Day!