traveling longhorns

Magic Christmas Donuts

2011-12-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

Hi There Blog Land,

Yes I know it has been a very looooong time since I posted anything. But a certain 18 month old and not to mention being outnumbered 3 to 1 has left me feeling too tired to keep up with it all. So while I've missed blogging I've had to pick and chose my battles where to focus my energy.

We have an Elf on the Shelf.... This wasn't planned but several days ago my First Grader worriedly asked "Why don't we have an Elf on the Shelf?" And began citing his classmates by name who all had an Elf at their house.

I had enjoyed seeing other folk's creativity and normally would love to do this but it wasn't something I wanted to invest my time, energy, expenses into. However Santa sent one wrapped in a beautiful gold box with a bow and left him at our door with a note explaining the weather had been bad at the North Pole and our Elf who is New in Training got lost!

The kids are loving our Elf they named Alex and I must admit he is getting us in the Christmas spirit.

Last night Alex left us Magic Donut Christmas seeds. They only work at Christmas time. You have to leave them out before bedtime and sing Christmas carols loud. And if you have enough Christmas spirit they will grow into a big donut! We made sure to sing several songs and sure enough it worked!

Alex moved to a higher spot during the night to keep an eye on the kids in the morning. He's a little skiddish around the baby so he likes to stay up high.

Speaking of the baby she enjoyed some bites of donut for the first time. Thankfully she sampled a few nibbles and moved on to yogurt!

The Master was not feeling so swell, he has a cold. Therefore no entusiasm but he did want 2 donuts which are both still mostly untouched.

Stuntwoman was thrilled with the sugar rush and had frosting off 2 donuts, thankyouverymuch!!!

Thanks Alex for the yummy breakfast. We sure enjoy having you here for the holidays!

(Turns out I remember why keeping up with blogging has been so sparse. The baby has tried to tear the office apart 3 times. Since this is not a kid friendly space we try to discourage little people from being here. I think it took me three times longer to get this done! Whew, off to go have a donut!!! Thanks for visiting.)

She keeps me hopping!

2011-03-25T11:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Mom! I'm cute right, do not notice the mess I'm making.....

So I had a spare moment I thought to visit other lovely blogging gals and peek into happenings in their corner of the world. But little Miss has other ideas. Like attack the bookshelf. And three times I pulled her away and like a wind up doll she crawled right back over and got into the jewel cases. Daddy would be very upset if he knew. Little Miss is thinking "But it's a jewel case, right?"

Off to crawl away with her catch. Notice the drool on her chin and red knees from crawling all over this house. Not to mention that cheeky little grin!

Spring Break

2011-03-21T11:45:00.001-07:00

Wow, has it ever been a blogging drought. I miss posting regularly but my babies keep me hopping. I just had to post this lovely family photo we just had taken while we were visiting with family in Nashville over Spring Break. Hope all you lovelies had a wonderful Spring Break too!

(and yes, those bags under my eyes are because my youngest still likes to wake up waaaay too much every night.... insert loud sigh and yawn here!)

Headers

2011-01-24T11:36:00.001-08:00

Can anyone tell me how to center a header????

I've been trying to figure it out and am either too tired or keep getting interrupted by a kid!!!! My brain hurts and feels too full... raising hand - may I be excused please?

Valentine Art

2011-01-24T11:04:00.000-08:00

I have selfish motives to fire up my dusty keyboard today. A really talented blogger, Jessica at Craftily Ever After is offering this wonderful Valentine art. Go here to find out more. I really love that she has generously shared her time and talents. To me that is the Body of Christ. Thanks Jessica!

She has some other art from Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. We gave the Thanksgiving Burlap in frames to the kids teachers after I printed them up with a matte finish at Costco. I included a note to the teachers we were Thankful for them. It was easy inexpensive and speaks my love language of giving generously (but was practical for my busy schedule and helped me be mindful of budget).

I wish I knew how to design subway art like her. I have some fun ideas swimming in my head. One in particular from a sign that caught my eye over the summer at vacation bible school for the kids. She has an etsy shop and does custom orders, someday I'll have to get in touch with her and see about my idea. Who knows maybe she'll share it with the blogging community?

Do check out all her fabulous tutorials and the rosette balls she made to accompany her Valentine Art!

Pictures with Santa

2010-12-16T18:04:00.000-08:00

Our littlest Elf got to meet the big guy the other day. And that led me on a trip down memory lane. I looked up the photos of big brother and sister and their first visit with Santa.

I thought she would cry immediately as she doesn't like to be held by anyone but me these days, darn seperation anxiety. She surprised me by doing okay but after a minute she was not cool with it anymore!

Stuntwoman looks dazed and confused by her first visit with Santa. And she did not cry for the record!

Here is young Master meeting the big guy at 11 months old for the first time and he was dazed momentarily then lost it. If you look closely I'm in the upper right hand corner peeking from the back of Santa's chair upon them.

Gotta love those crying Santa pics, I bet Santa sees alot of that!

Sunday Verse

2010-11-21T20:13:00.000-08:00

Ecclesiastes 3:1

There is a time for everything,

and a season for every activity under heaven:

It has been so very long since I could find both time and energy at the same time to post. I would love to be able to keep up with blogging and post more regularly as well as comment when I visit blogs of those who are Dear to me. It seems my children keep me busy between kindergarten, preschool and a growing baby who is half a year old. Where has the time gone? I feel it slipping away so quickly like the sands of the hourglass. I keep trying to remind myself that this is only a Season, but some days fly by fast and others feel so slow as I struggle to do the tasks before me. I could go on but I'm sure you can relate. Right now my Family needs me and this is where I need to focus my energy. Hopefully I can get back to blogging soon, it is so very therapeutic for me. In this Season I give Thanks for every blessing bestowed.

Busy with Travels

2010-09-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

My what a busy summer it has been! I know I have been far too absent from blogging but 3 little ones are keeping me on my toes. Hubby took a 6 week sabbatical from work and we traveled 4 of the 6 weeks! So I have lots to chat about and here goes.

Yes that is me crazy enough to travel back to Canada with a then 2 and a half month old baby. we are at the airport ready for takeoff! I am happy to report the kids did great flying.

Hugs in downtown Toronto in front of the CN Tower.

We took several trips within the trip and here we were on our way to Niagara Falls. We had stopped for a lovely picnic by Lake Ontario. I just adore this picture of my sweet girl and her flowers!

Snug as a bug in the Moby wrap!

I was having a good hair day, so here's another shot of the crew!

We never made it to the Greek festival, "Taste of the Danforth" when we lived in Canada but it was going on so we checked it out. Man was the food ever awesome!

How cute are these 2?

Lastly we made it to Cottage Country were we had the opportunity to rent a previous co-workers family cabin. It was really beautiful and relaxing there.

They sure have a nice place, we enjoyed staying there!

So Peaceful!

Refreshment!

The family who owns the cottage keeps art supplies and encourages you to decorate a rock and add to their garden. (Do you see the Gene Simmons one Dear Hubby did?)

I added a smiley face later. It's my legacy for whoever sees it to "Have a Nice Day"!

On our way back to Toronto we stopped at Santa's Village an amusement park and I couldn't resist showing our little elves. Love the mischievousness!!!

Here's the cutest elf of all!

More travel updates as little elves allow ;)

Sunday Verse

2010-09-19T17:40:00.000-07:00

Leviticus 27:30-32 (New International Version)

30 " 'A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD. 31 If a man redeems any of his tithe, he must add a fifth of the value to it. 32 The entire tithe of the herd and flock—every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd's rod—will be holy to the LORD.

Today we began teaching the concept of tithing to our 5 year old after he earned his first allowance. I am very proud of him and know that I am building the Kingdom of God!

Showers of Blessings!

2010-09-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

Hello Blogosphere! Long time no blog as I have been a busy gal this summer. See exhibit of Miss Maple Leaf below. But I couldn't miss out on the exciting surprise blog shower for Dawn of Spontaneous Clapping! And by the way Dawn I love that photo of ya'll ;)

And speaking of Miss Maple Leaf, she was wondering if Peanut (Dawn's Baby Bump) has a prom date yet?

So lovely Dawn remember when I was waiting to find out what gender my 3rd kiddo was? I had outfits planned for each outcome and pink it was for me. I have to admit I am always wrong and my husband always right when it comes to guessing. Anyhow I am rambling. So sadly I didn't get to use these adorable high tops.

They scream "B" to me. For those or you reading who don't know what I mean by B he is Peanut's Daddy to be.

I did an applique to this onesie and am dying from the cuteness. Do you think I could get away with doing a shirt like this for my five year old?

Here is the whole ensemble. Dawn, Please take pictures of Peanut, pretty please?!

And Dawn needs something shiny and new too. So here is my hand at trying to make tile necklaces. Hope you enjoy them. I mailed your brown paper package tied up with string yesterday. (By the way it took me all week to pack it... something to do with 3 kids and being 3 times busier!)

On to motherly advice. Since this is a baby shower I will just alert you that little boys have little fire hoses and they will use them, watch out! Which brings me to my next bit of advice, shower when you can! Dawn, you will be a great Momma and the best part is you get to have a Momma's Boy. There is a special connection with Moms and Sons. Can't wait to see Peanut when he arrives. Much Joy and Love and Hugs from Texas to You!

Hopes and Dreams

2010-08-27T05:35:00.000-07:00

We have had a very busy summer and have been traveling and are planning to go on one more trip in 2 weeks. So, I haven't really had time to update my blog or visit others. The travel and kids have kept me super busy.

I'm not sure why this first day of school picture is so small. I'll try to repost for Grandma's when I can get a lesson from Hubby. I'm not liking the new computer, or maybe it's not liking me!!!

This week or oldest started Kindergarten! I have had such mixed emotions about letting go and trying to control everything. Finally today after a week of dealing with new routines and adjustments I have some perspective. I have worried every day over things like is he getting enough to drink and eat and is he happy? Also not feeling like I understand the school routines.... After all isn't it a Mother's job to worry? But today the spirit prompted me with a gentle reminder that worry is a sin. So I am letting go and Trusting in God. I wish I had more time to expand on this post but want to follow up with a love letter to my son. For now his Daddy took him to school and I have two baby sisters needing me, one wants juice with breakfast the other wants Mommy milk! I need a shower and a pile of laundry and housework awaits. Dear Reader, I have a request that you say a quick prayer blessing our family with the fruit of the spirit and for Me to have Peace! Many Thanks!!!

Grandpa's Masterpieces

2010-07-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

So ya'll remember the fun art project we did last week at the park right? I can't believe I linked to it and if you scroll down it's just a couple posts before... anyways. So Grandpa had a Birthday this week. And what do you get a guy who has everything? Well you give him original artwork from his Masterpieces!

I found the abc stickers in the dollar bin at Target, woot! I used the same technique spelling out the word and framed it off with masking tape. I started off trying to get the kids to paint the wording but it wasn't working. Turns out I had to sponge it on quickly so as not to shift the letters. I had some cardboard underneath for protection and to keep it level of course. I only managed to get the baby's footprints, because 2 month olds curl their hands up + paint = MESS!

After that dried I sectioned off the back with more masking tape and let the kids paint more original artwork on the back. If you try this make be sure you put the older kid the direction the shirt will be worn, he started painting roly poly stick people upside down! You can see if you look close at his part. Then he added an ant parade. You can see that the younger one had streaks of design very "Jackson Pollock"! So if I'd placed her at the top it wouldn't have mattered that she was painting upside down because it would look good from any direction.

We finished off with a custom decorated designer shirt box for our unique Birthday gift. I think Grandpa will be one stylin Dude with a priceless gift. In fact I think I want one of my own! Happy Friday and have a lovely weekend friends.

Using old crayons

2010-07-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

Our crayon tubs have gotten full of broken and worn down crayons. So I started sorting by color so we can try this project. Off to the left are some cheaper ones which don't melt and if made in China could be questionable for product safety. I'll be more careful to inspect when we get crayons from dining out... I just always bring them home and throw them in the coloring supplies. From now on those will go in the trash!

The kids had fun helping me grate these up. Be forewarned it is really messy!

Next we piled our shavings on a rock we found at the park. And then we let the Texas sun do it's thing. The kids had fun checking on the progress throughout the day.

Our finished handiwork. These will make a nice paperweight gift for a loved one. In fact Master gifted me with his right on the spot and announced the other was for Aunt Kathy.

En plein air

2010-07-15T10:24:00.000-07:00

Today we did art outside, which the French refer to as "en plein air".
And while it was nice to be outside it was nicer to contain the mess factor. I absolutely adore how this project turned out and bonus the kids had a blast.

The proud artists displaying their work!

I think it would be fun to do your name, holidays phrases, fun words... shapes.... you get the idea right? I see us making some of these as Christmas presents this year. For the how to instructions I discovered them here at explanation required . I discovered her delightful blog after looking at another project she did that was featured on One Pretty Thing another favorite blog of mine. I heart you, internet!

Oh Canada

2010-07-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Canada Day!

We had pancakes and maple syrup for breakfast, yummmm. Kraft dinner for lunch followed by donuts as a special treat. Now if only we had some smoked meat sandwiches and poutine to round out the day, eh?

More on Babywearing

2010-06-30T15:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Mom!

Here is my new baby wrap.

Isn't it a pretty color?

It's super comfy.

5 week comparison

2010-06-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

This is my firstborn at 5 weeks. He was my scrawniest babe. Had horrible reflux and colic.

Child number 2 was my biggest babe and nursed great and grew great. I can count only a handful of times that she spit up (like 3).

And here is my sweet youngest babe at 5 weeks. She also has reflux and has to sleep in a bouncer and wear bibs, except when Momma is taking a picture. We are making progress with spit ups down from 3 bibs a night to one.

I found it interesting to compare how my little ones looked each at the same age as an infant.

Babywearing

2010-06-28T04:41:00.000-07:00

I have discovered the moby wrap and am loving it! A friend lent me hers and I have one coming in the mail this week. I would have a dozen more babies if I could babywear all of them!!!

Awww, snug as a Bug!

Sorry for the tiny pics. I can't figure out how to use this new computer or my iphone which I used to take these pics.

My 3 Ring Circus

2010-06-21T12:43:00.001-07:00

Hello All, Welcome to my 3 ring circus and step right up to juggle life with 3 kids! If you aren't supervising the middle child very closely with her markers she'll decide she wants full sleeve tattoos on her arms cause that's what all the cool hip 3 year olds are doing in Austin! She proudly showed me her work and announced it was her name!

The kids adore their new baby sister!

They love getting to hold her and help care for her.

Things are going well if you don't factor in sleep deprivation and an overabundant milk supply which makes Mommy very uncomfortable with engorged udders, Mooooo! It has also been hard to help baby not be so gassy if she gets to much foremilk, she has some spitting up when she gets too full of milk as well. Some days are better than others but overall we seem to be getting into a rhythm.

On a side note if you plan to have a baby make sure your computer doesn't die, you car doesn't act up (headlights wouldn't turn off - bad fuse) and that sugar ants don't show up to join your household. All of the above explains where I've been and what I've been up too lately.

I haven't figured out how to use the new computer yet to upload pics and use the new Windows 7. Hopefully my tired brain and body will get functioning and I can happily blog as time allows. Wish I had more time to visit blogging pals, but know that I miss you and cherish your lovely comments. Smiles, Jennifer

It's a.....

2010-05-27T18:16:00.000-07:00

Girl!!!!!

Maple Baby, (her bloggy name is a reference to made in Canada with U.S. parts) was born Tuesday 5/25/2010 at 2:03 p.m. and weighed in at 6lbs 15oz and 20 inches. The labor was induced at 9:00 am with pitocin, the doctor broke my water at 12:40 pm in the afternoon. At that point I was only 4 cm and 50% effaced and then labor ramped up to ready to push fully dilated by 2 pm with nurses calling doctor stat and paging for a "baby catcher". I had to wait holding through 2 painful contractions but after 4 pushes about 6 minutes we met our beautiful girl. She is a calm easy going baby definitely full of Grace, hooray for Tuesday! I delivered all 3 kids naturally and am really happy with all 3 birthing outcomes!!! Recovery is going great.

Sadly our computer decided to conk out so this picture is from my brother's iphone. I was able to use the lap top to send this out for anyone waiting to share our news! Hopefully we'll get a new system up and running soon. In the meantime I am adjusting to the balance of caring for 3 kids while being "Dairy Queen". I look forward to catching up with blogging friends when things settle down.

Sunday Verse

2010-05-23T16:38:00.000-07:00

Matthew 18: 1-5 (KJV)

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Eviction Notice

2010-05-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

Here is an update on my status. Sorry for any male readers, cover your eyes and go la la la la!
No cervical changes. 1 cm dilated.....need to get to 10 cm. Baby's head is right there between my hips and in position. (I hope it doesn't have to much of a cone head!) Soooo, the doc said if I didn't deliver by this weekend he wanted to schedule induction. I don't really want to but also don't feel like I can live in limbo and I trust his judgement. At least we can be prepared with getting our kids to our good friend who is watching them when due day arrives. Monday was full for labor and delivery, so Tuesday it is. And Tuesday's child is full of Grace and Lord knows I need as much of that as I can get!

Baseball with Daddy

2010-05-21T04:54:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday Daddy took Master to his first UT baseball game .

We were not sure if he would sit still, so I sent a secret weapon.

Turns out the Master got more snacks.

What a cute little man!

It's a wonder this kid ate dinner that night!

He practiced taking a picture of dear old Dad!

I think they had a good time!

HOOK 'EM

His shirt says Longhorns Rule.

(I have a 40 week OB appt. this morning.... I am of course anxious to see what progress the Dr. feels my body is making towards evicting it's current tenant. I'll have my fingers crossed and my legs uncrossed!!!)

Gifts from afar

2010-05-19T05:39:00.000-07:00

One of my husbands colleagues was here last week for business from Taiwan. Apparently she wanted to gift him with something for our family. She has asked how old our kids were and guessed their sizes. She brought them shirts from the National History Museum in Taiwan. I have no idea what they say but appear to be either children in history or from various cultures. The kids loved getting a new shirt and modeled them right away.

This was a present to Mommy and Baby. The baby is being born in the year of the Tiger! What a fun gift as I hadn't really thought about this. I have this hanging over the crib. Wonder if this means my babe will have a strong personality like my other kids? I suppose so since he/she is taking such a long time to make an appearance. Grrrrr!!!!!

Productive waiting

2010-05-18T15:01:00.000-07:00

Finding ways to entertain my kids has been a challenge while I finish gestating. This activity happened spontaneously the other day when they happened to be playing really well together in their room. I pulled out some felt play scenes someone had gifted us with from the dollar store. They were having a blast using them on the rug. So I impulsively went through my fabric stash and found this flannel and sewed a cover for their art easel. Then I went through my flanned and cut out pizza fixins to play with. It was a hit.

Master creatively turned his pizza into a face!

Stuntwoman decided abstract was more her gig!

I think it will be fun to add to ideas for this with shapes, flowers, bugs, more food play. The possiblities are endless. Any other ideas for felt play?

Now if I could just get on with delivering kid number 3, this waiting is driving me bonkers!

Sunday Verse

2010-05-16T05:18:00.000-07:00

Psalm 97: 1

The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad;

let the distant shores rejoice.

Bear

2010-05-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

I'd like to introduce you to a lesser known family member. This is Bear. Upon moving to Canada we were in the process of arranging insurance with State Farm. After a visit to the office the representative handed Stuntwoman who was just 1 years old at the time this Bear. Bear has been in our lives for 2 years and goes everywhere we go. I tried to go back and request a backup as we have had several close calls with Bear's disappearance. But it had been recalled for eyes falling out in the US. Thank goodness we haven't lost our Bear and it's eyes are still there!

Poor Bear, you look like you have mange.

When people ask Stuntwoman what Bear's name is, she replies matter of factly "Bear" However recently she has renamed Bear to "Koochie Bear". I have no idea where this idea came from or what it means. It is pretty funny to see her and her brother take Bear and make it talk with a gruff voice.

Today I had a fun conversation with her about bear.

Mommy: "Is Bear a Girl or Boy?"

Stuntwoman: "Bear is a Bear."

Mommy: "I know but is Bear a Girl Bear or Boy Bear?"

Stuntwoman: "He's a Girl Bear."

Well that solves that mystery!

Nesting / Sewing

2010-05-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

Well I am supposedly 1 week from my due date today and I think this kid has decided to hold it's arms and legs out and hang on for dear life! I am still carrying way too high and no real symptoms of impending labor. Where is my magic crystal ball so I can get some predictions?
~
Anyhow I have been busy sewing, which must be my way of nesting because I sure don't feel like cleaning. Never have liked house work, hah! But I found a pattern for making your own pack and play sheet. Click here for the link. It's a really cute site with lots of other great ideas.

So these are the two sheets I made with fabric I happened to already have. You can't really see on the tan one but it's little outlines of a tree branch. This was so easy and simple, if you have a sewing machine you can do this!

The plaid fabric is so soft!

Next I got really adventurous and sewed a cover for my changing pad out of an old terry towel. Mom, you got me these as a wedding present! This is the underside for proof, there is a decorative band from the bottom of the towel. Again this was really easy. And best of all no cost.... I had the supplies on hand. These covers are usually around $10.00. Now I have money to buy the baby a new pair of shoes!!!! Hee hee.

Here is the finished cover in action on the free Jenny Lind changing table I just scored. Woot! See the itty bitty diaper up top? I can't believe how tiny they are compared to my just turned 3 year old giant diapers. Lord, I wish she just get her act together and decide she doesn't want to wear diapers anymore but her will is stronger than mine. Again, I need a crystal ball.

I also decorated number shirts for my girlfriend's kids upcoming birthdays and some for my kids too. I'm considering opening an etsy shop and selling these. Do you think people would buy them?

Lastly I made a baby doll sling for Stuntwoman so she can be like Mommy when the baby is being worn in Momma's sling. Link for this pattern here .

Happy Monday and Happy Sewing if you try any of this out!

Sunday Verse

2010-05-09T15:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

Proverbs 31:28

Her children arise and call her blessed;

her husband also, and he praises her.

Still here....

2010-05-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

I'm still here....

Here is my view looking down on my bump.

Hey, where did my feet go?

At least my toes are ready with a new pedicure!

Here's how big my belly has gotten.

At my last check up this past Friday the doctor said there was no change. No dilation, nothing. I am 2 weeks from full term but had deliveries with the other kids at 38 weeks and 39 and a half weeks. This kid is holding it's poker cards close.

The other night we went out to dinner at a steakhouse for the "last supper" and had the kids with babysitter. After we got home Daddy took his boots off and Stuntwoman modeled them. Look at that silly grin!

The most excitement we had this weekend was Chuck E Cheese and some popsicles and water play outside it was 85 degrees here. Thank goodness I don't have to be pregnant much longer in this heat!

Also I got the baby seat cleaned up and ready to go. We tested it out with out our newest Six Flags prize. Th-th-th-that's all folks!

Sunday Verse

2010-05-02T12:39:00.001-07:00

John 15:1-2,5,8

I am the vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away: and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me and I in him, bears much fruit. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit.

Tired

2010-04-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hello Blogland, I'm still here.... just dog-tired at almost 37 weeks pregnant and feeling ready to pop! Chasing after 2 energetic preschoolers is cramping my desire to nest and nap!!! I have just been too tired to post anything but wanted to say "Hello" to anyone dropping by. Hope things are good in your little corner of the world!

Sunday Verse

2010-04-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

Matthew 6:25-34

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith. So do not worry, saying, "What shall we eat, what shall we drink, or what shall we wear?" Your heavenly Father knows what you need. Seek ye first his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it's own.

Third Birthday = Pinkalacious

2010-04-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

My terrible two year old became a feisty three year old today. Here she is modeling her birthday outfit made by Momma!

We based the party on one of her favorite books called Pinkalicous by Victoria Kann. The story is about a little girl who eats too many pink cupcakes and develops pinkitis. The doctor tells her to cure this condition she will have to eat green. It is a darling book, there is also a purpalicous and goldalicous story as well by the author.

We enjoyed bouncing in the backyard.

A friend helped read the story to the kids while I got the food set up. (Mom you can see my garden space to the left...I promise I'll take a picture at some point...maybe when it is more mature.) And the bubble machine was a big hit as well.

We colored some pinkalicous coloring pages from the author's site. The expression on my daughter's face was more her demeanor for most of the party. She had several meltdowns and blow ups!!! Lord help me when she is a teenager.

We had a pinkeriffic spread with strawberry applesauce and cupcakes, pink lemonade and some animal crackers and goldfish. And some green grapes and green veggies to make sure we didn't turn pink from the pink goodies.

The cupcakes were the hit of the day!

Many dress up outfits were received by her highness!

Brother was a good sport about all the pink.

One tired girl at the end of the party having a snuggle with Daddy. I was able to get pinkalicious crowns from Burger King several weeks ago as a party favor for everyone, which was really fun to add to the theme of the party. Shhh, don't tell Daddy...he's anti fast-food...but this gal was having a whopper jr. craving! And it's a good thing, aren't those crowns super cute?

Happy Third Birthday Miss Pinkalicious!

Was it really one year ago we were celebrating your big 2 in Canada??? My how you are growing sweet one. We love you!

Blast from the past

2010-04-08T08:37:00.001-07:00

So my Sister took these engagement pictures for us Spring of 2002 out at her property in her bluebonnets. Her bluebonnets are in bloom and she sent a picture via e-mail and this made me nostalgic to look up these photos.

I am a little perplexed by the adorable young couple there and where did they go? Have we really aged that much???

This last one was taken by our wedding phototgrapher. It reminds me of high school senior portraits for some reason. Still it turned out cute.

So what flowers are blooming where you are???

Belly Laugh

2010-04-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

All the kids play balls had become deflated and I finally got a pump and filled them back up. When the kids woke up the other morning to discover new air filled balls the first thing they did was imitiate Mama's pregnant belly! It was a hoot!!!

Sunday Verse

2010-04-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

John 3:16

"For God so loved the world he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Spring is here!

2010-03-29T07:07:00.000-07:00

Well if you are from Texas you know all too well the obligatory taking of the bluebonnet pictures. It is a rite of passage for all Texas children, they must sit in weeds...bugs....dirt...and rocks and smile adorably for their parents upon request. Or so the wishful thinking of all Mothers desiring to capture the beauty of Spring and Offspring in Texas!

Well at least we got this first shot before the photo session went downhill!

Poor Baby!

Yesterday after church we had lunch overlooking Lake Travis before heading out to get the bluebonnet pictures. It was a fantastic spring day.

These pictures were all spontaneous but turned out great. I know that the Grandma's will be happy to see them. And ya'll get a pregnant belly shot update!

Happy Spring, ya'll!

Sunday Verse

2010-03-28T11:39:00.001-07:00

John 7:38

Whoever believes in me, as the scripture has said,

streams of living water will flow within him.

Spring Break

2010-03-24T07:44:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed I have been missing in action with posts. Well last week we went on a Spring Break. We spent the first half of the week in San Antonio and went to Six Flags and Sea World. The second half we spent in Dallas seeing family.

The kids really were having a good time despite the looks on their faces in this shot. And by the way this is the only acceptable pregnant photo I care to share. I am getting a double chin, yikes! And do you see my belly button popping out? It's like the pop up timer for a turkey saying it's done!

By the way I think there should be a special place in heaven for women who go on vacation pregnant. And also for women who have to go grocery shopping with small children on a regular basis.... I'm just sayin'..... Can I get an Amen on that, anyone???

Winner and Cuteness!

2010-03-12T10:24:00.000-08:00

Before I announce the winner of the art I need to record a couple of "kids say the darndest things"...... so the other morning the kids were playing in their room and I saw them line up all the stuffed animals on the bed and then my son said "Okay we're the teachers. And Daddy is working. And Mommy is shopping. And you are the lunch lady." (ha ha so nice to know I was the lunch lady and that Dad works and Mom shops)

The other night as I got the kids ready for bed my shirt had a v-cut and apparently my son noticed my cleavage, a bonus from the pregnancy. And he exclaimed "Hey is that a butt in there? Does it make fart noises?" I was laughing so hard I almost peed my pants!

Last one, we just picked up a new dress at Costco for my daughter and she wore it for the first time. I asked her if she liked it and she said "Yeah, Mema made it for me!" Then my son said "No Costco made it for you." Hee hee they are full of one liners at this stage!

On to the winner. I enlisted the Master to number our entries.

I labeled the names and then we put them in a jar.

We mixed them up and then we drew one.

And the winner is lucky number 7 - Nola @ the Alamo! Congratulations and Happy Friday!!!

Giveaway Time!

2010-03-05T05:58:00.000-08:00

So I couldn't just show you all that gorgeous art eye candy my Sister Kathy does without giving you an opportunity to have some. This is a reprint of an original it's a "Carolina Wren". The picture is 4x6 and matted in 5x7 size to fit a 5x7 frame (not included). Hope it goes to just the right home where it will cheerily brighten your spirits every time you see it!

I will be keeping this contest open for one week and will announce a winner by random selection on Friday March 12th.

To enter please go visit her site at Kathleen Marie Studio and come back and leave me a comment on which of her art you liked best.

I'll be giving an additional 2 entries if you post a shout out on your blog, please be sure to leave a seperate comment letting me know you did.

Since I'm a computer-tard I'll be doing the entries by hand and will assign a numeric order for each entry and then the kids and I will toss them into a hat and will draw one to select the winner.

Part 3 - Visit with Aunt Kathy

2010-03-04T13:02:00.000-08:00

Welcome back for the last post on my Sister and her wonderful hill country property. As I mentioned before my Sister is a Wildlife Artist. Here is her fabulous art studio and gallery. Ain't it purty?

Kathy is very talented and has done many jack of trade things as an artist working with wood and copper as some of her favorite mediums among many others.

She built this door for her bathroom and made the copper panels herself.

Here is a close up of one of the panels. She chose a theme of native Texas flowers as her inspiration for the door.

Isn't this a gorgeous view of the panels with the light shining though?

Recently she taught a class on making these panels and has future plans to teach more.

Speaking of rocks here are some of her collection from her nature walks.

Here is a peek inside the studio workspace.

Here are some works in progress. Amazing huh?

Another awesome piece in progress.

She is doing pyrography - woodburning. I love how she is able to incorporate the grain of the wood into the picture and the depth and realism of her pieces.

Here is the gallery.

Do you spy the real kitty?

Even more of her art.

This is one of her dog Raven.

She does pet portraits by the way!

I have always really liked this one. Isn't her art just amazing? Check back tomorrow for a giveaway related to her art - hint hint!

Part 2 - Visting with Aunt Kathy

2010-03-03T11:01:00.000-08:00

It sure has been fun introducing you to my Sister Kathy. It's so hard to put everything into one post so tomorrow I'll wrap up with showing you her art studio. You don't want to miss seeing it. Friday check back and I'll reveal the Giveaway!

Here are some more pictures of the pavilion. I love that she has the rough cedars and wanted a rustic quality. Her dream for the project is to use as many native and recycled materials as possible. We had fun a couple weekends back going to the Habitat Restore to look for materials.

This pavilion will be used for many reunions and art show open houses. When we left last Thursday this was the progress and the next photo shows what she had done by Sunday.

On the window dust she wrote Got Art? and Create!!! Her vision for this project in her words were "This is the Dream Shack, a place for whoever needs it whenever it is needed, a place that is and will be available to be shared, a place that has love wrapped up in it's timbers and window sills and stories, in it's coming to be that include many people and places and history and mystery, and old stories unknown and new stories yet to be revealed and creative energy abounding to make a place to be joyful. A place to be joyful in! My dream for the Dream Shack is that the Dream Shack will be a place that people will find love and peace and acceptance and joy and hope, a place that will put arms around you and expand your horizons at the same time."

Do you see the really long telephone pole here? Well it is even longer than the photo and needs a little background story related to the project. It will be used as a retaining wall. One of her friends and neighbors up the road was clearing it from their property and they had cut it down. To get it into the back of the truck they kept having to jack it up onto cinder blocks bit by bit to get to the height of the pick up bed. They chained it in but part of the end was still hanging out. She followed in her vehicle as they transported it several miles to get to her place. The end hanging out was really smoking up and got worn down by the contact with the road. She was praying the whole time it wouldn't break or start a fire! Whew, it made it!!!

Several areas are sectioned off to keep folks from walking on the green growth where these beauties will emerge... Bluebonnets! I cannot wait to share pictures of those this Spring with you. All I have to say is God Bless Texas!

There are limestone fossils everywhere. Here is a "deer heart" a clam fossil found by the Dream Shack foundation site.

We continued to admire the fossils down by the creek, I never get bored of looking at the rocks. You never see the same things twice.

More fossils hiding in the rocks. I'm just amazed and marvel at the beauty and wonder of God's creations.

Fossilized coral reef, how cool is this? It reminds me of a loofah or pumice stone.

We liked the hole in this one and admired the beautiful clear blue sky!

The creek was rippling and glistening and we enjoyed looking at reflections of bubbles that danced like stars along the water.

Another fun fossil find!

I reflected on my pregnant silhouette in the creek.

Token belly shot for Mom to see how big her Grandbaby being produced appears these days.

To end today's post here is the final parting shot from hairy butt crack rock! Thought you'd like to be "mooned" to put a smile on your face!

Blessings, Jennifer

Visiting with Aunt Kathy

2010-03-02T06:04:00.000-08:00

Last week we spent a day playing out at Aunt Kathy's in the hill country. They live on 14 acres of property and it is a virtual playground for my kids. I love visiting her and recharging my batteries there as it is beautiful and relaxing. I took quite a bit of pictures and they won't all fit into one post so I'll be journaling about it over the next several days. And "hint-hint" stay tuned to these posts as there will be a giveaway later in the week.

Here is the house overlooking the hillside down into the garden and the pasture and creek are further below.

Hello carousel horse!

One of the kids favorite parts about getting to visit here is the slide. My son could spend all day here! Wish we had one of these in our backyard.

We took a peek in the garden where there were some winter crops of garlic, kale and broccoli.

This picture is for our Momma, so she can she how much brush they have cleared away on the hillside.

Here is another picture a little higher up of the cleared landscape. This area was covered in cedar brush and they sure have made alot of progress.

Hi Kathy! Now here is some fun reporting. They are in the process of building a Dream Shack a handicap access guest house and an open air pavilion. Here is a teaser picture of what's going on. More pictures to come since I know our family located elsewhere is curious to see the progress and what it looks like right now.

The kids had a great time blowing some bubbles on the dream shack foundation.

Here is what the pavilion looks like. And even more has been completed since this pictures was taken!

Another favorite thing for the kids is going on nature walks and when the creek has water we really enjoy collecting and throwing rocks.

I think we spent about 2 hours just hanging out here finding and throwing rocks. Kathy and I had fun looking at the fossils and the way the light hit the water and just taking pictures. The kids could have stayed here for hours. Both kids got their tennis shoes wet, glad I had back-ups packed. They really wanted to get in the water but it's a little too chilly yet.

Here Master is throwing rocks for Raven to go fetch. What a fantastic playground for the kids to experience. I have so many more photos from our visit and more to tell you about Kathleen Marie and her work as a Wildlife Artist, do click on her name for a link to her web page.

Sunday Verse

2010-02-28T13:11:00.000-08:00

John 7:37-38

On the last day of the greatest Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice,

"If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."

Snow day - Cheater chicken pot pie

2010-02-24T06:11:00.000-08:00

Austin actually got a little snow yesterday! Here is a view from my back deck into our backyard. I swear I really didn't pack Canada and move it back with me, but somehow the weather seems to have followed me back to Texas.

It may be a combination of cold weather and pregnancy but I get a hankering for comfort food during these times. My girlfriend actually first made this pot pie for me after my second babe was born and let me tell you I was one happy Mama to eat it up. I won't be complaining if she shows back up with more when this baby arrives! Thanks for this recipe JC!

This is so easy, you need frozen vegetables, some cooked chicken with your favorite seasonings, campbell's select harvest - roasted garlic potato soup and a pre done pie crust. The beauty of this is you can use up leftovers if you keep the basic staples on hand.

I almost forgot I added some red bell pepper to make mine more purty.... you say "pretty" I say "purty"... that's how it's done round these here parts. So back to the cheater part just chop up your chicken, add your soup and frozen veggies to your pie crust and follow the baking directions for the pie crust.

When dear husband arrives home from work slap on a apron and appear exhausted like you have been slaving over this from scratch for him all day! It is a great meal to make for new Mom's- hint hint or anyone else for that matter. Hope you enjoy!

Monday Reflection-Belated Sunday Verse

2010-02-22T13:02:00.000-08:00

Psalm 118

Give Thanks to the LORD, for he is good;

his Love endures forever

Sorry this verse is late... I ended up having a migraine and felt yucky last night so didn't get around to this. But yesterday was so gorgeous that here is what we did after church. A lovely picnic by the lake.

What can be better than kisses from Daddy?

Or an M&M cookie?

Or just hanging out in the sunshine and throwing rocks in the lake?

Token belly shot!

Yikes get some color on those white chicken legs!

Would someone please tell that girl's Mama to trim her bangs? Poor baby with all that hair in her face! Hope you had a lovely weekend too.

A new favorite thing...

2010-02-19T07:32:00.000-08:00

This post is for my Mom and Sister who both requested to see my new latte bowls that I have been gushing about. Swoon, I love the colors and style and they make me smile. Who doesn't want to be happy eating cheerios first thing in the morning? The only drawback is Dear Hubby feels they are too small for his portions. Oh, well! So I got these on my first ever visit to Anthropologie..... I know I've been hiding under a rock. Wow is that store ever fun but expensive. Good thing these bowls were reasonable. The funnest part is they change the colors for every season. I plan to get more and am actually planing to go back and get the seafoam blue as soon as they get it in stock. Who knew you could have a bowl addiction? What's your favorite thing? Have you been to Anthropologie?

Sunday Verse

2010-02-14T18:50:00.000-08:00

Just thinking about the Loves of my life. I think these pictures speak volumes about how much a Father can Love his children. This is moments after our Son was born and his Daddy is in complete Love.

Look at how much Joy is on his face with his little girl. I'm so glad these memories and moments were caught on film.

Being a parent humbles me and teaches me of God's love for me. I keep hearing this song this week and I just know I am supposed to share it with you. It's a little long but I hope you take a moment to know how wild and passionate God is crazy in Love with you!

Happy Valentine's Day

xoxoxo, Jennifer

Psalm 9:1-2

"I will praise you Lord with all my heart... I will be happy because of you. God Most High, I will sing praises to your name."

Valentine Treats

2010-02-12T12:07:00.000-08:00

Wishing ya'll a lovely Valentine's Day. I've been craving chocolate so this was the perfect excuse to do something about it. Tonight we are going to surprise Daddy with a plate full of sweets. I had several other projects in mind to do but just didn't get that far. At least this got done!

Earlier in the week I made candy cane hearts.

Here is the link to learn how to do this.

Turns out my helpers were more interested in dining on the mangos...

and strawberries

and there may have been some marshmallow nibbling going on too!

We did the best with marshmallows cut in half and dipped in colored sugar, the rest was a bit messy for the kids....chocolate all over their fingers! I'll be trying this again for other holidays. Hope you have a sweet weekend!

How to make a Treasure Keeper Necklace

2010-02-09T09:51:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends, Sorry it has been awhile since I posted anything. I seem to have lost all blood flow to my brain and it is now surrounding my uterus! Last week was kinda rough for me so I decided to lay low... the weather was bad (cold and rainy and gray) and my OB doctor's office called me to report I had a urinary infection. I had no symptoms and have never had that with my other pregnancies! Needless to say making a pregnant woman take an antibiotic four times a day for one week with silly rules to have an empty stomach before and after is just plain cruel! Also a word to the wise when doing your laundry double check thoroughly as you might just wash a disposable diaper like me!!! All I have to say is those suckers hold alot of water. ALOT! And the gel inside the diaper will ooze out and stick to some of your clothes but thankfully if you wash the load again it will resolve and clean up nicely. I'm just trying to save you from my mistakes here people!

So to follow up after my post on these cute beauties my blogging pal Buckeroo Mama kindly requested a how to for these treasure keeper necklaces and I am happy to oblige.

Here in Texas the grocery store we shop at has an incentive for the kids to earn a peice of paper called a buddy buck and you get to put it in this machine with a crane and it pulls up one of these plastic guys with a numbered sticker inside. The kids collect stickers and work towards earning a prize. We just sent away for watercolor paints. Anyhow we have a ton of these and I could recycle them but have found uses for them like the treasure necklace, sorting activities and even putting candy in them for birthday party favor bags.

So to begin you need a lid from a vending machine prize. I recommend you have extra, my first few attempts got cracked until I figured out how to do this. If you notice this lid has 2 letters on it so I just lined up with them and poked there. I used the tip of a grilling scewer. An ice pick would work too.

Poke 2 holes for stringing a shoelace or ribbon through.

Now you'll notice the plastic poked in would be hard to thread anything by. So get a small screw and push into the hole going back up through the top of the lid. Use a screw driver and screw and unscrew the screw about half way. Work it around to get the hole big enough to thread whatever string you will be using.

Since my kids are young I used shoe laces as they have the solid tip making it easier to slide the beads on. Older kids may like a more colorful ribbon or yarn with a blunt needle.

Run the other side of the string through your hole and string away. We used pony beads with a bigger hole. You can find these at any craft store. String away and tie off the necklace to whatever length. Attatch the bottom to the cap and fill with trasures! For safety recommendations always monitor kids with this for safe wearing and use. My daughter wanted hers once at naptime but I was worried it could twist too tight, use your safest judgement as a parent!

This is a great craft activity with the kids, a fun play date idea and would make a fun birthday party activity. We sure had a blast making them and going on our nature walk afterwards. Enjoy! I'd love to see pictures if you make one too.

Sunday Verse

2010-01-31T10:16:00.000-08:00

Phillipians 4:4-7

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Treasures

2010-01-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

Hey there Friends! So I know I have been missing in action but for good reason. The weather is just so much nicer now that we are back home and since I have energy back after my awful morning sickness I am really trying to channel the energy of my two spunky kiddos! And yes I am still trying to unpack - dangit!!!

I have been feeling really convicted to do more hands on activites with the kids. So yesterday we made treasure keeper necklaces and then we went on a treasure hunt walk.

We found all sorts of lovelies to put in our treasure keepers!

We used our binoculars to look for treasure!

I can see you!

Rocks are a good treasure!

Stuntwoman's collection was well thought out.

She was shopping for treasure!

I just love how our necklaces turned out and the kids had a great time making them and goign on the walk. I must confess they were more engaged and more intentional about going for our walk so that was nice.

I let the Master take this picture of his sister!

I asked him to take a belly shot so ya'll can see how the bump is growing. I think I'll nickname this one maple since it has Canadian roots! Mmmm, maple syrup!!! Hope you all have a blessed day.

Sunday Verse

2010-01-24T20:41:00.000-08:00

Romans 5: 1-5

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope and the glory of God. Not only so, but we rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character hope. And hope does not dissapoint us, because God has poured out his Love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Sunday Verse

2010-01-17T19:09:00.000-08:00

Romans 12-2

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -his good, pleasing and pefect will.

Home Sweet Home

2010-01-07T12:46:00.000-08:00

Hello to family and friends! Wow it has been a busy month and start to our New Year back in Texas!!! 3 days after we got here our movers arrived with our things. I'm still trying to get unpacked and organized, a hard thing to do at 5 months pregnant with 2 energetic preschoolers. I miss having a basement and the great storage closets we had in the Canada house. It is wonderful to be back home though. We went to Dallas for Christmas the week after we got home and ironically had a white Christmas. I think we brought some of Canada back with us... but what a fun Christmas memory for the kids and family. We have been busy with the New Year and Young Master and I celebrated our Birthday on Jan 2nd! We have been getting our driver's licenses renewed and a new car and restoring services to our house. Getting all our trees trimmed and general house hold chores. Getting a big girl bed to make way for the baby to use the crib come Spring. Going to the dentist for the whole family and someone will have a 5 year well check next week. I have been for a 20 week ultrasound and the baby looks good and healthy. So we are blessed and doing well. I have missed being able to blog regularly and hope to get back in the swing of things. I've missed all my blogging buddies who brighten my day. I look forward to catching up and hope you all had wonderful holidays.

Good-bye Dear Canada

2009-12-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

Our movers will be here tomorrow! We fly home in 11 days. I'll be on a blogging break as the computer gets packed up and moved. Please pray we clear customs and get our things quickly, coming here it took 2 and a half weeks til we got our things. Happy Holidays to everyone!

Dear Canada,
When I first moved here I wasn’t sure what I had gotten myself into. I have really enjoyed getting to know you. What can I say but I will miss you dearly. You have been our home for almost the last 2 years. We have enjoyed your wonderful seasons and climate. Autumn was by far our favorite, the colors were breath-taking! We have loved traveling and discovering your beautiful country. Oh and don't get me started on your maple syrup! We definitely plan to come back and visit you again. We have enjoyed your wonderful foods and people of many varied cultures here. We have made many wonderful friends and have really enjoyed our time here. We started this family blog shortly after setting up residence here and aptly named it Traveling Longhorns, to chronicle our travels here. Now as we travel back home to Texas we will continue to record our tavels and adventures along the way.

I heart you Canada.
Yours Truly,
Jennifer

Family Pictures

2009-12-03T04:43:00.001-08:00

I just have to warn you there are lots of pictures today. I also have to warn you pregnant hormonal woman got sappy when hearing "I'll be home for Christmas"! Because we will be going home to our beloved Texas.

Every year we do a photo Christmas card and this year I asked my Hubby for my wedding anniversary present to get portraits done outside. I love fall and wanted to capture the memory of our time here in Canada. Also special to me is the knowledge there is a third child in my womb, when we took these pictures!

I love how they turned out and am having a hard time picking out what to do for the card.

Crayon Roll

2009-12-01T04:32:00.000-08:00

Helloooo, this has been on my radar for awhile to keep the kiddos busy when on the go. And now seemed like the perfect time to whip these up with our flight returning to Austin! I thrifted an IKEA placemat at Value Village for .99 cents. Cut it in half and added adorable trim then folded up and made a quick seam. Next I sewed spacers for the crayons and wa-lah instant happiness for our travels.

I like to find shortcuts and be crafty clever that way! You could do the whole thing from scratch but I like the thickness of the placemat as opposed to regular fabric.

These would make a great gift for a birthday present. In fact I whipped this one up for a Christmas hamper our Bible study is putting together for a single Mum with a 3 year old. This one is made from a place mat at the dollar store!

I love how cute it looks a bundled up and ready for action!

Baby Babble

2009-11-30T03:32:00.000-08:00

If I were to categorize myself in primitive terms, I am a hunter gatherer. I am in the aquisition phase of baby stuff! I couldn't help myself the reindeer shoes are too cute and next year at Christmas the baby will be around 7 months! I figure they are unisex enough. Ah, but here is where I got into trouble 50% off at Old Navy and I couldn't resist this newborn hat and shoes. So I am likely jinxing myself and my husband already thinks this one is a girl and he seems to guess correctly for every one's pregnancies. At least it will make a cute gift for another Mom if we don't need it and besides it was on sale right?

So I am 16 weeks pregnant and here is my baby bump, this is just after a full meal at the end of the day when I get more swollen. I cannot believe I have 26 weeks more to grow...into a blimp. And I do, I get huge!

Sunday Verse

2009-11-29T15:02:00.000-08:00

Joshua 24:15

Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, but as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

Hi All, So I have been MIA on my blog and for visiting others and likely will be this way due to our upcoming move. We will have the movers here in 11 days and we fly home in 21 days! So once the computer gets packed up it will be awhile before I get back online.
~
In the meantime please enjoy your Thanksgiving celebrations and have some extra food for me as we are missing the holiday. It's the first time I've ever missed having a Thanksgiving meal and am kinda bummed. I love me a good holiday meal with all the trimmings.... mmm.... stuffing, green bean casserole, sweet potatoe casserole, pumpkin and pecan pie. I think we will try to still have a nice meal somewhere but it won't be the same as hanging with family and stuffing ourselves like pigs and watching Macy's parade and the football games.
~
Here is a bento lunch I did last year and I thought I'd repost the picture of Mr. Turkey. Gobble Gobble!

Nutty Tex-i-Can

2009-11-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Okay fellow bloggers get yer aprons on. I'm passing along a tried and true holiday goodie. I'm kicking it Pioneer Woman style to boot, so lets get cooking shall we?

Cast of Characters:

2 cups each pecan, walnut, almonds

1/4 cup maple syrup

2 TBSP olive oil

2 TBSP minced herbs rosemary, sage, savory, thyme

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Originally this recipe was from a friend who got it from a Gourmet magazine or some other epicurean source and it was called wine bar snack boring! So I am renaming it the "Nutty Tex-i-Can"!

Disclaimer: You do not have to have real maple syrup. I have used the fake stuff and it turned out fine. I am just spoiled now having lived in the land of liquid amber and will never be able to partake in the fake stuff again!

Okay the next part is simple mix up all the liquids and spices and poor over those nuts, drown em!

Then taste it! I added brown sugar last year and thought it gave it a nice zing, so I added a few good heaping spoonfuls again and made a note on my recipe of the modification. This year I also decided some sea salt would balance out the whole shabang. Note: You do not have to have a thrifted tupperware for your brown sugar, but if you do it will make your skirt fly up to have a darling gem like this in your kitchen. (Go thrifting now!)

Spread your lovely goodies on a baking sheet and for goodness sake don't put too much on like I did. I had to use another 9x13 glass baking dish and transfer some over. This is because we didn't move too many kitchen items with us. Oh yeah, back to the point make a thin layer so they bake up real nice and purty at 325 for 2o minutes and stir occasionally.

Now bag them up and store for up to two weeks in an airtight container. That is if you can keep from eating them before then! These make an awesome holiday gift for friends and neighbors. Nice for a holiday buffet or spread. I hope you try them and you enjoy! Oh yeah, the bag on the left was a new experiment some bbq glazed ones based on a recipe from Tasty Kitchen, they turned out kinda bleh, but at least Hubby is still eating them. I may just pour some maple syrup and brown sugar back over them and cook some more to see if I can improve them some!

Computer fun

2009-11-18T07:11:00.000-08:00

So the other day I was looking around my computer folders for a picture of my house in Texas. No such luck. But I stumbled across a picture of my girlfriends wedding day. I helped some with her flowers and decorations which I sadly don't have pictures of. In fact this is the only picture I seem to have. My batteries must have died. :(

Anyhow it gave me an idea to try my hand at editing with photoshop. I had seen a tutorial and was inspired to give it a try. Somehow I never could figure out how to get the image darkened to black but I like seeing them with just the pop of purple. It reminds me of warhol pop art. Now remember I am a computer-tard so if I can do this you can too, trust me.

Here's the final result. I chose her favorite color, purple! And it was printed at costco on 5x7 matte for a whopping .33 cents. Not a bad present for her upcoming birthday once framed and wrapped up in a pretty presentation! Hope she doesn't read this post but if so Happy Birthday early JC! Now I have plans to make ones of my kids as well. And this would make a great present for Grandparents with Christmas right around the corner.

Weekend Fun

2009-11-17T04:36:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend we went to a Birthday party for two brothers a year and a month apart. They had a joint Birthday at Chuck E Cheese. My kids were in heaven, what kid doesn't love the Cheese of the Chuck?

I made the boys shirts for their birthday the Mom requested matching. I put a matchbox racecar in with each shirt. The 3 year old was really excited about the car especially. What is it about having something that is just the right size to carry in little hands that is so gratifying for kids? Anyhow I was pleased with how the shirts turned out.
~
Yesterday morning the kids both had upset stomachs for about half the morning and no other symptoms. I was grateful it didn't last long since Hubs is out of town on a business trip. Could be a slight reaction to flu vaccine or a leftover present from Germy Cheese er I mean Chuck E Cheese. Anyhow all is well that ends well.

Sunday Verse

2009-11-15T06:29:00.000-08:00

Matthew 5: 14-16

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Bump

2009-11-12T19:32:00.001-08:00

Today I had an ultrasound and got to see my sweet babe and it's heart beating. Up until this point it has felt surreal. Getting to see the baby helps it to be more tangible. It's amazing that there is this tiny little being growing inside of me with tiny little fingers and toes. I am 13 weeks and 3 days and am due May 17, 2010. We have decided not to find out the gender of this baby until we meet him or her!

Toast to 7 Years!

2009-11-09T05:12:00.000-08:00

I'd like to raise a glass and toast the wonderful man in my life and to our 7 year wedding anniversary today! If you had asked me to imagine where we'd be in 7 years I would never have imagined in Canada and expecting our 3rd child this Spring! What a wonderful journey it has been. I truly Love him and look forward to many more years of happiness and joy!

This is one of my favorite wedding pictures and it happened by random chance. It was fun to look back at the pictures and remember the day. It was a beautiful autumn day and we couldn't have asked for better weather. We got married in a little country church in beautiful Texas Hill Country.

I love the symbolism of henna and decided to incorporate it into my wedding day for adorning myself as an expression of joy. It was a fun way to have a temporary tatoo and be a wild child. Some of our wedding guests, conservative older Texans were a little shocked by it... but that's okay. It wasn't for them anyhow, it was for me.

And if you ask me the henna suited the fall colors perfectly. All my bridesmaids wore a ginger spice colored dress that they selected of their favorite style so they could match yet wear a dress they liked. I had fall colors for the flowers and loved it. I could go on and on, there are just so many details about the day that made it so personal and so perfect. After the wedding ceremony and food reception both at the church we had guests drive 10 minutes over to a winery and we had a cake and wine reception. It was divine. When we left it was past sunset and we lit sparklers with all the guests for our big send off as we ran off towards our happily ever after!

Here is my strike a pose shot with my henna. This was orchestrated by my brother who likes to take a zillion photos. I'm glad he did, we didn't really remember to take many more. The day went by so fast I was glad we had lots of cameras and videos to capture all the memories of it.

I took the job of posing for him quite seriously. I love that he got this picture as well!

One last memory to share if you should decide to do henna. Plan to have a person with you to drive you home. It takes 6 plus hours for the paste to cure. I was told to wear mine overnight, I got up in the middle of the night and had to peel the paste off, it was getting too dry and itchy! Thank goodness the pigment worked quickly on my fair skin. So as I mentioned before have someone drive you. I forgot this detail and had to call one of my bridesmaids to come shuttle me home, duh...you can't use your hands afterwards. Eating dinner was difficult that night. Also as the henna artist was working on me I realized I needed to use the potty, again my girlfriend helped me twice with this dilemma (At the henna appointment and after she took me home). Did I mention she is a true friend??? That's what friends are for!

Sunday Verse

2009-11-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

1 John 4:8

Whoever does not love does not know God,

because God is love.

(My son learned this verse at church today! God is Love. 1st John 4:8)

Hormones

2009-11-06T09:15:00.001-08:00

Would somebody turn off my hormones? Seriously, I am getting all emotional when I see a Johnson and Johnson Baby commercial, or a holiday commercial where the family is all happy and celebrating. It makes me just wanna bawl, but in a happy way......cause it's so darn sweet. What is it with pregnancy that makes you so emotional?

Enough of that rant on to the next one. I've been very tired and thought the nausea was done but it is still lingering. I think the difference this time is being busy with two little ones. Nuff said.

Anyhow this picture is a way for me to document or record what I am doing to eat healthy. Like I said I have been tired and also feel like the stress has been high with the move preparations. Not only that but the house we are renting is being showed to prospective new renters it seems like every other day. I have times where my heart kinda races or palpitates quickly. I know that your blood circulation increases to accomodate the baby. Still it is hard when you feel crappy and don't want to do anything but lie down because you feel faint.

I noticed I had a craving for greens, you know the Southern greens with vinegar. Around the same time I started wanting grapefruit. So I did some research on iron. Turns out the palpitations might be because iron is low and heart is trying to pump faster to get blood circulating.

So now I am trying to find foods high in iron and my Mom has been worried if I am getting enough protein. So almost daily now I fix a salad with spinach. Today's salad is particularly healthy in my opinion and I thought I'd take a picture to remember. This salad has raw kale and spinach greens, avocado, strawberry, mandarin oranges, shelled hemp seed, and natural pumpkin seeds or pepita and is topped off with italian dressing.

The raw greens are full of vitamins, we all know how our Mom's would say eat your greens. The fruit is a good source of vitamin C. Avocados are full of beneficial protein. The hemp seed is something my girlfriend used on another raw kale salad recipe I have and like and is a good source of protein, 11 grams for 2 TBSP which is 20% iron. The pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse as 1/4 a cup has 18 grams of protein and 30% iron.

Another side note vitamin C is beneficial to help you absorb iron. Which a glass of ruby red grapefruit juice has 2 servings of fruit and 100% of vitamin C. Funny how my body knew what was deficient and automatically craved it.

One last note, I discovered cream of wheat is also high in iron one serving has 30% of iron. And it's yummier with butter and brown sugar!

Wonderland

2009-11-05T10:57:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday Daddy had big plans to spend the day with the Master at Canada's Wonderland amusement park. It was the last day of the season and was kinda chilly so it wasn't crowded and I think they had a great day.

There were lots of characters which is always a big hit with my kids. I cannot stand SpongeBob and don't let my kids view it. But when we are at the library my son always asks if he can get the "Cheese Guy" video. I guess he looks like cheese, what do you think?

He got to ride a bunch of rides. Over and over per his Father's report!

A nice picture with Boots!

This ended up being his favorite ride. The Scooby Ghoster Coaster. He was afraid to go at first and Daddy convinced him. Master said, "Okay I trust you." Then they proceeded to ride it 20 more times!

I think that is a big roller coaster for a 4 year old!

Cool pose with Diego.

He was thrilled to see Scooby.

Even though we've never really seen this show.

He was also The Big Bad Wolf for a show that they saw.

He's still walking around saying, "I'll huff and puff and blow your house down!"

I think they had a pretty good time.

Hooray for special one on one time with Dad!

Trick or Treat

2009-11-02T10:52:00.000-08:00

My kids did not really want to smile they were trying to just get out the door and trick or treat and picture taking was not a priority to them! My daughter insisted on putting a hat on... too bad it did not match. Oh well, her ears were warm at least.

By the way, I found these outfits 2 years ago after Halloween at Marshalls for 75% off and paid 5 bucks for them they were 2.50 each! I tried to get a picture of the kids eating smarties after they got home because I thought it would be funny in a carnivorous way. Smarties are the Canadian version of M&M's made by Nestle.

I haven't really been feeling like fixing food because of morning siskness so the lunches for most of October were pretty pathetic. This is one bento lunch worth highlighting. Mummy dogs, hot dogs wrapped in dough and baked in oven and spider rings for fun. Rest is standard lunch food they eat. I did use magic marker to draw a pumpkin face for son's orange cup as well. I have seen some really great bentos to inspire me for next year!

Hope you had a wonderful Halloween!

Sunday Verse

2009-11-01T04:22:00.000-08:00

Psalm 139: 13-14

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Pumpkin Fun

2009-10-30T05:14:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends back we went to the pumpkin farm. I recall it was warmer on our visit last year. If we were in Texas we would have been in long sleeves only!

I love it when they are sweet and we can capture the picture! Getting good pics of toddlers is hard sometimes.

They both tried to push this wheel barrow, it was funny and cute!

We interrupt this pumpkin talk to show you the apple pie hubster got for me at the market of the pumpkin farm. It helped my morning sickness immensely and he was back in my good graces since I had been whining about feeling ill and nauseous and how he had done this to me!

I let the man of the house do all the work for the pumpkin carving, although he had a charming assistant.

I hope this isn't a reference to someone's morning sickness. What a kidder!

The finished masterpeice!

Can you guess what the design is?

Dear hubby is a huge KISS fan. It is supposed to be Gene Simmons and his big tongue!

There, I'm sure you see it now...right??? I had to laugh when the moving company representative came to the house to do a survey of items for the move, he said. "I like the spider on your pumpkin." Oh well!

Give this picture a title

2009-10-28T05:49:00.000-07:00

Just for fun what Title would you give this picture???

How about "There's a bun in the oven?"

Or for Canada fun, "One slipped past the Goalie!"

I can't stand to wait any longer to share our news. I am almost through the first trimester in a week. Morning sickness has been rough and worse this time for some reason. Also getting sick with sinus stuff then bronchitis was hard because I couldn't take any medicine. Our bundle of Joy will arrive in mid to late May. Also I am still in shock because I know what to expect and Lord help me but at least the kids are about to turn 5 and 3 so hopefully it will be an easy transition with the new addition. When we realized we were expecting and looked at dates we were due to move back from this job at the end of April and we decided that probably moving at 8 months preggers wasn't a good idea. So we committed to staying and delivering in Canada and leaving in June. Shortly after we made that decision Hubby came home from work and announced restructuring had occurred and that we would be returning to Austin in December. One more parting thought, prental care in Canada is different than in the States. Hope you all are having a wonderful week!

Crepes

2009-10-27T04:24:00.000-07:00

We had the lovely pleasure of dining out at a creperie at Mont Tremblant. I thought it would be fun to show all the foodies what we ate!

Sorry I don't have any recipes. This is just another reason to travel to Quebec. Although I'm sure we could get some here in Toronto too. But while on vacation we ate well! This first beauty was actually one my hubby and I split Summer of 2008 in Montreal and I wished I had gotten one all to myself.

This lovely one had ham, eggs and cheese inside and is topped with bechamel.

This particular one may not look like much but it was heaven in a bite. It had smoked chicken, onion, cheeses, and salsa. It was very good.

I was busy selecting for my daughter and did not really supervise husband and son's selection. The kiddo saw the ice cream on the menu's pictures and it was all over. He opted for peaches as fruit of choice and was pretty happy with his lunch. What 4 year old wouldn't be?

I got a traditional crepe filled with black forest ham, asparagus and bechamel suace. For my daughter we ordered a plain crepe and she demolished it with maple syrup. I've never seen her finish anything at a restaurant. I was so tickled on our way out the door I thanked the chef who in turn complimented how well behaved the children had been. And I assured her they aren't always that good but still it was nice to be complimented!

So in summary if you get a chance you must try crepes. They are fabulous! I can't decide which I like more savory or sweet.

Quebec, Mont Tremblant

2009-10-26T06:08:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends back we had a long weekend and took advantage of time off to travel as we wrap up our assignment here in Canada. Last year we traveled to Quebec for a week and I still need to blog about that adventure! Anyhow one of the places we stayed and loved was Mont Tremblant ski resort.

One of the most wonderful things about staying in Quebec is it's the next best thing to going to France if you can't make it there. The food is fantastic and to hear people saying "Bonjour" and speaking French. And they are friendly oh the hospitality.

Here is the view we had from our hotel balcony. The fall colors did not disappoint!

If you go make sure you get an all inclusive pass to ride the gondola from your hotel booking. And if you have small children plan to ride this a bunch of times!

Great views at the top of the Mountain.

Great photo op too!

We got lucky with a decent family picture.

A view from the lookout tower. I stayed behind my sinuses were bothering me, remember I was under the weather on this trip and came back with bronchitis!

Here you can see the luge ride from our gondola and Daddy took the kids on it several times. Master liked it but Stuntwoman did not!

One happy boy!

Doesn't it look like fun?

They had a great time!

This was popular too.

So to recap even though it was a pretty long drive from Toronto it was worth the trek to enjoy the fall colors and activities. There are many restaurants shops up and down the resort. I would highly recommend visiting and we hope to come back again.

I'm glad we took the time to go it was worth it. Good times and good memories!

Sunday Verse

2009-10-25T10:04:00.001-07:00

Psalm 118:24

This is the day the LORD has made;

let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Apples

2009-10-23T05:31:00.000-07:00

Do I ever love Autumn, it is hands down my favorite season. I love all things to do with it the from the smell in the air, to glorious leaves, adorable pumpkins and yummy apples! I decided I needed apple cozies and contacted an e-acquaintance who had just launched an etsy shop for a custom order. She did not disappoint! I may need more cozies for oranges and plums and pears, oh my! Well I know who to go to. She has a few other things listed that make my skirt fly up like the lotus pin flower and the baby stuff, swoon!

And to continue with the theme of apples I have been meaning to post a recipe and link to Diana at To Everything a Season. She is doing a linking recipe contest. Not that I think I have a chance to win but wanted to join in the recipe fun. I found this cake many years ago in a gourmet foodie magazine, can't remember which one though. I can tell you it is decadent and easy and delicious!

Fresh Apple Cake

4 cups peeled sliced apples
2 cups sugar
2 cups flour
1 ½ tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
¾ cup veg. Oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans

Apple Sauce- heat over stovetop and pour over finished cake

1 cup sugar
½ stick butter
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and lightly flour a 9x13 baking pan. In a medium bowl stir together sugar and apples and set aside. Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. In a large bowl stir together the oil, eggs, and vanilla. Add the apples and sugar and mix well. Stir in the dry ingredients and nuts. Pour into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes or until cake springs back to touch. Enjoy!

Fun Links

2009-10-22T04:45:00.000-07:00

While I was under the weather I discovered a great online resource called Storyline Online it is through the Screen Actors Guild Foundation. What I love is that it is livestream of various actors reading some really great books like Stellaluna, The Polar Express and more. Some of the actors include Elijah Wood, Lou Diamond Phillips, Melissa Gilbert, and James Earl Jones, you gotta love that man's voice! We discovered that Sean Astin "Sam" from Lord of the Ring reads one of my kids favorite books "A Bad Case of Stripes". I swear it's why my son will eat edamame beans so good. Shhh.... don't tell him they aren't lima beans like the story. Anyhow I was so grateful that I could let my son do this while I rested and thought many of you with kids, grandkids or family and friends with kids would also like to know about this great resource!

And this Canadian Police Chase commercial was around last year according to hubby but I never saw it til recently. It cracked me up. Hope you get a good chuckle at Canadian humor. Watch it it's only 32 seconds long!

Major

2009-10-21T04:13:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends, long time no blog. Still finding it hard to breathe after bronchitis but it is better. Thanks for all your well wishes! We are making busy preparations for the move back to Texas. To answer some of your questions we are going to be home in time for Christmas but our stuff may not. We are excited to be going home as there's no place like home. We will also miss it here. We definitely want to come back we loved Nova Scotia, Quebec and we still really want to go to Vancouver and Alberta.

Awhile back of lovely blogger Buckeroomama awarded me this fabulous award! I would totally put this baby in my front picture window just like in the movie, A Christmas Story. I don't know what it is about this award that makes me want to grab a hair brush to use as a microphone and begin to Thank all the little people....hmmm, there are 2 of those running around tearing up my house everyday. Anyhow on to the blogger who I think needs this lamp/award in her lovely redecorated bathroom cause it would match the leopard print. So I am passing it on to Diana, To Everything a Season. I tried to create a link so you can see her bathroom redo but my computer-tard syndrome is afflicting me. It's in her archives on Sept, 17th.

Here are the rules of this award: Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.
Pass the award to bloggers who like to smile and/or laugh. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

And now to bring myself back down to reality I think I must go clean a toilet or something. Have a wonderful day all!

Sunday Verse

2009-10-18T06:27:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Honesty

2009-10-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

So recovering from bronchitis has made it hard for me to breathe and get back up to speed with blogging, I should be cleaing my house right now but really can't stand house work.

Dawn from Spontaneous Clapping is the most delightful gal who awarded little ol' me with the Honest Scrap award. The rules are you have to tell 10 honest hings about yourself and credit the person who gave you the award, then pass it along to 9 bloggers who you adore! So here goes. (I wish I could share some pictures for some of these but they are in storage in Texas so just visualize!)

1. I write with my left hand but do everything else with my right hand from eating, hand sewing, using scissors and sports.

2. I used to clog dance from the fourth grade until around the 6th grade when I decided it was no longer cool to do so. I can still shuffle rock step and cut a rug when a fiddle is jamming. (Insert visual of redheaded geek with a dorky pinafore frock and gangly knees!)

3. I used to be a weekend warrior and whitewater kayaked in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina and West Virginia. (Insert visual of cool chick in kayak going over a small water drop and rapids.)

4. My mother gave birth to me when she was 45 years old! Most people thought she was my Grandma since she had gray hair by the time I was 5 (I probably contributed to the gray hair).

5. I had pre-term issues with my son from 26 weeks (40 is full term) I had to go on “house arrest” per my Dr. stay at home and take it easy until delivery. My son was healthy and arrived 2 weeks earlier than his due date on my Birthday!

6. I am very afraid of heights.

7. My favorite color is green.

8. My favorite fruit is raspberries.

9. My favorite meal is in Austin at Berryhill Baja Grill the #7 combo with a fish taco, seafood enchilada and spinach and corn tamale with black beans and rice. I'm coming back to you soon my love!

10. For my wedding I had henna tattoo done to my hands and feet cause I liked the symbolism and it was fun to fuel my inner wild child (I will share a funny post about this in November for my 7th wedding anniversary!)

And now to pass this along. Many of you whom I adore have already recieved the award but I'll just mention you again along with the rest in no particular order. Feel free to participate or pass no pressure just know that "I love you man!!!!"

Lemonade Makin Mama

Farmgirl Paints

Hawai`i's Bento Box Cookbook, Bentos and More for Kids

My Barefoot Farm

Sugar, spice, and a little bit of life

Mamahood, among other things...

To Everything a Season

Elle Bee in the kitchen with kids

Spontaneous Clapping

Bronchitis

2009-10-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

Hello again Dear Internet! It was a busy weekend in Quebec. The fall colors were lovely and the temperature chilly. The congestion I had has persisted and I went back to the doctor today and was given a bronchitis diagnosis. I am just going to have to take it easy for awhile and will post again when I feel better. This is just to let you know I'm here! I've visited blogs but don't have energy to comment since I feel best when I'm lying down. Somehow I am managing to care for my kiddos despite this trial and it has been one. We just found out we are returing to Texas in 2 months, my Hubby's work assignment has been changed. I look forward to catching up on so much until then I miss blogging and can't wait until I can breathe better!

Hello

2009-10-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Interent! I have been under the weather, with a sore throat and all the sinus fun that comes along with that. So sorry not to have kept in touch, but I'm sure you understand. We are about to go away for a long weekend as Monday is Thanksgiving here in Canada. Please say lots of prayers as it's a 7 hour car drive and Lord help me to be patient with my family, especially since I still feel cruddy. I have loads to catch up on dear internet but will have to get packing and housework done. It may only be the packing.... or I may just go take another nap!

Dawn, I hope to get my honest scrap post up soon and Buckeroomama really the It's a Major Award is too much I'm gushing and not from sinus troubles. Really I feel like I've just won an emmy! Hee hee, I would totally love to have that lamp in my house. That was a great movie! I'll pass that pretty baby along next week after life slows down.

Hope everyone has a wonderful week and weekend! Jennifer

Sunday Verse

2009-10-04T11:28:00.001-07:00

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be joyful always; pray continually;

give thanks in all circumstances,

for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Milk in Canada

2009-10-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

Okay fellow bloggers your stories are cracking me up, you are like the Erma Bombecks of blogging. I do not feel that interesting or funny, what words of wittiness can I impart with you today? Anyhoo, in my own weird way I have to show you things that I find fascinating about living in Canada. When we first moved here and I ventured out for groceries only to discover that milk is not sold by the gallon but by the litre. I was overwhelmed because it came in a bag. Where was the plastic jug??? I could not wrap my brain around this. Eeewww, Milk. In. A. Bag!!! I tried to avoid it and got the smallest amount 1 litre which was in a cardboard container which felt more "normal". But my children proceeded to guzzle through this in mere hours. This simply would not do. So the next time I went to the store I stopped another shopper and proceeded to clarify how this milk in a bag thing worked. I even asked this stranger a really dumb question like "Aren't you worried about germs getting in the opening?" Helpful shopper's comment "No." Then I felt really dumb and proceeded to buy milk in a bag, paranoid that germs would come through the opening (at this point I must clarify, my professional background is in healthcare... I have a healthy respect for germs.) I mean really like there should have been some sort of Living in Canada guide that includes this when you move into the country. So to help you if you ever travel, move here or just want to teach your homeschooled young uns something quirky about Canucks here it is.

This is what four litres looks like.

There are three seperate pouches inside.

Thankfully the date is stamped on in case you forget the expiration date.

You will not need to forget because it lasts longer with this type of packaging....

You use each bag up quickly however it stays very fresh with this method of storage.

The stores carry this special pitcher meant to hold the bags of milk. You can buy a pitcher for around a dollar. They are in the dairy or houseware isles at most stores. Even the dollar store sells them here.

There will also be a snippit doohickey clipped on the side of the container that you can also place on your fridge. They put a magnet on the back, genius Canadian technology.

Do not clip too much off... or your milk will pour out really fast.

Action shot, this post brought to you based on the need for a sippy cup refill. Thank you for reading along. And now you know if you ever move or visit Canada how to handle the milk. One last parting thought, when we first moved here I was buying organic milk in Texas at 2.99 a gallon. Here 4 litres of organic is about 8.69. Needless to say we drink fine filtered which according to one of the Mums here is the same nutrionally as organic and it means the milk has no chemicals or preservatives. For fine filtered we pay 4.59 which as you can see is better on the ol' pocketbook. Now if you'll excuse me my brain feels really full, and I'm thirsty so I think I'll go get a glass of milk!

Okay one more parting thought, this whole post albeit useless facts about milk in a bag was to also point out that just because you are used to something one way doesn't mean that is the way the rest of the world does it. Maybe some still have milk in glass jars, or go milk their cow or mix a powdered milk. It is good to be exposed to differences and embrace them.

Giveaway Link!

2009-09-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

(This picture has nothing to do with this post, just wanted to brighten your day!)

Diana from "To Everything a Season" has a wonderful blog and I highly recommend reading her wonderful posts anyhow... but to sweeten your day she has a Giveaway for a cute bag and a couple of crosses to wear! Go check it out!!!

And while I'm spreading the linky Love around I want to mention that I am dying to get back to my kitchen in Texas to retrieve my springform pan. ( Seriously cooking was not high on my priority list when we moved here with a then 1 year old learning to walk.... ). But I must make this Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe from Sam, My Barefoot Farm. And can somebody do me a favor? I keep trying to leave a comment on her blog, from my main computer...my laptop and cannot get it to work. Am I a computertard or what??? I even tried changing my computer's settings with Hubby's help but it still won't work. Can one of y'all try leaving a comment on her blog, I know that some folks do but just trying to figure out if it's my computer or what!

Lastly I'm feeling kinda run down lately and am still visiting blogs, just not feeling up to commenting. Hopefully I'll get my blog mojo back! Hugs, Jennifer

Sunday Verse

2009-09-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Matthew 4:18-22 As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed him. He walked along from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat, with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. He called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him.

St. Lawrence Market

2009-09-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

Several weekends back we had the chance to finally make it to the St. Lawrence Market which has over 100 plus vendors of culinary goodness. If you like to cook or eat then this is the place for you!

Loved these flowers. I adore sunflowers!

Mmmm, cheese!

Fresh baked bread.

Fresh pasta!

Look at that olive bar.

More antipasto goodness.

Stuffed grape leaves, stuffed cherry peppers,

jalapenos stuffed with feta cheese!

Fresh veggies......

Fresh fruit.....

Somehow I managed to be too busy absorbing all the loveliness to get any more pictures that show the other fine products from meat, fish, maple syrup, caviar, crepes, teas... okay you get my point. They have got it all!

And you can get prepared food too.

I think I died and went to heaven!

Rude Awakening

2009-09-22T16:15:00.000-07:00

This has been our home in Canada for over a year and several months now. We are leasing here as we still have our home in Austin. During our residence here we have had to schedule repairs for the hot tub, the furnace, the gas fireplace, the stove, and the latest.....

..... the refrigerator! We woke up this morning only to discover the drippy mess. How rude! On a good note the fridge got cleaned out and is now working again thanks to the service man and a new relay part. Sorry for not visiting with blog friends today. My daughter also decided to get up about 2 hours earlier than normal so I've been dragging today.

Addendum: We pay for the repair and get re-imbursed by the homeowner. It just stinks that we have had so many things go wrong was all I was trying to say!

Sunday Verse

2009-09-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

Psalm 121: 1-2

I lift my eyes to the hills -

where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord,

the Maker of heaven and earth.

Thankful

2009-09-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

Oh Internet, this blogging thing is contagious. I was caring for my little ones and feeling overwhlemed by the balance with house work the need to do's, and the want to do's....posting a blog right now should be the last of my priorities today. Then my daughter dropped her toast and jelly on the floor and as I wiped it up there were the other crumbs lingering on the floor. I was feeling frustrated about my "To Do" list for the day, then I had an aha, coming to Jesus moment. I am Thankful for those crumbs, it means my children are well fed.

I am Thankful for the messy toys, it means my children have something to play with. I am grateful today we have a roof over our heads and the shelter of this home.

I've been praying this past week to really feel the Holy Spirit with me. The more I desire Godliness the harder the struggle it seems. But today admist the clutter and chaos of little ones I feel blessed and recognize it is from my maker. To paraphrase Joshua 24:15 .... Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve. But as for me and my (messy) household, we will serve the Lord!

I'll even claim gratitiude for the piles of laundry waiting for me. For it means we have clothing to wear. Okay enough babbling off to those crumbs and chores with a spirit of gratitiude and a little more grace in my corner!

craft i am

2009-09-17T17:49:00.000-07:00

So I made a bunch more tissue holders and posted about it on a new craft blog I am starting specifically to feature stuff I make, projects on my radar and hopefully tutorials someday. It's hard to get everything done I want to with 2 little ones. So I don't expect to post often or even get many projects done but I like the idea of having a blog dedicated to all things crafty.

My Barefoot Farm, I keep trying to leave a message to your blog and it isn't accepting. :( Hoping you'll see this and help me figure out why and I can pop over to say Hello. Your homemade pizza dough looks fantastic!

Bento Fun

2009-09-16T19:45:00.000-07:00

Okay these first two pictures are for a bento blogging friend Susan who mentioned she'd like to see my cookie cutters. All the red ones and a few others came from my Mom, who used them with the kids to bake and with the grandkids as play-doh molds. My Mother in law sent me some more as well including a State of Texas shaped one!

Here is a close up of the ones that make an imprint. I thought they might be tupperware but they say Chilton on the back. The four leaf clover one is tupperware though. If you want a better look click on the picture to see more detail.

So after seeing inspiration at Susan's blog today I decided to try an imprint sandwich. I think I need white bread, multigrain wasn't too cooperative! We have a bread here called smart-white, it's wheat but looks like a white bread and would probably work better for this in the future.

Anymoo, anyhoo, er... anyhow this is a (jelly and bread- remember we have to be peanut free at school) cow jumping over the (cheese) moon. Underneath are some freeze dried green bean chips, funny my daughter won't eat fresh but these are her favorite out of the veggies chips. Also a pickle which she loves, raspberries and another favorite oriental rice crackers.

Son's lunch is different because using up leftovers from lunch. So he gets some hotdogs with a cheese airplane flying over. Fresh fruit and veggies. Not pictured but to be included are some catsup and red french dressing for dipping. He won't eat pickles or oriental crackers like his sister, but he has her beat on vegetables! Since my daughter has just gotten over a cold not sure how much she'll eat though.

It's been awhile since I posted a picture of Hubby's lunch and since I was feeling the bento inspiration he gets extra love too. And nothing says I love you more than a heart boiled egg. Hah, I'm cracking myself up tonight with all my silly puns! He has a ham salad sandwich. Fruits fresh and dried and fresh veggies also a mini raspberry danish. When I showed him his lunch he responded, "Guess I have to work out extra tomorrow." Which made me ponder and ask him, "Do I send too much, not enough, or the right amount." He said that I send the right amount. I usually send a square lock and lock container with his lunch but had more food tonight so using this rubbermaid.

Tomorrow for bible study I am taking some cheese and crackers and grapes. The cheese is cut in small flower shape to go with ritz cracker. Also I am taking rice crackers, sliced cucumber-center cut out and add ginger, wasabi, and garnish with sesame. It's like a mock sushi without all the fuss of rolling rice. You could add smoked salmon as well. Mmmmm, sushi!

Santa's Village

2009-09-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Before leaving the cottage country we headed over to Santa's Village for the park's final day of the season on Labor Day.

This was a fun photo opportunity!

The kids had fun.

Yeehaw!

We fed chipmunks!

We fed reindeer!

We rode Santa's train.

We hugged with Mrs. Claus.

We saw Santa!

We liked Santa!

We took a ride on Santa's boat in the Muskoka River.

Hey, Ho... Santa's boat operator was playing some fun songs!

Cracking up on the ferris wheel.

Santa's Little Helpers

Cottage Country

2009-09-13T20:23:00.001-07:00

This post is full of pictures I'm afraid but there are just so many wonderful ones to show from our visit to Cottage Country over Labor Day Weekend.

Going to the cottage is a huge part of the culture here and I was so hoping we'd get the chance to experience it.

We really enjoyed the relaxing setting and the beautiful nature. It was awesome!

We had our own private deck by the water where we ate every meal!

The water was clean and temperature was pleasant. The kids loved it!

I got caught up in the beauty of nature all around us and had a pretend national geographic photo shoot!

God's workmanship is so glorious and incredible when you stop to observe it.

I wanted to soak it all up and place it in a bottle and bring it home with me.

Besides our little ones, this was the most wild life we got to see. Along with some busy chipmunks.

The place we stayed had a playground, perfect for little ones! I love capturing moments like this.

One happy little fellow.

My son looked up and I followed his gaze and took this picture just because he inspired me to see from his perspective.

We enjoyed smores every evening!

We went to Algonquin National Park.

Hiking with the kids was great fun!

Young Master loved the sequence of counting the markers numbering the trail route.

Love this picture of the kids. It should be titled "What does a bear say?" "Roarrrr!"

Grandma these last two pictures are for you! I know how you love to see the babies and what fun to see them reading.

Lunch Success!

2009-09-10T18:40:00.001-07:00

Some of the leaves are already starting to change here.

So this week I decided to pack more of a snack lunch. I have a couple of sandwich cutters that divide the sandwich in half into dinosaurs. I added some cheese spots. There are some goldfish and grapes as well. My daughter ate half of hers and my son ate all of his!

This past week I obtained a new bento set, however it is made in China and the handles are cheap. I will likely sew some elastic straps instead. I have no idea what the plastic is made of but since the food isn't being heated in it I figure it's okay. And I used my silicone dividers as well. I sent leftover quesadilla triangles with a cheese mickey mouse garnish. Catsup for dipping, my kids eat catsup with everything! Pretzels for one and goldfish for the other and raspberries/strawberries. Verdict son's lunch was gone! Daughter finished her lunch on the way home with the exception of some of the quesadilla which her brother helped her polish off.

Here they are all assembled.

They even had cute bags they came with. The sizing for these boxes was just right for their little tummies. I probably won't use these too often because the handles are flimsy and I am a bit nervous about the safety of the plastic. I always hand wash all of my boxes by the way.

Snips snails, Sugar spice....

2009-09-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

We are back from the long weekend and the cottage country was lovely. I'll post on that soon hopefully. I hadn't planned on posting today but my Hubby gave me a chuckle tonight and I wanted to preserve it. These pictures have nothing to do with the story but are for Grandma's and Aunties to enjoy!

You see boys will be boys and so it is "Football Season" in our household. My husband is commissioner of 2, yes I said 2 Fantasy Football leagues. Please be in mourning for me as I am a widow to the sport for the upcoming months. And he has begun recruiting our Son. Apparently this evening our Son excitedly asked his Dad to watch Football. His proud Papa obliged and switched channels.

This did not sit well with little sister who screamed "No Football!" The channel was returned to it's original program.

And as my husband shared this news to me he said "Talk about gender stereotypes" and then in quotes he pointed to me and said "Little Mommy" about our daughter and "Little Daddy" as he pointed to himself about our son!

The End.

Wasn't that a cute story?

Aren't they cute babies?