Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from last night's Basketball Banquet. Roxie and friends had a great time (as did the parents). We had barbecue for everyone, chocolate AND lemon desserts, awards and the ever popular basketball DVD which made our team look very NBA-ish. (You've got to love editing!) It was a great night.
RANDOMNESS #1 - There is a rhubarb pie (with my name on it) in the refrigerator at Mike's office. My friend, Jennifer, made it for me... and Mikie forgot to bring it home last night. He will NOT forget today. Tonight I will finally be eating a piece of rhubarb pie (and photographing the process)!
RANDOMNESS #2 - There is a can of rhubarb (with my name on it) in another town today. My friend, Jonella, bought it for me and is giving it to my sister at church on Sunday. Next week, I will be making a cake using this can of rhubarb (and photographing the process)!
Any guess as to what the Gallery Pics are going to be focused on next week? Anyone?
RANDOMNESS #3 - Yesterday while buying 24 balloons for the Basketball Banquet, I almost met my Maker. I stepped outside and 45 mph winds whipped around me. (No, I am NOT exaggerating!)
The balloons wrapped around my face before being blown upward... which left 24 strings... which began to wrap around my neck. While I was horribly embarrassed and blinded by the balloons, I also started having trouble breathing (due to the 24 strings wrapped around my neck thing). Needless to say, no one offered assistance, and since I was unable to yell for help, I ended up crawling in the back of the Big Gold Van wrestling, slapping and unwrapping balloons from around my neck.
Since I am writing this today, you know I survived the Balloon Attack. Also, I highly recommend the balloons from Winn Dixie because, even though I fought them as hard as I could, they never popped. Very sturdy balloons. Even sturdier strings!
RANDOMNESS #4 - I found this on the Bargain Mom's blog. If you are planning on taking your little ones to the Georgia Aquarium in the near future, Saturday, May 8 may be a good day (price-wise) to plan a day trip. You will save $19.50 per child (under 12). That's not bad!
Princess Day is back! FREE admission for kids 12 and under in Princess, Prince or Frog costume when accompanied by a paying adult or member. Festivities include special parades, photo opportunities, give-aways, arts and crafts, games and more.
Learn all about the event online at http://bit.ly/b9KmgA.
REMINDER #1 - The Mystery Bag Party Contest is only days away. The drawing will be held May 12, and six lucky women will be picked from the BOWL for an afternoon of food, fun, fellowship and more. Enter today via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section.
REMINDER #2 - I will begin the first ever Question and Answer session on A Simple Life Monday, May 3. You still have three days to ask your questions via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section. Ask today!
REMINDER #3 - As always, I will be posting pictures today, Saturday and Sunday on Belinda's Project 365 (look under My Blog List). As is the rule, there will be no weekend posts on A Simple Life, but Project 365 will continue!
Special Guest Hints - Okay. Three more hints before the Big Reveal Monday.
7. Our Guest's hair goes from blonde to brown and back depending on the time of year, and it even has a touch of red from time to time.
8. Our Guest is locally born and bred.
9. I have never seen this person when they haven't been wearing a big, warm smile. (I'm betting you've never seen them without a smile either!)
You're stumped, aren't you?
Weekend Happenings
Austin is off to JSU today to play for the 2010 Spring Graduation. It's a requirement for one of his scholarships. He must play for two events a year. Roxie will be playing tennis tonight with a friend, and Josh will be working diligently on his LAST (I HOPE, I HOPE) project for the school year.
Saturday will be a work day. Several yards need cutting. Chicken sandwiches need selling. Laundry needs doing (over and over and over and over again).
If the weather is nice after church Sunday, I'm going with Austin, Melia, Brad and Stephanie to The Botanical Gardens for a photo shoot, and we'll finish off the day with a trip to Starbucks for coffee and muffins. (I'm really looking forward to this little outing!)
Have a lovely weekend. I hope everything goes according to your weekend plans... and if not, I hope it turns out even better than you planned! Next week is just too, too busy on A Simple Life. I'll be introducing our Special Guest who will be with us Monday through Thursday. I will be having a Question and Answer session Monday through Wednesday. I'll be sharing spring ideas, graduation ideas, date ideas, Mother's Day ideas, recipe ideas, etc. Oh, the things we will be sharing!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Spring Picnic Date
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of Mikie COMING HOME from New Orleans last night. The trips are over for now, and we are all happy he's home. (Even though he is not pictured, Josh was happy, too. He had just finished up a day of Spring Training, and coming outside for a "Meet and Greet" wasn't really something he was able to do at the moment. However, he did make a feeble attempt to wave at Mike when he came through the den. I didn't bother photographing that!)
Q&A! Q&A! Q&A! - There are only four more days to ask any and all questions you may have regarding A Simple Life. The Answer portion of the Q&A will begin Monday, May 3. Leave them via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section.
Special Guest Hints - These next two are very good. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I do not know if any of our other Special Guests have had "hints" as unique as the following:
5. Our Guest was once a clothes model. (Magazine? Runway? Local? New York? I must find the answers to these questions!)
6. Our Guest was (and is) a "smartie," too. How does Presidential Honor Society in college sound to you? I know I'm pretty impressed.
Guesses anyone? Anyone?
Blog Linkage - I have three blogs for you to read today. One will make you LOL as the kids say, one will make you think and one will let you live vicariously through a young family's huge move to a different country! How's that for a little diversity this morning?
1. First, click on Big Mama under My Blog List. Go to the bottom of the page and click on Previous Entries. Read The Trip Afield dated April 28. Usually, I don't bond with people who do not like zoos/aquariums, but this post was very funny... and I'm very jealous their family lives so close to Sea World it is considered a school field trip. WOW!
2. Next, click on Sherri's Blog under My Blog List and read The Father of Mercies and God of All Comfort dated April 28. You will never think of the number "7" the same way again. It is truly amazing what God is doing in Sherri's life.
3. Finally, if you are keeping up with Jeff and Sara Phillips and their family, click on The Phillips Home and read five or six posts. They have just moved to Canada with their two young children and are planting a church. It's going to be exciting to see what God does in their lives. (And I love the field trip little Ty went on with his kindergarten class. They released salmon into a stream. How cool is that?)
Spring Picnic Date
Again, this one has been mentioned before, but I'm going to make it very specific. (I have found the more specific an activity is, the more I will be willing to actually do the activity. I do not like vague. I like step-by-step SPECIFIC!)
Of course, this involves The Botanical Gardens... which is absolutely gorgeous this time of year. Plan a picnic lunch or dinner at the Gardens with your spouse or your child. Instead of cheese sandwiches and Little Debbies (which is an excellent picnic menu, by the way), go to the Western Supermarket located about a block or two away from the entrance of the Gardens. They have a WONDERFUL deli, and you and your date can browse and pick out salads, sandwiches, soups, fresh breads, cheese, potato salad, etc., etc. which will make your mouth water.
Once you have purchased your picnic, head over to the Gardens, find a gazebo or a swing or a grassy spot and enjoy your one-on-one time with your date.
VARIATION - If you would rather go to Aldridge Gardens in Hoover, you can do the same exact thing except head to Edgar's Bakery located in the stores BEHIND The Galleria. They also have a wide variety of lunch/dinner items which are delicious... and don't forget the dessert while you are there!
Aldridge Gardens has a set of picnic tables which sit over a little lake, and you can watch turtles swim around you while you eat.
Plan the picnic TODAY! We are having perfect weather for this type date, and a relaxing picnic is a wonderful way to talk, talk, talk and catch up on everything that is going on with your guy or gal.
Have a fantastic Thursday. Friday we'll finish up our week with Weekend Happenings, Randomness and some timely reminders, so check back in the morning!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of Mikie COMING HOME from New Orleans last night. The trips are over for now, and we are all happy he's home. (Even though he is not pictured, Josh was happy, too. He had just finished up a day of Spring Training, and coming outside for a "Meet and Greet" wasn't really something he was able to do at the moment. However, he did make a feeble attempt to wave at Mike when he came through the den. I didn't bother photographing that!)
Q&A! Q&A! Q&A! - There are only four more days to ask any and all questions you may have regarding A Simple Life. The Answer portion of the Q&A will begin Monday, May 3. Leave them via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section.
Special Guest Hints - These next two are very good. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I do not know if any of our other Special Guests have had "hints" as unique as the following:
5. Our Guest was once a clothes model. (Magazine? Runway? Local? New York? I must find the answers to these questions!)
6. Our Guest was (and is) a "smartie," too. How does Presidential Honor Society in college sound to you? I know I'm pretty impressed.
Guesses anyone? Anyone?
Blog Linkage - I have three blogs for you to read today. One will make you LOL as the kids say, one will make you think and one will let you live vicariously through a young family's huge move to a different country! How's that for a little diversity this morning?
1. First, click on Big Mama under My Blog List. Go to the bottom of the page and click on Previous Entries. Read The Trip Afield dated April 28. Usually, I don't bond with people who do not like zoos/aquariums, but this post was very funny... and I'm very jealous their family lives so close to Sea World it is considered a school field trip. WOW!
2. Next, click on Sherri's Blog under My Blog List and read The Father of Mercies and God of All Comfort dated April 28. You will never think of the number "7" the same way again. It is truly amazing what God is doing in Sherri's life.
3. Finally, if you are keeping up with Jeff and Sara Phillips and their family, click on The Phillips Home and read five or six posts. They have just moved to Canada with their two young children and are planting a church. It's going to be exciting to see what God does in their lives. (And I love the field trip little Ty went on with his kindergarten class. They released salmon into a stream. How cool is that?)
Spring Picnic Date
Again, this one has been mentioned before, but I'm going to make it very specific. (I have found the more specific an activity is, the more I will be willing to actually do the activity. I do not like vague. I like step-by-step SPECIFIC!)
Of course, this involves The Botanical Gardens... which is absolutely gorgeous this time of year. Plan a picnic lunch or dinner at the Gardens with your spouse or your child. Instead of cheese sandwiches and Little Debbies (which is an excellent picnic menu, by the way), go to the Western Supermarket located about a block or two away from the entrance of the Gardens. They have a WONDERFUL deli, and you and your date can browse and pick out salads, sandwiches, soups, fresh breads, cheese, potato salad, etc., etc. which will make your mouth water.
Once you have purchased your picnic, head over to the Gardens, find a gazebo or a swing or a grassy spot and enjoy your one-on-one time with your date.
VARIATION - If you would rather go to Aldridge Gardens in Hoover, you can do the same exact thing except head to Edgar's Bakery located in the stores BEHIND The Galleria. They also have a wide variety of lunch/dinner items which are delicious... and don't forget the dessert while you are there!
Aldridge Gardens has a set of picnic tables which sit over a little lake, and you can watch turtles swim around you while you eat.
Plan the picnic TODAY! We are having perfect weather for this type date, and a relaxing picnic is a wonderful way to talk, talk, talk and catch up on everything that is going on with your guy or gal.
Have a fantastic Thursday. Friday we'll finish up our week with Weekend Happenings, Randomness and some timely reminders, so check back in the morning!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Family Coin Date
Good Wednesday morning!
This morning, the Gallery Pics are from yesterday's Academic Achiever's Luncheon. Josh did a great job, and Austin, Grandmother and I were there to cheer him on (and feast on fried chicken, green beans, mashed taters and rolls). Mikie had to miss because of an out-of-town conference for work. He was not pleased. I was very proud of all the kids from our High School represented at the Luncheon. It was a good day.
RANDOMNESS #1 - As I mentioned above, Mikie is out-of-town. During his absence, I have been the reluctant Keeper of the Clock. Mike and I are both "Snoozers" by nature, which means years ago we had to move the alarm clock across the room. When the alarm goes off, the Keeper of the Clock (Mikie in most instances) has to stand, walk and slam the Snooze Button DOWN for nine more magnificent minutes of sleep.
I hate the alarm clock. I hate the placement of the alarm clock across the room (although necessary). And I hate that mental telepathy didn't work this morning when I tried to hit the Snooze Button "with my mind." I'm ready to relinquish my role as Keeper of the Clock. Mikie comes home tonight!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I may have mentioned once or twice (or 50) times I'm reading the book Calm My Anxious Heart. Well, after much thought and consideration, I've decided to chunk it! I bet you've heard the phrase, "Be careful what you pray for," haven't you? If you sincerely pray for patience, things will happen to test your patience. If you sincerely pray about anger issues, something will come along which will test your ability to control your anger.
Well, guess what happens when you sincerely pray for a calm heart? That's right. Massive anxiety-ridden events rain down upon you! So, I've decided to start reading Rick and Bubba's Big Honkin' Book of Grub. That's right. If my theory is correct, one of two things will happen... (1) I'll gain 50 pounds; or (2) I'll lose 50 pounds. As far as I'm concerned, it's a win/win!
Special Guest Hints - Here are two more hints which may or may not help the cause...
3. May's Special Guest is a Red Sox fan. Go figure!
4. Our Special Guest is one of SEVEN children.
See what you're able to do with these little nuggets. Let the guessing commence!
Wednesday Wisdom - I felt a little "Beth Moore" was needed today... especially when I read this quote.
"If Jesus gives us a task or assigns us to a difficult season, every ounce of our experience is meant for our instruction and completion if only we'll let Him finish the work. I fear, however, that we are so attention-deficit that we settle for bearable when beauty is just around the corner."
My favorite part is "we settle for bearable when beauty is just around the corner." I settle ALL the time. I also love "every ounce of our experience is meant for our instruction and completion." In the midst of difficult seasons, I forget this ALL the time, too.
This would make a great tattoo... across my forehead... backward... so I could read it in the mirror every morning. Or I might just write it on a post-it and put it on the mirror. Yeah. That might make more sense, and be a little less painful. I'll do that!
Family Coin Date
Okay. This is an oldie, but I think worth mentioning again. Eighteen months ago, our family went through the entire house (every room, every car, every purse, every drawer, etc.) and rounded up every penny, nickel, dime and quarter we could find. We found a TON of change.
We then took the change to one of the local grocery stores which has a change machine. You pour the money into a hole, and the machine counts the money and gives you the cash! Of course, the machine keeps some of the money for all the time, trouble and effort it took to count your 50 pounds of change. However, we were able to walk away with $98.50.
It's that time again! In two weeks, we'll all be going through the house looking for every bit of spare change we can find because (DRUM ROLL, PLEASE) Iron Man 2 is coming out in theaters! As most of you are aware, taking a family of five to a theater is a MAJOR expense, but it is also very fun! We usually see about two movies a year as a family of five IN the theater. (We also enjoy going to the Argo Drive-In and the $1 Movie in Hoover, and those movies are very budget-friendly. But every now and then, a blockbuster comes out, and we all go together for the movie theater "experience.") This "experience" includes the large refillable popcorn, a large soda (with five straws) and a purse full of suckers!
I encourage you to try the Family Coin Date annually. Spring or summer is the perfect time to gather the extra coinage because the good movies start appearing.
It's fun. It's time together. And since you're not touching any money in the checking account or other designated funds, it "kind of" feels free. And that's a good feeling!
Have a wonderful Wednesday. Thursday is Blog Linkage Day, and I have a fun date for you and yours. I have two more places to check for rhubarb today. I'm feeling lucky!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
This morning, the Gallery Pics are from yesterday's Academic Achiever's Luncheon. Josh did a great job, and Austin, Grandmother and I were there to cheer him on (and feast on fried chicken, green beans, mashed taters and rolls). Mikie had to miss because of an out-of-town conference for work. He was not pleased. I was very proud of all the kids from our High School represented at the Luncheon. It was a good day.
RANDOMNESS #1 - As I mentioned above, Mikie is out-of-town. During his absence, I have been the reluctant Keeper of the Clock. Mike and I are both "Snoozers" by nature, which means years ago we had to move the alarm clock across the room. When the alarm goes off, the Keeper of the Clock (Mikie in most instances) has to stand, walk and slam the Snooze Button DOWN for nine more magnificent minutes of sleep.
I hate the alarm clock. I hate the placement of the alarm clock across the room (although necessary). And I hate that mental telepathy didn't work this morning when I tried to hit the Snooze Button "with my mind." I'm ready to relinquish my role as Keeper of the Clock. Mikie comes home tonight!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I may have mentioned once or twice (or 50) times I'm reading the book Calm My Anxious Heart. Well, after much thought and consideration, I've decided to chunk it! I bet you've heard the phrase, "Be careful what you pray for," haven't you? If you sincerely pray for patience, things will happen to test your patience. If you sincerely pray about anger issues, something will come along which will test your ability to control your anger.
Well, guess what happens when you sincerely pray for a calm heart? That's right. Massive anxiety-ridden events rain down upon you! So, I've decided to start reading Rick and Bubba's Big Honkin' Book of Grub. That's right. If my theory is correct, one of two things will happen... (1) I'll gain 50 pounds; or (2) I'll lose 50 pounds. As far as I'm concerned, it's a win/win!
Special Guest Hints - Here are two more hints which may or may not help the cause...
3. May's Special Guest is a Red Sox fan. Go figure!
4. Our Special Guest is one of SEVEN children.
See what you're able to do with these little nuggets. Let the guessing commence!
Wednesday Wisdom - I felt a little "Beth Moore" was needed today... especially when I read this quote.
"If Jesus gives us a task or assigns us to a difficult season, every ounce of our experience is meant for our instruction and completion if only we'll let Him finish the work. I fear, however, that we are so attention-deficit that we settle for bearable when beauty is just around the corner."
My favorite part is "we settle for bearable when beauty is just around the corner." I settle ALL the time. I also love "every ounce of our experience is meant for our instruction and completion." In the midst of difficult seasons, I forget this ALL the time, too.
This would make a great tattoo... across my forehead... backward... so I could read it in the mirror every morning. Or I might just write it on a post-it and put it on the mirror. Yeah. That might make more sense, and be a little less painful. I'll do that!
Family Coin Date
Okay. This is an oldie, but I think worth mentioning again. Eighteen months ago, our family went through the entire house (every room, every car, every purse, every drawer, etc.) and rounded up every penny, nickel, dime and quarter we could find. We found a TON of change.
We then took the change to one of the local grocery stores which has a change machine. You pour the money into a hole, and the machine counts the money and gives you the cash! Of course, the machine keeps some of the money for all the time, trouble and effort it took to count your 50 pounds of change. However, we were able to walk away with $98.50.
It's that time again! In two weeks, we'll all be going through the house looking for every bit of spare change we can find because (DRUM ROLL, PLEASE) Iron Man 2 is coming out in theaters! As most of you are aware, taking a family of five to a theater is a MAJOR expense, but it is also very fun! We usually see about two movies a year as a family of five IN the theater. (We also enjoy going to the Argo Drive-In and the $1 Movie in Hoover, and those movies are very budget-friendly. But every now and then, a blockbuster comes out, and we all go together for the movie theater "experience.") This "experience" includes the large refillable popcorn, a large soda (with five straws) and a purse full of suckers!
I encourage you to try the Family Coin Date annually. Spring or summer is the perfect time to gather the extra coinage because the good movies start appearing.
It's fun. It's time together. And since you're not touching any money in the checking account or other designated funds, it "kind of" feels free. And that's a good feeling!
Have a wonderful Wednesday. Thursday is Blog Linkage Day, and I have a fun date for you and yours. I have two more places to check for rhubarb today. I'm feeling lucky!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, April 26, 2010
Hash Brown Casserole
Good Tuesday morning!
As much as I wish my life was getting a little more "exciting" photo-wise, it is not. But it is A Simple Life, isn't it? In today's Gallery, I am proud to present my brand new garage doors. My old garage doors were in bad, bad shape. I love these. They are white. They have no holes. They go up and down on command. And you'll notice they have no windows. My kids are known for knocking out garage door windows. (Roxie holds the record. Go figure?)
And speaking of Roxie, she's been "fiddling" with her pics, so I added a black and white to the Gallery "just because."
RANDOMNESS #1 - My friend, Jonella, gave me an idea concerning the hard-to-find rhubarb. She said she had seen it in a CAN at her local Publix. I don't have a local Publix (yet), but it had never occurred to me to look in the Canned Vegetable Section of our local Wal-Mart. Never! So off I went...
And guess what? Our local Wal-Mart doesn't sell canned rhubarb. Well, they might, but they have changed almost every aisle of our store in order to make it "easier" to find things, and I couldn't locate canned rhubarb. (I didn't check the new Electronics aisle. I'll go back and make sure it isn't there today.)
The search for rhubarb continues. I was actually excited about it being in a can. I had been worried I might accidentally chop a little of the poisonous leaf off and include it in my cake/pie and someone might actually get sick from my cooking. (Like that's never happened before!)
RANDOMNESS #2 - While I AM having trouble finding rhubarb, I have noticed parsnips are everywhere now. I guess posting about them on A Simple Life twice a week has made them more popular this past year. Parsnip farmers everywhere are thanking me, I am sure.
RANDOMNESS #3 - While we're on the subject of odd things in our local grocery stores, I have found that fresh Bok Choy is everywhere. What on earth is Bok Choy? I'll be googling it later today and I'll let you know. (I can assure you, if I had a recipe which required Bok Choy, it would not be on any store shelf within a 100 mile radius from my house.)
Special Guest Hint - Our Special Guest for May will be arriving on Monday, but until then, here are a couple of hints to help with the guessing part of this major event on A Simple Life.
1. May's Special Guest is happily married and the parent of at least one son.
2. This Guest is loved by children (and parents) of all ages!
I just wanted to share a couple of very vague hints to get you started... and these are just about as vague as you can get!
Hash Brown Casserole
This recipe was taken directly from the Oprah Winfrey Show yesterday. I watched a segment featuring Paula Deen and she made this dish. It looked WONDERFUL! I have copied from Ms. Deen before, but as always, I give her ALL the credit.
You will need:
3 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, chopped
4 cups frozen shredded hash browns
1 pound sausage, mild, hot or sage
2 1/4 cups whole milk
8 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
8 cups cubed French or Italian bread, crusts removed
2 cups (1/2 pound) grated cheddar cheese
2 cups (1/2 pound) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1. Preheat the oven to 350°.
2. Spray a deep 13" x 9" casserole dish with cooking spray.
3. Melt the butter in a large frying pan. Add the onion and sauté over medium-low heat until soft (about 5 minutes). Add the hash browns and break apart. Sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
4. In a second frying pan, sauté the sausage, breaking apart large clumps. When the sausage is cooked through, remove it from pan.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, eggs, salt, pepper, nutmeg and mustard, and briskly stir to blend.
6. To assemble, spread the onions and hash browns evenly at the bottom of the greased dish. Place the bread cubes evenly on top of hash browns. With a slotted spoon, distribute sausage as the third layer. Pour the milk and egg mixture over these layers. Add Parmesan cheese as the next layer, and then adding the cheddar.
7. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
Note - Save a few tablespoons of cheddar for the last 10 minutes of baking, when you can add a fresh topping of melted cheddar.
I know. This recipe has a lot of cheese and eggs and bread. And potatoes and sausage and milk. Doesn't it sound great! It looked beautiful on the show. If I don't find rhubarb soon, I'm going to be making this. I KNOW I can find hash browns and milk at my local Wal-Mart. (I've done it before!)
Have an uneventful Tuesday! That's what we're going for in the Faulkner household. As always, Wednesday will be full with Wednesday Wisdom, a Seasonal Tradition, more hints about our upcoming Special Guest, Randomness and much, much more. I'm not sure why, but Wednesday is always one of the busiest days on the blog.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
As much as I wish my life was getting a little more "exciting" photo-wise, it is not. But it is A Simple Life, isn't it? In today's Gallery, I am proud to present my brand new garage doors. My old garage doors were in bad, bad shape. I love these. They are white. They have no holes. They go up and down on command. And you'll notice they have no windows. My kids are known for knocking out garage door windows. (Roxie holds the record. Go figure?)
And speaking of Roxie, she's been "fiddling" with her pics, so I added a black and white to the Gallery "just because."
RANDOMNESS #1 - My friend, Jonella, gave me an idea concerning the hard-to-find rhubarb. She said she had seen it in a CAN at her local Publix. I don't have a local Publix (yet), but it had never occurred to me to look in the Canned Vegetable Section of our local Wal-Mart. Never! So off I went...
And guess what? Our local Wal-Mart doesn't sell canned rhubarb. Well, they might, but they have changed almost every aisle of our store in order to make it "easier" to find things, and I couldn't locate canned rhubarb. (I didn't check the new Electronics aisle. I'll go back and make sure it isn't there today.)
The search for rhubarb continues. I was actually excited about it being in a can. I had been worried I might accidentally chop a little of the poisonous leaf off and include it in my cake/pie and someone might actually get sick from my cooking. (Like that's never happened before!)
RANDOMNESS #2 - While I AM having trouble finding rhubarb, I have noticed parsnips are everywhere now. I guess posting about them on A Simple Life twice a week has made them more popular this past year. Parsnip farmers everywhere are thanking me, I am sure.
RANDOMNESS #3 - While we're on the subject of odd things in our local grocery stores, I have found that fresh Bok Choy is everywhere. What on earth is Bok Choy? I'll be googling it later today and I'll let you know. (I can assure you, if I had a recipe which required Bok Choy, it would not be on any store shelf within a 100 mile radius from my house.)
Special Guest Hint - Our Special Guest for May will be arriving on Monday, but until then, here are a couple of hints to help with the guessing part of this major event on A Simple Life.
1. May's Special Guest is happily married and the parent of at least one son.
2. This Guest is loved by children (and parents) of all ages!
I just wanted to share a couple of very vague hints to get you started... and these are just about as vague as you can get!
Hash Brown Casserole
This recipe was taken directly from the Oprah Winfrey Show yesterday. I watched a segment featuring Paula Deen and she made this dish. It looked WONDERFUL! I have copied from Ms. Deen before, but as always, I give her ALL the credit.
You will need:
3 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, chopped
4 cups frozen shredded hash browns
1 pound sausage, mild, hot or sage
2 1/4 cups whole milk
8 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
8 cups cubed French or Italian bread, crusts removed
2 cups (1/2 pound) grated cheddar cheese
2 cups (1/2 pound) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1. Preheat the oven to 350°.
2. Spray a deep 13" x 9" casserole dish with cooking spray.
3. Melt the butter in a large frying pan. Add the onion and sauté over medium-low heat until soft (about 5 minutes). Add the hash browns and break apart. Sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
4. In a second frying pan, sauté the sausage, breaking apart large clumps. When the sausage is cooked through, remove it from pan.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, eggs, salt, pepper, nutmeg and mustard, and briskly stir to blend.
6. To assemble, spread the onions and hash browns evenly at the bottom of the greased dish. Place the bread cubes evenly on top of hash browns. With a slotted spoon, distribute sausage as the third layer. Pour the milk and egg mixture over these layers. Add Parmesan cheese as the next layer, and then adding the cheddar.
7. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
Note - Save a few tablespoons of cheddar for the last 10 minutes of baking, when you can add a fresh topping of melted cheddar.
I know. This recipe has a lot of cheese and eggs and bread. And potatoes and sausage and milk. Doesn't it sound great! It looked beautiful on the show. If I don't find rhubarb soon, I'm going to be making this. I KNOW I can find hash browns and milk at my local Wal-Mart. (I've done it before!)
Have an uneventful Tuesday! That's what we're going for in the Faulkner household. As always, Wednesday will be full with Wednesday Wisdom, a Seasonal Tradition, more hints about our upcoming Special Guest, Randomness and much, much more. I'm not sure why, but Wednesday is always one of the busiest days on the blog.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Backyard Bible Clubs
Good Monday morning!
The Showcase Pic for the week is a picture of "Jr." Not being a huge NASCAR race fan, I'm not sure who Jr. is, but obviously he is BIG in the world of racing. Austin was very proud of this pic, and since I'm pretty sure he is famous, he gets the coveted Showcase spot this week.
The Gallery Pics are also courtesy of Austin. He took pictures at Talladega for me in my absence. Although there is not ONE SINGLE PICTURE of Mike, Austin, Josh, Kelci or Michael, he did pretty well, didn't he?
RANDOMNESS #1 - It has been an eventful morning. Mike was packed and ready to go to New Orleans for his second business trip in six days. Josh left for school. Roxie and I kissed Mikie good-bye. We left for school. I headed home. I pull in my driveway to meet the garage door people (I'M GETTING NEW GARAGE DOORS TODAY), and Austin runs out of the front door in his PJs.
There are several things wrong with this picture. Austin was sleeping in this morning. When Austin has plans to sleep in, NOTHING except an emergency changes those plans.
He was wildly waving his hands at me. Austin, if he does get up in the morning, is what is known as a "slow mover." Wildly waving hands and arms are not part of his morning routine.
I rolled down my car window. "Josh has had a wreck at Files. He is okay, but Dad says to get up there NOW because he's going to miss his plane!" Not only is Austin a "slow mover" in the morning, but he is also a "slow talker." Although he said Josh was fine, his actions were a little disturbing. I quickly turned the Big Gold Van around and headed the 1.2 miles to Files.
When I arrived, I immediately saw Mikie, Josh and the tow truck. Everyone was indeed okay. Josh had pulled out in front of a truck (larger than a dump truck, but a little smaller than an 18-wheeler), and it took off the front of his truck (grill, bumper, lights, etc.). The "what ifs" will drive you crazy when you see something like this. "What if" Josh had pulled out one second sooner? Would the truck have hit his door? "What if" the big truck had been going just ten miles per hour faster? Would it have spun Josh's truck around and caused more damage? "What if" other cars during heavy school traffic time had not been able to stop? Would other people have been involved or hurt?
That's when the book I'm reading kicked in... Calm My Anxious Heart. The facts, Belinda. Stick with the facts. No one was hurt. The bumper and grill can be replaced. Don't go to "What If Land." It does no good and it does not matter.
Two biscuits later, Josh was ready to go to school. Two extra "Josh is a Driving Teenager" pills, and I also was ready to go... back to bed... with the sheets pulled over my head.
But I have a truckload of things to thank God for this morning, so I need to get busy and take care of that first and foremost.
RANDOMNESS #2 - As I stated above, Mikie is on his way to New Orleans for a little three-day business conference. He didn't miss his flight, and it was good he was there for the wreck. I can "handle" these kinds of things fine, but Mike is so matter-of-fact and calm, I have to bow to his expertise in these areas.
RANDOMNESS #3 - For the record, rhubarb is almost as hard to find as parsnips. I'm planning on going to the store where I finally found parsnips tomorrow. Our little town is not parsnip OR rhubarb friendly. We'll have to change that, I think.
CONTEST! CONTEST! CONTEST! - Only a few more days until I pick six lucky winners for the Third Mystery Bag Party. The six names drawn from the bowl will be sent an invitation with specific instructions regarding the Party. I can't reveal the three places we will be visiting or other aspects of the party, but it will be FUN, FUN, FUN! That I do know.
If you haven't already entered, send your name along with the word "CONTEST" via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section of the blog. If you see me at Wal-Mart or church and say "CONTEST," that will count, too.
The drawing is scheduled for MAY 12 which is the day of my 400th post on A Simple Life. Enter today!
Q&A! Q&A! Q&A! - I will be having my first Question and Answer session on A Simple Life Monday, May 3. I have had several questions sent in, and I will answer them over a period of several days beginning Monday. Just like the contest, if you have any questions, send them via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section.
Weekend Review
Our weekend was very good. Roxie and I enjoyed our Friday evening crop date. We got a lot done, and today I'm reserving two seats for the May crop at Jennifer's house. If you're interested in attending a very nice crop, let me know and I'll give you Jennifer's information. It was a very relaxing, laid-back atmosphere, and we had a lovely time.
The race on Sunday was a huge hit with my guys. They are hooked! I'm happy for them. Really, I am. And I hope they enjoy going to the race for years to come. Roxie and I will be enjoying other things every year when that times rolls around... I assure you.
Roxie and I loved going to Shades Mountain Baptist to see our little friend baptized. It was such a special time, and she and her family are so precious. It was the highlight of my weekend. Mike and I met, fell in love and married at Shades Mountain. Although the congregation now meets in a new sanctuary, there is a new pastor, a new music director and most of the faces are strangers to me, as soon as I walk in I feel at home. I was surprised, but Mike has said the same thing.
Please don't misunderstand. I love our church. It is where my children have grown up, and we have made wonderful memories here. I have learned so much under Bro. Steve's preaching, and now Pastor Kevin's. But home is home, and one day I hope Mike and I can be part of that congregation once again. Sunday was a wonderful day.
Backyard Bible Clubs
You may think of Backyard Bible Clubs in terms of something churches did many, many years ago. However, when the kids were small, and we had a yard full of children running back and forth all day long throughout the long summer months, I had a few of these on my back deck.
Over the next four weeks, I'll be sharing some fun and simple devotions, crafts, etc. you can do with the children in your own neighborhood over the next few months. (The kids are there anyway, right? Why not plant some seeds while they play?)
Today's post will introduce you to the idea, and give you some ideas about getting organized. The next four Mondays will have very specific devotions and activities you can implement in your own Backyard Bible Club. None of the devotions/activities will last longer than 30 minutes. They will all be held outside. The cost will be minimal.
1. Gather the neighborhood kids in your backyard or your back deck and tell them you will be hosting a Backyard Bible Club next ____________. Tell them what time they will need to be there. I fed my group pizzas (two Little Caesar's pizzas for a total of $10), and had a cooler on the back deck filled with bottled water. Explain to them there will be food, games and a SHORT Bible story. During this first initial meeting, have them come up with a name for the Club. You can use your street name (Watkins Way Warriors, etc.), but make it catchy and fun.
2. Make a little flyer one or two days before the actual Club meeting, and have your children deliver them to each of the homes which will be involved. (If you have a family who is a different denomination from your own, or you don't know them very well, be sure to talk with a parent and explain to them exactly what you will be doing. You can even tell them which Bible story you will be sharing, etc.)
3. When all the children have arrived, make sure you begin with prayer, keep everything moving quickly and on schedule, and end with FOOD. FOOD will be your "hook," especially for always active little boys. Talking during the prayer... "No food for you!" Being disruptive during the five-minute devotion... "No food for you!" In reality, after I explained the rules the first time, I never had to use the threat of "No food for you!" Kids understand pizza. It's their second language.
Okay. This your starting point. Come back next Monday for a step-by-step 30-minute Bible Club. There will be prayer, a REALLY fun game, a craft and a five-minute devotion... and, of course, food. Clean-up is minimal. If the weather is bad, have a back-up DATE in mind. When I say BACKYARD, I mean BACKYARD. Being outside takes a lot of pressure off you because you don't have to worry about 15 kids in the house on a rainy day for 30 minutes. (So much damage can be done in so little time! I've been there, and done that!)
Prayerfully consider this idea, and next week I'll help you get started!
Have a simply lovely Monday. I hope you get a lot done on your "To Do" list. Heck... I hope you finish that sucker! I have a wonderful recipe for you to try Tuesday. You must visit A Simple Life at least one more time.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Showcase Pic for the week is a picture of "Jr." Not being a huge NASCAR race fan, I'm not sure who Jr. is, but obviously he is BIG in the world of racing. Austin was very proud of this pic, and since I'm pretty sure he is famous, he gets the coveted Showcase spot this week.
The Gallery Pics are also courtesy of Austin. He took pictures at Talladega for me in my absence. Although there is not ONE SINGLE PICTURE of Mike, Austin, Josh, Kelci or Michael, he did pretty well, didn't he?
RANDOMNESS #1 - It has been an eventful morning. Mike was packed and ready to go to New Orleans for his second business trip in six days. Josh left for school. Roxie and I kissed Mikie good-bye. We left for school. I headed home. I pull in my driveway to meet the garage door people (I'M GETTING NEW GARAGE DOORS TODAY), and Austin runs out of the front door in his PJs.
There are several things wrong with this picture. Austin was sleeping in this morning. When Austin has plans to sleep in, NOTHING except an emergency changes those plans.
He was wildly waving his hands at me. Austin, if he does get up in the morning, is what is known as a "slow mover." Wildly waving hands and arms are not part of his morning routine.
I rolled down my car window. "Josh has had a wreck at Files. He is okay, but Dad says to get up there NOW because he's going to miss his plane!" Not only is Austin a "slow mover" in the morning, but he is also a "slow talker." Although he said Josh was fine, his actions were a little disturbing. I quickly turned the Big Gold Van around and headed the 1.2 miles to Files.
When I arrived, I immediately saw Mikie, Josh and the tow truck. Everyone was indeed okay. Josh had pulled out in front of a truck (larger than a dump truck, but a little smaller than an 18-wheeler), and it took off the front of his truck (grill, bumper, lights, etc.). The "what ifs" will drive you crazy when you see something like this. "What if" Josh had pulled out one second sooner? Would the truck have hit his door? "What if" the big truck had been going just ten miles per hour faster? Would it have spun Josh's truck around and caused more damage? "What if" other cars during heavy school traffic time had not been able to stop? Would other people have been involved or hurt?
That's when the book I'm reading kicked in... Calm My Anxious Heart. The facts, Belinda. Stick with the facts. No one was hurt. The bumper and grill can be replaced. Don't go to "What If Land." It does no good and it does not matter.
Two biscuits later, Josh was ready to go to school. Two extra "Josh is a Driving Teenager" pills, and I also was ready to go... back to bed... with the sheets pulled over my head.
But I have a truckload of things to thank God for this morning, so I need to get busy and take care of that first and foremost.
RANDOMNESS #2 - As I stated above, Mikie is on his way to New Orleans for a little three-day business conference. He didn't miss his flight, and it was good he was there for the wreck. I can "handle" these kinds of things fine, but Mike is so matter-of-fact and calm, I have to bow to his expertise in these areas.
RANDOMNESS #3 - For the record, rhubarb is almost as hard to find as parsnips. I'm planning on going to the store where I finally found parsnips tomorrow. Our little town is not parsnip OR rhubarb friendly. We'll have to change that, I think.
CONTEST! CONTEST! CONTEST! - Only a few more days until I pick six lucky winners for the Third Mystery Bag Party. The six names drawn from the bowl will be sent an invitation with specific instructions regarding the Party. I can't reveal the three places we will be visiting or other aspects of the party, but it will be FUN, FUN, FUN! That I do know.
If you haven't already entered, send your name along with the word "CONTEST" via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section of the blog. If you see me at Wal-Mart or church and say "CONTEST," that will count, too.
The drawing is scheduled for MAY 12 which is the day of my 400th post on A Simple Life. Enter today!
Q&A! Q&A! Q&A! - I will be having my first Question and Answer session on A Simple Life Monday, May 3. I have had several questions sent in, and I will answer them over a period of several days beginning Monday. Just like the contest, if you have any questions, send them via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section.
Weekend Review
Our weekend was very good. Roxie and I enjoyed our Friday evening crop date. We got a lot done, and today I'm reserving two seats for the May crop at Jennifer's house. If you're interested in attending a very nice crop, let me know and I'll give you Jennifer's information. It was a very relaxing, laid-back atmosphere, and we had a lovely time.
The race on Sunday was a huge hit with my guys. They are hooked! I'm happy for them. Really, I am. And I hope they enjoy going to the race for years to come. Roxie and I will be enjoying other things every year when that times rolls around... I assure you.
Roxie and I loved going to Shades Mountain Baptist to see our little friend baptized. It was such a special time, and she and her family are so precious. It was the highlight of my weekend. Mike and I met, fell in love and married at Shades Mountain. Although the congregation now meets in a new sanctuary, there is a new pastor, a new music director and most of the faces are strangers to me, as soon as I walk in I feel at home. I was surprised, but Mike has said the same thing.
Please don't misunderstand. I love our church. It is where my children have grown up, and we have made wonderful memories here. I have learned so much under Bro. Steve's preaching, and now Pastor Kevin's. But home is home, and one day I hope Mike and I can be part of that congregation once again. Sunday was a wonderful day.
Backyard Bible Clubs
You may think of Backyard Bible Clubs in terms of something churches did many, many years ago. However, when the kids were small, and we had a yard full of children running back and forth all day long throughout the long summer months, I had a few of these on my back deck.
Over the next four weeks, I'll be sharing some fun and simple devotions, crafts, etc. you can do with the children in your own neighborhood over the next few months. (The kids are there anyway, right? Why not plant some seeds while they play?)
Today's post will introduce you to the idea, and give you some ideas about getting organized. The next four Mondays will have very specific devotions and activities you can implement in your own Backyard Bible Club. None of the devotions/activities will last longer than 30 minutes. They will all be held outside. The cost will be minimal.
1. Gather the neighborhood kids in your backyard or your back deck and tell them you will be hosting a Backyard Bible Club next ____________. Tell them what time they will need to be there. I fed my group pizzas (two Little Caesar's pizzas for a total of $10), and had a cooler on the back deck filled with bottled water. Explain to them there will be food, games and a SHORT Bible story. During this first initial meeting, have them come up with a name for the Club. You can use your street name (Watkins Way Warriors, etc.), but make it catchy and fun.
2. Make a little flyer one or two days before the actual Club meeting, and have your children deliver them to each of the homes which will be involved. (If you have a family who is a different denomination from your own, or you don't know them very well, be sure to talk with a parent and explain to them exactly what you will be doing. You can even tell them which Bible story you will be sharing, etc.)
3. When all the children have arrived, make sure you begin with prayer, keep everything moving quickly and on schedule, and end with FOOD. FOOD will be your "hook," especially for always active little boys. Talking during the prayer... "No food for you!" Being disruptive during the five-minute devotion... "No food for you!" In reality, after I explained the rules the first time, I never had to use the threat of "No food for you!" Kids understand pizza. It's their second language.
Okay. This your starting point. Come back next Monday for a step-by-step 30-minute Bible Club. There will be prayer, a REALLY fun game, a craft and a five-minute devotion... and, of course, food. Clean-up is minimal. If the weather is bad, have a back-up DATE in mind. When I say BACKYARD, I mean BACKYARD. Being outside takes a lot of pressure off you because you don't have to worry about 15 kids in the house on a rainy day for 30 minutes. (So much damage can be done in so little time! I've been there, and done that!)
Prayerfully consider this idea, and next week I'll help you get started!
Have a simply lovely Monday. I hope you get a lot done on your "To Do" list. Heck... I hope you finish that sucker! I have a wonderful recipe for you to try Tuesday. You must visit A Simple Life at least one more time.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
Yes! There are new pictures in the Gallery this morning. The Boy came home from his first year at JSU, and I captured (Code for STAGED) some shots for the ol' blog.
AUSTIN UPDATE - I mentioned yesterday I would reflect a little on the pros and cons of being a mother of a child who goes away to college. I am by no means an expert, and I do not think I handled many of the new situations in a calm and rational way. (Obviously, that was Mikie's job... not mine.) However, looking back, I can see that some good came out of this new experience. And I'm talking strictly about The Boy... not me.
I'll keep my thoughts organized as best I can which means I'll be using the "list method."
CON #1 - It is not a "natural" act for a human mother to throw her human child out of the car and drive away. For over 18 years, I had daily eye-to-eye contact with this human child, and in a matter of minutes the daily eye-to-eye contact was gone. And I was supposed to be okay with this new turn of events.
"Let him go. Let him become a man," I was told by several people. In theory, this sounds good. In real life... not so much.
PRO #1 - Austin turned out to be a "caller," and someone in the family heard from him each day, even if it was just to say "Hi." This put my mind and heart at ease at the end of a long day. Austin also turned out to be someone who didn't automatically think Mike and I were idiots, and he asked a lot of questions about everything. (It turns out, Mike and I didn't know as much as we thought we did, but we didn't find it necessary to share that information with Austin.)
CON #2 - I didn't know any of his new buddies. I had spent the last 18 years knowing everyone Austin knew. I even knew the parents of his friends. Now he had friends from Georgia, and I only knew them by their nicknames and the stories he told now and then.
PRO #2 - The few friends I have met and spent time with this past year are no different from the boys he grew up with. They play X-Box. They like football. They like to eat. Most of them are in the band with Austin. I have come to the conclusion Georgia boys are not unlike Alabama boys. I like them. I like them very much.
CON #3 - I have spent a lot of time since Austin was born washing, ironing and folding his clothes. I have spent even more time making sure he wore "matching" washed, ironed and folded clothes. I have no control over this when he is at college. Sure, I can send the clothing washed, ironed and folded, but what he does with them when he gets there, I have no clue. I have had to let this one go.
PRO #3 - There is no pro to this one. I know he's wearing his red shirt that should go with his plaid shorts with his camo shorts. I just know it!
Semi-Funny Story - The first week of Band Camp, Austin had to participate in rookie initiation. It is highly secretive, and the older guys in his section did a great job of playing mind games with Austin and the other three "newbies." By the night of the initiation, Austin was a little nervous, but I was literally sick. "I'll call you when it's over, and let you know what happened," Austin said.
At midnight, I was sitting straight up in bed watching the clock. I woke the peacefully sleeping Mikie. "Mike! Get up!"
"What... What's wrong?"
"It's practically 12:30 in the morning and we haven't heard from Austin. Do you remember the show we saw where they initiated college students by wrapping them up with duct tape, and locking them in the trunk of a car, and leaving them in a field somewhere for days with no food or water? Do you remember that?" My mind and my mouth were racing.
"I think that was on 24," Mikie mumbled. He reached over, grabbed his phone and sent Austin a text asking for an update. We immediately received a text which said, "I'm fine. It's almost over. I'll call you in a minute."
"There. He's fine. We can go back to sleep," Mike mumbled again.
"We have no idea who sent that text. Any one of those boys could have his phone. He wouldn't need it in the trunk of a car." I was beyond being reasonable.
"I'm 99 percent sure you're thinking about something Jack Bauer did to a terrorist in Season Two. Everything is going to be fine."
"I don't trust those Georgia boys," I muttered.
About that time, the phone rang and Austin laughed and told us it was "nothing," but he couldn't tell us anything because initiation was most definitely a secret. "I could tell you, but then I'd have to kill you," he chuckled. (Yeah. We watch WAY too much 24.) He said he was tired, and he would talk to us later.
"I hate this," I said, thumping my pillow into submission.
"He's going to be fine," Mike said. "I think you're the one we're going to have to worry about."
Truer words have never been spoken.
But we survived, Austin and I. He grew up quite a bit this past year, and I asked my doctor to increase my "Austin Has Gone to College" medication (quite a bit). He had a good year for the most part. There were some serious issues he had to deal with, and he had some difficult decisions to make.
Maintaining a Christian testimony at college is not THE easy thing to do, and Satan is alive and well at our universities.
More than once this past year, I have found myself wishing we were starting over again. Mike and I would be 29 and expecting our first child... a son. We would name him Austin, and we would raise him in church and teach him everything he would need to know to one day go out into the world and be a godly man. And we would have more time, and be more wise, and know everything we needed to say before that day arrived.
It's truly amazing how quickly the tiny baby in your arms becomes a man, isn't it? It happens quite literally in a "blink of an eye."
I will end my melancholy ramblings now. Today is a good day. Today all of the chicks are in the nest... and Austin's shirt matches his shorts! Yes... Today is a very good day.
Weekend Happenings
Tonight Austin and Josh are taking Grandmother out to eat while Roxie and I go to our first "official" crop together. Roxie and I are planning on doing at least ten pages apiece. We'll see!
Mikie will be home around 10:00 tonight, and I can't wait to see him for a couple of days before he heads out again Monday morning. (He's going to New Orleans next week, and I'm trying hard not to be jealous.)
Saturday is an unknown for now. It could very easily become an eventful day, but as of this minute... nothing!
Sunday should be fun for Mikie and the boys. They are going to their first ever Talladega Race together. (Mikie has gone to a race or two before, but not the boys.) Austin and Josh have really gotten race fever this year.
While they are enjoying the races, Roxie and I will be attending services at Shades Mountain Baptist... the church Mikie and I met, fell in love and were married. Some of our good friends who still attend there have a precious daughter being baptized, and we are going to celebrate this event with their family.
Like I said earlier... I have a lot of opportunities for pictures this weekend so the Gallery should be full.
Have a fantastic weekend. Spend a ton of time with your little ones! Next week, I'll start giving you hints about our May Special Guest. I think this one will stump EVERYONE! And I'll have even more ideas for "outside" things to do with your family and friends.
REMINDER #1 - Don't forget to enter the Mystery Bag Party Contest via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section. The drawing will be held May 12 which is just around the corner.
REMINDER #2 - I'll be having a Q & A on A Simple Life beginning May 3. Ask me ANYTHING between now and then! Again, just leave your questions in the Comment Section, Facebook or via e-mail.
REMINDER #3 - I'll be adding pictures to Project 365 Friday, Saturday and Sunday, so stop by and check those out if you get a chance.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Yes! There are new pictures in the Gallery this morning. The Boy came home from his first year at JSU, and I captured (Code for STAGED) some shots for the ol' blog.
AUSTIN UPDATE - I mentioned yesterday I would reflect a little on the pros and cons of being a mother of a child who goes away to college. I am by no means an expert, and I do not think I handled many of the new situations in a calm and rational way. (Obviously, that was Mikie's job... not mine.) However, looking back, I can see that some good came out of this new experience. And I'm talking strictly about The Boy... not me.
I'll keep my thoughts organized as best I can which means I'll be using the "list method."
CON #1 - It is not a "natural" act for a human mother to throw her human child out of the car and drive away. For over 18 years, I had daily eye-to-eye contact with this human child, and in a matter of minutes the daily eye-to-eye contact was gone. And I was supposed to be okay with this new turn of events.
"Let him go. Let him become a man," I was told by several people. In theory, this sounds good. In real life... not so much.
PRO #1 - Austin turned out to be a "caller," and someone in the family heard from him each day, even if it was just to say "Hi." This put my mind and heart at ease at the end of a long day. Austin also turned out to be someone who didn't automatically think Mike and I were idiots, and he asked a lot of questions about everything. (It turns out, Mike and I didn't know as much as we thought we did, but we didn't find it necessary to share that information with Austin.)
CON #2 - I didn't know any of his new buddies. I had spent the last 18 years knowing everyone Austin knew. I even knew the parents of his friends. Now he had friends from Georgia, and I only knew them by their nicknames and the stories he told now and then.
PRO #2 - The few friends I have met and spent time with this past year are no different from the boys he grew up with. They play X-Box. They like football. They like to eat. Most of them are in the band with Austin. I have come to the conclusion Georgia boys are not unlike Alabama boys. I like them. I like them very much.
CON #3 - I have spent a lot of time since Austin was born washing, ironing and folding his clothes. I have spent even more time making sure he wore "matching" washed, ironed and folded clothes. I have no control over this when he is at college. Sure, I can send the clothing washed, ironed and folded, but what he does with them when he gets there, I have no clue. I have had to let this one go.
PRO #3 - There is no pro to this one. I know he's wearing his red shirt that should go with his plaid shorts with his camo shorts. I just know it!
Semi-Funny Story - The first week of Band Camp, Austin had to participate in rookie initiation. It is highly secretive, and the older guys in his section did a great job of playing mind games with Austin and the other three "newbies." By the night of the initiation, Austin was a little nervous, but I was literally sick. "I'll call you when it's over, and let you know what happened," Austin said.
At midnight, I was sitting straight up in bed watching the clock. I woke the peacefully sleeping Mikie. "Mike! Get up!"
"What... What's wrong?"
"It's practically 12:30 in the morning and we haven't heard from Austin. Do you remember the show we saw where they initiated college students by wrapping them up with duct tape, and locking them in the trunk of a car, and leaving them in a field somewhere for days with no food or water? Do you remember that?" My mind and my mouth were racing.
"I think that was on 24," Mikie mumbled. He reached over, grabbed his phone and sent Austin a text asking for an update. We immediately received a text which said, "I'm fine. It's almost over. I'll call you in a minute."
"There. He's fine. We can go back to sleep," Mike mumbled again.
"We have no idea who sent that text. Any one of those boys could have his phone. He wouldn't need it in the trunk of a car." I was beyond being reasonable.
"I'm 99 percent sure you're thinking about something Jack Bauer did to a terrorist in Season Two. Everything is going to be fine."
"I don't trust those Georgia boys," I muttered.
About that time, the phone rang and Austin laughed and told us it was "nothing," but he couldn't tell us anything because initiation was most definitely a secret. "I could tell you, but then I'd have to kill you," he chuckled. (Yeah. We watch WAY too much 24.) He said he was tired, and he would talk to us later.
"I hate this," I said, thumping my pillow into submission.
"He's going to be fine," Mike said. "I think you're the one we're going to have to worry about."
Truer words have never been spoken.
But we survived, Austin and I. He grew up quite a bit this past year, and I asked my doctor to increase my "Austin Has Gone to College" medication (quite a bit). He had a good year for the most part. There were some serious issues he had to deal with, and he had some difficult decisions to make.
Maintaining a Christian testimony at college is not THE easy thing to do, and Satan is alive and well at our universities.
More than once this past year, I have found myself wishing we were starting over again. Mike and I would be 29 and expecting our first child... a son. We would name him Austin, and we would raise him in church and teach him everything he would need to know to one day go out into the world and be a godly man. And we would have more time, and be more wise, and know everything we needed to say before that day arrived.
It's truly amazing how quickly the tiny baby in your arms becomes a man, isn't it? It happens quite literally in a "blink of an eye."
I will end my melancholy ramblings now. Today is a good day. Today all of the chicks are in the nest... and Austin's shirt matches his shorts! Yes... Today is a very good day.
Weekend Happenings
Tonight Austin and Josh are taking Grandmother out to eat while Roxie and I go to our first "official" crop together. Roxie and I are planning on doing at least ten pages apiece. We'll see!
Mikie will be home around 10:00 tonight, and I can't wait to see him for a couple of days before he heads out again Monday morning. (He's going to New Orleans next week, and I'm trying hard not to be jealous.)
Saturday is an unknown for now. It could very easily become an eventful day, but as of this minute... nothing!
Sunday should be fun for Mikie and the boys. They are going to their first ever Talladega Race together. (Mikie has gone to a race or two before, but not the boys.) Austin and Josh have really gotten race fever this year.
While they are enjoying the races, Roxie and I will be attending services at Shades Mountain Baptist... the church Mikie and I met, fell in love and were married. Some of our good friends who still attend there have a precious daughter being baptized, and we are going to celebrate this event with their family.
Like I said earlier... I have a lot of opportunities for pictures this weekend so the Gallery should be full.
Have a fantastic weekend. Spend a ton of time with your little ones! Next week, I'll start giving you hints about our May Special Guest. I think this one will stump EVERYONE! And I'll have even more ideas for "outside" things to do with your family and friends.
REMINDER #1 - Don't forget to enter the Mystery Bag Party Contest via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section. The drawing will be held May 12 which is just around the corner.
REMINDER #2 - I'll be having a Q & A on A Simple Life beginning May 3. Ask me ANYTHING between now and then! Again, just leave your questions in the Comment Section, Facebook or via e-mail.
REMINDER #3 - I'll be adding pictures to Project 365 Friday, Saturday and Sunday, so stop by and check those out if you get a chance.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Hobby Date
Good Thursday morning!
There are a couple more "Things That Make Me Smile" pics in the Gallery. I promise I'll have some picture-taking events this coming weekend. Next week's Gallery should be SO much better. But until then...
RANDOMNESS #1 - I'm rhubarb shopping today. Some women like to shop for shoes, purses and summer dresses. Not me! Rhubarb, baby!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Do not... I repeat, DO NOT try the Raspberry Cordial at the Godiva Chocolate store at the Galleria. It may seem like a good idea at the time because it is sitting beside the always delicious Cherry Cordial AND it is wrapped in the prettiest light pink foil with a delicate design AND it is covered in chocolate, but when it is all said and done it is still a SOUR raspberry. You would be much happier going with your first instinct and eating the Cherry Cordial instead. Learn from MY mistake.
RANDOMNESS #3 - Mikie's convention is being held in Colorado Springs at a huge, beautiful resort... AND THE RESORT HAS A PRIVATE ZOO ON THE GROUNDS! I ask you. Is this fair?
AUSTIN UPDATE - THE BOY IS COMING HOME! Finals are finished. Austin's freshman year at JSU has been completed. We survived!
He is taking an English Lit class during the Maymester, but he will be staying/visiting with different grandparents Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights, and he'll be home on Thursday afternoons, so I don't really consider the Maymester "being away at college."
After much reflection (and reviewing the notebook I have kept since last August 7 when he left), I will regale you, the readers of A Simple Life, with the pros and cons of being a mother of a college freshman living in a dorm at JSU tomorrow. I realize I am not the first (or only) mother who has survived the "Dreaded Freshman Year," so feel free to add your two cents if you are member of this club!
Blog Linkage - I have two posts to share with you this morning. One for reflection and one for a smile!
1. Click on Sherri's Blog under My Blog List and read her April 18 post entitled "Letters to God." It is one part movie review and one part testimony. I want our family to see this movie very, very soon.
2. Go to www.coalcreekfarm.com and read the April 19 post entitled "Becky, the Cake Maker." If you are a fan (or a reluctant viewer) of the show LOST, you MUST see the cake this very talented woman made for a LOST Party. It is amazing!
Hobby Date
This date was listed under my post "100 Date Ideas" a few months back. It was very vague in the list, but since Austin and Melia have tried this one (and enjoyed it), I decided to make it more specific.
This is not an expensive date. It goes something like this...
1. Find a nice, local bakery and pick out a pastry treat for each other. Spend some time leisurely talking and enjoying your treat.
2. Go to a nearby Hobby Store and pick out something the two of you will enjoy doing together. It can be a puzzle, model car, kite, birdhouse kit, etc. Try to pick out something which will take a little more time than just one evening to complete.
3. Head home to get started on your project.
So, to actually make it more doable, head to Savage's Bakery in Homewood. This is an old bakery I visited for the first time over 25 years ago. It is wonderful, and it has a huge variety of cookies, pastries, cakes and pies. (I suggest trying a melt-away. It was my favorite back in the day, and now they have about five or six different flavors.) If you want to make it a lunch date, they have a semi-large selection of deli-style sandwiches, salads, soups, etc. Very, very good.
Now, take your time and meander (good word) down the hill to the Homewood Toy and Hobby Shop which has hobbies and kits to choose from. Take your time shopping and finding the perfect hobby you and your child (or spouse) will enjoy doing together.
VARIATION - After you have gone to your favorite bakery (no matter where you live in the country), go to your local post office and check out their stamp collecting kits. You may want to visit or call prior to the date to check on supply (I'm not sure every post office will have these kits on site) and cost. If stamp collecting was something you enjoyed as a child, it might be something you could share with your child now.
Have a terrific Thursday. Busy, busy day today. I have to kill a fatted calf in celebration of The Boy coming home. (Is it very difficult to kill and prepare a fatted calf. Does anyone know where I can find a fatted calf... legally. It doesn't sound pleasant, does it? We may just have pizza. His choice.) And then there are the banners which have to be made and strung across the front of the house. And then there are the flags which must be raised which have been at half staff all year. And then I have to run to Cracker Barrel and buy his favorite creme soda to have sitting on his pillow when he walks into his room (a/k/a The Shrine). Yes, there is much to do in preparation for his homecoming!
I'll have Weekend Happenings and some timely reminders for you Friday, so check back for a few minutes before you start your busy weekends!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
There are a couple more "Things That Make Me Smile" pics in the Gallery. I promise I'll have some picture-taking events this coming weekend. Next week's Gallery should be SO much better. But until then...
RANDOMNESS #1 - I'm rhubarb shopping today. Some women like to shop for shoes, purses and summer dresses. Not me! Rhubarb, baby!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Do not... I repeat, DO NOT try the Raspberry Cordial at the Godiva Chocolate store at the Galleria. It may seem like a good idea at the time because it is sitting beside the always delicious Cherry Cordial AND it is wrapped in the prettiest light pink foil with a delicate design AND it is covered in chocolate, but when it is all said and done it is still a SOUR raspberry. You would be much happier going with your first instinct and eating the Cherry Cordial instead. Learn from MY mistake.
RANDOMNESS #3 - Mikie's convention is being held in Colorado Springs at a huge, beautiful resort... AND THE RESORT HAS A PRIVATE ZOO ON THE GROUNDS! I ask you. Is this fair?
AUSTIN UPDATE - THE BOY IS COMING HOME! Finals are finished. Austin's freshman year at JSU has been completed. We survived!
He is taking an English Lit class during the Maymester, but he will be staying/visiting with different grandparents Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights, and he'll be home on Thursday afternoons, so I don't really consider the Maymester "being away at college."
After much reflection (and reviewing the notebook I have kept since last August 7 when he left), I will regale you, the readers of A Simple Life, with the pros and cons of being a mother of a college freshman living in a dorm at JSU tomorrow. I realize I am not the first (or only) mother who has survived the "Dreaded Freshman Year," so feel free to add your two cents if you are member of this club!
Blog Linkage - I have two posts to share with you this morning. One for reflection and one for a smile!
1. Click on Sherri's Blog under My Blog List and read her April 18 post entitled "Letters to God." It is one part movie review and one part testimony. I want our family to see this movie very, very soon.
2. Go to www.coalcreekfarm.com and read the April 19 post entitled "Becky, the Cake Maker." If you are a fan (or a reluctant viewer) of the show LOST, you MUST see the cake this very talented woman made for a LOST Party. It is amazing!
Hobby Date
This date was listed under my post "100 Date Ideas" a few months back. It was very vague in the list, but since Austin and Melia have tried this one (and enjoyed it), I decided to make it more specific.
This is not an expensive date. It goes something like this...
1. Find a nice, local bakery and pick out a pastry treat for each other. Spend some time leisurely talking and enjoying your treat.
2. Go to a nearby Hobby Store and pick out something the two of you will enjoy doing together. It can be a puzzle, model car, kite, birdhouse kit, etc. Try to pick out something which will take a little more time than just one evening to complete.
3. Head home to get started on your project.
So, to actually make it more doable, head to Savage's Bakery in Homewood. This is an old bakery I visited for the first time over 25 years ago. It is wonderful, and it has a huge variety of cookies, pastries, cakes and pies. (I suggest trying a melt-away. It was my favorite back in the day, and now they have about five or six different flavors.) If you want to make it a lunch date, they have a semi-large selection of deli-style sandwiches, salads, soups, etc. Very, very good.
Now, take your time and meander (good word) down the hill to the Homewood Toy and Hobby Shop which has hobbies and kits to choose from. Take your time shopping and finding the perfect hobby you and your child (or spouse) will enjoy doing together.
VARIATION - After you have gone to your favorite bakery (no matter where you live in the country), go to your local post office and check out their stamp collecting kits. You may want to visit or call prior to the date to check on supply (I'm not sure every post office will have these kits on site) and cost. If stamp collecting was something you enjoyed as a child, it might be something you could share with your child now.
Have a terrific Thursday. Busy, busy day today. I have to kill a fatted calf in celebration of The Boy coming home. (Is it very difficult to kill and prepare a fatted calf. Does anyone know where I can find a fatted calf... legally. It doesn't sound pleasant, does it? We may just have pizza. His choice.) And then there are the banners which have to be made and strung across the front of the house. And then there are the flags which must be raised which have been at half staff all year. And then I have to run to Cracker Barrel and buy his favorite creme soda to have sitting on his pillow when he walks into his room (a/k/a The Shrine). Yes, there is much to do in preparation for his homecoming!
I'll have Weekend Happenings and some timely reminders for you Friday, so check back for a few minutes before you start your busy weekends!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Pick a Night Family Night
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery pics are just a few more photos of "Things That Make Me Smile." I'm hoping I will see my neighbor's new puppy out and about today. He is precious, and although not a zoo animal, you can't beat good puppy pics in the Gallery.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for ya! I LOVE African music. I'm not sure why. It just speaks to me. We were fortunate to see the Broadway version of The Lion King when it came to Birmingham about four or five years ago, and in the middle of the play I remember a group of men on stage in traditional African costume singing the most beautiful song. I was hooked.
Well, when you have a Music Education Major in your home for the weekend, you may find yourself exposed to some other eclectic music choices. I now LOVE Hawaiian music... specifically "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" sung by the late Israel (IZ) Kamakawiwo. It is the most soothing, lovely rendition I have ever heard. Love it.
And there's more! Nick introduced us to Thailand Throat Singing. I know. I know. What is a self-proclaimed Fanilow doing listening to such unusual types of music? I don't know, but I will use the word "soothing" over and over. Maybe that's what my ears need these days. "Soothing." I have no way to describe Thailand Throat Singing, but I did copy a definition which may (or may not) help. "High whistling melodies, expressive warbles, and intense low croaking tones." I will say that definition does not do it justice. It's pretty amazing.
I guess listening to these songs this past weekend would be the "new" things I experienced last week. I wanted you to know food is not the only "new" thing I try.
What can I say? I'm an enigma!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Is it just me, or does anyone else want to RUN to the nearest theater to watch the new movie Babies. The movie chronicles the first year of four different babies from four different cultures around the world. When we saw the preview at The Last Song, Roxie turned to me before I had a chance to say a word and just said, "No." Mikie doesn't want me to see it because he doesn't want to be a new Daddy again at age 48 (almost 49), and that is exactly what this movie is going to do to me... make me want another baby when I'm practically grandmother-age. I should avoid this movie like the plague... but I'm pretty sure I'm sneaking out to see it at least once (maybe twice). Shhh. Don't tell Mike.
Wednesday Wisdom - Today's Wisdom comes from author Harper Lee (To Kill a Mockingbird). Very insightful stuff.
Many receive advice, only the wise profit from it.
Real courage is when you know you're licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what.
The book to read is not the one which thinks for you, but the one which makes you think. No book in the world equals the Bible for that. (Amen, Sister!)
Smart, smart woman, that Harper Lee.
Pick a Night Family Night
We have not done this, but I have read of two families who live by this rule... and seem to have had some success with the Weekly Family Night.
Both families (which do not know each other) picked Monday night as their weekly night to do something together as a family. I like the fact they stay away from the busy weekend. They start with the most basic family gathering... the evening meal.
After the meal, Family Number One picks a piece of paper from a jar and reads it aloud. Whatever is on that piece of paper dictates what the family will do for the evening. It may be a movie night. It may be going for a bike ride. It may be making ice cream sundaes after playing a family game. Of course, the activities in the jar have been contributed by all of the family members. I will also mention, Family Number One now has three teenagers and one pre-teen in the house. Because they have been doing this since the kids were small, it is an unspoken rule no one makes plans for Monday nights.
Family Number Two calls their weekly Monday night get-together Family Talent Show Night. They use Talent Time Themes. "Two favorites are Talents in a Bag -- each person draws a couple of items from a sack and uses them as props -- and Together Talents, where two people team up to do a skit, a song or a dance. We also do Silent Talents (no speaking allowed), Outside Talents (performed in the yard) and Pet Talents (which feature one of the members of our pet family)."
I also like the flexibility Family Number Two uses. "On a busy night, we shorten the show. Each person gets 30 seconds to do something small, such as whistle a tune, show off a school project or recite a brief poem." Family Number Two (Bud and Casey Cluff of Sammamish, Washington) has been featured in this month's Family Fun Magazine.
As with many ideas I share from other folks, I am going to give this a try. It's never too late to introduce a new tradition to the family. Beginning next week, we're going to declare Tuesday night as Faulkner Family Night. We may do something as simple as driving to Sno Biz to enjoy a snow cone or watching an old TV series (Boy Meets World, etc.). Doing something simple and fun as a family doesn't have to last two hours. It can be a 30-minute activity. That's okay.
The main goal is to pick a specific night, write it in ink, and stick with it as best you can!
Have a lovely Wednesday. It is a new day, so if you haven't been able to spend that extra time with family or friends, make a plan (in ink) to carve out some special time in the next day or so... take a kiddo to breakfast, surprise your spouse with a lunch invitation, go to a Thursday night movie (no crowds), serve a family meal on the deck. The possibilities are endless! I'll have a date to share with you tomorrow, Blog Linkage, and what has now become my custom, RANDOMNESS!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery pics are just a few more photos of "Things That Make Me Smile." I'm hoping I will see my neighbor's new puppy out and about today. He is precious, and although not a zoo animal, you can't beat good puppy pics in the Gallery.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for ya! I LOVE African music. I'm not sure why. It just speaks to me. We were fortunate to see the Broadway version of The Lion King when it came to Birmingham about four or five years ago, and in the middle of the play I remember a group of men on stage in traditional African costume singing the most beautiful song. I was hooked.
Well, when you have a Music Education Major in your home for the weekend, you may find yourself exposed to some other eclectic music choices. I now LOVE Hawaiian music... specifically "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" sung by the late Israel (IZ) Kamakawiwo. It is the most soothing, lovely rendition I have ever heard. Love it.
And there's more! Nick introduced us to Thailand Throat Singing. I know. I know. What is a self-proclaimed Fanilow doing listening to such unusual types of music? I don't know, but I will use the word "soothing" over and over. Maybe that's what my ears need these days. "Soothing." I have no way to describe Thailand Throat Singing, but I did copy a definition which may (or may not) help. "High whistling melodies, expressive warbles, and intense low croaking tones." I will say that definition does not do it justice. It's pretty amazing.
I guess listening to these songs this past weekend would be the "new" things I experienced last week. I wanted you to know food is not the only "new" thing I try.
What can I say? I'm an enigma!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Is it just me, or does anyone else want to RUN to the nearest theater to watch the new movie Babies. The movie chronicles the first year of four different babies from four different cultures around the world. When we saw the preview at The Last Song, Roxie turned to me before I had a chance to say a word and just said, "No." Mikie doesn't want me to see it because he doesn't want to be a new Daddy again at age 48 (almost 49), and that is exactly what this movie is going to do to me... make me want another baby when I'm practically grandmother-age. I should avoid this movie like the plague... but I'm pretty sure I'm sneaking out to see it at least once (maybe twice). Shhh. Don't tell Mike.
Wednesday Wisdom - Today's Wisdom comes from author Harper Lee (To Kill a Mockingbird). Very insightful stuff.
Many receive advice, only the wise profit from it.
Real courage is when you know you're licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what.
The book to read is not the one which thinks for you, but the one which makes you think. No book in the world equals the Bible for that. (Amen, Sister!)
Smart, smart woman, that Harper Lee.
Pick a Night Family Night
We have not done this, but I have read of two families who live by this rule... and seem to have had some success with the Weekly Family Night.
Both families (which do not know each other) picked Monday night as their weekly night to do something together as a family. I like the fact they stay away from the busy weekend. They start with the most basic family gathering... the evening meal.
After the meal, Family Number One picks a piece of paper from a jar and reads it aloud. Whatever is on that piece of paper dictates what the family will do for the evening. It may be a movie night. It may be going for a bike ride. It may be making ice cream sundaes after playing a family game. Of course, the activities in the jar have been contributed by all of the family members. I will also mention, Family Number One now has three teenagers and one pre-teen in the house. Because they have been doing this since the kids were small, it is an unspoken rule no one makes plans for Monday nights.
Family Number Two calls their weekly Monday night get-together Family Talent Show Night. They use Talent Time Themes. "Two favorites are Talents in a Bag -- each person draws a couple of items from a sack and uses them as props -- and Together Talents, where two people team up to do a skit, a song or a dance. We also do Silent Talents (no speaking allowed), Outside Talents (performed in the yard) and Pet Talents (which feature one of the members of our pet family)."
I also like the flexibility Family Number Two uses. "On a busy night, we shorten the show. Each person gets 30 seconds to do something small, such as whistle a tune, show off a school project or recite a brief poem." Family Number Two (Bud and Casey Cluff of Sammamish, Washington) has been featured in this month's Family Fun Magazine.
As with many ideas I share from other folks, I am going to give this a try. It's never too late to introduce a new tradition to the family. Beginning next week, we're going to declare Tuesday night as Faulkner Family Night. We may do something as simple as driving to Sno Biz to enjoy a snow cone or watching an old TV series (Boy Meets World, etc.). Doing something simple and fun as a family doesn't have to last two hours. It can be a 30-minute activity. That's okay.
The main goal is to pick a specific night, write it in ink, and stick with it as best you can!
Have a lovely Wednesday. It is a new day, so if you haven't been able to spend that extra time with family or friends, make a plan (in ink) to carve out some special time in the next day or so... take a kiddo to breakfast, surprise your spouse with a lunch invitation, go to a Thursday night movie (no crowds), serve a family meal on the deck. The possibilities are endless! I'll have a date to share with you tomorrow, Blog Linkage, and what has now become my custom, RANDOMNESS!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Fried Chicken Salad
Good Tuesday morning!
I am "picture poor" this week, so I decided to go back to January, 2010 and post Things That Make Me Smile in the Gallery. You've seen some of them over the last four months, but as I was going through them, if a smile crossed my face, I copied it one more time. I'll be posting these today and tomorrow.
DON'T FORGET - Enter the Mystery Bag Party Contest via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section. I will draw six names from The Bowl, and those ladies will enjoy an afternoon of fun, food and fellowship as we travel around town in the Big Gold Van.
More Weekend Review
I have found the trick to entertaining men (ages 10 to death) revolves around food. It doesn't necessarily have to be good food... or hot food... or even fresh food purchased by the expiration date on the package. It just has to be FOOD.
However, I have discovered serving JUST FOOD does not reap the same benefits as serving GOOD, HOT, FRESH FOOD. And if you've known me five minutes, you know I'm all about reaping the benefits.
When asked, Nick's only specific food request was "fried pork chops and macaroni and cheese... please."
I can honestly say I haven't fried anything in months... maybe a couple of years, but for our guest, I was going to fry like I've never fried before.
Friday night's meal was just a huge pot of soup because I thought they might go out and explore the city. I knew they would sleep late the next day, so I bought a large bag of frozen biscuits and an even larger bag of Tennessee Pride sausage gravy for their breakfast/lunch the next day. Easy, breezy!
And then I cooked... homemade macaroni and cheese, fried pork chops, fresh black-eyed peas, rolls, sweet tea (with real sugar), cake, etc., etc., etc. I was pleased with the effort because I knew Monday and Tuesday of the next week, we were going to have some good leftovers. YES!
The table was set, the men (and Roxie) sat down... the food was gone. All gone. Totally gone. No leftovers. Hmmm. Well, maybe there would be some leftovers from Sunday's meal.
I did the easy slow cooker meal for Sunday lunch... pot roast with gravy, mushrooms, carrots and a huge whole onion cooked with the roast, oven fried potatoes (five pound bag), rolls, sweet tea (with real sugar), cake, etc., etc., etc. I was once again pleased with the effort because I knew Monday of the next week, we were going to have some good leftovers. YES!
The table was set, the men (and Roxie) sat down... the food was gone. ALL gone. Totally gone. No leftovers. Hmmm.
But as I looked around the table and we sat and talked awhile, I realized it was worth the effort... the time and the mess. The guys were happy, full, rested and ready for a week of finals. Conversation and laughter flowed easily as we drained the last of the sweet tea. It had been a nice weekend.
I, of course, had been "anxious" about everything. Just because I'm reading Calm My Anxious Heart doesn't mean I'm applying it every minute of every day. It takes time, and a lot of old habit breaking.
I took a moment to breathe and look around the table like Steve Martin does at the end of Cheaper By the Dozen. Just that tiny moment when he looks at his family and takes it all in... the chaos, the people talking over one another, the spills (I have a HUGE problem letting this one go)... Well, that's my favorite part of the whole movie. And I try to do it more often. I really do. But more times than not, I fail.
But that's how I'll remember this past weekend. I was able to take it all in.
Fried Chicken Salad
This may fall under the category "Too Easy to Even Bother Posting," but while I was trying to come up with some recipes for ten year-olds (and older), it did follow the criteria. (1) No mixers. (2) Five (or less) ingredients. (3) Limited use of oven... no stove-top. (4) With ingredients already purchased, parents can sit back and wait for dinner!
You will need the following:
Salad in a bag (pre-cleaned)
Tyson Chicken Tenders
Shredded Cheese
Dried Cranberries
Bag of slivered almonds (toasted)
Salad dressing of choice
1. Pour salad in a colander and rinse with very cold water. (I like to clean the lettuce even though it says it has been done.)
2. Cook the Tyson Chicken Tenders according to the instructions on the bag.
3. Spread nuts in one layer on ungreased shallow baking pan.
4. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden. (The almonds can be cooking in a pan beside the chicken.)
5. Once chicken and almonds are out of the oven (and chicken has been cut into bite-size pieces), toss salad, cranberries, toasted almonds and 3/4 cup shredded cheese together.
6. Serve salad on individual plates. Add chicken pieces to top of the salad.
And there you have, my friends, a meal which can be prepared by a child. (If your child hasn't had much "oven time," you may need to prepare this dish with them the first time... but after the initial prep, they can add it to their list of "Things I Can Do On My Own!")
Oh, and be sure and let them make the Refreshing Cake either the day before or earlier in the day. Sit down nearby, read a magazine and sip on a hot cup of tea. You deserve it!
Have a beautiful Tuesday. Thankfully, the rain has washed some of the pollen away, so for all the allergy sufferers out there, I hope you'll be able to tell a difference. Tomorrow, I have another fun Seasonal Tradition for you and your kiddos to try. It's time to get outside, so most of April and May will be centered on outdoor activities. I'll also have some Wednesday Wisdom and a few more "Pictures That Make Me Smile" to share.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I am "picture poor" this week, so I decided to go back to January, 2010 and post Things That Make Me Smile in the Gallery. You've seen some of them over the last four months, but as I was going through them, if a smile crossed my face, I copied it one more time. I'll be posting these today and tomorrow.
DON'T FORGET - Enter the Mystery Bag Party Contest via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section. I will draw six names from The Bowl, and those ladies will enjoy an afternoon of fun, food and fellowship as we travel around town in the Big Gold Van.
More Weekend Review
I have found the trick to entertaining men (ages 10 to death) revolves around food. It doesn't necessarily have to be good food... or hot food... or even fresh food purchased by the expiration date on the package. It just has to be FOOD.
However, I have discovered serving JUST FOOD does not reap the same benefits as serving GOOD, HOT, FRESH FOOD. And if you've known me five minutes, you know I'm all about reaping the benefits.
When asked, Nick's only specific food request was "fried pork chops and macaroni and cheese... please."
I can honestly say I haven't fried anything in months... maybe a couple of years, but for our guest, I was going to fry like I've never fried before.
Friday night's meal was just a huge pot of soup because I thought they might go out and explore the city. I knew they would sleep late the next day, so I bought a large bag of frozen biscuits and an even larger bag of Tennessee Pride sausage gravy for their breakfast/lunch the next day. Easy, breezy!
And then I cooked... homemade macaroni and cheese, fried pork chops, fresh black-eyed peas, rolls, sweet tea (with real sugar), cake, etc., etc., etc. I was pleased with the effort because I knew Monday and Tuesday of the next week, we were going to have some good leftovers. YES!
The table was set, the men (and Roxie) sat down... the food was gone. All gone. Totally gone. No leftovers. Hmmm. Well, maybe there would be some leftovers from Sunday's meal.
I did the easy slow cooker meal for Sunday lunch... pot roast with gravy, mushrooms, carrots and a huge whole onion cooked with the roast, oven fried potatoes (five pound bag), rolls, sweet tea (with real sugar), cake, etc., etc., etc. I was once again pleased with the effort because I knew Monday of the next week, we were going to have some good leftovers. YES!
The table was set, the men (and Roxie) sat down... the food was gone. ALL gone. Totally gone. No leftovers. Hmmm.
But as I looked around the table and we sat and talked awhile, I realized it was worth the effort... the time and the mess. The guys were happy, full, rested and ready for a week of finals. Conversation and laughter flowed easily as we drained the last of the sweet tea. It had been a nice weekend.
I, of course, had been "anxious" about everything. Just because I'm reading Calm My Anxious Heart doesn't mean I'm applying it every minute of every day. It takes time, and a lot of old habit breaking.
I took a moment to breathe and look around the table like Steve Martin does at the end of Cheaper By the Dozen. Just that tiny moment when he looks at his family and takes it all in... the chaos, the people talking over one another, the spills (I have a HUGE problem letting this one go)... Well, that's my favorite part of the whole movie. And I try to do it more often. I really do. But more times than not, I fail.
But that's how I'll remember this past weekend. I was able to take it all in.
Fried Chicken Salad
This may fall under the category "Too Easy to Even Bother Posting," but while I was trying to come up with some recipes for ten year-olds (and older), it did follow the criteria. (1) No mixers. (2) Five (or less) ingredients. (3) Limited use of oven... no stove-top. (4) With ingredients already purchased, parents can sit back and wait for dinner!
You will need the following:
Salad in a bag (pre-cleaned)
Tyson Chicken Tenders
Shredded Cheese
Dried Cranberries
Bag of slivered almonds (toasted)
Salad dressing of choice
1. Pour salad in a colander and rinse with very cold water. (I like to clean the lettuce even though it says it has been done.)
2. Cook the Tyson Chicken Tenders according to the instructions on the bag.
3. Spread nuts in one layer on ungreased shallow baking pan.
4. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden. (The almonds can be cooking in a pan beside the chicken.)
5. Once chicken and almonds are out of the oven (and chicken has been cut into bite-size pieces), toss salad, cranberries, toasted almonds and 3/4 cup shredded cheese together.
6. Serve salad on individual plates. Add chicken pieces to top of the salad.
And there you have, my friends, a meal which can be prepared by a child. (If your child hasn't had much "oven time," you may need to prepare this dish with them the first time... but after the initial prep, they can add it to their list of "Things I Can Do On My Own!")
Oh, and be sure and let them make the Refreshing Cake either the day before or earlier in the day. Sit down nearby, read a magazine and sip on a hot cup of tea. You deserve it!
Have a beautiful Tuesday. Thankfully, the rain has washed some of the pollen away, so for all the allergy sufferers out there, I hope you'll be able to tell a difference. Tomorrow, I have another fun Seasonal Tradition for you and your kiddos to try. It's time to get outside, so most of April and May will be centered on outdoor activities. I'll also have some Wednesday Wisdom and a few more "Pictures That Make Me Smile" to share.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, April 19, 2010
Scrapbooking Party
Good Monday morning!
The Showcase Pic this morning is of Miss Roxie. She was in the mood to have her picture taken after church Sunday (of course), and Mikie was happy to assist. It's a twofer since she's standing in front of our AMAZING giant white azalea bushes which are definitely showing out this week.
There are very few Gallery Pics today. The "zoo" thing didn't happen... but the "shopping" thing did. I have no pictures of the mall, but Roxie and I did have fun. I'll keep my fingers crossed for next week! I have added a few more pics of Roxie's Sunday photo shoot and Austin's Finals Basket. I decided to go with The Twilight Zone DVD instead of the John Wayne collection. The people who market John Wayne DVDs are brilliant. They only put one good John Wayne movie on a DVD along with three or four other movies I have never seen. I wanted the Good John Wayne Movies DVD, but there is no such thing! However, The Twilight Zone is pretty cool. Austin's never seen that old show.
RANDOMNESS #1 - In case you're wondering, no rhubarbs were cooked or baked this weekend in my home. There was an enormous amount of cooking and baking, but I stuck to the basics. I'm going out today for the ingredients, so pictures should be forthcoming!
RANDOMNESS #2 - This morning when I went through the drive-thru line at a local restaurant to buy my large Diet Dr. Pepper after walking, I accidentally handed my arthritis medication to the young man in the window instead of the $2 which I was holding in my other hand. I may be arrested later today. If there is no post tomorrow, you'll know what happened. I was trafficking fish oil pills to minors!
Weekend Review
Our weekend was different, but very enjoyable. Since I have a few tales to tell, I'll share a little with you today, and finish up tomorrow.
Austin and his JSU friend, Nick, arrived Friday afternoon for a weekend visit. Nick is from a small town in Georgia, and he is also a Marching Southerner. I immediately liked him. He was easy to talk to, had nice manners and a great laugh.
We talked for a few minutes when they arrived (or as Mike and the boys like to call it, he sat through the interrogation), and I learned quite a bit about Nick. He is a Christian (Austin had already told us this). He is a music education major. He sings well. He loves X-Box games. He likes LOST.
While Austin, Nick and Josh played X-Box and planned their evening, I finished preparing dinner... vegetable beef soup and Refreshing Cake. (By the way... this is third Refreshing Cake I've made in a week. We're getting a little burned out on the Refreshing Cake!)
Things were going well at dinner and we were sitting around talking comfortably. Until... "Josh, did you know Nick is a LOST guy."
Well, being from a Southern Baptist background, when you say the word "lost" it means not "saved" which in turn means not Heaven-bound!
Everyone immediately became silent, including Nick. I looked around the table not understanding the problem until Josh said, "Gee, Mom. Why don't you just tell him he's going straight to ____."
By that time, I was back-tracking trying to explain what I meant. "Nick is a guy who watches LOST." Even Nick thought I was attacking his spirituality!
Mike later told me it was worse than the night Austin's roommate, Kris, came to dinner. In the middle of a conversation about finals, Roxie stared him down and asked, "Are you a smoker?" It caught everyone off guard, but Kris answered with the correct response, and everyone went back to their dinner.
I'm pretty sure Austin isn't bringing home any more college friends... and I guess I can't blame him.
Tomorrow I'll talk about feeding Four Men and a Little Lady for a weekend, and tell you why I didn't visit the Birmingham Zoo... after I said publicly I really, really wanted to... really, really badly.
Scrapbooking Party
When Austin was two years-old, I attended my first Creative Memories EVENT, and immediately and forever fell in love with scrapbooking. I was a consultant for five years, and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of scrapping. The creative outlet, preserving memories, taking pictures, etc.
Seventeen years later, I am still going strong. It was not a passing hobby for me. It is a lifelong passion. Roxie has created her share of scrapbooks, too, and I'm so glad it is something she enjoys doing as well. I hope this hobby continues to be "together time" for us as she goes from teenager to adulthood in a few short years.
Today's party ideas come from http://familyfun.go.com/parties/come-scrap-with-me... and I added a few of my own tips here and there.
1. For the hand-delivered invitations, create a tag with the party information and tie it to a pair of decorative-edge scissors (about $1 each). Ask the girls to bring both to the party, along with photos and supplies to share.
2. Decide on the size of your guest list by considering how much table space you have.
3. To help create as much workspace on the table as possible, string a cord across the wall, then clip shared supplies to the line, including stickers and photos of the girls from group adventures. At the party, the kids will have a great time using the photos on their pages and remembering all the field trips and parties they have shared.
4. Once all the girls arrive, use a digital camera to take a group shot. While they work, print copies of the image on photo paper. The girls can then use the photo and their invitation to make a page about the party.
5. Make sure workspace is separate from snack space (ideally in different rooms). One spilled drink can ruin a lot of hard work! Pretzels are a classic crop snack because they're not greasy.
6. If a houseful of kids with scissors isn't enough chaos for you, try this game! Have one crafter don a special scrapbooking hat. (The writer picked out a lovely tiara.) Each time someone asks for a specific supply ("Can you pass the zigzag scissors?"), the hat gets passed to the next person. At a few random times during the party (set a timer as a reminder), award a small prize to the person wearing the hat. (I love this idea. Fun.)
7. Help them get started. The kids will have brought photos they want to use, which will partly determine their page design. The girls won't need much prompting with themes, but it's nice to have a few suggestions for page starters, just in case. (You can let the girls look through your own scrapbooks to get an idea of what they need to do if they've never scrapped before.)
8. Offer a range of supplies. You provide the following:
Scissors
Pens and markers
Assorted scrapbook papers
Page protectors
Photo-safe glue sticks and/or photo splits
Stickers
Buttons
Ribbon
Small paper cutters
Photos
Craft and hole punches
The girls can bring the following:
Invitation and scissors
Photos
Scrapbook (if they have one)
Any tools or supplies they want to share
This is not a one hour party. I would plan on two to three hours with a specified snack break in the middle. Try to invite girls you know enjoy crafts. If you have one or two who might get bored, you may have a party where half the girls are cropping and half are roaming around wanting to do something else. (If your daughter is a dedicated cropper looking forward to this party, it could cause a problem if several girls wander away.)
This could easily become an annual event for your daughter and her friends, and while it is messy (paper-wise), the clean-up is really minimal if you have all the girls pitch in before they leave.
Enjoy making memories (and preserving them) with your daughter and her friends!
Have a good Monday. If you want your kid/kids to cook a meal for you in the near future, check in tomorrow for a recipe your ten year-old (and up) will be able to prepare. You'll just need to supply the ingredients and the recipe!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Showcase Pic this morning is of Miss Roxie. She was in the mood to have her picture taken after church Sunday (of course), and Mikie was happy to assist. It's a twofer since she's standing in front of our AMAZING giant white azalea bushes which are definitely showing out this week.
There are very few Gallery Pics today. The "zoo" thing didn't happen... but the "shopping" thing did. I have no pictures of the mall, but Roxie and I did have fun. I'll keep my fingers crossed for next week! I have added a few more pics of Roxie's Sunday photo shoot and Austin's Finals Basket. I decided to go with The Twilight Zone DVD instead of the John Wayne collection. The people who market John Wayne DVDs are brilliant. They only put one good John Wayne movie on a DVD along with three or four other movies I have never seen. I wanted the Good John Wayne Movies DVD, but there is no such thing! However, The Twilight Zone is pretty cool. Austin's never seen that old show.
RANDOMNESS #1 - In case you're wondering, no rhubarbs were cooked or baked this weekend in my home. There was an enormous amount of cooking and baking, but I stuck to the basics. I'm going out today for the ingredients, so pictures should be forthcoming!
RANDOMNESS #2 - This morning when I went through the drive-thru line at a local restaurant to buy my large Diet Dr. Pepper after walking, I accidentally handed my arthritis medication to the young man in the window instead of the $2 which I was holding in my other hand. I may be arrested later today. If there is no post tomorrow, you'll know what happened. I was trafficking fish oil pills to minors!
Weekend Review
Our weekend was different, but very enjoyable. Since I have a few tales to tell, I'll share a little with you today, and finish up tomorrow.
Austin and his JSU friend, Nick, arrived Friday afternoon for a weekend visit. Nick is from a small town in Georgia, and he is also a Marching Southerner. I immediately liked him. He was easy to talk to, had nice manners and a great laugh.
We talked for a few minutes when they arrived (or as Mike and the boys like to call it, he sat through the interrogation), and I learned quite a bit about Nick. He is a Christian (Austin had already told us this). He is a music education major. He sings well. He loves X-Box games. He likes LOST.
While Austin, Nick and Josh played X-Box and planned their evening, I finished preparing dinner... vegetable beef soup and Refreshing Cake. (By the way... this is third Refreshing Cake I've made in a week. We're getting a little burned out on the Refreshing Cake!)
Things were going well at dinner and we were sitting around talking comfortably. Until... "Josh, did you know Nick is a LOST guy."
Well, being from a Southern Baptist background, when you say the word "lost" it means not "saved" which in turn means not Heaven-bound!
Everyone immediately became silent, including Nick. I looked around the table not understanding the problem until Josh said, "Gee, Mom. Why don't you just tell him he's going straight to ____."
By that time, I was back-tracking trying to explain what I meant. "Nick is a guy who watches LOST." Even Nick thought I was attacking his spirituality!
Mike later told me it was worse than the night Austin's roommate, Kris, came to dinner. In the middle of a conversation about finals, Roxie stared him down and asked, "Are you a smoker?" It caught everyone off guard, but Kris answered with the correct response, and everyone went back to their dinner.
I'm pretty sure Austin isn't bringing home any more college friends... and I guess I can't blame him.
Tomorrow I'll talk about feeding Four Men and a Little Lady for a weekend, and tell you why I didn't visit the Birmingham Zoo... after I said publicly I really, really wanted to... really, really badly.
Scrapbooking Party
When Austin was two years-old, I attended my first Creative Memories EVENT, and immediately and forever fell in love with scrapbooking. I was a consultant for five years, and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of scrapping. The creative outlet, preserving memories, taking pictures, etc.
Seventeen years later, I am still going strong. It was not a passing hobby for me. It is a lifelong passion. Roxie has created her share of scrapbooks, too, and I'm so glad it is something she enjoys doing as well. I hope this hobby continues to be "together time" for us as she goes from teenager to adulthood in a few short years.
Today's party ideas come from http://familyfun.go.com/parties/come-scrap-with-me... and I added a few of my own tips here and there.
1. For the hand-delivered invitations, create a tag with the party information and tie it to a pair of decorative-edge scissors (about $1 each). Ask the girls to bring both to the party, along with photos and supplies to share.
2. Decide on the size of your guest list by considering how much table space you have.
3. To help create as much workspace on the table as possible, string a cord across the wall, then clip shared supplies to the line, including stickers and photos of the girls from group adventures. At the party, the kids will have a great time using the photos on their pages and remembering all the field trips and parties they have shared.
4. Once all the girls arrive, use a digital camera to take a group shot. While they work, print copies of the image on photo paper. The girls can then use the photo and their invitation to make a page about the party.
5. Make sure workspace is separate from snack space (ideally in different rooms). One spilled drink can ruin a lot of hard work! Pretzels are a classic crop snack because they're not greasy.
6. If a houseful of kids with scissors isn't enough chaos for you, try this game! Have one crafter don a special scrapbooking hat. (The writer picked out a lovely tiara.) Each time someone asks for a specific supply ("Can you pass the zigzag scissors?"), the hat gets passed to the next person. At a few random times during the party (set a timer as a reminder), award a small prize to the person wearing the hat. (I love this idea. Fun.)
7. Help them get started. The kids will have brought photos they want to use, which will partly determine their page design. The girls won't need much prompting with themes, but it's nice to have a few suggestions for page starters, just in case. (You can let the girls look through your own scrapbooks to get an idea of what they need to do if they've never scrapped before.)
8. Offer a range of supplies. You provide the following:
Scissors
Pens and markers
Assorted scrapbook papers
Page protectors
Photo-safe glue sticks and/or photo splits
Stickers
Buttons
Ribbon
Small paper cutters
Photos
Craft and hole punches
The girls can bring the following:
Invitation and scissors
Photos
Scrapbook (if they have one)
Any tools or supplies they want to share
This is not a one hour party. I would plan on two to three hours with a specified snack break in the middle. Try to invite girls you know enjoy crafts. If you have one or two who might get bored, you may have a party where half the girls are cropping and half are roaming around wanting to do something else. (If your daughter is a dedicated cropper looking forward to this party, it could cause a problem if several girls wander away.)
This could easily become an annual event for your daughter and her friends, and while it is messy (paper-wise), the clean-up is really minimal if you have all the girls pitch in before they leave.
Enjoy making memories (and preserving them) with your daughter and her friends!
Have a good Monday. If you want your kid/kids to cook a meal for you in the near future, check in tomorrow for a recipe your ten year-old (and up) will be able to prepare. You'll just need to supply the ingredients and the recipe!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, April 16, 2010
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pics are some volleyball practice shots of Roxie in the front yard yesterday. I think these are almost as funny as "sleeping teenager pictures."
RANDOMNESS #1 - I read another article in a magazine at the dentist's office the other day. (It was a different article from the Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie recipe.) It was about organization. The author suggested picking up 25 things and putting them away each night right before you go to bed. She even went one step further and said if you are 30 years-old you need to put away 30 items... and so on and so on.
I like the "25 Item Pick-Up" idea just fine. However, at 48 years of age, if I start picking up and putting away 48 stray items at 10:30 each and every night... well, it's going to be midnight before my head hits the pillow. "Do you have 48 stray items to put away at the end of every day?" you may ask.
Hey! Don't judge me! But I do think the 25 Item Pick-Up is a good idea, and I wanted to share.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I wanted to share a couple of paragraphs from the book I'm reading with my friend, Kim... Calm My Anxious Heart.
When I told a friend about my fears, she observed, "Linda, you like control, and there are too many 'uncontrollables' in your life." At the time, I didn't understand what she meant?
Looking back, I realize I did desire to trust God, but sometimes He was very slow. When He was moving at what I thought was a snail's pace, I unconsciously decided He needed my help. God doesn't need our help. Yet when I stepped in to massage (the truer word is "manipulate," but "massage" sounds better) the circumstances or to organize the people, my actions were saying, "God, You're not doing what I think needs to be done, so I'll help You out." It's our "helping God out" that leads to an anxious heart. When we take over and try to control what happens, we take our focus off the One who is in control and put our eyes on our circumstances.
I never knew when I started reading this book a few weeks ago, how much I would "need" it only a few days later. It's so hard to do... really giving up control, and letting God take care of everything. But it is so, so necessary, and not just when the "uncontrollables" take over, but ALL day, EVERY day.
Out of my three flaws, being a control freak is probably Number One. (I'm kidding. I have 42 flaws on a list hidden somewhere in the house. Mikie could probably add enough to the list to get it up to 73... but I haven't asked him for his help!) Also, if you're wondering, my second flaw definitely has something to do with being too prideful! Definitely!
REMINDER #1 - The Mystery Bag Party Contest Bowl is filling up! Get your name in there, Girls. I'll have a testimonial (hopefully) from one of the former Mystery Bag Party Girls on Monday or Tuesday of next week to inspire you!
REMINDER #2 - Keep on sending your questions for the big Q & A to be held on A Simple Life Monday, May 3. I'll answer your questions as honestly as I can without revealing too much damaging information about myself. Just send any questions via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section of the blog.
Weekend Happenings
Our weekend is not organized as of this writing. Austin is bringing a friend from JSU home for the weekend, and my only instructions thus far have been, "Fried pork chops, gravy and homemade mac and cheese, please." (Josh is loving this guy!) Okay. I can do that. I'm not sure, but I have a feeling much of my weekend will be spent cooking and baking... which is not a problem.
Roxie is spending time with a friend Friday evening, and other than that, I think the rest of us are just hanging around the house.
I still have a very strong urge to GO TO THE ZOO, and I have asked Roxie to go with me. She has agreed, but she's already asked if we could squeeze a shopping trip in BEFORE or AFTER the zoo (Code for I'D RATHER GO SHOPPING ALL DAY LONG).
One, two or three of the Faulkner Five will be attending the Magnolia Festival some time during the day Saturday, but I have no idea who or when. Like I said earlier... a very unorganized weekend. I'm trying not to let it drive me crazy!
Sunday, we'll attend church, eat one more meal with Austin and friend before they head back to school for Finals Week, and get ready for our Bible Study Groups which are all over the place Sunday night.
Sometime this weekend, I've got to make Austin's Finals Basket (which he is INSTRUCTED to share with his roommate), and I think I'm going to make his buddy from school one, too. (That means I have to go to Cracker Barrel to purchase a six-pack of his favorite creme sodas, and some fun candy he's never heard of before. I love putting weird things in the Basket. Fruit can be SO boring!) I had thought about putting an old John Wayne movie in the Basket for something different to watch when they want to take a break. You can't beat the classics! Oh, and some Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake. You can't have a really good Finals Basket without some rhubarb! (Unless Austin and Company have a good sense of humor, except for the creme sodas, this Basket could be considered really, really bad. We'll see.)
Since I can't give you a play-by-play of the weekend, I guess I'll have a lot to write about Monday morning!
Have a wonderful weekend. Next week, I have many NEW ideas to share, and they are ALL copied from people much smarter and more creative than The Enchanting Belinda. As is my custom, I will give them total credit. Maybe I'll be more organized and have a specific Topic of the Week... but that's a pretty big "maybe." HOPEFULLY, I'll have tons of zoo pics to share. If Roxie bails, I guess I'll take pictures of the mall... again.
As always, I'll be adding pictures Friday, Saturday and Sunday to Belinda's Project 365. Can you believe I'm already on Day 234? This year is just flying by!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are some volleyball practice shots of Roxie in the front yard yesterday. I think these are almost as funny as "sleeping teenager pictures."
RANDOMNESS #1 - I read another article in a magazine at the dentist's office the other day. (It was a different article from the Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie recipe.) It was about organization. The author suggested picking up 25 things and putting them away each night right before you go to bed. She even went one step further and said if you are 30 years-old you need to put away 30 items... and so on and so on.
I like the "25 Item Pick-Up" idea just fine. However, at 48 years of age, if I start picking up and putting away 48 stray items at 10:30 each and every night... well, it's going to be midnight before my head hits the pillow. "Do you have 48 stray items to put away at the end of every day?" you may ask.
Hey! Don't judge me! But I do think the 25 Item Pick-Up is a good idea, and I wanted to share.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I wanted to share a couple of paragraphs from the book I'm reading with my friend, Kim... Calm My Anxious Heart.
When I told a friend about my fears, she observed, "Linda, you like control, and there are too many 'uncontrollables' in your life." At the time, I didn't understand what she meant?
Looking back, I realize I did desire to trust God, but sometimes He was very slow. When He was moving at what I thought was a snail's pace, I unconsciously decided He needed my help. God doesn't need our help. Yet when I stepped in to massage (the truer word is "manipulate," but "massage" sounds better) the circumstances or to organize the people, my actions were saying, "God, You're not doing what I think needs to be done, so I'll help You out." It's our "helping God out" that leads to an anxious heart. When we take over and try to control what happens, we take our focus off the One who is in control and put our eyes on our circumstances.
I never knew when I started reading this book a few weeks ago, how much I would "need" it only a few days later. It's so hard to do... really giving up control, and letting God take care of everything. But it is so, so necessary, and not just when the "uncontrollables" take over, but ALL day, EVERY day.
Out of my three flaws, being a control freak is probably Number One. (I'm kidding. I have 42 flaws on a list hidden somewhere in the house. Mikie could probably add enough to the list to get it up to 73... but I haven't asked him for his help!) Also, if you're wondering, my second flaw definitely has something to do with being too prideful! Definitely!
REMINDER #1 - The Mystery Bag Party Contest Bowl is filling up! Get your name in there, Girls. I'll have a testimonial (hopefully) from one of the former Mystery Bag Party Girls on Monday or Tuesday of next week to inspire you!
REMINDER #2 - Keep on sending your questions for the big Q & A to be held on A Simple Life Monday, May 3. I'll answer your questions as honestly as I can without revealing too much damaging information about myself. Just send any questions via e-mail, Facebook or the Comment Section of the blog.
Weekend Happenings
Our weekend is not organized as of this writing. Austin is bringing a friend from JSU home for the weekend, and my only instructions thus far have been, "Fried pork chops, gravy and homemade mac and cheese, please." (Josh is loving this guy!) Okay. I can do that. I'm not sure, but I have a feeling much of my weekend will be spent cooking and baking... which is not a problem.
Roxie is spending time with a friend Friday evening, and other than that, I think the rest of us are just hanging around the house.
I still have a very strong urge to GO TO THE ZOO, and I have asked Roxie to go with me. She has agreed, but she's already asked if we could squeeze a shopping trip in BEFORE or AFTER the zoo (Code for I'D RATHER GO SHOPPING ALL DAY LONG).
One, two or three of the Faulkner Five will be attending the Magnolia Festival some time during the day Saturday, but I have no idea who or when. Like I said earlier... a very unorganized weekend. I'm trying not to let it drive me crazy!
Sunday, we'll attend church, eat one more meal with Austin and friend before they head back to school for Finals Week, and get ready for our Bible Study Groups which are all over the place Sunday night.
Sometime this weekend, I've got to make Austin's Finals Basket (which he is INSTRUCTED to share with his roommate), and I think I'm going to make his buddy from school one, too. (That means I have to go to Cracker Barrel to purchase a six-pack of his favorite creme sodas, and some fun candy he's never heard of before. I love putting weird things in the Basket. Fruit can be SO boring!) I had thought about putting an old John Wayne movie in the Basket for something different to watch when they want to take a break. You can't beat the classics! Oh, and some Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake. You can't have a really good Finals Basket without some rhubarb! (Unless Austin and Company have a good sense of humor, except for the creme sodas, this Basket could be considered really, really bad. We'll see.)
Since I can't give you a play-by-play of the weekend, I guess I'll have a lot to write about Monday morning!
Have a wonderful weekend. Next week, I have many NEW ideas to share, and they are ALL copied from people much smarter and more creative than The Enchanting Belinda. As is my custom, I will give them total credit. Maybe I'll be more organized and have a specific Topic of the Week... but that's a pretty big "maybe." HOPEFULLY, I'll have tons of zoo pics to share. If Roxie bails, I guess I'll take pictures of the mall... again.
As always, I'll be adding pictures Friday, Saturday and Sunday to Belinda's Project 365. Can you believe I'm already on Day 234? This year is just flying by!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Festival Dates
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pic is an oldie from a zoo trip awhile back. I'm in the mood to visit a zoo... very soon. Like maybe this weekend. Even if I have to go alone. Either way, there should be some new zoo pics in the Gallery next week.
RANDOMNESS #1 - May's Special Guest has been selected AND has agreed to appear on A Simple Life. I think this one will be a BIG surprise!
RANDOMNESS #2 - On the way back from Amelia Island this summer (where I am planning on swimming with manatees), the Faulkner Five will be stopping AND eating at Paula Deen's restaurant in Savannah. (It's surprisingly close to Amelia Island.) While we're there, I'm planning on having my picture made with Ms. Deen. Talk about a good trip! I'm going to have pictures of feral horses (I've got to find out what that means), sea turtle nests, manatees AND Paula Deen! (Or at least the front of Paula Deen's restaurant. At this point in my life, I'll take what I can get!)
Blog Linkage - I only have one link for you today. It's a long post, but well worth the time it takes to read every single word. Go to Sherri's Blog under My Blog List and read her last post entitled "Mom, a dragonfly." Since I've read it, I've seen several dragonflies here and there, but none the color of the ones she describes. But I'm looking... and remembering her loss and the way she is sharing her story and helping so many others who have lost loved ones. She is an amazing woman.
Festival Dates
We've talked about local Festivals many times over the last few months, but this is THE weekend if you want to take one of your kiddos on a fun, old-fashioned date.
1. Gardendale's Magnolia Festival features three days of activities with something for everyone. From antique cars, flower shows, carnival rides and food to FREE children's crafts every hour, pet area, music and more... you're sure to find something you and your date will enjoy.
Here is a schedule for some of Saturday's activities:
10:00-10:30 - Storytelling by Gardendale Librarians
10:30-11:30 - Build a Birdhouse, Car, etc. sponsored by Lowe's Home Improvement
11:45-12:45 - Paint A Canvas sponsored by Sips N' Strokes
1:00-2:00 - Paint Mini Bowls sponsored by Painted By U
2:15-3:15 - Create A Mother's Day Card sponsored by Stamp-It-Up Demonstrators
3:30-4:30 - Line Drawings/Sketching sponsored by Young Rembrandts
4:30-5:00 - Storytelling by Gardendale Librarians
For more information regarding all the activities beginning Friday and ending Saturday evening, go to www.magnoliafestival.org.
2. Mt. Laurel will have it's annual Spring Festival this Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Join them for the Mt. Laurel Spring Festival, April 17, rain or shine. Admission is FREE! You can check out the crafts, farmers' market, the new library, games, music and food. There will also be special appearances by Snow White, the Ghostbusters, Harry Potter and more.
3. St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman wants you to come to their annual Bloomin' Festival Arts & Crafts Show this Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $5 (children 5 and under are FREE). You can also check out the Ave Maria Grotto for $3.
Bloomin' Festival is a two day arts festival attracting thousands of visitors to the beautiful campus of St. Bernard Abbey and Prep School. Located adjacent to the school is the world famous Ave Maria Grotto. The picturesque landscape of stone cut buildings on the grounds of Alabama's only Abbey provides a backdrop for the out-of-doors show. More than 140 booths are filled with artists demonstrating and exhibiting their work.
For more information, you can call (256) 739-6682 Ext. 7133.
Out of the three Festivals listed, I have attended two of them (The Magnolia Festival and The Bloomin' Festival). Although you may want to make the Festivals a "Family Date," the one-one-one time with your child would be excellent, too. Basically, you can't go wrong!
Have a very nice Thursday. Keep an eye out for people who may be struggling today. A smile, a kind word, a telephone call, a card, an e-mail... all of these things take just a few seconds to actually do, but can make so much difference to someone who is hurting. I'll finish off this week Friday with Weekend Happenings and some randomness. Take a minute and visit if you get the chance.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pic is an oldie from a zoo trip awhile back. I'm in the mood to visit a zoo... very soon. Like maybe this weekend. Even if I have to go alone. Either way, there should be some new zoo pics in the Gallery next week.
RANDOMNESS #1 - May's Special Guest has been selected AND has agreed to appear on A Simple Life. I think this one will be a BIG surprise!
RANDOMNESS #2 - On the way back from Amelia Island this summer (where I am planning on swimming with manatees), the Faulkner Five will be stopping AND eating at Paula Deen's restaurant in Savannah. (It's surprisingly close to Amelia Island.) While we're there, I'm planning on having my picture made with Ms. Deen. Talk about a good trip! I'm going to have pictures of feral horses (I've got to find out what that means), sea turtle nests, manatees AND Paula Deen! (Or at least the front of Paula Deen's restaurant. At this point in my life, I'll take what I can get!)
Blog Linkage - I only have one link for you today. It's a long post, but well worth the time it takes to read every single word. Go to Sherri's Blog under My Blog List and read her last post entitled "Mom, a dragonfly." Since I've read it, I've seen several dragonflies here and there, but none the color of the ones she describes. But I'm looking... and remembering her loss and the way she is sharing her story and helping so many others who have lost loved ones. She is an amazing woman.
Festival Dates
We've talked about local Festivals many times over the last few months, but this is THE weekend if you want to take one of your kiddos on a fun, old-fashioned date.
1. Gardendale's Magnolia Festival features three days of activities with something for everyone. From antique cars, flower shows, carnival rides and food to FREE children's crafts every hour, pet area, music and more... you're sure to find something you and your date will enjoy.
Here is a schedule for some of Saturday's activities:
10:00-10:30 - Storytelling by Gardendale Librarians
10:30-11:30 - Build a Birdhouse, Car, etc. sponsored by Lowe's Home Improvement
11:45-12:45 - Paint A Canvas sponsored by Sips N' Strokes
1:00-2:00 - Paint Mini Bowls sponsored by Painted By U
2:15-3:15 - Create A Mother's Day Card sponsored by Stamp-It-Up Demonstrators
3:30-4:30 - Line Drawings/Sketching sponsored by Young Rembrandts
4:30-5:00 - Storytelling by Gardendale Librarians
For more information regarding all the activities beginning Friday and ending Saturday evening, go to www.magnoliafestival.org.
2. Mt. Laurel will have it's annual Spring Festival this Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Join them for the Mt. Laurel Spring Festival, April 17, rain or shine. Admission is FREE! You can check out the crafts, farmers' market, the new library, games, music and food. There will also be special appearances by Snow White, the Ghostbusters, Harry Potter and more.
3. St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman wants you to come to their annual Bloomin' Festival Arts & Crafts Show this Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $5 (children 5 and under are FREE). You can also check out the Ave Maria Grotto for $3.
Bloomin' Festival is a two day arts festival attracting thousands of visitors to the beautiful campus of St. Bernard Abbey and Prep School. Located adjacent to the school is the world famous Ave Maria Grotto. The picturesque landscape of stone cut buildings on the grounds of Alabama's only Abbey provides a backdrop for the out-of-doors show. More than 140 booths are filled with artists demonstrating and exhibiting their work.
For more information, you can call (256) 739-6682 Ext. 7133.
Out of the three Festivals listed, I have attended two of them (The Magnolia Festival and The Bloomin' Festival). Although you may want to make the Festivals a "Family Date," the one-one-one time with your child would be excellent, too. Basically, you can't go wrong!
Have a very nice Thursday. Keep an eye out for people who may be struggling today. A smile, a kind word, a telephone call, a card, an e-mail... all of these things take just a few seconds to actually do, but can make so much difference to someone who is hurting. I'll finish off this week Friday with Weekend Happenings and some randomness. Take a minute and visit if you get the chance.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
"Kiddie Pool" Pumpkin Patch
Good Wednesday morning!
As promised, the Gallery Pics are from Mike and the boys at the Indy Grand Prix Sunday afternoon. They had such a good time, and while Roxie and I are almost 100 percent positive it isn't something we would enjoy, we're always willing to "bite the bullet" and let them have a day (or month) to themselves.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for ya! (Think Paul Blart, Mall Cop.) When I was a kid, I wanted to be a marine biologist when I became an adult. Of course, that career path changed immediately upon the release of the movie Jaws, but for a few years there, I was really into marine life trivia. To this day, I love aquariums ALMOST as much as I love a good zoo. So imagine my utter delight (no exaggeration) when I began planning a little trip to Amelia Island for the family this summer and discovered manatees LIVE in the river separating Amelia Island and Cumberland Island.
Okay. Stay with me now. There's more. There is a two hour river cruise you can book for the morning hours, and the captain assured me I would see various species of cranes, wild hogs, manatees and (GET THIS!) feral horses on Cumberland Island. (I'm not sure what feral means, but I do know these are wild horses which run free on the Island and along the beach.)
But wait! There's more! There's a chance we'll see sea turtles swimming in the river, too. I am going to be in marine biologist/zoologist heaven!
I know it is going to be awhile before our little getaway, but I discovered this information a couple of days ago and wanted to share. I know you're glad I did.
Semi-Funny Manatee Story - I know what you're thinking. Everyone has a semi-funny manatee story, but I'm going to throw mine into the mix.
Several years ago, Mikie had a business conference in Tampa. We had never had a desire to go to Tampa for vacation purposes, but we tagged along and had one of the best vacations ever. Tampa has so much to offer. And one of the best things we did while on this trip was go to Lowry Park Zoo (voted in 2002 as the Family Fun Best Zoo in the Southeast).
It is a fantastic zoo. We spent over six hours there and still didn't see everything. They had a "Pet the Ray" exhibit where we touched stingrays as they swam past us. The kids rode camels. There was a sky lift which took you from one side of the zoo to the other. It was a very interactive zoo.
But the best exhibit in the Lowry Park Zoo was by far the "Manatee Feeding" exhibit. The kids went to the bottom level and Mikie and I stood at the top while a trained marine biologist fed two manatees and told the kids and adults all about this animal.
Now, if you grew up wanting to be a marine biologist, there are a few things you already know about the manatee. Their nickname is "sea cow." The scars and cuts along their backs come from the huge air boats and other sea craft which travel too quickly through their natural habitat cutting them with the propellers. They have no natural enemies except man... and I guess boat propellers.
One more thing, and this is important. They are not swift animals. They don't have to be quick because of the "no natural enemy" thing.
So imagine my delight when the marine biologist told us the two manatees in the tank were going to do a little trick. They were going to swim in circles, gather up speed and jump over a log she was standing on and grab the head of lettuce she was holding in her hand before diving back into the water.
The crowd of over 100 people just stood there. Except for me. I had gotten so excited about these obviously exceptional manatees that I clapped my hands and shouted, "Woo-hoo!" I felt Mikie leave my side trying to blend in with the crowd behind me. I saw Roxie turn around to glare at me... and I saw Austin's hand turn her head to look back toward the exhibit. Josh and Austin never acknowledged I was their mother.
The marine biologist never missed a beat. "Of course, manatees are not like dolphins and do not swim swiftly enough to leap over logs... but wouldn't it be fun if they did?" I again clapped my hands, softly this time, and muttered, "Yes, it most definitely would."
As the show ended, I left alone. I caught up with my family at the aviary... and thankfully, they let me walk with them during the rest of our visit. "I just thought maybe they had found two 'special' manatees," I tried to explain.
"We really don't want to talk about it... ever," was the reply. And except for today, we haven't.
And that, my friends, is my one and only manatee story. Hopefully, this summer I'll have a new and exciting manatee story to share from our River Cruise adventure. We can only hope!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Well, it's official. I must make a rhubarb dessert. I was sitting in the dentist office yesterday (for Roxie... not me), and while flipping through a magazine I saw a recipe for a Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie. Rhubarb is calling out to me, and I will be baking the cake in the very near future.
Wednesday Wisdom - Last Saturday, Dixie Carter from Designing Women fame passed away at the age of 70. I was a huge Designing Women fan, and I loved all of the characters on that show. I'm going to share some favorite "Julia Sugarbaker" quotes with you today. There are many, many more, but if you ever watched the show, you'll probably remember some of these.
(Boarding a plane)
Suzanne: Where are our seats?
Julia: I don't know. If history teaches us anything, mine will be next to a baby who smokes.
Julia: Have you all just COMPLETELY lost your minds? (This was a line Julia said repeatedly on the show. This is a line I adopted soon after all of my kids became teenagers. It seemed appropriate.)
(As Mary Jo nervously prepares for her first date since her divorce.)
Julia: Here is a quarter for the payphone, Mary Jo. Mother always used to give Suzanne and me a dime to call home in case somebody got too fresh. I don't think Suzanne ever used hers. She eventually used the money to go to Europe.
Julia: I keep a list of people who touch my behind without permission. Some of them have died unnatural and untimely deaths.
(Talking to Charlene after being trapped in the hotel room with her all night.)
Julia: I think this illness has affected your brain. Or, I've just never before noticed the extent of your unequalled ability to be fascinated at absolutely nothing.
Charlene: Y'know, Julia, I used to think that if I were a man I'd be interested in you, but not anymore!!
"Kiddie Pool" Pumpkin Patch
Want to have your own home-grown pumpkins this fall? Well, here's a way to grow a small, yet manageable, pumpkin patch.
1. Purchase a small kiddie pool. Make holes in the bottom for draining purposes.
2. Place the pool at the back corner of the driveway, a cement patio or in a natural area of your yard. If you leave it on the grass, you'll have a dead spot in the yard by the time you harvest your pumpkins.
3. Buy several large bags of potting soil and a bag or two of pumpkin seeds.
4. Fill the pool with the potting soil and plant the seeds according to the instructions on the seed packet.
5. The pumpkin patch should be kept in a sunny spot.
6. Plant your patch between June 1 and June 15... and watch them grow!
This would be a great activity for the kids because it is a tradition which keeps on giving. Grow your own pumpkins and in the fall you can bake your own pies, decorate for Halloween and share with your neighbors. (This is "multi-purpose" tradition!)
Have a great Wednesday. Thursday I will have a fun date or two and some Blog Linkage I hope you will find inspiring. Enter the Contest if you get a chance today... and if you have any questions, don't forget to leave them via e-mail, Comment Section or Facebook for the May 3 Q & A on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
As promised, the Gallery Pics are from Mike and the boys at the Indy Grand Prix Sunday afternoon. They had such a good time, and while Roxie and I are almost 100 percent positive it isn't something we would enjoy, we're always willing to "bite the bullet" and let them have a day (or month) to themselves.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for ya! (Think Paul Blart, Mall Cop.) When I was a kid, I wanted to be a marine biologist when I became an adult. Of course, that career path changed immediately upon the release of the movie Jaws, but for a few years there, I was really into marine life trivia. To this day, I love aquariums ALMOST as much as I love a good zoo. So imagine my utter delight (no exaggeration) when I began planning a little trip to Amelia Island for the family this summer and discovered manatees LIVE in the river separating Amelia Island and Cumberland Island.
Okay. Stay with me now. There's more. There is a two hour river cruise you can book for the morning hours, and the captain assured me I would see various species of cranes, wild hogs, manatees and (GET THIS!) feral horses on Cumberland Island. (I'm not sure what feral means, but I do know these are wild horses which run free on the Island and along the beach.)
But wait! There's more! There's a chance we'll see sea turtles swimming in the river, too. I am going to be in marine biologist/zoologist heaven!
I know it is going to be awhile before our little getaway, but I discovered this information a couple of days ago and wanted to share. I know you're glad I did.
Semi-Funny Manatee Story - I know what you're thinking. Everyone has a semi-funny manatee story, but I'm going to throw mine into the mix.
Several years ago, Mikie had a business conference in Tampa. We had never had a desire to go to Tampa for vacation purposes, but we tagged along and had one of the best vacations ever. Tampa has so much to offer. And one of the best things we did while on this trip was go to Lowry Park Zoo (voted in 2002 as the Family Fun Best Zoo in the Southeast).
It is a fantastic zoo. We spent over six hours there and still didn't see everything. They had a "Pet the Ray" exhibit where we touched stingrays as they swam past us. The kids rode camels. There was a sky lift which took you from one side of the zoo to the other. It was a very interactive zoo.
But the best exhibit in the Lowry Park Zoo was by far the "Manatee Feeding" exhibit. The kids went to the bottom level and Mikie and I stood at the top while a trained marine biologist fed two manatees and told the kids and adults all about this animal.
Now, if you grew up wanting to be a marine biologist, there are a few things you already know about the manatee. Their nickname is "sea cow." The scars and cuts along their backs come from the huge air boats and other sea craft which travel too quickly through their natural habitat cutting them with the propellers. They have no natural enemies except man... and I guess boat propellers.
One more thing, and this is important. They are not swift animals. They don't have to be quick because of the "no natural enemy" thing.
So imagine my delight when the marine biologist told us the two manatees in the tank were going to do a little trick. They were going to swim in circles, gather up speed and jump over a log she was standing on and grab the head of lettuce she was holding in her hand before diving back into the water.
The crowd of over 100 people just stood there. Except for me. I had gotten so excited about these obviously exceptional manatees that I clapped my hands and shouted, "Woo-hoo!" I felt Mikie leave my side trying to blend in with the crowd behind me. I saw Roxie turn around to glare at me... and I saw Austin's hand turn her head to look back toward the exhibit. Josh and Austin never acknowledged I was their mother.
The marine biologist never missed a beat. "Of course, manatees are not like dolphins and do not swim swiftly enough to leap over logs... but wouldn't it be fun if they did?" I again clapped my hands, softly this time, and muttered, "Yes, it most definitely would."
As the show ended, I left alone. I caught up with my family at the aviary... and thankfully, they let me walk with them during the rest of our visit. "I just thought maybe they had found two 'special' manatees," I tried to explain.
"We really don't want to talk about it... ever," was the reply. And except for today, we haven't.
And that, my friends, is my one and only manatee story. Hopefully, this summer I'll have a new and exciting manatee story to share from our River Cruise adventure. We can only hope!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Well, it's official. I must make a rhubarb dessert. I was sitting in the dentist office yesterday (for Roxie... not me), and while flipping through a magazine I saw a recipe for a Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie. Rhubarb is calling out to me, and I will be baking the cake in the very near future.
Wednesday Wisdom - Last Saturday, Dixie Carter from Designing Women fame passed away at the age of 70. I was a huge Designing Women fan, and I loved all of the characters on that show. I'm going to share some favorite "Julia Sugarbaker" quotes with you today. There are many, many more, but if you ever watched the show, you'll probably remember some of these.
(Boarding a plane)
Suzanne: Where are our seats?
Julia: I don't know. If history teaches us anything, mine will be next to a baby who smokes.
Julia: Have you all just COMPLETELY lost your minds? (This was a line Julia said repeatedly on the show. This is a line I adopted soon after all of my kids became teenagers. It seemed appropriate.)
(As Mary Jo nervously prepares for her first date since her divorce.)
Julia: Here is a quarter for the payphone, Mary Jo. Mother always used to give Suzanne and me a dime to call home in case somebody got too fresh. I don't think Suzanne ever used hers. She eventually used the money to go to Europe.
Julia: I keep a list of people who touch my behind without permission. Some of them have died unnatural and untimely deaths.
(Talking to Charlene after being trapped in the hotel room with her all night.)
Julia: I think this illness has affected your brain. Or, I've just never before noticed the extent of your unequalled ability to be fascinated at absolutely nothing.
Charlene: Y'know, Julia, I used to think that if I were a man I'd be interested in you, but not anymore!!
"Kiddie Pool" Pumpkin Patch
Want to have your own home-grown pumpkins this fall? Well, here's a way to grow a small, yet manageable, pumpkin patch.
1. Purchase a small kiddie pool. Make holes in the bottom for draining purposes.
2. Place the pool at the back corner of the driveway, a cement patio or in a natural area of your yard. If you leave it on the grass, you'll have a dead spot in the yard by the time you harvest your pumpkins.
3. Buy several large bags of potting soil and a bag or two of pumpkin seeds.
4. Fill the pool with the potting soil and plant the seeds according to the instructions on the seed packet.
5. The pumpkin patch should be kept in a sunny spot.
6. Plant your patch between June 1 and June 15... and watch them grow!
This would be a great activity for the kids because it is a tradition which keeps on giving. Grow your own pumpkins and in the fall you can bake your own pies, decorate for Halloween and share with your neighbors. (This is "multi-purpose" tradition!)
Have a great Wednesday. Thursday I will have a fun date or two and some Blog Linkage I hope you will find inspiring. Enter the Contest if you get a chance today... and if you have any questions, don't forget to leave them via e-mail, Comment Section or Facebook for the May 3 Q & A on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Refreshing Cake
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are a few trampoline photos I took Saturday afternoon of Roxie and her friend, Kendall. Teenage girls are photo-ops ready and waiting to happen. They LOVE having their picture taken... and taken... and taken. Of course, unlike the male species, the picture has to be "perfect" or it is immediately deleted. Pros and cons. Pros and cons. (Needless to say, the above photos were stamped "APPROVED" before posting.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have one word for you... RHUBARB! I received my Martha Stewart Living magazine yesterday, and it is FULL of recipes for RHUBARB. Rhubarb Chutney, Rhubarb Custard, Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake, Rhubarb Meringue Pie. Much like the parsnip, I have never really had an interest in rhubarb. It's not a pretty word, is it? It's almost scary. However, "chutney," "custard," "cake," and "pie" are all delightful words.
So I was wondering aloud last night as I flipped through the magazine, "Mikie, have you ever tasted rhubarb?"
I can't spell it, but there was an audible groan/moan. "I hated the parsnips, and I'm pretty sure rhubarb falls into the same category."
"But we'll never know if we don't try... and all of these recipes have sugar. It can't be all bad if it is mixed with sugar." I was also trying to convince myself.
Mikie grew quiet, but I could feel his eyes on me as I read over the recipes.
"Mikie, have you ever had chutney?" I asked. Mike doesn't like meringue, so the pie recipe was out. Custard is a tricky one. Not a favorite, but he has tried a custard or two in his day. That left chutney and the upside-down cake.
"I'm pretty sure I'm not going to eat rhubarb anything," he replied.
"All righty then! Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake it is!" Insert another audible groan/moan (which I cannot spell) here.
This should be interesting. Upon reading the article more closely this morning, I discovered the leaves of the rhubarb plant are POISONOUS and contain a toxic amount of oxalic acid. Martha says this is "a substance that can cause illness if ingested." Thus, it is very important to just use the red stems in the recipes. So I'm guessing I won't be using the leaves as a garnish either. (A little adventure with our dessert. Doesn't it sound fun?)
Today I am off in search of rhubarb. Wish me luck!
RANDOMNESS #2 - As some of you may know, I would one day like to own a taser. I have several good reasons for wanting to own this particular weapon.
1. It has settings. When I use it as a parenting tool, I could use the lowest setting just to get my point across. "I thought I told you to take the trash out 30 minutes ago." BUZZ!
2. Until I get my own portable heart defibrillator to carry in The Big Gold Van, in my mind I could use the taser (again on a low setting) to get me going when I'm having one of my many panic attacks which present in the form of heart attacks symptoms. (I'm using the word "present" in ER terminology. "He presented with asthma symptoms." I didn't want you to think I meant a gift.)
However, a friend pointed out there has to be another person with you to actually remove the taser from your body. It isn't made for self-administration. Bummer.
3. I would much rather carry a taser around instead of a gun for safety. (And, of course, with the many, many kids in my house and The Big Gold Van, guns and tasers are out of the question for the next few years.) If I need something to defend myself, I'm pretty sure I could just throw a yelping beagle at someone's head and have plenty of time to get away.
I've talked about tasers this morning because I saw a news story about a man who used a taser on a female co-worker yesterday... as a joke. I guess I should say "unemployed" man. I have a feeling he's looking for new employment as we speak.
Unless you have really, really good reasons to own a taser (like the reasons I've just listed above), I personally don't think people like the man in this story should be allowed to own a taser.
You must use it responsibly... like I would.
Refreshing Cake
I found this recipe in one of my many Becky Freeman books, Coffee Cup Friendship & Cheesecake Fun. As I said yesterday, it is simple enough for your child to make. There are no mixers involved and no draining necessary. And it is wonderful!
You will need:
Cake:
1 box yellow cake mix
4 eggs
2/3 cup oil
11 ounce can Mandarin oranges with juice
1. Mix ingredients with whisk. Batter will be lumpy.
2. Grease and flour oblong cake pan.
3. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes uncovered. Lightly cover with foil and bake 20 more minutes.
4. Cool and chill.
Icing:
1 small can crushed pineapple (undrained)
12 ounce Cool Whip
Large box instant vanilla pudding
1. Mix ingredients for icing together with a wooden spoon.
2. Ice cake and keep in refrigerator.
3. Serve cold.
Easy, breezy and definitely refreshing. Let your little cook try this one for tonight's dessert.
Have a fantastic, sunny Tuesday. Wednesday's post will be full of good stuff... Wednesday Wisdom, a Seasonal Tradition to try with your kiddos and so much more.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are a few trampoline photos I took Saturday afternoon of Roxie and her friend, Kendall. Teenage girls are photo-ops ready and waiting to happen. They LOVE having their picture taken... and taken... and taken. Of course, unlike the male species, the picture has to be "perfect" or it is immediately deleted. Pros and cons. Pros and cons. (Needless to say, the above photos were stamped "APPROVED" before posting.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have one word for you... RHUBARB! I received my Martha Stewart Living magazine yesterday, and it is FULL of recipes for RHUBARB. Rhubarb Chutney, Rhubarb Custard, Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake, Rhubarb Meringue Pie. Much like the parsnip, I have never really had an interest in rhubarb. It's not a pretty word, is it? It's almost scary. However, "chutney," "custard," "cake," and "pie" are all delightful words.
So I was wondering aloud last night as I flipped through the magazine, "Mikie, have you ever tasted rhubarb?"
I can't spell it, but there was an audible groan/moan. "I hated the parsnips, and I'm pretty sure rhubarb falls into the same category."
"But we'll never know if we don't try... and all of these recipes have sugar. It can't be all bad if it is mixed with sugar." I was also trying to convince myself.
Mikie grew quiet, but I could feel his eyes on me as I read over the recipes.
"Mikie, have you ever had chutney?" I asked. Mike doesn't like meringue, so the pie recipe was out. Custard is a tricky one. Not a favorite, but he has tried a custard or two in his day. That left chutney and the upside-down cake.
"I'm pretty sure I'm not going to eat rhubarb anything," he replied.
"All righty then! Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake it is!" Insert another audible groan/moan (which I cannot spell) here.
This should be interesting. Upon reading the article more closely this morning, I discovered the leaves of the rhubarb plant are POISONOUS and contain a toxic amount of oxalic acid. Martha says this is "a substance that can cause illness if ingested." Thus, it is very important to just use the red stems in the recipes. So I'm guessing I won't be using the leaves as a garnish either. (A little adventure with our dessert. Doesn't it sound fun?)
Today I am off in search of rhubarb. Wish me luck!
RANDOMNESS #2 - As some of you may know, I would one day like to own a taser. I have several good reasons for wanting to own this particular weapon.
1. It has settings. When I use it as a parenting tool, I could use the lowest setting just to get my point across. "I thought I told you to take the trash out 30 minutes ago." BUZZ!
2. Until I get my own portable heart defibrillator to carry in The Big Gold Van, in my mind I could use the taser (again on a low setting) to get me going when I'm having one of my many panic attacks which present in the form of heart attacks symptoms. (I'm using the word "present" in ER terminology. "He presented with asthma symptoms." I didn't want you to think I meant a gift.)
However, a friend pointed out there has to be another person with you to actually remove the taser from your body. It isn't made for self-administration. Bummer.
3. I would much rather carry a taser around instead of a gun for safety. (And, of course, with the many, many kids in my house and The Big Gold Van, guns and tasers are out of the question for the next few years.) If I need something to defend myself, I'm pretty sure I could just throw a yelping beagle at someone's head and have plenty of time to get away.
I've talked about tasers this morning because I saw a news story about a man who used a taser on a female co-worker yesterday... as a joke. I guess I should say "unemployed" man. I have a feeling he's looking for new employment as we speak.
Unless you have really, really good reasons to own a taser (like the reasons I've just listed above), I personally don't think people like the man in this story should be allowed to own a taser.
You must use it responsibly... like I would.
Refreshing Cake
I found this recipe in one of my many Becky Freeman books, Coffee Cup Friendship & Cheesecake Fun. As I said yesterday, it is simple enough for your child to make. There are no mixers involved and no draining necessary. And it is wonderful!
You will need:
Cake:
1 box yellow cake mix
4 eggs
2/3 cup oil
11 ounce can Mandarin oranges with juice
1. Mix ingredients with whisk. Batter will be lumpy.
2. Grease and flour oblong cake pan.
3. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes uncovered. Lightly cover with foil and bake 20 more minutes.
4. Cool and chill.
Icing:
1 small can crushed pineapple (undrained)
12 ounce Cool Whip
Large box instant vanilla pudding
1. Mix ingredients for icing together with a wooden spoon.
2. Ice cake and keep in refrigerator.
3. Serve cold.
Easy, breezy and definitely refreshing. Let your little cook try this one for tonight's dessert.
Have a fantastic, sunny Tuesday. Wednesday's post will be full of good stuff... Wednesday Wisdom, a Seasonal Tradition to try with your kiddos and so much more.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Garden Party
Good Monday morning!
The Showcase Pic is of Austin and Melia in their prom finery. I especially liked this picture because it was taken between all the "posed" shots, and they were just being themselves. They are a sweet (and spectacularly good-looking) couple.
The Gallery Pics include the rest of the prom pics I shot with my little digital. My dinosaur 35mm camera took two rolls of film, and I cannot wait to get those back. Oh, the thrill of waiting a few days and running to Wal-Mart to pick up your highly anticipated prints. I'm going to miss those days in August when I get my new camera! Mikie, are you out there? Did you read this paragraph? (I HOPE I'm going to miss those days. We'll have to wait and see.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I had a near death experience with a Fish Oil Supplement capsule (the size of a quarter) going down the wrong pipe this weekend. I'm okay now, but I want to take this opportunity to publicly say if I leave this world from choking on a "way too large" Fish Oil Supplement capsule, the cause of death better NOT show up in my obituary OR on my tombstone. Just saying.
RANDOMNESS #2 - After much research, I found the zip line I want to ride before I turn 90 years-old. It is located in Singapore in an amusement park, and it is called the MegaZip. It is the largest, tallest zip line in the world, and when you ride it you are flying over dense forests, roads and finally water. I saw it on The Amazing Race last night, and I've chosen this particular zip line for my goal. I'm not sure when I'll be going to Singapore, but now that it is on the itinerary, it's just a matter of planning and saving. (Oh, and having enough drugs to knock me out during the entire flight to and from Singapore. That's a must.)
RANDOMNESS #3 - I'm still reading Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow with my friend, Kim. Kim has specific reasons for reading the book, and I have another set of specific reasons for reading the book. Coming together, we're able to compare notes and see the different ways the book speaks to each of us and our needs. I wanted to share a paragraph which "spoke" to me this past week.
"Proverbs 23:7 says, 'As he thinketh in his heart, so is he.' The writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson put it this way: 'Beware of what you dwell on for that you shall surely become.' How convicting! We become what we think. Our thought life, not our circumstances, determines whether we are content. Our thought life, not our friends, husband, children, job, or anything else, determines our contentment!"
Wow! Being a self-declared "glass half-empty" kind of person, this does not bode well for me. But the book insists (over and over) that contentment can be learned. I still have a lot of reading to do... and even more application.
CONTEST! CONTEST! CONTEST! - Yes, it is only one month away! On May 12, the day of my 400th post on A Simple Life. I will be drawing six names out of THE BOWL for the third Mystery Bag Party. (I think I've been saying "fourth," but that's not right. The mind is not what it used to be, girls!)
The six winners of the Mystery Bag Party Contest will be sent an invitation with all the details of the party (date, time, etc.), and The Big Gold Van will pull out for yet another fun-filled afternoon of surprises and fun. During the next month, I hope to have some "testimonials" from previous Mystery Bag Party winners which will help those of you who might be a little hesitant about entering.
It is a fun AND easy, easy party to attend. (I even tell you what to wear. You don't have to think about a thing. You just sit back and enjoy the ride!)
If you want to enter, leave your name and the word "CONTEST" somewhere in your message via the Comment Section of the blog, e-mail or Facebook. If you see me out and about, you can even say the word "CONTEST," and I'll throw your name in the bowl. It's that easy!
Don't forget. You only have a month... and I'll be reminding you once or twice a week between now and the big day.
Weekend Review
Our weekend couldn't be described as restful, but it was a lot of fun. For Austin, Friday night was prom night... again. Well, actually it was Melia's prom night. Austin was just along for the ride... and a fun ride it was. He had a great time from beginning to end. (By the way, he highly recommends The Tavern located at The Summit if you're looking for a great restaurant experience.)
For the rest of the Faulkner Five, it was movie night. Roxie, Kendall and I went to see The Last Song (which I have decided to re-name The Last Sad Movie I'm EVER Going to Watch in a Crowded Theater). Sitting in a dark room filled with women of ALL ages sobbing is not a release for me. I find it very uncomfortable... and I'm not doing it again. I spend a great deal of my time trying NOT to have a good cry, especially in public! I don't think there is such a thing as a "good cry." Don't get me wrong. It was a good movie... just terribly, terribly sad.
I would much rather have gone with Mikie and Josh to see Clash of the Titans. "RELEASE THE KRAKEN!" If I saw the movie, at least I would know the story behind the phrase I keep saying off and on during the day. But I'm not going to let a little fact like I've never seen the movie stop me. I'm going to continue to say it because (1) it embarrasses the kids; and (2) I like to impress people with my Liam Neeson impersonation. It's awesome!
Saturday was the guys' work day around the house. And upon the request of Mikie, we had cheeseburger sliders Saturday night on the deck before we all went inside to watch The Blind Side one more time. One of the best parts of that movie is when Sandra Bullock's character starts taking Thanksgiving dinner out of bags for her family... and her husband tells the kids, "Tell your Mama 'thank you' for driving to the store to buy this food." I LOVE that, and I want to figure out how to do that! (I'm pretty sure I need to start a "money envelope" right now to be ready for next Thanksgiving.)
Sunday we made it to church, but the guys slipped out after the 8:00 a.m. service to go to the first EVER Indy Grand Prix held in Birmingham. They had a great time, and it looks like it could become an annual event. (I'll have those pictures in the Gallery Wednesday.)
Our Sunday night was filled with church, homework, The Amazing Race (me and Mikie) and packing. Typical... very typical.
I hope your weekend was fun. We had such beautiful weather. Lots of pollen, but definitely beautiful weather!
Garden Party Invitations
I found this party idea on www.party411.com. This website has theme party ideas for ALMOST every occasion. I like to find a theme and make it my own!
A Garden Party... Is there a better way to celebrate the warm weather? This is a perfect theme for an excuse for girlfriends (young or old"er") to get together. It can be simple and elegant, or down on the ground dirty. The choice is yours, but the fun is guaranteed!
Invitations - Buy seed packages of your favorite flowers and turn them into invitations. Print the party information on a fun label and adhere it to the package. Mail them in a coordinating envelope and it becomes a double treat for your guests... an invitation to a party and seeds to plant in the garden.
Table Decorations - A Garden Party is great because decorating can be simple and reasonable which is a fabulous combination! Assuming the weather cooperates, your Garden Party should be held outside. Beautiful garden party paper goods will set a beautiful table.
Flowers are a natural choice for centerpieces. Fresh cut flowers in a variety of vases or small potted plants like geraniums are always a good choice. Or set out a few potted silk flowers. For a more informal look, fill flower pots with gardening supplies like a trowel, seeds, watering can, and even some gummy worms. You can use them as party favors when the event is over.
Balloons can be a fun and economical way to decorate. Tie bunches of pastel colored balloons together and use a bag of sand covered in colorful paper as a weight. Place the balloons in a flowerpot and fill the pot with shredded tissue paper. Maybe a few more gummy worms could be crawling out of the pot, too.
Garden Party Food - A Garden Party is usually held in the afternoon so your menu can just be simple and delicious. Your guests will love small sandwiches, a variety of salads and desserts like brownies, lemon squares and cookies. Create a special Garden Party punch for the occasion. Ginger ale mixed with sherbet is always a favorite.
Like the flowers and plants, your guests will need water, too. Bottled spring water with personalized water bottle labels are just the thing for your party.
Garden Party Entertainment - Depending on your crowd, there are all sorts of entertainment possibilities. Party games are always fun. No one is ever too old to play a trivia game based on garden and flower facts. For prizes, you can use the following: flower pens, flower bulbs, or seeds.
The main purpose of this party is to teach your guests how to plant their own garden or plants. Have a spot picked out in your yard for them to plant a small flower garden. You can also let the kids plant small, individual tomato plants in medium-sized flower pots to take home to tend. Or, you can plan on planting a "kiddie-pool" pumpkin patch. (Check out this Wednesday's Seasonal Tradition for step-by-step information on making a "kiddie-pool" pumpkin patch. Just a little something to look forward to!)
A Garden Party promises to be a colorful celebration. Now I have TWO parties I want to throw this spring/summer... the Swap Meet Party AND the Garden Party. I have to get busy!
Have a wonderful Monday. I have a GREAT cake recipe for tomorrow... that your child can bake. (The "kid-prepared" dinner recipe is going to be featured next week.) It is perfect for this spring/summer weather we're beginning to have. I'll also add a few more pictures from the weekend.
REMINDER - Continue to send your questions regarding A Simple Life via Comment Section, e-mail or Facebook. I'll have a Q & A Monday, May 3.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Showcase Pic is of Austin and Melia in their prom finery. I especially liked this picture because it was taken between all the "posed" shots, and they were just being themselves. They are a sweet (and spectacularly good-looking) couple.
The Gallery Pics include the rest of the prom pics I shot with my little digital. My dinosaur 35mm camera took two rolls of film, and I cannot wait to get those back. Oh, the thrill of waiting a few days and running to Wal-Mart to pick up your highly anticipated prints. I'm going to miss those days in August when I get my new camera! Mikie, are you out there? Did you read this paragraph? (I HOPE I'm going to miss those days. We'll have to wait and see.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I had a near death experience with a Fish Oil Supplement capsule (the size of a quarter) going down the wrong pipe this weekend. I'm okay now, but I want to take this opportunity to publicly say if I leave this world from choking on a "way too large" Fish Oil Supplement capsule, the cause of death better NOT show up in my obituary OR on my tombstone. Just saying.
RANDOMNESS #2 - After much research, I found the zip line I want to ride before I turn 90 years-old. It is located in Singapore in an amusement park, and it is called the MegaZip. It is the largest, tallest zip line in the world, and when you ride it you are flying over dense forests, roads and finally water. I saw it on The Amazing Race last night, and I've chosen this particular zip line for my goal. I'm not sure when I'll be going to Singapore, but now that it is on the itinerary, it's just a matter of planning and saving. (Oh, and having enough drugs to knock me out during the entire flight to and from Singapore. That's a must.)
RANDOMNESS #3 - I'm still reading Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow with my friend, Kim. Kim has specific reasons for reading the book, and I have another set of specific reasons for reading the book. Coming together, we're able to compare notes and see the different ways the book speaks to each of us and our needs. I wanted to share a paragraph which "spoke" to me this past week.
"Proverbs 23:7 says, 'As he thinketh in his heart, so is he.' The writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson put it this way: 'Beware of what you dwell on for that you shall surely become.' How convicting! We become what we think. Our thought life, not our circumstances, determines whether we are content. Our thought life, not our friends, husband, children, job, or anything else, determines our contentment!"
Wow! Being a self-declared "glass half-empty" kind of person, this does not bode well for me. But the book insists (over and over) that contentment can be learned. I still have a lot of reading to do... and even more application.
CONTEST! CONTEST! CONTEST! - Yes, it is only one month away! On May 12, the day of my 400th post on A Simple Life. I will be drawing six names out of THE BOWL for the third Mystery Bag Party. (I think I've been saying "fourth," but that's not right. The mind is not what it used to be, girls!)
The six winners of the Mystery Bag Party Contest will be sent an invitation with all the details of the party (date, time, etc.), and The Big Gold Van will pull out for yet another fun-filled afternoon of surprises and fun. During the next month, I hope to have some "testimonials" from previous Mystery Bag Party winners which will help those of you who might be a little hesitant about entering.
It is a fun AND easy, easy party to attend. (I even tell you what to wear. You don't have to think about a thing. You just sit back and enjoy the ride!)
If you want to enter, leave your name and the word "CONTEST" somewhere in your message via the Comment Section of the blog, e-mail or Facebook. If you see me out and about, you can even say the word "CONTEST," and I'll throw your name in the bowl. It's that easy!
Don't forget. You only have a month... and I'll be reminding you once or twice a week between now and the big day.
Weekend Review
Our weekend couldn't be described as restful, but it was a lot of fun. For Austin, Friday night was prom night... again. Well, actually it was Melia's prom night. Austin was just along for the ride... and a fun ride it was. He had a great time from beginning to end. (By the way, he highly recommends The Tavern located at The Summit if you're looking for a great restaurant experience.)
For the rest of the Faulkner Five, it was movie night. Roxie, Kendall and I went to see The Last Song (which I have decided to re-name The Last Sad Movie I'm EVER Going to Watch in a Crowded Theater). Sitting in a dark room filled with women of ALL ages sobbing is not a release for me. I find it very uncomfortable... and I'm not doing it again. I spend a great deal of my time trying NOT to have a good cry, especially in public! I don't think there is such a thing as a "good cry." Don't get me wrong. It was a good movie... just terribly, terribly sad.
I would much rather have gone with Mikie and Josh to see Clash of the Titans. "RELEASE THE KRAKEN!" If I saw the movie, at least I would know the story behind the phrase I keep saying off and on during the day. But I'm not going to let a little fact like I've never seen the movie stop me. I'm going to continue to say it because (1) it embarrasses the kids; and (2) I like to impress people with my Liam Neeson impersonation. It's awesome!
Saturday was the guys' work day around the house. And upon the request of Mikie, we had cheeseburger sliders Saturday night on the deck before we all went inside to watch The Blind Side one more time. One of the best parts of that movie is when Sandra Bullock's character starts taking Thanksgiving dinner out of bags for her family... and her husband tells the kids, "Tell your Mama 'thank you' for driving to the store to buy this food." I LOVE that, and I want to figure out how to do that! (I'm pretty sure I need to start a "money envelope" right now to be ready for next Thanksgiving.)
Sunday we made it to church, but the guys slipped out after the 8:00 a.m. service to go to the first EVER Indy Grand Prix held in Birmingham. They had a great time, and it looks like it could become an annual event. (I'll have those pictures in the Gallery Wednesday.)
Our Sunday night was filled with church, homework, The Amazing Race (me and Mikie) and packing. Typical... very typical.
I hope your weekend was fun. We had such beautiful weather. Lots of pollen, but definitely beautiful weather!
Garden Party Invitations
I found this party idea on www.party411.com. This website has theme party ideas for ALMOST every occasion. I like to find a theme and make it my own!
A Garden Party... Is there a better way to celebrate the warm weather? This is a perfect theme for an excuse for girlfriends (young or old"er") to get together. It can be simple and elegant, or down on the ground dirty. The choice is yours, but the fun is guaranteed!
Invitations - Buy seed packages of your favorite flowers and turn them into invitations. Print the party information on a fun label and adhere it to the package. Mail them in a coordinating envelope and it becomes a double treat for your guests... an invitation to a party and seeds to plant in the garden.
Table Decorations - A Garden Party is great because decorating can be simple and reasonable which is a fabulous combination! Assuming the weather cooperates, your Garden Party should be held outside. Beautiful garden party paper goods will set a beautiful table.
Flowers are a natural choice for centerpieces. Fresh cut flowers in a variety of vases or small potted plants like geraniums are always a good choice. Or set out a few potted silk flowers. For a more informal look, fill flower pots with gardening supplies like a trowel, seeds, watering can, and even some gummy worms. You can use them as party favors when the event is over.
Balloons can be a fun and economical way to decorate. Tie bunches of pastel colored balloons together and use a bag of sand covered in colorful paper as a weight. Place the balloons in a flowerpot and fill the pot with shredded tissue paper. Maybe a few more gummy worms could be crawling out of the pot, too.
Garden Party Food - A Garden Party is usually held in the afternoon so your menu can just be simple and delicious. Your guests will love small sandwiches, a variety of salads and desserts like brownies, lemon squares and cookies. Create a special Garden Party punch for the occasion. Ginger ale mixed with sherbet is always a favorite.
Like the flowers and plants, your guests will need water, too. Bottled spring water with personalized water bottle labels are just the thing for your party.
Garden Party Entertainment - Depending on your crowd, there are all sorts of entertainment possibilities. Party games are always fun. No one is ever too old to play a trivia game based on garden and flower facts. For prizes, you can use the following: flower pens, flower bulbs, or seeds.
The main purpose of this party is to teach your guests how to plant their own garden or plants. Have a spot picked out in your yard for them to plant a small flower garden. You can also let the kids plant small, individual tomato plants in medium-sized flower pots to take home to tend. Or, you can plan on planting a "kiddie-pool" pumpkin patch. (Check out this Wednesday's Seasonal Tradition for step-by-step information on making a "kiddie-pool" pumpkin patch. Just a little something to look forward to!)
A Garden Party promises to be a colorful celebration. Now I have TWO parties I want to throw this spring/summer... the Swap Meet Party AND the Garden Party. I have to get busy!
Have a wonderful Monday. I have a GREAT cake recipe for tomorrow... that your child can bake. (The "kid-prepared" dinner recipe is going to be featured next week.) It is perfect for this spring/summer weather we're beginning to have. I'll also add a few more pictures from the weekend.
REMINDER - Continue to send your questions regarding A Simple Life via Comment Section, e-mail or Facebook. I'll have a Q & A Monday, May 3.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
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Friday...
Finally, some new basketball action shots.
The JV team had two 40-minute games Friday, so I thought I would just go ahead and start filming now!
And here's the obligatory Bryant Tuggle pic. He's a HUGE supporter of our baskeball team. Always has been... always will be. Well, until he gets his own driver's license!
Saturday...
We spent the day with the cousins Saturday. Monica, Amy, Roxie and I shopped at Brookwood, ate at Yolo's and went to the movies (Pirates 4). It was a great day, but the best part was our celebrity sighting...
That's right! Will Ferrell! (Please feel free to use your imagination. I know we did!)
Sunday...
Mikie's 50th Family Birthday Celebration! Everyone knows 50 year-old men LOVE the Green Lantern...and their wives really like Ryan Reynolds! (How cool would it be to have your picture on a birthday party plate package? Another goal, perhaps?)
What do you give a 50 year-old guys for his birthday? Cards... filled with money, Ricky Skaggs' concert tickets, a True Grit DVD and a Red Devil's Food Cake with Divinity Icing (from his Mom). It was a very good day!
Lovely Melia gave him the True Grit DVD. (I LOVE that movie!)
And it wouldn't be a birthday without a hug from Roxie!