Good Monday AFTERNOON!
This will truly be a Mindless Monday... MOSTLY pictures and very few words to describe the past weekend.
I apologize for being so late posting, but it is MIKIE'S 50TH BIRTHDAY... and we had some celebrating to do (birthday breakfast)... and Body Pump... and now a trip to the pool. (Let it be known, Mikie didn't participate in the Body Pump class or the trip to the pool.)
I have LOTS of stuff to share with you Tuesday. Be sure and visit if you get a few minutes.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, June 13, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
Could there be a more uneventful week at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842)? I mean, REALLY! I feel it necessary to apologize for the Gallery once again. Well, old pics are better than no pics!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Mikie's 50th birthday celebration is starting to shape up. I think this is going to be one he'll remember always. I just hope he remembers it fondly.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I checked my "counter" and I'm approaching the big 700. That's right. Seven hundred "can't-tear-my-eyes-away-from-the-page" posts... in less than three years.
I've decided to have another Butt Naked Candle Contest in a few weeks. Be watching for Dawn's testimonial to the "wonderfulness" that IS a Butt Naked Candle. (In case you have forgotten, Dawn won the last contest... And although she had to wait several weeks to receive her prize, it is now in her home doing what only a Butt Naked Candle can do!)
NOTE TO DAWN - I'm assuming you will indeed give me a testimonial on how much you love your candle. I know I haven't asked you in private, and by asking you in this manner, I'm putting you on the spot. Since I have PUT YOU ON THE SPOT, I'm going to let you enter the Contest again. There. I fixed it!
Watch for details in a few weeks. I'll give you plenty of time to put your name in the "pot."
Weekend Happenings
Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) will be revolving around Mikie this weekend. Well, I guess I should say EVERYTHING happening Sunday and part of Monday will revolve around Mikie. I mean, COME ON! The rest of us have a life, too, you know!
Josh and Austin are Chick-Fil-A bound Friday and Saturday. They've got to earn that paycheck so they can help pay for Daddy's HUGE 50th BIRTHDAY GIFT! (They are NOT aware of the cost at this point, and if you bump into them I would appreciate it if you would not mention it. They tend to get very upset when you talk about spending their money before they cash their paychecks. Very upset, indeed.)
On top of his very exciting work schedule, Josh will also be taking the ACT. This does not fit into his definition of "Epic Summer," but it is a necessary evil.
Yard work is also rearing it's ugly head. I caught both of the guys doing their "rain dance" yesterday. I didn't stop them, because as of this date, the "rain dance" has NEVER worked.
Roxie and I are planning on spending time with Monica Saturday. Time well spent, I might add!
Sunday is officially Mikie's Day (AFTER church, of course)! We'll be diving into his birthday cake and homemade ice cream Sunday afternoon with family from all over this great state. (Actually, just two other towns will be represented, but it sounded more festive AND BIGGER the other way.)
There are several surprises I cannot mention in the post because Mikie stops by from time to time... and leaves inappropriate comments I have to delete.
Oh, and did I mention I'll be taking PICTURES! Yes, sir. TONS OF PICTURES!
Have an exciting weekend. Do something different. Do something crazy. Do something spontaneous. And please send me the photos to put in the Gallery Monday morning!
Take care, and I'll see you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting and Beyond Boring Belinda
Could there be a more uneventful week at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842)? I mean, REALLY! I feel it necessary to apologize for the Gallery once again. Well, old pics are better than no pics!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Mikie's 50th birthday celebration is starting to shape up. I think this is going to be one he'll remember always. I just hope he remembers it fondly.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I checked my "counter" and I'm approaching the big 700. That's right. Seven hundred "can't-tear-my-eyes-away-from-the-page" posts... in less than three years.
I've decided to have another Butt Naked Candle Contest in a few weeks. Be watching for Dawn's testimonial to the "wonderfulness" that IS a Butt Naked Candle. (In case you have forgotten, Dawn won the last contest... And although she had to wait several weeks to receive her prize, it is now in her home doing what only a Butt Naked Candle can do!)
NOTE TO DAWN - I'm assuming you will indeed give me a testimonial on how much you love your candle. I know I haven't asked you in private, and by asking you in this manner, I'm putting you on the spot. Since I have PUT YOU ON THE SPOT, I'm going to let you enter the Contest again. There. I fixed it!
Watch for details in a few weeks. I'll give you plenty of time to put your name in the "pot."
Weekend Happenings
Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) will be revolving around Mikie this weekend. Well, I guess I should say EVERYTHING happening Sunday and part of Monday will revolve around Mikie. I mean, COME ON! The rest of us have a life, too, you know!
Josh and Austin are Chick-Fil-A bound Friday and Saturday. They've got to earn that paycheck so they can help pay for Daddy's HUGE 50th BIRTHDAY GIFT! (They are NOT aware of the cost at this point, and if you bump into them I would appreciate it if you would not mention it. They tend to get very upset when you talk about spending their money before they cash their paychecks. Very upset, indeed.)
On top of his very exciting work schedule, Josh will also be taking the ACT. This does not fit into his definition of "Epic Summer," but it is a necessary evil.
Yard work is also rearing it's ugly head. I caught both of the guys doing their "rain dance" yesterday. I didn't stop them, because as of this date, the "rain dance" has NEVER worked.
Roxie and I are planning on spending time with Monica Saturday. Time well spent, I might add!
Sunday is officially Mikie's Day (AFTER church, of course)! We'll be diving into his birthday cake and homemade ice cream Sunday afternoon with family from all over this great state. (Actually, just two other towns will be represented, but it sounded more festive AND BIGGER the other way.)
There are several surprises I cannot mention in the post because Mikie stops by from time to time... and leaves inappropriate comments I have to delete.
Oh, and did I mention I'll be taking PICTURES! Yes, sir. TONS OF PICTURES!
Have an exciting weekend. Do something different. Do something crazy. Do something spontaneous. And please send me the photos to put in the Gallery Monday morning!
Take care, and I'll see you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting and Beyond Boring Belinda
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Huntsville Space and Rocket Center Fireworks Date... Plus a BONUS!
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pics are called "Chillin' on the Deck." As you can see, I've become so desperate for photos around here I'm taking pictures of the dogs, the kids AND appliances... all in the same five-minute period. (I'm counting Mikie's new phone as an appliance.) I think the phrase "epic summer" means (for me) doing absolutely nothing picture-worthy. Or so it would seem.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I watched Meredith's last day on The Today Show yesterday. I love send-offs, and this one did not disappoint. Lots of tears, video montages of all the funny things that happened to her over the past five years, special surprise guests, more tears... Good television!
While I liked Meredith and I hate to see her leave, I am glad Ann Curry is getting a turn to sit on the couch with Matt. She has waited a long, long time for her chance at the "big time."
And that's all I have to say about that!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I haven't mentioned it on the blog because I didn't want you to think less of me, but I have not been to Body Pump in over two weeks. In fact, I haven't done any sort of structured exercise in over two weeks.
My inability to exercise without a buddy has caused this little slump. When Cam has been able to go, I have had something scheduled. And vice versa.
And my exercise buddy has had a little bit on her plate the last few weeks. Her baby graduated from high school. Her second child graduated from college. Her future daughter-in-law graduated from college. Oh. And did I mention her second child is marrying her future daughter-in-law in a couple of weeks.
Talk about an "epic summer." I need to camp out in her driveway for a few days. I'm pretty sure I would have some pics for the Gallery. (And now, with all that is on her plate, she will have to worry about me sitting in her driveway waiting to take pictures. I'm just kidding, Cam!)
I've said all the above just to point out I am very sore... because Cam and I did go to Body Pump yesterday. And the only thing worse than being sore from REGULARLY attending Body Pump, is being sore because you've missed over two weeks of Body Pump.
My core (whatever the heck that is) is killing me!
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you, and I hope you like them.
1. Go to eighteen25 under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "Father's Day Tie Box" dated June 6. I thought this was a pretty cute gift idea for little ones to help make for Dad.
2. Go to Coal Creek Farms under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "June = No TV!" dated June 3. This family turns off the TV every June and reaps the benefits of spending time playing board games, reading good books, talking to each other, etc., etc.
We have never turned the TV off for an entire month at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). And I really couldn't have done it this month. You know. Because of Meredith's big send-off on The Today Show and all. However, the idea has always intrigued me.
While we have gone a day or two or three without TV because of other activities, a month seems a little daunting. One might even use the word "epic."
No promises, but I am going to think about the possibility.
3. Google Birmingham Bargain Mom today and any other day you have a free minute. Scroll through her vast list of freebies and discount bargains. Click on Entertainment on her sidebar and find specific things to do this weekend with your date OR family. She never disappoints.
Huntsville Space and Rocket Center Fireworks Date
Speaking of Birmingham Bargain Mom... This idea came straight from her website!
You'll need to go to www.spacecamp.com/store/fireworks-celebration to order your ticket(s). Print the invoice off and present it at the gate. The invoice will show the number of tickets you ordered. There is a limit of 6 tickets per family.
The following is Bargain Mom's description of the event:
For the first time ever, two of Huntsville's most iconic destinations have joined forces to give the greater Huntsville community a 4th of July celebration not to be missed. The Space and Rocket Center and Bridge Street Town Centre will host a day of events culminating in a dramatic duel fireworks show at dusk.
The Museum will be closed after 5:00 p.m., but gates to the facility re-open at 7:00 p.m. for the first 2011 people to go online and reserve a prime spot for fireworks viewing. Until the show starts, you can enjoy the following:
Space Shot and G-Force
Kids Cosmos
Continuous "Create-Your-Own-Rocket" Launches
Family Photos with Space Camp mascots
Food and beverages for purchase
Rocket City Jazz Band live underneath the Pathfinder Shuttle
The Fireworks Show begins at 8:45 p.m. and lasts for 20 minutes. It is synced with Bridge Street's show.
This sounds like a fun "family" date. Something new. Something different. Something memorable. Something FREE!
There are only about 1,000 tickets left, so if you want to go, reserve your tickets today!
BONUS - I've mentioned this several times on A Simple Life, but it is such a simple, fun way to plan a date with one of the kids.
Google "National Holidays in June" and click on one of several websites which list all of the official holidays for the month. Here are some crazy days you can celebrate with your date.
June 10 - National Yo-Yo Day - Go to your favorite fast food joint for dinner and then head to a store to purchase TWO yo-yos. Have a good time introducing your date to this classic toy!
June 20 - Ice Cream Soda Day - Need I say more? If you don't have a local ice cream store that makes ice cream sodas, head to the grocery store with your date to purchase the ingredients and make them at home.
June 22 - National Chocolate Eclair Day - Oh... my... goodness! Why can't every day be National Chocolate Eclair Day? Go to a nearby bakery and purchase two of these wonderful desserts!
June 24 - Museum Comes To Life Day - Pick a local museum you have never visited (or maybe a favorite) and spend an hour or two enjoying the exhibits.
June 26 - National Chocolate Pudding Day - Carve out some time in the kitchen and make your own chocolate pudding. OR you could go to the store and buy several different kinds of chocolate pudding. Take them home and have a taste test. Find the best tasting chocolate pudding EVER!
June 28 - Paul Bunyan Day - Check out an age-appropriate book about Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, Babe. Find a cozy corner and enjoy some reading time together.
June 29 - Camera Day - Give your date the camera and take them wherever they want to go to take the perfect picture of the day!
Have a great Thursday. Plan a June date TODAY! I'll be back tomorrow with Weekend Happenings... and pictures of my friend, Cam, taken from my special spot in her driveway!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are called "Chillin' on the Deck." As you can see, I've become so desperate for photos around here I'm taking pictures of the dogs, the kids AND appliances... all in the same five-minute period. (I'm counting Mikie's new phone as an appliance.) I think the phrase "epic summer" means (for me) doing absolutely nothing picture-worthy. Or so it would seem.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I watched Meredith's last day on The Today Show yesterday. I love send-offs, and this one did not disappoint. Lots of tears, video montages of all the funny things that happened to her over the past five years, special surprise guests, more tears... Good television!
While I liked Meredith and I hate to see her leave, I am glad Ann Curry is getting a turn to sit on the couch with Matt. She has waited a long, long time for her chance at the "big time."
And that's all I have to say about that!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I haven't mentioned it on the blog because I didn't want you to think less of me, but I have not been to Body Pump in over two weeks. In fact, I haven't done any sort of structured exercise in over two weeks.
My inability to exercise without a buddy has caused this little slump. When Cam has been able to go, I have had something scheduled. And vice versa.
And my exercise buddy has had a little bit on her plate the last few weeks. Her baby graduated from high school. Her second child graduated from college. Her future daughter-in-law graduated from college. Oh. And did I mention her second child is marrying her future daughter-in-law in a couple of weeks.
Talk about an "epic summer." I need to camp out in her driveway for a few days. I'm pretty sure I would have some pics for the Gallery. (And now, with all that is on her plate, she will have to worry about me sitting in her driveway waiting to take pictures. I'm just kidding, Cam!)
I've said all the above just to point out I am very sore... because Cam and I did go to Body Pump yesterday. And the only thing worse than being sore from REGULARLY attending Body Pump, is being sore because you've missed over two weeks of Body Pump.
My core (whatever the heck that is) is killing me!
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you, and I hope you like them.
1. Go to eighteen25 under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "Father's Day Tie Box" dated June 6. I thought this was a pretty cute gift idea for little ones to help make for Dad.
2. Go to Coal Creek Farms under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "June = No TV!" dated June 3. This family turns off the TV every June and reaps the benefits of spending time playing board games, reading good books, talking to each other, etc., etc.
We have never turned the TV off for an entire month at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). And I really couldn't have done it this month. You know. Because of Meredith's big send-off on The Today Show and all. However, the idea has always intrigued me.
While we have gone a day or two or three without TV because of other activities, a month seems a little daunting. One might even use the word "epic."
No promises, but I am going to think about the possibility.
3. Google Birmingham Bargain Mom today and any other day you have a free minute. Scroll through her vast list of freebies and discount bargains. Click on Entertainment on her sidebar and find specific things to do this weekend with your date OR family. She never disappoints.
Huntsville Space and Rocket Center Fireworks Date
Speaking of Birmingham Bargain Mom... This idea came straight from her website!
You'll need to go to www.spacecamp.com/store/fireworks-celebration to order your ticket(s). Print the invoice off and present it at the gate. The invoice will show the number of tickets you ordered. There is a limit of 6 tickets per family.
The following is Bargain Mom's description of the event:
For the first time ever, two of Huntsville's most iconic destinations have joined forces to give the greater Huntsville community a 4th of July celebration not to be missed. The Space and Rocket Center and Bridge Street Town Centre will host a day of events culminating in a dramatic duel fireworks show at dusk.
The Museum will be closed after 5:00 p.m., but gates to the facility re-open at 7:00 p.m. for the first 2011 people to go online and reserve a prime spot for fireworks viewing. Until the show starts, you can enjoy the following:
Space Shot and G-Force
Kids Cosmos
Continuous "Create-Your-Own-Rocket" Launches
Family Photos with Space Camp mascots
Food and beverages for purchase
Rocket City Jazz Band live underneath the Pathfinder Shuttle
The Fireworks Show begins at 8:45 p.m. and lasts for 20 minutes. It is synced with Bridge Street's show.
This sounds like a fun "family" date. Something new. Something different. Something memorable. Something FREE!
There are only about 1,000 tickets left, so if you want to go, reserve your tickets today!
BONUS - I've mentioned this several times on A Simple Life, but it is such a simple, fun way to plan a date with one of the kids.
Google "National Holidays in June" and click on one of several websites which list all of the official holidays for the month. Here are some crazy days you can celebrate with your date.
June 10 - National Yo-Yo Day - Go to your favorite fast food joint for dinner and then head to a store to purchase TWO yo-yos. Have a good time introducing your date to this classic toy!
June 20 - Ice Cream Soda Day - Need I say more? If you don't have a local ice cream store that makes ice cream sodas, head to the grocery store with your date to purchase the ingredients and make them at home.
June 22 - National Chocolate Eclair Day - Oh... my... goodness! Why can't every day be National Chocolate Eclair Day? Go to a nearby bakery and purchase two of these wonderful desserts!
June 24 - Museum Comes To Life Day - Pick a local museum you have never visited (or maybe a favorite) and spend an hour or two enjoying the exhibits.
June 26 - National Chocolate Pudding Day - Carve out some time in the kitchen and make your own chocolate pudding. OR you could go to the store and buy several different kinds of chocolate pudding. Take them home and have a taste test. Find the best tasting chocolate pudding EVER!
June 28 - Paul Bunyan Day - Check out an age-appropriate book about Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, Babe. Find a cozy corner and enjoy some reading time together.
June 29 - Camera Day - Give your date the camera and take them wherever they want to go to take the perfect picture of the day!
Have a great Thursday. Plan a June date TODAY! I'll be back tomorrow with Weekend Happenings... and pictures of my friend, Cam, taken from my special spot in her driveway!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Kids Cook Dinner
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from an odd tree in our backyard. The first summer we lived here, we were surprised when our tree started "shedding." We thought it was dying, or had been struck by lightning in the middle of the night. Now we know it was just trying to survive an Alabama summer by stripping down to the bare essentials. While it may be a messy tree, I totally understand the need to get more comfortable. I do this by sitting on air conditioning vents throughout the day.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have been informed the credit for yesterday's recipe really belongs to Joan and Jane's Aunt Jack. In my quest to only print the truth (yeah, right), I want to set things straight. Thank you, Aunt Jack, for an easy, yet delicious recipe!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In only a few days, Mikie will be 50... and I will officially be married to an OLD MAN!
He's handling the transition into a new decade well, I think. Gracefully. Confident. Looking good!
Except for a little gray at the temples (which I LOVE), Mikie looks the same. His eyes are still as blue, and he still laughs loud and often. He's still my very best friend, and the only person I have met in my lifetime who could put up with me for 23 years and counting. In fact, he has been my best bud for OVER half of my life now since our friendship began soon after we met at the tender age of 23.
As of today, he hasn't bothered going through a mid-life crises... which is good since I seem to have a different crises every other day or so. I don't see our family being able to handle two at the same time, so I'm very glad he decided to skip his. (He's a giver!)
His actual birthday is next Monday, but the birthday celebrations will commence this weekend. That means I'll actually have some new pics for Mindless Monday!
RANDOMNESS #3 - I just returned from an early morning run to the grocery store... Well, if you call 9:00 a.m. early.
Were some of you as upset as I was to see I didn't make the Hottest Summer Bodies issue of US... again? This is getting old. I'm probably only going to submit photos for five or so more years, and then I'm going to let this goal go!
Wednesday Wisdom - I mentioned last week I love Steven Wright's deadpan comedy. While these might not be actual "quotes," they will put a smile on your face this hot Wednesday morning!
"All those who believe in psychokinesis, raise my hand." (It took me a minute, but I finally got it!)
"Okay. So what's the speed of dark?"
"Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have." (Ain't that the truth!)
"When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane."
"Ambition is a poor excuse for not having enough sense to be lazy."
"Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film."
"I intend to live forever. So far, so good."
"Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines."
"Boycott shampoo! Demand the REAL poo!"
I get him. I mean I REALLY, REALLY get him!
Kids Cook Dinner
Okay. It's summertime. The kids are home. Supposedly, there is a little free time you didn't have during the school months. Take this opportunity to let the kids cook dinner once a week! That's right! ONCE A WEEK! (It looks good in writing, but in real life you may not be able to pull this off. I did try one Summer, and the kids each cooked one or two dinners before school started back. However, once a week was not "doable" for our particular family. Remember. Be flexible!)
Pick out a dinner menu that is age-appropriate for your guys to prepare. Buy ALL the ingredients. Set them out at the appropriate time, and let the kids get busy.
This means preparing ALL the food, setting the table, fixing the ice for the drinks and CLEANING UP after the feast. (Don't be surprised if the kids ask for paper products.)
Get a magazine and sit somewhere nearby in case of an emergency, but enjoy this time off from "kitchen duty" knowing your kids are probably having fun AND learning something at the same time.
Simple Meal Ideas
4 to 6 years-old - There is nothing wrong with a "cold" meal. Using sandwich rolls and several different meats and cheeses, have the kids prepare a Sub-Sandwich Meal, complete with individual sodas and juice from the refrigerator and a variety of chip choices. They can wash apples and slice bananas (with a butter knife) to serve on the side. For dessert, nothing beats vanilla ice cream with a couple of topping choices.
7 to 9 years-old - These guys are old enough to work the crock pot! Use frozen meatballs, your favorite pasta sauce (Prego, etc.) and have the kids put them in the slow cooker for an hour or so, stirring occasionally. Again, using sandwich rolls, have a delicious HOT meal of meatball subs sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. These guys are more than capable so let them put a salad together, too.
10 to 14 years-old - Let's have Sunday dinner some time during the week. Buy a roast, carrots, mushrooms and pre-made gravy. Let the kids wash the meat and the vegetables and put them in the slow cooker. Add the gravy. Let it cook ALL DAY LONG filling the house with really good smells. Right before dinner, these kids can make and bake crescent rolls and prepare a salad. They can also make brownies or a cake from a mix for dessert. Talk about a feast!
Put your feet up and enjoy a home-cooked meal. You deserve it!
Have a lovely Wednesday. Do something "Summery" today! I'll be back tomorrow with Blog Linkage AND a summer date.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Thursday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from an odd tree in our backyard. The first summer we lived here, we were surprised when our tree started "shedding." We thought it was dying, or had been struck by lightning in the middle of the night. Now we know it was just trying to survive an Alabama summer by stripping down to the bare essentials. While it may be a messy tree, I totally understand the need to get more comfortable. I do this by sitting on air conditioning vents throughout the day.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have been informed the credit for yesterday's recipe really belongs to Joan and Jane's Aunt Jack. In my quest to only print the truth (yeah, right), I want to set things straight. Thank you, Aunt Jack, for an easy, yet delicious recipe!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In only a few days, Mikie will be 50... and I will officially be married to an OLD MAN!
He's handling the transition into a new decade well, I think. Gracefully. Confident. Looking good!
Except for a little gray at the temples (which I LOVE), Mikie looks the same. His eyes are still as blue, and he still laughs loud and often. He's still my very best friend, and the only person I have met in my lifetime who could put up with me for 23 years and counting. In fact, he has been my best bud for OVER half of my life now since our friendship began soon after we met at the tender age of 23.
As of today, he hasn't bothered going through a mid-life crises... which is good since I seem to have a different crises every other day or so. I don't see our family being able to handle two at the same time, so I'm very glad he decided to skip his. (He's a giver!)
His actual birthday is next Monday, but the birthday celebrations will commence this weekend. That means I'll actually have some new pics for Mindless Monday!
RANDOMNESS #3 - I just returned from an early morning run to the grocery store... Well, if you call 9:00 a.m. early.
Were some of you as upset as I was to see I didn't make the Hottest Summer Bodies issue of US... again? This is getting old. I'm probably only going to submit photos for five or so more years, and then I'm going to let this goal go!
Wednesday Wisdom - I mentioned last week I love Steven Wright's deadpan comedy. While these might not be actual "quotes," they will put a smile on your face this hot Wednesday morning!
"All those who believe in psychokinesis, raise my hand." (It took me a minute, but I finally got it!)
"Okay. So what's the speed of dark?"
"Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have." (Ain't that the truth!)
"When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane."
"Ambition is a poor excuse for not having enough sense to be lazy."
"Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film."
"I intend to live forever. So far, so good."
"Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines."
"Boycott shampoo! Demand the REAL poo!"
I get him. I mean I REALLY, REALLY get him!
Kids Cook Dinner
Okay. It's summertime. The kids are home. Supposedly, there is a little free time you didn't have during the school months. Take this opportunity to let the kids cook dinner once a week! That's right! ONCE A WEEK! (It looks good in writing, but in real life you may not be able to pull this off. I did try one Summer, and the kids each cooked one or two dinners before school started back. However, once a week was not "doable" for our particular family. Remember. Be flexible!)
Pick out a dinner menu that is age-appropriate for your guys to prepare. Buy ALL the ingredients. Set them out at the appropriate time, and let the kids get busy.
This means preparing ALL the food, setting the table, fixing the ice for the drinks and CLEANING UP after the feast. (Don't be surprised if the kids ask for paper products.)
Get a magazine and sit somewhere nearby in case of an emergency, but enjoy this time off from "kitchen duty" knowing your kids are probably having fun AND learning something at the same time.
Simple Meal Ideas
4 to 6 years-old - There is nothing wrong with a "cold" meal. Using sandwich rolls and several different meats and cheeses, have the kids prepare a Sub-Sandwich Meal, complete with individual sodas and juice from the refrigerator and a variety of chip choices. They can wash apples and slice bananas (with a butter knife) to serve on the side. For dessert, nothing beats vanilla ice cream with a couple of topping choices.
7 to 9 years-old - These guys are old enough to work the crock pot! Use frozen meatballs, your favorite pasta sauce (Prego, etc.) and have the kids put them in the slow cooker for an hour or so, stirring occasionally. Again, using sandwich rolls, have a delicious HOT meal of meatball subs sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. These guys are more than capable so let them put a salad together, too.
10 to 14 years-old - Let's have Sunday dinner some time during the week. Buy a roast, carrots, mushrooms and pre-made gravy. Let the kids wash the meat and the vegetables and put them in the slow cooker. Add the gravy. Let it cook ALL DAY LONG filling the house with really good smells. Right before dinner, these kids can make and bake crescent rolls and prepare a salad. They can also make brownies or a cake from a mix for dessert. Talk about a feast!
Put your feet up and enjoy a home-cooked meal. You deserve it!
Have a lovely Wednesday. Do something "Summery" today! I'll be back tomorrow with Blog Linkage AND a summer date.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Thursday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery Pictures are old, old, old. Enjoy these blasts from the past while I try to find something photo-worthy around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) today!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very excited about our upcoming train trip to New Orleans. VERY excited. But the end of May and the beginning of June began with temperatures in the three digits... and humidity through the roof. And that reminded me of how hot and humid it can be in New Orleans in the middle of July and beginning of August. (Really hot and humid.)
As per Mikie's request, I went over our itinerary to see how many events were outside versus inside activities. Except for our first morning breakfast (beignets and coffee) and the restaurants I had picked out for three different lunches, we were going to be outside ALL DAY LONG... EVERY DAY!
And did I mention the Swamp Tour? That's right. I had scheduled a five-hour portion of one day for a swamp tour in a swamp boat. An get this! We would be arriving in a swamp bus (whatever that is... I'm pretty sure it wasn't air conditioned). And then we were going to feed alligators marshmallows. Hot, sticky marshmallows!
What were the other activities? A strolling tour of Jackson Square (where the Faulkner Five would most definitely chafe and melt), and a fun day at the world famous New Orleans Zoo (looking for animals who would not be in their enclosures because THEY had enough sense to get in out of the heat).
Okay. I decided to change gears. New Orleans next Spring... perfect!
And this hot, sticky, humid Summer... (DRUM ROLL, please!) We will be HOUSEBOATING on Lake Lanier in Georgia.
That's right. Houseboating. Living on a boat for three nights. Fishing, swimming, grilling, hot tubbing, etc., etc. And get this! The houseboat has air conditioning. And the "people in charge" assure me it is a real working air conditioning unit. Not a bucket of ice in front of a big fan (Don't ask.)
We are pretty excited. After surviving the Heat Wave of 2010 on Amelia Island last year, we are more than a little wary of the heat index wherever we will be vacationing.
And in case you have forgotten that story, I'm adding it to this post. We haven't been able to laugh about that trip yet. And I've tried. Believe me... I've tried.
AMELIA ISLAND... OR AS I LIKE TO CALL IT "FIRE SAND BEACH!"
Ahhh! Our first day at the beach. We were ready. Our hotel was less than a block from the beach, but we loaded up the Big Gold Van with five beach chairs, two umbrellas and two more boogie boards which our concierge sweetly gave us. (Believe it or not, Mikie and I do not own our own boogie boards. Something which will soon be remedied because we became boogie board experts, I tell you!)
We drove the 15.5 seconds it took to get to the beach and noticed vehicles driving right onto the sand and parking. Perfect! The closer, the better. Off we went... and we immediately got stuck! As we emptied the van, and the boys began to push, I noticed how soft and powdery the sand was, and how far my feet and ankles sank immediately upon getting out of the van. Our tires were no exception.
Within seconds (no exaggeration), a man with a four-wheel drive truck came up to us and asked if we wanted a pull... which we did... and he did... and we were FREE to park in the parking lot. Mike gave him $10 for his trouble, and he left to help pull the next out-of-town sucker out of the sand. And the next. And the next. We saw him every day of our trip, so I'm assuming it was a quick and easy way to make a buck.
Roxie was furious. She called him a con artist, a crook, a low-life.
"Roxie. What is the problem? He's just trying to make a little money. AND he's helping people."
"Wouldn't it be more helpful if he stood at the gate and told people to back up because they were about the get stuck."
Hmmm. Good point. But I digress. We have to get to the "injury" part of this story.
We set up our tents and chairs on the nice hard, wet sand and saw the huge waves waiting for us. The kids went in right away, while Mikie and I took in our surroundings. The beaches were not as pretty as the Gulf of Mexico, but they were so far away from the water, and flat and hard. They were very easy to walk on and people could even ride bikes on the beach. Amazing!
It didn't take long before the Heat Wave of 2010 started having an adverse effect on us, so Mikie and I headed to the water, boogie boards in hand. The waves were big and constant, and once we got into the water we noticed immediately there was NO undertow. Very odd. The water was also VERY cold, but considering it was over 100 degrees (literally), it felt great.
We couldn't see anything in the water. It wasn't dirty. It was just the color of the Atlantic Ocean... again something very different from the Gulf. I stuck to my rule of thumb... stay close to a large group of people a little further out than your family. The sharks will get them first. (I'm sorry. I've never been the same since I saw Jaws.)
We had a ball. We played in the water for over two hours before we decided to head in and lay out by the pool. Austin led the way, and I was directly behind him. He started hopping on one foot and turned toward me. Blood was pouring off his foot.
By the time Mike made it to the shoreline, we couldn't even see where the blood was coming from because his foot was covered in the red stuff... more commonly known as "shark bait." Mike helped him to the chairs, and I got Josh and Roxie out of the water.
We determined it was his toe. We also determined it was still on his foot. Josh took matters into his own hands and fetched a lifeguard. (That's right! They have real Baywatch Lifeguards on the beaches. It was pretty cool.) He didn't run, but he did have a "kit." By pouring a whole bottle of peroxide on the toe, we were able to tell it was a deep slice... from a shell or piece of broken glass. His professional lifeguard advice was, "I don't know if you need to take him in for stitches or not. There's not really anything left to stitch." And he was right.
Mike helped Austin get to the van which was difficult. It was like hopping on one foot in snow drifts... very, very hot snow drifts. Josh, Roxie and I loaded up the chairs, umbrellas, coolers, etc. and slowly plowed through the incredibly hot, soft sand. Then it happened.
I kind of toppled, kind of fell on my right side... on top of the chairs and cooler. Since it was very similar to sitting in FIRE, I immediately hopped up. And then I fell over again. Roxie was totally mortified. Not only had her mother fallen once, but TWICE... and not gracefully... and not quietly.
But the second time was a charm, and I was able to maintain my balance and make it to the van just a few feet away. I knew I had sustained quite a number of injuries, but because I wasn't dripping blood, I wasn't the main focus at the moment.
When we arrived at the hotel, we headed to the pool. We were quite a sight... Austin with his bloody foot wrapped in a bloody beach towel and his mother limping and covered with Fire Sand. After we situated Austin in the shade and Josh, Roxie and I rinsed off, we soaked in the pool until Mikie came back with $59.95 worth of medical supplies. I let Mikie handle the toe.
He has always called himself a health care professional, although the kids are quick to point out he takes care of the money and not the people where he works. When something like this happens, Mikie is "Johnny on the Spot!" He loves it! I, on the other hand, do not!
He worked very hard on the injury, declared it to be "unstitchable," and dressed the toe. It looked very professional.
When he finished with Austin, I limped over to him to show him my six bruises, skinned knee, sore elbow and the second degree burns I had up and down the right side of my body from landing in the Fire Sand. He was a little unimpressed.
There was one more injury during our trip, and although it happened on Day Three, I'm going to go ahead and throw it in the mix.
I was getting on the elevator, and I tripped on Austin's "overly" dressed toe... and fell right past Austin, Roxie and Josh into the back panel of the elevator. I hit the old elbow again. And I'm not really sure why three children (MY THREE CHILDREN) didn't even try to catch me.
Well, I know why Roxie didn't try. You can't catch a falling woman and be properly mortified at the same time. It just can't be done!
Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese
4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 can Rotel (do not drain)
Mix well, and serve with crackers.
This is the recipe for the Pimento Cheese which was served at the Graduation Reception the end of May. (Remember? I talked about it a lot.) I LOVED it. My friend, Joan, gave me the recipe in the Comment Section, but her sister, Jane, was the caterer for the Reception, so I'm assuming she made it for that event.
And I've given credit to the people who deserve it most... and I didn't name it "The Enchanting Belinda's Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese." I'm very careful about things like that!
Have a safe, cool Tuesday. As always, we'll be busy on A Simple Life tomorrow with a Seasonal Tradition, Wednesday Wisdom, new pics (of something) and Randomness. Make sure you save a minute in your summer schedule to check it out!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pictures are old, old, old. Enjoy these blasts from the past while I try to find something photo-worthy around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) today!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very excited about our upcoming train trip to New Orleans. VERY excited. But the end of May and the beginning of June began with temperatures in the three digits... and humidity through the roof. And that reminded me of how hot and humid it can be in New Orleans in the middle of July and beginning of August. (Really hot and humid.)
As per Mikie's request, I went over our itinerary to see how many events were outside versus inside activities. Except for our first morning breakfast (beignets and coffee) and the restaurants I had picked out for three different lunches, we were going to be outside ALL DAY LONG... EVERY DAY!
And did I mention the Swamp Tour? That's right. I had scheduled a five-hour portion of one day for a swamp tour in a swamp boat. An get this! We would be arriving in a swamp bus (whatever that is... I'm pretty sure it wasn't air conditioned). And then we were going to feed alligators marshmallows. Hot, sticky marshmallows!
What were the other activities? A strolling tour of Jackson Square (where the Faulkner Five would most definitely chafe and melt), and a fun day at the world famous New Orleans Zoo (looking for animals who would not be in their enclosures because THEY had enough sense to get in out of the heat).
Okay. I decided to change gears. New Orleans next Spring... perfect!
And this hot, sticky, humid Summer... (DRUM ROLL, please!) We will be HOUSEBOATING on Lake Lanier in Georgia.
That's right. Houseboating. Living on a boat for three nights. Fishing, swimming, grilling, hot tubbing, etc., etc. And get this! The houseboat has air conditioning. And the "people in charge" assure me it is a real working air conditioning unit. Not a bucket of ice in front of a big fan (Don't ask.)
We are pretty excited. After surviving the Heat Wave of 2010 on Amelia Island last year, we are more than a little wary of the heat index wherever we will be vacationing.
And in case you have forgotten that story, I'm adding it to this post. We haven't been able to laugh about that trip yet. And I've tried. Believe me... I've tried.
AMELIA ISLAND... OR AS I LIKE TO CALL IT "FIRE SAND BEACH!"
Ahhh! Our first day at the beach. We were ready. Our hotel was less than a block from the beach, but we loaded up the Big Gold Van with five beach chairs, two umbrellas and two more boogie boards which our concierge sweetly gave us. (Believe it or not, Mikie and I do not own our own boogie boards. Something which will soon be remedied because we became boogie board experts, I tell you!)
We drove the 15.5 seconds it took to get to the beach and noticed vehicles driving right onto the sand and parking. Perfect! The closer, the better. Off we went... and we immediately got stuck! As we emptied the van, and the boys began to push, I noticed how soft and powdery the sand was, and how far my feet and ankles sank immediately upon getting out of the van. Our tires were no exception.
Within seconds (no exaggeration), a man with a four-wheel drive truck came up to us and asked if we wanted a pull... which we did... and he did... and we were FREE to park in the parking lot. Mike gave him $10 for his trouble, and he left to help pull the next out-of-town sucker out of the sand. And the next. And the next. We saw him every day of our trip, so I'm assuming it was a quick and easy way to make a buck.
Roxie was furious. She called him a con artist, a crook, a low-life.
"Roxie. What is the problem? He's just trying to make a little money. AND he's helping people."
"Wouldn't it be more helpful if he stood at the gate and told people to back up because they were about the get stuck."
Hmmm. Good point. But I digress. We have to get to the "injury" part of this story.
We set up our tents and chairs on the nice hard, wet sand and saw the huge waves waiting for us. The kids went in right away, while Mikie and I took in our surroundings. The beaches were not as pretty as the Gulf of Mexico, but they were so far away from the water, and flat and hard. They were very easy to walk on and people could even ride bikes on the beach. Amazing!
It didn't take long before the Heat Wave of 2010 started having an adverse effect on us, so Mikie and I headed to the water, boogie boards in hand. The waves were big and constant, and once we got into the water we noticed immediately there was NO undertow. Very odd. The water was also VERY cold, but considering it was over 100 degrees (literally), it felt great.
We couldn't see anything in the water. It wasn't dirty. It was just the color of the Atlantic Ocean... again something very different from the Gulf. I stuck to my rule of thumb... stay close to a large group of people a little further out than your family. The sharks will get them first. (I'm sorry. I've never been the same since I saw Jaws.)
We had a ball. We played in the water for over two hours before we decided to head in and lay out by the pool. Austin led the way, and I was directly behind him. He started hopping on one foot and turned toward me. Blood was pouring off his foot.
By the time Mike made it to the shoreline, we couldn't even see where the blood was coming from because his foot was covered in the red stuff... more commonly known as "shark bait." Mike helped him to the chairs, and I got Josh and Roxie out of the water.
We determined it was his toe. We also determined it was still on his foot. Josh took matters into his own hands and fetched a lifeguard. (That's right! They have real Baywatch Lifeguards on the beaches. It was pretty cool.) He didn't run, but he did have a "kit." By pouring a whole bottle of peroxide on the toe, we were able to tell it was a deep slice... from a shell or piece of broken glass. His professional lifeguard advice was, "I don't know if you need to take him in for stitches or not. There's not really anything left to stitch." And he was right.
Mike helped Austin get to the van which was difficult. It was like hopping on one foot in snow drifts... very, very hot snow drifts. Josh, Roxie and I loaded up the chairs, umbrellas, coolers, etc. and slowly plowed through the incredibly hot, soft sand. Then it happened.
I kind of toppled, kind of fell on my right side... on top of the chairs and cooler. Since it was very similar to sitting in FIRE, I immediately hopped up. And then I fell over again. Roxie was totally mortified. Not only had her mother fallen once, but TWICE... and not gracefully... and not quietly.
But the second time was a charm, and I was able to maintain my balance and make it to the van just a few feet away. I knew I had sustained quite a number of injuries, but because I wasn't dripping blood, I wasn't the main focus at the moment.
When we arrived at the hotel, we headed to the pool. We were quite a sight... Austin with his bloody foot wrapped in a bloody beach towel and his mother limping and covered with Fire Sand. After we situated Austin in the shade and Josh, Roxie and I rinsed off, we soaked in the pool until Mikie came back with $59.95 worth of medical supplies. I let Mikie handle the toe.
He has always called himself a health care professional, although the kids are quick to point out he takes care of the money and not the people where he works. When something like this happens, Mikie is "Johnny on the Spot!" He loves it! I, on the other hand, do not!
He worked very hard on the injury, declared it to be "unstitchable," and dressed the toe. It looked very professional.
When he finished with Austin, I limped over to him to show him my six bruises, skinned knee, sore elbow and the second degree burns I had up and down the right side of my body from landing in the Fire Sand. He was a little unimpressed.
There was one more injury during our trip, and although it happened on Day Three, I'm going to go ahead and throw it in the mix.
I was getting on the elevator, and I tripped on Austin's "overly" dressed toe... and fell right past Austin, Roxie and Josh into the back panel of the elevator. I hit the old elbow again. And I'm not really sure why three children (MY THREE CHILDREN) didn't even try to catch me.
Well, I know why Roxie didn't try. You can't catch a falling woman and be properly mortified at the same time. It just can't be done!
Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese
4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 can Rotel (do not drain)
Mix well, and serve with crackers.
This is the recipe for the Pimento Cheese which was served at the Graduation Reception the end of May. (Remember? I talked about it a lot.) I LOVED it. My friend, Joan, gave me the recipe in the Comment Section, but her sister, Jane, was the caterer for the Reception, so I'm assuming she made it for that event.
And I've given credit to the people who deserve it most... and I didn't name it "The Enchanting Belinda's Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese." I'm very careful about things like that!
Have a safe, cool Tuesday. As always, we'll be busy on A Simple Life tomorrow with a Seasonal Tradition, Wednesday Wisdom, new pics (of something) and Randomness. Make sure you save a minute in your summer schedule to check it out!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, June 6, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
The weekend was a non-picture taking weekend. However, I had enough leftover photos from Memorial Day to get us started this week. No worries!
RANDOMNESS - Last Sunday (Memorial Day Weekend), the Faulkner Five enjoyed a wonderful, lazy, fun-filled day at the river with the Tuggles. Julie's in-laws played host to our families. Mr. Robert and Miss Nell opened up their lovely home, their very well-stock refrigerator and, of course, their nice, clean bathroom (that was for me). For most people, having the Faulkner Five over for the day is a huge commitment. With three men/boys in the family, we take up a lot of space and oxygen. (Roxie and I breathe as little as possible whenever we are invited somewhere as a family. It's the least we can do.)
Not only were we visiting, but Julie's family of five, her brother-in-law and his family (three more) and two of Kelci's friends were in the mix along with two pooches. (Technically, that is NINE kids/semi-adults). Mr. Robert and Miss Nell were as relaxed and hospitable as two people could possibly be.
I was convinced their attitude and welcoming spirit was a gift... one I wish I had.
Last night, the Faulkner Five visited a funeral home. Miss Nell passed away Thursday after a surgery Wednesday night. Everything was very sudden and very unexpected. For Mr. Robert and the rest of her family, there is deep sadness and grief. Nothing prepared them for this awful loss.
Our family is saddened as well, even though we were only with Miss Nell on two different occasions. She made that kind of lasting impression on people.
On that specific Memorial Day Weekend, we started talking about the Broadway Series which was coming to town. She told me she had seen several, but her favorite (by far) was The Lion King. (ME, TOO!) I told her if it ever came to our town again, we were going to see it. She said she agreed. Mental Note - Look for Miss Nell and Mr. Robert if The Lion King ever comes back to our fair city. Sit with them. It will be fun!
On the way out last night, I slipped to the back to say good-bye to the kids. Allie, the middle Tuggle, came up to me and said, "Look what she gave me, Miss Belinda." It was a very pretty "charm" necklace. "It was her cruise necklace." Mr. Robert and Miss Nell had gone on several different cruises. "Every time she went on one, she bought a charm," Allie told me.
"Well, Allie. I'm pretty sure she would want you to add to that necklace as you get older."
Allie smiled her sweet smile, and said, "I'm going to."
This is just a reminder FOR ME to make sure I don't take family and friends for granted. Even for a day.
And I'm pretty sure I could be more hospitable and open if I practiced. I met a very good example on "how it's done" when I was introduced to Miss Nell.
Have a good Monday. I'll be back tomorrow to share a recipe, pics AND Randomness. I'm even going to tell you about our new and improved vacation plans. (No sweltering heat for the Faulkner Five! I fixed it!)
Take care, and I'll talk to you Tuesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The weekend was a non-picture taking weekend. However, I had enough leftover photos from Memorial Day to get us started this week. No worries!
RANDOMNESS - Last Sunday (Memorial Day Weekend), the Faulkner Five enjoyed a wonderful, lazy, fun-filled day at the river with the Tuggles. Julie's in-laws played host to our families. Mr. Robert and Miss Nell opened up their lovely home, their very well-stock refrigerator and, of course, their nice, clean bathroom (that was for me). For most people, having the Faulkner Five over for the day is a huge commitment. With three men/boys in the family, we take up a lot of space and oxygen. (Roxie and I breathe as little as possible whenever we are invited somewhere as a family. It's the least we can do.)
Not only were we visiting, but Julie's family of five, her brother-in-law and his family (three more) and two of Kelci's friends were in the mix along with two pooches. (Technically, that is NINE kids/semi-adults). Mr. Robert and Miss Nell were as relaxed and hospitable as two people could possibly be.
I was convinced their attitude and welcoming spirit was a gift... one I wish I had.
Last night, the Faulkner Five visited a funeral home. Miss Nell passed away Thursday after a surgery Wednesday night. Everything was very sudden and very unexpected. For Mr. Robert and the rest of her family, there is deep sadness and grief. Nothing prepared them for this awful loss.
Our family is saddened as well, even though we were only with Miss Nell on two different occasions. She made that kind of lasting impression on people.
On that specific Memorial Day Weekend, we started talking about the Broadway Series which was coming to town. She told me she had seen several, but her favorite (by far) was The Lion King. (ME, TOO!) I told her if it ever came to our town again, we were going to see it. She said she agreed. Mental Note - Look for Miss Nell and Mr. Robert if The Lion King ever comes back to our fair city. Sit with them. It will be fun!
On the way out last night, I slipped to the back to say good-bye to the kids. Allie, the middle Tuggle, came up to me and said, "Look what she gave me, Miss Belinda." It was a very pretty "charm" necklace. "It was her cruise necklace." Mr. Robert and Miss Nell had gone on several different cruises. "Every time she went on one, she bought a charm," Allie told me.
"Well, Allie. I'm pretty sure she would want you to add to that necklace as you get older."
Allie smiled her sweet smile, and said, "I'm going to."
This is just a reminder FOR ME to make sure I don't take family and friends for granted. Even for a day.
And I'm pretty sure I could be more hospitable and open if I practiced. I met a very good example on "how it's done" when I was introduced to Miss Nell.
Have a good Monday. I'll be back tomorrow to share a recipe, pics AND Randomness. I'm even going to tell you about our new and improved vacation plans. (No sweltering heat for the Faulkner Five! I fixed it!)
Take care, and I'll talk to you Tuesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, June 3, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pic is a leftover from this past week. I could have taken a picture of my registration outfit, but I'm afraid that would have offended some of you (LeAnna).
RANDOMNESS - I'm rethinking our New Orleans' train trip. Since the temps have been in the 100s the past few days (with no end in sight), I KNOW New Orleans' in July is going to be one big Sweat Fest.
I went over our itinerary and very few of the activities planned would be inside. Of course, we were going to eat inside, but by the time lunch rolls around and we've been walking the steamy streets for three or more hours... Well, let's just say the chances of a nice eating establishment allowing five sweat-soaked, wet-headed Faulkners INSIDE are little to none.
And I don't blame them. I really don't.
For that reason alone (HEAT INDEX OF 120), I've decided to change the date of our train trip to the Spring of 2012. After talking with Mikie last night, he was in total agreement. The idea of spending a day on a Swamp Tour feeding alligators
melted marshmallows (on a boat with no bathroom) put both of us over the edge. (Alligators still eat marshmallows in April, don't they?)
I've got something else brewing for this summer. I'll let you in on the details Monday... I hope. It's something I've been wanting us to do as a family for several years now, and this might be the summer to try!
I am so excited... and the kids are SO nervous.
Weekend Happenings
I don't know. I just don't know.
I'm getting worse and worse at planning weekend events, but teenagers can be difficult to pin down.
Mikie - Because it is his busy time of year at the office, he will be working some time during the weekend.
Austin - I know he has plans with the lovely Melia and a shift or two at the Chick.
Josh - Right now, the Chick is taking up a lot of his weekend time, too.
Roxie - She's not working, but she has quite a few plans up her sleeve.
Belinda - I will be walking aimlessly throughout the house doing laundry (three loads a day even though no one is actually home), emptying and filling the dishwasher (three loads a day even though no one is actually home) and putting ice cubes in the dogs' water bowl every hour on the hour. (It is hot out there!)
We were able to mark off several items on the Epic Summer of 2011 list this week. Since the weekend is shaping up to be a little "hit or miss" at best, I've decided to concentrate on "Dates" during the next 72 hours. Each kid has a number "3" beside their name (meaning three dates apiece this summer... probably fishing for the boys with their Dad and more shopping dates for me and Roxie). Lucky Mikie has a big ol' number "5" beside his name for some unknown reason. Hmmm. I think we might be able to squeeze in a date or two.
As always, I'll have to let you know Monday!
Have a fantastic Summer weekend. Stay cool if at all possible, and enjoy the time with family and friends... or maybe a good book! Next week's ideas, recipes, dates, etc. have already been decided. Let's just say it's going to be a good week on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pic is a leftover from this past week. I could have taken a picture of my registration outfit, but I'm afraid that would have offended some of you (LeAnna).
RANDOMNESS - I'm rethinking our New Orleans' train trip. Since the temps have been in the 100s the past few days (with no end in sight), I KNOW New Orleans' in July is going to be one big Sweat Fest.
I went over our itinerary and very few of the activities planned would be inside. Of course, we were going to eat inside, but by the time lunch rolls around and we've been walking the steamy streets for three or more hours... Well, let's just say the chances of a nice eating establishment allowing five sweat-soaked, wet-headed Faulkners INSIDE are little to none.
And I don't blame them. I really don't.
For that reason alone (HEAT INDEX OF 120), I've decided to change the date of our train trip to the Spring of 2012. After talking with Mikie last night, he was in total agreement. The idea of spending a day on a Swamp Tour feeding alligators
melted marshmallows (on a boat with no bathroom) put both of us over the edge. (Alligators still eat marshmallows in April, don't they?)
I've got something else brewing for this summer. I'll let you in on the details Monday... I hope. It's something I've been wanting us to do as a family for several years now, and this might be the summer to try!
I am so excited... and the kids are SO nervous.
Weekend Happenings
I don't know. I just don't know.
I'm getting worse and worse at planning weekend events, but teenagers can be difficult to pin down.
Mikie - Because it is his busy time of year at the office, he will be working some time during the weekend.
Austin - I know he has plans with the lovely Melia and a shift or two at the Chick.
Josh - Right now, the Chick is taking up a lot of his weekend time, too.
Roxie - She's not working, but she has quite a few plans up her sleeve.
Belinda - I will be walking aimlessly throughout the house doing laundry (three loads a day even though no one is actually home), emptying and filling the dishwasher (three loads a day even though no one is actually home) and putting ice cubes in the dogs' water bowl every hour on the hour. (It is hot out there!)
We were able to mark off several items on the Epic Summer of 2011 list this week. Since the weekend is shaping up to be a little "hit or miss" at best, I've decided to concentrate on "Dates" during the next 72 hours. Each kid has a number "3" beside their name (meaning three dates apiece this summer... probably fishing for the boys with their Dad and more shopping dates for me and Roxie). Lucky Mikie has a big ol' number "5" beside his name for some unknown reason. Hmmm. I think we might be able to squeeze in a date or two.
As always, I'll have to let you know Monday!
Have a fantastic Summer weekend. Stay cool if at all possible, and enjoy the time with family and friends... or maybe a good book! Next week's ideas, recipes, dates, etc. have already been decided. Let's just say it's going to be a good week on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, June 2, 2011
A Peanut Date
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from my cooking experience last night. The Chicken and Potato Pancakes were a Five Star Faulkner SUCCESS! We will be having them again because they are easy, tasty and fun to make. (Plus, the recipe makes a TON of batter, and I can refrigerate it and use it for fresh-tasting leftovers later in the week.)
Oh, and there's a good picture of Roxie wearing her new summer hat I thought was cute. She saved her money for this hat, and we discovered something in the process... the chick can rock a cap!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Yesterday I spent 94 minutes in line at the high school registering my son for his Senior year of school. I've always done this for Austin and Josh. I think of it as my little gift to them. They will have a lifetime of registering and filling out paperwork, whereas I only have 18 years for each child and I will officially be DONE!
I wish I had recorded Austin's first telephone call after he registered for college classes all by himself... on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
"Well, that was a major pain," he whined.
"Really? Really? How long did it take you, Son?" I asked testily (AFTER he told me he had registered on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas).
"Ugh. That's 32 minutes I'll never get back," he groaned.
Thirty-two minutes! Thirty-two minutes! I seriously thought about getting in the car and driving the 83 minutes to his college and hitting him over his head with his computer.
But, no. I wasn't going to waste another second with HIS registration. I had to put on my extra deodorant, tube top and bathing suit bottoms to go to high school AND middle school registration for my remaining children. My gift to them for a year of hard work and good grades.
I hung up on The Boy. He assumed something was wrong with the telephone lines because he couldn't imagine someone being angry enough to hang up on HIM... and he took a nap because he was exhausted, you see... from registering on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Today I'm registering Roxie for her FIRST year of high school. Girls are a little different from guys. She is going with me because she wants to be sure she gets in line with her friends AND has a locker next to all of them.
I'm going to teach her well, and next year I'm dropping the chick off! There's no sense in both of us sweating off five pounds. (I WISH!)
This is a big year for me. My last registration year AND my last carpool line year. I need to to do something big to celebrate. Any suggestions?
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you today from three of my favorite bloggers. I'm also investigating a new food blog, and I might add that to the mix next week. It looks very promising.
1. Go to Big Mama under My Blog List and read her post entitled "Wherein I reach the end of my Internet rope" dated June 2. I, too, am having major Internet problems. I am typing my blog posts on The Boy's computer, because although I've tried, I cannot get an actual person to help me... and I do not understand the things the "troubleshooting" website is trying to tell me... and I am frustrated beyond belief. But Big Mama makes it funny. (I am too close to the situation to find the humor in it yet. Maybe one day.)
2. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List and read the post entitled "18 Summers" dated June 1. It's short, sweet and to the point. I love the message.
3. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and read the post entitled "A Different Perspective" dated June 1. She hands her child a camera and looks at the world through HER eyes. I love it!
Enjoy!
A Peanut Date
You read the title correctly. A Peanut Date! It wouldn't be a long date, and it wouldn't be an expensive date, but it would be a fun date... and maybe a little tradition would begin.
If you have a little one who likes an occasional peanut, head to The Peanut Depot, 2016 Morris Avenue in Downtown Birmingham (205-251-3314). They are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
The following is what they have to say about themselves:
The Peanut Depot has been roasting nuts the old-fashioned way for over 100 years, and still supplies legions of ballparks around the United States.
Take a factory tour, or just purchase some freshly roasted goobers (the Cajun blend might be a little too spicy for little ones).
I called the number to find out about the tours, and it is VERY laid back. The gentleman on the phone said to call first, and if they weren't too busy they would be glad to show you around.
Since he was SO laid back, I asked about the cost of the tour. He chuckled and said it didn't cost a penny... which led me to believe it's not going to be a super-structured learning experience. But a tour which ends with fresh, hot roasted peanuts is a tour worth taking, I always say! (What? You've never heard me say that? We need to start hanging out more!)
Call first, and enjoy what the place has to offer... and have fun with your date! (While you're there, take a few pics of your date on Morris Avenue. More fun!)
And the tradition I spoke of above... It might be a place you and your son or daughter go to purchase fresh bags of peanuts before watching a big game on your television set... or before you go camping as a hiking snack... or (you fill in the blank).
Have a cool Thursday. We are sweating a lot in Alabama, and it looks like the fun has just begun. I'll be back tomorrow morning with Weekend Happenings, pics and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from my cooking experience last night. The Chicken and Potato Pancakes were a Five Star Faulkner SUCCESS! We will be having them again because they are easy, tasty and fun to make. (Plus, the recipe makes a TON of batter, and I can refrigerate it and use it for fresh-tasting leftovers later in the week.)
Oh, and there's a good picture of Roxie wearing her new summer hat I thought was cute. She saved her money for this hat, and we discovered something in the process... the chick can rock a cap!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Yesterday I spent 94 minutes in line at the high school registering my son for his Senior year of school. I've always done this for Austin and Josh. I think of it as my little gift to them. They will have a lifetime of registering and filling out paperwork, whereas I only have 18 years for each child and I will officially be DONE!
I wish I had recorded Austin's first telephone call after he registered for college classes all by himself... on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
"Well, that was a major pain," he whined.
"Really? Really? How long did it take you, Son?" I asked testily (AFTER he told me he had registered on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas).
"Ugh. That's 32 minutes I'll never get back," he groaned.
Thirty-two minutes! Thirty-two minutes! I seriously thought about getting in the car and driving the 83 minutes to his college and hitting him over his head with his computer.
But, no. I wasn't going to waste another second with HIS registration. I had to put on my extra deodorant, tube top and bathing suit bottoms to go to high school AND middle school registration for my remaining children. My gift to them for a year of hard work and good grades.
I hung up on The Boy. He assumed something was wrong with the telephone lines because he couldn't imagine someone being angry enough to hang up on HIM... and he took a nap because he was exhausted, you see... from registering on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Today I'm registering Roxie for her FIRST year of high school. Girls are a little different from guys. She is going with me because she wants to be sure she gets in line with her friends AND has a locker next to all of them.
I'm going to teach her well, and next year I'm dropping the chick off! There's no sense in both of us sweating off five pounds. (I WISH!)
This is a big year for me. My last registration year AND my last carpool line year. I need to to do something big to celebrate. Any suggestions?
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you today from three of my favorite bloggers. I'm also investigating a new food blog, and I might add that to the mix next week. It looks very promising.
1. Go to Big Mama under My Blog List and read her post entitled "Wherein I reach the end of my Internet rope" dated June 2. I, too, am having major Internet problems. I am typing my blog posts on The Boy's computer, because although I've tried, I cannot get an actual person to help me... and I do not understand the things the "troubleshooting" website is trying to tell me... and I am frustrated beyond belief. But Big Mama makes it funny. (I am too close to the situation to find the humor in it yet. Maybe one day.)
2. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List and read the post entitled "18 Summers" dated June 1. It's short, sweet and to the point. I love the message.
3. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and read the post entitled "A Different Perspective" dated June 1. She hands her child a camera and looks at the world through HER eyes. I love it!
Enjoy!
A Peanut Date
You read the title correctly. A Peanut Date! It wouldn't be a long date, and it wouldn't be an expensive date, but it would be a fun date... and maybe a little tradition would begin.
If you have a little one who likes an occasional peanut, head to The Peanut Depot, 2016 Morris Avenue in Downtown Birmingham (205-251-3314). They are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
The following is what they have to say about themselves:
The Peanut Depot has been roasting nuts the old-fashioned way for over 100 years, and still supplies legions of ballparks around the United States.
Take a factory tour, or just purchase some freshly roasted goobers (the Cajun blend might be a little too spicy for little ones).
I called the number to find out about the tours, and it is VERY laid back. The gentleman on the phone said to call first, and if they weren't too busy they would be glad to show you around.
Since he was SO laid back, I asked about the cost of the tour. He chuckled and said it didn't cost a penny... which led me to believe it's not going to be a super-structured learning experience. But a tour which ends with fresh, hot roasted peanuts is a tour worth taking, I always say! (What? You've never heard me say that? We need to start hanging out more!)
Call first, and enjoy what the place has to offer... and have fun with your date! (While you're there, take a few pics of your date on Morris Avenue. More fun!)
And the tradition I spoke of above... It might be a place you and your son or daughter go to purchase fresh bags of peanuts before watching a big game on your television set... or before you go camping as a hiking snack... or (you fill in the blank).
Have a cool Thursday. We are sweating a lot in Alabama, and it looks like the fun has just begun. I'll be back tomorrow morning with Weekend Happenings, pics and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Supper Swap
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from the Old-Fashioned Picnic we had last Friday celebrating the last day of school. Since it had rained the day before, I changed the "sitting on a blanket on the wet ground" idea. And since it had been 20 years or more since I had been to Star Lake, I wasn't sure if it was still the nice picnic spot I remembered or not.
But I knew Aldridge Gardens was a good spot. And it had bathrooms. CLEAN bathrooms.
So we took the girls to a beautiful picnic spot with geese, ducks, turtles and high/dry picnic tables and benches. And we had fun.
We ate fried chicken, cheese and crackers and fresh fruit with dip. We threw any and all leftovers to the ducks, geese and turtles. We took pictures. And then we did what all picnickers have done since the beginning of time. We went to Yolo's Dessert Bar for gourmet cupcakes.
Yep. All that was missing was our Little House on the Prairie bonnets and Pa yelling for us to "Get in the wagon." Good times. Good times.
RANDOMNESS - I was ready to make the Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night for supper. Yes, I was! The family unit was preparing themselves for yet another culinary delight.
However, we had a guest in our home, and when I mentioned the dinner choice for the evening, he just stared at me. Contrary to popular belief, I am a pleaser by nature, and while I will subject MY family to strange and exotic dinner choices, I hesitate to put someone outside of the Faulkner Five through that experience, too.
I hesitate a lot. Mainly because I don't want another family talking about me behind my back like my family does... or how I think they do. Have you heard anything?
Long excuse, short... I didn't flip Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night. We ordered "Wednesday night" pizza (on Tuesday night), and that means I'll be cooking dinner before church tonight. Ugh!
I hate it when I put others first AND I'm flexible. It's a bad combo for me.
Pics tomorrow!
Wednesday Wisdom - Enjoy the plethora of quotes I have chosen for you this lovely Wednesday. Also, enjoy the word "plethora." I don't get to use it as much as I would like.
"History will be kind to me for I intend to write it." Winston Churchill (Brilliant! That is why I call myself "The Enchanting Belinda." I'm not "enchanting," but because I refer to myself that way, other people now call me that, too!)
"To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance." Oscar Wilde
"I paint objects as I think them, not as I see them." Pablo Picasso (This explains so much.)
"Man's heart away from nature becomes hard." Standing Bear (I don't think I've ever used a quote from a Native American. Hmmm.)
"I installed a skylight in my apartment... the people who live above me are furious!" Steven Wright (Fun fact for you... I love Steven Wright! I may devote next week's Wednesday Wisdom entirely to him.)
Supper Swap
I found this idea in the same old Southern Living Magazine which had the Chicken and Potato Pancake recipe. I like the sound of this. What do you think?
You want to prepare exciting, nutritious meals throughout the week, but busy schedules often mean the same ho-hum recipes. Wouldn't it be nice to have a fresh, home-cooked supper delivered a few nights a week? A cooking co-op could be the answer, and it's easier to set up than you might think.
"The idea is pretty simple," says nine-year co-op veteran Leigh Fran Jones of Indian Springs, Alabama. "You cook a big meal once a week to share with your co-op and, depending on the number of people in your group, you get two or three in return. That means you save trips to the grocery store and really only mess up the kitchen once," she says with a big smile. For the rest of the week, Leigh Fran and fellow co-op members take advantage of leftovers or prepare simpler meals.
Since I have had a few days to think about this, I believe I would do the following:
1. Find two friends interested in swapping meals.
2. Have everyone meet and bring five or six recipes they enjoy making for their family. (I would show the other girls the recipes I use for Chicken Casserole, Chicken Pot Pie, Pepper Steak and Mushrooms, etc., etc.) Everyone has to make sure the dishes are something the other families would enjoy eating.
3. Decide on the first week's recipes the three of you will be using.
4. Decide on the days of the week you will be swapping. (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday sound good to me.)
5. The week of the swap, prepare THREE separate dishes of your chosen recipe. Go ahead and cook in disposable pans. Cover and refrigerate all three of them.
6. If your day to "swap" is Monday, arrange a time to drop off the two meals to your friends. (To save time, you can pick up the meals they have prepared for your family as you drop off.)
You may choose to do this once a month, or once a quarter... or maybe just during the months of May and December (busy, busy months). Whatever you and your friends decide, be flexible and enjoy!
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I'll be back Thursday with Blog Linkage, a date idea, a picture or two and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from the Old-Fashioned Picnic we had last Friday celebrating the last day of school. Since it had rained the day before, I changed the "sitting on a blanket on the wet ground" idea. And since it had been 20 years or more since I had been to Star Lake, I wasn't sure if it was still the nice picnic spot I remembered or not.
But I knew Aldridge Gardens was a good spot. And it had bathrooms. CLEAN bathrooms.
So we took the girls to a beautiful picnic spot with geese, ducks, turtles and high/dry picnic tables and benches. And we had fun.
We ate fried chicken, cheese and crackers and fresh fruit with dip. We threw any and all leftovers to the ducks, geese and turtles. We took pictures. And then we did what all picnickers have done since the beginning of time. We went to Yolo's Dessert Bar for gourmet cupcakes.
Yep. All that was missing was our Little House on the Prairie bonnets and Pa yelling for us to "Get in the wagon." Good times. Good times.
RANDOMNESS - I was ready to make the Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night for supper. Yes, I was! The family unit was preparing themselves for yet another culinary delight.
However, we had a guest in our home, and when I mentioned the dinner choice for the evening, he just stared at me. Contrary to popular belief, I am a pleaser by nature, and while I will subject MY family to strange and exotic dinner choices, I hesitate to put someone outside of the Faulkner Five through that experience, too.
I hesitate a lot. Mainly because I don't want another family talking about me behind my back like my family does... or how I think they do. Have you heard anything?
Long excuse, short... I didn't flip Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night. We ordered "Wednesday night" pizza (on Tuesday night), and that means I'll be cooking dinner before church tonight. Ugh!
I hate it when I put others first AND I'm flexible. It's a bad combo for me.
Pics tomorrow!
Wednesday Wisdom - Enjoy the plethora of quotes I have chosen for you this lovely Wednesday. Also, enjoy the word "plethora." I don't get to use it as much as I would like.
"History will be kind to me for I intend to write it." Winston Churchill (Brilliant! That is why I call myself "The Enchanting Belinda." I'm not "enchanting," but because I refer to myself that way, other people now call me that, too!)
"To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance." Oscar Wilde
"I paint objects as I think them, not as I see them." Pablo Picasso (This explains so much.)
"Man's heart away from nature becomes hard." Standing Bear (I don't think I've ever used a quote from a Native American. Hmmm.)
"I installed a skylight in my apartment... the people who live above me are furious!" Steven Wright (Fun fact for you... I love Steven Wright! I may devote next week's Wednesday Wisdom entirely to him.)
Supper Swap
I found this idea in the same old Southern Living Magazine which had the Chicken and Potato Pancake recipe. I like the sound of this. What do you think?
You want to prepare exciting, nutritious meals throughout the week, but busy schedules often mean the same ho-hum recipes. Wouldn't it be nice to have a fresh, home-cooked supper delivered a few nights a week? A cooking co-op could be the answer, and it's easier to set up than you might think.
"The idea is pretty simple," says nine-year co-op veteran Leigh Fran Jones of Indian Springs, Alabama. "You cook a big meal once a week to share with your co-op and, depending on the number of people in your group, you get two or three in return. That means you save trips to the grocery store and really only mess up the kitchen once," she says with a big smile. For the rest of the week, Leigh Fran and fellow co-op members take advantage of leftovers or prepare simpler meals.
Since I have had a few days to think about this, I believe I would do the following:
1. Find two friends interested in swapping meals.
2. Have everyone meet and bring five or six recipes they enjoy making for their family. (I would show the other girls the recipes I use for Chicken Casserole, Chicken Pot Pie, Pepper Steak and Mushrooms, etc., etc.) Everyone has to make sure the dishes are something the other families would enjoy eating.
3. Decide on the first week's recipes the three of you will be using.
4. Decide on the days of the week you will be swapping. (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday sound good to me.)
5. The week of the swap, prepare THREE separate dishes of your chosen recipe. Go ahead and cook in disposable pans. Cover and refrigerate all three of them.
6. If your day to "swap" is Monday, arrange a time to drop off the two meals to your friends. (To save time, you can pick up the meals they have prepared for your family as you drop off.)
You may choose to do this once a month, or once a quarter... or maybe just during the months of May and December (busy, busy months). Whatever you and your friends decide, be flexible and enjoy!
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I'll be back Thursday with Blog Linkage, a date idea, a picture or two and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Chicken and Potato Pancakes
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from Austin and Melia's Botanical Gardens shoot. It was a fun way to spend an afternoon... for me. It was fun to watch Melia convince Austin into smiling through a photo shoot. She bribed him with the picnic. Ahh. The memories. How many times have I bribed the boys to smile for food? (Too many to count!)
I will say he was MUCH more cooperative for Melia... which was great!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I met a new Recipe "source" this weekend. We went tubing with the Tuggles Sunday afternoon, and I was introduced to Jennifer, Julie's sister-in-law. I was also introduced to Jennifer's Fresh Corn Casserole and Strawberry/Peach Summer Cake. (I totally made up the name for that last one.) She is a wonderful cook, and those two dishes alone were enough to make me throw away all of my dog-eared Southern Living magazines and just use her telephone number when I need/want a new recipe idea.
Y'all are going to love the next four or five Tuesdays!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I made my Summer 2011 list last night. It mentions everything I want us to do as a family during the precious, short weeks of Summer.
I know we won't be able to mark everything off, BUT it is a good accountability tool. Since Summer goes by so quickly, it is too easy to wake up the week before school begins and wonder where all the time went.
As you probably have guessed by now, I LOVE marking things off a list.
RANDOMNESS #3 - A few weeks ago, I told you about The Book of Awesome. I am loving this blog, and I thought I'd share a few more of these wonderful "little" awesome things we take for granted day after day.
I'll share the linkage with you again this Thursday.
Really good candy with your bill at a restaurant.
The smell of freshly cut grass.
Pushing those little buttons on the soft drink cup lid. (I know. Right?)
When you push the button for the elevator and it’s already there.
Building an amazing couch cushion fort.
Pouring a drink where the bubbles go right to the top but not over. (Still a thrill!)
Finally having your ears pop back to normal long after a flight or swim. (The definition of "happy.")
Salt.
Remembering what movie that guy is from.
When you find out what was making that horrible smell and get rid of it (YES!)
Chicken and Potato Pancakes
What is your first reaction to the name of the recipe this morning? Did you gag a little? That was me. However, when I read the ingredients, it started sounding pretty good. (Of course, you use gravy instead of syrup.) I think once you get over the name, it's going to taste pretty wonderful, too.
You will need the following:
2 cups instant pancake mix
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 1/2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
1 cup refrigerated shredded hashbrowns
4 green onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Knorr Roasted Chicken Gravy Mix
1. Whisk together pancake mix and milk in a large bowl, whisking just until dry ingredients are moistened. Stir in chicken and next 6 ingredients, stirring just until blended.
2. Pour about 1/4 cup batter for each cake onto a hot (350 degree), lightly greased griddle or large nonstick skillet. Cook pancakes 3 minutes or until tops are covered with bubbles and edges look dry and cooked; turn and cook other side 5 to 6 minutes or until done. Serve with gravy, if desired.
I found this recipe in an OLD Southern Living while I waiting to get my hair cut this weekend. Once you get past the word "pancake," it starts sounding pretty good, doesn't it?
I'll be flipping Chicken and Potato Pancakes tonight. Stay tuned for a play-by-play in the morning!
Have a lovely Tuesday. Remember... Wednesday is our busy day on A Simple Life. I'll be sharing a fun "swap" for you and your friends, pics of the Old-Fashioned Picnic we had Friday AND more and more Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from Austin and Melia's Botanical Gardens shoot. It was a fun way to spend an afternoon... for me. It was fun to watch Melia convince Austin into smiling through a photo shoot. She bribed him with the picnic. Ahh. The memories. How many times have I bribed the boys to smile for food? (Too many to count!)
I will say he was MUCH more cooperative for Melia... which was great!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I met a new Recipe "source" this weekend. We went tubing with the Tuggles Sunday afternoon, and I was introduced to Jennifer, Julie's sister-in-law. I was also introduced to Jennifer's Fresh Corn Casserole and Strawberry/Peach Summer Cake. (I totally made up the name for that last one.) She is a wonderful cook, and those two dishes alone were enough to make me throw away all of my dog-eared Southern Living magazines and just use her telephone number when I need/want a new recipe idea.
Y'all are going to love the next four or five Tuesdays!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I made my Summer 2011 list last night. It mentions everything I want us to do as a family during the precious, short weeks of Summer.
I know we won't be able to mark everything off, BUT it is a good accountability tool. Since Summer goes by so quickly, it is too easy to wake up the week before school begins and wonder where all the time went.
As you probably have guessed by now, I LOVE marking things off a list.
RANDOMNESS #3 - A few weeks ago, I told you about The Book of Awesome. I am loving this blog, and I thought I'd share a few more of these wonderful "little" awesome things we take for granted day after day.
I'll share the linkage with you again this Thursday.
Really good candy with your bill at a restaurant.
The smell of freshly cut grass.
Pushing those little buttons on the soft drink cup lid. (I know. Right?)
When you push the button for the elevator and it’s already there.
Building an amazing couch cushion fort.
Pouring a drink where the bubbles go right to the top but not over. (Still a thrill!)
Finally having your ears pop back to normal long after a flight or swim. (The definition of "happy.")
Salt.
Remembering what movie that guy is from.
When you find out what was making that horrible smell and get rid of it (YES!)
Chicken and Potato Pancakes
What is your first reaction to the name of the recipe this morning? Did you gag a little? That was me. However, when I read the ingredients, it started sounding pretty good. (Of course, you use gravy instead of syrup.) I think once you get over the name, it's going to taste pretty wonderful, too.
You will need the following:
2 cups instant pancake mix
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 1/2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
1 cup refrigerated shredded hashbrowns
4 green onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Knorr Roasted Chicken Gravy Mix
1. Whisk together pancake mix and milk in a large bowl, whisking just until dry ingredients are moistened. Stir in chicken and next 6 ingredients, stirring just until blended.
2. Pour about 1/4 cup batter for each cake onto a hot (350 degree), lightly greased griddle or large nonstick skillet. Cook pancakes 3 minutes or until tops are covered with bubbles and edges look dry and cooked; turn and cook other side 5 to 6 minutes or until done. Serve with gravy, if desired.
I found this recipe in an OLD Southern Living while I waiting to get my hair cut this weekend. Once you get past the word "pancake," it starts sounding pretty good, doesn't it?
I'll be flipping Chicken and Potato Pancakes tonight. Stay tuned for a play-by-play in the morning!
Have a lovely Tuesday. Remember... Wednesday is our busy day on A Simple Life. I'll be sharing a fun "swap" for you and your friends, pics of the Old-Fashioned Picnic we had Friday AND more and more Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, May 30, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
The Gallery is FULL of "Tubing With the Tuggle" pics. I also have photos from Melia and Austin's Three-Year Anniversary Celebration AND the Old-Fashioned Picnic taken by Roxie and Friends. However, since I have so many pictures, I decided to spread it out over three days. That's right. You'll have to come back!
It was a busy, fun weekend, and today we recover. Laundry, housework, dirty dogs, yards, and many, many other tasks await the Faulkner Five.
We ARE going to be cooking out tonight, but our Memorial Day fun was enjoyed yesterday.
I hope you and yours have a fantastic day. Stay safe, and visit again tomorrow for a GREAT new recipe and more pictures than you can "shake a stick at."
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery is FULL of "Tubing With the Tuggle" pics. I also have photos from Melia and Austin's Three-Year Anniversary Celebration AND the Old-Fashioned Picnic taken by Roxie and Friends. However, since I have so many pictures, I decided to spread it out over three days. That's right. You'll have to come back!
It was a busy, fun weekend, and today we recover. Laundry, housework, dirty dogs, yards, and many, many other tasks await the Faulkner Five.
We ARE going to be cooking out tonight, but our Memorial Day fun was enjoyed yesterday.
I hope you and yours have a fantastic day. Stay safe, and visit again tomorrow for a GREAT new recipe and more pictures than you can "shake a stick at."
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, May 27, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from an event I helped with last night (Well, I helped a little bit). After the Seniors from our church graduate, there is a reception held in their honor in our church Fellowship Hall.
The moms/graduates decorate "tables" that represent the Senior's high school years. Everyone eats, visits and takes pictures. It's a wonderful way for Moms to get to totally enjoy the graduation festivities, too. You don't have to worry about finding a restaurant which will seat a dozen or more people, and you don't have to spend the day cleaning, cooking and preparing for a ton of people at the house (unless you want to).
As a Mom, you are able to totally enjoy the day, the ceremony AND the after-party. (And as a Helper Mom, I was able to fix a plate of food toward the end of the evening and eat, eat, eat. They had pimento cheese. I ADORE pimento cheese... and this particular cracker spread was some of the best I've ever had. I don't like to brag, but in my circle of acquaintances, I am known as a pimento cheese connoisseur. Just saying.)
Since I'm a Junior Mom, I helped make sure the food was replenished. Like I said above... I helped a little.
Weekend Happenings
This will be another short post today because I have a lot to do... and not much time to do it all. And it's all good stuff, too, so I'm not complaining. I just want to get started!
Today is Day 2 of the lovely Melia's Anniversary Extravaganza. I have a tiny part in today's plan this afternoon, and that is all I can say about that! Thank goodness Austin went to work early this morning. I am awful about letting the "cat out of the bag," but so far, so good. (Don't worry, Melia! I'm not going to spoil anything!)
Today is also Roxie's Old-Fashioned Picnic. I've changed a few things since the ground got a soaking yesterday evening. The location is different, but still old-fashioned and fun (I hope). And going to Yolo's for dessert NEVER changed. That is set in stone.
Saturday is officially "Work at the Chick" day for Austin AND Josh. Cha-ching! I'll be catching up on housework. No cha-ching!
I'm hoping, hoping, hoping Sunday will be a tubing day. So far, the weather looks like it is going to cooperate... and I hope everything else works out, too.
I hope you have a grand and glorious weekend spent with family and friends. It is officially Summer at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) and the "living is easy." As is our custom, we are not even driving past the schools during the next two and a half months.
I'll be back for Mindless Monday, and guess what? I am actually going to have a TON of pics to share. No. Really. I am!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from an event I helped with last night (Well, I helped a little bit). After the Seniors from our church graduate, there is a reception held in their honor in our church Fellowship Hall.
The moms/graduates decorate "tables" that represent the Senior's high school years. Everyone eats, visits and takes pictures. It's a wonderful way for Moms to get to totally enjoy the graduation festivities, too. You don't have to worry about finding a restaurant which will seat a dozen or more people, and you don't have to spend the day cleaning, cooking and preparing for a ton of people at the house (unless you want to).
As a Mom, you are able to totally enjoy the day, the ceremony AND the after-party. (And as a Helper Mom, I was able to fix a plate of food toward the end of the evening and eat, eat, eat. They had pimento cheese. I ADORE pimento cheese... and this particular cracker spread was some of the best I've ever had. I don't like to brag, but in my circle of acquaintances, I am known as a pimento cheese connoisseur. Just saying.)
Since I'm a Junior Mom, I helped make sure the food was replenished. Like I said above... I helped a little.
Weekend Happenings
This will be another short post today because I have a lot to do... and not much time to do it all. And it's all good stuff, too, so I'm not complaining. I just want to get started!
Today is Day 2 of the lovely Melia's Anniversary Extravaganza. I have a tiny part in today's plan this afternoon, and that is all I can say about that! Thank goodness Austin went to work early this morning. I am awful about letting the "cat out of the bag," but so far, so good. (Don't worry, Melia! I'm not going to spoil anything!)
Today is also Roxie's Old-Fashioned Picnic. I've changed a few things since the ground got a soaking yesterday evening. The location is different, but still old-fashioned and fun (I hope). And going to Yolo's for dessert NEVER changed. That is set in stone.
Saturday is officially "Work at the Chick" day for Austin AND Josh. Cha-ching! I'll be catching up on housework. No cha-ching!
I'm hoping, hoping, hoping Sunday will be a tubing day. So far, the weather looks like it is going to cooperate... and I hope everything else works out, too.
I hope you have a grand and glorious weekend spent with family and friends. It is officially Summer at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) and the "living is easy." As is our custom, we are not even driving past the schools during the next two and a half months.
I'll be back for Mindless Monday, and guess what? I am actually going to have a TON of pics to share. No. Really. I am!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, May 26, 2011
End-of-the-Year Family Date
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from our Family Date last night celebrating the END-OF-THE-SCHOOL-YEAR! It's a simple tradition, but fun... and it is something you can do with your kids from preschool until high school graduation. More on this date below.
RANDOMNESS #1 - The Boy is officially finished with his "Maymester" today! He is also a Junior in college. WOW! And again... WOW!
He's coming home to a three-day anniversary celebration with the lovely Melia. They have been dating for three years now, and from what I hear from both camps, they are going to have a very good weekend.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Josh isn't graduating this year, but I still get to attend part of graduation. I'm going to help serve the graduating Seniors and their families during the reception following the ceremony. I'm really looking forward to seeing all the caps and gowns... and all the guys and gals I have known the past 17 years.
Who knows? I may have some graduation pictures in the Gallery tomorrow. That would be pretty cool, wouldn't it?
RANDOMNESS #3 - Speaking of graduating, Josh will be a Senior this coming year. Roxie will be a Freshman and as I mentioned above, Austin will be a Junior.
I am older than dirt.
Blog Linkage - Today's list is a little on the small side, but here are three links for you to enjoy today.
1. Go to Big Mama under My Blog List and scroll down to Previous Entries. Click on her post entitled "This only adds to my issues with chicken" dated May 25. It reminded me of my last Field Day/May Day three years ago. I LOVED Field Days as a little girl, and I enjoyed working them as a parent for my three as they were coming up through the ranks. Tie-dye shirts, snow cones, relay races, etc., etc. Good times. Good times.
2. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List. Click on Home and Garden at the top of her page and scroll down to the post entitled "Knockout" dated May 24. I have seen these roses EVERYWHERE this year, and I thought Knockout was just a nickname. Obviously not.
3. Now click on the Cooking portion at the top of her page. Scroll down to the post entitled "Big Fat Bacon Sliders" dated May 25. Nuff said. I'm making these this weekend. Oh, yes. I most definitely am!
End-of-the-Year Family Date
This isn't an extravagant or memory-making date in and of itself. However, it can become a family tradition... so it's a good thing.
On the last day of school (for all of your kids... it may vary from school to school), plan on taking everyone out to eat to celebrate and reconnect.
This past school year has been very tiring... for the kids AND the parents. Since Josh and Roxie were both finished with school the same day, I checked the "Date" envelope and announced we were going out to eat. The kids and Mikie looked at me with weary, red-rimmed eyes and said, "Really? That would be great."
As I said before, it wasn't extravagant. We went to Logan's. But it was needed. We talked a little about the past school year, but the majority of the conversation revolved around what we wanted to do this summer... on our own and as a family.
We took our time eating, talking, planning and headed home for a movie night. It was a good night. We needed to acknowledge the past year, but spend time looking ahead at what the kids hope will be an "epic" summer.
Add this as one of your annual dates. Take the kids to breakfast the first day of school, and treat them to dinner the last.
Have a good Thursday. I'll be back in the morning to post Weekend Happenings. I'm scared to say for certain, but I think tubing might be in our immediate future. (I hope. I hope.)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from our Family Date last night celebrating the END-OF-THE-SCHOOL-YEAR! It's a simple tradition, but fun... and it is something you can do with your kids from preschool until high school graduation. More on this date below.
RANDOMNESS #1 - The Boy is officially finished with his "Maymester" today! He is also a Junior in college. WOW! And again... WOW!
He's coming home to a three-day anniversary celebration with the lovely Melia. They have been dating for three years now, and from what I hear from both camps, they are going to have a very good weekend.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Josh isn't graduating this year, but I still get to attend part of graduation. I'm going to help serve the graduating Seniors and their families during the reception following the ceremony. I'm really looking forward to seeing all the caps and gowns... and all the guys and gals I have known the past 17 years.
Who knows? I may have some graduation pictures in the Gallery tomorrow. That would be pretty cool, wouldn't it?
RANDOMNESS #3 - Speaking of graduating, Josh will be a Senior this coming year. Roxie will be a Freshman and as I mentioned above, Austin will be a Junior.
I am older than dirt.
Blog Linkage - Today's list is a little on the small side, but here are three links for you to enjoy today.
1. Go to Big Mama under My Blog List and scroll down to Previous Entries. Click on her post entitled "This only adds to my issues with chicken" dated May 25. It reminded me of my last Field Day/May Day three years ago. I LOVED Field Days as a little girl, and I enjoyed working them as a parent for my three as they were coming up through the ranks. Tie-dye shirts, snow cones, relay races, etc., etc. Good times. Good times.
2. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List. Click on Home and Garden at the top of her page and scroll down to the post entitled "Knockout" dated May 24. I have seen these roses EVERYWHERE this year, and I thought Knockout was just a nickname. Obviously not.
3. Now click on the Cooking portion at the top of her page. Scroll down to the post entitled "Big Fat Bacon Sliders" dated May 25. Nuff said. I'm making these this weekend. Oh, yes. I most definitely am!
End-of-the-Year Family Date
This isn't an extravagant or memory-making date in and of itself. However, it can become a family tradition... so it's a good thing.
On the last day of school (for all of your kids... it may vary from school to school), plan on taking everyone out to eat to celebrate and reconnect.
This past school year has been very tiring... for the kids AND the parents. Since Josh and Roxie were both finished with school the same day, I checked the "Date" envelope and announced we were going out to eat. The kids and Mikie looked at me with weary, red-rimmed eyes and said, "Really? That would be great."
As I said before, it wasn't extravagant. We went to Logan's. But it was needed. We talked a little about the past school year, but the majority of the conversation revolved around what we wanted to do this summer... on our own and as a family.
We took our time eating, talking, planning and headed home for a movie night. It was a good night. We needed to acknowledge the past year, but spend time looking ahead at what the kids hope will be an "epic" summer.
Add this as one of your annual dates. Take the kids to breakfast the first day of school, and treat them to dinner the last.
Have a good Thursday. I'll be back in the morning to post Weekend Happenings. I'm scared to say for certain, but I think tubing might be in our immediate future. (I hope. I hope.)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
End-of-the-Year Party Ideas
Good Wednesday morning!
ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! My server is down. That means I cannot post on the ORIGINAL "A Simple Life." I have created a TEMPORARY "A Simple Life." Until I tell you otherwise, the address is wwwwbelindafaulkner.blogspot.com. (There is no "." between "www" and "belindafaulkner.") As soon as the problem is resolved, I'll put this post and all future posts on the ORIGINAL A Simple Life!
RANDOMNESS - Over the last five or six days, Mikie has had to take over the wifely/motherly duties of the household as my time has been spent hither and yon. He has done an excellent job. Laundry, dishes, ironing, more laundry, more dishes, herding teenagers, more laundry, keeping in touch with The Boy, keeping Roxie happy, reminding Josh of his daily grass cutting schedule, etc., etc., etc. (I did leave him a casserole to pop into the oven and a really good crock-pot meal. I didn’t want you to think I let them starve.)
But Mikie is tired. When he arrived home last night, the smells of Italian sausage lasagna (Stouffer’s) and garlic toast (minus the garlic… I forgot) greeted him at the door. I was dressed, coiffed and made up (mainly because Roxie and I had to attend a mandatory Volleyball meeting). He hugged me and said he appreciated me. All righty. Mission accomplished.
And then he asked the question I’ve been trying to figure out for years and years. “Where do all the dishes come from? It was just me, Roxie and Josh and we were gone during the middle of the day. But every night I had to wash three loads of dishes in the dishwasher.”
“I know. What’s up with that?” I eagerly responded. Finally, someone understood my pain.
“And the clothes. My goodness. How many different outfits do these kids where every day?”
“I know! I know! I’m not even giving them clean towels, rags, socks and underwear any longer. They just drip dry and go directly for the outerwear. But I’m still washing three loads a day!” I was getting excited now. He not only understood my pain, but he was willing to whine about it with me. Oh, yes!
“And have you noticed how a room looks when they leave. It’s like a bomb blew up. And I’m always telling them, ‘Pick up your mess. Pick up your mess.’ It’s just exhausting.” Okay. He was starting to get on my nerves a little now.
“Well, it isn’t that bad. They’re just messy teenagers. They do a good job on their chores. It won’t always be like this.” I countered.
“Are you kidding me? You don’t just tell them once… You have to tell them 100 times!” Mikie was starting to get hysterical, and I was contemplating slapping him.
He took a deep breath and told me what I already knew… “I don’t want your job.”
“Good. You’re fired,” I said in my best Donald Trump voice as I put a load of clothes in the washer, and I wondered aloud once again, “Where do all these dishes comes from?”
Wednesday Wisdom - It is graduation week in the South. I thought it would be appropriate to share thoughts about the subject.
“A graduation ceremony is an event where the commencement speaker tells thousands of students dressed in identical caps and gowns that 'individuality' is the key to success.” Robert Orben
“Your families are extremely proud of you. You can't imagine the sense of relief they are experiencing. This would be a most opportune time to ask for money.” Gary Bolding
“Commencement speeches were invented largely in the belief that outgoing college students should never be released into the world until they have been properly sedated.” Garry Trudeau
“Education is an admirable thing, but it is well to remember from time to time that nothing worth knowing can be taught.” Oscar Wilde
End-of-the-Year Party Ideas
Roxie and Friends have an End-of-the-Year Party/Get-Together every year. We have had a Mystery Party, an Around-the-Town Scavenger Hunt, a Rockette Party (the name of our local dance team), etc., etc. We have gone out to eat, seen movies and shopped.
This year we are having an Old-Fashioned Picnic by the lake. The girls will feast on fried chicken and fixins, feed the ducks and have their pictures taken a million times (which they love). We’ll end this school year by going to a NEW favorite cupcake restaurant called Yolo’s.
Here are a few more ideas I found this morning surfing the web!
1. Go Hawaiian Party - Play limbo, make and wear leis, create island snacks (pineapple skewers, coconut treats, etc.) and dig for beach finds in a kiddie-pool filled with sea shells. Use the sea shells you find, glue them on a Dollar Store picture frame and take a group picture of the friends for a party favor. (You may have to deliver this gift the next day in order to get the pictures printed and allow the shells to dry.)
2. Wet and Wild Party - Water, water and more water! Come up with as many outdoor water activities as you can. Water balloons, water shooters, sprinklers (several), kiddie pools (several), water baseball (soaking wet sponge ball), bubble blowing and more. Choose snacks that are okay around water like apple slices and dip, carrot sticks and Popsicles.
3. Recent Learning Fun Party - Ask your child’s teacher what they have been studying recently. If the answer is animals, host a jungle or zoo-themed party. If it is American history, host a colonial-themed party with old-fashioned games kids played 200 years ago like hoops and jacks.
4. Post Card Grab Bag - I love this idea. Use it as an activity for any of the above parties. Keep kids in touch over the summer and encourage them to practice their writing. Each child writes their address on three post cards and drops them into a big cloth bag. One by one, kids choose three cards (not their own). They then agree to mail their classmates silly summer news in the coming months.
Our Old-Fashioned Picnic is scheduled for this Friday. Of course, I’ll let you know how it turns out… the good, the bad and the ugly!
Have a fun Wednesday. Don’t forget to encourage someone today… either by word or deed. I’ll be back bright and early Thursday with Blog Linkage and a fantastic end-of-the-school year date.
Take care, and I’ll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! My server is down. That means I cannot post on the ORIGINAL "A Simple Life." I have created a TEMPORARY "A Simple Life." Until I tell you otherwise, the address is wwwwbelindafaulkner.blogspot.com. (There is no "." between "www" and "belindafaulkner.") As soon as the problem is resolved, I'll put this post and all future posts on the ORIGINAL A Simple Life!
RANDOMNESS - Over the last five or six days, Mikie has had to take over the wifely/motherly duties of the household as my time has been spent hither and yon. He has done an excellent job. Laundry, dishes, ironing, more laundry, more dishes, herding teenagers, more laundry, keeping in touch with The Boy, keeping Roxie happy, reminding Josh of his daily grass cutting schedule, etc., etc., etc. (I did leave him a casserole to pop into the oven and a really good crock-pot meal. I didn’t want you to think I let them starve.)
But Mikie is tired. When he arrived home last night, the smells of Italian sausage lasagna (Stouffer’s) and garlic toast (minus the garlic… I forgot) greeted him at the door. I was dressed, coiffed and made up (mainly because Roxie and I had to attend a mandatory Volleyball meeting). He hugged me and said he appreciated me. All righty. Mission accomplished.
And then he asked the question I’ve been trying to figure out for years and years. “Where do all the dishes come from? It was just me, Roxie and Josh and we were gone during the middle of the day. But every night I had to wash three loads of dishes in the dishwasher.”
“I know. What’s up with that?” I eagerly responded. Finally, someone understood my pain.
“And the clothes. My goodness. How many different outfits do these kids where every day?”
“I know! I know! I’m not even giving them clean towels, rags, socks and underwear any longer. They just drip dry and go directly for the outerwear. But I’m still washing three loads a day!” I was getting excited now. He not only understood my pain, but he was willing to whine about it with me. Oh, yes!
“And have you noticed how a room looks when they leave. It’s like a bomb blew up. And I’m always telling them, ‘Pick up your mess. Pick up your mess.’ It’s just exhausting.” Okay. He was starting to get on my nerves a little now.
“Well, it isn’t that bad. They’re just messy teenagers. They do a good job on their chores. It won’t always be like this.” I countered.
“Are you kidding me? You don’t just tell them once… You have to tell them 100 times!” Mikie was starting to get hysterical, and I was contemplating slapping him.
He took a deep breath and told me what I already knew… “I don’t want your job.”
“Good. You’re fired,” I said in my best Donald Trump voice as I put a load of clothes in the washer, and I wondered aloud once again, “Where do all these dishes comes from?”
Wednesday Wisdom - It is graduation week in the South. I thought it would be appropriate to share thoughts about the subject.
“A graduation ceremony is an event where the commencement speaker tells thousands of students dressed in identical caps and gowns that 'individuality' is the key to success.” Robert Orben
“Your families are extremely proud of you. You can't imagine the sense of relief they are experiencing. This would be a most opportune time to ask for money.” Gary Bolding
“Commencement speeches were invented largely in the belief that outgoing college students should never be released into the world until they have been properly sedated.” Garry Trudeau
“Education is an admirable thing, but it is well to remember from time to time that nothing worth knowing can be taught.” Oscar Wilde
End-of-the-Year Party Ideas
Roxie and Friends have an End-of-the-Year Party/Get-Together every year. We have had a Mystery Party, an Around-the-Town Scavenger Hunt, a Rockette Party (the name of our local dance team), etc., etc. We have gone out to eat, seen movies and shopped.
This year we are having an Old-Fashioned Picnic by the lake. The girls will feast on fried chicken and fixins, feed the ducks and have their pictures taken a million times (which they love). We’ll end this school year by going to a NEW favorite cupcake restaurant called Yolo’s.
Here are a few more ideas I found this morning surfing the web!
1. Go Hawaiian Party - Play limbo, make and wear leis, create island snacks (pineapple skewers, coconut treats, etc.) and dig for beach finds in a kiddie-pool filled with sea shells. Use the sea shells you find, glue them on a Dollar Store picture frame and take a group picture of the friends for a party favor. (You may have to deliver this gift the next day in order to get the pictures printed and allow the shells to dry.)
2. Wet and Wild Party - Water, water and more water! Come up with as many outdoor water activities as you can. Water balloons, water shooters, sprinklers (several), kiddie pools (several), water baseball (soaking wet sponge ball), bubble blowing and more. Choose snacks that are okay around water like apple slices and dip, carrot sticks and Popsicles.
3. Recent Learning Fun Party - Ask your child’s teacher what they have been studying recently. If the answer is animals, host a jungle or zoo-themed party. If it is American history, host a colonial-themed party with old-fashioned games kids played 200 years ago like hoops and jacks.
4. Post Card Grab Bag - I love this idea. Use it as an activity for any of the above parties. Keep kids in touch over the summer and encourage them to practice their writing. Each child writes their address on three post cards and drops them into a big cloth bag. One by one, kids choose three cards (not their own). They then agree to mail their classmates silly summer news in the coming months.
Our Old-Fashioned Picnic is scheduled for this Friday. Of course, I’ll let you know how it turns out… the good, the bad and the ugly!
Have a fun Wednesday. Don’t forget to encourage someone today… either by word or deed. I’ll be back bright and early Thursday with Blog Linkage and a fantastic end-of-the-school year date.
Take care, and I’ll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Buttermilk Syrup
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from a walk around my Mother's home yesterday evening. For the longest time, she loved bunnies. Bunnies are still all over the place (in her nature area, on her front porch, beside the path leading to the backyard). Then she started loving turtles. Turtles remain here and there, but they are still outnumbered by the bunnies.
This summer it appears frogs may overtake the bunnies. The collection will continue to grow as she spots a cute frog here and a cute frog there. (I know of a "praying frog" she saw a few weeks ago, and I'm thinking it might be the perfect birthday present. As far as I know, everyone needs a "praying frog.")
I know what you're thinking. "Unless something happens over at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) soon, the Enchanting Belinda is going to start going from house to house taking pictures of anything and everything that catches her eye."
Don't worry. I would never do that to you... unless you give me your written consent.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have exciting news. I am going to become a great-aunt AGAIN. Brandi and Jared told us several weeks ago they were expecting a new baby in October (one of my favorite months). This past week they called to say it wasn't just a new baby... it was a new baby girl!
I am thrilled. Matthew has been such a sweet addition to our family. It is so much fun having little ones during the holidays (opening Christmas presents, hiding Easter eggs, etc.). And to have a boy AND a girl will be a double blessing.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I was watching television last night and a commercial came on advertising a new Mark Burnett reality show. YES! And it starts in a couple of weeks. YES! YES! It's called Expedition Impossible, and it looks like a combination of Survivor and Amazing Race for adrenaline junkies.
Will I be watching? Uh, YES!
RANDOMNESS #3 - Two of Roxie's friends touched Taylor Swift during her concert this past weekend. What does it say about a 49 year-old woman who is jealous of two teenage girls who sat close enough to Taylor Swift in concert to touch her?
Please... Don't answer that rhetorical question.
Buttermilk Syrup
Mikie is a very particular when it comes to his syrup. He wants a specific syrup for his pancakes and waffles. (Do not EVEN put a bottle of butter-flavored syrup on the table, thank you very much!) And he'll only eat Yellow Label syrup on a biscuit. (Pancake and waffle syrup is for pancakes and waffles ONLY. Not biscuits.)
He has passed on his insane "syrup" preferences to the children.
That being said, my family may or may not like Buttermilk Syrup... but I'm going to try it anyway.
You will need the following:
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon Karo Syrup
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla
1. In a large pot, combine butter, sugar, buttermilk and Karo Syrup. Bring to a boil for about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Add baking soda and vanilla. Mixture will fizz to TWICE THE SIZE or more, so make sure you use a good-sized pot!
3. Set it aside to thicken while stirring occasionally.
4. Pour over waffles, pancakes or French toast.
This sounds good to me. Of course, I cannot eat a whole helping of Buttermilk Syrup, so I'm hoping at least one or two of the Faulkner Five will jump the "ONLY TWO KINDS OF SYRUP EXIST IN THE WORLD" Wagon, and give it a try.
I'll let you know.
Have a lovely Tuesday. I hope you get many, many things done. (I hope that for me, too.) Remember... Tomorrow is our busy day on A Simple Life. Check back if you get a few minutes.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Wednesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from a walk around my Mother's home yesterday evening. For the longest time, she loved bunnies. Bunnies are still all over the place (in her nature area, on her front porch, beside the path leading to the backyard). Then she started loving turtles. Turtles remain here and there, but they are still outnumbered by the bunnies.
This summer it appears frogs may overtake the bunnies. The collection will continue to grow as she spots a cute frog here and a cute frog there. (I know of a "praying frog" she saw a few weeks ago, and I'm thinking it might be the perfect birthday present. As far as I know, everyone needs a "praying frog.")
I know what you're thinking. "Unless something happens over at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) soon, the Enchanting Belinda is going to start going from house to house taking pictures of anything and everything that catches her eye."
Don't worry. I would never do that to you... unless you give me your written consent.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have exciting news. I am going to become a great-aunt AGAIN. Brandi and Jared told us several weeks ago they were expecting a new baby in October (one of my favorite months). This past week they called to say it wasn't just a new baby... it was a new baby girl!
I am thrilled. Matthew has been such a sweet addition to our family. It is so much fun having little ones during the holidays (opening Christmas presents, hiding Easter eggs, etc.). And to have a boy AND a girl will be a double blessing.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I was watching television last night and a commercial came on advertising a new Mark Burnett reality show. YES! And it starts in a couple of weeks. YES! YES! It's called Expedition Impossible, and it looks like a combination of Survivor and Amazing Race for adrenaline junkies.
Will I be watching? Uh, YES!
RANDOMNESS #3 - Two of Roxie's friends touched Taylor Swift during her concert this past weekend. What does it say about a 49 year-old woman who is jealous of two teenage girls who sat close enough to Taylor Swift in concert to touch her?
Please... Don't answer that rhetorical question.
Buttermilk Syrup
Mikie is a very particular when it comes to his syrup. He wants a specific syrup for his pancakes and waffles. (Do not EVEN put a bottle of butter-flavored syrup on the table, thank you very much!) And he'll only eat Yellow Label syrup on a biscuit. (Pancake and waffle syrup is for pancakes and waffles ONLY. Not biscuits.)
He has passed on his insane "syrup" preferences to the children.
That being said, my family may or may not like Buttermilk Syrup... but I'm going to try it anyway.
You will need the following:
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon Karo Syrup
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla
1. In a large pot, combine butter, sugar, buttermilk and Karo Syrup. Bring to a boil for about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Add baking soda and vanilla. Mixture will fizz to TWICE THE SIZE or more, so make sure you use a good-sized pot!
3. Set it aside to thicken while stirring occasionally.
4. Pour over waffles, pancakes or French toast.
This sounds good to me. Of course, I cannot eat a whole helping of Buttermilk Syrup, so I'm hoping at least one or two of the Faulkner Five will jump the "ONLY TWO KINDS OF SYRUP EXIST IN THE WORLD" Wagon, and give it a try.
I'll let you know.
Have a lovely Tuesday. I hope you get many, many things done. (I hope that for me, too.) Remember... Tomorrow is our busy day on A Simple Life. Check back if you get a few minutes.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Wednesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, May 23, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
I had hoped for many, many more pics in the Gallery today, but once again it was slim pickins around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). Don't worry. Things are bound to pick up with summer fast approaching. (That's what I keep telling myself.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I brushed my teeth with DEP Styling Gel this weekend. I did not die. I did not even get sick. However, two days after the brushing, I can still taste DEP Styling Gel. I may have to eat chocolate bon bons today to get the taste out of my mouth.
RANDOMNESS #2 - The following is a conversation I had with my Mother this weekend.
Mother - "You know. I always put off buying new clothes and dressing more stylish until tomorrow or next week or next month. NOW is the time to look good. You should do that, too."
Me - "So what you're really saying is you hate the blouse I'm wearing... right?"
Mother - "Oh, yes. Very much."
RANDOMNESS #3 - With only three more days of school left, the Faulkner Five are eagerly awaiting summer break. We are weary. I remember when I was a kid. I was ready for school to end. I was tired. But I never recall my Mother saying, "I am so tired from this school year. I need a break from school."
(This may be a sign I'm a little over-involved in my childrens' lives. Nah! That can't be it!)
RANDOMNESS #4 - The Boy informed me last night he was going to have "people" take care of his banking, personal finances, taxes, etc. He is also planning on having "people" do any and all car maintenance from now on. His "people" will start keeping his calendar and making his appointments. His "people" will call my "people" about holidays, luncheons, etc.
I have to admit, I'm a little bitter my 20 year-old son is planning on having "people" before I do.
If anyone deserves "people," it is ME!
I hope you have a meaningful Monday. I have a really good recipe to share tomorrow, more pics and more Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Tuesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I had hoped for many, many more pics in the Gallery today, but once again it was slim pickins around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). Don't worry. Things are bound to pick up with summer fast approaching. (That's what I keep telling myself.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I brushed my teeth with DEP Styling Gel this weekend. I did not die. I did not even get sick. However, two days after the brushing, I can still taste DEP Styling Gel. I may have to eat chocolate bon bons today to get the taste out of my mouth.
RANDOMNESS #2 - The following is a conversation I had with my Mother this weekend.
Mother - "You know. I always put off buying new clothes and dressing more stylish until tomorrow or next week or next month. NOW is the time to look good. You should do that, too."
Me - "So what you're really saying is you hate the blouse I'm wearing... right?"
Mother - "Oh, yes. Very much."
RANDOMNESS #3 - With only three more days of school left, the Faulkner Five are eagerly awaiting summer break. We are weary. I remember when I was a kid. I was ready for school to end. I was tired. But I never recall my Mother saying, "I am so tired from this school year. I need a break from school."
(This may be a sign I'm a little over-involved in my childrens' lives. Nah! That can't be it!)
RANDOMNESS #4 - The Boy informed me last night he was going to have "people" take care of his banking, personal finances, taxes, etc. He is also planning on having "people" do any and all car maintenance from now on. His "people" will start keeping his calendar and making his appointments. His "people" will call my "people" about holidays, luncheons, etc.
I have to admit, I'm a little bitter my 20 year-old son is planning on having "people" before I do.
If anyone deserves "people," it is ME!
I hope you have a meaningful Monday. I have a really good recipe to share tomorrow, more pics and more Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Tuesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, May 20, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from yesterday... when Roxie found out she made the JV BASKETBALL TEAM! YEA! The "try-out" week is over... finished... done! And we are happy today.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I thought about my "blah" week. You know. This past week when the most exciting thing I could possibly post about was baking Strawberries and Cream Muffins and the beagles... eating breakfast. And I forgot something. Something I found interesting (and painful) at the time.
I had used cleaning products to clean Roxie's bathroom (Pine-Sol and Windex). After I finished, I went downstairs to light my kitchen candles. The match I was using bent when I struck the box. The match ignited and touched the tip of my finger. A little poof of fire shot out from my Pine-Sol and Windex soaked finger... and then my fingernail kind of caught on fire. Not a big blaze (like when your hair catches on fire... another story, another time), but fire just the same.
I blew out my finger (no-brainer), and surveyed the damage. Fingernails obviously burn slowly. My fingernail looked like the edge of The Declaration of Independence... old and brown and brittle.
No major harm done. I just cut the sucker off. However, I did find this mildly interesting (and sort of cool) that I was now able to shoot fire from my fingertips. Kind of like a superhero power.
If you want to hire me for your kid's birthday party, you know where to reach me.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I finished reading my Mother's Day gift (Pioneer Woman, From Black Heels to Tractor Wheels). It reads just like an old Harlequin Romance novel. Lots of kissin' and melting when you hear "his voice." I enjoyed it, but it was definitely a throw-back to my older teenage years.
I especially loved the chapter about their honeymoon. If ever there was a honeymoon disaster story, this book contains it. If you thought you had a bad honeymoon experience where everything went wrong, I encourage you to borrow my book and read that chapter alone. It will make your honeymoon seem like a "dream come true."
It was a fun read. Nothing mind-blowing or deep. Just a good old-fashioned love story between a cowboy and a city girl.
It makes me want to get a horse for Faulkner Family Farms (circa 1842). Hey, Mikie. Are you out there? What do you think? A horse would be way better than a chicken. Don't you think?
Weekend Happenings
My favorite word this week is "frenetic." I like saying it, and it kind of fits my mood. That is the word I'm going to use to describe this coming weekend. Frenetic. "Fast and energetic in a rather wild and uncontrolled way." That's me in a nutshell. (If you see the Big Gold Van out and about this weekend, stay clear!)
Tonight is the Pink Ribbon Run organized by Tonya, my friend and two-time cancer survivor. Roxie is going to be proudly representing the Faulkner Five at this event. If anyone is interested, you can sign up at the Gardendale Soccer Complex around 5:00 this evening. It is for a wonderful cause... raising money to help find a cure for breast cancer.
Saturday is a Chick-Fil-A kind of day for Austin... and maybe a fishin' kind of day for Roxie and Josh. (I have to talk to Mikie to see if that is a possibility.)
Saturday night, Mike and I will be attending the Garden Art Party (Live and Silent Auction) benefiting Alzheimer's of Central Alabama. We attended this event last year, and we had a ball.
We bid on a few things (dinners at nice restaurants in town, a painting, etc.), but this year I know how it works. I'm not going to be passive. I'm going to be the Aggressive Enchanting Belinda, so watch out. I'm going to get something really, really good. I don't know what, but tune in next Monday to see. (I mean REALLY, REALLY GOOD!)
Sunday, of course, we have church, and what Sunday afternoon and evening will hold we rarely know.
That's the weekend as I know it, but I'm almost positive the remaining four of the Faulkner Five have failed to let me in on some plans. "But I thought I told you about that a month ago." Life with teenagers... gotta love it!
Have a beautiful weekend. I hope you get to enjoy the warm, spring-like weather with friends and family surrounding you. I'll be back Monday with pictures galore... I hope.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from yesterday... when Roxie found out she made the JV BASKETBALL TEAM! YEA! The "try-out" week is over... finished... done! And we are happy today.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I thought about my "blah" week. You know. This past week when the most exciting thing I could possibly post about was baking Strawberries and Cream Muffins and the beagles... eating breakfast. And I forgot something. Something I found interesting (and painful) at the time.
I had used cleaning products to clean Roxie's bathroom (Pine-Sol and Windex). After I finished, I went downstairs to light my kitchen candles. The match I was using bent when I struck the box. The match ignited and touched the tip of my finger. A little poof of fire shot out from my Pine-Sol and Windex soaked finger... and then my fingernail kind of caught on fire. Not a big blaze (like when your hair catches on fire... another story, another time), but fire just the same.
I blew out my finger (no-brainer), and surveyed the damage. Fingernails obviously burn slowly. My fingernail looked like the edge of The Declaration of Independence... old and brown and brittle.
No major harm done. I just cut the sucker off. However, I did find this mildly interesting (and sort of cool) that I was now able to shoot fire from my fingertips. Kind of like a superhero power.
If you want to hire me for your kid's birthday party, you know where to reach me.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I finished reading my Mother's Day gift (Pioneer Woman, From Black Heels to Tractor Wheels). It reads just like an old Harlequin Romance novel. Lots of kissin' and melting when you hear "his voice." I enjoyed it, but it was definitely a throw-back to my older teenage years.
I especially loved the chapter about their honeymoon. If ever there was a honeymoon disaster story, this book contains it. If you thought you had a bad honeymoon experience where everything went wrong, I encourage you to borrow my book and read that chapter alone. It will make your honeymoon seem like a "dream come true."
It was a fun read. Nothing mind-blowing or deep. Just a good old-fashioned love story between a cowboy and a city girl.
It makes me want to get a horse for Faulkner Family Farms (circa 1842). Hey, Mikie. Are you out there? What do you think? A horse would be way better than a chicken. Don't you think?
Weekend Happenings
My favorite word this week is "frenetic." I like saying it, and it kind of fits my mood. That is the word I'm going to use to describe this coming weekend. Frenetic. "Fast and energetic in a rather wild and uncontrolled way." That's me in a nutshell. (If you see the Big Gold Van out and about this weekend, stay clear!)
Tonight is the Pink Ribbon Run organized by Tonya, my friend and two-time cancer survivor. Roxie is going to be proudly representing the Faulkner Five at this event. If anyone is interested, you can sign up at the Gardendale Soccer Complex around 5:00 this evening. It is for a wonderful cause... raising money to help find a cure for breast cancer.
Saturday is a Chick-Fil-A kind of day for Austin... and maybe a fishin' kind of day for Roxie and Josh. (I have to talk to Mikie to see if that is a possibility.)
Saturday night, Mike and I will be attending the Garden Art Party (Live and Silent Auction) benefiting Alzheimer's of Central Alabama. We attended this event last year, and we had a ball.
We bid on a few things (dinners at nice restaurants in town, a painting, etc.), but this year I know how it works. I'm not going to be passive. I'm going to be the Aggressive Enchanting Belinda, so watch out. I'm going to get something really, really good. I don't know what, but tune in next Monday to see. (I mean REALLY, REALLY GOOD!)
Sunday, of course, we have church, and what Sunday afternoon and evening will hold we rarely know.
That's the weekend as I know it, but I'm almost positive the remaining four of the Faulkner Five have failed to let me in on some plans. "But I thought I told you about that a month ago." Life with teenagers... gotta love it!
Have a beautiful weekend. I hope you get to enjoy the warm, spring-like weather with friends and family surrounding you. I'll be back Monday with pictures galore... I hope.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, May 19, 2011
10 Summer Dates
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery pics feature food today. Strawberries and Cream Muffins. It's an English recipe... and they taste wonderful. If you're interested in making them, I posted the recipe three Tuesdays ago. You can click on Recipes on my sidebar and scroll down a little until you come to the post entitled "Strawberries and Cream Mini Muffins." Try them. I think you'll like them.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Roxie is trying out for the high school Junior Varsity Basketball Team this afternoon. I know what you're thinking. "Didn't she just try out for JV Volleyball two days ago? Are they trying to kill these kids?" The answers are, "Yes" and "Yes." (And I'll tell you. It's no picnic for the parents either!)
Results will be posted in the morning. It's a one-day try-out, so I'm not sure how much rest we're going to get tonight. (And just in case Roxie didn't hear that correctly in the meeting, Mikie is taking the camera when he picks her up in case they post the JV Team tonight... and she happens to make it.)
As always, no pictures will be taken of the "agony of defeat." Roxie will not allow it, and I'm not going to fight her on this one.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I know I haven't posted anything totally riveting in the past few weeks, but life is happening all around, and I've decided to stick with the basics here on A Simple Life. The blog is, and always has been, a very nice little "release" for me, and hopefully, I'll have something with more depth and humor to share in the coming days and weeks.
But being the "giver" I've always been, I'm steering you toward some really good blogs today. As always, feel free to visit, but don't forget about me!
Blog Linkage - I'm sharing entertaining linkage AND useful linkage.
1. Google Birmingham Bargain Mom. (This is easier to me than remembering the website). Click on the first site that pops up. Click on Entertainment on her sidebar. She has TWO lists of FREE and $1 summer movie lists already posted. Check and see which movies you and your kiddos would enjoy and go, go, go.
2. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List. There are lots of posts to scroll through before you get to "A Painted Coffee Table" dated May 13, so enjoy those, too. But READ "A Painted Coffee Table." I love her easy, breezy way of making her house a really pretty home.
3. Go to Big Mama under my Blog List. Just for fun, scroll down and click on "Previous Entries" until you get to the one entitled "I Walked the Line" dated May 18. It's light and funny reading for a day such as today.
4. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and click on Photography at the top of her page. You'll be able to see the "Action Shot" Contest winner. There are some really pretty and interesting photos to scroll through.
Enjoy.
10 Summer Dates
Here's a little challenge for you. Put this list on your refrigerator the last day of school, and see how many of these dates you can actually take with your kids. Make as many of them one-on-one dates as you can, but use them as family dates, too.
1. Pick your own... whatever. Find a farm with blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, flowers, etc. and get picking.
2. Play outside in the rain. Smell the rain on the pavement. Splash in puddles. Make mud pies (and pictures).
3. Make your own rain. Douse everyone with the hose or sprinkler.
4. Camp in. Put the sleeping bags on the floor and have a family slumber party.
5. Stargaze in the backyard.
6. Catch lightening bugs, and then watch them flicker away into the night.
7. Play a word game. Think Scrabble, Boggle or Bananagrams. (Just the two of you.)
8. Take an early morning bird walk. Choose the right field guide.
9. Teach the kids a game you haven’t played since you were a kid. (I was a huge Hopscotch player back in the day.)
10. Visit a historic house. Kids will be amazed at what the old-timers lived without.
Have a terrific Thursday. Love on someone today. It's the perfect day for that kind of thing. I'll be back in the morning with Weekend Happenings!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery pics feature food today. Strawberries and Cream Muffins. It's an English recipe... and they taste wonderful. If you're interested in making them, I posted the recipe three Tuesdays ago. You can click on Recipes on my sidebar and scroll down a little until you come to the post entitled "Strawberries and Cream Mini Muffins." Try them. I think you'll like them.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Roxie is trying out for the high school Junior Varsity Basketball Team this afternoon. I know what you're thinking. "Didn't she just try out for JV Volleyball two days ago? Are they trying to kill these kids?" The answers are, "Yes" and "Yes." (And I'll tell you. It's no picnic for the parents either!)
Results will be posted in the morning. It's a one-day try-out, so I'm not sure how much rest we're going to get tonight. (And just in case Roxie didn't hear that correctly in the meeting, Mikie is taking the camera when he picks her up in case they post the JV Team tonight... and she happens to make it.)
As always, no pictures will be taken of the "agony of defeat." Roxie will not allow it, and I'm not going to fight her on this one.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I know I haven't posted anything totally riveting in the past few weeks, but life is happening all around, and I've decided to stick with the basics here on A Simple Life. The blog is, and always has been, a very nice little "release" for me, and hopefully, I'll have something with more depth and humor to share in the coming days and weeks.
But being the "giver" I've always been, I'm steering you toward some really good blogs today. As always, feel free to visit, but don't forget about me!
Blog Linkage - I'm sharing entertaining linkage AND useful linkage.
1. Google Birmingham Bargain Mom. (This is easier to me than remembering the website). Click on the first site that pops up. Click on Entertainment on her sidebar. She has TWO lists of FREE and $1 summer movie lists already posted. Check and see which movies you and your kiddos would enjoy and go, go, go.
2. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List. There are lots of posts to scroll through before you get to "A Painted Coffee Table" dated May 13, so enjoy those, too. But READ "A Painted Coffee Table." I love her easy, breezy way of making her house a really pretty home.
3. Go to Big Mama under my Blog List. Just for fun, scroll down and click on "Previous Entries" until you get to the one entitled "I Walked the Line" dated May 18. It's light and funny reading for a day such as today.
4. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and click on Photography at the top of her page. You'll be able to see the "Action Shot" Contest winner. There are some really pretty and interesting photos to scroll through.
Enjoy.
10 Summer Dates
Here's a little challenge for you. Put this list on your refrigerator the last day of school, and see how many of these dates you can actually take with your kids. Make as many of them one-on-one dates as you can, but use them as family dates, too.
1. Pick your own... whatever. Find a farm with blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, flowers, etc. and get picking.
2. Play outside in the rain. Smell the rain on the pavement. Splash in puddles. Make mud pies (and pictures).
3. Make your own rain. Douse everyone with the hose or sprinkler.
4. Camp in. Put the sleeping bags on the floor and have a family slumber party.
5. Stargaze in the backyard.
6. Catch lightening bugs, and then watch them flicker away into the night.
7. Play a word game. Think Scrabble, Boggle or Bananagrams. (Just the two of you.)
8. Take an early morning bird walk. Choose the right field guide.
9. Teach the kids a game you haven’t played since you were a kid. (I was a huge Hopscotch player back in the day.)
10. Visit a historic house. Kids will be amazed at what the old-timers lived without.
Have a terrific Thursday. Love on someone today. It's the perfect day for that kind of thing. I'll be back in the morning with Weekend Happenings!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Book Swap Party
Good Wednesday morning!
You lucked out today. I have "people" pics in the Gallery... Roxie and friends making the Volleyball Team. The muffin photos will have to wait.
As for the new GIANT photo welcoming you to A Simple Life at the top of the blog, do not be frightened. It is indeed an insect (I think a moth is an insect), but I do not plan on changing the name of the blog to The Bug Blog anytime soon. I just liked that picture. (I'm hoping to get a shot of a colorful butterfly when the temps rise about 60 degrees.)
ANNOUNCEMENT TO DAWN! - I haven't forgotten your candle. I still haven't been able to get them on the phone, so I don't know if their store was damaged by the storms. I know other places of business less than a block away from the store were hit. I just wanted you to know (publicly) I am still trying. Thank you for being patient!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Yes. Yes. Roxie made the JV team. Of course, we are beyond thrilled AND excited AND relieved. We are feeling all of those emotions 14 year-old females feel when something great happens. Actually, "she" is feeling all of those emotions. I have found those emotions to be totally and completely exhausting for 49 year-old mothers. I have decided to just be happy for her.
And do you know what one of the most "exciting" things about being on the JV Volleyball team is? Do you? The fact that the locker room is called "Women's Locker Room" and not "Girls' Locker Room." Once again, it's the little things that bring the most joy.
Roxie is ready for high school. I am not sure high school is ready for Roxie.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Thanks to my friends, Jonella and Jennifer, I am also starting a Wicked envelope. If all goes well with the envelopes, the family will be seeing Cirque Dreams Holidaze in December... and probably two of us will be seeing Wicked in February. (I'm thinking me and Roxie or me and Mikie... or me and somebody. As you can see, I'm 100 percent sure I will be attending the performance!)
Wednesday Wisdom - Did you know there is a website that gives you FIVE quotes for the day... every day? I didn't, but somehow I stumbled onto this site, and today I give you a smorgasbord of quotes on several different subjects.
Quote of the Day
"Nobody got anywhere in the world by simply being content." Louis L'Amour
Love Quote of the Day
"People protect what they love." Jacques Yves Cousteau (Fun fact for you... When I was a kid, I LOVED Jacques Cousteau. I always watched his TV specials, and until I saw Jaws as a teenager, I wanted to be a marine biologist. After I saw Jaws... not so much.)
Art Quote of the Day
"Those who do not want to imitate anything, produce nothing." Salvador Dali
Nature Quote of the Day
"Earth laughs in flowers." Ralph Waldo Emerson
Funny Quote of the Day
"At my age, flowers scare me." George Burns
Book Swap Party
I totally borrowed this idea from eighteen25 under My Blog List. It's a great idea for a Girls' Night Out with your friends... or a party for your teen's chick friends.
Every couple of months or so, the women meet for a Book Swapping Party. They gather at a restaurant to eat, swap books and chat for a few hours.
When they meet back in two months, they return the book they borrowed to it's rightful owner.
I think you could select a theme for each Swap (Favorite Christian Book, Favorite Humorous Book, Favorite Classic, Favorite Fiction, Favorite Biography, etc., etc.). The list could go on and on.
If you have a group of "reading" friends (or your child does), plan a Book Swap Party in the very near future.
It sounds like a fun and easy idea, doesn't it? If you're interested in more details, click on eighteen25 under My Blog List and read today's post entitled "Library Cards."
Have a lovely Wednesday. For some reason, I keep thinking today is Thursday. I have got to get my act together. I have Blog Linkage and a date for your enjoyment tomorrow.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
You lucked out today. I have "people" pics in the Gallery... Roxie and friends making the Volleyball Team. The muffin photos will have to wait.
As for the new GIANT photo welcoming you to A Simple Life at the top of the blog, do not be frightened. It is indeed an insect (I think a moth is an insect), but I do not plan on changing the name of the blog to The Bug Blog anytime soon. I just liked that picture. (I'm hoping to get a shot of a colorful butterfly when the temps rise about 60 degrees.)
ANNOUNCEMENT TO DAWN! - I haven't forgotten your candle. I still haven't been able to get them on the phone, so I don't know if their store was damaged by the storms. I know other places of business less than a block away from the store were hit. I just wanted you to know (publicly) I am still trying. Thank you for being patient!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Yes. Yes. Roxie made the JV team. Of course, we are beyond thrilled AND excited AND relieved. We are feeling all of those emotions 14 year-old females feel when something great happens. Actually, "she" is feeling all of those emotions. I have found those emotions to be totally and completely exhausting for 49 year-old mothers. I have decided to just be happy for her.
And do you know what one of the most "exciting" things about being on the JV Volleyball team is? Do you? The fact that the locker room is called "Women's Locker Room" and not "Girls' Locker Room." Once again, it's the little things that bring the most joy.
Roxie is ready for high school. I am not sure high school is ready for Roxie.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Thanks to my friends, Jonella and Jennifer, I am also starting a Wicked envelope. If all goes well with the envelopes, the family will be seeing Cirque Dreams Holidaze in December... and probably two of us will be seeing Wicked in February. (I'm thinking me and Roxie or me and Mikie... or me and somebody. As you can see, I'm 100 percent sure I will be attending the performance!)
Wednesday Wisdom - Did you know there is a website that gives you FIVE quotes for the day... every day? I didn't, but somehow I stumbled onto this site, and today I give you a smorgasbord of quotes on several different subjects.
Quote of the Day
"Nobody got anywhere in the world by simply being content." Louis L'Amour
Love Quote of the Day
"People protect what they love." Jacques Yves Cousteau (Fun fact for you... When I was a kid, I LOVED Jacques Cousteau. I always watched his TV specials, and until I saw Jaws as a teenager, I wanted to be a marine biologist. After I saw Jaws... not so much.)
Art Quote of the Day
"Those who do not want to imitate anything, produce nothing." Salvador Dali
Nature Quote of the Day
"Earth laughs in flowers." Ralph Waldo Emerson
Funny Quote of the Day
"At my age, flowers scare me." George Burns
Book Swap Party
I totally borrowed this idea from eighteen25 under My Blog List. It's a great idea for a Girls' Night Out with your friends... or a party for your teen's chick friends.
Every couple of months or so, the women meet for a Book Swapping Party. They gather at a restaurant to eat, swap books and chat for a few hours.
When they meet back in two months, they return the book they borrowed to it's rightful owner.
I think you could select a theme for each Swap (Favorite Christian Book, Favorite Humorous Book, Favorite Classic, Favorite Fiction, Favorite Biography, etc., etc.). The list could go on and on.
If you have a group of "reading" friends (or your child does), plan a Book Swap Party in the very near future.
It sounds like a fun and easy idea, doesn't it? If you're interested in more details, click on eighteen25 under My Blog List and read today's post entitled "Library Cards."
Have a lovely Wednesday. For some reason, I keep thinking today is Thursday. I have got to get my act together. I have Blog Linkage and a date for your enjoyment tomorrow.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Kentucky Hot Browns
Good Tuesday morning!
I told you. I told you Sparkle and Copper would be in the Gallery this week. Maybe more than once! Oh, and I'm planning on making those Cream and Strawberry Muffins and taking pics... step-by-step. So that's what you have to look forward to this week, beagles and food... in that order.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I received the Broadway Series schedule in the mail yesterday. We've never gotten the season tickets. For one reason, we've never wanted to see every show, and for another... it's a little pricey. However, we have gone to ONE show some years. Cats, Les Mis, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Bill Cosby... and the one we all still talk about, The Lion King. (It was SO good.)
This coming season is going to be great, and we've each picked out shows we would like to see. Of course, we have to pick and choose, and since I'm the Mother Unit (and when the Mother Unit ain't happy, ain't nobody happy), I really think the Christmas Cirque Dreams Holidaze show is the one we need to see. Not only will it be a good show, but I can mark it off my list of 100 Things To Do Before I'm 90.
I really want to see Wicked. I have heard a lot of good things about that show, too.
And there's a show called Mark Twain Tonight starring Hal Holbrook (Dixie Carter's husband). I believe I would thoroughly enjoy that show.
Unfortunately, Les Mis is coming again. Mike and I went to see this show many years ago. Let it be known now, Mikie is not only a plaque reader, but he is a musical lover.
When I think of musicals, Disney movies come to mind... dialogue AND songs together. When Mikie thinks of musicals, he just thinks songs, songs, songs... no dialogue.
I'm the kind of person who needs dialogue. I cannot focus on every word in a song for 20 or more songs AND follow the story. I simply cannot. Thirty minutes before intermission, Mike is holding me in my seat so I won't stand up and scream, "Just say it! Don't sing about it for 15 minutes. Just say it!"
There's probably a name for what ails me, but I don't know what it is.
On the other hand, Mike and I both disliked Cats... very much. Once we discovered it was indeed about cats (and we were still unable to follow the plot), I declared, "No more musicals for me." And I've stuck to my guns.
I guess what I am saying is I will be starting a Cirque Dreams Holidaze money envelope this week (not a Les Mis envelope). Something to look forward to!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Roxie's heading to volleyball tryouts again today. The second cut will be announced tonight. (If you hear nothing about the cut on A Simple Life OR Belinda's Project Life, you will know we do not have good news... and we have gone underground.)
RANDOMNESS #3 - Training is over, and Josh is now a full-fledged Chick employee. (I'm going to see if Chick-Fil-A will become A Simple Life's first corporate sponsor. I know for a fact, the Faulkner Five could not possibly "Eat More Chikin," even if we tried.)
Kentucky Hot Browns
Thank you, Southern Living. I love looking at the new monthly recipes, and this one sounds delicious AND doable.
You will need the following:
4 thick white bread slices
3/4 pound sliced roasted turkey
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
3 plum tomatoes, sliced
8 bacon slices, cooked
1. Toast bread.
2. Top bread with turkey slices.
3. Pour hot Mornay Sauce over turkey and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
4. Broil 6 inches from heat 3 to 4 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned. Remove from oven.
5. Top sandwiches with tomatoes and bacon. Serve immediately.
Mornay Sauce
You will need the following:
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1. Melt butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Whisk in flour; cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, and cook, whisking constantly, 1 to 2 minutes or until thickened.
4. Whisk in Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
How good does that sound? I think you could use Mornay Sauce on just about anything. I might make it by the gallon and just keep a jug in the fridge to pour over "stuff I make." And I might change the name to Enchanting Belinda Sauce. Hmmm.
Have a lovely Tuesday. It's the best day of the week. I have a lot of End-of-School-Year goodness to share on Wednesday. Visit if you have a minute.
Take care, and I'll talk to you soon.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I told you. I told you Sparkle and Copper would be in the Gallery this week. Maybe more than once! Oh, and I'm planning on making those Cream and Strawberry Muffins and taking pics... step-by-step. So that's what you have to look forward to this week, beagles and food... in that order.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I received the Broadway Series schedule in the mail yesterday. We've never gotten the season tickets. For one reason, we've never wanted to see every show, and for another... it's a little pricey. However, we have gone to ONE show some years. Cats, Les Mis, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Bill Cosby... and the one we all still talk about, The Lion King. (It was SO good.)
This coming season is going to be great, and we've each picked out shows we would like to see. Of course, we have to pick and choose, and since I'm the Mother Unit (and when the Mother Unit ain't happy, ain't nobody happy), I really think the Christmas Cirque Dreams Holidaze show is the one we need to see. Not only will it be a good show, but I can mark it off my list of 100 Things To Do Before I'm 90.
I really want to see Wicked. I have heard a lot of good things about that show, too.
And there's a show called Mark Twain Tonight starring Hal Holbrook (Dixie Carter's husband). I believe I would thoroughly enjoy that show.
Unfortunately, Les Mis is coming again. Mike and I went to see this show many years ago. Let it be known now, Mikie is not only a plaque reader, but he is a musical lover.
When I think of musicals, Disney movies come to mind... dialogue AND songs together. When Mikie thinks of musicals, he just thinks songs, songs, songs... no dialogue.
I'm the kind of person who needs dialogue. I cannot focus on every word in a song for 20 or more songs AND follow the story. I simply cannot. Thirty minutes before intermission, Mike is holding me in my seat so I won't stand up and scream, "Just say it! Don't sing about it for 15 minutes. Just say it!"
There's probably a name for what ails me, but I don't know what it is.
On the other hand, Mike and I both disliked Cats... very much. Once we discovered it was indeed about cats (and we were still unable to follow the plot), I declared, "No more musicals for me." And I've stuck to my guns.
I guess what I am saying is I will be starting a Cirque Dreams Holidaze money envelope this week (not a Les Mis envelope). Something to look forward to!
RANDOMNESS #2 - Roxie's heading to volleyball tryouts again today. The second cut will be announced tonight. (If you hear nothing about the cut on A Simple Life OR Belinda's Project Life, you will know we do not have good news... and we have gone underground.)
RANDOMNESS #3 - Training is over, and Josh is now a full-fledged Chick employee. (I'm going to see if Chick-Fil-A will become A Simple Life's first corporate sponsor. I know for a fact, the Faulkner Five could not possibly "Eat More Chikin," even if we tried.)
Kentucky Hot Browns
Thank you, Southern Living. I love looking at the new monthly recipes, and this one sounds delicious AND doable.
You will need the following:
4 thick white bread slices
3/4 pound sliced roasted turkey
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
3 plum tomatoes, sliced
8 bacon slices, cooked
1. Toast bread.
2. Top bread with turkey slices.
3. Pour hot Mornay Sauce over turkey and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
4. Broil 6 inches from heat 3 to 4 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned. Remove from oven.
5. Top sandwiches with tomatoes and bacon. Serve immediately.
Mornay Sauce
You will need the following:
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1. Melt butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Whisk in flour; cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, and cook, whisking constantly, 1 to 2 minutes or until thickened.
4. Whisk in Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
How good does that sound? I think you could use Mornay Sauce on just about anything. I might make it by the gallon and just keep a jug in the fridge to pour over "stuff I make." And I might change the name to Enchanting Belinda Sauce. Hmmm.
Have a lovely Tuesday. It's the best day of the week. I have a lot of End-of-School-Year goodness to share on Wednesday. Visit if you have a minute.
Take care, and I'll talk to you soon.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, May 16, 2011
Just Another Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
As you can tell from the SPARSE Gallery below, the weekend did not go as planned... at all.
Just the facts, please!
Friday, May 13 (Noon) - Roxie and I get the good news. After 14 weeks, her broken finger is as good as new. She can play ball!
Friday, May 13 (5:00 p.m.) - Roxie calls me to pick her up at the gym. She doesn't feel well.
Friday, May 13 (5:03 p.m.) - I pick Roxie up at the gym. She has a fever. She has a sore throat. She is sick!
Saturday, May 14 (8:00 a.m.) - Roxie and I head to the doctor's office for a shot. A shot of anything. A shot of magic medicine which will make her feel better IMMEDIATELY.
Saturday, May 14 (8:30 a.m.) - The doctor says they are not giving "magic medicine" shots this Saturday. The doctor says Roxie has a fever virus and will just have to let it run it's course.
Saturday, May 14 (8:31 a.m.) - Roxie and I decide to get Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappes to make our throat feel better (hers... not mine). We also talk about finding a new doctor.
Saturday, May 14 (3:30 p.m.) - Roxie has had no fever since the morning hours. She is incredibly weak, and has a headache and a sore throat. We decide to definitely find a new doctor.
Sunday, May 15 (8:00 a.m.) - The fever has been gone for almost 24 hours. Roxie is still weak, but fever-free. I decide a shower would make her feel (and smell) much, much better.
Sunday, May 15 (9:00 p.m.) - Roxie goes to bed early and rests well during the night. Volleyball tryouts begin tomorrow. She has to be at the school by noon or she cannot try out.
Monday, May 16 (8:00 a.m.) - Roxie is still fever-free, but very weak. She still has black rings under her eyes.
Monday, May 16 (5:00 p.m.) - This will be the end of the first day of volleyball tryouts. We are praying she will make the first cut.
Feel free to pray with us today. I know it is a little thing in the middle of all that is going on in the world, but to a 14 year-old chick, it is huge. (I'm thankful God doesn't mind us coming to him with the "little" things.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Roxie and I spent Saturday watching the NCIS marathon. I have never watched NCIS. Austin introduced it to Roxie, and she loves it. I fell in love with Mark Harmon all over again. I am now officially hooked.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Roxie and I spent much of Sunday morning watching the Say Yes to the Dress marathon. I told Roxie if she EVER got me in front of a group of people and picked out a $10,000 wedding dress when I told her beforehand the budget was $3,000... and then had the NERVE to roll her 20-something eyes at me, she could get married in a Rue 21 dress!
She told me it was just a show, and I needed to calm down. (She was right.)
RANDOMNESS #3 - Josh is loving his new job, and I love that!
Since it is Just Another Mindless Monday, it is supposed to be short on words and long on pics. (Pretend there are 25 or more zoo pictures below. That's what I'm going to do today! Pretend!)
Have a great Monday. I have a wonderful recipe to share with you tomorrow morning, as well as volleyball news and probably some pictures of the dogs. (When I'm picture-poor in the Gallery, I tend to let you catch up with anything and everything going on with Sparkle and Copper. I think it's going to be that kind of week!)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
As you can tell from the SPARSE Gallery below, the weekend did not go as planned... at all.
Just the facts, please!
Friday, May 13 (Noon) - Roxie and I get the good news. After 14 weeks, her broken finger is as good as new. She can play ball!
Friday, May 13 (5:00 p.m.) - Roxie calls me to pick her up at the gym. She doesn't feel well.
Friday, May 13 (5:03 p.m.) - I pick Roxie up at the gym. She has a fever. She has a sore throat. She is sick!
Saturday, May 14 (8:00 a.m.) - Roxie and I head to the doctor's office for a shot. A shot of anything. A shot of magic medicine which will make her feel better IMMEDIATELY.
Saturday, May 14 (8:30 a.m.) - The doctor says they are not giving "magic medicine" shots this Saturday. The doctor says Roxie has a fever virus and will just have to let it run it's course.
Saturday, May 14 (8:31 a.m.) - Roxie and I decide to get Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappes to make our throat feel better (hers... not mine). We also talk about finding a new doctor.
Saturday, May 14 (3:30 p.m.) - Roxie has had no fever since the morning hours. She is incredibly weak, and has a headache and a sore throat. We decide to definitely find a new doctor.
Sunday, May 15 (8:00 a.m.) - The fever has been gone for almost 24 hours. Roxie is still weak, but fever-free. I decide a shower would make her feel (and smell) much, much better.
Sunday, May 15 (9:00 p.m.) - Roxie goes to bed early and rests well during the night. Volleyball tryouts begin tomorrow. She has to be at the school by noon or she cannot try out.
Monday, May 16 (8:00 a.m.) - Roxie is still fever-free, but very weak. She still has black rings under her eyes.
Monday, May 16 (5:00 p.m.) - This will be the end of the first day of volleyball tryouts. We are praying she will make the first cut.
Feel free to pray with us today. I know it is a little thing in the middle of all that is going on in the world, but to a 14 year-old chick, it is huge. (I'm thankful God doesn't mind us coming to him with the "little" things.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Roxie and I spent Saturday watching the NCIS marathon. I have never watched NCIS. Austin introduced it to Roxie, and she loves it. I fell in love with Mark Harmon all over again. I am now officially hooked.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Roxie and I spent much of Sunday morning watching the Say Yes to the Dress marathon. I told Roxie if she EVER got me in front of a group of people and picked out a $10,000 wedding dress when I told her beforehand the budget was $3,000... and then had the NERVE to roll her 20-something eyes at me, she could get married in a Rue 21 dress!
She told me it was just a show, and I needed to calm down. (She was right.)
RANDOMNESS #3 - Josh is loving his new job, and I love that!
Since it is Just Another Mindless Monday, it is supposed to be short on words and long on pics. (Pretend there are 25 or more zoo pictures below. That's what I'm going to do today! Pretend!)
Have a great Monday. I have a wonderful recipe to share with you tomorrow morning, as well as volleyball news and probably some pictures of the dogs. (When I'm picture-poor in the Gallery, I tend to let you catch up with anything and everything going on with Sparkle and Copper. I think it's going to be that kind of week!)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, May 13, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday AFTERNOON!
GUESS WHAT? My server was down this morning, and I couldn't post today's Weekend Happenings until now.
GUESS WHAT ELSE? My server has informed me they had to remove yesterday's post (entitled Civil War Date), but they will "return" it very, very soon.
AND GUESS WHAT ELSE (LAST ONE)? Two and a half years ago, I had no idea what a widget, server, disabled cookie or post was, but today I know the meaning of the word "post." I'm hoping in the next three to five years to totally understand the meaning of the other three terms.
The Gallery Pic is a leftover from Roxie's Basketball Banquet.
DON'T FORGET - Remember to check out Confessions of a Pioneer Woman (Photography) to see the rest of the photographs which have been entered in the "Action" contest (today and tomorrow). They are really wonderful.
ALSO, DON'T FORGET - I'll be posting a picture a day on Belinda's Project Life tonight, tomorrow and Sunday. (Since my server was down last night, too, I didn't get to post yesterday's Picture of the Day. I'll take care of that in just a little while.)
Weekend Happenings
Today has been extremely busy so far. I had two back-to-back doctor appointments for Josh and Roxie, and in my travels I missed TWO wonderful photo opportunities.
While turning the Big Gold Van around because I had gotten lost looking for Josh's new doctor's office off Highway 280, I had to stop to let two geese and their baby goslings cross the busy side street in front of me. So sweet.
And when Roxie received the "all clear" sign from her surgeon (meaning she could FINALLY touch a volleyball and basketball three days before high school tryouts), I would have loved to have taken a picture of her face. Pure joy!
But, I missed both of those shots. Sorry.
I've got two boys working at different Chicks tomorrow, and a Mikie working at his office for a little while, too. Roxie and I are going to clean (in between her practice schedule). She has invited some volleyball chicks over tomorrow night for a cookout and some setting, serving and passing drills. It should be fun.
As far as Sunday goes, I will be celebrating my Mother's Day. Hopefully, I will receive three hanging baskets (a tradition), the Pioneer Woman's new book (a must-have) and a trip to the zoo. Again, we'll see if anyone in the family really reads my blog.
I hope you have a good weekend. Spend tons of time with family and friends. Date, date, date your spouse and kids. Eat together. Watch TV together. Read together. Worship together. Family time is precious, and not something to be taken lightly.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
GUESS WHAT? My server was down this morning, and I couldn't post today's Weekend Happenings until now.
GUESS WHAT ELSE? My server has informed me they had to remove yesterday's post (entitled Civil War Date), but they will "return" it very, very soon.
AND GUESS WHAT ELSE (LAST ONE)? Two and a half years ago, I had no idea what a widget, server, disabled cookie or post was, but today I know the meaning of the word "post." I'm hoping in the next three to five years to totally understand the meaning of the other three terms.
The Gallery Pic is a leftover from Roxie's Basketball Banquet.
DON'T FORGET - Remember to check out Confessions of a Pioneer Woman (Photography) to see the rest of the photographs which have been entered in the "Action" contest (today and tomorrow). They are really wonderful.
ALSO, DON'T FORGET - I'll be posting a picture a day on Belinda's Project Life tonight, tomorrow and Sunday. (Since my server was down last night, too, I didn't get to post yesterday's Picture of the Day. I'll take care of that in just a little while.)
Weekend Happenings
Today has been extremely busy so far. I had two back-to-back doctor appointments for Josh and Roxie, and in my travels I missed TWO wonderful photo opportunities.
While turning the Big Gold Van around because I had gotten lost looking for Josh's new doctor's office off Highway 280, I had to stop to let two geese and their baby goslings cross the busy side street in front of me. So sweet.
And when Roxie received the "all clear" sign from her surgeon (meaning she could FINALLY touch a volleyball and basketball three days before high school tryouts), I would have loved to have taken a picture of her face. Pure joy!
But, I missed both of those shots. Sorry.
I've got two boys working at different Chicks tomorrow, and a Mikie working at his office for a little while, too. Roxie and I are going to clean (in between her practice schedule). She has invited some volleyball chicks over tomorrow night for a cookout and some setting, serving and passing drills. It should be fun.
As far as Sunday goes, I will be celebrating my Mother's Day. Hopefully, I will receive three hanging baskets (a tradition), the Pioneer Woman's new book (a must-have) and a trip to the zoo. Again, we'll see if anyone in the family really reads my blog.
I hope you have a good weekend. Spend tons of time with family and friends. Date, date, date your spouse and kids. Eat together. Watch TV together. Read together. Worship together. Family time is precious, and not something to be taken lightly.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Civil War Date
Good Thursday morning!
I only have one Gallery Pic this morning... and it's a leftover from Monday night's Choir Concert. It's just a photo of one of Josh's many fans!
RANDOMNESS - I am Randomness-Free today. I am without Random. Usually, Random is all that flows through my head at any given time, day or night. Very, very odd. If anything pops into my head today (anything at all), I promise to re-post during the day.
Blog Linkage - I just have a couple of links to share with you today, but they are good ones.
1. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "Process: Slow Decorating" dated May 11. This girl makes a lot of sense to me. I like her style, and her lovely "lived-in" home.
2. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and click on Photography at the top of her page. She has another contest underway, and this is a good one. It is entitled "Action." She's already posted two days worth of "Action" shots, and she'll have Days 3 and 4 today and tomorrows. I LOVE looking at these pictures.
Enjoy!
Civil War Date
It has been documented on A Simple Life, so this will not surprise you. I have THREE history buffs in in the family. That's right! Three Plaque Readers! And while this is a HUGE source of irritation for Roxie and me whenever we travel, Mikie, Austin and Josh do enjoy a good plaque from time to time.
If you have a history buff tween or teen in your family, this may be the date for you.
Tannehill Civil War Reenactment - Tannehill and the Alabama State Militia Artillery will host the 12th annual Civil War Battle and Living History Reenactment May 28 and May 29. There will be more than 500 reenactors present. Camps open at 9:00 a.m. with the battle beginning at 2:00 p.m.
You and your date can shop for unique Civil War collectibles, jewelry, clothing, uniforms and more in the traveling merchandise tents.
Try some of Doc Bell's Wizard Elixir. (Hey! Be sure and check the ingredients of this Elixir before you give it to your kid. I'm assuming it's family-friendly, but do NOT take a chance!)
Step into Colonel Jon's Kitchen for some delicious Indian fry bread.
See swordsmanship, marching and firing demonstrations.
Hear live Civil War music from the 5th Alabama Regimental Band.
Admission is $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for seniors (62 and older) and $2.00 for children (ages 6 to 11).
Tannehill is located 12 miles below Bessemer off I-20/59, Exit 100. You can see photos of last year's reenactment at www.tannehill.org. For more information, call 205-477-5711.
NOTE - As I mentioned above, the camps open at 9:00 a.m. and the battle begins at 2:00 p.m. The event is over at 3:00 p.m.
Have a terrific Thursday. I'll be back bright and early Friday morning with Weekend Happenings, Randomness and one or two more pics to finish this busy, busy week. Feel free to stop by and visit awhile.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I only have one Gallery Pic this morning... and it's a leftover from Monday night's Choir Concert. It's just a photo of one of Josh's many fans!
RANDOMNESS - I am Randomness-Free today. I am without Random. Usually, Random is all that flows through my head at any given time, day or night. Very, very odd. If anything pops into my head today (anything at all), I promise to re-post during the day.
Blog Linkage - I just have a couple of links to share with you today, but they are good ones.
1. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "Process: Slow Decorating" dated May 11. This girl makes a lot of sense to me. I like her style, and her lovely "lived-in" home.
2. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and click on Photography at the top of her page. She has another contest underway, and this is a good one. It is entitled "Action." She's already posted two days worth of "Action" shots, and she'll have Days 3 and 4 today and tomorrows. I LOVE looking at these pictures.
Enjoy!
Civil War Date
It has been documented on A Simple Life, so this will not surprise you. I have THREE history buffs in in the family. That's right! Three Plaque Readers! And while this is a HUGE source of irritation for Roxie and me whenever we travel, Mikie, Austin and Josh do enjoy a good plaque from time to time.
If you have a history buff tween or teen in your family, this may be the date for you.
Tannehill Civil War Reenactment - Tannehill and the Alabama State Militia Artillery will host the 12th annual Civil War Battle and Living History Reenactment May 28 and May 29. There will be more than 500 reenactors present. Camps open at 9:00 a.m. with the battle beginning at 2:00 p.m.
You and your date can shop for unique Civil War collectibles, jewelry, clothing, uniforms and more in the traveling merchandise tents.
Try some of Doc Bell's Wizard Elixir. (Hey! Be sure and check the ingredients of this Elixir before you give it to your kid. I'm assuming it's family-friendly, but do NOT take a chance!)
Step into Colonel Jon's Kitchen for some delicious Indian fry bread.
See swordsmanship, marching and firing demonstrations.
Hear live Civil War music from the 5th Alabama Regimental Band.
Admission is $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for seniors (62 and older) and $2.00 for children (ages 6 to 11).
Tannehill is located 12 miles below Bessemer off I-20/59, Exit 100. You can see photos of last year's reenactment at www.tannehill.org. For more information, call 205-477-5711.
NOTE - As I mentioned above, the camps open at 9:00 a.m. and the battle begins at 2:00 p.m. The event is over at 3:00 p.m.
Have a terrific Thursday. I'll be back bright and early Friday morning with Weekend Happenings, Randomness and one or two more pics to finish this busy, busy week. Feel free to stop by and visit awhile.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Picnic Party
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from TWO events yesterday. Josh received the Academic Achievers Award (Top Twenty), and we went to a very nice luncheon with him (chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes, rolls, salad and WONDERFUL pies). And last night, we attended Roxie's Basketball Banquet (Full Moon Barbecue). Mikie and I enjoyed both very, very much. Great memories, AND I didn't have to cook.
And tonight is Pizza Wednesday, so I'm not cookin' tonight either! Don't worry. I'm only taking a little culinary break. I'm doing the Taco Salad thing for Thursday night. (I put it in writing, so now I'm obligated!)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for you... Josh has a new job. He will be working at the Chick in Trussville beginning TONIGHT. That's three out of our six... all working at Chick-Fil-A restaurants (Austin, Brad AND Josh). I'm thinking it is now a tradition and Katie, Roxie and Zac will need to work at a Chick, too.
We'll see. We'll see.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Our Mother's Day sermon this past Sunday was on the subject of "Stress." How perfect was that!
I've thought a great deal about stress the last few years, and while I know everyone reacts differently to stress, I have been able to put mine neatly in a timeline. In decades, no less!
21 to 30 - I thought I had stress (finishing school, moving into an apartment, joining a new church, dating, blind dating, working, deadlines, getting engaged, getting married), but I was wrong! That was fun stuff. Really, really fun stuff. And while there was stress going on, it was exciting, adrenaline-rushing stress. (Yes. In my 20s, I had adrenaline!)
31 to 40 - I thought I had stress (giving birth to three babies, raising three babies, preschool parties, birthday parties, play dates, stomach viruses, camping, cooking, cleaning, laundry, LAUNDRY, LAUNDRY), but I was wrong! That was wonderful stuff. Really, really wonderful stuff. And while there was stress going on, it was funny, ever-changing, sweet memory-makin' stress. (Just so you know, I could definitely tell my adrenaline level was getting lower and lower during that decade.)
40 to 49 - I thought I had stress (family illnesses, loss, children becoming teenagers, teenagers leaving home and becoming semi-adults, gravity, GRAVITY, GRAVITY), and this time I WAS RIGHT! I had STRESS! Big time! (And if you are in your 20s and 30s reading A Simple Life right now, let me just tell you... in your 40s there is NO adrenaline left!)
But I didn't have more stress than others around me. In fact, I could usually find someone who was much more stressed than I was at any particular time.
Stress is a fact of life, and quite frankly, I do not care for the "40 to 49" decade of stress. I do not care for it at all! But it's up to me to handle it the right way. I can worry about it, wrestle with it, cry, lose sleep... and wake up with it bright and early the next morning... OR I can follow God's plan for handling stress.
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." John 14:27
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." John 16:33
See? God has given us the key to stress-free living. Am I good at this? NO. I am not. But it's a moment-by-moment, day-by-day thing for me... and I hope from 50 to 60 I get much, much better dealing with stress.
We'll see. We'll see.
Wednesday Wisdom - I know it isn't Summer yet. It is still Spring... technically. But if you have gone outside the last few days, it definitely feels like Summer. And if you talk to your kids, Summer cannot get here fast enough for them... or me either! Here are some perfect (to me) Summer quotes to get everyone in the mood!
"Beach sand, perfect tans. Day walks, night talks. Sleepless nights, pillow fights, and spending every day with those who matter most.”
“Here’s to the nights where the sand is your seat, the waves kiss your feet, and your friends outnumber the stars."
"A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.” (This is Josh's quote for the summer.)
"The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever.” (And this one is Roxie's!)
Picnic Party
It's that time of year. The END OF SCHOOL! I always have a little End of School fling of some kind, and this year, I was thinking, "Maybe an old-fashioned picnic? Hmmm."
Of course, with teenage girls, there will need to be something else (picture-taking, shopping, tanning or movies), but for the "meal" part of the event, a picnic sounds pretty good, doesn't it?
Below you will find a checklist from Real Simple Magazine of all the things you need for the perfect picnic. For our little gathering, I'm thinking three or four blankets/quilts to give us plenty of room, fried chicken fingers and all the fixins' and I'm looking for a location near water under a big, shady tree. (It's been awhile, but Mikie and I used to have lovely picnics at Star Lake in Hoover. We could even feed the ducks!)
The key is keeping it simple, delicious AND fun.
1. Casual foods, preferably sandwiches or other things you can eat without utensils. Avoid foods with mayonnaise. Pack everything in lightweight, resealable containers.
2. Ice pack or bags of ice. Food can spoil and harbor bacteria when not stored at the right temperature. Keep everything cold with refreezable ice packs or fill a couple of resealable bags with ice cubes. They’ll chill food as it’s transported. Add the ice cubes to your drinks during the picnic.
3. Drinks. Bring an assortment of beverages, such as bottled water and sodas.
4. Condiments. Some ketchups and mustards come in mini jars that are small enough to throw in your tote. (Keep the jars to refill at home for your next picnic.)
5. Salt and pepper. Allow everyone to season their food to their liking on the spot.
6. Cups and plates.
7. Utensils, if needed. Opt for reusable utensils.
8. Serving utensils, if needed. If you’re serving salads, you may need tongs or serving spoons.
9. Cutting knife. Look for one with a cover for safe transporting. Or wrap the blade in a kitchen towel.
10. Small cutting board. It’s always handy to have a firm surface for slicing meat, cheese, and bread.
11. Napkins.
12. Trash bags. Don’t leave a mess behind. Dispose of everything you bring to the picnic site.
13. Moist towelettes. When you don’t have access to running water, these make it easy to wash up after eating.
14. Paper towels. Keep a roll on hand for mopping up spills and wiping bowls, containers, plates and utensils before you pack them back up.
15. Blanket(s). It should be large enough to comfortably hold all your picnic-goers and food. A light one that folds small is a bonus.
16. Tote, backpack, or picnic basket. Stow everything in a lightweight, roomy carrier.
Have a lovely Wednesday. I have a little Blog Linkage to share Thursday, as well as a nice little date. I guess I will also have more Randomness AND pics, too. I like things to stay the same (day after day after day), and for some reason I assume you like it that way, too.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from TWO events yesterday. Josh received the Academic Achievers Award (Top Twenty), and we went to a very nice luncheon with him (chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes, rolls, salad and WONDERFUL pies). And last night, we attended Roxie's Basketball Banquet (Full Moon Barbecue). Mikie and I enjoyed both very, very much. Great memories, AND I didn't have to cook.
And tonight is Pizza Wednesday, so I'm not cookin' tonight either! Don't worry. I'm only taking a little culinary break. I'm doing the Taco Salad thing for Thursday night. (I put it in writing, so now I'm obligated!)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for you... Josh has a new job. He will be working at the Chick in Trussville beginning TONIGHT. That's three out of our six... all working at Chick-Fil-A restaurants (Austin, Brad AND Josh). I'm thinking it is now a tradition and Katie, Roxie and Zac will need to work at a Chick, too.
We'll see. We'll see.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Our Mother's Day sermon this past Sunday was on the subject of "Stress." How perfect was that!
I've thought a great deal about stress the last few years, and while I know everyone reacts differently to stress, I have been able to put mine neatly in a timeline. In decades, no less!
21 to 30 - I thought I had stress (finishing school, moving into an apartment, joining a new church, dating, blind dating, working, deadlines, getting engaged, getting married), but I was wrong! That was fun stuff. Really, really fun stuff. And while there was stress going on, it was exciting, adrenaline-rushing stress. (Yes. In my 20s, I had adrenaline!)
31 to 40 - I thought I had stress (giving birth to three babies, raising three babies, preschool parties, birthday parties, play dates, stomach viruses, camping, cooking, cleaning, laundry, LAUNDRY, LAUNDRY), but I was wrong! That was wonderful stuff. Really, really wonderful stuff. And while there was stress going on, it was funny, ever-changing, sweet memory-makin' stress. (Just so you know, I could definitely tell my adrenaline level was getting lower and lower during that decade.)
40 to 49 - I thought I had stress (family illnesses, loss, children becoming teenagers, teenagers leaving home and becoming semi-adults, gravity, GRAVITY, GRAVITY), and this time I WAS RIGHT! I had STRESS! Big time! (And if you are in your 20s and 30s reading A Simple Life right now, let me just tell you... in your 40s there is NO adrenaline left!)
But I didn't have more stress than others around me. In fact, I could usually find someone who was much more stressed than I was at any particular time.
Stress is a fact of life, and quite frankly, I do not care for the "40 to 49" decade of stress. I do not care for it at all! But it's up to me to handle it the right way. I can worry about it, wrestle with it, cry, lose sleep... and wake up with it bright and early the next morning... OR I can follow God's plan for handling stress.
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." John 14:27
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." John 16:33
See? God has given us the key to stress-free living. Am I good at this? NO. I am not. But it's a moment-by-moment, day-by-day thing for me... and I hope from 50 to 60 I get much, much better dealing with stress.
We'll see. We'll see.
Wednesday Wisdom - I know it isn't Summer yet. It is still Spring... technically. But if you have gone outside the last few days, it definitely feels like Summer. And if you talk to your kids, Summer cannot get here fast enough for them... or me either! Here are some perfect (to me) Summer quotes to get everyone in the mood!
"Beach sand, perfect tans. Day walks, night talks. Sleepless nights, pillow fights, and spending every day with those who matter most.”
“Here’s to the nights where the sand is your seat, the waves kiss your feet, and your friends outnumber the stars."
"A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.” (This is Josh's quote for the summer.)
"The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever.” (And this one is Roxie's!)
Picnic Party
It's that time of year. The END OF SCHOOL! I always have a little End of School fling of some kind, and this year, I was thinking, "Maybe an old-fashioned picnic? Hmmm."
Of course, with teenage girls, there will need to be something else (picture-taking, shopping, tanning or movies), but for the "meal" part of the event, a picnic sounds pretty good, doesn't it?
Below you will find a checklist from Real Simple Magazine of all the things you need for the perfect picnic. For our little gathering, I'm thinking three or four blankets/quilts to give us plenty of room, fried chicken fingers and all the fixins' and I'm looking for a location near water under a big, shady tree. (It's been awhile, but Mikie and I used to have lovely picnics at Star Lake in Hoover. We could even feed the ducks!)
The key is keeping it simple, delicious AND fun.
1. Casual foods, preferably sandwiches or other things you can eat without utensils. Avoid foods with mayonnaise. Pack everything in lightweight, resealable containers.
2. Ice pack or bags of ice. Food can spoil and harbor bacteria when not stored at the right temperature. Keep everything cold with refreezable ice packs or fill a couple of resealable bags with ice cubes. They’ll chill food as it’s transported. Add the ice cubes to your drinks during the picnic.
3. Drinks. Bring an assortment of beverages, such as bottled water and sodas.
4. Condiments. Some ketchups and mustards come in mini jars that are small enough to throw in your tote. (Keep the jars to refill at home for your next picnic.)
5. Salt and pepper. Allow everyone to season their food to their liking on the spot.
6. Cups and plates.
7. Utensils, if needed. Opt for reusable utensils.
8. Serving utensils, if needed. If you’re serving salads, you may need tongs or serving spoons.
9. Cutting knife. Look for one with a cover for safe transporting. Or wrap the blade in a kitchen towel.
10. Small cutting board. It’s always handy to have a firm surface for slicing meat, cheese, and bread.
11. Napkins.
12. Trash bags. Don’t leave a mess behind. Dispose of everything you bring to the picnic site.
13. Moist towelettes. When you don’t have access to running water, these make it easy to wash up after eating.
14. Paper towels. Keep a roll on hand for mopping up spills and wiping bowls, containers, plates and utensils before you pack them back up.
15. Blanket(s). It should be large enough to comfortably hold all your picnic-goers and food. A light one that folds small is a bonus.
16. Tote, backpack, or picnic basket. Stow everything in a lightweight, roomy carrier.
Have a lovely Wednesday. I have a little Blog Linkage to share Thursday, as well as a nice little date. I guess I will also have more Randomness AND pics, too. I like things to stay the same (day after day after day), and for some reason I assume you like it that way, too.
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!