Good Monday morning!
It is Mindless Monday! That wonderful first day of the blogging week when I have a teeny, tiny post and LOTS and LOTS of pictures telling the story of the Faulkner Five Weekend! It's like a child's picture book... one of my most favorite things!
CONTEST! CONTEST! CONTEST! - In only three weeks, I will post my 600th post. SIX HUNDRED! WOW! On the day I post my 600th post (Friday, February 18), I will announce the winner of the Contest. It will be so easy to win it is embarrassing, I tell you.
All you have to do is read A Simple Life Monday through Friday (February 14 through February 18). Every day during the week of February 14, I will use a color word SOMEWHERE in the post. (I imagine the word "red" will probably be somewhere in Monday's post... because of Valentine's Day and all).
After you read Friday's post, you will need to send me a comment in the Comment Section, an e-mail or Facebook message giving me the list of colors mentioned in the posts that week.
Your entry should look something like this:
Monday - Red
Tuesday - (The color word I use in the post that day.)
Wednesday - (Same as above.)
Thursday - (Are you getting the idea now?)
Friday - (Please say you understand!)
The FIRST person who leaves me a comment, e-mail or Facebook message with the five correct color words in the correct ORDER will win... A GIFT CERTIFICATE TO OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE! How about that? Pretty cool, huh?
I'll post the rules again next Monday. But remember, the contest begins Valentine's Day!
This is an extremely busy week on A Simple Life. The recipe I'll be sharing Tuesday (with pics) is sinfully delicious! The Valentine's Day Tradition is fun, fun, fun AND the Blog Linkage and Kid Date are out of this world!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow!
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, January 31, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from the County Basketball Tournament last night. Even though our team is out of the Tournament, we are still the hosts. As you can see, we have very high spirits, which says a great deal about our girls and all of the parents working in the Hospitality Suite, sweeping the floors in the gym, cleaning the bleachers, emptying trash cans, etc., etc.
And I will say the officials, coaches from other teams, etc. have all been very nice, which makes serving them a pleasure and not a chore.
RANDOMNESS - If you are a mother and you have a little girl (under 14 years of age), I want to give you a little warning.
1. Chances are, your chick will be wearing make-up around 14 years of age.
2. If (or when) your chick runs out of powder, blush, mascara, eye shadow, etc., she will naturally come to your bathroom and check out your make-up products.
3. If you have raised her right, she will politely ask if she can use your powder, blush, mascara, eye shadow, etc. And because she asked so sweetly, you will give your consent.
4. She will tell you she is going to take it to her bathroom and apply it in front of her uber-magnifying make-up mirror. Again, you give your consent, because several years ago you threw your uber-magnifying make-up mirror in the trash can because you noticed it caused severe depression. (NOTE - Only women with no pores, wrinkles, laugh lines, frown lines, etc. should ever use an uber-magnifying make-up mirror. Roxie will probably be throwing her mirror away in two to three years!)
5. You will take your perfectly coiffed and beautifully made-up daughter to school and drop her off for a day of learning and socializing with her friends.
6. You will drive home to get ready for a doctor's appointment, a haircut AND some shopping for the County Basketball Tournament.
7. You will discover after your shower you have NO powder, NO blush and NO mascara. You look pale, weepy and a little angry. (NOTE - The angry look doesn't come from lack of make-up. It comes from HAVING NO MAKE-UP AT ALL!)
8. You put on a really nice top, make your hair really big AND wear a lot of bright lipstick.
9. When you walk into the doctor's office, they ask if you are feeling okay when you sign in. (NOTE - You aren't even at YOUR doctor's office. You are with your son for his doctor's appointment.)
10. When you get your haircut, the beautician says, "Well, let's see if we can make this a better day." But she can't.
11. When you go to the different fast food restaurants to pick up food for the Hospitality Suite, the managers take one look at you and yell at the workers, "Hurry up with that order. She doesn't have much time left. I mean 'time.' She doesn't have much TIME!"
12. When you arrive at the school, your daughter comes running up to you. Her hair is glossy perfection. Her eyelashes are 12" long. Her blush has been expertly re-applied for the evening's festivities. She is beautiful. "Mom, are you feeling okay? You look rough. And why are your lips so bright?"
13. At home, you ask for your make-up to be returned. You hide all of your make-up products in five or six different places.
14. You wake up the next morning, take your perfectly coiffed and beautifully made-up daughter to school. (She has new make-up, you see.) When you arrive home, you hop in the shower to get ready for your day which includes running a few more errands and going to the bank.)
15. You can't remember where you hid ANY of your make-up products... except for the really, really bright lipstick.
I know you want to know the moral of this story. Sorry. There is no moral. This is the true story of life with a 14 year-old girl. The good (lots of good... really, really good), the bad (when she takes your make-up to school... really, really bad) and the ugly (how I look when she takes my make-up to school... really, really ugly)!
Weekend Happenings
Tonight, we finish the County Basketball Tournament, and basketball will officially be over for this school year. We're a little sad, but Roxie is very tired and the rest will do her good. Plus, next week we find out the date for her hand surgery which she must have in order to try out for basketball next year!
The Boy is coming in this morning and working at the Chick all afternoon.
Mikie and the brothers are planning on going hunting tomorrow. While they are gone doing "man" stuff, I am taking Roxie to a new, fun, hip place. I'm not going to tell you where because it's next week's Date! You'll have to check in Thursday to find out all about this destination!
After church on Sunday, we're heading to Grandmother's for a big family dinner with my sister and her family.
It's going to be a good weekend with lots of family and friends... and no snow!
Have a fun weekend. I'll be posting a Picture a Day today, Saturday and Sunday on Belinda's Project Life. I'll be back next week with a ton of Valentine's Day ideas, traditions, devotions and parties. I'll start my Top Ten Lists (Top Ten Reasons I Love...) on Tuesday. I'll be talking about the upcoming Contest. And that's only the beginning!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from the County Basketball Tournament last night. Even though our team is out of the Tournament, we are still the hosts. As you can see, we have very high spirits, which says a great deal about our girls and all of the parents working in the Hospitality Suite, sweeping the floors in the gym, cleaning the bleachers, emptying trash cans, etc., etc.
And I will say the officials, coaches from other teams, etc. have all been very nice, which makes serving them a pleasure and not a chore.
RANDOMNESS - If you are a mother and you have a little girl (under 14 years of age), I want to give you a little warning.
1. Chances are, your chick will be wearing make-up around 14 years of age.
2. If (or when) your chick runs out of powder, blush, mascara, eye shadow, etc., she will naturally come to your bathroom and check out your make-up products.
3. If you have raised her right, she will politely ask if she can use your powder, blush, mascara, eye shadow, etc. And because she asked so sweetly, you will give your consent.
4. She will tell you she is going to take it to her bathroom and apply it in front of her uber-magnifying make-up mirror. Again, you give your consent, because several years ago you threw your uber-magnifying make-up mirror in the trash can because you noticed it caused severe depression. (NOTE - Only women with no pores, wrinkles, laugh lines, frown lines, etc. should ever use an uber-magnifying make-up mirror. Roxie will probably be throwing her mirror away in two to three years!)
5. You will take your perfectly coiffed and beautifully made-up daughter to school and drop her off for a day of learning and socializing with her friends.
6. You will drive home to get ready for a doctor's appointment, a haircut AND some shopping for the County Basketball Tournament.
7. You will discover after your shower you have NO powder, NO blush and NO mascara. You look pale, weepy and a little angry. (NOTE - The angry look doesn't come from lack of make-up. It comes from HAVING NO MAKE-UP AT ALL!)
8. You put on a really nice top, make your hair really big AND wear a lot of bright lipstick.
9. When you walk into the doctor's office, they ask if you are feeling okay when you sign in. (NOTE - You aren't even at YOUR doctor's office. You are with your son for his doctor's appointment.)
10. When you get your haircut, the beautician says, "Well, let's see if we can make this a better day." But she can't.
11. When you go to the different fast food restaurants to pick up food for the Hospitality Suite, the managers take one look at you and yell at the workers, "Hurry up with that order. She doesn't have much time left. I mean 'time.' She doesn't have much TIME!"
12. When you arrive at the school, your daughter comes running up to you. Her hair is glossy perfection. Her eyelashes are 12" long. Her blush has been expertly re-applied for the evening's festivities. She is beautiful. "Mom, are you feeling okay? You look rough. And why are your lips so bright?"
13. At home, you ask for your make-up to be returned. You hide all of your make-up products in five or six different places.
14. You wake up the next morning, take your perfectly coiffed and beautifully made-up daughter to school. (She has new make-up, you see.) When you arrive home, you hop in the shower to get ready for your day which includes running a few more errands and going to the bank.)
15. You can't remember where you hid ANY of your make-up products... except for the really, really bright lipstick.
I know you want to know the moral of this story. Sorry. There is no moral. This is the true story of life with a 14 year-old girl. The good (lots of good... really, really good), the bad (when she takes your make-up to school... really, really bad) and the ugly (how I look when she takes my make-up to school... really, really ugly)!
Weekend Happenings
Tonight, we finish the County Basketball Tournament, and basketball will officially be over for this school year. We're a little sad, but Roxie is very tired and the rest will do her good. Plus, next week we find out the date for her hand surgery which she must have in order to try out for basketball next year!
The Boy is coming in this morning and working at the Chick all afternoon.
Mikie and the brothers are planning on going hunting tomorrow. While they are gone doing "man" stuff, I am taking Roxie to a new, fun, hip place. I'm not going to tell you where because it's next week's Date! You'll have to check in Thursday to find out all about this destination!
After church on Sunday, we're heading to Grandmother's for a big family dinner with my sister and her family.
It's going to be a good weekend with lots of family and friends... and no snow!
Have a fun weekend. I'll be posting a Picture a Day today, Saturday and Sunday on Belinda's Project Life. I'll be back next week with a ton of Valentine's Day ideas, traditions, devotions and parties. I'll start my Top Ten Lists (Top Ten Reasons I Love...) on Tuesday. I'll be talking about the upcoming Contest. And that's only the beginning!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Salamandar Date and Bart Art Date
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pic for the day has become the story of my life. I rarely purchase food items now (for me) unless there is a label somewhere on the package that states, "Good Daily Source of Fiber." And get out of my way if it says, "Meets ALL of Your Daily Fiber Needs." Just another cold, hard fact in this season of my life. Oh, and just so you know... This isn't the "Autumn Season" of my life. It's the "Supplement Season." And it's the LONGEST season of them all!
ANNOUNCEMENT! - My blog Spell Checker is not working today, so forgive me if there are more typos than usual. I'll check back later in the day to see if someone in cyberland fixed the Checker!
RANDOMNESS - If you recall, Tuesday's recipe was called Quick Chicken Divan. I received a comment later in the day I wanted to share with you. My friend, Jennifer, suggested adding crushed potato chips on top of the Chicken Divan for that "extra" something. Of course, I'll be sure to find a bag of chips which has fiber added, but doesn't that sound good?
If you keep a recipe file, go ahead and add that little ingredient, please.
Blog Linkage - I said I had some good linkage today, and I was telling the truth!
1. If you are crafty, you'll need to click on eighteen25 under My Blog List. Scroll down, down, down and find the post entitled "You Gotta See This" dated January 21. The Vacation Memory Jars and the Banner are so cute, and definitely something you could make with your own chicks. I loved them. (I also loved the decorations they used for the bowling party. Very clever.)
2. Now go to BooMama under My Blog List. Scroll all the way down to the bottom. Click on "In Which I Share Some Not-At-All Original Ideas" dated January 25. This blogging chick shares her memories of Sunday dinners growing up, and how she is planning on re-starting this tradition. She even gives good tips and recipes for how and what to serve for large after-church meals. I promise. It will make you want to cook and fellowship!
3. Make your way to Nesting Place under my Blog List. There are two posts for you to read on this blog. The first post is called "Up Chairs" dated January 21. You'll need to scroll all the way to the bottom and click on the post. It's a decorating post, but it's sweet because it features the chairs the characters in Up sat in... side-by-side... holding hands. The chairs don't belong side-by-side in the decorating world, but... Well, I'll just let you read the post.
4. Now go back to the TOP of the page and enjoy the post entitled "Random Plates" dated January 25. Pretty cool, huh?
Salamandar Date and Bart Art Date
I've totally abandoned today's original date for these two events which take place this weekend. Of course, I visited Birmingham Bargain Mom and found the info on her wonderful website, but if you have a reptile-lovin' or artistic kiddo in your family, you simply cannot miss these dates.
1. If your child likes his/her animals on the slimy side, you'll need to take him/her to The Salamander Festival this Saturday, January 29, 2011 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Festival will be held at Homewood Community Center located in Homewood Central Park.
There will be live salamanders to see and hold. Real biologists will be there to answer questions and tell you more about salamanders.
There will also be a fish display of fish from Shades Creek, fossilized amphibian and reptile tracks, a wildflower display AND free nature arts and crafts for the kids.
Parents, you will love this. They are going to have a chocolate fountain which will cost only $1.00.
A live presentation will begin at 4:00 p.m. and will feature The Herb Trotman Band, breakdancing and The Salamander Story.
Hey! How many people can say they went to a Salamandar Festival, ate from a chocolate fountain and watched breakdancing... all in the same day? You've got to admit. It sounds pretty interesting.
Oh, and did I mention it is a FREE event? Well, except for the chocolate fountain. (And I would bring a $10 bill to make sure my date thoroughly enjoyed the fountain!)
2. The Birmingham Museum of Art is offering a FREE drop-in art program for kids and families. Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some of your own with the help of their Teen Volunteers. Each month will highlight a different gallery and feature a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
This Saturday, January 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and Sunday, January 29 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. take inspiration from the Museum's current exhibition (Spiral: Perspectives on an African-American Art Collective), and come spin your own work of art!
If you cannot make it this Saturday or Sunday, call the Birmingham Museum of Art to get their schedule for 2011. (205) 254-2565.
It's FREE and it would be a great way to spend an hour or so with your child doing something creative and fun.
Have a fantastic Thursday. I know you will! We'll end up the week with no huge surprises... Weekend Happenings and some Randomness here and there.
Take care, and I'll talk to tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pic for the day has become the story of my life. I rarely purchase food items now (for me) unless there is a label somewhere on the package that states, "Good Daily Source of Fiber." And get out of my way if it says, "Meets ALL of Your Daily Fiber Needs." Just another cold, hard fact in this season of my life. Oh, and just so you know... This isn't the "Autumn Season" of my life. It's the "Supplement Season." And it's the LONGEST season of them all!
ANNOUNCEMENT! - My blog Spell Checker is not working today, so forgive me if there are more typos than usual. I'll check back later in the day to see if someone in cyberland fixed the Checker!
RANDOMNESS - If you recall, Tuesday's recipe was called Quick Chicken Divan. I received a comment later in the day I wanted to share with you. My friend, Jennifer, suggested adding crushed potato chips on top of the Chicken Divan for that "extra" something. Of course, I'll be sure to find a bag of chips which has fiber added, but doesn't that sound good?
If you keep a recipe file, go ahead and add that little ingredient, please.
Blog Linkage - I said I had some good linkage today, and I was telling the truth!
1. If you are crafty, you'll need to click on eighteen25 under My Blog List. Scroll down, down, down and find the post entitled "You Gotta See This" dated January 21. The Vacation Memory Jars and the Banner are so cute, and definitely something you could make with your own chicks. I loved them. (I also loved the decorations they used for the bowling party. Very clever.)
2. Now go to BooMama under My Blog List. Scroll all the way down to the bottom. Click on "In Which I Share Some Not-At-All Original Ideas" dated January 25. This blogging chick shares her memories of Sunday dinners growing up, and how she is planning on re-starting this tradition. She even gives good tips and recipes for how and what to serve for large after-church meals. I promise. It will make you want to cook and fellowship!
3. Make your way to Nesting Place under my Blog List. There are two posts for you to read on this blog. The first post is called "Up Chairs" dated January 21. You'll need to scroll all the way to the bottom and click on the post. It's a decorating post, but it's sweet because it features the chairs the characters in Up sat in... side-by-side... holding hands. The chairs don't belong side-by-side in the decorating world, but... Well, I'll just let you read the post.
4. Now go back to the TOP of the page and enjoy the post entitled "Random Plates" dated January 25. Pretty cool, huh?
Salamandar Date and Bart Art Date
I've totally abandoned today's original date for these two events which take place this weekend. Of course, I visited Birmingham Bargain Mom and found the info on her wonderful website, but if you have a reptile-lovin' or artistic kiddo in your family, you simply cannot miss these dates.
1. If your child likes his/her animals on the slimy side, you'll need to take him/her to The Salamander Festival this Saturday, January 29, 2011 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Festival will be held at Homewood Community Center located in Homewood Central Park.
There will be live salamanders to see and hold. Real biologists will be there to answer questions and tell you more about salamanders.
There will also be a fish display of fish from Shades Creek, fossilized amphibian and reptile tracks, a wildflower display AND free nature arts and crafts for the kids.
Parents, you will love this. They are going to have a chocolate fountain which will cost only $1.00.
A live presentation will begin at 4:00 p.m. and will feature The Herb Trotman Band, breakdancing and The Salamander Story.
Hey! How many people can say they went to a Salamandar Festival, ate from a chocolate fountain and watched breakdancing... all in the same day? You've got to admit. It sounds pretty interesting.
Oh, and did I mention it is a FREE event? Well, except for the chocolate fountain. (And I would bring a $10 bill to make sure my date thoroughly enjoyed the fountain!)
2. The Birmingham Museum of Art is offering a FREE drop-in art program for kids and families. Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some of your own with the help of their Teen Volunteers. Each month will highlight a different gallery and feature a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
This Saturday, January 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and Sunday, January 29 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. take inspiration from the Museum's current exhibition (Spiral: Perspectives on an African-American Art Collective), and come spin your own work of art!
If you cannot make it this Saturday or Sunday, call the Birmingham Museum of Art to get their schedule for 2011. (205) 254-2565.
It's FREE and it would be a great way to spend an hour or so with your child doing something creative and fun.
Have a fantastic Thursday. I know you will! We'll end up the week with no huge surprises... Weekend Happenings and some Randomness here and there.
Take care, and I'll talk to tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Basketball Party
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from the basketball game last night. The final game of our middle school career. We played a good, hard game, but in the end, the other team won. The team that won was a class act. Our team was a class act. The other team's coach was extremely professional. Our coach was extremely professional. I was proud of all the girls involved... on both sides. (That being said, I was really, really hoping we would win. Heavy sigh! And I don't care what you say. I am NOT living vicariously through my daughter. Well... maybe just a little.)
ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! - It's a LONG post today. However, everything is labeled, so pick and choose what interests you.
RANDOMNESS - Fun fact for you... Basketball is my favorite spectator sport. The games are exciting, fast and just because you're down by 10 goals at halftime, it doesn't mean the game is over. (In football, if you're behind 10 touchdowns at halftime, most of the stadium starts emptying out.)
I don't watch a lot of March Madness now, but I ALWAYS make sure I watch at least part of the last game and the final song when they show all the clips.
I always cry when I see a player tear up and hang his head in disappointment. I always cry when the winning team starts taking turns cutting pieces of the net. I always cry when I see the teammates hug each other, rub each other's heads or jump in each other's arms (whether from defeat or joy).
And if a member of the winning team walks over and hugs a member from the losing team, forget about it! I usually have to take my "Austin is in College, Josh is Driving and Roxie is a Teenager" meds and call it a night.
It's as emotional for me as the Christmas Hallmark commercials and the Mother's Day Show Regis and Kelly have each year.
There's no point to the above. That's why it's called "Randomness." Read on, please.
Wednesday Wisdom - Guess what our quotes are about today. Just guess...
"We can't win at home. We can't win on the road. As general manager, I just can't figure out where else to play." Pat Williams, Orlando Magic general manager, on his team's 7-27 record in 1992.
"There are really only two plays: Romeo and Juliet, and put the darn ball in the basket." Abe Lemons
"Fans never fall asleep at our games because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." George Raveling
"Kids are great. That's one of the best things about our business, all the kids you get to meet. It's a shame they have to grow up to be regular people and come to the games and call you names." Charles Barkley (This is my favorite... and not just because it came from an Alabama boy!)
Basketball Party
I looked around and found some of these ideas on various websites. It would be a great party for a basketball lovin' son or daughter.
Invitations
Make your own basketball party invitations to look like basketball tickets. Copy some authentic tickets and then add your party details. Write 'Admit One' on both sides of the tickets.
The wording of your basketball party invitations can say the following:
Are you ready to come have a ball with us? Please join us at center court as we celebrate (your child's name) _th (age of your child) season in what proves to be an exciting home opener!
Arena: (your address)
Tip-Off: (time)
Post game reception to follow. RSVP to coaches (parents' names). Please dribble up court for what we hope to be a Slam-Dunking good time!
Other Ideas
1. Encourage your party guests to wear their favorite team jerseys.
2. It's ideal that you have a basketball hoop outside. If not, try to borrow one for a day or two. Hang a sign "Welcome to Bartow Arena" (or use the arena name of your favorite team) outside your front door.
3. If you have any basketball memorabilia, display it in the party room to set the mood. Hang basketball posters, jerseys, hats and other basketball-related items.
4. Place basketballs all over the party room to use for later games.
5. Play "Jock Jams" or other sports-themed music during the basketball birthday party to add excitement and basketball game atmosphere.
Party Favors
Balls
Whistles
Basketball Key Chains
Hats
Tattoos
Mesh bags
Basketball Birthday Party Games
Loony Locker Room: Before the party, fill a large box with clothing items you can find in lost-and-found (the funnier the better, big clothing items, too).
At the basketball birthday party, explain to the group that somebody got into the locker room and stole all the players' street clothes. Since the players can't wear their jerseys on the street, they have to find suitable clothes in a lost-and-found box.
Have the kids stand in a circle. Play the party music and get the kids to pass the box. When the music stops, the person holding the box must take an item from the box and put it on as fast as possible. Play continues in the same manner until all the items are gone. Take a group picture at the end of this basketball party game.
Training Camp: Everyone needs to get in shape before the season. This basketball birthday party activity allows the kids to do just that. Start the game with jumping jacks, push-ups, crunches and some sprinting drills. Then move to passing the ball around, dribbling it around the cones and shooting it in the net. Be sure to have some stopwatches and whistles handy.
O-U-T: One player starts this game by shooting the ball from anywhere on the court. If the ball goes in, the other players have to score from the same place. (Have a draw to determine shooting order.) Kids that make the shot are safe. Those players who miss get an "O." If they get "O," "U" and "T," they are out of the game.
If the first player doesn't make his or her first shot, the second player takes over the lead position. The last player remaining wins the game.
Chase the Dog: For this basketball birthday party game, you'll need bandannas and basketballs for all the players.
Each player has to tuck in a bandanna into his or her back pocket (to resemble a tail). On the command "Go!" all the players must start dribbling the ball. While staying in the designated area and continuing the dribble, the kids must try to grab the other players' bandannas. Whoever looses his or her "tail" is out of the game. The last person left standing (top dog) is the winner.
Nothing But Net: Mark the free throw line with a masking tape. The purpose of the game is to make as many free throws as possible in 30 seconds. Whoever makes the most baskets, wins the game.
Space Jam: Let your basketball birthday party guests watch Space Jam (or other basketball show) to unwind at the end of the party. They can do this while waiting for their rides.
Food and Drink
Basketball Cake: Prepare and mix batter according to package directions. Grease a 2- or 3-quart oven-proof bowl and pour in batter.
Bake a little longer than the recommended baking time. Flip the cake onto a large platter. Now you have a basketball cake. Sprinkle platter with yellow-tinted coconut to form the basketball court.
Prepare orange food coloring (or combination of red and yellow coloring) to white frosting to achieve the desired color. Frost the basketball cake. Add black frosting or licorice for "basketball lines". You can write a "Happy Birthday" message if you choose to.
Basketball Birthday Party Food Ideas
Hotdogs
Nachos
Giant Pretzels
Popcorn
Power Bars
Ice Cream
Basketball Birthday Party Drink Ideas
Sideline Smoothies: Put 1 1/2 cups orange juice, 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 1 cup ice in a blender. Blend well and serve. You can also serve Power Drinks like Gatorade, Powerade, etc.
NOTE - You can use any of the ideas you like, but you can also attend a local high school or college game for minimal cost. You can plan on eating cake and "party food" before or after the game.
Devotion
A certain man and his two sons had been looking forward to going to a basketball game for a long time. They drove most of Saturday to get to their destination to see their favorite two teams play.
They rushed to check into a motel. In a hurry, they made it to the game just before tip-off. The problem was they were still standing in line outside. But that really did not bother them. They knew they were going to see the majority of the game. What they did not know was all the seats were filling up while they stood outside. In fact, just before they came to the ticket window, the sales person put up a sign: "Sorry, no more tickets. Sell out."
They could not believe their eyes. This man and his sons had traveled most of the day to get there. This was supposed to be the "highlight" of their vacation. The man rushed to the window. He pleaded for three tickets. But all the lady at the window could say was, "I am sorry. We are sold out." When he tried to explain to the lady how important the game was to him and his two sons, and how far they had driven to be there, the lady said, "Remember, if you want to be assured of a ticket to an important game, you need to make sure you have a ticket ahead of time." The man knew she was right.
There are some events in life that are so important we should make sure we have whatever it takes to get in the door.
Jesus told three parables about having the proper tickets. One was about some maidens who were not allowed to attend a wedding party because they had neglected to prepare their lamps with oil (Matthew 25:1-12). Lighted lamps were their tickets.
Another guest was put out of a wedding party because he had either refused or neglected to wear the wedding garment that was furnished him when he came to the party (Matthew 22:11-14). That special garment was his ticket.
Then Jesus told of a group of people who refused to come to their king's party because they had other priorities (Luke 14:15-24).
Those who did not value the "ticket" or the invitation they had received never enjoyed the blessing of feasting with the Lord.
Do we realize the value of a ticket? Do we realize how blessed and fortunate we are to be able to freely attend church each and every Sunday AND Wednesday evening? Do we take that opportunity for granted?
Each time we say no to attending church, are we throwing a valuable ticket away. A ticket which would allow us to worship God in His house with other believers.
It's an important ticket, and no matter how old we are, we don't need to take it for granted!
Have a lovely Wednesday. I have to tell you my Blog Linkage for tomorrow's post is very, very good. I'm not bragging or anything (because basically it's all about great stuff other people wrote), but it is good nonetheless.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from the basketball game last night. The final game of our middle school career. We played a good, hard game, but in the end, the other team won. The team that won was a class act. Our team was a class act. The other team's coach was extremely professional. Our coach was extremely professional. I was proud of all the girls involved... on both sides. (That being said, I was really, really hoping we would win. Heavy sigh! And I don't care what you say. I am NOT living vicariously through my daughter. Well... maybe just a little.)
ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! - It's a LONG post today. However, everything is labeled, so pick and choose what interests you.
RANDOMNESS - Fun fact for you... Basketball is my favorite spectator sport. The games are exciting, fast and just because you're down by 10 goals at halftime, it doesn't mean the game is over. (In football, if you're behind 10 touchdowns at halftime, most of the stadium starts emptying out.)
I don't watch a lot of March Madness now, but I ALWAYS make sure I watch at least part of the last game and the final song when they show all the clips.
I always cry when I see a player tear up and hang his head in disappointment. I always cry when the winning team starts taking turns cutting pieces of the net. I always cry when I see the teammates hug each other, rub each other's heads or jump in each other's arms (whether from defeat or joy).
And if a member of the winning team walks over and hugs a member from the losing team, forget about it! I usually have to take my "Austin is in College, Josh is Driving and Roxie is a Teenager" meds and call it a night.
It's as emotional for me as the Christmas Hallmark commercials and the Mother's Day Show Regis and Kelly have each year.
There's no point to the above. That's why it's called "Randomness." Read on, please.
Wednesday Wisdom - Guess what our quotes are about today. Just guess...
"We can't win at home. We can't win on the road. As general manager, I just can't figure out where else to play." Pat Williams, Orlando Magic general manager, on his team's 7-27 record in 1992.
"There are really only two plays: Romeo and Juliet, and put the darn ball in the basket." Abe Lemons
"Fans never fall asleep at our games because they're afraid they might get hit by a pass." George Raveling
"Kids are great. That's one of the best things about our business, all the kids you get to meet. It's a shame they have to grow up to be regular people and come to the games and call you names." Charles Barkley (This is my favorite... and not just because it came from an Alabama boy!)
Basketball Party
I looked around and found some of these ideas on various websites. It would be a great party for a basketball lovin' son or daughter.
Invitations
Make your own basketball party invitations to look like basketball tickets. Copy some authentic tickets and then add your party details. Write 'Admit One' on both sides of the tickets.
The wording of your basketball party invitations can say the following:
Are you ready to come have a ball with us? Please join us at center court as we celebrate (your child's name) _th (age of your child) season in what proves to be an exciting home opener!
Arena: (your address)
Tip-Off: (time)
Post game reception to follow. RSVP to coaches (parents' names). Please dribble up court for what we hope to be a Slam-Dunking good time!
Other Ideas
1. Encourage your party guests to wear their favorite team jerseys.
2. It's ideal that you have a basketball hoop outside. If not, try to borrow one for a day or two. Hang a sign "Welcome to Bartow Arena" (or use the arena name of your favorite team) outside your front door.
3. If you have any basketball memorabilia, display it in the party room to set the mood. Hang basketball posters, jerseys, hats and other basketball-related items.
4. Place basketballs all over the party room to use for later games.
5. Play "Jock Jams" or other sports-themed music during the basketball birthday party to add excitement and basketball game atmosphere.
Party Favors
Balls
Whistles
Basketball Key Chains
Hats
Tattoos
Mesh bags
Basketball Birthday Party Games
Loony Locker Room: Before the party, fill a large box with clothing items you can find in lost-and-found (the funnier the better, big clothing items, too).
At the basketball birthday party, explain to the group that somebody got into the locker room and stole all the players' street clothes. Since the players can't wear their jerseys on the street, they have to find suitable clothes in a lost-and-found box.
Have the kids stand in a circle. Play the party music and get the kids to pass the box. When the music stops, the person holding the box must take an item from the box and put it on as fast as possible. Play continues in the same manner until all the items are gone. Take a group picture at the end of this basketball party game.
Training Camp: Everyone needs to get in shape before the season. This basketball birthday party activity allows the kids to do just that. Start the game with jumping jacks, push-ups, crunches and some sprinting drills. Then move to passing the ball around, dribbling it around the cones and shooting it in the net. Be sure to have some stopwatches and whistles handy.
O-U-T: One player starts this game by shooting the ball from anywhere on the court. If the ball goes in, the other players have to score from the same place. (Have a draw to determine shooting order.) Kids that make the shot are safe. Those players who miss get an "O." If they get "O," "U" and "T," they are out of the game.
If the first player doesn't make his or her first shot, the second player takes over the lead position. The last player remaining wins the game.
Chase the Dog: For this basketball birthday party game, you'll need bandannas and basketballs for all the players.
Each player has to tuck in a bandanna into his or her back pocket (to resemble a tail). On the command "Go!" all the players must start dribbling the ball. While staying in the designated area and continuing the dribble, the kids must try to grab the other players' bandannas. Whoever looses his or her "tail" is out of the game. The last person left standing (top dog) is the winner.
Nothing But Net: Mark the free throw line with a masking tape. The purpose of the game is to make as many free throws as possible in 30 seconds. Whoever makes the most baskets, wins the game.
Space Jam: Let your basketball birthday party guests watch Space Jam (or other basketball show) to unwind at the end of the party. They can do this while waiting for their rides.
Food and Drink
Basketball Cake: Prepare and mix batter according to package directions. Grease a 2- or 3-quart oven-proof bowl and pour in batter.
Bake a little longer than the recommended baking time. Flip the cake onto a large platter. Now you have a basketball cake. Sprinkle platter with yellow-tinted coconut to form the basketball court.
Prepare orange food coloring (or combination of red and yellow coloring) to white frosting to achieve the desired color. Frost the basketball cake. Add black frosting or licorice for "basketball lines". You can write a "Happy Birthday" message if you choose to.
Basketball Birthday Party Food Ideas
Hotdogs
Nachos
Giant Pretzels
Popcorn
Power Bars
Ice Cream
Basketball Birthday Party Drink Ideas
Sideline Smoothies: Put 1 1/2 cups orange juice, 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 1 cup ice in a blender. Blend well and serve. You can also serve Power Drinks like Gatorade, Powerade, etc.
NOTE - You can use any of the ideas you like, but you can also attend a local high school or college game for minimal cost. You can plan on eating cake and "party food" before or after the game.
Devotion
A certain man and his two sons had been looking forward to going to a basketball game for a long time. They drove most of Saturday to get to their destination to see their favorite two teams play.
They rushed to check into a motel. In a hurry, they made it to the game just before tip-off. The problem was they were still standing in line outside. But that really did not bother them. They knew they were going to see the majority of the game. What they did not know was all the seats were filling up while they stood outside. In fact, just before they came to the ticket window, the sales person put up a sign: "Sorry, no more tickets. Sell out."
They could not believe their eyes. This man and his sons had traveled most of the day to get there. This was supposed to be the "highlight" of their vacation. The man rushed to the window. He pleaded for three tickets. But all the lady at the window could say was, "I am sorry. We are sold out." When he tried to explain to the lady how important the game was to him and his two sons, and how far they had driven to be there, the lady said, "Remember, if you want to be assured of a ticket to an important game, you need to make sure you have a ticket ahead of time." The man knew she was right.
There are some events in life that are so important we should make sure we have whatever it takes to get in the door.
Jesus told three parables about having the proper tickets. One was about some maidens who were not allowed to attend a wedding party because they had neglected to prepare their lamps with oil (Matthew 25:1-12). Lighted lamps were their tickets.
Another guest was put out of a wedding party because he had either refused or neglected to wear the wedding garment that was furnished him when he came to the party (Matthew 22:11-14). That special garment was his ticket.
Then Jesus told of a group of people who refused to come to their king's party because they had other priorities (Luke 14:15-24).
Those who did not value the "ticket" or the invitation they had received never enjoyed the blessing of feasting with the Lord.
Do we realize the value of a ticket? Do we realize how blessed and fortunate we are to be able to freely attend church each and every Sunday AND Wednesday evening? Do we take that opportunity for granted?
Each time we say no to attending church, are we throwing a valuable ticket away. A ticket which would allow us to worship God in His house with other believers.
It's an important ticket, and no matter how old we are, we don't need to take it for granted!
Have a lovely Wednesday. I have to tell you my Blog Linkage for tomorrow's post is very, very good. I'm not bragging or anything (because basically it's all about great stuff other people wrote), but it is good nonetheless.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Quick Chicken Divan
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of the Carousel Carving School I mentioned in yesterday's post. Pretty cool, huh? The pics aren't that great because it as SO sunny, and I couldn't find a good angle, but you get the general idea. I had no idea such a school existed.
RANDOMNESS #1 - It's Basketball Tournament time. This is our last week of basketball for the season. The girls won their game last night, and we play again tonight. We'll go into tonight's game with two injured players (ankles), and Roxie playing with a floating bone in her finger. I'll have basketball pics on the blog tomorrow. Something to look forward to... actual pictures of people.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I was reading an article called "Weird Symptoms, Explained" recently. As a panic attack sufferer, this was NOT a good article for me to read, but I was sucked in by the word "Weird." These are a few of my favorites.
1. You always sneeze in threes. (I don't do this. Mikie does. Every morning. Right after he wakes up.) Don't worry! The articles says, "Sneeze! Once, twice or four or more times... all are perfectly normal." I don't think this is perfectly normal, but since I don't have the problem, I decided not to worry about it and move on to the next "weird" symptom.
2. Your eyelids start to spasm. (This one is mine. It happens all the time, and it lasts FOREVER!) "Stress, fatigue or too much caffeine is probably at the root of the problem." Yes, yes and yes! They suggest taking deep, relaxing breaths to make the spasms go away. I usually just drink a couple more Diet Mt. Dews.
3. You have floaters in your eyes. (I definitely have this one, and I talked to my eye doctor about it, too. He said it was "normal" for people my age to have floaters. Until I read this article, I felt good about being normal for my age.) "Those little white specks that drift across your field of vision are probably just tiny pieces of tissue that stray into the jelly-filled chamber of each eye." Uh... yuck. Oh, and my floaters are NOT white.
"If the floaters are black or are accompanied by flashing lights, you need to see a doctor." Great. I can't tell if mine are black or navy blue... but they are definitely NOT white.
And the "flashing light" part... not good. I pull the Big Gold Van over all the time because I think the police are behind me!
Fun fact for you... I still haven't gotten a speeding ticket, and I'm 153 days into my 49th year. My goal was to not get a speeding ticket before I turned 50. So far, so good!
NOTE TO SELF - Call Eye Doc this afternoon!
RANDOMNESS #3 - I forgot to share the last part of "Handbook for 2011" with you yesterday. You must have the last part!
Life
1. Do the right thing!
2. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
3. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
4. The best is yet to come.
5. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
Quick Chicken Divan
Okay. I'm going to share a post with you Thursday in Blog Linkage. It is written by a woman who has decided to prepare Sunday lunches (dinners) for her family and friends instead of going out to eat after church (at last a couple of times a month). The kind of Sunday lunches (dinners) she remembers having as a child. On the post I will be sharing THURSDAY, she has several wonderful recipes and ideas for meals you can prepare ahead of time and pop into the oven as soon as you get home from church, OR some good slow cooker recipes. This, my friends, is a teaser for Thursday's post!
You will need the following:
2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli
2 cooked boneless chicken breast halves (chopped)
1 can Cream of Chicken soup
1 can Cream of Mushroom soup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Place broccoli in the bottom of a 9" x 13" baking dish. Top with the chicken.
3. In a small bowl, blend the Cream of Chicken soup, Cream of Mushroom soup, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Top with Cheddar cheese.
5. Bake 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
The Divan sounds Divine, doesn't it? She prepares it the night before, so on Sunday she just bakes it when they come home from church.
Don't forget to check back Thursday on A Simple Life for directions to this chick's blog. Believe me. You'll want several of these recipes and ideas.
Have a great Tuesday. Wednesday's Wisdom and Seasonal Tradition/Party have already been picked out, and I'm just waiting until tomorrow morning to post, post, post!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of the Carousel Carving School I mentioned in yesterday's post. Pretty cool, huh? The pics aren't that great because it as SO sunny, and I couldn't find a good angle, but you get the general idea. I had no idea such a school existed.
RANDOMNESS #1 - It's Basketball Tournament time. This is our last week of basketball for the season. The girls won their game last night, and we play again tonight. We'll go into tonight's game with two injured players (ankles), and Roxie playing with a floating bone in her finger. I'll have basketball pics on the blog tomorrow. Something to look forward to... actual pictures of people.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I was reading an article called "Weird Symptoms, Explained" recently. As a panic attack sufferer, this was NOT a good article for me to read, but I was sucked in by the word "Weird." These are a few of my favorites.
1. You always sneeze in threes. (I don't do this. Mikie does. Every morning. Right after he wakes up.) Don't worry! The articles says, "Sneeze! Once, twice or four or more times... all are perfectly normal." I don't think this is perfectly normal, but since I don't have the problem, I decided not to worry about it and move on to the next "weird" symptom.
2. Your eyelids start to spasm. (This one is mine. It happens all the time, and it lasts FOREVER!) "Stress, fatigue or too much caffeine is probably at the root of the problem." Yes, yes and yes! They suggest taking deep, relaxing breaths to make the spasms go away. I usually just drink a couple more Diet Mt. Dews.
3. You have floaters in your eyes. (I definitely have this one, and I talked to my eye doctor about it, too. He said it was "normal" for people my age to have floaters. Until I read this article, I felt good about being normal for my age.) "Those little white specks that drift across your field of vision are probably just tiny pieces of tissue that stray into the jelly-filled chamber of each eye." Uh... yuck. Oh, and my floaters are NOT white.
"If the floaters are black or are accompanied by flashing lights, you need to see a doctor." Great. I can't tell if mine are black or navy blue... but they are definitely NOT white.
And the "flashing light" part... not good. I pull the Big Gold Van over all the time because I think the police are behind me!
Fun fact for you... I still haven't gotten a speeding ticket, and I'm 153 days into my 49th year. My goal was to not get a speeding ticket before I turned 50. So far, so good!
NOTE TO SELF - Call Eye Doc this afternoon!
RANDOMNESS #3 - I forgot to share the last part of "Handbook for 2011" with you yesterday. You must have the last part!
Life
1. Do the right thing!
2. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
3. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
4. The best is yet to come.
5. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
Quick Chicken Divan
Okay. I'm going to share a post with you Thursday in Blog Linkage. It is written by a woman who has decided to prepare Sunday lunches (dinners) for her family and friends instead of going out to eat after church (at last a couple of times a month). The kind of Sunday lunches (dinners) she remembers having as a child. On the post I will be sharing THURSDAY, she has several wonderful recipes and ideas for meals you can prepare ahead of time and pop into the oven as soon as you get home from church, OR some good slow cooker recipes. This, my friends, is a teaser for Thursday's post!
You will need the following:
2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli
2 cooked boneless chicken breast halves (chopped)
1 can Cream of Chicken soup
1 can Cream of Mushroom soup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Place broccoli in the bottom of a 9" x 13" baking dish. Top with the chicken.
3. In a small bowl, blend the Cream of Chicken soup, Cream of Mushroom soup, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Top with Cheddar cheese.
5. Bake 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
The Divan sounds Divine, doesn't it? She prepares it the night before, so on Sunday she just bakes it when they come home from church.
Don't forget to check back Thursday on A Simple Life for directions to this chick's blog. Believe me. You'll want several of these recipes and ideas.
Have a great Tuesday. Wednesday's Wisdom and Seasonal Tradition/Party have already been picked out, and I'm just waiting until tomorrow morning to post, post, post!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, January 24, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
It's Mindless Monday! Lots and lots (and lots) of pics and hardly any words at all! This is for all the non-readers out there!
Mikie and I celebrated our 23rd anniversary this weekend at Hotel Highland on Southside. I saw it in a Southern Living Magazine several years ago, and on one of our pancake breakfast dates, Mikie and I walked into the lobby, and I fell in love. It is so cool... so hip... so funky... Mikie and I are easily 25 years-too-old to even sit in the lobby. But since we had money, they allowed us to check in and stay the night
RANDOMNESS #1 - I'll be having a little contest in a week or so. Be looking for details in the days to come.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Once again, in my quest to keep you apprised of any and all fast food places worth visiting, Cosmo's Pizza on Southside is unbelievably good. They have personal pizzas, pizza by the slice, fruit and cheese plates, gourmet pizza (alligator sausage... need I say more) and wonderful desserts. Good eatin'!
RANDOMNESS #3 - Beginning February 1, I'll be sharing Top Ten Lists each and every day until February 14. (Top Ten Reasons I Love... fill in the blank.) I've got the first five written out, and I'm diligently working on the rest.
RANDOMNESS # 4 - Did you know Birmingham has a Carousel Carving School? It's true, and I have pictures. I'll share those with you tomorrow. (How cool is that?)
Have a grand Monday. Tuesday's recipe is great. Wednesday's Wisdom and Tradition is wonderful. Thursday's Blog Linkage and Date is so worth the time to visit one more time!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
It's Mindless Monday! Lots and lots (and lots) of pics and hardly any words at all! This is for all the non-readers out there!
Mikie and I celebrated our 23rd anniversary this weekend at Hotel Highland on Southside. I saw it in a Southern Living Magazine several years ago, and on one of our pancake breakfast dates, Mikie and I walked into the lobby, and I fell in love. It is so cool... so hip... so funky... Mikie and I are easily 25 years-too-old to even sit in the lobby. But since we had money, they allowed us to check in and stay the night
RANDOMNESS #1 - I'll be having a little contest in a week or so. Be looking for details in the days to come.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Once again, in my quest to keep you apprised of any and all fast food places worth visiting, Cosmo's Pizza on Southside is unbelievably good. They have personal pizzas, pizza by the slice, fruit and cheese plates, gourmet pizza (alligator sausage... need I say more) and wonderful desserts. Good eatin'!
RANDOMNESS #3 - Beginning February 1, I'll be sharing Top Ten Lists each and every day until February 14. (Top Ten Reasons I Love... fill in the blank.) I've got the first five written out, and I'm diligently working on the rest.
RANDOMNESS # 4 - Did you know Birmingham has a Carousel Carving School? It's true, and I have pictures. I'll share those with you tomorrow. (How cool is that?)
Have a grand Monday. Tuesday's recipe is great. Wednesday's Wisdom and Tradition is wonderful. Thursday's Blog Linkage and Date is so worth the time to visit one more time!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, January 21, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of MERCHANDISE being sold on the INTERNET in connection with Austin's new radio show he hosts from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays at JSU. It's called The RED Zone, and he had his first show this past Tuesday. It's a college radio station, so the only way we can hear it is over the Internet... and this past Tuesday Roxie had a basketball game, so we missed it. In a few days, it will be available on Podcast, and we'll be able to catch up.
Do not be surprised when you see the Faulkner Five walking around town in "Whup Troy" t-shirts, hoodies and hats. Also, don't be surprised if you get a "Whup Troy" coffee mug for your birthday and/or Christmas present.
RANDOMNESS #1 - In other news, I tried the oatmeal at McDonald's yesterday. As always, I'm trying to stay on the cutting edge of any and all new fast food releases so you, the reader, will be informed at all times.
As far as oatmeal goes, it was pretty good. They use Granny Smith apples which are extremely tart, and walnuts (which I do not care for as much as the toasted pecan and/or cashew), but all in all it would have been very good if I had just added one package of Splenda to the mix.
There are golden raisins and cranberries (which I love), and a faint taste of maple. If you are an oatmeal person (and I am), it is good and filling... just not quite sweet enough.
Oh, and for some reason they serve it all day long. I don't know if I could eat oatmeal after 11:00 a.m.
That is my review of McDonald's oatmeal. Do with it what you will.
NOTE - You know I take full credit for the success of the Caramel Frappe' in our small town. Let's see if there is a run on McDonald's Oatmeal in the coming weeks!
RANDOMNESS #2 - As promised, here is the third part of "Handbook for 2011."
Social
1. Call your family often.
2. Each day, give something good to others.
3. Forgive everyone for everything.
4. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
5. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
6. What other people think of you is none of your business.
7. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and family will. Stay in touch.
Weekend Happenings
It's going to be an exciting weekend! Mikie and I will be celebrating our 23rd year of wedded bliss. As is our custom, we spend a night away at a nice hotel in our area. We will have a quiet, uninterrupted dinner and watch one of the 139 or more current non-animated movies we haven't seen over the past year.
We're staying at a really "different" and fun hotel this time. I'm not going to tell you the name, but I'll do a reveal Monday morning. I will say Mikie and I are WAY too un-hip to stay in such a hip hotel, but they said we could come anyway. Very exciting!
The remainder of the weekend will be spent at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), and here and there around town. The only other exciting thing going on for the Faulkner Five this weekend is the Auburn/Tennessee ladies' basketball game. Mikie, Roxie, Austin (and maybe Josh) are planning on heading to The Plains Sunday after church to catch the game and soak in some "Auburn-ness."
I plan on keeping the home fires burning and doing load after load after load of laundry. It will be a great day!
I hope you have a wonderful weekend. I WILL NOT BE ADDING A PICTURE TO BELINDA'S PROJECT LIFE TONIGHT, but I'll catch up Saturday and Sunday. Next week, expect more of the same on A Simple Life. It's going to be a good, good week!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of MERCHANDISE being sold on the INTERNET in connection with Austin's new radio show he hosts from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays at JSU. It's called The RED Zone, and he had his first show this past Tuesday. It's a college radio station, so the only way we can hear it is over the Internet... and this past Tuesday Roxie had a basketball game, so we missed it. In a few days, it will be available on Podcast, and we'll be able to catch up.
Do not be surprised when you see the Faulkner Five walking around town in "Whup Troy" t-shirts, hoodies and hats. Also, don't be surprised if you get a "Whup Troy" coffee mug for your birthday and/or Christmas present.
RANDOMNESS #1 - In other news, I tried the oatmeal at McDonald's yesterday. As always, I'm trying to stay on the cutting edge of any and all new fast food releases so you, the reader, will be informed at all times.
As far as oatmeal goes, it was pretty good. They use Granny Smith apples which are extremely tart, and walnuts (which I do not care for as much as the toasted pecan and/or cashew), but all in all it would have been very good if I had just added one package of Splenda to the mix.
There are golden raisins and cranberries (which I love), and a faint taste of maple. If you are an oatmeal person (and I am), it is good and filling... just not quite sweet enough.
Oh, and for some reason they serve it all day long. I don't know if I could eat oatmeal after 11:00 a.m.
That is my review of McDonald's oatmeal. Do with it what you will.
NOTE - You know I take full credit for the success of the Caramel Frappe' in our small town. Let's see if there is a run on McDonald's Oatmeal in the coming weeks!
RANDOMNESS #2 - As promised, here is the third part of "Handbook for 2011."
Social
1. Call your family often.
2. Each day, give something good to others.
3. Forgive everyone for everything.
4. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
5. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
6. What other people think of you is none of your business.
7. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and family will. Stay in touch.
Weekend Happenings
It's going to be an exciting weekend! Mikie and I will be celebrating our 23rd year of wedded bliss. As is our custom, we spend a night away at a nice hotel in our area. We will have a quiet, uninterrupted dinner and watch one of the 139 or more current non-animated movies we haven't seen over the past year.
We're staying at a really "different" and fun hotel this time. I'm not going to tell you the name, but I'll do a reveal Monday morning. I will say Mikie and I are WAY too un-hip to stay in such a hip hotel, but they said we could come anyway. Very exciting!
The remainder of the weekend will be spent at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), and here and there around town. The only other exciting thing going on for the Faulkner Five this weekend is the Auburn/Tennessee ladies' basketball game. Mikie, Roxie, Austin (and maybe Josh) are planning on heading to The Plains Sunday after church to catch the game and soak in some "Auburn-ness."
I plan on keeping the home fires burning and doing load after load after load of laundry. It will be a great day!
I hope you have a wonderful weekend. I WILL NOT BE ADDING A PICTURE TO BELINDA'S PROJECT LIFE TONIGHT, but I'll catch up Saturday and Sunday. Next week, expect more of the same on A Simple Life. It's going to be a good, good week!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Casablanca Date
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of Roxie's finger. Her first, and I hope, only surgery will be coming up the first week in February. After Austin had his wisdom teeth removed (see story below), and I saw how he reacted coming out from under anesthesia, I'm more than a little concerned about Roxie's reaction. As promised, she will be wearing her brand new surgery day outfit to and from the outpatient surgical center, so we have some shopping to do between now and February... cause you know I'm going to have pictures THAT day!
Wisdom Teeth Update (First printed June 5, 2009)
Is there anything funnier than Austin Faulkner after he's had a little anesthesia? I know the answer to this one!! NO!
When they called me to the recovery area after he had his teeth pulled, I laughed so hard I had tears rolling down my face. And when the nurse came in to give me the instructions before we could go home, I couldn't stop laughing, so it was VERY embarrassing. I can't share with you all the things he did and said, because then it would embarrass him. However, after asking his permission, the following is what he has allowed me to write on my blog:
1. Every time the nurse asked him how he was doing, he would try to give her a thumbs up, but he could only make it point to the side. He would look at his sideways thumbs up and start chuckling.
2. Every few seconds he would reach over and try to take my glasses off because he thought they were his glasses. When I told him he had his glasses on, he would touch them with his whole hand, give me a sideways thumbs up and start chuckling.
3. He told me he had read all 20 of the plaques on the wall. Then he said, "I'm just messin' with you, Mom. I know there are only two plaques." Again, chuckling. Me, hysterical, because there was only one plaque on the wall.
4. I would normally never put this on my blog because I don't like the word, and I don't like the kids saying it even though it's more slang than curse, but the story isn't the same without out it.
He was sitting quietly, and I was trying to compose myself, when all of a sudden he sat up and started moving his arms up and down in a wavy motion. "Do you know what I am?" he asked, excitedly.
"Austin, be still," I replied (sweetly, yet firmly).
"I'm an octopus. Do you know why I'm an octopus?" he asked again. By this time, I was losing what little composure I had regained, and had started to laugh again. When he saw me laughing, he started patting the sides of my face with the back of his hands and arms... you know, like an octopus would do.
"No, why are you an octopus?" I asked, gasping for air.
"Because this sucks. Get it. An octopus has suckers on it's... it's... Oh, I'm just messin' with you, Mom."
Again, the nurse came in to try to give me the instructions, and I was bent over double in the seat laughing.
They finally sent us home with a pamphlet of instructions. I'm pretty sure we were disturbing the other patients.
Oh. I did do something I'm not very proud of. While he was coming out from under the anesthesia, I questioned him about his senior trip choice. (You know. Sort of like on 24, but without me head-butting him until he gave me the answer I wanted. Jack Bauer would have been proud.) He looked at me (as if he understood what I was saying), motioned for me to come closer (as if to whisper in my ear), and yelled, "We're going where there are octopusssss. Nah. I'm just messin' with you, Mom." And then he put his head back on the chair and started chuckling. (And that's when I almost head-butted my baby.)
I'm hoping there will NOT be an Anesthesia Story for Roxie.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I tried a new recipe the other night. It was a baked chicken recipe with sauce and Swiss cheese and bread crumbs. It was a beautiful dish. Josh took one bite and said, "This tastes like something you would order at Brio's."
"Oh, my. Thank you," I gushed.
"And we all know how much I hate Brio's," he finished.
I didn't take offense. He does hate Brio's, and the chicken was WAY TOO FANCY for his taste. To his credit, he finished his helping, but I didn't share the recipe since it received a very funny, yet negative response. (I try to just share the good stuff.)
RANDOMNESS #2 - As promised, the following is the second part of "Handbook for 2011" which was forwarded to me by my friend, Melaney.
Personality
1. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
2. Don't have negative thoughts about things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
3. Don't over do. Keep your limits. (Best advice EVER.)
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does. (Ain't that the truth!)
5. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
6. Dream more while you are awake. (I LOVE this one.)
7. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
8. Forget issues of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
9. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
10. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
11. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
12. Realize life is a school, and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class, but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
13. Smile and laugh more.
14. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
Blog Linkage - I have three excellent posts for you to check out today.
1. Click on Coal Creek Farm under My Blog List. Scroll down to the post entitled "Dancing and eating should always happen together" dated January 11. This chick cracks me up. The funny part is how her children react to the dancing. I love it when she dances!
2. Click on Confessions of a Pioneer Woman. At the top of her page, click on Photography. She had a "Food Photography" contest. The pictures will make your mouth water. They are beautiful. (And I'm not kidding. Make sure you have a sandwich or something handy to nibble on while you scroll through these photos.)
3. Go to www.thesimplewife.typepad.com to read about the 38 year-old woman I told you about last week. She's an author, a mom, a wife, a homeschooler, a blogger, etc. On the morning of January 12, she had a massive stroke. Her husband and friends are now updating her blog. As I said last week, it helps you keep your focus on making today the best day it can possibly be because we have no idea what the future holds. Also, the family's faith in God and their testimony is inspiring.
Casablanca Date
I want you to know even though I'm a HUGE advocate of dating your children one-on-one, I'm also a HUGE advocate of continuing to date your husband throughout the "kid years." HUGE!
So this date is for the sweethearts out there. This information was borrowed from Birmingham Bargain Mom. It's a great idea!
Are you looking for a vintage twist on your Valentine's Day celebration? How about taking your sweetie to the Alabama Theatre to see Casablanca February 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets are $7 each.
Tickets to the 1942 romance will be available in advance in the Alabama Theatre business office Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or at the box office 1 hour before showtime.
I'm letting you know about this in January, so you have PLENTY of time to plan for this date (babysitters, dinner reservations, etc.)
Mikie and I saw Casablanca at the Alabama Theatre when we were dating 55 years ago. It was so much fun.
Try it! You'll like it!
Have a lovely Thursday. I'll be back first thing Friday morning with Weekend Happenings, Randomness and pics in The Gallery.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of Roxie's finger. Her first, and I hope, only surgery will be coming up the first week in February. After Austin had his wisdom teeth removed (see story below), and I saw how he reacted coming out from under anesthesia, I'm more than a little concerned about Roxie's reaction. As promised, she will be wearing her brand new surgery day outfit to and from the outpatient surgical center, so we have some shopping to do between now and February... cause you know I'm going to have pictures THAT day!
Wisdom Teeth Update (First printed June 5, 2009)
Is there anything funnier than Austin Faulkner after he's had a little anesthesia? I know the answer to this one!! NO!
When they called me to the recovery area after he had his teeth pulled, I laughed so hard I had tears rolling down my face. And when the nurse came in to give me the instructions before we could go home, I couldn't stop laughing, so it was VERY embarrassing. I can't share with you all the things he did and said, because then it would embarrass him. However, after asking his permission, the following is what he has allowed me to write on my blog:
1. Every time the nurse asked him how he was doing, he would try to give her a thumbs up, but he could only make it point to the side. He would look at his sideways thumbs up and start chuckling.
2. Every few seconds he would reach over and try to take my glasses off because he thought they were his glasses. When I told him he had his glasses on, he would touch them with his whole hand, give me a sideways thumbs up and start chuckling.
3. He told me he had read all 20 of the plaques on the wall. Then he said, "I'm just messin' with you, Mom. I know there are only two plaques." Again, chuckling. Me, hysterical, because there was only one plaque on the wall.
4. I would normally never put this on my blog because I don't like the word, and I don't like the kids saying it even though it's more slang than curse, but the story isn't the same without out it.
He was sitting quietly, and I was trying to compose myself, when all of a sudden he sat up and started moving his arms up and down in a wavy motion. "Do you know what I am?" he asked, excitedly.
"Austin, be still," I replied (sweetly, yet firmly).
"I'm an octopus. Do you know why I'm an octopus?" he asked again. By this time, I was losing what little composure I had regained, and had started to laugh again. When he saw me laughing, he started patting the sides of my face with the back of his hands and arms... you know, like an octopus would do.
"No, why are you an octopus?" I asked, gasping for air.
"Because this sucks. Get it. An octopus has suckers on it's... it's... Oh, I'm just messin' with you, Mom."
Again, the nurse came in to try to give me the instructions, and I was bent over double in the seat laughing.
They finally sent us home with a pamphlet of instructions. I'm pretty sure we were disturbing the other patients.
Oh. I did do something I'm not very proud of. While he was coming out from under the anesthesia, I questioned him about his senior trip choice. (You know. Sort of like on 24, but without me head-butting him until he gave me the answer I wanted. Jack Bauer would have been proud.) He looked at me (as if he understood what I was saying), motioned for me to come closer (as if to whisper in my ear), and yelled, "We're going where there are octopusssss. Nah. I'm just messin' with you, Mom." And then he put his head back on the chair and started chuckling. (And that's when I almost head-butted my baby.)
I'm hoping there will NOT be an Anesthesia Story for Roxie.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I tried a new recipe the other night. It was a baked chicken recipe with sauce and Swiss cheese and bread crumbs. It was a beautiful dish. Josh took one bite and said, "This tastes like something you would order at Brio's."
"Oh, my. Thank you," I gushed.
"And we all know how much I hate Brio's," he finished.
I didn't take offense. He does hate Brio's, and the chicken was WAY TOO FANCY for his taste. To his credit, he finished his helping, but I didn't share the recipe since it received a very funny, yet negative response. (I try to just share the good stuff.)
RANDOMNESS #2 - As promised, the following is the second part of "Handbook for 2011" which was forwarded to me by my friend, Melaney.
Personality
1. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
2. Don't have negative thoughts about things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
3. Don't over do. Keep your limits. (Best advice EVER.)
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does. (Ain't that the truth!)
5. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
6. Dream more while you are awake. (I LOVE this one.)
7. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
8. Forget issues of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
9. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
10. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
11. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
12. Realize life is a school, and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class, but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
13. Smile and laugh more.
14. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
Blog Linkage - I have three excellent posts for you to check out today.
1. Click on Coal Creek Farm under My Blog List. Scroll down to the post entitled "Dancing and eating should always happen together" dated January 11. This chick cracks me up. The funny part is how her children react to the dancing. I love it when she dances!
2. Click on Confessions of a Pioneer Woman. At the top of her page, click on Photography. She had a "Food Photography" contest. The pictures will make your mouth water. They are beautiful. (And I'm not kidding. Make sure you have a sandwich or something handy to nibble on while you scroll through these photos.)
3. Go to www.thesimplewife.typepad.com to read about the 38 year-old woman I told you about last week. She's an author, a mom, a wife, a homeschooler, a blogger, etc. On the morning of January 12, she had a massive stroke. Her husband and friends are now updating her blog. As I said last week, it helps you keep your focus on making today the best day it can possibly be because we have no idea what the future holds. Also, the family's faith in God and their testimony is inspiring.
Casablanca Date
I want you to know even though I'm a HUGE advocate of dating your children one-on-one, I'm also a HUGE advocate of continuing to date your husband throughout the "kid years." HUGE!
So this date is for the sweethearts out there. This information was borrowed from Birmingham Bargain Mom. It's a great idea!
Are you looking for a vintage twist on your Valentine's Day celebration? How about taking your sweetie to the Alabama Theatre to see Casablanca February 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets are $7 each.
Tickets to the 1942 romance will be available in advance in the Alabama Theatre business office Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or at the box office 1 hour before showtime.
I'm letting you know about this in January, so you have PLENTY of time to plan for this date (babysitters, dinner reservations, etc.)
Mikie and I saw Casablanca at the Alabama Theatre when we were dating 55 years ago. It was so much fun.
Try it! You'll like it!
Have a lovely Thursday. I'll be back first thing Friday morning with Weekend Happenings, Randomness and pics in The Gallery.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Out of School Fun List
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of the pups. Yesterday, I heard a racket, and when I looked out the kitchen window, I saw the black pipe connected to our gutter drain had been disconnected and was on the patio. I then noticed Sparkle trying to crawl in one end of the "too small" pipe, and Copper trying to crawl into the other end.
Obviously a critter had run into the pipe, Sparkle disconnected said pipe and she and Copper spent the better part of an hour (from the sound of it) trying to remove the poor critter.
NOTE - I didn't stand around for an hour. That's just how long the racket lasted.
Did they get the critter? Thankfully, I will never know, but it was fun watching them try.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Beginning February 1, I will begin a Top Ten List series which will last until Valentine's Day. It will be called "Top Ten Reasons I Love... ." Each day, I will give you the reasons I love what I love. It could be anything from Mikie to a Caramel Frappe'. You'll just have to tune in to see what is near and dear to my heart... and why.
RANDOMNESS #2 - My friend, Melaney, sent me a forward yesterday called "Handbook for 2011." It is divided into sections, but I thought it had a lot of good advice, so I want to share a section a day between now and Monday.
HEALTH
1. Drink plenty of water. (They always leave off Diet Dr. Pepper!)
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar. (I tend to eat all of my meals like a king. I'm going to have to work on this one!)
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
4. Live life with energy, enthusiasm and empathy. (I love this one!)
5. Make time to pray. (This should be the first one on the list, but I love that it is under "HEALTH.")
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2010.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours. (I think this is a typo. Isn't it supposed to be a minimum of 10 hours a day?)
10. Take a 10 to 30 minute walk daily. And while you walk, smile. (The smile part pushed me over the edge a little bit.)
All in all, pretty good advice, don't you think?
Wednesday Wisdom - Today's Wisdom come from the word "prayer." Our Pastor used several quotes Sunday morning regarding prayer, and it served as a reminder to me how powerful and necessary it really is in a Christian's life.
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Pray, and let God worry." Martin Luther
"All prayers are answered if we are willing to admit that sometimes the answer is 'no.'" Anonymous
"I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go." Abraham Lincoln
"Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden." Corrie ten Boom
Out of School Fun List
I recently read this on another mom's blog. Since the kids were going to be out of school on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the mom asked all four of her children (two elementary-age and two preschool) to make a list of anything and everything they would like to do on their day out of school. The following is their list:
1. Ice skating
2. Skiing
3. Go get doughnuts
4. Sledding
5. Drive to Mexico
6. Go sailing
7. Go to a movie
8. Go to the dinosaur museum in Phoenix
9. Go shopping
10. Earn a dollar to buy caps for my gun
11. Play pirates in the tree house
How great is THIS list. Considering the family lives in Utah, the "drive to Mexico" and the trip to "the dinosaur museum in Phoenix" were pretty funny. Also, the thought of going sailing on a January day in Utah probably wasn't the most practical choice.
However, some of the list was "doable." Some of it was downright easy. And whether the mom picked one or four of the things on the list, it made a day without school fun, special and memorable.
The next time you have a planned "Out of School" Day, ask the kids for a list the night or weekend before (and do not help them). Let the list plan your day. Remember, those days are few and far between. Take advantage of them.
NOTE - On a larger scale, you can also have the kids make a list for the week of Spring Break or Summer Break. It would be fun to see how many things from the list you could mark off if you had a longer period of time to "work" on it.
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Thursday's Blog Linkage list is growing, and if I do say so myself, there is some pretty good reading material. I'll also share a date for you and yours.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of the pups. Yesterday, I heard a racket, and when I looked out the kitchen window, I saw the black pipe connected to our gutter drain had been disconnected and was on the patio. I then noticed Sparkle trying to crawl in one end of the "too small" pipe, and Copper trying to crawl into the other end.
Obviously a critter had run into the pipe, Sparkle disconnected said pipe and she and Copper spent the better part of an hour (from the sound of it) trying to remove the poor critter.
NOTE - I didn't stand around for an hour. That's just how long the racket lasted.
Did they get the critter? Thankfully, I will never know, but it was fun watching them try.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Beginning February 1, I will begin a Top Ten List series which will last until Valentine's Day. It will be called "Top Ten Reasons I Love... ." Each day, I will give you the reasons I love what I love. It could be anything from Mikie to a Caramel Frappe'. You'll just have to tune in to see what is near and dear to my heart... and why.
RANDOMNESS #2 - My friend, Melaney, sent me a forward yesterday called "Handbook for 2011." It is divided into sections, but I thought it had a lot of good advice, so I want to share a section a day between now and Monday.
HEALTH
1. Drink plenty of water. (They always leave off Diet Dr. Pepper!)
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar. (I tend to eat all of my meals like a king. I'm going to have to work on this one!)
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
4. Live life with energy, enthusiasm and empathy. (I love this one!)
5. Make time to pray. (This should be the first one on the list, but I love that it is under "HEALTH.")
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2010.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours. (I think this is a typo. Isn't it supposed to be a minimum of 10 hours a day?)
10. Take a 10 to 30 minute walk daily. And while you walk, smile. (The smile part pushed me over the edge a little bit.)
All in all, pretty good advice, don't you think?
Wednesday Wisdom - Today's Wisdom come from the word "prayer." Our Pastor used several quotes Sunday morning regarding prayer, and it served as a reminder to me how powerful and necessary it really is in a Christian's life.
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Pray, and let God worry." Martin Luther
"All prayers are answered if we are willing to admit that sometimes the answer is 'no.'" Anonymous
"I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go." Abraham Lincoln
"Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden." Corrie ten Boom
Out of School Fun List
I recently read this on another mom's blog. Since the kids were going to be out of school on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the mom asked all four of her children (two elementary-age and two preschool) to make a list of anything and everything they would like to do on their day out of school. The following is their list:
1. Ice skating
2. Skiing
3. Go get doughnuts
4. Sledding
5. Drive to Mexico
6. Go sailing
7. Go to a movie
8. Go to the dinosaur museum in Phoenix
9. Go shopping
10. Earn a dollar to buy caps for my gun
11. Play pirates in the tree house
How great is THIS list. Considering the family lives in Utah, the "drive to Mexico" and the trip to "the dinosaur museum in Phoenix" were pretty funny. Also, the thought of going sailing on a January day in Utah probably wasn't the most practical choice.
However, some of the list was "doable." Some of it was downright easy. And whether the mom picked one or four of the things on the list, it made a day without school fun, special and memorable.
The next time you have a planned "Out of School" Day, ask the kids for a list the night or weekend before (and do not help them). Let the list plan your day. Remember, those days are few and far between. Take advantage of them.
NOTE - On a larger scale, you can also have the kids make a list for the week of Spring Break or Summer Break. It would be fun to see how many things from the list you could mark off if you had a longer period of time to "work" on it.
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Thursday's Blog Linkage list is growing, and if I do say so myself, there is some pretty good reading material. I'll also share a date for you and yours.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Strawberry Butter
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of Roxie's room and it's slow progression toward completion. We're getting there! I also have a pic of Mikie, Austin and Josh wearing their Auburn Championship hats. Roxie has a t-shirt, but by the time Austin got in last night, she was already in bed. She'll get her own "by herself" picture added in The Gallery tomorrow proudly wearing her Auburn shirt.
RANDOMNESS #1 - My friend, Robin, had an interesting tidbit I thought I would pass along today. "There is an app for Mac you can download that is a pill reminder. A little pill blinks at you until you take the pill and click on it. I figure if I must get old, I will do it with style!" Robin is on the cutting edge of technology. Me... not so much.
Usually, I spend 30 minutes or so trying to remember if I did take my pill. Then I have to call the pharmacist to see what will happen if I take two pills because I can't remember if I took the first one. When the pharmacist says, "That would be bad," I have to decide if not taking a pill at all will be detrimental. It's mentally exhausting. Almost as mentally exhausting as trying to figure out how to use a Mac and an app. I am so BEHIND on technology... and until I find the meaning (and really understand it) of the word "widget," I fear I will always, always be a techno-dinosaur.
RANDOMNESS #2 - For all of you Panic Attack sufferers out there, today is Honesty Day. In other words, Pollyanna has left the building.
I have started seeing a new doctor who prescribed a medication. I have been dealing with Panic Attacks without the regular medication because I didn't like how it made me feel four years ago when this particular journey began.
This doctor prescribed a new medication for me to try. So far, the Panic Attacks have escalated, and I can honestly say they are worse than my original attacks four years ago... which is saying a lot. Also, I'm beginning to itch.
Fun fact for you... When you're 49 years-old, you don't care quite as much about scratching in public. In fact, you don't care at all. (Maybe that's just 49 year-olds on medication.)
After a talk with the doctor last night at 10:12, we decided to start coming off the meds (oh, yeah), and she gave me some breathing exercises to try. The exercises were helpful... unlike the breathing exercise they tell you to do when you are in labor having nine pound babies.
Long story short, I'm still struggling with this particular illness four years later, and I am ready to get better if at all possible. My heartfelt prayer for 2011 is to do just that. I'm praying God will answer that prayer with a "YES!"
My new doctor told me if I had to have an illness, Anxiety Disorder was the best one to have because it is so treatable. As I scratch my way through Wal-Mart headed to the blood pressure machine, I'm beginning to wonder if she's right.
RANDOMNESS #3 - I'm all for aging normally and gracefully, etc. But I've been thinking about the next decade of my life and what it may hold. Technically, I could have married children and grandchildren. There's no doubt my friends will be having marriages and grandchildren in their own families.
So I've come to a decision. I think I'm going to start a Botox envelope. I'll just use it for those joyful occasions when I may be photographed at certain events. Between Body Pump, wearing two pair of Spanx at a time and Botox, I could come off looking pretty good. And I'm prepared to be honest about it. I'm not going to deny that I've had poison directly injected into my face to get rid of signs of natural aging.
My guess is I'll probably have some major itching. I may be scratching, but I'll be looking good!
Strawberry Butter
Melia and her mom, Lisa, made Strawberry Butter after Christmas, and they were kind enough to share not one, not two, BUT three containers of this delicious spread with Austin and family. It is WONDERFUL.
You will need the following:
1 pound butter (not margarine)
1 box powdered sugar
1 8 ounce box frozen strawberries
1. Soften butter.
2. Cream with sugar.
3. Add the strawberries. Mix very well.
4. Serve with fresh, hot bread, biscuits OR muffins.
If you like strawberries (and your know you do), this is a wonderfully easy spread to make and enjoy with your breakfast. Or you can give it as a gift to the Faulkners... three different times. You do whatever you think best.
Enjoy!
Have a blessed Tuesday. Wednesday Wisdom, Seasonal Traditions/Parties, Randomness and new pics are only a day away, and if I do say so myself, I've got some good stuff. Be sure and check in Wednesday.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting (and Anxiety-Ridden) Belinda
The Gallery Pics are of Roxie's room and it's slow progression toward completion. We're getting there! I also have a pic of Mikie, Austin and Josh wearing their Auburn Championship hats. Roxie has a t-shirt, but by the time Austin got in last night, she was already in bed. She'll get her own "by herself" picture added in The Gallery tomorrow proudly wearing her Auburn shirt.
RANDOMNESS #1 - My friend, Robin, had an interesting tidbit I thought I would pass along today. "There is an app for Mac you can download that is a pill reminder. A little pill blinks at you until you take the pill and click on it. I figure if I must get old, I will do it with style!" Robin is on the cutting edge of technology. Me... not so much.
Usually, I spend 30 minutes or so trying to remember if I did take my pill. Then I have to call the pharmacist to see what will happen if I take two pills because I can't remember if I took the first one. When the pharmacist says, "That would be bad," I have to decide if not taking a pill at all will be detrimental. It's mentally exhausting. Almost as mentally exhausting as trying to figure out how to use a Mac and an app. I am so BEHIND on technology... and until I find the meaning (and really understand it) of the word "widget," I fear I will always, always be a techno-dinosaur.
RANDOMNESS #2 - For all of you Panic Attack sufferers out there, today is Honesty Day. In other words, Pollyanna has left the building.
I have started seeing a new doctor who prescribed a medication. I have been dealing with Panic Attacks without the regular medication because I didn't like how it made me feel four years ago when this particular journey began.
This doctor prescribed a new medication for me to try. So far, the Panic Attacks have escalated, and I can honestly say they are worse than my original attacks four years ago... which is saying a lot. Also, I'm beginning to itch.
Fun fact for you... When you're 49 years-old, you don't care quite as much about scratching in public. In fact, you don't care at all. (Maybe that's just 49 year-olds on medication.)
After a talk with the doctor last night at 10:12, we decided to start coming off the meds (oh, yeah), and she gave me some breathing exercises to try. The exercises were helpful... unlike the breathing exercise they tell you to do when you are in labor having nine pound babies.
Long story short, I'm still struggling with this particular illness four years later, and I am ready to get better if at all possible. My heartfelt prayer for 2011 is to do just that. I'm praying God will answer that prayer with a "YES!"
My new doctor told me if I had to have an illness, Anxiety Disorder was the best one to have because it is so treatable. As I scratch my way through Wal-Mart headed to the blood pressure machine, I'm beginning to wonder if she's right.
RANDOMNESS #3 - I'm all for aging normally and gracefully, etc. But I've been thinking about the next decade of my life and what it may hold. Technically, I could have married children and grandchildren. There's no doubt my friends will be having marriages and grandchildren in their own families.
So I've come to a decision. I think I'm going to start a Botox envelope. I'll just use it for those joyful occasions when I may be photographed at certain events. Between Body Pump, wearing two pair of Spanx at a time and Botox, I could come off looking pretty good. And I'm prepared to be honest about it. I'm not going to deny that I've had poison directly injected into my face to get rid of signs of natural aging.
My guess is I'll probably have some major itching. I may be scratching, but I'll be looking good!
Strawberry Butter
Melia and her mom, Lisa, made Strawberry Butter after Christmas, and they were kind enough to share not one, not two, BUT three containers of this delicious spread with Austin and family. It is WONDERFUL.
You will need the following:
1 pound butter (not margarine)
1 box powdered sugar
1 8 ounce box frozen strawberries
1. Soften butter.
2. Cream with sugar.
3. Add the strawberries. Mix very well.
4. Serve with fresh, hot bread, biscuits OR muffins.
If you like strawberries (and your know you do), this is a wonderfully easy spread to make and enjoy with your breakfast. Or you can give it as a gift to the Faulkners... three different times. You do whatever you think best.
Enjoy!
Have a blessed Tuesday. Wednesday Wisdom, Seasonal Traditions/Parties, Randomness and new pics are only a day away, and if I do say so myself, I've got some good stuff. Be sure and check in Wednesday.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting (and Anxiety-Ridden) Belinda
Monday, January 17, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
For any Newbies out there, Mindless Monday is the only day of the week The Gallery tells the story of the weekend, and the post is tiny. Almost nonexistent.
RANDOMNESS - It's just another day of "out of school" for us today... and we're loving it! Well, most of us. Roxie has basketball practice for a couple of hours this morning, and then a doctor's appointment later in the afternoon. For me, that would be an awful way to spend a day out of school, but Roxie loves basketball practice, and she happens to LOVE going to this particular doctor.
We're headed to a Sports Medicine doctor downtown because she has a tendon injury in one of her fingers. She can still play ball, but it will need to be repaired as soon as the season is over in two weeks.
The first time we went to this particular doctor's office (she had a deep bone bruise on her wrist), two doctors came into our room and spent the first ten minutes of the exam talking about how cute Roxie was. When the actual wrist examination finally began, another doctor wandered in, and he concurred with the first two doctors that Roxie was indeed "cute."
Needless to say, she's looking forward to a good day. Thankfully, the Sports Medicine office is beside a McDonald's which means one thing... Caramel Frappe'.
I know what you're thinking. "Belinda's already had her Caramel Frappe' for the month of January." That would be correct. However, I'm going to need it... unless one of the doctors examining Roxie today throws me a bone and tells me I look good for my age. (I'm thinking I will probably be ordering a Caramel Frappe' later this afternoon!)
Tuesday's recipe is excellent, and I will have much more to share with you on A Simple Life. Be sure to visit again.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda (Mother of the Cute Roxie)
For any Newbies out there, Mindless Monday is the only day of the week The Gallery tells the story of the weekend, and the post is tiny. Almost nonexistent.
RANDOMNESS - It's just another day of "out of school" for us today... and we're loving it! Well, most of us. Roxie has basketball practice for a couple of hours this morning, and then a doctor's appointment later in the afternoon. For me, that would be an awful way to spend a day out of school, but Roxie loves basketball practice, and she happens to LOVE going to this particular doctor.
We're headed to a Sports Medicine doctor downtown because she has a tendon injury in one of her fingers. She can still play ball, but it will need to be repaired as soon as the season is over in two weeks.
The first time we went to this particular doctor's office (she had a deep bone bruise on her wrist), two doctors came into our room and spent the first ten minutes of the exam talking about how cute Roxie was. When the actual wrist examination finally began, another doctor wandered in, and he concurred with the first two doctors that Roxie was indeed "cute."
Needless to say, she's looking forward to a good day. Thankfully, the Sports Medicine office is beside a McDonald's which means one thing... Caramel Frappe'.
I know what you're thinking. "Belinda's already had her Caramel Frappe' for the month of January." That would be correct. However, I'm going to need it... unless one of the doctors examining Roxie today throws me a bone and tells me I look good for my age. (I'm thinking I will probably be ordering a Caramel Frappe' later this afternoon!)
Tuesday's recipe is excellent, and I will have much more to share with you on A Simple Life. Be sure to visit again.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda (Mother of the Cute Roxie)
Friday, January 14, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery pics are Hodge-Podge. Believe it or not, NOTHING happened photo-worthy at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) yesterday. NOTHING! And that was fine with me. It was a lovely "last snow day... without the snow" around here.
RANDOMNESS #1 - There was a segment on The Today Show a few minutes ago talking about what to serve for your Golden Globe Party. I have never had a Golden Globe Party. Or an Oscar Party. I've always thought about hosting such an event, but even though I love going to the movies, I rarely see the films which are nominated for awards. Let's face it. Unless it's animated, has a regular guy (Robert Downey, Jr.) turning into a super hero or a very, very simple romantic comedy, I probably will not pay good money to see it.
And I cannot remember the last time a 3-D movie was nominated for any type of award. More than half the movies I attend now offer 3-D glasses. It's the future, Baby!
But I digress... a lot. On this segment of The Today Show, they served tenderloin tacos with all the fixins' AND popcorn with tons of butter mixed with SHRIMP. That's right! SHRIMP POPCORN! Have you ever? (People in the South say "Have you ever?" knowing you will fill in the blank yourself. It's a time saver.)
I could hardly finish my Cheerios.
RANDOMNESS #2 - My friend, Robin, shared a snowman quote. I liked it, so I'm going to put it in today's post (even though it isn't Wednesday Wisdom). I know. I am SO spontaneous.
"Snowmen fall from Heaven unassembled." (See. That's a good one, isn't it?)
RANDOMNESS #3 - I received my last Real Simple magazine yesterday. (I had a free subscription, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.) As always, there are tons of lists and way to make your life more simple.
One of my favorite lists this issue was entitled, "5 things worth admitting to."
1. You don't have all the answers. (Okay. I already do this. I say, "I don't know" more than any person I know. And I'm not being humble. I really DON'T KNOW!)
2. You spent a small fortune on yourself. (This one is talking about not telling your spouse how much you spent on clothes, haircuts, etc. It reminds me of Lucy and Ethel hiding new hats from Rickey and Fred in the closet because they would get angry. I'm okay with this one, too. Most people can tell I don't spend a small fortune on "me." NEXT!)
3. Your house is usually a disaster area. (Hmmm. This one is hard. It's a pride thing, and I know I would feel better if I just said it, but it won't come out of my mouth. I definitely need to work on this one.)
4. You're tired of hearing about it. (This tip is good. It says, "Life is too short to listen to people talk about the same problems over and over and over again." The magazine suggests giving the friend a gentle time limit by saying, "I love you, but I can listen for only three minutes and then I have to go." That's not bad. Of course, if someone says that to me, I'll know I'M THE ONE who is talking about the same problems over and over and over.)
5. Everything. (I like this one. "Be frank about your age (49), your criminal record (so far, so good) and your scars (ask and I'll show them to you)." Of course, it has been my experience most people don't really want to know EVERYTHING about you. There needs to be a little mystery. You know... like my laundry room!)
Weekend Happenings
It's going to be a good weekend. After a week with NO plans, we finally have some things on the calendar which will probably not be cancelled because of a weather event.
This semester, The Boy will come home on Thursday evenings or Friday mornings. He has no Friday classes. YEA!
Roxie has a basketball game tonight, and it is at McAdory. Every girl in the Volleyball/Basketball world knows what this means. Krispy Kreme after the game! My friend, Julie Tuggle, and I started this tradition in 7th grade, and thank goodness, it stuck! If we play McAdory AT McAdory, we get a doughnut... win or lose.
Mikie and the brothers are going hunting tomorrow. They're going to have warmer weather. Hopefully, they'll have good luck, and I know they'll have a good time.
My niece, Katie, turns 17 today, and we're having her family party Sunday afternoon. Family, cake, ice cream and gifts! The perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
And that's it! We're out of school Monday for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, so Austin will be going back Tuesday morning. I'm thinking about fixing tenderloin tacos and shrimp popcorn Monday night for a special dinner. What do you think?
Have a fantastic weekend. I'll be posting a Picture a Day today, Saturday and Sunday. I will have NEW everything (recipes, parties, blog linkage and dates) next week on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery pics are Hodge-Podge. Believe it or not, NOTHING happened photo-worthy at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) yesterday. NOTHING! And that was fine with me. It was a lovely "last snow day... without the snow" around here.
RANDOMNESS #1 - There was a segment on The Today Show a few minutes ago talking about what to serve for your Golden Globe Party. I have never had a Golden Globe Party. Or an Oscar Party. I've always thought about hosting such an event, but even though I love going to the movies, I rarely see the films which are nominated for awards. Let's face it. Unless it's animated, has a regular guy (Robert Downey, Jr.) turning into a super hero or a very, very simple romantic comedy, I probably will not pay good money to see it.
And I cannot remember the last time a 3-D movie was nominated for any type of award. More than half the movies I attend now offer 3-D glasses. It's the future, Baby!
But I digress... a lot. On this segment of The Today Show, they served tenderloin tacos with all the fixins' AND popcorn with tons of butter mixed with SHRIMP. That's right! SHRIMP POPCORN! Have you ever? (People in the South say "Have you ever?" knowing you will fill in the blank yourself. It's a time saver.)
I could hardly finish my Cheerios.
RANDOMNESS #2 - My friend, Robin, shared a snowman quote. I liked it, so I'm going to put it in today's post (even though it isn't Wednesday Wisdom). I know. I am SO spontaneous.
"Snowmen fall from Heaven unassembled." (See. That's a good one, isn't it?)
RANDOMNESS #3 - I received my last Real Simple magazine yesterday. (I had a free subscription, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.) As always, there are tons of lists and way to make your life more simple.
One of my favorite lists this issue was entitled, "5 things worth admitting to."
1. You don't have all the answers. (Okay. I already do this. I say, "I don't know" more than any person I know. And I'm not being humble. I really DON'T KNOW!)
2. You spent a small fortune on yourself. (This one is talking about not telling your spouse how much you spent on clothes, haircuts, etc. It reminds me of Lucy and Ethel hiding new hats from Rickey and Fred in the closet because they would get angry. I'm okay with this one, too. Most people can tell I don't spend a small fortune on "me." NEXT!)
3. Your house is usually a disaster area. (Hmmm. This one is hard. It's a pride thing, and I know I would feel better if I just said it, but it won't come out of my mouth. I definitely need to work on this one.)
4. You're tired of hearing about it. (This tip is good. It says, "Life is too short to listen to people talk about the same problems over and over and over again." The magazine suggests giving the friend a gentle time limit by saying, "I love you, but I can listen for only three minutes and then I have to go." That's not bad. Of course, if someone says that to me, I'll know I'M THE ONE who is talking about the same problems over and over and over.)
5. Everything. (I like this one. "Be frank about your age (49), your criminal record (so far, so good) and your scars (ask and I'll show them to you)." Of course, it has been my experience most people don't really want to know EVERYTHING about you. There needs to be a little mystery. You know... like my laundry room!)
Weekend Happenings
It's going to be a good weekend. After a week with NO plans, we finally have some things on the calendar which will probably not be cancelled because of a weather event.
This semester, The Boy will come home on Thursday evenings or Friday mornings. He has no Friday classes. YEA!
Roxie has a basketball game tonight, and it is at McAdory. Every girl in the Volleyball/Basketball world knows what this means. Krispy Kreme after the game! My friend, Julie Tuggle, and I started this tradition in 7th grade, and thank goodness, it stuck! If we play McAdory AT McAdory, we get a doughnut... win or lose.
Mikie and the brothers are going hunting tomorrow. They're going to have warmer weather. Hopefully, they'll have good luck, and I know they'll have a good time.
My niece, Katie, turns 17 today, and we're having her family party Sunday afternoon. Family, cake, ice cream and gifts! The perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
And that's it! We're out of school Monday for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, so Austin will be going back Tuesday morning. I'm thinking about fixing tenderloin tacos and shrimp popcorn Monday night for a special dinner. What do you think?
Have a fantastic weekend. I'll be posting a Picture a Day today, Saturday and Sunday. I will have NEW everything (recipes, parties, blog linkage and dates) next week on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Winter Jam 2011 (Christian Concert Date)
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pic is just a "Good-Bye 2011 Winter Weather Event" photo taken during the midst of the storm... on Tuesday, I think. My days are so mixed up.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for you... For some reason during the summer months, weekends and school breaks, I don't watch the news. EVER. I am totally oblivious of the current events currently happening in and around the world. (I meant to use the word "current" twice, by the way.)
I go back to "Little House on the Prairie" days. I cook in the fireplace, beat my clothes clean on rocks in the stream behind our house and watch for prairie fires.
For some reason, it never occurs to me to watch the news when all the kiddos are at home and we have a break.
When everyone is in school and working, I am a news freak. I never miss Ann Curry on the top of the hour... each and every hour. I read the news page that pops up when the computer is turned on, AND I check talk show topics for the day to see if there is anything I need to watch on a certain subject while I'm ironing.
I am quite diligent when it comes to keeping up with the world around me when I am alone.
This isn't anything for you to worry about, and I don't want suggestions on how to fix the situation. I just noticed it myself, and thought it was a little strange... or perhaps enchanting!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I had a doctor's appointment yesterday afternoon in Homewood. I wasn't concerned. I had driven all over my little town, and things were looking good. I responsibly called the doctor's office, and they gave me the "all clear" sign, so off I went.
Do you know how many bridges and overpasses there are between here and Homewood? Do you? And I'm not talking the main interstate. I'm talking the back roads. It took me a little over an hour to get to a doctor's office 20 minutes away... in a Giant Gold Van. (You'll notice the van grew a little during this drive.) I am proud to say, I slid only once, gained control of the Giant Gold Van, and I never touched another car all the way there and back!
(Well, except for when I slipped in the parking lot of the doctor's office and grabbed a mirror of a car on the way to the front door. Thanks to Body Pump, my upper body strength is amazing, and I was able to quickly gain my footing without ripping the mirror off of said car.)
And to celebrate my wreckless day on icy streets, I stopped by McDonald's for my monthly Caramel Frappe' to reward myself! It was a good day.
Blog Linkage - I have brand new links for you to try today. I think you will like them.
1. I know Christmas is over, but if you want a really fun way to "count down the days until Christmas" go to www.theboothbunch.blogspot.com and scroll down, down, down to the post entry entitled "A few of my favorite things! Christmas decorations 2010." Check out the buckets! I love them.
2. If you love tablescape ideas (and who doesn't), go to www.dining-delight.blogspot.com. This lady features a new tablescape every Thursday (and TODAY IS THURSDAY). After you enjoy today's tablescape, you can look on the right sidebar of her blog and click on picture after picture of themed tablescapes... and they are all beautiful.
3. On January 11, this blogger, writer and mother posted a normal post about trying to build a fire in their fireplace... without opening the flue. Yesterday, she had a stroke and by yesterday afternoon her condition was deteriorating. She is a wife and mother of two children, and I felt the need to share her blog and her story with you today because she needs our prayers... even though we don't know her personally.
It's also another reminder to live each and every moment. Don't just trudge through a day or wish the day over. Always try to remember, "This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Winter Jam 2011 (Christian Concert Date)
I haven't personally been to a Winter Jam event, but my sister and her family have been many times.
If you and one of your children enjoy contemporary Christian music and artists, this would definitely be a fun and inexpensive date night.
Winter Jam 2011 will be coming to the Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center February 12. You only pay $10 per person at the door for an evening of music by a variety of Christian artists and bands. If you are not a fan of one band, don't worry. Within 15 minutes, a new band is up and playing.
This would be a perfect date with a tween or teen music-lovin' son or daughter. If you eat before the concert, be sure to go somewhere after the concert for dessert and coffee... so grown-up!
For more information, go to www.hearitfirst.com/winterjam/tour_dates.aspx. Plan ahead and have a great date.
Have a lovely Thursday. There is no way of knowing what opportunities God has placed in our path this Thursday, January 13, 2011, unless we open our eyes and hearts and look for them!
We'll have Weekend Happenings tomorrow, more pics in The Gallery and who knows what else.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pic is just a "Good-Bye 2011 Winter Weather Event" photo taken during the midst of the storm... on Tuesday, I think. My days are so mixed up.
RANDOMNESS #1 - Fun fact for you... For some reason during the summer months, weekends and school breaks, I don't watch the news. EVER. I am totally oblivious of the current events currently happening in and around the world. (I meant to use the word "current" twice, by the way.)
I go back to "Little House on the Prairie" days. I cook in the fireplace, beat my clothes clean on rocks in the stream behind our house and watch for prairie fires.
For some reason, it never occurs to me to watch the news when all the kiddos are at home and we have a break.
When everyone is in school and working, I am a news freak. I never miss Ann Curry on the top of the hour... each and every hour. I read the news page that pops up when the computer is turned on, AND I check talk show topics for the day to see if there is anything I need to watch on a certain subject while I'm ironing.
I am quite diligent when it comes to keeping up with the world around me when I am alone.
This isn't anything for you to worry about, and I don't want suggestions on how to fix the situation. I just noticed it myself, and thought it was a little strange... or perhaps enchanting!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I had a doctor's appointment yesterday afternoon in Homewood. I wasn't concerned. I had driven all over my little town, and things were looking good. I responsibly called the doctor's office, and they gave me the "all clear" sign, so off I went.
Do you know how many bridges and overpasses there are between here and Homewood? Do you? And I'm not talking the main interstate. I'm talking the back roads. It took me a little over an hour to get to a doctor's office 20 minutes away... in a Giant Gold Van. (You'll notice the van grew a little during this drive.) I am proud to say, I slid only once, gained control of the Giant Gold Van, and I never touched another car all the way there and back!
(Well, except for when I slipped in the parking lot of the doctor's office and grabbed a mirror of a car on the way to the front door. Thanks to Body Pump, my upper body strength is amazing, and I was able to quickly gain my footing without ripping the mirror off of said car.)
And to celebrate my wreckless day on icy streets, I stopped by McDonald's for my monthly Caramel Frappe' to reward myself! It was a good day.
Blog Linkage - I have brand new links for you to try today. I think you will like them.
1. I know Christmas is over, but if you want a really fun way to "count down the days until Christmas" go to www.theboothbunch.blogspot.com and scroll down, down, down to the post entry entitled "A few of my favorite things! Christmas decorations 2010." Check out the buckets! I love them.
2. If you love tablescape ideas (and who doesn't), go to www.dining-delight.blogspot.com. This lady features a new tablescape every Thursday (and TODAY IS THURSDAY). After you enjoy today's tablescape, you can look on the right sidebar of her blog and click on picture after picture of themed tablescapes... and they are all beautiful.
3. On January 11, this blogger, writer and mother posted a normal post about trying to build a fire in their fireplace... without opening the flue. Yesterday, she had a stroke and by yesterday afternoon her condition was deteriorating. She is a wife and mother of two children, and I felt the need to share her blog and her story with you today because she needs our prayers... even though we don't know her personally.
It's also another reminder to live each and every moment. Don't just trudge through a day or wish the day over. Always try to remember, "This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Winter Jam 2011 (Christian Concert Date)
I haven't personally been to a Winter Jam event, but my sister and her family have been many times.
If you and one of your children enjoy contemporary Christian music and artists, this would definitely be a fun and inexpensive date night.
Winter Jam 2011 will be coming to the Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center February 12. You only pay $10 per person at the door for an evening of music by a variety of Christian artists and bands. If you are not a fan of one band, don't worry. Within 15 minutes, a new band is up and playing.
This would be a perfect date with a tween or teen music-lovin' son or daughter. If you eat before the concert, be sure to go somewhere after the concert for dessert and coffee... so grown-up!
For more information, go to www.hearitfirst.com/winterjam/tour_dates.aspx. Plan ahead and have a great date.
Have a lovely Thursday. There is no way of knowing what opportunities God has placed in our path this Thursday, January 13, 2011, unless we open our eyes and hearts and look for them!
We'll have Weekend Happenings tomorrow, more pics in The Gallery and who knows what else.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Snow Day Traditions
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pic is simply Roxie and Ally. They were two stir-crazy chicks who needed to get OUT yesterday afternoon. Since Mikie was able to come home early after being at work since Sunday afternoon, he took the Faulkner Five (plus Miss Ally) to the Chick for a late lunch. And he did so without putting the Big Gold Van in the ditch on the treacherous roads. No wonder I love him! (Actually, our roads were pretty clear. If anyone had put the Big Gold Van in the ditch, it would have been me... and it probably wouldn't have required any ice.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very sad when I received my Martha Stewart Living magazine in the mail recently. I had been anxiously awaiting it's arrival because, as you all know, I LOVE to compare her calendar with my calendar. But this month, Martha did not have a calendar. Instead, she had a two-page spread entitled "Gentle reminders, helpful tips and important dates for January." That's no fun. There were only SIX dates noted on the timeline.
1. New Year's Day - Believe it or not, I've got that one down!
2. Jean Pigozzi's birthday - I've already sent his/her card.
3. 13th annual Austin Spring Home & Garden Show begins in Austin, Texas - I've bought my plane tickets... which I will never use.
4. Sister's birthday - I'm planning on calling. You know... Since it's a relative and all.
5. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Got it!
6. Vanessa Holden's birthday - I wonder if she's related to William Holden, the late actor and Stephanie Powers' (of Hart to Hart fame) boyfriend? (How much have I "aged" myself in that last question? I don't care. I loved Hart to Hart!)
You know me. I hate to complain, but I may have to call Martha's people, and make sure they haven't done away with the calendar. It was a good thing!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In my wanderings this morning, I found these "couple" snowman names.
1. Willy Melt and Betty Will
2. Frosty and Luvinit
3. Shimmer and Glimmer
I thought they were kind of cute. If you're one of those people who like to name their snow people, these names might help next time we get some snow in "these here parts."
Wednesday Wisdom - Since we survived the Blizzard of 2011, I feel the need to share some snowman quotes and quips with you today.
"Life is like a blanket of snow. Be careful how you step on it. Every step will show!" Anonymous
"A snowman is the perfect man. He's very well rounded and comes with his own broom." Anonymous
"Take time to chase the snowflakes." Anonymous
"It takes a few extra rolls to make a good midsection." Anonymous (Unfortunately, more "true" than "funny.")
"The great thing about snow... it makes your lawn look as good as your neighbors." Anonymous (Ahhh. Snow... the great equalizer.)
"The wonder of a single snowflake outweighs the wisdom of a million meteorologists." Anonymous
"Snowman's Prayer: Please freeze! Amen!" Anonymous
Snow Day Traditions
These ideas were gathered from several different websites here and there. Some are no-brainers, but there are a few I had not heard of before today.
Create snow day traditions by repeating a simple activity on every snow day.
Some simple snow day traditions ideas:
1. Cook a special meal. Prepare that one special meal each and every time school is cancelled. It may be chili and cornbread, pancakes and sausage or a favorite soup, but plan on buying the ingredients the day you go to Wal-Mart for milk and bread. That meal will become synonymous with SNOW DAY!
2. Bake cookies. Again, pick a cookie everyone in the family enjoys. The night before the expected snowfall, make a big batch together. (I think for our family it would have to be Snickerdoodles. I'm going to incorporate this tradition starting... NOW!)
3. During the snow day, clean out the cabinets of any stale bread, crackers, chips or cereal and spread them out in your yard for the birds. (This particular family made several time lapse movies of the birds devouring the food in the snow over the years and loved watching them again and again... on SNOW DAYS.)
4. Let the kids cook a meal for the family. (Depending on age, expect to help with some of the prep work and the clean-up.)
Today is SHARE A SNOW DAY TRADITION DAY on A Simple Life. Leave your tradition in the Comment Section or send me a Facebook message or e-mail. You'll get the credit. I promise.
Have a lovely Wednesday. I already have Blog Linkage for Thursday's post, and a winter date suggestion for you and your guy or gal.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pic is simply Roxie and Ally. They were two stir-crazy chicks who needed to get OUT yesterday afternoon. Since Mikie was able to come home early after being at work since Sunday afternoon, he took the Faulkner Five (plus Miss Ally) to the Chick for a late lunch. And he did so without putting the Big Gold Van in the ditch on the treacherous roads. No wonder I love him! (Actually, our roads were pretty clear. If anyone had put the Big Gold Van in the ditch, it would have been me... and it probably wouldn't have required any ice.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very sad when I received my Martha Stewart Living magazine in the mail recently. I had been anxiously awaiting it's arrival because, as you all know, I LOVE to compare her calendar with my calendar. But this month, Martha did not have a calendar. Instead, she had a two-page spread entitled "Gentle reminders, helpful tips and important dates for January." That's no fun. There were only SIX dates noted on the timeline.
1. New Year's Day - Believe it or not, I've got that one down!
2. Jean Pigozzi's birthday - I've already sent his/her card.
3. 13th annual Austin Spring Home & Garden Show begins in Austin, Texas - I've bought my plane tickets... which I will never use.
4. Sister's birthday - I'm planning on calling. You know... Since it's a relative and all.
5. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Got it!
6. Vanessa Holden's birthday - I wonder if she's related to William Holden, the late actor and Stephanie Powers' (of Hart to Hart fame) boyfriend? (How much have I "aged" myself in that last question? I don't care. I loved Hart to Hart!)
You know me. I hate to complain, but I may have to call Martha's people, and make sure they haven't done away with the calendar. It was a good thing!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In my wanderings this morning, I found these "couple" snowman names.
1. Willy Melt and Betty Will
2. Frosty and Luvinit
3. Shimmer and Glimmer
I thought they were kind of cute. If you're one of those people who like to name their snow people, these names might help next time we get some snow in "these here parts."
Wednesday Wisdom - Since we survived the Blizzard of 2011, I feel the need to share some snowman quotes and quips with you today.
"Life is like a blanket of snow. Be careful how you step on it. Every step will show!" Anonymous
"A snowman is the perfect man. He's very well rounded and comes with his own broom." Anonymous
"Take time to chase the snowflakes." Anonymous
"It takes a few extra rolls to make a good midsection." Anonymous (Unfortunately, more "true" than "funny.")
"The great thing about snow... it makes your lawn look as good as your neighbors." Anonymous (Ahhh. Snow... the great equalizer.)
"The wonder of a single snowflake outweighs the wisdom of a million meteorologists." Anonymous
"Snowman's Prayer: Please freeze! Amen!" Anonymous
Snow Day Traditions
These ideas were gathered from several different websites here and there. Some are no-brainers, but there are a few I had not heard of before today.
Create snow day traditions by repeating a simple activity on every snow day.
Some simple snow day traditions ideas:
1. Cook a special meal. Prepare that one special meal each and every time school is cancelled. It may be chili and cornbread, pancakes and sausage or a favorite soup, but plan on buying the ingredients the day you go to Wal-Mart for milk and bread. That meal will become synonymous with SNOW DAY!
2. Bake cookies. Again, pick a cookie everyone in the family enjoys. The night before the expected snowfall, make a big batch together. (I think for our family it would have to be Snickerdoodles. I'm going to incorporate this tradition starting... NOW!)
3. During the snow day, clean out the cabinets of any stale bread, crackers, chips or cereal and spread them out in your yard for the birds. (This particular family made several time lapse movies of the birds devouring the food in the snow over the years and loved watching them again and again... on SNOW DAYS.)
4. Let the kids cook a meal for the family. (Depending on age, expect to help with some of the prep work and the clean-up.)
Today is SHARE A SNOW DAY TRADITION DAY on A Simple Life. Leave your tradition in the Comment Section or send me a Facebook message or e-mail. You'll get the credit. I promise.
Have a lovely Wednesday. I already have Blog Linkage for Thursday's post, and a winter date suggestion for you and your guy or gal.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Cauliflower Salad
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery is full of yesterday's snow and ice photos. Tomorrow may be more of the same. I'll have to see where my camera takes me!
RANDOMNESS - You may (or may not) be wondering why there are no pics of Mikie in The Gallery this morning. When there is a threat of bad weather and/or streets being closed, he must go to work. He left Sunday afternoon when the sleet started falling, but hopefully, he'll be able to come home this evening. We missed him yesterday and last night during the game, but we had fun just the same... and he was able to watch the game with some Auburn fans/co-workers, so he was with like-minded people.
The remaining Faulkner Four received text messages every three or four minutes, so we kind of watched the game together. Kind of.
Cauliflower Salad
Let me start this segment by saying, "I do NOT like cauliflower. I have NEVER liked cauliflower. EVER." However, my friend, Debbie Stovall, prepared this for our 12 Teas of Christmas Progressive Tea... and I LOVED IT! I am now a Cauliflower Salad AND Caulitater fan!
You will need the following:
1 head of lettuce
1 head of cauliflower
1 medium purple onion
10 slices bacon, cooked
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1. Break up head of lettuce. Place in a salad bowl.
2. Cut cauliflower into bite-size pieces. Layer on top of lettuce.
3. Chop onion and layer over cauliflower.
4. Crumble bacon over onion.
5. Mix mayonnaise and sugar. Spread evenly over the bacon.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Toss before eating.
If you are a fan of the cauliflower, run to the grocery store immediately, buy these ingredients and make the salad tonight! (I'm almost 100 percent positive the grocery stores did not sell all of their cauliflower for the 2011 Winter Weather Event. Almost 100 percent positive!)
If you are NOT a fan of the cauliflower, read the above paragraph and do exactly as it says. You are about to have a very pleasant surprise.
Have a good Tuesday. I'm not sure what the weather has in store for us today. I hope we'll be able to get out for a little bit this afternoon, but maybe not. (I was thinking about treating the kids to a Chick-Fil-A Peppermint Chocolate Chip Milkshake if the Chick is open for business. Once again, I am highly recommending a very fattening drink. I can't help myself! And for the record, I like the following drinks in the following order:
1. McDonald's Caramel Frappe'
2. Joe Mugg's Ghirardelli Frozen Hot Chocolate
3. Chick-Fil-A's Peppermint Chocolate Chip Milkshake.
Surely one of the above establishments is open today! Text me if you hear something!
Wednesday Wisdom, some Snow Day Traditions to keep on file for our next Winter Weather Event and more Randomness "than you can shake a stick at" will appear on A Simple Life first thing Wednesday morning. Be sure to visit again!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery is full of yesterday's snow and ice photos. Tomorrow may be more of the same. I'll have to see where my camera takes me!
RANDOMNESS - You may (or may not) be wondering why there are no pics of Mikie in The Gallery this morning. When there is a threat of bad weather and/or streets being closed, he must go to work. He left Sunday afternoon when the sleet started falling, but hopefully, he'll be able to come home this evening. We missed him yesterday and last night during the game, but we had fun just the same... and he was able to watch the game with some Auburn fans/co-workers, so he was with like-minded people.
The remaining Faulkner Four received text messages every three or four minutes, so we kind of watched the game together. Kind of.
Cauliflower Salad
Let me start this segment by saying, "I do NOT like cauliflower. I have NEVER liked cauliflower. EVER." However, my friend, Debbie Stovall, prepared this for our 12 Teas of Christmas Progressive Tea... and I LOVED IT! I am now a Cauliflower Salad AND Caulitater fan!
You will need the following:
1 head of lettuce
1 head of cauliflower
1 medium purple onion
10 slices bacon, cooked
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1. Break up head of lettuce. Place in a salad bowl.
2. Cut cauliflower into bite-size pieces. Layer on top of lettuce.
3. Chop onion and layer over cauliflower.
4. Crumble bacon over onion.
5. Mix mayonnaise and sugar. Spread evenly over the bacon.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Toss before eating.
If you are a fan of the cauliflower, run to the grocery store immediately, buy these ingredients and make the salad tonight! (I'm almost 100 percent positive the grocery stores did not sell all of their cauliflower for the 2011 Winter Weather Event. Almost 100 percent positive!)
If you are NOT a fan of the cauliflower, read the above paragraph and do exactly as it says. You are about to have a very pleasant surprise.
Have a good Tuesday. I'm not sure what the weather has in store for us today. I hope we'll be able to get out for a little bit this afternoon, but maybe not. (I was thinking about treating the kids to a Chick-Fil-A Peppermint Chocolate Chip Milkshake if the Chick is open for business. Once again, I am highly recommending a very fattening drink. I can't help myself! And for the record, I like the following drinks in the following order:
1. McDonald's Caramel Frappe'
2. Joe Mugg's Ghirardelli Frozen Hot Chocolate
3. Chick-Fil-A's Peppermint Chocolate Chip Milkshake.
Surely one of the above establishments is open today! Text me if you hear something!
Wednesday Wisdom, some Snow Day Traditions to keep on file for our next Winter Weather Event and more Randomness "than you can shake a stick at" will appear on A Simple Life first thing Wednesday morning. Be sure to visit again!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, January 10, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
Well, as The Gallery indicates, James Spann was correct. We DID have a winter weather event. I'm sure there will be a few more "snow" photos added to The Gallery Tuesday.
The other pics in The Gallery are called Peppermint Pig. Mikie received this little piggy as a gift at work, and yesterday during lunch we took a few minutes to read the story behind this very pink pig. You may have already heard about this tradition, but it was new to me and my family. I've kept the address of the company that makes the Peppermint Pig, and I'm planning on ordering a few next Christmas. Who knows? I may have a Peppermint Pig Contest on A Simple Life.
I haven't added a new Showcase Pic because I feel like I'll probably get the best snow picture later today. It will be added tomorrow!
Have a great time playing in the snow today. Remember. It's Alabama. You never know how long this winter wonderland is going to last. I hope everyone has power. Thankfully, we do! That always makes coming inside from the snow so much nicer!
Tuesday's recipe is very good. You'll want to add it to your "Very Good Recipe" collection. I'll also have some Randomness to share.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Well, as The Gallery indicates, James Spann was correct. We DID have a winter weather event. I'm sure there will be a few more "snow" photos added to The Gallery Tuesday.
The other pics in The Gallery are called Peppermint Pig. Mikie received this little piggy as a gift at work, and yesterday during lunch we took a few minutes to read the story behind this very pink pig. You may have already heard about this tradition, but it was new to me and my family. I've kept the address of the company that makes the Peppermint Pig, and I'm planning on ordering a few next Christmas. Who knows? I may have a Peppermint Pig Contest on A Simple Life.
I haven't added a new Showcase Pic because I feel like I'll probably get the best snow picture later today. It will be added tomorrow!
Have a great time playing in the snow today. Remember. It's Alabama. You never know how long this winter wonderland is going to last. I hope everyone has power. Thankfully, we do! That always makes coming inside from the snow so much nicer!
Tuesday's recipe is very good. You'll want to add it to your "Very Good Recipe" collection. I'll also have some Randomness to share.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, January 7, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pics are of Sparkle. If all else fails, I can always get a picture of at least one of The Pups. It may not be a good picture, but it is a picture nonetheless.
RANDOMNESS #1 - A friend from church sent Mikie the following "Ponderisms" via e-mail yesterday. I thought some of them were pretty good, so I wanted to share!
1. I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes.
2. Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.
3. All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism.
4. How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire? (This is SO true, it isn't even funny!)
5. Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things and drink whatever comes out?" (I wonder things like this ALL the time. I mean, who was the first person to dig up a rutabaga, cook it and actually think it tasted good enough to serve to family and friends. WHO?)
6. If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, then what is baby oil made from?
7. Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle? (Oh... my... goodness! This one will be bothering me ALL day long!)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Okay. Here's the last question for the week.
Chipiwa from Zimbabwe asks, "If you don't mind me saying, your blog seems very 'Pollyanna-ish.' Everyone gets along. No one fights. You have no teenage or husband problems to speak of and you never burn dinner. How can that be?"
Well, Chipiwa, I realize I don't post a lot of the negatives that happen in and around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). I have spent time recording my son's illness in detail (see Josh's Journey on my sidebar), the effect on our home life when Austin left us to attend college 86 minutes away (see Austin - 1/3 of an Empty Nest on my sidebar) and I talk about my battle (and it IS a battle) with panic attacks (see Panic Attacks on my sidebar).
I want A Simple Life to be a place to visit that lifts you up a little... not a place that consistently brings you down.
That being said, there are tons of things which I do not share on this little blog of mine. Everyone has their share of heartache, illness and sadness in their lifetime. Many of them much, much more than I have ever experienced.
The things I have shared about Josh and myself were done so to open a dialogue about illnesses people have trouble talking about... and in this very small venue, it has done just that.
Chipiwa, I'll leave you with this. Life is WAY too short to dwell on the bad stuff for long periods of time. And since I'm an expert "Dweller on the Bad Stuff," this blog helps me focus on the good, the funny, the bizarre and the joy that can be found somewhere almost every day if we look hard enough. (And believe me... some days I have to look REALLY, REALLY hard!)
"A joyful heart is good medicine." Proverbs 17:22. (In 2011, I'm going to try to take this medicine EVERY SINGLE DAY!)
ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! - I've been having a little fun with you this past week. I'm assuming you all know I don't have readers in the Congo, Zimbabwe, the Ukraine and New Delhi... yet. However, I do have new readers in the United States, and I thought it would be fun/funny to answer some questions to get them familiar with A Simple Life from some imaginary readers. (All of the names are authentic, by the way! I Googled them... so Chipiwa is really a popular girl name in Zimbabwe.)
We all learned something this week!
Weekend Happenings
Basketball claims another Friday night at the our household. We're looking forward to a home game, and perhaps another win! The Boy went back to JSU yesterday, but he'll be back this evening.
Saturday, the Faulkner Five will be Oxford-bound. We're celebrating my great-nephew's THIRD birthday. This year, Matthew is completely and totally enamored with Thomas the Train, so I'll be buying the Thomas the Train birthday card and Thomas the Train wrapping paper for his gift.
Saturday afternoon and evening are free as can be for Mikie and me... and I have no idea what all of the kids have planned at this time. Well, except for Josh. He slipped me a copy of his typed weekend itinerary last night. He's my favorite at the moment.
I have made no plans for Sunday because James Spann seems to have done that little chore on my behalf. It looks like a lazy, movie, puzzle, Nerf War, Phase 10 card game kind of day... and that's if we have power.
If we don't have power, we'll probably just move my fire pit into the kitchen, burn the dining room set and eat as many roasted marshmallows as humanly possible. (I always buy extra marshmallows when I purchase the obligatory "winter weather event" milk and bread at Wal-Mart. You can eat them raw and they don't have to be refrigerated. And I have found that marshmallows generally keep your spirits up in a less-than-ideal situation... like a "winter weather event" with no power.)
That's it in a nutshell. You can imagine what Mindless Monday is going to look like. Basketball and snow... and marshmallow-eating Faulkners.
I hope you have a wonderful weekend. If you get a chance, let me know what you and your family like to do on the rare occasions Alabama gets a GOOD snowfall. Are you snowman people, snow angel people, snow cream people, snow ball fight people, sledding people, etc., etc.? What do you and yours do when the white stuff sticks. I want to know.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
P.S. Fun fact for you... Belinda is Spanish for "beautiful snake." See. A Simple Life is an educational blog, too!
The Gallery Pics are of Sparkle. If all else fails, I can always get a picture of at least one of The Pups. It may not be a good picture, but it is a picture nonetheless.
RANDOMNESS #1 - A friend from church sent Mikie the following "Ponderisms" via e-mail yesterday. I thought some of them were pretty good, so I wanted to share!
1. I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes.
2. Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.
3. All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism.
4. How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire? (This is SO true, it isn't even funny!)
5. Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things and drink whatever comes out?" (I wonder things like this ALL the time. I mean, who was the first person to dig up a rutabaga, cook it and actually think it tasted good enough to serve to family and friends. WHO?)
6. If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, then what is baby oil made from?
7. Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle? (Oh... my... goodness! This one will be bothering me ALL day long!)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Okay. Here's the last question for the week.
Chipiwa from Zimbabwe asks, "If you don't mind me saying, your blog seems very 'Pollyanna-ish.' Everyone gets along. No one fights. You have no teenage or husband problems to speak of and you never burn dinner. How can that be?"
Well, Chipiwa, I realize I don't post a lot of the negatives that happen in and around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). I have spent time recording my son's illness in detail (see Josh's Journey on my sidebar), the effect on our home life when Austin left us to attend college 86 minutes away (see Austin - 1/3 of an Empty Nest on my sidebar) and I talk about my battle (and it IS a battle) with panic attacks (see Panic Attacks on my sidebar).
I want A Simple Life to be a place to visit that lifts you up a little... not a place that consistently brings you down.
That being said, there are tons of things which I do not share on this little blog of mine. Everyone has their share of heartache, illness and sadness in their lifetime. Many of them much, much more than I have ever experienced.
The things I have shared about Josh and myself were done so to open a dialogue about illnesses people have trouble talking about... and in this very small venue, it has done just that.
Chipiwa, I'll leave you with this. Life is WAY too short to dwell on the bad stuff for long periods of time. And since I'm an expert "Dweller on the Bad Stuff," this blog helps me focus on the good, the funny, the bizarre and the joy that can be found somewhere almost every day if we look hard enough. (And believe me... some days I have to look REALLY, REALLY hard!)
"A joyful heart is good medicine." Proverbs 17:22. (In 2011, I'm going to try to take this medicine EVERY SINGLE DAY!)
ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! ANNOUNCEMENT! - I've been having a little fun with you this past week. I'm assuming you all know I don't have readers in the Congo, Zimbabwe, the Ukraine and New Delhi... yet. However, I do have new readers in the United States, and I thought it would be fun/funny to answer some questions to get them familiar with A Simple Life from some imaginary readers. (All of the names are authentic, by the way! I Googled them... so Chipiwa is really a popular girl name in Zimbabwe.)
We all learned something this week!
Weekend Happenings
Basketball claims another Friday night at the our household. We're looking forward to a home game, and perhaps another win! The Boy went back to JSU yesterday, but he'll be back this evening.
Saturday, the Faulkner Five will be Oxford-bound. We're celebrating my great-nephew's THIRD birthday. This year, Matthew is completely and totally enamored with Thomas the Train, so I'll be buying the Thomas the Train birthday card and Thomas the Train wrapping paper for his gift.
Saturday afternoon and evening are free as can be for Mikie and me... and I have no idea what all of the kids have planned at this time. Well, except for Josh. He slipped me a copy of his typed weekend itinerary last night. He's my favorite at the moment.
I have made no plans for Sunday because James Spann seems to have done that little chore on my behalf. It looks like a lazy, movie, puzzle, Nerf War, Phase 10 card game kind of day... and that's if we have power.
If we don't have power, we'll probably just move my fire pit into the kitchen, burn the dining room set and eat as many roasted marshmallows as humanly possible. (I always buy extra marshmallows when I purchase the obligatory "winter weather event" milk and bread at Wal-Mart. You can eat them raw and they don't have to be refrigerated. And I have found that marshmallows generally keep your spirits up in a less-than-ideal situation... like a "winter weather event" with no power.)
That's it in a nutshell. You can imagine what Mindless Monday is going to look like. Basketball and snow... and marshmallow-eating Faulkners.
I hope you have a wonderful weekend. If you get a chance, let me know what you and your family like to do on the rare occasions Alabama gets a GOOD snowfall. Are you snowman people, snow angel people, snow cream people, snow ball fight people, sledding people, etc., etc.? What do you and yours do when the white stuff sticks. I want to know.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
P.S. Fun fact for you... Belinda is Spanish for "beautiful snake." See. A Simple Life is an educational blog, too!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Re-Create Your First Date
Good Thursday morning!
A couple of basketball pics made it in The Gallery today. Our win over Erwin was sweet... and much needed. It's been a hard season, but last night's game was a joy to watch.
There would be many more basketball pics, but I helped at the "score table" last night. My job is to sit by my friend, Julie, and call out all the players who go into the game, tell her who scores, etc. (Actually, there is no "etc." All I do is call out the players who go into the game and tell her who scores.) When I help, I am called the "spotter." However, I take this job very seriously, so I didn't take pictures until the game was over because I didn't want to miss anything.
It didn't help that Dasha, an absolutely gorgeous one year-old, sat beside me the last quarter of the game... and smiled... and talked... and obviously wanted me to hold her and love her and never let her go. Mikie even had to yell at me from the bleachers and tell me, "No!"
My personal feeling is babies shouldn't be allowed to sit so close to the "score table" in the first place. I think it should be an official rule. I wonder who I would talk to about that? Hmmm.
RANDOMNESS #1 - As I approach my 600th post on A Simple Life (in four or so weeks), I feel the need to have a contest of some sort. I'm brainstorming at the moment, but once the contest is completely formulated in my mind, I will share the details and rules... and you can enter and win a prize! It's that easy!Just ask Cam and Joan. It only took them two years to finally win!
RANDOMNESS #2 - The questions keep coming from new readers around the globe. As always, I'll answer as best I can.
Banni from New Delhi, India asks, "When looking at your pictures, you seem to wear several items of clothing over and over again... all of which are the same greenish-yellow color. Does this color have a name? Are you opposed to wearing different colored clothing?"
Well, Banni, I can't say I'm glad you asked that question, but I can understand your confusion. I seem to be drawn to that particular color (which has no official name). My daughter simply calls it "Baby Poo-Poo Green." To my knowledge, I am the only person on the globe who can actually wear this color (or who chooses to wear it at least three times a week).
I get many comments along these lines, "You are the only person I know who can actually wear that color." I am perfectly aware that statement does not translate into, "That color looks marvelous on you."
It's more of a gutsy choice as opposed to a fashion statement, I think. I'm going to try to throw some burnt orange or purple in the mix this year. Something daring! I think someone named The Enchanting Belinda might be able to pull it off!
Blog Linkage - I have a craft for you to try in Blog Linkage today. I am going to attempt to make it for my front door by February 1, and I thought you might want to give it try, too.
1. Click on eighteen25 under My Blog List. Scroll down to Heart Wreaths dated January 5. Read the post and click on "The Idea Room." You will find a step-by-step tutorial on how to make a really pretty heart wreath for one of your doors for the month of February.
2. Go to www.lifeingraceblog.com. Go to her sidebar and under Recent Posts click "The God of Promise" dated December 29, 2010. This amazing lady tells the story of her family surviving a house fire. It is inspiring and heartbreaking at the same time. I'll go ahead and tell you all of her family survived, but it is truly a wonderful example of devastating loss and hope and thankfulness. She is totally relying on God right now. Wonderful blog.
Re-Create Your First Date
Do you remember the very first date you had with your honey? Where did you go? What did you wear? What did you eat? Were you able to eat? (I always had such a nervous stomach on first dates, I usually had a little salad. I know. Cheap date!)
Take one of your little ones on a re-creation of your very first date with their Mom. As always, talk to them and tell them the story of how you asked Mom out... how she responded... what you remember about that night, etc., etc.
For me and Mikie, it was dinner at Milo's (his favorite) and a movie (my favorite). He always gets the movie wrong, but he remembers what I wore, so I forgive him for not remembering that little detail. (Also remember, Mikie and I had been best friends for almost four years before we went out on our first date. There wasn't a whole lot of "trying to impress each other" going on. Milo's and a movie was a perfect first date for us.)
Enjoy going down memory lane with your child. Hearing stories about your courtship (I know it's an old word), and how you and Mom fell in love is like a big security blanket for a child. And a good example.
Have an unbelievable Thursday. I hope you are super productive this beautiful day. (I am also hoping the same for myself.) We'll finish the week Friday with more questions and answers from new readers and Weekend Happenings.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
A couple of basketball pics made it in The Gallery today. Our win over Erwin was sweet... and much needed. It's been a hard season, but last night's game was a joy to watch.
There would be many more basketball pics, but I helped at the "score table" last night. My job is to sit by my friend, Julie, and call out all the players who go into the game, tell her who scores, etc. (Actually, there is no "etc." All I do is call out the players who go into the game and tell her who scores.) When I help, I am called the "spotter." However, I take this job very seriously, so I didn't take pictures until the game was over because I didn't want to miss anything.
It didn't help that Dasha, an absolutely gorgeous one year-old, sat beside me the last quarter of the game... and smiled... and talked... and obviously wanted me to hold her and love her and never let her go. Mikie even had to yell at me from the bleachers and tell me, "No!"
My personal feeling is babies shouldn't be allowed to sit so close to the "score table" in the first place. I think it should be an official rule. I wonder who I would talk to about that? Hmmm.
RANDOMNESS #1 - As I approach my 600th post on A Simple Life (in four or so weeks), I feel the need to have a contest of some sort. I'm brainstorming at the moment, but once the contest is completely formulated in my mind, I will share the details and rules... and you can enter and win a prize! It's that easy!Just ask Cam and Joan. It only took them two years to finally win!
RANDOMNESS #2 - The questions keep coming from new readers around the globe. As always, I'll answer as best I can.
Banni from New Delhi, India asks, "When looking at your pictures, you seem to wear several items of clothing over and over again... all of which are the same greenish-yellow color. Does this color have a name? Are you opposed to wearing different colored clothing?"
Well, Banni, I can't say I'm glad you asked that question, but I can understand your confusion. I seem to be drawn to that particular color (which has no official name). My daughter simply calls it "Baby Poo-Poo Green." To my knowledge, I am the only person on the globe who can actually wear this color (or who chooses to wear it at least three times a week).
I get many comments along these lines, "You are the only person I know who can actually wear that color." I am perfectly aware that statement does not translate into, "That color looks marvelous on you."
It's more of a gutsy choice as opposed to a fashion statement, I think. I'm going to try to throw some burnt orange or purple in the mix this year. Something daring! I think someone named The Enchanting Belinda might be able to pull it off!
Blog Linkage - I have a craft for you to try in Blog Linkage today. I am going to attempt to make it for my front door by February 1, and I thought you might want to give it try, too.
1. Click on eighteen25 under My Blog List. Scroll down to Heart Wreaths dated January 5. Read the post and click on "The Idea Room." You will find a step-by-step tutorial on how to make a really pretty heart wreath for one of your doors for the month of February.
2. Go to www.lifeingraceblog.com. Go to her sidebar and under Recent Posts click "The God of Promise" dated December 29, 2010. This amazing lady tells the story of her family surviving a house fire. It is inspiring and heartbreaking at the same time. I'll go ahead and tell you all of her family survived, but it is truly a wonderful example of devastating loss and hope and thankfulness. She is totally relying on God right now. Wonderful blog.
Re-Create Your First Date
Do you remember the very first date you had with your honey? Where did you go? What did you wear? What did you eat? Were you able to eat? (I always had such a nervous stomach on first dates, I usually had a little salad. I know. Cheap date!)
Take one of your little ones on a re-creation of your very first date with their Mom. As always, talk to them and tell them the story of how you asked Mom out... how she responded... what you remember about that night, etc., etc.
For me and Mikie, it was dinner at Milo's (his favorite) and a movie (my favorite). He always gets the movie wrong, but he remembers what I wore, so I forgive him for not remembering that little detail. (Also remember, Mikie and I had been best friends for almost four years before we went out on our first date. There wasn't a whole lot of "trying to impress each other" going on. Milo's and a movie was a perfect first date for us.)
Enjoy going down memory lane with your child. Hearing stories about your courtship (I know it's an old word), and how you and Mom fell in love is like a big security blanket for a child. And a good example.
Have an unbelievable Thursday. I hope you are super productive this beautiful day. (I am also hoping the same for myself.) We'll finish the week Friday with more questions and answers from new readers and Weekend Happenings.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Birdseed Pretzel Tradition
Good Wednesday morning!
I'm sharing just a few more Resolutions in The Gallery today. Tomorrow... basketball pics. No complaining, people. It's been awhile, and there's only one more month left of the season. You'll just have to grin and bear it!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Many of you know I've been participating in Body Pump classes semi-regularly over the last few months. What you may not know, is I thought I no longer had abs. We do "ab work" on Tuesdays, and the instructor always says, "Can you feel that? Are your abs sore? Can you feel the burn?" And I always shake my head up and down to indicate "Yes," but I haven't been truthful. I didn't feel it, my abs weren't sore and nothing in that area was burning.
There! I feel better! I've told the truth.
I just assumed at 49, maybe you didn't have abs any longer. I even Googled it, and called Cha Cha. I couldn't get a clear answer, but it may have been the way I posed the question. "Does your body absorb abs when you near 50 years of age?"
"What?" was Cha Cha's response. (Who are those people anyway?)
However, last night we did a new exercise, and I think I found my abs. It's very exciting because my abs (or where my abs once were) are sore today.
NOTE - Under no circumstances do I want to misrepresent myself. I am not going for a six-pack... REPEAT! NOT GOING FOR A SIX-PACK. I simply wanted to share I found a body part I had thought was missing. Happy day!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I will now answer another question posed by a new reader regarding A Simple Life.
Johane from the Congo asks, "What kind of animals do you raise on your farm, or do you grow crops?"
Another good question. Johane, when I refer to Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), it is more of a joke than a reality.
You see, last year I was very interested in obtaining a chicken and producing my own farm fresh eggs. Unfortunately, since we live in a suburban neighborhood with two beagles in the backyard, having a chicken and chicken coop was unrealistic. That, and my husband, Mikie, kind of put his big foot down.
We could have put the coop on the front porch, but that's a little more "simple" than I care to be at this time in my life.
However, we do have the two beagles, 98 squirrels and 14 chipmunks, and since I've ALWAYS wanted to name my house, I jokingly came up with Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), and declared it a working squirrel farm.
I apologize for any confusion the name of my home may have caused. Thanks for asking!
Wednesday Wisdom - Of course, today's Wisdom is all about the New Year. What else?
"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man." Benjamin Franklin (I love Benjamin Franklin quotes!)
"A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other." Author Unknown
"Good resolutions are simply checks that men draw on a bank where they have no account." Oscar Wilde
(Perhaps a little negative, but unfortunately a little true.)
"One resolution I have made, and try always to keep, is this: To rise above the little things." John Burroughs (This is an excellent resolution. I don't know how to take a picture of it, but I may use it anyway.)
"May all your troubles last as long as your New Year's resolutions." Joey Adams (And, as always, a little humor to end today's Wisdom!)
Birdseed Pretzel Tradition
This could be something you and your little ones could do each and every January to help our feathered friends.
Explain to your children how difficult it is for birds to find enough to eat at this time of year, and how much they can help by providing food for them.
1. Cut a 12" piece of wax paper and lay it flat on a protected surface. The corners may have to be taped down so the paper doesn't curl while the pretzels are being made.
2. Squirt fairly wide lines of Elmer's Glue on the waxed paper to form a pretzel-like design in which all lines meet.
3. Sprinkle bird seed or sunflower seeds to cover all the glue.
4. Allow to dry overnight.
5. Turn designs upside down on a flat surface and carefully peel away the waxed paper.
6. Hang on limbs or fences with thread.
This tradition was borrowed from Let's Make a Memory by Gloria Gaither and Shirley Dobson.
We made winter "birdfeeders" when my kids were young. We cut slices of bread into winter shapes with cookie cutters (snowmen, snowflakes, etc.). We then put them into the oven and toasted them. (We actually "over" toasted them. They weren't burnt, but they were very hard.)
Next, I tied a ribbon through a hole I made toward the top of the toast. The kids would then spread peanut butter all over the toast, generously sprinkle it with birdseed and we would find a tree to hang our bird-friendly creations. Within two days, all that was left was the ribbon.
This doesn't take a lot of time, but it is a wonderful "too cold to play outside" activity and tradition the kids can look forward to each and every winter.
NOTE - It is also something you can do more than once during the winter months!
Oh. And it's cheap AND fun!
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Remember... Today is Encouraging Wednesday. Pick up the phone, text, e-mail, Facebook, etc. someone who is on your mind, and give them a little "pick me up." It takes a minute, but it could make such a difference in that person's day.
Thursday I have some wonderful Blog Linkage, another question which needs to be answered from a new reader and a fun date. Don't forget to visit.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I'm sharing just a few more Resolutions in The Gallery today. Tomorrow... basketball pics. No complaining, people. It's been awhile, and there's only one more month left of the season. You'll just have to grin and bear it!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Many of you know I've been participating in Body Pump classes semi-regularly over the last few months. What you may not know, is I thought I no longer had abs. We do "ab work" on Tuesdays, and the instructor always says, "Can you feel that? Are your abs sore? Can you feel the burn?" And I always shake my head up and down to indicate "Yes," but I haven't been truthful. I didn't feel it, my abs weren't sore and nothing in that area was burning.
There! I feel better! I've told the truth.
I just assumed at 49, maybe you didn't have abs any longer. I even Googled it, and called Cha Cha. I couldn't get a clear answer, but it may have been the way I posed the question. "Does your body absorb abs when you near 50 years of age?"
"What?" was Cha Cha's response. (Who are those people anyway?)
However, last night we did a new exercise, and I think I found my abs. It's very exciting because my abs (or where my abs once were) are sore today.
NOTE - Under no circumstances do I want to misrepresent myself. I am not going for a six-pack... REPEAT! NOT GOING FOR A SIX-PACK. I simply wanted to share I found a body part I had thought was missing. Happy day!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I will now answer another question posed by a new reader regarding A Simple Life.
Johane from the Congo asks, "What kind of animals do you raise on your farm, or do you grow crops?"
Another good question. Johane, when I refer to Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), it is more of a joke than a reality.
You see, last year I was very interested in obtaining a chicken and producing my own farm fresh eggs. Unfortunately, since we live in a suburban neighborhood with two beagles in the backyard, having a chicken and chicken coop was unrealistic. That, and my husband, Mikie, kind of put his big foot down.
We could have put the coop on the front porch, but that's a little more "simple" than I care to be at this time in my life.
However, we do have the two beagles, 98 squirrels and 14 chipmunks, and since I've ALWAYS wanted to name my house, I jokingly came up with Faulkner Farms (circa 1842), and declared it a working squirrel farm.
I apologize for any confusion the name of my home may have caused. Thanks for asking!
Wednesday Wisdom - Of course, today's Wisdom is all about the New Year. What else?
"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man." Benjamin Franklin (I love Benjamin Franklin quotes!)
"A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other." Author Unknown
"Good resolutions are simply checks that men draw on a bank where they have no account." Oscar Wilde
(Perhaps a little negative, but unfortunately a little true.)
"One resolution I have made, and try always to keep, is this: To rise above the little things." John Burroughs (This is an excellent resolution. I don't know how to take a picture of it, but I may use it anyway.)
"May all your troubles last as long as your New Year's resolutions." Joey Adams (And, as always, a little humor to end today's Wisdom!)
Birdseed Pretzel Tradition
This could be something you and your little ones could do each and every January to help our feathered friends.
Explain to your children how difficult it is for birds to find enough to eat at this time of year, and how much they can help by providing food for them.
1. Cut a 12" piece of wax paper and lay it flat on a protected surface. The corners may have to be taped down so the paper doesn't curl while the pretzels are being made.
2. Squirt fairly wide lines of Elmer's Glue on the waxed paper to form a pretzel-like design in which all lines meet.
3. Sprinkle bird seed or sunflower seeds to cover all the glue.
4. Allow to dry overnight.
5. Turn designs upside down on a flat surface and carefully peel away the waxed paper.
6. Hang on limbs or fences with thread.
This tradition was borrowed from Let's Make a Memory by Gloria Gaither and Shirley Dobson.
We made winter "birdfeeders" when my kids were young. We cut slices of bread into winter shapes with cookie cutters (snowmen, snowflakes, etc.). We then put them into the oven and toasted them. (We actually "over" toasted them. They weren't burnt, but they were very hard.)
Next, I tied a ribbon through a hole I made toward the top of the toast. The kids would then spread peanut butter all over the toast, generously sprinkle it with birdseed and we would find a tree to hang our bird-friendly creations. Within two days, all that was left was the ribbon.
This doesn't take a lot of time, but it is a wonderful "too cold to play outside" activity and tradition the kids can look forward to each and every winter.
NOTE - It is also something you can do more than once during the winter months!
Oh. And it's cheap AND fun!
Have a fantastic Wednesday. Remember... Today is Encouraging Wednesday. Pick up the phone, text, e-mail, Facebook, etc. someone who is on your mind, and give them a little "pick me up." It takes a minute, but it could make such a difference in that person's day.
Thursday I have some wonderful Blog Linkage, another question which needs to be answered from a new reader and a fun date. Don't forget to visit.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Loaded Baked Potato Dip
Good Tuesday morning!
I've added a few more Resolutions to the Gallery Pics today. And the resolutions still keep coming. Whether I'll be able to keep any of them or not, only time will tell. (I have been combing my hair more... and I've scheduled a haircut. Things are looking up.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Melia and her mother, Lisa, made Strawberry Butter, and sent a container to our home. Oh... my... goodness! I LOVE Strawberry Butter. I will be sending Miss Melia a Facebook message asking if I can share their recipe next Tuesday on A Simple Life. (Austin and I finished off the first container, and they were kind enough to send a second. It is good stuff!)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Since receiving my "Top Must-Read Blog" award for college students new to this area, I have been receiving some questions from new readers. I feel the need to answer in order to clarify some of the things I take for granted on A Simple Life. I'll be answering one or two a day for the remainder of the week.
Irina from the Ukraine asks, "Why do you refer to yourself as 'The Enchanting Belinda?'"
This is a good question. I was at a party, and we played a game. You had to pick one adjective you WISHED described you. My favorite movie is You've Got Mail starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. There's a part in the movie where someone is talking about Meg Ryan's character, Kathleen Kelly, and her mother. The man describes Kathleen's mother as "Enchanting. Simply enchanting." (I want that on my tombstone!)
I am NOT enchanting. In my mind, you have to be petite (I am 5'9"), and a lot of other things I am not to be considered enchanting. But if I had to pick an adjective (and I did), it would be "enchanting."
That is why I refer to myself as "The Enchanting Belinda" at the end of each post. It's a wish... not a fact.
I'll answer two more questions tomorrow.
Loaded Baked Potato Dip
Since I host a Super Bowl Party for Josh, Austin and friends each year, I'm always looking for a new "man-pleasing" recipe... and I think this might be IT for 2011. I found this in my new Southern Living magazine. There were several dip recipes listed, and while they all looked good (except for the Muffuletta Dip... I don't do olives), I knew ALL of my guys would eat the Loaded Baked Potato Dip.
You will need the following:
1 2.1 ounce package fully cooked bacon slices
1 16 ounce sour cream
2 cups freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup chives
2 teaspoons hot sauce
SERVE WITH WAFFLE FRIES (The secret ingredient!)
1. Microwave bacon according to package directions until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
2. Cool 10 minutes and crumble.
3. Stir together bacon and next 4 ingredients.
4. Cover and chill 1 to 24 hours before serving.
5. Serve with crispy, warm waffle fries.
Does that sound good, or what?
Have a blessed Tuesday. I know most of our area started back to school today. Except for The Boy, who is moving around upstairs, it is totally quiet in the house... very unusual after the holiday break. I'll miss the kids and the break, but I like the quiet every now and again. (I'll be tired of it by next week, I am sure.)
Wednesday Wisdom and a Seasonal Tradition are well worth a visit tomorrow. Plus, I still have a couple of Resolution pics to add to the Gallery, and some questions which must be answered.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
I've added a few more Resolutions to the Gallery Pics today. And the resolutions still keep coming. Whether I'll be able to keep any of them or not, only time will tell. (I have been combing my hair more... and I've scheduled a haircut. Things are looking up.)
RANDOMNESS #1 - Melia and her mother, Lisa, made Strawberry Butter, and sent a container to our home. Oh... my... goodness! I LOVE Strawberry Butter. I will be sending Miss Melia a Facebook message asking if I can share their recipe next Tuesday on A Simple Life. (Austin and I finished off the first container, and they were kind enough to send a second. It is good stuff!)
RANDOMNESS #2 - Since receiving my "Top Must-Read Blog" award for college students new to this area, I have been receiving some questions from new readers. I feel the need to answer in order to clarify some of the things I take for granted on A Simple Life. I'll be answering one or two a day for the remainder of the week.
Irina from the Ukraine asks, "Why do you refer to yourself as 'The Enchanting Belinda?'"
This is a good question. I was at a party, and we played a game. You had to pick one adjective you WISHED described you. My favorite movie is You've Got Mail starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. There's a part in the movie where someone is talking about Meg Ryan's character, Kathleen Kelly, and her mother. The man describes Kathleen's mother as "Enchanting. Simply enchanting." (I want that on my tombstone!)
I am NOT enchanting. In my mind, you have to be petite (I am 5'9"), and a lot of other things I am not to be considered enchanting. But if I had to pick an adjective (and I did), it would be "enchanting."
That is why I refer to myself as "The Enchanting Belinda" at the end of each post. It's a wish... not a fact.
I'll answer two more questions tomorrow.
Loaded Baked Potato Dip
Since I host a Super Bowl Party for Josh, Austin and friends each year, I'm always looking for a new "man-pleasing" recipe... and I think this might be IT for 2011. I found this in my new Southern Living magazine. There were several dip recipes listed, and while they all looked good (except for the Muffuletta Dip... I don't do olives), I knew ALL of my guys would eat the Loaded Baked Potato Dip.
You will need the following:
1 2.1 ounce package fully cooked bacon slices
1 16 ounce sour cream
2 cups freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup chives
2 teaspoons hot sauce
SERVE WITH WAFFLE FRIES (The secret ingredient!)
1. Microwave bacon according to package directions until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
2. Cool 10 minutes and crumble.
3. Stir together bacon and next 4 ingredients.
4. Cover and chill 1 to 24 hours before serving.
5. Serve with crispy, warm waffle fries.
Does that sound good, or what?
Have a blessed Tuesday. I know most of our area started back to school today. Except for The Boy, who is moving around upstairs, it is totally quiet in the house... very unusual after the holiday break. I'll miss the kids and the break, but I like the quiet every now and again. (I'll be tired of it by next week, I am sure.)
Wednesday Wisdom and a Seasonal Tradition are well worth a visit tomorrow. Plus, I still have a couple of Resolution pics to add to the Gallery, and some questions which must be answered.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, January 3, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
It's Mindless Monday, so the pictures will tell my weekend story.
Also, I wanted you to know I am not a "resolution" type of gal, but yesterday I kind of changed my mind. Today and tomorrow I will be posting pictures of my "resolutions." Once I got started, it became apparent I have quite a few things I can improve in 2011.
All those other years when I just dismissed making resolutions must have been because I was in denial. Changing the word "resolution" to "goal" helped quite a bit, because as we all know, I do not mind NOT meeting a goal. "Resolution" is a much, much more serious word!
I hope everyone had a fine New Year's Eve and New Year's Day!
School starts back tomorrow in this part of the country, and none of us are very pleased. We have enjoyed our Christmas Break immensely.
Tuesday's post has a brand-spanking new recipe, lots and lots of Randomness and more New Year's Resolutions pics in the Gallery. (I hope one of your resolutions is to visit A Simple Life EVERY SINGLE DAY during the year 2011. Hey! That would be a good one!)
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
It's Mindless Monday, so the pictures will tell my weekend story.
Also, I wanted you to know I am not a "resolution" type of gal, but yesterday I kind of changed my mind. Today and tomorrow I will be posting pictures of my "resolutions." Once I got started, it became apparent I have quite a few things I can improve in 2011.
All those other years when I just dismissed making resolutions must have been because I was in denial. Changing the word "resolution" to "goal" helped quite a bit, because as we all know, I do not mind NOT meeting a goal. "Resolution" is a much, much more serious word!
I hope everyone had a fine New Year's Eve and New Year's Day!
School starts back tomorrow in this part of the country, and none of us are very pleased. We have enjoyed our Christmas Break immensely.
Tuesday's post has a brand-spanking new recipe, lots and lots of Randomness and more New Year's Resolutions pics in the Gallery. (I hope one of your resolutions is to visit A Simple Life EVERY SINGLE DAY during the year 2011. Hey! That would be a good one!)
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!