Good Monday AFTERNOON!
This will truly be a Mindless Monday... MOSTLY pictures and very few words to describe the past weekend.
I apologize for being so late posting, but it is MIKIE'S 50TH BIRTHDAY... and we had some celebrating to do (birthday breakfast)... and Body Pump... and now a trip to the pool. (Let it be known, Mikie didn't participate in the Body Pump class or the trip to the pool.)
I have LOTS of stuff to share with you Tuesday. Be sure and visit if you get a few minutes.
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, June 13, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
Could there be a more uneventful week at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842)? I mean, REALLY! I feel it necessary to apologize for the Gallery once again. Well, old pics are better than no pics!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Mikie's 50th birthday celebration is starting to shape up. I think this is going to be one he'll remember always. I just hope he remembers it fondly.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I checked my "counter" and I'm approaching the big 700. That's right. Seven hundred "can't-tear-my-eyes-away-from-the-page" posts... in less than three years.
I've decided to have another Butt Naked Candle Contest in a few weeks. Be watching for Dawn's testimonial to the "wonderfulness" that IS a Butt Naked Candle. (In case you have forgotten, Dawn won the last contest... And although she had to wait several weeks to receive her prize, it is now in her home doing what only a Butt Naked Candle can do!)
NOTE TO DAWN - I'm assuming you will indeed give me a testimonial on how much you love your candle. I know I haven't asked you in private, and by asking you in this manner, I'm putting you on the spot. Since I have PUT YOU ON THE SPOT, I'm going to let you enter the Contest again. There. I fixed it!
Watch for details in a few weeks. I'll give you plenty of time to put your name in the "pot."
Weekend Happenings
Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) will be revolving around Mikie this weekend. Well, I guess I should say EVERYTHING happening Sunday and part of Monday will revolve around Mikie. I mean, COME ON! The rest of us have a life, too, you know!
Josh and Austin are Chick-Fil-A bound Friday and Saturday. They've got to earn that paycheck so they can help pay for Daddy's HUGE 50th BIRTHDAY GIFT! (They are NOT aware of the cost at this point, and if you bump into them I would appreciate it if you would not mention it. They tend to get very upset when you talk about spending their money before they cash their paychecks. Very upset, indeed.)
On top of his very exciting work schedule, Josh will also be taking the ACT. This does not fit into his definition of "Epic Summer," but it is a necessary evil.
Yard work is also rearing it's ugly head. I caught both of the guys doing their "rain dance" yesterday. I didn't stop them, because as of this date, the "rain dance" has NEVER worked.
Roxie and I are planning on spending time with Monica Saturday. Time well spent, I might add!
Sunday is officially Mikie's Day (AFTER church, of course)! We'll be diving into his birthday cake and homemade ice cream Sunday afternoon with family from all over this great state. (Actually, just two other towns will be represented, but it sounded more festive AND BIGGER the other way.)
There are several surprises I cannot mention in the post because Mikie stops by from time to time... and leaves inappropriate comments I have to delete.
Oh, and did I mention I'll be taking PICTURES! Yes, sir. TONS OF PICTURES!
Have an exciting weekend. Do something different. Do something crazy. Do something spontaneous. And please send me the photos to put in the Gallery Monday morning!
Take care, and I'll see you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting and Beyond Boring Belinda
Could there be a more uneventful week at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842)? I mean, REALLY! I feel it necessary to apologize for the Gallery once again. Well, old pics are better than no pics!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Mikie's 50th birthday celebration is starting to shape up. I think this is going to be one he'll remember always. I just hope he remembers it fondly.
RANDOMNESS #2 - I checked my "counter" and I'm approaching the big 700. That's right. Seven hundred "can't-tear-my-eyes-away-from-the-page" posts... in less than three years.
I've decided to have another Butt Naked Candle Contest in a few weeks. Be watching for Dawn's testimonial to the "wonderfulness" that IS a Butt Naked Candle. (In case you have forgotten, Dawn won the last contest... And although she had to wait several weeks to receive her prize, it is now in her home doing what only a Butt Naked Candle can do!)
NOTE TO DAWN - I'm assuming you will indeed give me a testimonial on how much you love your candle. I know I haven't asked you in private, and by asking you in this manner, I'm putting you on the spot. Since I have PUT YOU ON THE SPOT, I'm going to let you enter the Contest again. There. I fixed it!
Watch for details in a few weeks. I'll give you plenty of time to put your name in the "pot."
Weekend Happenings
Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) will be revolving around Mikie this weekend. Well, I guess I should say EVERYTHING happening Sunday and part of Monday will revolve around Mikie. I mean, COME ON! The rest of us have a life, too, you know!
Josh and Austin are Chick-Fil-A bound Friday and Saturday. They've got to earn that paycheck so they can help pay for Daddy's HUGE 50th BIRTHDAY GIFT! (They are NOT aware of the cost at this point, and if you bump into them I would appreciate it if you would not mention it. They tend to get very upset when you talk about spending their money before they cash their paychecks. Very upset, indeed.)
On top of his very exciting work schedule, Josh will also be taking the ACT. This does not fit into his definition of "Epic Summer," but it is a necessary evil.
Yard work is also rearing it's ugly head. I caught both of the guys doing their "rain dance" yesterday. I didn't stop them, because as of this date, the "rain dance" has NEVER worked.
Roxie and I are planning on spending time with Monica Saturday. Time well spent, I might add!
Sunday is officially Mikie's Day (AFTER church, of course)! We'll be diving into his birthday cake and homemade ice cream Sunday afternoon with family from all over this great state. (Actually, just two other towns will be represented, but it sounded more festive AND BIGGER the other way.)
There are several surprises I cannot mention in the post because Mikie stops by from time to time... and leaves inappropriate comments I have to delete.
Oh, and did I mention I'll be taking PICTURES! Yes, sir. TONS OF PICTURES!
Have an exciting weekend. Do something different. Do something crazy. Do something spontaneous. And please send me the photos to put in the Gallery Monday morning!
Take care, and I'll see you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting and Beyond Boring Belinda
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Huntsville Space and Rocket Center Fireworks Date... Plus a BONUS!
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pics are called "Chillin' on the Deck." As you can see, I've become so desperate for photos around here I'm taking pictures of the dogs, the kids AND appliances... all in the same five-minute period. (I'm counting Mikie's new phone as an appliance.) I think the phrase "epic summer" means (for me) doing absolutely nothing picture-worthy. Or so it would seem.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I watched Meredith's last day on The Today Show yesterday. I love send-offs, and this one did not disappoint. Lots of tears, video montages of all the funny things that happened to her over the past five years, special surprise guests, more tears... Good television!
While I liked Meredith and I hate to see her leave, I am glad Ann Curry is getting a turn to sit on the couch with Matt. She has waited a long, long time for her chance at the "big time."
And that's all I have to say about that!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I haven't mentioned it on the blog because I didn't want you to think less of me, but I have not been to Body Pump in over two weeks. In fact, I haven't done any sort of structured exercise in over two weeks.
My inability to exercise without a buddy has caused this little slump. When Cam has been able to go, I have had something scheduled. And vice versa.
And my exercise buddy has had a little bit on her plate the last few weeks. Her baby graduated from high school. Her second child graduated from college. Her future daughter-in-law graduated from college. Oh. And did I mention her second child is marrying her future daughter-in-law in a couple of weeks.
Talk about an "epic summer." I need to camp out in her driveway for a few days. I'm pretty sure I would have some pics for the Gallery. (And now, with all that is on her plate, she will have to worry about me sitting in her driveway waiting to take pictures. I'm just kidding, Cam!)
I've said all the above just to point out I am very sore... because Cam and I did go to Body Pump yesterday. And the only thing worse than being sore from REGULARLY attending Body Pump, is being sore because you've missed over two weeks of Body Pump.
My core (whatever the heck that is) is killing me!
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you, and I hope you like them.
1. Go to eighteen25 under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "Father's Day Tie Box" dated June 6. I thought this was a pretty cute gift idea for little ones to help make for Dad.
2. Go to Coal Creek Farms under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "June = No TV!" dated June 3. This family turns off the TV every June and reaps the benefits of spending time playing board games, reading good books, talking to each other, etc., etc.
We have never turned the TV off for an entire month at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). And I really couldn't have done it this month. You know. Because of Meredith's big send-off on The Today Show and all. However, the idea has always intrigued me.
While we have gone a day or two or three without TV because of other activities, a month seems a little daunting. One might even use the word "epic."
No promises, but I am going to think about the possibility.
3. Google Birmingham Bargain Mom today and any other day you have a free minute. Scroll through her vast list of freebies and discount bargains. Click on Entertainment on her sidebar and find specific things to do this weekend with your date OR family. She never disappoints.
Huntsville Space and Rocket Center Fireworks Date
Speaking of Birmingham Bargain Mom... This idea came straight from her website!
You'll need to go to www.spacecamp.com/store/fireworks-celebration to order your ticket(s). Print the invoice off and present it at the gate. The invoice will show the number of tickets you ordered. There is a limit of 6 tickets per family.
The following is Bargain Mom's description of the event:
For the first time ever, two of Huntsville's most iconic destinations have joined forces to give the greater Huntsville community a 4th of July celebration not to be missed. The Space and Rocket Center and Bridge Street Town Centre will host a day of events culminating in a dramatic duel fireworks show at dusk.
The Museum will be closed after 5:00 p.m., but gates to the facility re-open at 7:00 p.m. for the first 2011 people to go online and reserve a prime spot for fireworks viewing. Until the show starts, you can enjoy the following:
Space Shot and G-Force
Kids Cosmos
Continuous "Create-Your-Own-Rocket" Launches
Family Photos with Space Camp mascots
Food and beverages for purchase
Rocket City Jazz Band live underneath the Pathfinder Shuttle
The Fireworks Show begins at 8:45 p.m. and lasts for 20 minutes. It is synced with Bridge Street's show.
This sounds like a fun "family" date. Something new. Something different. Something memorable. Something FREE!
There are only about 1,000 tickets left, so if you want to go, reserve your tickets today!
BONUS - I've mentioned this several times on A Simple Life, but it is such a simple, fun way to plan a date with one of the kids.
Google "National Holidays in June" and click on one of several websites which list all of the official holidays for the month. Here are some crazy days you can celebrate with your date.
June 10 - National Yo-Yo Day - Go to your favorite fast food joint for dinner and then head to a store to purchase TWO yo-yos. Have a good time introducing your date to this classic toy!
June 20 - Ice Cream Soda Day - Need I say more? If you don't have a local ice cream store that makes ice cream sodas, head to the grocery store with your date to purchase the ingredients and make them at home.
June 22 - National Chocolate Eclair Day - Oh... my... goodness! Why can't every day be National Chocolate Eclair Day? Go to a nearby bakery and purchase two of these wonderful desserts!
June 24 - Museum Comes To Life Day - Pick a local museum you have never visited (or maybe a favorite) and spend an hour or two enjoying the exhibits.
June 26 - National Chocolate Pudding Day - Carve out some time in the kitchen and make your own chocolate pudding. OR you could go to the store and buy several different kinds of chocolate pudding. Take them home and have a taste test. Find the best tasting chocolate pudding EVER!
June 28 - Paul Bunyan Day - Check out an age-appropriate book about Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, Babe. Find a cozy corner and enjoy some reading time together.
June 29 - Camera Day - Give your date the camera and take them wherever they want to go to take the perfect picture of the day!
Have a great Thursday. Plan a June date TODAY! I'll be back tomorrow with Weekend Happenings... and pictures of my friend, Cam, taken from my special spot in her driveway!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are called "Chillin' on the Deck." As you can see, I've become so desperate for photos around here I'm taking pictures of the dogs, the kids AND appliances... all in the same five-minute period. (I'm counting Mikie's new phone as an appliance.) I think the phrase "epic summer" means (for me) doing absolutely nothing picture-worthy. Or so it would seem.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I watched Meredith's last day on The Today Show yesterday. I love send-offs, and this one did not disappoint. Lots of tears, video montages of all the funny things that happened to her over the past five years, special surprise guests, more tears... Good television!
While I liked Meredith and I hate to see her leave, I am glad Ann Curry is getting a turn to sit on the couch with Matt. She has waited a long, long time for her chance at the "big time."
And that's all I have to say about that!
RANDOMNESS #2 - I haven't mentioned it on the blog because I didn't want you to think less of me, but I have not been to Body Pump in over two weeks. In fact, I haven't done any sort of structured exercise in over two weeks.
My inability to exercise without a buddy has caused this little slump. When Cam has been able to go, I have had something scheduled. And vice versa.
And my exercise buddy has had a little bit on her plate the last few weeks. Her baby graduated from high school. Her second child graduated from college. Her future daughter-in-law graduated from college. Oh. And did I mention her second child is marrying her future daughter-in-law in a couple of weeks.
Talk about an "epic summer." I need to camp out in her driveway for a few days. I'm pretty sure I would have some pics for the Gallery. (And now, with all that is on her plate, she will have to worry about me sitting in her driveway waiting to take pictures. I'm just kidding, Cam!)
I've said all the above just to point out I am very sore... because Cam and I did go to Body Pump yesterday. And the only thing worse than being sore from REGULARLY attending Body Pump, is being sore because you've missed over two weeks of Body Pump.
My core (whatever the heck that is) is killing me!
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you, and I hope you like them.
1. Go to eighteen25 under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "Father's Day Tie Box" dated June 6. I thought this was a pretty cute gift idea for little ones to help make for Dad.
2. Go to Coal Creek Farms under My Blog List and scroll down to the post entitled "June = No TV!" dated June 3. This family turns off the TV every June and reaps the benefits of spending time playing board games, reading good books, talking to each other, etc., etc.
We have never turned the TV off for an entire month at Faulkner Farms (circa 1842). And I really couldn't have done it this month. You know. Because of Meredith's big send-off on The Today Show and all. However, the idea has always intrigued me.
While we have gone a day or two or three without TV because of other activities, a month seems a little daunting. One might even use the word "epic."
No promises, but I am going to think about the possibility.
3. Google Birmingham Bargain Mom today and any other day you have a free minute. Scroll through her vast list of freebies and discount bargains. Click on Entertainment on her sidebar and find specific things to do this weekend with your date OR family. She never disappoints.
Huntsville Space and Rocket Center Fireworks Date
Speaking of Birmingham Bargain Mom... This idea came straight from her website!
You'll need to go to www.spacecamp.com/store/fireworks-celebration to order your ticket(s). Print the invoice off and present it at the gate. The invoice will show the number of tickets you ordered. There is a limit of 6 tickets per family.
The following is Bargain Mom's description of the event:
For the first time ever, two of Huntsville's most iconic destinations have joined forces to give the greater Huntsville community a 4th of July celebration not to be missed. The Space and Rocket Center and Bridge Street Town Centre will host a day of events culminating in a dramatic duel fireworks show at dusk.
The Museum will be closed after 5:00 p.m., but gates to the facility re-open at 7:00 p.m. for the first 2011 people to go online and reserve a prime spot for fireworks viewing. Until the show starts, you can enjoy the following:
Space Shot and G-Force
Kids Cosmos
Continuous "Create-Your-Own-Rocket" Launches
Family Photos with Space Camp mascots
Food and beverages for purchase
Rocket City Jazz Band live underneath the Pathfinder Shuttle
The Fireworks Show begins at 8:45 p.m. and lasts for 20 minutes. It is synced with Bridge Street's show.
This sounds like a fun "family" date. Something new. Something different. Something memorable. Something FREE!
There are only about 1,000 tickets left, so if you want to go, reserve your tickets today!
BONUS - I've mentioned this several times on A Simple Life, but it is such a simple, fun way to plan a date with one of the kids.
Google "National Holidays in June" and click on one of several websites which list all of the official holidays for the month. Here are some crazy days you can celebrate with your date.
June 10 - National Yo-Yo Day - Go to your favorite fast food joint for dinner and then head to a store to purchase TWO yo-yos. Have a good time introducing your date to this classic toy!
June 20 - Ice Cream Soda Day - Need I say more? If you don't have a local ice cream store that makes ice cream sodas, head to the grocery store with your date to purchase the ingredients and make them at home.
June 22 - National Chocolate Eclair Day - Oh... my... goodness! Why can't every day be National Chocolate Eclair Day? Go to a nearby bakery and purchase two of these wonderful desserts!
June 24 - Museum Comes To Life Day - Pick a local museum you have never visited (or maybe a favorite) and spend an hour or two enjoying the exhibits.
June 26 - National Chocolate Pudding Day - Carve out some time in the kitchen and make your own chocolate pudding. OR you could go to the store and buy several different kinds of chocolate pudding. Take them home and have a taste test. Find the best tasting chocolate pudding EVER!
June 28 - Paul Bunyan Day - Check out an age-appropriate book about Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, Babe. Find a cozy corner and enjoy some reading time together.
June 29 - Camera Day - Give your date the camera and take them wherever they want to go to take the perfect picture of the day!
Have a great Thursday. Plan a June date TODAY! I'll be back tomorrow with Weekend Happenings... and pictures of my friend, Cam, taken from my special spot in her driveway!
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Kids Cook Dinner
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from an odd tree in our backyard. The first summer we lived here, we were surprised when our tree started "shedding." We thought it was dying, or had been struck by lightning in the middle of the night. Now we know it was just trying to survive an Alabama summer by stripping down to the bare essentials. While it may be a messy tree, I totally understand the need to get more comfortable. I do this by sitting on air conditioning vents throughout the day.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have been informed the credit for yesterday's recipe really belongs to Joan and Jane's Aunt Jack. In my quest to only print the truth (yeah, right), I want to set things straight. Thank you, Aunt Jack, for an easy, yet delicious recipe!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In only a few days, Mikie will be 50... and I will officially be married to an OLD MAN!
He's handling the transition into a new decade well, I think. Gracefully. Confident. Looking good!
Except for a little gray at the temples (which I LOVE), Mikie looks the same. His eyes are still as blue, and he still laughs loud and often. He's still my very best friend, and the only person I have met in my lifetime who could put up with me for 23 years and counting. In fact, he has been my best bud for OVER half of my life now since our friendship began soon after we met at the tender age of 23.
As of today, he hasn't bothered going through a mid-life crises... which is good since I seem to have a different crises every other day or so. I don't see our family being able to handle two at the same time, so I'm very glad he decided to skip his. (He's a giver!)
His actual birthday is next Monday, but the birthday celebrations will commence this weekend. That means I'll actually have some new pics for Mindless Monday!
RANDOMNESS #3 - I just returned from an early morning run to the grocery store... Well, if you call 9:00 a.m. early.
Were some of you as upset as I was to see I didn't make the Hottest Summer Bodies issue of US... again? This is getting old. I'm probably only going to submit photos for five or so more years, and then I'm going to let this goal go!
Wednesday Wisdom - I mentioned last week I love Steven Wright's deadpan comedy. While these might not be actual "quotes," they will put a smile on your face this hot Wednesday morning!
"All those who believe in psychokinesis, raise my hand." (It took me a minute, but I finally got it!)
"Okay. So what's the speed of dark?"
"Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have." (Ain't that the truth!)
"When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane."
"Ambition is a poor excuse for not having enough sense to be lazy."
"Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film."
"I intend to live forever. So far, so good."
"Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines."
"Boycott shampoo! Demand the REAL poo!"
I get him. I mean I REALLY, REALLY get him!
Kids Cook Dinner
Okay. It's summertime. The kids are home. Supposedly, there is a little free time you didn't have during the school months. Take this opportunity to let the kids cook dinner once a week! That's right! ONCE A WEEK! (It looks good in writing, but in real life you may not be able to pull this off. I did try one Summer, and the kids each cooked one or two dinners before school started back. However, once a week was not "doable" for our particular family. Remember. Be flexible!)
Pick out a dinner menu that is age-appropriate for your guys to prepare. Buy ALL the ingredients. Set them out at the appropriate time, and let the kids get busy.
This means preparing ALL the food, setting the table, fixing the ice for the drinks and CLEANING UP after the feast. (Don't be surprised if the kids ask for paper products.)
Get a magazine and sit somewhere nearby in case of an emergency, but enjoy this time off from "kitchen duty" knowing your kids are probably having fun AND learning something at the same time.
Simple Meal Ideas
4 to 6 years-old - There is nothing wrong with a "cold" meal. Using sandwich rolls and several different meats and cheeses, have the kids prepare a Sub-Sandwich Meal, complete with individual sodas and juice from the refrigerator and a variety of chip choices. They can wash apples and slice bananas (with a butter knife) to serve on the side. For dessert, nothing beats vanilla ice cream with a couple of topping choices.
7 to 9 years-old - These guys are old enough to work the crock pot! Use frozen meatballs, your favorite pasta sauce (Prego, etc.) and have the kids put them in the slow cooker for an hour or so, stirring occasionally. Again, using sandwich rolls, have a delicious HOT meal of meatball subs sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. These guys are more than capable so let them put a salad together, too.
10 to 14 years-old - Let's have Sunday dinner some time during the week. Buy a roast, carrots, mushrooms and pre-made gravy. Let the kids wash the meat and the vegetables and put them in the slow cooker. Add the gravy. Let it cook ALL DAY LONG filling the house with really good smells. Right before dinner, these kids can make and bake crescent rolls and prepare a salad. They can also make brownies or a cake from a mix for dessert. Talk about a feast!
Put your feet up and enjoy a home-cooked meal. You deserve it!
Have a lovely Wednesday. Do something "Summery" today! I'll be back tomorrow with Blog Linkage AND a summer date.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Thursday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from an odd tree in our backyard. The first summer we lived here, we were surprised when our tree started "shedding." We thought it was dying, or had been struck by lightning in the middle of the night. Now we know it was just trying to survive an Alabama summer by stripping down to the bare essentials. While it may be a messy tree, I totally understand the need to get more comfortable. I do this by sitting on air conditioning vents throughout the day.
RANDOMNESS #1 - I have been informed the credit for yesterday's recipe really belongs to Joan and Jane's Aunt Jack. In my quest to only print the truth (yeah, right), I want to set things straight. Thank you, Aunt Jack, for an easy, yet delicious recipe!
RANDOMNESS #2 - In only a few days, Mikie will be 50... and I will officially be married to an OLD MAN!
He's handling the transition into a new decade well, I think. Gracefully. Confident. Looking good!
Except for a little gray at the temples (which I LOVE), Mikie looks the same. His eyes are still as blue, and he still laughs loud and often. He's still my very best friend, and the only person I have met in my lifetime who could put up with me for 23 years and counting. In fact, he has been my best bud for OVER half of my life now since our friendship began soon after we met at the tender age of 23.
As of today, he hasn't bothered going through a mid-life crises... which is good since I seem to have a different crises every other day or so. I don't see our family being able to handle two at the same time, so I'm very glad he decided to skip his. (He's a giver!)
His actual birthday is next Monday, but the birthday celebrations will commence this weekend. That means I'll actually have some new pics for Mindless Monday!
RANDOMNESS #3 - I just returned from an early morning run to the grocery store... Well, if you call 9:00 a.m. early.
Were some of you as upset as I was to see I didn't make the Hottest Summer Bodies issue of US... again? This is getting old. I'm probably only going to submit photos for five or so more years, and then I'm going to let this goal go!
Wednesday Wisdom - I mentioned last week I love Steven Wright's deadpan comedy. While these might not be actual "quotes," they will put a smile on your face this hot Wednesday morning!
"All those who believe in psychokinesis, raise my hand." (It took me a minute, but I finally got it!)
"Okay. So what's the speed of dark?"
"Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have." (Ain't that the truth!)
"When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane."
"Ambition is a poor excuse for not having enough sense to be lazy."
"Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film."
"I intend to live forever. So far, so good."
"Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines."
"Boycott shampoo! Demand the REAL poo!"
I get him. I mean I REALLY, REALLY get him!
Kids Cook Dinner
Okay. It's summertime. The kids are home. Supposedly, there is a little free time you didn't have during the school months. Take this opportunity to let the kids cook dinner once a week! That's right! ONCE A WEEK! (It looks good in writing, but in real life you may not be able to pull this off. I did try one Summer, and the kids each cooked one or two dinners before school started back. However, once a week was not "doable" for our particular family. Remember. Be flexible!)
Pick out a dinner menu that is age-appropriate for your guys to prepare. Buy ALL the ingredients. Set them out at the appropriate time, and let the kids get busy.
This means preparing ALL the food, setting the table, fixing the ice for the drinks and CLEANING UP after the feast. (Don't be surprised if the kids ask for paper products.)
Get a magazine and sit somewhere nearby in case of an emergency, but enjoy this time off from "kitchen duty" knowing your kids are probably having fun AND learning something at the same time.
Simple Meal Ideas
4 to 6 years-old - There is nothing wrong with a "cold" meal. Using sandwich rolls and several different meats and cheeses, have the kids prepare a Sub-Sandwich Meal, complete with individual sodas and juice from the refrigerator and a variety of chip choices. They can wash apples and slice bananas (with a butter knife) to serve on the side. For dessert, nothing beats vanilla ice cream with a couple of topping choices.
7 to 9 years-old - These guys are old enough to work the crock pot! Use frozen meatballs, your favorite pasta sauce (Prego, etc.) and have the kids put them in the slow cooker for an hour or so, stirring occasionally. Again, using sandwich rolls, have a delicious HOT meal of meatball subs sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. These guys are more than capable so let them put a salad together, too.
10 to 14 years-old - Let's have Sunday dinner some time during the week. Buy a roast, carrots, mushrooms and pre-made gravy. Let the kids wash the meat and the vegetables and put them in the slow cooker. Add the gravy. Let it cook ALL DAY LONG filling the house with really good smells. Right before dinner, these kids can make and bake crescent rolls and prepare a salad. They can also make brownies or a cake from a mix for dessert. Talk about a feast!
Put your feet up and enjoy a home-cooked meal. You deserve it!
Have a lovely Wednesday. Do something "Summery" today! I'll be back tomorrow with Blog Linkage AND a summer date.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Thursday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese
Good Tuesday morning!
The Gallery Pictures are old, old, old. Enjoy these blasts from the past while I try to find something photo-worthy around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) today!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very excited about our upcoming train trip to New Orleans. VERY excited. But the end of May and the beginning of June began with temperatures in the three digits... and humidity through the roof. And that reminded me of how hot and humid it can be in New Orleans in the middle of July and beginning of August. (Really hot and humid.)
As per Mikie's request, I went over our itinerary to see how many events were outside versus inside activities. Except for our first morning breakfast (beignets and coffee) and the restaurants I had picked out for three different lunches, we were going to be outside ALL DAY LONG... EVERY DAY!
And did I mention the Swamp Tour? That's right. I had scheduled a five-hour portion of one day for a swamp tour in a swamp boat. An get this! We would be arriving in a swamp bus (whatever that is... I'm pretty sure it wasn't air conditioned). And then we were going to feed alligators marshmallows. Hot, sticky marshmallows!
What were the other activities? A strolling tour of Jackson Square (where the Faulkner Five would most definitely chafe and melt), and a fun day at the world famous New Orleans Zoo (looking for animals who would not be in their enclosures because THEY had enough sense to get in out of the heat).
Okay. I decided to change gears. New Orleans next Spring... perfect!
And this hot, sticky, humid Summer... (DRUM ROLL, please!) We will be HOUSEBOATING on Lake Lanier in Georgia.
That's right. Houseboating. Living on a boat for three nights. Fishing, swimming, grilling, hot tubbing, etc., etc. And get this! The houseboat has air conditioning. And the "people in charge" assure me it is a real working air conditioning unit. Not a bucket of ice in front of a big fan (Don't ask.)
We are pretty excited. After surviving the Heat Wave of 2010 on Amelia Island last year, we are more than a little wary of the heat index wherever we will be vacationing.
And in case you have forgotten that story, I'm adding it to this post. We haven't been able to laugh about that trip yet. And I've tried. Believe me... I've tried.
AMELIA ISLAND... OR AS I LIKE TO CALL IT "FIRE SAND BEACH!"
Ahhh! Our first day at the beach. We were ready. Our hotel was less than a block from the beach, but we loaded up the Big Gold Van with five beach chairs, two umbrellas and two more boogie boards which our concierge sweetly gave us. (Believe it or not, Mikie and I do not own our own boogie boards. Something which will soon be remedied because we became boogie board experts, I tell you!)
We drove the 15.5 seconds it took to get to the beach and noticed vehicles driving right onto the sand and parking. Perfect! The closer, the better. Off we went... and we immediately got stuck! As we emptied the van, and the boys began to push, I noticed how soft and powdery the sand was, and how far my feet and ankles sank immediately upon getting out of the van. Our tires were no exception.
Within seconds (no exaggeration), a man with a four-wheel drive truck came up to us and asked if we wanted a pull... which we did... and he did... and we were FREE to park in the parking lot. Mike gave him $10 for his trouble, and he left to help pull the next out-of-town sucker out of the sand. And the next. And the next. We saw him every day of our trip, so I'm assuming it was a quick and easy way to make a buck.
Roxie was furious. She called him a con artist, a crook, a low-life.
"Roxie. What is the problem? He's just trying to make a little money. AND he's helping people."
"Wouldn't it be more helpful if he stood at the gate and told people to back up because they were about the get stuck."
Hmmm. Good point. But I digress. We have to get to the "injury" part of this story.
We set up our tents and chairs on the nice hard, wet sand and saw the huge waves waiting for us. The kids went in right away, while Mikie and I took in our surroundings. The beaches were not as pretty as the Gulf of Mexico, but they were so far away from the water, and flat and hard. They were very easy to walk on and people could even ride bikes on the beach. Amazing!
It didn't take long before the Heat Wave of 2010 started having an adverse effect on us, so Mikie and I headed to the water, boogie boards in hand. The waves were big and constant, and once we got into the water we noticed immediately there was NO undertow. Very odd. The water was also VERY cold, but considering it was over 100 degrees (literally), it felt great.
We couldn't see anything in the water. It wasn't dirty. It was just the color of the Atlantic Ocean... again something very different from the Gulf. I stuck to my rule of thumb... stay close to a large group of people a little further out than your family. The sharks will get them first. (I'm sorry. I've never been the same since I saw Jaws.)
We had a ball. We played in the water for over two hours before we decided to head in and lay out by the pool. Austin led the way, and I was directly behind him. He started hopping on one foot and turned toward me. Blood was pouring off his foot.
By the time Mike made it to the shoreline, we couldn't even see where the blood was coming from because his foot was covered in the red stuff... more commonly known as "shark bait." Mike helped him to the chairs, and I got Josh and Roxie out of the water.
We determined it was his toe. We also determined it was still on his foot. Josh took matters into his own hands and fetched a lifeguard. (That's right! They have real Baywatch Lifeguards on the beaches. It was pretty cool.) He didn't run, but he did have a "kit." By pouring a whole bottle of peroxide on the toe, we were able to tell it was a deep slice... from a shell or piece of broken glass. His professional lifeguard advice was, "I don't know if you need to take him in for stitches or not. There's not really anything left to stitch." And he was right.
Mike helped Austin get to the van which was difficult. It was like hopping on one foot in snow drifts... very, very hot snow drifts. Josh, Roxie and I loaded up the chairs, umbrellas, coolers, etc. and slowly plowed through the incredibly hot, soft sand. Then it happened.
I kind of toppled, kind of fell on my right side... on top of the chairs and cooler. Since it was very similar to sitting in FIRE, I immediately hopped up. And then I fell over again. Roxie was totally mortified. Not only had her mother fallen once, but TWICE... and not gracefully... and not quietly.
But the second time was a charm, and I was able to maintain my balance and make it to the van just a few feet away. I knew I had sustained quite a number of injuries, but because I wasn't dripping blood, I wasn't the main focus at the moment.
When we arrived at the hotel, we headed to the pool. We were quite a sight... Austin with his bloody foot wrapped in a bloody beach towel and his mother limping and covered with Fire Sand. After we situated Austin in the shade and Josh, Roxie and I rinsed off, we soaked in the pool until Mikie came back with $59.95 worth of medical supplies. I let Mikie handle the toe.
He has always called himself a health care professional, although the kids are quick to point out he takes care of the money and not the people where he works. When something like this happens, Mikie is "Johnny on the Spot!" He loves it! I, on the other hand, do not!
He worked very hard on the injury, declared it to be "unstitchable," and dressed the toe. It looked very professional.
When he finished with Austin, I limped over to him to show him my six bruises, skinned knee, sore elbow and the second degree burns I had up and down the right side of my body from landing in the Fire Sand. He was a little unimpressed.
There was one more injury during our trip, and although it happened on Day Three, I'm going to go ahead and throw it in the mix.
I was getting on the elevator, and I tripped on Austin's "overly" dressed toe... and fell right past Austin, Roxie and Josh into the back panel of the elevator. I hit the old elbow again. And I'm not really sure why three children (MY THREE CHILDREN) didn't even try to catch me.
Well, I know why Roxie didn't try. You can't catch a falling woman and be properly mortified at the same time. It just can't be done!
Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese
4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 can Rotel (do not drain)
Mix well, and serve with crackers.
This is the recipe for the Pimento Cheese which was served at the Graduation Reception the end of May. (Remember? I talked about it a lot.) I LOVED it. My friend, Joan, gave me the recipe in the Comment Section, but her sister, Jane, was the caterer for the Reception, so I'm assuming she made it for that event.
And I've given credit to the people who deserve it most... and I didn't name it "The Enchanting Belinda's Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese." I'm very careful about things like that!
Have a safe, cool Tuesday. As always, we'll be busy on A Simple Life tomorrow with a Seasonal Tradition, Wednesday Wisdom, new pics (of something) and Randomness. Make sure you save a minute in your summer schedule to check it out!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pictures are old, old, old. Enjoy these blasts from the past while I try to find something photo-worthy around Faulkner Farms (circa 1842) today!
RANDOMNESS #1 - I was very excited about our upcoming train trip to New Orleans. VERY excited. But the end of May and the beginning of June began with temperatures in the three digits... and humidity through the roof. And that reminded me of how hot and humid it can be in New Orleans in the middle of July and beginning of August. (Really hot and humid.)
As per Mikie's request, I went over our itinerary to see how many events were outside versus inside activities. Except for our first morning breakfast (beignets and coffee) and the restaurants I had picked out for three different lunches, we were going to be outside ALL DAY LONG... EVERY DAY!
And did I mention the Swamp Tour? That's right. I had scheduled a five-hour portion of one day for a swamp tour in a swamp boat. An get this! We would be arriving in a swamp bus (whatever that is... I'm pretty sure it wasn't air conditioned). And then we were going to feed alligators marshmallows. Hot, sticky marshmallows!
What were the other activities? A strolling tour of Jackson Square (where the Faulkner Five would most definitely chafe and melt), and a fun day at the world famous New Orleans Zoo (looking for animals who would not be in their enclosures because THEY had enough sense to get in out of the heat).
Okay. I decided to change gears. New Orleans next Spring... perfect!
And this hot, sticky, humid Summer... (DRUM ROLL, please!) We will be HOUSEBOATING on Lake Lanier in Georgia.
That's right. Houseboating. Living on a boat for three nights. Fishing, swimming, grilling, hot tubbing, etc., etc. And get this! The houseboat has air conditioning. And the "people in charge" assure me it is a real working air conditioning unit. Not a bucket of ice in front of a big fan (Don't ask.)
We are pretty excited. After surviving the Heat Wave of 2010 on Amelia Island last year, we are more than a little wary of the heat index wherever we will be vacationing.
And in case you have forgotten that story, I'm adding it to this post. We haven't been able to laugh about that trip yet. And I've tried. Believe me... I've tried.
AMELIA ISLAND... OR AS I LIKE TO CALL IT "FIRE SAND BEACH!"
Ahhh! Our first day at the beach. We were ready. Our hotel was less than a block from the beach, but we loaded up the Big Gold Van with five beach chairs, two umbrellas and two more boogie boards which our concierge sweetly gave us. (Believe it or not, Mikie and I do not own our own boogie boards. Something which will soon be remedied because we became boogie board experts, I tell you!)
We drove the 15.5 seconds it took to get to the beach and noticed vehicles driving right onto the sand and parking. Perfect! The closer, the better. Off we went... and we immediately got stuck! As we emptied the van, and the boys began to push, I noticed how soft and powdery the sand was, and how far my feet and ankles sank immediately upon getting out of the van. Our tires were no exception.
Within seconds (no exaggeration), a man with a four-wheel drive truck came up to us and asked if we wanted a pull... which we did... and he did... and we were FREE to park in the parking lot. Mike gave him $10 for his trouble, and he left to help pull the next out-of-town sucker out of the sand. And the next. And the next. We saw him every day of our trip, so I'm assuming it was a quick and easy way to make a buck.
Roxie was furious. She called him a con artist, a crook, a low-life.
"Roxie. What is the problem? He's just trying to make a little money. AND he's helping people."
"Wouldn't it be more helpful if he stood at the gate and told people to back up because they were about the get stuck."
Hmmm. Good point. But I digress. We have to get to the "injury" part of this story.
We set up our tents and chairs on the nice hard, wet sand and saw the huge waves waiting for us. The kids went in right away, while Mikie and I took in our surroundings. The beaches were not as pretty as the Gulf of Mexico, but they were so far away from the water, and flat and hard. They were very easy to walk on and people could even ride bikes on the beach. Amazing!
It didn't take long before the Heat Wave of 2010 started having an adverse effect on us, so Mikie and I headed to the water, boogie boards in hand. The waves were big and constant, and once we got into the water we noticed immediately there was NO undertow. Very odd. The water was also VERY cold, but considering it was over 100 degrees (literally), it felt great.
We couldn't see anything in the water. It wasn't dirty. It was just the color of the Atlantic Ocean... again something very different from the Gulf. I stuck to my rule of thumb... stay close to a large group of people a little further out than your family. The sharks will get them first. (I'm sorry. I've never been the same since I saw Jaws.)
We had a ball. We played in the water for over two hours before we decided to head in and lay out by the pool. Austin led the way, and I was directly behind him. He started hopping on one foot and turned toward me. Blood was pouring off his foot.
By the time Mike made it to the shoreline, we couldn't even see where the blood was coming from because his foot was covered in the red stuff... more commonly known as "shark bait." Mike helped him to the chairs, and I got Josh and Roxie out of the water.
We determined it was his toe. We also determined it was still on his foot. Josh took matters into his own hands and fetched a lifeguard. (That's right! They have real Baywatch Lifeguards on the beaches. It was pretty cool.) He didn't run, but he did have a "kit." By pouring a whole bottle of peroxide on the toe, we were able to tell it was a deep slice... from a shell or piece of broken glass. His professional lifeguard advice was, "I don't know if you need to take him in for stitches or not. There's not really anything left to stitch." And he was right.
Mike helped Austin get to the van which was difficult. It was like hopping on one foot in snow drifts... very, very hot snow drifts. Josh, Roxie and I loaded up the chairs, umbrellas, coolers, etc. and slowly plowed through the incredibly hot, soft sand. Then it happened.
I kind of toppled, kind of fell on my right side... on top of the chairs and cooler. Since it was very similar to sitting in FIRE, I immediately hopped up. And then I fell over again. Roxie was totally mortified. Not only had her mother fallen once, but TWICE... and not gracefully... and not quietly.
But the second time was a charm, and I was able to maintain my balance and make it to the van just a few feet away. I knew I had sustained quite a number of injuries, but because I wasn't dripping blood, I wasn't the main focus at the moment.
When we arrived at the hotel, we headed to the pool. We were quite a sight... Austin with his bloody foot wrapped in a bloody beach towel and his mother limping and covered with Fire Sand. After we situated Austin in the shade and Josh, Roxie and I rinsed off, we soaked in the pool until Mikie came back with $59.95 worth of medical supplies. I let Mikie handle the toe.
He has always called himself a health care professional, although the kids are quick to point out he takes care of the money and not the people where he works. When something like this happens, Mikie is "Johnny on the Spot!" He loves it! I, on the other hand, do not!
He worked very hard on the injury, declared it to be "unstitchable," and dressed the toe. It looked very professional.
When he finished with Austin, I limped over to him to show him my six bruises, skinned knee, sore elbow and the second degree burns I had up and down the right side of my body from landing in the Fire Sand. He was a little unimpressed.
There was one more injury during our trip, and although it happened on Day Three, I'm going to go ahead and throw it in the mix.
I was getting on the elevator, and I tripped on Austin's "overly" dressed toe... and fell right past Austin, Roxie and Josh into the back panel of the elevator. I hit the old elbow again. And I'm not really sure why three children (MY THREE CHILDREN) didn't even try to catch me.
Well, I know why Roxie didn't try. You can't catch a falling woman and be properly mortified at the same time. It just can't be done!
Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese
4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 can Rotel (do not drain)
Mix well, and serve with crackers.
This is the recipe for the Pimento Cheese which was served at the Graduation Reception the end of May. (Remember? I talked about it a lot.) I LOVED it. My friend, Joan, gave me the recipe in the Comment Section, but her sister, Jane, was the caterer for the Reception, so I'm assuming she made it for that event.
And I've given credit to the people who deserve it most... and I didn't name it "The Enchanting Belinda's Really Good, Really Easy Pimento Cheese." I'm very careful about things like that!
Have a safe, cool Tuesday. As always, we'll be busy on A Simple Life tomorrow with a Seasonal Tradition, Wednesday Wisdom, new pics (of something) and Randomness. Make sure you save a minute in your summer schedule to check it out!
Take care, and I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Monday, June 6, 2011
Mindless Monday
Good Monday morning!
The weekend was a non-picture taking weekend. However, I had enough leftover photos from Memorial Day to get us started this week. No worries!
RANDOMNESS - Last Sunday (Memorial Day Weekend), the Faulkner Five enjoyed a wonderful, lazy, fun-filled day at the river with the Tuggles. Julie's in-laws played host to our families. Mr. Robert and Miss Nell opened up their lovely home, their very well-stock refrigerator and, of course, their nice, clean bathroom (that was for me). For most people, having the Faulkner Five over for the day is a huge commitment. With three men/boys in the family, we take up a lot of space and oxygen. (Roxie and I breathe as little as possible whenever we are invited somewhere as a family. It's the least we can do.)
Not only were we visiting, but Julie's family of five, her brother-in-law and his family (three more) and two of Kelci's friends were in the mix along with two pooches. (Technically, that is NINE kids/semi-adults). Mr. Robert and Miss Nell were as relaxed and hospitable as two people could possibly be.
I was convinced their attitude and welcoming spirit was a gift... one I wish I had.
Last night, the Faulkner Five visited a funeral home. Miss Nell passed away Thursday after a surgery Wednesday night. Everything was very sudden and very unexpected. For Mr. Robert and the rest of her family, there is deep sadness and grief. Nothing prepared them for this awful loss.
Our family is saddened as well, even though we were only with Miss Nell on two different occasions. She made that kind of lasting impression on people.
On that specific Memorial Day Weekend, we started talking about the Broadway Series which was coming to town. She told me she had seen several, but her favorite (by far) was The Lion King. (ME, TOO!) I told her if it ever came to our town again, we were going to see it. She said she agreed. Mental Note - Look for Miss Nell and Mr. Robert if The Lion King ever comes back to our fair city. Sit with them. It will be fun!
On the way out last night, I slipped to the back to say good-bye to the kids. Allie, the middle Tuggle, came up to me and said, "Look what she gave me, Miss Belinda." It was a very pretty "charm" necklace. "It was her cruise necklace." Mr. Robert and Miss Nell had gone on several different cruises. "Every time she went on one, she bought a charm," Allie told me.
"Well, Allie. I'm pretty sure she would want you to add to that necklace as you get older."
Allie smiled her sweet smile, and said, "I'm going to."
This is just a reminder FOR ME to make sure I don't take family and friends for granted. Even for a day.
And I'm pretty sure I could be more hospitable and open if I practiced. I met a very good example on "how it's done" when I was introduced to Miss Nell.
Have a good Monday. I'll be back tomorrow to share a recipe, pics AND Randomness. I'm even going to tell you about our new and improved vacation plans. (No sweltering heat for the Faulkner Five! I fixed it!)
Take care, and I'll talk to you Tuesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The weekend was a non-picture taking weekend. However, I had enough leftover photos from Memorial Day to get us started this week. No worries!
RANDOMNESS - Last Sunday (Memorial Day Weekend), the Faulkner Five enjoyed a wonderful, lazy, fun-filled day at the river with the Tuggles. Julie's in-laws played host to our families. Mr. Robert and Miss Nell opened up their lovely home, their very well-stock refrigerator and, of course, their nice, clean bathroom (that was for me). For most people, having the Faulkner Five over for the day is a huge commitment. With three men/boys in the family, we take up a lot of space and oxygen. (Roxie and I breathe as little as possible whenever we are invited somewhere as a family. It's the least we can do.)
Not only were we visiting, but Julie's family of five, her brother-in-law and his family (three more) and two of Kelci's friends were in the mix along with two pooches. (Technically, that is NINE kids/semi-adults). Mr. Robert and Miss Nell were as relaxed and hospitable as two people could possibly be.
I was convinced their attitude and welcoming spirit was a gift... one I wish I had.
Last night, the Faulkner Five visited a funeral home. Miss Nell passed away Thursday after a surgery Wednesday night. Everything was very sudden and very unexpected. For Mr. Robert and the rest of her family, there is deep sadness and grief. Nothing prepared them for this awful loss.
Our family is saddened as well, even though we were only with Miss Nell on two different occasions. She made that kind of lasting impression on people.
On that specific Memorial Day Weekend, we started talking about the Broadway Series which was coming to town. She told me she had seen several, but her favorite (by far) was The Lion King. (ME, TOO!) I told her if it ever came to our town again, we were going to see it. She said she agreed. Mental Note - Look for Miss Nell and Mr. Robert if The Lion King ever comes back to our fair city. Sit with them. It will be fun!
On the way out last night, I slipped to the back to say good-bye to the kids. Allie, the middle Tuggle, came up to me and said, "Look what she gave me, Miss Belinda." It was a very pretty "charm" necklace. "It was her cruise necklace." Mr. Robert and Miss Nell had gone on several different cruises. "Every time she went on one, she bought a charm," Allie told me.
"Well, Allie. I'm pretty sure she would want you to add to that necklace as you get older."
Allie smiled her sweet smile, and said, "I'm going to."
This is just a reminder FOR ME to make sure I don't take family and friends for granted. Even for a day.
And I'm pretty sure I could be more hospitable and open if I practiced. I met a very good example on "how it's done" when I was introduced to Miss Nell.
Have a good Monday. I'll be back tomorrow to share a recipe, pics AND Randomness. I'm even going to tell you about our new and improved vacation plans. (No sweltering heat for the Faulkner Five! I fixed it!)
Take care, and I'll talk to you Tuesday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Friday, June 3, 2011
Weekend Happenings
Good Friday morning!
The Gallery Pic is a leftover from this past week. I could have taken a picture of my registration outfit, but I'm afraid that would have offended some of you (LeAnna).
RANDOMNESS - I'm rethinking our New Orleans' train trip. Since the temps have been in the 100s the past few days (with no end in sight), I KNOW New Orleans' in July is going to be one big Sweat Fest.
I went over our itinerary and very few of the activities planned would be inside. Of course, we were going to eat inside, but by the time lunch rolls around and we've been walking the steamy streets for three or more hours... Well, let's just say the chances of a nice eating establishment allowing five sweat-soaked, wet-headed Faulkners INSIDE are little to none.
And I don't blame them. I really don't.
For that reason alone (HEAT INDEX OF 120), I've decided to change the date of our train trip to the Spring of 2012. After talking with Mikie last night, he was in total agreement. The idea of spending a day on a Swamp Tour feeding alligators
melted marshmallows (on a boat with no bathroom) put both of us over the edge. (Alligators still eat marshmallows in April, don't they?)
I've got something else brewing for this summer. I'll let you in on the details Monday... I hope. It's something I've been wanting us to do as a family for several years now, and this might be the summer to try!
I am so excited... and the kids are SO nervous.
Weekend Happenings
I don't know. I just don't know.
I'm getting worse and worse at planning weekend events, but teenagers can be difficult to pin down.
Mikie - Because it is his busy time of year at the office, he will be working some time during the weekend.
Austin - I know he has plans with the lovely Melia and a shift or two at the Chick.
Josh - Right now, the Chick is taking up a lot of his weekend time, too.
Roxie - She's not working, but she has quite a few plans up her sleeve.
Belinda - I will be walking aimlessly throughout the house doing laundry (three loads a day even though no one is actually home), emptying and filling the dishwasher (three loads a day even though no one is actually home) and putting ice cubes in the dogs' water bowl every hour on the hour. (It is hot out there!)
We were able to mark off several items on the Epic Summer of 2011 list this week. Since the weekend is shaping up to be a little "hit or miss" at best, I've decided to concentrate on "Dates" during the next 72 hours. Each kid has a number "3" beside their name (meaning three dates apiece this summer... probably fishing for the boys with their Dad and more shopping dates for me and Roxie). Lucky Mikie has a big ol' number "5" beside his name for some unknown reason. Hmmm. I think we might be able to squeeze in a date or two.
As always, I'll have to let you know Monday!
Have a fantastic Summer weekend. Stay cool if at all possible, and enjoy the time with family and friends... or maybe a good book! Next week's ideas, recipes, dates, etc. have already been decided. Let's just say it's going to be a good week on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pic is a leftover from this past week. I could have taken a picture of my registration outfit, but I'm afraid that would have offended some of you (LeAnna).
RANDOMNESS - I'm rethinking our New Orleans' train trip. Since the temps have been in the 100s the past few days (with no end in sight), I KNOW New Orleans' in July is going to be one big Sweat Fest.
I went over our itinerary and very few of the activities planned would be inside. Of course, we were going to eat inside, but by the time lunch rolls around and we've been walking the steamy streets for three or more hours... Well, let's just say the chances of a nice eating establishment allowing five sweat-soaked, wet-headed Faulkners INSIDE are little to none.
And I don't blame them. I really don't.
For that reason alone (HEAT INDEX OF 120), I've decided to change the date of our train trip to the Spring of 2012. After talking with Mikie last night, he was in total agreement. The idea of spending a day on a Swamp Tour feeding alligators
melted marshmallows (on a boat with no bathroom) put both of us over the edge. (Alligators still eat marshmallows in April, don't they?)
I've got something else brewing for this summer. I'll let you in on the details Monday... I hope. It's something I've been wanting us to do as a family for several years now, and this might be the summer to try!
I am so excited... and the kids are SO nervous.
Weekend Happenings
I don't know. I just don't know.
I'm getting worse and worse at planning weekend events, but teenagers can be difficult to pin down.
Mikie - Because it is his busy time of year at the office, he will be working some time during the weekend.
Austin - I know he has plans with the lovely Melia and a shift or two at the Chick.
Josh - Right now, the Chick is taking up a lot of his weekend time, too.
Roxie - She's not working, but she has quite a few plans up her sleeve.
Belinda - I will be walking aimlessly throughout the house doing laundry (three loads a day even though no one is actually home), emptying and filling the dishwasher (three loads a day even though no one is actually home) and putting ice cubes in the dogs' water bowl every hour on the hour. (It is hot out there!)
We were able to mark off several items on the Epic Summer of 2011 list this week. Since the weekend is shaping up to be a little "hit or miss" at best, I've decided to concentrate on "Dates" during the next 72 hours. Each kid has a number "3" beside their name (meaning three dates apiece this summer... probably fishing for the boys with their Dad and more shopping dates for me and Roxie). Lucky Mikie has a big ol' number "5" beside his name for some unknown reason. Hmmm. I think we might be able to squeeze in a date or two.
As always, I'll have to let you know Monday!
Have a fantastic Summer weekend. Stay cool if at all possible, and enjoy the time with family and friends... or maybe a good book! Next week's ideas, recipes, dates, etc. have already been decided. Let's just say it's going to be a good week on A Simple Life.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Monday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Thursday, June 2, 2011
A Peanut Date
Good Thursday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from my cooking experience last night. The Chicken and Potato Pancakes were a Five Star Faulkner SUCCESS! We will be having them again because they are easy, tasty and fun to make. (Plus, the recipe makes a TON of batter, and I can refrigerate it and use it for fresh-tasting leftovers later in the week.)
Oh, and there's a good picture of Roxie wearing her new summer hat I thought was cute. She saved her money for this hat, and we discovered something in the process... the chick can rock a cap!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Yesterday I spent 94 minutes in line at the high school registering my son for his Senior year of school. I've always done this for Austin and Josh. I think of it as my little gift to them. They will have a lifetime of registering and filling out paperwork, whereas I only have 18 years for each child and I will officially be DONE!
I wish I had recorded Austin's first telephone call after he registered for college classes all by himself... on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
"Well, that was a major pain," he whined.
"Really? Really? How long did it take you, Son?" I asked testily (AFTER he told me he had registered on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas).
"Ugh. That's 32 minutes I'll never get back," he groaned.
Thirty-two minutes! Thirty-two minutes! I seriously thought about getting in the car and driving the 83 minutes to his college and hitting him over his head with his computer.
But, no. I wasn't going to waste another second with HIS registration. I had to put on my extra deodorant, tube top and bathing suit bottoms to go to high school AND middle school registration for my remaining children. My gift to them for a year of hard work and good grades.
I hung up on The Boy. He assumed something was wrong with the telephone lines because he couldn't imagine someone being angry enough to hang up on HIM... and he took a nap because he was exhausted, you see... from registering on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Today I'm registering Roxie for her FIRST year of high school. Girls are a little different from guys. She is going with me because she wants to be sure she gets in line with her friends AND has a locker next to all of them.
I'm going to teach her well, and next year I'm dropping the chick off! There's no sense in both of us sweating off five pounds. (I WISH!)
This is a big year for me. My last registration year AND my last carpool line year. I need to to do something big to celebrate. Any suggestions?
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you today from three of my favorite bloggers. I'm also investigating a new food blog, and I might add that to the mix next week. It looks very promising.
1. Go to Big Mama under My Blog List and read her post entitled "Wherein I reach the end of my Internet rope" dated June 2. I, too, am having major Internet problems. I am typing my blog posts on The Boy's computer, because although I've tried, I cannot get an actual person to help me... and I do not understand the things the "troubleshooting" website is trying to tell me... and I am frustrated beyond belief. But Big Mama makes it funny. (I am too close to the situation to find the humor in it yet. Maybe one day.)
2. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List and read the post entitled "18 Summers" dated June 1. It's short, sweet and to the point. I love the message.
3. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and read the post entitled "A Different Perspective" dated June 1. She hands her child a camera and looks at the world through HER eyes. I love it!
Enjoy!
A Peanut Date
You read the title correctly. A Peanut Date! It wouldn't be a long date, and it wouldn't be an expensive date, but it would be a fun date... and maybe a little tradition would begin.
If you have a little one who likes an occasional peanut, head to The Peanut Depot, 2016 Morris Avenue in Downtown Birmingham (205-251-3314). They are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
The following is what they have to say about themselves:
The Peanut Depot has been roasting nuts the old-fashioned way for over 100 years, and still supplies legions of ballparks around the United States.
Take a factory tour, or just purchase some freshly roasted goobers (the Cajun blend might be a little too spicy for little ones).
I called the number to find out about the tours, and it is VERY laid back. The gentleman on the phone said to call first, and if they weren't too busy they would be glad to show you around.
Since he was SO laid back, I asked about the cost of the tour. He chuckled and said it didn't cost a penny... which led me to believe it's not going to be a super-structured learning experience. But a tour which ends with fresh, hot roasted peanuts is a tour worth taking, I always say! (What? You've never heard me say that? We need to start hanging out more!)
Call first, and enjoy what the place has to offer... and have fun with your date! (While you're there, take a few pics of your date on Morris Avenue. More fun!)
And the tradition I spoke of above... It might be a place you and your son or daughter go to purchase fresh bags of peanuts before watching a big game on your television set... or before you go camping as a hiking snack... or (you fill in the blank).
Have a cool Thursday. We are sweating a lot in Alabama, and it looks like the fun has just begun. I'll be back tomorrow morning with Weekend Happenings, pics and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from my cooking experience last night. The Chicken and Potato Pancakes were a Five Star Faulkner SUCCESS! We will be having them again because they are easy, tasty and fun to make. (Plus, the recipe makes a TON of batter, and I can refrigerate it and use it for fresh-tasting leftovers later in the week.)
Oh, and there's a good picture of Roxie wearing her new summer hat I thought was cute. She saved her money for this hat, and we discovered something in the process... the chick can rock a cap!
RANDOMNESS #1 - Yesterday I spent 94 minutes in line at the high school registering my son for his Senior year of school. I've always done this for Austin and Josh. I think of it as my little gift to them. They will have a lifetime of registering and filling out paperwork, whereas I only have 18 years for each child and I will officially be DONE!
I wish I had recorded Austin's first telephone call after he registered for college classes all by himself... on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
"Well, that was a major pain," he whined.
"Really? Really? How long did it take you, Son?" I asked testily (AFTER he told me he had registered on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas).
"Ugh. That's 32 minutes I'll never get back," he groaned.
Thirty-two minutes! Thirty-two minutes! I seriously thought about getting in the car and driving the 83 minutes to his college and hitting him over his head with his computer.
But, no. I wasn't going to waste another second with HIS registration. I had to put on my extra deodorant, tube top and bathing suit bottoms to go to high school AND middle school registration for my remaining children. My gift to them for a year of hard work and good grades.
I hung up on The Boy. He assumed something was wrong with the telephone lines because he couldn't imagine someone being angry enough to hang up on HIM... and he took a nap because he was exhausted, you see... from registering on the Internet... in his air-conditioned dorm room... in his pajamas.
RANDOMNESS #2 - Today I'm registering Roxie for her FIRST year of high school. Girls are a little different from guys. She is going with me because she wants to be sure she gets in line with her friends AND has a locker next to all of them.
I'm going to teach her well, and next year I'm dropping the chick off! There's no sense in both of us sweating off five pounds. (I WISH!)
This is a big year for me. My last registration year AND my last carpool line year. I need to to do something big to celebrate. Any suggestions?
Blog Linkage - I have three links for you today from three of my favorite bloggers. I'm also investigating a new food blog, and I might add that to the mix next week. It looks very promising.
1. Go to Big Mama under My Blog List and read her post entitled "Wherein I reach the end of my Internet rope" dated June 2. I, too, am having major Internet problems. I am typing my blog posts on The Boy's computer, because although I've tried, I cannot get an actual person to help me... and I do not understand the things the "troubleshooting" website is trying to tell me... and I am frustrated beyond belief. But Big Mama makes it funny. (I am too close to the situation to find the humor in it yet. Maybe one day.)
2. Go to Nesting Place under My Blog List and read the post entitled "18 Summers" dated June 1. It's short, sweet and to the point. I love the message.
3. Go to Confessions of a Pioneer Woman under My Blog List and read the post entitled "A Different Perspective" dated June 1. She hands her child a camera and looks at the world through HER eyes. I love it!
Enjoy!
A Peanut Date
You read the title correctly. A Peanut Date! It wouldn't be a long date, and it wouldn't be an expensive date, but it would be a fun date... and maybe a little tradition would begin.
If you have a little one who likes an occasional peanut, head to The Peanut Depot, 2016 Morris Avenue in Downtown Birmingham (205-251-3314). They are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
The following is what they have to say about themselves:
The Peanut Depot has been roasting nuts the old-fashioned way for over 100 years, and still supplies legions of ballparks around the United States.
Take a factory tour, or just purchase some freshly roasted goobers (the Cajun blend might be a little too spicy for little ones).
I called the number to find out about the tours, and it is VERY laid back. The gentleman on the phone said to call first, and if they weren't too busy they would be glad to show you around.
Since he was SO laid back, I asked about the cost of the tour. He chuckled and said it didn't cost a penny... which led me to believe it's not going to be a super-structured learning experience. But a tour which ends with fresh, hot roasted peanuts is a tour worth taking, I always say! (What? You've never heard me say that? We need to start hanging out more!)
Call first, and enjoy what the place has to offer... and have fun with your date! (While you're there, take a few pics of your date on Morris Avenue. More fun!)
And the tradition I spoke of above... It might be a place you and your son or daughter go to purchase fresh bags of peanuts before watching a big game on your television set... or before you go camping as a hiking snack... or (you fill in the blank).
Have a cool Thursday. We are sweating a lot in Alabama, and it looks like the fun has just begun. I'll be back tomorrow morning with Weekend Happenings, pics and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you Friday.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Supper Swap
Good Wednesday morning!
The Gallery Pics are from the Old-Fashioned Picnic we had last Friday celebrating the last day of school. Since it had rained the day before, I changed the "sitting on a blanket on the wet ground" idea. And since it had been 20 years or more since I had been to Star Lake, I wasn't sure if it was still the nice picnic spot I remembered or not.
But I knew Aldridge Gardens was a good spot. And it had bathrooms. CLEAN bathrooms.
So we took the girls to a beautiful picnic spot with geese, ducks, turtles and high/dry picnic tables and benches. And we had fun.
We ate fried chicken, cheese and crackers and fresh fruit with dip. We threw any and all leftovers to the ducks, geese and turtles. We took pictures. And then we did what all picnickers have done since the beginning of time. We went to Yolo's Dessert Bar for gourmet cupcakes.
Yep. All that was missing was our Little House on the Prairie bonnets and Pa yelling for us to "Get in the wagon." Good times. Good times.
RANDOMNESS - I was ready to make the Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night for supper. Yes, I was! The family unit was preparing themselves for yet another culinary delight.
However, we had a guest in our home, and when I mentioned the dinner choice for the evening, he just stared at me. Contrary to popular belief, I am a pleaser by nature, and while I will subject MY family to strange and exotic dinner choices, I hesitate to put someone outside of the Faulkner Five through that experience, too.
I hesitate a lot. Mainly because I don't want another family talking about me behind my back like my family does... or how I think they do. Have you heard anything?
Long excuse, short... I didn't flip Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night. We ordered "Wednesday night" pizza (on Tuesday night), and that means I'll be cooking dinner before church tonight. Ugh!
I hate it when I put others first AND I'm flexible. It's a bad combo for me.
Pics tomorrow!
Wednesday Wisdom - Enjoy the plethora of quotes I have chosen for you this lovely Wednesday. Also, enjoy the word "plethora." I don't get to use it as much as I would like.
"History will be kind to me for I intend to write it." Winston Churchill (Brilliant! That is why I call myself "The Enchanting Belinda." I'm not "enchanting," but because I refer to myself that way, other people now call me that, too!)
"To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance." Oscar Wilde
"I paint objects as I think them, not as I see them." Pablo Picasso (This explains so much.)
"Man's heart away from nature becomes hard." Standing Bear (I don't think I've ever used a quote from a Native American. Hmmm.)
"I installed a skylight in my apartment... the people who live above me are furious!" Steven Wright (Fun fact for you... I love Steven Wright! I may devote next week's Wednesday Wisdom entirely to him.)
Supper Swap
I found this idea in the same old Southern Living Magazine which had the Chicken and Potato Pancake recipe. I like the sound of this. What do you think?
You want to prepare exciting, nutritious meals throughout the week, but busy schedules often mean the same ho-hum recipes. Wouldn't it be nice to have a fresh, home-cooked supper delivered a few nights a week? A cooking co-op could be the answer, and it's easier to set up than you might think.
"The idea is pretty simple," says nine-year co-op veteran Leigh Fran Jones of Indian Springs, Alabama. "You cook a big meal once a week to share with your co-op and, depending on the number of people in your group, you get two or three in return. That means you save trips to the grocery store and really only mess up the kitchen once," she says with a big smile. For the rest of the week, Leigh Fran and fellow co-op members take advantage of leftovers or prepare simpler meals.
Since I have had a few days to think about this, I believe I would do the following:
1. Find two friends interested in swapping meals.
2. Have everyone meet and bring five or six recipes they enjoy making for their family. (I would show the other girls the recipes I use for Chicken Casserole, Chicken Pot Pie, Pepper Steak and Mushrooms, etc., etc.) Everyone has to make sure the dishes are something the other families would enjoy eating.
3. Decide on the first week's recipes the three of you will be using.
4. Decide on the days of the week you will be swapping. (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday sound good to me.)
5. The week of the swap, prepare THREE separate dishes of your chosen recipe. Go ahead and cook in disposable pans. Cover and refrigerate all three of them.
6. If your day to "swap" is Monday, arrange a time to drop off the two meals to your friends. (To save time, you can pick up the meals they have prepared for your family as you drop off.)
You may choose to do this once a month, or once a quarter... or maybe just during the months of May and December (busy, busy months). Whatever you and your friends decide, be flexible and enjoy!
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I'll be back Thursday with Blog Linkage, a date idea, a picture or two and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
The Gallery Pics are from the Old-Fashioned Picnic we had last Friday celebrating the last day of school. Since it had rained the day before, I changed the "sitting on a blanket on the wet ground" idea. And since it had been 20 years or more since I had been to Star Lake, I wasn't sure if it was still the nice picnic spot I remembered or not.
But I knew Aldridge Gardens was a good spot. And it had bathrooms. CLEAN bathrooms.
So we took the girls to a beautiful picnic spot with geese, ducks, turtles and high/dry picnic tables and benches. And we had fun.
We ate fried chicken, cheese and crackers and fresh fruit with dip. We threw any and all leftovers to the ducks, geese and turtles. We took pictures. And then we did what all picnickers have done since the beginning of time. We went to Yolo's Dessert Bar for gourmet cupcakes.
Yep. All that was missing was our Little House on the Prairie bonnets and Pa yelling for us to "Get in the wagon." Good times. Good times.
RANDOMNESS - I was ready to make the Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night for supper. Yes, I was! The family unit was preparing themselves for yet another culinary delight.
However, we had a guest in our home, and when I mentioned the dinner choice for the evening, he just stared at me. Contrary to popular belief, I am a pleaser by nature, and while I will subject MY family to strange and exotic dinner choices, I hesitate to put someone outside of the Faulkner Five through that experience, too.
I hesitate a lot. Mainly because I don't want another family talking about me behind my back like my family does... or how I think they do. Have you heard anything?
Long excuse, short... I didn't flip Chicken and Potato Pancakes last night. We ordered "Wednesday night" pizza (on Tuesday night), and that means I'll be cooking dinner before church tonight. Ugh!
I hate it when I put others first AND I'm flexible. It's a bad combo for me.
Pics tomorrow!
Wednesday Wisdom - Enjoy the plethora of quotes I have chosen for you this lovely Wednesday. Also, enjoy the word "plethora." I don't get to use it as much as I would like.
"History will be kind to me for I intend to write it." Winston Churchill (Brilliant! That is why I call myself "The Enchanting Belinda." I'm not "enchanting," but because I refer to myself that way, other people now call me that, too!)
"To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance." Oscar Wilde
"I paint objects as I think them, not as I see them." Pablo Picasso (This explains so much.)
"Man's heart away from nature becomes hard." Standing Bear (I don't think I've ever used a quote from a Native American. Hmmm.)
"I installed a skylight in my apartment... the people who live above me are furious!" Steven Wright (Fun fact for you... I love Steven Wright! I may devote next week's Wednesday Wisdom entirely to him.)
Supper Swap
I found this idea in the same old Southern Living Magazine which had the Chicken and Potato Pancake recipe. I like the sound of this. What do you think?
You want to prepare exciting, nutritious meals throughout the week, but busy schedules often mean the same ho-hum recipes. Wouldn't it be nice to have a fresh, home-cooked supper delivered a few nights a week? A cooking co-op could be the answer, and it's easier to set up than you might think.
"The idea is pretty simple," says nine-year co-op veteran Leigh Fran Jones of Indian Springs, Alabama. "You cook a big meal once a week to share with your co-op and, depending on the number of people in your group, you get two or three in return. That means you save trips to the grocery store and really only mess up the kitchen once," she says with a big smile. For the rest of the week, Leigh Fran and fellow co-op members take advantage of leftovers or prepare simpler meals.
Since I have had a few days to think about this, I believe I would do the following:
1. Find two friends interested in swapping meals.
2. Have everyone meet and bring five or six recipes they enjoy making for their family. (I would show the other girls the recipes I use for Chicken Casserole, Chicken Pot Pie, Pepper Steak and Mushrooms, etc., etc.) Everyone has to make sure the dishes are something the other families would enjoy eating.
3. Decide on the first week's recipes the three of you will be using.
4. Decide on the days of the week you will be swapping. (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday sound good to me.)
5. The week of the swap, prepare THREE separate dishes of your chosen recipe. Go ahead and cook in disposable pans. Cover and refrigerate all three of them.
6. If your day to "swap" is Monday, arrange a time to drop off the two meals to your friends. (To save time, you can pick up the meals they have prepared for your family as you drop off.)
You may choose to do this once a month, or once a quarter... or maybe just during the months of May and December (busy, busy months). Whatever you and your friends decide, be flexible and enjoy!
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I'll be back Thursday with Blog Linkage, a date idea, a picture or two and Randomness.
Take care, and I'll talk to you in the morning.
Sincerely,
The Enchanting Belinda
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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!