these are the lazy, crazy, hazy days...

1. Lazy. Yes, we would appear to be, from an outsider's perspective. Napping, staying home, sleeping in, etc. We prefer to call this the "recovery period."

2. Crazy. In the past 2 1/2 weeks, we have had much happy craziness. Family visits in CO & OH have kept us running. We're home for the long haul, we've been to the grocery store to replenish our fridge, and hopefully we're not going crazy any more. Michael returns to work on the 2nd, Nate & Lissa are visiting through the end of the week, and after that I am sure our life will be back to the "boring" craziness we call normal.

3. Hazy. We're fighting some crazy upper respiratory bug, and hard. Aaron's coughing and hacking, Michael's down for the count, and I'm emerging, victorious. I hope. That was round 2 for me.

I feel as if I've been absent from the blogging world for years. So much to catch up on, so many "what I made for Christmas" posts to write...

Until then, happy last day of 2007! Wasn't it a great year? God is so gracious. Any family traditions for reflecting on His Works that you'd like to share?

The Amazing Race?

Our travel adventure ended well, in that we arrived in Michigan, unscathed, and before Christmas Day, by about 15 minutes.

We got to Springs in plenty of time for the great Pack-n-Play drop off (thank you, Newlands) and with about 3 hours to check in, clear security and wait with bated breath for our connection to Chicago, where we would catch yet another connection to MBS, a mere 20 minutes from home. I was fairly confident that these flights were still scheduled, as I had signed up for the "Flight Change Alert" call system.

We got to the airport check in, only to find that our second connection had been cancelled, and that no flights would be leaving Chicago until Wednesday to get to MBS. Huh, interesting. We had just dropped off our rental car, having been confident of our departure. The agent scheduled us instead to fly to Denver, then Chicago, then to Grand Rapids, a 2 1/2 hour drive from home. We would arrive at 8 something. OK, well, a phone call to mom & dad confirmed that they could pick us up.

One 34-minute trip to Denver later found our flight to Chicago delayed - first 3 hours, then 6 hours, then 7 plus hours. To complicate matters, Chicago seems to be somewhat of a hub *grin* so this was affecting a LOT of travelers. The airline was down to one customer service center, with a queue about a mile long. It really probably was, considering the bendy configuration. We found a sympathetic agent who switched us to a different airline and printed off some official looking documents (which really only means too many codes for me to make sense of them) and sent us on our way, which at this point meant Denver direct to Detroit, another 2 1/2 hour drive from home.

To make an already long-enough story short, the sympathetic agent apparently did the switcheroo wrong, and we ended up running (ok, walking briskly) between concourses for a solid 2 hours trying to find a way to get out of Denver and back home. Michael commented that he didn't remember signing up for the Amazing Race.

Thankfully, we arrived in Detroit with few issues. When we boarded that plane, I was so relieved to be heading closer to home. Aaron was a fabulous traveler, napping in the carrier during our airport escapades (thank you, Michael) and for a short while on the plane. Thankfully, dad made the trip to come get us.

Our luggage has yet to arrive. I think it went to Grand Rapids without us. Since we switched airlines, there is really no telling if it will arrive before the weekend. Or all together. Or at all. The (no doubt) overworked agent who reported our baggage delayed neglected to enter one of the tracking numbers. Fabulous.

A very unexpected bonus - upon our arrival to Detroit, we had no car seat. We were expecting a loaner, similar to the situation in Colorado Springs - we returned their car seat when our bags and seat arrived. In Detroit, apparently, they "can't" take them back. Or don't, but regardless. We got a brand new Evenflo convertible car seat, very similar to the one pictured above. Now we have to decide what to do with it. I have a few ideas...

I keep having to learn these lessons about my own expectations and the plan that God has for us. I keep having to learn that despite the situations that seem stinky to me, God has not forgotten, and He is carefully placing each new event in my life. He might be doing that to see how I respond, He might be doing it to stretch me, but I don't really need to know why. I just need to remember that God has it all under His control. Whether it be a death in the family, a nasty case of a mystery virus, or lost luggage and a longer trip - His control does not waver. He is good, all the time.

And when I can, by His grace, remember this - all is well! I do not worry, fret, and wring my hands! I can focus instead on the post-travel clutter, the stack of accumulated mail, and the installation of our new (FREE) Superman-logo-embellished keyboard and optical mouse. And maybe, just maybe, my house will be spic and span and ready when our luggage arrives.

which do you prefer?

Thinking about purchasing some bakeware - much of mine is shot - and the question is: which variety to get? Anybody ever used silicone? What are the pros & cons of this variety vs traditional non-stick? I'm specifically interested in getting a bundt pan, bread pan, and muffin pans, and I would love any input!

Ok, so I'm not really taking that much of a blog break. But I wanted to post this for several reasons. One, I wanted you to see our final product from all of our funny Christmas family photos, and two, we didn't want to post this before the recipients opened the cards. So if you haven't gotten a card from us? We love you, we wish you a Happy Christmas, and here is your card. We are saving trees, don't you know?

Also, today is our 4th wedding anniversary! Happy Anniversary to the world's most perfect man for me! It's flown by and I have loved every minute! God is GOOD!

Be sure to check back after Christmas for some "what I made for Christmas" posts. I've been taking photos of my homemade gifts and I'm so excited to share them with you!

Travels with Child in tow

Aaron is a traveling champ. At least, he was while we flew out here. We had one 45 minute flight from MBS to Chicago, and then a 2 1/2 hour flight to COS. The second leg was what we were most concerned about, but he did great. When we landed at COS, the people in all the seats around us almost simultaneously burst into praise. "He did such a good job" "Great job, buddy" and things of that nature.

We are so thankful.

Of course, we cheated. Big Time. Can you say "Baby Einstein DVD" - and lots of snacks. And prayer, which is NOT cheating.

Aaron has had a harder time getting used to the new time zone. Today, we have victory. A full night's sleep and two glorious naps. Our happy boy is back. And we are grateful.

So - what are your thoughts on electronic distractions? Some of me likes it, some of me doesn't. I would love to hear what you think!

safe arrival

We are safely and happily in Colorado. However, our bags did not make it. *sigh* They are still waiting in Chicago. Our airline has a "reimburse for necessary expenses" clause. You'd better believe we are going to use it. Joyfully. I could use some new jeans.

*grin*

Blogging Break

We leave today for vacation in Colorado! Hurray for God's provision and goodness in allowing us to visit our family.

Please pray for us as Aaron is traveling for the first time on an airplane. We leave at 6:45 pm and as that is very close to his bedtime, it could either work for us very well (ie, he sleeps) or backfire on us (ie, he screams) Please pray that we would handle the situation with grace.

and that we wouldn't get kicked off the plane for having a screamer.

Merry Christmas to you all!!

and how exactly do you do that?

Michael and I were watching the news last night - and heard the words "vac*ine recall." I will not even begin to tell you how angry that made me. OK, yes I will.

When you recall toys, you can send them back. When you recall a vac*ine? Not so simple. "Hello, we are here to retrieve the bacteria that inadvertently was injected into your child. This will just take a minute."

"This is not a major health concern" the manufacturers say, and in the same breath that they also say "there is no way to tell how many children received a dose."

Some people have other soapboxes. This is mine. No matter how you feel about vac*ines, just please, please make sure you do your research so that your children can have medical treatment and prevention of disease in the safest possible way. And in the way God leads you. But please, PLEASE do your research first.

socks

When was the last time you bought a CD and loved every song? For me, a good CD purchase is usually one that fewer than 3 songs are "throw away" - I skip them because I don't like them, they get on my nerves, etc. etc. I'm pretty picky when it comes to music...just ask my voice instructor.

No genre is excluded from this general rule - the style of music usually has no bearing on whether or not the 3-song rule applies. The style of music DOES affect whether or not the CD's actually make it into the player to qualify for the 3-song rule. *grin*

When I got this Michael W Smith CD (It's A Wonderful Christmas) in the mail to review, my first inclination was to listen, review, and chuck and/or find a friend whose tastes differ slightly from my own. Actually, I was thinking "more than" slightly. Usually when I hear MWS's name, all I can think of is "Friends are Friends Forever" which I do NOT like. And I think it's more than just the lyrics. But we'll leave it at that. *wink*

So, despite the taste in my...ears? I decided to do my best to keep an open mind, try to forget the name on the album, and just listen.

I was pleasantly surprised. Actually, when the CD started, I had to open up the multi-disk player to make sure I had the correct album - the orchestration that began track #1 was a surprise. About a minute into it, the solo vocals began. Mr. Smith also used several choirs in this song, and throughout the album, including a boys choir - and that really made parts of this album sparkle. I loved the choirs.

Track #2 was entirely instrumental, and had some very nice moments - glimmers of traditional Christmas themes - I liked track #2.

"The Promise" is the title of track 3, and for me seemed to have a little Feature Films for Families flavor. I loved the use of the choirs. I love choirs at Christmas. Some may say the pure, full tones of the choir made a nice contrast to Mr. Smith's voice, which is not so rounded. I don't happen to have this opinion. This song was so-so for me.

#4, "Song for the King", starts with "Once in Royal David's City" on strings. I love strings. Added brass, and then about a minute into it, a piano and violin in a relaxing and simple theme. You can easily imagine this as a lullaby for Jesus. Until the last minute or so, when the same theme is augmented in a majestic way, then quieted for a piano/violin finish. The entire song is instrumental.

So far, we're 3 for 4. Not bad on my 3-song rule.

Number 5. A duet with Mandisa? Now, you are my friends, after all. Do I really need to tell you how I feel about that? This is the first song I cannot stand even in passing. Skip. We won't even go into the "let's light a candle/for peace we pray" lyrics. OK we will. This song's lyrics go from Santa and nations to lighting candles for peace. Nowhere is Jesus mentioned (although "manger scene" is in there.) SKIP.

"A Highland Carol" begins with bagpipes and a theme reminiscent of "Blessed be the Name" and although I'm not big into bagpipes, this was a nice tune.

Number 7 - "Sing Noel, Sing Hallelujah" is entirely choral. Read the lyrics. It begins with a boy choir, and is gorgeous. No church would have any problems with their choir singing this beauty. It has a traditional hymn sound, and it made me want to stand up and sing. This is my favorite song on the whole album. It's about this time that I think, "maybe I will keep this CD" You can listen here.

"Son of God" reminds me of a church cantata - a solo at the beginning, choirs taking over - and I can see this song IN a cantata - all the repetition of the "singing gloria" would be good for reflection on the nativity. And the text is pretty good for the solo part, too. I would pick a different vocal style for the soloist. But you knew that.

"What Child is This" is a simple arrangement on piano and penny whistle. It is beautiful.

So if you're counting, we're 7 for 9. I'm raising my eyebrows in surprise at this point. As I am sure you are.

"Audrey's Gift" is a piano arrangement of the same simple theme that has woven through the entire recording. This is not a vocal song. You know, this CD could easily be a soundtrack to a movie. Easily.

We are on the last track of the CD, "All Year Long" and it is full of M. W. vocals. A few choirs, a subtle insert of a secular world view, and we're done. I didn't care for that one.

So, friends, we have listened through "It's a Wonderful Christmas" and Mr. Smith squeaked by on the 3 song rule. I don't think I have a new favorite CD, but I don't think I'll be tossing this or finding a new home for it. And I do love "Sing Noel, Sing Hallelujah" enough to make a mental note that if I ever direct music again, I will need to look into it.

M. W., you have squeaked by! I give you one out of 2 socks. Surprised right off.

soft lazy beautiful flakes

"Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow" Ps. 51:7

that is what I get for slacking off.

So, we're traveling to Colorado at the end of the week. And in order to take our son with us, it would probably be a good idea to take his birth certificate. Oh wait, I never went to the county clerk's office to pick that up.

I seem to remember that on 8/4/06, when we were discharged from the hospital and got all those instructions on how to get a copy of the birth certificate that they told us it would be $10. I remember thinking it was awfully inconvenient, and couldn't they just give it to us at the hospital and add $10 to our bill?

I called today, so it would be ready to pick up. And now it's $12.

My, my, my. It seems the frugal choice would have been to get the child his birth certificate before inflation drove the price up. And ok, before his first birthday. At least. And part of me just has to ask - don't I pay county taxes? Shouldn't this sort of thing be covered?

Did you guys have to pay and make a separate trip for your kiddos' birth certificates?

a homemade attempt

Amazing what you can learn with a little search engine help for all your plaguing questions. I think I just might try this.

ever have a day like this?

Sorry, sweetie. Your birthday card really will get there. As soon as Aunt Jenny can remember that the post office probably needs a little more information than just your name.

Had any absent minded moments recently?

I'd love to hear!

I remember moving in...

Yesterday my parents made their last house payment

I remember moving in, and boy was that house a mess. Thanks, mom and dad. Thanks for more than just giving me a great home to grow up in. Your courage to bravely remodel and live in a house that needed so much work has fortified me for much more than just moving into our very own fixer upper.

You have taught me not only a good work ethic and minor home fix-its, (yes, I know, my smaller fingers were just better at sanding the corners of the floor and better at scraping the paint off the porch rails). You taught me that God always provides. You taught me contentment. You taught me to trust Him and to do it joyfully. You may not have always felt that way, but I never guessed it.

I know, you're sitting there reading this and shaking your head. That's why you taught (and are still teaching) me the beauty of humility.

And I am humbled that God saw fit to give you grace and strength in the years of our growing up, in the years that He had those hard lessons to teach us all about trusting, about God's provision, about the love of family, and about so much more. Praise GOD for His Goodness at all times. Praise God for parents like you.

I love you guys, and I rejoice with you in God's grace, abundant on your behalf! CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Now, do you burn that mortgage or frame it?

Chili!

We've all had those days where fixing dinner is the absolute last thing on your mind. I had one of those days yesterday. Who am I kidding? It's very unusual for me to think about dinner all day. My menu has just run out, so I'm fresh out of ideas. Thankfully, Michael doesn't mind eating dinner at 7. Or 8. And yes, we've been known to wait as long as 9.

So what do you fix when you need to shop and can't think clearly? This is the topic for this week's Works For Me Wednesday, so if you find yourself in this "what on earth are we going to have tonight?" quandry more often than you care to admit, head on over and check out what ideas other people have. This is what I made yesterday, put in the Crock Pot at 4pm. I cranked the heat up to "HIGH" and it was ready in an hour. Aaron ate his right then, and loved it. But we ate ours three hours later, over rice.

Easy Chili (served 3 hungry Muths)
1/4 lb frozen ground beef (yep, just toss it right in the bottom)
1 pint home canned tomatoes (but a 15 oz can works too)
1 can chili seasoned beans (we like Bush's brand)
more chili powder

I used white rice since I have tons right now. Brown would be spectacular. I also put some cheese on top - yum. I usually add another can of beans (not chili seasoned) but I did not have any on hand.

win it!

I just heard about a new giveaway and I wanted to let you all know about it!

Challies.com is giving away several sets of Modern Parables. If you want to sign up, do it soon and use my referral code (40102) so I can get more entries and we can all win big. If you do win, make sure you let me know so I can bring some popcorn and watch with you.

Just visit this link and sign up for the newsletter (it's not one of those annoyingly frequent ones)

another shameless plug

I've told you guys about Ebates, and some of you have signed up - THANKS! I just wanted to let you know that you have to make a purchase via Ebates by December 31 for the holiday cash bonus to work. If you purchase something after that date, you get $5 instead of $10. (Still not a bad deal)

Mom said my initial explanation was slightly unclear, so here is a quick recap: Sign up using me as a referral, (twomuths at gmail dot com) and make any online purchase, linking through Ebates, by December 31st. ANY purchase - it could be a $2 book on Half.com or a big ol' flat screen TV at Walmart.com, it doesn't matter. After the order ships to you, and the transaction is complete, you will get $10 bonus cash (plus whatever bonus cash back you earn with your purchase) in your ebates account, and you can immediately request a Big Fat Check!

In my estimation, this is a snazzy way to buy someone a Christmas gift for free...working it kinda like a rebate! Use my email or sign up HERE

snowy prints

Hello, rabbit. Hello, snow. My house is crying out to be decorated for Christmas. I can't believe the job isn't already done. We've been trying to decide on what to do about trees - we have two artificial trees, a 4-footer from our 679 square foot apartment days, and a nice big 7 1/2 footer. I am voting for the small tree up on a table, away from curious fingers. We will see what happens.

Yesterday, I found out that it does NOT work to pour boiling water over the coffee grounds. At least, it does not produce the delicious coffee to which my taste buds are accustomed. Today, I will try to soak them a little longer.

Thankfully, my parents have an extra coffee pot they never use. I will be borrowing that, thank you very much. At least until I do a little price comparison on thermal carafe coffee pots. Because, as you may know, they simply are the best.

Thank you all for your wishes of good will and sympathy. My lil' heart was blessed.

Apparently, my blog has reached new heights of popularity. I will be reviewing a product in the coming days - and those of you who know me well will get a little chuckle out of this one. It is Michael W. Smith's new Christmas CD. You never know - he could surprise the socks right off me. It's happened before. The play by play is coming soon. I bet y'all are on the edge of your seats.

But most of you are wondering why I'm talkin' southern. I blame it on my job. Entirely.

the day Old Faithful died

On days like this - windy, chilly days - there is little I enjoy more than a steamy cup of my dear friend Mr. Decaf. I brew methodically and I brew strong. I brew using my other faithful friend, Mr. Gevalia Thermal Carafe coffee pot.

Mr. Gevalia came to me in October of 2001, I believe, the year of white dorm living. The year Autumn and I decided to take advantage of one of the "too good to be true" offers so generously set forth by Gevalia. I mean, have you priced thermal carafe coffee pots?

After we figured out that paper filters caused coffee overflow in that particular model, and purchased a reusable cone filter, our evenings and mornings were filled with the delicious aroma of Mocca Java and good conversation. The best part of Mr. Gevalia was his ability to keep warm, but not burn, any leftover coffee. Many days, I brewed at 7 and could still have hot coffee at noon.

Today, I loaded up Old Faithful with 3 scoops and a pint, and clicked the familiar button. Ten minutes later, I was still waiting, despondent, cold, and shivering. Old Faithful is no more. My cup is empty.

it's a crazy mixed up world

Sometimes it never hurts to look. The organic grapes at Walmart were $1.77/lb. The regular grapes? $2.98/lb.

Bonus!

Ebates the Great

I've done a little online holiday shopping. And thanks to a variety of suggestions from online sources (which really just means I've forgotten exactly where I heard about it), I've found Ebates.

This website gives you cash back on your purchases, and/or provides coupon codes to help you save even further. Many sites participate, you just have to use a tracking code from Ebates (which you get by typing in the store/website name and clicking on the link provided). My favorite thing is that I've forgotten several times until I already have items added to my cart. So I've opened a new tab and gone to Ebates, then typed in the store and clicked on Ebate's link to them, and through the magic of technology, my items are still in my cart.

The cash back builds up in your account and you can request a check any time the balance is $5 or more. I got cash back on our holiday travel purchases from Hotwire, our photo Christmas cards from Walmart, and several other things that will not be listed here. For obvious reasons. But I will say, dad, unrelated to holiday shopping, that Half.com is one of the participating sites. So you can sign up, too!

So today I got an email saying that if I refer people to Ebates, with their first purchase, we both get a $5 sign up bonus PLUS a $5 Holiday Bonus! That is like getting $10 for shopping online, people! So PLEASE click any of the links on this post and sign yourself up, then start shopping! This bonus $10 only works after you purchase something, and only if you sign up using the LINKS!

hee hee

Check out the hilarious family my brother Nate's managed to become a part of.

I read this story today and giggled. Loudly.

Homemade Gifts for the Home-Ec Challenged

I'm posting these ideas because it will not matter if the recipients know ahead of time that this might be coming to them. Hopefully some of you who think you can't do homemade gifts because you think you can't bake or sew will enjoy these links!

Homemade Sugar Scrub
Bread in a Bag
Sewing Kit in a Jar
Hot Cocoa Cones
"Write Your Own Book" kit for kids

Hope these inspire you to think about making a few gifts this year - I personally love giving AND receiving homemade gifts - and I loved that just about anyone could make these!

Attempting the Annual Photo

We like self-portraits for our Christmas card photos. In fact, we have never been to a studio as a family - I'm too afraid of things going horribly wrong and having to spend money on photos I don't want - and Aaron has managed to escape a formal photo session for his entire 16 month life. These are several of our discarded attempts. Our Christmas cards this year are hilarious. I can't wait for them to come in!!

Let's Hear it for Scratch & Dent!

We have a store in a nearby town that I would love to give a huge Hallelujah for. This weekend we visited Bay City to purchase insulation for a section of our attic that has never had insulation. And we wonder why our heating bill is huge. Hopefully this investment will end up paying for itself in the next couple months.

SO while we were in Bay City, we stopped at our favorite scratch & dent grocery outlet - Blue Knight. You may be a little freaked out about stores like this, depending on your sensitivities, but I happen to love this place! Some of the food is past the expiration date, but if you look hard enough you can usually find items that are still fresh. Part of the adventure is not knowing what you will find! A few things we got this weekend:

Fruitabu Organic Smooshed Flats (similar to a fruit leather) - 50 cents a box
Earth's Best Organic Graham Sticks, Arrowroot Biscuits, and various other toddler snacks - 69 cents a box
Earth's best Organic "On the Go O's" (breakfast cereal) $1.50 a box
Organic Rice Krispies & Organic Frosted Mini Wheats, $1.50 a box
Near East seasoned couscous mixes 69 cents a box
King Arthur Whole Wheat flour 69 cents per 5 lb bag
Grey Poupon mustard, all varieties - 5/$1
Yoplait yogurt smoothies - $3 for a box of 12
Kashi TLC granola bars - 99 cents a box
Nestle Chocolatier Chocolate Chips (some 53% cacao, some 62%) 99 cents each
Barilla Plus Angel Hair pasta and organic whole grain penne - 2/$1
and my ALL TIME FAVORITE DEAL this trip -
a 10-oz bag of Green Mountain Organic Decaf Coffee - 99 cents!!!
(Here's the kicker - it was considered "off brand" because it wasn't Folger's or Maxwell House!)

We purchased multiples of many items, and got a few more things - we left with two huge boxes full of goodies and spent about $35. I am again amazed at God's provision!

a huge ________________

Thanksgiving was a huge success. See pictures here

I have a huge elephant sitting on my bronchial tubes. Hence, a blogging (and everything else) break. Must. Get. Sleep.

Thanksgiving Menu, Part Two

Mom called. She tested the pie crust and it was nasty. So don't make that one, ok? Unless you like nasty crust. Boy, I'm glad she tested it. Can we get another HURRAY for mom? So we will be using a different pie crust recipe and substituting whole wheat flour for 1/2 of the required flour.

As far as our Spinach Strawberry Salad "recipe" goes, it's pretty much just spinach, sliced strawberries, and almonds. Since we have a Certain Person in our family who does not eat salad dressing (weirdo) we do not add any dressing to the salad until it is on our plates. Then we add this. Really, that is it. That dressing, if you've not tried it, is very, very good.

Steamed Garlic Broccoli is pretty easy as well. I chop up some fresh broccoli and add about a 1/2 tsp of minced garlic per head of broccoli to a bowl, then once the broccoli is steamed to that perfect tender state, I add it to the bowl with the garlic, stir and add a little salt. It is so delicious. If you have been stuck using frozen broccoli, and think it is fine, you MUST TRY some fresh steamed broccoli. I would eat it every single day if the rest of my family wouldn't get sick of it!! This from a former broccoli hater.

The turkey is making nice progress - I decided to do the quick thaw method in a water bath. I took the turkey out this morning and he's floating away. Just so you know, the Butterball ladies suggest a 1/2 hour in the water for every pound of turkey. I learned that on Rachael Ray this morning.

The sweet potatoes will be baked tonight, the apple crisp will be prepared in the morning, and baked once the turkey comes out. We eat at 1 o'clock.

Here's what I do for Apple Crisp:
Slice up a bunch of apples, to fill the dish. Add some cinnamon and a few sprinkles of flour, toss the apples about. If the apples are too tart, I will add a few teaspoons of sugar, or just use the cinnamon sugar that I have mixed up in the cupboard. Sometimes, if I feel like it, I add some nutmeg. For the oat topping, I take some oatmeal, whole wheat flour, a couple tablespoons of the darkest brown sugar I can find, a little oil or butter and more cinnamon, and smush it around until it looks right. Sometimes I add wheat germ. Then I sprinkle it atop the apples and bake it at 350 degrees until the apples are fork-tender. We often have ice cream with this yummy stuff. And sometimes I toss in a few handfuls of frozen blueberries, depending on how I'm feeling.

I will be baking the turkey in an oven bag. YAY. No basting. I love low maintenance.

newest kitchen addition

Prior to last weekend, this area between the drawers and the curtains was nothing but more curtains. Thanks to dad for salvaging the door front, and to my genius husband for rigging a trash can slidey thing with stuff we had in the garage, we now have hard surfaces protecting the cleaning supplies and trash can from very curious little fingers belonging to a little munchkin whose name starts with an A and ends with -aron. The doors need one more coat of paint, but I'm pretty happy with our new setup! Not bad for makeshift - not bad at all!

Thanksgiving Menu, Part One

Thanksgiving is at my house this year. I'm so excited. I love to have a big table surrounded with family! Since I'm on the eat healthIER plan (all things in moderation), I've decided to post my week's progress and a few recipes. Today, I take the turkey out of the big freezer and put it in the cooler to thaw. I wonder how that will work...I've never thawed a turkey in the cooler before. I get to simmer the remains of our weekend splurge of rotisserie chicken to make some stock for my stuffing and maybe a little chicken soup for supper tonight.

Also today, I make the rolls. Not the healthiest, but healthier than some. I got it from my friend Ashley, and adapted it somewhat to fit our preferences. Here's the recipe:

Bread Machine Rolls
hot water plus one egg to equal 1 1/3 cup
1/4 cup olive oil
1/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 cups bread flour
2 tsp gluten plus whole wheat flour to equal 2 cups (put the gluten in the cup, add flour to fill)
3 tsp yeast

Put all in bread machine, set to "dough" and when done, divide dough into 24 parts, put in a cooking-spray coated 9x13 pan. Cover with a clean towel and allow to double in size on top of the oven you are preheating (0r another warm place). Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes or until done.

I lightly butter the tops to keep them soft, but you wouldn't have to. I also may play with substituting some milled flax seed for part of the oil. At some point I will play with the sugar content, but I don't think a big family gathering would be the time for that. If you don't have bread flour, just make sure you use 4 tsp of gluten and it will be ok to use all purpose flour.

Our menu
Roast Turkey & homemade low fat gravy
Stuffing (no butter, mostly whole wheat bread)
Homemade Rolls
Baked, mashed sweet potatoes (sweet enough on their own, IMO! AND a superfood!)
Steamed Garlic Broccoli (oh, look! Another superfood!)
Apple Crisp - no sugar added to apples, oat crumble topping

Mom's bringing...
Mashed potatoes (making them lighter)
Spinach Strawberry Salad (what? another superfood?)
Corn (no casserole!)
Pumpkin Pie with Healthier Pie Crust
Uh, yeah...and Ruthie's German Chocolate Pie. Not healthy, not at all. Not really any redeeming factors - it has nuts, I guess, and dark chocolate. Still, not healthy. But we are using the same Healthier Pie Crust Recipe.

And since mom's baking the pies, I will give you the recipe for the crusts. She's baking those tomorrow morning and then coming over to help get things ready here. Can we get a huge HURRAY for moms like mine? I am so blessed.

**Recipe removed due to nasty taste!!**

So as you can see, we are hardly depriving ourselves. And it would still be very possible to come to our Thanksgiving and leave having been gluttonous and unwise stewards. I will have to keep that in mind when I wish for another slice of the most delicious pie in the whole world. (Thank you, Ruth!)

coldstone dreams come true

Anybody want to go on a double date? We certainly can't eat TWO and since this coupon, which was in my email box this morning, is a BOGO, we would need some friends to share the other one. Any takers? Splitting the bill would be a pretty inexpensive date!!

Or, you know, YOU could print it out and eat two for the price of one. But that's a lot of ice cream.

sickness, sleeping, and sewing machine innards

Lookie there! An alliterated title. Looks I should be selling outlines after all. Tee hee.

Aaron has the 3rd cold of his life and it's a doozy. Saturday night he woke up thrice. THRICE. It's been a long time since I had to wake up that many times a night. As my feet hit the floor and my zombie legs took me next door to Aaron's room, I prayed for all you new mommies for which this is a nightly event!

And, I haven't been to church in 2 weeks, unless you count last Wednesday when I drove junior high kids around collecting food for the annual Thanksgiving Basket project at church. That was fun - the kids collected over 6 laundry baskets full of food in a little under an hour. We were able to hand out tracts at each of the houses we stopped at, too. Yay! Our church was able to put together 70 baskets to distribute this year. Amazing.

That family God brought into our lives? GREAT strides in their spiritual growth. The boys got baptized a few weeks ago and we've been thrilled to watch God do amazing things in their lives. We are praising God for His mighty acts and His goodness!

Michael took apart my sewing machine this weekend. It's an ugly little thing under all that pretty white plastic. I am happy to report that it is working satisfactorily at least for the time being. The tension is all messed up but if I set it on "0" it seems to do just fine. *sigh* My plans of homemade Christmas gifts were in the balance, and my dear superhero of a husband rescued them!

I cannot believe it is Thanksgiving week already! I'll be posting our "healthier" menu for this year later this week, but right now I'm wondering - what does your family do to make Thanksgiving a true time of thankfulness?

Deals for the week

Sorry - no pictures this week! I'd already put everything away and hauling it out again just doesn't make any sense!

Walgreens -
OneTouch UltraSmart Blood Glucose meter, reg. price 84.99 - FREE
Electrasol Powerball Tabs, 25 ct - 99 cents after rebate
Palmolive Dish Soap, 13 oz - 49 cents
Excederine Migraine, 50 ct, reg. 6.99 - FREE after rebate
TOTAL after rebates - $1.48

Kroger -
2 Pepsi cubes - $10, but there is a $10 rebate since I bought a turkey, too - FREE
17ish pound turkey, 49 cents a pound = 8.29
Suave Deodorant, 2 for $1
TOTAL after rebates - $9.29

Meijer -
Skippy Peanut Butter - 40 cents
Totino's Pizza Rolls - 20 cents
Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner - 68 cents
Lysol Multi Purpose Cleaner - 93 cents
2 - 200 oz Arm & Hammer Liquid Laundry Soap - $6.99
TOTAL - $9.20

UN fortunately, I bought a few more items than are listed here - but here are my great deals for this week!

yummy recipe sharing

I found this site today through one of my all time favorite blogs to visit for ideas about living frugally and being cheerful about it.

It's a holiday (specifically Thanksgiving, but I'm sure Christmas guests would appreciate them) recipe sharing extravaganza! I linked my pumpkin bread that I'm sure you are all sick of hearing about, but if you have a chance to make it you will understand why I can't stop talking about it!!!

So, if you have a favorite recipe or need a few ideas for upcoming events or just plain want to know what other people make for special occasion consumption, head on over and check it out.

(click on the cute lil' picture - it's a link)

the scoop on pumpkin guts

I'm still working on roasting my pumpkins - good thing they stay fresh for a relatively long period of time. I had a total of 23 pumpkins to roast and freeze this year, all small, so don't you worry that we will have too much excess. Remember, I've got a hungry husband and toddler to feed. Not to mention that pumpkin baked goods are my absolute favorite. I've recently become quite fond of the lower fat pumpkin bread linked at this post that only uses one tablespoon of oil!

All these pumpkins require roasting before freezing, and after a few sessions of scooping pumpkin guts with spoons, hands, and other various utensils, I grabbed the ice cream scoop! Mine has a flat tip that works very well to part the stringy seeds from the sides of the pumpkins! Voila! A faster way to get these babies roasting ready! Works for me!

holidays and health

Next week is Thanksgiving, and for the first time since my first "home from college" Thanksgiving, it will be local family only. (unless Some Certain Friends get with the program and hustle their buns up here - specifically, friends from states that begin with the letters P and V, but we'd take friends from any state) I shudder to realize that my first "home from college" Thanksgiving was ten years ago.

I'm looking forward to trying out some new recipes and coming up with healthier alternatives to old favorites. The other day I heard something on a cooking show or in a magazine recipe like "that's a lot of butter, but it's Thanksgiving, so forget about it" Huh.

Like holidays are a good excuse to be gluttonous and exercise poor stewardship over our bodies. I am NOT saying a treat here and there is bad, I am not saying we will be forgoing Ruthie's German Chocolate Pie - but if I can figure out a way to make the turkey taste really good without a pound of butter or if we can skip green bean casserole for some almond green beans or garlic broccoli? Or if I can make gravy with mostly chicken stock instead of greasy turkey drippings? I'm gonna do it! It may only save 100 calories but it's 100 calories saved. I have a renewed commitment to the slow and steady approach to health.

What are your thoughts on holiday eating? How do you make sure you exercise control over what goes into your body during the holidays?

it's frenzy time

I just realized I've got about a month until Christmas, and a list a mile long (ok, an 8 1/2 x 11 sheet long) of reallycool homemade Christmas gift ideas I've been accumulating since June. Fortunately, I started in June to accumulate ideas. UN-fortunately, I started to execute the first one today. And what does my sewing machine do? And what happens when I run out of pins? Oh, my. What would have easily been a stress free 30-45 minute project is still unfinished in a heap on my ironing board. Must.Buy.Pins. I hate leaving a project unfinished. OK, I hate leaving a FUN project unfinished.

I guess I'll be posting pictures of my projects AFTER Christmas, since many recipients read this blog. (and since I'm not sure how many of these grand ideas will actually turn out to be worthy gifts) Finally I am using the fabric that has languished long in plastic bins.

Any homemade holiday gifts on your list of giving?

what's in a nickname?

When Aaron was very little, just a couple weeks old, he'd stare at something for a long time, studying it, and then blink in slow, methodical blinks. It was so cute - I thought he looked like a bug. So that is what I began calling him...my little bug. Every once in awhile it comes out "Bugs" but any reference to a Warner Bros. Character is strictly accidental. Hopefully it won't stick through his whole life and become an embarrassment to him.

I didn't really HAVE a nickname, unless you count "Jenny" but I don't happen to think that counts.

Does your family do nicknames?

Recipe Tag

Kelly tagged me in her own game of recipe tag, so here's one of Michael's favorites. Anyone else glad it is soup weather? I certainly am!!

Chicken Tortilla Soup

2 boneless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed or shredded
2 cans chicken broth
1 can green chilies
1 can diced tomatoes w/mild chilies
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp minced garlic)
1 T lime juice
2 T chopped fresh cilantro
½ tsp ground cayenne pepper
½ tsp ground cumin
4-6 corn tortillas

Combine all but last 5 ingredients and bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Cut the tortillas into strips (¼-½”) and place on a cookie sheet. Spray with Pam, and bake at 350 until crispy. Reduce heat & simmer for 30-35 minutes. Add the lime juice, cilantro, cayenne and cumin; simmer 10 or so minutes more. Ladle into bowls, garnish with shredded cheese and the tortilla strips.

I'm tagging Ruth, Anne, Katrina, Tricia, and Erin!

If you have a favorite recipe to post, or you have recently posted a recipe, link your recipe post here. Make sure you link to the post, and not your whole page. Go ahead and use the Mr. Linky form below.

If you haven't done that before, and you use Blogger, you just click on the title of your post, then cut & paste the URL from the web address bar into the little Mr. Linky form where it says "URL". You can also type either your name OR your recipe in the box above the URL box.

Walgreens WOO HOO

This week's Walgreen's deals were unbelievable. I managed to tote this load away for $6.51.

That would be 3 50 sq. ft. rolls of wrapping paper, 8 55-foot lengths of curling ribbon, a Glade candle, a Glade oil warmer and a refil pack, a 1-lb box of brown sugar, 2 mini cans of baking powder, 2 shampoos and 2 conditioners. Did I mention that some of these items are eligible for rebates, totaling an additional $3 off?

Yes, God is most definitely providing for our needs (and our "wants" too!) in the most amazing, unexpected ways.

Check out other (even more) amazing deals at Money Saving Mom

deals for boys

OK so I got an email from Sears about this online super sale and thought I'd go check it out. Turns out that if I wanted, I could get a few things for Aaron for 29 cents. Yes, you heard correctly. Unfortunately, those items are not my thing - you know all about my children's clothing issues.

But I DO think these would be cute on other people's kids. So get on over and check them out. The deals I found are for boys 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months. I didn't look in the other larger sizes but I'm sure you could find a deal there, too. Or do some "gift closet" shopping...

doin' the happy dance

Thanks to Carrie's heads up, we were able to catch the bumGenius sale and with a googled coupon code, saved an additional 5%. These twelve fabulous diapers bring our total stash to 19! Needless to say, this is wonderful news. We'd been saving money reserved from Aaron's baby shower for such a time as this. We are THRILLED with God's orchestration of circumstances to provide diapers for Aaron and any future Muth children (as yet unconceived, to answer your questions)! HALLELUJAH! Incidentally, this is our new couch, too!

more amazing things to be won

For some pretty amazing audio books, go here and enter, or click the button in our sidebar under our profile. Yep, the green one. Nice coincidence that it matches our blog so nicely, isn't it?

beauty

There is a window right above my computer station, and today the trees look like dancing skeletons. I remember that one of my teachers in elementary school read a poem about the empty branches looking like lace against the sky. How can it be so easy and at the same time so hard to notice the little beauties in our days?

Our high school kids are traveling this week putting on a play about the lives of John & Betty Stam. If you haven't heard their story, you should. The kids' presentation has stayed with me this week, reminding me to pray for them as they travel, but also giving me a sense of urgency about my days, and a more clear vision of all that God provides. Needs - for certain! Wants - abundant!

And as if His provision for me was not enough, just for me, just so I will praise Him more, God gives me glimpses of beauty - today, in fresh blueberry muffins, a pudgy little face, and in dancing skeleton trees.

snow storm a comin'

Well, maybe not an actual blizzard, but snow is forecast for tomorrow in our area. The seasons sneak up on me, I tell you!! Anyone else feel like autumn never lasts long enough? I could use a couple more weeks of crispy leaves and "that scent" of autumn in the air, along with the chill that a sweater will fix. Ah, fall.

Of course I'm pretty pumped about winter, too. I'd rather be cold than too hot. Back in my northeastern Wisconsin college days, it was my personal goal to delay wearing a coat until after Thanksgiving, in order to better acclimate. It helped, I tell you. About weather - how do you feel? We'd all like to be "just right" but if you had to choose your uncomfy temps, what would you pick?

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Today's Bounty

Today at Walgreens...

2 boxes of feminine products
2 cans of almonds - one smoked, one not
2 cans of crabmeat
1 huge bag of airheads to give to our junior high kids (not that they are airheads...well, at least not all of them!)
1 bag of candy cane kisses
1 bag assorted Hershey bars
1 coconut ghosty leftover from Halloween.

any guesses on how much I spent?

**Answer: $3.84 - I was stunned, too!**

October Bounty

I realize I'm 2 days late, but I have to share my farmer's market finds. Around here, the farmer's market is held 2 days a week and is open until October 31st.

Wednesday, I scored 15 (YES! FIFTEEN!) pie pumpkins for $3 and 14 bell peppers for $2. I also picked up some potatoes because we needed them and they looked tasty. All in all, money well spent. Gotta love those end of the season prices!

On to the chopping, roasting and freezing!

who do you agree with?

ooh, ooh, ooh. Answer 11 questions and learn about the presidential candidates, and how they agree with you. Or not.

As a side note, which "big issue" could you care less about OR which one will make or break your vote in the next presidential election? (you can be anonymous if you want to be)

Unfortunately, I don't think my "matched candidate" has a real chance of being elected. Thankfully, God is in control!!

passing the time

Aaron's new favorite thing: my yellow broom.

It's nothing fancy, but he sure loves it when I get it out to sweep. The little munchkin tries to take it away from me so he can sweep. He carries it all over the house, leaving chaos in his wake. Lately I've been having to sweep while he's restrained or napping. Just can't have him playing in the dirt piles. I found this out the hard way. "Oh, lookie! Cheerios! YUM!" This earned me bad mother award #596.

Aaron's other new favorite thing: climbing OUT of his crib.

Bad mother award #597 goes to the mom who took a shower at the end of her son's nap, only to find him STANDING at his door yelling at the top of his lungs because he cannot open his own door and escape to the freedom of the hallway. Oh wait. That would be me. I can only thank God he is not broken in a hundred places.

Needless to say, the crib no longer stores our extra crib mattress. And I have a feeling that move only bought us another couple months. Anybody know if cribs have those same screen type toppers that aquariums for creepy crawlies sport? I'm kidding. Really.

More adventures to come.

win a Dyson!

Ooh, ooh! You guys have gotta enter this contest! Can you believe? Hurry, it ends today!!!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness, Dyson has agreed to give away one of their Dyson Vacuum Cleaners in the Pink color. Dyson is known as the vacuum that never loses suction. Out of each PINK DYSON VACUUM CLEANER that is sold, Dyson donates $40 to help Breast Cancer Research. Not only is this vacuum for a great cause but it also does a great job of keeping your home clean.

Click on the picture to be taken straight to the contest!

Fifteen Months

Today was Aaron's 15 month checkup, and we are praising the Lord that he is healthy as can be. Dr. Jordahl was happy to see that he has been steadily gaining - and I guess he's not as much of a porker as I would have thought. He's 23 pounds, which puts him right in the 25th percentile for weight, and 30 inches tall, which qualifies him for the 50th percentile for height. And also means that we've got precious few months before putting something up on the counter will not be the solution to "off limits" items. Every day is an adventure - we are so grateful for the blessings of God!

wow.

Read this. Really. Especially if your daily life is giving you a bit of frustration.

giveaways! (it's fall, y'all!)

Some of you may not know it, but this week is one of monumental giveaway proportions. You can give, you can sign up, you can do whatever. But please, please visit Bloggy Giveaways and see what's goin' on!!!

and the winner is....

I know I've made you wait in agony through the WHOLE WEEKEND, but I wanted to make sure to notify the winner first...and surprisingly enough, I was able to do it IN PERSON! Cindy Bright is the winner of the Pantry Clean Out Challenge. She planned a menu from her pantry and freezer through December 8, and has the Excel spreadsheet to prove it.

This thing is impressive, you all. It has categories, food groups; it is a work of art. If only I could figure out how to post links to Excel spreadsheets. Then you could see it for yourself.

Honestly, I didn't intend for the winner to be local. I didn't even know Cindy read my blog until I got her magnificent masterpiece in my email box. But you have to admit, free shipping is quite the bonus for me! :-)

An honorable mention goes to Aunt Rosemary, whose menu was fun & creative with "made up" holidays to celebrate their lives. She also planned through December 8th.

My condolences to all of you with pantry bugs. I'm so, so sorry. I can't even imagine the creepiness of all that. Not to mention the frustration to all of your frugal souls.

So what do you think? Should we have another Pantry Clean Out Challenge in the Spring?

only a little while left...

OK, I'm extending the Pantry Clean Out Challenge until MIDNIGHT TONIGHT for all of you who haven't yet gotten around to cleaning out the pantry...So, hop to it

I'm happy to report that although this has not been a Five Nap Friday, it's been MUCH better. Amazing what a little sleep can do for all of our dispositions, and our thinking processes. And our vocabulary.

don't forget ...

The Pantry Clean Out Challenge ends tomorrow at 5pm! Can't wait to get more of your menus!

no nap Thursday

Obviously, I'm all done with dating, at least for the purpose of finding a spouse, but I came across this series a few weeks ago that I find slightly, um, well, interesting. (Sorry - my vocabulary is challenged today. Aaron has not taken any naps. Must. Give. Tranquilizers. KIDDING!!) This is not the "interesting" that sways either negatively or positively depending on the tone. It is simply interesting, with no overtone of good or evil, in a thought provoking way. Not at all in the way that this no-nap Thursday has been "interesting."

Anyway, I started at the beginning, read through the series, and am still mulling it over... any thoughts you'd like to share?

just because I'm curious...

Opinion Polls & Market Research

*DISCLAIMER: the versions are listed in random order*

"land sakes!"

You are all coming out of the woodwork for the Pantry Clean out Challenge!! I really had no idea how many people (and WHO) read my blog. I have been blessed to read of God's provision for you all! Keep those menus coming!!!

too bad, so sad...

Last year, I found these fabulous baby shirts. Plain, long sleeved, soft, wonderful...almost good enough to wish they came in my size. Almost. Those envelope shoulders might present a little problem.

Well, I found out today that these little gems are not available in the next size up for Aaron (as in, they ran out). *LOUD SIGH* And of course, when I contacted customer service, they were not of much service. "We do not have any information on the status of this item" And of course, they are an online exclusive, making the possibility of my tracking down a few packs in various colors an impossibility. And RATS they were clearanced for a STEAL.

I personally think that stores should not be allowed to discontinue or run out of shirts that I love. I know, "the world does not revolve around me" and boy am I glad. But just this once, I wish there was a rule about running out of my favorite shirts for Aaron. Especially since I was counting on it. Especially since I love them. Did I mention that they are my favorites?

Maybe instead, I should just let go of my ingenious plan to clothe the Muth child in basic solids, avoid screen printing at all costs, and pass on the classics to the next child (should God send one). Maybe I should just throw caution to the wind and buy the Blues Clues shirts already.

I think I'd rather pray for a comeback.

gardening with kids

One of the participants in my Pantry Clean-Out Challenge is my great aunt Rosemary, who highly recommends gardening with kids - something I look forward to! She sent me these cute stories, and I wanted to share them with you!

When my granddaughter Amanda was about 2 and had just learned some of her colors, we were planting the garden. I was planting the corn seed and she was toddling along behind repeating 'yellow...yellow...yellow'. I kept putting the seed in the row and saying, 'yes, the corn is yellow'. At the end of the row, I turn to see her little hand held up - full of 'yellow' (the corn seeds that I had just planted!) and her proud, smiling little face saying 'yellow...yellow...'

Better keep an eye on your "helpers" this spring!!

Our grandson Alex has a few speech challenges - maybe it is it more 'hearing challenges'. You be the judge... His grandpa was working up the garden with the rototiller one spring when Alex was 6. It was a really nice day, but for some reason, Alex really wanted to stay in the house. He was sitting on the floor playing with his Lego and asked, 'Grandma, what are rotos?' I did my best to explained, 'I don't know, I guess a roto is something that goes around...it rotates.' Frustrated with my answer, Alex said, 'No, what ARE rotos? What IS IT that Grandpa is killing out there with the ROTOKILLER?' So now when it it time to work up the garden in the spring, we say, 'I am going out to kill the Rotos'.

Don't forget to clean out your pantry this week, and feel free to share YOUR funny kid stories, too!

in honor of toy manufacturers...

(Click to enlarge)

pantry clean-out challenge

OK friends - I'm hosting my first ever pantry clean-out challenge in honor of my happiness at the menu I've created from our surplus. Really, I'm SO excited that I won't have to do major grocery shopping. Or think about what is going to be for dinner. I can hardly stand it.

Here's the challenge:
1. take inventory of the food you have in your pantry (& freezer, too!)
2. plan a menu based on your findings
3. email your pantry-cleanout menu to me (twomuths at gmail dot com) Please put "Clean Out Challenge" in the subject line.
RULES:
1. No fair grocery shopping before making the menu. This is a clean-out-your pantry challenge.
2. It's ok if you have to buy something (produce, dairy, etc) to make your menu work, just be sure to mark it on your menu. I put mine in all caps, then made a list of what I have to buy but you do whatever works for you - make sure you include this in the email, though.
3. It's also ok to repeat items. You can bet our "last til' December" menu has a few repeats.
4. I only did a dinner menu. If you want to do more, that's great, but not required.
5. Just because I'm curious, email me your estimated savings - how much can you save with your "clean out the pantry" menu?

Just for participating, I will send you an e-copy of a recipe book my mom & I put together to give as a gift. Nothing fancy - it's in Word. But who doesn't like new recipes? Then I will select the most impressive menu, post it, and send an extra gift to the winner!

DEADLINE: Friday, October 26, 5:00p EST. You have ONE WEEK!

Be sure to check out more ideas for saving money on this Frugal Friday.

update

Please continue to pray for Nate & Lissa.

pray.

Please pray for Nate & Lissa. And for the rest of us as we grieve. God keeps reminding us, doesn't He? He is good, all the time.

blessed.

This week at church, the Steve Pettit team is holding evangelistic meetings. I've been blessed already, and I know there will be more to come. And, I just have to say, it's very encouraging to hear an evangelist say loudly and explain clearly that salvation is all about God. I've heard too many whose message seems to be contrary to this truth.

This morning I went through our freezers and pantry and came up with enough food to make meals through December 1st, purchasing only a few basics plus produce. Talk about blessed! This will allow us to save a LOT of $ for holiday travel and other expenses. Who knew we had that much food as a surplus?!

Saturday, God provided a couch. For free. It's a nice neutral green, and very comfy. We had decided to just use our futon and be happy with it, as other things (like, say, siding the house) are more pressing. I'd been praying that if God wanted us to have a couch, that He would provide one, and sort of selfishly prayed that I would like it, too. I almost cried as we drove home with the couch. The same people are also giving us a dresser. I've been scouring garage sales all summer for a solidly built tall dresser to replace the shaky particle board one we're currently using. With a fresh coat of paint and some new knobs, this will fit the bill perfectly.

How have you been blessed this week?

our boy in fall

it's Friday

I'm goin' on a date with the world's hottest hottie tonight! It sure is fun to date your spouse. All the fun, none of the weirdness of pre-marriage dating. (not that I did much of that) And thanks to mom & dad, we get free babysitting! I lined up the sitter, and Michael's planning the date this time.

In the past, we've gotten free birthday Coldstone, run errands (everything's more fun together) and we've used gift cards that we have for restaurant dates. We usually share an entree (more than enough food for 2, usually) and order water to drink to save $. We've also done our share of coffee shop dates.

So, what's your favorite thing to do for a frugal date? I need some new ideas!!

follow up

Ever since our taboo discussion, I've been "accidentally" coming across similar discussions on the web. If you're interested in reading what I've "happened across", you can read this post, or this one

John Piper also has some interesting things to say on this topic.

Thank you, everyone, for your gracious input on this delicate subject. I enjoyed reading each unique perspective, and rejoice with each of you at how God has led your families.

retro what?!!?

Today I found Retro Food, a blog devoted to the recipes our moms and grandmas had in their recipe boxes. I just spent a good 15 minutes over there, laughing at some of the recipes, and thinking, "ooh, I've just got to try that one" a few times as well. I will go back. For sure. Especially if I need another idea for our menu. Yes, I am still on that kick. It might be more of a phase now.

I found the site through Frugal Hacks, which is definitely a blog to subscribe to in your Google Reader if you've any desire to save money in creative ways. I've found so many ideas and tips via that site and others who are listed in the sidebar.

So now I'm curious - what's one of your favorite sites?

munchable

I know I'm biased, but isn't he just the cutest? I think he's starting to look more like Michael again!

book by book

Several months ago, my mom brought over a registration form for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program and practically begged me to fill it out - I have to admit, I thought it was too good to be true, but I filled it out and sent it in. Today, Aaron received The Little Engine That Could. Apparently, he will receive one new book every month until he is five! I'm fully expecting that some of these books will not be my favorites, but I am excited that these FREE books will expand our library!

See if the program is available where you live!

hairy

Here is me, before the haircut. Notice my foolproof method for creating sculpted cheekbones?





And here is me, after the haircut. A little shorter than I had planned, but hey, anything is an improvement over the "shaggy curtain" look in the above photo.

try it for practically nothing

Don't know if any of you have ever tried Silk, but I got a sample of the chocolate flavor in a recent "goody bag" from Curves. It's creamy and delicious. And today, I found this printable coupon offer for $2.25 off Silk. This week at Meijer, Silk is on sale for $2.50. I already bought some with another coupon, but this deal is good enough that I think I'll be getting some more. You can't beat a 25 cents!

the week

This week, I've been a "lady of leisure" as my job was put on hold. Not enough projects to keep us all busy. It was great - although I'm sure we will miss the income, and I really didn't do too much "leisure-ing," I did get a lot done.

Monday we had some friends over - they have a daughter about 2 months older than Aaron, and they played together much better than any of us expected. A few sharing issues with "Pooh's Dress up Day" but other than that, it was adorable watching them play. We even had an impromptu concert. These kids have Got It, let me tell you.

Tuesday was interesting. I'm still in my "try a new recipe" kick, and we had chicken spaghetti, modified from a recipe I've had forever and one at this site. Don't ask me how I found it. When I get sucked into the vortex of blogs, home improvement and cooking websites, it all gets a little blurry.

Wednesday was church. I made pizza pockets with a bread machine dough recipe I gleaned from a friend. I tried substituting whole wheat flour for 1/2 the bread flour, and it worked out very well. I just have to figure out how to get them not to be so thick and bready on the bottom after I seal them and flip them over. Any suggestions?

Thursday was grocery and errand day. I scored some fabulous deals at Meijer - 10 avocados for $2 on the reduced produce rack, bananas for 29 cents a pound, and kiwi at 25 cents each. We took a little trip to see Michael, who was working in Midland this week, then I came home and made quiche and cinnamon rolls and guacamole. Aaron only took one nap, and -

What, you don't think quiche, cinnamon rolls and guac go together? What are you, crazy? I didn't plan it that way, really...here's the deal - for some reason, we have a LOT of eggs right now. I am not really sure how that happened. Michael's not a big fan of quiche, (I think I've made it all of 4 times in our 3 plus years of marriage) but it is probably one of my top 10 favorite foods. I really didn't want the eggs to go bad, so TA DA a great excuse! I planned quiche. And then I found those avocados - and I had to use them. After all, they WERE on the reduced produce rack for a REASON. And no, I didn't make all 10 avocados into guac. I gave some to my parents, and there are a few left here.

Today has been a whirlwind of laundry and dishes. And it's weeks like this that I wonder if I really WOULD get that much more done if I didn't work.

And for all you family members interested on Aaron's progress: He is talking a L.O.T. He's just 14 months, and has probably 20-25 words that he uses frequently, along with the typical baby babble and accompanying facial expressions. We still work with him on sign language (a little) but he's much more verbally advanced than I ever expected at this age. This is good - it helps me be more confident that he is understanding MUCH more than he can communicate.

He's not a shrimp anymore, either. I think he's probably close to 22-23 pounds, and eats like a...BOY. There are days he can out eat me. I'm not exaggerating.

And, I still haven't gotten my hair cut. Right, I asked you guys in May for your opinions. And in the 5 months since I asked, it's gotten quite loooong. I finally settled on a style, and am getting it cut next week, hopefully. I will be sure to post before and after pictures.

This weekend I am going to be a roofing widow. Michael will be gone all day, helping a friend re roof the house. We're so thankful for the help on our roof that he's glad to help another family get the job done. I think a trip with my mom to a semi-distant town to visit Aldi will be a good way to break up the day.

Have a happy weekend!