Let The Dust Settle

I'm back

2009-02-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

Well, I knew I was going to take a short break from blogging. I didn't think we would have been quite this long. I am planning on posting my menus again too.

It has been a crazy 6 months or so. Back in May, my husband was laid off. He had been with the company for 22 years, so it was a total shock. But God is good, and although he has yet to find something, we have seen His hand in it all. The timing, although horrible at the time for us, was actually perfect. Actually, he is now working as consultant for a few weeks, and then hopefully he will be hired permanently.

I was teaching preschool 2 days a week last year, and in September I started working four days. Two days teaching young 3's and two days teaching young 2's. I love it, although it is exhausting! But Princess is going to pre-k for free, so it works well. My house on the other hand looks like a bomb went off....every 3 seconds! I've decided that it's pretty bad when you hope a hurricane hits your house (as long as everyone is safe). At least that would be a great excuse on why it looks the way it does.

So I've been struggling with loads of feelings this last few months. The greatest one, I can't do it. I don't have it in me. I love my husband, I love my kids. But to have everything else going on, and then to deal with the never ceasing demands of a special needs child. It can put one in major overload. But there is never a boring or dull moment around here, and I have to admit I do like that!

Well, I will be posting more later. And hopefully my thoughts will be a bit more put together.

Life can be so short

2008-06-08T19:59:00.000-07:00

Life is so precious. So short. So full of happiness, sadness, bliss, love, and so much more. And when someone special touches your life, and that of your child is suddenly gone....what do you do?

Mrs. Guirguis was Science boys third grade teacher. School just ended last Thursday. I saw her, gave her gifts - some of which I made because she loved everything I made and science boy insisted - gave her a hug and said we would see her at the pool this summer. And now she's gone. Just one day after school was over she died in a car accident. She had 2 children and was to be married again this summer. She was in a good place in her life. She was always so joyful, so full of life. She really cared about her students, you could tell that teaching was more than a job to her, it was her mission. And sadly, this last school year was her last mission. God needed her home............I know that. But when someone so young is taken in such a split second it's almost - no not almost - it is surreal.

How do you tell your 9 year old that one of the most important people in his life is gone. She did so much for him, and believed in him so much - just like she believed in each and everyone of her students. She is one of a handful of teachers that I've come across that sees the child for the child...sees past what society may have done to the child...sees the core of the child...and brings that to the surface. Each child was an individual to her, and learned differently. She found out the best way to reach the child and they soared because of it. Don't we all just need someone to love us no matter what, push us and be there to watch us fly? Ms. Guirguis was one of the best.

As is probably the case for most of her students - I, the parent, am having a more difficult time with this. I'm the one breaking down in tears when I think about it or read the newspaper article. I think it's because there are so many unanswered questions. An investigation is still going on, so not much has been released. Science boy is sad, talks a bit about her, and goes on. We've talked about how God has a plan for us all, how he was so blessed to have been in her class...out of all the third graders he and his friends were chosen to be part of her last mission here on earth. And that satisfies him, he doesn't need the answers that we adults need. His heart accepts that as much as he will miss her, her work here is done. The only unanswered questions to him are what is going to happen to her children (he knows one of them), and why she was the only one killed...why not someone else in the car....why her. And after talking about that, he's satisfied.

All that knew her still have a lot of healing to do. If you believe in the power of prayer - please pray for her children, her family, friends, co-workers and students.

Ms. Guirguis you will be missed and I will think of you often. But now you have the best seat to watch your students soar.

With love and a heavy heart....

Say it ain't so........

2008-06-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, it can not be. Please someone till me that I have blogged some since March. How and where did the time go so fast?????

I know a ton or so have happened since then, and I've been crazy busy. But I didn't think it was any busier than normal. But here we are, school is out...summer is around the corner.

May was an extremely busy month for us. And even held a few surprises. May 5th science boy turned 9 (I cried....I mean think about it in 9 years he'll be going off to college....The same amount of time that he's been here with us (I swear it was just a few days ago I was holding a smallish bundle of baby in my arms)he'll be leaving us to go to college. Wow!). On May 10th lego boy turned 7. It just boggles my mind how much he has accomplished this year. Plus he got his BAHA in April, what a difference!. My husband got laid off around this time...after 22 years with the same company.....don't get me started. But faith in God is an amazing thing, and we know that the right job is waiting.

Little Princess and mine last day of school was May 21st. My husband's b-day was May 22nd. The boy's school carnival was the last weekend in May...in which somehow I was in charge of all the crafts - this was being planned for months, as I was also planning 2 b-day parities, my class' end-of-school party, and lego boys last day of school party (I'm the room mom). Then I was offered a job at the other MDO our church does...so next fall I'll be working 4 days. And to top it all off, it was the 20th anniversary of my 21st birthday on June 2nd. Phew!

The boys' school ended last Thursday....and with a bang. Little Princess got a fever Wed. night. Then Science boy got it about 1 hour after school on Thursday. So we went off to one of those after hour pediatric urgent care places. Little Princess had a fever of 104.9!!! So far it looks like it's just a virus...and they still have fever. So far just Little Princess and Science Boy have them. But I was told that they could have the fever for up to a week. Oh what fun!

Spring Break

2008-03-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

Growing up I always loved Spring Break. A whole week off school. It didn't matter if we were going anywhere or staying home. I never did like school, so any excuse to be away from it was wonderful! Playing for hours with my friends, torturing...I mean playing...with my younger brothers - doing anything was a welcome escape.

Then as a mom of one it wasn't too bad. I was very pregnant with my second child when my oldest started Mother's Day Out. So it was a great time to spend some quality time with him before both of our worlds were completely changed forever.

When my second child started preschool, it was crazy. He was in a different school district (due to going to a regional day school for the deaf) - so the boys Spring Breaks were different. One the week before the other. Plus I had had little princess by then...so life didn't change to much. I just had an extra child to take on errands, and dropping off/picking up one of the boys.

Now that I'm a teacher at my daughter's MDO, and a mom...Spring Break brings mixed emotions. I get a week off (no pay though), and my kids will be home. Wonderful and at the same time I know it's going to be hectic.

Now don't get me wrong. I love my kids, but it's been a long week so far (and it's only Wednesday). Monday I discovered...wait for it....lice! Ugh!!! now you'll be scratching your head all day...sorry. So I've been combing hair, shampooing, spraying and doing loads and loads and loads of laundry. And today I still found one in little princess' hair and one in mine. Help!!!! Plus yesterday it rained all day...so we couldn't even go outside to play. Ok, I'm sounding panicky now. I just hate lice! And I have long hair! The kids are getting cabin fever and doing everything they can to push each other's (and mine) buttons, we've had to cancel playdates, and my husband has been working very late.

I hope everyone else is having a much better spring break then we are! And if you have any suggestions for a lice infestation....please feel free to let me know. Gotta go and do more laundry!

2008-02-05T06:57:00.001-08:00

Well, I think the kids are finally all feeling better. Last week little princess was "flu like" (the flu test was negative), Lego Boy had a sinus infection, Science boy wasn't feeling well, and I had had about enough of it all. The house is a complete mess, I'm exhausted, and the more I look around the house, the more exhausted I get. Does it ever get better?

I used to be very organized, everything in it's place, etc. Ok, OCD is more like it. Cans all lined up, alphabetically in my pantry. Music and movies all alphabetical, music alphabetical and arranged by different types, etc, etc. I obsessed at work if I forgot to put a pair of shoes away, it bugged me all day. Then I got married, I still kept up with my OCD habits, I mopped my floor 2 - 3 times a week, vacuumed all the time, you get the picture. Then I had one child....I still look at the pictures I have and say "oh look, a clean house". Things weren't totally put away. The kitchen counters had stuff on them, but still relativity clean and put away. Then I had another baby, and got very, very sick. Got diagnosed, felt better, got pregnant again. So I had a 4 1/2, 2 1/2, and a newborn. What was I thinking??????(but that's another story) Now the house should be condemned...ok not that bad all the time. But it's still got stuff (toys, papers, craft stuff, etc) everywhere. It's madness I tell you. Just when I think I've got part of the house together, and go work on another part either one of the little people living here, or the other big person, messes it up somehow. It's a never ending process. One day I will toss everything out. Including clothes. I swear I want to have nude days here, I'm becoming anti-clothes just because I'm tired of picking them up off the floor, washing them, sorting them on my bed, then having my husband move them from the bed to another piece of furniture in our room, re-sorting them on our bed, putting them away, picking them (and more)clothes off the floor. I told my husband I need a wife, not for him, for me. He would get nothing out of it...well maybe I could be a better wife to him if I wasn't frustrated(?) But me, I could have a clean house (for about 5 minutes), and somehow it doesn't upset me when the kids mess up the house after someone else cleaned it, just when I do.

I used to have a cleaning lady, how I loved her and miss her dearly. But expensive. I've actually said that if I got paid what she did, it might make a wee bit of difference, I might actually think about it a little more often. Right now I work two days a week teaching at my daughter's Mother's Day Out Program. It's great because she goes free, and I get paid a little. In the fall she'll be going 4 times a week, and I'm thinking of working all four days, just so the extra money can go to a cleaning lady.

I'm hoping that soon, real soon I can get into some sort of routine and do all I need to do. Of course, now it will be even harder since I don't have any free time of my own. Oh, wow, now I sound like I'm whining. It's late and I'm tired, and I guess I've lost my train of thought. Go figure.

Menu Plan Monday

2008-02-02T21:15:00.000-08:00

After a long time of not posting I'm back. Until a few weeks ago I was still planning my menus but things have gotten crazy around here. So I've decided to start blogging again, and posting my menus. Thanks to Laura for hosting Menu Plan Monday.

Oh, and for some reason my spell checker is not working, so please ignore any misspellings.

Monday - Roasted chicken legs, rice, brocolli
Tuesday - Cranberry balsamic pork tenderloin, roasted potatoes, corn
Wednesday- Chicken fajitas, mexican rice, refried bean, queso
Thursday - Easy Baked Parmesan Meatballs, Spaghettti & sauce (either GF spaghetti for me, for spaghetti squash), salad
Friday - Family pizza and movie night
Saturday - Husband and kids to his parents for dinner, I'm planning on having friends over for dinner and scrapbooking and serving them Maple Chicken'n'ribs, and Ice Cream Cake with Butterscotch Sauce

Have a wonderful week.

Heroes

2008-02-02T07:08:00.000-08:00

When we think of heroes, many different images may pop into our head. Superheros are probably the first thing. Superman, Batman, Spiderman, Wonderwoman (oh, how I loved that show!), etc. Using their super powers to win against the bad guys. (In fact as I'm writing this, my kids are playing Star Wars. I'm not sure who the boys are, but Little Princess is shouting "Let me in guys, this is Princess Leia" As the sound of lightsabers are heard through the closed door).

Or perhaps a historic person comes to mind. Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Thersea, to name two.

But my hero. My hero is Lego Boy, my 6 1/2 year old son. I've been thinking of this for a while, and on January 10th, 2008 he earned his place as my top hero. Lego Boy was born with profound hearing loss in one ear, he has speech apraxia, and also has autism. On January 10th, he had a Baha hearing aide implant. This was probably most troublesome to me. To see him laying in a hospital bed, his ear bleeding (he also had a hole in his eardrum fixed), a 3X2 inch bald spot behind his ear with a bloody gauze, a metal "snap" with a plastic cap on, plus a "c" shaped incision....what kind of mother was I to elect to have this done to my child! To see him fight against us giving him pain meds..right after surgery. It took 4 of us, 2 nurses, my husband and myself to hold him down and get the medicine down his throat. While he was thrashing about, his IV came out, more blood gushed from his ear...what a sight.

Later I told him he was my hero. "No, I'm not a hero..just a kid" he replied.

A hero is someone who lives their life how it should be lived. Who does not think about how others view them. They are not embarrassed when they are under a table in a restaurant screaming and crying. While their older brother is so embarrassed, their mother thinks "not again, ", the family they are sitting with does not know what to say or do, and their younger sister and father ignore it all. I've learned just to say "Oh, I'm sorry he has autism". The smiles and the talk then start. Questions asked. All is well. Then the hero gets up, sits on his mama's lap and proceeds to eat her food, not caring or acknowledging what has happened.

A hero is someone who goes to school, plays with friends even though he is hard to be understood, does not have acceptable social graces...and yet his friends accept him as he is..and he accepts himself.

Isn't that what it comes down to...accepting oneself flaws and all? And what kind of mother puts her child through that kind of surgery...a good one..one that sees the big picture how his quality of life will improve. And no matter what he says that 6 1/2 year old is and always will be my hero.

I'm back

2008-02-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's been a long time since I've blogged. So much has happened, and yet everything is the same. How can that be? Time has gone by, the kids have grown in so many ways, Little Princess is now 4, lego boy has had a hearing implant surgery (more on that later), science boy has matured in so many ways, and I've started working part-time. And still, the house is in major disorder, my husband can't seem to pick things up...just steps over them, I'm feeling overwhelmed (ok, I also have had 3 sick kids this week, and I'm not feeling well). So a lot has changed, but not much. I still don't understand how that happens. What a mystery. But I'm hopping to start blogging again, and to somehow make it more interesting. I've been trying to get a little more creative lately, so hopefully that will also transfer into my writing.

Menu Plan Monday - October 22

2007-10-21T20:05:00.000-07:00

What a week. I followed the menu plan for the most part. I ended up subbing at my daughters pre-school two days, and was really tired when I got home. So I changed things up a bit. But, thankfully, I didn't run out and get fast food like I normally would have. We've been working on our budget, so I'm trying to stick to it. We'll have to see how it goes grocery wise. It's a bit harder to use coupons since I need to buy Gluten Free, but I try.

Monday - Lemon Garlic Pork Chop, veggies, corn bread
Tuesday - Pepper Steak, rice, salad
Wednesday - Ham, fried potatoes, broccoli
Thursday - Greek Chicken With Oregano & Spinach, rice, corn, carrots
Friday - Family movie and pizza night
Saturday - Going over to in-laws for a Halloween party
Sunday - Spaghetti

Menu Plan Monday - October 15

2007-10-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

Last week's menu plan went pretty well. As it seems to be the case every week, I ended up not making one meal. Made the kids something quick & easy instead. This week, the budget is really tight, so we will see what happens.

Monday - Country fair Chicken, mashed potatoes (I add cauliflower to mine, the kids never know), carrots & corn
Tuesday - tacos, army man rice, refried beans, salad
Wednesday -Honey Pineapple chicken, rice, broccoli, corn
Thursday - I'll make something like hot dogs w/ mac & Cheese for the kids. I want to make something a little nicer for me & my husband since it's our anniversary. Not sure what yet. Any ideas? It's needs to be fairly quick, GF (since I'm eating it), no fish (my husband won't eat it). He's a Texas boy..so meat & potatoes is his thing.
Friday - Family Pizza and movie night
Saturday - My husband will take Lego Boy and Little Princess to his parents and have dinner over there. Science Boy has a b-day party that I will take him to.

What a Week - Part 2

2007-10-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

On Thursday we had little princess' friend over. His mom had a bunch of stuff going on, and little princess and he hadn't gotten together in a while. I had him all day, and it was great. I got a lot cleaned and straighten up, a pile (and I do mean mountain) of clothes folded. They had such a great time playing.

Then as soon as he went home, we raced to pick the boys up a little early from school. They both had dentist appointments. Little Princess had hers last week, and my plan was to drop her off at my in-laws. But they had the audacity to go out of town :) So I had to take all 3. Not fun at the end of the day. I'm no longer giving her a nap because then she's up till 9 or 10 at night.

But the boys did great at the dentist. Especially Lego Boy. The last time we went to the dentist (and I'm ashamed to say it's been 2 or 3 years) it was the worst experience EVER! The dentist would not let us leave until Lego Boy had ALL his x-rays. So he was screaming. It was horrible. I was arguing with her and her staff. Finally I picked him up and told them that we would no longer be her patients. Ugh! It took me a while to find someone else. This new dentist EXCELLENT. Before Lego Boy even went back, she and her staff would ask me questions about the best way to work with him. He went back by himself and took all the x-rays with no problem! Part of the trick - it was "digital" so it showed up on the computer screen right after they took the x-ray. So after every time he would jump down from him seat, run to the computer to see the new image, then get back in the seat for more! And they had no problem with this, even though it took twice the amount of time. They had scheduled us for the last appointment of the day so it would be quite for him, but I'm sure they all wanted to go home. Another blessing!

Science boy also did really good. Although he needs to brush better :) But he was hesitant about going to the dentist again, after our past experience. So this really was a great experience.

Ride home was horrible. The one bad thing about this dentist, she's 35-40 minutes away. So coming home in rush hour traffic...again..not fun. But Little Princess fell asleep, so it did get quite.

Friday was a quite day. Boys had school. My husband took the day off, so we got a few things done around the house.

Saturday..busy day. I took Science boy to his "girlfriends" b-day party. What fun. They are so cute together, it's too funny. I'll post pictures when I get them. She is the cutest thing, plus she has Celiac Disease. So she loves coming over to our house, because I usually will make cookies or something. I love it too, because I usually won't make cookies, etc for just me.

My husband took Lego boy and Little Princess to a cub scout event that Lego Boy had.

Then we rushed home to pack the kids up and took them to my sister-in-laws for the night. And Charles and I went out to a movie and a nice dinner to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. It was so nice. The restaurant was wonderful, and could accomodate my diet. Love that!

This afternoon Lego Boy has his riding lesson. And then tonight we have part 6 of the financial course we are taking.

What a Week - Part 1

2007-10-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

I'm finally starting to realize that when you have kids (especially more than one) there is no such thing as a quiet week, and one where you can actually get a lot accomplished, especially cleaning the house.

Monday the kids didn't have school so we just hung out at the house, science boy had a friend come over. Wednesday Lego Boy had an ENT appt. It was scheduled for 10. By the time he had his hearing test, we saw the Dr. twice, had a demo on a hearing aide and eveything else, it was after 12. It was however a great appt. Lego Boy is going to get a hearing aide so that is the best news. Ever since we found out he had profound hearing loss in one ear I have wanted a hearing aide to help him. He has an FM System at school, but, of cource, that does not help him at home or when we are out an about. But something inside told me to wait, it wasn't the right time to fight for it. So I listened. Last year I felt it was getting closer, but still not yet. This year it's like my whole being was shouting "now". So we switched ENT's, found one that is wonderful. She referred us to this hearing aide ENT guy. He has done these surgery's for 5 years. He's the leading dr. on these hearing aides, and I feel so blessed that's he's so close. He's done almost 300 of these, on adults and children.

Having a child with special needs, you do have to be even more of an advocate that with a "normally devloping" child. But you also have to be still and listen. Sometimes I find that I'm fighting for something at the wrong time. God knows when the timing is, and I have learned that it's best to go in HIS time. I would love to have eveything Lego Boy needs NOW, but 1) he'd be overwhelmed 2) he would (and we would) never learn what he can do if we just wait and let him take his time. With his autisum he has OCD. Part of this is he won't show us what he can do until he can do it perfectly. I remember when he turned one I was worried that he was even attempting to try and stand up and walk yet. When he was 14 1/2 months my husband went to get him from his nap.....and caught him walking from one end of the crib to the other - and not holding on! His face..priceless. he was busted and knew yet. That is the way he is with everything.

For the hearing aide that they are going to give him, it a bone conducting one, not an air conducting one like traditional hearing aides. So it requires an implant. They do have one that they use as a demo in the office. They just place it on the bone behind the ear. When they did, and I asked it he could hear me...he got a big grin, giggled a little and said "Yes, I can". My heart jumped. I love this kid! He was so excited and can't wait. But now it's a waiting game. The insurance companies are running 30-60 days before they approve it. So we are praying that it will be more on the 30 day side :) But know that it will happen exactly when it is suppose to.

Menu Plan Monday - October 8

2007-10-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

Last week I followed the menu plan for everything except for two meals. The Baked Chicken was delicious, as was the pork loin and the creamy potatoes with kielbasa. Instead of the tarragon chicken I ended up coating it with corn tortilla crumbs and baking it. Tonight the kids and my hubby did McDonalds. We decided on Friday to take a finance class at church. I had a Stampin' Up party to go to, plus Lego boy had speech therapy...so fast food it was.

Monday - BBQ chicken (on grill), corn on the cob (if I can find some at the grocery store), baked beans, saute squash and zucchini

Tuesday - Beef Brisket, mashed potatoes, carrots, green beans

Wednesday - breakfast for dinner; ham steaks, hash browns, pancakes

Thursday - pork chops with green onion sauce, rice, broccoli

Friday - Family pizza & movie night (more Little Caesar Pizza Kits - the kids love to make their own), I'll have crab cakes

Saturday - kids to spend the night at in-laws - hubby and I are going out to celebrate our 10th anniversary (a bit early, it's on 10/18) - not sure what we are doing yet. I'm for going to the State Fair and spending the night at a hotel....but we'll see

Sunday - Spaghetti, cheese bread

Beef Brisket

1 large beef brisket
Spicy mustard
1-2 envolopes onhion soup mix (I have a GF version)

Place your beef in the crockpot (fat side down)- coat the beef with the mustard- sprinkle the onion soup over the mustard and put the lid on high for 6-8 hours! The soup and the mustard and the juices from the beef make a great gravy. Thicken with water & cornstartch.

Menu Plan Monday - October 1

2007-09-30T20:45:00.001-07:00

Well, it hasn't been a great weekend. I had an hour and a half meeting with Lego boys teacher Friday night. More on that later, then I woke up sick Saturday...stuffed up nose, drainage, killer headache...then Little Princess developed a fever, and my husband. Today (Sunday) I still wasn't feeling well, neither was little princess. So on my way home from taking Lego boy to his riding lesson I had to stop and buy a thermometer (for the life of me I can not find one in the house, and I know we have a few lying around...somewhere taunting me). Anyway, I took my temperature...101.4! I knew I wasn't feeling well, but I wow, I didn't think I had a fever. Little Princess' was 102.3. So something is going around this house! Therefore, with all of that plus extra-curricular activities, I'm trying to do simple meals this week.

Monday - Baked chicken, baked potatoes, saute spinach, corn
Tuesday - Roasted pork loin, corn, rolls (none for me, haven't found a good GF one yet) roasted butternut squash
Wednesday - Sweet Tarragon Chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans
Thursday - Creamy Potatoes 'n' Kielbasa,(instead of the condensed cream of mushroom soup, I will just use Progresso cream of Mushroom soup), broccoli (Lego boy will probably have a hot dog)
Friday - Family movie & pizza night (I just bought some Little Caeser Pizza Kits, so hubby and kids will have that), I'll either have a GF pizza or seafood
Saturday - Hubby & boys going camping, Little Princess and I will have a mommy/daughter day.
Sunday - Spaghetti (hubby and kids will have regular spaghetti, I'll either have GF spaghetti, or something else)

Orlando

2007-09-20T20:19:00.000-07:00

Well I made it to Orlando. I wasn't sure I would.

I had these great plans that I would be able to do all the laundry (ok, I confess it's gotten a little, well way, out of hand), vacuum upstairs and down, clean bathrooms, the kitchen (floors included)...well basically clean the house top to bottom. Somehow only a peak of the laundry got done, and a little vacuuming. But that's it. Then when I picked up the boys from school Science boys teacher brought him out to me. "Oh no" I thought "what has happened". Turns out he threw up in class (poor baby) right before dismissal. He then threw up two more times at home. Just so I didn't leave my parents with a really sick kid....off to the doctors we went. Thankfully, it was just his allergies so he is on medicine and was able to go to school today. My husband didn't get home until 10, and had to pack for his business trip. Somehow I did manage to get the kids packed up for my parents, and myself mostly packed. Mostly, since I do not have my contacts, my toothbrush, and who knows what else. Always something.

But so far the MOPS convention has been so wonderful. The speakers and the music have been so uplifting. It proves to be a great weekend. Oh and did I mention that I have a room to myself (King size bed all for ME!!! nobody to climb in at 2am), a computer in the room, a balcony. I even indulged in room service tonight for dinner and if it wasn't so late the chocolate fondue on the menu would be mine :)

Menu Plan Monday - September 17 and ramblings

2007-09-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a while since I last posted. I just needed to take a break....not so much from blogging, but from thinking. I'm not sure why but I have been so stressed out lately. I had told my husband that I was going to take a break from everything this school year, not "join" anything. Ha! I don't know what I was thinking. So not me! I figured I could really start to re-organize the house, and really focus on Lego boy, if he needed extra help at school etc.

It started with not joining MOPS again. I love MOPS and have gotten a lot out of it, but I felt I didn't "need" it as much with my 3rd as I did with my 1st. But of course I joined again, and again I am on the Steering team. But I did join for very selfish reasons. My two best friends from Virginia called me a few weeks apart (and they don't know each other very well - so they don't see each other or anything) saying that they were going to MOPS convention this year was I going? I've gone the past two years, but since I wasn't planning on joining I wasn't going to go. So I joined to go to Convention (Orlando!) and see them. I did feel that I was being lead to go back to MOPS, other things happened to gently guide me back. But my friends going to convention was the big push. And, to tell the truth, although it just started, this is the best year yet. I've gotten so much out of it. At first I thought it would be weird. Everyone on steering (except for the mentor moms) are under 27. I'm 40. Huge age difference. But they are all wonderful. I really don't think I would have been so together to have a family in my 20's....which is probably why it didn't happen until I was 30.

I also said that I would not help out so much at the kids school. Only if needed for Lego Boy. I'm on the PTA, room mom for one of the kids, and a substitute teacher for my daughter's preschool. The thing is, none of this is stressing me out, not a one takes that much time at all. I think I would be more stressed out if I wasn't involved...I'm so not the type to do nothing. I have to keep busy. I guess so many other things are going on. The kids starting school, my husband traveling, going to convention this week, I just feel like I'm going in even more directions than normal. Actually, I think I'm just anxious to go. Don't get me wrong, I will miss my family. But come on almost 4 days away is just so tempting. Every year I go I come back so refreshed, and, I admit, I love all the exhibitors there, selling their products. In fact I can't wait to see the products from Accountable Kids . Kelli in the Mirror has blogged about them, and they sound wonderful. And best of all I can shop by myself :)

Now please don't get me wrong. I have not gone crazy joining everything. In fact I have said no to more things than I've said yes to. I had decided not to watch kids this year and I'm not. A store I go to often asked me to work there, and I said no, as well as several other things. So I'm not compltly crazy :)

Actually, after all this rambling, I figured out what it is. Lego Boy. Please do not get me wrong. I would'nt trade him for the world. God picked me to be him mom I fully embrace that. But at times, being the mom of a special needs child....well it can be so overwhelming. Especially when things aren't going so well. But I will leave that for another post.

Wow, what a rambling.Hope you all stuck it out to see the menu for the week:

Monday - Honey Baked Chicken, mashed cauliflower, carrots, corn

Tuesday - Pork carnitas, corn tortillas, guacamole, salad

Wednesday - Indonesian Ginger Chicken, rice, broccoli

Thursday - Leave for MOPS Convention!

First Day

2007-08-27T12:28:00.002-07:00

Well, today was the first day of school. And the boys did so well getting ready on time, and leaving. We have a rule that TV can not come on unless they are dressed (including socks & shoes), and have had breakfast. They only had 10 minutes left, but did not complain when they had to turn off the TV. I'm sure that will change in the coming weeks :) We can walk to the new school, so I'm loving that.

After I got back from taking them to school, I had about 8 or 9 friends over for breakfast. It was so much fun. My house was a mess when they got here (what was I thinking, first day of school and making a big breakfast for friends), but even more of a mess when they left...so it all worked out. I made two breakfast casseroles this one, which I make for any breakfast event. And then another one, which I'll post at the bottom of this post. They were both big hits. Then I had friends bring muffins, fruit, etc. I ate way too much.

Bacon Potato quiche

3 cups hash browns (country style)
1/3 cup onions
8 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
5 eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp salt
dash of ground red pepper
paprika

Heat oven to 350. Spread potatoes in ungreased rectangular baking dish 12X7 1/2 X 2 inches. Top with onion, bacon and cheese. Mix remaining ingredients, ecxept paprika. Pour over cheese. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or unil knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Menu Plan Monday - August 27

2007-08-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe a whole week has passed....and I haven't blogged once. The days have been crazy here. School starts tomorrow (Monday). I can't believe I have a 3rd and 1st grader. They are so excited. We were rezoned, so they will be going to a brand new school. It is so nice, and hudge. We got lost trying to find science boy's classroom! We met the teacher on Friday, both seem really nice. So hopefully it will be a great year. Little Princess doesn't start MDO for a few more weeks. Well, enough of that...here is this weeks menu. Quick and simple this week.

Monday - Breakfast for dinner
Tuesday - Tacos, enchiladas, rice, refried beans
Wednesday - 40 clove garlic chicken, rice, brocolli, carrots
Thursday - leftover tacos, etc
Friday - Family movie and pizza night
Saturday - going to my in-laws
Sunday - Spaghetti

Have a great week, and don't forget to check out Laura's blog for more menus.

Menu Plan Monday - August 20

2007-08-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well, school starts next week. So we are busy getting ready for that. I can't believe that science boy will be in 3rd grade, and Lego boy in 1st. They are growing up so fast, it's scary. Little Princess doesn't start back to Mother's Day Out til September, so we'll be able to spend some "girl" time.

Here's this weeks menu:

Monday - Pork Roast, roast potatoes, broccoli, corn
Tuesday - Chick-fil-a (the boys have a cub scout event)
Wednesday - Panfried chicken w/ spinach salad, veggies
Thursday - Brisket, french fries, veggies
Friday - Family pizza & movie night
Saturday - a friend's 50th b-day party
Sunday - Spaghetti

Don't forget to go on over to Laura's to check out more menus.

I'm Home

2007-08-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I went into the hospital on Monday morning and they started to desenseitize me to asprin around 1. They had to start with 3 grams of asprin (I would react to 1/4 of a baby asprin...so we needed to go real slow at first). Last evening we ended with 650 grams. I had no reaction to any of it...so it worked! Now I have to take an asprin everyday to maintain the desensitization. Today for the first time in 6 years I started to regain my sense of smell. And what, you ask, was the first smell....the cat's dirty, litterbox, quickly followed by the lovely smell of garbage (as I was dragging the bins down to the sidewalk), the my daughter's "accident" in her panties. Yes, and I wanted to regain my smell...what was I thinking :)

No, I'm really thrilled that it seems to be working. So hopefully, once I get a good night's sleep, I'll be feeling "normal" again.

Thank you all, for your good wishes and prayers. I LOVE the power of prayer. I know lots of friends and family, and my MOPs group were praying for me. And I felt it, it really made a difference.

Menu Plan Monday - August 13

2007-08-12T19:30:00.001-07:00

Last weeks menu went pretty well, although I have 3 carry overs. So this weeks shopping was a little lighter :) That's always good. I also saved over $65 with coupons and in-store deals. First time I've really tried it, so next week should be better.

Monday I'll be going into the hospital for this . So my mom's here to help with the kids. Monday & Tuesdays meal plan is easy & quick for her. I should be home Tuesday, if not there is enough in the house to give them something different or move things around.

Monday - BBQ chicken, corn, Blueberry muffins
Tuesday - Spaghetti, cheesebread
Wednesday - Porkchops with maple mustard glaze, mashed potatoes, veggies
Thursday - sweet tarragon chicken (crockpot)borrowed from http://mjpuzzlemom.blogspot.com/ , rice, corn & spinach
Friday - family movie & pizza night
Saturday - Not sure yet
Sunday - Grilled flank steak, mushroom Madeira sauce, mashed potatoes, lemony broccoli & peppers

I hope everyone has a good week. Don't forget to check out the other menu plans at Lara's

When in Rains...

2007-08-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterdays post was about my Doctor's visit. Today's post is about lego boys. As well as having speech apraxia, and being on the autism spectrum, lego boy also has profound hearing loss in one ear. His other ear has always been great. No changes in 6 years. Today we went to a new ENT....closer to home and hopefully a better informed doctor. This new doctor is wonderful...I really loved her and her staff. What a difference.

But they did find out that lego boy is losing his hearing in his other ear. He's never had a hearing aide, something our first ENT did not recommend, since he could hear fine with the other ear. But he does have an FM system at school. But now we are looking into the best hearing aide for him, and possibly a cochlear implant. So I'm also going to look more at support groups for his autism, and hearing impairments.

I'm actually doing fine about the whole thing. Trying to keep it in perspective. My mother-in-law says it's devastating. Not a word I would use for hearing loss. It's hard, but there are solutions for it. I can think of many more things that could happen that would be devastating. We always knew there was a chance his hearing would get worse, and that his "good" ear would be affected. We do not know the cause of his hearing loss. We have had every test done, but there is no explanation, just one of those things. So now another adventure begins.

My Life

2007-08-08T21:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, so when I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease in 2001 not many people had heard of it. Gluten free food was hard to find. Now, most people I run into have heard of it, a lot of stores are carrying Gluten Free food. A lot of brands are even putting "GF" on their foods that are gluten free. I went into Wal-Mart and they had a Gluten Free Pantry brownie mix and a muffin mix right in the "normal" baking section. I must admit I did "the happy dance" (not a pretty site, I admit) in the middle of the aisle, and called my friend whose two young daughter have celiac. It was an exciting moment.

So anyway, being celiac no longer makes me unique. Therefore I had to go and find some other disease that no one had ever heard of. Last year I was diagnosed with "Samters Triad". Well, anyone ever heard of it? Thought not. For a quick low-down on it, just go to the link. I'll wait...............................

Back? ok. So I've decided to be desensitized to aspirin. Not fun, and admittedly, totally scary. I react to 1/4 of a baby aspirin. They need to get me up to 2 adult aspirin. Last time I took Motrin I ended up in the hospital, because I went into anaphylatic shock. Not an enjoyable experience at all :) I get a rash all over, then swell, then my throat and tongue swell. Attractive huh. So, sometime in the next few weeks I'll be undergoing this procedure. Please keep us in your prayers.

Menu Plan Monday - August 6

2007-08-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

Last week's menu went really well. I didn't follow the lunch one...well basically at all last week. and this week is looking to be extremely busy as well, so I will not be "planning" lunches. With my mom coming to visit, and various Dr. appt's for the kids and myself, who knows what we will be having.

Since it's also been an emotionally hard two weeks, I noticed that I'm doing a lot more carbs than normal. And mashed potatoes twice....and the good ones with cream cheese, etc. YUM! Potatoes are probably my favorite comfort food.

So here is this weeks dinner plan:

Monday - Cheese tortellini
Tuesday - Kielbasa & fried potatoes, carrots, salad
Wednesday - Sweet tarragon chicken, rice, corn, spinach
Thursday - Pork chops with maple mustard glaze, mashed potatoes, veggies
Friday - Pizza
Saturday - Over to my SIL for my niece's b-day
Sunday - grilled flank steak, mushroom Madeira sauce, mashed potatoes, Lemony broccoli & peppers

It's a Terrific Contest

2007-07-31T20:57:00.000-07:00

5 Minutes for Mom with the help of Best Buy is giving away this awesome TV. It is an Insignia 37" flat-panel LCD HDTV (it has a retail price tag of $799.99)

I've entered to win, so go ahead and check it out. But don't feel you have to enter...don't mess up my chances to win :) (LOL) Seriously, go over and enter to win. Just remember I have the perfect place for it.

Nothing much going on

2007-07-31T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, at least this week is better than last week. Seems everything bad that could happen did...hope I'm not jinking myself. This week has been busy (at one point today I realized that I had 8 (yes, eight) kids in the house. But it was great, they all played together nicely, and I got to do a few things. Gotta love that!

I'm in the process of putting together/organizing my craft room/studio. In the last year or so, my husband has been using a lap top with work. So he's been using it everywhere, BUT the office. So I decided to kick him out of the office and take over!!! So the plan is, that by the end of the week I'll have all my crafts in one location. No more running around trying to find something that I need. I can't wait. He's desk is big, so I've covered it up with shelf paper - the non-sticky type. I figured he'd be a little upset if I get, ink, paint, glue, etc all over. I put my sewing machines down there, all my paints, stamps & ink, scrapbooking, everything. Now I just need to organize it. Yay! I'm a bit excited, can you tell, I keep repeating myself. Oh well.

Menu Plan Monday - July 30

2007-07-30T06:58:00.001-07:00

Well another week. And July is almost over. Where did it go? Last week was not a good week, just one of those weeks where it would have been nice to curl up in a ball, sleep and wake up much, much later. But somehow with 4 kids (I'm watching a little girl for 2 weeks) that was pretty much impossible :) But this week should be better.

A few friends came over last night to scrapbook. I only got 3 pages done...not in a very creative mood. But all well.

Here is this weeks menu, I did not put done what I'll be having for lunch..just the kids...because I have no idea what I'll be having.

Monday - lunch - sandwiches, chips, grapes
dinner - Korean Chicken, rice, broccoli, carrots

Tuesday - lunch - make you own pizzas, apples
dinner - ham, baked beans, corn bread, veggies

Wednesday - lunch - chicken nuggets, fries, fruit
dinner - spaghetti, cheese bread, salad

Thursday - lunch - hot dogs, mac & cheese, grapes
dinner - Greek chicken, roasted potatoes, salad, veggies

Friday - lunch - leftovers
dinner - Family movie & pizza night

Saturday - lunch ?
dinner - going to my in-laws

Sunday - lunch ?
dinner - flank steak, baked potatoes, corn-on-the cob, grilled veggies

Have a wonderful week, and thanks for Laura for hosting.

Bloggy giveaway - winner

2007-07-27T21:40:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered my give-away. Since my blog is so new, I've really enjoyed so many new readers visiting. A winner has been chosen, and she has been contacted by e-mail.

I've enjoyed looking at all of your blogs, and will definitly stop by again.

Dog Days of Summer Bloggy giveaway

2007-07-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting to this! Yay! Such excitement. All you need to do is add a comment and your entered to win a.......fabric covered paper-mache letter. I will make any one letter you would like, and use fabrics in your color choice. I layer different fabrics on, to create different layers. It's about 8 inches tall, and the width depends on the letter. And it's 1 inch deep.

You do not have to have a blog to enter, just a valid e-mail address. Oh, and I'm really sorry, but I can only mail to the U.S. & Canada. Thanks.

The winner will be announced on Friday, July 27th. Probably later that night.

Don't forget to check here for more participates.

Menu Plan Monday - July 23

2007-07-23T07:11:00.001-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. We did pretty good last week keeping to the menu plan. I only have carryover meal.

Monday: lunch kids - chicken, tater tots, veggies & dip
lunch me - dilled shrimp salad
dinner - tacos, refried bean, rice, queso, chips & salsa

Tuesday: lunch kids - pita pizzas, grapes
lunch me - bun less burger, salad
dinner - Easy ranch chicken & corn, broccoli & carrot mix, blueberry muffin

Wednesday: lunch kids - turkey dogs, mac & cheese, fruit
lunch me - Italian sausage
dinner - Spaghetti & garlic toast, salad
me - gf spaghetti

Thursday: lunch kids - leftover tacos, fruit
lunch me - chicken Caesar salad
dinner - parm chicken, scalloped potatoes, corn, creamed spinach

Friday: lunch kids - sandwiches, chips, veggies & dip
lunch me - leftovers
dinner - family pizza & movie night

Saturday lunch kids - corn dogs, fries, apples
lunch me - ?
dinner - going to my in-laws

Sunday lunch kids - sandwiches, chips
dinner - spaghetti, cheese toast
dinner me - I'll be out scrapbooking!!
Thanks to Laura for hosting Menu Plan Monday. Check out her blog for more menu plans.

Proud Moment

2007-07-21T21:34:00.000-07:00

Science boy rode his bike (sans training wheels) for the first time yesterday. He's been practicing, but would only go 1 or 2 peddles after we let go of him. Yesterday, he soared! Today Charles and him rode to the park, then decided to ride to school. It's amazing to see him do so well, and be so proud of himself. He loved surprising his friend, and his friend's mom, today. What a pro!

Dog Days of Summer give-away

2007-07-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

Click on the above button (isn't it the cutest) to find out all out this increadible bloggy give-away. Then check back here on Monday to see what I'll be giving away to one special person! I've got lots of ideas, I just have to choose one.......

Little Gems

2007-07-17T20:46:00.001-07:00

Sometimes the things little princess comes up with really crack me up. Although she is only 3 1/2, she is much more "with it" then the boys were at this age. Ryan was advanced in speech, but immature in other things. Spencer still was not talking at 3, so I'm really amazed with little princess.

One day when she was 18 months old she was being very grumpy and I asked her what was wrong she said "but mama, it's hard work being a princess". What can you say to that.

Lately I've been saying "Lord, child" when I get frustrated. It hasn't been a lot, but I guess more than normal. The other day I said "Lord" and she said "that's Lord child"

At the pool the other day we were told that Lego boy and Little Princess could not wear their arm floaties. But they did have life vests that they could use. After calming Lego boy down, and reassuring him that yes I understood that it was unfair, but that those were the rules, I went to get life vests for him and little princess. He put his on, and went swimming along. Little princess looked at the life vest, and announced that she would not wear it "it will cover up my beautiful bathing suit".

Today she was just all over the place, and being very funny. I said "what rock did I find you under?" her answer "I really don't know"

She so keeps me on my toes. And I thought that after two boys, phew, a girl would be easy. Ha! But of course, I wouldn't trade her for anything, she is my joy.

Menu Plan Monday

2007-07-16T06:51:00.001-07:00

Well, my hubby did get home last night! yay! Little princess was still awake, so she got to see her daddy. She took a late nap, so was not ready to go to bed at her normal time, but she stayed in her bed...so I got her up when he got home. It was so wonderful to see how she just melted into him. She would look at him, smile then just melt. Wow!
Last week was busy. little princess had another fever, but is doing great now. The boys had a Lego class at a local college. They had so much fun making crazy contraptions. They both are already talking about going next summer.

Ok, here is this weeks menu:

Monday: Lunch - kids & me - going to the gym and the pool, so we'll get something to eat there.
Dinner - BBQ chicken, corn on the cob, broccoli, baked beans

Tuesday: Lunch - kids - eat-a-pita-pocket pizza (Emmeril's kids cookbook), grapes
me- gazpacho, burger (no bun)
Dinner - garlic & soy grilled pork chops, grilled veggies, and a salad

Wednesday: Lunch - kids - grill-it-up-a-notch ham & cheese sandwich (Emmeril's), apples
me- Greek salad, sugar-free jello
Dinner - tacos, beans, queso, guacamole, tamales

Thursday: Lunch - kids - not sure yet
me - dilled shrimp salad
Dinner: Grecian Chicken w/ zucchini, peppers, onions, roast potatoes, and probably some other veggie the kids will eat

Friday: Lunch - kids - chicken nuggets(from Emerill's kids cookbook), fries, fruit
me - chicken Caesar salad, sugar-free jello
Dinner - Family movie & Pizza night

Saturday: Lunch - kids - hot dogs, mac & cheese, apples
me - I'll be out for the day
Dinner - going to my in-laws

Sunday: Lunch - kids & hubby - sandwiches, chips, fruit
me - leftover dilled shrimp salad
Dinner - parm. chicken, spaghetti, garlic bread

Have a wonderful week, and as always, thanks to Laura for hosting menu plan Monday

What a wonderful day!!!

2007-07-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

My husband is coming home today. After being in Angola since July 4th, and with little princess being sick, twice, and all the rain here, well we are all excited that he will be home tonight. And I'm thinking that the kids will all be in bed when he gets home (they go to bed early), so we'll have some time together :)

I'm hoping this week we can get back to normal. Start going to the gym everyday, swimming, etc. We had all these plans for the summer, and so far we have not been able to do any of it. With little princess being sick, etc. it's been hard to get out and do anything. I'm finally feeling better, so that always makes life easier.

Last night the kids spent the night at my sister-in-laws. So I was able to go through toys and get rid of a bunch (3 trash bags....how did we get so much). My friend is having a garage sale next week, so I'll have plenty to add. I was also able, to finally, go through all the kids school work and throw away a bunch. Why is that so hard. I know there is no point saving it all, in the long run it's just paper...but I just keep thinking how hard they worked on all their school work, and how far they have both come and I just feel guilty throwing it all away. But the practical side, I only have so much room to store everything :)

So now it's off to Target to buy some folders to keep the paperwork I am saving, plus to keep lego boys medical records at the ready...I need them for school, etc. How I love Target, I just hope I can actually get out of there without spending more than $50..I never seem to , but there's always hope.

Menu Plan Monday - July 9

2007-07-08T19:46:00.000-07:00

This week I am going to also add lunches to my menu plan. I think it will make it so much easier. Of course, only science boy and little princess will eat what is planned, and most of the dinners. But it makes it's more doable to come up with one meal as opposed to three. And for most of their dinners I can make during the day. For my lunches and dinners I'm going to be making stage I of South Beach Diet.

Monday - lunch - kids cheese tortilla w/ ham, watermelon
me - Greek salad
dinner - kids - chicken, macaroni & cheese, corn, blueberry muffins
me - grilled salmon w/ rosemary, salad

Tuesday - lunch - kids - turkey hot dogs, chips, apples
me - chicken roll-ups
dinner - kids - picky pockets, salad
me - coconut chicken, zucchini & squash

Wednesday - lunch - kids - Teeny tiny tacos, grapes
me - gazpacho, burger, salad
dinner - kids - man-oh-man potato casserole (Emeril Lagasse's kid's cookbook)
me - beef kabas w/ peanut sauce, broiled tomatoes

Thursday - lunch - kids - sandwiches, bananas, chips
me - mixed greens w/ crab meat salad
dinner - kids- chicken nuggets w/ honey mustard dipping sauce (Emeril Lagaee's kid's cookbook), baked french fries, salad
me - sage & rosemary pork, veggies

Friday - lunch - kids - go out
me - leftovers (I can't eat fast food)
dinner - kids - pizza
me - baked portobello caps w/ melted goat cheese, salad

Saturday - lunch - kids - leftovers
me - dilled shrimp salad w/ herb-dill dressing, jello
dinner - kids - are going to my sister-in-laws for a sleepover!!
me - either go out or leftovers

Sunday - lunch - kids will still be at my sister-in-laws
me - ??
dinner - kids -spaghetti
me - baked portobello caps w/ melted goat cheese

Be sure to check Laura's website for more menu plans.

Isn't it always the case

2007-07-06T13:01:00.000-07:00

that when your husband goes out of town either a kid gets sick, or something happens to the house. Last time he was gone I had carpenter ants all over little princess' bedroom wall. That was fun :) Last night little princess had a fever of 102 and a cough. So this morning, after dropping the boys off at the in-laws, I took her to the Dr. and guess what..she has pneumonia. pneumonia! Wow, did she get it quick. So went off to get a chest x-ray, and now we are waiting to see how bad it is. The Dr. said we didn't have to head to the hospital..yet. Don't you love that word, especially when a Dr. uses it. Oh, what fun! And of course today we had plans with friends, and I really, really needed to go to the grocery store..I'm totally out of milk and laundry detergent. ugh!

**update** she does not have pneumonia it's some virus in her lungs. Nothing serious, but lots of meds.

Happy Fourth!!

2007-07-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is having a wonderful fourth. Things around here are nuts. My husband was suppose to leave for Africa on Monday, then Tuesday, and then today. 1 1/2 hours before he was suppose to leave for the airport they canceled the trip for a few reasons. Then one hour before his original flight was to take off, the trip was back on. So now it's been a wait to see when, today, he will be leaving..getting all the flight arrangements etc. What a mess. Hopefully all will work out :)

The kids were excited because they figured if dad wasn't leaving, we could go to the fireworks tonight. Only to find out, that due to all the rain here in Texas, the fireworks have been postponed. So today it's just playing the waiting game! and praying that everything works out...he gets there safely and is safe there :) and that all his luggage etc. gets there, and that there isn't alot of "technical" problems. Lots of praying will be going on here for the next few weeks :)

Menu Plan Monday - July 2

2007-07-01T21:24:00.000-07:00

Before I get to this weeks menu, I have a question. How does everyone "schedule" their housework? Especially during the summer with the kids at home. Time management has always been a big problem for me. I keep thinking/hoping that as the kids get older it will be easier. But so far that hasn't happened. So any suggestions/sharing your schedule, etc. would be really appreciated. Thanks in advance.

This weeks menu plan is going to be real simple. My husband will be going on a business trip to Africa, so on days when I'm not in the mood to cook it might be a trip to McDonald's or hotdogs & french fries :)

Monday: kielbasa, fried potatoes, spinach, corn
Tuesday: Apricot glazed chicken, rice, green beans
Wednesday: not sure yet :)
Thursday: ham, mashed potatoes, veggies, corn bread
Friday: Family Pizza and movie night
Saturday: Going to my in-laws
Sunday: Spaghetti, cheese bread (I'll make GF pasta cabonara, for myself)

As always, thanks to Laura for hosting Menu Plan Monday

I'm in Love

2007-06-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

with this new store that is opening...unfortunately it is in Houston. I live closer to Dallas. I'm thinking road trip :) I love, love, love Heidi Swapp products, but can't seem to find such a variety where I live. I want everything that I see! Ok, can you tell that I love to scrapbook? and Heidi's products?

I mentioned that I went scrap booking this weekend. I was there late Friday night to about 5pm Sunday. I got so much done. It's been awhile, and I'm so,so far behind. Lego boy had asked me for a disposable camera at Disney, so I made him his own album. It turned out so cute. And he loves it. The photos in it, are well, interesting. Lots of floors, walls, food, etc. But he took them and that's all that matters. I also got about 8 pages of Vivian's album done. And I'm going to a friend's house tonight, so hopefully I'll get a few more pages done. I'll post some later.

Menu Plan Monday

2007-06-25T06:25:00.000-07:00

I'm back. What a crazy couple of weeks it's been. We went to Disney World...It was actually a good vacation. But when I tell people what all happened, it doesn't sound like it was. We drove from Texas to Florida. 3 hours into the trip, I get my period (lovely :)), then I drove a little that afternoon...it poured when I took over. Then I fell down at the restaurant - and messed up my shoulder pretty bad. Sunday I take over the driving, and no joke, 10 minutes after I take over our oldest throws up! he then throws up in the restaurant that night. Little princess gets diarrhea (running down her legs) Monday at MGM, On Tuesday, my toe hurts a little, I look down and there is blood all over my foot and sandal...my toe nail is gone. Little Princess gets a rash all over her, I figure "great, scarlet fever" so after she falls down and her tooth cuts her lip, I take her to the first aid station...her lip is fine - got her a Popsicle, as for her rash it's not scarlet fever (thank you God!), It's probably the sun screen, I'm told. Don't put such a high SPF on her. So I drop it down to 30, and the rash is gone....go figure. But despite all that it was a good trip.

This weekend I went scrap booking...so nice. I got a lot done.

But enough ranting here is this weeks menu.

Monday - Rotisserie chicken, Caesar salad, rice, veggies (** update (I don't know how to put a line through everything, all well) - I've already blown this weeks menu - I didn't get out to the grocery store...so the kids are having leftovers pasta, ham & cheese bread...my husband and I will probably have bean dip w/ chips & watch a movie after the kids go to bed (date night?)<Tuesday - Lemon Garlic Pork chops
Wednesday - Parmesan chicken, scalloped potatoes, corn, creamed spinach
Thursday - tacos, refried beans, rice, chips, salsa, queso, guacamole
Friday - Family pizza and movie night
Saturday - over at my in-laws
Sunday - Spaghetti, cheese bread

Have a great week, and don't forget to check out more menus over at Laura's

Menu Plan Monday - June 4

2007-06-04T12:37:00.001-07:00

Well, another week has gone by. And a busy one...although are there any other kind once you have kids? Saturday was my 40th b-day, and I'll love to say it was a great weekend....but I can't. But if I go any more into it, at least today, it will not be a good thing. Let's just say that since my husband's family has never made a big deal out of birthdays (even when there kids were small), but my family always has...well you can guess how it went. Although, I really shouldn't complain. We are heading to Disneyworld next Saturday..and my husband's family and my parents will meet us there. So we will celebrate then....but a cake or something would have been nice :)

So anyway, after all that ranting, here is this weeks menu. I'm trying to use up stuff in the freezer. As always, for more menus be sure to check out Laura's blog.

Monday - pork loin, mashed potatoes, veggies
Tuesday - brisket, french fries, corn-on-the cob
Wednesday - Baked chicken, baked potato, blue berry muffin, brocolli
Thursday - Tacos, refried beans, mexican rice, salsa, chips, queso
Friday - Family movie and pizza night
Saturday - Leave for Disneyworld!!!

Brisket
3 pound lean brisket
3 Tbsp. liquid smoke
1 tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. onion salt
2 Tbsp. Worcetershire sauce
barbecue sauce

Place brisket in a baking dishy. Combine all ingredients except barbecue sauce and pour over brisket. Cover pan tightly. Bake at 250 for about 5 hours. Top with desired amount of barbeque sauce and bake an additional 15 minutes.

Baby steps

2007-05-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

Well, this weekend I was able to organize a few things. I actually got to the silverware drawer - got a few new "bins" to put the odds and ends in. Got rid of all the baby spoons, etc. I didn't take a before and after picture, cause I'm still new to this whole blog thing. But I'll get there :)

I also straightened up and organized the armoire in my bedroom. It has a tv in it, but I also had books and other odds and ends on either side of the tv. and the cabinets underneath were full of stuff I never use. So I was able to throw a lot away, and put the books and movies in the cabinets. Wow!

That was all I got to, since my washing machine decided to break. My handy hubby is finishing fixing it right now. But for 2 days I have not been able to do any laundry....which I usually do almost everyday. There are already piles everywhere, or so it seems.

The boys finished school today. Science boy was excited, not sure lego boy understands it. But since he'll be going to summer school starting next week, that's ok. Not sure what we are doing the rest of this week, hopefully going to the gym, I really need to work out. I was doing really good, going 3-4 times a week, but then I got bronchitis, so I was out for a while. Thankfully, all three kids love the playarea, and then maybe we'll go swim in the pool there afterwards.

Menu Plan Monday - May 28

2007-05-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day! Hope everyone has a great day. Last week was a busy week, I didn't get to all my "planned" meals - but I did get to most of them. We have another crazy week - boys have their last day of school on Tuesday. So summer vacation begins.

Check out Laura's blog for more menu ideas.

Monday - bbq ribs, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, salad
Tuesday - McDonald's (the boys last day of school - their choice)
Wednesday - Any Night Roast Beef, mashed potatoes, veggies
Thursday - Foil-pack Taco Chicken dinner, broccoli, chips & salsa
Friday - Family pizza & movie night (not sure what I'll have, probably leftovers, unless I make a GF pizza)
Saturday - Charles & I are going to a wedding, so something "kid-friendly" for the kids and babysitter
Sunday- Spaghetti,cheese bread (I'll probably have fish)

Last days

2007-05-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

Well today was my 3 year old daughters last day of MDO...til the fall. This was her first year, she only went two days a week, but if 5 days were offered to her she would take it in a heartbeat. She loves school. This is a different MDO then the boys went to, and I have to admit I love it so much more. Our church runs it, and they just have the most amazing teachers there. It has been such a blessing. My little princess is very, very, very outgoing. Her teacher described her as having a "vibrant personality". Totally true. She adds her own uniqueness into everything she does. And she's very independent. Today they had field day. The parents were invited to stay. I asked her if she wanted me to stay. Her answer "No mama, just help me with (her teachers) presents, then you may leave". I walked her in, talked to a teacher for a minute when little princess walked up to me and said "You can leave now". "Honey, don't you want me to stay, Luke's mama is staying" "No" "Ok, can I have a kiss" "I already gave you one, bye". Did I mention she was independent??? So I left, and went to the gym. Which I have not been to in a month, so all worked out well.

Little Princess' ballet recital was last Sunday. She did so good. Her class of 5 girls did "Teddybear Picnic". They were suppose to sing as well as dance. Little Princess was the only one who sang :) and yes, she can project her voice.....I could hear her all the way in the back. Too cute...but I think voice lessons might be in order :)

The boys finish school next Tuesday. So it is a whirlwind week around here. Lego boy's Kindergarten celebration is tomorrow. Then he has a special lunch on Friday (after which I will meet with his teacher, special ed teacher, and speech teacher.) Then a busy, busy weekend.

Menu Plan Monday - May 21

2007-05-20T19:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I missed last week. It was a crazy week. So hopefully this week I'll be back on track. Be sure to check out Laura's website for more menu planning ideas

Monday: Pan fried chicken & spinach salad, mashed potatoes, corn
Tuesday: Smoked sausage, fried potatoes, veggie/salad, ice cream cake (it's my husband's b-day)
Wednesday: Tarragon chicken (slow cooker), rice, broccoli
Thursday: pork tenderloin, baked potato, some veggie, salad
Friday: Family pizza and movie night (I'll have spaghetti squash & meatballs)
Saturday: going to my in-laws to celebrate my husbands & my birthday
Sunday: spaghetti, Texas cheese toast (not sure yet what I will have)

Lego boy

2007-05-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been a little bit since I've blogged. Life has just been so busy.

I think I mentioned that my 6 year old son, lego boy, is a special needs child. Well, last week we got, yet another diagnosis. Lego boy was born with profound hearing loss in one ear (yet we didn't find out about it until he was 2 1/2...long story), he also has speech apraxia. Apraxia is where your teeth, lips, tongue, palate, etc. do not do what you want them to do. You can ask lego boy to stick out his tongue, and he can't do it...yet if he is eating a lollipop, he can stick out his tongue. Also, kids with apraxia leave off the beginning or the end of words. Lego boy does both...so all you hear is the middle. Let me tell you, I am now the charades champion. I can figure just about anything out with his had gestures. He has gotten so much better, and is actually putting the end and/or beginning on words. He's still tough to understand. But when you think that at age 4 he couldn't talk, and now we can have a conversation with him, it's amazing.

Well, last Thursday we found out he also is autistic. Not a big surprise, but still a little shock to find out it's a reality. He is high functioning, so the chances of recovery are high. I didn't even know you could recover from autism, but apparently you can. So now I need to do my research and find support groups, etc. Since he is already in the special needs program at school, we are not going to push for the "title". We can get everything he needs already. I just need to have some additional goals added to his IEP (Individual Educational Program...or something like that :) ) He was tested in the schools late last year, and they said he had autistic tendencies, but didn't do anything. They are required to test him again in 2 years...so we'll deal with that then. I'll have social goals and OT (for his sensory issues) added on now....and that will help. That would be all they would do if he had the "title" so it wouldn't change anything.

I'm doing pretty well with it. My husband is a bit slower to accept it, and is on the "what can we do to fix it" stage. But all is very good. I am so thankful to God for all my kids, I am so blessed. All of our kids where chosen for us for a reason. It's all a journey...one I go on willingly.

Menu Plan Monday

2007-05-06T21:12:00.000-07:00

One of my first "organizational" tips was to start a menu plan. I've tried them in the past, but they weren't successful. Until I found Laura, at http://orgjunkie.blogspot.com. So four weeks ago I started again...and except for one week that we were busier than I planned, it works great. It has made that hour or so before dinner so much calmer. And since I'm not as "crazy" then the kids aren't either. And the "ugh, do I have to eat that", "I am not eating that", etc has not been a daily rant. Now don't get me wrong, they haven't liked everything, but for the most part they have not complained as loudly. I'm also not spending as much at the grocery store. yay! It is a little difficult to plan, since I have to eat gluten free, my husband and older son are very picky, and my middle son is a special needs child and has certain "criteria" on his foods. My daughter is pretty good, will try just about anything. Makes things interesting. So here is our menu for the week. Some is taken from Laura's past menus. Thanks.

Monday - Foil-pack taco chicken dinner, corn, green beans
Tuesday - Asian style barbecue pork chops, rice, carrots, spinach
Wednesday - crockpot 40 clove garlic chicken, mashed potatoes, broccoli, corn
Thursday - Spencer's 6th birthday - Chick-fil-a (his choice)
Friday - Family movie and pizza night
Saturday - Spencer b-day party - smoked sausage (on grill), some kind of chicken on grill (any suggestions), baked beans, tomato salad, potato salad, and probably more
Sunday - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! Not sure what we are doing...but I'm not cooking :)

science boy's Birthday

2007-05-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Well, my oldest turned 8 today. So last night we took 4 boys (including science boy) out to the movies (after pizza and cupcakes at our house). We took one home (not due to behavior..he had a test this am) so it was science boy and two of his friends spending the night. science boy gave up at 12:30, he came upstairs..said one of them was disturbing him and went to sleep in his room. They woke up at 7:30..so not too bad. Science boy had decided last week he wanted to go to Chili's and then out to ice cream. I thought it would be a good idea to have them sing "Happy Birthday" to him. NOT! He was totally embarrassed and started to cry. Yes, just call me mother of the year! I felt so bad. He told him that when he was 4 he had asked me not to do something like that..Ok, I can't remember to take the laundry out of the washer..I can't remember 4 years ago. I apologized, and promised never, ever to do it again. Well, a few minutes ago he came in and said that he was sorry and he should have been nicer to everyone. When I apologized again, he said no, he's the one who is sorry. Wow, they do grow up fast.

So, even though it's late, I'm going to try to start my menu plan for next week.

2007-04-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

Organizing...this is my goal. I used to be organized - okay semi-organized. Then I got married, to a not-so-neat-freak husband. Then I had a baby, got sick, had another baby, became even sicker (was diagnosed with celiac disease), then had another baby. So organization became a lost cause. Now the kids are older, I'm much better and I am getting back on track. I can be a little OCD, but with a messy - um, I mean, a not-so-neat freak husband - and 3 young kids I will drive myself and everyone else nuts if I am too neat-freakish and anal. So I want to find a happy-medium - one that keeps me organized and on top of everything...and therefore I can be a better wife and mom.