Merry Christmas Eve everyone! I love this time of year. Its been especially fun this year as my little boys have been super excited. Like many of you out there I am sure that we share a common Christmas tradition; Christmas eve Pajamas! I love getting new slippers or Jammies on Christmas eve! But this year we have added something new for a tradition with my little men. See I love books and reading. So this year and every year after this since I love the idea so much, I have added a story book to the jammies. I thought what better then snuggling in a new pair of Jammies is reading a bed time story with it! Its awesome. So tonight Jaxon snuggled with Mama in his new digger jammies and reading a new digger book!
Why I didnt think of this before Ill never know!
Friday, December 24, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
Yes I did just start this book the other day... it only took me 2 days to read. I was just captivated. I am always so enthralled by Holocaust tales. I think it was one of the most horrific events in the history of the world and I always get so drawn into it. I think its because I dont understand it. I dont like when I dont understand it. See I love criminology and understanding the way criminals think. While I dont agree with it I have always been able to mostly understand how serial murders, and arsonist, etc can twist reality and think what they are doing is ok. so Its not the fact that Hitler was a complete whack job that gets me... what gets me is how he was able to convince so many other people that his logic was right when it was so obviously crazy! So I think thats why I get sucked in... Im trying to understand the horrible nightmare.
Anyways... I read the Boy with the Striped Pajamas. It was so good. Really sad as All books on this matter are, but really well done. There has been some critisim about how believable it is for a 9 yr old boy (bruno the main character) to be the son of a powerful Nazi commander and not be aware of what is really going on or even what a jew is. I think I can see it... Bruno is a little immature to begin with and I think its nice to see that even in nazi Germany kids were still kids.
There has also been some remarks about how at auschwitz there were no children Brunos age for him to find and befriend and how the fence was electric (not like in the story) To which I say... 1) there has been some documentation of children there...they may not have been kept there as long as in this story but they were at one point there. 2) its a fictional story. All respect was shown for this awful event but its still just a story. so the author took some liberties to make his story his.
It was a beautiful story of innocence and friendship and in the long run karma...
Anyways... I read the Boy with the Striped Pajamas. It was so good. Really sad as All books on this matter are, but really well done. There has been some critisim about how believable it is for a 9 yr old boy (bruno the main character) to be the son of a powerful Nazi commander and not be aware of what is really going on or even what a jew is. I think I can see it... Bruno is a little immature to begin with and I think its nice to see that even in nazi Germany kids were still kids.
There has also been some remarks about how at auschwitz there were no children Brunos age for him to find and befriend and how the fence was electric (not like in the story) To which I say... 1) there has been some documentation of children there...they may not have been kept there as long as in this story but they were at one point there. 2) its a fictional story. All respect was shown for this awful event but its still just a story. so the author took some liberties to make his story his.
It was a beautiful story of innocence and friendship and in the long run karma...
Monday, December 20, 2010
Sea of Monsters
Last night I finished reading Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan. (It's the second book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series) I really enjoyed it. I actually enjoyed it more then the first book even. Its a very easy read, not requiring a lot of brain power, which is exactly what I need during this hectic time of year. where I found the first book (the lightning theif) dragging this one was pretty fast passed and grabbed my attention and wouldnt let it go.
Bare in mind that its for younger readers, so yes the story line is a little young but sometimes that can be fun too. One nice thing about reading books meant for a younger audience is there is now major gore (yes there is fighting in the book but no blood splashing or squirting from an enemy) and there is no sex (Percy gets all embarrassed when he even thinks that annabeth looks pretty) and there is no cursing (ok Annabeth says oh my gods a few times... but the reall big swears containing 4 letters are not there!)
Its a book I read and am now looking forward to reading with my boys when they are older. There are 3 more books in the series but I have decided to read a book or two before hitting up book 3 (I dont want percy Jackson overload!) So I have moved onto reading "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" I started it this morning and am already almost 100 pages in. So you can imagine its a good one. Thank goodness its holidays and I dont feel super guilty for turning on cartoons or the Wii so Jaxon can play while i read... the guilt is still there but I can justify it since its the first day of holidays!
Bare in mind that its for younger readers, so yes the story line is a little young but sometimes that can be fun too. One nice thing about reading books meant for a younger audience is there is now major gore (yes there is fighting in the book but no blood splashing or squirting from an enemy) and there is no sex (Percy gets all embarrassed when he even thinks that annabeth looks pretty) and there is no cursing (ok Annabeth says oh my gods a few times... but the reall big swears containing 4 letters are not there!)
Its a book I read and am now looking forward to reading with my boys when they are older. There are 3 more books in the series but I have decided to read a book or two before hitting up book 3 (I dont want percy Jackson overload!) So I have moved onto reading "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" I started it this morning and am already almost 100 pages in. So you can imagine its a good one. Thank goodness its holidays and I dont feel super guilty for turning on cartoons or the Wii so Jaxon can play while i read... the guilt is still there but I can justify it since its the first day of holidays!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Final Christmas Count Down
Here we are... the last week before christmas. What to eat??? We are heading up to Edmonton to spend the big day with my family, so this weeks menu is pretty dull as I am determined to use up leftovers and things that will go bad before we get back in the new year! (Sorry for the friends we have coming over for dinner... if you were expecting a magical meal... think a little more low key!)
Monday - Stef and Jarett are over - Baked Pasta and Ceaser Salad
Tuesday - Leftovers
Wednesday - Smiths are over - Breakfast, Hasbrowns, eggs, waffles, etc
Thursday - Leftovers/Soup and Grilled Cheese - Then Dessert in Okotoks with my hubby's family
Friday - Christmas eve (we will be in Edmonton) - Chinese Food (yay Traditions!)
Saturday - The Big Day! - Turkey/Ham and more sides then you can imagine!
Sunday - Fride Rice with the leftover turkey!
Are you all ready yet?? I am... I have one more gift to finish up but Ill have that done tomorrow! Im looking forward to a week of Pajama days, cleaning, packing and maybe a craft or two!
Monday - Stef and Jarett are over - Baked Pasta and Ceaser Salad
Tuesday - Leftovers
Wednesday - Smiths are over - Breakfast, Hasbrowns, eggs, waffles, etc
Thursday - Leftovers/Soup and Grilled Cheese - Then Dessert in Okotoks with my hubby's family
Friday - Christmas eve (we will be in Edmonton) - Chinese Food (yay Traditions!)
Saturday - The Big Day! - Turkey/Ham and more sides then you can imagine!
Sunday - Fride Rice with the leftover turkey!
Are you all ready yet?? I am... I have one more gift to finish up but Ill have that done tomorrow! Im looking forward to a week of Pajama days, cleaning, packing and maybe a craft or two!
Harry Potter
Well.... its beeb days since I posted anything... ooops... i blame my mom... we have been busy getting ready for christmas and up late-ish playing scrabble and phase 10.
Anyways... I have seen the latest Harry Potter movie. It was awesome! I love Harry Potter. I often think I should be more grown up but whenever I read the books or watch the movies I find myself wishing it was real and I was attending Hogwarts and playing quidditch, etc, etc. Makes me sad when I look around and realize that I dont have a magic wand and will never hear the sorting hat tell me im a Griffindor!
But the movie was awesome. It was alot darker then the previous movies, but if you have read the books then that is to be expected. The acting was perfect... as always. The only down side was that it was mostly just Harry, Hermione and Ron. again if you have read the book then you can expect this. But here is a fact you should know about me... I cant think of a single book where the main character(s) have been my favorite. I am a background, underwritten character lover. I always cling to the characters in the back scences... In the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series its Shakespeare... in the mortal Instruments seires is Magnus Bane... In Harry potter its Kingsly and Lupin.
I am so excited (and a little sad) for the final movie. YAY HARRY POTTER!
Anyways... I have seen the latest Harry Potter movie. It was awesome! I love Harry Potter. I often think I should be more grown up but whenever I read the books or watch the movies I find myself wishing it was real and I was attending Hogwarts and playing quidditch, etc, etc. Makes me sad when I look around and realize that I dont have a magic wand and will never hear the sorting hat tell me im a Griffindor!
But the movie was awesome. It was alot darker then the previous movies, but if you have read the books then that is to be expected. The acting was perfect... as always. The only down side was that it was mostly just Harry, Hermione and Ron. again if you have read the book then you can expect this. But here is a fact you should know about me... I cant think of a single book where the main character(s) have been my favorite. I am a background, underwritten character lover. I always cling to the characters in the back scences... In the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series its Shakespeare... in the mortal Instruments seires is Magnus Bane... In Harry potter its Kingsly and Lupin.
I am so excited (and a little sad) for the final movie. YAY HARRY POTTER!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
From Jaxon... To owen
Today has been a day... so yes I am doing a post of something I did a while ago with Jaxon. he is Three and is now old enough to remember past christmases and get really excited. I guess it helps too having me has a mom who starts planning christmas in like September. And where did I get that from... Oh my momma!
This year Jaxon really understand presents. So he was wanting to make sure that Owen got a present from him. So we went to the store and picked something out. Then a little while later for Craft time one afternoon we made wrapping paper. Jaxon made his own wrapping paper to wrap his present to his little brother Owen... sweet eh??
This year Jaxon really understand presents. So he was wanting to make sure that Owen got a present from him. So we went to the store and picked something out. Then a little while later for Craft time one afternoon we made wrapping paper. Jaxon made his own wrapping paper to wrap his present to his little brother Owen... sweet eh??
Jaxon loves stamping!
I helped stamp on some words...
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
The Diamond of Darkhold
I have had a few rough nights this past week... My children dont sleep. I was up most of the night on Saturday, then again on Sunday with my little monster owen. (we watched food network) but then last night I was up from 2-530 with Jaxon. (we watched Super Why) So this will be a lame post as I am trying very hard to keep my eyes open!
I just finished the book Diamond of Darkhold by Jeanne DuPrua. It is the 4th book in the city of Ember series. In case you havent heard of this series Ill sum up. There is a city underground, but no one knows its underground. The world above ground as all but been destroyed, but now this underground city is failing so its inhabitants venture out to find a better life and then they face different struggles. It's a series that I say in appropriate for the 9-12 age range. I really enjoyed the First book City of Ember. It really held my interest. The second book, the people of Sparks was even ok. However the 3rd book, the prophet of Yonwood, was forgetable... really I dont remember what it was about! and then there is the Diamond of darkhold. It must be better then the third but not by much. yes I get that they were written for a younger audience. But these even seemed to naive for the age group. I found it hard to believe at times that a grown up wrote the book as it seemed like the words were those of a child. (you might be thinking like that about me right now... but Im sleep deprived!) the General story line; Lina and Doon head back to Ember in hopes of helping the people in Sparks, is sweet, but weak. I was glad it was a short book so it didnt take up too much of my time. I really think this should have been a one book series!
Oh well...Im a firm believer that there are really few books out there that are a total waste. Reading is never a bad thing!
I just finished the book Diamond of Darkhold by Jeanne DuPrua. It is the 4th book in the city of Ember series. In case you havent heard of this series Ill sum up. There is a city underground, but no one knows its underground. The world above ground as all but been destroyed, but now this underground city is failing so its inhabitants venture out to find a better life and then they face different struggles. It's a series that I say in appropriate for the 9-12 age range. I really enjoyed the First book City of Ember. It really held my interest. The second book, the people of Sparks was even ok. However the 3rd book, the prophet of Yonwood, was forgetable... really I dont remember what it was about! and then there is the Diamond of darkhold. It must be better then the third but not by much. yes I get that they were written for a younger audience. But these even seemed to naive for the age group. I found it hard to believe at times that a grown up wrote the book as it seemed like the words were those of a child. (you might be thinking like that about me right now... but Im sleep deprived!) the General story line; Lina and Doon head back to Ember in hopes of helping the people in Sparks, is sweet, but weak. I was glad it was a short book so it didnt take up too much of my time. I really think this should have been a one book series!
Oh well...Im a firm believer that there are really few books out there that are a total waste. Reading is never a bad thing!
On to bigger and better things... I am currently reading Sea of Monsters, the second book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. Im 4 chapters in and totally hooked... What is Tyson???
Monday, December 13, 2010
Pancake Balls!
I love breakfast foods. I will eat them any time of the day. This is one I have discovered recently and its another great one. They are called Ebelskivers (sorry the spelling on that is probably wrong). You need a special pan for them.. I got mine from my mom (thanks Mommy!) but Im pretty sure she got it from William Sonomas. It looks like a fry pan but it has little half circles indented into it. Those little indents make these wonderful goodies!
These little pancake balls are filled with gooey goodness! My Favorite thing to fill them with is Nutella but Cinnamon Sugar is pretty good too. Other people say that Jam or Banana and Nutella or Strawberries or other fruits are yummy too. But since I dont eat cooked fruits/Veggies Ill stick to the Nutella ones!
These little pancake balls are filled with gooey goodness! My Favorite thing to fill them with is Nutella but Cinnamon Sugar is pretty good too. Other people say that Jam or Banana and Nutella or Strawberries or other fruits are yummy too. But since I dont eat cooked fruits/Veggies Ill stick to the Nutella ones!
Once you find and buy one of those wonderful Ebelskiver pans its super simple to make these bundle of breakfast delight. All you do is make a pancake batter (I used a mix because I have yet to find a pancake recipe I enjoy) and then you fill the well half full and then scoop a Teeny Tiny amount of filling ito the center then fill with more batter. Let it sit like this for a few minutes until the one side is cooked... then here is the tricky part... flip it over so the top half cooks... I use two wooden kebob skewers to flip mine.
Im Hooked!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Preschool gift
As we are approaching Jaxon's last week of school before the Winter Holiday I thought it was about time if I got my butt in gear and busted out the little goodies I had planned for him to give to his class mates. It was super easy! All I did was paint lids to baby food jars (which I had a ton of from when owen was little) Then I punched out a read circle and Jaxon helped me stamp on christmas stamps and I wrote "Happy holidays from jaxon" around the edge of the circle. Then I filled the jars with green and Red M&Ms (Jaxon says those are his favorite!) and done and done...
What kid out there doesnt like little chocolates!?!
Friday, December 10, 2010
a little slice of Heaven
I LOVE CHEESECAKE! because of my deep love for this desseret I am often found at the Cheesecake Cafe. Its Wonderful. last night was one of those awesome nights when I find myself sitting there in a booth enjoying a slice of heaven. They even had a new flavour for me to try! Terry's Chocolate orange cheesecake. It was great! Ok... it wasnt my favorite flavour... ROLO... but this was really really yummy!
I think I also love cheesecake so much because I have this super wonderful friend, leah, and we have made it sort of our traditional night out. When I need Leah time we go for cheesecake. I love leah and i love cheesecake so it makes me one happy girl!
So any of you ladies out there needing a boost?? Grab your Bestest girl friend and head over for Cheesecake... that combination cures all!
I think I also love cheesecake so much because I have this super wonderful friend, leah, and we have made it sort of our traditional night out. When I need Leah time we go for cheesecake. I love leah and i love cheesecake so it makes me one happy girl!
So any of you ladies out there needing a boost?? Grab your Bestest girl friend and head over for Cheesecake... that combination cures all!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Teacher Christmas Gift
This is the first year I have had teachers to make Christmas Gifts for. I was super excited then I was made even more excited because Jaxon's two teachers at Leap n Learn are AMAZING. He Loves them so much and talks about them all the time. Since they make him so happy I LOVE them. I have had the opportunity to help out in the class room and watch them in action and I am beyond impressed with them. The ROCK!
So here is what I made for them... I hope they like it. Its a Super easy, quick, inexpensive gift. I think they turned out super cute!
So here is what I made for them... I hope they like it. Its a Super easy, quick, inexpensive gift. I think they turned out super cute!
I made Monograms out of Crayons. So you need to get crayons, cardstock and shadow boxes. Oh and I glue gun.
I found these super cute templates on the internet... I cant remember where ... but thats to who ever had this on their site! I just changed the names and monogram to match Jaxon's teachers and printed onto the cardstock.
Then you Cut the crayons to match the shape of the Monogram and glue it onto the cardstock. Only use the low setting on the glue gun... it melts just a thin layer of the wax. But it works great!
Once you are done but them in the shadow box. I put a little colored cardstock behind just to give it an added punch of color!
VOILA!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Christmas Card
Check out this super cute card I made... Im pretty impressed with myself.
I have to give a big Thank you to my beyond amazingly talented friend Elisa who taught me out to make this penny slide cards. The snow flake is attached to two pennies making it spin from side to side as you tilt the card. I know! Super Cute!
I have to give a big Thank you to my beyond amazingly talented friend Elisa who taught me out to make this penny slide cards. The snow flake is attached to two pennies making it spin from side to side as you tilt the card. I know! Super Cute!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Weekend Projects
I was so lucky to get so much time to get so many projects worked on over the weekend. Here are a few of what I did
Yes Im still making Felt Food. Here are some Chocolate Chip cookies. Jaxon was thrilled to see them. "Chocolate Chip cookies are my favorite!" They are super simple, like all the felt food I make.
1) Cut two circles that are the same size.
2) Use some scraps to cup out some chips. I used White and Dark Brown. But I think a rainbow chip would be cute too... I may have to make some of those! Also... dont make them all round. Chocolate chips melt when you cook them and look all weird anyways!
3) Glue chips to one of the circles.
4) Blanket stitch and stuff
Yes Im still making Felt Food. Here are some Chocolate Chip cookies. Jaxon was thrilled to see them. "Chocolate Chip cookies are my favorite!" They are super simple, like all the felt food I make.
1) Cut two circles that are the same size.
2) Use some scraps to cup out some chips. I used White and Dark Brown. But I think a rainbow chip would be cute too... I may have to make some of those! Also... dont make them all round. Chocolate chips melt when you cook them and look all weird anyways!
3) Glue chips to one of the circles.
4) Blanket stitch and stuff
Yummy Dinner eh? Its Chicken Drumsticks, snow peas and pineapple rings. All crazy simple and I think pretty self explanitory... but if not just ask... Ill tell you how I did it.
And for my Friend Jeannette. here is the progress report on the car mats. This one will be Jaxon's Im still missing a few buildings that still need logos on them, and I still need to add embellishments like trees and a playground. And i still need to sew a few down. i have attached them using that iron on stuff so Im stitching them down just to make sure they stay on. Owens... well right now its just a road.... I have a long road ahead of me!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Christmas Devotional
Tonight was one of my most favorite nights of the year. It was the First Presidency Christmas devotional. I always love it. I love to see the decorations and hear the music and the sweet messages. I have a paticular soft spot for these three great men. But that sweet spot grew even more for Pres. Utchdorf tonight. Here is why. Jaxon was sitting there playing DS and not paying attention... but I was just glad my three yr old was being quiet so I could listen. Then Pres Utchdorf starts quoting from How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Jaxon instantly stopped what he was doing and then listened quite intently for a while. he was thrilled to hear some of his favorite story.
This had been a great weekend for me. I have been getting Tons of projects done! Stay tuned because this coming up week Ill be posting more felt food, a fun teachers gift and a creative christmas gift... among other things Im sure!
This is one crazy week Im heading into. lets hope Manic Me Sticks around long enough for me to get through it.
back to the Devotional... I love how it brings in the true meaning of Christmas. I want to give a shout out to my Awesome friend Karrie... she has helped to organize an amazing Christmas service project. She is collecting everything needed to provided christmas to 10 under priviledged families leaving in calgary.I loved this because I always want to help out and give service at Christmas... but I dont know how to organize it or sometimes I forget in all my hussel and bussel... so Thanks Karrie!
This had been a great weekend for me. I have been getting Tons of projects done! Stay tuned because this coming up week Ill be posting more felt food, a fun teachers gift and a creative christmas gift... among other things Im sure!
This is one crazy week Im heading into. lets hope Manic Me Sticks around long enough for me to get through it.
back to the Devotional... I love how it brings in the true meaning of Christmas. I want to give a shout out to my Awesome friend Karrie... she has helped to organize an amazing Christmas service project. She is collecting everything needed to provided christmas to 10 under priviledged families leaving in calgary.I loved this because I always want to help out and give service at Christmas... but I dont know how to organize it or sometimes I forget in all my hussel and bussel... so Thanks Karrie!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Christmas Tradition
I am having so much fun getting ready for Christmas this year. I love Christmas but this year is especially great because my oldest little fellow is now old enough to really get into Christmas with me. So I am now able to pass on my family traditions to him.
One of my all time favorite Traditions is Muffit the Christmas angel. Way back when I was little... Im talking 1986... my Grandma Ellen got us a Christmas book filled with all sorts of stories. It was big and red and glossy... it was magical. The best part of the book was a 24 day count down to Christmas. It is a story about a little angel who is all thumbs working in the Christmas department of Heaven. Each day dec 1-24 you read a bit of the story. I love it. Apparently its a really rare book and its made even rarer by having the muffit story in it. My mother has looked high and low and all over the internet for copies but even when she thinks she has found another copy... alas it has everything but the 24 muffit stories. Sad eh??
Well I currently have the Big red book in my house... I think thats only because I am the only one of my siblings to have any kids at the moment... Grandbabies always win out! So Mama Nelson had passed on the book to me so I can share the tale with Jaxon and owen. Jaxon is loving it. Im not sure how much of it he is getting but he gets super excited and asks for it each night... Im pretty sure its because of two things... he loves numbers and counting so advents and other count downs thrill him and now he thinks he is getting 4 stories instead of his regular 3!
I just love having someone to read the story to!
What are your favorite traditions?
One of my all time favorite Traditions is Muffit the Christmas angel. Way back when I was little... Im talking 1986... my Grandma Ellen got us a Christmas book filled with all sorts of stories. It was big and red and glossy... it was magical. The best part of the book was a 24 day count down to Christmas. It is a story about a little angel who is all thumbs working in the Christmas department of Heaven. Each day dec 1-24 you read a bit of the story. I love it. Apparently its a really rare book and its made even rarer by having the muffit story in it. My mother has looked high and low and all over the internet for copies but even when she thinks she has found another copy... alas it has everything but the 24 muffit stories. Sad eh??
Well I currently have the Big red book in my house... I think thats only because I am the only one of my siblings to have any kids at the moment... Grandbabies always win out! So Mama Nelson had passed on the book to me so I can share the tale with Jaxon and owen. Jaxon is loving it. Im not sure how much of it he is getting but he gets super excited and asks for it each night... Im pretty sure its because of two things... he loves numbers and counting so advents and other count downs thrill him and now he thinks he is getting 4 stories instead of his regular 3!
I just love having someone to read the story to!
What are your favorite traditions?
Friday, December 3, 2010
50 Below Zero
Sorry.. again for missing the post yesterday... I was out late at our RS Christmas program. Thanks to all the Ladies that helped me get it all together and all the ones that performed. GREAT JOB!
We started a new month the other day, which means Jaxon got his new book of the month. It was our last month focusing on Robert Munsch. (im sure he will get some more Robert Munsch books... but next year the monthly books will be someone new!) The Final installment was 50 Below Zero! I cant help it I am in love with the Classic Munsch books and I thought it was appropriate since we had such a frigid cold snap a couple weeks ago. Jaxon was especially thrilled since he had read this book that day at school as well. This is one of his favorite bunch of Munsch Videos to watch too. Personally I think you cant go wrong with Classic Munsch.
Fun little fact. he wrote this book while up north visiting a school. All the kids come and their cheeks were frost biten adn he thought these children need a story about being cold... they would understand!
We started a new month the other day, which means Jaxon got his new book of the month. It was our last month focusing on Robert Munsch. (im sure he will get some more Robert Munsch books... but next year the monthly books will be someone new!) The Final installment was 50 Below Zero! I cant help it I am in love with the Classic Munsch books and I thought it was appropriate since we had such a frigid cold snap a couple weeks ago. Jaxon was especially thrilled since he had read this book that day at school as well. This is one of his favorite bunch of Munsch Videos to watch too. Personally I think you cant go wrong with Classic Munsch.
Fun little fact. he wrote this book while up north visiting a school. All the kids come and their cheeks were frost biten adn he thought these children need a story about being cold... they would understand!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Mockingjay
I FINALLY got around to reading Mockingjay, the third and final installment of the Hunger game series. I had put it off for a few reasons. First I had tons of other books that I had to read before i needed to return them to the library. and Second I hadnt heard many good reviews about it. But I must say I was pleasently surprised. It was my no means my favorite of the three (that would be the second one Catching Fire) But I liked it alot better then I had the first book.
yes there was alot of violence... they are at war after all. But I loved the book. I couldnt put it down. I was up most of the night reading and then Id have to tear it from my hands to convince myself to sleep before the boys woke up. It was so good.
Maybe I loved it so much because it all turned out how I wanted things too.. ok there were a few deaths I wasnt expecting and while I see the shock value and how the play into the story, there was at least two people who ended up on the dead list that I would have liked to see alive at the end. But Katniss made a couple moves that surprised me, in a good way. And She even picks that right guy to end up with... I wont say who in case you havent read the series yet.
I think I need to buy the series and read them all back to back... good times!
yes there was alot of violence... they are at war after all. But I loved the book. I couldnt put it down. I was up most of the night reading and then Id have to tear it from my hands to convince myself to sleep before the boys woke up. It was so good.
Maybe I loved it so much because it all turned out how I wanted things too.. ok there were a few deaths I wasnt expecting and while I see the shock value and how the play into the story, there was at least two people who ended up on the dead list that I would have liked to see alive at the end. But Katniss made a couple moves that surprised me, in a good way. And She even picks that right guy to end up with... I wont say who in case you havent read the series yet.
I think I need to buy the series and read them all back to back... good times!
Monday, November 29, 2010
New Resolution
Ive been doing alot of thinking lately. Jaxon has been a little crazy lately and also acting sorta younger then normal. I think its his way of getting attention from me. I have been crazy swamped with Christmas crafts and chores and kids. Plus Jaxon is now competing with Owen for attention and he tends to do things that Owen does... which is fine for a 15 month old but not for a 3 yr old. Plus Jaxon has been having far too much screen time. He seems to bounce from the Wii to the TV to the movies to the computer to the DS and back again. so here is my resolution... I am going to Play more. play with my boys. Laugh with them. Pretend with them. Grow with them. If projects dont get done they dont get done... if chores dont get done then there is always tomorrow. from today on Im going to play more!
(Great Picture that my awesome friend Kim from Kim Hawkings Photography took eh?)
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Here we go again!
Sorry for the sporatic posting this past week... I guess Im still recooperating from being so sick... I have been EXHASUTED the last few nights! I mean its like I cant keep my eyes open tired.
But I am feeling pretty darn good heading into this week so Im keeping my fingers crossed that I am back to my old self.
My goals for the week... get it all done! I need to finish up Jaxon's car mat, get the buildings onto owens car mat, make my dads chrsitmas gift, make the tags for Jaxons preschool Christmas gifts and make the teachers gifts for Jaxons awesome teachers. I CAN DO IT... right
here is my fuel for the week
Monday - Waffles (Tim has his test that night... fingers crossed)
Tuesday - Steak sammies
wednesday - Chicken and Pasta (our buddies the miller kids are over that night)
Thursday - Egg Sammies
friday - Fried Rice
Saturday - Left overs
Sunday - Asian Chicken Salads
So you may have noticed several things... yes I did have some of this stuff last week. But with me being sick and my brother cooking a meal for us too I missed some nights cooking and now I have all the stuff I thought why not give it a try again this week. And I have moved left overs to Saturday. We are always on teh go on Saturday and I thought... why not have left overs that night and cook something simple on Sunday... we will see!
But I am feeling pretty darn good heading into this week so Im keeping my fingers crossed that I am back to my old self.
My goals for the week... get it all done! I need to finish up Jaxon's car mat, get the buildings onto owens car mat, make my dads chrsitmas gift, make the tags for Jaxons preschool Christmas gifts and make the teachers gifts for Jaxons awesome teachers. I CAN DO IT... right
here is my fuel for the week
Monday - Waffles (Tim has his test that night... fingers crossed)
Tuesday - Steak sammies
wednesday - Chicken and Pasta (our buddies the miller kids are over that night)
Thursday - Egg Sammies
friday - Fried Rice
Saturday - Left overs
Sunday - Asian Chicken Salads
So you may have noticed several things... yes I did have some of this stuff last week. But with me being sick and my brother cooking a meal for us too I missed some nights cooking and now I have all the stuff I thought why not give it a try again this week. And I have moved left overs to Saturday. We are always on teh go on Saturday and I thought... why not have left overs that night and cook something simple on Sunday... we will see!
Friday, November 26, 2010
Lots of time to read
Sorry for the lack of posts lately... the other night I must have caught a 24 hour thing because I woke up middle of the night... sick sick sick! I wont lie to you... it was horrible... probably the sickest Ive been in a long long time. But Im feeling better now... still not 100% but almost.
Since I was so sick I really didnt do much of anything, but I got alot of time to read. As I was reading I finished Clockwork Angel but Cassandra Clare. She is the Author of the Mortal Instruments trilogy. This one "Clockwork Angel" is the first book in a new series, the Infernal Instruments, which is a prequel to the other trilogy. This wasnt the worst book in the world, in fact the story line was really quite good, it was just bogged down by alot of extra info.
There was alot of info about the Shadowhunter world. which to me wasa little useless as I have read the other trilogy and it was all the same info that was in there. I guess that would have been useful information to someone who hasnt read that series but I think most people will have read the City of... books first. But it wasnt just the Shadowhunter info that was excessive. At times I found Clare to be overly descriptuve. She went into great detail about the house and its scances and its stairs and the lighting.. and to be honest most times I was like "I DONT CARE get to the good stuff"
But there was alot good in the book too. Having read the orginal trilogy there was alot of similar family names mentioned in Clockwork angel. Like Lightwood, Herondale, etc. so it was pretty fun to see the ancestors stories. Also there was mysteries to be solved the whole way through. Some mysteries (like Jem's sickness) were solved before the novel ended, but some (like the mystery surrounding Tessa) were left to fill another book. There was plenty of action and it kept my interest well into many a late night. Also there was one major MAJOR twist that shocked me. Now I dont like to brag, but Im normally pretty good at figuring things out and the majority of the time I find myself saying "I KNEW IT" as opposed to "NO WAY" but this book pulled the rug out from under me.
I am glad I took it out from the library because its one I am not convenced I need in my permant home library but its a fun good read. Warlocks, vampires, and shadowhunters... makes for a great novel.
Since I was so sick I really didnt do much of anything, but I got alot of time to read. As I was reading I finished Clockwork Angel but Cassandra Clare. She is the Author of the Mortal Instruments trilogy. This one "Clockwork Angel" is the first book in a new series, the Infernal Instruments, which is a prequel to the other trilogy. This wasnt the worst book in the world, in fact the story line was really quite good, it was just bogged down by alot of extra info.
There was alot of info about the Shadowhunter world. which to me wasa little useless as I have read the other trilogy and it was all the same info that was in there. I guess that would have been useful information to someone who hasnt read that series but I think most people will have read the City of... books first. But it wasnt just the Shadowhunter info that was excessive. At times I found Clare to be overly descriptuve. She went into great detail about the house and its scances and its stairs and the lighting.. and to be honest most times I was like "I DONT CARE get to the good stuff"
But there was alot good in the book too. Having read the orginal trilogy there was alot of similar family names mentioned in Clockwork angel. Like Lightwood, Herondale, etc. so it was pretty fun to see the ancestors stories. Also there was mysteries to be solved the whole way through. Some mysteries (like Jem's sickness) were solved before the novel ended, but some (like the mystery surrounding Tessa) were left to fill another book. There was plenty of action and it kept my interest well into many a late night. Also there was one major MAJOR twist that shocked me. Now I dont like to brag, but Im normally pretty good at figuring things out and the majority of the time I find myself saying "I KNEW IT" as opposed to "NO WAY" but this book pulled the rug out from under me.
I am glad I took it out from the library because its one I am not convenced I need in my permant home library but its a fun good read. Warlocks, vampires, and shadowhunters... makes for a great novel.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Feeling like Christmas
It is beyond freezing here... -39 with the windchill. I am not happy. To counteract the lousy weather outside I decided to bust out the christmas decorations today. We are all set up here... well we still need to do the christmas tree but we will do that on Sunday.
This afternoon I spent some time at my friend Claire's house being crafty while the kiddos played together. It was awesome. So now Im really feeling christmasy. Since Im all set for christmas I thought would be a good time to share one of my family's favorite christmas treat. FUDGE!
Sorry no picture for this one since I havent made it yet this year... but I will and soon!
5 Minute Fudge
3 cups sugar
198 g marshmallow crème
¾ cup margarine
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla
1 pkg chocolate chips (you can use different flavours to make different flavours… we like using mint chips or butterscotch ones)
Combine sugar, margarine and evaporated milk in a large pot. Bring to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.
Continue boiling 5 minutes over med heat or until a candy thermometer reaches 234F, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
Remove from heat and stir in choco chips until melted.
Add Marshmallow crème and vanilla; beat until well blended
Pour until a greased 9x13 pan
Cool at room temperature/
This afternoon I spent some time at my friend Claire's house being crafty while the kiddos played together. It was awesome. So now Im really feeling christmasy. Since Im all set for christmas I thought would be a good time to share one of my family's favorite christmas treat. FUDGE!
Sorry no picture for this one since I havent made it yet this year... but I will and soon!
5 Minute Fudge
3 cups sugar
198 g marshmallow crème
¾ cup margarine
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla
1 pkg chocolate chips (you can use different flavours to make different flavours… we like using mint chips or butterscotch ones)
Combine sugar, margarine and evaporated milk in a large pot. Bring to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.
Continue boiling 5 minutes over med heat or until a candy thermometer reaches 234F, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
Remove from heat and stir in choco chips until melted.
Add Marshmallow crème and vanilla; beat until well blended
Pour until a greased 9x13 pan
Cool at room temperature/
Monday, November 22, 2010
The toughest race on Earth
Being burried under all this snow has got me angry... and thinking about those people who actually like the snow. Which also made me remember a great little documentary I watched last month. It was called Iditarod; Toughest race on Earth. It was all about the 2008 Iditarod. If you dont know what that is its a dog sled race from Ankorage AK to Nome AK. It has aways intrigued me, in fact, ride a dog sled along part of the trail was on my list of 100 things to do before I die... notice the important word there... WAS.
Dont get my wrong I was engrossed by this short series and now am hungerly reading and researching all I can about this amazing event. I am eagerly awaiting March 2011 when the next race starts. but I also think Mushers on this race are INSANE. INSANE! It takes at least 8 days.. and that is the fastest runners... most finish closer to the 2 week mark. And they are outside practically the entire time. There are check points where people can stop to eat and feed dogs etc... but even there you are sleeping on the floor of some back woods cabin.
The love these mushers have for their dogs is impressive. And the stamina and drive they have is AWESOME. This documentary (by discovery channel) was super cool and I learned alot. I am amazed that people are willing and excited to do this race. It takes some major guts!
Dont get my wrong I was engrossed by this short series and now am hungerly reading and researching all I can about this amazing event. I am eagerly awaiting March 2011 when the next race starts. but I also think Mushers on this race are INSANE. INSANE! It takes at least 8 days.. and that is the fastest runners... most finish closer to the 2 week mark. And they are outside practically the entire time. There are check points where people can stop to eat and feed dogs etc... but even there you are sleeping on the floor of some back woods cabin.
The love these mushers have for their dogs is impressive. And the stamina and drive they have is AWESOME. This documentary (by discovery channel) was super cool and I learned alot. I am amazed that people are willing and excited to do this race. It takes some major guts!
But I have learned some things about myself while watching as well...1)I dont like dogs (well not enough to have a team of 16) 2) I hate the snow and cold 3) I hate camping Therefore I am not made for the Iditarod. Ill think of something else cool to do instead.
Did you know they even give a prize to the last place finisher? Its a lantern that has remained lit the entire race. the last place finisher blows it out and gets to keep it.
I have fallen in love with the vast natural beauty of AK and the unique names of places there. Although I will never run the Iditarod I will for sure be visiting AK!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
a brand new week
Here we go starting yet another new week. My sweetie is home all week this coming week... but before you do the whole "awww how nice" he is home to study for a test he has on the 29th... so really he will be here just locked away studying... which is sometimes worse since I will know he is here but he really isnt. But he will get to help out a bit. Like He is going to watch my little owen while I get to go to Preschool with jaxon. Im super excited about that. All and all I think its going to be a great week!
Here is what our household is eating this week
Monday - Soup and Sammies (a winter staple in this house!)
Tuesday - Chicken Fingers and Fries
Wednesday - Pizza
Thursday - Chicken wings and potatoe skins
Friday - Hamburgers and Onion Rings
Saturday - Baked Penne
Sunday - leftovers!
Here is what our household is eating this week
Monday - Soup and Sammies (a winter staple in this house!)
Tuesday - Chicken Fingers and Fries
Wednesday - Pizza
Thursday - Chicken wings and potatoe skins
Friday - Hamburgers and Onion Rings
Saturday - Baked Penne
Sunday - leftovers!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Toffee Cookies
These cookies are sooooo good. My mom has been blessing us with them for years. This coming thursday I am attending a cookie exchange. I have been trying to think of cookies that are still festive but may not be overly common so that I dont show up with the same cookies as someone else... GASP that would be worse then wearing the same dress as someone else! So I figured these ones would be wonderful. Which meant I had to give them a try! I decided to make some to bring to church to give out to the ladies Im teaching tomorrow... sort of a test run before the cookie exchange.
I think I did a pretty good job!
Toffee Cookies
2 1/4 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
1 pkg skor bits
1 pkg mini kisses
1)Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper
2)Stir together flour and baking soda. Set aside. Cream butter and sugars in a large bowl. Add vanilla and eggs, beat well. Gradually add flour mixture and beat until well blended. Stir in toffee bits. Drop rounded tsps onto cookie sheet
3) Bake for 9-11 minutes or until lightly browned.
4) Line tray with wax paper. Melt mini kisses in a small bowl. Dip 1/3 of cookie into melted chocolate and place on wax paper. Allow chocolate to set
Makes about 3 dozen cookies
I think I did a pretty good job!
Toffee Cookies
2 1/4 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
1 pkg skor bits
1 pkg mini kisses
1)Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper
2)Stir together flour and baking soda. Set aside. Cream butter and sugars in a large bowl. Add vanilla and eggs, beat well. Gradually add flour mixture and beat until well blended. Stir in toffee bits. Drop rounded tsps onto cookie sheet
3) Bake for 9-11 minutes or until lightly browned.
4) Line tray with wax paper. Melt mini kisses in a small bowl. Dip 1/3 of cookie into melted chocolate and place on wax paper. Allow chocolate to set
Makes about 3 dozen cookies
Friday, November 19, 2010
Sorry
I realize I have been slacking off the last little while with the blog... missing days, lame posts, etc... what can I say... the pre christmas prep has begun and Im running around like crazy! last night I had a RS meeting and we were working on planning the Christmas activity, January activity and Fed activity... yikes! it was a late night!
Winter has arrived which means I have gone into hibernation mode. I HATE THE COLD. HATE IT. -22 sucks!
On to some fun things.. sorry about the lack of pictures... my camera died... I need to remember to charge it!
yesterday was Day two of my Christmas crafts with the boys. We colored snowflakes. I cut them out of paper and the boys colored them. Jaxon is having alot of fun admiring this handy work.
Tonight I made one of my all time favorite recipes. Its a recipe I grew up eating. SUPER YUMMY... I dont think Ive blogged this recipe before... but if I have sorry... I guess that just goes to show how much I love it!
Winter has arrived which means I have gone into hibernation mode. I HATE THE COLD. HATE IT. -22 sucks!
On to some fun things.. sorry about the lack of pictures... my camera died... I need to remember to charge it!
yesterday was Day two of my Christmas crafts with the boys. We colored snowflakes. I cut them out of paper and the boys colored them. Jaxon is having alot of fun admiring this handy work.
Tonight I made one of my all time favorite recipes. Its a recipe I grew up eating. SUPER YUMMY... I dont think Ive blogged this recipe before... but if I have sorry... I guess that just goes to show how much I love it!
Curry Cajun Chicken
1/3 cup honey
3 Tbsp water
3 Tbsp prepared Mustard
2 Tbsp margarine, melted
3 tsp cajun seasoning
3 tsp curry powder
1 tsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic
6 chicken breasts
In a 3 quart rectangular baking dish combine all ingredients (excluding chicken) Mix well. Add Chicken, turning to coat. arrange in a single layer. Bake at 350 degress for 30 minutes. Serve over rice.
Hope you all have a great weekend! Im going to be swamped, but Im optistic that I can get it all done!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
12 Crafts for Christmas... Day 1
This year Jaxon started preschool. He loves it. But on Tuesdays and Thursdays when he doesnt have school he gets really really bored. So I came up with 12 super cheap christmas/winter themed crafts to do on tuesdays and Thursdays leading up to Christmas. Yesterday's craft was Toilet paper roll snowmen. And mother nature even got in the spirit and it snowed and snowed and snowed yesterday... and it hasnt stopped yet...
This is super easy and basically free. I saved some toilet paper rolls and painted them white and then let them dry. They Jaxon got out his smelly markers (he loves them!) and decorated them. He had me draw on the faces. Now they sit on our kitchen table as our winter centerpiece.
This is super easy and basically free. I saved some toilet paper rolls and painted them white and then let them dry. They Jaxon got out his smelly markers (he loves them!) and decorated them. He had me draw on the faces. Now they sit on our kitchen table as our winter centerpiece.
What a cute little snowman family I think. Owen was napping while we did this so it was nice one on one time with my buddy Jaxon. It was awesome!
Monday, November 15, 2010
menu...a day late
I must have been way too excited to share the super awesome read that is I am number 4 with you. Because I totally forgot to pass on the menu for the week! I am still trying to save money on groceries so I didnt by meat this week... which is totally fine with me!
Monday - my brother Kris brought us dinner
Tuesday - My lovely friend Claire is having us over for dinner
Wednesday - Baked Pasta
Thursday - Egg sammies ( I love egg Sammies)
Friday - Curry Cajun Chicken and Rice
Saturday - SW Chicken Noodle Soup and Grilled Cheese sammies
Sunday - Leftovers!
Also here are my crafty goals this week..
1) Get all the buildings ready to mount onto the Car Mats
2) Finish the Chocolate cookies felt food (I meant to do this last week but ran out of thread)
3) Complete two christmas crafts with my boys.. Tuesday is Snowmen out of Toilet paper tubes and Thursday is Snowflake chains
I think that is about all Ill be able to get done since I am teaching in Relief Society on Sunday and Ill have to devote some of my time to prepareing the lesson...Its going to be awesome! You should come!
Monday - my brother Kris brought us dinner
Tuesday - My lovely friend Claire is having us over for dinner
Wednesday - Baked Pasta
Thursday - Egg sammies ( I love egg Sammies)
Friday - Curry Cajun Chicken and Rice
Saturday - SW Chicken Noodle Soup and Grilled Cheese sammies
Sunday - Leftovers!
Also here are my crafty goals this week..
1) Get all the buildings ready to mount onto the Car Mats
2) Finish the Chocolate cookies felt food (I meant to do this last week but ran out of thread)
3) Complete two christmas crafts with my boys.. Tuesday is Snowmen out of Toilet paper tubes and Thursday is Snowflake chains
I think that is about all Ill be able to get done since I am teaching in Relief Society on Sunday and Ill have to devote some of my time to prepareing the lesson...Its going to be awesome! You should come!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
I am Number 4
This was an AMAZING book. I literally spent all hours of the night reading it. I would tell myself that I would only read one more chapter and then 2 hours later be forcing myself to put the book down. I had been a long time since a book grabbed me like that.
So here is the gist... There was a planet called Lorien. It was invaded and basically destroyed but another group of aliens called...(some long word that I cant spell starting with a M) but before all the Loriens were wiped out a group of 9 kids (plus their 9 protectors) were shipped off to Earth to grow and train until they could come back and reclaim Lorien. They look, sound, act like humans. But they have unreal super powers. The 9 aliens do not know who each other are because there is a spell on them. They were all given a number and they can only be killed in the numerical order. So they know there are others out there they just dont know who they are. Anyways... those nasty M aliens come to Earth in search of these kids. I am Number 4 is about one of those aliens and his adventures while trying to be a normal High school kid and an alien destined to save his home planet. AWESOME!
There is always a down side... I have yet to find a perfect book.. although many have come close. So the main character is a High School boy.. which inevitably leads to high School romance. Im not a Romance fan so at times i found this less then charming but at least it was just a back burner story line. It really didnt interfere too much with the rest of the story.
There are two totally awesome bonuses with this book... First they are making it a movie set to be released in 2011... two It the start of a new series... the Lorein Legacies. I can not wait for the next book! Now on that note Im off to google and find out when it will be released!
THIS IS A MUST READ
So here is the gist... There was a planet called Lorien. It was invaded and basically destroyed but another group of aliens called...(some long word that I cant spell starting with a M) but before all the Loriens were wiped out a group of 9 kids (plus their 9 protectors) were shipped off to Earth to grow and train until they could come back and reclaim Lorien. They look, sound, act like humans. But they have unreal super powers. The 9 aliens do not know who each other are because there is a spell on them. They were all given a number and they can only be killed in the numerical order. So they know there are others out there they just dont know who they are. Anyways... those nasty M aliens come to Earth in search of these kids. I am Number 4 is about one of those aliens and his adventures while trying to be a normal High school kid and an alien destined to save his home planet. AWESOME!
There is always a down side... I have yet to find a perfect book.. although many have come close. So the main character is a High School boy.. which inevitably leads to high School romance. Im not a Romance fan so at times i found this less then charming but at least it was just a back burner story line. It really didnt interfere too much with the rest of the story.
There are two totally awesome bonuses with this book... First they are making it a movie set to be released in 2011... two It the start of a new series... the Lorein Legacies. I can not wait for the next book! Now on that note Im off to google and find out when it will be released!
THIS IS A MUST READ
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Another great deal!
I was totally planning on doing a book review of I am Number 4 tonight for you... but Owen didnt sleep last night. I dont know what my little monsters problem is... the last few months there is at least one night, now generally two nights a week where he just doesnt sleep. He isnt upset or anything... just awake. So last night I was up from 1:30-4 watching food network with him. I would try ti turn the TV off to force him to sleep and he would SCREAM... so Im done.. so the book review will have to wait until I have more brain power... hopefully tomrrow.
but I found another great deal for you mothers out there. here is the tale; Saturday is errand running day. First we headed off to Walmart. I try to get all my christmas shopping done before Dec 1 and I had to still get a gift for both the boys and I wanted Tims opinion.. so we did that... then we went to library so I could get my new book... Clockwork Angel... and then we went to Home Depot to get a latch for our new gate. Anyways... as Im walking with with the boys the greeter says "you must be here for the free kids workshop.. its in the back corner" I had no idea they do free kids workshops (lets face it I dont know much about home depot... but Im learning!) So we go since what else am I going to do in home depot with a 3 and 1 yr old. They were making spice racks. and it was totally free! They get an apron with threir name on it and a kit with everything to make the spice rack... so daddy showed up and helped the boys make spice racks and then they get a pin for their apron showing which project they made. The boys LOVED it. Owen now hammers everything! and jaxon is anxious to paint his rack. To top it off the guy running the workshop tells me they do this every second saturday of the month from 10-12... I have already marked the calendar and you can bet we will be there with bells on next month and the following months too! So if you need something to do then check it out!
(I know all/most home depot locations do the workshops.. but I dont know if they all run at the same time... the location I was at was the Shawnessy store.)
I was dissappointed that I didnt bring my camera... next time!
but I found another great deal for you mothers out there. here is the tale; Saturday is errand running day. First we headed off to Walmart. I try to get all my christmas shopping done before Dec 1 and I had to still get a gift for both the boys and I wanted Tims opinion.. so we did that... then we went to library so I could get my new book... Clockwork Angel... and then we went to Home Depot to get a latch for our new gate. Anyways... as Im walking with with the boys the greeter says "you must be here for the free kids workshop.. its in the back corner" I had no idea they do free kids workshops (lets face it I dont know much about home depot... but Im learning!) So we go since what else am I going to do in home depot with a 3 and 1 yr old. They were making spice racks. and it was totally free! They get an apron with threir name on it and a kit with everything to make the spice rack... so daddy showed up and helped the boys make spice racks and then they get a pin for their apron showing which project they made. The boys LOVED it. Owen now hammers everything! and jaxon is anxious to paint his rack. To top it off the guy running the workshop tells me they do this every second saturday of the month from 10-12... I have already marked the calendar and you can bet we will be there with bells on next month and the following months too! So if you need something to do then check it out!
(I know all/most home depot locations do the workshops.. but I dont know if they all run at the same time... the location I was at was the Shawnessy store.)
I was dissappointed that I didnt bring my camera... next time!
Friday, November 12, 2010
A Great Deal
Today I had the Elders and my good friend Claire and her daughter Krysten (jaxon's buddy) over for dinner. it was pizza night. I love making home made pizza. As you have probably figured out Pizza is my favorite food. I love pizza because I can make it any flavor I want... asian, bbq, traditional, breakfast... Ive done it all and its all amazing!
Anyways... I normally make my own pizza crusts in my bread machine... but I must have been kind of distracted today because it did not turn out at all... it was a nasty mess... so that meant a 4pm trip to safeway to get store bought pizza crusts.
So while I was at Safeway I picked out a Calgary's Child magazine. That is a free magazine that is published every two months and it has articles on parenting and ideas on what to do with your kids and for yourself and coupons and a calendar of events going on arould town. LOVE IT. So i was flipping through it once I got home and found an amazing deal I had to share with you all!
Calaway Park 2011 season passes are only $30 at Coop stores from nov 21- Jan 2! AMAZING! I have marked the date on the calendar and will for sure be picking up mine. My boys LOVE LOVE LOVE Calaway park! So anyone planning on going to calaway park should get one... Heck even if you arent sure you will go more the once get one... $30 is cheaper then a day admission!
(dont you love how I can start off talking about Pizza and end up at Calaway park!)
Anyways... I normally make my own pizza crusts in my bread machine... but I must have been kind of distracted today because it did not turn out at all... it was a nasty mess... so that meant a 4pm trip to safeway to get store bought pizza crusts.
So while I was at Safeway I picked out a Calgary's Child magazine. That is a free magazine that is published every two months and it has articles on parenting and ideas on what to do with your kids and for yourself and coupons and a calendar of events going on arould town. LOVE IT. So i was flipping through it once I got home and found an amazing deal I had to share with you all!
Calaway Park 2011 season passes are only $30 at Coop stores from nov 21- Jan 2! AMAZING! I have marked the date on the calendar and will for sure be picking up mine. My boys LOVE LOVE LOVE Calaway park! So anyone planning on going to calaway park should get one... Heck even if you arent sure you will go more the once get one... $30 is cheaper then a day admission!
(dont you love how I can start off talking about Pizza and end up at Calaway park!)
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Progress report.. and a fond farewell
So today was sadly my last day of Hot Yoga... My intro week has expired and I just can afford to buy a pass. Ill miss it! It was a great work out and Im down 5 lbs! I will probably still go every once and a while... but mostly I think Im back to convincing myself to work out at home... booo!
On to some fun news! I dont know if Ive mentioned it already but Im making both my boys personalized car mats for christmas. I have come up with some fun places that they love to go to. Im still hours and hours away from getting it done but I thought id share some of my progress. Here are a few of the buildings for it.
Ice Cream Parlor
On to some fun news! I dont know if Ive mentioned it already but Im making both my boys personalized car mats for christmas. I have come up with some fun places that they love to go to. Im still hours and hours away from getting it done but I thought id share some of my progress. Here are a few of the buildings for it.
Ice Cream Parlor
Toy Store
Fire Hall
School
For someone who doesnt know how to sew I think they are turning out fairly ok. Also I knwo some of they are pretty far out with their colors but I thought why not??? Make it crazy and fun right... I mean my boys are nuts in a fun way! Im just hoping that I get it done in time!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Praise!
I am having a wonderful day today. Im not sure why but I woke up feeling fabulous and wanting to get tons done. Im not complaining though it was an awesome day! I sure hope this feeling lasts. So since I am in such a great mood I thought Id pass on some praises...
First... Birkam Yoga... thats my hot yoga class. If you will recall my past post about hot yoga; I wasnt very thrilled with my experience... but My friend Ashley convinced me to go again. So I did... Im a sucker for punishment. It was so much better this time around. I dont know why but it was way easier. Dont get me wrong it still hurt and sucked but it wasnt nearly has bad. I enjoyed myself as much as I ever do while working out. So I think Ill give it a shot for a while.
Second... Chapters is currenlty having their Mom's night out sale event. Its tonight and tomorrow night from 6pm until close. If you go to there site there is a coupon you can print and get 15% off (25% if you have an irewards card) all regular priced items. I went and I have never been so impressed with a store event. (I will have to say I went at like 6:30 so the thing barely started... which is how I tend to do things) But I went and they must have had every employee on that night because there were workers everywhere. They had samples of food, and tons of toys on display. When I was there, there must have been about 1 employee to every two customers. I wanted to look around but I had to get home to help with the boys and to get out of the store before I spent too much money...So I got the thing I went for (an christmas present for my Jaxon) and then I go to pay and they gift wrap it for free!!!! I even got to choose the paper! It was awesome.
I dont know... maybe I am just in a really good mood so everything seems totally awesome today... but I was very impressed with it. Way to go Chapters and a special way to go to the Crew at the Shawnessy location!
First... Birkam Yoga... thats my hot yoga class. If you will recall my past post about hot yoga; I wasnt very thrilled with my experience... but My friend Ashley convinced me to go again. So I did... Im a sucker for punishment. It was so much better this time around. I dont know why but it was way easier. Dont get me wrong it still hurt and sucked but it wasnt nearly has bad. I enjoyed myself as much as I ever do while working out. So I think Ill give it a shot for a while.
Second... Chapters is currenlty having their Mom's night out sale event. Its tonight and tomorrow night from 6pm until close. If you go to there site there is a coupon you can print and get 15% off (25% if you have an irewards card) all regular priced items. I went and I have never been so impressed with a store event. (I will have to say I went at like 6:30 so the thing barely started... which is how I tend to do things) But I went and they must have had every employee on that night because there were workers everywhere. They had samples of food, and tons of toys on display. When I was there, there must have been about 1 employee to every two customers. I wanted to look around but I had to get home to help with the boys and to get out of the store before I spent too much money...So I got the thing I went for (an christmas present for my Jaxon) and then I go to pay and they gift wrap it for free!!!! I even got to choose the paper! It was awesome.
I dont know... maybe I am just in a really good mood so everything seems totally awesome today... but I was very impressed with it. Way to go Chapters and a special way to go to the Crew at the Shawnessy location!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Another week...
Here we are at the start of yet another week. What do you have planned for this week?? what are you hoping to accomplish? Me? I have a pretty low key week. Which means I am hoping to get lots done. Here are my big goals
1) Finish Christmas stocking shopping
2) Email my latest and greatest story to my mommy for her approval
3) Make Felt Choco chip cookies
4) Get at least 10 more buildings finished for the car mats
5) Clean my house
Im crossing my fingers that I get it all done. Im also crossing my fingers that I dont freeze. Yes I grew up here but Calgary weather still sucks and I will never be used to it. Yes I know its Nov and we should have snow already but Im still not happy that its supposed to snow tonight. Here is hoping that it holds off a few more days/months/years!
Here is another fact about me... I am a food hoarder. I dont know where I could have possibly gotten my food stocking gene (mother!) but we normally have more food then we need in this house. I may not have an official 3 month supply but we wouldnt be hurting if I didnt make a grocery trip most weeks! Anyways. I have been trying to save on groceries so I can spend the money on Christmas and so I am in use it up mode. So now Im going through my pantry/fridge/food storage and using all the things that I already have in the house. its pretty refreshing!
Monday - tandoori Chicken
Tuesday - Thai Soup
Wednesday - Asian Chicken salads
Thursday - Hamburgers
Friday - Pizza night with the Elders
Saturday - Still undecided
Sunday - Leftovers
1) Finish Christmas stocking shopping
2) Email my latest and greatest story to my mommy for her approval
3) Make Felt Choco chip cookies
4) Get at least 10 more buildings finished for the car mats
5) Clean my house
Im crossing my fingers that I get it all done. Im also crossing my fingers that I dont freeze. Yes I grew up here but Calgary weather still sucks and I will never be used to it. Yes I know its Nov and we should have snow already but Im still not happy that its supposed to snow tonight. Here is hoping that it holds off a few more days/months/years!
Here is another fact about me... I am a food hoarder. I dont know where I could have possibly gotten my food stocking gene (mother!) but we normally have more food then we need in this house. I may not have an official 3 month supply but we wouldnt be hurting if I didnt make a grocery trip most weeks! Anyways. I have been trying to save on groceries so I can spend the money on Christmas and so I am in use it up mode. So now Im going through my pantry/fridge/food storage and using all the things that I already have in the house. its pretty refreshing!
Monday - tandoori Chicken
Tuesday - Thai Soup
Wednesday - Asian Chicken salads
Thursday - Hamburgers
Friday - Pizza night with the Elders
Saturday - Still undecided
Sunday - Leftovers
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Strawberries and Bow Ties
Here are my latest creations for Jaxon and Owens Kitchen. I made Strawberries....
...and Bow Tie Pasta.
Both were crazy easy. The Strawberries took some time to stitch in the little 'seeds' or whatever you call them on the outside of the berries. But the Bowties were awesome... I made them all in 20 minutes while cooking dinner! Love when crafts go like that!
Fab Friday is now over. It as consumed my thoughts the last little while as it approached and we were scrambling to get it all finalized. I think it was a great night and very well attended. We are super lucky and have some insanely talented sisters in my ward and they were kind enough to share those talents with us.
Now that its over... Im going to get ready for christmas!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Kill me NOW
As you have probably noticed, I am a practically perfect blog poster when it comes to loyally posting everyday. And Im sure you noticed that I didnt post last night... I blame the worst invention known to man... HOT YOGA!
I have a few friends who do hot yoga and rave about how awesome it is. A few of my friends bought passes to Birkham (?) Yoga and convinced me to try it out. So I went last night with my good friend Ashley. I was nervous to begin with, but as I was sitting in the room waiting for the class to start I was loving the heat and thought I was going to rock it. I eagerly start the warm up... two poses in Im taking and knee adn it was all down hill from there. I spent at least 50% of the class sitting or laying down willing myself to not puke. Sweat was literally dripping off me. I hated it. In fact... I would rather go through child birth again! (and for those of you who know me know what that means!) And yet Ashley has convinced me to go again on Monday. Maybe it wont be so bad the second time around... or maybe it will and Ill just be the moron who tortures herself repeatedly!
I had nightmares last night about hot yoga... yes I was that affected!
I have a few friends who do hot yoga and rave about how awesome it is. A few of my friends bought passes to Birkham (?) Yoga and convinced me to try it out. So I went last night with my good friend Ashley. I was nervous to begin with, but as I was sitting in the room waiting for the class to start I was loving the heat and thought I was going to rock it. I eagerly start the warm up... two poses in Im taking and knee adn it was all down hill from there. I spent at least 50% of the class sitting or laying down willing myself to not puke. Sweat was literally dripping off me. I hated it. In fact... I would rather go through child birth again! (and for those of you who know me know what that means!) And yet Ashley has convinced me to go again on Monday. Maybe it wont be so bad the second time around... or maybe it will and Ill just be the moron who tortures herself repeatedly!
I had nightmares last night about hot yoga... yes I was that affected!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Pizza Puffs
Im sure by now you are all more then aware of my love of pizza. Tonight I made one of my favorite... Pizza Puffs. Its orginally a Rachael Ray recipe...but with my spin on it! Its just yummy pizza muffin goodness!
Pizza Puffs
3/4 cup flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup milk
1 egg
1 cup mozza cheese
1 cup turkey pepperoni, cut into little cubes
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
1) Preheat oven to 375 and grease 24 mini muffin tins.
2) In a large bowl whisk flour and baking powder. Add milk and egg. Stir in cheese and pepperoni and seasoning. Stir to combine. Let stand for 10 minutes
3) Stir batter and divide among muffin tins. Bake until puffed and golden... about 20 minutes
4) Serve with warmed pizza sauce seasoned with basil... or oregano
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Super Submarines
Ok ok ok... I know I've done alot of Childrens Books lately. There are several reasons why.
1)I love them
2) With two little ones Im constantly reading them
3) (and probably the biggest reason) Im too lazy to pull out my camera cord and post the pictures of my latest projects... soon I will I promise
As I've mentioned before, I do a book of the month with Jaxon. I know this year we have been focussed on Robert munsch books. I know this is not a Robert Munsch book. here is my story...
This is one of the 10 books that makes up the Amazing machines series from Tony Mitton and Ant Parker. They are super cute little poems/stories each focussing on a different machine; Dazzing Diggers, Terrific trains, Tough Trucks, Roaring Rockets, Cool Cars, Busy Boats, Amazing Airplanes, Flashing Fire engines, Tremendous Tractors and Super Submarines. We have them all but tremendous tractors and Super Submarines. I ordered them online and was hoping to put them in Jaxon stocking at Christmas. While we got Tremendous tractors, to my dissappointed I get an email one morning saying that Super Submarines is back ordered. No joke... 10 minutes later the post man drops off a box... I was expecting a different goodie so I quickly open the box to see what was inside... and Jaxon shouts... A NEW BOOK! yes it was Super Submarines. I took it away super fast and thought " He will forget about it..." I was thrilled to have gotten it. A few nights pass and then its bedtime one night and I ask "What stories do you want tonight" and I get "The dark, Tough trucks...and that new one that you took away" SHOOT he hadnt forgotten... so I thought.. Ok its almost the first of the month which means new book anyways... SO November is Super Submarines adn the Robert munsch book will just have to wait until Christmas to make its appearance!
Anyways... the whole series of these books are PERFECT for little boys. They are simple easy to follow but still teach basic part and purpose to these machines. I will say Super Submarines isnt my favorite of the bunch. I found the rythm off a little. It didnt flow as nicely. But its still a fun read.
oh and in case you are wondering Jaxon's favorite of the bunch is Dazzing Diggers (or tough Trucks!)
1)I love them
2) With two little ones Im constantly reading them
3) (and probably the biggest reason) Im too lazy to pull out my camera cord and post the pictures of my latest projects... soon I will I promise
This is one of the 10 books that makes up the Amazing machines series from Tony Mitton and Ant Parker. They are super cute little poems/stories each focussing on a different machine; Dazzing Diggers, Terrific trains, Tough Trucks, Roaring Rockets, Cool Cars, Busy Boats, Amazing Airplanes, Flashing Fire engines, Tremendous Tractors and Super Submarines. We have them all but tremendous tractors and Super Submarines. I ordered them online and was hoping to put them in Jaxon stocking at Christmas. While we got Tremendous tractors, to my dissappointed I get an email one morning saying that Super Submarines is back ordered. No joke... 10 minutes later the post man drops off a box... I was expecting a different goodie so I quickly open the box to see what was inside... and Jaxon shouts... A NEW BOOK! yes it was Super Submarines. I took it away super fast and thought " He will forget about it..." I was thrilled to have gotten it. A few nights pass and then its bedtime one night and I ask "What stories do you want tonight" and I get "The dark, Tough trucks...and that new one that you took away" SHOOT he hadnt forgotten... so I thought.. Ok its almost the first of the month which means new book anyways... SO November is Super Submarines adn the Robert munsch book will just have to wait until Christmas to make its appearance!
Anyways... the whole series of these books are PERFECT for little boys. They are simple easy to follow but still teach basic part and purpose to these machines. I will say Super Submarines isnt my favorite of the bunch. I found the rythm off a little. It didnt flow as nicely. But its still a fun read.
oh and in case you are wondering Jaxon's favorite of the bunch is Dazzing Diggers (or tough Trucks!)
Monday, November 1, 2010
The Terrible Plop
I know Ive mentioned it before... but I love books and I am working hard to pass that love onto my kids. So far so good. They both love story time and looking at books. This is a book that is a regular in our rotation now. Again it is one that we took out at the library and then we HAD to buy it for our collection. Its wonderful and funny!
It's "The Terrible Plop" Its just such a cute book. it is another book with rhymes. I find books like this are easier for my little guys to remember. I often catch Jaxon reciting lines from the book as he is playing.
It is this super cute story about some bunnies who are scared of a Terrible Plop (the sound an apple makes as it falls into the water) and then convince all the other animals of this terrible plop until they come to a Big Brown Bear. He then takes the littlest rabbit back to the lake to see this plop. Once there they rabbit realizes what the plop truly is but the big brown bear runs away. It's funny and makes me smile as I read it. The pictures are really sweet too.
It's "The Terrible Plop" Its just such a cute book. it is another book with rhymes. I find books like this are easier for my little guys to remember. I often catch Jaxon reciting lines from the book as he is playing.
It is this super cute story about some bunnies who are scared of a Terrible Plop (the sound an apple makes as it falls into the water) and then convince all the other animals of this terrible plop until they come to a Big Brown Bear. He then takes the littlest rabbit back to the lake to see this plop. Once there they rabbit realizes what the plop truly is but the big brown bear runs away. It's funny and makes me smile as I read it. The pictures are really sweet too.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Food for my Week
This is going to be the week from you know where... we have Fabulous friday coming up and even though Im super excited for it Im also super stressed out as I am supposed to be in charge of it. So hopefully it all turns out and is a good time... we will see!
But here is my game plan for dinner this week
Monday - tacos
Tuesday - Asian Chicken Salads
Wednesday - Pizza Puffs
Thursday - Fried chicken with Tabasco Honey
Friday - Burgers (as I will be at Fab friday)
Saturday - Shrimp Stir Fry
Sunday - Left overs!
Wish me luck this week! I will for sure need it. My goal this week is to just survive!
But here is my game plan for dinner this week
Monday - tacos
Tuesday - Asian Chicken Salads
Wednesday - Pizza Puffs
Thursday - Fried chicken with Tabasco Honey
Friday - Burgers (as I will be at Fab friday)
Saturday - Shrimp Stir Fry
Sunday - Left overs!
Wish me luck this week! I will for sure need it. My goal this week is to just survive!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Christmas is coming!
Yes I am one of those people who is insanely in love with Christmas! Besides the snow, its wonderful! I plan for christmas pratically the entire year. And now that Halloween is about over its time for the hard core planning and prep to begin! I have nothing standing in my way now! Yippie!
So besides all the projects I am working on as gifts there are a few I have on the side. One is I want to do a 12 days of christmas crafts with Jaxon and Owen this year. So for the 6 weeks leading up to Christmas I am going to do a different craft on Tuesday and thursday. Its going to be awesome! here is my game plan
Nov 16 - Toilet paper roll snowmen
Nov 18- Snowflakes
Nov 23 - cards for Grandparents
Nov 25 - make your own gift wrap
Nov 30 - Picture frame for the picture with Santa
Dec 2 - Ornaments
Dec 7 - Letter to Santa
Dec 9 - Gift bags
Dec 14 - Gift Tags
Dec 16 - Make your own Christmas Crackers
Dec 21 - Cookies
Dec 23 - Chocolate Covered Pretzles!
I think it should be a good time! Anyone want to join in the fun?!?!
So besides all the projects I am working on as gifts there are a few I have on the side. One is I want to do a 12 days of christmas crafts with Jaxon and Owen this year. So for the 6 weeks leading up to Christmas I am going to do a different craft on Tuesday and thursday. Its going to be awesome! here is my game plan
Nov 16 - Toilet paper roll snowmen
Nov 18- Snowflakes
Nov 23 - cards for Grandparents
Nov 25 - make your own gift wrap
Nov 30 - Picture frame for the picture with Santa
Dec 2 - Ornaments
Dec 7 - Letter to Santa
Dec 9 - Gift bags
Dec 14 - Gift Tags
Dec 16 - Make your own Christmas Crackers
Dec 21 - Cookies
Dec 23 - Chocolate Covered Pretzles!
I think it should be a good time! Anyone want to join in the fun?!?!
Friday, October 29, 2010
Monkey Bread
I love to eat monkey bread... but I hate making it. It takes a long time. But I still make it because it is so worth it in the end. I just whine and complain the whole time Im making it! But there is rarely any left over once I serve them!
Give it a try when you have some time... all your little monkeys will love them... mine sure do... (ok Jaxon doesnt but thats because he wont eat things that make his hands sticky or dirty)
Monkey Bread
1 1/2 sticks butter, chilled (that equals 3/4 cups)
3 Tbsp maple Syrup
1/3 cup plus 2 Tbsp white sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
2 cups flour
1 tbsp baking powder
3/4 cup milk
2 tsp maple extract
1) Preheat over to 400 degrees
2) Combine the flour, baking powder and 2 tbsp of white sugar. Cut 1 stick of butter into small pieces and add to flour mixture until it resembles course crumbs.
3) Add Buttermilk and extract until the dough starts to come together. (it will be very sticky and I always have to mix with my hands)
4)in a microwave safe bowl melt 1/2 stick of butter. in another bowl combine 1/3 cup white sugar, brown sugar and cinnamon
5) pull off small sections of dough and roll until a ball. dip ball into butter and then into cinnamon sugar mixture. place into a muffin tin. It should take about 5 or 6 balls to fill a single muffin tin.
6) Bake for 15-20 minutes
7) remove from tins (good luck.. this always give me trouble) and top with Maple glaze
Maple Glaze
1 cup icing sugar
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp maple extract
combine all ingredients
Yeah I know it sounds like a pain... and it is... Im not going to lie to you. But its SOOOOOOO good! its worth it!
Give it a try when you have some time... all your little monkeys will love them... mine sure do... (ok Jaxon doesnt but thats because he wont eat things that make his hands sticky or dirty)
Monkey Bread
1 1/2 sticks butter, chilled (that equals 3/4 cups)
3 Tbsp maple Syrup
1/3 cup plus 2 Tbsp white sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
2 cups flour
1 tbsp baking powder
3/4 cup milk
2 tsp maple extract
1) Preheat over to 400 degrees
2) Combine the flour, baking powder and 2 tbsp of white sugar. Cut 1 stick of butter into small pieces and add to flour mixture until it resembles course crumbs.
3) Add Buttermilk and extract until the dough starts to come together. (it will be very sticky and I always have to mix with my hands)
4)in a microwave safe bowl melt 1/2 stick of butter. in another bowl combine 1/3 cup white sugar, brown sugar and cinnamon
5) pull off small sections of dough and roll until a ball. dip ball into butter and then into cinnamon sugar mixture. place into a muffin tin. It should take about 5 or 6 balls to fill a single muffin tin.
6) Bake for 15-20 minutes
7) remove from tins (good luck.. this always give me trouble) and top with Maple glaze
Maple Glaze
1 cup icing sugar
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp maple extract
combine all ingredients
Yeah I know it sounds like a pain... and it is... Im not going to lie to you. But its SOOOOOOO good! its worth it!
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