Scrappy Girl

The End

2011-09-14T19:54:00.001-07:00

I have decided to move my thoughts, feelings, photos, etc. to another address in the blogosphere. It is not a private blog. You can message me on facebook if we are friends there! Or leave your email in a comment here and I will email you! I don't want to lose any of my bloggy friends so be sure to come find me!

Happy Blogging!

The End.

How We Do It In The Country!

2011-08-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

I am MOVING!

Tonight we spend the first night in our new home!

A Quick Sneak Peek

2011-08-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

Here are 2 pics {fuzzy iphone pics} of my 2 fave paint colors in the new house!

The "Chamois" walls in the kitchen. Can you tell Cutie is getting used to the huge cast on her arm?! It comes off on the 10th! Woo Hoo!

And "Temptation" in the girls' bathroom. Yes, Wild Child is wearing 2 different shoes. All 3 girls LOVED the color, but I am currently very worried about my hubby's reaction. He is not exactly on board with the color choices for the "kid's wing" of the house.

Sorry I am not around much...posting and/or commenting...my Mom is here helping me! We are scheduled to move on the 13th and 14th! Yippee!

UnStopables

2011-07-25T10:58:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I received a box in the mail for a product review. I was so excited!

I joined VocalPoint about a month ago and had been hoping to review some cool stuff. Downy had sent me one of their latest products, Downy Unstopables. It is a scent booster you add to each load in the washer.

You pour as much as you want in the cap and throw them in the washer with your load of clothes. We have a lot of dirty towels...and sometimes they are in the basket a little too long...you know what I am talking about! Stinky towel syndrome. Well, if you add a few Unstopables to your towels they come out smelling fabulous! AND will still be fabulous and fresh when you use them!

I have washed a lot of our blankets before packing them for the move. Now when I pull them out at the new house they will smell fantastic! My mom and I just saw Unstopables in Walmart last week. They were $6.97. After using them at my house, my mom picked up one for herself! I will definitely be keeping them...hope Downy puts out coupons! A bottle will last a long time!

For doing this review Downy sent me a full size sample of the product and these cute socks. Did I mention how well they do on stinky socks?! Try it!

Lining

2011-07-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

A sneak peek of a few of my colors for the new house.

I can't believe I am still lining drawers! Love the color of this lining...it's called Brownstone. Makes me think of NJ Housewives.

It took forever just to get the oodles of drawers lined on just one side of the gigantic island.

Chamois is the first paint going on the walls! It is so nice to have a painter doing all that for me. A girl could get used to that...

Happy Weekend!

Don't Be Fooled By The Mismatched Clothing And Grass In Her Hair!

2011-07-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

On July 7th around 8pm...my girls and their cousin Beth wanted to go on our nightly ATV ride over to the new house. I had been cleaning and packing and was so tired. I had not even taken the time to eat and was getting a little sick. I let Manga Dork and cousin Beth each take a girl on their ATV. I said, "Go slow...no acrobats." I ate 10 mini corn dogs. Then the girls burst into the house crying and yelling.

Manga Dork said that she looked back and turned the wheel and the 4 wheeler had flipped completely over. I saw Cutie clutching her stomach. I said, "It ran over her stomach!" I panicked! Turns out she was clutching her arm. Just one glance near the elbow and I knew it was broken...badly. We took her to the ER...mismatched dirty play clothes and hair full of grass. Manga Dork had given her a makeover prior to the ride that included LOTS of hairspray.

We left our local hospital a little after midnight after a quick kiss to wish each other "Happy? 17th Anniversary." We drove 3 hours to Columbus Children's Hospital. It took 3 people to hold her arm down for the IV. I felt like I was going to completely lose it. They doped her up with morphine.

She had surgery at noon and received her bright pink cast. Now we have a matching set...leg and arm.

After eating and drinking and peeing enough to satisfy the nurse, Cutie was wheeled out in a wagon at 8pm. We had a lovely anniversary dinner from Dairy Queen in the car as we drove home. We felt like zombies. When we got home my dear Dr. Hubby fell asleep clutching his pjs. I just let him sleep in his clothes.

She has 3 pins that come out of her skin underneath her cast. She gets everything removed August 10th!

Upon further inspection of the ATV, Dr. Hubby discovered it had been in 4th gear. Manga Dork had been untruthful. A bad decision that had terrible consequences...consequences that could have been SO much worse. It hurts to even think about how bad it could have been. Thank God for miracles and watching over my girlies.

You Won't Even Believe What I Have Been Up To!

2011-07-13T11:31:00.000-07:00

What a summer this has been! Would you believe I am still looking for fun?! Would you believe I am ready for the end of August to get here?!

Believe it. Here's the story...

My FIL was at Cleveland Clinic. We went to visit for a weekend. It was the first time my 2 littles have stayed at a hotel. They loved wearing all their brand new swim stuff. I brought my niece and nephew to my home for a week so my SIL could stay in Cleveland with my MIL. Then we had a cousin here for the week after that.

My FIL is now here in our town at the rehab center. He may have to have bowel surgery and then they are doing the dye test on his aneurysm. My MIL is so tired and stressed. We take every chance we can to make her smile.

Last Thursday I was too tired to go on the nightly ATV ride over to the new house. Well, I let Manga Dork and the cousin take the 2 littles with them. I hurried and ate dinner cause I was so hungry I was getting sick. About 20 minutes later they all come bursting through the door. Manga Dork had flipped the ATV completely over and on its wheels again. She had tire marks rubber burnt across her leg and a sprained knee. Cutie had been flipped off and her arm was broken. Our local hospital sent her to Columbus Children's Hospital. She had to have surgery and 3 pins put in her arm. Another hot pink cast! They assure me that she won't have to start kindergarten in it! Thank goodness! Dr. Hubby and I had only 1.5 hours of sleep from Thursday morning to Friday night! We were zombies.

Want to feel like dirt? Take a child into a hospital and tell them they were on an ATV. Mother of the Year...I may be banned for life!

Today we finally got some good news! We close on our new house tomorrow at noon! I hope this is only the start of the good stuff! I feel like I am starring in the movie Crappy Scrappy and the Totally Bummer Summer!

Plant Identification

2011-06-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

Our new home's previous owner, Maguy, loved plants and flowers and trees and herbs and gardens. All of this is so definitely out of my comfort zone, BUT I am intrigued and hoping I have found a new hobby. I am determined to keep her plants beautiful. In order to do this I must know what they are. Here are two...

I love the orange flowers on this bush. So tiny. It is growing all around my purple clematis.

This is a tree. I thought the large leaves were interesting and then these little brownish things popped up with round things on the end. THEN each little round thing popped out a small flower. I have never seen anything like it.

So far I have figured out rhododendrons, bleeding hearts, humulus lupulus {hops}, roses, and purple clematis. I have also identified peach trees, blueberry bushes, grapes, and blackberry bushes. Dr. Hubby said he believes there is some peppermint in there too. Maguy had several herbs. Holy Moly! I hope I don't accidentally pull out something important.

Thanks in advance for any help you can give my black thumb...lol.

You've Never Had It So Random {We're Moving When!? Edition}

2011-06-20T07:54:00.000-07:00

Manga Dork was in the play "A Shotgun Wedding" this weekend. See her there standing in the old pants, boots, and man's shirt. Her character was hilarious! Wild Child would not quit poking her head into the shot...little rat.

I cleaned up a corner full of overflow stuff from my organization for the yard sale and move. While cleaning this one corner we destroyed the entire rest of the house. At least the corner is clean and now filled with several boxes packed and ready to go.

We visited FIL yesterday. He is out of ICU. Because of the medicines and infection and such he is hallucinating. He got really aggravated cause he said someone broke his bag that is collecting his pee and it was all over the floor. He got really aggravated when the nurse left without cleaning it up. He said "this is the nastiest place ever." heehee He got mad at MIL earlier in the day because she couldn't see all the little bugs in the air. I was dying to sit down next to him and say "Ew...what did I step in!" OR start swatting at the gnats. I behaved. I love him so much.

And for the biggest most stressfullest craziest most impossibleness of randomosity E.V.E.R. {Yes, I know most of those aren't even real words}....

My FIL can only come home if he has a walk in shower, open floor plan, handrails, etc. So since they are supposed to moving in my current home in 5 weeks and it has all the above...I HAVE TO MOVE IN 2 WEEKS! And I think 2 weeks is being generous. He will be home at the beginning of next week I bet. I don't get the keys to my new home until the end of this week. I wanted to clean, hire it all painted, organize all this stuff BEFORE I moved. I am so freaked out!

I need some FUN.
Happy Monday!

Enough Already

2011-06-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

My FIL is still in the hospital. He is still critical in ICU. He just had a second surgery and is back on the ventilator. My MIL's voice on the phone tears out my heart. She is so tired...physically, mentally, and emotionally. My hubby goes back and forth spending every other night at the hospital. He spends his time with his dad's chart trying to figure out what would be best...consulting with other doctors...trying not to worry his mom too much. I can hear the worry in his voice. My little ones are asking when Papaw and Mamaw are coming home. There are all kinds of little messages on their answering machine. My teen is so worried. She got to go back and see him the other day. I feel helpless. I take all the phone calls here...updating all the worried family and friends. I carry on with tball games, TOPS, drama club practice, organizing our stuff for our new home...busy stuff. I can control the tears until they sneak upon me. Then all the trying in the world won't stop them.

I am ready for him to be back on the farm. I want to see him on the tractor mowing the hay. I am ready for him to say one of his random things that annoy me.

Please continue to pray.

Please Send Up One...or Three!

2011-06-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

My FIL is very ill. He went into the hospital earlier this week. While testing his sinuses they found he has a brain aneurysm. It is in a location where they can not do surgery to repair it. Then they thought he was having a kidney stone yesterday. After tests they discovered his appendix had burst. At 5 pm this evening he had surgery. He is in ICU on a ventilator. Please say a prayer.

Thank you.

Giggles Needed

2011-06-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

I need something to make me laugh. My stress level is on overload. Tell me something funny.

It's Summer!!!

2011-06-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

On Cutie's last day of school she took her preschool teacher a beach bag filled with summer fun...flipflops, squirt gun, kite, chocolate, Debbie Macomber book, sunscreen, bubbles, cute glass with lid and straw, 2liter of pink lemonade, and a beach towel. I can't believe our preschool years are behind us.

Wild Child started Kindergarten with a broken leg in a wheel chair. She ended it by puking all over the classroom. Perfection.

The first summer fun activity includes a bag of puffballs and a glass heart dish. Both I purchased from the Dollar Tree.

The girls earn a puffball by doing good deeds, doing their daily chores, showing kindness to their sisters and others, and eating everything on their plate. Manga Dork can earn a puffball for paying special attention to her little sisters. They lose a puffball for fighting. When mommy's heart is full they earn a day of special F.U.N.!

I can't wait to kick off my annual summer reading book club! More on that tomorrow...

E.X.H.A.U.S.T.E.D.

2011-06-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday Dr. Hubby and I cleanded out our garage. It took 12 hours.

Monday...Tuesday...Wednesday...was spent with my mom in our basement...cleaning.

Thursday we cleaned stuff up and got it on the car hauler trailer thingy and on the trailer I have for my yellow ATV. It took all day. Can you spot Santa in the above photo? lol

On Friday and Saturday we cooked in the sun for our community yard sale. I am now $175 richer...and a lot of junk lighter. The money is going into my "I want someone else to paint the entire inside of my new home" fund.

I am still recuperating. I had lobster red arms on Friday and I am turning into a tan babe now. Let's just hope that doesn't evolve into a skin peeling leper. Thank goodness I put sunscreen on my face!

What have you been up to?

Playing Favorites

2011-06-02T02:54:00.000-07:00

This is my absolute favorite graduate of the class of 2011. I love this overly excited, adventurous, loveable, intelligent, beautiful, classy young lady like one of my own. I would have kept her from the age of 5 if her parents would have let me. Why not before 5? She was terrified of me. She would hide when I came into a room. She got over it.

Every summer she has come and stayed with us no matter where we have have lived. She once stayed 21 straight days! I'm not kidding when I say I would have kept her. I'm excited to watch our relationship evolve from adult - child into friends.

In pink is her Lil Sis...we would keep her too. Who is the guy?

Her boyfriend who I already love as much as her. He is such a keeper. He fits into our family perfectly.

She LOVED the Longaberger basket filled with school supplies we gave her. She will be attending Marshall University in the Fall. She plans to follow in Dr. Hubby's footsteps by attending medical school. We are so proud of her!

Manga Dork is the next one in our family to graduate. That makes me throw up in my mouth a little! I don't even want to think about it!

The Greatest Little Show On Earth!

2011-06-01T06:15:00.000-07:00

The Kelly Miller Circus came to our little town. I went down to the ticket booth early the morning of the show to pick up discount tickets. They were discounted from $15 to $10 plus I had coupons for free tickets for the 2 littles. I ended up buying the upgrade to VIP ringside seats{$2 per ticket}. So instead of sitting on bleachers for 2 hours we got patio chairs so close to the ring we could have touched the animals running around it!

The ringmaster started the show!

There were camels who twisted and turned and bowed...

and little ponies and dogs who jumped and posed.

During intermission the 3 girls rode an elephant...

and got their faces painted. Well, not Manga Dork.

It was fun watching and experiencing this through the kids. My FIL and MIL joined us.

The clowns made us giggle...

and the elephants took our breath away because they were so close.

We felt every flame from the fire eating crazy guys.

I didn't even show you the other clowns, tigers, jugglers, dancers, cowboys with lassos, acrobats, tumblers...

If they come to your town be sure to take time to go. It is the most fun I have had in a long time.

My Spooky Little Secret

2011-05-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

Looks like the set of a horror movie...

These are my neighbors. It totally looks like a haunted house! I could see a Halloween party under the big shade tree with that house as the perfect decoration. lol. Don't worry. It is gonna be torn down and removed. Soon.

Here is what is hiding behind the spooky house. Now that rolling pasture will be a much better view from our back yard!

Happy Weekend!

The Final Part of the Tour

2011-05-27T06:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the dining room. I love that it has lots of windows! {That black thing out the window is some of the furniture from the auction. There is a porch right there.}

I definitely need a new dining room set! The dining room is open into the kitchen. Actually it kinda makes a T shape with the kitchen.

My absolute favorite room in the house! A huge kitchen. I love all the windows. The view from them is the pond. Maguy {previous owner} had wicker furniture in that little area and it was SO pretty.

You could sit in the wicker furniture or slip out the side door to the porch.

I love the island with it cool countertops...the side near the stove is a wood top. I can see lots of cute baskets around the top of those cabinets!

I will probably keep my coupons and laptop here!

It has already become a funny joke that I will be "heating up my frozen pizzas in a professional oven." ha.ha.

I was surprised to see so many doors and drawers on this side of the island. Lots of storage!

I hope you all enjoyed the home tour. I can't wait to get in and decorate and share the "after" shots with you! I think the most intimidating thing for me is all the beautiful flowers, plants, and fruit trees. I can't fake having any knowledge about these. I am not even sure what is a plant and what is a weed. I'm gonna have to study a few books. I do know that I am in love with this purple clematis. When I was over there yesterday the rose bushes were all blooming and I discovered tiny peaches on two trees.

Be sure to pop over some time this weekend. I am going to share a sssspppoooooookkkyyy secret!

Can You Guess Where I Am Now?!

2011-05-26T15:19:00.000-07:00

Pssst...down here! In the basement! Come on down and take a peek around!

I have a feeling that this is the perfect location for a MAN CAVE!

In the back there is where they made homemade wine. There are even 2 rows of grapes right outside.

The basement keeps going and going. This area is going to have a pingpong table, air hockey table, board games, tv with game consoles, our movie collection, etc.

This section is going to be our home gym. I want to use Dr. Hubby's EKG machine at his office to get a copy of our heartbeats. Then I am going to do a red line around the wall that alternates with his heartbeat and mine. There is also a full bath off this room. It has a concrete shower in it. Let's go back upstairs...

I love the stone fireplace in the family room. Can you see my nephew's brain wheels turning?

He says he can totally see a giant tv above the mantle. Sorry Nick. The tv hookup is in the corner and my vision of this room includes a large family portrait over the fireplace.

Remember I promised to show you the view from Dr. Hubby's office. Those 3 windows are his office windows.

This is what he is looking at. Now this area totally inspires me to see garden parties, tea parties, cookouts, peaceful Sunday afternoons.

See the swing nestled in the greenery. A perfect place to smooch your sweetheart!

Tomorrow is the last house post! You will get to see the most awesome room in the entire house! The kitchen!

It Makes You Feel All French And Clean!

2011-05-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

Before we head to the Master Suite I thought I would show you the laundry area. That shelf is going to have to be raised to make room for my washer and dryer on their pedestals.

I love having a place to hang things in my laundry room. I see this room painted yellow like my current laundry room. It helps make me feel a little sunnier about doing laundry!

A perfect place to give Toby {the Shih Tzu} a bath!

This room will be Dr. Hubby's study/office. Those are some really wild curtains...they must go...now! lol Tomorrow I will show you what the view from his window is!

Welcome to the VERY pink master suite. Like those curtains in the previous photo...the pink must go.

I am in love with the master bath. I can't wait to put candles around the tub and sit and soak in bubbles. Behind my nephew is the one piece in the house that makes me giggle. That is no toilet. That is a bidet...not sure of the spelling...we'll just call it a french butt washer...heehee.

I love a corner shower!

The tile is so pretty, but I kinda feel like there is a missing sink with the two mirrors.

A WALK IN CLOSET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I feel like Paris Hilton!

This shelf is mine...all mine! I can see my purses and shoes all lined up neatly here.

Are you sick of the tour yet? I hope not! You haven't even seen the best part! Tomorrow we will peep outside for a second!

My Room...Mine...Mine...Mine!

2011-05-25T03:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my scrap area. Second floor. Open area. Near the stairway. I love the stonework. I love that it is open without a door! The only downside...No bright colored walls...it will have to be the neutral in the stairway...boo.

This is the other side of the room. In the corner is a little opening that overlooks the breakfast nook. You can even spy some of the cars in the front yard out the window. I plan on putting a double or queen size bed in here for guests too. I am so glad that my scrap stuff will be back in my home. The schoolhouse was excellent, but it was hard to find time to go down there...and the kids really disliked being there. It will soon be turned back into a 1 BR rental house.

This will be the 2 littles room. They don't want their own room. They want to share still. I predict that by the time Manga Dork leaves for college they will be begging for their own room!

This will be Manga Dork's room. She will be so glad to get out of her teeny tiny room here. Her twin size bed takes up half of her current room! The wallpaper border has to go...we are thinking one black wall with the rest black and white striped...maybe a silver eiffel tower on the solid black wall. A black chandelier...

The girls bathroom! I love that it is so big! Pretty soon this room will be a bright ocean blue with some absolutely adorable accessories.

Next up...the Master Suite!

Welcome!

2011-05-24T03:25:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the inside of our new home. This is the entryway...foyer...whatever you want to call it. It kinda makes me want to put a fancy table in the middle of it with an overly obnoxious floral arrangement on it....like a soap opera house...lol. Oh and btw...my niece and nephew are like "Where's Waldo" in most of these photos of the inside. I enjoyed spending time with them this weekend.

I love the stairs. I have NEVER lived in a two story home. All this woodwork was done by hand by the previous owners. When we moved into our home they were telling us about sanding and varnishing it all. Lots of hard work!

See that kind of dark brown painted area! It goes in about a foot. I can't wait to create a cute vignette to decorate it. I see baskets and flowers and a quilt. I also see the need for a very tall ladder...and maybe a net to catch me if I fall! lol

I have never had a skylite in my home. See it over the front door over there?! This is the little "landing" at the top of stairs under the windows. They had a loveseat sitting there. Not sure what I want to put there. Any ideas?!

Didn't they do an amazing job on the wood. I think they would be glad that we are moving in here.

Here's that little area at the top of the wall. I was surprised to see the wood "floor." I think that is even a plug in over there. Hmmm...

Next I will show you where I am going to be scrapping and creating!

PS...If any of you all have ideas for decorating or using a certain area please speak up! I am new to a lot of these features in a home. Our current home is nice, but it is really square and plain jane...not alot of personality.

Come See What The Vultures Were Picking At

2011-05-23T06:01:00.000-07:00

When I finally got over to the new house during the auction Saturday this is what it looked like over the hill. Wow! This doesn't even include the cars I could see from my front porch in the post "It Begins."

I thought this would be good memories for the scrapbook! **See the building in the back on the right side...stay tuned for more on our creepy neighbors later...

They had items EVERYWHERE and the auctioneer and crowd just went from place to place. This is the porch that faces the pond. It held Glen and Maguy's dining room furniture. Very interesting pieces that sold for only $325! Thats my SIL and niece and nephew. You should have seen the sun burn SIL got! Ouch!

All this furniture out on the lawn looked so funny. No wonder people come in to these things with trailers to haul out stuff. They got some great deals! It all still feels like vultures circling to me though.

Here's the group at the back of the house too. See the Amish ladies in the bottom right corner!

What a crazy weekend it was! I have already started cleaning out drawers and have a lot of purging to do for the big community yard sale in two weeks! I am hoping my mom gets the urge to come out for a few days!

I am going to take this week to show you some of the house. You know on all my adventures I love to take my bloggy friends along for the ride!

Happy Monday!

The Auction Verdict Is In!

2011-05-21T08:19:00.001-07:00

WE GOT IT!!!!!!

It Begins...

2011-05-21T06:17:00.000-07:00

At 11AM the farm will be auctioned. I can stand on my porch and hear the auctioneer...75.80.85.do I hear a 95. I couldn't go. I woke up...showered...puked. When I started to see the line of cars from my front porch I got upset. It just feels like vultures coming to pick apart pieces of a home. My heart is a little soft. I don't know how the family members can stand to be there. They are stronger than I am.

Dr. Hubby's phone was dead so he had to take my blinged out iPhone. I'm glad he's not wearing his pink or purple shirt. In this small town rumors would FLY! heehee

I will post here as soon as I get the news. Thank you for all the prayers and crossing of fingers and such. Tauna, I hope you are still wearing those lucky undies!

Farm Florals

2011-05-19T08:09:00.000-07:00

I love this bush with all its tiny delicate flowers.

I love yellow dandelions. I also don't mind when these fuzzy balls of fun pop up.

I couldn't resist holding one up against the blue sky and blowing. I think everyone should do that at least once each spring. Brings back childhood.

Pretty flowers in the apple tree.

My favorite perrenial is petunias! I love the smell that blows across the back porch from my hanging baskets. Dr. Hubby bought me 3 baskets! He has also turned into the flower watering nazi. He is about to get a petunia up his nose...heehee.

Less than 48 hours til the farm auction. I hear there are at least 3 very interested people. I got to peek inside again yesterday. I hope we are the MOST interested. lol.

Happy Thursday!

Free!

2011-05-18T07:28:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday night I went on my 2nd "extra mild" couponing spree. This time I took Cutie with me. I went to Walmart. Why Walmart? Well, remember I live in the country...the deep country. There aren't many more choices close by and with gas at $4.15 a gallon I need to stay as close to home as possible.

I got my ads and coupons ready the night before. Cutie was a big help holding the coupons.

I saved $16.58 with coupons and $11.61 with price matching! This doesn't include sales at the store. Anyone can get those...I only count the savings I have to "work" for by clipping coupons and/or studying the ads from other stores.

My best items this time...

100 oz. Gain detergent Reg. $10.47 Price Matched $8.99 - 25 cent coupon left on shelf = $8.74

3 boxes of Kelloggs cereal Reg. $8.70 Price Matched $5.91 {$1.97 each} - $1 coupon = $4.91

NYC Nailpolish Reg. $1.72 I had a Buy One Get One Free Coupon! 86 cents each!

Beggin' Strips Reg. 2.96 I had a Buy One Get One Free Coupon! $1.48 each!

U by Kotex pantiliners Reg. $1.24 - $1 coupon = 24 cents!

AND {DRUMROLL PLEASE}....

MY VERY FIRST COMPLETELY FREE ITEM...

A JMS pocket tshirt. Marked down from $8 to $5. I had a $5 coupon for a JMS item.

MAKING THE TSHIRT COMPLETELY FREE! Yippee!

Impulse Purchase

2011-05-17T02:51:00.000-07:00

My sweet hubby often falls victim to impulse purchases. He went to Tractor Supply Co. for some horse feed and came home with...

a paddle boat for our pond! I'm thinking this wasn't one of those items strategically placed at the checkout...lol.

I love it! I haven't went for a ride yet...I am waiting to go with Dr. Hubby for the first time. The girls loved it! Super fun!

How Do You Feel About Surprises?!

2011-05-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

"Surprise is the greatest gift which life can grant us." --Boris Pasternak

Most of the time I feel like Boris Pasternak when it comes to surprises. But I also think Jane Austen had a valid point of view on them.

"Surprises are foolish things. The pleasure is not enhanced, and the inconvenience is often considerable." --Jane Austen

There is a fine line that divides my feelings on surprises. That fine line is the state of my home. If my house is a mess and I have surprise guests I have a breakdown when they leave. If my house is clean and I feel a little prepared for the situation I LOVE surprises. I can enjoy them completely.

This past Friday I got a big surprise! My Lil Sis and Mom came to visit! Unannounced. My house was clean. Thank goodness. I have been so stressed over the upcoming house auction that I am not sure I could have handled things appropriately.

The girls were so happy to see Aunt Lil Sis. We went to the opening show of Manga Dork's spring musical. Manga Dork peeked out of the curtain and was SHOCKED to see them sitting with us.

The girls love them both SO much. This surprise was a special treat.

Manga Dork {the tall one in brown with white face and orange nose} was fantastic! She was an eagle in Narnia: the musical. It was very entertaining.

My two little ones were so into the play. At the end they ran up to meet the cast. They loved the white witch and the guy playing Edmond. The feeling was mutual cause I ended up with two offers to babysit if I ever need it!

Congratulations Manga Dork on a job well done!

Do Not Drink From That Cup!

2011-05-14T06:35:00.000-07:00

I am never alone anywhere I go inside or outside on the farm.

Toby {the Shih Tzu} is always right by my side. I am so glad he came into our world this past winter. He has been such a fun furry blessing to our family.

He is always excited to see us.

He is so laid back and lazy when he is inside. But he is full of energy on the outside.

This photo makes me think of fleas. We give Toby a pill for fleas called Comfortis. I was not comfortable putting the oily medicine at the base of his neck kind because of the kiddos.

Such a funny little face. I can't get too far away or he comes running. He wants to travel with me everywhere. If you ever ride in the Escalade DO NOT drink from the small ice water with no lid in the cup holder. That is Toby's drink.

Do you have a furry partner in crime?
What do you use for fleas?

Signs Of Summer Around The Corner

2011-05-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

This is a definite sign that summer is just around the corner. The littles fill up our sidewalks with masterpieces and hopscotch squares. It won't be long before they are soaking in the bathtub cause a shower just won't be enough for all the farm dirt.

Have you seen any signs of summer yet?

Pulling Out Your Hair

2011-05-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

A familiar sight in the barb wire fence. Horses that get too close...stretching their necks to get the greener grass on the other side of the fence.

I feel their pain. With my long hair I am constantly getting it caught in things. I have one denim skirt that has buttons on the back pockets that love to let the ends of my hair get twisted around them. They probably look like this barb wire when I take it off...lol.

When was the last time you got caught?

Take A Walk WIth Me

2011-05-09T07:46:00.000-07:00

This week is going to be so pretty and warm. I thought I would get out each day with my Nikon and share some photos with ya. Want to take a walk around the farm with me?

This is our back pastures. I am standing at the fence in my back yard. To my right is my driveway off the hill. To my left is another pasture...the one that connects to the dream farm from my last post.

See my shadow? I got tickled when I uploaded this photo cause where I have my arms raised shooting the photo it looks like I have 2 enormous boobs and no arms...lol.

Happy Monday!

A Dream

2011-05-08T01:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we drove up this little gravel road. It looks like it just drops off from there. But I know what is over that little hill.

It's not far from our home over there. Actually the road is going up the side of our farm...all that green is ours. And here is what is over the hill...

You don't even know all this is over here from the main road.

It kinda reminds of a movie when people are lost in the dessert and they climb up a sand hill and look down the other side and see a town or water...only this is no mirage!

This is a house that is going up for auction May 21st along with 138 acres. We toured the inside. We really liked our neighbors that lived here. They brought us a lasagna dinner when we were moving into our farm 5 years ago. Unfortunately they both passed last year from cancer. I can't believe they are both gone. They built this home 9 years ago. I loved hearing the stories about how they did all the woodwork themselves. It is fantastic. I am glad we went in the garage door cause the front door makes me tear up.

She swam every day in the summer in the pond. The kids went over a couple times to join her. I think if we buy this place we are going to put a bench by the pond in memory of them.

We need a bigger home and planned to build on this year. This would add 138 acres to our 101 acres. The girls are all excited about all the space we would have! I don't dare get too excited. It is alot of money...we have to bid at the auction...it seems like an impossible dream right now. We are praying and know that if it is meant to be...then it will all fall into place.

It's gonna be a long 2 weeks...

Curiousity Killed The Cat

2011-05-07T07:03:00.000-07:00

Today at 1:00 we will be doing step 2 in a process that is going to be LIFE CHANGING! I never dreamed we would do this. We are excited, nervous, happy, scared, curious...

Stay tuned...

Nothing Too Extreme...More Like "Extra Mild"

2011-05-05T07:39:00.000-07:00

Last night I had a dream that I was one of the Real Housewives of the OC. I was talking to Gretchen {my fave OC girl} about how I felt I needed to make my storyline more interesting or they may drop me next season. lol

Somehow I think my new "hobby" wouldn't add much excitement to my storyline. I am in LOVE with couponing. Have you watched the Extreme Couponing show on TLC?! So crazy! Every Wednesday at 9 and 930!

This past Sunday {5/1} I got my first Sunday paper. I loved going through all the coupons and cutting them so neatly. I also purchased the *All You magazine and cut the coupons from it. On Monday night I gathered my coupon stash {I need to make a binder}, all the store ads, and a notebook and pen. I went through the ads and wrote down the items I buy that are on sale. Then I matched up the coupons to the sales. I made a list with the item name, sale price, and if I had a coupon. I was so excited to go to Walmart the next day...

I loved my kid-free shopping trip {thank you MIL}. I saved $16.35 with coupons and $4.05 with price matching. $20.40 I didn't have to give from my checking account! I reached my first goal of $20! PLUS $2 at Long John Silvers for a quick dinner that night! I was so thrilled!

My best items {in my opinion}

24 oz. Hunts ketchup Reg. $1.24 Price Matched for $1 Coupon for 35 cents Final Price $.65!

Pantene Shampoo & Conditioner Reg. $3.78 each Price Matched for $3.50 each Coupon for $3 Final Price $2 each!

Little Debbie Snack Cakes Reg. $7.50 for 5 Price Match $5 for 5 $2.50 savings!

Do you coupon?

Royal Cuteness

2011-05-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

Oh look...it must be a princess...but which one? What a lovely tiara...

Oh my! Look at that ring...could it possibly be?!

It's Princess Cutie!

Both of my little girls enjoyed some of the royal wedding festivities. Cutie sat with me in the living room {not at 4 AM when it actually took place} glued to the tv. She even went to get her tiara. Wild Child said they watched it at school. When I asked her if she saw the kisses, she blushed. So sweet. A real life Disney movie...

I hope Kate is more careful with her ring. Dr. Hubby had to dig that one out of the drain already! lol

We Love To Samba!

2011-04-28T05:44:00.000-07:00

We only had one day of spring break so we decided to head to the movies to see RIO! Such a fun movie. The song and dance scenes are the best part. "Drop it...drop it...drop it low."

Have you seen it?
What did ya think?

Eggstremely Eggsellent Easter

2011-04-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Our Easter celebration started with the parties at school. Cutie gave all her friends chocolate bunnies. They made a bunny out of a milk jug. She had a blast! Wild Child's school does not have Easter parties. What!? I learned this after toting in 16 chocolate bunnies and a big chocolate egg filled with M&Ms for her teacher. I guess they can consider our treats an act of rebellion...lol.

On Good Friday we traveled to my parents' home. On Saturday Dr. Hubby and I went shopping for the Easter bunny. After a yummy lasagna dinner we colored easter eggs!

We got a little creative with some q-tip painters. Fun!

We even gave Toby a blue mohawk and heart "tattoo." And tipped his fuzzy tail in the green! heehee

On Easter morning the 3 girlies woke up {I think Manga Dork was awake} to bags of Easter goodies. The 2 littles got bathing suits, flipflops, beachtowels, and coverups from the Disney Store. Manga Dork got an Aero bag, iTunes gift card, and a DVD. Mix in tons of candy. Stir.

We attended church with my parents in our Easter finery. Manga Dork says she looks like a giant compared to all of us. That cracked me up. Kinda reminds me of the family portrait of the family on The Blind Side...heehee.

After church we hid our eggs.

Can you guess why we had to pause the hunt for Wild Child?! Hint: Notice the placement of the hand. Heehee

We headed home after a visit to my grandparents.

Hope you all had a fantastic Easter too!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a very Happy Easter! Can't wait to share pics on Monday! We are spending the holiday with my family. My internet is not cooperating with my photo uploading again so I thought I would share an online photo of the girls' dresses. I could only find one. This is Wild Child's dress.

Enjoy! In the middle of all the bunnies, eggs, dresses, and such...take time to thank Jesus for all he gave.

Paying The Price

2011-04-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

Manga Dork said she was sick and needed to stay home...I think maybe I was fooled. But Cutie did her makeup so I think we are even. hahahaha

A Blue Birthday In My Sea Of Pink

2011-04-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

Lately we have been a little tired {Wild Child asleep standing up in the kitchen one evening}...a little stressed...and a little sad. The main thing weighing me down was I found out a secret and it had me feeling like Vince Vaughn in his last movie. Ugh. The cat is out of the bag now {I didn't tell} and so other people can now deal with the situation. I'm done.

I decided we needed to get back to normal so I decided to do what I do best...plan a party! Friday was Toby {the Shih Tzu}'s 2nd birthday. With 3 girls I was loving all the blue! I picked up a gourmet doggy donut at the doggy bakery.

Toby was such a good sport even though he wasn't feeling very good. Earlier he had 2 shots at the vet. Poor baby.

He thought the blue icing on the donut tasted yummy!

I attempted a group shot. Not too bad...but Toby has his eyes closed...lol.

Toby loved his donut so much he didn't even seem interested in the real icing from Manga Dork's nose.

Still not impressed with Cutie's icing nose.

Wild Child loved her cupcake...she wasn't sharing even one drop of icing.

We gave Toby a Foofah dog and a squeaky rubby pacifier. Then we broke apart the donut.

Annie Louise even joined us for a bite...or three.

Thank you all for your sweet comments on my last post. Could you hear all those little violins playing their sad songs? The weight of the secret coupled with always feeling like I am being put down for being me and getting used to not being my teen's favorite person had crushed my spirit. I had to make some decisions. I needed some change. Change is good.

Happy Monday!

The One Where I Admit I Want To Be Madonna...kinda.

2011-04-13T08:00:00.001-07:00

There are all kinds of quotes out there about how you create your life. I also know that God has a plan for all of us. It feels so good when you are on track with what you are supposed to be doing. All just seems right. But then there are those time when you feel like you are stuck in limbo. You feel bored and like your aim is off. This is how I am feeling right now. I feel like if I was Madonna {not the religious one...the pointy bra one} I would be due to reinvent myself once again. I admire that about her. I love all kinds of things. If I was in high school I would definitely be referred to as a "poser." I'd like to spend a week as a goth or emo kid. I'd like to be the popular cheerleader. I'd even like a swing at being the nerd. Ooh and maybe even the school slut...lol. I just don't know where I am right now. In blog world it is almost like high school. You have the religious blogs...papercraft blogs...vintage lover blog...cooking blog...decorating blog...political blog...etc. When I think about it I am a bloggy "poser." I wish I had my "thing." Something that I excel at...something fantastic! I feel a little flakey and average about a lot of the things I do. I hope I figure it out soon. Thank you all for taking a ride inside my brain. Please exit the ride to your left. Watch your step.

Wishing

2011-04-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

I wish I felt like doing this in my pjs...

But unfortunately this is how I feel.

Wild Weekend

2011-04-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I took my 3 girlies to town for a GIRLS DAY! We ate lunch at Applebees {the littles call it the apple restaurant}. Then we went to TJMaxx where I found...

these adorable Betsey Johnson sunglasses! Then we hit the mall. Our mission was 3 Easter dresses...we got three dresses! Unfortunately it was 3 dresses for Manga Dork. I guess we should have been more specific in our goal...lol. The littles both wanted a dress with a Paris scene on it. They called it the hotel dress. I told them I understood...I love a good hotel too. ;) Unfortunately there was only one in their size.

We saw the movie HOP. The littles loved it...the teen leaned over in the middle of it and said, "Can I go to aeropostale while you finish watching this?" It wasn't as good as I thought it would be. If you don't have little kids...wait for the rental.

We ended the day at Bath and Body Works. I nearly peed my pants when I saw they have COTTON CANDY candles. Now they just need to make the bath products! I got 2 large 3wick candles, 6 handsoaps, 5 hand sanitizers, 2 plastic hand sanitizer hangy things, 3 shower gels, 2 lotions, and a body spray for $80! Alot of their current deals are the same ones they had on Black Friday! We got home at 11pm!

On Sunday Manga Dork and I went to the grocery store. Dr. Hubby took the littles to the tractor store with his friend and his 2 littles. They sneaked and watched DIARY OF A WIMPY KID 2! Unfair!

Cutie decided to "make herself beautiful." Wow!

I am halfway through the third book of the Hunger Games Trilogy. It is breaking my heart right now. I am lovin' it!

Happy Monday!

I Have No Idea What Title To Put

2011-03-31T05:12:00.000-07:00

I was very happy to see all 3 of our geese walking past the school house today. 2 had been missing for a couple days and after seeing a dead chicken I feared they had been killed by a coyote or hawk or something else mean.

Toby's favorite place to sit in the scrappy schoolhouse is in my fuzzy lime green chair.

I created these flowers for my TOPS group. They have a small magnet on the back. The biggest loser of the week gets one for their fridge each week.

And I made this card. The inside reads: Happy Mother's Day! It is for my mom. I really super miss her. I wish she and Lil Sis lived closer. I get lonely.

Anyhoo.

Happy Wednesday!

I Am Feeling The Hunger

2011-03-29T15:18:00.000-07:00

This series is SO good! I can feel the addiction. You know the one. The same one I felt with the Twilight saga. VERY FUN! Have you read it?

Mom Time

2011-03-28T05:54:00.000-07:00

My mom is visiting for a few days. On Saturday we were supposed to travel to the Scrapbook Expo, but I told Dr. Hubby if he would still keep the girls we wanted to spend the day using the things we bought at the Expo last year! He was all for me not spending more money! Mom and I decided to make cards.

I have a stack of stamped images from a swap I did with my Scrap Sisters. I am not a fan of coloring in images so they have remained untouched for over a year {maybe 2}. I figured out I could use some {with out coloring them in} with a black-white-one other color theme. I used stickles on the bubbles.

Flower made with my nestabilities. They make is so easy to make flowers!

A "manly" birthday card for Dr. Hubby's uncle.

I love the Mariposa paper pack. It has lots of butterflies, birds, and such.

A birthday card for Dr. Hubby's aunt.

Yummy cupcakes!

An easter card for a special person...

Another stamped image used! I just added a red rhinestone to her hat. This will be a good card for one of Manga Dork's friends.

I bought the Once Upon A Time paper pad from DCWV several years ago when it first came out. I love this card.

This is the inside. I showed the front to my mom, but not the inside. It is for her and dad's wedding anniversary on April 8th!

This card makes me think of my Lil Sis. She loves little critters.

It felt so good to be back in my schoolhouse! It is now straightened up and ready for me to come create on a regular basis. I hope.

Texas Day 4.0

2011-03-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

After Dr. Hubby's last class we took a taxi up Commerce Street to Market Square {Mexican Market or El Mercado}. There were stages with performers, food booths, and lots and lots of shopping!

I love all the fiesta decorations. My littles would have loved all the pinatas!

Performers were everywhere...even in the food court.

Lots and lots of cowboy hats! Dr. Hubby came home with lots of cowboy items {so sexy}.

Her costume was so blingy and fantastic!

Longhorn skulls and horns.

The colors were absolutely brilliant!

Paper flowers. Everything was a visual feast.

I regret not bringing the kiddos a puppet. So fun!

I am not a fan of Day of the Dead decorations. Skeletons creep me out.

We ended our last day with dinner at Cafe Rio with my mexican cousins. My dad's brother's first wife was mexican. I haven't seen them for 10 years. This was a real treat!

Our flights home were fine. We arrived home last night...and as usual my first day home has been loads and loads of LAUNDRY!

Texas Day 3.0

2011-03-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

The view from our hotel room window. In the right top corner is the Alamodome.

Today we decided to go SHOPPING! After Dr. Hubby's classes we took a cab to North Star Mall...home of the World's Tallest Cowboy Boots. We had a yummy lunch in the food court and then oohed and aahed over goodies in stores such as MontBlanc, Swarvoski, Saks 5th Avenue {mainly the Louis Vuitton section}, and Coach. We left this mall with a teeny tiny bag that held Coach earrings for Manga Dork.

We hailed another cab and headed to Quarry Market. A shopping center that ended up only having 2 stores we really wanted to look in....Lucchese Boot Company...and a toy store that had the stuffed giraffe Wild Child requested. It was easy to find Cutie's armadillo, but giraffes are rare in San Antonio...lol.

We decided to do something that we have never done before! We watched two movies in the theatre back to back. First we watched Limitless. I love Bradley Cooper and this is a really good movie. Then we watched Hall Pass. Ummm...it deserves its "R" rating. There are a couple scenes that are possibly the funniest I have ever seen BUT it also shows two "male peepees" up close! I nearly choked on my popcorn. Also the acting is really really BAD...especially Owen Wilson's wife.

Before heading back to the hotel we had dinner at my fave restaurant...PF Changs! Another great day!

Texas Day 2.0

2011-03-19T07:40:00.001-07:00

After I lounged around the hotel room all day, Dr. Hubby took me out after his classes. We decided to start with a relaxing riverboat cruise on the San Antonio river. The first thing we saw was a band and some very enthusiastic dancers at RiverCenter.

So beautiful!

And relaxing.

It is so nice to have my hubby all to myself.

Dr. Hubby is trying to figure out how to get these on the planes.

Creepy Day of the Dead decorations.

Handpainted pottery.

The Alamo at night.

We decided to take a night time carriage ride. This is our horse, Dobbie.

So romantic!

Tomorrow's theme is going to be SHOPPING! Yippee!

Texas!

2011-03-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

We were supposed to fly out to San Antonio on Wednesday. Unfortunately there was a delay and Delta put us in a hotel for the night. We were a little bummed, but made the best of it. We ordered chinese, cheesecake, chocolate cake, and watched American Idol! I am so loving quirky little Paul McDonald!

On Thursday we flew to Atlanta {I was keeping my eyes open for HOUSEWIVES} and then on to San Antonio.

We walked from our hotel to the Riverwalk. So much neat stuff to see.

Our hotel is in the top left corner and the Tower of the Americas is in the right corner.

I love a Marriott...almost as good as a Hilton. But not quite.

The Riverwalk is gorgeous. All the greenery and COLOR!

You could hear mariachi bands performing in the restaurants. And because it was St. Patrick's Day you could hear bag pipes mixed in.

Dr. hubby said, "Why are you taking pictures of ducks. There are ducks at home." These are special riverwalk ducks worthy of my picture taking time...trust me. lol

I was so excited to meet up with one of my Scraps Studio Sisters. Her family is so nice. We had never realized we both kids ages 15, 6, and 5. Cool. It felt like we had known each other forever. I love meeting internet friends.

We stopped by RiverCenter Mall on our way back to the hotel. Dr. Hubby couldn't wait to get inside Boot Hill. He came out emptyhanded. I think he is saving his $$$ for the Montblanc store.

The view from the sundeck at our hotel.

We ended the day watching the movie 127 hours from our cozy bed. Not a great movie for relaxation! No wonder James Franco was so exhausted at the Academy Awards. He had just got out of a hole!

Bieber Birthday Fever!

2011-03-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

On Friday night we celebrated Wild Child's 6th {OMG I can't believe she is that old} birthday! We ALL had BIEBER FEVER!

Every little girl wants a "kiss" from JB! We decorated a room at our local gym. There were LOTS of Justin Bieber posters and PURPLE! Did you know Justin Bieber's favorite color is NOT purple?! I know...I was shocked when I read this too. His FAVORITE color is blue. Purple is his SIGNATURE color.

Giant PURPLE gumballs!

Purple Jolly Joes!

We started the party with Rock Star tatoos and purple manicures.

Manga Dork and 3 of her friends were responsible for those...then I herded them to PIZZA!

My handsome Dr. Hubby impressed everyone with his balloon animal creations. He was a big hit! It really helped entertain the kids between party activities.

The first game we played was Pin The Tail On The Donkey. An awesome alternative would have been a Justin Bieber poster and red lipstick! Pin the Kiss On Bieber! We had several boys invited so I didn't think that would go over so well...lol.

Next we did a couple rounds of musical chairs to "Baby."

Since Justin's {yes, after this party I feel I have earned the right to just call him by his first name} CD is so HOT we played "Hot CD." The prizes I gave out for the games were purple grape scented bubbles, purple jump rope, purple bubble wand, purple sparkle shoe laces, and a purple handheld mini fan. All from the Dollar Tree except the bubble wand...all for $1 each!

A great group of kiddos. We had 12 kindergarteners, 3 preschoolers, and 4 teenagers! Wow!

There are no Justin Bieber cake kits available at this time. We had Walmart use purple, lavendar, and black icing with music notes. Ebay has lots of edible cake images for Justin Bieber parties. Just be sure to order early...shipping for overnight was gonna be $19!

After the kids were loaded with sugar from the cake and ice cream, we pulled up the pinata! This pinata is a pull-string! No wild and crazy kids swinging a stick! Only one string opens it! The kids take turns pulling one off. Fun!

We ended the party with present time! She was a very spoiled girl. Each kid took home their bag of candy, a sheet of Justin Bieber stickers, and a Justin Bieber coloring sheet.

Now I need to start planning a huge Sweet Sixteen for September!

You've Never Had It So Random {Inspired Edition}

2011-03-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

I have been a rather uninspired blogger lately. Here are a few things that inspired me to share them...

Toby's face is so furry that if he doesn't get a new hairdo soon, we may never find his eyeballs again. But he sure is cute.

The 2 littles love to lay on Dr. Hubby while he looks through papers. Such a good daddy.

Don't ya just want to pull up part of the blanket and lay down too. My lazy little sweethearts!

My MIL brought us a bag of jelly beans. Yum! Except for that one that looks suspiciously like it has been licked and put back in the bag....ew! Kids!

Wild Child brought me this piece of paper the other morning. She said in the night time Justin Bieber climbed in her window and she gave him flowers out of her back pocket. Then he signed this paper for her. priceless.

Her 6th birthday party is Friday and guess what the theme is...

Doing dishes make me smile?! Yep...cause I thank the Lord for dishwashers! So glad I don't have to do them by hand.

What is inspiring you?

Teen Fun And Teen Not-So-Fun

2011-02-21T06:40:00.000-08:00

My favorite high school senior arrived Friday afternoon. I was so excited to spend the long weekend with her here. We hopped in the Escalade {that is still not the same after the accident} and headed into town. We ate at Applebees...shopped at the mall and TJMaxx...and watched "Just Go With It." Btw...that movie is the best I have seen in a while...funny and romantic. Jenn Aniston and Adam Sandler are great together.

On Saturday I went to my first thirty-one party {fabric personalized purses, lunch totes, totes, etc}. Then we went to the grocery store. We ended the day with a pizza party and a Just Dance 2 Dance Off. Fun!

On Sunday we joined Dr. Hubby on a shopping trip at Cabelas. We entertained ourselves the best way we knew how. Fun photo time! We ended the day with a Game Night {from hades} at my inlaws. My 2 little ones were monsters and no one seemed to want to stay focused on the games. FAIL.

IMPORTANT TEEN PARENTING QUESTION!

Manga Dork is 15. She has a boyfriend. I have offered to take her, her boyfriend, and another couple on a "date." They can walk the mall and see a movie by themselves. This must be with me or Dr. Hubby chaperoning.

He can even come to our home for a couple hours, but they have to stay in a "public room." NO bedrooms. She is not allowed to go to her boyfriend's house. She is not allowed to go to a friend's house with her boyfriend or other boys.

She is very unhappy with these rules {which I take to mean I am getting it right}. She cried cause she wants to go on the "date" with another parent chaperoning. The same parent I saw this weekend who told me she was tired of running around town and that even though her daughter's boyfriend is not allowed to go to her house to hang out she was on her way home and "what his mom didn't know wouldn't hurt her" and "if he gets caught it is on him not her!"

So my question is...

What are the teen dating rules in your home?

or what will they be when your kid becomes a teen?

Spoiled...And Lovin' It!

2011-02-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous Valentine's Day!

I started the day by juggling 38 mini bubblegum ball machines, 38 fun dip valentines, 5 boxes of chocolate, 4 handmade cards, and a marshmallow sucker with an owl on top. This is what the 2 littles were taking to school for classmates, "boyfriends", teachers, and a bus driver. I was SO glad when it was all delivered!

Manga Dork gave her boyfriend a musical card, box of candy, and an itunes card. She came home grinning from ear to ear with 3 roses and 3 balloons. Her first valentine gift from a boy! Dr. Hubby gave her a new tshirt from her high school.

My valentine gave me my Verizon iPhone 4. L.O.V.E. it!

I surprised him with a watch winder box. The top two circles spin every 18 minutes to keep his kinetic watch working. He had no idea such a cool toy existed. My hint was "Adrienne's hubby, Paul, has one on Beverly Hills Housewives." He had no clue...guess he should have kept watching it with me! heehee

The 2 littles both came home with a box full of candy and cards. They spread it all out while they ate their after school snack. They also got a teddy bear with a rose and candy from Daddy.

We were VERY spoiled. Hope you were too!

Weekend Party Animals

2011-02-14T07:04:00.000-08:00

This weekend felt like one great big party!

This was the first time Wild Child had ever bowled...her first bowling rental shoes...PU.

Wild Child attended a bowling party for one of her classmates. Then we came home and I put on my "show." Don't know what I am talking about? Read the post before this one.

On Sunday me and the 3 girlies attended niece's 12th birthday...Justin Beiber themed! We cracked up at the hypnotized state Wild Child entered while SIL lit the candles. I shot about 15 photos of her before she snapped out of it.

I love Manga Dork's shirt...hilarious.

Then we took all the kiddos to see the Justin Beiber movie. My 2 littles were bored except for the 2 songs he sang that are on their iPods.

Oh and there is an Easter Bunny movie coming in April that is going to be hilarious. I can't remember the name of it. This was the first time I had even seen previews.

We are looking forward to seeing it and...Gnomeo and Juliet, Rango, Rio, Kung Fu Panda 2, and Smurfs. I am so thankful for all the great kids movies they are putting out! Keeps us entertained. Oh and I am looking forward to PIRATES 4...coming in May!

What movie are you looking forward to?

Shows Nightly!

2011-02-13T06:17:00.000-08:00

Last night something happened. Something that made me want to dig a hole, climb in, and D.I.E.

After taking Wild Child to a bowling birthday party I was ready to sit down and relax in my pajamas. Dr. Hubby was feeding the animals and would be in soon to sit down and watch tv.

I stripped down to my undies and then realized my pajamas were in the laundry basket of clothes to be folded in the laundry room. As I was walking out of my bedroom Dr. Hubby was coming in to wash his hands. He asked me, "Did you pick up my tacos?" I said, "Yes, they are on the counter." I was on the phone with my MIL too.

I chatted my way into the laundry room that is off our kitchen. Still chatting I picked up my pajamas and turned to go back out and to my bedroom.

That is when I looked across the kitchen to the office area and saw...

MY HUSBANDS FRIEND SITTING AT MY COMPUTER!!!!!!

His back was turned. I am sure the look on my face would have won us a million $ in a video contest. I ran back to my room. I managed to squeak out to Dr. Hubby {and MIL on the phone} what had happened. What was my dear sweet hubby's reaction?!

He chuckled and said, "You said my tacos were on the counter?" WHAT?! Then he just went into the kitchen.

I didn't know whether to laugh uncontrollably, cry, or vomit.

After a couple minutes Dr. Hubby started yelling for me to come in there. I put on my pajamas and went to face the awkwardness. I was going to pretend nothing had even happened.

As I passed Dr. Hubby's friend in the kitchen he so casually said, "I like the other outfit you had on better." That is when I died. The two idiots were laughing their heads off. I wanted to kill Dr. Hubby.

Turns out...his back was turned when I went into the laundry room too and he didn't even see me. Now Dr. Hubby said that his friend plans to stick his head in the door every time he comes over to say, "Scrappy Girl...Do you have your clothes on!?"

I am not amused.

You've Never Had It So Random {Brrrrr Edition}

2011-02-09T07:09:00.000-08:00

The windchill here this morning is below zero...but the sun is shining bright. The one thing that brightens my frosty winter mornings is to look out and see everything covered in ice glistening in the sunlight. What is it about sparkle?

I have a theory. I think that the one reason Twilight appeals to teenage girls and their mothers who still feel like teenagers at heart is because Edward SPARKLES! It's all about GLITTER! Stephanie Meyer is a freakin' genius.

I have PMS. Bad. It is causing me to raise my voice and to break into tears randomly...like when Kathy Griffin was visiting Paula Deen's home on her show this morning. She said Paula's house was homey. I cried. Probably because my house looks like %(^#!$ and no one cares.

I can't wait for our trip to San Antonio Texas next month. I need out of here!

I don't want to be leader at TOPS this year so I am trying to figure out who I can schmooze into letting me nominate them.

My MIL is now on facebook...ALL DAY! She is addicted. I think it is a great distraction for her.

Real Housewives of Miami starts the 22nd...I've read their bios. I am skeptical. Could be worse than DC. You heard it here first.

The Super Bowl Made Me Want To...

2011-02-07T07:44:00.000-08:00

SHOP!

I would love to buy the following items for Toby the Shih Tzu from PoshPuppyBoutique.com...

New Orleans Saints Jersey $45.

New Orleans Saints Charm $20 {Would look so cute hanging from his black leather spike collar}

My husband would think I had lost my mind if I spent $65 on those two items. Too bad I am not a RAIDERS fan...that jersey is on clearance for $17. {Insert me laughing at my BIL Dave}

Congratulations to the GREEN BAY PACKERS! Mostly because they have saved me from having to see MORE Steelers merchandise and hearing the gloating of Steelers fans in our town.

**On Saturday I went to Walmart and there was so much Steelers crap...cupcakes, napkins, plates, underwear, balloons, etc. I had vowed not to come back out for the rest of the weekend. But when checking out I noticed the couple in front of me was decked out in Saints merchandise! Cool! I started talking to them and noticed the accent...she said they were originally from N'awlins. Oh I love hearing them say that. I want to go back to that town...love it!

Happy Monday!

Not Your Stereotypical

2011-02-04T07:08:00.000-08:00

Beautiful...tall...thin...nicely dressed...jewelry...neat...snooty...perfectionist...wound a little too tight...

When Dr. Hubby was in med school I got lots of comments from friends, family members, and even acquaintances about how I was going to be after he became a doctor. "You'll forget about us." It seems alot of people have a certain picture in their head about what a doctor's wife is like. I started thinking they expected me to change into a completely different person!

Now that he has 5 years under his long white doctor's coat I can confidently say I have not changed. I don't fit the stereotype. And I am glad. I mean let's be honest...alot of the stereotypical characteristics expected from a doctor's wife are not exactly complimentary.

Now I get comments like "You aren't anything like I expected you to be." and "You are so down to earth." It's like they are shocked. Odd. One of Manga Dork's friends said she thought I would be tall and thin with pleated skirts and high heels. That really makes me laugh.

Funny thing is...alot of the people who said those things while he was in med school are the ones who act different around us...or have even disappeared from our lives.

I am very happy to be a casual, denim and flip flop wearing, slightly immature, funny, always smiling, chubby, slightly messy, loud, countrified doctor's wife.

I'm not the only one in this family that isn't following a stereotype.

Ever go to a doctor's office and try to figure out which car belongs to the doc?

Well, this "played in the back pasture at midnight last night" mud covered truck with a coonhunting dog box on the back belongs to our doc in town!

TGIF!

All Tinked Out

2011-02-02T06:54:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we celebrated Cutie's 5th birthday with a Tinkerbell party!

The littles were very excited. Manga Dork was playing the role of "cool teen" and was unable to enjoy herself. She sat texting on her cell phone in her coat.

Cutie was excited when her "boyfriend" showed up. OMG...this little boy is so cute and sweet you could just eat him. Adorable. She refers to him as her "boyfriend" like they are teenagers. It is precious.

We played musical chairs. We were all a little burnt out on "Baby" by Justin Beiber by the end of the party.

Cutie couldn't quit giggling while blindfolded for pin the tail on the donkey.

A really cute group of kiddos.

Last year Cutie hid under the table when we sang Happy Birthday to her. This year she was all smiles.

She closed her eyes and made a wish...

and then she blew out her candle! She clapped her hands and bounced up and down. It made me tear up how much she was enjoying herself.

During present time Cutie opened the present from her "boyfriend." She loved it so much she threw it down and attacked him with a hug and kiss on the cheek. She is so rough. Wild Child is holding her iPod videoing the "attack."

Now only 5 weeks til Wild Child's party...

Being Blunt

2011-01-31T07:43:00.000-08:00

I currently feel like I am drowning in a sea of things I need to get done. I feel under appreciated and taken for granted. I do not feel the love...

I will survive.

My Baby Is What!?

2011-01-30T06:13:00.000-08:00

Happy

5th Birthday!

Cutie Patootie!

You made "4" look adorable.

You bring so many giggles to our family. You keep us entertained with your antics.

I can't believe you still put your "bappy" in your mouth.

I love how you add an "okay" with a southern drawl to the end of EVERY question.

I love how you say "awesome" when you think something is great.

I love how you talk about your "boyfriend" like you are a teenager.

I love your hugs.

Have a great year being "5."

On To The Next Phase

2011-01-24T08:11:00.000-08:00

I can not get my computer to upload photos...argh. So here is a pictureless post. Sorry.

I finished the clothing phase of being a better housewife. I can't believe it is the 24th of January and I am still keeping my new year's resolution!

I am ironing on Thursday. My ironing board is put away at all other times. I am not stressing out cause I have to iron at night OR right before we leave to go somewhere on the weekend. Why didn't I do this years ago?!

I organized all the clothes in the closets and drawers. I am responsible for all of those except for Manga Dork's. She will be hanging and putting away all her clothes and I will keep her in check with routine inspections. All sloppy or misplaced items will be pulled out.

I will be doing 2 loads of laundry daily. One in the am...one in the pm. Everything must be hung or folded and put away right from the dryer.

I cleaned my laundry room that had become the unofficial "junk room." It is SO empty and FABULOUS! I figured out what supplies I used for "clothing" and made sure I had everything I need...all excess stuff was pitched.

I am changing sheets every Monday...which counts as my AM load that day.

I can already feel the difference just this one "phase" has made on my life. My change in attitude has helped too.

Now what to do next?!

Hello.

Hello.

Do I hear snoring?!

WAKE UP!

I am going to be needing some advice on "FOOD" cause that is what phase I am attacking next!

Do you do meal planning? Weekly? Monthly?

To Text Or Not To Text

2011-01-21T10:31:00.000-08:00

Manga Dork is officially ungrounded. She has been gounded for about 5 weeks due to some very scary midterms.

I handed her back her cell phone, computer privileges, and ability to do things with her friends. It was such a nice break from these things {for me}.

Things can not go back to the way they were. Too much freedom = teenager not taking care of her responsibilities. I need to make new rules. I don't want to be uberstrict or too lenient. This is my first teenager...I need suggestions!

What rules do you have for your teen regarding cell phones/teting?

Computer privileges?

Time with friends?

Changing Sheets

2011-01-19T14:11:00.000-08:00

How often do you change your sheets? Do you have a certain routine?

I "Bear"ly Kept It A Secret

2011-01-18T07:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I took my 3 kiddos to meet up with my SIL, niece, and nephew. We didn't tell them what we were doing. My kids thought we were going grocery shopping.

When I pulled into the movie theatre parking lot I said, "We're going to see Yogi Bear!" They were all excited...even the teen.

It wasn't a great movie. I suggest waiting for the rental. But we did giggle.

They had a great day off school...and I got some pretty solid "mommy of the year points."

Did you do something special for your kiddos yesterday!?

I Challenge Y.O.U.

2011-01-17T08:05:00.000-08:00

I am doing something today to SURPRISE my kiddos. Just something little...but I think being SURPRISED triples the FUN!

I challenge YOU to do something to SURPRISE your kids TODAY! Show you love them by planning something special...big or small or tiny...they will LOVE that you thought of them and made the effort JUST FOR THEM!

Come back here tomorrow and we will share our FUN experiences.

Happy Monday!

It Would Be Alot Easier If We Lived In A Nudist Colony

2011-01-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

My back started feeling SO much better yesterday around noon. So I managed to get all my ironing for the next week done! Here's how I set it up...

I put all the shirts in the order that he would wear them {left to right}. I seperated them from his others with one of his magnetic bracelets his patient made for him. It must have worked cause he removed the right shirt this morning!

Then on the back of our bedroom door I put all his pants on a waterfall hanger. The top pair is the next one to be worn. Must have understood that concept too cause he got the right ones! It felt so good last night to just sit down and watch Real Housewives of Beverly Hills without worrying about ironing. Next week is the season finale?! How am I going to live without my weekly does of Beverly Hills?!

The next thing I wanted to work on is organizing our hanging clothes in each closet. Ours was ok, the littles' was a mess, and Manga Dork's was so bad she just kept wearing the same things over and over...a little too lazy to figure out what else is in there.

Dr. Hubby's was easy. Of course the ironed shirts are now on the top to the right.

When you wear nothing but denim skirts and vneck tshirts it is REALLY easy to organize...lol. I really need a makeover.

Wild Child and Cutie wear the same size MOST of the year, and I keep their clothes to one side of the closet. But from January to shorts wearing weather they are in two different sizes...mostly because of pant length. This is Wild Child's side of the closet. We have {left to right} matched outfits, shirts only, jeans.

This is Cutie's side. We have {left to right} matched outfits, dresses, lifejackets, tutus. Her side looks a little fuller cause more of Wild Child's clothes were in the laundry due to going to school every day.

And this took F.O.R.E.V.E.R.! Manga Dork's closet {right to left} vests, tshirts, long sleeve button up shirts, sweaters...open the other side...

{right to left} sweatshirts, skirts, dresses, jeans, shorts and capris. She was SO excited to have everything matched and ready to be worn. Her useable wardrobe has at the very least TRIPLED! I am so glad not to be seeing her wear the same 3 sweatshirts and a couple tshirts OVER AND OVER.

Continueing with the "Clothing" theme I am going to tackle my laundry room next. I can't wait to get it set up to make laundry time easier...

Do you have a laundry room?

Where is it in your home?

Does it ever end up being the place where you stash junk you don't know where to put?

Not that I would do anything like that....just askin. ;)

Ironing Out The Kinks

2011-01-13T06:56:00.000-08:00

For the last few days this is where my butt has been. For some reason my lower back muscles have decided to go on strike. I am tired of sitting around surrounded by too much stuff to do. I am going to attempt to do my ironing. I have a feeling my butt will end up right back in that massaging recliner though!

Here's what I came up with to make ironing a little more tolerable...

I chose Thursdays for my ironing day. Why Thursday? Because it is already the day I do not make any appts. or plans for during the day. I have TOPS at 6 pm. Cutie does not have preschool. It is my favorite tv night {Vampire Diaries & Beverly Hills Housewives}. I did not want to choose Monday for several reasons, but especially because Monday is usually a dreaded day already!

I gathered up my supplies. I purchased extra shirt hangers, a hanger that will hold 6 items, a new ironing board cover, and ironing spray. I already had my iron and Twilight cup for adding more water.

I have had this cover for 5 years. That is not dirt. It is dark lint stuck in layers and layers of dried ironing spray starch. The water swirly stains are from me knocking the iron over when it is not on and water leaking out of it. Because I leave the ironing board out all the time, it becomes a "catch-all" for things that need to be put away. I plan to only bring it out for ironing day once a week.

I removed the old cover and now it is fresh and clean and bright. There isn't much creative design in the ironing board cover options. I found a few pretty ones on etsy.com, but I wasn't willing to throw away $45.

It even has a little pocket on one side. I got tickled at the warning not to put your iron in there. I am sure that is for the blond housewives who think it is a great place for their hot iron while hanging up each piece. lol

So why not dry cleaning? We live in the COUNTRY country. The little town with Dr. Hubby's office doesn't even have a dry cleaner. I was so jealous to read about Chanda's cheap prison-ran dry cleaners. What a great idea!

I am sure I will never LOVE ironing, but I think this plans makes it a little more manageable.

Time to tackle another housewife chore...

Taking A Snow Day

2011-01-12T13:56:00.000-08:00

How cute is that furry little face?! Toby always looks like he was hit in the face with a snowball when he comes in from taking a pee-pee.

I am still not 100% and can't sit for very long.

They messed up on the bumper of my car so it will be another week before it comes home!

We have 4 maybe 5 inches of snow! No school!

We Briefly Interrupt This Blog...

2011-01-11T10:25:00.000-08:00

OMG...I am in so much pain right now. I have multiple muscle spasms in my lower back. I can not seem to get comfortable. Ouch! So really the last thing I want to do is IRON! lol. Stay tuned...tomorrow will bring my ironing post!

And some great news...

MY ESCALADE IS FINALLY COMING HOME TONIGHT!

"Inspired" By My Kitchen Counter

2011-01-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

My kitchen counter caused me to lose it yesterday.

Well, it was kinda like "the straw that broke the camel's back."

I started getting everyone ready at 10am. We were going to the mall to return/exchange a few Christmas items. I begged Manga Dork out of bed, laid out clothes for the 2 littles to put on, took my shower and got dressed, woke Dr. Hubby, ironed Dr. Hubby's shirt, woke Dr. Hubby, fixed 2 littles' hair, woke Dr. Hubby, prepared the returns, woke Dr. Hubby....I think you see the pattern.

I wanted to leave at noon. The mall is a little over an hour drive and everything closes at 6pm on Sunday.

He waited til 12:15pm to get up. I lost it.

"LOOK AT THIS HOUSE. I CLEANED ALL DAY YESTERDAY. I WAS SO TIRED LAST NIGHT AND LOOK AROUND. IT DOESN'T EVEN LOOK LIKE I DID ANYTHING. THIS KITCHEN COUNTER IS A DISASTER. NO ONE WILL THROW AWAY THEIR TRASH. THEY JUST SIT IT ON THE COUNTER EVEN THOUGH THERE IS A 30 GALLON TRASH BAG RIGHT BELOW WHERE THEY SAT IT. IT IS SO HARD TO LIVE LIKE THIS. IT IS SO STRESSFUL. I FEEL LIKE I REALLY TRY AND IT IS POINTLESS. I AM CALLED GROUCHY AND HATEFUL BECAUSE I "NAG" ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE IN THIS HOUSE DOING STUFF. I AM BUTTING MY HEAD AGAINST A BRICK WALL. and so on and so forth....

He went to get ready and I made lunch. We went to town, returned the stuff, bought some other stuff, grocery shopped, and I juggled Burger King in the car for dinner so we could make it home in time for bedtimes on a school night.

This is an example of why I am on a mission to be a better housewife. But I have a warning for the other 4 people living in our home...IT'S GONNA GET UGLY. I have some retraining to do.

Happy Monday!
Tomorrow I will share how I have changed my bad attitude toward ironing!

The Best

2011-01-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love Betsey Johnson. I love her playful use of colors and patterns. I love the "Cute Factor" of everything she designs. I own several handbags and bracelets...and one keychain. I would never fit into any of her clothes...maybe one day. {I even considered naming Cutie "Betsey"}

While Christmas shopping with my mom I saw a bracelet at Macys. I fell in love. If Betsey made a bracelet especially for me...this would be it...

I love that little camera. This bracelet is part of a line called, "Life is Short...Capture Every Moment." I walked away and thought "well, that is definitely going on my Christmas list." When I got home I tried to find a pic on the internet....none to be found. It was sold out every where I looked. Bummer.

At my mom's house my Lil Sis handed me a box with the tag "To: My Sister From: Your Sister." I was excited. She always gives me the coolest gifts. BUT...I never dreamed that this bracelet was inside! I cried. She is just the best sister...ever. {Shoot...now I am crying typing this.}

She had went through alot to get it. Two bracelets left...one in FL and one in NYC. It really meant alot to me for her to put so much effort in getting this.

I miss you Lil Sis. I wish we lived closer. Thank you again for being so awesome. I love you.

{Ok...now I am going to have to go get a tissue...lol}

Hmmm....I wonder if Betsey makes ironing board covers?

I Just Want You To Know

2011-01-06T06:33:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading my first book in 2011! I am going to take a HUGE risk and confess something. Are you sitting down? Ok...here goes...

I like Kate Gosselin.

I have watched Jon and Kate Plus 8 off and on since the beginning. I thought she was a real witch in the beginning. I thought "Wow, she must have a little bag in her pocket containing Jon's manhood." She just seemed bossy.

Then as I watched more and more I started thinking about how hard it would be to take care of 8 children. All those clothes, shoes, feedings, diapers, potty training, etc. AND to do it in front of a camera! I would be a hot mess. If I was taped with just the 3 I have now...I would be great material for every late night comedian. I can see the Hot Topics for every talk show..."Scrappy Girl's youngest eats Fudge Round for breakfast...again." Stop the insanity!

I think Kate could have been a little less condescending to Jon, BUT can you imagine trying to keep a routine with JON GOSSELIN as your partner. He was like a concrete block tied to her leg while she tried to parent.

I admire that Kate openly admits her faults...even that weird short hairdo she used to rock! You know something is "off" when you are one of the top Halloween costumes!

I don't agree with all of what Kate says or does. I also worry about how the kids are being affected by all the cameras. I think Jon is a douschebag that got tired of being saddled with all those kids. I wish he would openly apologize to Christian Audiblahblahblah for single handedly ruining the Ed Hardy tshirt.

This book was a pretty good read. It didn't really tell me anything I hadn't already heard. The letters are sweet at first, but I got bored with them and skipped the last 6.

What are your feelings about Kate?

Meet My Nemesis

2011-01-05T07:15:00.000-08:00

I loved hearing about your most dreaded chores. Let me introduce you to mine...

I absolutely positively "hate, hate, hate...LOATHE ENTIRELY" ironing. Anyone know what movie the quote is from?

Dr. Hubby has to have a nice shirt and dress pants EVERY work day. He also has to have 2 button up shirts for the weekend. And I am very embarrassed to admit...I even go over the front of his weekend jeans. I iron once daily...usually the last thing I do before plopping my big ol' butt on the couch every night.

Anyhoo. I am one of those "start with the biggest thing first" kind of girls. So I thought I would work on all things related to my weekly ironing.

Should I do it daily or do it all at once?
What would make it more enjoyable...and dare I even say...fun?
What day or time of day should I do it?
What supplies do I need?
Can I hire someone to do it for me so I can sit and watch reruns of Beverly Hills Housewives? heehee

Do you iron?
What works for you?

To peek at Toby the Shih Tzu's incredibly cute new hairdo go HERE!

Every Monumental Life Change Should Include...

2011-01-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

a super cute hot pink binder with rainbow tabbed dividers! Oh, and when I get through with it...there.will.be.glitter.

See, I told you I was serious. I am going to get so organized I make Martha Stewart jealous. No...wait...not Martha. I will strive even further...I will make BREE VANDECAMP turn green with envy. And with that hair she will look like a Christmas elf. haha For those of you who are "Housewives Challenged." Bree Vandecamp is from Desperate Housewives. She has REALLY red hair and is beautiful...and she is like Martha Stewart...except with sex appeal AND a love of guns. Let's just say that if Dr. Hubby had a "TOP 5 FICTIONAL CHARACTERS I WOULD LIKE TO..." she would be numbers 1 through 4. Who would 5 be? Anyone Angelina has portrayed, of course. Isn't she mandatory on all those lists? It's the lips...

Anyhoo.

I would like to know...

What household chore gives you the hardest time? You know the one...the one you would LOVE for little fairies to complete while you are fighting with your kids through the grocery aisle! {scrappygirlsdailylife.blogspot.com for evidence of the above statement}.

Happy Tuesday!

It's Gonna Be Alot of Work

2011-01-03T06:28:00.000-08:00

I love a new beginning. A chance to wipe the slate clean and create something...better. When I started to daydream about what I wanted to focus on in 2011 it came to me pretty quickly. It stayed on my mind as I went about my daily life. It became clear how necessary it was when the holiday chaos had me living by the seat of my pants. It also helped when Dr. Hubby's crazy aunt went completely NUTS and bashed me all over facebook for no reason. And when I say "bashed" I mean she attacked me on all kinds of levels...wife, mother, daughterinlaw, homemaker, family member, and even my weight. It was ugly. I never responded and she has come out of it looking like a complete looney toon....which apparently she is.

Anyhoo. The word I have chose for 2011 is....

housewife

I know what you are thinking. How much more obsessed with the Real Housewives can she get? No, this does not mean that I am going to be auditioning for Real Housewives of my undisclosed state...although that would be REALLY cool. I need to focus on being a housewife...a homemaker.

You see, I remember being in school and everyone asking what you want to be when you grow up. I remember being in high school and feeling that if you weren't going to college to be something extremely fabulous you were headed down the wrong road.

"You aren't going to college?"
"Then what are you going to do with your life?"
"You are going to do something really important and huge in your life. You need college."

So I went to college. I have an associate degree in Office Technology with a specialty in medical.

Being a SAHM with a hubby that is a doctor REALLY distorts my perception of what I am doing with my life.

"Hi honey, how was your day?"
"Well, this guy had some symptoms and I discovered this rare condition and sent him to the hospital for a simple surgery that saved his life. How was your day?"
"Well, I did 2 loads of laundry that are still in need of being folded and reorganized the pantry so we can actually see the food we have."

Can you see how I might feel a little lacking?!

How about when you are filling out paperwork and they ask for your profession?! You say housewife...and they leave it BLANK.

All these things bug me. I feel very unimportant. Well, this year I have decided that I am going to find and embrace the importance of being a housewife. All things HOUSEWIFE! There are so many areas I plan to improve. I haven't been taking this job seriously...and it's time to make some changes.

I hope you all enjoy reading about my journey.

Bring on 2011!

What are your plans for the new year?

From Our Little Family

2011-01-01T08:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I have a new project I want to work on in the next year. It is something that I need to improve on and change my attitude about...

The Last of It

2010-12-30T15:11:00.000-08:00

After eating lunch with BIL & SIL we traveled to my parents' home. I was so excited to see everyone.

I was excited for my furry niece, Morgan, to meet Toby. Morgan loves to help everyone open their presents.

Toby loved meeting everyone. Morgan, was not real thrilled to have another furbaby stealing the attention, but they got along ok. When given more time I think they will be good friends. My dad is still partial to Morgan though. When I told him he needed to pay attention to Toby he said, "I don't know which end to pet." Haha.

This year Cutie was the most excited about opening presents. She was a wild woman ripping at the paper as quickly as she could. Lil Sis and BIL got her a koala from Australia. Gumpaw and RubyNan gave her a van for her dollhouse, dryerase crayons, a sticker book, Barbie Mermaidia DVD, a Gymboree outfit, pajamas, headphones for her new ipod, and a Tinkerbell guitar.

Wild Child was delighted when she opened the Touch and Brush. Her and Cutie have been beggin for it everytime they see the commercial. She also got a koala from Lil Sis and BIL. From her grandparents she received Despicable Me, a Gymboree outfit, pajamas, dry erase crayons, a sticker book, headphones, and a iCarly guitar.

Manga Dork opened a pillow pet, an Aero hoodie, an Aero tshirt, a sweater and long sleeve shirt, and the InStyler from her grandparents. BIL and SIL gave her a sweatshirt and candy from Australia.

We gave BIL an XBOX game, Call of Duty Black Ops.

Lil Sis loves the Rudolph movie so I couldn't resist picking up Clarice and 3 of the misfit toys for her at Build A Bear. My parents gave her Rudolph.

We gave my dad a pair of work boots. Apparently he REALLY liked them even though he has to exchange them for another size. He is such a goofball.

He loves to make everyone laugh. Lil Sis and BIL picked up a hat for Dr. Hubby in Australia, and before we got there my dad traded it out for an old one he had found in one of his junk cars {he owns a towing business and a huge junkyard}. He thought it was hilarious when Dr. Hubby was thinking that was the hat he was getting. Such a comedian!

My mom enjoys the belgian waffle maker at the hotels we stay at in Amish Country so we thought this would be a way for her to have the yumminess at home. She gave me Scrabble Flash and we gave her Scrabble Flash too.

Dr. Hubby got Polo cologne, a remote key finder, skeets, and Hot Hands from my parents. Lil Sis and BIL gave him a tshirt and pen from Australia.

We had loads of fun eating, playing games, laughing, eating, putting wigs on the poor dogs...

It went by way too fast! Oops! I almost forgot ME! My parents gave me 3 games, Poppy by Coach perfume, a lint shaver, decorative cherries, and a Mary Engelbreit calendar. From Lil Sis and BIL I got an aborigine painted vase for my schoolhouse, candy, and a small koala from Australia. A box marked "To My Sister From Your Sister" held The Betsey Johnson bracelet "Life Is Short...Capture Every Moment." She had to call and search for it. With only 2 left in the US she bought mine from NYC. I cried...a very special gift. I luv ya Lil Sis!

The End {of Christmas 2010}

At Our Home

2010-12-30T06:39:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve we ate lunch with my inlaws and played a few board games. Then in the evening the girls got to open up their Christmas pajamas at home. I always insist we spend Christmas morning in our own home.

The two littles pjs were from The Disney Store and Manga Dork picked hers out this year when she fell in love with them at TJMaxx.

After the girls went to bed, Santa filled their stockings and put out the gifts they whispered in his ear when they visited him. Ipod Touches and Tag reading for the littles and a Nikon Coolpix S4000 for Manga Dork.

Cutie got 2 pajamas, slippers, Strawberry Shortcake movie, Color Wonder coloring book, an outfit and boots from Gymboree, and 2 games for her Leapster.

Wild Child received 2 pajamas, slippers, boots, an outfit from Gymboree, Uno Moo, Strawberry Shortcake movie, 2 games for her Leapster, and a Color Wonder coloring book.

Manga Dork opened jeans, a shirt, a Reggie Bush Saints jersey, boots, 5 seasons of Friends, Bath and Body Works VIP bag, and a OSU hoodie and tshirt.

The girls love checking to see if Santa and his reindeer ate the treats they left out. Time to get dressed and head to WV!

A Very Merry InLaw Christmas

2010-12-29T06:39:00.000-08:00

Our celebrations began on Thursday night at my inlaws. We ate chinese and then opened presents.

We gave our nephew a camera.

We gave our niece a camera.

Manga Dork's grandparents gave her a Foach {Faux Coach}, tshirt-sweatshirt-sweatpants with her highschool logo, Estee Lauder makeup kit, a snuggie, and a charm bracelet.

We gave SIL the first season of Vampire Diaries. Just sharing the addiction...

{reaction may be a little exaggerated for photo purposes}

BIL got lights for his trailer and a $25 Cabelas gift card from us.

Dr. Hubby got a Bright Eyes hunting light from his parents.

We gave FIL a new watch and a pair of penguin pajama pants. His "hot pepper pants" are getting worn out.

We gave MIL a watch too....and a crock pot {so I can take mine home}...and a DVD of the complete series of Dark Shadows {the vampire series they are remaking starring Johnny Depp}.

Wild Child loved her snuggie. Can you really even type or say or see a snuggie without thinking of Kristina Pulsipher? I can't. They also gave Wild Child a Wii UDraw, sleeping bag, skateboard, helmet, and pads.

Cutie Patootie got a snuggie, sleeping bag, makeup kit, Ciccabello doll, diaper bag, and Barbie vanity.

We had a great time!

Oh When The Saints Marched Into My Christmas

2010-12-28T06:49:00.000-08:00

I am such a blessed spoiled girl. We had a fantastic Christmas. I will be sharing some of the fun this week while preparing to start a brand new year!

The New Orleans Saints were all over my Christmas. On the first night of parties {Thursday} I made a quick run to the library before picking up the party food {chinese}. I always peek in the "Free to good home" box to see what goodies I might find. Well, right there on top was the Sports Illustrated with Drew Brees on the cover! Score!

From there I went to my inlaws and all my gifts were Saints themed. Love this huge flag!

I wore this for the rest of the weekend. Even my BIL loved it...not! heehee

It is just fantastic when you can combine 2 obsessions...Longaberger Baskets and Saints! Even though my FIL and MIL had 2 boys, Dr. Hubby said this is probably the first time they have bought Sports Team items.

We gave Manga Dork a Reggie Bush jersey. And the last Saints themed gift came from the Saints themselves...

A 17-14 win over the Falcons! Yippee! Playoffs here we come!

Did you receive any team spirit gifts this Christmas?

Tis The Season!

2010-12-23T11:55:00.000-08:00

Today we are baking. I found the chef hats and aprons at Micheals for $3...so cute!

I hope everyone is enjoying the holidays and all the wonderful time with family and friends. Thank you so much for being part of my world through my blog. I cherish all my bloggy friendships. I wish I could give each of you a great big {{hug}}.

Merry Christmas!

PS...I'll be back blogging next Tuesday!

Special Delivery

2010-12-16T07:01:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday we received a special delivery from our local florist. How fun! This gorgeous arrangement brightened my day and looks beautiful on our new Longaberger wrought iron coffee table. Who is it from? The nurse practitioner at Dr. Hubby's office. She started working at the office in July when the Dr. she worked for originally moved to another state. 3 other people came with her. The transition went alot smoother than anticipated and they all appear to be assets to the office.

Thank You Nurse C.

It's A Wrap!

2010-12-15T07:19:00.000-08:00

I love wrapping gifts! Yesterday I spent the day wrapping all the gifts I have purchased so far. Dr. Hubby and I are going to finish our shopping Friday night...ooh a date night with my honey! Here are some of the packaging goodies I am using this season...

Gifts for the girls' bus driver and Wild Child's teacher. Meeeoooowwwyy Christmas!

The theme for preschool this year is gingerbread men. This bag was perfect for Cutie's teacher. All the above bags were purchased at The Dollar Tree {$1} and the scalloped tissue paper is from TJMaxx {$2.99 for 24/sheets}.

I couldn't resist this paper from Target {$2.50}. I hope Dr. Hubby doesn't mind his presents with owls all over them. I am guessing by the time he opens them he will be so distracted by the awesomeness of the gifts that he will forget all the owliciousness.

Cutie chose Tinkerbell paper {Walmart $2.50} for her gifts. The purple is fantastic under the tree.

Wild Child chose Little Pet Shops {Walmart $2.50}.

When we saw the cell phones and ipods on this paper we knew Manga Dork would pick it. It was one of four papers in a pack {Walmart $5}.

I wrap the presents for each side of our family in the same paper so it is easy to pull them out from under the tree for all the different celebrations. This is the paper I chose for Dr. Hubby's side of the family {Walmart}.

I fell in love with this fun vintage-y paper at Home Goods {$2.99}. All wrapping paper is not created equal. This paper is so thick and fabulous! I am using it for my side of the family. It looks so cute mixed under the tree with the red/white naughty/nice paper I chose for my inlaws.

When I saw this dog-gone cute bag at TJMaxx {$1.69} I couldn't resist picking it up for Lil Sis's gift. It goes right along with the vintage wrap above.

Happy Wednesday!

Do you have any favorite ways to wrap gifts?

Where do you get your paper?

Do you coordinate?

My Heart Belongs To Scotty {and Toby}

2010-12-14T06:49:00.000-08:00

I have always loved Scotty dogs. I think that Scottys are what first drew my attention to Mary Engelbreit's artwork. Then of course I become obsessed with cherries...and then one ME filled kitchen later...lol. Last year for Christmas my parents gave me several Christmas Scotty pieces. It was so hard to pack them away for a whole year...but it was fun opening them this year!

A small serving dish.

I flipped the placemats my mom made me over to use the black cherries design. Then I added my new Longaberger Falling Snow Hostess basket in the center of the table with the platter and a large 3 wick candle.

I promise you that in real life the green napkin matches the plate.

I have always wanted to set a table and leave it that way the whole holiday. The kids are finally old enough to leave it alone.

I ended up replacing the candle with a gorgeous big poinsettia. Oh how I would love to have each of you sitting around this table eating sweet treats and giggling about our lives.

I couldn't resist sharing this pic of Wild Child and Toby. He's such a furry little blessing to our family.

Happy Tuesday!

Go Look In The Bathroom!

2010-12-13T07:36:00.000-08:00

Last Friday evening I took Wild Child to a birthday party. Her first since breaking her leg at the last one she attended. I was a little nervous, but everything was fine. Dr. Hubby took Manga Dork and Cutie with him. When I came home Dr. Hubby asked me, "How much do you love me?" and "Would you ever leave me?" I totally freaked out. He said, "Go look in the bathroom."

I opened the bathroom door and out popped this furry little cutie...

Meet Toby, the Shih Tzu. My heart sank. I don't have time for a puppy...the feeding, the taking out to use the bathroom, the accidents to clean up...ugh!

Well, turns out Toby is almost 2 years old and neutered. He is the easiest dog! I had just told BFF Ruth the other day that I would love to have a house dog...if it was already housebroken and easy!

This is Toby after he had a bath. He just stands in the tub and lets you do what you need to do. No shaking, climbing out, or growling.

I love him. He is already a part of the family. Annie Louise, my outside furbaby isn't real thrilled with him though. Probably because he follows her around with his nose up her butt...lol. I wouldn't like him either.

Happy Monday!

Things That Make Me Go...Hmmm.

2010-12-10T06:50:00.000-08:00

I spent Wednesday and Thursday shopping with my mom in Charleston, WV. I toted my camera around the whole time and did not take a single photo! I know I know...shocking! We almost completed her shopping. She has just a couple more items to pick up on her own. I, however, need to get my rear in gear...I still have LOADS to do!

I drew a blank at first when Mom asked what I want for Christmas. Hmmmm...I don't know. After 2 days of looking, here are a few things I am now dreaming of...

How fun! I love Scrabble. I think my mom would like this too so I may buy her one too.

This would be so much fun! But it is quite the hard item to find!

Our family loves a good drawing game.

Another drawing game. Looks like a fun one! Cranium games are hard to beat!

A new laptop. I am currently using Manga Dork's she got for Christmas last year. Before that I was using Dr. Hubby's hand-me-down with it's nonworking button or two. I have never had my own. I want a big screen! I don't really care what brand or about the other details...lol.

I am dreaming of an iphone. Verizon is supposed to get them in early 2011. I dropped my ancient dinosaur flip phone in a cup of tea in my car {I miss my car}. I was phoneless for a month or so...until Manga Dork decided to let her grades drop and I now get to use hers!

I found an item at Macys that was beyond cute. It is a bracelet by Betsey Johnson called "Life's too short...capture every moment." It has the absolute cutest blingy camera charm dangling from it! Now I can't find it ANYWHERE on the internet. I should have bought myself an early Christmas gift!

Ooh I almost forgot! Have you smelled this perfume?! It is fantastic. It is a light floral candy kind of smell. I sprayed it on and it lasted all day long!

What do you want for Christmas?

Delightfully Tacky!

2010-12-07T06:22:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we ventured out to find the perfect tree. This tree won with 4 out of 5 votes {Wild Child wanted to keep looking}. We loved the "fuzzy" look...made me want to give it a hug.

After Dr. Hubby and I put on the lights and garland the 3 girlies went to putting on the ornaments.

We are one tooth away from Wild Child needing her "two front teeth" for Christmas.

Manga Dork said this tree was very hard to decorate. It turns out that fluffy looking trees have very slippery flimsy limbs...the ornaments either slide off or pull the limb to the floor. lol

Manga Dork has a friend that refers to their downstairs tree as their "tacky tree." They put it down there so people who visit only see the beautifully coordinated one in the entry way. The "tacky tree" holds all the misc. of ornaments that a family tends to collect over the years. While visiting our home a couple years ago she let us know our tree is a "tacky tree."

I don't mind having a "tacky tree." I could easily put together a tree that looks magazine worthy. I love looking at our tree and seeing the glittery snowflake Manga Dork picked out when she was 5...

and ornaments made in school...

and handmade ornaments with dates given by friends...

and ornaments made at home...

and ornaments that remind us of special memories.

Some people may even argue that the fancy trees are the "tacky" ones. I think it is whatever floats your boat! I love looking at all the fancy trees, but for now I love my "tacky tree" decorated with love by my 3 favorite girlies.

Do you have a "tacky tree?"

How many trees do you put up in your home?

How To Freeze Off Your Toes And Not Even Care

2010-12-06T06:45:00.000-08:00

On Saturday we attended the 5th annual Christmas parade in our small town. My favorite "float" was "The Christmas Story." Ya gotta love the leg lamp!

Pretty horses...

The 2 littles LOVE the parade. They rush to collect all the candy thrown to them. When they saw Santa and Mrs. Claus they started squealing and waving.

Manga Dork loves the parade too, but don't tell her friends. She has a cool teen rep to keep up!

Wild Child gave Santa a great big hug! Then we all ran for the truck to warm up. My fingers and toes were froze!

We picked up chinese and came home to watch Mrs. Miracle on the Hallmark Channel.

I love this time of year!

I Love...

2010-12-05T08:05:00.000-08:00

THIS KID!
We have had so much fun reconnecting this weekend.

We are both sick and not feeling well. So what helped reconnect us?

Season 6 of Desperate Housewives on DVD! lol

Hope you are having a great weekend!

Sending All My Love

2010-12-03T14:36:00.000-08:00

***Since posting this I have found out that the cards are discarded and not delivered to protect soldiers from those who would do them harm by sending "anonymous" cards.***

A family member gave me a great idea for a project for the girlies. We are going to make Christmas cards to send to...

A Recovering American Soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue
NW Washington, DC 20307-5001

You should join us too! Just think of all the spirits we can raise if we fill that place with jolly holiday wishes!

Also, I would like to send cards to YOU! Email your address to girl {dot} scrappy {at} yahoo {dot} com. Can't wait to pop them all in the mail!

TGIF Friends!

Ta Da! Another Christmas Item Marked Off My To Do List!

2010-12-02T08:14:00.000-08:00

I finally finished my Christmas card at Shutterfly. I chose the Christmas Ten design. I loved it cause it kinda felt like I would be doing that Christmas Letter I always wanted to do. It is a 5x7 flat card. Here are the photos I chose to use...

I also purchased matching labels. Shutterfly says they should be in my mailbox 12/9 - 12/14. I am hoping closer to the 9, but 14 is still doable!

How are your cards coming along?

What type of card are you sending?

Counting Down

2010-12-01T16:39:00.000-08:00

I have seen several creative ways to countdown to Christmas, but I was left wondering what in the world I would do for my girls. Yesterday Wild Child solved my problem when she got home from school. Her teacher had helped them make Countdown Santas. Problem solved...

How are you counting down to Christmas?

"Hampering" My Cleanup Efforts

2010-12-01T03:11:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to solve a major clutter problem in our bedroom I purchased the Longaberger Hamper Basket. It works pretty well. Except for a certain someone who leaves HIS clothes on the floor in front of it. I'm gonna have to consult the training manual again...

Glitter It...And She Will Come!

2010-11-30T08:09:00.000-08:00

The Christmas aisles at Walmart are STILL screaming my name. I am serious. It is like the "powers that be" at Walmart got together and said, "How can we make our Christmas section so appealing to Scrappy Girl that she can't stay away?!" One of them says, "Let's color coordinate EVERYTHING...then arrange it in sections by COLOR. Then another one says, "I don't think that is enough to make her purchase something." Finally, the littlest of the "powers" excitedly proclaims, "Let's add glitter to EVERYTHING!" And they did.

On Sunday the 3 girlies picked out their special wrapping papers. I wrap each child's gifts in only one type of paper...very easy to find on Christmas morning! Cutie chose Tinkerbell. Wild Child chose Littlest Pet Shop. Manga Dork chose a pack that had polka dots, iPods, and cell phones. Perfect!

It's getting closer! I smell peppermint!

You've Never Had It So Random...{Turkey Day Edition}

2010-11-29T04:56:00.000-08:00

Before we left for WV on Wednesday I received a package in the mail from my bloggy friend, Sondra. How exciting!

I can't wait to heat up this little pot and make my home smell like CUPCAKES! Thank you Sondra! You made me feel very special.

On Turkey Day we attempted a family portrait for our Christmas card. I think I'll just go with individual ones of the girls...

I love spending time with my granny and mom. Dinner was delicious!

The littles thought it was hilarious when Granny and Papa Pat put on their cowgirl hats. It was pretty funny...

We drove to our cousins' home to spend the night. Well, Dr. Hubby and the littles spent the night...Manga Dork and I left to go Black Friday shopping at 10 pm. We got back home at 8:30 AM and slept for 2 hours. I felt like a zombie on crack, but I got some great deals!

We headed back home at 6 PM. Since my Escalade is "broken" {the last I heard was something about $9,000 damage} we had to pile in Dr. Hubby's Ford F250 Superduty. Not nearly as comfy as the nice big seats and 6 DVD screens of the Escalade. Here's what the back seat looked like...

Wild Child propped on Manga Dork's knees.

This may be my fave picture of 2010...hahahahaha...Cutie was completely worn out. Manga Dork's head was in Cutie's lap, but in order to not die from the glare of a moody teen I will not show a pic of her...heehee.

On Saturday {I still had Black Friday Hangover} we ended the Turkey Day celebrations with dinner and game night at my inlaws. We played Monopoly and MIL beat us all! Be on the lookout for flying pigs!

Hope you had a fantastic holiday!

Thirty-six {OMG that's closer to 40 than 30}

2010-11-23T07:30:00.000-08:00

Here's how my 36th birthday was celebrated...

I started off the day eating cold pizza {my fave breakfast} in front of the laptop. I loved reading all the birthday wishes on my blog, scrapbook message board, and facebook! I felt REALLY popular.

At 11:30AM I had to go pick Cutie up at preschool. We went to Dr. Hubby's office and while talking to him I almost burst into tears. I'm not sure why!? Then we went to the library to pick up some books...I had to wait outside a minute to compose myself...I was in tears again. Weird?!
Next stop was the grocery store. Cutie became impatient waiting for me to let the tears "pass" in the truck. Before going home we stopped and picked up chinese for lunch and dinner.

All afternoon my emotions were in hyperdrive and I went from one mood to another. It was bizarre. I felt extreme excitement and anxiety all at the same time. I was SO hyper! Finally by evening it settled down. My MIL came and got the 3 girls to spend time with at her home. I took a shower.

Dr. Hubby came home. He said my emotional issues were probably from the accident. He said I have been freakishly cool with the whole thing and it was just "catching up with me." He said we were going to go down and visit his dad {who is on the mend from chronic pneumonia}. Turns out I walked in on this...

I was so surprised! I am usually the one in the family that does this for everyone else! I am so glad my relationship with my inlaws has been mended. I felt loved. My MIL is blond so my candles were 35 + 1...the 1 was a customized 4...she cracks me up!

The day ended with one of the BEST family photos we have EVER had taken! Now if only I hadn't been in my pjs with wet hair...lol. It's gonna be a good year!