Supermom's Eats and Neats

365 Days of Love

2012-02-14T11:42:00.000-05:00

Justin,

I love you 365 days a year and I try and show you each and every day.

I love seeing you out on the water, you always seem most at peace. I love packing up the boat and remembering every detail so it is as we have everything at home out on the water with us. Sleeping in your arms on the boat with the cool breeze (or fan lol) on my face are some of my most favorite memories. I look forward to being out there every weekend this summer with the kids and you. Watching the kids jump off the boat, getting cheesy finger stains in places we wouldn't of imagined. Watching them getting stronger in swimming where soon they won't wear their vests in the water. Surprising them with a water trampoline and seeing their faces.

Here is to loving you today, tomorrow and forever!

My Kids

2012-02-13T09:24:00.000-05:00

We have been pushing more family time since Thanksgiving and I will tell you I am love it. Our family is closer the kids are more kind and considerate (don't get me wrong we still break up fights lol) to each other. My husband and I were talking about how just more full our hearts feel.

Just want to share some of my favorite pictures of them.

Ciana with her art work at school in the hallway.

Jaden is always the joker and loves to be scary.

Mya loves being on our boat and this year she no longer has to wear a life vest! She is so excited because now she really feels like a teenager.

A Valentines Date....for 5 please

2012-02-10T12:03:00.000-05:00

I am looking forward to Valentines Day this year. I am not really a fan of these types of holidays outside of doing them for the kids. I guess I just feel like I would rather you give me a gift, or take me to dinner, or get me a card on some random day of the week rather than when someone tells you to.

However, I love celebrating Valentines Day with my children. This year there will be no gifts, no cards, no candy....well maybe candy. We as a family decided to do something different. We are going on a date! Yep all 5 of us are going on a date to the Pottery Place in our town and making/painting pieces. I can't wait and either can the kids.

I don't know of anything else that would make me feel the love better than sitting around a table with my family talking, laughing, and creating great pieces of art.

Last 5 Pictures on my Phone

2012-02-08T17:24:00.000-05:00

Hey there! I was looking at my photos on my phone and thought it was interesting the things that end up there. I do think when I upgrade to an IPhone 4 (gave the hubs my upgrade) I will really take more pictures because I will have a flash.

Details of why I took this will be shared in the next couple of weeks.

Love holding my husbands hand...

Bi Bim Bop at a local Korean joint. So good!

My son taking photos during his game time on my phone.

My favorite player on the New England Patriots. He's sexy and I know it #83 :)

Sausage, Potato and Kale Soup

2012-02-07T11:26:00.000-05:00

I love the Olive Garden and so does my family. I can't remember a time when we have had lunch or dinner there and my husband and I didn't just order the soup and salad. We love their Zuppa Toscana soup and our kids usually end up eating it to.

Well I have found a knock off recipe for this soup and although I haven't made it (I am Saturday) I couldn't wait to share it as it sounds so amazing! I found this recipe at Tasty Kitchen here.

Photo Source: http://www.tastykitchen.com/

Serves 12
Prep Time 5 Minutes
Cook Time 45 Minutes
Ingredients:

1 pound Spicy Pork Sausage
2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
1-½ Tablespoon Butter
3 stalks Celery, Chopped Fine
1 whole White Onion, Chopped Fine
4 cloves Garlic, Minced
5 whole Large Russet Potatoes, Cleaned
8 cups Hot Water
4 cubes Chicken Bouillon
½ teaspoons Red Pepper Flakes, Or More To Taste
6 cups Kale, Stems Removed, Chopped
½ cups Heavy Cream
Salt And Pepper, to taste

Directions:

New Tile

2012-02-05T21:40:00.001-05:00

So while my husband was gone I along with one of my besties ripped up the tile in my dining room and laid new tile.

I have to say that I have some amazing friends that took time and helped me start a long project ahead of me.

We are upgrading our house room by room. With the dinning room we replaced the chandelier and now we are doing the floors which will carry over into the kitchen when we get to that point.

I have to say I love the floors. We still have to put the quarter round down and paint the new trim but I will cover the whole process in another post.

So this is after the tile is ripped up and before we sanded. The previous owners didn't put anything between the tile and the subfloor. Let me tell you the house was dusty and I sanded it alone and it sucked lol but I am proud I can say I did it.

Tea Time

2012-02-03T08:14:00.000-05:00

I have to say I am loving me some tea. I mean I have always liked tea and never coffee but this last month I am having it like twice or more a day. I have also been drinking my tea with milk like a true English girl :)

Yep that is a serving spoon....couldn't find anything to stir my tea. Thats just how I roll lol.

Daddy's Home

2012-02-02T08:25:00.000-05:00

So for 24 days my hubs was overseas in far off places. He was doing the work thing and we were missing him terrible. He travels all the time which we are used to but our family rule is no weekends gone. It only happens about twice a year that he will have to be gone on the weekends but to be gone for 3 was tough on everyone.

I have been in the military, a military spouse and through many many deployments and missions where my husband has been away. So this sign the kids are holding up is special to me for lost of reasons. I made it over 12 years ago during my husbands first deployment. It has been hung in every house we have lived in and will continued to be each time he comes home. This was the first time we had it in public and we were all pretty excited about that.

We are so very glad he is home!

Baltimore Trip

2012-02-01T11:46:00.000-05:00

While my husband was gone I decided to take the kids to Baltimore, MD and stay the night at a hotel and then go to the Aquarium. I was a little hesitant to do this because I've never taken the kids on an overnight in a hotel without my husband. I just wanted the trip to be fun, memorable, a time to not worry about Dad, and most of all stress free.

We had a great time. It was funny to see the kids get excited about doing things at a hotel we have never done because I didn't hold back on this over night. We did valet, room service (twice), the pool in the hotel had tons of couches for lounging (we have never seen that), and used a Bellhop. We had a great time and though my wallet didn't appreciate living like celebrities for a night the 4 of us had a great time and one we will sure never forget.

Here are some pictures from our trip.

Lunch at Olive Garden on drive up there....Yes my oldest thought it would be funny to have food hanging from her mouth lol

And yes my youngest copies everything his sisters do lol. He said he was a chipmonk.

Room Service! They were so excited for this part. They played pretend room service all night.

Family Night

2012-01-31T15:14:00.000-05:00

So we do family nights all the time but they usually are the kids requesting to watch movies and eat dinner in the living room (we never do this), but a month or so ago I implemented while my husband was overseas a new tradition. Monday night family nights.

Movies are good and who doesn't love eating in a forbidden room as much as the next guy, but I longed to have conversations with my children outside of "Jimmy pushed me today" or "Your never going to believe what so and so did in lunch". So every Monday night we sit in our fireplace room with no T.V., no phones, and no other electronics and we talk. We talk about our dreams, our weekly/weekend plans, upcoming sport seasons and best of all we just listen to each other. Then we play a game.

I have to say it has been amazing to hear what everyone has to say about a topic or something they have been thinking about. An added bonus is our youngest is really at an age to start playing games with us and understand the rules. I look forward to many more of these Monday nights. I am not looking forward however to juggling 5 schedules as I just signed all three up for baseball/softball for the spring. UGH car pool parents unite lol!

What are your family weeknight traditions?

A nice surprise

2012-01-13T11:55:00.000-05:00

This morning as I was getting ready for work and making sure all three kids were moving along so I could leave on time my oldest was on the phone at 6:30 in the morning. This is a normal routine for her her girl friends call as soon as they get out of the shower and the rest of the morning they are chatting away about the upcoming day.

I think it is weird being all her friends ride her bus and she is going to see them in 30 minutes or so but there are somethings I just don't understand and battles that just aren't that important. This morning she came in my room to tell me that her girlfriend Amy wanted to tell me good morning and that she missed me. Her friends are the sweetest and I can't wait till they are all grown and older because they are going to be incredible women, but I am rambling here.

The point to this story is that I said I had missed seeing her around the last week or two and that if she wanted to stay the night she was more than welcome to. Mya said thanks mom because she had asked me to spend the night at her house and I told her I wanted to be home and help you with the kids! I couldn't believe my ears it was the sweetest thing. Her helping with her siblings sometimes can be like pulling teeth but it meant so much to me knowing that tonight I have to get everyone ready for our trip this weekend and it was just the stress lifted off of me that I needed.

An Amazing Dinner

2012-01-12T11:19:00.000-05:00

We don't go out to eat very often and when we do someone is usually not happy. It happens in a family of 5, someone didn't want to eat there, sit next to so and so, or they can't find one thing on the menu that makes their mouth water.

Well the other night this was not the case. My husband surprised me with saying meet us at the restaurant were going out tonight. I have to say everything aligned and it was fantastic from the food, to the atmosphere, and even the kids loved on each other like they should. So I grabbed my iPhone and took some pictures. I mean this was a night to remember.

lol a little fussy but we all got in the shot and it only took 2 times!

My boys acting tough lol

Love him!

Can't believe how big our oldest is getting.

Dad and his girls

2 Lunch Dates

2012-01-10T09:16:00.000-05:00

So on Friday the hubs and I were both off for our anniversary and we had decided that we would have lunch at school with our two youngest children. Well we would of ate with all three but our oldest declared she would just die and run away if we came to her middle school and had lunch with her friends lol.

I love eating lunch with my kids. It is always loud and they show you off to their friends like they were the proud parents and something about that lunch that brings you back to simpler times of your biggest worry was who you were going to sit by. Then I realized that my husband had never done this before. Never eaten lunch with the kids and I was so excited standing in the hall outside of the cafeteria waiting for our first lunch date ~ Jaden.

Jaden came just a stomping around the corner and with a huge frown on his face until we called his name and all changed. He was so happy to see us as he ran to us for hugs. I asked him why he was so mad before he said it was because he thought we weren't coming because we didn't come to his room. It was his first time as well.

We had about 30 minutes in between lunches so we ran over to Taco Bell and picked up tacos for our second lunch date ~ Ciana

It is funny how lunch dates with a kindergartner and a third grader are so different. Jaden was so happy to have us eat our applesauce and have the sour cherry ice cream and Ciana felt like she was so cool with her tacos and cherry limeaid from Taco Bell. We heard all about how Ciana was the leader for the calendar board and how the children applause when your done and myself along with two other girls tried talking Ciana into talking a bow as everyone applauded her.

What a nice way to spend our day together than doing special things with our children. I will never forget that day.

Taco's In a Bag

2011-12-29T10:49:00.000-05:00

I found this here via Pintrest. I love doing this when I was younger at girl scout camp. This is such a great idea for busy families when you are carting siblings to and from activities.

Picture via http://www.canadianfamily.ca/recipes/taco-in-a-bag/

Servings Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion peeled and thinly sliced

1 tbsp minced garlic

1/2 lb lean ground chicken

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

1 can black beans, rinsed (14 oz)

6 bags 100-calorie-portioned Doritos

1 1/2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce

3 green onions, thinly sliced

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

6 tbsp low-fat sour cream, optional

6 tbsp guacamole, optional

6 tbsp chunky salsa, optional

2 tbsp chopped cilantro leaves, optional

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add chicken and spices and continue to sauté for 3 minutes, breaking meat into small chunks with spatula. Add beans; continue to cook for 3–4 minutes, or until chicken is cooked completely.

2. Cut each nacho bag open along the side; gently squeeze each bag once to break the chips into bite-sized pieces. Add chicken to each bag and top with remaining ingredients. Serve with a fork or spoon.

Who I Need.....

2011-12-28T16:16:00.000-05:00

I saw this on Pintrest awhile back and it is the truth for me. I just wanted to share because sometimes it is ok to list exactly what you need.....

I Need Someone Who is Prepared for:

- A million questions
- Uncontrollable laughter
- My family
- My Appetite
- Musical Outbursts
- Random Dancing
- My friends
- Sad/Happy tears
- Deep talks
- My imagination
- My dreams
- Walks in the rain
- Random texts
- Useless Arguments
- and Acceptance of the real me

Last Minute Christmas Craft: Glittered Christmas Lights

2011-12-22T11:43:00.000-05:00

Hey! Just wanted to share a neat Christmas craft we did on Thanksgiving. Its easy and cheap and who doesn't love glitter right??

Supplies:

Glitter (any colors)
Elmer's Glue
Paint Brushes
Light Bulbs (old or new)

Just paint the glue on dip in the glitter and dry! That easy. We filled a clear bowl and they now sit as a centerpiece on my coffee table.

I got the idea from Pintrest here

Merry Christmas!

Happy 10 going on 11

2011-12-20T12:38:00.000-05:00

By the looks of my title you would think I am going to talk about my daughters upcoming birthday this Friday, but I am not. I am talking about my marriage. See our anniversary is on January 6th and it is always bittersweet being tucked into the holiday time because my husband and I are usually content with just mushy cards, romantic dinners, and laying in bed talking the night away compared to most couples of gifts and trips. I can say we have never given each other a gift for our anniversary and for me I love that. Weird?? I love it because it is easy to go out and get a gift but it is really hard to ask and answer 50 questions about why you love your spouse, marriage, family, and life each anniversary. Its hard sometimes to really express the way you feel so that when you tell your husband he feels what you feel just by listening to your words.

I have been reflecting on our past year and last 10 years of how much our life has changed from when we were 18 & 19 going on our first date and eating red hot dogs for Thanksgiving at the local USO. We have been met with trials, heartbreak, death, life, 13 moves in 15 years, military deployment for long and short periods of time, medical scares, and many more tests of our relationship. But the thing is I don't really think of those times. I think of the nights laying awake laughing our butts off, being the only ones in the delivery room for each of our children and how special that was to see the first breath of life with just us and no other noise clouding our memories, of our first family camping trip, our first time taking the kids to Disney world, trips to the beach, rides of the boat, dinner around the table every night for 13 years, and many more traditions that were created.

I look forward to the many years we have ahead of us. I look forward to so many things we will be able to do with our children and the traditions and memories we will be able to share with them. I love you then, now, and forever.

Here is to 10 years and to 100 more.

Love,
Athienna

Some Days are Hard

2011-10-31T13:19:00.000-04:00

Hey~

It has been almost five years since I have heard your voice, held your hand, told you my secrets, or snuggled in your arms. At first the beginning days were the darkest of my life. I lost the other half of who I was, of who molded me to become this woman I am today. It has been 1,346 days since I have called your phone number. But who's counting right? I have been through all 7 stages of grief and back through them again. I can't bear to remove your address from my book. I drive past your house and die to go inside hoping that things will feel normal.

In the last couple of weeks I have longed for you more than I have in a long time. I haven't told Justin that I can't stop hurting inside just to hear your voice one more time. Yesterday was the worst as I layed on the couch body present with the family but my mind was on your picture on the shelf. I am not sure sometimes how I am going to get through the rest of my life without you because I have so much more to go. So much has happened in my life where I needed advice, an ear or an encouraging word. You always were the best listener and you never judged me or told me what to do. More than stated what was appropriate but that it was my life to live.

I hold dear the memories and pictures I have to constantly remind me of how lucky I was to have the time I did. I look forward to the day to seeing your face and holding your hand. To ask you "When was the last time I told you I loved you".

Today is hard, yesterday was harder, but I have faith that tomorrow will be easier because I will feel your spirit more in my soul than today.

I love you ~
Athienna

I Want To:

2011-10-27T12:41:00.000-04:00

I Want To:

Hold your hand

Laugh at your jokes

Walk by your side

Snuggle on the couch

Look into your eyes

Talk about whatever

and

Kiss your lips

EVERY

SINGLE
DAY

Wine Tasting

2011-10-24T11:05:00.000-04:00

So Friday night my husband and I went out with our best friends to our first wine tasting (well not the hubs). It was at Potomac Point Winery (visit them here) in our hometown and we had an amazing time. It was so neat inside where the wine tasting was and had this feeling of sitting outside a bistro in Italy where you order your dinner out on the patio.

The food was absolutely amazing and it was nice that they had a musician playing music. Although it was chilly outside they had plenty of heaters and a fire going in the corner. We tried some great wine, had great laughs, and I can't wait to go again.

Halloween Wine Glasses

2011-10-17T13:41:00.000-04:00

I am really liking personality wine glasses. There is something about drinking your wine out of a pretty glass after a long week. I am not an artist so I have never thought to paint my own as I think Lolita does a fine job. I did however see these glasses on Etsy last week and thought I could take a stab at it...

Check them out here

I am painting the Ghost, Pumpkin, Mummy, and a Vampire. I can't wait to show you the finished product. I have to start all over tonight as yesterday I realized after I got the main background color done on all 4 glasses I got the wrong paint as mine was for use on glass. So tonight I will be picking up the right paint and re-painting the main background color.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T17:08:00.000-04:00

My week in pictures!

MONDAY: Went to dinner with our besties at Firebird in Fredericksburg, VA. They had yummy martinis!!

TUESDAY: Mya had her softball game and brought home the winning run!! That's our girl.

Photo Source: PartyHq.com

WEDNESDAY: I ordered this for the kids for a party on Saturday. They don't know about it yet but they are going to be so excited!

Photo Source: Simplywash.com

THURSDAY: I will be doing laundry...ugh

Photo Source: Southernshows.com

FRIDAY: Wine night with the besties.

Photo Source: speedboatexpo.com

SATURDAY: The boys are going on the last run of the season on the Radar Run. Going 80 miles an hour with a bunch of guys....I am sure trouble will be had but they will sure have fun.

Leg Warmers

2011-10-11T11:04:00.000-04:00

I am a trend setter ~ Just Saying..... Well at least this is what I kept telling my husband last night as we were getting dressed to go out to dinner and pretty much throughout the night as folks were staring. I still stand by it because I loved it and that is all that matters. I forgot to take a picture but will get redressed tonight and post it later this week.

I did a google search this morning for leg warmers and found that I might be in the minority on this idea but why do we all have to be cookie cutters from the mall. I just love that you can wear them under boots, with jeans or with a skirt. I can't wait to pair them with a work outfit!

Photo Source: funcheaporfree.com

I can't remember where I found this photo

Photo Source: stylehive.com

Inner Strength

2011-10-07T11:01:00.000-04:00

When shopping for a charm for a Pandora Bracelet for my sister-in-law and I to have matching ones my obvious choice was to see if they had a sister charm. They don't. Now armed with a photo of her bracelet and my desire to give her something to express my love and gratefulness I have for our relationship I was worried. What possible charm could I really give her to express my heart felt gratitude for her. I mean really if you have ever looked at the Pandora catalog there are hundreds of charms.

I spoke to the jewelry store clerk of my goal for the intended gift and she told me that some of the charms have meaning behind them even if it doesn't look like it. She showed me the inner strength charm and instantly I knew this was the one. As I paid for our charms and left I couldn't help but think about writing my letter to her telling her why I picked this particular charm. But then I had to ask myself....

What is Inner Strength?

Answers.com describes inner strength as "something that leads you towards success and achievement. It is the power that pushes you into action in every area of life."

Webster's (version 1965) defines:

Inner - Something far within or near a center

Strength - Moral courage, fortitude; physical force

Veronica has taught me a lot about inner strength by just being in her life for the last 13years. Watching her go through her fight to survive breast cancer and the years of battling disease and sickness with my brother-in-law I have seen her inner strength first hand. She is truly an inspiration and a positive model for this charm.

I love looking down on my bracelet and being reminded that I have inner strength and all I need is to trust that and any situation I will be able to get through just fine.

Connecting the Dots

2011-10-06T13:49:00.000-04:00

So for many of you who have read about my battle for change and longing for a new direction in my life (here and here) in the last couple of weeks I want you to read this quote someone sent me. It is a quote from Steve Jobs that he spoke to a graduating class in 2005.

“You have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something, your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. Because believing that the dots will connect down the road will give you the confidence to follow your heart even when it leads you off the well worn path, and that will make the difference.”

I really love this quote. It is exactly what I should be knowing in my heart. I can't be afraid of the changes because I have to believe that changing what I know is needed and knowing that my changes are not only for myself but for the best possible outcome for my family then it will all work out.

Ghost Footprints

2011-10-05T09:30:00.000-04:00

If you read my I am post here you would of read that I am a mom who wants to give more but that bedtime comes to early. Well this weekend is a long weekend and my sister & brother in laws are coming into town and what a perfect time for a craft!

My nieces birthdays are the first week of November and they always have Halloween Birthday Parties where everyone dresses up even the adults so this craft is perfect!

I saw these Ghost Footprints over at Love Sweet Love here.

1. Start with a blank canvas (I got mine from JoAnns when they were on sale 50% off so it cost me $3.50) and paint it black. I used regular acrylic paint.
2. When the paint has completely dried (I waited overnight) paint the bottom of those ticklish little feet white and have them press their foot onto the canvas! Make sure to push down gently on each little piggy so all the paint transfers! Then I used my pinkie finger, while the paint was still wet, to remove the white paint to make the eyes.
3. Next I just used a white paint pen and free handed the words onto the canvas.
4. Lastly I gave my baby girl ghost a little bow and cut a small top-hat out for the gent.

Happy Crafting I know I can't wait to do this!

Baked Spaghetti

2011-10-04T09:10:00.000-04:00

I know this girl years ago and I just love her baked spaghetti. It is a fall/winter staple in our house. I love it for guest because a 13x9 pan feeds 9-11 people with salad and bread. For our family of 5 I make two 8x8 pans and we eat one and freeze one. Perfect to pop in the oven on those busy nights straight from the freezer.

So let me introduce this friend of mine as I think we share a friendship with her.....

Oh what was that??? You know her to? LOL!!

Yep I found this recipe in one of her cook books years ago but you can find it here. Now the only thing I change is the house seasoning. I don't make a big batch so I just do a 1/2t of salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Baked Spaghetti

2 cups canned diced tomatoes
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup water
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons House Seasoning, recipe follows
1 1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
2 small bay leaves
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
8 ounces uncooked angel hair pasta
1 cup grated cheddar
1 cup grated Monterey Jack

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

In a stockpot, combine the tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, onions, peppers, garlic, parsley, seasoning mixtures, sugar, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat, and then reduce the heat and let simmer, covered, for 1 hour. Crumble the ground beef in a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until fully cooked, with no pink color remaining. Drain the fat from the meat, and then add the ground beef to the stockpot. Simmer for 20 more minutes. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Cover the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch pan with sauce. Add a layer of pasta and then a little less than 1/2 of each cheese; repeat the layers, ending with the sauce. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Top the casserole with the remaining cheese, return it to the oven, and continue to cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5 more minutes. Cut into squares before serving.

House Seasoning:

1 cup salt
1/4 cup black pepper
1/4 cup garlic powder

Mix ingredients together and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Yield: 1 1/2 cups

Enjoy!

Change

2011-10-03T08:29:00.000-04:00

Change is scary

Change is necessary

and...

Change is hard

BUT

Change can be good.

Last week I posted about somethings in my life I need to change to make me happier. To make my husband happier and my household. But as I have been reflecting for days now on the root of what is making me unhappy I have found myself feeling guilty about making those changes.

See my changes are not only going to effect myself but my entire family. My change are going going to effect my time and our money, but only temporary. Now that I want to make some changes and I feel like I am ready I feel guilty of the temporary effects they might have on my family. My husband supports me and that is all that really matters but I am scared. Change is hard, but the long term benefits out way the short term fear.

My cousin sent me this quote the other day concerning my fears:

"Turn your cant's into cans and your dreams into plans"

Cupcake Liner Witch Hats

2011-09-29T11:39:00.002-04:00

I saw this over at Half Baked and had to share! Go here for her tutorial.

Award Winning Chili

2011-09-28T10:32:00.000-04:00

I was surprised last Thursday when I had my youngest two children with me while I was going grocery shopping at the types of meals they were requesting. I took a small detour to Pho where we lived and we had an impromptu dinner just the three of us while the other half of our family was at softball.

During dinner my daughter asked me if we could make chili. I was a little surprised. She never really asks for specific dinners and always says everything is great even if she doesn't like it. I asked her why and for the next 10 minutes she proceeded to tell me how much she loved it. I have to admit I am not really a fan. Not because it isn't good it is but I am just a plain meat, beans, and sauce chili girl. My chili has veggies, bacon, A1 sauce, and so much more. Its fancy.

So today when school gets our 3 hours early I am going to teach my daughter how to make her favorite chili and homemade cornbread. I am sure the chili will taste a little better tonight knowing how much she loves my dish.

~Enjoy~

Ingredients

1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, chopped
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 carrot, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/4 cup white wine
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/3 cup bottled steak sauce
5 slices bacon
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 (1.25 ounce) package chili seasoning mix
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

In a large pot over medium-low heat, combine tomatoes, tomato paste, carrot, onion, celery, wine, pepper flakes, bell peppers and steak sauce.
While tomato mixture is simmering, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Remove to paper towels. Cook beef in bacon drippings until brown; drain. Stir chili seasoning into ground beef.
Stir seasoned beef, cumin and bacon into tomato mixture. Continue to simmer until vegetables are tender and flavors are well blended.
Stir in beans, cilantro and parsley. Heat through and serve.

Recipe found here

I am....

2011-09-27T11:17:00.000-04:00

I am drowning...

I am stressed...

I am feeling like I have lost my way in my own desires and accomplishments.

I am a sensitive person pretending not to be.

I am wanting a good belly laugh so hard tears are streaming down my face.

I am in desperate need of sister/cousin/Aunt time.

I am a mom who wants to give more but bedtime comes to early.

I am a wife who wants to be June Cleaver but can't be.

I am a homeowner that has a to do list a mile long, but can't seem to cross one item off in months.

I am looking for my way but can't find it.

I am tired

I am wishing my brain would not think so much and give me at least five minutes a day without out going a mile a minute.

I am not ashamed of how I am feeling.

I am going to fix this!

Fall

2011-09-20T08:54:00.000-04:00

This was sent to me by someone who I work with that is a lover of my blog and hates to not see posts. Thank you as you continue to motivate me to write what I love and love what I write.

Leaves are beginning to turn and fall

There is a chill in the air

In one week, fall will be here

Pumpkins, ghouls and goblins

Turkeys roasting and football in full swing

Soon the smell of chestnuts roasting on a fire

And Christmas bringing every kids desire

These are the things I think about

As the leaves begin to turn

Another year has come and gone

A A poem by Eltoaobwana

10 Things Never to Say....

2011-09-01T15:21:00.000-04:00

I saw this in a magazine and thought it was oh so true!

10 Things Never to Say to a Working Mom:

1. It Must be hard missing those special moments everyday.
2. I suppose it's smart your working. You know in case your husband leaves you some day.
3. I'm surprised you went back to work your husband seems so successful.
4. It's cute when they call your nanny "Mommy".
5. I just love my kids to much to leave them during the day.
6. Did you see Dateline? The one with the hidden camera in the daycare.
7. I could never let someone else raise my children. But that's just me!
8. I hated my mom because she was never home after school like everyone else's mom.
9. You must feel so guilty.
10. I wish I were as laid back as you to just let the housework go.

10 Things Never to Say to a Working Mom:

1. When the kids are older do you think you will get a real job?
2. How June Cleaver of you!
3. Oh, so you don't work?
4. Since you have extra time on your hands, could you whip up a couple dozen brownies for the bake sale tomorrow?
5. All day with your kids I can't even imagine!
6. I'm jealous I wish my husband was rich so I didn't have to work.
7. What do you do all day anyway?
8. I'm sure your not the only one who has wasted money on a college degree.
9. That explains why your son is so clingy!
10. Weird, I thought your house would be super clean.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T13:33:00.000-04:00

Ciana and I hanging out at softball practice!

Ciana loving on her brother...(sniff, sniff)

A Joke

2011-08-24T11:43:00.000-04:00

I don't know about all of you but I am ready for the weekend and ready to put this week behind me that is for sure. So I needed a laugh...

OMG !!!!! I was in the public toilets and had just sat down, a voice from the next cubicle said "Hi !, how are you ?" Embarrassed, I said, "I'm doing fine". The voice said "So what are you up to ?". I said, "Just doing the same as you, sitting here !". From next door, "Can I come over?". Annoyed, I said " rather busy right now". The voice said, "Listen, i will have to call you back, there's an idiot next door answering all my questions".

Happy Hump Day

Dinner Menu's

2011-08-23T08:32:00.000-04:00

OMG I am so tired of doing my weekly dinner menu! I feel like I am in such a rut with what I am cooking I think my family will revolt and have me beheaded if I cook the same meal more than once a week. I feel the same way as they do but sometimes frankly I just don't care.

Take today for example I am planning my menu at my desk at work. Yep no cookbooks to look through with fancy pictures of mouth watering dishes, no going through my spices to see what I have or what I need, and defiantly no kids to ask what they would like. Instead I am left with random online recipe websites and calling my husband at his desk to give me a couple of ideas only to be given the same answer I get every time.."I don't know dear anything is fine"

So I am posting my pathetic menu for the week in hopes it will give you some satisfaction of knowing your menu at least isn't as bad as mine lol. Oh how I miss the days when I didn't work and my kids and I went to the grocery everyday to pick out food for that nights dinner. I would look through cookbooks for hours finding the perfect recipe.

With work, commuting, kids practices, laundry, picking up the house and just plain relaxing it seems like my daily inspirational meals are left to something I can whip up in 30 minutes lol.

Monday - Chicken Stir Fry
Tuesday - Homemade Turkey Burgers
Wednesday - Grilled Chicken
Thursday - Roast
Friday - Make your own pizzas
Saturday - Roasted Chicken
Sunday - Spaghetti & Salad

Enjoy!

Recovering....

2011-08-22T10:20:00.000-04:00

So I had surgery last Wednesday and all went well. I have to say I know everything went well because of the support I had during my recovery time....

Justin ~

Thank you for taking care of me back to health. Your love and tenderness before and after my surgery was exactly what I needed to wheel into the OR calm and steady. I was so touched at the amount of time you took off work knowing your schedule is so busy at work. To top it all off while taking care of me you finished the main level bathroom so I could rest in the main area and not be hid up in our room. I love my bathroom!! Your the most amazing husband that I could of ever been given and I am so thankful for you. XOXO

Reagan ~

Your "nurse" advice over the last couple of weeks leading up to my surgery helped me to be very informed of what was going to happen that I think it is one of the reasons I was so calm. I was so grateful for the time we spent together and phone calls while I was resting. They defiantly boosted my spirits as you know I can't sit still for to long before I start to go CrAzY.

Rick & Reagan ~

What an amazing relaxing weekend I had. Thank you so much for all the laughs, memories, and stories we will be able to recall for years to come. We always have a good time but this weekend was one of the bests I have had for sure. I am looking forward to doing it all over again. P.S. I absolutely love my presents and can't wait to use them on Friday!! Love you both.

Milestones vs. Moments

2011-08-16T14:03:00.000-04:00

Growing up I was an only child until I was 14 and my second sister was born when I was 17. Needless to say I wasn't around as much as a sister would want to. I am 32 and my sisters are a sophomore in college and a sophomore in high school. WOW I know what your thinking "that is a huge age gap". It is true our level of relating to each other is sometimes difficult I mean I have a husband, 3 children, mortgage, etc etc and they have school and friends.

BUT

I will say that I have missed many of there milestones over the years due to being in the military and living far away or having family priorities and not being able to make the 8 hour drive home. But this hasn't seemed to effected our relationships because we focus on the Moments NOT the Milestones. I saw this quote in an office of a Marina once that said:

"Life isn't a matter of Milestones but of Moments" Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy

When I saw this I thought of my sisters. I love them more than I think they know. I cherish the times we do have together and as they get older it seems it brings more laughter and more memorable moments.

Katie, Me and Ashley

This picture was taken on our way into having dinner with our parents and my husband. I have never laughed so hard that night. We were celebrating family and the love we have for each other. We walked out of there a closer family than we ever had before. It has been a couple of weeks since this picture was taken and we have all gone back to our busy lives, but I think of the night/visit often as those moments are so dear to me.

So Katie and Ashley thank you for giving me moments to love and hold onto forever. I love you girls and I am holding you to my visit in Lima where we will share the next moment! XOXO

Lost Voice & The List

2011-08-15T11:34:00.000-04:00

It seems as though I have lost my voice along the way.....

No not my physical voice but my creative voice. The voice inside me that drives me to do what I have to along side of doing what I love. Over the past couple of months as I have watched my blog posts dwindle down to forced writings so I don't feel guilty or not really having or making the time to post what I really want. Why is that???

I have no idea. I have seen this happen a time or two in some of the blogs that I follow so I really don't feel alone in this situation but I don't like it. I miss my posts of crafts and ideas, my post of recipes and eats that I can't wait to share with everyone. So I am going to start this search of finding my voice.

What better way to start than with a list. A list that is published so that I can be held accountable to not only myself but to the few that read this blog. Hopefully by completion of this list I will feel inspired and challenged to keep my list going and to only sometimes fall of my blog wagon lol.

The List

1. Complete a tutorial
2. Post pictures of my new house re-do. So far I have completed the guest room, guest bath, and basement hallway.
3. Post at least one recipe with photos a week
4. Get back to Wordless Wednesdays
5. Once a week post a photo with me in it and one of my children!!
6. Throw a party for someone for no reason. Just because. I mean who wouldn't like to have a party thrown in their honor??
7. Post about my upcoming girls weekend in September
8. Start planning my son's 5th Birthday Party eek it is in 3 weeks I am so behind the power curve here.
9. Paint my painting for the half bath.
10. Finish printing my quotes for my half bath.

I know this doesn't look like a lot, but with work, kids, school starting, husband, friends I am hoping that I can get all this done soon.

I Love Pool Time!!

2011-08-01T15:10:00.000-04:00

I have to say I love going to the pool especially when the water is not to cold where it takes your breath away. I love pool time even more that all my children can swim and play without hanging on to me for dear life (unless they just wanna). On our recent vacation with my family to the beach we enjoyed the pool all the days it didn't rain!

Waiting in line for pool games!

Mikhayla, Ciana, and Ava all one a prize for the pool game. Mya won a day to. Poor Jaden didn't win but had a great time.

Fun with Friends!

Odd or Not Part 2

2011-07-18T09:02:00.000-04:00

If you didn't read Part 1 go here:

See I met Rick and Reagan (who happen to be husband and wife) three years ago. The first year after my Grandmother past was the darkest year of my life. I shut everyone out including my family and friends I had at the time. After about a year we moved and changed friends to a new group of people I had met because of someone who works with the hubs. This is where I met Rick and Reagan.

Fast forward 3 years and I am standing looking at the grave site of the most important woman in my life my Grandmother, my best friend, my mother and to learn that my BFF shares the day that celebrates her life. It got me to thinking of when I met them and where I was in that place in my life. Our friendship didn't start off fast and strong it was here and there. Always fun and this feeling of a connection with them. A sense of trust, a sense of no drama just pure fun. Over the last 3 years our relationship has grown and is where I have always hoped how my best friends would be. I mean I am one lucky girl to have my very best friend Reagan married to my BFF Rick lol.

I started to reflect on the person my Grandmother was: strong, silent, comforting, never said a ill word about anyone, an amazing listener, loves to have a good time, accepts peoples faults because she loves the person they are. This is exactly Rick (and Reagan too but I am trying to get somewhere in all my ramblings).

Sometimes I believe in my secret thoughts that she sent them to me when I needed them most. I believe she had a hand in making sure our relationship took a slow steady course. One that will stand the test of time forever. She sent me Reagan to finally give me that friend that ultimately feels like my sister. We always talk of how we wished we would of known each other long ago but we met when we were supposed to. Our relationship created this safe sense of loving who I am because of two people (not including the hubs) who have never judged me the person, my actions, my looks, or my blonde moments. In the process I got to know Rick and realized he really is the brother I never had but wished I did.

Mary Jo and Rick are two different people from two different parts of the United States who share the same day. A day where their life is to be celebrated because of the wonderful people they are. I ask myself is this odd? No just special for me and my family.

The next time I hear of some one's who birthday is the same as mine or someone I know I might think a little bit more. Is that just odd or is it the perfect date to be able to celebrate two people that mean so much to so many people. Tomorrow July 19th I will be celebrating Mary Jo Shaffner and Rick Haines' birthday. Tomorrow is a day I am very thankful for that God brought them into this world decades and miles part so that one day I would have the pleasure of loving them both. My family and my life are defiantly better by having them in it.

Odd or Not? Part 1

2011-07-15T14:46:00.000-04:00

When you hear someone say when their birthday is and it is the same as yours or someone you know do you get all surprised and think WOW what are the odds? I do but it usually doesn't go farther than that until one day..

In May my best friend and I headed to my hometown for a girls weekend with my cousins and sisters. We always make a point to visit the cemetery to pay honor to my Grandparents. My Grandmother had a BIG hand in raising me into the woman I am today because my biological mother left when I was 1 (that's a whole other can of worms). I always find time in my few visits home to go and reflex on a memory, a thought, her smell, something of our relationship that makes me happy because I miss her each and everyday.

Well Reagan wasn't sure about accompanying me out of being respectful of family time but lets face it she is just as much my family as those who have my blood I just got to pick her :). I wanted her to go it was important to me to share that with her as she shares her parents, siblings, and family with me. As usual I was getting frantic phone calls from those that were visiting with me because they couldn't find the spot so as we all arrived I felt this massive amount of emotion come over me from my feet until my hair tingled. I don't think I have ever held Reagan's hand so tight.

See only 4 years have gone by since I have last seen her with my eyes, smelled her scent of perfume, touched her hair, or kissed her thin lips, but it seems like yesterday I dialed her number to tell her of my daily achievements or activities. It seems like yesterday I was sitting across the table to see her hands shake up and down while her feet were almost marching in excitement. But that day I learned something..

As us Shaffners stood around her grave and Reagan stood off to the side she came closer to me and whispered in my ear something that changed my thinking forever. "Athienna your Mom and Rick have the same birthday" My heart sunk and the tears rolled from my eyes that day. What are the odds that my male best friend and my Mom have the same birthday? Was it odd or not????

To Be Continued....

Lost in my thoughts

2011-07-14T10:14:00.000-04:00

It has been 13 days since I have wrote on here, but that doesn't mean I don't have a handful of half written post I feel are just not worthy for others to read. Then I have the guilt that I have been absent for so long I feel as though I have to have this fabulous post for my come back.

Man the pressures we put on ourselves right? I mean who am I kidding really do people who read this really think that? I am just obsessive and want everything to be perfect and don't want to put something out there that isn't something I absolutely love. It doesn't help when my mind and heart aren't in the same place.

I have been busy getting our guest room ready for my sister-in-law and nieces visit this Saturday, and then we have my BFF Rick's birthday shin dig out on the water Saturday, boating with all the kids Sunday, Red Sox Game on Wednesday, and finally an 8 day vacation on Friday to Myrtle Beach. So I am a tiny bit busy in the Calixto household.

I will be posting pictures hopefully tomorrow of our guest room & bath redo. I love what a little paint and accessories can do. I am already thinking of other rooms after vacation I am ready to get started on.

I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the week and there weekend. I will try and enjoy mine. I know once I see my girls off that plane things will be a bit brighter in our house. I am so glad that I just bought a new king size bed for our room because those girls might be sleeping with me :)

Happy 4th of July

2011-06-30T12:46:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone has a safe and fun holiday weekend!

Thank you

2011-06-30T11:51:00.000-04:00

Time for some honesty up in this blog.

I have been having some medical issues the past couple of months and without getting into to much detail (I'm all about honesty but this is the World Wide Web people) I have been slightly stressed and worried. Although it hasn't really been until this week where all the internalizing of my worrying has came to the surface and the people close to me can see it.

Namely my best friend:

I mean seriously we see each other at least 4 days a week and talk a million times everyday I don't know why I continue to think she can't see through my shenanigans. But each time I try to put on that smile on my face and be the easy going nothing is wrong Athienna. Until today...

I broke down completely crying like a child with her on the phone about my worries, fears, and frustration. She just listened, smacked me back into reality, and comforted me. Exactly what I needed. I am so thankful for this. I feel as though the weight has been shifted slightly and not so heavy on my shoulders.

Don't get me wrong my husband has been there but sometimes I don't want to burden him with more stress that comes with being the head of our household. This is where I know that Reagan will be there always.

So thank you. Thank you for letting me throw up my emotional worry today. I needed it. Thank you for this up coming weekend where I know we are going to have a fabulous time. Thank you for knowing when my thoughts are wondering into darkness and you pick me up turn up the IPOD and dance my cares away. Thank you for my hugs. Thank you for being able to wake up in the middle of the night at the same time and talk and then go back to sleep. Thank you for my fancy cup so no river water will get into my drink and it will match my bathing suit (wink). I love you

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T13:45:00.002-04:00

So looking forward to spending 4 days with the hubby! The week has gone fast so I am crossing my fingers tomorrow goes even faster! :)

Jaden's "Girlfriend"

2011-06-28T14:06:00.001-04:00

It is funny how kids form relationships at such an early age. What is even more cute is how they try and mimic adults behavior into their relationships. My son Jaden has had girls as friends but he usually says they bother him or get on his nerves except one special friend Sarah.

They get along so well and when they get together they never want to leave. Jaden is usually crying or having major attitude because it wasn't enough time with Sarah. Well over the weekend Sarah had a dance recital that we bought tickets for and I asked him if he wanted to go. Of course he did!!

He brought her flowers before the show and wished her luck and to do a good job. It was so sweet watching him wait for her dance routine to come up and when she did he said "there she is". You betcha that tugged at my heart. Once her dance routine was complete he didn't really bother with the rest of the recital as he played on his DS and eventually fell asleep.

I know as the years come and go and they get older there friendship might change and he might have another girlfriend but secretly I hope not. She is the most sweetest thing I have ever met (wink). But I am at least for now that there good friends and they care about each other.

I waited 30 years to find my best friend and my life would of been a lot better if I would of found her when I was 5. So here is hoping to these two that no matter what they stay friends and always enjoy each others company.

I know this picture is bad but I was trying to catch them as they were walking. Jaden held her hand from the bathroom until she got back to her parents! sniff sniff he is so cute!!

Love being an Aunt!

2011-06-24T12:42:00.000-04:00

I love being an Aunt. I hate being an Aunt that lives far away from my nieces!! But in a couple of weeks my family is coming down and when they leave my nieces are staying!! Yep that will be 5 kids in our house for a couple of weeks. I can't wait. We are going to a Red Sox game, on the boat, to the pool and on vacation to Myrtle Beach. I can't wait to take them to Myrtle Beach with us!! They are going to have a blast.

I always feel like are visits are too few and we are cramming in everything we can in the couple of days we see each other. So those couple of weeks I will have them there will be MAJOR snuggle time for sure and of course, nails getting done and shopping!

I hope my sister and brother -in- law will get some much needed time alone to just live, laugh, and love on each other!

My Niece's Mikhayla and Ava

Mya and Mikhayla two peas in a pod.

The whole Calixto family a couple of winters ago after a sleigh ride :)

New Cocktail ~ Captain Morgan Parrot Bay Mango Iced Tea

2011-06-23T08:26:00.000-04:00

So I have made the perfect summer beverage for our boat! Well it is perfect for any day.

Source: sweetsweetmango.com

Ingredients:

3 Quarts Cold Water

3 Cold Brew Tea Bags

1 Cup Simple Syrup (1cup sugar disolved into 1 cup water)

1 Bottle of Captain Morgan Parrot Bay Mango

Place 3 tea bags in your water for 10 minutes and remove bags. Pour in simple syrup and Parrot's Bay Mango and mix. Chill and serve over ice!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T13:47:00.000-04:00

I need more family time....

I'm not PERFECT!!

2011-06-21T13:20:00.000-04:00

Yep that title pretty much sums me up. And to those who love me it frustrates them.

1. I plan way to far in advance to where I become obsessive about every detail that those around me don't want to hear another thing about it.

2. I have a book in my purse for just lists for everything in my life and none of them are complete.

3. I have to have every detail just the way I want it, but it overwhelms me sometimes to where I can't ever start something.

4. I have another book in my purse of ideas but I haven't done not one because I want to do them all and I don't know where to start.

5. I change my mind frequently.

6. I have to have long dialog conversations to make me feel like I really understand a plan or whats going one. I can't stop talking until I am ready.

7. I know how I want to decorate my new home but afraid to do it because what I see might not be whats in my head. I hate wasting time and money....

8. I don't pick up on hints, innuendos, or obvious signs, signals, or communication.

9. Sometimes I just want to be told what to do and won't make a move until I am told...whether you know this or not.

10. I forget stuff. Sometimes I feel like I am an old women who can't remember anything.

I am not perfect and I have faults but what I do have is love and I give it unconditionally, I forgive always, I give 100% of myself to everyone I love, and no matter what I always try to improve in areas that need it even if it takes me a minute.

Happy Birthday Ciana!!

2011-06-16T11:39:00.000-04:00

Ciana,

I knew I was pregnant with you before I ever went to the doctor. I remember sitting on the couch one day watching the rain fall and wondering if I was ready to love another child and how could I love two people was there room in my heart? Well that all changed further and further into my pregnancy. With a labor scare that put me on permanent bed rest for 5 months I was determined more than ever to do what ever I could to keep you warm and safe until it was time to hold you.

I should of known how independent you were going to be by just your birth alone. Once my water broke I never even push you came out ready to greet the world yourself. I am just glad the doctor was ready when she caught you. Our love was instant as if God knew exactly what our family needed. You were the most beautiful blond haired baby I had ever seen. You never cried you slept in your own crib night 1, nursed like you were listening to me when I read all those books. You just enjoyed life.

Growing up you never needed anyone you loved playing by yourself and making up songs, and stories. You are a true artist that has a passion for people, family, and all things musical. I hope as you continue to grow and find who you really want to be and what impact on this world you want to make that you know every day that you make your Dad and I so proud of you!

Happy 8th Birthday Ciana! XOXO

Love,

Mom

My new hat and a little bit of sass

2011-06-14T09:33:00.000-04:00

So I have been following Momma Go Round here she is a Stay at Home Mom who blogs about life. Recently tho it seems that this SAHM was sick and tired of being in mom clothes and wanted to start putting effort into her wardrobe and along the way she has discovered that as long as you love yourself, be true to yourself, you will always look HAWT.

This past 11 months I have been on this same very journey. My youngest child is now old enough to get dressed and basically handle himself in the morning so I can get ready. This gives me more time in the morning to experiment with pieces I have in my closet. Also my husband has given me a great deal of time to go out and shop by myself without all 3 kids. He knows if anyone comes with me I will come home with bags of items for everyone but me. So I have been tackling the world of fashion one pay check at a time so to speak.

Thursday night I was in TJ Maxx and saw this amazing hat and I had seen one like it on Momma Go Round and thought why not. I was a little nervous because I found it in the men's section but I thought for $9.00 why not. Let me tell you I couldn't take it off all night. I felt so sassy, cute, and chic all in one.

My daughter took these on my phone for me because my husband said it was vain to take photos and blog about my looks. There was a bunch of eye rolling from her and lots of hurry up before the neighbors see from me. I am not as confident in taking pictures outside as Nina is...maybe one day.

10 Lesson's I Learned this Weekend...

2011-06-13T14:10:00.000-04:00

1. Never ever cut your anchor in a storm! LOL
2. Swamp Water is better than Killer Drillers, but I still like both.
3. Saying my friend looks 40 will never get you compliments especially when I'm older.
4. If your going to make breakfast on the boat make sure you bring a spatula.
5. Our official title is "Storm Chasers".
6. Ciana made money this weekend: $2.50 thanks to our new cuss jar. (thanks Justin and Rick)
7. Jaden has told us no matter what we say "he is on Ricky's side"
8. I shouldn't be so aggressive when I introduce myself lol. Just stating your name is enough.
9. When someone throws you your rope from their boat make sure you catch it.
10. Despite the weather on the water it is the people who you are with that make all the difference. My children experienced their first storm and were calmed down by their family and had a blast waiting the storm out.

This is a bad picture, but it was Jaden riding with Rick and Matt on his fast boat. When we got to the Marina Jaden told every person he met how he went so fast!

It is the small things...

2011-06-09T08:38:00.000-04:00

My love for my husband is:

not saying anything when I put my clothes on the bathroom floor and the hamper is right outside the door.
knowing he was my soul mate on our first date and when I told him he didn't run (even though he thought I was nuts lol)
being new home owners and knowing I am going to see him come down those stairs in the morning for the next 30 years.
hating my potato chip addiction and letting me buy 10 bags each grocery run.
holding me in my sleep.
sexting when he is away on business travel (insert blushing here)
knowing how important that every meal is to be eaten at the dinning room table and not until everyone is present. This is particularly challenging during racing and football season but he does it anyway.
letting me create every weekend activity like it is a huge event and always going over board. I see him roll his eyes as I pack 12 bags for the boat for a day trip, but I hear him brag about how amazing I am to think of everything.
answering all my questions when he fixes something.
taking all the back pillows off the couch so we can snuggle and watch TV.
showing up after shopping with my bestie after work and the house is cleaned spotless so I don't have to do it on my day off.

There are so many items I can list but sometimes these small little things tug at my heart when I sit back and think about all that my husband does whether it is in the form of an action or looking the other way. It is what makes a marriage work. Flow even. Accepting your spouse for who they are and loving them for that. We all change and evolve over the years but if you try to change them into what you want or how you want them to act eventually no one will be happy.

So look at those little things in your marriage/relationships those quirks and embrace them. They do infact make your spouse who they are and why you fell in love with them in the first place.

Proud Momma!

2011-06-08T11:58:00.000-04:00

Over the last school year my kids have made me so proud with their academics. Getting AMAZING grades (they get this from their dad for sure) and always putting their school work first.

Our school does a monthly Student of the Month. Each month their is a different word of the month through out our schools in our county. Now to think of 30 or so kids per class and I only have 2 kids in school now the odds of both of them getting it in 8 months would be rare. Not only by the sheer odds in numbers but some classes your peers pick you and some your teacher decides so there are even more variables to consider.

Well check out both of my girls!!!

Word of the Month: Perseverance

Word of the Month: Dependability

Yep one proud momma today!!

Hard Working Parents (and the pay off)!

2011-06-06T09:17:00.000-04:00

My husband and I have both worked our whole lives (ok all 32 years of our lives lol) but we have still worked. We don't really go on vacations other than camping and we normally use our leave to visit family in MA or OH.

So for the past couple of years we have talked about buying a camper. My husband has always wanted a boat instead of a camper. His reasoning is that we will get more use out of our investment and more of our friends boat than camp so it's nice to hang with friends and the kids get to boat and swim with there friends on the weekend.

Well we finally bought a boat back in February and we have been enjoying it for the past couple of months with our family and friends. Below is one of the best reason's why when I think about the time I am away from my kids during the work week it makes me feel so happy. My kids are having the time of there life and it makes our hard work so worth it!

This is my son Jaden. The quality isn't that great because it was taken on a phone. And yes my husband was standing next to him while it was steering for all of those that are freaking out right now that a 4 year old was driving a boat.

It is so rare to get even a small smile from her. :)

Thank you for our friendship!

2011-06-03T11:21:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to say thanks for always being there for me when I need you. And not only for me but for being there for my family. Being there for my husband when he needs someone to talk to. Or helping Mya convince me it is ok to shave her legs. For being that role model of a friend that Ciana asks if one day she will grow up and be like us with her friends. I can't forget Jaden who is always looking to snuggle with Reagan.

Your an amazing woman who stands up for what you believe in no matter where you are, who your talking to, or the consequences.

You always have something nice to say about my quirky fashion likes even when I know your lying and your really hate that shirt I picked off of the rack. I am glad you let me be me but when I have gone to far with fashion somehow you ever so gently while flaring your nose tell me to put it back.

I love that we talk every day. And when I call you multiple times you never seem to care...your cool like that.

We are alike in certain ways, but we are different in certain ways. Sometimes were twins and sometimes I wonder where did I find this girl LOL!!

Your friendship has changed my life for the better and I am glad for it. You have sat by and watched me become who I am without input from anyone else. You have loved me for all my faults, failures, and farts, and helped me when I needed to get back on track.

I love that every time we hang out it is just pure fun and no drama! It makes getting to the weekends that much more exciting knowing we are going to have a BLAST every time.

I know you know this, but I wanted to say it outside of us. Thank you Reagan Marie Haines for being you and loving me! Your an amazing friend that I love sharing my family, time, memories, and my drink stirrers with.

Thanks Jet Blue NOT!

2011-06-02T13:13:00.000-04:00

Finally, after weeks of waiting my husband came home. BUT in true Calixto fashion it wasn't without any hiccups for him.

Trying to leave Boston Day 1:
1. Gets to airport only to find out his flight isn't until the next day.
2. Sternly tries to sweet talk into getting on a stand by flight gives them the sob story of the last couple of weeks and it is a no go unless he wants to pay an additional $140.00. Thanks Jet Blue!
3. Frantically runs out of the airport trying to chase down his Dad who dropped him off to come back.
4. Calls his wife who has already taken leave from work, got a hair cut, changed her clothes, and picked up all 3 kids to make the hour and half ride to the airport to tell her he isn't coming. Kids are now crying...
5. Wife has nothing planned for dinner since we were supposed to go out to eat so we will now all be fending for ourselves and eating whatever in the kitchen we can find. 1 of 3 is now crying!

Trying to leave Boston Day 2:
1. Wife takes the whole day off so she can spend time with Jaden and get the house all clean and fabulous for the hubs. Falls asleep on the couch only to wake up to husband frantic texts and almost missing picking the kids up from school.
2. Hubs gets to the airport only to find that the day prior Jet Blue voided his ticket and we will be refunded with in 10 days. Thanks Jet Blue for debiting my checking account and now have to wait for my $160.00 only to spend another $160.00 to get him home.
3. Get all the kids in the car and on the way to the airport and forgot snacks....2 hours of whining how they are dying without food.
4. We circled the terminal pick up location 50 or so times because the cop on the scooter was watching me!
5. By the time we got the hubs and out of the airport and someplace closer to home for dinner it was McDonald's! 2 kids now crying because they wanted the fabulous Welcome Home dinner.

BUT he is home and that is all that matters. Oh and one more thing: Inspite of all of the crying, hiccups, traffic, and drama we went through to get him home I look amazing for him and he made sure to tell me. (Insert heart melting here)

(P.S. don't hate on the quality photos lol. I did the best I could with my IPhone)

25 Things You Didn't Know About Me

2011-05-31T09:46:00.001-04:00

1. I don't eat breakfast unless we are going out to a restaurant.
2. I went to 3 different schools growning up.
3. I always hate being the new kid.
4. I played the clarinet.
5. I have always wanted to be a stay at home mom and home school.
6. I secretly love riding on the backs of motorcycles.
7. I have never been skiing.
8. I have been cow tipping.
9. I had my own apartment and full time job as a senior in high school.
10. Goonies is my favorite movie.
11. I have a problem interrupting people lol.
12. My dream job would be to own a diner and make all my favorite dishes.
13. I have the most amazing Best Friend!
14. I used to write poetry.
15. I have 11 half brothers and sisters and I only know 2 of them.
16. I love to dance to Spanish music with my husband.
17. I hate my husbands facial hair, but he thinks it is cool lol :)
18. I always wanted to be a cop.
19. I love to shop.
20. I have never been out of the country. (Tijuana doesn't count)
21. I never had a honeymoon.
22. I am sensitive, but working on not showing it so much.
23. I hate drama it makes my stomach hurt.
24. I have plans to build a chicken coop and one day I will do it.
25. If I could have any car it would be a mini van.

For me...

2011-05-29T20:55:00.000-04:00

As I sit here on the beach listening to the waves and watching my son play in the sand and water my mind starts to wonder to my husband and how much I miss him. I have seen him about 14 days in the last 7 weeks either being on travel or with family and helping them get through some medical emergencies.

It is true that my heart has grown fonder with his absence (how it could anymore than it is still amazes me) and our quiet times together. He would love this right now just sitting in our chairs watching the kids playing without fighting lol.

I miss his tender touch of my hand or the looks from across the room. The times when he reminds me how beautiful he thinks I am. I miss his strong hugs when I am feeling down and how he always seems to hug my anxiety, sadness, or frustration away. I love the way he stares at me when we are going to sleep. I know there is so much going on in his head but looking at each other and holding hands under the covers it just seems to all melt away until another day.

Justin,

I love you and miss you so very much. I am looking forward to you coming home and beautiful smile!

Xoxo

Athienna

Thursdays and why I love them

2011-05-26T11:06:00.000-04:00

I love Thursdays. I know I am weird but I do. It means it is almost the weekend, almost my day off every other week. I always can't stop thinking of all the plans I have for the weekend and it makes me feel like I have a pep in my step.

Walking around the office today you could see people standing in the hallways laughing and smiling. You knew it was because that weight on their shoulders was being slightly lifted as they talked about their weekend or maybe it was because I was standing there like a creeper watching them lol.

Even when my life always seems to be upside down and something ALWAYS is going on more than the normal day to day routine I still look forward to my Thursdays. I try and dress slightly more casual at work to push the limit to my boss that ya if you want to let me go early you can see I am ready for the weekend. I must call my best friend at her desk a couple of times or send her countless emails about our weekend plans and how we are excited to hang out and relax.

Yep Thursday's are my favorite for me like Christmas Eve just dying to open a present (Friday obviously is my present).

I hope everyone enjoys today and that you are looking forward to your looong weekend ahead. I know I am.

Happy Memorial Weekend!

Family

2011-05-25T16:33:00.000-04:00

Coming off of my post yesterday about marriage and making it last, made me think of families and making them last. We all come from different kinds of families and different types of make ups and some families are close and some well are not.

Me...well family is everything. My family isn't defined by who I married or who is in my blood line. There are people in my life that are close if not closer to me than blood relatives. I may not of been born to them but we all really come from the same place don't we?

I will do anything for my family. I mean anything. You want the shirt off my back...take it, you need a place to stay...stay with us, you need groceries...well grab a cart and let's go shopping, and if you need to vent or talk I am always here.

What am I getting at you might ask? Is why is it that when our family operates this way people feel bad or are surprised. I mean right now my brother in law is in surgery trying to remove blood clots in his legs and lungs and my husband is on a flight there now. No questions asked. And here is my wonderful sister in law worried about Justin's job, his time coming up there etc. We are family and that is what we do. We drop everything for each other every time. We wouldn't want it any other way.

I think that if people would operate more in this fashion the family they have would be closer. The bond of each others sacrifice to one another would be so deep in our hearts that it would bring us closer together. I am not saying that within families there are tiffs or disagreements but I know for me I am always able to look past those to my family because I have seen and felt their sacrifice for not only me but my own family. It makes that tiff or disagreement really seem less important.

So the next time your family (whatever your definition of that is) is in need stop and drop everything and be there for them.

Here are just some of my family!

John, Stephanie, Me, Justin, Veronica, and Johnny

Love my Cousins!!

Dad, Me, Katie, Ashley, Evalyn

The Greatest Friends I have ever hoped for!!

The Carroll Family (I'm daughter #3 and yes Reagan I am older lol)

My Booker!

Me, Laura, Stephanie, and Aunt Annie

Marriage and Making it Last

2011-05-24T08:58:00.000-04:00

I was reminded today that today would of been my Grandparents 64th Wedding Anniversary. They made it to 50 before my Grandfather went home to be with the Lord. Here is a picture from their 50th Wedding Anniversary Party.

Richard and Mary Jo Shaffner

At the time of this party I was in high school and I didn't really quite get the milestone this really is. My parents are divorced so as I entered marriage 10 years ago with my husband I looked back on the relationship of my Grandparents as an example.

Oh I am not saying everything was perfect and I am sure there were arguments (I never really saw them) and like any marriage there were many compromises from both of them. But they never gave up on each other. I remember stories from my Grandmother of how they started out in a small little house and my Grandfather worked for our family business as she stayed home. There hard worked and sacrifice paid off because as they were older (Grandparents) they were always there for any of us. They would spend their winters in Florida and Summers in Ohio. Seeing each of their 6 granddaughters every chance they got.

I look back on the time I was able to spend with them together and I am so thankful for the things I learned. My husband and I this year will have been together 14 years and have been married for 10. We have been though our ups and downs, sickness and health, richer and poorer, and the many other trials of marriage and we have never gave up on each other NEVER. I believe apart of that is because of the example of my Grandparents.

So here is a toast to Richard and Mary Jo Shaffner as you look down on our family from heaven; thank you for your constant example of love, marriage, being best friends, laughing together through the good times and bad, and NEVER giving up on each other or our family. Because of you our marriages have a foundation of examples and one day our children will be thanking us for the true examples of marriage. I love you both and miss you everyday.

Happy Anniversary!

Weekend Get Away

2011-05-23T10:03:00.000-04:00

Last month our best friends and the hubs and I took a overnight getaway to the National Harbour in DC. I have never been and was looking forward to seeing something new locally as well as having a fun relaxing overnight with no kids.

We stayed at the Gaylord which I might say was an amazing hotel (shame on me for not taking pictures of it). They had everything you could think of and the view....well take a look for yourself from our room.

The hubs taking it all in

We walked around, shopped and went to the water to take in the view of the boats.

Rick, Reagan, Hubs and I

Love him!!

Then I found this cake place that makes them from scratch!! I love little neat finds as this was at the end of the street located near the Marina Office.

Cake Love cakes from scratch (here)

I can't wait to go back again. This time I am going to ride this mechanical bull. Yep I even have my cowgirl hat ready!!

Organization of Ideas and lists.....

2011-05-20T10:59:00.000-04:00

So I have been told that my mind is like a computer. It is, I can never get it to turn off and I am always thinking until I go to sleep. I constantly obsess over everything down to the last details. Don't mention your thinking of having a get together or a party because within 15 minutes my computer of a brain has already gone through 15 filing cabinets and I am telling you a hundred things we can do till your so overwhelmed you have to walk away or just smile and let your brain go elsewhere.

So I have been trying to figure a way to maybe get out the files and put them on paper. Maybe then I won't be thinking so much and when I want to show someone something I saw and how I want to build from there maybe they would get my "computer".

So here is how I do it (please this is so ghetto I know this will not be shared on other blogs lol):

This stays in my purse at all times. You never know when you might want to steal that one page from a magazine in the doctor's office (wink)

I tape in pictures. You can see I also let my son "write" in here. I try and write down the sites I find them at so if I ever get around to using them I can give credit where it is due.

My doodles lol

This is a separate book in my purse just for lists.

Myrtle Beach list!! Double Fist Pump!

My Bathroom...Changing one life at a time!

2011-05-19T12:43:00.000-04:00

So as you read (here) we are purchasing our rental property. If any of you have ever been renters you know how it feels to never really feel like your home is yours. If you paint you have to paint it back, if it is that time to buy furniture then what do we really buy because if we move again (love those military orders!) will this furniture fit, etc, etc. You get the idea.

Well my first project is going to be in a small room, but one people spend a lot of time in. I hope each and every person that spends time in this room comes out changed. Your thinking from the title of my post where am I going with this and how can someone be all these things from a bathroom. Well I am going to transform my half bath on my main level into just that.

I am filling my walls with quotes! Movie, funny, seriously, inspiration, ones that make you think long after you leave my room. I mean come one people we spend most of our time in the bathroom so why not walk away a better person with clean hands?? It's a win win. Now I know this may be a half bathroom but I have a lot of wall space to cover. I am going to paint it Tiffany's Blue with brown towels. I am keep my fingers crossed that my husband will let me change out the sink and toilet into white instead of this peach/pink color. I might have to not shop for myself and save that money...eeek!

So I am going to leave you with one quote I have found that I just can't wait to put up and leave you with a link to an older post that inspired this idea (here). I can't wait to show you the progress of my bathroom!

"Nothing lasts forever, so live it up, drink it down, laugh it off, avoid the drama, take chances, and NEVER have regrets, because at ONE point, everything you did was EXACTLY what you wanted."

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T15:46:00.000-04:00

Only in Ohio.....you have my heart you country boys and yummy pizza!

Our House!

2011-05-17T13:18:00.000-04:00

Some of you are aware but we are in the process of purchasing our home. EEEK I can't believe I am writing this on the world wide web! I am sometimes so afraid to talk about it because I am always so sure something will go wrong and we won't get our house.

Well last week we almost didn't as some sticky things came up but we got them all fixed and our appraisal is ordered and once complete we can close! So here I am talking about it....talking in faith that it will be done.

Last week as my husband was gone and all this house drama came up I had to pull up my big girl pants and figure it out. I cried and call the hubs and my best friend who both naturally talked to me about having faith that everything was going to work out and that they were there for me. It made me really focus on that I really need to focus on hope and faith in all areas of my life.

It has been a long time since I have fully relied on my faith and hope for what was to come. But that is exactly what I did and I feel so good. I loved that even though my husband was away he sent me tons of text and phone calls just reminding me that this house was ours and we were going to get through it together. I tried my very best to not worry, and just believe in my heart that all is going to work out. It is....and I am so glad that I have my family and friends that remind me to relax, trust, have faith, and just be patient.

Plus the cool thing is, is that we are buying the house we have been renting for the last couple of years! I love this house. Bonus I don't have to pack a single box!!!

This picture is old from 2 Christmas's ago. It is the only one I have :( BUT just wait till I sign them documents. A lot is going to be changing and looking more like our house. Can't wait to post pictures of the progress.

Memories of Mom Day Four

2011-05-16T09:19:00.000-04:00

I was having some computer problems and couldn't post it! Sorry :)

Stephanie:

Along with the other 75 life lessons my mother taught me, I most appreciate the lessons I have learned through her own life situations. The one that comes to mind is the ability to love someone for who they are. Not to judge and disrespect someone but rather accept someone's choices they make in life and just because someone is different from say, you or I, they love the same...care the same....and have that same huge heart. Thanks for making me a more compassionate and patient person mom. We are all very different, but all so very much alike. I am grateful for you and the love you give to me and our family. Today and always I honor you. Happy Mother's Day.

Memories of Mom Day Three

2011-05-11T09:58:00.000-04:00

Katie:

My favorite memory with my mom is very recent. She came to pick me up from Toledo to bring me back to Lima for the weekend and for some reason we could not get out of Toledo. She had the GPS and because we had so much to talk about we couldn't hear what the GPS was saying so had to take a totally different way to the highway. Needless to say it had been too long of only texting and we did some major bonding during the hour and a half drive home. I love my mom!

Memories of Mom Day Two

2011-05-10T08:49:00.000-04:00

If you missed the first post see (here).

Ann:

Too busy this weekend to dig thru photos, however, my mother is in front of me every day leading me on ------- A very fond memory of my mom was that you never, ever heard her say an unkind word about anyone. Who can say that about ourselves or others we know? I think about that often and think I should try harder......

A Week of Memories of Moms

2011-05-09T09:04:00.000-04:00

So the other day I thought it was important that maybe we extend Mother's Day into a week of memories. So I have asked a couple of special women in my life to give me a memory and if they could a photo of them with their moms. I hope you enjoy this week of memories as much as I will.

Christine:

I feel like the luckiest person to be born into such a fabulous, caring family. At the heart of it was always my Mom. From very early on I quickly learned that my mother was a very strong person. Newly divorced, single, with two daughters, she only wanted to make life easier for both of us and she accomplished that-twofold. Moving, new schools, new friends, I was only in seventh grade and I was growing up fast. She gave me freedom, she gave me support and she made sure I had the tools I needed to get through life-Even though we had a lot of bumps, bruises and hard times I want her to know she has given me a wonderful upbringing and I appreciate her.

As I've gotten older my Mom and I have grown closer. I have the greatest time with her when we hang out together. Golf, tennis, or just lunch and shopping-I can't pinpoint a single memory that sticks out to be the best memory because there are so many. Whenever there is a plan to be together with her it’s a guaranteed good time with lots of laughs, and I love her for that. I can talk to her about anything and she'll never judge me.

I would like her to know when I look at myself in the mirror I see not only me but her as well; therefore, she will always be with me. Thank you for giving me life, Mom and bringing me into this wonderful family. I Love you with all my heart, Christine

Our senses

2011-05-05T12:43:00.000-04:00

Ahhh our senses are a wonderful thing that we sometimes take for granted. I know I do. I mean I love to people watch or even just look out the window at the scenery around me and get lost in my own thoughts.

Where I work we purchase our supplies from the post supply store that is ran by people who are blind. I love going in there and seeing all of them each week because we have became work friends over the years and they are always so nice (I forget that they can't see me). Some can see a little bit more than others and some not at all. One gentlemen (and boy is he a gentlemen) that was recently hired a couple of months ago was helping me check out in line and we were talking and Victor another employee was giving me a hard time about my hair (because it was raining) so as he and I were joking back and forth the gentlemen asked me what my hair looked like. I actually was speechless I tried to describe my hair for actually what it was to him still not knowing if he even knew what the descriptions looked like. I left thinking of him as I though how hard that must be going through life wondering what the people around you look like or their facial expressions are when you speak to them.

Today my husband and I went to lunch and went to Thai place near our work. When our check came we were given the typical candy mints. I ate mine and immediatly I was 11 years old again. The mints tasted exactly like mints I used to eat with my Grandparents at the Shawnee Country Club when we would go there for lunch or dinner. They had bowls of them everywhere. When I would come in I would grab some, leaving the bathroom you grab some, at the coat check your sitting on the couch in your dress stuffing your face with them while your parents talk to EVERYONE they know.

As I tried to describe this memory to my husband I couldn't help my smile and have tears in my eyes of this great memory I almost forgotten about. To think my sense of taste brought me back to a time I would give anything to go back to and be there in that moment again. My husband didn't quite understand my enthusiasm for the mints as I took his and put them in my purse for another time I might want to go back to being 11.

Pandora Saves Lives

2011-05-04T13:38:00.000-04:00

So I am sure you all have heard of Pandora Radio. I have an IPhone and I absolutely love this application. It took me a minute to really understand the importance of this app in my life. I first used it in a hotel in Williamsburg when I went on a shopping weekend with my best friend and her family. We had no music and were playing cards and sitting around talking so I figured lets try this out.

Well it went unused for a while UNTIL work became a drag. Don't get me wrong I am so thankful for my job and the benefits to my family but sometimes I feel like I am in the movie

Because I sit in one of these EVERYDAY...

It never fails that at least once a day I am asking this....

Or some other office supplies because people think because you walk away for just a second your desk is fare game that anything in plain view is up for grabs.

Everyone has this guy at their work...

So here I sit on one of those days where I don't care if people can here my Pandora Radio because seriously it saves lives. It is saving my life as we speak so I don't turn into this guy...

P.S. I am so glad it is Hump Day :)

A Great Birthday Weekend

2011-05-02T11:30:00.000-04:00

All,

I had the most incredible weekend celebrating my husbands and I's birthday. We went out on the boat with our besties and met our friends at Tim's Rivershore Crab Shack for drinks and ate on the boat.

Looking back on this weekend I have to admit it was one of the most fun I have had for both of our birthdays. Our friends are amazing and they came out and we had so many laughs, talks, and ate shrimp and crabs and of course drank Killer Drillers! (Which by the way grew on me :)

On our way home Sunday on the boat we might of taken a wrong turn or two but during

our ride home just Justin and I it was so special. We kept looking at each other saying I can't believe the weekend we had and here we are driving our boat for the first time and the view was AMAZING!! Seeing my husband driving our boat and the smile on his face was the best gift either one of us could of asked for.

The friends/family we have in our life make each and everyday great. We have the best support system that does nothing but lift us up when we are down, celebrates milestones, loves us unconditionally, and no matter what they are always there! So here is a big THANK YOU to all our friends and family near and far who helped us celebrate our birthdays and we truly love each and everyone of you!

Captain Justin!!

P.S. Rick see all these pictures of everyone...it was photo time!!

It's Game Time

2011-04-29T11:08:00.001-04:00

This is my Mya (#2)

This is my life right now 3 times a week. I love it. She plays catcher and boy is she good at it. I love our Team Riptides as the girls really encourage each other whether it's good plays or bad. As a parent I really appreciate the camaraderie of the parents. Cheering for each other's children or complementing their children when you notice that they are getting better at a particular skill they have been working on.

I never imagined my life would be living on the softball field from April to June and Aug to Oct. Our middle child who has been classified as a DIVA who doesn't like to sweat has taken an interest in the game and has been practicing almost every night in the driveway either with her Dad or her Sister. I have to tell you she is good and last night she told me goodbye dance lessons hello softball.

Ciana as the batgirl for game #3!

This fall I will have 3 children on this dirt field with my folding chair or sitting on my cushion in the bleachers cheering them on. Nothing is better than that.

I love my life and I love that all of my children want to be athletes!

Play Ball!

Changing Roles

2011-04-28T08:35:00.001-04:00

Every marriage has their "roles" of responsibility. Who does the laundry, who pays the bills, who sets doctor's appointments, cooking, cleaning, etc. Well in our house the roles have been defined for 13 years nothing changes unless someone asks for help or just does something to be thoughtful until....

My work hours changed. About 6 months ago I was offered to work 9 hour days to get every other Friday off. I jumped on this even knowing it will put stress on the hubs because he will now be responsible for making dinner since I will get home an hour later. This was scary for me because up until then my husband could only make a couple of things like fried bologna sandwiches, grill meat, and grilled cheese.

Well ladies let me tell you that over the last 6 months my husband's cooking has evolved and it is amazing. He is using spices and ingredients that I never think of WITHOUT recipes! I can't believe it. We actually cook together which has been so romantic and fun. I actually find myself in the kitchen by myself sometimes wishing he was in there with me.

So think about your roles and maybe change one you might find that your husband might surprise you with his skills if he is only given the chance!

This is the hubs after grilling at our last family reunion. He was the GRILL MASTER!!

A Weekend Getaway...sort of

2011-04-21T10:41:00.001-04:00

So tell me who needs a getaway even if it is one night????

Pick me! Pick me!!

Thats right Saturday we are getting away to the National Harbor and staying at the Gaylord National Hotel (insert squeal here)! Oh this week has gone so slow because I can't stop thinking about what to wear, where we are going, and how much fun we are going to have. To top it off to boot we are going with our best friends!

Rick, Reagan, Me, and Justin

I am so looking forward to shopping at Charming Charlies . I just know I am going to walk out having every accessory I will need for the summer. Love it!! I know there are tons more shops we will be going to but I don't really care I am focus on acessories hee hee.

I heard there is this place to eat where they make quacamole in front of you OMG quacamole is my favorite!! Not sure where we are going to dinner it is Rick and Reagan's turn to pick. See we have monthly dinner dates where we go to a new restrauant every month on a double date and so this time it is their turn to pick the place. (Hint I love quacamole hee hee)

I can't wait till night time when we can get all dressed up and have drinks and dancing and let go of the stress from the week (mine has been being a single parent for 2 weeks while the hubs is on work travel) and just have fun and laughs. It will definatly be a good time had by all.

This time I promise I am going to take my camera and I will be posting photos!

I really don't think I can express how much I am looking to get away. I miss my husband I love hanging out with my best friends and on top of that I am bringing Champagne and OJ for mimosa's along with pastries, crossants, fruit, and scones for breakfast in bed!!

Have a great weekend!!

P.S. I hope we got to this bar there that has a mechanical bull it is on my to do list!!

Holding it Together

2011-04-20T13:50:00.000-04:00

My cousin Laura posted a status on her facebook page last week that I can't seem to get off my mind....

" At the end of the day, you can focus on what's tearing you apart, or what's holding you together" ~ Laura

I am not sure where the quote came from, but I am claiming her for this one because she is wise that like mkay. The more I repeat this quote in my head the more I love it. You know why? Because it can pertain to everything we go through in life from big issues to tiny ones.

I can't wait to print this out in some wham bam font and frame it so I can see it when I go to bed and wake up in the morning. If we choose to focus on what's holding us together we might just see that our issues/problems/set backs are the tiny ones after all.

Cousins: Laura, Chrissy, Steph, and me!!

Birthdays....

2011-04-19T11:18:00.000-04:00

I have always loved my birthday. I think it came from my childhood when my Grandparents would send my package a week before my birthday knowing my Dad wouldn't let me open it. It would drive me insane looking at the kraft paper covered box just climbing the walls to open it knowing it would be an outfit from some name brand store like Macy's, JcPenny's, etc and not Wal-Mart.

I have carried this love of birthdays into adult hood making traditions (balloons around the table for breakfast) to always having a birthday party even if it was just us. I love birthdays. When I met/married my husband I loved the fact that his birthday is April 30th and mine is May 2. One day apart!

Every year I have thrown my husband a birthday party and gone all out for his birthday! I usually end up eating left over cake and spending family time for my birthday because to be honest we don't eat a lot of cake and why would I make two? But I love that tradition I feel like I get the joy of celebrating my birthday through and with my husband on his and I would want it no other way.

This year how ever is a little different. I have been really busy...trying to buy a house (and saving every little penny), to Mya's softball starting a month early and going from 1 game a week to 2 plus a practice, and Justin has been traveling. So I have no idea what to do. AHHHHH it is driving me nuts.

I don't want to do the typical everyone come over and BBQ and have a few beverages. Lets do something fun I keep telling him "I don't want anything" is always his response. That is why for 13 years it is always a surprise party because that is the comment I would get every time.

I need help ladies!!

I mean look at him!!

Doesn't he look so good that you just know he deserves a GREAT Birthday Celebration!!

Lunch and a Great View

2011-04-14T09:50:00.000-04:00

When I got my job a couple of years ago I thought this is great I work 2 streets or so over from my husband. We can go to lunch all the time....WRONG. Insert life here and know that we rarely eat lunch together because of meetings or work commitments. So when we do go to lunch just us they are always times I really remember because as parents of 3 children with very active lives we don't get one on one time a lot.

I remember the time he introduced me to Thai food (I had no peppers he had 5!) or when he took me to this pizza place that was voted DC's number 1 delivery pizza. Those hour lunch breaks we were able to talk about life, goals, or just the love we have for each other.

But about a month ago we went to the Officer's Club on Fort Belvoir and this lunch was different. We really discussed our families goals and what we want our legacy to be. I remember crying the entire lunch...tears of joy for what was to come and the desire my husband and I have for our lives.

We have hit some up and downs lately not with us but with areas of our life that aren't seeming to go the way we would like or that the mountain we are climbing seems to be growing. But I have faith as I think back to that lunch. That our desires and our prayers for our family will come true and it seems to give me that little push to get through another day another test or trial of our will to reach those goals.

Here is the view from that day:

The view says it all....the weather wasn't the greatest that day there was a really brisk wind that was somewhat bone chilling. We snuggled as we walked to the car to keep warm. But as we were finished with our lunch we walked to the window to this view and stood in silence.

Sometimes you can't see the sun or the leaves or the flowers, but they are there. With patience and time they will come out and warm this photo with signs of light, life, and smells. But for me I think this is beautiful because it is during the times in our life when things don't look real pretty or aren't going according to our plan that you can miss the simple things that carry you to the to the times of abundance, of new opportunities.

Moving....blah

2011-04-13T13:05:00.000-04:00

So we are in the process of moving....that is a nasty curse word in our home. Since my husband and I have been together we have moved 10 times! Yep this will be our 11th and without saying to much faithfully our last! So in 13 years I have moved 10 times! I hate the sound of that. I am so ready for roots, paint, decorating without having to think of moving again or landlords.

So over the next couple of months I will be packing lots of these:

Throwing away lots of this...

Photo courtesy of myartsdesire.typepad.com

Making $$ at one of these....

Faithfully waiting for this:

In the mean time I am trying to keep our family schedule together and our house neat and open house perfect for our landlords which I'm already getting tired of, but I want someone to buy there house so every night after work, dinner, bath, bedtime, I'm busy doing this:

Photo courtesy of thestoryofkat.blogspot.com

**Please send your prayers for the next couple of months to go smoothly and for me to keep my sanity**

The Real Case of the Mondays

2011-02-14T13:26:00.000-05:00

So today I have a REAL case of the Mondays. I know I just heard you gasp as it is Valentines Day but that holiday doesn't really faze me. I gave my husband his valentines gift on Saturday as we were going out for drinks with good friends and it matched his out fit. So today for us is just like any other day. I mean seriously am I only supposed to show love today and no other day?

I had these (from Family Fun) valentines ready for the kids to make this year instead of the pre-bought cards:

This was a very easy valentine to make and I thought the kids would feel really cool bringing in something different. This was not the case. My mother in law made most of them (as she had the kids Saturday night) because "this is taking to long" or "I'm tired". My middle child actually asked to take a bath instead of finishing them UGH. Whatever why have creativity lets just purchase the princess box of 25 for your class next year and be done with it.

Last week my husband had shoulder surgery and so as he recovers over the next 8 weeks in a sling I have gone now a week with one arm hugs and lack of attention due to the pain and the permanent sling attached to his body. I know I know I should be thankful that he is recovering so well but dang it I love hugs from my husband. I feel so warm and safe and loved and TODAY is a day that I need a two handed long squeeze from the hubs. Instead I have ate 3 brownies and 2 chocolate covered strawberries all day hoping this will brighten my case of the Mondays.....it has not.

I am over my work, missing my crafting time, and wondering when am I going to start my book for my book club that is supposed to meet next week.

The bright side of today is that I made tonight's dinner last night so I wouldn't have to cook today :). I am looking forward to giving my children their valentines gifts at dinner. I am also looking forward to my one arm hug lol.

P.S. Sorry if this post brought you down I just needed a place to vent and well this is my blog so I figured it was better to be real than to post some lovey dovey valentines post when I didn't feel like it.

Secret (well for me it was a secret I couldn't crack) Tip for Tissue Paper Poms

2011-02-11T14:02:00.001-05:00

So I love making tissue paper pom poms. I think they are the best thing since sliced bread. I mean they are the cutest cheapest decoration you can make. I have made them for retirement parties here, baby showers, here, and birthday parties.

But....I always wondered how those who sell them how they get the round edges so straight. In my tutorial from Martha Stewart here they don't exactly tell you. I just figured I am just not as smart craft wise as others.

TODAY I found out the secret and I wanted to share it with you. And I owe it all to LollyChops (check out her fantastic blog here)

Scallop or pinking edge the 6 layers of paper before starting with you accordion folding.

Now you know the secret to all those amazing Pom Poms with the PERFECT edges!

I Love....

2011-02-03T08:37:00.001-05:00

I love......

My girlfriends. I may not have a ton but the few I have I wouldn't give up for the world!! You get me through my weeks sometimes just knowing I am going to get to hangout, talk, laugh, and be myself XOXO!

My son! Last night he asked me to show him how girls like to be hugged! What 4 year old does that? It sure did melt my heart.

Mentha Lip Shine-Vanilla Mint from Bath and Body Works

What more can you say about soaking your oreos in milk until they are soft but not to the point where they fall apart mmmmm goodness,

I love that I can keep a secret and never feel the urge to tell it to anyone!

Trampolines are so fun!

Secretly I want a mini van but I know my hubby will never go for that!

I love a good cocktail! Passion Fruit and Sprite Zero!! P.S. It has to have a straw and a drink stirrer

(wink Reagan)

Dark Kiss from Bath and Body Works. The first time I used this and went to bed my husband rolled over and told me I smelled like heaven!! Melt my heart!

My hubs! Love you babe XOXO

Free Stuff

2011-02-02T08:13:00.000-05:00

Pleeeese go over to my friend Nicole's blog Brown Party of Five and enter her FIRST give away!! Yep that is right I said her first. I mean you remember the first time you entered a giveaway that excitement you felt crossing your fingers that you would get that amazing prize.

Well imagine what she feels like to actually post a giveaway. I mean she started her blog to keep in touch with her husband who was deployed at the time and now look at her over 40 followers and a giveaway!!

Go Nicole!!!

So hurry up and go over there and enter it ends tomorrow!!!

Family

2011-01-31T09:09:00.000-05:00

Me, Laura, Stephanie, and Aunt Annie

I love my family! Even though we all live in different states and can only make it to see each other a couple of times a year (or longer for those who live farther away) we always seem to rally behind each other when the time is needed.
I got a text Friday that my Aunt Annie was going to be in DC for 2 days and she wanted to see me. I juggled my work schedule and added a couple of extra hours in for later in the week so I can see her today. I am looking forward to jumping on the Metro and embracing in a long good hug.

Today she needs family.

Today I need family.

It's all gonna happen at 3pm and I can't wait. I am so ready to laugh, cry, catch up, and tell stories for 3 hours before she has her dinner meeting. I'm crossing my fingers today flies by and this afternoon drags on.

P.S. Thanks hubs for holding down the fort at home so I can get the much needed family time! XOXO

A Weekend to Ourselves

2011-01-28T08:49:00.000-05:00

I am so looking forward to this weekend as we have been invited by our besties

(Photo courtesy of Toppers with Glitz)

to go down to their beach house for a relaxing time just ADULTS!! I know can you believe it?? We don't get to be just adults very often. Sometimes I think I forget my own name because it has been replaced by Justin's wife, Mya, Ciana, and Jaden's mom.

We were invited over the summer and spent a long weekend with their entire family and I have to admit it was one of the best times I had all summer. It was such a relaxing time that I look forward to that again. Obviously we won't be laying on the beach or playing corn hole as it is a little cold but it will just be as fun to be nestled in the house with good friends, card games and LOTS of laughter.

So.....Lets bring on the weekend!

This is me with the incredible Carroll family at their beach house over the summer

Rainbow Pancakes

2011-01-25T10:09:00.000-05:00

So after yesterday's post of be admitting I have winter blog blues I came across this over at The Idea Room where these Rainbow Pancakes were created at I Am Mommy.

If this doesn't cause some inspiration I don't know what will today!

Buttermilk Pancakes:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
2 cups buttermilk
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions: Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl.

Lightly beat the eggs with the buttermilk, milk and melted butter.

Just before you are ready to make the pancakes, add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients all at once, stirring just long enough to blend. The batter should be slightly lumpy.

If you want to add fruit or nuts, stir them in now, or you may sprinkle them on the pancakes while they are on the griddle.

Heat a lightly greased griddle or heavy skillet over medium-high heat (375 degrees on an electric griddle).

Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake onto the griddle or skillet, spacing the pancakes apart so they do not run together. When bubbles appear on the surface of the pancakes and the undersides are lightly browned, turn and cook for about 2 minutes longer, until lightly browned on the bottom.

Serve immediately.
(yields about 24 four-inch pancakes.)
**Photo and recipe courtesy of The Idea Room**

I've Got Nothing and Horse Cupcakes

2011-01-24T15:07:00.000-05:00

So it has been 14 days since I have left a post and it has been eating at me everyday. I mean seriously I am that person who's brain never turns off, who's mouth never shuts up and I can't come up with a single blog post......

Well you know what happens it is like that laundry pile that never goes away. Come on ladies you know what I mean you focus on the laundry but there always seems to be 1 more load or one last pile of clothes in front of the washer that NEVER seem to go away. Well that is what happened. I just couldn't bring myself to the computer for 14 days. I was overwhelmed with guilt for not posting, overwhelmed with ideas of posts that I feel like I will never be able to do, and just plain un-inspired.

Yep that is right I said it un-inspired! I have no idea why I mean I have a GREAT husband and 3 beautiful kids and I just feel UGH. Maybe it is because it is really cold outside or maybe it is the "winter blues" I am not sure.

BUT I promise you I will get out of this funk!! LOL. So thank you for not writing me off or thinking I have abandoned my little blog here because I haven't. I have been thinking of it everyday.

So I hope to be inspired this week. Tell me what inspires you?

I made these beauties on Friday for Ms. Sarah's 5th Birthday! They turned out great and were a great hit! :)

Valentines Day Goodies

2011-01-12T10:08:00.000-05:00

Oh I just love Martha Stewart! I was thinking about Valentines Day and went on over to her site and look at all the cute stuff I found:

So head on over there and look at all 55 Valentine Day Crafts with directions here. I would love to see what are your favorites!

Once Upon a Time...

2011-01-06T08:45:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time there was a...

who met a...

in the

and he always knew how to...

and they got married and had

and they were one big happy family

Who stand together as a family side by side forever loving each other

To my wonderful husband you have given me more than I can have ever asked for. We have been through ups and downs and our marriage is stronger than ever because we never left each others side. You have been my cheerleader, my best friend, my lover, my confidant, the one who know how to push me to be a better person and for that our family is strong. Thank you for loving me in spite of my faults, failures, and farts!

Happy 10th Anniversary Justin Calixto!

Headboards

2011-01-04T16:34:00.000-05:00

So my husband and I have been talking about getting a King size bed for a while now and I have been wanting to DIY my own headboard. So I ran across this post from the Tip Junkie and wanted to share.

I think my favorites are these:

This one is found at Inglewood Ramblings. Here is her DIY instructions.

This one I found at HGTV.com

Now I have to just decide what I want and talk my husband into building it hee hee!

20 Things You Didn't Know About Me!

2010-12-30T13:57:00.002-05:00

1. I have to sleep in long pants...even in the summer. (My husband hates this but I can't do it. If I try and sleep in shorts I lay there for hours trying to get to sleep)

2. I would rather eat carbs than meat.

3. My Grandmother took me in 3rd grade to old lady hair shop and got my hair cut. I looked like a boy and they knew it but kept telling me "Oh no child your look beautiful" until we went to the grocery and a lady asked her if I was her Grandson.

4. I say grocery instead of grocery store.

5. I once hid a spider under a glass cup for 9 months in my room until my husband returned from deployment on the USS Boxer.

6. I wear my emotions on my sleeves. Which is not a good thing or a bad thing and currently I am taking steps to get it under control.

7. I always think I am the funniest person in the room even if no one else does. (Life it to short to not laugh at yourself)

8. My butt has tripled in size since having my 3 children and I LOVE IT!!

9. I am 31 and have two sisters who are 18 and 13.

10. I have freckles EVERYWHERE!

11. My favorite movie is Goonies

12. I skipped school in the 12th grade and drove up to Michigan to see my boyfriend at the time and hooked up a canoe to the back of a pick up truck and went "sledding" up and down icy driveways and got the top of my left pinky cut off. They sewed it back on and now it is shorter than my right. (This will be a good teaching tool for my children on why not to skip school)

13. I secretly want to home school my children and live without TV except during Football season of course.

14. I gave my life to Christ when I was in middle school at my best friends dad's service Pastor Les Farley. Still to this day I think of the time I spent with their family and hold those memories close to my heart probably more than they know. (Go Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman!!)

15. I used to run every other day while I was a Marine and I ran 7 minute miles!

16. I hate running.

17. I love to cook for everyone to the point that my food bill...dare I might say it.....is out of control!!

18. I leave my dirty clothes on the floor next to the hamper. This is my husbands biggest pet peeve but he has for the last 13 years picked them up and just put them in the hamper :)

19. I wish we could throw a dart at a US map and where ever it lands we would pick up and move there. What an adventure it would be.

20. I don't know my biological birth mother. I am thankful to this day for my Dad who was willing to be a single parent in the 70s and the grace of my Grandmother to make sure I was raised right!

This was really hard to do and I know that I could go on forever. So tell me something about yourself that I don't know.

I am linked up at The Idea Room

Re-Post: Dips, Dips and more Dips

2010-12-29T08:40:00.000-05:00

With New Years Eve coming up I thought I would re-post from dip recipes I did back in September! Any one of these would be great if you had to bring a dish to any New Years Eve Party.

Jalapeno Popper Dip

Roasted Garlic Hummus

Nacho Dip

Pizza or Chili Dip

Smoked Salmon Dip : I just had this past week at my cousin's house and it was FANTASTIC!!!!!

Enjoy!

New Years Eve Printables

2010-12-28T14:13:00.000-05:00

I came across these FREE printables at Tidy Mom and wanted to share them (mine are printing as we speak) with you. It doesn't matter if your hosting a party or staying in with the family a few touch can make any evening feel special!

These FREE printables can be found at Love the Day. I love these because not only are they free but you get all that is pictured. You can just print the pages you need or print everything and have your party be over the TOP!

I love these from Paper Dolls Shoppe at Catch My Party. These are perfect if you are just going with a classic black and white theme.

Family Time

2010-12-20T14:32:00.000-05:00

Well folks you might not seem me much this week as we are getting ready (as we speak) to go and visit family. I am looking forward to the week with them as I need good laughs, good food, and lots of memories.

I can't wait to see Stephanie!!!

I know my husband Justin is looking forward to spending time with his brother from another mother. Many quotes will come out of them over the next week so many that on the ride home I know my daughters will say how they never want to here "fill in the blank" again.

I can't wait to see Aunt Jenny before she goes back down south!

And these cuties are drying to see each other again!! Plus I need to snuggle on those Mance kiddos.

Gingerbread Birthday Party

2010-12-16T07:44:00.000-05:00

Last weekend it was my oldest daughter Mya 11th birthday party. Her birthday isn't until the 23rd so we did it a little early and I am so happy with the way it turned out.

Straw Flags made by Lavender and Lime on Etsy
Cupcake Toppers made by Lavender and Lime on Etsy
Happy Birthday Banner and Water bottle Labels made by Pen and Paper Flowers on Etsy
Gingerbread House Treat Boxes from Oriental Trading Company

Drummer Boy Cake

2010-12-15T13:38:00.000-05:00

Do you hear what I hear??? Wouldn't this cake from Kraft Foods here be perfect for your next Holiday Party?

Ingredients:
1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping (Do not thaw.), divided
1 pkg. (2-layer size) chocolate cake mix
1 pkg. (3.9 oz.) JELL-O Chocolate Instant Pudding
1/4 cup plus 2 Tbsp. powdered sugar, divided
1/2 tsp. milk
11 NILLA Wafers
4 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, chopped
1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1 jar (10 oz.) maraschino cherries, well drained, chopped
1 strip peelable red licorice
2 JET-PUFFED Marshmallows
2 pretzel rods

Directions:
HEAT oven to 350°F.
REFRIGERATE 1/3 of the COOL WHIP. Return remaining COOL WHIP to freezer. Prepare cake batter; blend in dry pudding mix. Bake as directed on package for 2 (9-inch) round layers. Cool cakes in pans 10 min.; invert onto wire racks. Cool completely.
MEANWHILE, mix 2 Tbsp. powdered sugar and milk. Brush onto wafers. Microwave frozen COOL WHIP and chopped chocolate on HIGH 1-1/2 min. or until chocolate is melted, stirring after 1 min. Cool 15 min. to thicken.
BEAT cream cheese and remaining sugar with whisk until well blended. Stir in cherries and thawed COOL WHIP. Stack cake layers on plate, filling with cream cheese mixture. Frost with chocolate mixture. Decorate with wafers and remaining ingredients to resemble drum and sticks. Refrigerate leftovers.

**Recipe and photo is courtesy of Kraft Foods**