Heavenly Hugs and Kisses

2011-01-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

I was spending a little time perusing some of my favorite blogs, and I came across a great new series: How to Really Live by Kristen @ We are That Family. Much of her list mirrors my goals for the coming year, I look forward to learning with her this year!

My list is as follows:

How to Really Love God
How to Really Love Others
How to Really Love Myself
How to Really Love Your Life
How to Really Give
How to Really Grieve (This will be a tough one . .as it has been since my little sister passed away, this past October.)
How to Really Laugh
How to Really Love My Husband
How to Really Love My Kids
How to Really Pray for Your Kids
How to Really Make a Home
How to Really Admit When You’re Wrong
How to Really Forgive
How to Really Calm my Anxious Heart
How to Really Follow Dreams
How to Really Learn to Live Simply
How to Really…..

Booking It In 2011 Challenge

2011-01-06T17:18:00.001-08:00

I love books . . .but I often buy, with little time to read them. So, I am going to join the Booking It In 2011 Challenge, in order to have more accountability! I am not assigning a due date for each book, rather a list of the books I plan to read. After reading each book, I will post a brief review:-)

Six Ways to Keep the "Little" in Your Girl
Calm My Anxious Heart: A Woman's Guide to Finding Contentment
Boundaries
Reckless Faith: Let Go and Be Led
A Sane Woman's Guide to Raising a Large Family
The Power of a Positive Mom
Who Calls Me Beautiful: Finding Our True Image in the Mirror of God
Desperate Households
Facing Every Mom's Fears: A Survival Guide to Balancing Fear with Courage
Professionalizing Motherhood
Finding Your Purpose as a Mom: How to Build Your Home on Holy Ground
Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids
The Five Love Languages of Teenagers
The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate
Honey for a Child's Heart
Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul
168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think
Christian Family Guide to Organizing Your Life
Organized Simplicity: The Clutter-Free Approach to Intentional Living

From Chaos to Calm: A New Year’s Resolution

2011-01-03T18:51:00.000-08:00

A Virtuous Woman is offering a 15 week study based on Proverbs 31. If you have been struggling with your home, your marriage, your children, or just life in general this might be the answer you have been waiting for! Together we will spend 15 weeks working toward a goal for:

peace in the heart

peace in the home

peace with our husbands

peace with our children

I can not wait to get started!!! For more information, check out A Virtuous Woman

Menu Plan Monday

2011-01-03T12:25:00.000-08:00

THIS WEEK'S MENU:

Monday - Crockpot Chicken & Rice w/ French Bread
Tuesday - Chicken Salad w/ Homemade Bread
Wednesday - Baked Spaghetti, Green Beans, Mandarin Oranges
Thursday - Tacos w/ Mexican Rice
Friday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Applesauce, Rolls
Saturday - 1st dinner in our Cooking Around the World - Country TBA
Sunday - Steak, Baked Potatoes, Corn, Applesauce

For more menu planning ideas see Menu Planning Monday.

2011 Things to do & Resolutions

2011-01-02T17:05:00.000-08:00

PERSONAL GOALS

SMILE MORE, LAUGH MORE, PLAY MORE!
Reduce stress by finding "something" to help me eliminate stress naturally, such as a new hobby, yoga, etc.
Take better care of ME! Allow myself to have downtime, even when I "feel" like I can't . .. . remind myself it is OK to turn off technology and just live in the moment sometimes!
Better time management . . .I need to take a step back and focus better.
Allow myself to enjoy more down-time with my family . . .more playtime, more conversations, more un-plugging and turning off technology.
Lose 20 more pounds.
Stop the daily drinking of McD's cokes and sweet tea, aim for a goal of 3 or less per week. Drink more water!!!
Start exercising . .REALLY!!
Enhance the blog, possibly into a mompreneur site.
Write a book, or at least an e-book.
Read at least 6 books for "fun".

FAMILY & HOUSEHOLD GOALS

Introduce children to the world around them. We will prepare and enjoy 52 different cultural meals, each from a different country this year, when possible we will listen to the music &/or watch a movie on the chosen country.
Enhance our relationships with our kids. We will have regular mommy/daddy dates with our children, as well as a weekly family night with movies or games.
Incorporate more field trips and outings into our lives, by aiming for 2 field trips per month and one family weekend outing each month.
Eliminate the last of the "clutter" in our home, i.e. clean out storage and "never to be worn again" clothes in master closet and few boxes in office.
Get back to a structured routine, particularly on the weekdays.
Eat healthier by buying more organic products than we currently do, as well as increase our "from scratch meals". Reduce dining out to once per week or less.
Menu Planning by getting back to the Menu Plan Mondays, which gave me accountability to have my weeks planned each Sunday.
Freezer cook 14 meals in a once a month cooking day with the girls.
Live healthier: In 2010, we switched to 80% organic Health & Beauty products and 50% cleaning products. Our goal for 2011 is to get to nearly 100% for HBA and cleaning products.
Take care of our photos by making at least 6 scrapbooks and making photo albums with the rest.
Freshen up the home's decor on a dime . .. making or recycling at least one item per room.

FINANCIAL GOALS

Eliminate all debt, except for student loans and 2 auto payments. We currently have little debt, due to conquering it in 2010, but we do have 3 auto payments. The remaining debt will be paid off in early 2011, then we will work on paying off the 3rd vehicle payment.
Stick to a budget and get back to a normal routine of couponing and stockpiling.

FUN BLOG-BASED CHALLENGES...THAT WILL ENHANCE OUR LIVES

Partake in the P52 Challenge: Take one photo each week to post.
Enjoy the Jane Austen Reading Challenge, hopefully reading many to the kids, esp the girls.

What about your resolutions? Have you made any goals for 2011? I'd love to hear about them . . let's encourage one another on the journey of the coming year!

Check out Success Your Way for her 111 Resolutions and comments by others!

Educational & Fun 2011 Resolution

2011-01-02T16:44:00.002-08:00

Starting this Saturday, we will make a homemade meal from 52 different countries. The kids will learn a little bit about their culture, if I can find music or a movie I will add it in, then we will have the cultural dinner and dessert for the chosen country.

We did this for Christmas Around the World studies, and the kids loved it. So, I think this should be a great way to learn and enjoy the world around us!

First Step to Better Organization in 2011

2010-12-31T18:36:00.000-08:00

I just downloaded a FREE & fabolous fully interactive Goals & Planner Diary for 2011 from Get Organized Wizard. It will be a great help in better organizing my life for 2011, and the best part is that it is free.

All you have to do is LIKE their Facebook page here. It contains Monthly Goals Planner sheets for all of 2011 that guide you to set and plan your goals for each month, Daily Priorities Planners that help you focus each day on your top priorities, plus Goals Lists for 2011 and 2012, as well as a log of Goals Achieved And Rewards.

Thanks, Michelle @ Get Organized Wizard.com!!

A New Year . . .

2010-12-31T17:57:00.000-08:00

One of my resolutions for 2011 is to become an active blogger on the topics I love, such as adoption and foster care, homeschooling, and saving money!! Tomorrow I will list my 2011 New Year's Resolutions to share with you . . .in the meantime, stay safe and Happy New Years!

2009-10-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEK'S DINNER PLANS:

Sunday - Grilled Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Mac & Cheese
Monday - Mexican Chicken, Yellow Rice, Refried Beans, Strawberries
Tuesday - Meatloaf, Baked Potatoes (Sweet for me), Corn & Canned Fruit
Wednesday - Chicken Parm w/ Spaghetti, Olive Garden Salad, Garlic Bread
Thursday - Franks & Beans, Homemade Bread
Friday - Chili w/ Grilled Cheese & Canned Fruit
Saturday - Chiptole Chicken w/ Brown Rice & Fruit

THIS WEEK'S BAKING PLANS:

Monkey Bread
Applesauce Cookies
Apple Cheesecake Squares

Pumpkin Chocolate Brownies

THIS WEEK'S BREAKFAST PLANS:

Bananas Foster French Toast

2009-09-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEK'S DINNER PLANS:
We did not get to all of last week's meals, so a few carried over to this week!

Sunday - Baked Spaghetti w/ Mandarin Oranges
Monday - Little Caesar's Pizza & Crazy Bread
Tuesday - Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Corn & Canned Fruit
Wednesday - Crock-pot Calico Beans w/ Grilled Cheese
Thursday - Steak Strips w/ Green Pepper & Onion, Rice, Canned Fruit
Friday - Chili w/ Grilled Cheese & Canned Fruit
Saturday - Chiptole Chicken w/ Brown Rice & Fruit

THIS WEEK'S BAKING PLANS:

Banana Blueberry Quick Bread
Monkey Bread

THIS WEEK'S BREAKFAST PLANS:

Cherry Vanilla Oatmeal
Bananas Foster French Toast

This Week's Menu

2009-08-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEK'S DINNER PLANS:

Sunday - Baked Apricot Chicken, w/ Arkansa Green Beans, Rice
Monday - Black Bean & Veggie Quesadillas, Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Tuesday - Braised Beef Tortillas w/ Fresh Veggies & Fruit
Wednesday - Crock-pot Calico Beans w/ Grilled Cheese
Thursday - Easy BBQ Chicken Fajitas w/ Rice & Fruit
Friday - Baked Spaghetti w/ Tossed Salad & Garlic Bread
Saturday - Chiptole Chicken w/ Brown Rice & Fruit

THIS WEEK'S BAKING PLANS:

Banana Blueberry Quick Bread
Monkey Bread
Strawberry Muffins

THIS WEEK'S BREAKFAST PLANS:

Cherry Vanilla Oatmeal
Bananas Foster French Toast

2009-03-03T17:58:00.000-08:00

THIS WEEK'S MENU:

Okay .. it's Tuesday (better late than never LOL!)

Monday - Chicken Parmigana w/ Spaghetti
Tuesday - Dinner Out
Wednesday - Crock-pot Chili w/ Grilled Cheese
Thursday - Crock-pot Chicken & Rice w/ Homemade Bread
Friday - Beef Enchiledas w/ Applesauce
Saturday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Salad, Crescent Rolls
Sunday - Grilled Steak, Baked Potatoes, Corn on Cob, Pineapple

2009-01-18T15:57:00.000-08:00

THIS WEEK'S MENU:

Monday - Crockpot BBQ Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Applesauce, Homemade Banana Bread
Tuesday - Chicken Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Carrots w/ Ranch, Tropical Fruit Salad
Wednesday - Pinto Beans w/ Ham, Homemade Bread
Thursday - Sweet & Sour Apricot Chicken, White Rice
Friday - Taco Salad
Saturday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Salad, Crescent Rolls
Sunday - Grilled Steak, Baked Potatoes, Corn on Cob, Applesauce

2009-01-11T17:46:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of the things we will be doing, in order to work towards our 2009 goal - no debt other than car and student loans - by the end of the year!

- Limit eating out to twice per month
- Gardening and freezing food
- Stop wasting fresh food
- Shopping for food in bulk more often
- Energy conservation -- turn up the thermostat, turn off lights and anything that doesn't need to be plugged in, install water heater timer
- Pay all bills online and cut postage out

- Use free passes to do fun stuff

- Teach my children about appreciating what we have

2008-09-07T13:13:00.001-07:00

FINALIZED: First 9-week Term 2008/2009: “School” Day Schedule

6:45-7:05 "Fast Feet" rise, eat breakfast, and get ready for school, bus: 7:05

7:30-8:00 "Giggle Box" rise, eat breakfast, and get ready for daycare, daycare: 8:00

8:00-8:30 Noah & Jacob rise, eat breakfast, and get ready for school

8:30-12:00 MORNING BLOCK (Stretching/Snack & Juice Break around 10:15-10:30)

BIBLE: Daily Devotion, Bible Reading, Bible Lesson’s Activity Page, & Recite Memory Verse

MATH: Daily Lesson

LANGUAGE ARTS

Mon: Grammar / Writing / Spelling (Make Cards – Word, Definition, Part of Speech, & Used in Sentence) / Penmanship / Vocabulary

Tues: Journal Prompt / Grammar / Writing / Spelling

Weds: Grammar / Writing / Spelling (Quiz) / Vocabulary (Quiz) / Penmanship

Thurs: Journal Prompt / Grammar / Writing / Spelling

Fri: Grammar / Writing / Spelling (Test & Graph Correct Words) / Vocabulary (Test)

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY:

Mon: Core Reading / Vocabulary (Make Cards) / Literature

Tues: Literature / History Major Themes / People / Review Vocabulary

Weds: Literature / Worldview Studies or History Supplement / Vocabulary (Quiz) / Hands On Project

Thurs: Literature / Geography & Map Work / Notebook / Review Vocabulary

Fri: Vocabulary (Test) / Literature Discussion / Quiz or Test (If Applicable) & Catch-up for week, if needed

ELECTIVES:

Monday & Wednesday: Nature study

Tuesday & Thursday: Science, History, or Nature Video

Friday: Science – Review, Vocabulary (Test), Quiz/Test (If Applicable) & Catch-up for week, if needed

12:00-12:30 Lunch (Current Literature – Mom Reads or Audio Book)

12:30-1:30 AFTERNOON BLOCK

Monday: Science – Intro to Topic, Vocabulary (Make Cards), & Song/Poem, Bible Reading

Tuesday: Typing, Current Events, & Poetry

Wednesday: Science – Notebook, Vocabulary (Quiz), Project

Thursday: Health & Character Development

Monday to Thursday: Make-up work, Corrections

School is finished between 12:30-1:30 MOST days! Life Skills (Chores) will be after until approx. 2:00, followed by FREE TIME until dinner, IF school day was done with a good attitude!!!

EVENING:

Monday – Thursday: 20 Minutes of Free-Reading

Tuesday & Thursday: 30 Minutes on Handiwork Project

Thursday: Review alone & w/ Daddy for Friday Spelling Test, Vocabulary Test, & Any other Quiz/Test

SPECIAL DAYS OF THE MONTH

**Last Friday of the month – Homeschool in PJ’s!!**

2008-09-07T13:07:00.001-07:00

My "Must Do" List for this Week!!

♥Make copies of items needed for Week 9/15

♥Buy school items needed for Week 9/15

♥Renew & Return library books

♥Go to postoffice - Mail Amazon, OT bills, & ours

♥Finish phone call/email lists

♥Set up bills for 9/12 & 9/19

♥Do Beginning of Year Portfolio Checklist for both boys' binders

♥Do Lesson Plans for week of 9/15

♥Finish Corp taxes - ADP, OT, MTD

♥Update My Household Management Binder & FIP Binder

♥Wrap-up entering 07-08 grades in EduTrack & Print Report Cards

♥Print field trip pictures for 07-08 for boxes

♥Work on accounting work for clients ~ OT, MTD, JH, ADP, KH, HELP

2008-09-07T12:58:00.001-07:00

THIS WEEK'S MENU:

Sunday -Enchiledeas w/ Tortilla Chips, Applesauce, & Chocolate Cake
Monday -Spaghetti w/ Green Beans, Butter Bread & Homemade Peach Cobbler
Tuesday - Chiptole Chicken w/ Brown Rice & Applesauce
Wednesday - Cubed Steak w/ Lemon & Lime, Caribbean Rice, Carrots w/ Ranch, & Pineapple
Thursday - Meatball Hoagies, Fried Potatoes, & Mixed Fruit/Berries
Friday - Smothered Fried Chicken, Fried Corn, Mashed Potatoes, Homemade Banana Bread
Saturday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Salad, Crescent Rolls

2008-08-10T15:19:00.001-07:00

Now that we have the 2 little ones, I have found it necessary to go back to "scheduled" snacks times & choices. Below is a list of the items that they can choose from each day. The items in the fridge snack drawer or snack basket are, as follows:

Granola Bars
Pudding
Seasonal Fresh Fruit, such as Apples, Pears, Strawberries, Blueberries, Bananas, Grapes, etc
Carrot or Celery Sticks w/ Ranch
Popcorn
Marshmallows
Peanut Butter Toast
Cinnamon & Sugar Toast
Homemade Trail Mix (Kix, Cheerios, Goldfish crackers, Pretzel Sticks, and M&Ms)
Popsicles
Soft Pretzel w/ Cream Cheese
Yogurt
Cheese and Crackers
Graham Crackers
Cheese Crackers
Saltines w/ Peanut Butter
Homemade Muffins
Homemade Cookies
Nilla Wafers or Animal Crackers
Fruit snacks
Ice cream

2008-08-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, French Toast Sticks, Waffles, Cinnamon Toast, Amish Baked Oatmeal, and Homemade Muffins

Lunch: Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Turkey Sandwiches, Chicken Noodle Soup, Mini-Pizzas, Chicken Nuggets & Fries, or Leftovers with Fruit and Milk

Dinner:
Monday - Honey Glazed Chicken Stir-Fry, Rice, & Fruit
Tuesday - Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Fried Potatoes, & Applesauce
Wednesday - Cubed Steak w/ Lemon & Lime, Caribbean Rice, Carrots w/ Ranch, & Fruit
Thursday - Meatball Hoagies, French Fries, & Fruit
Friday - Smothered Fried Chicken, Fried Corn, Mashed Potatoes, Homemade Banana Bread
Saturday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Salad, Crescent Rolls, & Homemade Peach Cobbler
Sunday - Ham w/ Pineapple, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Homemade Bread

Morning & Afternoon Snacks: Choice from Fridge Snack Drawer or Snack Basket

2008-08-10T13:04:00.001-07:00

My "Must Do" List for this Week!!

I really need to get all of this done, but it will take a miracle of a week!

♥Weds - Call Transportation on "Fast Feet" to confirm school bus p/u & d/o times

♥Thurs - Work at Clients (ADP) ~ 11:30 to 2:30

♥Find daycare/preschool for "Gigglebox" to start 8/25

♥Make copies of items needed for Week 1 (8/25-8/29)

♥Return library books

♥Do Beginning of Year Portfolio Checklist for both boys' binders

♥Plan Field Trips for week of 8/25

♥Do Lesson Plans for week of 8/25

♥Finish Curriculum Choices & Daily Routines for 08-09

♥Make Rest of Binders for boys: TOG Yr 3, Language Arts, Math & Science (Boys Can Help)

♥Make Index Card Boxes for Vocabulary Works

♥Finish buying school supplies & clothes

♥Set up science lab

♥Business Calls: BSH (Us)

♥Update My Household Management Binder & FIP Binder

♥Wrap-up entering this year's grades in EduTrack & Print Report Cards

♥Print field trip pictures for 07/08 boxes

♥Work on accounting work for clients ~ OT, MTD, JH, ADP, KH

♥Check on non-profit papers w/ IRS for HELP House

2008-07-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

I am finally down with my "initial" plan for fall! I will post soon!

2008-07-06T16:19:00.000-07:00

Family Time with God

♥Hope to pick up Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes, again!

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon - Enroll FS & FD in new daycare

♥Tues - Work at Clients (ADP) ~ 11 to 3

♥Keep working on fall curriculum needs

♥Return library books

♥Business Calls: BSH (Us)

♥Make House Rules, Chore Charts, and Reward Charts for all kids

♥Make Summer Schedule for kids - activities, reading, chores, etc

♥Update My Household Management Binder

♥Finish entering this year's grades in EduTrack

♥Print field trip pictures for portfolios

♥Finish Portfolios

♥Finish Report Cards

♥Work on accounting work for clients ~ OT, MTD, JH, ADP

Cleaning Zone

♥My zones this week - LAUNDRY!!

Homeschooling This Week ~ "Officially done", except few fun educational things!

♥Buy and plant herb and vegetable plants for garden

♥Make SOTW History notebooks w/ the boys

♥Start testing the boys with the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills

2008-07-05T18:02:00.000-07:00

I WILL POST CURRICULUM CHOICES FOR 08-09 SOON!

2008-06-30T05:03:00.000-07:00

We did NOT follow the menu much at all last week . .. it was way more busy than I thought:-) SO, most of this looks like a repeat, but it is not.

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, Homemade Breakfast Burritos, Cinnamon Toast, Scrambled Eggs and Pancakes

Lunch:
Monday: Salisbury Steak & Fruit
Tuesday: Pizza Rolls & Fruit
Wednesday: Corn Dogs & Fruit
Thursday: PBJ w/ Jello
Friday: Chicken Noodle Soup w/ Grilled Cheese
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner:
Monday - Hamburger Casserole (Hamburg, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, & Topped w/ Cheese)
Tuesday - Pork Roast, Potatoes, Carrots, & Homemade Bread
Wednesday - Hawaii Chicken, Rice, & Fruit
Thursday - Jerk Pork Chops, Caribbean Rice, Cauliflower & Carrots w/ Ranch, Fruit
Friday - Smothered Fried Chicken, Fried Corn, Mashed Potatoes, Strawberry Bread
Saturday - Ham w/ Pineapple, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Homemade Bread
Sunday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Salad, Fruit, Rolls

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Soft Pretzels w/ Cream Cheese, Cheese Chunks, & Homemade Cookies

2008-06-30T04:51:00.000-07:00

I am still working on this horrible allergies/sinus/bronchitis thing .. so I'm dragging. Hopefully, it is gone by holiday!

Family Time with God

♥Hope to pick up Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes, again!

♥Start daily devotions with kids again!

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon - Go to dr over sinus/chest cold

♥Tues - Movie & Library Day w/ Kids & ADC, KH Client Appts

♥Fri-Sat - Visit Mom for 4th

♥Keep working on items needed to buy for homeschool in fall

♥Return library books & Check out books for July's Lapbooks

♥Business Calls: BSH (Us)

♥Make House Rules, Chore Charts, and Reward Charts for all kids

♥Make Summer Schedule for kids - activities, reading, chores, etc

♥Update My Household Management Binder

♥FINISH FC1 bedroom!

♥Finish entering this year's grades in EduTrack

♥Print field trip pictures for portfolios

♥Finish Portfolios

♥Finish Report Cards

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees - Yep, it is still NOT done!

♥Work on accounting work for clients

Cleaning Zone

♥My zones this week - Upstairs & Master Bedroom/Bath

♥LAUNDRY!!

Homeschooling This Week ~ "Officially done", except few fun educational things!

♥Keep working on our first lapbook for science - PENGUINS!!

♥Buy and plant herb and vegetable plants for garden

♥Make SOTW History notebooks w/ the boys

♥Start testing the boys with the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills

♥Keep planning for next school year!

♥ Train Them Up "Character Training" - Work on obeying the first time they are told and a NO hitting/NO retaliation, if hit rules - This has been a problem with all kids this week:-(

Wellness

♥Stay AWAY from Yellow Flies - They love me, but my body doesn't them!

♥Work out at clubhouse at least 1 day - Still hoping, Not accomplished yet!

♥ Drink at least one bottled water per day!

♥ Take Vitamins EVERY day!

Check out more on Monday Meanderings at Less Of Me, More of Him

2008-06-22T15:40:00.000-07:00

Breakfast: Homemade Muffins, Cold Cereal, Homemade Breakfast Burritos, Cinnamon Toast, Scrambled Eggs and Pancakes.

Lunch:
Monday: Fast Food
Tuesday: Pizza Rolls & Fruit
Wednesday: Corn Dogs
Thursday: PBJ w/ Jello
Friday: Chicken Noodle Soup w/ Grilled Cheese
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner:
Monday - Hawaii Chicken, Rice, & Fruit
Tuesday - Pork Roast, Potatoes, Carrots, & Homemade Bread
Wednesday - BBQ Polish Sausage, Fries, Fruit
Thursday - Jerk Pork Chops, Caribbean Rice, Cauliflower & Carrots w/ Ranch, Fruit
Friday - Smothered Fried Chicken, Fried Corn, Mashed Potatoes, Strawberry Bread
Saturday - Ham w/ Pineapple, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Homemade Bread
Sunday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Salad, Fruit, Rolls

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Soft Pretzels w/ Cream Cheese, Cheese Chunks, & Homemade Cookies

2008-06-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

Things are getting a little more organized during this transition time! Hopefully, this week will be more as planned & less unexpected happenings!

Family Time with God

♥Hope to pick up Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes, again!

♥Start daily devotions with kids again!

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon - Noah's Dentist Appt - 2nd Opinoin & P/U High Chair at FC

♥Tues - Movie & Library Day w/ Kids

♥Thurs - Afternoon at clients - ADC Client

♥Sat - Curriculum Sale

♥Finish list of needed homeschool items for fall

♥Return library books & Check out books for July's Lapbooks

♥Business Calls: BSH (Us), FIP (Us - Check on license)

♥Make House Rules, Chore Charts, and Reward Charts for all kids

♥Make Summer Schedule for kids - activities, reading, chores, etc

♥Update My Household Management Binder

♥Clear out extra bedroom for FC1 and start to make it into his first own bedroom

♥Finish entering this year's grades in EduTrack

♥Print field trip pictures for portfolios

♥Finish Portfolios

♥Finish Report Cards

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees - Yep, it is still NOT done!

♥Work on accounting work for clients

Cleaning Zone

♥My zones this week clean entire house again . .it is a disaster zone after this weekend and since
I did not deep clean last week, as I hoped!

♥LAUNDRY!!

Homeschooling This Week ~ "Officially done", except few fun educational things!

♥Keep working on our first lapbook for science - PENGUINS!!

♥Buy and plant herb and vegetable plants for garden

♥Make SOTW History notebooks w/ the boys

♥Start testing the boys with the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills

2008-06-15T17:46:00.001-07:00

All I can say is . ..last week was "Oh what a week!" We are exhausted!

Family Time with God

♥Hope to pick up Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes, again!

♥Start daily devotions with kids again!

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon/Tues - 2-3 Outside Client Appts

♥Thurs - Noah's Dentist Appt - Opinion from Orthodontist

♥Sat - Curriculum Sale

♥Finish list of needed homeschool items for fall

♥Return library books & Check out books for June's Lapbooks

♥Business Calls: IRS (Client), BSH (Us), FIP (Us - Check on license)

♥Make House Rules, Chore Charts, and Reward Charts for all kids

♥Make Summer Schedule for kids - activities, reading, chores, etc

♥Update My Household Management Binder

♥Clear out extra bedroom for FC1 and start to make it into his first own bedroom - I think in a train theme!

♥Finish entering this year's grades in EduTrack

♥Print field trip pictures for portfolios

♥Finish Portfolios

♥Finish Report Cards

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees - Yep, it is still NOT done!

♥Work on accounting work for clients

Cleaning Zone

♥My zones this week clean entire house again . .it is a disaster zone after this weekend and since
I did not deep clean last week, as I hoped!

♥LAUNDRY!!

Homeschooling This Week ~Thank goodness, we are "officially" done, except for a few ongoing items I want to do in our "free time"

♥Keep working on our first lapbook for science - PENGUINS!!

♥Buy and plant herb and vegetable plants for garden

♥Make SOTW History notebooks w/ the boys

♥Start testing the boys with the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills

2008-06-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Breakfast: Homemade Chocolate Chip Muffins, Lucky Charms Cereal, Hardboiled Eggs, Pancakes, and Baked Oatmeal

Lunch:
Monday: Bagel Bites
Tuesday: Steak Sandwiches w/ Fruit
Wednesday: Turkey Sandwiches w/ Fruit
Thursday: Grilled Cheese w/ Jello
Friday: Turkey Sandwiches w/ Fruit
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner:
Monday - Crockpot Chicken & Rice
Tuesday - Pizza
Wednesday - Baked Spaghetti
Thursday - Hot Dogs w/ Fries
Friday - Dinner Out - Cino's
Saturday - Grilled Cheese, Fruit, & Yogurt
Sunday - BBQ Chicken Strips, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, & Fruit

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Soft Pretzels w/ Cream Cheese, Cheese Chunks, Wheat Thins, Cinnamon Toast, & Homemade Cookies

Check out more Menu Plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie

2008-06-10T17:28:00.000-07:00

BEFORE

AFTER

The house all needs to be tackled, after the past few weekends with the new little ones . yet, I am too tired to accomplish it! So, I thought I'd start small and at least clear that desk!!

Check out more of today's meme at Tackle It Tuesday!

2008-06-09T15:16:00.000-07:00

Breakfast: Homemade Chocolate Chip Muffins, Cold Cereal, Homemade Breakfast Burritos, Cinnamon Toast, Hardboiled Eggs, and Pancakes

Lunch:
Monday: Lunch at Steak & Shake
Tuesday: Steak Hoagies or Pizza Hot Pocket
Wednesday: Corn Dogs
Thursday: PBJ w/ Jello
Friday: Chicken Noodle Soup w/ Grilled Cheese
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner:
Monday - Taco Salad w/ grapes
Tuesday - Beef Stew w/ Homemade Bread
Wednesday - Chicken Fried Rice
Thursday - Ground Beef Enchiladeas w/ Mexican Rice, Fruit
Friday - Chipotle Chicken w/ Brown Rice (This is everyone's favorite meal, in our home. I modified this recipe a little by omitting the cashews and water chestnuts.) Strawberry Bread
Saturday - Tacos & Nachos
Sunday - Hotdogs on Grill & French Fries

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Soft Pretzels w/ Cream Cheese, Cheese Chunks, Wheat Thins, & Homemade Cookies

Check out more Menu Plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie

2008-06-09T07:08:00.000-07:00

We had the 2 little ones again this weekend .. .we so desperately need a routine for our upcoming family additions!

Family Time with God

♥Keep reading Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes.

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon - Boys' Dentist "Cleaning" Appts

♥Tues - Noah's Dentist "Filling & Sealants" Appt

♥Go to clients: OT & JH

♥Mail/E-Mail Father's Day Cards

♥Finish entering this year's grades in EduTrack

♥Print field trip pictures for portfolios

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees!

♥Work on outstanding accounting work for clients - this is never ending!!

♥ Mail in Homestudy & MAPP homework

Cleaning Zone

♥My zones this week clean entire house again . .it is a disaster zone after this weekend!!

Homeschooling This Week (in addition to our normal schedule) -

♥Keep working on our first lapbook for science - PENGUINS!!

♥Buy and plant herb and vegetable plants for garden

♥Make SOTW History notebooks w/ the boys

♥Start testing the boys with the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills

♥Keep planning for next school year!

♥ Train Them Up "Character Training" - Work on obeying the first time they are told - This is now CRITCAL w/ adding 2 more to our bunch!

Wellness

♥Stay AWAY from Yellow Flies - They love me, but my body doesn't them!

♥Work out at clubhouse at least 1 day!

♥ Drink at least one bottled water per day!

♥ Take Vitamins EVERY day!

Check out more on Monday Meanderings at Less Of Me, More of Him

2008-06-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

We are approx., 2-3 weeks from receiving our foster parents licensed, with the hopes of adopting. So, on Friday, I was surprised to get a call that there are 2 children, who would be perfect for us and will be adopt eligible in July. So, since our background checks are in . .we can take them "to test the waters" for up to 48 hours at a time. So, we have 2 extra kids this weekend . .2 yo girl and 4 yo boy - they are adorable - but oh, was the house BUSY BUSY!!!

Needless to say, I got little done this weekend so some of my lists repeat!

Family Time with God

♥Keep reading Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes.

♥Finish the chapter of Genesis with the boys.

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon - Quick Dr Appt for me - I have 2 nasty yellow fly bites that have my foot swollen!

♥Tues -Meet friend for lunch & LAST Foster Care MAPP ~ YEAH!!! Make a dessert to bring to MAPP class!

♥Thurs - Play date w/ friends (pick up fc1 and fc2, so they can intereact with the boys friends)

♥Finish entering this year's grades in EduTrack

♥Print field trip pictures for portfolios

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees!

♥Work on outstanding accounting work for clients - this is never ending!!

♥ Finish last of MAPP homework

♥Finish Resume

Cleaning Zone

♥My zones this week clean entire house again . .it is a disaster zone after this weekend!!

Homeschooling This Week (in addition to our normal schedule) -

♥Keep working on our first lapbook for science - PENGUINS!!

♥Buy and plant herb and vegetable plants for garden

♥Make SOTW History notebooks w/ the boys

♥Start testing the boys with the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills

2008-06-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

Breakfast: Homemade Chocolate Chip Muffins, Cold Cereal, Scrambled Eggs & Cinnamon Toast, Hardboiled Eggs, and Toaster Strudels

Lunch:
Monday: Mac & Cheese w/ Applesauce
Tuesday: Turkey Sandwich w/ Oranges
Wednesday: Mini-Pizza w/ Applesauce
Thursday: Steak Hoagies w/ Oranges
Friday: Chicken Noodle Soup w/ Grilled Cheese
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner:
Monday - Dinner Out
Tuesday - Dinner w/ Sitter for Kids & Potluck at LAST MAPP Class for us
Wednesday - Chipotle Chicken w/ Brown Rice (This is everyone's favorite meal, in our home. I modified this recipe a little by omitting the cashews and water chestnuts.) Strawberry Bread
Thursday - Ground Beef Enchiladeas w/ Mexican Rice, Fruit
Friday - Taco Salad w/ Fruit
Saturday - Crockpot Chicken & Rice w/ Fruit
Sunday - Jerk Pork Chops, Caribbean Rice, Cauliflower & Carrots w/ Ranch, Fruit

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Graham Crackers, Soft Pretzels w/ Cream Cheese, Cheese Chunks, Wheat Thins

Check out more Menu Plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie

2008-05-27T13:58:00.001-07:00

Since I did quite a bit of cleaning over the weekend, I decided to take a break today and concentrate on the computer. I cleaned out old photos, desktop icons (I had 75+), bookmarks, etc . .. It is quite inspiring to be able to look at the computer and actually see the wallpaper!!

Check out more of today's meme at Tackle It Tuesday!

2008-05-27T09:47:00.001-07:00

The highlight of last week was our trip to the Jacksonville Zoo! Although the boys and I had gone 3-4 times before, Daddy has never went. The kids had so much fun in the Spash Park, as well as feeding the Australian Lorakee birds nectar! But all of our favorites were the leopards and the giraffes!
I'll add pictures tonight!!
To view more Homeschool Hi-Lights, please visit Fun Learning

2008-05-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

Tightwad Tuesday

I love books! We have 1000s, but there is always more I want for our classroom. So, in order to keep fresh books around and still save our budget, I go to Chamblin's Used Bookstore about once a month. I go through the books that we are done with, as well as books that I bought for a dime at our local thrift store, and we trade them in for 25% of the cover price or more! (That is why I buy the $.10 books to trade in, too!) Although, they do not take every book, they usually take 75% of those brought in . .they add this into our account with them.

We can either spend same day, or save. I usually spend that day . .. since they have millions of books, dvd, audio books, etc., among the 3 warehouses. They sell them for 50% of the cover or less . . so it is a great inexpensive way to get our homeschool and personal reading items!

2008-05-25T16:49:00.000-07:00

Last week was a long week. The sinus/cold bug keeps circulating in the house . .as of yesterday, we are all well! I hope we've had the last of it!!

Family Time with God

♥Keep reading Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes.

♥Finish the chapter of Genesis with the boys.

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon - Picnic at the ZOO!

♥Tues -Foster Care MAPP class #9 (of 10) & Drop off vacuum to repair shop

♥Weds - Go to clients - OT

♥Thurs - Quick Dr appt for me

♥Call Great Grandpa and tell him HAPPY 85TH BIRTHDAY!!

♥Finish entering this year's grades in EduTrack

♥Print field trip pictures for portfolios

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees!

♥Work on outstanding accounting work for clients - this is never ending!!

♥ Finish last of MAPP homework

♥Finish Resume

Cleaning Zone

♥My zones this week are to finish the extra bedroom . . .completely and weed out homeschool materials we no longer need.

Homeschooling This Week (in addition to our normal schedule) -

♥Start working on our first lapbook for science - PENGUINS!!

♥Make SOTW History notebooks w/ the boys

♥Start testing the boys with the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills

♥Keep planning for next school year!

♥ Train Them Up "Character Training" - Work on obeying the first time they are told

Wellness

♥ Drink at least one bottled water per day!

♥ Take Vitamins EVERY day!

Check out more on Monday Meanderings at Less Of Me, More of Him

2008-05-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

Last week, I did not stick to menu everyday .. so some of these are carryovers to this week:-)

Breakfast: Homemade Blueberry & Banana Muffins, Cold Cereal, Scrambled Eggs & Cinnamon Toast, Hardboiled Eggs, Bagefuls, and Toaster Strudels

Lunch:
Monday: Picnic at the Zoo!
Tuesday: Turkey Sandwich w/ Oranges
Wednesday: Mini-Pizza w/ Applesauce
Thursday: Turkey Sandwich w/ Oranges
Friday: Chicken Noodle Soup w/ Grilled Cheese
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner:
Monday - Lady's Oven Roasted Pork Ribs (Paula Deen Recipe), Carrots & Celery w/ Ranch, Baked Beans, Baked Potatoes (Sweet for me), Pineapple
Tuesday - Pizza
Wednesday - Smothered Fried Chicken, Fried Corn, Mashed Potatoes
Thursday - Ground Beef Enchiladeas w/ Mexican Rice, Fruit
Friday - Baked Spaghetti w/ Garlic Bread & Applesauce
Saturday - Chipotle Chicken w/ Brown Rice (This is everyone's favorite meal, in our home. I modified this recipe a little by omitting the cashews and water chestnuts.) Strawberry Bread
Sunday - Jerk Pork Chops, Caribbean Rice, Cauliflower & Carrots w/ Ranch, Fruit

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Graham Crackers, Soft Pretzels, Cheese Chunks, Watermelon

Check out more Menu Plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie

2008-05-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

Family Time with God

♥Keep reading Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes.

♥Finish the chapter of Genesis with the boys.

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Mon - Foster Care Home Health Inspection; Tues - Foster Care MAPP class

♥Call YMCA on basketball sign-up for ds1.

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees!

♥Get caught up on all outstanding accounting work for clients - this is never ending!!

♥ Catch up on MAPP homework

♥Finish outside of house w/ hubby

♥Finish Resume

Cleaning Zone

♥My zone this week is to "freshen up" the whole house! Things are pretty organized now due to all of the spring cleaning. So, I just need to do a good freshing . ..and clean the inside windows! We did outside last week:-)

Homeschooling This Week (in addition to our normal schedule) -

♥Field Trip: Lunch & Playdate at Friends

♥Start working on our first lapbook for science - PENGUINS!!

♥Complete this year's portfolios, up to now.

♥Finish the math and reading assessments!

♥Start planning for next school year!

♥ Train Them Up "Character Training" - Work on obeying the first time they are told

Wellness

♥ Drink at least one bottled water per day!

♥ Take Vitamins EVERY day!

Check out more on Monday Meanderings at Less Of Me, More of Him

2008-05-19T08:25:00.001-07:00

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, Waffles, French Toast, Scrambled Eggs & Cinnamon Toast, Pancakes, and Toaster Strudels

Lunch:
Monday: Turkey Sandwiches & Applesauce
Tuesday: Lunch @ Friends
Wednesday: PBJ & Pretzels
Thursday: Mini-Pizza
Friday: Chicken Noodle Soup w/ Fruit
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner: Some of the menus is carried over from last week - things were not as planned:-)

Monday - Cube Steak, Black Beans, Rice, Watermelon
Tuesday - Pizza
Wednesday - Smothered Fried Chicken, Fried Corn, Mashed Potatoes,
Thursday - Ground Beef Enchiladeas w/ Mexican Rice, Fruit
Friday - Herb Roasted Chicken, Baked Potatoes (Sweet for me), Corn, Applesauce
Saturday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Salad, Fruit, Rolls
Sunday - Hawaiin Skillet Chicken, Butter/Garlic Rice, Strawberries, Corn on the Cob

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Graham Crackers, Soft Pretzels, Cheese Chunks, Watermelon

Check out more Menu Plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie

2008-05-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

SpringHillNursery.com takes $20 off any purchase of $20 or more ~ so free flowers, just pay shipping of $7.95.

Dunkin Donuts Freebie - 5/15/08

2008-05-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (5/15/08), 10 a.m. to 10 p.m Dunkin' Donuts will be giving away free 16 oz. Iced Coffees!

McDonald's Freebie - 5/15/08

2008-05-14T14:00:00.001-07:00

McDonald's is offering two free offers tomorrow (Thursday, 5/15/08) when you purchase a drink - Limit one per customer/drink order.

From 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., get a free Southern Style Chicken Biscuit with the purchase of any medium or large drink.

From 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., get a free Southern Style Chicken Sandwich with the purchase of any medium or large drink.

2008-05-13T07:32:00.001-07:00

Family Time with God

♥I am going to start reading Being a Great Mom, Raising Great Kids by Sharon Jaynes. I will report back how it is:-)

♥The boys and I are going to FINALLY start reading the Bible chronologically, in hopes to finish within a year. After each reading, they will have a related bible lesson. I have wanted to start this for 3 weeks, and I think this week, we should be able to get on track!

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Prepare Resume

♥Plant Flowers & Apply new mulch in flower beds & around the trees!

♥Get caught up on all outstanding accounting work for clients!

♥ Catch up on MAPP homework

♥Give the outside of house a good cleaning.

Cleaning Zone

♥My zone this week is to "freshen up" the whole house! Things are pretty organized now due to all of the spring cleaning. So, I just need to do a good freshing . ..and clean the windows!

Homeschooling This Week (in addition to our normal schedule) - Last week, I had them finish up various workbooks and assignments that were lingering . .so now to actually work my plan!

♥I need to complete this year's field trip section of our portfolios!

♥Finish the math and reading assessments!

♥Plan out the areas that still need to be covered to complete this school year!

♥ Train Them Up "Character Training" - Kindness: Tender and Gentle Words and Ways

Wellness

♥ Drink at least one bottled water per day!

♥ Take Vitamins EVERY day!

Check out more on Monday Meanderings at Less Of Me, More of Him

2008-05-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

Breakfast: Cold Cereal, Waffles, French Toast, Scrambled Eggs & Cinnamon Toast, Pancakes

Lunch:
Monday: Lunchable
Tuesday: Grilled Chicken & Fruit
Wednesday: PBJ & Pretzels
Thursday: Mini-Pizza
Friday: Chicken Noodle Soup w/ Fruit
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner: Some of the menus is carried over from last week - things were not as planned:-)

Monday - Baked Spaghetti w/ Garlic Bread & Applesauce
Tuesday - Dinner w/ Sitter
Wednesday - Bourban Chicken w/ Rice Pilaf, Mixed Fruit
Thursday - Ham w/ Pineapple, Mashed Potatoes, Corn
Friday - Crock Pot - Chicken & Rice
Saturday - Polish Sausage, Watermelon, & Baked Beans
Sunday - Sloppy Joes & Watermelon

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Oranges, Graham Crackers, Soft Pretzels, Cheese Chunks

Check out more Menu Plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie

2008-05-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

Breakfast:
Monday: Cold Cereal & Hot Tea
Tuesday: Strawberry Bread
Wednesday: Cold Cereal & Hot Tea
Thursday: Waffles and scrambled eggs
Friday: Pancakes
Saturday: Bacon, Scrambled Eggs, Cinnamon Toast
Sunday: Cinnamon Rolls

Lunch:
Monday: Sandwiches
Tuesday: Lunchable
Wednesday: Grilled Cheese & French Fries
Thursday: Steak Sandwiches w/ Fruit
Friday: Pizza bagels w/ Fruit
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner: Some of the menus is carried over from last week - things were not as planned:-)

Monday - Lasagna & Strawberry Bread
Tuesday - Dinner w/ Sitter, Gooey Toffee Butter Cake (Yum!!)
Wednesday - Smothered Fried Chicken, Fried Corn, Mashed Potatoes,
Thursday - Ground Beef Enchiladeas w/ Mexican Rice, Fruit
Friday - Pizza & Wings at Neighbors
Saturday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Salad, Fruit, Homemade Bread
Sunday - Hawaiin Skillet Chicken, White Rice, Cauliflower & Carrots w/ Ranch, Fruit

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Oranges, Graham Crackers, Soft Pretzels, Cheese Chunks

Check out more Menu Plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie!

2008-05-05T07:54:00.000-07:00

Family Time with God

♥I am almost done reading The Spiritual Power of a Mother by Michael Farris. It is an encouraging book for homeschooling moms!

♥The boys and I are going to start reading the Bible chronologically, in hopes to finish within a year. After each reading, they will have a related bible lesson.

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥ Prepare Resume

♥Weed & re-mulch the flower beds & around the trees!

♥Get caught up on all outstanding accounting work for clients!

♥Paint "ds1" bed!

♥Paint girly bathroom!

♥ Catch up on MAPP homework

♥Give the front porch a good cleaning.

Cleaning Zone

♥My zone this week is the kitchen! It is pretty organized now due to all of the spring cleaning. So, I am going to organize a little more and deep clean windows, etc. I'll post pictures later in the week of the finished project!

Homeschooling This Week (in addition to our normal schedule) Last week, we had a sickee, so it was a non-productive week for extras. So, let's try again!

♥I need to complete this year's field trip section of our portfolios!

♥Finish the math and reading assessments!

Check out more on Monday Meanderings at Less Of Me, More of Him

2008-05-03T18:17:00.001-07:00

What Lisa Means

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.

You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.

Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.

You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

You are the total package - suave, sexy, smart, and strong.

You have the whole world under your spell, and you can influence almost everyone you know.

You don't always resist your urges to crush the weak. Just remember, they don't have as much going for them as you do.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.

You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.

You have the classic "Type A" personality.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

2008-04-29T10:56:00.001-07:00

I seen this on another blog . . .and I had to laugh! The scary thought is there are days I think I felt this way, too!

Tightwad Tuesday

2008-04-29T10:03:00.000-07:00

Tightwad Tuesday

Grocery Game is one of the easiest ways, I know to save money. I consistently save 50-75% off each weeks grocery bill, yet we have a huge stockpile of food, paper, cleaning, and HBA items. In the last 2 months, I "skipped" grocery shopping (except for milk and produce) at least 3 weeks due to our stockpile! I'll post pictures of our stockpiles this weekend:-)
The first month trial is only $1 to see if you like it! In the referral link, you can say if you want that I referred you - the email is heavenlyhugskisses@yahoo.com

Another way to save money is to earn a little more for doing nothing! The Revolution Money button on the right hand sidebar is a quick, safe, easy way to earn $25 ($50 if you sign your spouse up for it, too!). Plus after you sign up, you receive $10 for every person you refer. This money can be mailed to you by check or deposited into your bank - it is up to you! So, click on the link today .. soon your purse will have a little bit more in it:-)

I am an accountant, and I have checked this out. It is safe and legit. It is backed by the former CEO of AOL, Citibank, and it is a fully insured Bank. Here is what the site says:

MoneyExchange is an easy, secure and reliable way to send and receive money online between accountholder for FREE.

Pay a friend for your share of the dinner bill.
Request cash from your sister for Mom’s present.
Collect contributions for an office party.
Receive payment from online buyers.

2008-04-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Family Time with God

♥I am reading The Spiritual Power of a Mother by Michael Farris. It is an encouraging book for homeschooling moms!

♥The boys and I are going to start reading the Bible chronologically, in hopes to finish within a year. After each reading, they will have a related bible lesson.

My "Must Do" List (List is in addition to normal cleaning, laundry, and homeschooling!)

♥Weed & re-mulch the flower beds & around the trees!

♥Get caught up on all outstanding accounting work for clients!

♥Paint "ds1" bed!

♥Paint girly bathroom!

♥Prepare for Saturday's 4H Meeting!

♥ Catch up on MAPP homework

♥Give the front porch a good cleaning.

Cleaning Zone

♥My zone this week is the upstairs! I know this is a little more than a room, but the house is pretty organized now due to all of the spring cleaning. So, I am going to organize a little more and deep clean the upstairs (4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, homeschool walk-in closet, and family room) I'll post pictures later in the week of the finished project!

Homeschooling This Week (in addition to our normal schedule)

♥I need to complete this year's field trip section of our portfolios!

♥Finish the math and reading assessments!

2008-04-28T14:40:00.001-07:00

Breakfast:
Tuesday: Waffles and scrambled eggs
Wednesday: Baked Oatmeal
Thursday: Strawberry Bread & Sausage
Friday: Pancakes
Saturday: Bacon, Scrambled Eggs, Cinnamon Toast
Sunday: Cinnamon Rolls

Lunch:
Monday: Eat-out (Errands) - SUBS
Tuesday: Eat-out (Field Trip) - ??
Wednesday: Grilled Cheese & French Fries
Thursday: Hot Dogs w/ Mac & Cheese
Friday: Pizza bagels w/ Fruit
Sat and Sun: Leftovers, Salads, or Sandwiches

Dinner:
Monday - Leftover Spaghetti w/ Garlic Bread, Fruit
Tuesday - Pizza
Wednesday - Chipotle Chicken w/ Brown Rice (This is everyone's favorite meal, in our home. I modified this recipe a little by omitting the cashews and water chestnuts.) Strawberry Bread
Thursday - Ground Beef Enchiladeas w/ Mexican Rice, Fruit
Friday - Meatloaf w/ Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Fruit, Homemade Bread
Saturday - Taco Salad
Sunday - Hawaiin Skillet Chicken, White Rice, Cauliflower & Carrots w/ Ranch, Fruit

Snacks: Marshmallows, Pretzels, Oranges, Graham Crackers, Soft Pretzels, Cheese Chunks

Free Money - For Real!!

2008-04-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

The Revolution Money Bonus that is on the sidebar is legit! I have read a lot on it. The former CEO of AOL is one of the backers. Here is a site with an article on it. http://mashable.com/2007/09/25/revolution-money-2/ It was also in USA Today. So, sign up today and start earning a free $25!!!

2008-04-24T09:32:00.001-07:00

Crock Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

1 large chicken, cut into serving pieces

1 cup packed brown sugar

2/3 cup vinegar (I prefer to decrease the vinegar to 1/3 cup)

1/4 cup Sprite or 7-Up soda

2-3 tablespoons minced garlic

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon pepper (regular black or cayenne)

Directions

Place chicken in crock pot.
Mix all remaining ingredients and pour over chicken.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Serve over rice or noodles.
You can thicken the juices after cooking with a little cornstarch.

This unusual chicken recipe sounds improbable, but try it - you'll love it!

2008-04-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

Thankful for the boys' sleepover going perfect last night! They had so much fun until past midnight ~ I think they will all sleep sound tonight!! I am so glad that both boys each have their own "best" friends! It makes childhood that much sweeter!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2008-04-23T07:05:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

WEBLINK WEDNESDAY

2008-04-23T06:56:00.000-07:00

WEBLINK WEDNESDAY

My boys love everything about the rainforest, as I was searching for some fun worksheets to reinforce math skills - I found this great site! It has math games from K-6th grade. Enjoy!

http://www.rainforestmaths.com/

Many Thanks

2008-04-22T13:19:00.001-07:00

I am so excited about the new blog set-up! Thanks so much, Darcy! You are awesome!