I may be getting the hang of this!

I titled this section of my blog 'Dinner for Dummies' for a few reasons.
#1:  Most of these recipes are going to be boring for many of you, but a rookie has to start somewhere!
#2:  There will be times I screw up one of these 'dummy recipes' and all of you reading will laugh hysterically or mumble to yourself 'what is wrong with her!'

The following recipe was a success!  It made so much food that I couldn't even fit it all in one casserole dish, so I put some of it in the freezer (minus the crackers on top) for another meal!  What could be better than trying out a new recipe that you and your family love?  Getting 2 meals out of 1!   I really think i'm getting the hang of these casseroles!  For future reference, if you are looking for a particular post about one of the recipe's I've blogged about, you can click on the 'Dinner for Dummies' page at the top and it will take you to those posts!

Potato Ham Casserole- courtesy of Leah Doom

2 lb frozen hashbrowns
2-3 cups diced ham
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tbsp dried onion  ~Confession:  I stood in front of the spices at HyVee for 20 minutes looking for dried onion.  Maybe it's not even a spice..I honestly have no idea, but I went with minced onion and it tasted delicious!
2 cans cream of mushroom
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
2 cups sour cream
1 cup crushed ritz crackers

Put ham over hashbrowns in a greased 9 x 13 pan.  Mix remaining ingredients (except crackers) in large bowl and pour over top.  Cover with crushed crackers.  Bake at 350 for 45-60 minutes.

Apple Orchard

Last week Thursday, Boston's preschool class went to the Apple Orchard.  I babysat for a friends little boy that day, so Grandma Glady went along on the field trip. It ended up costing Grandma $30, but we won't go into that :)  Glady said the apple's were 'slim pickins' but Boston was still very proud of the apples he picked!

Boston & Grandma Glady

 Riding the wagon out to the orchard.

 Boston and his friend Britton.  It's so crazy that his best buddy is named Britton because that is what we almost named Brigham!  

 Boston with some of the boys in his class.

 Boston's class.

Brigham's 6 Month Stats

I took Brigham to the doctor this morning for his 6 month check up.  Other than a runny nose that just started over night, he is a healthy little guy!  He cried very briefly while he got his 4 shots, gave the 2 nurses the saddest bottom lip pout you'd ever see, and then he got his bottle and blanket and was asleep before we got out of the clinic.  I timed that perfect again!

4 month stats:

Weight:  13 pounds, 13 ounces (26%)                                  

Length:  24 1/4 inches (22%)                                               

Head Circumference: 16.14 inches (18%)                          

6 month stats:
Weight:  15 pounds, 7 oz. (14%)
Length:  26 inches
Head Circumference:  16.81 inches

This morning when I told Boston that his dad would be picking him up from school since I would be at the doctor with Brigham, he said 'Mom, is brother getting shots?'

I said 'Yes, he has to have shots again.  They keep him healthy'.

Boston replied:  'I better skip school then.  Brother will need me when he gets sad'.

Isn't that just precious!?!

Word Blocks!

We have had our fireplace for a year and a half now and I still haven't found any decor for the mantel!  I've picked up a few things here and there but as soon as I get it home, set it on the mantel and look at it for a day or two, I end up returning it.  I saw this idea on Pinterest and immediately thought of the empty mantel!  I'm not 100% sure I will end up putting the blocks on the mantel but figure I can always find another spot in the house to set them!

Step 1:  Choose the letter style and size you want.  I do not own a cricket or a printer, so I traced the letter from the computer screen onto a piece of scratch paper and then cut out the letter.  Brilliant I know :)  (Next time I will use card stock paper.  The regular scratch paper was a little flimsy, but it did work.



Step 2:   Cut the board (I used a 2 x 6) to the desired height for the letter size you chose and paint the boards.  Like I said earlier, I do not own a printer, so I also had to paint my letters.

Step 3:  Pick out some coordinating scrapbook paper.  Tear it to fit the block.  I tore the paper rather than cut it so it would had the 'worn' look.  

Step 4:  Mod Podge the back of the scrapbook paper and stick it to the block.  Then you Mod Podge over the paper.  Let it dry.

Step 5:  After the scrapbook paper is done drying, repeat Step 4 with the letters.  I had to use my fingers to work out some bubbles in the paper and letters.

Step 6:  Sand down the edges of the block to give it the weathered look.     

And there ya have it!  This was a fun project and I can't wait to do it again!  I'm thinking of doing some Holiday words (Joy, Fall, Snow) or making Christmas gifts!  This would also be a really neat wedding gift or baby gift!  

On the mantel..

 Or in the kitchen?!

30 Day Husband Encouragement Challenge!

Life is busy, and there are many times that one day runs into the next with all the different activities we have going on. Derek wakes up and heads out the door for work by 7:45 AM, and some evenings when he gets home, Brigham is already in bed and Boston and I are soon to follow. For those of you that don't know me real well, sleep is my second favorite thing after coffee :) There are day's he barely gets a chance to interact with the kids, let alone for the two of us to engage in deep conversation. We have great intentions of having a date night a few times a month, but it's hard to get away when you have kids, and can't find a sitter. Because of this craziness, there are times that I take Derek for granted. He busts his tail for our family, and I don't tell him or show him often enough how much it means to me. He is such a good father and I can't remember the last time I told him that, or thanked him for being a good example for the boys.. I am Blessed to be his wife, but struggle to encourage him and show him how much I love him.

When a friend recently invited me on Facebook to participate in the '30 Day Husband Encouragement Challenge' I knew I wanted to participate, but I also knew I wanted to encourage all of you to do the same. I haven't blogged much about 'our story', and the marital struggles Derek and I faced, and continue to face, (no marriage is flawless) but I feel the Lord calling me to do that. In time, when I can put the words together I will share more. For now though, I am taking this challenge, starting October 1st, and hope you join me! I will update my blog each week on how it's going and how it's affecting myself and Derek. I am positive that this will be an awesome experience!

Here is the link to the rules of the challenge, and daily Bible verses and specific ways you can encourage your husband along the way! One of the rules is that you have to share something you admire and appreciate about your husband to him, and to someone else, every day! If you aren't sure who that someone will be, share it with me! I would love to hear from you! You can send me a message via Facebook, email, or better yet, comment on this blog post and share it with everyone reading!! If you screw up one day, it's ok! Just start back up the next day!

It is my prayer that my own marriage will be strengthened, but I will also pray for yours. Mark your calendars now, October 1st will be here before we know it!

..we gonna party like it's yer birthday!

Boston picked up the idea for half birthday celebrations in preschool and just thinks it's the coolest thing.  Today is Brigham's half birthday so it calls for a celebration!!  I can't believe my little man arrived 6 months ago!  Time fly's when your having fun...and when you have 2 boys that keep you on your toes, well 3 actually :)

'Not these silly pictures again! I'd rather just eat my feet...'

'Or tip over'

'Or look away from the camera at my silly big brother!'

'Now who's that good looking mama with the camera?!'

I made cut-out squares that spelled out 'Happy 1/2 Birthday', and then Boston helped find the letters, and make a pattern of every other color.  Not only fun, but educational!   Boston also thought Brigham needed a birthday crown.  I'm not the most talented at this kind of thing, and I only had a few scrap pieces of paper to use, but Boston sure thought it was awesome! 

And a birthday celebration isn't complete without a 'gift', so I told Boston to pick out something of his that he wanted Brigham to have.  He chose 2 of his stuffed animals, and gave them to Brigham with the saddest face and said 'But mom, I'm really going to miss Sharky and Lion'.  So sweet. 

Bath time has been nearly impossible with only 2 arms lately..  Brigham was so squirmy in his baby bath tub, so I thought we'd try a bath seat.  He loves it! 

Boston is into making his own food lately, and thinks he is a pro at peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! He must be catching on to my inability to cook.  He's learning to take care of his own hunger! 

And lastly, if you would, please say a prayer for my Dad's girlfriend Lisa and her family. Lisa's dad Ray passed away last night.  He was 90 years old, and such a sweet, loving man.  He will be missed! What a reassurance to all of those mourning his loss to know that he is in heaven with Jesus!  I hope you all have a Blessed weekend! 

What a waste, or so I thought.. yes it was still a waste.

I'm sure I'm not the only person who has thrown away hundreds of dollars on toys or clothes that their kids never play, or put holes in after wearing for a week.  If I am, I'm going to feel really dumb about this post...  We buy Boston 'Santa' toys each year at Christmas, and will continue that tradition with Brigham.  Christmas morning 'Santa' gifts were a huge thing when I was growing up, and are some of my favorite childhood memories.  This past Christmas, Boston begged for Cruncher The Interactive Dinosaur.  It was around $100 (now it's less than half that!) and always sold out at Target every time I'd go shopping.  I didn't take that as a sign from God it was going to be a complete waste of my money, and kind of ridiculous I would spend that much on one toy.  Instead I thought to myself 'Wow, that must be one popular toy and Boston has to have it!', and instead of waiting for Target or Walmart to get one in stock, 'Santa' ordered it online and paid extra to ship it. 

Christmas morning came and Cruncher The Interactive Dinosaur was the coolest toy in our house!  I was delighted that 'Santa' had brought just what Boston had wanted!  A dinosaur that talks, farts, burps, and walks.  The typical hype of the holiday's and new toys wore off after a few days, and there Cruncher sat.  A lonely little dinosaur crammed in the bottom of an over flowing toy box for months.

Today, I babysat 2 little boys, so the house was loud, and ALL of the toys were being played with, even Cruncher!  After the excitement wore off with the big kids, it was Brigham's turn.  He laid on the floor for a good half hour just staring and screeching at Cruncher!  He never even winced when Cruncher would snap at his face or tromp towards him.  (He's such a brave little guy)  I'm sure Cruncher won't keep Brigham entertained tomorrow, but today he did!

Note to self:  No need for 'Santa' to go over board this Christmas.  The $15 he spent on the Transformer Play-Doh set has entertained Boston hours more than that damn dinosaur.

'Well hello there Cruncher'

 'Mommy, I think that Dinosaur just talked'

 'And he just walked closer to me!'

  

 

Just a little update!

Just wanted to post a brief update on us. The last few blogs haven't really been about what our family has been up to and i'm sure you're all just dyin to know :)

We have been busy! Aside from taking care of the house & my own babies, I have been babysitting 1-2 days a week, crafting, and reading The Help! I just started a few days ago and am half done! I'm speed reading so a friend and I can see the movie! Derek is taking a much needed break from work this weekend and going away with some of his friends to a golf resort by Des Moines. Derek is as excited as a kid at Christmas about seeing his buddies. He has such a great group of friends! I'm sure you all agree with me.. if Derek gets a vacation, mom should too right?! I have a ladies night at church tonight & a GEMS conference at church tomorrow, so Grandma Peggy is coming this afternoon to help out with the boys. She'll stay the night and then head home tomorrow afternoon. I'm looking forward to a little time out of the house and spending some time with my mom! It doesn't happen often enough.

Brigham is rolling all over the place and loves to stand up next to the coffee table (with our help of couse!) I started giving him some baby veggies this week. Green Beans were a go..Peas..not so much! He has been sitting on the floor with our help, but isn't quite ready to do it on his own yet. He is still taking a morning and afternoon nap, and sometimes we'll squeeze in a late afternoon early evening nap if his schedule allows. A late afternoon nap = much happier baby in the evening!
He is a mover! This is what happens in the bouncy seat if you turn your head for 30 seconds!

At least when he's in here, I know he isn't going anywhere!

Me & my boys! I decided to go dark with my hair last weekend and am loving it.

Brigs loves looking in the mirror!

It was a little chilly outside this week but Brigham loves watching Boston play or ride bike, so we'll bundle up until the snow flys!

I feel bad not posting a bunch of pictures of Boston, but he's usually outside playing with his neighborhood friends! I love that we have so many kids around for him to play with.

My latest Pinterest project. Dry Erase menu board! I had an old frame in the basement..bought some scrapbook paper..and lookie here! I have tried menu planning for a few weeks now and I haven't been the best at following it. I figure if nothing else, Boston can use it to practice his drawing and letters! If that is the case- I may change up the scrap book paper to something kid-ish! Options are endless and this project cost me .22 cents!

And what to do with the left over scrap book paper? Give your husband a home made card to let him know you love him! I have been secretly saving all of the money i've earned from babysitting to give to Derek for his weekend trip. I figure it was the least I could do for all of his hard work for providing for our family. Derek, if/when you read this, we LOVE you! We hope you are having a great time golfing with your buddies!

On that September Day..

10 years already. It honestly seems like it happened just a few years ago.

Our generation won't be asked 'Where were you when Elvis died?', instead, it will be 'Where were you on September 11th, 2001?'. I was 21 years old, and working at the Childrens Dental Center. I don't remember exactly how we first got word of what was happening, but I remember having no idea what the World Trade Center was or where the twin towers were located. I obviously did not pay attention in Geography class and am embrassed to even admit I was clueless. Once the word got out that it was a possible terrorist attack, and that a 2nd plane had crashed, parents of patients in the waiting room were anxious to see the news coverage so we put a TV in the waiting room. I'm not sure I really worked the rest of the day. I just sat in awe of all that was unfolding before our eyes. I remember talking to my dad on the phone at some point and him telling me to fill my car up with gas as soon as I got off work. There was talk of gas prices skyrocketing, or it not being available at all. I listened to him, and remember sitting in line at the gas station for well over an hour. It was choas. Not only was our nation under attack that day, but my uncle Randy's wife was also in the hospital dying from cancer. I drove to the hospital in Luverne, MN to show my support to my family, and then made my way back to my apartment to watch more news coverage. My uncle's wife died later that night. I remember thinking that it would be a day that no one would forget, for many reasons.

I remember being scared of more terrorist attacks, and kept thinking 'what if something happens right here in Sioux Falls'.. I also recall having bad dreams for quite some time, and would look to the sky for many months everytime I heard an airplane flying over. I was paranoid of it crashing into something. One of the images I remember being the worst to see were the pictures of people jumping from the towers before they collapsed. I wondered what they were thinking, and how awful it had to have been for them to make that decision. So horrific. I shed many tears watching the news coverage, and still do.

I've been glued to the TV all weekend watching 9-11 documentaries and specials. I just sit in awe of all the details, the images and stories of those who survived, and the tragic stories of those who lost their lives. Tonight I dug out a book I have about 9-11. It's full of pictures and details of the time-line details of the events. I sat Boston down on the couch and showed him the book and told him the 5 year old version of what happened that day. He just couldn't believe that 'bad guys' would crash airplanes into buildings on purpose, and he was very sad to hear that thousands of people died. We said a special prayer tonight at bedtime for those who lost their lives so suddenly that day, and for the family members left behind. I hope you remember them in your prayers too.

9-11-2001. We will never forget. I am proud to be an American!

Pinterest.. my newest addiction!

When ever I see something cute or crafty I always think to myself 'Ugh.  I wish i could sew because I could totally make that!'.  I always assumed most crafty things that you make with fabric required sewing and I can't sew.  Some of my readers are probably thinking 'this lady can't sew or cook..what the hell can she do?!'  I can barely sew on a button that holds up a few times through the wash!  I would love to learn how to sew, quilt, you name it.  It's on my bucket list, so hopefully someday..

Anyway, I stumbled across the Pinterest app on my nifty IPhone a few weeks ago.  (I LOVE my iPhone!)  If i had to chose between coffee or my phone I would chose my phone in a heartbeat, and anyone that knows me well knows I love my coffee!  I didn't quite get the pinterest concept at first, but after about 10 minutes of playing around with it I knew I was in trouble.  There are so many neat idea's for kids crafts, do-it-yourself crafts, decorating tips, fashion and photography ideas, you name it!  I 'pinned' this tutorial on how to make your own flower hair clip.  I am constantly pinning my hair back on a daily basis so figured it would definitely be something I would use often.  I figured it would be something I just dreamt of doing and then eventually end up paying $10-$15 at a salon for a cute little hair clip to spice up my hair do's! 

Well, friends... I did it!  I actually made my very own flower hair clip, and I didn't even have to sew!!!  It cost me $0 because I had all of the supplies at home!   I found an old tank top in my drawer that needed to be trashed (all the beads had fallen off of it) and started cutting it up.  I dug out my hot glue gun and bobbie pin and VOILA!  I am so excited to show it off  :)

I love orange!  Excuse the model.. I haven't showered today.  I've been too busy crafting :)

I loved this shirt, however it had seen it's better days. 

I drew a flower on some cardboard, traced out the flowers on the fabric and cut away.  I tried not to trace it, and I also tried a few stacks of fabric at once like the tutorial mentioned but it wasn't working. The cutting of the fabric was the most time consuming.

Here's the finished product!  I didn't have felt at home, so I just used a piece of the t-shirt fabric as my base.  I can see where felt would make it more firm, but i didn't want to waste a trip to hobby lobby if this was going to be a flop!  Felt is on my shopping list though because I plan to make more!

The back of the clip.  I just made 2 slits in the fabric and slid in a cheap-o bobbie pin.  When I do this again I plan to buy some different type of clips and then hot glue the flower to the pin.  One thing that is nice about the bobbie pin though is that you can slide this flower off and use the bobbie pin for another flower.  GENIUS! 

So there ya have it.  My first ever Pinterest, do it yourself project!  SUCCESS!!

If you are interested, here is the tutorial that I followed! 

'Just like mom's'

You all know the kitchen and I are not friends.  On top of that, i'm on a diet so there is nothing 'good' to eat in our cubboards or fridge.  Today, Derek got this wild hair to bake his own chocolate chip cookies.  It was hilarious listening to him talk to his mom on the phone about his mouth watering craving for cookies 'just like moms'.  He wanted her recipe, and also wanted her opinion on whether or not he should bake them on a stone or a cookie sheet.  I think he about fell over dead when he realized we had all of the ingrediants in the cubboards (he was 1 cup short on chocolate chips so I quickly ran to the store for him..what a good wife!).  Just because I can't bake doesn't mean I don't try to look good when i'm grocery shopping.. filling my cart with all of the fun things that the other mom's are shopping for!  You see, I have made Derek cookies before but they always end up in the garbage because no one ever eats them.  He say's it's not that they weren't tasty enough, it's just that they weren't plain ole chocolate chips ones.  So, since i'm on this fun diet (insert sarcasm!), I haven't tasted the finished product, but they sure smell delicious!  Derek has eaten half of what he's baked so far.  He say's 'they are just like i remember as a kid'. 

I love the 'mixing bowl' he chose :)

 Oops, a little on the cubboard and he's dutch, so he's trying to save every last bit! 

 He realized the bowl he chose wasn't going to be big enough to mix it all together so he chose a tupperware container instead.  We DO have mixing bowls :)

 He said 'Oh a few of them are kissing'.

 Does he look proud?!

Derek was so excited about his cookies, but even more excited that an entire blog post was going to be about him!  He feels left out when I don't mention him in my other ramblings.  Way to go honey!  Proud of ya.  Now no more whining because I can't cook or bake...you do a fine job so I think you should just take over!