Somethings Come Over Me

And I'm just not sure what it is. I always thought that I was a good person. At least in my heart of hearts I have tried. I try to do good by others. I help when I can. I try to smile and say hello when I pass another person. I pay it forward as often as I possibly can. I always try to have everyone's best interest at heart. I think there lies the problem possibly.

In doing all of that, I forget about myself. I am always so worried about what someone is going to think. What someone will do. I had a bit of a facebook "tiff" the other day with someone that I thought was a friend. She totally flipped out on me and then told me why did I act surprised. Well, because I was? And how she feels sorry for my Husband. Too bad she doesn't know the half of things in my life. Too bad people only know the part of me that I let them know be it good or bad.

Some days I feel like I am going into a sort of a depression. I have no friends. Most of my family doesn't want to talk to me. My Husband usually seems to only want to tolerate me on occasion. Maybe this is all in my little pea brain. I don't know. But this is just the way I am feeling and I thought I would put it out there on my blog instead of my fb so that I hopefully won't be judged so harshly...

Ohio Fun

Besides it being what feels like a million degrees (yes, over exaggeration), this has been a pretty fun week. Yesterday I went on a field trip with my Daughter's 4th grade class. We went to the Fair at New Boston. It was a really fun time, but as the first sentence says, it was H O T! No breeze to help. Very sunny. Most kids only had 1 drink and some of it was a milk from the cafeteria. Milk? On a field trip? I guess I shouldn't complain since it was something, but still. Luckily there was a free water tent, so we could all hydrate a little.

Today Hubby was supposed to work, but found out at 6:30 he had the day off instead. So we decided to take the Girls apple picking. None of us had ever been before, so we had no idea what to expect. The place we found is pretty great! They even had homemade pies that are delicious. We got SO many apples that I need to find some recipes so the Girls and I can start baking.

On our way home, we stumbled upon a car show. Wow, what a nice time (except for that darned heat)! I think the Girls even enjoyed it too. Since we were pretty much overheated though from all of the time we spent outdoors, we decided to not stay long and head home. But not before stopping by my favorite produce stand. Got some peaches, watermelon, cantaloupe, green beans, corn on the cob and cucumbers. We will eat like Kings for days.

And how is your Holiday weekend going?

O HI O

It seems like we have gotten to experience things since we moved here that we didn't get to do in Florida. And if we had stayed where we were, we probably never would have gotten to either. Today the Girls went with Daddy. They got to meet some alpacas! Now I wish that I would have gone with them and taken my camera. Next time you can bet that I will! Luckily Daddy took some pictures with his cell phone though:
 

"Hey Girl, your hair smells good!"

Are we having a party?

"Yes, she does smell nice.."

We got a new to us lawnmower the other day. It wasn't running, so Hubby fixed it. I was so excited, I mowed that backyard. When I was done, I took one of our dogs out in the backyard. I noticed a bird in the pool. Thank goodness furbaby didn't notice! I brought pup back inside and headed back out to see what I could do. I scooped the bird up and started rubbing it to dry it off. Then I found a basket and got some warm grass clippings to put in the basket. I sat the bird in it to warm up (I swear it was shaking). Brionna and I were sitting outside trying to figure out what we were going to do with this thing when all of the sudden and up and flew away! I am so thankful and pray that little creature makes it:

It never acted scared of me. Sure hope that little thing knew I was only trying to help!

Whirlwind (I guess you could call it that)

So, out of the blue last week, I receive a message on facebook from a female. Seems she got snarled in a mess with one of my exes. Not just any ex either, but the most lying, cheating, loser, lazy, pathetic, and any other negative word you'd care to add to the list. At first I honestly didn't know how to act. I mean, how would YOU act/react? See, he's married, but certainly doesn't act like it (and he wasn't married back 20 some years when we were together and had a child together). I know he tells women (yes, multiple) that either he's single, getting a divorce or just forgets the part about til death do us part. So, to blame all of the women would be crazy. I mean I really believe that SO many of them have no idea about the wife. And her and I are pretty good friends as hard to believe as that may be. Him, I can't stand. Her, she's one of the sweetest people you want to meet and certainly doesn't deserve to be treated the way he treats her!!

So, back to my story (although it isn't a story because it's true):
Seems he struck once again. Wrecking havoc in a nice person's life. His m o seems to be that he goes after vulnerable women. How he can sniff them out is beyond me. I guess since he's done it for so many years, it's like second nature to him or something. Do I blame the females? Not necessarily. He KNOWS that he's married! That should be the end of his "hunting". But if they go into the situation knowing that he's married and thinking that they are somehow special and he's going to leave his wife for them, it's their fault as well.

I believe that the one that contacted me was fed a ton of lies. He is very good at what he does after all. But I do know that he has multiple ones on the line still that know he's married and still continue their "relationship" or whatever you want to call it. So if/when they get hurt, get a disease or whatever may come, it will lay totally on *their* shoulders! Ladies, LISTEN! If someone tells you something about a person you're interested in, it's probably not because they want him for themselves! Become an investigator. Use the intuition that God gave you.

In closing I want to say thank God he deserted our Son many, many years ago. With a role model like that, who the Hell needs one?

Weather and Birds

Man, we've been getting some rain lately! Sad to drive through the country and see crops ruined. I can only imagine what those poor farmers must be feeling and going through! Yesterday it was so bad that parts of the asphalt washed away. Talk about crazy.

But the temperature has been nice, so I am not complaining. Seeing the heat that family and friends are dealing with in Florida makes me more happy about our move. I mean, we really love everything about Ohio thus far! Granted we haven't hit that snowy period yet, but I am not a heat person, so I think we'll do fine! And there are people that do well in the snow. I know we certainly can't be weird-os!

And my hummingbirds. Ah I love them so! Seems that we're getting more and more coming to our feeder. I have yet to get a picture that I am "thrilled" with, but I hope that day will come soon. I am going to be sad when these little creatures leave us for the Winter. They've got quite the personality.

Hummingbirds

They've become my latest obsession. Yes, I am very obsessed at the moment! I love to just sit and watch them. I love trying to get a decent photograph of them. But, they're quick little boogers. Yes they are. A couple of times now, I have seen 2 at the feeder at the same time. I don't think they play well with others though because they seem very possessive over that feeder. They will fight and chase each other. It is entertaining to watch though. And they really seem to enjoy the homemade "nectar" when it's fresh. Which is why I try making it every couple of days. Plus, I read that if it gets too old and moldy (yes, the inside of the feeder has gotten nasty before, so I make sure to clean it real good with some hot water at each nectar change. NO cleaners of any kind) it can make them sick and even kill them. Also, I never use red coloring. Not only is it unnecessary since they're color blind, that can also make them sick. Here are a couple of pictures that I have gotten so far:

Not the greatest picture, but I found it rather cute. It kept peeking around the feeder at me

Coming in for a drink

Yummy!

All of these were taken through the door, so not the best quality. Trying to get some better pics while being outside

Our Saturday Adventures

First I want to start off by saying that we're not the most religious family out there. Should we do a better job, certainly. But, we do try. I guess you could say that we're a work in progress. With that, I will try to tell about the adventure we had the best that I can:

The Girls and I decided to go to the farm with Hubby for a bit yesterday. It was rainy, cold and not even a good day for ducks. First though, we needed to run an errand. As we headed down the road, we noticed a Gentleman walking in this weather. I pointed him out to Hubby, but we were headed in the wrong direction. Did our errand and then headed to the farm. Before we could get to far though, we saw the same Guy, still walking in the rain. No umbrella. No waterproof gear. Just him and a backpack he was carrying. We decided to ask him would he like a ride. We figured if nothing else, it would get him out of the rain for a few minutes and get him a little further up the road (and quite honestly, we thought he might only be going to WalMart or something close by).

We stopped and I rolled down my window and asked. He seemed so appreciative and accepted. Honestly I wouldn't say "gladly". He did pause for a moment. I am sure he probably has seen his share of loonies too. He got in the truck and we started on our way. Hubby asked where he was headed. He told us something like New York or a different state then what we're in! He started telling us his story.

He's Dutch Amish. And a mail carrier. They don't accept anything from the Government. They are their own nation. He's been doing this (delivering mail) for 41 years! All by foot!! How crazy is that. And he's 72 years old. I swear, you would never know how old he is by looking! He looked younger than Hubby and I both. His route takes him 16 MONTHS to walk.There are 7 of them (Dutch Amish mail carriers) left that do this. As we talked more, he told us that he was soaked to the bone. Well, we could only imagine. And hadn't eaten for a couple of days. They're not allowed to ask for help, but can accept if it's offered. So although we only had about $80.00 to our name, we took him to the next big town and got him a Motel 6 room for the night.

And since he hadn't eaten in days, we went to Bob Evans and got him a quart of beef vegetable soup, some hot rolls and crackers. We also stopped at the Family Dollar store and bought him a poncho so he would have it if the rain continues while he's on his journey. Hubby also gave him $10.00 so that he could wash the few clothes that he had and have a couple of dollars. Now, we are totally broke, but you know what? That's okay. Our saying that is completely true is: God always provides for us! And he does. Everyday we are blessed whether we realize it or not. Heck, waking up every morning is a blessing in itself.

And the Bible tells us that we need to help one another. What if our new Friend was Jesus himself? Or if this Guy is simply pulling one over on us (which we both highly doubt)? You know what? Either way we know in our hearts that we did the right thing. We helped another human being in their time of need. And this morning we're going to go pick him back up to take him a little more up the road. And we will say a prayer with him as we send him along. Amen.

I think I am too old fashioned

I guess since I was raised a certain way that I expect everyone to be the same. What is wrong with today's society? Where have all of the manners gone? Besides out the window obviously.

There's a kid that works with Hubby. Kid has some family issues (not my business to put it out there as to what issues). I like to help people. So last night we had a good amount of leftovers from dinner. Hubby will take some to work for his lunch. I suggested he take this Kid some as well. Instead of just saying thank you when Hubby let him know (as I was raised to do), Kid wanted to know what it was since he's "picky". Really? It would have just killed you to act like you appreciated the thought, pretended like you liked it whether it was good or not, and went about your day?

So now I have kind of a sour taste in my mouth about helping him. But then I must try to remember that everyone isn't like me. Sad part is, it isn't just this one person. It's the majority of people....

Mini Rant (sorry, but not sorry)

Are you a stay at home Mom? Or Dad? Does your other half think that since they go outside of the home to work that what they do is SO much harder? That they somehow "deserve" a day off? Yet you hardly have time to put your feet up even on the weekend? There are still kids to deal with. Meals to prepare. Laundry to wash. And dishes. And if you have pets, yet another thing put on your plate.

Just one day I would love for my Husband to say, "Hey, you do so much for this family. Please, sit down and let me make you a sandwich." Or bring me a drink. Or when a kid's butt needs wiping, he would be the one to deal with it instead of me having to. Or since you cooked the food, let me load the dishwasher and turn it on while you sit back and relax.

Don't get me wrong, I adore being home with the kids. Honest I do. But when I am the one up dealing with the kids and everything else day and night, I would like a break just once in awhile as well..

Memorial Day

It's not a "happy" day. It's not to honor those serving or that have served in our military. That's called Veteran's Day. Memorial Day is to honor those that have died in the line of service. See, nothing "happy" about it!

We didn't have a cookout today. We didn't "celebrate" by sitting around drinking. We spent the day on the farm that my Hubby works at. We almost saw a calf being born, but it was stillborn. I didn't feel that my young Girls would or should witness that. Merely for the reason that it was just not something I found necessary. Brionna did say that the calf was like her little Nephew, Mack, that wasn't born alive either. So sad to me how she refers to so much in life about him. She's always thinking about him. She should be having great memories of little Mack. Walking. Talking. Pooping and peeing on his Mommy. But we will never get to witness any happy memories of him. Breaks my heart..

When we got ready to leave, we went to check out the wood pile of old barn wood. I am slowly collecting some. One day I plan on making something. Just not sure what yet. Hubby found a bird's nest. I peeked inside and there were 2 little babies!! Didn't even have feathers yet. Mama wasn't very happy, but we never tried to touch them, only looked and took a picture. They're American Robin Red Breasts:

Cute right?

 

 

 

 

 

Loving Ohio!

We've been in Ohio for over 2 months now and absolutely love it! I am finally getting familiar with the area (for the most part). Yesterday I found an awesome produce stand. I've been looking for one since we got here. That made me very happy. We were even given a bag full of fresh cut lettuce for free. The Lady cut it while we waited. Last night I made a salad with the lettuce and some fresh Amish grown tomatoes that I bought. Talk about Heaven in your mouth!

See how lovely it looks? I'm not sure that I've ever had such a fresh salad before..

Enough about the veggies. Last week we found a beautiful hiking spot. Funny to be saying that since we're really not the athletic type. But, we hiked over 3 hours. Even got caught in the rain! Usually I wouldn't care, but I had my camera with me. That really would have sucked if it had gotten wet! Luckily there are tons of trees that covered us and kept us from getting totally soaked. I did get some pretty awesome pics though.

See?

You sure don't see beauty like this in Florida (at least where we lived you didn't)..

Such a beautiful spot!

The Girls were amazed at the tree growing out of the side of the hill..

We all slept good that night!

Oh my goodness, every single day they ask when we're going back!

Today's adventure is taking us to the u-pick strawberry farm in Plain City for a fundraiser. Should be fun and pictures to follow. Enjoy your day and be happy in whatever you do!

Where has the time gone?

Well, I had intended on doing a 365 day post here starting from the day we moved, but that hasn't happened obviously. First let me say that we LOVE Ohio! Like, a lot! It's so beautiful here. The people are friendly. I am sure there are more reasons, but it is kind of early yet.

I think the Girls are adapting really well. They both love their new school. Both have made friends. Our favorite thing to do is sight see on the weekends. And when I say sight see, I simply mean we love to drive around the countryside looking at all of the farms, old houses and buildings, etc. What is not to love? I think it's kind of funny how the Girls have mentioned several times how many trees there are here as opposed to Florida.

This is short but sweet. I wanted to post this small update since my 9 year old reads my blog and asks me all of the time why I haven't updated. Have a great day :)

Time Is Ticking!

Man, where has the time gone to? It seems like we have been waiting to move "forever" and now I kind of need/want it to slow down a bit. So much to do and seeming little time to get it all done. I think I am the one that said I work better under pressure though, so let's see what I am really made of.

Loading the van for 1 more Goodwill run. That will probably be tomorrow. Someone had promised me some plastic storage totes instead of moving boxes, but for some reason it fell through. Now I am left scrambling to find some containers. Not sure what happened with her, but it is what it is. I am not complaining or whatever, just stating a fact that this kind of blindsided me and I have been waiting for awhile to be able to finish up the kitchen and rest of the rooms.

Saturday the Girls and I spent the day with my Daughter and her Husband on the boat. We could not have asked for a more beautiful day. Thank God I took my camera and got some pretty good pictures. Then the Girls spent the night at Sissy's house and went back out in the boat on Sunday. They're sunburned even after multiple applications of sunblock!

The Boat (Obviously) 

Portuguese Man of War

Dead White Crab

Frank found a conch

People eat these ugly things!

See how beautiful the day was?

Running out some energy!

Brionna showing Sissy a crab

My 3 Beautiful Daughters <3

Pelicans! Love them!

So, that's who we spent our last weekend in Florida! Not bad if I do say so myself. 

Time Change Blues

Man, it sure was hard to get the Girls moving this morning! Of course I didn't really care to get out of bed myself. What stinks is that this entire week we will be working on getting our morning routine back on track with losing an hour and then next week the Girls are on Spring Break. So then it starts again trying to get things settled once again.

Packing isn't going very well. Not sure what my deal is, but I just can't get into it. Maybe I am worried about my 21 year old that has no idea where he is going to move. No ambition to get off of his butt to figure it out (and he's had since October of last year, so this wasn't a surprise) or now getting anxious about leaving my other Kids and Grandbaby.

I am going to be leaving behind everything I have ever known. That's scary to me. Sure I have traveled a little in my lifetime, but never ever lived anywhere but the town I am in now. Born and raised. See? Scary. I guess I can deal. It's something I have wanted for a long time now. So on the big Girl panties go..

March Madness

Oh goodness, where has the time gone? I can't believe that it's already March. Less than a week until my birthday. I am not the type to count that day down. It's always just another day. Kids to tend to. Animals to deal with. Life. Ya know? Never really anything special.

Not complaining. It is what it is and I just smile and deal. Why do I even do that to myself? I try to make it seem like nothing bothers me, but there are things that DO bother me. I guess I just don't care for conflict most of the time. And typically if I do say anything, I have to either hear it or hear others complain how they can't do anything right.

Eh, that's my story of my lifetime. Thank goodness I have had a weekend to myself. Only having to take care of my animals. It's really been nice. A bunch of movies watched. No cooking! I have eaten junk food for 2 days now. Well, with the exception of a salad for lunch. Kind of been nice, but I do miss eating "real" food too.

Moving and Ruts

For weeks now I have not had any desire to pack. Or declutter. Or anything related to moving. I think I have finally figured out why: So many times in life, I have looked forward to something and it's never happened. I guess in the back of my mind that this is going to be one of those things too.

At first we had planned on moving in December. Then February. Then when the Girls went on Spring break at school so I would have that week to arrange the new house and they could become familiar with the new neighborhood before starting a new school. Now our move has been delayed by a week (again). See, already my feeling is coming true? What happens if that delayed week turns into another delayed week? Or 3? Or indefinite? Then what?

So, for now I am just going to proceed with life not packing. If in the next couple of weeks it might look like the move date is really going to happen, then I will worry. And stress. And hustle..

Friends..

Do you consider yourself a good friend? If someone needs your help, do you offer to help? And if that person takes you up on that offer, do you actually follow through with whatever it is?

I would like to think I am a good friend to people. I try to help people I know and even some that I don't. I like having a giving heart. It just makes me feel good. I like to try to do right by people. I guess it's just the way I am.

If you offer someone a place to stay. For as long as you need. Don't worry about paying for anything. How about you stick to your word. If you have a spouse and offer this to "your" friend, make sure that your S.O. is on the same page. PLEASE!

My Hubby was offered just that. I heard it with my own 2 ears. Apparently the spouse wasn't in on  it because every time we turn around, that hand is out for money, money and more money. While my Kids don't get to go out to eat, go to the movies, etc. because after her grubby hand is out, there isn't any left!

I guess you should also take a close look at who you consider your "best friend"? Here's a thought; if you're married, maybe you should put some time and effort into making the one you chose for life to fill the "best friend" shoes..heck, you might even be surprised at how much more of a beautiful life you could have if you did!

Foul Mood

Is it okay that once in awhile we all seem to have had enough? That it gets old people telling us how we should feel? Or act? Or that things we do in life aren't "right"? How about you all just put a sock in it already!

I had probably one of the worst weekends that a person needs to have. I helped my Daughter and her Husband plant a memorial garden for their baby that didn't survive. Do you even realize how horrible that is? I don't wish that on anyone! The entire while that we worked in that garden, I tried to keep it together for them. I needed to be the strong one for them. I wanted to be the strong one for them.

Sunday at the service I read a little poem that I had written for Mack. Yes, he ended up being a little Boy and not a little Girl like they were originally told. So in a way, they had to mourn a loss twice. Reading that poem was so very hard.

Sometimes a person just needs to know there is someone there for them to catch them if they fall. Most days I don't feel that I have that someone. Sorry to hurt anyone, but since this is my blog talking about me and my life, I am speaking from my heart.

I think God has made me a strong person so that I can shoulder the burdens that I do..

 And then I found this online:

Please..

I am pretty tired of being told how stupid I am for wanting to move to Ohio. Maybe not in so many words, but I think if I hear 1 more person tell me how much I am going to regret the move, I will probably scream!

So friggin' what if I do end up regretting it? Who on this earth doesn't have at least 1 regret? If you say you do, I will probably call you a liar.

For more years then I can remember, I have wanted to move. I have been married for over 10 years now and my Husband has felt the same way since we've been together. I have lived in South Florida my entire life. No, it is not all sunshine and roses here. The Summer in South Florida can be as brutal as the snow in Ohio during the Winter. I am choosing to move. I WANT TO! OKAY? Geez already! My Husband has been in Ohio since October. He's dealing with this ice cold weather. And snow. And everything else that comes with it. Guess what? He loves it! And he feels that I will love it as well. He doesn't work in some nice heated office. He's out in it every single day working on a farm. So yes, he does know what it's all about.

And he has lived in South Florida since he was 8 years old. He is about to turn 51 this year. Just saying that so that you know it's pretty new to him and his system as well. I know plenty of people that do tell me I am going to love it. And my Girls are going to love it. This is a new adventure in our book of Love. So please, if you aren't happy for me, just hush it ;)

Loss

I got to spend time with my oldest Daughter yesterday. As her Mother, I just want to swoop her up in my arms and tell her that everything is going to be okay. But it will never be "Okay" or the same again. She lost her baby. I lost my 1st Granddaughter.

I thought this was beautiful..

29 Days

Let the countdown begin. I took another day off from packing. I think I am testing the theory of working better under pressure? Last night we got Netflix again, so today was spent watching movies. The Girls and I did take time to go outside and enjoy the gorgeous weather we had. Blue skies. No clouds. 70ish degrees out. Couldn't have asked for a more perfect day really.

I took my camera outside and snapped a couple pictures. I am sharing my big Boy, Wrangler with you. The picture makes me laugh every time I look at it. I hope it makes you smile as well:

Yes, he needs to go on a diet!

Happy Valentine's Day

This day is for "Lovers". Or so they say. I don't think a label should be put on it really. In my opinion, your Kids can be your Valentine. Your Friends can certainly be your Valentine. How about that elderly Neighbor that could be lonely and not have family close by? Just a random person in line in front of you maybe?

Why does everything seem to have a deeper meaning in life? Why can't we just love each other and not expect gifts? I sat here wondering what the word "Valentine" even means. Have you ever wondered that yourself?

So, I did a handy dandy Google search to see what they thought. Here's the very first thing it says:

val·en·tine

ˈvalənˌtīn/

noun

noun: valentine; plural noun: valentines

1. a card sent, often anonymously, on St. Valentine's Day (February 14) to a person one loves or is attracted to.

   • a person to whom one sends a card on Valentine's Day.

      _______________________________________________

     A card? That's it? So why then do people go out and buy flowers that are priced 3x higher than what they were yesterday? Or will be tomorrow? Or waiting in line for an hour or more to eat dinner out on this special night? Or the boxes and boxes of chocolates that are bought and given?
     
     Oh goodness, I think we all should just keep those dollars in our pockets and just be kind all year long!

Friday the 13th

Is it a superstitious day for you? Do bad things happen to you on this day? Car won't start? Stubbed your toe? Messed up at work? At home? Fight with the S.O.? Well, you get the idea? To some, there just couldn't be a worse day!

I am on the other end of the spectrum. You see, I was born on Friday the 13th. March 13th to be exact. Has my life been "wonderful"? It wouldn't be "life" if it hasn't had ups and downs now would it? Has my luck been any worse than the next person? Maybe. But you know what? Not everyone is the same. Some have it better. Some have it worse. But life really is what you make of it.

I cringe when I see people complaining about Friday the 13th. I just want to shake them and tell them to stop being SO silly! It's a day just like any other day. It's a Friday just like any other Friday.

Would you like to know one of the best memories I have of a Friday the 13th? I gave birth to my oldest Son on a Friday the 13th! September 1985 to be exact. One of the best 13ths of my life! He's grown into such a handsome, sweet, smart, wonderful, etc., etc., etc. young man, and I am so very proud of him. He's a great Son, Husband and Father to me, his Wife and their awesome little man, River.

Since there is such negativity on the 13th, my Son and his now Wife even decided to get married on a Friday the 13th. On the beach. It was such a beautiful ceremony. So glad I got to be a part of their love for one another.

So the next time you want to think of this day as being bad, think of me and smile. Know that there are good things that really do come of this day.

Now, go out there and enjoy this day! Be kind. Love one another. Make a difference to just 1 person. You can thank me later!

Valentine's Day

What are your feelings on this "Holiday"? Too commercialized? Is it a "Hallmark" holiday? Shouldn't someone love you all year long and show it everyday? Not just on a day someone says so?

Regardless, when you have Kids, you do what needs to be done. You make a Valentine's box if they need 1. Oops, maybe they should be the one to make it! And you either buy Valentine's cards or make your own. This year the youngest needed a Valentine's box. I did let her pick out what she wanted and we got to work! And I let both Girls look online for ideas to make their own cards. I printed what needed to be printed and they got to do the assembly work. Here are the fruits of our labor:

This is "Bob" the Valentines Minion. Apparently the Kids at school went crazy for him :)

And believe it or not, he was pretty simple to make! Remember if you are making a craft project, the Dollar Tree is a great place to start looking for supplies. I got everything except the box there for "Bob".

Olivia chose "Orange You Glad We're Friends" as her Valentine's card with a Halo and box of conversation hearts in each bag

In case you've never tried Halos before, I highly recommend you do! We're pretty addicted to them!

Brionna chose "Hope Your Valentine's Day Is Bursting With Happiness!" with some Starburst in each bag

Cute right?

They're both pretty excited with what they chose and they should be! Great job, Girlies <3

*edit*

Had to add 2 more pictures to this blog. Brionna decided we should add a little message to the Teachers' gifts. She came up with the Twix saying by herself. I had to search for a Reese's saying. That wasn't very easy since most of them are for Reese's pieces..

No Twix, You're the BEST Teacher ever!

There are many Reese's why I think you're a GREAT Teacher!

Now, I really think we are done. For real this time.

Bucket List Accomplishment

I don't have a huge bucket list. Only a handful of things really. 1 of the things I want/ed to do was learn to sew. I had done a little sewing tons of years ago while I was in Girl Scouts. Yeah many, many moons ago. I found a sewing machine some time ago, but had ended up giving it to my oldest Daughter. She was lucky because her Hubby knows how to sew and taught her!

I wasn't so lucky though. After wanting another machine for awhile, I finally found a decent looking one on a facebook yardsale site. Well, it's been sitting. And sitting. I always had good intentions. Longed for someone to buy me some sewing classes at JoAnn's or Hobby Lobby. No such luck. Yes, I could have found some tutorials on the internet, but I wanted a live person that could answer questions as we went along.

I have a Neighbor that knows this trade and is quite good at it! She's made her Daughters' some pretty amazing Halloween costumes. And other things for their birthdays as gifts to those that attend.

I tried to give her my machine instead of bringing with me on the move. She told me to come over 1 day and she would teach me the basics. This morning was that day! Boy am I thankful for her! So far I have made two little cloth bags for my youngest Girls. I sure can't wait to pick them up from school to show them what I have made.

SEE?

Might not look like much, but to me it's pretty big...

Life is Precious

Nothing like having a tragedy to make you realize how precious life really is. And not talking to people you love because of childish/selfish/stupid/asinine/etc. reasons is just...stupid!

Last week I found out that my second Grandchild, a little Girl named Mackenzie, passed away in her Mommy's (my oldest Daughter) tummy. Crushed. That's how I felt when I found out! I still feel that way. I cry for my Daughter. I cry for my Son in Law. I cry for my Granddaughter. I cry for my SIL's little Boy that will never get to meet his baby Sister.

I know we're told not to question what God has planned for us. That everything happens for a reason. I swear I try not to ask why? Not to question His plan. I know I really do need to trust Him. To have more Faith than I have ever had before. But, why my Granddaughter? Why my Daughter? Why my Family? So, if you've been so kind to have read this blog, please say a prayer for little Mackenzie. And my Daughter, her Husband and their Son. Thank you.

Wasn't That Fun?

Not really! Ended up in the ER tonight when my 8 year old. She was being chased by her little Sister and tripped and fell. That wouldn't have been so bad, but she hit her face on the corner of the wall. The ER Dr. seems to think her eye was cut because she had her glasses on. I'm not really sure because I was washing dishes while they were playing.

Good news is that she didn't need stitches, staples, glue, etc. Dr. wants us to not put anything on it so that it will scab over. Good because she wasn't very excited about the thought of any needles getting close to her!

She did a good job..

Of course she has school pictures tomorrow! Oh well, what can you do? Smile and say cheese is about all..

And if our evening wasn't exciting enough, there was a big round fishing weight sitting on the edge of the bathtub (don't ask). She accidentally knocked it into the water. It promptly found it's way to the drain hole that doesn't have a strainer over it! I could barely feel it in the hole. Panic set in. Then I thought, why not Google a solution? So I did! First I tried taking the overflow drain cap off. Stuck a wire clothes hanger down it hoping to push the weight back towards the top. Nope, not happening. Next idea was to use a vacuum. I thought why not try a shop vac? They seem more powerful. And guess what? It worked! Well, worked enough to get the weight back to the opening so I could get it back out.

So doesn't that sound like an exciting time? I know, some days I have to pinch myself because I'm living the dream.

There I Am

Been MIA for a couple of days. Had 2 sicks Kids home from school on Tuesday. Thank God they seem to be feeling better now. We went out to the beach that evening to soak up some fresh salty air! I do believe it helped.

 Being sick stinks!

Coming..

And Going (actually they were chasing some birds)

Feeling better!

Thanks Sissy! I love you.

 

 

How could this not heal everything? Why am I moving to Ohio again?

One of *those* days..

You know the ones. You wish you'd stayed in bed. Only you can't because you have real things to do! Although I'm in Florida and people think it's "paradise", not all days are wonderful weather wise here. I think that contributes to the blahs too..

Have 1 Kid that's been sick for days. I am guessing a head cold. She seems to be getting rid of it finally. Now I have another 1 that came home from school today not feeling well. She even asked to take medicine, so I am pretty sure she isn't "faking" it.

Hubby took his first tumble on the ice today. He said he fell pretty hard. I am sure he will be feeling it tomorrow. Hopefully he's been taking Tylenol or something for that. Hard to be of much help when we're still 1200 miles apart.

Throw in some random other events and we can call it my day. You know what though? I could sit here and be sad, mad, depressed, or whatever else you can think of and it wouldn't solve a thing. So instead, I will call this lovely Monday a test. Or learning experience. Or growing pains. Or something other than bad.

I found this little sign thing on facebook today and it kind of stuck with me. Puts things into prospective:

All we can do is pray that tomorrow is a better day. One thing is for sure, if God willing we wake up in the morning, it will be a good day.

Superbowl! Superbowl! Superbowl!

Sorry, I am one of those people that does not enjoy football. Or any sport for that matter. I do enjoy the half time show though. This year has been pretty great. Katy has done a very good job! And the Girls have been in awe. I guess that's what matters.

Now as soon as it's over, the tv goes off and I will find out who is the big winner in the morning!

Doing Something Right?

If you're a parent, do you ever wonder like I do if I do anything right with my parenting skills? I've already had 2 of my kids tell me that I suck at it! What a horrible Mother I am and have been. Breaks the old heart since I have always put them first (and for the record, I have never been arrested, not even a speeding ticket. I don't do drugs. Rarely drink. Don't steal. Try to live a life that the Lord would like..etc.) But, it is what it is and all I can do is continue on and do what I feel is best.

Have I made mistakes. You bet your sweet behind I have. I am human after all. But, my kids have and always will come first ahead of myself. Period

Today I was checking out the sale flyer from the Kroger I will be shopping at once I get to Ohio. Yes, I am mildly obsessed with the grocery store. Not sure why, but I am! My 8 year old had to come over to the computer and check it out as well. She was getting all excited and going on and on about the cheaper prices than what we have in Florida. We got to the Doritos that are on sale for 2/$5.00. Here they're $4.39 for 1 bag, so that's a super great deal in my book. Apparently in her book as well. She stated, "Oh yeah, I'll be living the dream!"

Sometimes, it's the little things in life that set you back on track I guess. She's also accompanied me on shopping trips that we have discussed getting better deals, etc. If all of this helps her when she gets older to be more aware of what things cost, I will be a happy camper. What this has to do with the older kids telling me how crappy I am, I don't know really. I suppose only time will tell...

TGIF....Again!

Holy smokes, I can't believe that January is almost over already! Or am I the only one that thinks it's going quickly? I guess I really hadn't thought about it until this very second. Less than 2 months I will be in Ohio! O flipping HI O! Scary. Exciting. Stressful. All rolled into 1 at that thought.

Having kids that don't feel well doesn't help that stress level any. Not sure if my youngest has allergies. Cold. Or what. She didn't sleep well last night which made my sleep just as bad. Yet she insisted on going to school today. She *had* to wear the Shoo, Fly Guy costume I made her yesterday.

With that being said, I will share their favorite book characters with you:

Judy Moody

 

Yeah, not brushing that hair this morning drove me crazy! But, she had to go in character..

Shoo, Fly Guy (and sick Kid)

Judy Moody trying to Shoo, Fly Guy

And there you have what I spent yesterday doing 

For Judy I painted "I Ate A Shark" and a shark on the front of her shirt (Sharpie markers are great aren't they?). That was the easy one. Fly Guy needed eyes, wings and antenna. Strictly out of everyday items we had laying around the house. Eyes were 8.5x11 pieces of photo printer paper. Used a round pan the size I wanted the eyes to be to make the circle (tacked them on with a few hand stitches on a stretchy headband we had laying around). Wings were a leftover piece of poster board from another school project we did. It was hot pink, so I used the "wrong" side of wrapping paper to wrap it to be white. Antenna were an unused electrical cord. Cut 2 pieces to the length I wanted. Wrapped each one in black electrical tape and then used the tape to tape each onto the head band. I pinned the wings onto the back of her shirt this morning so that the Teacher would be able to unfasten them fairly easy once the book character event was over..

Busy Little Bee

No packing today or anything to do with the move. Instead, I did Mommy stuff. Both Girls can wear costumes tomorrow to school of their favorite character from a book. So in true fashion, we waited until the last minute. How fun is it to be prepared anyway right?

I was going to run to the store to pick up some supplies, but decided that I was going to make due with the things I had laying around the house. I won't give it away who they're going to be. I will wait until I take pictures of them in the morning as we head to school.

Gourmet Grilled Cheese

This Man Shows You How To Make A Perfect Grilled Cheese Sandwich 

This is a great starting point. So much you can do with this recipe. So many combinations. Tonight I made this for the first time. It was a little greasy. I used too much butter. It was my own fault though. The best part was the crunchy crust on the bread from the cheese.

My Version

 

I used Wonder bread. Unsalted butter. Sliced American cheese for the middle. Shredded cheddar cheese for the outside. Once I get to Ohio, I think I will try experimenting more with this. My Hubby is a good sport and doesn't mind trying my creations.

No Electronics Day

At least that's what it was supposed to be for the Girls. School was doing an assignment on this. If you could go without any electronics for 1 day, you can wear all black tomorrow. You might not think that sounds like a good incentive, but they wear uniforms. Any day that they can wear something different, the more they like it.

Except for this assignment. Let's face it, we are unfortunately a society of technology. I for 1 have to have sound. I don't like the quiet. I know, not good. But it is what it is. I was careful to make sure this morning the Girls didn't see the tv. I turned the radio off in the van. When I got them from school, the tv was off when they got home.

I bet you're wondering how it's going now? Yeah, that lasted a whopping 1 1/2 hours until 1 of the Girls caved. And there is no cheating in this house. If they didn't earn the privilege, they don't get to participate. At least Friday is dress like a character from your favorite book. No strings attached to that fun dress-up day.

Faux Baking

What is faux baking you ask? Well, it's when you use boxed mixes instead of from scratch. At least that's my definition!

I had these 3 boxes staring at me for some time now, so figured I would make them instead of moving them 1200 miles. Made more sense to me!

 I made mini loaves from the lemon cake mix and added some lemon glaze to the top. Personally I loved it. My 8 year old that usually loves all things lemon, not so much..

The plate of goodies I took to my Neighbors. I love to share. Sharing is fun :)