Finding Your Life In His

The Old School House Store Deal

2011-07-15T06:13:00.000-04:00

The old school house store is having a mystery bag clearance event. Check it out here

New blog

2011-03-24T20:29:00.003-04:00

It's been awhile since I've had time to write. I've missed blogging, but so many things in our life has changed the past year. We had a baby, then the man deployed when the baby was 6 weeks old, then two of our kids were diagnosed with celiac disease, we went to Texas for a few months, the man came back when the baby was 9 months old, and we moved to another state. We entered the gluten free world a little over a year ago and my most of my time has been spent in the kitchen cooking, trying new recipes, researching the right mix of GF grains to make an okay bread, and nursing a growing baby. Now that the baby has weaned and entered into toddler-hood I've found myself with more time on my hands. I've started a new blog

http://gluten-freefoodstorage.blogspot.com/ to write about two things near and dear to me. Gluten free food and food storage. We've always had several months supply of food because I have always bought in bulk to save money and stocked up on items when they were on sale and I had coupons. But now, now it's different. There aren't that many coupons for GF foods and GF foods are not generally cheap. There is a peace knowing you have enough to feed your family if something bad happens. But when we went GF we gave away nearly all of our food, and started over. I found that it was hard to store GF foods. I searched high and low for a gluten free food storage blog. I never found one. So, I am starting my own. Hopefully, Lord willing it will be a help to some other GF families out there. Check it out, you may learn something new.

Beach

2010-08-22T19:25:00.003-04:00

Running

Crawling straight into the ocean

Crawled into a wave, not happy.

coming back to mama

He's back!

2010-08-20T07:37:00.005-04:00

After 7 months my husband is back! We were all excited to go pick him up. He's been home a week now and life is almost normal again.

The kids waiting for daddy to come.

Playing

The buses coming!! This always makes me cry. When the buses come everyone

starts screaming and whistling.

Munchie cried. But she is slowly getting used to him.

Happy to be home again ;)

2010-08-07T21:53:00.004-04:00

watermelon

Love this!

2010-08-06T17:42:00.001-04:00

Watch this short video here!

And I'm back.

2010-08-04T20:42:00.005-04:00

It's been a while since my last post in Dec. Lots have happened since then. My husband deployed with the Marine Corps. in January. I had a difficult time recovering after having our third baby who was 11lbs. and 10 oz. Nursing was difficult but we finally got it down. Levi got diagnosed with Celiac disease in Feb. Annabelle followed after him with a diagnosis in June. We went to Texas to visit family we haven't seen in three years and stayed 6 weeks. Caroline got her first tooth and started crawling there. Life has been busy but it's so good.

Caroline with her first piece of corn.

Crawling.

And now, standing.

Caroline Elizabeth

2009-12-01T18:05:00.003-05:00

Caroline Elizabeth was born Nov. 29th at 8:36pm. She is 11lbs. 10 oz. and 22 1/2 inches long. She was born naturally with no tears and no stitches needed, Praise GOD! We are doing wonderful.

Two post in one day...WOW

2009-11-17T07:53:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile, and now I am posting twice in one day. I haven't fallen off the face of the earth, just busy and tired. Shane's been in and out, 1 week here, 2 weeks gone, and the like. He is now home for good but working long hours.

I am 39 weeks now and dilated 3-4 cm. I've gained way more weight than I wanted too (19lbs since my last Dr.'s visit which was 2 weeks ago). I am now 187, still under the 198 I got to with both of my other babies though.

Soon we'll have a baby...well hopefully. I've never made it this far with the others and surprisingly I still feel pretty good.

Well, enough of my rambling. Who knows maybe the next post will contain lots of baby pictures....one can hope right?!?!

You know...

2009-11-17T07:52:00.001-05:00

You know you haven't blogged in a while when you forgot the name of your blog. Yep, I couldn't remember the web address. I suppose it happens to the best of us some day. ;)

Fall is here!

2009-10-30T10:54:00.002-04:00

Fall is here and I love it! Soon, we'll have a new baby too. I've been super tired and trying to get the house in order , not easy with two toddler's though. Shane's been in and out which leaves me with all the work. He has done more than his fair share though when he is here, which makes for a happy momma.

The kitchen has been busy with lots of baking for Levi's Gluten free experiment. And lots of pumpkin pies, I seem to not be able to get enough.

I wish blessing upon all of you and your family's as we welcome this cooler weather.

Levi's two week experiment...

2009-10-25T21:33:00.002-04:00

Levi still isn't fully better after being off dairy and soy. While we have slipped and sometimes he has gotten dairy or soy (you can tell when he's had either, it isn't pretty) he still hasn't gotten 100% "normal".

We are going to do a 2 week experiment of taken out all gluten, dairy, and soy from his diet.
I'll be tracking his progress or lack there of at his blog, http://glutendairysoyfreetoddler.blogspot.com/.
You'll be able to see what he ate, his activity level, and of course his bowels daily.

We hope this helps him some while we wait for him to see a ped. GI.

Another update

2009-10-16T10:07:00.003-04:00

Tuesday we dropped off the kids and made a trip to the hospital. I started having contractions about 11 am and I decided we better go and see what was going on at 1pm and see if they would stop my labor. Once we got there I was having contractions about a three mins. apart. They hooked me all up and checked me, I was 2 cm dilated. They waited an hour and checked again...still 2cm. So we waited another hour, still 2 cm. Finally they decided to let us go home a little after 6pm. At that point I was having contractions about a minute apart but since I wasn't dilating anymore they decided I wasn't in labor and we could go. Around 10pm that night the contractions stopped.

I've had some contractions since then but nothing like Tuesday. I will be 35 wks Sunday so I am hoping she holds out just a little longer. Here are some pictures of the past week.

Me at 34 wks.
Annabelle and Shane watching the goats.

Annabelle and Levi looking at the chickens.

Levi on a hayride to get a pumpkin

The whole family on a hayride to get a pumpkin

Annabelle in fleece pj's

Levi in fleece pj's

Being goofy. Looks just like his daddy!

Look at his shoes...so cute

Being Silly

Belly pic and more

2009-10-04T07:36:00.002-04:00

It's been a very busy week here. So much to get ready for and not enough time if you ask me.

For those of you who wanted a belly pic, here you go...self portrait. I had to turn the flash off so it's a little yellow.

Me and my new glasses. The husband liked the red, I'm still trying to get used to it.

Baby Caroline's baby blanket. I've made one for each child so far. Hers is made with a cotton fabric from Japan, and fleece on the other side. Hoping it will be warm for this winter baby.

Finally...

2009-09-28T19:09:00.004-04:00

After missing my camera for a week, I found it yesterday while searching the house for the check book. So now, an update.

Today we went to Raleigh to pick up some raw milk (not all pictured) and other dairy items. Since we were there we stopped into Whole Foods and got a little over 2 weeks worth of groceries. Almost everything we bought was organic and I was really surprised at how cheap everything was. Some things even cheaper than the commissary.

My "baby" in the Moby.

They were playing "catch" although neither one of them actually caught the ball.

See the ball in the top left corner?

Updates....

2009-09-16T08:43:00.004-04:00

We've been busy lately and I am trying to enjoy these last few weeks with the kids before we get a new baby! We've been talking a lot about a new baby in mommy's tummy and Annabelle is getting really excited. She's been caring around her babies a lot more lately and got into Levi's closet and found a few leftover Born Free bottles from Levi. She now sits down to feed her baby several times a day. It's really precious, especially since she has done it all on her own without our prompting.

I am now 30weeks. I have been put on light bed rest due to contractions. I am still able to move about, just no lifting, cleaning, or moderate activity. I failed the glucose test, so I will be taking another one this time three hours though :( I am really praying I pass. I am not a candidate for gestational diabetes. I am not overweight, I'm active, and I don't eat too terrible bad. It's upsetting for sure.

I hope you enjoy the pictures of our last few weeks.

Feeding her baby
Getting her baby all tucked in

Watching the rain

My two favorite men

Watching Levi and Daddy play

Running back to mommy after daddy put him in the water

My favorite little boy digging away

The beautiful Beach

The kids yummy bento

The Man's Bento

And my candida diet friendly bento

Questions to the Readers...

2009-09-09T13:19:00.001-04:00

Has anyone done the GAPS Diet? If so let me know how it went in the comments.

The candida diet....

2009-09-04T22:11:00.004-04:00

My grocery trip today lots of veggies for the "diet"

Some of you know about my yeast "issues". For those that don't I'll sum it up. Basically, every time I breastfeed a child I get yeast infections on my breasts (aka thrush) that DO NOT go away until I fully stop breastfeeding. Having been to many a Dr. and taken many, many, rounds of anti-fungals (like 3months of diflucan and others) it still seems to not go away.

What the Dr's tell me, stop breast feeding, or you can go on this "candida diet". Having discussed this with my midwife very early in this pregnancy (cause I really want to breastfeed this baby a whole year) she recommended that I start the candida diet 6 weeks before my due date. I have about 11 weeks before I reach my due date, but I've been sick for weeks. So, after talking to my husband I decided to go ahead and start the diet earlier than planned. I had planned on starting in early Oct.

So, what are symptoms for yeast? It can be a wide variety of things. For me, I get nauseated and feel like I have the flu, only it's my bones that ache, not my skin. For some it's actual yeast infections but can range to constant headaches and much more.

This kinda kills my no spending challange as I was trying only to spend $50 this month in groceries.....I've almost spent that already and we just started! But, my health is way more important.

When you see some funky food combo's these next few weeks you'll know why. After three weeks I can start adding some more regular foods in like grains and fruits. Yep, no fruit for 3 weeks, except green apples and blueberries, and even then only one serving a day!

To read more about the "diet" and yeast in general go here.

The Sept Challenge 30 days of nothing...

2009-09-03T14:44:00.002-04:00

Life has been busy these past few days. The hubby came home, we got a new bike trailer (which means we've been riding a lot more) and the start of this whole Sept. Challenge!

While we won't be going without "nothing" we will be cutting back. My goal is to spend much less this month and eat up all the yucky food that's been sitting in my cupboards for a while now. What I mean by "yucky" is all the processed junk I have got free with coupons. In Oct. I have to start my "diet". It's not a real "diet" but a change in eating habits to prevent yeast, so hopefully by God's grace I can breastfeed this little baby without pain. But, more on that later.

This weeks menu:

Thursday:
English muffins, eggs, strawberries, milk
Leftovers, water
Corn chowder, bread, fresh veggie platter with homemade ranch, tea

Friday:
Waffles, strawberries, milk
fish sticks, corn, salad, water
Pot luck dinner at bible study (make cake)

Sat:
Pancakes, bacon, eggs, milk
Chicken pot pie, water
Steak, rice, corn on cob, tea

Sun:
Oatmeal/cereal, milk
Potluck after church
leftovers

Monday:
waffles, sausage, milk
grill cheese, soup, water
hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, yogurt pie, watermelon, tea

Tues:
Biscuits, eggs, milk
leftovers, water
sausage and peppers, tea

Wed:
cereal, milk, bananas
leftovers, water
tuna casserole, tea

Farmer's Market and more

2009-08-31T05:00:00.001-04:00

The little boy and I had a date and went to the Farmer's Market while daddy and Annabelle slept in. We had fun and bought several handmade items for gift's for this upcoming Christmas.

Organic and Local peaches, apples, and pears. Organic Bell peppers and Potatoes.

A quick trip to Food Lion with Annabelle ended up looking like this....

Kashi Cereal free after coupon

2) loaves Sprouted bread

banana chips

organic walnuts

organic figs (these are so YUMMY)

organic green beans

organic carrots

bananas

kale

grapes

mango

squash

zucchini

watermelon

Saved $15.50 after coupons!

A Summer Picnic

2009-08-30T20:43:00.002-04:00

Today we soaked up some of these last summer days and rode off into the hot sun for a picnic. The man was home relaxing so it was just me and the kids. It was HOT so we only stayed about an hour before this pregnant momma needed some A/C!

Pizza, local watermelon and apples

Playing on the bridge

Talking to herself about the "chicken birds" or birds as most people call them

Coffee??

2009-08-28T14:37:00.001-04:00

I seriously want this cup. It almost looks bigger than my head! WOW.

In the trailer, on the bike

2009-08-28T00:11:00.002-04:00

We've been biking almost daily. The kids love it and I love the cool air blowing against my skin.
Tonight after bath time I loaded them up and we went riding with a friend. As I was airing up the tires before we left, she snapped a few photos.

Food, food, no where

2009-08-26T08:32:00.002-04:00

Levi is feeling much better and his appetite is back in full steam. Annabelle has been eating much more than usual, but still no where near the amount Levi eats. And well, you have one very pregnant mama here. I am making bigger meals and there isn't any left....that's rare.

For breakfast we had:
3) bananas
1) peach
10)strawberries
4) waffles
12 ounces yogurt
milk
a little honey and maple syrup

My fridge is almost looking bare. I haven't seen it like this in years....when we actually struggled to buy food. That's not the case now, but it's kinda funny to see an empty shelf. Maybe I can get it almost fully empty by the end of the week. At the rate we are going I think it will be empty. It will surprise the hubby for sure. He's very used to things falling out at him cause there isn't any room for it.

Psalms 1-4
1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. 4 Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away.

A verse we studied last night at bible study. Is your life like the chaff? When you stand before the Lord will you blow away like the chaff or stand firm like the tree planted near the streams of water, that flourish and grow fruit?

My new LOVE Green Smoothies

2009-08-25T09:43:00.002-04:00

A new love in my life, has got to be green smoothies! I am so glad I finally tired it. And since then we've had one at least daily. The hubby even liked it. And Levi is drinking about 2) 8 oz. cups a day. I drink about 20 oz. a day. And the little girl is drinking about an 8 ounce cup daily.

More Green Smoothie Goodness

I took the kids on a 30 minute bike ride this morning and we stopped in at Food Lion to pick up some more fruits for our smoothies and a head of romaine. I used 4 $1 coupons getting all this just under $3.50!

Living life

2009-08-25T07:48:00.002-04:00

We've been living life. I am making it a goal to spend more time with my kids, and more time doing "fun" things like taking them for bike rides, or runs with the dog. I much prefer riding than running, it's easier on this pregnant mama....although we still get some funny looks. A very pregnant mama, pulling two kids in a bike trailer...I'm sure it's a sight.

Last night Annabelle wanted to "go" so we packed up and went to the commissary.
I was very happy to see that they now carry Country Save Detergent! We use it on our cloth diapers, but ordering it online is about $18.99 per 10lb box, and you have to pay for shipping. The commissary carries it in 5lb. boxes for only $5.99! Huge savings! I also had 5 coupons for any Seventh Generation Product so I stocked up on their dish washing detergent (my fav. we've been using it for about 6 months now), and a bottle of non chlorine bleach. Plus some fruits and veggies for our green smoothies!

I really love this little boy. He brings me much joy. Annabelle is still sleeping so we had breakfast without her (don't worry, she will eat when she wakes up). It's nice to have one on one time with my little boy.

Crazy...

2009-08-24T05:35:00.003-04:00

It just amazes me how this little baby, has turned into a little girl.

Cinnamon Rolls

2009-08-22T09:47:00.004-04:00

Last night we weren't able to go to our regular bible study since the man didn't get off work until late. So, I made sausage and peppers, a wonderful Italian dish! And then Cinnamon rolls. They took two hours, but it was so worth it.

Sorry, I took this picture after I already ate one, so the plate is a little messy

I love her face...I don't know what she was doing

Now she is laughing cause I was laughing at her making faces.

Amazon Subscribe and Save

2009-08-22T09:28:00.003-04:00

A case of sucanat we recently got from www.amazon.com.

A huge money saver that I have found recently is Amazon's Subscribe and Save program.

Buying real, organic food can be a challenge sometimes. It costs more and it's not always easy to find. Two things we buy regularly are sucanat, and maple syrup. I prefer organic, especially for the maple syrup since the non organic versions have been found with formaldehyde in them....YUCK! This is where Amazon.com comes in. When buying with there Subscribe and Save program you get 15% off and FREE shipping....what's not to love about that?

At our co-op Organic Maple Syrup is a little over $30 per 32oz. bottle, with Amazon.com its $22.74. We get this brand.

Organic Sucanat is $4.72 per 1 lb. package. Amazon.com's price for the same exact brand is $3.00 per lb. I buy this brand.

And remember shipping is free!

Green Smoothies and more

2009-08-21T07:51:00.003-04:00

I decided to get up with hubby this morning at 5am. There were several things I wanted to get done before the kids got up at 6:30.....yep, they are early risers.

How my day started out

Last night's grocery loot so I can make our first ever green smoothies...total spent just shy of $6

The ingredients I used to make our Green Smoothies

Blending the fruit first

Adding three handfuls of spinach

The end result. We each had a glass, Levi was done with his first, then drank the rest of Annabelle's

Then we went out to hang some diapers

The verdict on the smoothies: They were actually good! I was really surprised! I have read about them for about two years now but thought, yuck! I am glad I finally caved in and tried them. It will become a treat we have several times a week. I was also equally surprised that the kids liked it. I didn't use any sweeteners and it was sweet and didn't taste anything like spinach.

Grocery store trips

2009-08-20T09:32:00.003-04:00

Yesterday my husband volunteered to take Annabelle shopping with him. She was really excited! Since he was already out and I planned on going to the store today, I suggested that he drop me and the little boy off while he and Annabelle ran his errands. He then proceeded to tell me he would take both kids with him so I could go at it alone. I was a little surprised and didn't think he knew what he was getting himself into! He said if I do it, he can too. Probably true, but I never take my kids clothes shopping with me, especially the little boy. Finally, he dropped me off at the store, by myself. Two hours later (I was done about a hour before) he showed back up with Starbucks in hand, a treat he knows I love. He loaded the groceries in the van for me and off we went back home. He said the kids were good!...WHAT? Why aren't they ever good for me?

Here's what I got:

Food Lion: Spent:$1.23 Saved:$22.40

Commissary:

Spent: $34.41 Saved:$63.25

I also get to send in for a $10.00 Rebate!

The best part of the trip is when I found many .50 off coupons for any Starbucks ice cream! They have the little ones for .50 each. I bought a case of them, and after coupons they were FREE! And the 22 packages of tuna they paid me to take home, .25 per pouch!

Late Food Lion Run

2009-08-19T10:38:00.003-04:00

On my way to pick up some medicine for the little boy I dropped in to Food Lion and made three transactions.
Total Spent:$3.80 Total Saved: $41.44

The Bacon was free after the $3.00/1 coupon here. Just sign up and you'll be redirected to a $3.00 coupon. You can print it twice by using the back button. I printed two from my computer and two from the man's computer.

I used many FLIPS(Food Lion Internet Printable coupons) to get the other stuff free or close to it. Visit www.afullcup.com and go to the Food Lion forum, if your new to it all.

Getting adjusted..

2009-08-18T11:24:00.002-04:00

My living room has looked like this for almost a week now since the man has been home. We come home to sleep and that's about it. The house was a huge mess. My wonderful husband cleaned it for me while I took a nap. He even did laundry! Sometimes he amazes me.

This little guy is finally out of the hospital. He still has lots of Dr.'s appts. ahead of him and tests to be done. I am trying to get used to writing down everything that goes into his mouth. Sometimes it can be a challenge since Annabelle feeds him without me knowing it. This little girl is well, a little girl. She loves being back home were she can play with all 10 pairs of shoes she has, not to mention the purses, necklaces, and yes stickers.

While the man was getting ready for work this morning, Annabelle and I ran to the store real quick. We got all this from Food Lion for $1.86...total savings, $23.21

Our CVS trip from the other day. I ended up spending about $10. More than I wanted too, but I needed the infant Tylenol.

All in all, I am trying to get back on a routine. The kids are loving being home. Which is a good thing, because generally they just want to go, go, go....wonder where they get that from.

It's a....

2009-08-17T20:15:00.002-04:00

Some of you know that we have baby number 3 due in November. We found out today IT'S A GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!! So for all things pink and purple...oh my.

30 Days of nothing

2009-08-16T17:14:00.002-04:00

Last year Owlhaven did a 30 days of nothing. This year, I aim to do the same. You can follow her journey here as she plans on doing it again starting Sept. 1st. We too will be posting daily the struggles and freedom that spending less brings.

Food Lion Fun...

2009-08-16T17:06:00.002-04:00

I took Annabelle on a trip to a couple Food Lion's Friday to get her out of the hospital. We went to three different stores and made twelve transactions. We got a whole lot of applesauce and canned organic veggies and organic baby food.
Total spent....less than $4!

Making your own chocolate sauce

2009-08-15T13:47:00.002-04:00

Start with a medium sauce pan, add 2 cups water, heat on high.

Add 1 cup of cocoa, stir until well blended.

Add three cups of sugar, I add a cup of each, stir until dissolved.

Boil for three minutes, remove from heat, add 1 Tablespoon vanilla

Store in jars, refridgerate. Will keep for several months.

Update

2009-08-14T22:39:00.002-04:00

Levi is still in the hospital. Nothing, new.

This is what guys do, lay back and watch TV....sigh

What happens to a little girl, when momma can't cook and she didn't get a nap.

Alas, the hubby is home...

2009-08-13T21:47:00.005-04:00

Finally he is home, but now gone again. We took Levi into the Dr. today for a weight check because he hasn't been eating. He lost a total of 2 lbs. and so they put him in the hospital with failure to thrive. He has had diarrhea for about a month now, and overall not doing too well. They are thinking he probably has a severe dairy allergy. I really am praying that he doesn't, we like milk here(I am drinking a glass as I type)!

Shane got in from Virginia about 7:00pm. He went home, changed, gathered a few things and met us at the hospital around 8:00pm. Annabelle was more than surprised. Levi had a smile on his face that we hadn't seen in a few days. They settled into bed, father and son, watching TV together. My husband insisted that I go home with Annabelle and get a proper nights rest since I am with child. At first I wouldn't here of it. I was staying with my little boy! How could I leave him?

But, I left him in his daddy's arms as hard as it was. They need the time to bond, and for Levi to realize the world won't come to an end if mommy isn't there. This will be the first time I've spent the night away from him.....how much sleep I'll get who knows.

As I gave Annabelle a bath, I looked into his room, to an empty bed...no pillow, or blanket and no baby. It almost leaves an empty feeling within. But, he will be well soon and back here making messes, fighting with Annabelle and chasing the dog. I can't wait!

Commissary Trip

2009-08-11T21:15:00.002-04:00

I needed just a few things, but had a rebate for $20 back when you spend $50....so I bought some things to add to our stockpile.

For $59.45 we got: Plus I will also get $20 back!

1) head Romaine Lettuce

3lbs. onions

organic celery hearts

2lbs. green beans

2 bananas

6 oranges

4 ears corn

1 head cauliflower

3 zucchini

2 squash

1 pint blueberries

2 pkgs Swiss cheese ($1Q)

1 pkg Munster cheese ($1Q)

4 bags croutons

2 boxes fish sticks (free after coupons)

1lb coffee ($1 Q)

5lbs. organic unbleached wheat flour

pepperidge farm cookies ($1Q)

4lbs. raw honey

1lb organic sour cream (free after coupon)

8 pkgs peanut butter crackers (free after coupons)

real bacon bits

1 1/2lbs. organic butter

6 cans biscuits (free after coupon)..buy the grands Jr and use the $1/2 coupon!

organic relish ($1Q)

organic jam ($1Q)

2) single serve Starbucks ice cream (its soooo good)

1) pint. Haagen dazs ice cream

1) bottle BBQ sauce

5) cans organic veggies (used $2Q)

3) cans fruit

6oz. almonds (used $1Q)

After coupons I saved $32.00 with the rebate it will be $52.00!

Most of the coupons I used can be found here.

Dinner

2009-08-11T21:05:00.002-04:00

Dinner, my favorite meal. Tonight we had hamburgers....with grass-fed beef, raw milk cheddar, and organic whole wheat buns.

2009-08-11T14:59:00.002-04:00

Levi had to get his blood and some x-rays taken yesterday. Hopefully we'll get the results back soon and everything will be fine. His little bandaged arms was just the cutest thing! He was a fighter and did a good job....much better than what his mama would have done.

Here he is again, after his bath, which makes all things better. He looks more and more like his daddy everyday...sigh.

Food Lion and CVS

2009-08-10T21:41:00.002-04:00

Food Lions trip from today and CVS' trip from Sun.

All this for under $7
Under $3

The best deals were the diapers and organic raisins. Raisin's were about .79 each after coupons. Can't beat that! I don't think I will never need to buy oatmeal again. Well for two years anyway. We have a little over 30lbs now.

Soaked whole wheat tortillas

2009-08-10T07:51:00.003-04:00

If your new here you might think we live off frozen pizza and waffles from my recent posts. Really we eat a whole foods diet about 75% of the time, and much of that is organic as our budget allows. I promise. Our local store (Food Lion) has had some great deals using coupons, and I've been stocking up on there free stuff (like frozen pizza, and waffles). We might eat either one of these about once a week....except for the hubby. He will eat either about once a day. He always has a "snack" after dinner, before bed. It's really his 4th meal.....but hey the guy could stand to gain about 60 pounds, so I don't say much.

To see some of our more regular shopping check this post here. Or here to see what I do with our milk.

Now, onto tortillas. I usually make all of our tortillas, we are from Texas and eat a lot of tortillas. Really I could replace it for loaf bread and never really know the difference. Soaked whole wheat tortillas are just as yummy, if not more so than the "other" ones. You can also make it with other grains, if you are gluten free or have a wheat intolerance.

I use the recipe from Sue Gregg's An Introduction to Whole Grain Baking. I actually have all of her cookbooks and HIGHLY recommend them to anyone wanting to eat better but doesn't know where to start.

After tripling the recipe, mixing it, and letting it soak overnight....the next morning this is what happens.

I always start out with a good cuppa! Really, rolling 40 tortillas isn't that fun.
Need salt into the dough, I more salt than what she calls for...we like salt here.

Divide the dough into sections

Divide the sections into sections to make balls. Some big, some little for different size tortillas.

I throw my tortilla balls into flour while they are waiting to be rolled(this is white flour I find it easier to roll, than using wheat, but wheat would work)

Take your ball and start the rolling process

Soon it will look like a real tortilla.

Throw it onto a griddle or skillet, I prefer cast iron, but others would work
Flip it once it starts to get air pockets

Finished product, lots of tortillas for the freezer and some for eating fresh

Buying used clothes

2009-08-08T21:22:00.004-04:00

It's rare that we buy new clothes for our kids. Really rare. They each get one new outfit for their birthday and Christmas. We get all there other clothes from family members as gifts or used, sometimes we get them as hand me downs and sometimes we buy them.

Tonight I came across a great deal I couldn't pass up. A huge lot of fall winter clothes size 2t. I paid only $25! Not pictured is a white coat. Almost all of the clothing came from The Children's Place. We won't be able to use everything....onesies won't work for us since we are trying to potty train. And those items will get resold.

Not only does buying used save you money, but it keeps it out of the landfill.

3 dresses, 3 skirts, one hoodie, 2 pairs tights

7 pairs pants

12 shirts, long and short sleeve

so cute

2 fleece outfits

2 pairs pj's

Clothes that we can't use and will resale.

One more time

2009-08-08T19:10:00.002-04:00

I found some $3/$30 coupons good at Food Lion today only. I just had to go one more time.
I got all this for $22.94....and saved $53.50. I felt pretty good considering the Tide alone cost $13.59 per bottle and I got two!

Because of all the free orange juice and Starbucks my fridge looks like a store shelf.

the kids....

2009-08-08T08:50:00.004-04:00

It's been a while since I posted about the kids. Annabelle is becoming such a big girl! It's sad and exciting all at the same time. She is a big helper! Really. I am falling in love with this little girl more and more everyday.

Helping mommy make tortillas....more about that in another post.

Levi is really growing up. He looks more like a little boy and less like a baby every day. He is really making his papa proud! He walks....and runs now. He is little boy through and through. He can spot a ball or car a 1/2 mile away....he's even went as far as putting a car under the pedal of the trash can...so you know when you go to throw something away the lid doesn't open.

More Food Lion Deals

2009-08-08T08:42:00.003-04:00

I can't seem to keep myself out of Food Lion this week. The coupons are wonderful making for some really great deals! I plan on making one more trip today after I drop off a friends birthday dinner.

All of this for under $2.50!

Veggie tacos and more savings

2009-08-07T09:24:00.002-04:00

Last night we had veggie tacos to use up some squash and zucchini. They we yummy!

Add a couple tablespoons of olive oil to a skillet, saute a chopped onion. Add squash and zucchini, cook until tender. Add a tablespoon of fajita spice, stir. Serve in warm corn tortillas.

A friends birthday is Sat. The kids and I are taking her family lunch so she doesn't have to cook. So I needed some sausage. I also needed mayo for 2 dz deviled eggs I plan on making for tonight's bible study. So off to Food Lion we went this morning...again.

We got all this for a little under $6. It should have been less. The cashier didn't scan a $1.50 coupon I had. I didn't realize it until we got home.

Storage?

2009-08-06T14:27:00.003-04:00

I am sure you have wondered what I do with all those school supplies I have been getting FREE. Not to mention the diapers....

I add the school supplies to our stock. I keep it in our daughters bedroom closet, in shoe size boxes, labeled so I know just what I have.

Diapers, are much bulkier. They too are kept in my daughters closet (except for the 4 packages we keep in the little boys room), on a shelf...somewhat sorted by size. I try and stock up when the price is just right. It's nice to know I don't "need" to buy diapers for 6 or more months.

Diaper Run?!?!

2009-08-06T10:46:00.003-04:00

We cloth diaper, but there are times when we use disposables...at night, when we go to church and when we travel. There is a great sale at Food Lion right now on diapers for 5.99 a pack. I have lots of coupons to make these really cheap.... I got all this for $47.82. That makes it about $3.18 per pack and the rest of the items FREE!

All in all I got 15 packs of diapers in various sizes.

Total spent: $47.82

Total Saved: $122.21

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY!

2009-08-05T10:34:00.002-04:00

Today the love of my life turns 23! I am proud to call him mine. I love the life in which we live and share even though at times it's difficult and challenging....with him its always fun.

In the Marine Corps DOCS are lifesavers, very good friends, and looked highly upon. I must say that I have the best one! If I were in battle I'd want him at my back. Thank you for all you do honey, and happy birthday.

Milk Run

2009-08-05T10:27:00.002-04:00

It was that "time" again. You know when you have no milk in the house. It happens about every week here. We can easily go through 5 gallons a week. While at the store I found some great deals. Salad kits marked down to .69! And 2.99 watermelon (seedless at that).

Then we stopped to meet a kind lady and buy some used goods from her. All for $36! I feel like I won the lottery...except I don't gamble.

Quick Food Lion Trip

2009-08-04T18:08:00.002-04:00

We didn't really need anything, but there were a few things I wanted to get before the sales ended tomorrow. We got all this for a little under $5 after sales and coupons.

The letter X

2009-08-04T10:21:00.003-04:00

After watching her "Your baby can Read" DVD we had "school". We are still learning about the letter x. We sang the x-ray man song (several times) and she got to paste x's around the song.
We also got to talk about the different color x's. She pretty much has her colors down, but she still thinks yellow is orange!

All Done.

Annabelle's first day of "school"

2009-08-03T09:17:00.002-04:00

Today was the start of our "school" year with Annabelle. We have been teaching her colors and letters for about a month. She really seems to enjoy it, and she is actually learning! So I set out to find some "preschool" work for her to do. I ordered 123 preschool projects. It's already put together by day and gives lots of hands on work. We hope she really learns from this, but if not....at least she had fun, and that is what really matters when your two.

Today was letter X day. We made an x-ray man. We started out with a blank sheet of red paper. Then she glued on two x's an upper case and lower case x. Then the man, and mommy put some glue on the arms and legs and she put the q-tip bones on. After that mommy made some x's on paper and I asked her to also make some x's......she tried, but we really didn't get an x. It was fun none the less.

CVS plunder

2009-08-03T09:14:00.002-04:00

We went to CVS yesterday for another week of FREE school supplies. We have two cards so I was able to get double the FREE stuff. We are now fully stocked with school supplies. I'll do another post on how I store it all.

I paid a total of $2.62 out of pocket and that was for tax only. Not to bad in my opinion.

More Food Lion Deals

2009-07-31T16:21:00.002-04:00

We made a couple more trips to Food Lion today while we were out. I think I am now well stocked on pasta and pizza sauce.

What is it about apples in a bag that make them so good? Really, I think they taste funny. But the kids will eat a whole package each and want more....regular apples not so much.

My Food Lion Trip

2009-07-30T11:53:00.002-04:00

All of this for only $8.90 a savings of over $120!

We went to Food Lion today to stock up on some of there super deals that I didn't want to pass up. Go here to see a current list of the Food Lion coupons. Here's a break down of what we got.

9) small Glade candles (FREE after coupon)

2) larger Glade candles ($1.50 after coupon)

1) Box Kleenex

2) Hand sanitizer

3) Baby wipes

2) Gauze rolls

1) pt. Starbucks Ice cream

1) Bunch bananas (the kids ate three on the way home)

2) Pineapple Chiquita bites (we ate these in the car)

2) Bottles Starbucks Frapps

1) Canister Oats

1) pkg. wheat Hoggies

1) Cantaloupe

2 1/2lbs. chopped ham

Cheese

6) sm jars Ragu

2) lg jars Ragu

2) boxes cereal

Retail Value: $131.78 Total after coupons: $8.90

The sleeping children...

2009-07-30T11:47:00.002-04:00

Last night the kids stayed up a little late. That meant lots of silliness and rolling around.

Finally asleep, and in his bed!

Three stores and lots of fruit and veggies

2009-07-28T14:22:00.002-04:00

Our loot from 3 different Food Lions

Since today was the last day to use the $2/$5 produce coupon and $1 off any guiding star item (pretty much a healthy food product the stars rate it's "healthiness") coupon I made it to three different stores to do two transactions at each one. Here's what we scored.

5lbs. Strawberries

2 pints blueberries

2 pineapple sticks

2 squash

2 zucchini

5 pk carrots and ranch

2 heads garlic

2 salad kits

5lbs. onions

2lbs. green beans

1lb cheese cubes

1 tarter sauce

3 boxes foil -FREE

3 bottles soap-FREE

1 box trash bags

1 neosporin

All for just under $20!

Now, my back hurts. But it was worth it. Just have to wash and freeze all the berries. The kids have already ate a pound of strawberries, and Annabelle is working on a pint of blueberries. We have 5 more pints in the fridge ready to be bagged and frozen.

Still?!?!?!

2009-07-27T10:06:00.002-04:00

Everyone is still sick here on the home front, some better than others. It's been a rather short weekend with lots of tea, naps, tissues, books, and just a little time with my knitting needles and the feel of cotton yard under my fingers.

Maybe one day I'll be back to regular blogging. Oh, I'm sure one day.

Can you say FLU???

2009-07-23T21:04:00.003-04:00

Well, I thought I'd be back Monday, with daily updates but......I got what Shane had all weekend, and still isn't quite over...some kind of flu or virus. Needless to say I was in the ER Monday because of a high fever, not being able to eat, and drink, and chest pains. I am on the mend. The kids on the other hand and just coming down with this and that hubby of mine still isn't over it either. So here are the three pictures I took all week...yes, just three.

Annabelle sleeping in her "BIG" girl bed for the first time.
Levi's hair cut, I shaved the poor baby's head

In his sisters shirt, because he threw up on his.

I'm back....finally

2009-07-17T09:49:00.004-04:00

Its been busy around here. First, my grandparents came to visit, then my mother and Hunter, and then our computer crashed! So, now we have replaced the hard drive and are back up and running. Here's a few pictures some a couple weeks old now. I hope you are all enjoying this heat that the Lord has given us.....just think in a couple more months it will be cold and we'll have another new baby to hold in our arms.

Our garden is doing well, the corn is just about done, and I am just about done with all of our tomatoes and ready to pull them up. We've made about 8 pints of pasta sauce and have enough tomatoes in the freezer for making about 16 more pints....all from just two tomato plants.

I am about 22 wks pregnant and will have an ultrasound on Aug. 17th to find out the sex hopefully. My tummy is getting bigger (about the size of a watermelon) but the very good news is that I have only gained 7lbs. so far. With the last two I had gained about 25 to 30lbs. at this point. In the end I gained 85lbs. with Annabelle and 75lbs. with Levi. Thankfully I lost it all with not much work on my part.

Have a blessed week, I'll see you all on Monday.
Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Look at that Cheeto face.

OH!!! He's walking. And cheering himself along the way! He walks about 75% of the time now and crawling the other 25%.

Hunter, Shane, Levi

We've started some pre-school activities. She is painting a red "circle"

I just love that pony tail.

Hunter and Annabelle

All of my 20 something boxes of Ziploc bags I got for about .22 each!

On the potty ( we sat here for a hour and a half finally she peed!)

Mowing the carpet???!?!?!?!

Lazy afternoons

2009-06-28T20:12:00.004-04:00

Eating ice cream on the patio

Laying on the slide, a favorite activity on a cool summer afternoon, looking at the sky

Climbing the slide

Playing with sticks his favorite thing to do

A dirty face from eating dirt...

Veggies and fruit that either we had too much off or it was going bad. What to do?? Get out the Food Saver!! The peaches and tomatoes got blanched and then bagged for the freezer.

More berries for the freezer, strawberries were sliced and flash frozen

Just a little of what made it to the freezer

Another Bento lunch for Shane. He really likes his bento's and since we have two in this style now (his favorite compared to the others), he is getting them more. Before it would be hanging out at work for about a week before he remembered to bring it home.

Another Bento: Roasted chicken, Stuffing, Italian green beans, strawberries and blueberries

2009-06-28T09:43:00.002-04:00

Blogger has been acting funny and not letting me post pictures, but finally here they are!
Our days have been starting out something like this every morning....Diapers set out to dry.

A silly little boy crawling everywhere

His new bear crawl...

Ice cream cones, Yumm

And of course the daily Bento for the Man

Eating on the agenda

2009-06-24T08:38:00.002-04:00

Eating is always on our agenda! Perhaps that's why I clean the kitchen almost 3 times daily. Someone is always asking for lunch or a snack. Lunch is every meal in our house...at least Annabelle thinks so. There is no breakfast or dinner its all lunch.

Almost a daily fare, smoothies made with kefir, milk, strawberries with the tops on, and 2 bananas

Levi enjoying his long waited smoothie, he whines every morning till he gets a cup in his hand

Annabelle sipping away on hers

This mornings breakfast, pancakes with local peaches and maple syrup

Shane's lunch in another one of our many bento boxes. Teriyaki beef and chicken with rice (I made him two rice hearts with our rice mold), Mandarin oranges, rice and tomatoes, and a Mocha cake roll.

Rise and shine

2009-06-23T08:16:00.003-04:00

We got up bright and early this morning 5am to drop Shane off at work so we can run some errands today. After dropping him off, getting donuts from Krispie Creme we went to the grocery store via car this time. The kids are back in bed now and it time for me to clean the kitchen yet again. Really its the only room I can clean 3 times a day and it still be a disaster every night and morning! Maybe if I stopped cooking it would solve my problem....haha. If only....

Levi has lost weight....well really he just hasn't gained any and instead grew taller therefor making some of his clothes rather loose.

Mommy and Levi, smiling away.

Our loot from this mornings shopping trip spent $12 and saved $12!

Shane's lunch, just in case anyone was wondering what he will be eating today. Leftover meatloaf turned into sandwich, peach, celery and carrots with ranch, and cookies. The lunch box is a Bento (Japanese) style lunch box. We have several different kids this is a laptop lunch brand.

A new garden plot freshly tilled and planted with cucumbers, watermelon, cantaloupe, butternut squash and sweet potatoes.

Our harvest from this morning.

The Market....aka..the Grocery Store

2009-06-19T09:59:00.002-04:00

We have been regularly going to the grocery store via bike and trailer for about 2 weeks now(sshhhh....don't tell Shane). Annabelle asks to go everyday, that girl LOVES to shop. I generally end up caving in about every 3 days. I can always think of something we need. They seem to go through about a gallon of milk every two or three days and that doesn't count the milk we use for making yogurt, kefir, and buttermilk. Plus fruit is in season (well some of it) so we have been gobbling it up! As you can see, really there is always something to buy.....today it was strawberries and dark chocolate for some more chocolate covered strawberries!

In the trailer ready to go

Our Loot, in my African market basket, purchased by my dear husband. No need for plastic bags.

Crying cause she couldn't eat the bittersweet dark chocolate we bought.

Deciding to give up asking for chocolate and go play with Levi

My son, always the happy one....well sometimes.

Cinderella man

2009-06-18T08:33:00.002-04:00

We watched a wonderful movie last night called Cinderella Man. If you have never seen it, I highly recommend it. It's about a boxer and his ups and downs during the depression. A really amazing movie.

Chocolate covered strawberries was a big hit for last nights dinner of Fettuccine Shrimp Alfredo, Salad, French Baguette, and Strawberry Wine.

More produce from our garden this morning.

Levi playing in his favorite place, the dog kennel.

Sarah patiently watching....

An early start....

2009-06-17T08:28:00.004-04:00

So again Levi woke up at 6:00am! I stopped getting up with DH shortly after we found out I was pregnant. Something about 4:30a.m. was just difficult and the thought of sleeping another three hours sounded really good. But alas, Levi has been waking up at 6:00 pretty regularly now. Generally I just snuggle with my little boy and wait for Annabelle to get up before we all head down stairs for breakfast. Not so this morning. I figured since I had lots to do today I should just get up and get on with the day and that's what we did.

To start the day out right of course. If you've never had coffee from a french press I recommend trying it. It's much stronger and has a nice flavor. I doubt you'll ever go back.

Yogurt that cultured from last night.I make it in half gallons. It's much easier to pour than in gallon jars. As you can see we used some for smoothies this morning.

More cultured dairy products, Kefir and Buttermilk. You can read more about Kefir and the health benefits here. Cultured dairy products are super easy to make. Just a milk and a few tablespoons of whatever you want to culture, ei:yogurt, buttermilk, kefir, etc.

Hanging diapers outside to dry. Everyone loves this especially Annabelle cause she can "help".

Helping load the dishwasher. We try to cultivate a good work ethic early so we let them "help" with almost every chore we do. It's amazing at what Annabelle can now do, like load plates and forks into the dishwasher, and set the table with plates, bowls and forks. She will even wipe down the table after eating all happily too!

Getting ready to clean....

Produce from the garden this morning. The baby romaine will go well with tonight's dinner of Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo.

What our garden looks like now... I can't wait to finally taste a sweet ear of corn!

Now it's 8:30 and time for the little boy to take a nap and for me to clean the kitchen...Hope you all have a good day.

Farmer's Market and more...

2009-06-16T12:23:00.002-04:00

Our score of produce from the Farmer's Market a couple weeks ago. That was our 3rd flat of strawberries and that doesn't include the 22lbs. we picked from a local farm.
Pastured chickens, and uncured bacon, ham and hot dogs from our co-op

The rest of what we scored from the co-op. Almost everything is organic and anti-biotic free, for health reasons. In a couple of months I'll go more in detail with my anti-biotic free diet.

Playing in the Rain and more fun...

2009-06-15T16:22:00.003-04:00

Playing in the Rain!

Trying to stand up....

She loves the rain and loves playing in it even more.

Annabelle trying to pick Levi up....it never works!

They are just too cute together..

He's tired of that and runs away to mommy for shelter.

Finally a smile.

We can never get a good picture she is a major goof infront of the camera

Levi aka Heidie's Birthday

2009-06-15T15:48:00.004-04:00

Yummy cupcakes!Don't you just love how he holds it with one hand.....

All done!

For those of you who don't live near, Heidie has been Levi's name for several months now. Annabelle went from calling him baby Vi (when he was first born), to hihi (for a long time), to now Heidie since he was about 9months old. Almost everyone we know calls him Heidie as well. His daddy is the only one who consistently calls him Levi.....he hates Heidie, and will always correct Annabelle...LOL. And unfortunately I think that name will be around for along time.

Levi's Birthday was a month ago....for those who forgot. I thought it was about time I should put some pictures up of the little guy. We didn't do anything big cause his Daddy left the day before and Levi was just happy to get a cupcake...not to mention a few trucks and trains.

2009-05-05T06:54:00.002-04:00

One of the best joys of being a mother is watching my daughter eat corn on the cob. She will easily eat two of these.

Always a willing helper! After mommy mopped the whole floor Annabelle ate watermelon and got juice everywhere, but she was more than happy to clean it up.

Playing in the garden. Look at those cabbages!

Nothing like freshly tilled dirt....Levi thinks it taste good too.

Snacking on some raisins while we are sponging the bread.

My flowers and Fiesta salt and pepper shakers.

I was surprised when I could eat all of this. Half a PB&J sandwich with a small cup of soup.

Notice anything different about Annabelle?? After her bath the day before when daddy was supposed to be watching her she found a green sharpie and colored all over herself.

Levi sitting in his big boy seat and the table. Always willing to eat whatever momma makes him unlike the other child.

Beach + Kids=Sand Everywhere!

2009-04-25T09:24:00.005-04:00

We went to the beach two weeks ago, then went to a friends house for dinner. Annabelle hid our camera while there and we just got it back last night. I hope you all enjoy the pictures.

Levi loved the sand so much that mommy just had to bury him...LOL..

Daddy and Levi...

Mommy and Annabelle

Annabelle running from the water after Daddy put her in it....She didn't like it.

Levi eating more sand!

Annabelle picking up shells for Levi

Annabelle and daddy

Mommy and Daddy....

Annabelle with our friends little poodle. She really wants one of these.

Annabelle's Birthday pictures

2009-03-23T05:23:00.002-04:00

I am way late posting these pictures....forgive me. It's been busy here.

Annabelle's favorite present she received. A pop up Elmo book. She loves it (even though she hasn't a clue who Elmo is) and we read it too many times a day to count. It has chickens in it and a big dog which is a "horse". Her two favorite animals at the moment.

Gotta love that face..

More presents. She loved them all especially a purse hand made just for her.

John and Annabelle. She loves John! He teaches the bible study we attend every Friday night and leads fellowship that we attend every Sunday after church.

Today is a special day!

2009-03-12T06:49:00.000-04:00

Go to my other blog here to find out why!

Don't you love it when...

2009-03-11T05:36:00.003-04:00

They play all by themselves!

But better when they play together!

It's best though when they play with daddy!

It's my favorite part of the day when he gets home and lays on the floor so the kids can climb, wrestle, and be thrown in the air! And me....I just sit back and watch. It really is the best entertainment, especially for this momma!

God, thank you for blessing me with the BEST husband ever and two wonderful children.

You know they are getting big when...

2009-03-03T05:15:00.003-05:00

You know your kids are getting big when they are drinking out of regular cups and standing by themselves.

Annabelle being a "big" girl. She now drinks out of a "real" cup and can even get herself water! How lovely!!

Levi, standing all by himself.

Look at that smile, and those hands.

She knows what smile is now, so when you get out the camera and ask her to smile is becomes a big goof.

Me and my little man. I love this little guy so much.

Monthly Check-Up

2009-02-26T12:16:00.005-05:00

$1,000 emergency savings fund
-Fully funded as of 01/21/2009-

3 months emergency savings fund

Pay Off the Van!

-Paid Off as of 02/08/2009-

Serve at least 2 vegetables with dinner every night

I am still working on this one. We are now eating salad with almost ever dinner and at least another veggie.

Walk to the dog for 15 minutes at least 4 times a week-

Ummm...its cold here so this really has only been done a couple times. Praise God we found our dog. She was across the street in their backyard the whole time.

Recycle more and throw away less-

Done as of 01/06/2009 I will try and post pictures of our new system next month....

-Replace all plastic utensils with wood or stainless steel-

Done as of 01/12/2009

-Remove all plastic glassware from cabinets minus sippy cups

Done as of 02/11/2009

Some of the plastic cups that were removed.

One of our cabinets now. The plastics that I will keep are our Bento boxes, baby bowels, produce savers, and small storage containers.

As you can see all the plastic stuff left is the baby cups, food processor, and a veggie bento (bottom shelf, right).

The Zoo

2009-02-26T08:07:00.003-05:00

Last weekend we took a 4 hour trip to the zoo. We left around 6am and got there a little after 11am. We had a blast! Annabelle really liked looking at all the animals and Levi really liked the wagon and taking a ride on momma (almost the whole time). We spent 5 hours there and didn't even get to look at the whole zoo. We were a little sad. We didn't know that the park closed at 4pm or else we would have left the house earlier to get there when they opened at 9am.

Pictures

2009-02-09T08:41:00.003-05:00

Its been a while since I've posted here. We've been busy helping friends move and just life in general. He's some pictures of the kids playing.
I hope you all have a wonderful week.

Monthly Check-Up

2009-02-03T20:06:00.002-05:00

Its that time...well really its past that time, to check in. This post is a little late, but we've had a lot going on here in the past week.
So here we go:

$1,000 emergency savings fund

-Fully funded as of 01/21/2009-

3 months emergency savings fund

Pay Off the Van!

Serve at least 2 vegetables with dinner every night
-This is a working progress. We eat lots of veggies here but there are nights when we just eat pizza, or the like and veggies aren't served. I have noticed that no matter how many veggies I serve they are always gone at the end of the meal. ;)

Walk to the dog for 15 minutes at least 4 times a week
-Our dog got out of the backyard and is missing right now. Keep her in your prayers. We are hoping she returns soon.

Recycle more and throw away less
-This goal has really blown me away. I have completely changed the way we throw away trash and am glad to say we are throwing away less, a lot less! More to come on this next month-

Replace all plastic utensils with wood or stainless steel
-Still working on this goal, it isn't complete yet-

Replace all cookware with cast iron or stainless steel
-Goal accomplished as of 01/12/2009-

Remove all plastic glassware from cabinets minus sippy cups
-Still working on this one too-

Cheerios and all!

2009-01-22T14:39:00.002-05:00

Annabelle with her bowl of cheerios...smiling for her mommy of course. Such a silly little girl, and always wanting to please you....especially her daddy, whom she feeds. Yes, he will sit there patiently while she feeds him all her snacks.

CRUNCH!...HAHA...she likes that, cause they are so "dood"

Levi, not paying attention to no one...he's a busy boy after all. Give him food and he stays busy for about 10 minutes.
Isn't he just the cutest! I almost wish he would stay like this forever. But.....I don't really want to be changing diapers forever!!! I love my little boy. He brings much joy to our lives.

Check out my new blog!

2009-01-16T08:32:00.001-05:00

Check out the new blog on how we are going to spend less than $1200 a year for groceries in 2009!
http://www.1200ayear.blogspot.com/

Babies all grown up...

2009-01-15T13:20:00.002-05:00

Ok, well not exactly, but they are getting bigger and more playful. Levi is crawling now and getting into everything!!!!!!!! Which includes paper of any kind (hey, extra fiber right?!?!), oh Annabelle's toys and yes, her hair! She on the other hand is fed up and is always telling...no yelling NO at him. Poor guy can never do anything right...must be a guy thing.

Annabelle is a big girl now.

She eats using a fork and spoon...well most times! Drinks water out of a regular cup (if you count 1/2 pint mason jars cups..the are kid size and not plastic).

Levi on the other hand is loving Sarah, and she loves him right back. If she has to choose between Annabelle or Levi it's Levi hands down. Of course, he gently pats her while Annabelle tries to ride her, and drag her by the ears. Her fathers daughter for sure!

They are both watching their reading movie while Sarah sits in Levi's lap..LOL

Super Savings!

2009-01-15T13:01:00.002-05:00

This week's shopping trip at Food Lion. Spent $12.50 Saved $39.06

2) boxes pepperidge farms toast
8) jars baby food
4) pkg baby wipes
2) huggies clean team shampoo
1) huggies clean team baby wash
4) nail clippers
2) pkg goldfish
2) pkg donuts
frozen yogurt
snickers ice cream
5lbs. grapes

Last weeks shopping trip at Food Lion. Spent $26.46 Saved $40.08

4) boxes tea bags
6) boxes Green Giant Spinach
4) boxes Quaker oatmeal
4) boxes food lion oatmeal
2) cantaloupe
4) boxes Green Giant garden vegetable melody
1) whole chicken
1) head romaine lettuce
1lb. Kale
2lbs. organic carrots
1 lb. cherries
1 banana

Total Spent $38.96
Total Saved $79.14

Not too bad. It could have been better, but I bought some things we actually needed and a few things we didn't (ei; donuts, and the like).

Menu Plan Monday...late

2009-01-13T15:36:00.003-05:00

Better late than never right???

Tuesday 1/13

Porridge with raisins, milk

Pizza, apples, water

Pork chops, Sweet potatoes, Spinach, tea

Wednesday 1/14

Toast, egg, smoothie

Ham sandwich, chicken noodle soup, orange, water

Lasagna, broccoli, garlic bread, tea

Thursday 1/15

Cereal, banana, milk

Leftovers, cherries, water

Leftovers, spinach, tea

Friday 1/16

Porridge, blueberries, milk

PB&J Sandwiches, peaches, water

Bible Study (Pot luck--bring apple pie)

Saturday 1/17

Biscuits, eggs, gravy, milk

Grilled ham and cheese, apples, water

Rib eye steak, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, tea

Sunday 1/18

Leftover biscuits, eggs, milk

Pot Luck Lunch (bring cookies)

Cheese and onion enchiladas, pinto beans, water

2009's New Year's Goals

2009-01-05T12:39:00.002-05:00

A few of our goals for 2009!

$1,000 emergency savings fund
3 months emergency savings fund
Pay Off the Van!
Serve at least 2 vegetables with dinner every night
Walk to the dog for 15 minutes at least 4 times a week
Recycle more and throw away less
Replace all plastic utensils with wood or stainless steel
Replace all cookware with cast iron or stainless steel
Remove all plastic glassware from cabinets minus sippy cups

While some of these goals may seem easy, silly, or impossible. It's time for a change and we think these goals will help us through out the year and beyond. What are you goals?

Levi's hospital pictures

2009-01-03T21:56:00.002-05:00

The I.V. in his foot.
Still a happy baby, the most loved patient I think. The nurses kept trying to sneak him out.

Finally able to get some rest....although he did get woken up just an hour later.

Picture Update

2009-01-02T23:14:00.003-05:00

Daddy and Annabelle about to leave to run some errands.

So Silly!

My pretty baby boy.

Annabelle's first pony tail....it lasted all of 2 minutes before she took it out.

The PERFECT Planner

2008-12-23T09:08:00.002-05:00

On my quest for a planner, that I seem to search for every year. I have found the perfect one....at least for me. I am a stay at home wife and mother. We live very busy lives here. And to keep up with everything I chart and write down almost everything....including whats in my pantries and freezers.
I found my planner while searching for some cookie paddles for my Bosch mixer on www.marmeedear.com

To see an image of the planner and more info about it, go here.

I recommend this if you are a home keeper. There are charts and places for menu planning, home school planning, and a list for everything.

Baby Steps Days 13-17

2008-12-22T22:36:00.002-05:00

We've been super busy around here! So far I am still keeping up with Fly Ladies baby steps program. I will be on Day 17 tomorrow....almost half way done. Hopefully I'll be able to post some pictures soon.

Day 17:
Set a bed time and stick to it!

May seem easy, but I think this one will be difficult for me. ;) We get up every morning at 4:30 and I try to be in bed by 9:30 although many days its 10:30 or later...like tonight.
I'll be trying to stick to my 9:30 routine and see how it goes for one week.

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

More pictures

2008-12-18T06:21:00.002-05:00

Levi's new trick. Sticking his tongue out, although you can't see much of it here. Its the cutest thing ever.

Annabelle being goofy..haha.

Day 12

2008-12-18T05:43:00.003-05:00

Day 12:

Today we are deleting all fly lady e-mails and continuing with our routine! An easy day I must say.

Here are some pictures of the past two days.

Eating pizza...her favorite!!

Know All Done!

Still eyeing the dog treat....I caught her eating it! YUCK!

Feeding Sarah, its one of her favorite things to do every day. She gets 4 dog treats and puts them into the jar then takes them to the puppy.

Days 10 and 11

2008-12-16T12:42:00.002-05:00

Day 10:

Today we are learning that we can do anything for 15 min. Set your timer and clean for 15 minutes.

Day 11:
Today we are going to add another page to our Control Journals. We are going to call this our Inspirational Page. On this page I want you to spend 15 minutes writing down some of your favorite inspirational phrases. Some of mine are; You can do anything for 15 minutes, Housework done incorrectly still blesses your family and You can’t organize clutter; you can only get rid of it. I know you have others that you love. Use this page as a place to write them down when you see something that touches your heart.
Taken from http://www.flylady.net/

Levi

2008-12-15T15:49:00.002-05:00

I couldn't pick a favorite so I posted them all! He is becoming such a big boy in all sense of the word. It won't be long before he is crawling. He already is getting on all fours and "rocking". He is watching Annabelle next to me. He loves that little girl and gets much more excited to see her than either me or Shane.

A little this and that...

2008-12-15T15:15:00.003-05:00

Here are just a few pictures to let you know what we've been up too.
Organizing the canning pantry. I put up 36 pints last week so I needed to make more room. This is what happened. ;)

Annabelle wearing one of her Christmas presents Jena (a dear friend of ours) got her.

Helping pick up the puzzle pieces. She isn't able to really put it together yet but she does sort the colors out into there own groups. Not sure if you can tell in the pictures but Jena cut her hair and layered it. It looks much better now and much more girly.

Day 6, 7, and 8

2008-12-15T08:20:00.003-05:00

So far we've just been doing the same things. Although today (day 8) we are introducing someting new (below). So far my sink is still shining, another picture below. And the house is looking much better.

Day 8
Here you are; you have been FLYing for a whole week. I am so proud of you. Lets review your new habits. I am going to break them down into what you do each morning and what you do each evening.
Morning Routine
- Get up and get dressed to lace up shoes; fixing your hair and face- Looking at your posted reminders in the kitchen and bathroom- Reading 2 minutes of reminders- Recognizing the negative voices and changing them; YOU ARE FLYing NOW!- Put out your Hot Spots for 2 minutes
Before Bed Routine
- Keep your sink shining- Lay out your clothes for tomorrow- Put out your Hot Spot (I have to do this twice a day) It makes me smile in the morning!
Over the last week we have introduced you to our reminders and the basis of our routines. As you establish these habits it will become easy to add another habit for you to practice.
Today I want you to find an old three ring binder and just put some paper in it. Then at the top of one page write Morning Routine and on the top of another page write Before Bed Routine all in pencil. This is a working document; do not allow your perfectionism to interfere with the process. Now you can write your simple routines on each page.
taken from www.flylady.net