My Purpose?

Who doesn't go through life searching for what their purpose is?  I don't know many peole that can tell me that they have never thought about what purpose they have here on earth.
I, for one, ponder this question every day.  What is my purpose?  My usual answer is, "Whatever God wants to use me for." Generic, I know, but true.  Another answer I often give is "It's not about me...". 
Rewind a month or so. MOPS did a "Sort and Shop" night at We Care.  I LOVE buying books. If I could design an office/den area of my dream home, it would be floor to ceiling book shelves stuffed with the unusually delightful smell of bound pages! Moving along, I bought "The Purpose Driven Life" for probably less than 99 cents that night. It has been sitting on my bookshelf staring at me since that night.  While in a bookstore on vacation in September, I had a little lady go into great detail how "The Purpose Driven Life" really helped her. Hmm...:)
Skip to now. I have cracked open TPDL and have started on Day 1. To be quite honest, one of the reasons I never started is because I am horrible about finishing things I start. I get halfway done with something and just say (pardon) "SCREW IT".  My prayer is that I can start and finish this. I've never finished any "study", "guide" or the like-ever. I've dropped out of two Beth Moore bible studies (GASP-I know), and I am just SCREAMING inside "WHAT AM I DOING HERE? HELP ME GOD, HELP ME."
Over the summer I had a very clear, defining, healing moment in my life and Praise God for that! I know exactly how awesomely GREEN AND CLEAN the grass is on the other side! Right now, I am working through some very, very tough spots in my past. I have some things that just bring me to my knees at the the thought of thinking about it. God is using some amazing people to encourage me, to listen to me, and help me along the way.  I am floored at how God brings people into and out of our lives to help us through our journey. I know it won't be easy (and I know the enemy is on attack) but I have no doubt that it WILL.BE.WORTH.IT.  Ultimately, to have that space in my soul clear for God to mold and shape into what He has planned out for me is why I am on this journey to begin with.

" Everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him." Colossians 1:16b (The Message)

"For by Him all things were breated: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; ALL THINGS WERE CREATED BY HIM AND FOR HIM." Colossians 1:16 (NIV)

".......everything was created through Him and for Him." Colossians 1:16 (NLT)

I don't plan on blogging through every step of my journey-I don't really have time for that. I will update when I feel like it.

My hope is here: " We can turn to what God has revealed about life in his Word.  The easiest way to discover the purpose of an invention is to ask the creator of it.  The same is true for discovering your life's purpose: Ask God." -Rick Warren, TPDL

Let the journey toward the light begin....

October 6th-wow!

So. I just now realize that my last post was September 29th-a week ago. Hmm, i've just been really busy. I had every intention of blogging at some point, but I guess my POINT is now. :) 

I am actually looking forward to tomorrow so much. I DO NOT have to leave my house unless I really want to.  Then, of course, I am thinking of something that I will probably have to leave for...but  not a biggie. Tonight was our AWANA night. The kids, yes all three of them, go to AWANA for a glorious hour and a half.  They all seem to really enjoy it and we use their story and memory verse as our "bible" for school. :) I just hit on each key thing and help them with memorization. What I didn't realize is the perks that this guaranteed hour and a half would have. (Man, how glad I am they talked me into enrolling M!) 
  So far, I have: been to dirt cheap and chinese with a bf, met for milkshakes and girltalk with another bf, spent time on the treadmill exercise, praying and praising, met with my MM for girltalk and spent time with my husband when is off on that particular Wednesday. So, not only do I know my kids having a great time...I am too! Who'da Thunk? :)  I had a great time with my MM tonight and can't wait to schedule more of those moments! What a blessing she is and how thankful I am for her!!


We have been busy with alot of this:

And this:

And this:

And this:

This, of course, does not include homeschooling, church, meetings, and basic home duties! I stay tired-alot. :) 

So, for the WEEK worth of spin-down's...I shall just do one big one on this day. I am really not in the mood to try and recall every though of the last week.

Outside my window: Is a glowing pumpkin that my kids just adore. I love how glittery and sparkly it looks. I love the fall and all of its harvest-ness.

I am thinking: of how busy my next week seems to be. And, how much I have no desire in the world (okay, maybe just a slight bit), to go to my high school reunion this weekend.  Will I regret not going and "What's the worst that could happen?"  I still, at this point, have no desire to go. Oh well, one day and a few prayers later could change my mind.

I am wearing: PJ's

I am remembering: How badly my knee hurts when the weather starts to get cool. OUCH!

I am going: To bed and read!

I am currently reading: The Yada Yada Prayer Group #3

I am hoping: for world peace. Seriously.

On my mind: How lovely the silence is after a long day.

Pondering these words:  "I don't want to gain the whole word and lose my soul..."

Praying about: Lifting up two MOPS moms that (1) is in labor now and (1) who will be induced tomorrow.

In the kitchen: Cleanliness..aaaaahhhh. :) Gotta love a clean kitchen. We had BBQ "muffins" tonight. It was an E-mealz meal. But, since (like usual) I burned my muffin pan up, I had to just lay the biscuit dough out and top it with all of the ingredients. It was good, but not very healthy. Oh well.

Around the house: It's semi-clean...and I don't care. :)

One of my favorite things: Is reading the kids' bedtime bible to them and praying with them.

From my camera:

Wednesday, September 29


Outside my window: Not really sure what. I know my nextdoor neighbors pulled in with some boom boom going on-quite annoying. My nightinggale that normally is singing away was probably frightened by the loud booming-ha.
I am thinking: I am exhausted and have a headache.
I am wearing: Old tshirt and shorts-what's new? :)
I am remembering: That I need to make a phonecall in the morning.
I am going:  To our soccer game tomorrow and hopefully no where until then! Sometimes, I get really tired of going.  Chris and the boys are supposed to "camp" in the backyard. Yeah, we shall see how long that lasts.
I am currently reading: Same as the post yesterday. :)
I am hoping:  For world peace. Seriously.
On my mind:  Is this not the same as "I am thinking.."?? 
Pondering these words:
Praying:  For different people, but personally, for compassion and clairity.
In the kitchen:  A rare thing around my house: dishes in the sink.  That is one of my  niches I guess..I cannot stand to wake up to a dirty sink.  But, time slipped away from me before taking the kids to AWANA tonight and I just didn't have time to clean out the dishwasher to put my few dirty bowls in. I also have chili in the crockpot, lefftover from tonight in hopes my beans will soften. I soaked these suckers for over an hour at least...and they were still hard. Dern, beans!
Around the house: I have to say that M's room is rather organized and clean. The kids room-oh my.  Main area's arent too bad. We LIVE here ya know. :)
One of my favorite things: The power of a good worship/praise song. I got on the treadmill tonight while the kids were at AWANA.  I turned on my mp3 thing (that Aime so generously gave to me after refusing to allow me to carry my CD PLAYER to the gym any longer) and really worshiped and praised God. I turned into a normally dreadful (because of the pain in my knee and ankle) time into an awesome 25 minutes with my Lord.  So, singing with my eyes closed and lifting my hands was a bit difficult, but did happen a few times. But for safety (if you know me, you know I probably need to keep my eyes OPEN) I had to worship with my eyes open even though i really wanted to close them. :) :)

From my camera:

Just a piece of clipart I think I used for MOPPETS one time. So, I was just going through my library.  What an awesome price my Savior paid for ME.  For ME (and you).  My I praise Him all my days. Thank you, for loving me my Savior.

Tuesday, September 28th

Today is Tuesday, September 28th:

Outside my window: My two little monkeys (E and N) are climbing in their favorite tree on this BEAUTIFUL day.
I am thinking: about an appointment I have coming up.
I am wearing: Nasty brown capris and a one of my favorite (with a hole in it) tshirts that reads " Occupation: Mother  When is my 15 minute break?" :)
I am remembering: things that I have forgotten to do.
I am going: To our Boy Scout pack meeting tonight.
I am thankful for: My friends.
I am currently reading:  bible, "The Yada Yada Prayer Group" and "You are what you eat"
I am hoping: for world peace. Seriously.
On my mind: My friends A and D.
Pondering these words: .....my past does not define who I am today.....
Praying : for several friends
In the kitchen:  It is clean.  We eat supper rather early (around 4pm) because of C's schedule. We had homemade pizza and carrot sticks tonight.
Around the house:  Nothing got accomplished today but I am enjoying all of the sunlight pouring through the windows. :)
One of my favorite things:  AUTUMN!!!
From my camera:

I am one blessed gal! Thank you and love you, RHM! Miss you and Love you ADK, So proud of you and love you AEW!   These girls are fantastic. :)  I love them.  I need convention again! Shall we have a slumber party girls? (I promise, I won't make you sleep on the floor, Aime...will the couch suffice? Haha.)

Monday, September 27th:

Outside my window:  There is a GLORIOUSLY beautiful day that God has given me the chance to see, yet again.  How amazing that our God created this perfect sync of colors, textures, songs and sights. Wow. I am looking forward to my walk (which WILL HAPPEN) this afternoon.
I am thinking: About Makennah's nap, doing a bit of school with the boys, and the need for vacuuming.
I am wearing: Ha. Red shorts and a red short....GO RED. :)
I am remembering: My grandparents. Seriously, a shout out to all of you young punks that think there is no time in the world for anyone else but yourself. CHERISH THOSE GRANDPARENTS. If you have them, they are truly a blessing.  Spend time talking with them about their childhood and experiences, spend time with the period.  I am thankful for the time that I did have with my grandparents, but oh what I wouldn't do to have them see my children and the mother I have become. :) I am pretty sure they would be proud-and that makes me glad.
I am going: To the Sort and Shop tonight...I am pretty stinkin' excited!!! :)
I am currently reading: Bible, "The Yada Yada Prayer Group"
I am hoping: for World Peace. Seriously.
On my mind: What ISN'T on my mind.
Pondering these words: "The Father sent His Son to be the Savior of the world." 1John 4:14 
"We love because He first loved us." 1John 4:19    All I can ponder is: how amazing is HIS love for us. Wow.
Praying about: A vast array of things.
In the kitchen: Yardsale stuff litters my counter space, supper is dethawing (a casserole) and the sink is clean.
Around the house: Organization is actually coming along...its like Autumn cleaning...instead of spring. :)
One of my favorite things: How Chris and I can just exchange glances sometimes and know exactly what each other is thinking..and most of the time...break out into laughter. :)
From my camera: (scanner this time)

I suppose this is around 1996-97 (judging that I was in my jeans and tshirt ONLY stage-and the bangs). My MawMaw, MeMaw and (great) Uncle Pete have gone to  be with Jesus, but I am so incredibly happy to have had them in my life. :)

Sunday, September 26th

I don't follow many blogs.  Mostly, the ones that I do follow, I will just find something interesting on  blogs that they follow and read those, etc, etc. :)
I am not quite sure what the writer of: The Simple Woman's Daybook is all about, but it did inspire a blog.  So, with that-thanks Simple Woman!

Today is Sunday, September 26th 2010:

Outside my window:  I see my big, red van in need of a washing. Also, the weather is quite dreary which isn't good for a girl that wants to go for a walk. But, I guess the much needed rain never melted anyone either, so what's my excuse?
I am thinking: That I need to go change Makennah's diaper.........now...that smell is in the trash. :) Moving along....I am thinking of how blessed I am to have the friends I have. I had lunch with one of my closest and dearest today..oh how I love her! I am thinking...of how incredibly forgiving and loving God is. Love...so amazing.
I am wearing: Ha. A blue tshirt and exercise capri's..no shoes-of course.
I am remembering: That I need to clean out my closet for the yardsale next weekend. Today really is my last chance.
I am going: to really enjoy myself at tommorrow's Sort and Shop! :)
I am currently reading: I am not reading anything right now. Well, I am reading the bible and using my Life Application Study Bible...but I  will start (probably today) reading "The Yada Yada Prayer Group".
I am hoping: for word peace. Seriously.
On my mind: What isn't on my mind? Um, I need to make a schedule for school this week, menu plan for the next payday, and get myself together for what this week's schedule (activities ) are going to be.
Noticing that: My E is really, really growing up.
Pondering these words:  Really, just all of the book of James.  My Life Application Study Bible describes the PURPOSE of the book of James as: To expose hypocritical practices and to teach right Christian behavior. 
Praying about: A vast array of things.
Around the house: Yard sale stuff is everywhere. Makennah's room is so nice and tidy, though. :)
In the kitchen: Tonight for supper, we are having hotdogs. Fun times. :) Haha!
One of my favorite things: My kids laughter and worship on Sunday mornings.

From my camera:

Recently, I celebrated my birthday. I am seriously overwhelmed with all of the wishes, calls, cards, gifts and surprises. :) I am so blessed to have incredible family and friends!

Favorite Music: One Of These Days

This is an older song that I have loved for quite some time. :) It just confirmed that One of these days...I will see my Savior. And, THAT, will be one amazing, awesomely fabulous day!!!!!! 

FFH: "One of these Days" (live)

Music Favorites: Beautiful, Beautiful

This song has been a favorite of mine for some time. A part in the lyrics "sunlight burning at midnight"...wow...Jesus really is the light in my dark.  He has brought me through so many deep, dark, horrible times. ( And continues to do so...) He is truly the shining light in my life. Even in the dark days, I know that my Jesus is the only light I need to help me through.

Francesca Battistelli (singing live) "Beautiful Beautiful"

Music Favorites: More Like Falling in Love

This is another one of my favorite songs. How amazingly accurate of how I feel.  It is totally about losing my heart to Jesus.  It's not about "religion". .... It is finding that love in Jesus that brings about real change. 

Below is the video of Jason Gray singing live his song "More Like Falling in Love".  I really recommend listening to this song...every word...every single word.

Music Favorites: Walk on Water

I love this song.  It is called "Walk on Water" by Britt Nicole.  This song really describes some of my days.  And really, what I am waiting for? I have nothing to lose! HE WILL NOT LET ME GO.

Here are the lyrics and the video is at the bottom of this post:

You look around and staring back at you

Another wave of doubt
Will it pull you under, you wonder, What if I’m overtaken, What if I never make it, What if no one’s there, will You hear my prayer

When you take that first step into the unknown,You know that He won't let you go....

So what are you waiting for, what do you have to lose
Your insecurities, they try to hold to you
But you know you’re made for more so don’t be afraid to move
Your faith is all it takes and you can walk on the water too


So get out and let your fear fall to the ground
No time to waste, don’t wait
And don’t you turn around and miss out
Everything you were made for
I know you’re not sure
So you play it safe, you try to run away

If you take that first step into the unknown, He won't let you go....


Step out, even when it’s storming
Step out, even when you’re broken
Step out, even when your heart is telling you, telling you to give up
Step out, when your hope is stolen
Step out, you can’t see where you’re going

You don’t have to be afraid
So what are you waiting, what are you waiting for............

Britt Nicole-Top Christian Lyrics

My Disclaimer

It has been quite some time since my last post. In fact, it was about my traveling to Orlando, Florida for the annual MOPS International Convention. What a fabulous time I had! God totally met me there and the experience I had totally exceeding my expectations! To top it off, I had nine other amazing supporters there. Amazing. No other girls would I want to have spent my weekend with than these:

More on convention when I have time to post a TON of pictures and am in the mood to blog all of the wonderful things that happened!

So, moving on, my DISCLAIMER:  Since coming home from convention. Things have been drastically different for me.  I am looking through clearer eyes and am really seeking out to serve and honor God in all ways in my life.   Also, I just haven't "felt" like blogging, though I enjoy it immensly. I am striving to focus in other areas of my life.  This is a hobby, something I enjoy, but something that needs to be way down on my list of priorities. So, with that, I will not "post" near as often as I was.  I still love trying new foods and taking pictures of them, I still love to express myself in this way, I still want to blog-but there just wont be as many posts in a day or a week and so forth. Blogging is not my life. In an effort to keep my need to "let some things out" (in a blog friendly way of course-some things just have to be "let out" with trusted girlfriends who pretend to be peeping toms and girfriends who invite the peeping tom in for brownies-love them, haha.) I will try and sit down once or twice a week to keep the back up from taking too much space in my brain!

That is my disclaimer, and I am sticking to it. ~Queen of Disclaimers

Menu Planning/ Meal Plan 7/19-8/1

Ahh, Menu Planning. Or is it more like, "AAAAHHHHH!!! MENU PLANNING!!!!!" ? In my case, it can be a bit of both.  I have figured out that having a set menu helps me save money and my sanity. We can try new meals and decided if it is a keeper or if we never eat it again. I don't have to wonder "Ugh, what is for dinner tonight?" To go even further, I even plan out breakfast, lunch and snacks.

Here is a Dinner-Only look:

• The way I meal plan is simple. I first look at how far out I want to menu plan. Right now, I am only doing per-pay-period menu planning, but for my sanity, I think I will switch to one day of planning a month's worth of meals. So. Much. Easier.
• Next, I get together my recipes together. For this menu, I needed 13 dinners with the 14th meal being out. So, I find 13 dinner recipes and sides.  I gather a few of our good ole standbys that I know everyone will love. Then, depending, I will add some brand new dinner recipes to the menu.
• Now I look at C's work schedule for this week. He works at the same time every day, and the same off days, they just rotate so I like to plan accordingly. I then look at my calendar to see if I have any meetings, play dates, parties, appointments, etc that would interfere with dinner prep or dinner itself. After that is done, I can start placing what meals go on which days. I try and choose meals that take the most time prepping/cooking for nights that C is off. Crockpot meals are easy for days that I may not be home at dinner time and he can just eat and take a plate with him.
• I do a ton on my computer, but menu planning (for right now) just isn't one of them. I like to have a hard copy in front of me. I can't always be on my computer, but I can leave a piece of paper on the counter to come back to if I have a spare moment.
• There are a ton of free blank menu planners on the internet. Organized Home has a nice printable. For more of a calendar format, Donna Young.org has a nice selection of different weekly and monthly printable.
• Lastly, I fill in what dinner goes on what night. :)

Here is a copy of the rough draft I made of this period's menu. As you can see it isn't perfect, and I don't plan on making a nice, neat one either. One important thing: Place your menu plan on your refrigerator or in a spot that is easily accessible and easily seen.

(Yes, I realize my photography skills aren't the best and I cut off and only have six days instead of seven!)

Here is my menu plan for July 19th-August 1st:

Monday 19th: B)grits/Fruit   L)mac and cheese   D)out

Tuesday 20th: B)cereal/fruit  L)Daddy's Choice   D)Potato Soup/Taquitos (homemade)

Wednesday 21st: B) Cheese Toast/Fruit  L)Leftover Potato Soup and Homemade corn dogs  D) Homemade Graham Crackers w/ Homemade peanut butter, bananas and pretzels

Thursday 22nd: B)Oatmeal/Fruit  L) Homemade PB sandwiches/pretzels  D) Crockpot: Bacon Wrapped Garlic Chicken with mashed potatoes, fried squash and fried okra (I bought fresh squash and okra at the farmer's market in town the other day. I LOVE fried squash but rarely fry anything-tonight-we shall FRY! lol)

Friday 23rd:  B) Breakfast Cookies/Fruit  L) Rice and Beans  D) Homemade Pizza

Saturday 24th:  B) Grits/Fruit  L) Homemade PB sandwich/pretzels/cheese stick  D) Spaghetti (homemade sauce) with green beans and bread

Sunday 25th:  B) Cheese toast/Fruit  L) Left over Spaghetti and Carrots  D) Spicy Black-eyed Pea soup and cornbread

Monday 26th: B) Oatmeal/Fruit  L) Mac and Cheese  D) Crockpot Sloppy Joe's with Oven Fries and English Peas

Tuesday 27th: B) Breakfast Cookie/Fruit  L) PB Sandwich/ pretzels/cheese stick  D) TBA  (*If I have a sitter, the kids will eat supper there and I will pack C sandwiches for his take-to-work meal*)

Wednesday 28th: B) Grits/Fruit  L) Mayo Biscuits and Rice  D) Corn Chowder and Rolls

Thursday 29th: B) Homemade Blueberry Muffins/Fruit  L) Homemade Corn dogs (from freezer) and green beans  D)Chicken and Rice with Carrots

Friday 30th: B) Cereal/Fruit  L)Taquitos (from freezer)  D) Crockpot Turkey Steaks with Cheesy garlic mashed potatoes and corn

Saturday 31st:  B) Eggs and Toast/Fruit  L) Mac and Cheese   D) Sante Fe Soup with bread

Sunday 1st: B)Oatmeal/Fruit  L) Left over Soup  D) Mushroom Chicken with rice and green beans

I will be posting recipes for the homemade peanut butter, taquitos and corn dogs in a later post!

Kristina used COUPONS!

Today I defeated my menu plan mayhem and grocery list. TODAY, I found out what all of the Walgreen's couponing rave was about! 
I DID not plan on going this far with my couponing...but after the first two toothpastes..I couldn't help myself.  The lady that checked me out helped me out a great deal and was incredibly friendly! Yay for her! :)

So, Walgreen's had Colgate toothpaste for $3.49 with $3.50 in Register Rewards. I bought 8 tubes of toothpaste and received $28.00 in RR. We also bought a Gillette Fusion ProGlide for $9-something and got 5$ in register rewards.   So, I had 33$ in RR. :) Each toothpaste had to be a separate transaction and I totally didn't mind holding up that line (for once in my life)!!!! 

-I had a coupon for BOGO Dry Idea (or Right Guard) deodorant. I have no idea how it worked out, but I paid 32 cent for TWO Dry Idea deodorant. It was a Walgreen's ad and MF coupon. (So my receipt says..but I still have my MF coupon...)

-With my RR I bought Ziploc Freezer bags x2 with a $1.00 off coupon (Walgreen's in store coupon book), Dawn dish washing liquid x3, Milo's Tea x2, BOGO AA Batteries.  I used 3 RR coupons in this transaction and paid $6.40.  Not too bad considering Milo's is $2.50 a gallon!!! :)

-My favorite of the day was the Nivea body wash. I had a coupon for buy 2 women's Nivea body washes and get 1 man's Nivea body wash FREE. So, I decided to pair that MF coupon up with my Walgreen's RR.  Thank the Lord for the sweet check out lady. She really helped me alot. She explained to me a bit how the RR worked and that I needed a "small" item to kind of balance out things and pay the least. I figured she knew what she was talking about, so I ended up getting two bottles of Dawn dish detergent as well.  Nivea MF coupon + 4 RR=$3.68 :) Umm..that Nivea body wash was $6.99 PER BOTTLE.

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!

Below is a picture of my above deal descriptions. There is also a free bag that I got for purchasing the razor and TWO more RR coupons that I didn't use! This was my FIRST time ever using RR at Walgreen's. I think I did pretty good and was pretty please with my deals. :)

Toothpaste anyone?

Moving right along to my Dirt Cheap deals of the day.  I was in the market for new mascara. I even had a coupon for a mascara I wanted to try.  Anyone that knows me well knows that I am very particular about mascara AND what I buy at Dirt Cheap. For the longest I would not buy anything that went on my skin (aside from clothing).  I passed by the huge table with cosmetics and thought I would take a peek. Well, of course some of the packages were open..but there were a TON that were not. They were in their original packaging. So, I decided I would give it a whirl. I got a bit carried away with the mascara, but I am now the proud new owner of EIGHT, yes EIGHT different types of mascara. Hopefully, I can find one that I like within that bunch.  I also got a Loreal Infalliable Lip duo stuff (and this stuff STAYS ON..let me tell ya), some kind of Revlon foundation and a Loreal Infalliable press powder/foundation (which I have used before and it is great). All of this for $5.50.

I love flags  I love a front door flag flapping in the wind on a stormy day, or just blowing in the breeze. Unfortunately, with my attempt to be frugal, a 20$ flag really isn't in my budget. I have a few holiday flags that I have had over seven years, an American flag, and an Alabama championship flag I got at Winn Dixie for like $1!! When I saw these, I could barley contain my excitement.  These are full size flags and they are CUTE. They were a bit more expensive than I was hoping, but a steal compared to the regular prices. Hopefully, there will still be more around in a few weeks and they will be discounted even further and I can add to my outdoor flag repertoire. :)

Three full size flags $15.00

With my ever increasing knowledge of living frugally, I have become quite the busy bee in the kitchen. I am whipping up my own ranch dressing mix, taco mix, and onion soup mix. I've bought plastic containers to store them in my pantry, and that is fine. These little storage containers were too cute to pass up. They even will look really pretty on the counter to hold rice, grains and beans!

Containers: $6.00

Lastly, my Winn Dixie deal of the night.  As I picked up my two, 5lb bags of potatoes I noticed a coupon attached. Normally, I would pass a coupon by, but now I have the bug so I have to check it out to see if it is worth my time. :)  The coupon was for a FREE Marie's Classic Potato Salad Dressing. Well, of course, WD didn't have the "Classic Potato Salad Dressing". So, I asked if I could possibly get another type of dressing. They said sure and if I had a problem we could override it. :)   My experience at WD was PLEASANT. The girls at the checkout were actually friendly and helpful! We did two different transactions so that I could get both of my dressings for free and my potatoes still 2/$5.

10lbs potatoes-$5

2 Jars Honey Mustard-($7) FREE

If I actually have anyone that reads my blog, please give me tips on this couponing stuff! I really don't have time to be too hardcore (though I do have a date scheduled with a friend tomorrow morning at the dumpsters...hmm...) about it...but saving a little helps a ton. :)

No Good, Bad Day-Or Was It?

On rare occasions, I feel like I am totally rockin' the cape.....

But most days, I am so tired and it takes me forever to get my thoughts processed enough to know what I am doing that day.

Today, my cape was no where in sight (like most every day) and I was dragging. Not only was I running on little sleep, but I really didn't feel well. Last night, all three of my kids ran fever. Last night, all three of my kids ran fever at different times. It first started with M, then E and lastly N.  Not.A.Fun.Night.For.Mommy.

I am sure most would wonder why in the world I would take the time to blog at almost midnight if I am just SO incredibly tired. Well, fact is, blogging helps me clear my head. This is my form of "letting it out" for the time being. My thoughts have been racing all day, so many things have gone wrong and I have kept my cool.  Now, it is time to let it out, let it go, and move on!

Oh, let's not forget to mention I haven't been to the grocery in forever and we REALLY need some things. Fevers make it kind of hard to go to the grocery store when the only option you have is to take your kids with you. Another reason is that I STILL haven't made my menu plan for this pay period. It has taken me FOUR DAYS and I STILL haven't gotten anything accomplished really.

Menu, you will be defeated tomorrow!!!!!

A little preview of  the many hats that I wear:

Nurse, Mommy

Today has been a very, very lazy day.  With the exception of mealtime (and mealtime cleanup) we have really done nothing. Bummer, because I was really, really looking forward to going to church this morning. I missed last Sunday because I was lazy and the Sunday before I was teaching. This is the third Sunday in a row that I have missed and I really, really can tell. The kids were just as bummed as I was. We also had plans for Little River with AAA after church, but that was canceled as well.  I did get to watch most of the live feed, so that was a highlight.

Today has been one of those days that I have been attacked by the enemy on so many fronts. He knows that I am weak and a a low point and he is taking his swings. Today, has not been my day.

I did get some laundry done this evening. Amazing, when ALL of my clothes are clean aside from just a handful...my close is packed and I have NO ROOM in my drawers! And I thought I didn't have any clothes......

Moving along....:) The kids requested chocolate chip pancakes for supper.  Easy enough...or so I thought.  I have been known to not make really good from scratch pancakes. It isn't that the recipe isn't good..it's the chef. This is why I only buy pre-cooked bacon. I burn bacon..every time.

These pancakes looked fantastic. They were whole wheat (flour) blueberry chocolate chip. I was pretty excited about these.  Well, going along with the nothing has gone right for me today theme, I guess these pancakes decided to follow suite.

This is actually the SECOND cooking pan that I used. The first one I burned, too. My heat wasn't too high, I used enough butter...I have no idea what happened.

I got incredibly frustrated and just threw out the mix and put my pans in the sink. (Which surprisingly are now hanging out in the dishwasher-yes-I at least cleaned the kitchen right.)  I announced to the kids that they would be having cheese grits instead.  They were happy with that. Sweet kids (and husband), they put up with alot of flops in Mommy's cooking.

Needing to get out for a bit, after bath time we ventured to McDonald's and got snack size McFlurries. I am one that stands by the "no milk products with a fever" but they had Ibuprofen in and no fevers at the moment, so I felt after such a crappy, sickly day at least this may brighten the mood a bit...and it did. :) 

They got their last round of Ibuprofen (hopefully until morning) right before bed and tummies were happy, so praise the Lord! 

On days like this, I just want to shout "This has been a terrible, horrible, no good, really bad day!!!!"  But really, even after everything and the fact that it took me hours to upload pictures because my computer restarted :).........I still have to be thankful. Thankful that I have a God that loves me and never gave up on me, not for one second today. Thankful that even on the bad days, He is still there. Even on the bad days, He is still my Savior. Even on the bad days, on the days where I can't even think about loving myself, He loves me. Even on the days that are great and I am wearing my cape with pride or the days that I just want to stay in bed all day and shut out the world, He is with me.  It is really hard to remember that while in the moment of  anger because the pancakes burned, but that is one of many things that I am working on.

Looking back on the days events and being an exhausted nurse mommy...today really, truly wasn't bad at all. In fact, no matter how bad the days get (or how good), I am never alone.

".....And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:20

Girls Game Night

I recently had the opportunity to enjoy much needed girl time. I hosted a game night at my house. I have to say I haven't laughed that hard in a VERY long time. My sweet husband stayed in our bedroom and watched movies on the computer and the kiddos were with grandparents.

Not only did I have amazing company, but we had amazing refreshments as well!!!

We had brownies, three different types of pie, sausage balls, veggie pizza, sub sandwiches, hummus, chocolate and of course chips. :)  The funny thing is, we spent like 30 minutes just standing around the food eating, talking and drinking before anyone ever decided to start playing games. Ha! That is a party of women for you!

We also had...wine.  I did throw out a warning about the wine I had in my fridge...it probably hadn't been opened in six months or more. Not thinking, (and finding it quite difficult) I start to open the bottle....

Thankfully, the cork hit the ceiling with most of its force before it pelted MM on the way back down. I am blessed she is still my friend after that frightening encounter. Haha!!

I was so thrilled to have a combination of old friends, new friends and just met friends at game night. It made for just the right combination of fun game play. We played a game D brought called, Things.

(This picture is for A. She asked if I wanted her to turn the game around so that it wouldn't be sideways I told her no, that I would just fix it on my computer...well..I didn't fix it and I don't feel like fixing it. :) So..turn your head to the side people!!!)

This game was hilarious. It is true, you never quite know what your friends are going to say!!  One of the questions was, "What is something you would not want to see advertised in the classifieds?"  Well, our answered varied, but I happened to capture this one:

This has to be better than "Child for sale-FREE!", right? :)  I happened to guess who wrote this answer....and I was right. Bahahahaha.

We laughed so hard at the answers to some of the questions. Some questions we had answers that were so similar is was a bit scary. Great minds, Great minds.....

Here are my friends D and A. Comfy are ya, A? :)

Two of my oldest friends M and A. :)

I also had another sweet friend B that came and a new friend S that D brought along. :)

We had such a fantastic time. It was much needed!  I do plan on doing this again REALLY, REALLY soon.........

Who's Game?

A Surprise Visit!!

While cleaning up the kitchen after supper tonight, I got a text from a very wonderful blast from my past.  My Ba: my "Eww, whats that on my wall", my Solo and Ensemble partner, my Skyline CEO, my reasons for "ready-go", A.K.A, Schuyler. :)

Schuyler and I have been BFF since fourth grade. We played trumpet together for eight years and graduated highschool together. We've enjoyed trips to Disney World and to the Liberty Bowl in Memphis, TN. I got into more trouble for being on the phone late at night during my teen years with him than anyone else.  I've jumped the hill on Carney Street and been in a car accident with him.  We've pretended we were are year older just for a free icecream. We've sang Faith Hill to the top of our lungs with the windows rolled down and our hands out of the sunroof.  Ah, now those were the days!

Sadly, sometimes, life moves you in different directions and apart from your bff's.  One thing is for sure: We can always catch right back up like the years have never passed by. And, THAT, is what a true BFF is.

So, my text said, "Look outside...surprise."  I then replied, "Um, are you here, because I don't see you."  I then recieved, "Uh oh." :)  That goes to show you just how many years it has been since he has been to my house!!

Surprise! With my kitchen a mess, Chris in the shower, my boys in their underwear, my daughter covered in watermelon popcicle; my bff for 18 years was at my door!  Luckily, true friends don't care if your wearing white shorts and blue underwear, or if your hair looks like you just threw it up on top of your head without combing it first......:)

Even though I haven't gotten a chance to see him in a while (Arizona is a LONG way away!) it was just like we never skipped a beat! Once my children warmed up, it was an all-out "Betcha can't guess what this is?" with play-doh.

(See:PJ's, underwear and a soggy diaper!! lol)

The kids really enjoyed him. They had to show him their Kung-Fu moves and how they could spin. M even made him spin her around a few times! Ha! My children sure broke him into the family fast!

In honor of my BA (I honestly don't remember why we call each other that.) I decided I would go back 10-11 years and post a few pictures from our glory days. Wow, how the time flies.

This was pretty much my life-band. We were pretty hardcore band nerds. This was 1999 (judging by no uniforms AND the date on the picture). I am pretty sure I still could not sit down to play with him without laughing until my stomach hurt. Though we never made a "Superior" at Solo and Ensemble together, we knew we were Superior at heart! HAHA.

Wow. Our Senior year.  Schuyler was Drum Major and I was Section Leader. Ba was a FANTASTIC Drum Major.  I had a duet that year with my friend, Katie.WE were pretty awesome! Even then, on the field when I am supposed to look at my Drum Major for direction-I never really could look at him in the face because I knew that if I did, I may never regain my composure.

Espania! ....."I dont know where to go, I dont know where to go..........."

AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now those years, were the time of my life!!!! :)

In comes our senior year. Its August of 1999 and guess what? Yep, U-N-I-F-O-R-M-S!! This picture is hilarious to me. I am surprised you can't see his cup of tea. :)

Another good time, EsCoHi (newspaper).  This was Ba's "planning period" which regularly included sleep or a trip to sell ads get breakfast.

Aw, prom. Even though we didn't go together and ventured out with different groups afterwards...you still have to get pictures with your BA, right!? :) Oh geez, why didn't anyone tell me I was so white? AND WHY IN THE WORLD DID I HAVE BANGS...Not cool bangs..but BANGS that I used a CURLING IRON to fix. Oh. My. Stars.

We seriously had the best time together. Seperating us and changing the alphabetical order of the classroom couldn't stop us from talking (RIP Mr. Long). We had hand signals, we had code words.

So, what a wonderful surprise I had today!  I just hope that next time, my suprise doesn't have to wait NEAR as long!!!

SOD. NYD. YID. 1729801

Bargain Shopping!!!

Last night Chris and I had the opportunity to go to a few local stores in town before heading to the movies. (That I was disappointed in! lol)
We first stopped at Dirt Cheap. I mean, come on, if you have the time to rummage through all of the junk, you can really find some great deals. I am so excited, because I am pretty sure this is my biggest, bestest buy to date!!! :) :) :) :)

Yes, I do realize that this picture is sort of hard to see-deal with it.

Okay, so, here are my 50 cent each items:

Three target shirts for myself (YES, I was shocked they had my size too), a pair of target shoes that are super cute but hurt my feet, two little pair of target glitter shoes for M, two pair of shorts for the boys (in bigger sizes for later on), a cute brown onesie  and a pair of shorts for next summer for M. That is a whopping $5.00.

My $1.00 buys:

1gb USB drive (Yes, it works.) and a black curtain to try and block out heat and sun in the boys' bedroom. :) (Gotta try everything I can to keep them from getting up at DAWN!!!)

My most expensive buy:

A Leapster 2: Jedi Math game for the boys. It was only $7.50 in its original, undamaged packaging!

My Dirt Cheap total was $14.50 plus tax. I am just so excited. I needed some new shirts!!

So how stinkin' cute are these? They are actually navy blue, make my feet look wide as boats and aren't very comfortable, however, I figured I could wear them to ChoctoberFest 2010 and have LW take pictures of them. :) :)  For 50c, they are worth a little pain.

Chris and I then made our way over to Burke's Outlet. I very rarely go in there, but I am glad I did this time. I did buy four shorts, that were not on sale, but I am still pleased with the price. My biggest buy here was three pair of sunglasses. Anyone that knows me knows that I have been wearing my very old, prescription sunglasses-that have only one leg.  So, when I saw 60% off I figured I would take a chance. Though I can still see (not as clearly, naturally) I think I look a bit more sane with sunglasses that have all of their appendages and aren't crooked on my face. So, for about 7$, I got all three pair.