What a glorious Labor Day it is! The weather could not possibly be better...this definitely makes up for the rain I sat in for 4 hours on Saturday!
This morning we headed out for what was planned as a nice quick bike ride on the new bike trail near our house. Before we knew it we were at the river, then at Saylorville, then the dam and spillway. It was a great ride...there. The ride home was not so fun as Maycen's little legs were T.I.R.E.D. But, she made it all the way home and rode nearly all of it. We just finished up lunch and now are cleaning and enjoying the open windows before heading to Grandma & Grandpa Johnson's house for a taco dinner!
We are looking forward to the cooler weather this week and my meal plan reflects that a little!
Monday:
Grandma Johnson's fried tacos. YUMMY!
Tuesday:
Juicy Lucys that we didn't make yesterday!
Wednesday:
I may be out of town, so planning something quick and easy that dad can handle in my absence. Soup and grilled cheese!
Thursday:
Pizza casserole (doesn't it look delish!!!)
Friday:
We are heading up to Ames for the big game early Saturday morning so the kids are spending the night with Grandma & Grandpa Peanut! Paul and I are going to a tailgating party at my dad & Jackie's house...haven't decided what I'll take yet!
Saturday:
ISU vs. UI...! We probably won't be home for dinner!
Sunday:
Brown sugar & balsamic glazed pork loin w/ potatoes & veggies!
Happy big game week everyone!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Monday, August 29, 2011
Meal Planning Monday
I had all of the best intentions to do this first thing this morning, around 5:30, before the day got crazy. But then I overslept and the day was crazy the minute my feet hit the floor! Now, I only have about 5 mintues...but I know if I don't do it now, I won't do it at all...so here we go!
Monday:
Whole Wheat Spaghetti w/ Turkey meatballs
Tuesday:
I'm traveling and our house is showing (fingers crossed) so daddy is taking the kids to Grandma & Grandpas.
Wednesday:
Salad & Italian Dunkers using leftover spaghetti sauce w/ some added gr. beef
Thursday:
Zesty Crock Pot Chicken
Friday:
We are having a football party at our house! Well...its just me and the kids so I don't know if that counts as a party...but we'll have all sorts of finger food snackies like pizza rolls and cheese sticks. You know, totally healthy!
Saturday:
ITS FINALLY FOOTBALL SEASON!!!! Paul and I will be tailgating at the ISU/UNI game enjoying a wide variety of yumminess, and maybe a beverage or two! I know for sure I am taking these:
Ham & cheese sliders
Sunday:
Juicy Lucys w/ sweet potato fries!
Have a great week everyone!
Monday:
Whole Wheat Spaghetti w/ Turkey meatballs
Tuesday:
I'm traveling and our house is showing (fingers crossed) so daddy is taking the kids to Grandma & Grandpas.
Wednesday:
Salad & Italian Dunkers using leftover spaghetti sauce w/ some added gr. beef
Thursday:
Zesty Crock Pot Chicken
Friday:
We are having a football party at our house! Well...its just me and the kids so I don't know if that counts as a party...but we'll have all sorts of finger food snackies like pizza rolls and cheese sticks. You know, totally healthy!
Saturday:
ITS FINALLY FOOTBALL SEASON!!!! Paul and I will be tailgating at the ISU/UNI game enjoying a wide variety of yumminess, and maybe a beverage or two! I know for sure I am taking these:
Ham & cheese sliders
Sunday:
Juicy Lucys w/ sweet potato fries!
Have a great week everyone!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
God grant me patience. Please!
I feel like this might be a repeat post...but I don't have the patience right now to sift through my old blogs!
Yesterday was not my finest day as a mommy. My patience were running very thin and of course, those are always the days that the kids are on their finest behavior. Right? Uh...no.
Maycen is old enough that, save for the occasional meltdown, we really only deal with drama. Okay, by "drama" I mean, completely dramatic over reactions to every single thing that she doesn't like. And by "only" I mean, 7 or 8 hundred times a day. Maycen puts 100% into every emotion she feels. If she is happy she is ecstatic. If she is sad it is the worst moment of her life. If she is mad, she hates the world. You get it. Most days I can recognize it for what it is and let her get her emotions out but, unfortunately, yesterday was not that day. I sometimes find myself engaging with her at her level. I know it is ridiculous and I'm disappointed in myself when I let it happen, but it does none-the-less. We ended yesterday with one of these overly dramatic fights. When all was settled down I explained to her that part of the reason it happens is because she and I are so much alike and sometimes, when we are both having a bad day, it happens. She got a kick out of that and we hugged and kissed and shared "I love you's" and decided we would start over in the morning.
My two kiddos couldn't be more different! Brock is loud and destructive and rambunctious and ornery and not emotional at all one minute and a complete lover the next. He can hit his sister as hard as he possibly can and then as he gets sent to his room for the 100th time he'll look at me and say "mommy, are you happy with me?". There is no level 5 with Brock. He is either at a 1 (sleeping!) or a 10 (climbing the pantry while throwing things at his sister, literally!). This can be exhausting, and I know we are not the first parents to go through this. He is a 4 year old boy and I don't expect the unreasonable, some days it is just harder than others to remember that. Yesterday was certainly one of those days.
I absolutely hate the days that I spend more time disciplining my kids than having fun with them and I am thankful that we get to start fresh every day!
Today we have cleaned the house together, watched Tangled (twice!) and baked cookies. It is definitely a better day.
Thank you, God!
Yesterday was not my finest day as a mommy. My patience were running very thin and of course, those are always the days that the kids are on their finest behavior. Right? Uh...no.
Maycen is old enough that, save for the occasional meltdown, we really only deal with drama. Okay, by "drama" I mean, completely dramatic over reactions to every single thing that she doesn't like. And by "only" I mean, 7 or 8 hundred times a day. Maycen puts 100% into every emotion she feels. If she is happy she is ecstatic. If she is sad it is the worst moment of her life. If she is mad, she hates the world. You get it. Most days I can recognize it for what it is and let her get her emotions out but, unfortunately, yesterday was not that day. I sometimes find myself engaging with her at her level. I know it is ridiculous and I'm disappointed in myself when I let it happen, but it does none-the-less. We ended yesterday with one of these overly dramatic fights. When all was settled down I explained to her that part of the reason it happens is because she and I are so much alike and sometimes, when we are both having a bad day, it happens. She got a kick out of that and we hugged and kissed and shared "I love you's" and decided we would start over in the morning.
My two kiddos couldn't be more different! Brock is loud and destructive and rambunctious and ornery and not emotional at all one minute and a complete lover the next. He can hit his sister as hard as he possibly can and then as he gets sent to his room for the 100th time he'll look at me and say "mommy, are you happy with me?". There is no level 5 with Brock. He is either at a 1 (sleeping!) or a 10 (climbing the pantry while throwing things at his sister, literally!). This can be exhausting, and I know we are not the first parents to go through this. He is a 4 year old boy and I don't expect the unreasonable, some days it is just harder than others to remember that. Yesterday was certainly one of those days.
I absolutely hate the days that I spend more time disciplining my kids than having fun with them and I am thankful that we get to start fresh every day!
Today we have cleaned the house together, watched Tangled (twice!) and baked cookies. It is definitely a better day.
Thank you, God!
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Wait...wasn't it just May?
(...this post will written as though my last update was at the beginning of summer, instead of in February!)
Hi Peeps!
Remember when you were little and it seemed like time moved sooooo sllllloooooowwwww? Especially when it came to Christmas, Birthdays and the first day of school! Remember how "old people" would tell you to enjoy it now because as you get older time goes fast? I've decided they lied. Time doesn't go faster as you get older. No...it literally disappears!
One minute it was Maycen's last day of 1st grade and an hour later she is one week into 2nd grade! I really don't know where the summer went...but I do recall a few bits and pieces...so here is a quick recap from May-August:
May
The big news in May was that Paul was finally promoted to Store Director!!!! Big Fat YESSSS! He has worked for Dahl's for a long, long time and worked hard. It was a well earned promotion and the best part is that he is still at the Ankeny store! We are so excited and I couldn't be more proud of him!
Maycen "graduated" from 1st grade with flying colors! She excelled academically in Mrs. Piper's class! The last day of school was followed immediately by her spring dance recital. It is always such a busy, but fun, weekend! Maycen loves performing for her family and showing them what she has learned from year to year. This was the best recital yet and I really don't know how next year will top it!
June
Happy Birthday Brock!!!! My little man turned 4 and I still can't believe it! Maycen also had her national dance competition where she did amazing! It was the best she had ever done her solo, and all of her groups performed very well! It was a great finish to another dance season!
July
What a busy month. Between the 4th holiday and Summerfest, the first two weeks just fly by! We celebrated the 4th at some old friends (old in relationship, not age!) and really enjoyed hanging out and catching up! Summerfest was a fun and busy weekend as always. The biggest thing that happened Summerfest weekend was that Paul and decided to go browse a few open houses while we were kidless...you know...just to see what's out there! Well, we all know what happens when you do that. We found a house that we fell in love with. At first we didn't think there was any way we could swing it, but after talking to a realtor and mortgage consultant we realized that if everything fell into place just right, we might actually be able to move into it! So, we spent the last couple of weeks of July using every minute of free time to get our house ready to go on the market. This included painting nearly every room in the house, swapping out doorknobs and hinges, fixing little things that we have put off, cleaning carpets, etc, etc! It was a lot of work and, in the end, we agreed that even if we don't sell our house we are very happy with the changes we made!
August
The first weekend in August we attended Paul's 20 year East High School class reunion. We got to spend some time with old (again, relationship...not age!) friends and had a great time. It was held in the same ballroom at Adventureland Inn that Paul and I had our wedding reception and it was fun to be in that room again! The greatest state fair in the country began the following week and of course we attended "East Side Night" on the first Friday. Saturday we spent a family day at the fair. It was the first time Brock has been and after 9 hours he was over it! I was supposed to go to the Sugarland concert on Sunday night, but woke up to news of the terrible tragedy in Indiana and the fact that the show had been cancelled. While I was disappointed it was impossible to be too upset after viewing the footage from the stage collapse. So sad. It was a blessing in disguise since it was the night before the first day of school. We had a wonderful relaxing afternoon and ran a few errands as a family and both kids were in bed early after a busy weekend!
That brings us to this week! I still can't believe I have a 2nd grader (pictures to come)! The first week of school went great and Maycen loves her teacher Mrs. James! On Monday Brock will officially start Pre-Kindergarten at La Petite and we are excited about that! We aren't sure if he will go to kindergarten next year or not, but either way this will be good for him!
Summer is certainly winding down and before we know it the leaves will be falling! I always look so forward to the next season and this year that is especially true as we have so many things to look forward to! Unfortunately the house we wanted sold, but fortunately we found a lot we love and are going to start building it while we continue to try and sell our house. It is in the Cherry Glen development and the lot we have picked out is huge and will never have anyone build behind it! I have so many plans for the house...I'm praying it all works out! Maycen told me yesterday that she can picture herself opening Christmas presents in that house...and that's all I needed to hear!
I am still loving my job! I continue to learn something new every day and, after being in the same industry for nearly 12 years, it is so rewarding. I'm making plans to hit the road hard in September, October and November and I'm excited to do it!
I just started to write about our September plans...but stopped myself! Because I AM going to do a better job of updating this little blog thingy! I promise. To try.
In the meantime I'm off to clean the house and get ready for the Reba concert tonight at the fair!
Much Love.
Hi Peeps!
Remember when you were little and it seemed like time moved sooooo sllllloooooowwwww? Especially when it came to Christmas, Birthdays and the first day of school! Remember how "old people" would tell you to enjoy it now because as you get older time goes fast? I've decided they lied. Time doesn't go faster as you get older. No...it literally disappears!
One minute it was Maycen's last day of 1st grade and an hour later she is one week into 2nd grade! I really don't know where the summer went...but I do recall a few bits and pieces...so here is a quick recap from May-August:
May
The big news in May was that Paul was finally promoted to Store Director!!!! Big Fat YESSSS! He has worked for Dahl's for a long, long time and worked hard. It was a well earned promotion and the best part is that he is still at the Ankeny store! We are so excited and I couldn't be more proud of him!
Maycen "graduated" from 1st grade with flying colors! She excelled academically in Mrs. Piper's class! The last day of school was followed immediately by her spring dance recital. It is always such a busy, but fun, weekend! Maycen loves performing for her family and showing them what she has learned from year to year. This was the best recital yet and I really don't know how next year will top it!
June
Happy Birthday Brock!!!! My little man turned 4 and I still can't believe it! Maycen also had her national dance competition where she did amazing! It was the best she had ever done her solo, and all of her groups performed very well! It was a great finish to another dance season!
July
What a busy month. Between the 4th holiday and Summerfest, the first two weeks just fly by! We celebrated the 4th at some old friends (old in relationship, not age!) and really enjoyed hanging out and catching up! Summerfest was a fun and busy weekend as always. The biggest thing that happened Summerfest weekend was that Paul and decided to go browse a few open houses while we were kidless...you know...just to see what's out there! Well, we all know what happens when you do that. We found a house that we fell in love with. At first we didn't think there was any way we could swing it, but after talking to a realtor and mortgage consultant we realized that if everything fell into place just right, we might actually be able to move into it! So, we spent the last couple of weeks of July using every minute of free time to get our house ready to go on the market. This included painting nearly every room in the house, swapping out doorknobs and hinges, fixing little things that we have put off, cleaning carpets, etc, etc! It was a lot of work and, in the end, we agreed that even if we don't sell our house we are very happy with the changes we made!
August
The first weekend in August we attended Paul's 20 year East High School class reunion. We got to spend some time with old (again, relationship...not age!) friends and had a great time. It was held in the same ballroom at Adventureland Inn that Paul and I had our wedding reception and it was fun to be in that room again! The greatest state fair in the country began the following week and of course we attended "East Side Night" on the first Friday. Saturday we spent a family day at the fair. It was the first time Brock has been and after 9 hours he was over it! I was supposed to go to the Sugarland concert on Sunday night, but woke up to news of the terrible tragedy in Indiana and the fact that the show had been cancelled. While I was disappointed it was impossible to be too upset after viewing the footage from the stage collapse. So sad. It was a blessing in disguise since it was the night before the first day of school. We had a wonderful relaxing afternoon and ran a few errands as a family and both kids were in bed early after a busy weekend!
That brings us to this week! I still can't believe I have a 2nd grader (pictures to come)! The first week of school went great and Maycen loves her teacher Mrs. James! On Monday Brock will officially start Pre-Kindergarten at La Petite and we are excited about that! We aren't sure if he will go to kindergarten next year or not, but either way this will be good for him!
Summer is certainly winding down and before we know it the leaves will be falling! I always look so forward to the next season and this year that is especially true as we have so many things to look forward to! Unfortunately the house we wanted sold, but fortunately we found a lot we love and are going to start building it while we continue to try and sell our house. It is in the Cherry Glen development and the lot we have picked out is huge and will never have anyone build behind it! I have so many plans for the house...I'm praying it all works out! Maycen told me yesterday that she can picture herself opening Christmas presents in that house...and that's all I needed to hear!
I am still loving my job! I continue to learn something new every day and, after being in the same industry for nearly 12 years, it is so rewarding. I'm making plans to hit the road hard in September, October and November and I'm excited to do it!
I just started to write about our September plans...but stopped myself! Because I AM going to do a better job of updating this little blog thingy! I promise. To try.
In the meantime I'm off to clean the house and get ready for the Reba concert tonight at the fair!
Much Love.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Oh. Em. Gosh.
Hi y'all. Remember me?
I had such good intentions when I started this blog. I was going to posteveryday, every other day, at least twice per week! Now here I am, 3 months since my last post and that one barely even counted as a full post. More like a half post. Or maybe even a quarter! In that one I even promised that I would be back soon to post the makeover story of my favorite new piece of furniture...and then *POOF* I fell off the face of blog-earth!
Not to worry my friends! I am back. I won't make promises about how often I'll post, but I promise to do a better job of keeping everyone updated on the goings on in the Johnson house!
For today, lets get on the same page and have a re-cap of the last few months.
Paul
Just last week Paul finished up training for work that we called "Grocery College". He made three seperate one week trips to Chanhassan (I'm sure I butchered that spelling), MN to attend classes put on by SuperValu. It was his first time really traveling for work (NO, I don't count the trip to Dallas for the Cowboys v Packers game as a work trip!) and I think he realized that its not quite the relaxing days away from home that he's envisioned it was for me all these years! Next week he is headed out again for a few days, only this time going south for a convention.
Steph
Wow. Where do I begin? I think when I left off I just been laid off from NationJob. Through November and December I worked a little as a contractor for them, picked up hours/classes at the gym, and enjoyed some time home with my kids. January 1st I started an exciting new chapter in my professional career. I am now the Iowa & Nebraska Representative for MED Alliance Group out of Chicago selling medical devices. I won't bore you with all of the details except to say that I took over the territory from Jackie (step-mom) and the way that everything fell into place, I knew I was meant to do this. It is a little scary in that it is a whole new industry for me, but with her guidance I am learning so much and enjoying every minute of it. One of the perks is that I work from home so, even though the job itself is more demanding and will require more travel time, the net gain is more time at home with my family! I am still teaching classes at Farrells, and enjoy every minute of those!
Maycen
100 days into her 1st grade year and she is excelling at math and reading. We are SO proud of her. Like her mom she is a social butterfly and often has to be reminded to sit quietly, but overall she is a very good student. Of course dance is in full swing and the competition season starts in about 2 weeks. She has worked very hard on her solo and group dances and is looking forward to performing them on stage!
Brock
Drum roll please.................Brock. Is. Potty Trained!!!!!!!!!! In early January I took him to Target and said "pick your potty!". He picked the cheapest frog potty there was and that night he started going on it and hasn't looked back! I swear I felt like this day would never come, but now it has and its so nice to not be changing diapers anymore! Hopefully soon we'll actually be able to move the potty from the kitchen into the bathroom...but that's a whole'nother blog! He is also back at daycare full time and just got moved up to the pre-school room this week! He is learning so much! Its hard to believe he will be 4 already this summer!
That's about it for updates! We really enjoyed the holidays and are so excited about what 2011 is going to bring for our family!
I had such good intentions when I started this blog. I was going to post
Not to worry my friends! I am back. I won't make promises about how often I'll post, but I promise to do a better job of keeping everyone updated on the goings on in the Johnson house!
For today, lets get on the same page and have a re-cap of the last few months.
Paul
Just last week Paul finished up training for work that we called "Grocery College". He made three seperate one week trips to Chanhassan (I'm sure I butchered that spelling), MN to attend classes put on by SuperValu. It was his first time really traveling for work (NO, I don't count the trip to Dallas for the Cowboys v Packers game as a work trip!) and I think he realized that its not quite the relaxing days away from home that he's envisioned it was for me all these years! Next week he is headed out again for a few days, only this time going south for a convention.
Steph
Wow. Where do I begin? I think when I left off I just been laid off from NationJob. Through November and December I worked a little as a contractor for them, picked up hours/classes at the gym, and enjoyed some time home with my kids. January 1st I started an exciting new chapter in my professional career. I am now the Iowa & Nebraska Representative for MED Alliance Group out of Chicago selling medical devices. I won't bore you with all of the details except to say that I took over the territory from Jackie (step-mom) and the way that everything fell into place, I knew I was meant to do this. It is a little scary in that it is a whole new industry for me, but with her guidance I am learning so much and enjoying every minute of it. One of the perks is that I work from home so, even though the job itself is more demanding and will require more travel time, the net gain is more time at home with my family! I am still teaching classes at Farrells, and enjoy every minute of those!
Maycen
100 days into her 1st grade year and she is excelling at math and reading. We are SO proud of her. Like her mom she is a social butterfly and often has to be reminded to sit quietly, but overall she is a very good student. Of course dance is in full swing and the competition season starts in about 2 weeks. She has worked very hard on her solo and group dances and is looking forward to performing them on stage!
Brock
Drum roll please.................Brock. Is. Potty Trained!!!!!!!!!! In early January I took him to Target and said "pick your potty!". He picked the cheapest frog potty there was and that night he started going on it and hasn't looked back! I swear I felt like this day would never come, but now it has and its so nice to not be changing diapers anymore! Hopefully soon we'll actually be able to move the potty from the kitchen into the bathroom...but that's a whole'nother blog! He is also back at daycare full time and just got moved up to the pre-school room this week! He is learning so much! Its hard to believe he will be 4 already this summer!
That's about it for updates! We really enjoyed the holidays and are so excited about what 2011 is going to bring for our family!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
I'm such a tease!
Okay...I have about 2 seconds to post this before I MUST get in the shower and get ready for the game [GO STATE] so it is only going to be a sneak preview. I'll post the entire story tomorrow!
Before:
And....after:
Isn't she pretty?
Before:
And....after:
Isn't she pretty?
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Need a little help from my friends!
Happy Saturday Peeps! Can you feel it? Winter is in the air!
You know, I thought I'd have all of this extra time on my hands now that I'm not working full time. Wrong-O Joe! This week was crazy busy and went by in a flash! By the end of the week it was cold and wet and I found myself not wanting to leave the house at all!
I had another one of those weeks where I felt like I got a lot done, yet my house looks like a tornado hit it! It didn't help that on Thursday Paul decided to clean our dryer by taking the vacuum/leaf blower to it. Here's this thing. I ADORE that my husband takes initiative on stuff like this because, well, frankly....I don't. But sometimes it backfires and this was one of those times. After some blood, sweat & tears (mostly by Paul) we decided that the dryer has died. The cause of death is unknown except that it was working fine pre-leaf blower treatment, but now doesn't so much as try to turn on. I'm sure someone out there knows how to fix it (and its probably a $2 part) but we decided to take the $100 to have someone come look at it and apply it to a new set. We got a great deal at Home Depot, so on Wednesday we will be the proud owners of a new washer and dryer! And...in accurate reflection of the nearly reverse roles in our home...Paul is MUCH more excited about it than I am! I do love that man!
But...our dryer saga is not what this blog is about. I know I have a lot of work from home/stay at home mommies thatread my blog are friends on Facebook where I will link this blog and I need some advice.
What do you do with a very active 3 year old boy for 8 hours/day?
Seriously. I don't know!
Here's the thing. I had the whole "working outside the home 8 hours a day, Mommy" thing down. We had schedules and rules and some rules we bent because we were too tired and didn't have enough time with the kids anyhow. I (sorta) knew what I was doing in that realm.
But, this staying home thing has me sputtering!
This was our first week home and I had decided to treat this one a bit like I would a vacation week. We hung out, watched some movies, ran some errands and had very little structure. Obviously, moving forward, I don't want him spending all day watching SpongeBob and Alvin & the Chipmunks while I clean/paint/organize, etc. I need to learn how to balance getting stuff done around the house and spending some QT with my little man. Now that I'm not working outside of the home I feel a lot more pressure for the house to be clean and organized and for Brock to be learning and doing creative things like he did at daycare.
Wow, this is really a rambling post, isn't it? Sorry for that! If any of you have any advice on schedules, activities, ideas on how to balance working from home with being a stay at home mom, I would LOVE it! I know we will find what works for us but I would love to hear what has worked for you!
For the record, I tried desperately to combine reading, art, creativity and computer lessons by having him spend yesterday morning reading DIY Blogs with me. Yeah. Didn't work!
Its going to be a cold, wet day and we are looking forward to a relaxing one! I have a 1 1/2 hour kickboxing class this morning (that I need desperately!) and Mikki's daughter Kaleigh is coming to spend the night with us (this kids are coming out of their skin with excitement...apparently she's cool and I'm not!) and Maycen has dance...but other than that it will be a day of movies, football, food and cuddling!
Have a great weekend everyone!
And...of course...GO CYCLONES! Big game today after the heart breaker last week (that I'm still not ready to talk about).
You know, I thought I'd have all of this extra time on my hands now that I'm not working full time. Wrong-O Joe! This week was crazy busy and went by in a flash! By the end of the week it was cold and wet and I found myself not wanting to leave the house at all!
I had another one of those weeks where I felt like I got a lot done, yet my house looks like a tornado hit it! It didn't help that on Thursday Paul decided to clean our dryer by taking the vacuum/leaf blower to it. Here's this thing. I ADORE that my husband takes initiative on stuff like this because, well, frankly....I don't. But sometimes it backfires and this was one of those times. After some blood, sweat & tears (mostly by Paul) we decided that the dryer has died. The cause of death is unknown except that it was working fine pre-leaf blower treatment, but now doesn't so much as try to turn on. I'm sure someone out there knows how to fix it (and its probably a $2 part) but we decided to take the $100 to have someone come look at it and apply it to a new set. We got a great deal at Home Depot, so on Wednesday we will be the proud owners of a new washer and dryer! And...in accurate reflection of the nearly reverse roles in our home...Paul is MUCH more excited about it than I am! I do love that man!
But...our dryer saga is not what this blog is about. I know I have a lot of work from home/stay at home mommies that
What do you do with a very active 3 year old boy for 8 hours/day?
Seriously. I don't know!
Here's the thing. I had the whole "working outside the home 8 hours a day, Mommy" thing down. We had schedules and rules and some rules we bent because we were too tired and didn't have enough time with the kids anyhow. I (sorta) knew what I was doing in that realm.
But, this staying home thing has me sputtering!
This was our first week home and I had decided to treat this one a bit like I would a vacation week. We hung out, watched some movies, ran some errands and had very little structure. Obviously, moving forward, I don't want him spending all day watching SpongeBob and Alvin & the Chipmunks while I clean/paint/organize, etc. I need to learn how to balance getting stuff done around the house and spending some QT with my little man. Now that I'm not working outside of the home I feel a lot more pressure for the house to be clean and organized and for Brock to be learning and doing creative things like he did at daycare.
Wow, this is really a rambling post, isn't it? Sorry for that! If any of you have any advice on schedules, activities, ideas on how to balance working from home with being a stay at home mom, I would LOVE it! I know we will find what works for us but I would love to hear what has worked for you!
For the record, I tried desperately to combine reading, art, creativity and computer lessons by having him spend yesterday morning reading DIY Blogs with me. Yeah. Didn't work!
Its going to be a cold, wet day and we are looking forward to a relaxing one! I have a 1 1/2 hour kickboxing class this morning (that I need desperately!) and Mikki's daughter Kaleigh is coming to spend the night with us (this kids are coming out of their skin with excitement...apparently she's cool and I'm not!) and Maycen has dance...but other than that it will be a day of movies, football, food and cuddling!
Have a great weekend everyone!
And...of course...GO CYCLONES! Big game today after the heart breaker last week (that I'm still not ready to talk about).
Monday, November 8, 2010
Week(end) Recap & Meal Planning Monday!
Wow. Its only been a week since my last blog, but it feels like much longer!
Last week was crazy with a capital 'C' around the Johnson house. It was my first week of unemployment but Paul was out of town Sunday through Friday and Brock was still in FT daycare, so it seemed more like a week of vacation! Do you ever have those days or weeks where you feel like you got a lot done yet, when you look around, it seems like NOTHING got done. Yeah...that's how it felt! I finished a big DIY project that I had been working on (pictures soon!) for a while, got myhome office corner of the basement set up to be more conducive to working from home and cleaned out the kids closets. BUT, the house didn't get a good cleaning, only half of the laundry got done and my car still looks like I live in it. Oh well, there's always this week, right? Right.
The kids and I were very happy to have Paul home on Friday afternoon! We even snuck in a little "date" of dinner & drinks with some good friends. It was much needed adult time for me after being home alone with the kids all week!
The weekend was a good one, if not heartbreaking. Paul decided to skip the ISU/NU game on Saturday to stay home with the kids, so I headed up to Ames with my dad & Jackie. I'm not ready to actually talk about the game yet...its still too painful. I will say that I am very excited about the things that are happening in Ames and think that the Cyclones football team is in good hands!
Paul had to go back to work on Sunday and apparently nobody informed my kiddos that when we 'fall' back in time, we get to sleep in an extra hour, so we were up bright and early! Maycen had dance and a birthday party in the afternoon so Brock and I ran some errands. When Paul got home from work we headed to Grandma & Grandpa Johnson's house for what may be the last "cookout" of the year before the snow flies! It was a nice way to end the weekend, and I'm pretty sure I ate my weight in Sally's potato bake!
This is the first week of Brock going to daycare only on Mondays and being home with me the rest of the week. It will be an interesting and exciting change! #1 on our To-Do list is potty training. Wish me luck!
Meal Planning Monday:
Monday: Not sure yet (this 'plan isn't off to a very good start). I teach KB at 5:30 so we might just wing it!
Tuesday: Steaks, veggies & potatoes on the grill.
Wednesday: Breakfast for dinner!
Thursday: Some kind of soup...not sure yet.
Friday: Homemade pizza.
Saturday: Sloppy Joe Casserole. Shell pasta, hamburger, spaghetti sauce, cottage cheese in a casserole w/ colby jack shredded cheese on top. Easy peasy!
Sunday: Beef & noodles.
I'm hoping to update you on all of my projects this week! Happy Monday folks! Enjoy these last 2 or 3 days of sunshine and nice temps...I hear there is a chance of flurries next week!
Last week was crazy with a capital 'C' around the Johnson house. It was my first week of unemployment but Paul was out of town Sunday through Friday and Brock was still in FT daycare, so it seemed more like a week of vacation! Do you ever have those days or weeks where you feel like you got a lot done yet, when you look around, it seems like NOTHING got done. Yeah...that's how it felt! I finished a big DIY project that I had been working on (pictures soon!) for a while, got my
The kids and I were very happy to have Paul home on Friday afternoon! We even snuck in a little "date" of dinner & drinks with some good friends. It was much needed adult time for me after being home alone with the kids all week!
The weekend was a good one, if not heartbreaking. Paul decided to skip the ISU/NU game on Saturday to stay home with the kids, so I headed up to Ames with my dad & Jackie. I'm not ready to actually talk about the game yet...its still too painful. I will say that I am very excited about the things that are happening in Ames and think that the Cyclones football team is in good hands!
Paul had to go back to work on Sunday and apparently nobody informed my kiddos that when we 'fall' back in time, we get to sleep in an extra hour, so we were up bright and early! Maycen had dance and a birthday party in the afternoon so Brock and I ran some errands. When Paul got home from work we headed to Grandma & Grandpa Johnson's house for what may be the last "cookout" of the year before the snow flies! It was a nice way to end the weekend, and I'm pretty sure I ate my weight in Sally's potato bake!
This is the first week of Brock going to daycare only on Mondays and being home with me the rest of the week. It will be an interesting and exciting change! #1 on our To-Do list is potty training. Wish me luck!
Meal Planning Monday:
Monday: Not sure yet (this 'plan isn't off to a very good start). I teach KB at 5:30 so we might just wing it!
Tuesday: Steaks, veggies & potatoes on the grill.
Wednesday: Breakfast for dinner!
Thursday: Some kind of soup...not sure yet.
Friday: Homemade pizza.
Saturday: Sloppy Joe Casserole. Shell pasta, hamburger, spaghetti sauce, cottage cheese in a casserole w/ colby jack shredded cheese on top. Easy peasy!
Sunday: Beef & noodles.
I'm hoping to update you on all of my projects this week! Happy Monday folks! Enjoy these last 2 or 3 days of sunshine and nice temps...I hear there is a chance of flurries next week!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Big changes
I am overcome with the strangest feeling this afternoon because, beginning tomorrow there are some big changes happening in the Johnson house and I'm not quite sure how I feel about them.
Effective tomorrow, I am officially unemployed.
I don't want to go into all of the details of the last 6 months, but lets just say that it really comes as no surprise. As a matter of fact, I sort of recommended it. Weird, right? I'm confident that everything will work out exactly as it should, but after having a full time job since I was 18 years old, the fact that I don't have to get up and go to work tomorrow morning, and its not a vacation day, or a holiday, is strange! To add to the surreal feeling, Paul is out of town this week. This is a complete 180 from the norm for us. Usually I am the one traveling for work. This time it was me packing up my hubby and kissing him on the way out the door! It seems odd, but I'm actually looking forward to a week with just me and the kiddos!
This week Brock will still go to day care full time, which gives me a few days to get some things done around the house and ready to have a home office. I will be doing contract marketing work here and there...and Paul's current set-up is anything but creativity inspiring! The week after that I'll officially be a stay at home/work from home mommy!
Effective tomorrow, I am officially unemployed.
I don't want to go into all of the details of the last 6 months, but lets just say that it really comes as no surprise. As a matter of fact, I sort of recommended it. Weird, right? I'm confident that everything will work out exactly as it should, but after having a full time job since I was 18 years old, the fact that I don't have to get up and go to work tomorrow morning, and its not a vacation day, or a holiday, is strange! To add to the surreal feeling, Paul is out of town this week. This is a complete 180 from the norm for us. Usually I am the one traveling for work. This time it was me packing up my hubby and kissing him on the way out the door! It seems odd, but I'm actually looking forward to a week with just me and the kiddos!
This week Brock will still go to day care full time, which gives me a few days to get some things done around the house and ready to have a home office. I will be doing contract marketing work here and there...and Paul's current set-up is anything but creativity inspiring! The week after that I'll officially be a stay at home/work from home mommy!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Bobbies & the Big Cheese
Since I blogged about my stress over getting rid of Brock's "bobbies" (wow, one little typo could make this post a whole lot more entertaining!) I thought I would update everyone on the progress!
Last Saturday night the Bobby Fairy came to our house. I wish I had taken pictures, but then, our camera stinks so they probably wouldn't have turned out anyway! Just before bedtime, we took his 2 bobbies and tied them with some string and hung them from his bedroom door. He understood that the fairy was coming, but still kept asking for them! After a few short minutes, and surprisingly no tears, he gave in and settled to sleep!
The next morning he came in and woke me up showing me the Spiderman figure the Bobby Fairy left him! He was excited about it at first, but like most other toys, after 10 minutes he was over it (I'm so glad the Bobby fairy was smart enough to get the $5 Spiderman instead of the $20 one that her guilt tried to get her to buy!).
It has surprised me how well he has done! He does ask for them every night, and we remind him that the bobby fairy took them and gave them to other babies that need them. He usually responds with something like "and gave me Spiderman" or "because I'm a big boy"...it makes my heart melt!
I'm wondering if the same thing might work with Maycen. Is there such thing as the Thumb Sucking Fairy? Hmmm....might have to think on that some more!
In other news...we have a celebrity in our house this week!
Yesterday Maycen was selected as "The Big Cheese" for her class. It is an award that is given to a child who made good choices, did their homework and all around had a good week the previous one. After struggling a little with talking when she shouldn't be no idea where she gets THAT Maycen worked really hard last week to listen to her teacher and not have to bring any 'oops' slips home. It was nice to see her rewarded for her good behavior! She does understand that each student only gets to be the Big Cheese once, and there is a lot of school year left...hopefully the good behavior continues!
Last Saturday night the Bobby Fairy came to our house. I wish I had taken pictures, but then, our camera stinks so they probably wouldn't have turned out anyway! Just before bedtime, we took his 2 bobbies and tied them with some string and hung them from his bedroom door. He understood that the fairy was coming, but still kept asking for them! After a few short minutes, and surprisingly no tears, he gave in and settled to sleep!
The next morning he came in and woke me up showing me the Spiderman figure the Bobby Fairy left him! He was excited about it at first, but like most other toys, after 10 minutes he was over it (I'm so glad the Bobby fairy was smart enough to get the $5 Spiderman instead of the $20 one that her guilt tried to get her to buy!).
It has surprised me how well he has done! He does ask for them every night, and we remind him that the bobby fairy took them and gave them to other babies that need them. He usually responds with something like "and gave me Spiderman" or "because I'm a big boy"...it makes my heart melt!
I'm wondering if the same thing might work with Maycen. Is there such thing as the Thumb Sucking Fairy? Hmmm....might have to think on that some more!
In other news...we have a celebrity in our house this week!
Yesterday Maycen was selected as "The Big Cheese" for her class. It is an award that is given to a child who made good choices, did their homework and all around had a good week the previous one. After struggling a little with talking when she shouldn't be no idea where she gets THAT Maycen worked really hard last week to listen to her teacher and not have to bring any 'oops' slips home. It was nice to see her rewarded for her good behavior! She does understand that each student only gets to be the Big Cheese once, and there is a lot of school year left...hopefully the good behavior continues!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Meal Planning Monday
Wow, what a weekend! Or more appropriately, what a football game! I can't lie, I'm still basking in the glory of victory. As a Cyclone fan these sorts of wins have been few and far between. To enjoy them in consecutive seasons, well, it really feels like the program is finally moving in the right direction!
Of course, there were another 46 hours and 10 minutes this weekend that did not involve Iowa State beating Texas! That time was spent relaxing, cleaning, playing outside and grocery shopping. My kind of laid back weekend. Good thing too, because the one coming up will be a doozy, packed full of fun events! More on that later in the week!
On this week's menu:
Monday: Left-over chili. We might throw it over some hot dogs or baked potatoes - haven't decided for sure yet.
Tuesday: I'm headed to a reunion dinner with my friends that I graduated with last year, so daddy is on his own. I'm guessing he's headed to Grandma & Grandpa's...or maybe they are coming to our house!
Wednesday: Breakfast for dinner! French toast this week!
Thursday: Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf. I have been dieing (dying? diing?) to try this recipe from my friend Ananda at The Home Diva. Its finally going to be cold enough!
Friday: Paul & I are going to a friend's annual Halloween party Friday night, so the kiddos will either be at a grandparents house or with a sitter!
Saturday: Papa Murphy's Jack-O-Lantern pizza that I will grab on my way back into town from Ames (Go STATE!) and we will pop in the oven after Trick or Treating! I've never had Papa Murphy's before, but here its good!
Sunday: Paul will be leaving us for a week on Sunday afternoon, so it will be just the kiddos and I. Not sure yet what we'll do. I don't think I can get away with breakfast for dinner every night for a week!
Make it a great Monday friends! After today the weather is going to be drastically cooler and fall is definitely in the air!
Of course, there were another 46 hours and 10 minutes this weekend that did not involve Iowa State beating Texas! That time was spent relaxing, cleaning, playing outside and grocery shopping. My kind of laid back weekend. Good thing too, because the one coming up will be a doozy, packed full of fun events! More on that later in the week!
On this week's menu:
Monday: Left-over chili. We might throw it over some hot dogs or baked potatoes - haven't decided for sure yet.
Tuesday: I'm headed to a reunion dinner with my friends that I graduated with last year, so daddy is on his own. I'm guessing he's headed to Grandma & Grandpa's...or maybe they are coming to our house!
Wednesday: Breakfast for dinner! French toast this week!
Thursday: Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf. I have been dieing (dying? diing?) to try this recipe from my friend Ananda at The Home Diva. Its finally going to be cold enough!
Friday: Paul & I are going to a friend's annual Halloween party Friday night, so the kiddos will either be at a grandparents house or with a sitter!
Saturday: Papa Murphy's Jack-O-Lantern pizza that I will grab on my way back into town from Ames (Go STATE!) and we will pop in the oven after Trick or Treating! I've never had Papa Murphy's before, but here its good!
Sunday: Paul will be leaving us for a week on Sunday afternoon, so it will be just the kiddos and I. Not sure yet what we'll do. I don't think I can get away with breakfast for dinner every night for a week!
Make it a great Monday friends! After today the weather is going to be drastically cooler and fall is definitely in the air!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
You're Welcome!
For the second Saturday in a row, the kids and I made Cinnamon Bun Pancakes for breakfast. Seriously people. Cinnamon. Bun. Pancakes. FROM SCRATCH! The only thing I started with in my bowl was flour. No Bisquick, nothing from the freezer...just flour! And, much like last weekend, the kids devoured them! Brock ate 2!!! That might not seem like a big deal to most people, but this is a kid who typically takes one bite of a meal and says "I'm donnnnne" so to see him eat, no inhale, two pancakes is unheard of!
So this morning, as I stood at my electric skillet (they are THE BEST for making pancakes), I wondered to myself "should I share this recipe with thehundreds dozens five people that read my blog"? My first thought was, of course I should! They're my peeps! I love them and want them to enjoy this cinnamonny, mapley goodness. But then the little devil on the other shoulder said "but you know how you like to have a few things in your arsenal cute little recipe box that are your secret recipes that you impress and dazzle with everytime you make them." This went on for hours! Okay, I'm being dramatic. It lasted about 45 seconds until it occurred to me its unlikely any of the hundreds dozens five of you will ever actually be at my house for breakfast. Oh yeah, I also got it from another blog so technically I can't claim it as my own miraculous creation anyway!
So, without further delay, I present to you Cinnamon Bun Pancakes! And the best part...since I did find it on one of my favorite blogs How Does She? I can simply provide all of you with a handy little linky. How cool is that? I don't even have to retype the recipe! I love finding recipes on blogs that I can share with my peeps but can just link to and don't have to retype or rewrite, I'm always afraid I'll mistype one little measurement and the whole thing will be off and you'll think "ewww, why does she think this was so great" and...what's that? Oh right. I promised no further delay! Cinnamon Bun Pancakes & Maple Icing Syrup! You're welcome! (Trust me, you WILL thank me)!
Happy Saturday everyone! Go STATE!!!
So this morning, as I stood at my electric skillet (they are THE BEST for making pancakes), I wondered to myself "should I share this recipe with the
So, without further delay, I present to you Cinnamon Bun Pancakes! And the best part...since I did find it on one of my favorite blogs How Does She? I can simply provide all of you with a handy little linky. How cool is that? I don't even have to retype the recipe! I love finding recipes on blogs that I can share with my peeps but can just link to and don't have to retype or rewrite, I'm always afraid I'll mistype one little measurement and the whole thing will be off and you'll think "ewww, why does she think this was so great" and...what's that? Oh right. I promised no further delay! Cinnamon Bun Pancakes & Maple Icing Syrup! You're welcome! (Trust me, you WILL thank me)!
Happy Saturday everyone! Go STATE!!!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Guess I'll have to make world peace next week.
Well, this week has certainly not gone as planned!
After a wonderfully low-key weekend (that I'd love to tell you about, but just don't have the energy) I had BIG plans for this week. Those plans included:
* Making Halloween costumes for myself, Paul & Maycen (She wants to be a ghost princess. I think I can handle that)
* Really getting going on my dresser, soon to be a buffet for my kitchen, DIY project.
* Cleaning closets and putting away summer clothes for the winter.
* Hitting Goodwill/Salvation Army/garage sales looking for a specific item needed for my next DIY project.
* Picking new paint color options for Maycen's bedroom.
* Take pictures of my finished and beautifully repainted kitchen table, chairs & bar stools to share with thehundreds dozens five of you that read my blog.
* Yummy dinners every night.
* Getting organized at home.
* Getting engaged at work (in my work, not to a person!).
* Fixing the economy.
* Facilitate world peace.
Okay...maybe not those last few...but I did have a lot that I wanted to do this week.
Unfortunately my body had different plans. Monday morning during kickboxing class I hurt my neck.
Thanks to Dr. Mike mywitch doctor chiropractor, I've known for a few months that I have a bad neck. He told me that we would start working on it soon but needed to strengthen my lower back first. Bad neck beat us to the punch! I really thought that if I was going to be hurt this bad I would have some great story about doing back flips or cliff diving or being shot out of a cannon. Nope, I simply turned my head. That's right. I looked to my left, looked straight and POP. I have never been in so. much. pain. (Yes, including labor, though I had an epidural...but it wore off...so does that even count as having one?) I gave in Monday night and had my mommy take me Urgent Care (I couldn't drive and Paul was putting the kids to bed)...she even went into the room with me! Nothing is obviously broken or otherwise out of place. He gave me the good stuff and sent me on my way with instructions to follow up with my regular doc if it wasn't better in a few days. So, for the last 3 days I've done nothing but lay in the recliner and visit the witch doctor chiropractor. I am getting better, but certainly won't be teaching any kickboxing classes (or doing back flips or cliff diving or being shot out of a cannon) in the next few days.
I'm hoping to be off the good stuff today and be able to really assess where I'm at and how I'm feeling without being in a drug induced stupor! In the meantime Paul has been dad & husband of the year, making dinner every night (I'm SO tired of chicken noodle soup!), getting kids ready for bed and school and bringing me ice packs oncommand request. My mom was also a huge help and took Brocky to daycare for me Tuesday morning. Of course, he thinks that should happen every day since they stopped and got donuts on the way!
Have a great rest of the week!
After a wonderfully low-key weekend (that I'd love to tell you about, but just don't have the energy) I had BIG plans for this week. Those plans included:
* Making Halloween costumes for myself, Paul & Maycen (She wants to be a ghost princess. I think I can handle that)
* Really getting going on my dresser, soon to be a buffet for my kitchen, DIY project.
* Cleaning closets and putting away summer clothes for the winter.
* Hitting Goodwill/Salvation Army/garage sales looking for a specific item needed for my next DIY project.
* Picking new paint color options for Maycen's bedroom.
* Take pictures of my finished and beautifully repainted kitchen table, chairs & bar stools to share with the
* Yummy dinners every night.
* Getting organized at home.
* Getting engaged at work (in my work, not to a person!).
* Fixing the economy.
* Facilitate world peace.
Okay...maybe not those last few...but I did have a lot that I wanted to do this week.
Unfortunately my body had different plans. Monday morning during kickboxing class I hurt my neck.
Thanks to Dr. Mike my
I'm hoping to be off the good stuff today and be able to really assess where I'm at and how I'm feeling without being in a drug induced stupor! In the meantime Paul has been dad & husband of the year, making dinner every night (I'm SO tired of chicken noodle soup!), getting kids ready for bed and school and bringing me ice packs on
Have a great rest of the week!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Meal Planning Monday...on a Tuesday!
Well, yesterday certainly got away from me! I was home with Maycen. Is it just me or do "kids these days" seem like they have the day off from school a TON! Unfortunately Mayce was fighting a tummy ache and, despite trying desperately to play outside with some friends, ended up in bed for much of the afternoon and evening. She woke up this morning and very convincingly told me that her tummy was "feeling better...and I'm not just saying that because its music day"...I'm crossing my fingers I don't get a call from the school nurse!
We had a fantastic weekend that I'll tell you all about tomorrow!
Monday: I tried a new recipe. It wasn't good. I won't even bother telling you about it!
Tuesday: I don't know. Really. I haven't even thought about it until this moment. Any suggestions?
Wednesday: Breakfast for dinner! This is becoming a little tradition and the kids love it. Most weeks Paul is working so its just me and the munchkins but Paul has tomorrow night off so he'll get to take part! I'm thinking chocolate chip pancakes this week!
Thursday: Steaks on the grill, pasta salad, asparagus! I am getting a little tired of the grill, but I know before too long I'll be wishing we could get to it through all of the snow...so I'm taking advantage of it!
Friday: Free for all since I teach kickboxing at 6:30
Saturday: Beefburgers (ground beef & chicken gumbo) & french fries
Sunday: Spaghetti
Happy Tuesday!
We had a fantastic weekend that I'll tell you all about tomorrow!
Monday: I tried a new recipe. It wasn't good. I won't even bother telling you about it!
Tuesday: I don't know. Really. I haven't even thought about it until this moment. Any suggestions?
Wednesday: Breakfast for dinner! This is becoming a little tradition and the kids love it. Most weeks Paul is working so its just me and the munchkins but Paul has tomorrow night off so he'll get to take part! I'm thinking chocolate chip pancakes this week!
Thursday: Steaks on the grill, pasta salad, asparagus! I am getting a little tired of the grill, but I know before too long I'll be wishing we could get to it through all of the snow...so I'm taking advantage of it!
Friday: Free for all since I teach kickboxing at 6:30
Saturday: Beefburgers (ground beef & chicken gumbo) & french fries
Sunday: Spaghetti
Happy Tuesday!
Friday, October 8, 2010
From Pier 1 to Pottery Barn
So, I've been stalking Blogland. I can't lie. I spend too many hours a week reading the blogs of very talented frugal decorators. And...I've been inspired.
I don't know if our home has a "style". I asked my mom this morning what she thought it was. Her response was "temporary". You mean contemporary? "No, temporary...because you change it so much!" Obviously I get my sense of humor from her...haha. What-ev!
Anywhoo...between the blog-stalking, a trip into Pottery Barn (I only rubbed the Fisherman's Knit blanket on my face for a second...I SWEAR), and the PB catalog that I perused this morning at thewitch doctor chiropractor, I have decided that I want to makeover my house. Right now it is very Pier 1. There is nothing wrong with Pier 1. I love Pier 1 as evidenced by the fact that several of them know my name when I walk in! But I'm ready for the warm, rustic, sort of country, sort of modern feel of Pottery Barn.
The problem is my budget, or lack thereof.
So....what's a girl to do? Live with her temporary style, or take on a house full of frugal DIY projects? Why, the latter of course!
So, here is my list of to-dos. I'd like to have everything done byChristmas Easter:
* Paint table, chairs & barstools black. Check! Well, sort of. I need to finish the barstools, so we'll call it a chec without the 'k' for now!
* Paint/repurpose Salvation Army dresser ($20 SCORE) into buffet for kitchen. I'm SO excited about this project!
* Paint bedroom furniture. Paul is actually on board (well, he said "I can't stop you, can I?" so I'm counting that as an all-in). I'm thinking a mocha color!
* Paint bedroom walls.
* Find cheap coffee table to turn into ottoman for living room. I actually think I saw one at Salvation Army...hoping its still there!
* Paint living room sofa table, end table & shelves a cream/off white color??? I'm not for sure on this one. I love the blue we recently painted the living room, and I don't think I want to change it, but I'd like to lighten up the room. We'll see.
* Paint the basement and give it an overall "warmer" feel. Right now it is a poor excuse for a sports theme...I think I'll stick with the theme but try to take it a little further!
Along the way I will watch CL, Goodwill, Salvation Army, garage sales, etc for chotchkies (chatchkies?) I can pick up to add to the feel. I'm really excited to take this on and can't wait to see how it all comes together!
Have a great weekend! Go State! I predict the Cyclones surprise Utah and win by 10! That's right, you heard it hear first folks!
Of course, I'll edit this post first thing Sunday morning if they lose!
[Totally unrelated]PS.: Have you heard Carrie Underwood's new song "Mamas Song" (I think that's what its called). Its on right now. I can't begin to tell you how much I love this song. It makes me think of my hubby and smile every time. He is good!
I don't know if our home has a "style". I asked my mom this morning what she thought it was. Her response was "temporary". You mean contemporary? "No, temporary...because you change it so much!" Obviously I get my sense of humor from her...haha. What-ev!
Anywhoo...between the blog-stalking, a trip into Pottery Barn (I only rubbed the Fisherman's Knit blanket on my face for a second...I SWEAR), and the PB catalog that I perused this morning at the
The problem is my budget, or lack thereof.
So....what's a girl to do? Live with her temporary style, or take on a house full of frugal DIY projects? Why, the latter of course!
So, here is my list of to-dos. I'd like to have everything done by
* Paint table, chairs & barstools black. Check! Well, sort of. I need to finish the barstools, so we'll call it a chec without the 'k' for now!
* Paint/repurpose Salvation Army dresser ($20 SCORE) into buffet for kitchen. I'm SO excited about this project!
* Paint bedroom furniture. Paul is actually on board (well, he said "I can't stop you, can I?" so I'm counting that as an all-in). I'm thinking a mocha color!
* Paint bedroom walls.
* Find cheap coffee table to turn into ottoman for living room. I actually think I saw one at Salvation Army...hoping its still there!
* Paint living room sofa table, end table & shelves a cream/off white color??? I'm not for sure on this one. I love the blue we recently painted the living room, and I don't think I want to change it, but I'd like to lighten up the room. We'll see.
* Paint the basement and give it an overall "warmer" feel. Right now it is a poor excuse for a sports theme...I think I'll stick with the theme but try to take it a little further!
Along the way I will watch CL, Goodwill, Salvation Army, garage sales, etc for chotchkies (chatchkies?) I can pick up to add to the feel. I'm really excited to take this on and can't wait to see how it all comes together!
Have a great weekend! Go State! I predict the Cyclones surprise Utah and win by 10! That's right, you heard it hear first folks!
Of course, I'll edit this post first thing Sunday morning if they lose!
[Totally unrelated]PS.: Have you heard Carrie Underwood's new song "Mamas Song" (I think that's what its called). Its on right now. I can't begin to tell you how much I love this song. It makes me think of my hubby and smile every time. He is good!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Pitter patter of little feet
NO. I am NOT pregnant. Don't freak out (talking to you mom!).
No, the little feet doing the pittering pattering is Brock. Before dawn. This morning. And yesterday. And Monday...
Most people who know me know that I get upevery day most days at around 3:45 to workout. I'm usually home by around 5:30ish. One of the reasons that I do this, even on days when it isn't necessary for our schedule, is because I really, really, really enjoy my morning quiet time. Sometimes I doze off in the chair or go soak in a hot bath, but most mornings I just sit under a blanket with the fireplace on (and the window open, because it makes sense), cup of coffee in hand and catch up on my DVRed shows. Its quiet. Its peaceful. Its my time.
So, why am I telling you this?
About 3 months ago we changed Brock's crib to a toddler bed. We worried that he wouldn't stay put, or would be up and running around the house all hours of the night. So, we were pleasantly surprised to find that, not only did he still go to bed (and stay there) like a dream, but in the mornings it was like it never occurred to him that he could get out of his bed/room on his own. When he woke up he would call for me to come and get him. I always assumed that he probably woke up really early and maybe even called for me to come get him, but when he got no response and realized the rest of the house was still quiet, he would doze back off until 7:00 or so.
I was right.
Last week he realized that, not only could he get out of his own bed in the morning, he could open his door, leave his room, wake the entire house up...all before 6:30am! For the last few mornings I've heard from him sometime between 6:15 and 6:45. Not too bad really, especially since its weekdays and we need to leave by 7 anyhow. But this morning...as I was tip-toeing around the kitchen, brewing coffee and poaching my eggs....I heard the very recognizable 'thud' of him jumping out of his bed. Then the doorknob turned. I heard his little feet run into our bedroom where he obviously found my side of the bed empty. I listened as he sputtered down the hallway, making a brief pause at his sister's door. Finding Sissy still sleeping, he continued on to the stairs and down he came. He came running into the kitchen, clearly very proud of himself!
"Mommy, why is it dark outside"
"Because its very early Buddy, you should probably still be in bed, you are going to be very tired later."
"But mommy.....I want to cuddle you...."
As we settled into the chair, under a blanket, fireplace on, coffee in hand (for me, not Brock!) all I could think was...I will give up my morning quiet time every. single. day. if this is what I trade it for!
No, the little feet doing the pittering pattering is Brock. Before dawn. This morning. And yesterday. And Monday...
Most people who know me know that I get up
So, why am I telling you this?
About 3 months ago we changed Brock's crib to a toddler bed. We worried that he wouldn't stay put, or would be up and running around the house all hours of the night. So, we were pleasantly surprised to find that, not only did he still go to bed (and stay there) like a dream, but in the mornings it was like it never occurred to him that he could get out of his bed/room on his own. When he woke up he would call for me to come and get him. I always assumed that he probably woke up really early and maybe even called for me to come get him, but when he got no response and realized the rest of the house was still quiet, he would doze back off until 7:00 or so.
I was right.
Last week he realized that, not only could he get out of his own bed in the morning, he could open his door, leave his room, wake the entire house up...all before 6:30am! For the last few mornings I've heard from him sometime between 6:15 and 6:45. Not too bad really, especially since its weekdays and we need to leave by 7 anyhow. But this morning...as I was tip-toeing around the kitchen, brewing coffee and poaching my eggs....I heard the very recognizable 'thud' of him jumping out of his bed. Then the doorknob turned. I heard his little feet run into our bedroom where he obviously found my side of the bed empty. I listened as he sputtered down the hallway, making a brief pause at his sister's door. Finding Sissy still sleeping, he continued on to the stairs and down he came. He came running into the kitchen, clearly very proud of himself!
"Mommy, why is it dark outside"
"Because its very early Buddy, you should probably still be in bed, you are going to be very tired later."
"But mommy.....I want to cuddle you...."
As we settled into the chair, under a blanket, fireplace on, coffee in hand (for me, not Brock!) all I could think was...I will give up my morning quiet time every. single. day. if this is what I trade it for!
Monday, October 4, 2010
Weekend Wrap-Up & Meal Planning Monday
Every Sunday evening since I started writing this, my intentions have been to log on and write a weekend wrap-up. Instead, I have put the kiddos to bed, put on my comfy pants, turned on the fireplace....and fallen asleep at about 8:45! Last night was no exception, so another combo blog will have to do!
Happy Birthday Paul!
Thursday was Paul's 38th birthday! I know. I don't think I'm old enough to be married to someone who is almost 40 either! He enjoyed the day at a golf outing for work, and that night his mom and dad treated us to Old Chicago pizza!
Friday.
Paul and I both had the day off so we got Mayc off to school and Brocky to daycare for the day. We went shopping and had lunch together. It was a nice day and I enjoyed the alone time with my hubby...especially since it wasn't spent painting or cleaning! [Side note: if you have any old gold you want to sell/get rid of, go see The Gold Guys at Jordan Creek Mall. I took a few things in, thought I might get $40/$50 (based on previous experience)...I was wrong. $278 later I walked out of the mall with more money than I entered with. That NEVER happens! If you go see them, let them know I sent you!]
Saturday.
Paul had the day off and, bless his heart, he got to spend the entire day with the kids practically by himself! I had about 3 hours worth of kickboxing training in the morning and came home just long enough to shower and get ready to head up to Ames for the Cyclones game. I think they had a good day...Grandma & Grandpa Johnson came over for the night to help/make dinner! I had a GREAT time at the football game, and the 52-38 victory didn't hurt...best game I've seen at Jack Trice since the 2005 Iowa game!
Sunday.
Brock and I headed down to Rathbun for Grandma's 84th birthday party! It was a beautiful day for a drive and Brocky had a great time playing with his cousins and Grandpa Peanut. Maycen and Paul stayed home so she could go to dance - it was a big day - they were getting their trampolines!!! Brock and I got home around 5:45 and after a quick dinner of mac n cheese, both kids were in bed by 7:30. As previously mentioned, I was asleep shortly after!
It was a wonderful weekend with glorious weather! Its always nice to have Paul home for the weekends, even if we don't really spend them together!
Meal Planning Monday!
Monday: Lasagna Soup w/ garlic bread (YUMMO!)
Tuesday: Grilled sausage or bratwurst w/ bacon, cabbage & noodles.
I have no idea what this is called. My mother in law made it several years ago and I LOVED it! It is one of those things that I've thought about making a hundred times, but always forgot to ask her for the recipe..until the other night.
Wednesday: Left-overs from Tuesday!
Thursday: Bierocks (using left over cabbage from Tuesday!)
Friday: Tomato Soup, grilled cheese.
Saturday: Daddy is on his own again as I'll be headed to Ames. For the record, I DO invite him to come to games with me...he opts out!
Sunday: Homemade chicken & noodles (since we didn't have it this week!)
It is going to be another picture perfect week! Make it a great one!
Oooohhhh....the "Bobbie Fairy" will probably be visiting tonight to take away the paci. Wish us luck!
Happy Birthday Paul!
Thursday was Paul's 38th birthday! I know. I don't think I'm old enough to be married to someone who is almost 40 either! He enjoyed the day at a golf outing for work, and that night his mom and dad treated us to Old Chicago pizza!
Friday.
Paul and I both had the day off so we got Mayc off to school and Brocky to daycare for the day. We went shopping and had lunch together. It was a nice day and I enjoyed the alone time with my hubby...especially since it wasn't spent painting or cleaning! [Side note: if you have any old gold you want to sell/get rid of, go see The Gold Guys at Jordan Creek Mall. I took a few things in, thought I might get $40/$50 (based on previous experience)...I was wrong. $278 later I walked out of the mall with more money than I entered with. That NEVER happens! If you go see them, let them know I sent you!]
Saturday.
Paul had the day off and, bless his heart, he got to spend the entire day with the kids practically by himself! I had about 3 hours worth of kickboxing training in the morning and came home just long enough to shower and get ready to head up to Ames for the Cyclones game. I think they had a good day...Grandma & Grandpa Johnson came over for the night to help/make dinner! I had a GREAT time at the football game, and the 52-38 victory didn't hurt...best game I've seen at Jack Trice since the 2005 Iowa game!
Sunday.
Brock and I headed down to Rathbun for Grandma's 84th birthday party! It was a beautiful day for a drive and Brocky had a great time playing with his cousins and Grandpa Peanut. Maycen and Paul stayed home so she could go to dance - it was a big day - they were getting their trampolines!!! Brock and I got home around 5:45 and after a quick dinner of mac n cheese, both kids were in bed by 7:30. As previously mentioned, I was asleep shortly after!
It was a wonderful weekend with glorious weather! Its always nice to have Paul home for the weekends, even if we don't really spend them together!
Meal Planning Monday!
Monday: Lasagna Soup w/ garlic bread (YUMMO!)
Tuesday: Grilled sausage or bratwurst w/ bacon, cabbage & noodles.
I have no idea what this is called. My mother in law made it several years ago and I LOVED it! It is one of those things that I've thought about making a hundred times, but always forgot to ask her for the recipe..until the other night.
Wednesday: Left-overs from Tuesday!
Thursday: Bierocks (using left over cabbage from Tuesday!)
Friday: Tomato Soup, grilled cheese.
Saturday: Daddy is on his own again as I'll be headed to Ames. For the record, I DO invite him to come to games with me...he opts out!
Sunday: Homemade chicken & noodles (since we didn't have it this week!)
It is going to be another picture perfect week! Make it a great one!
Oooohhhh....the "Bobbie Fairy" will probably be visiting tonight to take away the paci. Wish us luck!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Bye Bye "Bobbies"
I'm about to share a secret that happens every night in our home. With the exception of a few people, nobody knows about this secret, but I feel like the only way we can fix this is if we talk about it. You can't fix what you don't acknowledge (said in my best Dr. Phil voice) right?
Brock is a pacifier man.
There. I said it. My 3 year old son still uses a pacifier every night.
I know. I know. This is bad. We need to stop him. We need to break this habit. He CAN'T GO ON LIKE THIS. We tried doing it slowly. For about a year he has only used his "bobby" (as he calls it) at night. We kept saying "One of these days we'll get rid of it. One of these days, we'll just 'lose' it". But sadly, we continue to enable him. And in the last few weeks its gotten worse. Now he asks for it in the morning. He asks for it when he gets home from daycare. He has actually stacked chairs on top of toys on top of pillows to climb and get it off of his dresser while playing in his room. He is out. of. control.
This morning I told him that "bobby" was going to have to go bye-bye. He asked me in his cute little 3 year old boice (that would be a 'boy voice'...it started as a typo, but I kind of like it) "but wwwwwwhyyyyyy mommy". I thought quick "because the baby bunnies out back need them". He very quickly and clearly told me that they did NOT need HIS bobby..."they...can get...their own"!!!! Apparently we also need to work on sharing.
Since Maycen is a thumb-sucker I don't know how to do this. Obviously I can't cut her thumb off (right? right.) so we are just constantly trying to remind her, but I don't think that is going to work with Brock. Is it best to go cold turkey? Do we have aintervention bye-bye bobby party? Cut them down until there is nothing left? I need help people!!!!
Brock is a pacifier man.
There. I said it. My 3 year old son still uses a pacifier every night.
I know. I know. This is bad. We need to stop him. We need to break this habit. He CAN'T GO ON LIKE THIS. We tried doing it slowly. For about a year he has only used his "bobby" (as he calls it) at night. We kept saying "One of these days we'll get rid of it. One of these days, we'll just 'lose' it". But sadly, we continue to enable him. And in the last few weeks its gotten worse. Now he asks for it in the morning. He asks for it when he gets home from daycare. He has actually stacked chairs on top of toys on top of pillows to climb and get it off of his dresser while playing in his room. He is out. of. control.
This morning I told him that "bobby" was going to have to go bye-bye. He asked me in his cute little 3 year old boice (that would be a 'boy voice'...it started as a typo, but I kind of like it) "but wwwwwwhyyyyyy mommy". I thought quick "because the baby bunnies out back need them". He very quickly and clearly told me that they did NOT need HIS bobby..."they...can get...their own"!!!! Apparently we also need to work on sharing.
Since Maycen is a thumb-sucker I don't know how to do this. Obviously I can't cut her thumb off (right? right.) so we are just constantly trying to remind her, but I don't think that is going to work with Brock. Is it best to go cold turkey? Do we have a
Monday, September 27, 2010
Meal Planning Monday!
Happy Monday everyone!
I had a big long "Weekend Wrap-Up & Meal Planning Monday" blog written...then my computer went nutso! So, here is the short version of the weekend wrap-up:
We love love LOVE this cooler weather. The kids ate doughnuts. Iowa State won! Maycen thinks because mom & maid both start with an 'M' they are interchangable. And....yesterday I let Brock eat nearly an entire box of Lucky Charms so that I could clean the laundry room, pantry, junk drawer and cupboards. Whew...
Meal Planning Monday:
Monday: Left-over lasagna! Its better the second day, right?
Tuesday: Grilled steaks & asparagus, pasta salad.
Wednesday: Paul will be home! I'm thinking the Chicken, ranch & rice soup I've been trying to make for 2 weeks now!
Thursday: Paul's birthday so his choice!
Friday: Tacos
Saturday: I'll be at the ISU vs. Texas Tech football game, so daddyis on his own again will call Grandma Sally and she'll fix something!
Sunday: Homemade Chicken & Noodles
I am SO excited! We are getting family pictures taken tonight. I found Allison through my friend Missy and I am beyond thrilled to have her take some pictures of us tonight! That reminds me...I need to stop by the store forbribes treats for the kids!
I had a big long "Weekend Wrap-Up & Meal Planning Monday" blog written...then my computer went nutso! So, here is the short version of the weekend wrap-up:
We love love LOVE this cooler weather. The kids ate doughnuts. Iowa State won! Maycen thinks because mom & maid both start with an 'M' they are interchangable. And....yesterday I let Brock eat nearly an entire box of Lucky Charms so that I could clean the laundry room, pantry, junk drawer and cupboards. Whew...
Meal Planning Monday:
Monday: Left-over lasagna! Its better the second day, right?
Tuesday: Grilled steaks & asparagus, pasta salad.
Wednesday: Paul will be home! I'm thinking the Chicken, ranch & rice soup I've been trying to make for 2 weeks now!
Thursday: Paul's birthday so his choice!
Friday: Tacos
Saturday: I'll be at the ISU vs. Texas Tech football game, so daddy
Sunday: Homemade Chicken & Noodles
I am SO excited! We are getting family pictures taken tonight. I found Allison through my friend Missy and I am beyond thrilled to have her take some pictures of us tonight! That reminds me...I need to stop by the store for
Thursday, September 23, 2010
I Want My EEEEESSSSSSSPPPPPPPPNNNNNNN
Before you read any further, please re-read the title...but this time, read it to the tune of the 80's song "I want my Mtv". Did you do it? I'll wait! There. Now you may proceed!
Paul and I have debt. We have more debt than we'd like. We haven't significantly added to it in a few years, which I'm proud of. While I'd like to whine about how everything is so expensive (nearly $1,000/month on daycare...yeesh!) really the bottom line is that for a long time we wanted stuff. Admittedly I am the main offender in the house. I promise you that I could find a way to justify buying a 3rd car, boat, condo, pet tiger (seriously, doesn't every little boy want a pet tiger?), backyard cage for the pet tiger...you get the idea.
A few years ago I stumbled across this man and his Total Money Makeover. I was inspired and got very gung-ho about getting rid of our debt. For about a week. Actually, it was longer than that...but like anything else, if you only do it halfway, eventually you are going to NOT be doing it halfway. Off and on over the last 2-3 years I get very strict with our spending, then get lapse, then get strict again...which brings me to the point of this post. I know, its about time, right?!
On Monday of this week Paul and I made one of the best decisions we have ever made for our financial health. I won't get into what it was, lets just say it was a very adult (gasp!) thing to do! That lit the fire. I've jumped back into the Total Money Makeover pool, and I am swimming for dear life! I've spent a lot of time this week figuring out what bills we can trim down ($165 cell phone bill for 2 people? Ridic!) and where we can squeeze extra pennies to put toward paying off our debt! Paul is very supportive in a "you just tell me if I need to do something" sort of way. After analyzing our bills, the first one that I must get rid of is our $200 cable/inet/phone bundle. That is just crazy...we don't watch THAT much TV! I had, what I thought, was a stroke of genius. This stroke of genius prompted several calls to my dear husband yesterday, they went a little something like this:
S: "Honey, I called Qwest. We can get phone/inet/DirectTV for $130 for first 6 months."
P: "Hmmm, what is their internet speed?"
S: "I don't know, does it matter?"
P: "Yeah, I need the higher speed for 'gaming'."
S: "I am NOT going to pay $70 more per month just so you can have a better experience playing your video games."
P: "But...."
S: "Can you still play if the internet is a little slower?"
P: "Yes, but...."
S: "That's all that matters. We'll talk about it more tonight. Goodbye."
That went pretty well, might as well push my luck!
(later in the afternoon)
S: "So, honey, I have an idea that will allow us to save even more on our cable bill."
P: "What's that?"
S: "Lets completely get rid of cable and sign up for Netflix. Its only $8.99/month."
P: "Huh?"
S: "Seriously. We'll still get 5, 8, 11, 13, Fox. We can watch our "shows" on the computer and stream our HBO shows through Netflix after they come out on DVD."
P: "Huh?"
S: "We'd still have a home phone and internet."
P: "Are you serious?"
S: "Very."
P: "But...what about ESPN?"
That's when it hit me how completely absurd I was being. Its a good thing for Paul that his wife loves football as much as he does!
Paul and I have debt. We have more debt than we'd like. We haven't significantly added to it in a few years, which I'm proud of. While I'd like to whine about how everything is so expensive (nearly $1,000/month on daycare...yeesh!) really the bottom line is that for a long time we wanted stuff. Admittedly I am the main offender in the house. I promise you that I could find a way to justify buying a 3rd car, boat, condo, pet tiger (seriously, doesn't every little boy want a pet tiger?), backyard cage for the pet tiger...you get the idea.
A few years ago I stumbled across this man and his Total Money Makeover. I was inspired and got very gung-ho about getting rid of our debt. For about a week. Actually, it was longer than that...but like anything else, if you only do it halfway, eventually you are going to NOT be doing it halfway. Off and on over the last 2-3 years I get very strict with our spending, then get lapse, then get strict again...which brings me to the point of this post. I know, its about time, right?!
On Monday of this week Paul and I made one of the best decisions we have ever made for our financial health. I won't get into what it was, lets just say it was a very adult (gasp!) thing to do! That lit the fire. I've jumped back into the Total Money Makeover pool, and I am swimming for dear life! I've spent a lot of time this week figuring out what bills we can trim down ($165 cell phone bill for 2 people? Ridic!) and where we can squeeze extra pennies to put toward paying off our debt! Paul is very supportive in a "you just tell me if I need to do something" sort of way. After analyzing our bills, the first one that I must get rid of is our $200 cable/inet/phone bundle. That is just crazy...we don't watch THAT much TV! I had, what I thought, was a stroke of genius. This stroke of genius prompted several calls to my dear husband yesterday, they went a little something like this:
S: "Honey, I called Qwest. We can get phone/inet/DirectTV for $130 for first 6 months."
P: "Hmmm, what is their internet speed?"
S: "I don't know, does it matter?"
P: "Yeah, I need the higher speed for 'gaming'."
S: "I am NOT going to pay $70 more per month just so you can have a better experience playing your video games."
P: "But...."
S: "Can you still play if the internet is a little slower?"
P: "Yes, but...."
S: "That's all that matters. We'll talk about it more tonight. Goodbye."
That went pretty well, might as well push my luck!
(later in the afternoon)
S: "So, honey, I have an idea that will allow us to save even more on our cable bill."
P: "What's that?"
S: "Lets completely get rid of cable and sign up for Netflix. Its only $8.99/month."
P: "Huh?"
S: "Seriously. We'll still get 5, 8, 11, 13, Fox. We can watch our "shows" on the computer and stream our HBO shows through Netflix after they come out on DVD."
P: "Huh?"
S: "We'd still have a home phone and internet."
P: "Are you serious?"
S: "Very."
P: "But...what about ESPN?"
That's when it hit me how completely absurd I was being. Its a good thing for Paul that his wife loves football as much as he does!
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