Saving For a Rainy Day

Fallen Leaves

2010-01-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

Part two from yesterday's post. Before decorating cookies, the kids got to feed the neighbor's horse, went for a walk, and played with the leaves.

We found out that too many apples will make the horse go poop.

We tried getting all three of them together for pics, but that's near impossible!

It was a good, full day for all.

Decorating Cookies

2010-01-06T14:06:00.003-07:00

Here are a few pics from before Christmas. Sarah came down for a visit and her and Auntie Lena were kind enough to put on a cookie decorating get together for the kids.

As you can see, the kids took their decorating very seriously.

Lot's of different colors were available as well as sprinkles.

Rhys' cookies look like abstract art.

Here is Bean enjoying her hard work.

Mmmm.

Princess Dragon Fighter

2009-12-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

A couple nights ago Bean wanted to put on her princess costume. OK...no problem. Then I hear her yelling at the "jellyfish" and she comes running to me and tells me how the dragon tried to get her.

I told her to watch out for that dragon! Then off she runs and there's more screaming. Then she runs back to me yelling "dragon" and after her comes Sid (the cat) running after her! They are too much! Come to find out, I'm allergic to cats...but how could I get rid of her now?

Dance Recital

2009-12-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you: Uncle Matt, Auntie Sharon, Grandma, Grandpa L, Grandpa C, Auntie Deborah, and Uncle Philip for coming!

Saturday was Lola's first dance performance. They had the room set up with chairs and gave the girls tutus.

The kids didn't really perform anything special, it was more a day to take pictures and see what they have learned. I think she did really well, but I'm bias.

First Christmas Present

2009-12-21T13:21:00.003-07:00

I just LOVE those eyes!

So Beanie's first gift is from Ginger...she'll probably become Auntie Ginger as she gets older...you can never have too many Aunties. Anyway, Bean couldn't wait and Ginger asked that she open it right away anyway.

It took a while but she finally found the gift!

She looks absolutely gorgeous in it. So she now has a Christmas dress to wear to Grandma & Grandpa's house on Christmas Day. Thanks Ginger!!

Thanks Grandma

2009-12-02T12:02:00.005-07:00

Post two today. Quick pic and video.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-12-02T11:58:00.003-07:00

I know it's already December, but I didn't get around to to wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

Here's a pic of Bean with the Pilgrim hat she made for the special day.

This Morning

2009-11-18T12:55:00.003-07:00

Happy Wednesday! It really is happy because I feel so good...and it's about time! So I carry my camera around with me everywhere, and as I was talking to Bean on the way to school, I thought "I need a pic of you today." So here she is - her "baby" toy in hand for Show and Tell.

She was telling me all about her toy this morning. "Daddy got for me at Target. It's a giraffe. Orange...blue...yellow. Only babies bite them, but not me. I'm a big girl." I hope her show-n-tell goes well today. I packed her some Cheetos to share with the class...you know, soften up the crowd and they're likely to be nice.

It's Already November!

2009-11-11T15:31:00.005-07:00

I can't get over how fast time is going by. Well, I've been sick...yet again...I feel like I'm always sick. I actually got the swine flu, was in the hospital in decontamination, and anyone who was in contact with me was covered head to toe in either paper or rubber. It was quite the experience. So I caught that in October and believe it or not, I'm still not done with it. Anyway, I have pics to share (better late than never right?):

So the Bolyard's were nice enough to have dinner and cake with us on our anniversary in September.

Here is Beanie brushing her teeth. She has crazy morning eyes just like her mama. I hope to post more pics soon.

I Messed This One Up!

2009-09-30T10:50:00.001-06:00

So our anniversary was this weekend and let me tell ya...I am the "bad gift giver" in our relationship. I've heard lots of stories of horrible birthday/Christmas/Anniversary gifts from husbands, but in my house, I'm the one who is clueless. I didn't even make a card!

Jay got me two wonderful and thoughtful gifts.

I was really touched. He gave me a card that was so loving and he said "I was nervous about the card because yours are so much better than whats on the shelves." Awwww. So what did I get him? A tool. I don't even know what the tool does, but I noticed him eyeing it at Home Depot. A tool. He said he liked it and really wanted it, then said "where's my card?" Wow...I felt just horrible!

Tonight I'm going to surprise him with this:

It's a long card that I cased from Tracy. Her card is absolutely adorable!

I hope he likes it and that it will make up for my awful anniversary gift.

Mmmm...Donuts

2009-09-25T11:06:00.004-06:00

So Jay took my Ma and William to the airport this morning at 5:30am. They are on their way to a wedding and to visit Michael and family. Well, "Daddy" surprised us with donuts for breakfast!

Bean's favorite is chocolate covered (not with sprinkles). After Dora, she was excited about having this treat.

My baby looks so blanca! I need to put her out in the sun.

First Day of Dance Class

2009-09-17T12:45:00.002-06:00

So today was Bean's first day at dance class. It's sort of a "Mommy and Me" class that Grandma thought would be fun. Well, it's a work out I tell ya!

I know I'm bias, but I think she did really well. We sang, danced, used different "props," ran through something similar to one of those Pure Breed Dog show courses, and played musical instruments. I'm not sure why, but other parents are amazed when Bean counts, repeats words, or says her ABC's. Heck, one grandma there was amazed that she's potty trained. Hmmm...well, she is already two.

Big Girl Panties

2009-09-08T14:28:00.004-06:00

This weekend I was going through a few things and decided to finally pack up all of Beans diapers. She's been officially potty trained for a couple months now. We actually tried right after her 2nd birthday and she was doing really well until our vacation to Kansas in June. When we returned, we gave it a couple weeks and started again.

She took to it really quick and didn't even want to use those fancy Pull-Ups. Nope. I was getting her ready for school one day and she broke down crying because she didn't want to wear a pull-up. She wanted to wear "big girl panties." I thought, OK, why not, and took plenty of extra clothes. Since then, no more diapers. So here's a pic of her on her diapers that are ready to be put away (yes, we used cloth diapers for 2 years straight - and I can tell you, they were super easy and economical. I would recommend them to anyone).

Black Widow

2009-09-02T15:46:00.004-06:00

Sunday evening I was going through my flower garden and pulling weeds. I felt a little prick and thought it was a sticker, so I moved my hand a bit and continued to pull out the weed. Along with the weed was a black widow spider. I didn't think much about it. Actually, what I did think was "that was close, I could have been bitten."

I killed the little guy and continued with my gardening. Around 15 minutes later I went to Jay and said "I might have been bitten by a black widow." I ran down my story and added "I can't feel my arm." He starts a google search about what to do in cases of a bite when I say "it's at my shoulder....it hurts...it's burning!" From there, the night just got worse.

They took me in really quick at the emergency room and drugged me up (morphine was on the long list of drugs I was given). Basically I was under watch to make sure I didn't stop breathing and heavily drugged so I could sleep through the most painful part. I was sent home the next morning with strong meds in hand. I don't remember much of that night or Monday. Tuesday was better, but still lots of pain. I'm still getting back to my ol' self, but the aches are hard to ignore.

All I can say is, it was fortunate I saw the spider in the first place. I could have gone on thinking it was a sticker that poked me and not have had anything to tell the doctors.

Thank you to all of you who called Jay to check up on me. With my mojo, we're increasing my insurance for accidental death.

New Park

2009-08-26T11:06:00.004-06:00

So we've been going to this park for a few weeks now. I've noticed it leaving the university and always thought "this is well maintained, shaded, lots of kids with parents." So far, we've had good times.

There are several slides, and what I really like is the parent involvement.

I don't understand how at some places, well, like the McDonald's playland for example, how parents don't watch their children.

Some would say "wow, that kid is mean" but I say "wow, I can't believe that parent allows their child to behave that way." A child is a child and needs direction. The parent is the adult who should help the child grow, learn, and be respectful. Doesn't every parent want a child to grow up to be a success? It's not a guarantee, but we need to do our part and stop blaming others for our child's behavior.

Throwing Rocks

2009-08-26T11:02:00.001-06:00

Jay taught Lola to throw rocks. Yeah, that's all I need.

Catwalk

2009-08-17T15:21:00.004-06:00

Just a few pics from our recent hike at the Catwalk.

The Catwalk at the Gila National Forest has several bridges plus one suspension bridge. There is one area that was difficult to get to so the bridge was brought in by helicopter.

This was made by a volcano. Not the normal, explode in your face kind, but more of an underground type that shifted and moved the rocks.

Some of these were really scary - at least to me. You can see right through the bridge to your death down below. Notice the height of the walls.

You can hear the water the entire hike (1.1 miles each direction).

It takes around 3-4 hours from Albuquerque to get here, but it's worth a trip.

It's a Zoo Out There

2009-08-13T16:38:00.004-06:00

On Saturday, Bean and I went to the Zoo. It was a really nice day, and we got to see a few animals.

The polar bears are always a favorite. Well, polar bear...singular. Hopefully they will get another one in there some day soon.

This time I remembered to bring quarters for the fish food machine.

This guy was all over the place! He wasn't shy at all.

Park Interviews

2009-08-03T14:17:00.007-06:00

So this weekend, we had a not so good experience at McDonald's. Now, I'm not a big fan of the food, but we go so Bean can play in the jungle gym. I've mentioned before that she's not one to really defend herself, and on Friday she got pushed around and ended up crying and really scared. So, being the "mom" that I am, I said "we're not going back there again! Those kids are nothing but animals!"

So Saturday, we found this park and had a pretty good time. I've been noticing parks lately, so there are a few more we need to try out. This one didn't have enough shade but it had two really cool slides. We're not going back to McDonald's till Bean gets her black belt!

New Clip Hair

2009-07-27T15:40:00.003-06:00

Hello! How was everyone's weekend?

So you can't really see it, but Bean loves her new pink hair bow from Grandma. I didn't want her to wear it to school today because she always loses her hair clips, but she insisted. Oh, and she calls them "clip hair", so it's not an error on my part. She also had to remind me that she wasn't wearing her "Sundays" today. Her Grandma got her the cutest socks with the days of the week, and yesterday she was so proud of her "Sundays" and her new clip.

Stacked Planters Weekend Project

2009-07-16T13:29:00.005-06:00

I just love this. Saw this in a magazine at my ma's house and loved it. She has one already up in her front yard, and Jay put mine together over the weekend. I really like it. I think it's going to look great once the plants take off.

Isn't it cool? It takes 4 pots, a 6 foot piece of rebar, soil and plants.

As I was taking a pic of the plants, Bean wanted her pic taken too.

This is from yesterday. She wanted a pic of her rock (in her hand) and her new shoes - that don't match her outfit.

Short Video

2009-07-09T13:02:00.001-06:00

4th of July

2009-07-08T10:45:00.005-06:00

I know, I know...it's not the 4th. But here I am to share some pics from our great day at Auntie Lena's house.

Lola in her adorable 4th of July top made by Grandma. She actually made Bean 3 or 4 of these tops in really cute colors and prints - just in time for summer!

The kids got to swim for a bit before lunch. I don't have a good pic of Rhys but he had lots of fun too.

At one point, there were around 5 different cameras on the kids! We are just too funny. Afraid to miss anything.

Auntie Lena is "da bomb" when it comes to attracting birds, especially the Humming kind. No over exaggeration here: there were around 20 hummingbirds all around us.

And here is the ugliest butterfly cake ever. I'm always telling Ginger "we need to go into business making cakes." Yeah right!! Who's going to buy this ugly thing?! Well, it made me realize I need to practice more than once a month.

Rick Springfield

2009-06-29T11:53:00.005-06:00

For Mother's Day this year I got tickets to see Rick Springfield. So Friday evening, Jay and I went to Stoneface Tavern to wish Ginger a happy birthday (and to eat their super good nachos), then off to Isleta for the concert.

All I can say is YUMMMM.

Little Pumpkin

2009-06-29T11:37:00.003-06:00

We went to the BioPark this weekend with Auntie Deborah and Uncle Philip. Here's a pic of Bean in the huge garden. You can see the larger than life seed packet and pumpkin seeds behind her. It was a lot of fun...really HOT!

The pic of the goat is just because. He was too cute not to photograph.

Gramma Made

2009-06-26T13:11:00.003-06:00

That's Bean speak for "my grandma made this."

Isn't this hat just adorable?! Grandma also made her a green one. They are just so pretty and it's hard to show that in a pic. So Lola wanted to wear one to school today.

I have her looking to the side so you can see the bow in the back. I'm really impressed with these hats. As I took the pic, Bean was saying "Cheese." She's so silly.

Tonight she is staying with Uncle Philip and Auntie Deborah. She even picked out a book for her Uncle to read.

Happy Birthday to Me

2009-06-16T09:56:00.004-06:00

Thank you all for coming over to help me celebrate my birthday. You know, getting older isn't all that bad. Sure doesn't mean I'm growing up. Just last night I was constructing a building out of mud.

DJ, Johnny, Mom

Amy and AnnaKate

Auntie, Lydia, Lil Elizabeth

Jon & Philip

Unfortunately, the pic of Matt, Dad and Sharon is blurry, and I don't seem to have a pic of Jay. But thank you all again and we are still enjoying the cheesecake! Oh, oh!!! Before I forget, a big THANK YOU to Sarah for the Martha Stewart Cupcake book. The pictures are amazing and I can only hope to make my cupcakes just as beautiful.

Crystal Gayle

2009-06-10T11:15:00.003-06:00

Anyone remember "don't it make my brown eyes blue" song by Crystal Gayle? I know that was about heart ache, but it reminds me of this morning's picture.

I just can't help looking at those eyes!

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

2009-06-10T11:05:00.004-06:00

You have got to try this recipe! It looks a little sloppy, but it's delicious.

1 package Nestle Toll House chocolate chip cookie dough
1 1/2 pkgs (for a total of 12 oz) cream cheese
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

That's it. Only 5 ingredients.

Grease 9" round baking pan. Press half of the cookie dough on the bottom of the pan (this is your crust). Beat softened cream cheese in mixer on high for 30 seconds. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Spread filling over cookie dough base. Slice remaining cookie dough into cookie slices and place on top of filling.

Bake for 40 minutes at 325 (thanks Ginger). Let cool in pan. Refrigerate a couple hours. OMG, it is SO good!

Strawberry Cupcakes

2009-06-05T14:33:00.004-06:00

So I rushed home Wednesday to make cupcakes - I wanted to use up the strawberries we got from Costco...and you know how they sell them in a ten pound bucket! Anyway, I get emails from Martha (Stewart - yeah, we're on a first name basis), and they've been sending out cupcake recipes to launch the new Cupcake book. I don't have this book, but my birthday is coming up *hint* *hint*. So, here are the cupcakes:

So, a note to high altitude people: add a little more milk than what is called for and bake for 18-20 minutes (as opposed to 22-25). They are a little dense, but have good flavor (next time I will add more sugar than the recipe calls for). The frosting also takes fresh strawberries and is very good and creamy. There was excess frosting so half a recipe would be better for less waste.

Pretty in Purple

2009-06-03T16:33:00.006-06:00

Hello all. I just want to share a quick dress I made for Bean.

What's great about her is she remembers who has given her things. She pulls out her Dr. Seuss book and says, "Uncle Philip present" and sure enough, it was a present from Uncle Philip (Auntie Deborah doesn't really get credit, but Bean will think she's cool when she gets older). She will also say, "Grandma made this" when referring to the clothes her Grandma makes her. She talks about presents from "AmyJon", Auntie, Uncle Matt (one of her favorite people in the world!). She's a pretty great kid. Oh, and the pattern is Simplicity.

Queensryche Meet and Greet

2009-06-01T09:29:00.004-06:00

We went to the Queensryche concert this weekend. This is the second time Jay got meet and greet passes. The concert was GREAT! Afterwards, we were able to mingle with the band.

Jay with Geoff Tate. OK, so I acted like a dork when we met him. But I got his pen!

Jay with Michael Wilton. I think he's Jay's favorite.

This young man was really good and very polite. He's the new guitarist, Parker Lundgren, only 22 years old.

Jay with Eddie Jackson.

I just realized we didn't get a pic with Scott Rockenfield. Next time. Geoff's daughter and wife were also there. All of them are really great. Not a bad way to spend the weekend huh?

Here It Is

2009-05-29T12:11:00.003-06:00

Here is my little model in the outfit I made. I posted a pic of it sometime back but haven't taken Bean's pic in it.

I know it's supposed to be a shirt, but I think it looks cute as a dress. Bean plays hard so even when she wears her dresses, she has her pants on under.

My ma used to make us matching outfits when I was small. I don't know what she was thinking! I don't want to wear the same thing as my kiddo. But I think it was love that made my ma embarrass us like that.

Memorial Day

2009-05-26T10:18:00.003-06:00

No matter how you feel about this war or past wars, we must honor those who have served in the military to protect our freedoms, and as one speaker said at the unveiling, "to apologize would be an injustice to those who have served."

If you click on this pic for a larger view, take in the reflection on the wall. It was a beautiful day.

Yesterday's Picks

2009-05-26T10:13:00.003-06:00

Here are two pics from yesterday I have picked to share:

Here's Bean in her pretty dress from Cousin Sarah and Cousin Juliana. She looked absolutely adorable.

Same day, but changing into comfy clothes so her and Grandma could feed the dogs and birds, then take a nap.

Jay and I have been sick, and I was completely out for the three day weekend, but I think we've kicked it. Jay's friend Pat joked that he probably had the "piglet" flu.

Don't Be A Hater

2009-05-15T11:20:00.003-06:00

Her shirt reads: my mom's hotter than your mom. LOL! It was a gift from her Uncle Philip and Auntie Deborah. BTW, this is what happens when I try to comb her hair in a chongo. When I picked her up from school, her hair was done really pretty...I think they felt sorry for her because I sent her to school looking like this.

Applique Heart T-Shirt

2009-05-11T12:41:00.004-06:00

I think I mentioned before that I made shirts for Lola and Juliana out of scrap material from a different outfit I made. Well, here's the shirt.

It's a size 2-4 (xsmall), but it's pretty big on Lola. She wears it anyway. So, this is on it's way to Juliana (whom Lola calls Anna). Oh, and I just wanted to share: last night Bean was on her cell phone (an old one with no battery), walking around the house saying, "Rhys-ie (pronounced Ree-see), yea, play, Rhys-ie, Rhys-ie" over and over again. Just having a cute little fake conversation with her little cousin.

Happy 2nd Birthday and Boxing Lessons

2009-05-04T15:01:00.008-06:00

This weekend was Lola's 2nd birthday. We had a really good time. I didn't manage to send out invites and it was pretty much a last minute party. I was only expecting Mom, William, Matt and Sharon to show, but was pleasantly surprised when Aunt Lena, Uncle Kent, Kent Jr., Lydia, Rhys, Aunt Diane, Mel, Jon and Anna Kate showed up! We had just enough food! Thank you all for coming...next year I hope to be more prepared.

Birthday girl enjoying cake on her Daddy's lap.

Adorable couple. I was so excited when they showed up so Lola would have Rhys to play with. I'm so sorry I didn't have a goodie-bag ready (I didn't know you all were coming).

"Jon-Amy" (as Lola calls him) with Anna Kate. She is such a good little girl and had lots of people to hold her.

Wondering about boxing lessons? I broke down crying this morning because Lola was so excited to take her birthday balloon to school. We had to put it up so she could go out to play and I was watching from inside. Her and "Jane" (that's what we'll call her) went up the stairs to the tube slide. Lola came down fast! I thought "wow, that must be a fast slide" but I noticed her grabbing her leg so I went out to make sure she was ok. She said "Jane" and I said "Jane will slide down." She said "push me" and her eyes filled with tears. I saw "Jane" and said "Don't push Lola. Not nice!" and I gave Lola lots of hugs and assured her she was OK and didn't do anything wrong. I left there furious, called Jay and used the "F-word" several times. Anyone who knows me knows I don't say bad words. I told him we need to teach her to defend herself. I'm tired of her getting pushed and bitten (YES, bitten). Some of those children are animals and Lola doesn't understand why sometimes they're mean to her. Boxing lessons! No one's going to push my baby around!

Master of Family Studies

2009-04-29T10:40:00.004-06:00

I have been accepted! I applied for the Master of Family Studies program and was a little nervous because I really didn't have a back-up plan. This program focuses on prevention as opposed to intervention. I still get to expand upon my studies of theory and development, and it incorporates a lot of my undergraduate work in Communication and Psychology.

Here's my letter. It came in the mail yesterday and I wasn't sure I wanted to open it. My heart dropped. Then I read the words "We are delighted to inform you..." Delighted. That's a great word.

Number 1 Brother Turns 47

2009-04-27T16:19:00.004-06:00

Yup, yup, yup. We're getting up there in age. But we look good doing it!!
Jay had 10 steaks going on the grill, Ma made a delicious strawberry cake, and I left the bread in the oven and didn't discover it till after the cake and coffee was served....hard as a rock. Oh well, I did manage to make some kick-butt green chili stew and mashed potatoes. The cake? An ice-cream cake from Baskin Robbins courtesy of Sharon. Great day all around.

Not So Simplicity

2009-04-27T16:11:00.003-06:00

So, Simplicity patterns are supposed to be really simple right? Well, not if they are missing crucial steps required for completion. Either way, I worked it out and made this little outfit for Princess Lola.

I chose the size according to her weight, but the shirt fits more like a dress, and the shorts are more like crop pants. I'm thinking by the end of the season, it will fit perfect. Oh, and I made a couple shirts from the remnants...well, appliques, not an entire shirt. One for Bean and one for Juliana. I'll try to remember to post pics of those as well.

Easter Booty

2009-04-14T13:12:00.004-06:00

Easter was lots of fun. On Saturday night, we dyed eggs and only a couple were broken.

On Easter day, we went to Auntie Lena's house for lots of good food and an Easter Egg hunt. The kids had a great time. Next year, bigger basket! Lola would pick up one egg and lose two in the process.

Quick Pic

2009-04-07T14:08:00.003-06:00

Bean has been sick the past few days, running a temp as high as 105! She's feeling better and back to her old self.

She asked for chongos in the morning as we were getting ready for school, but we were running late so I said "ask your teacher." Sure enough, I picked her up after school and her hair was done.

Nothing like enjoying raisins on the way home.

Is It Your Birthday?

2009-04-06T14:13:00.000-06:00

No, it is not.

The nice man knocked on my door and said "Are you Annamarie?" Hmmmm. I'm the only one in MY office with my name plate on the door, sitting at MY desk...maybe. Why?

So I sign for these beautiful flowers (with 3 balloons attached) and quickly read the card. Hmmm. I call Jay and ask "ok, what did you do?" He said "Nothing. You just deserve something nice." Mmm-hmm (imagine me doing that with my hand on my hip with a bit of a neck roll). Everyone who walked by had to ask if it was my birthday. I said "Nope. Just because."

Jacket

2009-04-02T15:53:00.005-06:00

Lola's Grandma made this little jacket so I wanted to show it off. She did a really great job - especially on the zipper!

I also wanted to share a few more pics from our weekend trip.

Lola LOVED brushing the goats at the zoo. She managed to touch every single one...and there were a LOT.

It was hot, but we managed to find shade - under a turtle shell.

We stumbled upon a Famous Daves as we were leaving for home! They have great BBQ.

Close up of Bean's face. She was having so much fun when she decided to ignore gravity.

Return from Scottsdale. AZ

2009-03-31T12:46:00.004-06:00

Here are a few pics from our weekend trip to Scottsdale. At one point, the temperature got to 90degrees!
1)
2)
3)
4)

1) Outside the Cheesecake Factory. They have a really nice outdoor mall, with "big names" like Crate & Barrel. They even have valet parking...yes, at a mall. I guess for those that don't know how to park on their own.
2) They had these cute bunny figures all over the mall. Bean looks unhappy, but she actually had a great time. She just refuses for smile for the camera lately.
3) Ready to go swimming. Wait, the water is too cold! Guess we're going in the hot tub. Bean loved the bubbles.
4) People get a kick out of seeing these two together. So many "how cute" comments...I'm sure they're referring to Bean.

Last Class

2009-03-27T12:10:00.004-06:00

Last night was our last Cake Decorating class. We practice making roses and we were to fully decorate our cakes.

Things I learned:
1) When Ginger asks "do you want to use MY icing?", just say "NO"
2) Make sure your icing is really stiff in order to make roses
3) Have a layout of what you want on your cake and how you want it to look before just plopping things on it
4) Take a picture of the cake BEFORE someone cuts into it!

We even got certificates! Next: fondant class!

Blue Drop Flowers

2009-03-24T11:02:00.003-06:00

I mentioned before that Ginger and I are taking a cake decorating class. So, last night I made a cake. I tried to put as much of what we've learned on it: flowers, leaves, and shell border.

What I've learned:

1) my stove is not level

2) baking strips are AMAZING!

3) a little blue color die goes a long way

4) I need more practice making leaves

5) I really don't like icing made with Crisco

I iced this cake with chocolate (that's all I had on hand) - thank you Betty Crocker! Ginger is working on adding powdered sugar to can icing and I think it's going to work. She's so smart.

Elephant Butt

2009-03-23T14:50:00.004-06:00

Went to the Zoo this weekend. We really do have one of the best zoos around. The weather was beautiful.

Mr. Polar Bear just kept going back and forth, back and forth. I felt so bad for him. His "woman" died not long ago. I don't think they have found him another mate just yet.

Finally Friday!

2009-03-20T10:52:00.004-06:00

Not that it's been super busy or anything...we are on Spring Break. Thing is, it's super quiet without the students and I think most of the faculty and staff are out too because no one is calling or stopping by. Makes for very long days.

Just a quick pic before school. She really is growing up so fast. This morning she was saying she's "Daddy's baby." Hmmm. "Are you Mommy's baby?" "No. Girl." Whatever. I'm the one who sings the ABC's 10 times in a row on command, but Daddy gets all the glory.

Bulbs

2009-03-18T13:19:00.003-06:00

Just a quick pic of the beautiful colors showing up all over campus. You rarely ever see the grounds people, but their work is evident.

First Haircut

2009-03-16T13:53:00.003-06:00

Technically, I gave Lola her first haircut. Trimmed her bangs...kind of short. But she still looked cute. Jay said it was time for another haircut but he wanted to take her to a "professional."

Well, basically she cut her bangs and her hair looks just like it did when I cut it. But this time we paid $10 bucks. Next time, I'll be doing the bang trimming!

This is just a random pic from last night. She likes to float on the water with her ears under water and make noise...and funny faces.

Bumblebee Song

2009-03-16T13:45:00.003-06:00

I just learned the words to the Bumblebee song. While Lola was sick, we sang lots of songs and one of the songs she wanted to sing was about a bumblebee but of course she doesn't know all the words either.

I'm bringing home a baby bumblebee
Won't my mommy be so proud of me,
I'm bringing home a baby bumblebee

Ouch! It stung me!

Anyway, this reminds me of one of the beautiful dresses Lola's Auntie Sharon made for Lola.

And here she is in said dress with her favorite Uncle Matt.

Bragging?

2009-03-13T12:26:00.003-06:00

Saw this on the way to Lola's school today...her fever is finally over! I wasn't quite sure what to think of this. Maybe that's the height of the license plate?

Cards for Soldiers

2009-03-11T12:20:00.003-06:00

Lola has been really sick the past couple of days. I stayed home with her on Monday. She managed to go to school for most of the day yesterday. Today she is with Grandma. Poor thing is so hot (102 deg.) and we think she might be a little achy because she grabs at her legs, arms and pansa and says "owie." Hopefully the fever will go away soon.

On another note, I managed to make these last night. 10 more Cards for Soldiers for Mother's Day. I figured I could keep with the flower theme but didn't want to put "mom" on them in case someone wants to send to a wife, sister or grandma.

Yay-ya

2009-03-06T12:57:00.003-07:00

This is what happens when you leave your child with Grandma and Grandpa.
Last night I went to a cake decorating class at Hobby Lobby with my friend Ginger, and Grandma and Grandpa were nice enough to have Lola over for dinner. When I went to pick her up, she had lots of yay-yas all over. At school this morning, she was showing off all her band-aids to her teacher. Such a drama queen!

Neiman Marcus Cookies

2009-03-05T14:59:00.004-07:00

One of my students gave me the Neiman Marcus cookie recipe along with a "sample" so I thought I'd give it a try. I halved his recipe and made a couple changes:

1 cup butter

1 cup sugar (I used brown sugar)

1 cup brown sugar (yes, for a total of 2 cups brown sugar)

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups flour

2.5 cups blended oatmeal (I used the fast cooking kind)

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt (I used 1/4tsp since I used salted butter)

24oz chocolate chips

1.5 cups chopped nuts (HATE nuts, so I put chopped dried cherries)

Blend oatmeal, add to flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt - put aside. Cream butter and sugars. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix in flour/oatmeal mixture. Add chocolate chips and other add-ins. Bake at 350 degrees for 14 minutes. Do not over bake.

These came out great. A little chewy, not overly soft, but tasty and great with milk. Of course Matt got a bowl this morning, and Jay took the rest to work.

Chongo hair

2009-03-04T11:59:00.003-07:00

When I went to pick up Lola last night from school, her teacher said "before you see her, let me explain what happened to her hair."

Lola spent the entire day in the "Two's" class and she wanted to have her hair done. One of the teachers gave her chongos (pig-tails, piggy tails, pony tails...what are those things called?) and said she looked really cute. As the day came to an end, Lola started pulling out all the rubber bands, and was left looking like she was electrocuted.

Matt Jr. is 21!

2009-03-03T10:03:00.004-07:00

My big brother Matt threw a 21st birthday party for his boy this weekend. I can't believe he is already legal! We had a great time and good food. Sharon made some really good strawberry shortcake in lieu of a traditional cake.

Rhys was able to be there which was great. He's a really good boy and Lola talks about him all the time. After school, I always ask Lola what she did and who she played with. She always says "play" and "Rhys," and he doesn't even go to her school. So I love when they get a chance to play together.

Cupcakes Galore!

2009-03-03T09:58:00.003-07:00

Got a new book from Costco last weekend with really easy muffin and cupcake recipes. I got everything I needed to make Cherry Cheesecake muffins. They reminded me of biscuits but I still enjoyed them and liked the flavor. Jay put extra butter on his and that was pretty good too.

Cookies and a Cute Shirt

2009-02-25T15:40:00.004-07:00

I have a big exam tonight. So last night I made my big brother Matt some cookies...I like distraction to avoid stress. But I think I'm ready!

I just love Lola's "new" top! Actually, it's a dress she got from her Auntie Diane - size 0-3 months. Sure makes a cute shirt. I remember taking her for pictures when she was 3 months old and she wore this as a dress and it was HUGE! Look at it now....well, I guess I should say look at HER now.

Girl!

2009-02-23T12:35:00.003-07:00

So I call Lola "baby" all the time. "How's the baby?" or "Is baby hungry?" Well, I'm not sure what she's learning at that school of her's, but she no longer identifies herself as baby. She is now "girl." I asked "does baby need a clean diaper?" She right away said "No. Girl!" Well excuse me! So this is how Girl dressed herself this morning.

Nothing like pink pants with hearts, a striped dress/shirt, blue shoes...oh, and her jacket really topped off this ensemble!

Enchiladas and Broken Glasses

2009-02-23T12:23:00.003-07:00

This weekend went by so fast! Friday, Lola stayed the night at her Grandma & Grandpa's house. She just LOVES her Grandpa. So we got a chance to see a movie - Taken with Liam Neeson. It was pretty good!

On Sunday, my Dad made enchiladas. I don't know what was going on, but we managed to break 3 glasses....so I'm now saving up for a new set of plastic tumblers.

Two other activities from this weekend: 1) Lola just loves her "bumbing" (pudding) and 2) we got her a set of paints, paper, and brushes. She looks like quite the serious little artist doesn't she?

Mail!

2009-02-19T09:12:00.004-07:00

Last night I got a few things in the mail. A Joanns ad, including coupons (woo-hoo), a large envelope, and a small padded envelope.

This was in the large envelope - my diploma. I should have received this in 2005 but it seems I didn't finish the graduation application. In 2007 I finally asked "where is my diploma?" and the nice advisor said that if I take just one more course, I can earn a Bachelor of Science instead of a Bachelor of Arts. So the course I had to take was finally available this fall, so here it is.

This was in the small padded envelope. My MIL sent me a gift certificate for Silpada - to congratulate me on my BS. I was online in no time and picked these out. Aren't they beautiful? I'm wearing them today.

Biscochitos

2009-02-18T13:05:00.005-07:00

Last night I made my Mom some biscochitos. Why? Just because.

Recipe:

1 1/4 cup lard
2 eggs
3 cups flour
1/4 cup wine, water OR juice
1 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp anise
1 1/2 tsp baking powder

Mix everything together. It doesn't matter what order you add ingredients, but if you warm the lard (highly suggested), make sure you don't pour it directly over the eggs. You don't want to cook them and have little pieces of cooked yolk in your masa.

I usually roll the masa to approximately 1/4", cut shapes, place on baking sheet, and shake a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top. Don't be shy with the sugar mixture!

Bake at 350 degrees until lightly browned (approximately 30 minutes) - don't overcook. The bottoms of the cookies should be light in color.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-16T10:29:00.002-07:00

Well, I must admit, Jay did a good job. I'm not really all that into Valentine's Day, I don't look forward to roses and jewelry, but I was pleasantly surprised with a box that arrived USPS.

Inside the box from Culinary Teas: 5 bags of loose black teas, a cup and saucer, honey sticks, and a heart-shaped infuser. The teas are different berries and so far arctic raspberry is my favorite. On top of the box sat a vase of flowers.

Yes, it brought a smile to my face. Hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day! Pretty good way to start this blog.