SO....

Emealz.... Awesome!  The shopping time was cut almost in half.  The recipes, not hard, but I didn't read the prep stuff yesterday.  So TONIGHT, very first meal :)  It smells great and it wasn't nearly as difficult as I thought it was going to be.  I hope it tastes good or my husband might regret getting me the subscription ;-)  HAHAHA! 
The cost of savings... a whooping $.13 (from their estimate on the shopping list).  And that's even having to make a stop at a different store because they didn't have something listed.  Overall, because I didn't wander (Too much) up and down the aisles, it probably saved me $13-$15 dollars overall.  Plus, this grocery bill was a little higher because they call certain things "staples" which I have to giggle...I've never considered some of these staples, but I see them repeated on a couple weeks of menus, so I invested in them :D   But still to have the list right in front of me, almost organized like my store and the time savings... still raving reviews from this girl :D 

E-Mealz

Have you tried these?  I've been wanting to try them for quite awhile now and they sent me an email about Cyber Monday sale.  I forwarded it to my husband, as a gift idea for me,  and today, we became members.  I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am to try these! 
E-Mealz has been created to provide a kid-friendly and family-uniting meal planning resource for busy Moms and frugal family cooks. Each meal plan is based on the current sales at the grocery stores, with plan options categorized according to store and/or weight management strategy. The recipes are delicious, simple and easy to follow. Each plan is new every week and has a corresponding aisle-by-aisle grocery list. Almost every week includes a crock-pot recipe and easy dinner ideas. There are meal plans for two people, for a low fat diet, a low carb diet, and for those who are following a point system, as well!


E-Mealz is the brainchild of Jane DeLaney. She has four children and a husband who are all picky eaters. But she is most famous in her circles for being a cheapskate. She knows how to maximize her grocery budget and beat the system. She has been known to leave the grocery store with a cart full of groceries, and the store will have given her money! (See Jane's Saving Secrets to learn how she combines the power of budget meal planning and using coupons!) She knows that debt-proof living is impossible without a budget, and the grocery budget is the hardest to manage. Jane is often heard saying, "You can't win without a plan, and poor meal planning is a MONEY PIT!" E-Mealz is a comprehensive and workable plan that accomplishes every goal you may have for yourself and your family when it comes to dinnertime.

Goal #1
Spending time with your family

Goal #2
Save time and money

Goal #3
Serve delicious food

Goal #4
Save yourself from multiple and last minute trips to the grocery store

Goal #5
Stare at your children across from the dinner table rather than into the pantry looking for a dinner idea

Goal #6
Lose weight without preparing separate meals for the family. (Every meal plan is designed to be family friendly, even the weight management plans!)

E-Mealz will help you to save time, money and make time for family with delicious weekly dinner menu plans everyone will love. EMealz is easy recipes with concise directions and a corresponding grocery list you just print and go. New Family Meal Plans, Meal Plans for Two, Points System, Low Carb, Low Fat, Vegetarian, Kroger, Publix, Wal-Mart, Any Store are organized to save you hours of work every week. Dinner ideas that answer, "What's for dinner?" once and for all, time-saving crock-pot recipes, inexpensive meals, and delicious dinner menus are at your fingertips. If you are always looking for dinner suggestions, EMealz is a clearinghouse for quick and easy meals, simple recipes, delicious meals for kids, and weight management. E-Meals is the tool for meal planning, food budgeting, grocery shopping, coupon shopping, getting the family together at dinnertime. E-Mealz is a total mealtime makeover!



I have only printed out the first two weeks and I can't even begin to tell you how much this is going to make a difference!!!!!  Try it out.  They have a variety of stores and meal plans to work with ... Well worth the $1.25/week!!!

I'm working on it...

The review will be done...SOON :) I PROMISE!!!


In the meantime...A recent conversation I had with a "friend"....

"I went on a date last night because (boyfriend) cheated on me so I'm going on dates to get back at him."

"Seriously?!? That's pretty immature. Time to cut your losses and move on."

"True that."

"Why play games? If you know then tell him and move on. Let him tell you his side and be done."

"I know his side. He's a liar and says he's exclusive to me. But I saw his text from (day and time) talking to his other woman. About how amazing she is. He has been sneaking around for awhile. Never wants to take me out for date night saying he's sick or has to work."

"Confront him. Tell him you know and MOVE ON. QUIT PLAYING GAMES."

"Now I put my friends pic on (dating site) and he took the bait. Said he's not dating anyone."

"Why would you do that? You're just playing the games he is and it's immature. Fine, it didn't work out. It sucks but both of you need to knock it off. Him with the lying and you looking for problems and trying to catch him."

"Just proof. He says I'm delusional. And that he's not with anyone else. And that he's no smarter than me in this field. I just want him to know that I do know and I'm not stupid. I want him to know that I demand respect and don't want a disease because that's what would have happened.
That would have been not a good scene. I don't care that he cheated. Just be honest and don't lie to me and let me be free. Then go do your playing around. But to play this like this pisses me off. So that's why I want to prove to him that I know."



OKAY... now I have so much to say... First this is 40+ year old. SERIOUSLY?!?!!?!??!!?!?!? GROW UP!

Next, maybe YOU are the problem. Not saying you're a problem, but you smother people and insist that they do everything you want to do. Part of being in a mature relationship is compromise.

Then, ever think you might be jumping to conclusions??! Really, he told some woman she's amazing. I'm amazing....and lots of people tell me that for different reasons. Not necessarily because they're sleeping together. Maybe she did something for her kids or did a favor at work or whatever.



If you think he's cheating GET THE F**K out of the relationship and stop trying to "catch" him. What will that give you?!? A sick pleasure?!?! That's just shows what kind of person you are and you don't know how to be in a relationship.

And lastly, you've been "dating" him for maybe 6 months.... you should be using protection regardless. You don't know him....and you've been telling me for months that you think he's screwing around. Why the heck wouldn't you use protection?!?! Honestly. You're an adult with two teenage daughters...this is the example you set? Unprotected sex, going psycho on him...

OH and trespassing. She's going to get her stuff from his house while he's gone hunting. Just cut your losses and GET IT OVER IT!







I do not need your drama. You bring it on yourself.

Tonight...a special night :)

One of a few nights that I hope for totally uninterrupted time... THE CMA'S! 
Here's a list of nominees....
Entertainer of the Year:
Brad Paisley
Lady Antebellum
Keith Urban
Miranda Lambert
Zac Brown Band

Female Vocalist of the Year:
Miranda Lambert
Taylor Swift
Martina McBride
Carrie Underwood
Reba McEntire
Male Vocalist of the Year:
Dierks Bentley
Keith Urban
Brad Paisley
George Strait
Blake Shelton

New Artist of the Year:
Luke Bryan
Zac Brown Band
Chris Young
Jerrod Neimann
Easton Corbin
Vocal Group of the Year

Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts
The Band Perry
Zac Brown Band

Vocal Duo of the Year

Brooks & Dunn
Joey + Rory
Montgomery Gentry
Steel Magnolia
Sugarland

Album of the Year

“Need You Now” by Lady Antebellum
“Play On” by Carrie Underwood
“Revolution” by Miranda Lambert
“Twang” by George Strait
“Up On the Ridge” by Dierks Bentley

Single of the Year
“A Little More Country Than That” performed by Easton Corbin
“Hillbilly Bone” performed by Blake Shelton
“Need You Now” performed by Lady Antebellum
“The House That Built Me” performed by Miranda Lambert
“White Liar” performed by Miranda Lambert

Musical Event of the Year
“Bad Angel” Dierks Bentley featuring Miranda Lambert and Jamey Johnson
"Can’t You See” Zac Brown Band featuring Kid Rock
“Hillbilly Bone” Blake Shelton featuring Trace Adkins
“I’m Alive” Kenny Chesney with Dave Matthews
“Till The End” Alan Jackson with Lee Ann Womack

Song of the Year
"A Little More Country Than That” by Rory Lee Feek, Don Poythress and Wynn Varble
“Need You Now” by Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott and Josh Kear
“The House That Built Me” by Tom Douglas and Allen Shamblin
“Toes” Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrette, John Driskell Hopkinsand Shawn Mullins
“White Liar” by Miranda Lambert and Natalie Hemby.

Music Video of the Year
“Hillbilly Bone” Blake Shelton featuring Trace Adkins directed by Roman White
“Need You Now” Lady Antebellum directed by David McClister
“The House That Built Me” Miranda Lambert directed by Trey Fanjoy
“Water” Brad Paisley directed by Jim Shea
“White Liar” Miranda Lambert directed by Chris Hickey

Musician of the Year
Paul Frankin
Dann Huff
Brent Mason
Mac McAnally
Randy Scruggs

Tune in later for the results (And some opinions ;D)  Have a great night!

WOW!!!!

For anyone who hasn't watched the news in the last 19 hours...there is a true miracle happening in Chile.   33 miners that have been trapped for 68+ days are all being rescued today.  We stayed up late for the first couple and then had to crash.  When I awoke, there were 11 safely up to the surface.   They were on 24 the last time I had it on (naptime). 
There is something so dramatic and heart touching EVERY single time they show one of the guys come up in the capsule.  The reunion between their loved ones and the miner brings tears to my eyes.  I know what it's like to be seperated from my best friend/husband for multiple days.  I could NEVER imagine having him gone and in questionable conditions for that long.  Those loved ones have suffered as much as the guys, maybe more. 
All I can do is watch and pray and hope for the best for everyone involved!!  God is showing up in such a miraculous way!!!!  

And for those that don't care or even know about it... seriously, crawl out of your shell and look around.  The world DOES NOT revolve around you.  I hate to say it, but stop being so selfish, now we know where the next generation gets it....

Yeah well...

That goal isn't going so great :-)   Oh well... sometimes life gets in the way :D  
Preschool is going GREAT!!  She LOVES getting up and making sure her bag is packed and everything.  There are never fights on school days....hmmmm....  :)  Today, she even told me that "That's my friend, Mom."  AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH....and the little girl was telling her mom the exact same thing :D
Halloween is right around the corner.   One costume is done - don't ask me...she picked it out!  She's a triceratops (Yep, a dinosaur!)  It's so stinkin' cute, we couldn't tell her no ;-)  

PS- My rant for the day/week.   If you're overbooking yourself, please don't get mad when someone (aka ME) makes you be responsible.  When you're late for something, do you realize how that affects others?  Not only do we rearrange our schedules, but then when you're consistently late getting here and picking up here, it really makes people TICKED.   Therefore, I will not keep letting you run all over me.  Haven't you figured it out, yet?  Truly unreliable and I don't want to deal with the stress.   Thanks.

1st day...

We've officially kicked off the 3 year old's education today.  It's the first day without parents around.  I thought we'd get to see them for a few extra minutes... but nope.  The teachers must have PLENTY of experience ;-)   They opened the door, take the kid, have them find their stuff and the parents are left standing there like...WTH!?!?   One mom (NOT me), was in tears as soon as they took her little boy's hand.  Made me feel better to be the one not crying, but I totally feel her pain. 
I can't wait to hear about her day.... she's a chatterbox, so we'll get the ENTIRE story!!!! 

Another week...

Yesterday was my little girl's 3rd birthday!  Are you kidding me?!?!  3?!  Where did that time go?!?!  She entertains me on a daily basis and comes up with some pretty amusing things to do with mommy and brother (and daddy and whoever else is around!!) Happy Birthday baby girl!!! 
This week is her first "official" day of preschool.  Tuesday might be a little rough for me.  As much as I THINK I'm ready and I KNOW she's ready (and it's only 1 day/week) even the open house/parent day was tough seeing her running around being all "school".   Cute, but rough! 

New Goal....

I really want to post SOMETHING everyday....but we'll start with twice a week :)   PLEASE remember this is MY area....I can post life articles, recipes, pictures or just vent.  It has NOTHING to do with anyone in particular.  Just that sometimes it's easier to share ideas in writing than in person or even on the phone.  Love to all!!!!!!!!!

WOOHOO

After 3 years (and I only know this because I was pregnant with my first baby) the husband and I finally got a mini vacation with no kids.   We went to St. Louis.  Why would we choose St. Louis?!?!  Because it was AWESOME!  I wish I would've had another day or two there, but we had a great time!!! We visited with my friend from HS and her son, we visited with his friend CJ and got to take in a FANTASTIC Gary Allan/Brooks n Dunn show!!!!!   Thank you for the great time and memories :-)  A special thanks to my husband, my mom, my inlaws and of course, CJ, Sarah, Gary and the gang for making this a VERY special trip for me (and us!!!)

If you want/need more details, let me know ;-)  

1 year ago....

My baby boy came into the world!   At 9:42am, weighing 8lbs. 4oz and 19 inches long, my family was completed by Lincoln Cevin!   HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MOMMY'S LITTLE BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!  
Here's a recap of the last year :)

Motto:

Bad Planning On Your Part Does NOT Constitute An Emergency On Mine. 

Seriously..... this has been my motto since I started working in offices.  NOW it is with some of my friends.  Take care of your stuff and it'll be so less stressful. 
When you make a mistake, admit it.
When you "overbook" yourself and can't handle everything, take a step back and say No.  I don't think anyone will be too upset if you have to take a day or two to "fix" things.....

I found it!!!

Here is the design/theme I THINK I want for my baby's first birthday :)  It's SO cute and different!!! 

I thought a "prince" theme since the daughter's was "princess" but the husband said they looked.... well, not nice :)    So then I thought of an "all-star"  theme, which is still in the running, but this cowboy theme is WAY too cute!!!!

Wow...

Not much going on these past couple weeks - and I'm fine with that outcome :)  Just been enjoying some family time, outside time and life, in general!! 

Let me pose this question....
If I do you a favor, "fix" it for the first time you're lazy or screw it up, you screw it up again, does that mean I should be the one to "fix" it again?   I'm really frustrated over this situation.   I wish people would suck it up and admit when they were wrong or messed up.   I have TRIED to go out of my way to be helpful, but I have two little kids to take care of while you sit on the computer or read or whatever you do all day and since you're the one who messed up, please realize it isn't easy for me to "fix" it.  I guess next time I'll know..........

In other news, Robert's off 10 - Friday night.   I'll be there and so will High Noon.  It's the last time (at least currently) they will play there.   Bittersweet.  That's where I used to hang out ALL the time....that's where I first got to really "know" High Noon.   But it's the end of another chapter - leading up to the finale in October.   I KNOW bigger and better things await some of us on the other side, but it's still one of those moments..... :)   Come on out and enjoy the show!!!

Mother's Day

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!! 
Even if you aren't a mommy, you've touched a child's life in a very important way :)  Thanks to everyone who has a hand in helping me with my two kids....and for the teachers, aunts, grandmothers, friends, cousins, moms, and just you.... THANKS! 
We went to Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of Hysteria, um, America today.  It was a blast!!! I wish everyone could've seen the face of the two year old when we walked through there.  She was SO excited.  She talked a good game about meeting the characters, but when it came to it, she was scared.  She did give Dora a hug and five.... Spongebob was fine as long as Mom and Dad talked to him.   The baby didn't like Spongebob at all though.......................he was on the other side of the gate and just cried when he looked at him :)   KIDS.... :D 
We rode rides and walked around for about 3 hours.   We are all exhausted, so here's to an early bedtime!!!!!!!!!  

I'm trying....

I really have tried not to bitch and complain TOO much on here.   This week has done me in for some reason. 
I feel like NOTHING I do is good enough for the husband.  He was gone for over a week last week.  He got home, the house was decent, but not cleaned (lived in messy, but not disgusting...).  He made jabs about it all weekend.  Seriously....when I was giving baths on Monday, pretty sure you could've used that time to at least pick up whatever was bugging you....no, you'd rather get on my case. 
Then you ask odd questions about bills/money.  Do you think I don't know how to pay bills?  Do you think I'm not doing things to keep the house running while you're gone?!!?  Come on.... give me a little credit. 
Thursday night, the entire week disappeared when I had to take him to the ER because of sharp pains in his neck and head.   Spent about 4 hours crying over what it could be....just a rememberance of what's really important in life.  After about 3 hours, we got to leave the ER - it was just a pinched nerve and sinusitis, thankfully. 
I'm the one who got up with the baby at 6:45am, after not getting to bed until around 2.  Yes, we might have spent the day relaxing (after the doctor for the baby - 9 month well check) but I didn't get to sleep in OR take a 4 hour nap.   If you think I wasn't exhausted, you're wrong.   I think it's more stress on the spouse/friends then it is for the person in the ER.   Yes, I did get a nap, but not 4 hours worth.  
We stayed up late to watch a movie (which we NEVER do)....and again, 5:30, baby alarm.  Who gets up?  Not daddy.   So when I needed a break at 8:30, I get bitched at?!!? REALLY?!?!  Yes, I know you have a gig. Yes I know you're tired, but is it too much to ask for a little understanding?!?!  And since I already said I'll try to let you sleep tomorrow morning for a few hours, really....you can't spend time with the kids at least??!  
I hate letting you leave when I'm ticked off....but once in awhile, a little respect and understanding isn't TOO much to ask for... is it?!??!  
I signed up to be a mom - and a stay at home one, at that, but can I get a little break once in awhile?????  Maybe not just when the baby is sleeping..... whatever.  Oh well....such is life :) 

Whooping cough

Whooping cough breaks out in Wright Co.


WRIGHT COUNTY, MN – Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, has been confirmed in more than 40 people in the Maple Lake area along with a few cases in Annandale and Monticello, according to Wright County Public Health.

Most of the diagnosed cases are in elementary school age children, but younger children and adults have been affected.

In recent years, more cases of pertussis have been reported in adults and children. Since pertussis may be milder in adults and older children, they can pass on the disease without knowing it. The risk to infants and elderly is the greatest, however, even in adolescents and adults a pertussis infection can lead to pneumonia or even rib fractures from coughing.

Pertussis is caused by bacteria that spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Droplets are produced in the air but don’t travel far. They usually only infect persons near by.

Pertussis usually starts out with symptoms similar to a cold, such as sneezing, cough, low-grade fever, and runny nose. A fever isn’t always present. The cough tends to be worse at night and over time can become severe lasting weeks or months.

Pertussis should be considered when:

• A cough illness occurs after a direct exposure to pertussis.
• A persistent cough of unknown origin lasts more than 7 days
• A violent cough occurs with a whooping sound, vomiting/gagging while coughing or inability to catch one’s breath while coughing

Persons with pertussis should stay home and not go to school, work, or attend other activities until they have finished 5 days of antibiotic treatment. Even with treatment the cough can continue for a long time. Treatment does not make the cough go away completely but will help prevent the spread of pertussis

Anyone who has been coughing for seven days or longer and has had contact with someone with pertussis should discuss pertussis with their medical provider

Most children have been vaccinated for pertussis, however, protection decreases over time. Studies have shown that the immunity from this particular vaccine decreases after 3-5 years from the last vaccination, which is usually given before kindergarten. Therefore, most adolescents and adults are at risk for pertussis

The current outbreak highlights the need for the Tdap booster vaccine in adults and adolescents. The Tdap vaccine is a combination of tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. Current recommendations during an outbreak are to:

• Give Tdap to children ages 10-12 now instead of waiting until these children enter 7th grade when the next booster is due.
• Give Tdap to adolescents and adults up to age 64 who have not received a Tdap before and it has been 2 years since receiving Td (tetanus shot).

Currently there is no licensed pertussis vaccine for people 65 years and older

The Wright County WOW Van is making an extra stop in Maple Lake on April 30 from 1-4 pm in the parking area of St. Timothy’s Church. People who don’t have insurance or whose insurance doesn’t cover vaccine costs can attend this clinic. There is a $10.00 administration fee. No one is turned away for inability to pay.

The WOW Van schedule for all locations in the county can be found on the county website at www.co.wright.mn.us with a link on the right side of the homepage. Calls for information can be made to the Vaccine Information Line at 763-684-2335.

Another FREE thing.....

The Home Depot is giving away a free faucet aerator to the first 250 customers in the store tomorrow Sunday, April 18th. There theme this year is water conservation. They will also be having clinics to show how to conserve water. Look in your ad for some great coupons coming out to help celebrate.

Thomas and Friends

Join Toys R Us Saturday, April 17, 11am-1pm, for a Thomas Play Date! There will be storytime, coloring, special offers and FREE items!! Find a Toys R Us near you.


While you are there, use this coupon to save $5 on Mega Blocks Thomas and Friends Busy Day at the Quarry playset! Good Saturday Only!


Hope to see you there!!

Sad....

We took daddy (husband) to the airport today.   This is always the tough part - the next 24 hours.  It's an eighteen hour flight, then time to get to the hotel, etc.....it's usually almost exactly 24 hours after we drop him off.  It's always rough on me but this time was even more difficult as the 2 1/2 year old wanted to know why she couldn't go with daddy.   Poor kid.   She whimpered for a good 10 minutes and it breaks my heart.  That's when I really wonder when do we learn the concept of time?!?  For my 8 1/2 month old, he may notice daddy's gone, but will he comprehend how long it's been?   Probably not.  But my smart little 2 1/2 year old - does a week feel like a week to her?!?  I have NO idea! 
If you've tried to contact me today.....know these things. 1) If it weren't for my kids, I'd be sleeping away the next 24 hours so don't take it personally. 2) I'm not trying to ignore anyone, I'm just really not in a social mood - it happens everytime he leaves for China. 3) If I have responded - consider yourselves lucky....I must really like you :D  It's just how I cope with the worry of not hearing from him for 24 hours. 
At least we'll be keeping busy for most of the time.  Tomorrow, my daughter and I are having "date night" (Race track - weather permitting!) while my cousin and her husband are getting a refresher course since they are due in September and their daughter is almost 6 :)  with the baby.  Good luck to them!  We will probably be heading over there late afternoon so the girls can play, the baby gets used to them and we have some chatting time with big people :)  YAY! If the weather doesn't allow us to do the races, we'll find something else to do-just the two of us since her one on one time will really be diminished over the next week. 
Sunday, I am doing a Tupperware party for my SIL (not officially SIL, but close enough!) .   That should be fun!  Sounds like she's got a fair amount of yes RSVP's so I'm looking forward to that time too.   Hopefully the kids can stay with Grandpa or Uncles (if any of you read this.... ;-) ) and maybe even see Big Brother!   That would be a treat for the 2 1/2 year old :D
Monday, I'm HOPING to start the 3 day potty training technique.   If you've used this, can you let me knwo if it works?   She does pretty good with the peeing on the potty except she doesn't tell us when she has to go.   Pooping....forget it.   She's done it a few times and it's always a fight.   I'm hoping this works....I'd like to have a potty trained little girl before Daddy comes home!  We won't be going much of anywhere for the week from the sounds of it (I'm not locking us all in the house or anything......)

Frustrated....

That seems to be the theme of my life lately.  Everything is frustrating me more then it probably should....everyone, whatever :)  It's not one person either - it's like all of a sudden everything/everyone is forgetting about me....
Nothing major going on...just life.  But I seem to be a bit on edge or something.  I'm tired of doubting everything and everyone.   Sometimes I feel like no one really knows or remembers what it's like to stay at home with two kids.   There's a reason stay at home parents are underpaid and overworked.............
Don't get me wrong - I LOVE MY JOB :D   I just wish sometimes people would remember that I don't get to leave the house everyday without two kids attached to me.   My priorities have changed, that's for sure, since meeting my husband and having my two kids.   However, that doesn't mean I'm not available to do things with friends (or people I thought were friends).... It's ridiculous the lack of time people have for their friends that are parents now.  Sorry I can't go out every night (or even every weekend)....it's not even that I can't - most of the time I choose not to go out.... but once in awhile it doesn't hurt to ask :)  Just because I have an opinion that differs from yours about "extra curricular" activities you and your "friends" engage in, doesn't mean that I don't respect OUR friendship and what it used to be.... 
That's all I can say..... on that topic ;-)

Tune in to Rachel Ray March 29

Tupperware Featured On March 29 Rachael Ray Show


Reggie Bush, NFL player with the New Orleans Saints, will appear on The Rachael Ray Show that is scheduled to air on Monday, March 29. Reggie will show Rachael Ray how to make Mango-Pineapple Salsa with the Quick Chef and demonstrate how Tupperware today is more stylish and efficient than ever! Check your local listings for air times!

Reggie was invited to be on the show after a special demonstration event last week in New York City. Tupperware Chairman and CEO Rick Goings hosted an exclusive cooking demonstration for the media with Reggie and actor Peter Facinelli (“Twilight,” and “Nurse Jackie”) to showcase how easy cooking a three-course meal can be using nothing but Tupperware and a microwave! The “The Kitchen Aphrodisiac” event promoted the fact that women today love a man who can cook – and Tupperware makes cooking easy with products like the Quick Chef and the TupperWave® Stack Cooker.

You may have already seen media coverage of the New York event, which was covered by more than 25 media groups including E! Entertainment Television, Newsweek, US Weekly, OK! Magazine, Life & Style, CBS, Woman’s Day, Cosmopolitan and more. Information about the event has already appeared in publications such as The New York Times, E! Daily 10, AOL’s Popeater.com and OK! Magazine online.

3 years

It's been three years since I said, "I Do". Happy Anniversary to my husband, best friend and a great partner in life. You make me happier than I ever dreamed I could be at any point of my life!! Thanks for 3 perfect years and here's to another 85!!! I love you!!

The only doubt I have...

I haven't really looked back on the decision we made about a week ago to enroll our 2 1/2 year old in "Practice Preschool". The only main concern is potty training. She has to be fully potty trained by September (She'll be three in the middle of September). She does good 80% of the time, but she does not want to concentrate on it some days (and either do I as the weather gets nicer :D)
People might think I'm crazy signing my daughter up for preschool so early, but in this day and age AND this school district (one of the top 5%) I think we need to put her in early. It's one day a week for 2 1/2 hours. I don't think it's crazy. They won't actually "teach" things but they work on the seperation issues, more of a structured setting and just getting used to listening and sharing. Will she be bored? Maybe, but it's 2 1/2 hours a week. She already knows her ABC's, can count to 13 in English and 5 in Spanish. She knows most of her shapes and colors (when she's paying attention) so I'm really not concerned about "teaching" those things.
I just have doubts on the potty training.
So for those out there that have done it....what works? I have the three day "boot camp" book I will attempt in April when Daddy's gone for a week. For some reason he doesn't think it'll work... I think it's more about training the household than just the child. I've started reading it, but I'm not in far enough to know if that's the actual idea.
Besides working on the seperation issues, it gives her little brother some one on one time with mommy, which she had the advantage of having for 22 months!

Don't make me beg... I will :D

Hello all my friends/family -

I have a HUGE favor to ask of any(all) of you. I'm looking for a hostess or two that will allow me to come into your home and share my Tupperware experience and products with you. All it takes is 3 (or more) guest, you and me. I can provide the snack (you provide refreshments) and demonstrate a few items all at the same time. We can play a quick auction game where almost everyone (depending on the # of guests) leaves with free Tupperware. There are several options for parties - I can do them almost anywhere and am willing to travel :D I don't want to have to beg, but I'm will :) I have a couple parties booked out into April,but there's still 2 weeks wide open in March that I'd really like an opportunity to share everything with you. I'm HOPING that some people will want to help me get started (I've helped several people by hosting parties and I'm willing to do it again for those that have their businesses :D). The more help I get, the products and knowledge I have to share with you and your guests. I can do parties any night but Monday... and I'm willing to do Saturday mid morning or afternoon.
PLEASE take a look at your schedules and get back to me to see if we can fit something together. You get time with friends/family AND free Tupperware just by allowing me into your home (business, space, etc ;D)

I appreciate all of you reading this and even considering the possiblity. If you know of anyone that might be interested, please feel free to give them my contact information or let me know and I'll contact them.


Sincerely,
Judy Reed
Tupperware Consultant
http://my.tupperware.com/judyreed

What a week..

This week has been BUSY! We've had an extra person in the house, which just adds to the feel of busy, I'm sure :) But with Riley home, Abby has had someone else to talk to besides me and Lincoln!

We finally got our new carpet in the basement! It's a color called, "Sand Dollar". I picked it out after my husband gave me "permission" since it was easier for our sales guy to come out during the day. I think it looks great! He thinks it's a little too gold for his taste. After a week, it's not going to matter -we'll be so used to it.

We've also had a couple days of extra kids in the house. I'm all for helping out friends, especially since she's SO great at helping me out when I want/need a break too. The kids play nice together (most of the time :D) so that always make things easy on me and the kids.

Tonight, I'm hosting my "re-fire" Tupperware party. I'm going to try it again - the person I signed up under last time was too focused on personal sales and not really concerned about the "team". I went a step over that person this time and already feel like she's all about helping me get my business off the ground! She's been doing it for 20+ years and is an Executive Director, so she is more than willing to help out everyone and anyone! I'm pretty excited about it this time - plus I've already got 2 shows booked for the coming weeks and that doesn't count any that might get booked at my show tonight! PLEASE help if you need any Tupperware :)

Happy Birthday BeBop. This week (Wednesday) he would have turned 14. I miss him almost daily - there's still times when I look for him to go to bed or if someone knocks on the door, I wait for him to bark. It's been 2 months since I said goodbye - when does it get easier?!?!

Lincoln got his first tooth this week too! FINALLY. I feel so bad for the little guy, but now he seems to think it's funny to rub his tongue over it and chomp down on the spoon and basically just discover what he can do now :) I hope the rest of them go smoothly (for his sake and Ours!!!)

EFFIN.....

United States Postal Service!!!! Seriously, you can deliver mail to our address of people that haven't lived here for 5-8 years, but you refuse to deliver a credit card bill in my maiden name?!?!! WTF?!?! Luckily, this card is on auto pay or I'd be REALLY pissed... I'm just Really pissed....my card is declined for every transaction because the company has a hold on it due to returned mail.
Thankfully the CC Company is understanding in this dilemma and has fixed it on their end...now you do the same like our friendly postmaster says he'll do here in town.

No wonder your profits are down.... I'll get my stamps online from now on-thanks.



OKAY I should probably specifically say, this is not a threat in any way, I'm just so frustrated with the USPS. Seriously........................................... I just needed to vent :D

Some last minute fun tonight...

The Teddy Bear Band is coming to town tonight. Music starts at 7 and goes until 8:30. Before the music there is a FREE make-your-own-pasta bar starting at 5:30. This is happening at St. Peter's school. I guess it's in connection to their preschool and kindergarten roundups happening this week - how fun!!
So if you're bored and looking for some fun for all ages, come on out :) Can't wait - I think the little girl will think this is pretty cool!!

New Group ACM Nomination!

The Lost Trailers have been nominated for an ACM award... Top New Group!

This is a fan voted category, so we need your votes. Starting tomorrow, Friday 2/26, go place your vote for us.(see link below) Be sure to forward this to friends as well to get the word out about the vote!

Spread the news and GO VOTE!!!!

http://www.voteacm.com

A helpful hint....

TupperWave Stack Cooker: Browning Ground Beef

My family purchased a side of beef recently. After browning the ground beef (the old-fashioned way- in a skillet) we all remarked independently about how lean the meat was. Each of us reported only getting about 1 Tbsp of grease off of the beef. How Healthy - YAY!
Well, upon reading over the Microwave hints handout I came across a line that I hadn't paid attention to before:
Hamburger browned in the microwave has the same amount of fat as chicken.
Now, I have pretty much blindly believed every factoid that Tupperware or other consultants have shared with me...but this one had me doubtful.
Not believing, I proceeded to make tacos for lunch and browned my beef in the Tupperwave Stack Cooker with the colander, which allows the grease to drain throughout the browning process.
(This is where I stop and tell my guests, "Here's the Gross part"....)
That same beef...from the SAME cow...that all of my family was draining 1 Tblspn of grease from....when cooked in the TupperWave Stack Cooker yielded 1 CUP of GREASE....I DUMPED OUT 1 WHOLE CUP OF GREASE....there was a bit of water in it....but most of it hardened up. 1 CUP OF GREASE@!@#$%
That "Oh So Lean" beef that my family and I had been eating contained an entire CUP of grease!!!!
All my beef is now browned in my Tupperwave Stack Cooker and I have sold hostesses on getting this with their credits...leading them to urging their friends and family members to date a party! So, for just the cost of my clogged arteries... from eating 1 CUP of grease all my life...I am increasing my sales at each party! How awesome!!!!

26 Week Baby: Infant Brain Development

Research shows that babies respond very differently emotionally to lullabies (think "Rock a Bye Baby") and play songs (think "Where is Thumbkin?"). Learn why, and when to choose which.

View >>

My new "resume"

I’ve jumped back into the freelance writing life in an effort to make a bit of money while I stay home with my stars. This, of course, necessitated the updating of my resume.

It got me thinking. Some of my most impressive achievements and abilities will never grace the pages of this supposedly all-important document. And it seems like a shame. I am referring, of course, to motherhood–all that it requires. And with that, I present my other resume…

EXPERIENCE

Mother, 9/12/07-present (lifetime commitment)

•Collaborate with the kids, their father (my husband), to ensure that they grow and thrive; oversee everything from basic maintenance, such as diaper changes and feeding, to high-level development including babbling, drooling, sitting up, laughing, and rolling/tummy time, with plans to teach them how to be kind, walk, use the toilet and drive
•Provide attention, protection, guidance and full range of entertainment services including peek-a-boo, tickling, general zaniness and impromptu songs, stories and farting noises
•Willingly put my children’s needs before my own while still taking care of self and providing excellent example of how to live life to the fullest
•Manage public relations; handle photography and mailing of seasonal cards and wellness updates; manage upkeep of internet account with near-daily shots of children to prevent extended family from suffering cuteness withdrawal
•Love these children with all my heart, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year–even when yelling reaches peak annoy-ability levels

Giver of Life, 9/12/07
•Gave birth to baby girl weighing 6 pounds and 15 ounces; filled with pure joy upon her arrival
•Kicked ass throughout 39-hour labor during which concluded in a C-section
Giver of Life 7/29/09
•Gave birth to baby boy weighing 8 pounds and 4 ounces; once again a feeling of joy and accomplishment

Grower of Human Being
•Provided egg for successful fertilization; worried endlessly about fetus from moment of conception
•Attended birthing and parenting classes despite overwhelming exhaustion and overwhelmed bladder
•Ate enough cheese to feed all of Minnesota for three years; consumed record amounts of orange juice and apple juice
•Tolerated the shooting of sharp pains up my rear-end for several months; withstood debilitating hip pain and baby’s roundhouse kicks
•Enjoyed pregnancy despite all of the above

Warrior, 7/09 -present
•Managed to maintain sanity when baby refused to eat; chugged Mother's Milk Tea, took an undisclosed amount of prenatal vitamins just to maintain my health and help the intake and calories of breastmilk
•Mastered use of Supplemental Nursing System while successfully limiting use of the “f-word” to 400 times per day; sacrificed small but previously perky boobs to hospital grade breast pump
•Analyzed growth charts, lab results and intake levels; conducted in-depth, terrifying online research on daughter’s condition and treatment

EDUCATION

The Parental Institution of The Reeds

•Coursework in everything, with an emphasis on love, the value hard work, and a good sense of humor
School of Hard Knocks
•Classes included Terrible Mistakes, Bad Relationships 101, and Welcome to Life
•Curriculum revolved around parenting without anything resembling adequate preparation

SKILLS SUMMARY

General: Expert-level nurturing, crisis and conflict management, hazardous waste handling and sanitation, budgeting, soothing, teaching life skills and morals, child safety, nursery decorating, baby-wearing, silly face and nonsensical sounds mastery

Technical: Milk production, human creation, swaddling, rocking, one-handed diapering (experience with both formula and breast milk poop platforms), bottle maintenance, reflux abatement, toilet training

COMMUNITY SERVICE

•Contributed two new members to the human race
•Responsible raising of kind, compassionate, contributing citizens
•Adept removal of screeching kids from public places, ensuring a peaceful community
•Additions to the world of a love that grows by leaps and bounds each and every day

Potty training...

Has officially started in our house! I'm convinced she's ready as the last two days we have only had 1 wet/dirty diaper each day. Other than that, she's been successful on the potty!! YAY! Plus, she's started telling us that she needs to go and 3/4 times she will actually go :) THANK GOODNESS!!! Today she woke up and told me it was time to go - and she did. Good girl!!!!!!!!!!! :D
**Although I learned NOT while Sesame Street is on...she had a fit when she heard Elmo's World theme and she had to miss it. Thank goodness for rewinding live TV :)***

In other news, my baby will 6 months tomorrow. Seriously, where does the time go?!? He's learning something new everyday and growing like a weed. I remember from this point with Abby and it seems like they learn EVERYDAY!!!

Is it still normal for me to miss my dog this much after 3 weeks? I look for him everyday. It's hard to walk into the house and know he's not there. It's hard to not cry when Abby starts talking about playing with him again. I've started the closure process with cleaning up his stuff, but I can't bring myself to fully do it yet.

Shut Up and Grow Up!

Did the Minnesota Vikings run up the score on the Dallas Cowboys in Sunday's NFC divisional playoff? Keith Brooking thinks so. A late Brett Favre touchdown pass infuriated the Dallas linebacker, who charged over to the Vikings' sideline to voice his displeasure. And in his postgame press conference he didn't back down.
The Vikings had held a comfortable 27-3 lead since the early part of the fourth quarter. Dallas looked completely deflated after going down 24 points and the team's subsequent play did nothing to dispel that notion. On the Cowboys' next two possessions the team went four-and-out, gaining a mere 14 yards on eight plays.
After the second turnover on downs, Minnesota took over on Dallas' 37-yard line. With 5:26 remaining and the Vikes holding a nearly insurmountable lead, runs to milk the clock were expected. But after an Adrian Peterson run on first down, Favre hit Bernard Berrian for 19 yards on the next play. Two Peterson runs followed, before Favre threw a short three-yard pass to bring up fourth-and-three after the two minute warning.
Here, the Vikes had four choices: 1. They could take a knee and give Dallas the ball back for the game's final two minutes; 2. Wave a partial white flag and run the ball up the middle; 3. Kick a field goal (which also could have been percevied as running up the score); 4. Drop Favre back to attempt a pass.
Minnesota went with option No. 4 and Favre hit tight end Visanthe Shiancoe(notes) for an 11-yard touchdown. This choice did not go over well with Brooking. The Cowboys' linebacker, presumably upset because he felt Minnesota was running up the score, stormed over to the Vikings sideline and exchanged words with coaches and players, including Favre. He had yet to calm down after the game:
"I thought it was totally classless and disrespectful. This is the NFL, that's not what this is about. I don't think there's a place for that ... I was looking for [Vikings coach Brad] Childress. I didn't think it was right, but they've got to see us next year."
Brooking needs to relax and listen to his own words.
He's right. This is the NFL, not high school or college. The Dallas Cowboys don't get sympathy. Throwing that pass may not have been the greatest sportsmanship, but it also wasn't an affront to decency. If Brooking didn't want Minnesota to score then maybe he and his 10 teammates on the field should have done something about it.
Just because the Cowboys quit doesn't mean the Vikings needed to also.

Would Dallas have stopped playing if the game was reversed? No. Would any team not score given the opportunity? No. SHUT UP! There is no mercy rule in football...you're a "pro" and you should know that you idiot!! The Cowboys were never really in the game, so get over yourself and enjoy your vacation....

Thank You Megan (even if I never meet you)

One of my "mommy board" mommies shared this with me. Of course, I just cry reading it, but it's true and I'm sure it will be very calming and reassuring in days to come.

The Rainbow Bridge

By the edge of a woods, at the foot of a hill,

Is a lush, green meadow where time stands still.

Where the friends of man and woman do run,

When their time on earth is over and done.

For here, between this world and the next,

Is a place where each beloved creature finds rest.

On this golden land, they wait and they play,

Till the Rainbow Bridge they cross over one day.

No more do they suffer, in pain or in sadness,

For here they are whole, their lives filled with gladness.

Their limbs are restored, their health renewed,

Their bodies have healed, with strength imbued.

They romp through the grass, without even a care,

Until one day they start, and sniff at the air.

All ears prick forward, eyes dart front and back,

Then all of a sudden, one breaks from the pack.

For just at that instant, their eyes have met;

Together again, both person and pet.

So they run to each other, these friends from long past,

The time of their parting is over at last.

The sadness they felt while they were apart,

Has turned into joy once more in each heart.

They embrace with a love that will last forever,

And then, side-by-side, they cross over… together.

13 years, 10 months and 29 days....

That's how old my "baby" was today when we said goodbye. Good bye BeBop. You've been a good dog. I picked him out when he was 5 weeks and have him in my home(s) since he was 7 weeks. There's nothing like the unconditional love of a dog to get you through the hard days/times.
I know you're going to enjoy playing and running and eating to your heart's content. I know Spanky, Lexi and Brandy will show you the ropes. I know that my Grandpa Tubbs will take good care of you because he knows how important you are to me.

The procedure itself was quick and painless. Almost too quick. It completely broke my heart to just watch him lay down, but I'm VERY happy I was there talking to him when his little heart stopped beating. I am VERY grateful that my husband could be there to hold my hand and give me the hugs that I needed.

All I can do is cry today. I know the steps for grieving. I know each day gets better, but that doesn't make today easy.

Thank you to everyone who is supportive and understanding of this situation. I will probably be in seclusion (as much a mommy of 2 can be) for a few days so if I don't answer emails or post on FB or MySpace, please understand. This was by far the hardest goodbye for me to date.

Play nice

We've had some issues in our house lately. BAD ATTITUDES!!!!!!!!!! I understand stress and bad days. When your attitude is constantly bad, I don't want you around my kids. This is very difficult when you live with us :)
Christmas was stressful because it seemed like nothing was "right" according to some people. I'm sorry... I have two kids now. I'm out to make Christmas special for them! Yes, they are 2 years old 5 months old, but if we don't start with certain things now, I know that we'll slack off and each year will get less and less important to them. I grew up with traditions - I would like to have some with my kids too.
Don't complain because Santa brings "big" presents. Seriously - when they are 13-18 fine - he can just do stocking stuffers. No little kid waits in line to see Santa to ask for stocking stuffers. No little kid writes a letter to Santa asking for stocking stuffers. NOT the way I grew up (and took a quick survey).
Also, when one person is cranky ALL the time, it rubs off on another. You are a leader to the little kids. Please watch your attitude and don't think that you are the only one "put off" by the household.

Happenings...

It's been awhile since I was on here. Not saying that I don't have anything going on, but everytime I try to start something, life gets moving again :)
I'll say this, I've got a few different topics to cover,so expect a few entries over the course of today and probably the next few days. To spare you all the pain of having to read it all, I will be covering things related to (but not limited to) CRAPPY ATTITUDES, Christmas, saying goodbye, new carpet ideas, disgusting habits, family and the kids :)
Pay attention - it might be coming fast ;)