tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35565713481917986442024-02-06T17:56:03.919-08:00Smiles A LotI love to smile. I am (almost) always smiling. So here I will share what I am smiling about, mostly about my wonderful family, loving friends and the blessings I have reeived from God.DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.comBlogger292125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-71455574804991750422010-03-15T19:29:00.001-07:002010-03-15T20:07:15.596-07:00Daddy/Daughters Date Night<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9j7HvmhUNziirKnX9HkExqGj2MZSZWeXXR7lGTHOu9HgkyKPm5SdEtV1x446ipq8HQMXF06cI81kbNO70GTqn8rQYF199XBWui6WflFj9Lz_hK0d18sCXhQvjG4KIBtJpHxIEFVRAoOY/s1600-h/Livin+Lovin+Luau+March+2010.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 215px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449061192842204242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9j7HvmhUNziirKnX9HkExqGj2MZSZWeXXR7lGTHOu9HgkyKPm5SdEtV1x446ipq8HQMXF06cI81kbNO70GTqn8rQYF199XBWui6WflFj9Lz_hK0d18sCXhQvjG4KIBtJpHxIEFVRAoOY/s320/Livin+Lovin+Luau+March+2010.jpg" /></a>C and the girls had another great date night at the Livin' Lovin' Luau, a yearly event by the Parent Connection. Such a wonderful organization! I LOVE how they have programs to support and encourage families, especially programs that really encourage the relationship between fathers and their children. So important for kids, especially daughters!<br /><br /><div></div><div>The girls just love going! And it is especially special because they get to spend time with Daddy-o! I didn't tell them until after naps today that they were going *C registered them for the event) but once I mentioned the place, they were all excited to go. </div><br /><div>What a great time they had tonight! C says the night flies by. They start the date with dinner out. Then they get to the Y, sign in and the fun begins! The big hits are the inflatables and shaving Daddy (shaving cream and Popsicle sticks.) </div><br /><div>There are a lot of other activities but these have been their highlights. They also get a really nice goodie bag that includes a new book and passes or discounts like a free bowling game or discount to an inflatable play place. </div><br /><div>C's favorite part is surprising the girls with a stop for ice cream after the event. (I even got a treat too! I am enjoying a yummy turtle sundae.)</div><br /><div>So again, a great time for them! I am so glad they went. I am so glad they are building these memories and bonds. </div>DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-37789626603183916492010-03-04T20:14:00.000-08:002010-03-04T21:15:16.591-08:00Ice Skating Queens<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUVfAz9jyvGIUUH2_X1dYbuC9xyqB6_D2dz-ZAhJkNiyg8NSRHwH1bK0dLsiTAVNZURfEx-_RgDvMakOBaFJ3wAYxfshKtKq0gj6CW0n83HcrcZQX5Iw_sxtxKkbFhwgUmoOiRKNDJB31/s1600-h/PICS_3MARCH2010+158.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445010807528076114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUVfAz9jyvGIUUH2_X1dYbuC9xyqB6_D2dz-ZAhJkNiyg8NSRHwH1bK0dLsiTAVNZURfEx-_RgDvMakOBaFJ3wAYxfshKtKq0gj6CW0n83HcrcZQX5Iw_sxtxKkbFhwgUmoOiRKNDJB31/s320/PICS_3MARCH2010+158.jpg" /></a><br /><div>S finished her ice skating "lessons" tonight.<br /><br /><div><div><div><div>We started about a month and a half ago when a friend, who was a former skater and instructor, invited us to a local rink for lessons. </div><br /><div>S was so excited to take lessons. This was something she really wanted to do. Well, she's enjoyed ice skating so much that she usually wants to stay out as long as she can, which was about an hour. In this time, she's become confident on the ice. She can go around the rink pretty good and is gliding more and she was starting swizzles. I am so proud of what she has accomplished. </div><br /><div>All this time, I have been on the ice as well, mostly to provide encouragement and because it's fun. I tried to get M out the first time, which was not successful. In fact, it was stressful because I hadn't been on the ice since high school, maybe, so there I was trying to get my legs under me and remember how to ice skate and then try to hold up this little 3-year-old who was pretty skittish about the ice. So eventually M had had enough and sat with Daddy.<br /><br />Tonight was the last night (the arena will be getting rid of the ice for home shows and the like during the summer) so Miss L decided to have a little party for her students (about 4-6 girls.)<br /></div><div>I asked M if she wanted to go and initially she wanted to stay home with Daddy but then decided she wanted to go to the party AND try to skate. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_F30zOXPcUuF9zAM7_NjWtbwfOFrAQvloZdhb0Ldg05QBYWAhyphenhyphenk0cWzZe2Gmj_trPJmrDOuNamB9cGdRWuqwsmJAkdiXBnOOSnO2w7JCmhduhn1-0snsRtn6uGz81UTDwwqyf4mAO3vw/s1600-h/PICS_3MARCH2010+186.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445010822409058450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_F30zOXPcUuF9zAM7_NjWtbwfOFrAQvloZdhb0Ldg05QBYWAhyphenhyphenk0cWzZe2Gmj_trPJmrDOuNamB9cGdRWuqwsmJAkdiXBnOOSnO2w7JCmhduhn1-0snsRtn6uGz81UTDwwqyf4mAO3vw/s320/PICS_3MARCH2010+186.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>I was a little nervous about that, given the first experience, but figured we'd give it a try and if it didn't work out, so be it. </div><br /><div>C took her out on the ice, held her hand for a short time until Miss L came up and said to M "Why don't you let go of Daddy's hand?" M did and she fell but Miss L showed her how to get back up. After that M was pretty much on the go! She had so much fun! She just took to the ice right away. It was so cute to see her and S skating together. </div><br /><div>M fell quite a bit so she'll likely be sore tomorrow. Sometimes she fell on purpose, either because of goofing or as a way to deal with a little wobbling. But she got stronger and stronger each time she got up. She did take a couple big bumps on the bum but again, she got up and kept skating. </div><br /><div>I am proud of the girls and I can see this being an activity for them for years to come. S talks about being a professional skater (among her <strong>many</strong> other interests) so we'll<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh278x0eVr7xEXhyDzqigejSsup_lvPds58-DBrXmC1yJ101DIqsl-zl7GSoYone47xmptsybo44uwO0YSohKwQiHurFk2EN86aM0boQjVID7D-VuPlCKd1rEPOJWgmVZ-TQTSt1mOjQcLu/s1600-h/PICS_3MARCH2010+173.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445010815459482290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh278x0eVr7xEXhyDzqigejSsup_lvPds58-DBrXmC1yJ101DIqsl-zl7GSoYone47xmptsybo44uwO0YSohKwQiHurFk2EN86aM0boQjVID7D-VuPlCKd1rEPOJWgmVZ-TQTSt1mOjQcLu/s320/PICS_3MARCH2010+173.jpg" /></a> see. </div><div> </div><div>If she is truly dedicated, then we'll consider formal lessons. For now, we will enjoy what has become a fun family activity. Even C was on the ice a couple times! </div>And I think we'll try to hit the skating rink this summer! That should be a lot of fun.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjloIZKwcf9oT6wdlQfW2QzmE9zRCmgbklBjRXVvD_eqSOwE9aegxuQvJJCddiL2hlQvceV_V9LHe0byqaoD2Z_r69AWh2foHYz17nRBY-WKjzhjWgb4qWLpGmjofp3DWbUvk_HeNT11d/s1600-h/PICS_3MARCH2010+178.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445010807308025090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjloIZKwcf9oT6wdlQfW2QzmE9zRCmgbklBjRXVvD_eqSOwE9aegxuQvJJCddiL2hlQvceV_V9LHe0byqaoD2Z_r69AWh2foHYz17nRBY-WKjzhjWgb4qWLpGmjofp3DWbUvk_HeNT11d/s320/PICS_3MARCH2010+178.jpg" /></a><br /><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445010839359584130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirW4iKuBuxiICyIAZvmJVPsW373I7vbQxoIUIde3dHQEFLj5YkM62XK-tllXKIAoRa7WXIAlNC0YRT9twsjrO8KKs_P9j8vbkkulU25oeQuIVzYR17KsgT1f41cjFFZIfa-RP8l3h2WySo/s320/PICS_3MARCH2010+208.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-90037767816949250662010-02-24T13:54:00.000-08:002010-02-24T14:20:38.084-08:00Still here!Hey folks!<br />I am still here. January was my last post but it seems like much longer. I know I have been slacking on the blogs. I think it might have to do with the fact that I don't have a laptop anymore (it died shortly after Christmas). But I still use this computer a lot, mostly for freelance work but the culprit could also be Facebook. Not that I do crazy games and stuff but I do jump on and read statuses and the like. I also find myself doing a few Swagbucks searches during the day. So lots of computer use spread all over! And then sharing the computer so C so he can do Internet searches, billing and more.<br />Time so share some of the love with my blog.<br />Family Update:<br />We are all doing fine. S now has a cold but nothing too bad. M had a similar cold last week and it was very short-lived and so far C and I have been OK.<br />C has been really busy on a work project. He goes into work early and stays until 6 and even works evenings after the girls go to bed. It's been a long haul and the end is not in site yet. But I am so proud of him and all that he does for us. <br />M is finally getting her own room....in that we are making changes so that it is her room and not the move in ready room it has been for the last 2 years. C put up new mini-blinds and a ceiling light/fan last weekend and I found the purple curtains we used in S's Greenville room. We are going to paint the room (green walls with purple butterflies) in the spring and put up a wallpaper boarder that was also supposed to go in S's old room. And we plan to convert the toddler bed into the full bed but we need to get a mattress.<br />Huge news is that my total cholesterol is below 200! Last fall is was at 237 and now it is at 192. My HDL is still the same (32) and my LDL, while improved is still lousy. But the doctor says diet and exercise should continue to improve those numbers.<br />Since last summer/fall, we have made a lot of dietary changes here. (Skim or soy milk, reduced fat cheeses, healthier oils, whole grains, meat alternatives like Bocca and Morning Star, lean meats and fish, more beans and trying to add more fruits and veggies). I have tried to cut back on snacking (not an easy task). Through all that, I've lost about 8 pounds. I FINALLY started exercising again. I was making too many excuses and said enough is enough! I started about three weeks ago and it' s been really good. I exercise in the mornings, which is pretty much the only time to do it as afternoons while the girls nap are really a busy computer usage time (mostly freelance work, really!) I do the Leslie Sansone tapes and a exercise ball program. I really enjoy both.<br />I have been to the doctor recently because of chest like issues. I've had them off and on for a few weeks now. So I went in and everything seems OK. My EKG was completely normal and the chest X-ray didn't show anything unusual around my heart, etc.<br />I do worry that I may be getting carpal tunnel as I've had some random swelling in my left thumb area. I'll have to monitor it some more before getting it looked at.<br />Life has been busy. Lots of little things that pile up into one big thing. :)<br />Looking forward to the spring and warmer weather and getting outside, biking, walking and trying my hand at some gardening again. So anyone with container garden tips, please contact me.<br />Well, freelance work beckons again. I'll try to keep more up-to-date and get some pictures out.<br />Adios!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-55830801616116627572010-01-15T19:26:00.000-08:002010-01-15T19:27:31.698-08:00HaitiLike many, Haiti has been on my mind. I hear about it everywhere. The events, as they unfold, slice through me. I can’t completely wrap my mind about what has happened. It is almost like after 9/11. And I want to help but the only way I know how is to pray and pray and pray.<br />My heart bleeds for a country I honestly know little about. I remember learning about Haiti in school. My thought was it was always a poor place. That was confirmed last year when our church did a Reaching Farther emphasis, with a focus on the countries like Haiti. Our church has many out-reach efforts there and we helped raise money for a storage container full or dried beans and rice. It was an impactful time. The church has more missions planned, including one next month. And just last Sunday, a couple days before this deadly earthquake, we heard from a local doctor who has been to the country on medical missions time and time again.<br />Through all these stories in the last few days, I find I am just in awe and inspired and amazed by those who leave their homes and lives to go to Haiti, to reach out with love and compassion for the people there. It is truly amazing! I praise God for those loving people and their courage and bravery and love and desire to go time and time again.<br />We have members, a family, from our church there right now. They are spending three-months in Haiti, where their adopted son is from. They are about four hours away from Port-Au-Prince but they will likely feel the affects and will have more need to minister to a people suffering.<br />I can imagine too that those who have been to Haiti, who have seen first-hand the poverty and suffering that was there before this disaster, are chomping at the bit and making any and all efforts to get there. I am sure they feel helpless here in the states while people, families, children they know are suffering or worse.<br />So many people have connections to Haiti….the stories continue to amaze me. <br />I pray for the missionaries and aid people already there. I pray for their safety as they minister and serve while they are likely hurting as well.<br />I pray for those trying to get to the country and for their safety as they get in the midst of it all.<br />I pray for those here in the states. Maybe, like me, they feel a little helpless and wonder how to help. We are witnessing a world, broken and on its knees. We need to help them stand again.DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-16354124199245546112010-01-03T20:22:00.000-08:002010-01-03T20:50:26.066-08:002010 here we come!The holiday hustle and bustle is over! I think I am recovered. We will see as we enter a new week. C will return to work and we will return to our routine, as it is.<br />We enjoyed the holidays. We spent Christmas Eve and part of Day here at home. It was so nice to wake up in our own beds and delight over the gifts. I will eventually get pictures out. They are still on the camera. :)<br />The girls got toys that will encourage their imaginative play: dress up dolls, play food, Play Dough and a super cool puppet theater that C built.<br />S is in her glory with the play food. She has really been into playing a chef and operating a restaurant. Tia got her a super cute apron with hat and oven mitt and pad. So cute! And Tia got S a Melissa and Doug sushi set. Again, super cute and S is in her glory!<br />M loves to play with ALL the toys. She got Elefun and Play Dough so that has been huge. She also got a Mega Blocks Kai Lan Dragon Boat set and has enjoyed putting that together.<br />I received some much needed Creative Memories scrapbook pages and page protectors. It might sound boring to some but I need those because they are being discontinued and I already have the albums for them. So it was buy them or be stuck with books that I can't fill with the new size pages. I also got some yummy chocolates, super comfy socks and PJ's.<br />I took advantage of several photo book offers and gave C and the girls each a book with various memories. For C, the RV trip we took to NC shortly after we married. For S, our Chicago trip and for M, our MOA trip.<br />C was very surprised about his gift from the girls and I: A GPS! He has had a lot of fun using it. No, we have not named it. Although he did have it set to an Australian man's voice so I think of Connor from Ugly Betty or Hugh Jackman from X-Men. C thinks Paul Hogan from the Crocodile Dundee fame. :) C also received a couple neat toys: an Open It tool, which has come in handy many times already; and a cordless screwdriver.<br />We spent the rest of Christmas Day and that weekend visiting family in the southeastern part of the state. It was a nice time. We came home for a day (which we spent in out jammies) and then headed off to the Western part of the state to spend a couple days with the family. We returned New Year's Eve and basically chilled out over the weekend. No super late parties for us! :)<br />Now, I guess, is the return to normalcy. C goes back to work. :( And we will once again see a schedule with various activities like ballet, story times, play groups, the return of my church mother's group and so forth. The girls will participate in a couple parks and recreation programs next month. I plan to resume homeschooling with S and, maybe try some things with M. (Suggestions anyone??) Reading is one of the things we plan to begin with S. And we will be enrolling her in kindergarten this month, I believe! She is very excited for school to begin. She even created a picture with her name surrounded by hearts in the middle and, in each corner, a picture to represent the seasons. She "checked off" winter (depicted by little circles to represent snowflakes) and knows when we get to fall it will be the start of school. <br />With any luck, this winter will pass by and we can look forward to warm spring days! :)DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-30767988216739915772009-12-22T20:08:00.000-08:002009-12-22T20:17:40.249-08:00December pictures<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKhZh9jMwKFSze7R6lgDQqa-Lhidi-7RqCdjTBvmJB7N_Z1xXqhJ3_kdg1CFDK44dmendNu7_X0W3__F_bb2btby_wmnSRIY81myPKlG1wtO_DZ9qCLwHIHBWVGAG2SIBQXBuH6FHeXOc/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+050.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418280160735852530" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKhZh9jMwKFSze7R6lgDQqa-Lhidi-7RqCdjTBvmJB7N_Z1xXqhJ3_kdg1CFDK44dmendNu7_X0W3__F_bb2btby_wmnSRIY81myPKlG1wtO_DZ9qCLwHIHBWVGAG2SIBQXBuH6FHeXOc/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+050.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I realized I am behind on some pictures from this month, like pictures of the girl's birthday party with friends, the blizzard, a visit with Santa and the girls in their Christmas outfits that they wore at church for their big performance on the big stage. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBPjFFkjmoI4aGjQvEVt4a-VfHHoTKAOENZIim-3R-LgdAdnmOhrD7yigOOI5UjTgYSDJzVHOe9NH-gmxLsqGljtJn9QwKudpzShRUreM5kEcN-g9mnlidjsODgkieWqsPZkz0ihr03k9/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+071.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418280169914770034" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBPjFFkjmoI4aGjQvEVt4a-VfHHoTKAOENZIim-3R-LgdAdnmOhrD7yigOOI5UjTgYSDJzVHOe9NH-gmxLsqGljtJn9QwKudpzShRUreM5kEcN-g9mnlidjsODgkieWqsPZkz0ihr03k9/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+071.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5vOiIIGvhsd0QokddtrWn0V1hURyLSdd9JhZqYFkBt8_4koVhS3YrUIqqvMxEqC1BHbY7crN9rZJm2JF9gDq0qXsme1VpKu08d3dkD8lIY-S1vcg-AQoNn9ffHtwmT71qy1LwuP1l7fs/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+069.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418280166599915474" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5vOiIIGvhsd0QokddtrWn0V1hURyLSdd9JhZqYFkBt8_4koVhS3YrUIqqvMxEqC1BHbY7crN9rZJm2JF9gDq0qXsme1VpKu08d3dkD8lIY-S1vcg-AQoNn9ffHtwmT71qy1LwuP1l7fs/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+069.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLAaaaafnOp_i5lpiah5fdkUqursgYRrQQn2DYt5Z7XoIoOrggv5BgjDAC6Mm91D-YGva-g-rcZJppHrgigZ4VS8IUcldDlV4hJhcWLCaJZz_EAehsDzTU6Mja9yeFbgcpDfyhUS8zfZxj/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+073.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418280174844753026" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLAaaaafnOp_i5lpiah5fdkUqursgYRrQQn2DYt5Z7XoIoOrggv5BgjDAC6Mm91D-YGva-g-rcZJppHrgigZ4VS8IUcldDlV4hJhcWLCaJZz_EAehsDzTU6Mja9yeFbgcpDfyhUS8zfZxj/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+073.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylxb5oXkAeltTBFpnMiiOzenrGKqwkhG6-g912dibRziOwOtbgyohRAhDl-OOsmfkJJ4_7MvWs6s2bIYUXluol46GPD4X3dxpnVcsEYh_1G9veW4UJ0IdUZgSpEkWr0IAMTx-XoSQGHE_/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+100.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418280172318362530" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylxb5oXkAeltTBFpnMiiOzenrGKqwkhG6-g912dibRziOwOtbgyohRAhDl-OOsmfkJJ4_7MvWs6s2bIYUXluol46GPD4X3dxpnVcsEYh_1G9veW4UJ0IdUZgSpEkWr0IAMTx-XoSQGHE_/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+100.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div>DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-18963735141216984102009-12-22T19:59:00.001-08:002009-12-22T20:08:47.629-08:00M's first dental visit<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKg9lL4aWI5r79s4-Jn74tV4Xwljvm6yKnQFB0QYXicNNwqwkbCvDpw9rx0Z4qF0SnZAtftaxyebq9uNQLvT9wTgYNozMokbHo5ziJxcfZ47UVqouBXFWUMS1ncZgGTy4QXorFgZzqNqH7/s1600-h/PICS_21DEC2009+049.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418278555632478226" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKg9lL4aWI5r79s4-Jn74tV4Xwljvm6yKnQFB0QYXicNNwqwkbCvDpw9rx0Z4qF0SnZAtftaxyebq9uNQLvT9wTgYNozMokbHo5ziJxcfZ47UVqouBXFWUMS1ncZgGTy4QXorFgZzqNqH7/s320/PICS_21DEC2009+049.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>M had her first official dental visit on Monday and was a pro! The visit went so well! She has been to the dentist before when S had her cleanings. Also, we had the dentist look at a front tooth that seems to be two teeth joined together.<br /><br /><div>I think it also helped for this visit to have M watch S get her cleaning done first. But once S was done, M was anxious to get into the dentist chair! </div><br /><div>She was so sweet! She opened her mouth wide when directed. She would wave to me as her teeth were getting cleaned. She laughed when the water squirter would rinse her teeth. She said her teeth were crunchy (because of the tooth polish). She did such a good job! I am so proud of her!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIC5jvJGzvy3IVQIqYdHHZkZYH6_vtCVyS9yXXz7QRpb0-h3JYLeIN4IJQ4E5JqXiaLO1W9vDUjjgwiZksHBIhdWMShbykvFgwrO-slXBJZZJM6whlqJjWKP40Lp8NkfYXKTkumqAWWwE/s1600-h/PICS_21DEC2009+083.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418278559630538866" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIC5jvJGzvy3IVQIqYdHHZkZYH6_vtCVyS9yXXz7QRpb0-h3JYLeIN4IJQ4E5JqXiaLO1W9vDUjjgwiZksHBIhdWMShbykvFgwrO-slXBJZZJM6whlqJjWKP40Lp8NkfYXKTkumqAWWwE/s320/PICS_21DEC2009+083.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div></div>DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-32925452165667557192009-12-19T19:19:00.000-08:002009-12-19T19:56:09.284-08:00Where are the Jingles??One of my childhood Christmas memories is of snacking on Keebler Holiday Jingles and Almond Crescents. It's been a couple years, maybe, since I've had them. But a couple weeks ago, I thought about them and sought them in our local grocery store. None. I almost thought they weren't made anymore but was given some encouragement when I saw a Kebbler ad with a box of Jingles in the picture.<br />I've been looking every time I go shopping and have even kept my eyes open at other stores (like a local mega superstore) but I have not seen them. I know they are a seasonal item so either I am completely missing them or they are just that popular! (And, no, I have not asked management where they are, figuring that maybe my figure and cholesterol don't need those cookies.)<br />Well, today the desire was real strong for Jingles so I was on a mission to find the cookies at my store. I scanned the aisles and pounced on any holiday display I could find at my local grocery store and still NO Jingles!<br />BUT I did come across Salerno Santa's Favorites Anise Flavored Cookies (which look and taste like Jingles). And the company also has Almond Crescents. I decided to give them a try.<br />The Anise Flavored ones were OK. They did remind me of Jingles. But the cookie seems smaller than Jingles. I'll still eat them though.<br />The Almond Crescents were good although I wished they had a touch more powered sugar on them.<br />The good thing is they have 0g trans fat and no cholesterol. So I don't feel totally guilty. :)<br />I still miss the Jingles.<br />But then again, maybe I am not missing anything at all. I just found <a href="http://bigballsofholly.typepad.com/big_balls_of_holly/2007/12/emergency-updat.html">this blog </a>posted in 2007 about the writers own lament over missing the beloved Holiday Jingles. (I did not realize there was so much history between Salerno and Keebler and the whole story behind the Jingles.) The writer found both the Keebler and Salerno brands at a store, decided to taste test both and concluded that the Keebler Brand was nothing like they remembered.<br />I found <a href="http://wnymedia.net/wnymedia/smith/2007/12/salerno-jingles-cookies/">another blog </a>with the same kind of frustration over the Keebler brand recipe and how the Salerno brand is THE original. WOW! So much history that I was totally unaware of. So did I eat Keebler or Salerno brand as a kid?? I am pretty sure it was Keebler but maybe not.<br />Sounds like I need to do a taste test as well!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-8866537501946949282009-12-18T20:34:00.001-08:002009-12-18T21:12:05.035-08:00Christmas Letter 2009<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkawboJ6MWcjjv02iJbJdKaOZbq7U4avFeaeRYlhKLhE5QB5WGlINilQH0NKJh82pAY2ueohLXBHAdfg1uuHARiKC1ezorLlCA_kiRD9ku2YPtfbc3-KG46exRzlqQ7jeLTRPEAOPfNeW/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+073.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416807939171146498" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkawboJ6MWcjjv02iJbJdKaOZbq7U4avFeaeRYlhKLhE5QB5WGlINilQH0NKJh82pAY2ueohLXBHAdfg1uuHARiKC1ezorLlCA_kiRD9ku2YPtfbc3-KG46exRzlqQ7jeLTRPEAOPfNeW/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+073.jpg" border="0" /></a>I sent out Christmas cards this year (thanks to all the free or nearly free photo offers out there!) I didn't send out a Christmas letter because I didn't have time to write then. Well, I've got a few moments tonight so here is a short (only because my memory might not be working properly) update:<br /><br /><br /><div><div><div><div>C: wrapped up with one project late summer and is on to another project. He recently wrapped up with his men's church group. He continues to input sermon notes for church. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3spiT3TfQ-ChCTAPhTZWZurKVWuLMgccmkHXFsJWjmAKdWL0DkOsEe14lZzYHU6mzXYhcU59MBZSyuv3x1SbGvusbWPOoZwAnMsgc_k4KToQirTe1fxHVqva8b7NC25muDLbYHMg8cMFY/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+090.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416807948630097650" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3spiT3TfQ-ChCTAPhTZWZurKVWuLMgccmkHXFsJWjmAKdWL0DkOsEe14lZzYHU6mzXYhcU59MBZSyuv3x1SbGvusbWPOoZwAnMsgc_k4KToQirTe1fxHVqva8b7NC25muDLbYHMg8cMFY/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+090.jpg" border="0" /></a>Through diet and exercise, he has shed quite a few pounds. He remains on blood thinner medications until next month, we hope. </div><div><br /><br /></div><div>L: A friend and I co-lead the mom's group at church. We have a great group of small group leaders and wonderful participants. I continue to team lead in the three year old class on Sunday mornings. I continue to freelance for local publications. Over the spring I was asked to write a weekly piece on local people doing good things. I really enjoy it. Homeschooling took a break this fall. Not sure why we were so busy but it just never fit and then I just decided to take a break. I hope to resume in January and may even start some things with M. I have a lot of great resources a friend has recommended so that will also be exciting to add to our plans. </div><div> </div><div>S: turned 5 this year. We took a trip to Chicago over the summer and she is all a buzz about one day buying a car, moving to Chicago<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0aLWNHzah2cdqMNPc7HguHdQGGb-mEVZjbN6u6K_byRY3vCamCMeNcmdEHnUAGQSqakt886lVJbwvdmm6CcG0V2_VbfJCAwX_Pmtf7bG2RXY7gEnTG_7EHTBfvdQ6-eDbUNah9iUcOe8y/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+087.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416809223289226642" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0aLWNHzah2cdqMNPc7HguHdQGGb-mEVZjbN6u6K_byRY3vCamCMeNcmdEHnUAGQSqakt886lVJbwvdmm6CcG0V2_VbfJCAwX_Pmtf7bG2RXY7gEnTG_7EHTBfvdQ6-eDbUNah9iUcOe8y/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+087.jpg" border="0" /></a> and being an artist and working with beluga whales at the Shedd Aquarium. She has also enjoyed pretend play as a chef so that has also been an interest. And she really has taken to anything to do with space travel so she hopes to one day go to space and stay on the International Space Station (which we've seen in the night sky a couple times. VERY cool!) She has her life pretty much planned out already. </div><div><br /></div><div>M: turned 3 this year. She continues to be on the go, go, go! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExBLVeT2BIGLb6wZiRMkRzly9wy0FJ3ccHNOVKIetr8xCBfWtz_Xmw02O-jw4X9pujJDB-TL5YWo5GN0EZr5YE4Z8yY_uRGlwqG0EZhyphenhyphenK_0RkvqhPY8dFA8_0GYPR8XOty3y81IFr4lZg/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+026.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416807937134978274" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExBLVeT2BIGLb6wZiRMkRzly9wy0FJ3ccHNOVKIetr8xCBfWtz_Xmw02O-jw4X9pujJDB-TL5YWo5GN0EZr5YE4Z8yY_uRGlwqG0EZhyphenhyphenK_0RkvqhPY8dFA8_0GYPR8XOty3y81IFr4lZg/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+026.jpg" border="0" /></a>Honestly she is something. So uniquely designed. Sweet one time and sour the other. She is so independent, stubborn and determined when she gets her mind set to it. But then she can disarm you with her smile or laugh. She will be "I Do It!" one moment and then "Mama, I want a hug," the next. This fall she and S attended Patriot Preschool and she loved it! They both graduated from PPS today. I look forward to the spring program, which will be a little longer. And I plan to enroll S as well. I know she really enjoys it. </div></div><div><div> </div><div>This year the girls were both in the children's church Christmas program. This was M's first time on the big stage and she did a really good job! We are so proud of the girls! They love singing and this was the best time for them! M wants to go on the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccBx1JnrgvyfBqjfb2bB3Xnl_Fr4K3cmw0DfjbWu1K-bEwuMS_126kOhFqCDcip4MjnRnaIam7RGLsuMpaBBK30h3ZEXKZJewaBVfHFE9sXLUXhfIKrTgYbmFZbc0OVqTutKM5dFAt5wi/s1600-h/PICS_17DEC2009+100.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416807945093289618" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccBx1JnrgvyfBqjfb2bB3Xnl_Fr4K3cmw0DfjbWu1K-bEwuMS_126kOhFqCDcip4MjnRnaIam7RGLsuMpaBBK30h3ZEXKZJewaBVfHFE9sXLUXhfIKrTgYbmFZbc0OVqTutKM5dFAt5wi/s320/PICS_17DEC2009+100.jpg" border="0" /></a>big stage again but hopefully Miss Impatience can be patient enough to wait until next year!</div><div><br />We are looking forward to Christmas Day at home. And we get to go to our church on Christmas Day! After that, we will be making various travels to visit family. I am praying for good weather, unlike last year.<br /><br />We pray everyone is doing well! Please keep in touch or send us updates, addresses and the like!</div><div><br />Many Christmas blessings to you! As you open your gifts, remember the greatest gift of all is not in a box but the one sent from heaven above! <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZ8_aBg43uXBn8TSTSnFoO9ilvKS4We615Cbmw-OtfQPlzwGUzeNPPghPnaPbuxy7Gqs2hsDHUe_8rG5qB422PX2-kERDvDPx2t222S4XQeUYZOAO0k_icQyKcM4aUfoYJ2WDoFzwiI_e/s1600-h/PICS_02DEC2009+013.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416807953441536354" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZ8_aBg43uXBn8TSTSnFoO9ilvKS4We615Cbmw-OtfQPlzwGUzeNPPghPnaPbuxy7Gqs2hsDHUe_8rG5qB422PX2-kERDvDPx2t222S4XQeUYZOAO0k_icQyKcM4aUfoYJ2WDoFzwiI_e/s320/PICS_02DEC2009+013.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZ8_aBg43uXBn8TSTSnFoO9ilvKS4We615Cbmw-OtfQPlzwGUzeNPPghPnaPbuxy7Gqs2hsDHUe_8rG5qB422PX2-kERDvDPx2t222S4XQeUYZOAO0k_icQyKcM4aUfoYJ2WDoFzwiI_e/s1600-h/PICS_02DEC2009+013.jpg"></a> </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZ8_aBg43uXBn8TSTSnFoO9ilvKS4We615Cbmw-OtfQPlzwGUzeNPPghPnaPbuxy7Gqs2hsDHUe_8rG5qB422PX2-kERDvDPx2t222S4XQeUYZOAO0k_icQyKcM4aUfoYJ2WDoFzwiI_e/s1600-h/PICS_02DEC2009+013.jpg"></a> </div></div></div></div></div>DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-78427478992067870792009-12-09T20:36:00.000-08:002009-12-09T20:51:07.501-08:00Bitter cold!Blizzard Allison has long past but now bitter cold is entering the area. So maybe we'll be home again tomorrow. We'll see. I am scheduled to take a meal to a new mom. But maybe that can wait.<br />I wouldn't mind another day at home, especially if it means staying out of the bitter cold.<br />We did get outside for a little bit today. It had stopped snowing at one point in the morning but it was windy. M's cheeks each had a big red welt/spot but they went away. She may need a ski mask for outside play this winter. That and longer mittens. Why don't they make longer mittens for kids? Or if anyone knows where to find some, let me know ASAP! M's issue (and S had the same issue a couple years ago) was that her mittens didn't stay in the coat sleeves so when she played in the snow, it would get on her wrists, making those red as well. (Her wrists had evidence of welts, just not red, more like an outline.)<br />C stayed home today. He spent a lot of time outside clearing our driveway and helping neighbors. The driveway was pretty clear of snow by dinnertime. I hear the wind though so I imagine there is a nice drift in the driveway.<br />We didn't get to the sugar cookie cut-outs. Maybe tomorrow or this weekend. But I was in the kitchen a lot today. I made pancakes for breakfast; put together a chicken chili for dinner; made fudge and toffee bars; made grilled cheese sandwiches and soup for lunch; and made an Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie for my new mom friend.<br />The girls played nicely inside. I made their tutu's and we watched a couple holiday movies.<br />It was a busy day. I am ready for bed!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-52594481191036177262009-12-08T14:16:00.000-08:002009-12-08T14:23:33.547-08:00Blizzard!!The blizzard warning is out! We may get 8 to 14 inches tomorrow! WOW! I think a lot of long time WI residents are trying to remember the last time there was a blizzard warning.<br />I am glad I was able to get out and about today (although it felt like EVERYONE was out!) and yesterday so I could get essentials we will need for a couple days at home.<br />Tomorrow would be a perfect jammie/laid back day. I bought some sugar cookie dough so maybe we can get to those cookie cut-outs. Also, the girls got a make-you-own-tutu kit so that will be a project as well. And I've DVR'd several holiday movies so maybe we'll snuggle on the couch with popcorn and hot cocoa and watch some flicks. Sounds perfect! And hopefully by Thursday the winds will have died down some so we can play in the snow.<br />If you're in WI, take it easy! Stay home! If you need to venture out, BE SAFE!!!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-63305172290555466492009-12-04T19:30:00.000-08:002009-12-04T19:34:46.689-08:00SnuggieOK. I see the commercials for those Snuggie blanket things and laugh. But here I sit, swaddled in a blanket because it's freezing cold in the house, wrapped in the same fashion as the Snuggie.<br />Maybe they are on to something......<br />But, seriously, would you wear one at a tail gate party or sporting event? Maybe I shouldn't laugh over that either!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-66215436781898099672009-12-04T12:47:00.000-08:002009-12-04T13:18:18.204-08:00Christmas trees<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpC7NtZ6aR5Q7LN25T36ZBVKZyktetDVCgE8pTgn5rNSh7o7J4nRf5mgn5N1VMMv6JzRCrTCHsbFZ5ZK0MQ321uH9J2VoHh_Uuvot6_dq8StDhZqE3oT8dqutstOEeClnlcWMzxfI-0shB/s1600-h/PICS_02DEC2009+097.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411492612233099058" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpC7NtZ6aR5Q7LN25T36ZBVKZyktetDVCgE8pTgn5rNSh7o7J4nRf5mgn5N1VMMv6JzRCrTCHsbFZ5ZK0MQ321uH9J2VoHh_Uuvot6_dq8StDhZqE3oT8dqutstOEeClnlcWMzxfI-0shB/s320/PICS_02DEC2009+097.jpg" border="0" /></a>We put our trees up last weekend, along with the outdoor decorations.<br /><div><div><div><div>I love our trees. They are so pretty.</div><br />The one in the family room is our newest tree. We got it at the end of the season last year. It's about 7 ft. and C put lights in it. M got to put the star on the top. S says it is full of ornaments. I say it is full of memories.<br /><div> </div><div>I love ornaments, especially the ones that represent memories. I always pick out an ornament for each family member. On the tree this year is an angel of peace and two Star Trek ornaments (a communicator and Captain Kirk surrounded by tribbles.)</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzpYvS_sTqQ57oPCopP_VbSmqreL5HcYhnSrGI66V8wPh2BfcV7dG9_ir0q3WoYxW2vJ1NOgsxaLTdPBNecE2cQ2rHriSux0UW4mQtcOBEhb3Wy_8DfJKGECb3Ji5kADQHhTn95xy_dnY/s1600-h/PICS_02DEC2009+048.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411492602617594754" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzpYvS_sTqQ57oPCopP_VbSmqreL5HcYhnSrGI66V8wPh2BfcV7dG9_ir0q3WoYxW2vJ1NOgsxaLTdPBNecE2cQ2rHriSux0UW4mQtcOBEhb3Wy_8DfJKGECb3Ji5kADQHhTn95xy_dnY/s320/PICS_02DEC2009+048.jpg" border="0" /></a>Also for this new tree, I bought traditional glass balls: red, gold, frosted white and red and gold. They look beautiful in the tree!<br /><br /><div>Our old tree, the one we've had since S was little, went into the playroom for the girl's ornaments, like Sesame Street characters, ballet shoes, a ballerina and more. Today for an Advent activity, the girls got to add candy canes to their tree. </div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3cvq-ic9KlGWoAGQr2YfmFkNfSdtgAnTJic9pYZ4SglphNAiYvALwYAcCHK9viAsl1-Yd5Mdbc1_10K_ilefZaY6TvyZd-N-1yFP0TSP8BWjLNDDAprEexu4u6V8QCCHKMSTfPlQsgnE/s1600-h/PICS_02DEC2009+024.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411492594556783314" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3cvq-ic9KlGWoAGQr2YfmFkNfSdtgAnTJic9pYZ4SglphNAiYvALwYAcCHK9viAsl1-Yd5Mdbc1_10K_ilefZaY6TvyZd-N-1yFP0TSP8BWjLNDDAprEexu4u6V8QCCHKMSTfPlQsgnE/s320/PICS_02DEC2009+024.jpg" border="0" /></a>The tree is a pre-lit one. Unfortunately over the summer the box must have fallen, destroying the tree base which held the fiber optic feature of the tree. But C created a new base, which fits the tree perfectly! And the regular lights still work.<br /><div> </div><div>Also for our holiday decorations are several Nativity scenes. The girls have a Veggie Tales Nativity scene in the play room. The first Nativity set is under the tree in the family room. The set came with Mary, Joseph, a cow and a sheep; all dolls so children can play with it. Mary and Joseph are not in the stable now because they are still making the journey. They were in the girl's bathroom this morning. :)</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgFUAQ5JD90DtkIPolA27XWVdzhiJ9GNIlUSqLK8OO1qwvpggvH6aKkMn8C0lMJocxZkhOLfwkVLzxzDm_QajQM55FhrXNmLseFfA_OtBge6MHFX_eaF9TV-aEccVHXhvlfZYYTGMhXqP/s1600-h/PICS_02DEC2009+102.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411492605514942946" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgFUAQ5JD90DtkIPolA27XWVdzhiJ9GNIlUSqLK8OO1qwvpggvH6aKkMn8C0lMJocxZkhOLfwkVLzxzDm_QajQM55FhrXNmLseFfA_OtBge6MHFX_eaF9TV-aEccVHXhvlfZYYTGMhXqP/s320/PICS_02DEC2009+102.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The other Nativity scene is a Willow Tree set, which is on the fireplace mantle. The stable we use was a find at a local resale shop. One day I hope to get the Wise Men to complete the set. </div><br /><div>I love looking at the Nativity sets. I think about Mary and Joseph and wonder what they were thinking when the events started to unfold before them. What a wonder to think that you are going to carry and raise God's child! He loves us so much! It amazes me to think about how Jesus came into this world like every other earthly child. And then to be the parents to hold that precious bundle in your arms......! Living, breathing, flesh of God! What a reason to celebrate!</div></div></div></div>DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-31588022228395775342009-12-03T20:16:00.000-08:002009-12-03T20:24:41.184-08:00Holiday tunesI love Christmas music! Check out my play list (you'll have to go to my blog if you are getting an e-mail notification).<br /><br />I start the list off with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Relient</span> K song "I Celebrate the Day." The song continues to move me.<br /><br />I've added Paul McCartney and Brian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Setzer</span> to the mix.<br /><br />Barlow Girl has an awesome "Carol of the Bells." Casting Crowns also has some great traditional songs, like "I Heard the Bells."<br /><br />And check out the Sara Groves song, "Toy Packaging," which is sure to bring a smile to parents everywhere. :)<br /><br />I love, love, love Christmas music. I remember singing carols in choir and at church. They are so joyful and fun.<br /><br />So relax and let the music fill your holiday spirit.DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-63435248517525479952009-11-30T20:17:00.000-08:002009-12-01T12:12:47.285-08:00Happy birthday, peanut!Today you are 3. M, you are growing so fast, it is hard to keep up at times!<br />You amaze us with your intelligence. You seem to take everything in.<br />We love to see your creative side come out through your playtime and the drawings that are starting to form.<br />You also amaze us with your energy and determination! You have been on the go since the day you were born (look at that delivery time!) and you really don't show signs of slowing down!<br />You also have wit and humor. You can be so goofy and quite the entertainer.<br />You clearly idolize your bigger sister. You also try to act bigger than you are and do not like to be held back!<br />You are always thinking 10 steps ahead of us! Slow down, sweetie! First things first, remember? Be patient.<br />We do get frustrated with you many times over (comes from the stubbornness trait at this age) but we do love you all the same. And you have a knack of making those pickle times into sweet times with a smile or a goofy act or with a sweetness that does run through you.<br />You act all independent and confident and fearless but inside there is still that baby who (finally!) wants snuggles from Mama and Daddy-o.<br />We love you, peanut. God has truly blessed us with you! We look forward to the many years to come to see you grow and blossom!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-3159298953249602102009-11-21T19:32:00.000-08:002009-11-21T19:40:28.315-08:00Cookie makingToday we got into the holiday mood some as we baked cookies for a cookie exchange I'm doing with our church's mom's group on Tuesday.<br />My holiday favorite are peanut butter blossoms. Might not sound like a holiday cookie to some but I love them! I am a sucker for peanut butter and chocolate! YUM-O!!<br />I made over 10 dozen cookies. It sounds like a lot but I was surprised at how fast it went. The girls helped a little. M did not like rolling the cookie balls in the sugar. S helped with the first double batch. I was solo on the second double batch, but again, it went very fast.<br />All these tasty cookies! I can't wait to see what we get at the exchange on Tuesday! Now to figure out how to store them until Christmas!!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-6393164819000015402009-11-21T19:27:00.000-08:002009-11-21T19:32:41.423-08:00Photo giftsI am so amazed! The 50 free SeeHere photo cards I ordered (and blogged about) on Wednesday showed up today!!<br />Also, one of two free calendars from VistaPrint arrived yesterday. (And I see they have more freebies and deals I might have to consider!)<br />Lastly, I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of two free photo books I created through Winn-Dixie. (See Freebies4Mom for details about this. It was posted on Nov. 6, I believe.)<br />Lots of great photo gifts to give this holiday season!<br />Maybe this week I might get a start on those Christmas cards!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-42148205290179314232009-11-19T06:44:00.000-08:002009-11-19T06:50:08.480-08:00Bell ringingEarlier this week the girls and I (along with a friend and her three kids) rang bells for the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign.<br />It was a fun time, especially when the boys came up with a bell dance to entertain the shoppers. We certainly got more donations with that dancing!<br />I enjoy this service. It is typically a lot of fun (although two hours can be long for the girls and they tend to lose interest toward the end). It is also a great life lesson for the girls. We talk about people who are in need, how the money we collect will be used and how we are helping just by giving a couple hours of our time.<br />That's it. A couple hours of time make a world of difference for someone in need. So if you haven't signed up yet or haven't tried it yet, I encourage you to. Call your local Salvation Army office now.DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-92050775607424218332009-11-18T20:37:00.000-08:002009-11-19T06:41:58.945-08:00Amazing deal on FREE photo cards!Visit <a href="http://freebies4mom.blogspot.com/2009/11/50-free-photocards-shipped-free-too.html">Freebies 4 Mom</a>, one of my favorite blogs, to get the skinny on getting 50 free 4x8 photo cards. Absolutely, completely FREE!!<br />This offer has been in the blogsphere for a while but I'm just now getting to it.<br />I ordered mine tonight with no problems at all. I kept the card pretty simple but I think it's beautiful. Once I was done, I entered my information and waited to enter my payment info, for shipping at least, right? But, nope, I did not pay a penny!!<br />Thank you, thank you, thank you, Freebies 4 Mom and SeeHere by Fujifilm for such a wonderful gift!!!<br />(Update: I deleted the info I posted earlier about a free photo ornaments. Apparently that was not an accurate deal. See the comment below.)<br />I have a confession: I tend to be somewhat a slacker when it comes to sending out Christmas cards. I have the best intentions (you should see the bag of Christmas cards I still have from previous years!) One year I wanted to send one of those photo cards where you slip your picture in. Another year, I was just going to do regular Christmas cards. But, more often that I should admit, not all the cards make it in the mail. I don't know what the hang-up is. Maybe it's addressing the envelopes, which seems daunting.<br />But this year, I vow that everyone on our list should be getting a card! (And if I don't get one to you, I apologize in advance!)<br />Again, check out this fabulous freebie! And if you are new to SeeHere, you can get 100 free prints!<br />Also, before you get started on your photo cards, read up on Freebies 4 Mom for some tips to make the process go smoother. (There were some technical issues, I guess, but it should all be cleared up.)<br />You have until Nov. 30 to get in on this freebie.<br />Enjoy!!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-41790980227672815892009-11-16T13:37:00.000-08:002009-11-16T13:45:43.861-08:00Me time!I am so excited! For the next four weeks, not counting next week, I get 50 minutes of me time! The girls start PPS tomorrow! Three days a week for four weeks!<br />I am excited for them. S is participating for the third time while M will give it a go for the first time. I know they will have a lot of fun with their buddies, make new friends, and, of course, learn a lot. There are some exciting themes in store!<br />I am excited for me because this means time just for me! Whatever will I do? I could go shopping without the girls but I think I will be more inclined to enjoy the time at a local coffee shop and read. :) I cannot wait. I know the time will fly but I will treasure every minute. It will be just the refresher I need.DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-46823366430687019462009-11-08T12:59:00.000-08:002009-11-08T13:13:48.891-08:00Unstock your shelvesThis season finds many families in need. Food pantries, among many other charitable organizations, are noting record numbers of families and individuals seeking their help. So here is a call to unstock your shelves and restock those in need.<br />It's easy to do. Next time you are at the grocery store, grab an extra can of vegetables or box of pasta. Pick up an extra tube of toothpaste or shampoo. Lots of organizations can take your extras and get them to those in need. Homeless shelters can use personal care items; food pantries can use canned and boxed non-perishables. Organizations that care for domestic abuse victims (a number that is also growing due to this poor economy) and expectant mothers and their babies can use all sorts of baby and personal care items.<br />Couponing seems to be popular these days so next time you head to the store for double coupon days, keep these organizations in mind. Instead of stocking your shelves, think of how you can help families in need.<br />Yes, this time of year encourages a season of giving, but perhaps you can start a trend in your home that can be year-round. This need is not going away once the Christmas wrapping has been tossed away.DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-78526899559268023082009-11-06T14:30:00.000-08:002009-11-06T14:38:51.000-08:00PJ'sIf you come to our house some night, don't be surprised to see one, a couple or all of us in our pj's.<br />Pj's are warm and comfy. And they seem to be perfect for this time of year. More often than not, the girls are still in their jammies. They nap (or have quiet time) until about 4, by which time, it's getting dark. I'm usually busy with house stuff or making dinner or both so there's no harm in letting them stay in their jammies. By 5 it's pitch black, so again, what harm in letting them stay in their jammies.<br />Then C and I often join the party. PJ's are comfortable and a giant stress reliever, in my humble opinion. I feel so cozy in them. And they are warm and comfy on these cold, dark nights.<br />So, feel free to come on over, play a game with us, join the jammie party.DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-53837908828084394092009-11-05T12:23:00.000-08:002009-11-05T12:35:25.159-08:00Nearly done!My Christmas shopping for the girls is nearly done! Generally I am not an early shopper but I've just happened to find some things that were on sale (great deals!) that I didn't want to pass up.<br />For Christmas we give the girls three gifts each (representing the number of gifts Jesus Christ received from the Three Kings) and then a couple small stocking stuffers.<br />So for S, I think I am done. I think I need one more gift for M. (And, on top of that, I had also picked up a couple birthday gifts for her.)<br />Now to keep an eye out for gifts for C. Or maybe we'll just get one big gift for the both of us. :)DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-31750288874000277272009-11-02T12:29:00.000-08:002009-11-02T12:32:00.228-08:00What is this world coming to??I heard Christmas music on a local station over the weekend! Christmas music! Actually, I think it was even before the weekend!!! BEFORE Halloween! What is this world coming to?? Seriously! I know the economy is in the tank and the stores want to drum up as much business as possible but they need to let up. It's too much to have to have the stress of Christmas so early. Let us enjoy one holiday at a time for goodness sake!DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556571348191798644.post-47901185559381134442009-10-31T19:32:00.000-07:002009-10-31T19:57:19.576-07:00Happy Birthday, Pumpkin Pie!<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoa4gdBGWedabxo3ALnGoMatCVHeGgXE60B_CVtkG9fOyUEt5rjUINfTVlYz2zwFQh95pIyvtHoW0rtT7lFvZ-cWmBahDEgHDbNOkyVRhsAAzPKC3v3_GJAcykVKi9jkYtPyEHemKKcj32/s1600-h/PICS_31OCT2009+008.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398963516514064338" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoa4gdBGWedabxo3ALnGoMatCVHeGgXE60B_CVtkG9fOyUEt5rjUINfTVlYz2zwFQh95pIyvtHoW0rtT7lFvZ-cWmBahDEgHDbNOkyVRhsAAzPKC3v3_GJAcykVKi9jkYtPyEHemKKcj32/s320/PICS_31OCT2009+008.jpg" border="0" /></a>S turned 5 today! She is such a little lady. But we still miss the little girl. We have been so blessed to have her. She is a joy and amazing. She is loving and kind. She is funny and so full of joy. It is so cool to see her get things. She is eager to learn. Five years ago she came into this world. She was S, no longer Maynard, the name we called the child I carried. She was ours. But above all she is His. God has blessed us with her. We treasure her and we long for her to know and love Him. And she does. She loves to talk about God. She loves to sing to him, talk to him. The other day, she drew a picture of her and God. It was so cool. She gets it. We are eager to see that relationship blossom. We are eager to see what He has in store for her. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGUs-0R1_RJ1uKYa57hsCSUURTH9kXddvjnlze_oaw8ChGl1RQhgQw7gkCoEx66-aCPRkuJVppDVVpvCnnXZumVLVh6wIOpJpuQRtQa4FrjOO4Djsf0-qkxN_zJseE2ZVK7OZnn7stlYL/s1600-h/Welcome+Home+(2).jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398963527527320050" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGUs-0R1_RJ1uKYa57hsCSUURTH9kXddvjnlze_oaw8ChGl1RQhgQw7gkCoEx66-aCPRkuJVppDVVpvCnnXZumVLVh6wIOpJpuQRtQa4FrjOO4Djsf0-qkxN_zJseE2ZVK7OZnn7stlYL/s320/Welcome+Home+(2).jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>Her birthday was filled with a lot of fun and laughter. It was also a mix of birthday related stuff and Halloween. For her birthday I made a breakfast pan-cake. She got presents from us. (We are planning a combined birthday party for her and M for later in this year.)</div><br /><div>Later we went to Wild Air with a family we know. What a great time for S....and M. Before that we tossed in some trick-or-treating at a local grocery store. We ended the day with a little trick-or-treating to a few homes on our block. And, we were blessed with a wonderful neighbor who made a chocolate chip cookie cake in the shape of a number 5. It was decorated and everything! How awesome! What a treat for us!</div><br /><div>It was a full and fun day. Now M is talking about her birthday coming up! </div></div>DramaMamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09196530972973900115noreply@blogger.com1