The Mirando Perspective

Wrap it up!

2012-01-21T15:58:00.000-05:00

I wasn't a great blogger in 2011. My main purpose for this blog is to print annually into a book for my boys to reflect on later in life, like scrapbooking. So I target special events, milestones, even recipes. So far I only have one book. I'm going to try to get back into the groove, without the guilt of trying to catch up. Wish me luck!

I'll start with our Christmas activities of 2011. We love to make special treats for, well, us! And families in the Sunday school class that we lead. We deliver these to them via caroling. Which is really interesting because WE CAN'T SING. But that hasn't seemed to scare them off yet so we do it every year. {insert big cheesy grin}

Our favorite treat this year were these super easy brownie covered oreos from picky-palate.com.

Brownie Covered Oreos

1 Brownie mix (or use your own brownie recipe)

1 package Oreos, I used the Holiday ones

White chocolate, melted for drizzle, or Wilton White frosting pen works great

White nonpariels Sprinkles optional (I did not use)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare brownie batter according to package directions. Leave in mixing bowl. Dip Oreos in brownie batter then place in bottom of cupcake tins that have been generously sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until brownies are cooked through (doesn’t take long). As soon as you remove, take a plastic knife and run along edges, (this is VERY important so you get the cookie out with brownies not stuck to pan

2. Let cool for 5 minutes, remove drizzle with melted white chocolate or the Wilton White icing pen, sprinkle with nonpariels and EAT! Enjoy

Makes entire package of Oreos

Christmas Eve night we make reindeer food by mixing plain oatmeal with glitter, to sprinkle on the yard. This helps the reindeer know where to land & gives them a snack while Santa's enjoying his cookie & milk inside.

After we are in for the night the boys get to open one present each. It's always new PJs to sleep in on Christmas Eve. I love this tradition that was carried over from my childhood!

We've left a glass of milk & a BIG brownie covered oreo for Santa.

Stockings are stuffed & boys are in bed.

Our boys always sleep in on Christmas, which is really nice for us. Roman was our first one up.

Followed shortly by Dallon.

And finally Rocco!

This is what they found. Santa came! We ask that he only bring one small gift for each boy because we are blessed to be able to provide the rest. (The small red packages in the front.) Thanks Santa! This year Dallon left him a note to please leave a whoopie cushion too because late Christmas Eve night, just before bed, Dallon popped his. Thank God Santa had an extra one on his sleigh.

Santa brought the boys BeyBlades!

Roman asked for an Aeropastle jacket for his big gift.

Dallon & Rocco got Nerf Nitron Vortex guns for their big gifts.

Looks like Santa enjoyed his treat AND some of Daddy's sauce!

Our traditional holiday breakfast, Monkey Bread!

After church (Christmas fell on a Sunday & honestly, what better place to be than God's house) we came home to start dinner & open presents. Ziti didn't know what to think! This was his first Christmas.

Rocco & Gammy

We got some great movies this Christmas from Gammy.

Dallon with his night vision binoculars that take video & pictures, from Gammy.

Stocking time!

We feel very blessed this Christmas to be home, with each other & to receive these wonderful gifts. God's Son is the best gift of all & we will never forget that.

Creamy Lemon-Pesto Chicken & 'Fettuccine'

2011-10-04T20:22:00.000-04:00

Pampered Chef's Creamy Lemon-Pesto Chicken & Linguine from the Deep Covered Baker cookbook.

Ingredients:

1 lemon

2 tbsp (30 mL) butter, melted

2 tbsp (30 mL) all-purpose flour

1 cup (250 mL) 2% milk

1 garlic clove, pressed

1/2 cup (125 mL) prepared basil pesto

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 oz/125 g each)

1 tbsp (15 mL) Citrus & Basil Rub

12 oz (350 g) uncooked linguini pasta

2 plum tomatoes

1/4 cup (50 mL) thinly sliced fresh basil leaves

Directions:1.Zest lemon using Microplane® Zester to measure 2 tsp (10 mL). Combine butter and flour in Classic Batter Bowl; whisk until smooth. Add lemon zest, milk and garlic pressed with Garlic Press to butter mixture; whisk well. Microwave, covered, on HIGH 3-4 minutes or until thickened, stirring every 60 seconds. Add pesto; mix well.2.Season chicken with rub. Place chicken in Deep Covered Baker, overlapping as necessary. Pour sauce over chicken. Microwave, covered, on HIGH 12-15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in thickest part of chicken and centers are no longer pink. Carefully remove baker from microwave using Oven Mitts. Let stand, covered, 5 minutes.3.Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Set pasta aside and keep warm. Seed and dice tomatoes. Serve chicken and sauce over pasta; garnish with tomatoes and basil.Yield: 6 servings

Nutrients per serving: U.S. Nutrients per serving: Calories 480, Total Fat 15 g, Saturated Fat 5 g, Cholesterol 75 mg, Carbohydrate 50 g, Protein 34 g, Sodium 500 mg, Fiber 3 g

U.S. Diabetic exchanges per serving: 3 starch, 1 vegetable, 3 low-fat meat, 1 fat (3 carb)

Cook's Tips: If desired, store-bought lemon-pepper seasoning can be substituted for the Citrus & Basil Rub.

Rice or other types of pasta such as spaghetti can be substituted for the linguine, if desired.

My variations: I used 1% milk, jarred garlic, chicken tenderloins, lemon pepper seasoning, vine tomatoes, left off the dry basil (still pictured, just decided not to use since I didn't have fresh) & I used garden style fettuccine.

I knew this evening was going to be hectic so I needed a dinner that I could prepare ahead of time. Rocco had his first soccer game at 5:30 (The Eyeballs vs. The Little Giants), Roman's football practice at 6:00 & Dallon's soccer practice at 6:30, Nick coaches both soccer teams & we get home just after 4:00 from work. So at lunch I prepared the chicken all except for cooking it, then stored it in the fridge. I also prepared the pasta & Mom made a salad. That way all I had to do was cook the chicken & heat the pasta. Perfect! And it all actually worked out as planned.

Mix the melted butter & flour. I LOVE my batter bowls from Pampered Chef! Question: Am I the only one who keeps their flour in the freezer? I know I heard to do that somewhere years ago & have done it ever since. Keeps it fresh! First I put it in a Ziploc bag, then the freezer.

I don't have the PC Micro planer but I do have this cute little zester!

4 minutes, stirring every 60 seconds

In the meantime I prepared the chicken with the lemon pepper.

Heated & thickened pesto mixture

Cooking the pasta

Since I pre-made the pasta I added just enough EVOO to keep it from sticking while it waited the 4 hours on the stove for dinner. Worked perfectly!

Now, I'm home from work & it's time to cook this chicken!

Wa-La!

This was a quick & easy meal that everybody liked.

Thumbs up! Roman & Rocco couldn't be pictured because they were using their bad manners by coming to the table with no shirts on. Mom wasn't feeling well & skipped dinner.

This was a really good meal but it tasted very similar to another dish I make, Tuscan Chicken Simmer.

BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meat Loaf

2011-10-01T10:42:00.001-04:00

BBQ BACON-STUFFED MEATLOAF from the Pampered Chef Deep Covered Baker cookbook

8 ounces fresh mushrooms
1 tbsp vegetable oil
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled, divided
3 slices white sandwich bread
1/2 cup 2% milk
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1 egg yolk
3 tbsp smokey bbq rub, divided
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1/2 tsp or each salt and coarsely ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds 85% lean ground beef
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 cup ketchup

Thinly slice mushrooms. Heat oil in 12 in. skillet over medium high heat 1-3 minutes or until simmering. Add mushrooms; cook and stir 3-4 minutes or until mushrooms begin to brown. Remove skillet from heat. Set aside 1 tbsp of the crumble bacon. Add remaining bacon to mushrooms and mix well.

Meanwhile, cut bread into cubes. In stainless 6 qt mixing bowl, combine bread, milk, onion, parsley, egg yolk, 2 tbsp of the rub, pressed garlic, salt and pepper. Mix well. Add beef to bread mixture; mix. place two thirds of meet mixture in deep covered baker form into an 8 1/2 by 4 1/2 loaf. Gently press down the center of the loaf to create a well. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the cheese in the well. Top with bacon mixture and an additional 1/2 cup of the cheese. Place remaining meat mixture over filling press to seal.

Microwave, covered, on high 14-17 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145 in the center. Carefully remove baker from microwave, using oven mitts. Meanwhile, combine ketchup and remaining rub; stir. Brush Ketchup mixture over meatloaf. Microwave, covered, on high 3-5 minutes or until internal temperature is 160 in the center. Sprinkle remaining cheese and reserved bacon over top of meatloaf; let stand, covered, 10 minutes before slicing.

My variations: We use 1% milk, instead of fresh garlic I keep a jar of it in the fridge, I buy 90/10 beef, unfortunately I don't have the BBQ rub so I used BBQ sauce & it worked fine. Maybe should have decreased the milk from 1/2c to 1/4c since I was using a wet sauce.

Note: Buy large quantities of beef (10lbs) for a cost savings & so that you always have it on hand. Freeze flattened in freezer bags because it takes up less room in the freezer & thaws very quickly.

To save time I cooked six pieces of bacon in the microwave.

Don't wash your mushrooms, they are like sponges. Instead, wipe them off with a paper towel.

Nick crumbled the bacon & shredded the cheese.

I don't YET have the stainless steel bowls from PC.

I absolutely love these grinders! They are perfect for these recipes that call for you to change the setting to coarse. And to make it even sweeter, Publix often sells them BOGOF & has coupons!

These ingredients are waiting for the end.

Mom is making Nick & Dallon salads because they don't like fried okra, which is what she brought for her & I to have as our side. Thank you Larry & Cecelia Welch for the fresh home grown okra! (Roman's already gone to the Hilliard - Fernandina game with a friend & Rocco is sick on the couch.)

After putting the final toppings on it sits covered for 10 minutes & you get this:

Sides: (yes we like raisins on our salads)

Fried okra Mom made:

My plate before I poured a little blue cheese for okra dipping:

Nick always looks so happy. But he did love the meatloaf! We all did! Dallon has a love for good BBQ sauce so I knew he'd like it.

This is another one we'll do again.

If you have any questions about Pampered Chef please let me know.

Speedy Shrimp & Sausage Paella

2011-09-29T19:53:00.037-04:00

Back in May I had a Pampered Chef party & my fabulous consultant/friend gave me this cookbook off of my wish list. I have been one of PC's biggest fans for about 15 years & have owned this deep dish cooker for about 4 years. The other day I pulled this cookbook out & decided to cook my way through it. The first recipe is Speedy Shrimp & Sausage Paella, which I have printed below, along with pictures from my dinner last night. Hope you enjoy!

Speedy Shrimp & Sausage Paella

Ingredients:
1 medium onion
8 oz (250 g) smoked Polish sausage
1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth (about 2 cups/500 mL)
1 cup (250 mL) uncooked long grain white rice
1 tbsp (15 mL) Creole Rub
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1/2 tsp (2 mL) turmeric
1 lb (450 g) medium uncooked shrimp (41-50 per pound), peeled and deveined, tails removed
1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes with green chiles (1 3/4 cups/425 mL), drained
1 pkg (9 oz) frozen artichoke hearts, thawed (1 1/2 cups/375 mL)
1 cup (250 mL) frozen peas, thawed
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions:
Chop onion using Food Chopper. Cut sausage crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick (6-mm) slices. Combine onion, sausage and oil in Deep Covered Baker. Microwave, covered, on HIGH 2-3 minutes or until onion is tender. Add broth, rice, rub, garlic pressed with Garlic Press and turmeric to baker; mix well. Microwave, covered, on HIGH 16-20 minutes or until rice is tender, stirring every 5 minutes.2.Carefully remove baker from microwave using Oven Mitts. Add shrimp, tomatoes, artichokes and peas to baker; mix well. Microwave, covered, on HIGH 3-5 minutes or until shrimp are opaque. Let stand, covered, 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.Yield: 6 servings

Nutrients per serving: Calories 380, Total Fat 15 g, Saturated Fat 4 g, Cholesterol 140 mg, Carbohydrate 36 g, Protein 25 g, Sodium 850 mg, Fiber 4 g

Cook's Tips: Do not overcook shrimp, as they will continue to cook during standing time.

Turmeric is a yellow spice that’s a key ingredient in curry powder and mustard. It’s a suitable substitute for saffron, which is commonly used in paella but extremely expensive.

If desired, 2 cups (500 mL) diced cooked chicken can be substituted for the shrimp.

I decided to increase the meat & rice in the recipe to fit our larger than normal family.

I bought the skinless smoked Eckrich sausage.

At this point you cover & cook in micro for 3 minutes.

Doubled the rice

Yummmm.. We LOVE garlic! I keep a jar of minced garlic in my fridge.

Stir then add more ingredients.

For a 'bite'

I used heaping measurements of the spices since I double my rice.

It was my first time working with Turmeric & I love it.

I doubled the broth too, to cook the rice.

Back in the micro for 20 minutes.

Prepare the ingredients that will go in next.

Don't forget to stir the mixture every 5 minutes!

These are waiting until the end.

Last will be the fresh parsley.

This is what it looks like after 20 minutes of cooking.

Drain & rinse the shrimp.

Add everything except parsley.

Stir

And cook until shrimp are opaque color. I had to cook about an extra 8minutes because of the increased measurements.

And this is what you have!

But don't forget the parsley!

Viola!

Dallon liked the shrimp but not the sausage or artichoke hearts.

Roman didn't care for it but he ate it.

Nick & Rocco were at practice by this time but Nick loved it so much he had it for breakfast too. And Rocco didn't care for it but liked the sausage. I loved it! Who knew that a microwaved meal could be so good? This really was an easy recipe. I will be doing it again. Next time I think I'll leave the artichoke hearts out to make everyone else happy.

If you try it please come back & let me know what you think!

Tonight I'm doing recipe #2: BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meat Loaf

If you have any questions about the Pampered Chef prdoucts you see here, please ask! I don't sell it but I should, as much as I love it. I do have a wonderful consultant that would be happy to assist you.

Contest!

2011-07-24T23:47:00.001-04:00

http://www.thecakeblog.com/2011/07/kitchenaid-mixer-giveaway.html

$100 Gift Card contest from Bird's Party via Half Baked the cake blog

2011-07-01T10:07:00.000-04:00

Go enter for this $100 gift card giveaway! They have the cutest birthday themes, espcially if you have little girls! The strawberry & rainbow were my faves! But since I don't have girls I picked the superhero. Good luck!

http://www.thecakeblog.com/2011/07/birds-party-giveaway.html

2nd & 5th Grade 1st Nine Weeks Awards

2011-01-30T16:11:00.007-05:00

Dallon ♥ We are so proud of you & all your hard work!! Highest Reading score in your class, AB Honor Roll, Perfect Attendance, Sight Word Mastery, Citizenship & Accelerated Reader awards!! YaY Dallon!!! ♥

Roman!! ♥ WOW. We are very proud of you. AB Honor Roll, Perfect Attendance, Citizenship, Accelerated Reader awards AND two $50 Wal-Mart gift cards for the 5's you made on your Reading & Math FCAT scores last year!! YaY Roman!!! ♥

There was a very big group that received the gift cards. They all worked very hard and we are so proud of all of them. I just love this group of kids that Roman is surrounded by. They are such a great class!!

Roman & Alijah were so excited!

"KNARLY!"

2011-01-25T21:33:00.023-05:00

Guess who?!

Billy & Ricky Bretherton from Billy the Exterminator!

Did you guess it?

Here they are pictured with Tigger.

"Let's you & me bounce, huh?"
The first night that the boys got to dress up was the Wednesday night before Halloween. They had their annual costume party. I led the children through the pumpkin prayer. I put it at the bottom of this post so you can use it next year.

We take out of the guts (sin)
Wash it clean

Give it new eyes, nose, mouth & ears. Then of course, put the light inside.

The kids aways love it. The two older girls in the back moved up to the youth this year but asked to sit in for this because they have enjoyed for the last three years.

Then it was snack time!

We put the lit pumpkin just outside the door so passerbys could see it.

While the kiddos ate I walked down to get a few pictures of the preschoolers. Mrs. Kristen dressed up like a pepper shaker & one of the other teachers dressed up as the salt shaker. We had a few adorable Minnie Mouses.

We had a sassy Spongebob babe.

The next opportunity to dress up was for school. It was too hot for the Tigger costume so we pulled out Rocco's play time costume, Storm Shadow the white ninja from GI Joe.

HI-YA! (whoa, watch the finger buddy)

Who knew that Billy was Safety Patrol? And there's Ricky hangin around, just like on the show. A special THANK YOU to my Girl A who mailed her biker stuff for me to use.

Ricky & his bestie the killer clown (Jamie)

Dallon's class watched a movie & ate lunch in class that day.

Later in the afternoon we had our homecoming parade. Roman changed into his football uniform & rode with the team but Dallon...I mean Ricky...rode with us on the church float.

Last but not least, Halloween. The town celebrated on Saturday because Halloween fell on a Sunday / school night. Roman went to his friend Raven's but we took Dallon & Rocco trick-or-treating with the Ash family. Ricky wasn't quite the same without Billy.

Roman & Raven (Alice), best friends since 3yr old preschool.

Praislyn was a candy corn!! LOVE THIS!! Nick thought she was cheese.

Rocco & his best friend Promise

Then Sunday, Halloween night our church held a Reformation party for Reformation Sunday. We were costumed out and just went as us but we enjoyed seeing everyone else dressed up!

Look what Pharaoh's daughter found in the river? Moses!

We love these ladies.

Kristen & Bristol

Chad, Kristi, Brooklyn & Braelyn

Bristol & Nana

There were fun 'stations' for the kids.

The Libbys (this year there will be four)

The kids had so much fun & us adults enjoyed the fellowship.

Rocco was so proud of himself!

Kaitlyn Bea & her daddy

They even had stations inside to make edible stained glass!

And powdered straw candy!

Here's the final product on the edible stained glass. The kids LOVED this!

Gammy was an old poor woman begging for alms.

And the kids got to decifer code just like when Martin Luther translated the bible!

We had a great time & played until dark.

"Pumpkin Prayer"

{cut off top of pumpkin}
Lord, open my mind so I can learn new things about you.

{remove innards}
Remove the things in my life that don’t please you.
Forgive the wrong things I do and help me to forgive others.

{cut open eyes}
Open my eyes to see the beauty you’ve made in the world around me.

{cut out nose}
I’m sorry for the times I’ve turned my nose at the good food you provide.

{cut out mouth}
Let everything I say please You.

{light the candle}
Lord, help me show your light to others through the things I do. Amen

Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make our first Reformation party a success!

We're overdue for the zoo!

2011-01-21T23:21:00.013-05:00

We absolutely love the zoo! (Except for Nick.) Most years we hold an annual pass. We usually skip the hotter & colder months and visit in the fall & spring. We are overdue though. This was our last visit, just before Halloween. It was a beautiful day!

My monkeys
One of my most favorite things in the whole wide world, holding my boys hands. And I love that all three of them still love to hold my hand.

My beautiful Dallon

The dock was open. As many times as we had been to the zoo, I don't think the boys had ever been out on it before.

Love

Roman

Dallon

Rocco

Dal & Roc were actually fighting. Can you tell?

They wanted me to take their pictures with their favorite frog picture.

Dallon LOVES frogs.

Kangaroos

Hoping that the birds will land on them. They would have FREAKED out if the birds would have landed on them.

Petting zoo

Rocco's a big boy now! I had to hold all these kids off until he finished. He waited his turn, they had to wait theirs.

Another zoo trip is on my mind.

Where? The Fair!

2011-01-21T14:55:00.015-05:00

Another picture overload.

We look forward to the fair every year. We love the kiddy rides, the funnel cakes by the West Nassau Band, the sausage dogs with peppers & onions, the onion rings, the candied apples, the peanuts & occasionally something new like a fried snickers. Oh me.

We started off with the Ferris wheel.

Nick & I are way too cheap to buy ourselves tickets so we usually look for students (trustworthy students) of Nick's to ride with the boys. This time we felt that Roman was old enough to be the big boy. While I was VERY NERVOUS, they did very good.
Roman got to ride a few kiddy rides but was turned away from most. He was not happy about that because he's still a little boy at heart & isn't interested in the scary rides.
Look who we ran into! We wound up seeing Bailey, Braden, Molly & Gabe so we all hung out together.

At first they loved this ride but it seemed like it would never end and Roman was about ready to throw up...I mean get off.

This is where I could tell Roman was having second thoughts.

But these guys were having a blast! Poor Braden was getting squished!

Yep, the face says it all.

On to the slide!

Hilarious!

Roman & Braden decided to ride this double Ferris wheel two times in a row! I was a very nervous mommy because it just didn't look secure. He'd never admit it but I think Gabe was just as freaked out. Because we both hovered there watching & waiting.

Not sure what's going on here but I think it was a bumpy ride.

Me & my blue mouthed boy.

Dallon

Braden

I can't remember what he ate that was blue but it looks like someone gave him that trick gum from Spencers. Remember that?

Back on the Ferris wheel, this time with Braden.

And another go at the slide!

Roman & Rocco

My boys still love the bouncy house. That poor little girl is probably screaming to let her out.

Bye bye fair..until next October.

{Family}

2011-01-21T13:57:00.006-05:00

In October Nick's sister Teri & his mommy, Gramma Freckles, were able to stay one night with us on their way back to South Carolina. Teri, Gabby & Adrianna (B~Bop) had spent a week at Disney while Gramma was cruising. We wish we could have had them longer but we enjoyed their mini visit.

Here Teri is holding Dallon's hammie, Hurley. Hurley has since passed away. Dallon still often remembers to thank God for the time that God allowed Hurley to be with us.

Hurley wasn't the friendliest and I'm quite surprised she didn't bite Teri. We nick-named her 'The Red-eyed Devil'.

By the way, you may notice that Teri has lost a lot of weight! She looks fantastic! She did it on the HCG diet. I've looked into it but there are no local physicians overseeing it so I've decided against it. She has a physician that closely monitors her while on the diet. So glad that she had great success with it!

Hurley is climbing around under Dallon's pjs.
Gramma & Dallon checking Hurley out. Notice Gramma's shirt. She has had it forever! I think it's been replaced once. She always wears it on her way here & on her way home. It has all the names of her grand & great-grand children airbrushed inside hearts. Since our family grows quickly she has hand written a few newbies in.

I took this picture of Teri taking a picture of something going on in my bedroom, lol. I can't remember what but it made me laugh all over again seeing this! (New doors, hence no doorknobs)

I love this picture of my darling husband chatting & laughing with his sweet momma.

Roman & Gabby. Looks like Gabby's watching him eat & is thinking, 'Is that organic?' or 'Look at all that high fructose corn syrup!'

The cousins from left to right: B~Bop, Dal, Rocco, Roman & Gabby

The Mirando/Smith way

I like this one because Dallon was creeping. Notice (other than color) Nick & his mommy have the same hair.

We love visits from family. Can't wait for the next!

I Am a Promise field trip to Conner's A-maize-ing Acres

2011-01-20T20:54:00.016-05:00

Warning!!! Picture Overload!!!

Since this is my primary form of picture printing (my annual book) I had to keep all the pictures I loved. And there were a lot!!

In October I Am a Promise Preschool went to Conner's A-maize-ing Acres. Our family always enjoys Conner's. Here are a few (HA) of my favorite pictures.

Class picture

Pretty Gammy Hay tractor Corn Maze!

They are just happy to be together.

Hay ride!

Love

Waiting in line for the cow train.

Looking at the stinky hogs.

Corn pool! I found this stuff in the dryer for weeks!

Pumpkin patch pictures

These next few are for Daddy because he said he's never heard of white pumpkins.

I love the weird pumpkins like the bumpy one or the green one.

Petting zoo

Love this

This next one cracks.me.up.

Dallon's 2nd Grade field trip to Herlong Aiport

2011-01-20T20:04:00.008-05:00

In October Dallon's class went on a field trip to Herlong Airport. It was really neat! They got to sit in several different planes, do a simulated ride & see where the airplanes fueled up.

Dallon was watching the man explain how airplanes are fueled up.
In the hanger.

Making wooden airplanes.

They watched this Sheriff's Office helicopter fly in then got to sit in it!

Airplane flying contest!!

Didn't place this time but had a good flight.

They even fired off rockets!

At the end we were able to walk through this very old plane. It was very cool!

It gave myself & the blond lady to the left the spins even though it wasn't moving. I think because it was tilted.

Sitting in the cockpit.

I Am A Promise field trip to the FIRE STATION

2011-01-20T17:15:00.013-05:00

Rocco's first preschool field trip was to the fire station. Here he is with his best friend Promise.

They got to sit in the fire truck! This is especially sweet to me because I remember Roman & Dallon's prek field trips to the fire station as well. The fireman that helped Rocco up on the truck asked him, "You've been here before haven't you?" I think he's remembering his brothers.
I liked this picture because it looks like Rocco is keeping Promise 'in line.'
They got to spray the hose!

The future Mr. & Mrs. Mirando

Promise is laughing SO hard at Rocco here. He was dancing! Actually THEY were dancing.

They got to tour the entire fire station. Even where the guys sleep!

We even witnessed a real call. Perfect timing too, just as we were about to leave.

Praislyn couldn't figure out why she was uncomfortable. And we just laughed.

Rocco & his 'bro' Brandyn.

Time to go!

Rocco putting Promise in the car. j/k

The End

September family outing

2011-01-20T14:49:00.022-05:00

Our September family outing was a combination of a Lowe's kids workshop & scoping out a beach for our family Christmas pictures.

We started the day at Lowe's in Yulee. They were supposed to be making fire trucks with working lights. So they had real fire trucks on display. However, the craft kits were recalled so the kids got to choose from an assortment of leftovers from previous weeks. No complaints from my boys! Roman made a planter/trellis for he & Gammy to use, Dallon made a leash holder & Rocco made a mini table top basketball net.

Rocco was so proud of himself & loved his craft!

Dallon was thrilled with his too. We hung this up in our laundry room.

Daddy helping Roman put his together.

Siblings could draw on the ground with chalk while they were waiting for their brothers/sisters to finish up. My boys thought this was so cool. It's the little things people!

And at last! Roman's planter/trellis. Good job Roman! This spring he & Gammy are going to paint it orange & blue then plant something to grow.

After the crafts the boys were invited to tour the fire trucks.

Love this picture.

After we finished up at Lowe's we wanted to scope out a location for our first professional family photos. I had won a session with Bella Blue Photography last Spring & I planned to use this for our Christmas pictures. I had seen this beach in a friend's photos so I asked her for directions. We fell in love with the scenery!

There is driftwood all over the beach. It is so beautiful!

And the boys thought of it as a BIG playground!

Nick just enjoyed the view.

They found all sorts of treasures.

I love these piglets!

Daddy loves Mommy

Me & my boys

Rocco's balloon from Lowe's escaped when I opened the hatch. :(

He was not happy with me.

Sorry Rocco..

Sugar Snails Pottery Party

2011-01-20T13:05:00.019-05:00

Ever since I heard about the keepsake pottery I have wanted to host a party. I put it off until the house remodel was done but got tired of waiting. So in September I decided to go for it, concrete floors, drywall walls & all! I only invited people that asked to be invited but next time watch out! I'll be inviting everyone because you don't want to miss out on this! Even with all the last minute cancellations it still had a great turn out. I plan on hosting one every fall, just in time for Christmas gifts.

I decided to serve brunch.

Kristen was the first guest that asked for an invite and she brought Anna with her. They were also the first appointments.

There were so many items to choose from. Christmas ornaments, plates, platters, cups, tiles, the list goes on!

Ella getting paint on.

Cale getting his paint on.

The Holley kiddos (4) made the cutest Gator platter.

The kids had so much fun playing while they waited for their turn.

They even busted out the costumes! What's a party without costumes?

Braden getting his paint on.

Cadie is Roman's age, 10. Her mom Sheila brought her & let her pick out what to make. How fun for a young girl?! She chose to make a plate & cup.

Pottery party - Play date

Kaitlyn Bea's first pottery party!

Look how cute her little red foot is while she's making this ornament!

Kate & Hamp joined in the fun too.

Big sister was watching out for her baby brother very closely!

Hamp enjoyed hanging out with Nicky & visa versa.

Our turn!

Now for our 2010 family Christmas ornament.

By the end of the four hour long party, Rocco was beat. He actually woke up from this nap with a fever.

The red/wht/blk bag was a thank you gift for having the party. Nick had 'My Girl B' put on it for me. (That's Rocco's backpack.)

It took about a month to get the items back but this was the platter we got.

Don't you love it?! I do!

This was our ornament. The reindeer are the boys finger prints.

Santa was made with Nick's finger prints & the sled is my finger.

We look forward to our next party! Please join us!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-05T22:44:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-29T20:51:00.003-05:00

#3 Roman Mirando : Tight End

2010-12-28T19:55:00.009-05:00

Youth league football (Little Hilliard Flashes) came to Hilliard in August 2010. We signed Roman right up! He was on the younger team, 9-10yr olds. He was so excited and his coaches told us he was the most improved by the end of the season. This was a big change from the flag football he had played since he was 4yrs old at the YMCA.

Here are some of my favorite pictures from the season.

I thought this was cute because I caught him standing like this a lot.
The Flashes on their home bleachers.

This was the day he got the jersey in.

Practices were three days a week for two hours. They really worked these boys! He came home dirty, ready for a shower & snack. Then he slept great every night!

He wore his old flag football jerseys to practice.

He's since outgrown the silly band phase.

This as at one of his last games. Nick realized he hadn't taken a picture with his boy yet.

Silly picture! Roman wouldn't do it because his team was too close by.

About a month after the season ended our church hosted a celebration for the teams. I didn't get a lot of pictures because I was too busy mingling.

Go Flashes!!

Just another boring day at the dentist.

2010-12-27T21:15:00.003-05:00

While Dal was being worked on in the back. maniacs

I was 7 when I started cooking; up until then, I just ate.

2010-12-26T23:12:00.012-05:00

"I was 32 when I started cooking; up until then, I just ate." Julia Childs

When I received an email about Maggiano's ccoking class for kids I thought of one cool kid! {Dallon~O} This kid LOVES to cook! I was so excited that I posted on Facebook & my friend Pam knew another cool kid that would love to go! We made our reservations & set the date on our calendars.

Alijah & Dallon in front of the restaraunt. This was actually our first time to Maggiano's, Pam had been once.

The Goofy Chef
Froggy & his butterfly

Ready to get busy!

Making lasagna (not Mommy's crock pot version)

Some help from the chef!

These boys were having so much fun! After taking some picks we backed off & let them do their thing!

King of the mess makers

Parents sit all the way at the other end of the room. They actually served us a delicious buffet while the kids made the lasagna in a to go box. We heated ours up the next day for lunch & it was so yummy!!

They listened well & followed directions.

Chef Dallon & Chef James Muller

We got to keep an autographed apron, the paper chef hat & a few recipes.

What a great time!

Roman wants to go now.

Day#2 ~ Rocco started PreK

2010-12-26T22:29:00.004-05:00

Before getting Rocco to his first day of preschool at I Am A Promise, I had to get the 2nd & 5th grade boys off on their bikes to their second day of school.

My handsome Roman

I love this picture of all three boys in the half bath primping.
I make the boys rinse with mouthwash after brushing because I've volunteered in class enough to smell some pretty nasty breath. My boys knock me out sometimes! So we're being proactive. Off they go!

Now Rocco's turn.

My lovabuggahoneybunny giving me some sugar.

He's ready

My last I Am a Promise Preschooler...bittersweet.

I haven't taken any pictures of him with his teachers yet. It's on my to do list.

School year 2010-2011 2nd & 5th grade

2010-12-26T21:22:00.012-05:00

After 'meet the teacher' at school I took the boys for one last beach fling.

It was beautiful for a few hours then big heavy rain clouds moved in. But the boys had plenty of time to look for shells, sharks teeth, chase birds & splash in the waves.
Watching the jet skier that seemed too close.

And the first day of school. Roman's in his last year at Hilliard Elementary. Which is hard to believe because it seems like last year we were walking from I Am a Promise Preschool for his Kindergarten tour. Dallon's my big 2nd grader.

Cheesing for Mommy

These are the clothes they picked out when I took each one on their date.

Dallon's class first. We always have an apple for the teacher.

Mrs. Vanzant was Roman's 2nd grade teacher too. She's also a friend from church.

Getting settled in

Next stop is Roman's class with Mrs. Boatwright.

After dropping the boys off I hosted our 2nd annual mom's prayer breakfast at church. Moms stop in for breakfast then prayer. This is only possible because of all the sweet ladies at church.

Praise be to God!

Playing catch up.

2010-12-26T20:55:00.011-05:00

Over the next few........................months.................you will see me playing catch up on my blog so I can get our 2010 family book printed. So don't freak out & think I've let my kids go swimming in this freezing weather.

What was this kid doing?

Looking cute ofcourse!

This is what happens to your face when you trick ride your bicycle.

Watch out Roman there's a goggled monster sneaking up on you!

Healing just in time for school to start.

We said goodbye to the truck. Nick gave it to a friend for putting all of our sheet rock up. I'm glad to see it go but it was sentimental because this was my stay at home mom ride for the first year I was out of work. After my lease was up on my Eclipse I cruised in the truck! Nick was given this brand spankin new truck right off the lot by a friend several years ago. We were glad we could in turn give it to someone who needed it. He's been driving it ever since!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-22T18:26:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-15T20:42:00.004-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-08T21:54:00.003-05:00

Thar's good food!

2010-12-03T17:48:00.003-05:00

Today I took this little pirate with me grocery shopping. At our second stop (CVS) he announced that he was hungry. Since we still had Publix to go I thought we'd better get him a snack. He picked out a Sobe water (well, OK, I had a coupon to get one free) & peanut butter filled pretzels. We opened them as soon as we got in the car. A few minutes later he said, "I'm gonna stay in this family because there's good food!" If I had known the response was going to be that good I would have bought those a long time ago!

Day #25 I am thankful for...

2010-11-25T20:27:00.004-05:00

...my family and all that they are to me.

God has truly blessed me with the people that fit my imperfect puzzle piece.

Happy Thanksgiving

Day #24 "I am thankful for...

2010-11-24T20:54:00.004-05:00

... a God who loves me in spite of myself.

... a God who gave me to a wonderful and loving mother.

... a God who has blessed me with a wonderful woman to help me (and I, her) through this life.

... a God who loves me so much that He would share the honor of parenting three beautiful boys.

... a God who loves me so much that He would lay down His life so that mine would be saved." Nick, age 45

Day #23 "I am thankful for...

2010-11-23T20:26:00.004-05:00

...my mommy, for Daddy, Roman, Dallon, Gammy, my dog Jack, my house, and God. I have a lot! Right Mommy?! Right?! A LOT. I'm thankful that Daddy goes to work & listens to his boss. I'm thankful that Mommy goes to work at church and the thing I love about Mommy and am thankful for is she takes care of me. Gammy leaves and takes me with her. OH! And, she like brings me to the post office with her. And I'm thankful for Dallon because he hugs me a lot. And the thing I love about Roman is that I let him play with my Bendaroos. He loves my Bendaroos. And I'm thankful for having school nights off and time with Mommy on Fridays and going to Publix with her. There are a lot of things I'm thankful for about Grandma Freckles too. I'm thankful she comes to our house & we pick her up from the airport. I'm thankful for chicken! I'm thankful for God! (I wish I could show you how he danced when he said this last one about God.)" Thadden, age 4

Day #22 "I am thankful for...

2010-11-22T19:27:00.004-05:00

...my family because Dallon makes me laugh a lot, Rocco is a mini me, Daddy because he is my punk & I love him, Gammy because she loves & cares for me in hard times, Mommy because she is my snuggle buggler. I am thankful for life itself. I am thankful for friends. They help me get through times and are there when others might not be there. Also I am thankful for my teachers because they work hard to help me learn. I am thankful for Jesus dying on the cross for our sins." Roman, age 10

Day #21 "I am thankful for...

2010-11-21T13:26:00.007-05:00

...my dog Jack and God sharing my hamster Hurley with me for a while. (Hurley died a few weeks ago.) I am also thankful for everything God provides for us. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for my house. I am thankful for the cars we have and the motorcycle and our bikes. I am thankful for all the bathrooms we have. I am thankful for the mail we get. I am thankful for the clothes I have. I am thankful for school, a little bit. (Mommy, are any of my teachers on here? 'No Dallon.' Good.) I am thankful for CHURCH!! I am thankful for Jesus. I am thankful for pencil sharpeners! I am thankful for pictures. I am thankful for Mommy's job at church, Daddy being my twin, Roman (there's got be something) playing with me, Rocco (oh there's a lot of things) letting me play with his Bendaroos, & Gammy (there are hundreds) being my grandma. I am thankful for my cousins, ancestors, my grandfathers & all of my grandmas. And food, but especially APPLES!!!" ~Dallon, age 7

Day #20 I am thankful for...

2010-11-20T17:14:00.003-05:00

...This chick right here.

Pam & I have been friends for about 12 years. So glad we both moved to the same little town.

Thanksgiving Menu with Recipes

2010-11-19T11:49:00.008-05:00

Our Thanksgiving Menu

I love getting new ideas from people! And swapping recipes with friends makes me smile. So for those who asked, this is our Thanksgiving menu this year. I also thought it would be nice to include this in my blog because I print it annually. This means the recipes I use will be printed in our keepsake book for our boys.

Breakfast
Monkey Bread (always on holidays)

2 cans of your favorite biscuits (I use Pillsbury Butter Flaky Grands)

2 sticks butter melted in a bowl

1c sugar with cinnamon powder stirred in until brown

**Optional - 1/2c pecans or walnuts

Preheat oven to 350, grease a bundt pan. Cut biscuits in fourths. Dredge biscuits through butter then coat liberally in sugar/cinnamon mixture. Place pieces in bundt pan until all pieces are coated.

Bake 35-45 minutes depending on your oven. When done the bread will be risen & darkened on the top. **If using nuts dredge them through the butter then place 1/4c in pan before bread then again midway through. Carefully turn out on to a cake plate & serve right away with milk.

Appetizers
Port Wine cheese ball w/crackers
Chips, dips & salsa

Lunch/Dinner
We usually eat around 2pm. What time do you eat?

~$.59 Publix turkey (YAY) Easy - UPSIDE DOWN, seriously!

Wash it off, make sure to pull the bag of nasties out (neck, etc), give it a rub down with butter, salt & pepper it, roll an orange around on the counter to break up the juices inside, cut in half then stick it in the turkey, then put it in a pan upside down (breast down) for the amount of time the label says. Keep covered until about 30min. before done. It won't be pretty but it will be YUM~O & fall off the bone! And no basting required, it cooks in it's own juices. This is how I've cooked mine for 15 years.

~Dressing - I am 99.9% sure I'm going with my friend, Dana's family recipe.

~HOMEMADE WHOLE BERRY CRANBERRY SAUCE
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 12-ounce package Ocean Spray® Fresh or Frozen Cranberries, rinsed and drained

DIRECTIONS:
Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to boil; add cranberries, return to boil. Reduce heat and boil gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cover and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate until serving time.

Makes 2 1/4 cups.

PER SERVING (2 Tablespoons): Calories 51(3%DV), Fat 0grams, Pot. 14mg(<1%dv),>

~Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

~Cheesy Green Bean Casserole - I make the classic Campbells recipe but double the batch (big family) & substitute the second can of cream of mushroom soup with a small jar of Cheez Whiz. We love it with the cheesy twist!

Classic Green Bean Casserole
From: Campbell's Kitchen
Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 30 minutes

Serves: 6
Ingredients:

1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (Regular, 98% Fat Free or Healthy Request®)

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon soy sauce

Dash ground black pepper

4 cups cooked cut green beans

1 1/3 cups French's® French Fried Onions

Directions:

Stir the soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, beans and 2/3 cup onions in a 1 1/2-quart casserole.

Bake at 350°F. for 25 minutes or until the bean mixture is hot and bubbling. Stir the bean mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining onions.

Bake for 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.

~Crescent Rolls - Pillsbury Big Flaky (don't skimp here)

~Libby's Famous Pumpkin Pie w/Extra creamy Cool Whip

LIBBY'S® Famous Pumpkin Pie
Prep:15 mins Cooking:55 mins Cooling:120 mins Yields:8 servings

Ingredients
3/4 cup granulated sugar1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

2 large eggs

1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

1 can (12 fl. oz.) NESTLÉ® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk

1 unbaked 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep-dish pie shell

Whipped cream (optional)

Directions
MIX sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.

POUR into pie shell.

BAKE in preheated 425° F oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350° F; bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate. Top with whipped cream before serving.

Nutritional Information
Serving Size 1/8 servings of recipe
Calories 280

The only new recipe I am trying is the dressing. I just haven't found that one that I want to use from year to year yet.

After Thanksgiving my mom makes a WONDERFUL Turkey ala king. Maybe she'll share her recipe. We save the dark meat for this! The white meat goes to make sandwiches. My FAVE is turkey on white bread with mayo, cranberry sauce & salt/pepper. YUM.

Day #19 I am thankful for...

2010-11-19T07:46:00.006-05:00

...my mattress pad warmer. Especially nights like lastnight when our temps were in the 40s! Some of my thankful posts are spiritual, some sentimental, some practical. About three years ago I was on the hunt for an electric blanket that had two different controls. Nick likes to crawl into a cold bed, I like to crawl into a warm bed. He could sleep with just a sheet, I like warm blankets. When I mentioned an electric blanket to him he gasped! In my search I found a WestPoint Home mattress pad warmer at JC Penney 50% off! We put it on every November & take it off to pack away approximately March. I turn my side on a higher setting a few hours before bed then turn it down lower when crawling in. Nick usually only uses his on freezing nights. I'm thinking Roman's about ready for his own.

To get one you can go to JC Penney or this link: jcp.com mattress pad warmers

They just happen to be on sale! Don't forget to use a coupon!

This coupon is good through Tuesday, November 23rd. $10 off $50 or $15 off $75

Here's a free shipping code for you: BUYAGIFT

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Day #18 I am thankful for...

2010-11-18T19:41:00.017-05:00

...our boys teachers & Hilliard Elementary! We have the best teachers! Not one complaint. Praise God! This is Roman's last year in elementary school. Seems like yesterday I was bringing him to kindergarten orientation then meeting my friends Alana Isham & Jeni Johns at McDonalds to let the kids play. They don't even have a playground there anymore. Next year Roman will start middle school & Rocco will move up to elementary. Here is a stroll down Memory Lane.

(I wish I had more to post but these are the only ones I have on this computer.)

We love I Am A Promise Preschool too. This is Dallon with Mrs. Jessica, one of his wonderful preschool teachers.

Roman's first day of 2nd grade.

Roman & Mrs. Vanzant, 2nd Grade

In Kindergarten they have a few starting days, this was the first one.

This was the second & full day of Kindergarten for Dallon.

Dallon & Mrs. Graves, Kindergarten

Roman & Mrs. Lawrence, 3rd grade

4th & 1st Grade

Dallon & Mrs. Hutchens, 1st Grade

Roman & Mrs. Cason, 4th Grade

2nd & 5th Grade

Dallon & Mrs. Vanzant, 2nd Grade (Yes this was also Roman's 2nd grade teacher.)

Roman & Mrs. Boatwright, 5th Grade

This made me realize I need to get a picture of Rocco with his Preschool teachers as well as Roman with his other teacher, Amanda Moore. (Who was also his 1st Grade teacher.) Many of these teachers are also our friends. We have been blessed

Not pictured: Roman with his PreK teachers, Roman with Mrs. Stevens (Kindergarten), Roman with Mrs. Moore (1st Grade.)

Day #17 I am thankful for...

2010-11-17T20:58:00.002-05:00

...life. So many blessings. God is good.

38 years ago today my mom gave birth to me at Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, FL. The same hospital that I would later have three children at.

A few 1972 tidbits

Average income per year $11,800.00

Gallon of gas $.55

#1 song on my birthdate was "I Can See Clearly Now" by Johnny Cash

#1 TV show "All in the Family"

#1 movie "The Godfather"

Chuck Berry got his first & only #1 record with "My-Ding-A-Ling"

HBO was launched

Apollo 17 landed the last men on the moon

Day#16 I am thankful for...

2010-11-16T20:30:00.005-05:00

...home. Home is my most favorite place in the whole wide world.

It's not perfect but it's perfectly ours. Thank you Jesus.

My second favorite place to be is in the mountains.

This location was Chimney Rock, NC three years ago almost to the date! Oh how I will miss our mountain vacation this year. But we will be enjoying time together at home.

Day #15 I am thankful for...

2010-11-15T08:35:00.003-05:00

...winning a photo session from Bella Blue Photography on Facebook last spring! I am embarrassed to admit that these were our first 'family photos'. I'm real good about getting pictures of the boys but not so good about getting Nick & I in the pictures. We met Dana at a little driftwood beach in our area on Thursday (Veteran's Day), just before sunset. She did an amazing job taking our pictures & capturing our personalties. Thank you much Dana!

To check it out click here: picture perfect moments {the m family}

Day #14 I am thankful for...

2010-11-14T20:27:00.003-05:00

...my new soup pot with bowls & stand that my sweet mother bought for me yesterday. I've been looking for a good soup tureen for a while. Kirkland's had this set in three different colors & while it is a tad smaller than I'd prefer, I love how it looks in my kitchen! I can't wait to use it!!

Isn't it BEAUTIFUL?!

Thanks Mom!!

Day #13 I am thankful for...

2010-11-13T17:05:00.003-05:00

...Melissa Booth, Lynn Kearnes & these websites for turning me into a couponer! My family has reaped wonderful benefits! My favorite stores to coupon at are http://publix.com/ & http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/user/home/home.jsp. My favorite website for creating a shopping list is http://www.southernsavers.com/, but I do like how http://www.couponmom.com/ gives me the % I'm saving. And I also am thankful for these other money saving sites that I follow on Facebook:

http://www.mysweetsavings.com/

http://afewshortcuts.com/

http://thefrugalgirls.com/

http://www.iheartpublix.com/

http://www.allyou.com/

HAPPY SHOPPING!!!

Day #12 I am thankful for...

2010-11-12T18:44:00.003-05:00

...Fridays off. I have to start working 1/2 days starting in January. But until then I will continue to LOVE my Fridays with Rocco. He's my last baby at home. Next year he starts Kindergarten. Just so happens he doesn't have preschool on Fridays.

Day #11 I am thankful for

2010-11-11T20:03:00.009-05:00

...this sweet friendship.

Then

Now

love.

Day #10 I am thankful for...

2010-11-10T19:39:00.005-05:00

...the seasons.

Winter is cold & we get to bundle up & snuggle. It's also has Dallon, Uncle Stephen, Nick & Ben's birthday months, January & February.

Spring is beautiful! It's when all the new growth starts. This is my personal favorite. Time to freshen up the planters & fly Grandma Freckles out for a few weeks! It also has Rocco & Roman's Birthday month, March.

Summer is usually a little too hot for me but school is out, Nick is off & the pool is open!

Fall is a very close second in my list of faves. It's a time to decorate, dress up, reflect & draw close to those you love. It also includes Grandma Freckles, Gammy & my birthdays, September & November.

Thank you Lord for the seasons.

Day #9 I am thankful for...

2010-11-09T19:02:00.004-05:00

...my brother Stephen. When I was a teenager I would always ask him how I looked before going off with friends and he never said, "Fine." He would stop what he was doing & give me his input. One weird thing I remember being thankful for was that he always had a bag of brand new socks in his drawer & always let me wear them first. That's back when it was popular to have the bunched up sock look. I love my brother. We have always been close.

Stephen we need to have a recent picture taken.

Day #8 I am thankful for...

2010-11-08T19:58:00.003-05:00

...my boys being fun, funny, sweet boys.

Day #7 I am thankful for...

2010-11-07T12:46:00.002-05:00

...my mommy. She is also my best friend. She knows the good, the bad & the ugly & still loves me. Thank you Mommy.

Isn't she pretty in purple?

Day #6 I am thankful for...

2010-11-06T19:48:00.003-04:00

...my mother in law. I love her dearly.

Day #5 I am thankful for...

2010-11-05T16:16:00.002-04:00

...these guys.

Day #4 I am thankful for...

2010-11-04T08:25:00.022-04:00

...being important to God.

'Oh me..' That's what my late Grandma Cooper would say. I miss her. She went home to be with the Lord January 23, 2001.

Lately I have been feeling invisible. Know what I mean? I walk by someone & say hello, but they don't see or hear me. I sit down somewhere & people I know walk by & sit somewhere else. I'm in a conversation with someone & they trail off into another conversation with someone else. I know this isn't how I am supposed to see things. I know that I should speak louder, or reach out with a kind hand on the shoulder, or get up & go find someone to sit by. I know these things. But sometimes we don't do what we know to do. Sometimes we sit up under our juniper tree feeling sorry for ourselves.

It's difficult for me to write this post because..well..who wants to reveal their vulnerabilities? Should I? Should I not? Should I just keep this between God & I? Maybe, probably. But I'm choosing to share a small bit of what I've been struggling with because I know I'm not alone. In two senses; 1) I know I'm not the only person that has these internal struggles 2) I know God is with me.

When we moved to this small town (almost eight years ago) everyone was so friendly, they still are. We found a wonderful church where we were warmly welcomed. We adore the preschool & elementary school & hope to have a similar experience at the middle school next year. We just love Hilliard. However, since moving here I have had a struggle that I have never experienced before. While we have many acquaintances, a few friends & many sweet, precious church family members (that I know would be here for me in a crisis), I have not had the pleasure of experiencing a deep, close, personal friendship. I think I've gone through a range of emotions regarding this. Asking myself what's wrong with me, to reaching out to others which has produced short spurts of friendships, to getting angry & closing off those around me. Do I appear unapproachable? I hope not. Shyness has always been an issue for me & I know sometimes that can be misread. I do have a wonderful family that loves me very much & reminds me of that love every chance they get. I am so thankful for them.

OK, now l'll shift focus from me to God, because that is what my life should be about. I think God has revealed to me in this struggle is that He, Himself, is the only one that can satisfy me. I need to focus on Him, on His love, His grace, His purpose for me. As I read back through the first paragraph I wondered how we do the same things to God, treat Him as if He's invisible. We don't see or hear Him around us, we don't take time to sit down with Him, we start to pray but trail off into other thoughts. Yes, I am guilty of those things. Forgive me Lord.

Today I will choose to stand up & walk forward, to encourage someone who needs encouragement, to reach out and touch someone who needs to be touched, to sit by someone who needs someone to sit with & to listen to those speaking to me. Especially my Lord. Please Father, help me to be a good disciple. Help me to love others & glorify You. After all, that is why I was made.

I'd like to close this post with this video because I think it sums it all up.
If you've gotten this far in the post you will enjoy this.
I Was Made to Love You ~ Toby Mac

Day #3 I am thankful for...

2010-11-03T17:19:00.004-04:00

...this.

Something about the sun shining on the trees like this does wonders for my soul. It's like a reminder from God that he loves me. As if he were smiling at me. Despite me & my sin.

I took about ten pictures this cool morning but only one picture showed up when I uploaded. I wish they all had but I think you'll recognize what I'm talking about next time you see it.

Day #2 I am thankful for...

2010-11-02T08:33:00.007-04:00

...the right to vote.

Psalm 33:12 "Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD"

One Nation Under God

The Forgotten Man

Paintings by Jon McNaughton. To see more please visit http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Jon-McNaughton/157211518652

Day #1 I am Thankful for...

2010-11-01T08:35:00.013-04:00

...my heavenly father.

He never leaves me alone nor makes me feel unwanted.

1 Samuel 12:22 "For the Lord will not forsake his people, for his great name's sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you a people for himself."

He calms my fears.

2 Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

He is my provider.

Matthew 6:25-33 "Therefore I tell you do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin yet I tell you, even Soloman in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly father knows that you need them all. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."

He does not hold grudges against me.

Ephesians 1:7 "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our tresspasses, according to the riches of his grace."

He sees the best in me, knows my potential & chose me.

Deuteronomy 7:6 "For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples on the face of the earth."

Thank you for loving me Lord.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-27T08:31:00.003-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T08:23:00.003-04:00

Floridians swimming in October.

Favorite things!

2010-09-15T14:57:00.008-04:00

Oh my goodness. Have you tried this little slice of heaven? I've been eating the Garlic/Herb & Swiss for a few years but now they have a Mozarella Sundried Tomato & Basil!!! These go wonderfully on a 'Everything' Thomas Bagel Thin w/a piece of fruit on the side. Don't forget your coffee! I love the new International Delights Coffee House Inspirations Skinny Caramel Macchiato!!

The Laughing Cow Wedges Light Mozzarella, Sun Dried Tomato & Basil - spreadable cheese wedges for active lifestyles The Laughing Cow

A few of my favorite things!

2010-08-27T16:06:00.008-04:00

I haven't posted a favorite in quite some time. Probably because I just haven't thought of it. But I want to share one of my favorite kitchen tools with you. The Pampered Chef Mix N Chop was introduced about four or five years ago & I have used it to my hearts content ever since! I don't like it when the meat clumps, I like it to be small fine pieces. If you do too then you need one of these!

If you are interested in getting one of these they are $10 & you can click here: MIX N CHOP to go to my personal Pampered Chef Consultant's website & order one today! They make great gifts & stocking stuffers for the women in your family!

Number next:

About a month ago I jumped back on the wagon of healthy eating. I had gotten out of control with the busyness of life & convenient foods. Well, I'd had enough. I reached back into my memory for many of my old tips & tricks (yeah..I've been down this road before) & started looking for new ones too. During this I discovered this wonderful popcorn seasoning that only has 2 calories per serving & 0 fat! I have been enjoying it on my Orville Redenbacher SmartPop. First I cook the popcorn then I spray it a little with Parkay Spray (so the seasoning has something to stick to) then sprinkle on the seasoning! You don't need a lot. YUM~O Eat the whole bag (6 cups) because it's only 100 calories (2 points for Weight Watcher fans)!!! Sound to good to be true? I know! But it isn't! Enjoy!!

I haven't tried the Ranch yet but I like the Parmesan Garlic and LOVE the Nacho Cheddar! My kids like them too.

By the way, I've lost 7lbs. It's a teeny tiny dent in the grand scheme of things but it's 7lbs less than I was one month ago today. Yay!

South Carolina

2010-08-26T19:04:00.026-04:00

Just before school started we took the kids to see Uncle Jeff, Auntie Teri (Nick's sister), Gabby & B~Bop in South Carolina. We didn't take a vacation this summer since we had just gone to Disney in May but in the boys minds, this was vacation.

We got to see them test for & receive their yellow belts in Tae Kwon Do.

Pretty Teri busy in the kitchen
Kiddos playing with Pixos
B~Bop teaching Rocco how to play the Wii

Usually the girls come visit us & they have to play with the 'boy toys', this time the boys had to play with the 'girl toys'. They thought they were pretty cool!

On the way to the Naval Base water park we visited Home Depot for the boys first workshop.

Rocco had a great time!

Dallon loved this!

Roman too

Not sure why Rocco was crying but it probably had something to do with leaving.

The girls have some neighbor boys close in age to our boys so they were back & forth to eachothers houses. This is Rocco & Easton.

Their little sister Braelyn was in the middle of all the action!

Jeff & Teri's beautiful home

Dallon asked me to take a picture of him in front of each car. First, Uncle Jeff's truck.

Auntie Teri's truck

And our Jeep

Roman with Easton, London & their doggie.

Pink? So what!

Waiting on Uncle Jeff & Daddy to come back from a motorcycle ride.

Did he just mark his territory?

There they are! And yes, Jeff does have a pink cast on his leg. He injured himself at work & had to have surgery. This was only about a week after the surgery.

Nick was in his element.

Dinner then a movie in the living room!

'Diary of a Wimpy Kid'

Oh yeah?!

Teri's taking pictures too! I caught her in her Australian garb. They spent the last year in Australia for Jeff's job. It's good to have them home!

Nick enjoyed the movie but I think we were torturing Jeff.

After a great visit we had to head home.

Almost there

Look what was waiting for us in the yard when we got home! Praise the Lord for Teri's family only being 4 hours away. Most of Nick's family is in CA.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-25T19:15:00.002-04:00

Same rainbow from a friends view.

The grass withers, the flower fades,but the word of our God will stand forever. Isaiah 40:8

2010-08-24T20:28:00.003-04:00

Guess who is growing up?

Oh my snug buggler Roman...

It's fun to stay at the Y-M-C-A

2010-08-19T23:06:00.020-04:00

We went to a handful of birthday parties for some very sweet friends at the YMCA this summer. We didn't remember our camera for all of them. Here are some of our favorite pictures. Jake Franklin turned 5!

His Aunt Amy made the cake. They are a family of loggers on Jake's mother Tara's side. So this cake was perfect!
Our kids probably ate a normal years worth of hotdogs all in one summer! It was a hotdog kind of summer.
Goofin

Daddy likes to play in the pool too!

There's a cool little splash park that connects to the pool that all my boys love!

The water spouts go higher when you stand on a few of them.I love this picture of Roman in the air, under the spash!

Dallon has a plan...

Great idea for a HOT summer evening! However, Nick & I guessed there is probably some YMCA rule against doing this so it didn't last long.

They all have their own preference of cooling off.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think Rocco's diggin it.

SPLASH!

I love this one of Roman & Rocco bracing eachother for the splash!

OK, let me explain this one incase you haven't ever noticed Rocco's smile. Rocco must have bumped his tooth at some point over the last couple of years (we don't recall anything in particular) because it is grey. (This also happened with Dallon at the same age but we recall that incident.) He also had a cavity in between his teeth which the doctor drilled out and fixed. But about a month ago the filling popped out and he goes late August to have it replaced. Well his daddy calls him the 'Black Toothed Pirate' and told him to go rinse it off in the water spout. I thought it was kinda gross because that water can't be the cleanest. But Daddy won and the Black Toothed Pirate is rinsing it off. Like it was going to fix the two problems? Ha Ha.

Another angle

My guess is it simply cleaned out his nose.

Ha! Love this picture of Dallon! If we are even close to water he wants his goggles. I'm surprised he doesn't ask for them when it's raining, heehee.

Lauren turned 6!

The yummy lady bug cupcakes were strawberry inside!!

Happy Birthday Lauren!

We gave her the Pocahontas DVD, bubbles & a Barbie because every little girl loves Barbies! Right? I love picking out little girl gifts.

We are sad to see our YMCA close this summer. We have had so many great memories at the YMCA since we moved here. We joined when we first moved here then I became an employee for about three years, working in Child Watch, which gave us a free membership. After I ended my employment we didn't join again but we participated in all the sports they had to offer throughout the eight years we have lived here. Nick coaching multiple teams every season except for one. We will miss the YMCA!

We're hoping the town finds a way to keep the pool up & running next year. Today is the last day of the pool for this season.

This matter was such a heartbreak to our Community that Gammy (who did hold a membership) contacted Ken Amaro from firstcoastnews.com. CLICK HERE to go to the article. (The video wasn't available anymore.)

A Barrel of Laughs!

2010-08-19T22:46:00.004-04:00

My boys are comedians. They just love to laugh & to make others laugh.

This particular rainy Sunday night we went to Wendy's after church, where they got these funny glasses.

I was horrified at the marks on the wall that only showed up in the pictures. Roman immediately grabbed a Clorox wipe & cleaned it off. Nose pickers Rocco struttin his stuff. (Don't tell him his chonies are inside out.)

Oh yeah! Work it baby!

I don't know where they get it from.

OK, maybe I do.

Love my family.

Peter Pan vs. Camo Dude

2010-08-19T22:36:00.003-04:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again; I love that my boys still play dress up!

I call it a tie.

Use i before e except after c or when sounded like a as in neighbor or weigh.

2010-08-19T22:22:00.003-04:00

Our sweet neighbors, Dennis & Trish Perkins, went on vacation & brought these hats back for the boys. Aren't they adorable? Rocco wore his on a family bikeride last week.

We love our neigbors.

Not a nursery anymore

2010-08-19T22:02:00.004-04:00

When we first moved in I was pregnant with Dallon and we fixed this up to be his nursery. It was actually after he was born because we moved in & I had him a week later. About three years later we moved Dallon into Roman's room to share and fixed this nursery up for Rocco. Our sweet friends Brian & Sara Calhoun (& their sweet kiddos) spent a July 4th weekend with us and helped us paint & decorate. They really did most of the work.

But now, it's not a nursery anymore. Roman is taking his turn in this room and he's no baby. This is his very own big boy room. We'll be adding to it as we find things he likes. (And yes, we need to replace that blind.) I'm on the hunt for a dark wood captains bed & matching chest of drawers to replace the current bed & dresser.

This fan was in here when we moved in. Roman's not crazy about it because he's not a baseball fan (HA! Get it?) But it fits the overall theme.

Oh Roman, you are growing up too fast.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T21:58:00.002-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-11T19:29:00.003-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-04T20:56:00.003-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T19:23:00.002-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-21T18:44:00.003-04:00

June Family Day: Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

2010-07-16T17:25:00.024-04:00

Roman & I decided it would be fun to start monthly family outings. It doesn't need to be elaborate or expensive, just intentional family field trips. We started in June by going to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. It's only a few minutes up the road & minimal cost. Perfect! So one day late in June we hopped in the car & drove to Folkston, GA. We spent several hours walking, talking, looking, laughing & sweating. We could stand to sweat a little so it's OK. Here are some pictures from our day.

See the golden yellow speck in the center? That's Nick. He volunteered to walk the road back to get the car. We hiked from the Chesser Homestead to the lookout tower & boardwalk. But I think he got tired of me freaking out & asking him to save me from the GINORMOUS bees that were strangely attracted to my hair. He wasn't rude or mad, just offered. Love that, thanks Babe!
We saw a snake!

AND.... Do you see it? It was just a few feet from the snake!

A GATOR!! Just off the boardwalk. And folks, please be careful, these gators CAN come up on the boardwalks.

Then we spotted these disgusting monkeys.

OK, I really having nothing else to say about this picture. Go ahead, judge away.

Cause you'll soften right back up when you see this one.

And this one.

My guys

At the Chesser Homestead I explained to the boys how the kids had to pick through this sand to made sure there was no grass or leaves. They had to make sure it was just sand so that it there was a fire it would stop when it reached the sand. (I learned this on Roman's 2nd grade field trip.)

Daddy explaining cane grinding.

Brotherly love makes my heart skip a beat.

The boys were sneaking up on Japanese troops. Shhhhh..

I love this picture for some reason.

It was HOT but we totally needed the exercise.

Note to self: YOU ARE WAY MORE OUT OF SHAPE THAN YOU REALIZED.

Another beauty shot

On our way out we stopped at the pond and saw some of these.

Why is this momma gator coming so close?

Because her baby is close to us.

We had a great time, it was the perfect start to our family outings.

We totally blew the calories we just burned by stopping for an early dinner at Quik Chik & dessert at Dairy Queen. We're planning July's for next week so stay tuned to see where we go next!

Summer Camp 2010: Natural Horsemanship Camp for Kids

2010-07-16T14:30:00.026-04:00

Summer time = Camp time!

There are so many camps to choose from. We normally choose a sports camp. I wish our church participated in the church camp that our association participates in. This year we found out about a horse camp that a friend of ours puts on. It was affordable & educational. When we told our boys they were participating in a horse camp they were SO excited! They love horses & they love the Hall family so they just couldn't wait. Their only experiences with horses are when we ride them in the mountains each fall. They were happy to learn more about them!

Each day after a few hours of working in the hot sun with the horses Jennifer would take the kids to the river for a swim. I was a bit worried about this because in the seven years we have lived here, several kids had died in this river from drowning. One little boy just drowned a few weeks prior to this. So Nick met them down there each day to help supervise. Dallon & Rocco wore life vests. Jennifer assured me that each area of the river is different & they swim in this area often. I prayed & trusted.

Alyson is on the swinging rope. Roman LOVED this rope!
Wahoo!
Dallon enjoyed exploring. Rocco even gave it a try.

A few pics of my Dallon

Rocco loves being thrown into the water.

More exploring for Dallon.

Rocco needed help getting on the rope.

Mrs. Jennifer said that Dallon was very patient with the horses. She said they sensed that & were very calm with him.

He was trying to keep the horse flies off of his horse.

Roman was more excited & wanted to hurry up & ride each day. Mrs. Jennifer said that the horses sensed this & would get very excited around Roman.

Time to swim! Yep, that's my boy Roman in the air.

In the end I asked what their favorite part was. Roman & Dallon both said, "Riding the horses." Their favorite was Jake.

My favorite part was that these boys slept SO good this entire week! Thanks Jennifer!! I think this camp was by far the greatest!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-14T16:42:00.002-04:00