Grandma's Place

Summer Thoughts

2011-07-17T21:49:00.000-07:00

Today was Sunday and like most Sunday's we go to church and then the kids all come over for dinner.

Today wasn't much different except we had planned to have a little birthday celebration for Kinslie V. She just turned 4.

So cake was arrainged and dinner was planned. Before leaving for church I put a pink table cloth on and fixed a watermelon.

Everyone came and we gathered for dinner, Kinslie V. wanted to do the blessing, It's her day so it was her turn. No one seemed to mind, (sometime the kids get their feelings hurt if they don't get to do the blessing) anyway this small sweet 4 year old gave the sweetest blessing, she thanked Heavenly Father for everything, not just everything but everything that mattered. her mom her dad her family her granpa's her grandma, her dog, her cousins, for Sunday school and primary, for the nice weather. She only asked for a few things, 1 that her daddy would do good in Missori, and to bless the food. We had to remind her to bless the food. Everyone was quiet and listened (this doesnt alway happen) and all of the grown ups were very humbled. A small child only give thanks and we ask for blessings. It makes me want to slow down and remember to give more thanks.
Thank you Kinslie V for teaching me.

Just thoughts

2011-05-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

Today I am going to lunch with a friend for her birthday. She is single, never married, lives with her father who is in his 80's. She wears very little jewlery and no makeup. She loves the Jazz-Basketball team out of Utah. She loves making books with beautiful pictures and quotes. She Loves doing geneology and going to the temple.

What is amazing to me is when I think of her, I don't think of how she wears her hair, or what kind of jeans she wears, I know her car is red but I have no idea what kind it is. I'm not sure what her favorite resturant is, or where she would like to travel to.

I hope that maybe when I am gone that someone would say about me, "Things of the world matter not, Only serving my Heavenly Father is what matters.

She loves with all heart and gives with all her might.

May I grow up to be just like her.

Happy Years

2011-05-05T08:30:00.001-07:00

Today May5th, 2011 is a day of rejoicing for me. My good looking sweet and patient husband and I have been married now for 38 years. 38 YEARS!.That is a long time in todays marriage rate.

We met on Halloween at a drive in movie, how you ask- well that is a story in itself. We had our first real date on the following Saturday night, 7days later, and we haven't been without each other since.

I feel he was an angel sent from above. He had a motorcycle and an old pickup. I had a 1966 Ford Falcon and a beautiful daughter. We then had each other and nothing else really mattered.

The day of our marriage was crazy. I made sure not to see him the whole day until I walked down the aisle. My brother John walked me down. I remember I really wasn't sure I wanted to go through with this. Not the marriage part, the wedding part.

I wore my sister Carroll's dress, (looked a bit like the new Princess Katherine dress with lace on top. It had about a million little buttons down the back and on each sleeve. It was beautiful.

I had a bouquet of daisies and pink roses and other wild flower type things. When I put them in the fridge at the church and went back to get them the daisies were frozen. Before the ceremony was over the little things were black.

I had a beautiful 3 tiered cake with pink daisy flowers and the best part was at the end of it aisle was this young, tall, dark haired (lots of it) brown eyed Prince Charming waiting for me.

As soon as I took his hand I knew ALL would be fine, it was better than fine, it was GREAT.

I have never wanted for anything. He has been the best of a father to our four daughters and the most loving husband any girl would want.

I know we are married for time and eternity, and to me I could not ask for anything else.

I hope all of you take a minute and count your blessings for the one you are married to, and I hope you all cherish each day. I know I try to not let the world interupt our happiness.

Thoughts of Sunday

2011-05-01T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today was Fast and Testimony for us. One sister stood and spoke of the blessings of her father who was showing signs of having the DESIRE to do the things he used to do. He had an accident five months ago and is just now starting to show real signs of getting back to his old self.

The word DESIRE stuck with me.

I have had a tough year, with family. The loss of trust, the loss of friendship and the worry of where my family is headed. Every family has the same troubles just in differnt elements.

I had lost all desire to be with people, ( even family ) no desire to attend church and partake of sacarement, I wanted no calling, no telephone. I really didnt even want to talk to my sweet sisters, daughters of even my husband.

I put a huge wedge between me and everything I loved. Exspecially the Lord.

I remember the feeling of overwhelming desire to serve all in my path. To do all that was asked of me. To step out of my box no matter what. I remember the joys it brought to me and my family.

Today I felt the DESIRE to feel that again. I pray the Lord will forgive me and help me to not let anything ever again step between me and him, my family and my friends.

Any of you family that reads this, I now think may understand, because they love me and watched as this year has passed. Know I have always loved you, I always knew that Jesus Christ was there waiting for me and knowing I would be back.

I have the DESIRE to work hard and have the love of Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father. I only hope its not to late.

You will not leave hungry

2011-03-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

http://cookingwithwhit.blogspot.com

Found this wonderful site and thought I would share. I could start at the top and not stop cooking till I hit the bottom. Bottom - you say? Yes mine would grow to epic protions. I will still give it a try.

Let me know if you try any of the suggested recipes, I would love to know.

Let me say this is one of many sites I found on Utahbloggers, so stay tuned for more.

Many thoughts

2011-03-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

It has been 5 days since the world in Japan has fallen apart for them. I pray somehow this will all make sence one day. I worry about the people the children the old the young. I just can't not worry about all of them.

Thwe same time I can't help but Thank God for all the blessings he keeps sending my way.
Sunday March 13, my grandson Carter turned 8. He is more excited about going to Scouts and being baptised than he was about a party. He wanted to come to grandma's house for dinner so he could be with all of his family. What more could a grandma want.

I have felt the spirit so strong the past few days and I know Heavenly Father is watching over me and all those I love.

I have such a wonderful husband, daughters who love me and worry over me, Son in laws who would do anything for me, and Grandchildren who love to come to my house and never leave with out giving me hugs and saying Love you. What more could any one want.
Let's not forget blogger who inspire me. Love you Carrie.

Lifting the Soul

2011-02-27T09:14:00.000-08:00

Saturday Feburaty 26, was such a special day, 1- I spent it with my beautiful daughter, Kinie. 2- We had super weather and great parking. 3- Lucky seats, right in front of the mic.

Now you are asking "what in the world am I talking about?"
We were treated to a Special Relief Society meeting in the new event center in Rexburg, Idaho with Special speaker Julie B. Beck of the General Relief Society Presidency.

Along with close to 15000 other women and a few special Priesthood holders, we were spiritually feed for 2 hours. It seemed like it was only minutes.

Her forum was even special, She allowed women who had everyday questions about balancing life with Gospel.

Each person asked a question that pertained to thier life, Sister Beck would have an anserw to that question along with a scripture or a example that filled each one of us with hope.

If you came away not feeling of the feast that had been given it was only your hard necked proud feelings ( I say that because I have done that).

Soften your heart, pray about what was said and let the Spirit quide you in knowing God Loves you, God knows of you, and WORRIES about you.

I came home and read the story of Mary and Martha and have such respect for both of them, and understand that I have a long way to go to walk the path they walked.

How humble am I this morning? Very but at the same time feel so full of Gods love, and pray each one of you that read this will feel the same.

Challenge

2011-02-25T07:27:00.000-08:00

I challenge each one of us to do something fresh and (Not) new. Take one spot in your house. One wall one vinette just one spot in your house and make it new. This can not cost more than $5.oo. Use what you have, bring something in from another room. Great chance to go junking at the local DI store.

Plant some seeds in an intresting pot and display it so you can watch spring enter your home.

Invite Spring to that one spot and then return and tell us about it. Take pictures and share.

This weekend, most of us will be going to hear Sister Beck in Rexburg, I feel that she might talk on gratitude (not sure). We all have trial that are weighing us down but let's don't let it because we did'nt try to cheer ourselves up by refreshing and inviting the Spirit into your home.

I am so excited and hope you will invite all your friends to take the Challenge.

Spring

2011-02-15T08:54:00.001-08:00

One of my blog friends is doing the funest thing I have sen in a long time.
the sun is shinning and it has given me a need to feel like maybe Spring is coming.

I would like to host a Seed swap. Oh I know we dont plant for 3 or 4 months here in Idaho but it will take that long to organize.

If you would like to be included, send me your address and name. I will do a drawing of sorts and match you up. Notify each of you and then you will send a packet of seeds or seeds that you have harvested with a note to your matched Sister.

Let's all "plant" some love and then we will share what we have "sown".

Take pictures and keep a small log of how well or not so well your seed do. Then Share.

I will take names untill St Patricks day.

If you wish not to join in the fun of this, you do nothing. If you have family or friends that wish to be included give them my email address.
fordmetalparty@yahoo.com

Please be assured I will not give you address or your email address to any one!

Happy planting and keep wishing for Spring and warm sunshine.

love you all
sally

What are dreams made of?

2011-02-04T07:50:00.000-08:00

Oh the sun is shining and I think it is in the 20's. Lots to do today. Dinner will be leftover Pork chops spiced up somehow to make them like new.

We need to go start painting at the other house and I need to get Valentine's in the mail for my sweethearts in Minnasota. ( It takes 10 days to go from Idaho to Minnasota. I think the Pony Riders would have been faster.) Any way. I will be busy but need to share with you my dream and a quote I found this morning that solidified the fact that I am ready to plant.

I dreamt I was planting Sunflowers around my husbands shop, up both sides. It is 100 ft long so that is 200 ft of Sunflowers. No wait- then around my chicken coop, and around the little shed out back and up my drive way. Dell asked what are you gonna do with all those Sun Flowers? I dont know.

So here is the quote I found that says "WE ARE READY FOR SPRING."

REACH HIGH, FOR STARS LIE HIDDEN IN YOUR SOUL. dREAM DEEP, FOR EVERY DREAM PRECEDES A GOAL.

Here's hoping all who visit here today, Set a goal for just today and then reaches it with great pleasure.

Love you all. Please leave a comment, I need visitors.

Clean the fridge for dinner

2011-02-03T14:55:00.000-08:00

Feb. 3, 2011
The sun is shinig and it is upbove zero. Much different than yesterday. The first of the year I thought I would try and do a new reciep at least once a week. Now that could turn into a new resturant once a week. lol

Today let's clean the fridge and make a super dinner. I call this Chilaquiles. I have no idea what this is. It is a reciep from a cook book and I used what I had.

Here goes.

1 onion
1 stick celery
2 Tb spoons oil
Sweat these down till almost transparent
I had 5 tomatoes that were a bit soft so I put them in a blender and mushed them up
added to onions.
I had a cup of saugage that was left over so I added this
Also left over a cup of Black beans & corn mix.
2 Tsp Ground cummin
1/2 salt and pepper
1/2 cup of Salsa

After I added it all together, I put in a crock pot to stew. I plan on putting a bed of salad, the mix and then topping with tortilla chips and grated cheese.
Try it let me know what you did to change it to fit your fridge clean out.

Soup of the Day

2011-02-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

Today is Febuary 2, 2011
Stange day but will make the best of it, while most of the nation is covered in snow ice or just FREEZING tempuratues I thought I would try and make soup. I have been craving Olive Garden Style Chicken Gnocchi. I found a recipe and twicked it a bit. Here goes. Hope you try it and leave me your comment.

1/3 cube butter
1 Tb. garlic- I use jar
2 cans of chicken, water and all.I am in a hurry
1/3 cup flour
1/2 bag baby carrots
1 yellow squash- out of celrey
1 cup fresh spinach- chivanaded- roll and slice
1/2 onion
2 cups milk
1 can of evaporated milk- NOT sweetened condensed
2 Tb chicken buillon
Pepper to taste
1 roll of Biscuits- Like Pillsbury

Start with and use low heat. Melt butter and add garlic. Add chicken and flour. Stir well. This will become thick right away and thin out later. The reason I use the water on the chicken, it is flavor.

Run your veggies through the processor or chop kinda finely. I like mine to be the size of a tspoon. Add to chicken and garlic. Add milks, buillion, pepper. Continue with low heat.

Take your biscut and only use one, You will bake the remaining. Pull or cut into small cubes, VERY SMALL, they seem to grow in the hot liquid. Simmer for 1/2 hour stiring now and then. Serve in large bowl with sprinkle of Parmasean cheese and biscuit.

Please try and let me know how you like it. Or better yet stop by and try mine.

It's my Birthday

2011-01-28T10:14:00.000-08:00

Wow, I openend my email to find I had a birthday wish from a Twylia and Lindsey, now I am not sure who these lovely gals are but they took the time to say Hello and wish me a Happy Birthday. I have had lots of wishes this morning, from sweet nephews, nieces and daughters and some friends. My husband took me for breakfast and I had my favorite oatmeal. Isnt that dumb? The sun is shining and I really think it is going to be a GREAT day.

Two days ago I had my hair colored, now when I say colored I mean I am now a light blonde from a dark brunette. My husband is in shock and says he feels like he is cheating. ( Remember when you shaved your mustache) But my son in law took a second look and said, looks good, I really like it. How cool would that make all you mother -in-laws feel.

It is a good day and I feel very encouraged to keep trying better. I hope to encourage all of you who stop by.

Now I am off to checkout my new friends Ty

I hope to do Better.

2011-01-25T15:15:00.000-08:00

Where have I been? Well, between chickens, garden and then the blues of the winter days, I really dont know what I have done besides nothing. I am not sure if it is the B12 or the fact that you can't stay lazy all your life. I need to get busy. Casie found this blog of Sherelle Christensen. She is amazing. I will list her link in a minute.

I was stalking her blog and looked at all her beautiful canning she had done this past year. I am so ready to plant my garden and build a fence around it so my chickens don't eat all my pea blossoms this year.

Speaking of building: We have been working on our rental and trying to get it ready to sell. In the meantime, my sweet husband has found the DIY channel and thinks he can now do EVERYTHING. Well, he isnt the only one. I have decided no mater what I do to clean my bedroom, it wont help unless I start in the closet. No I am not throwing out everything I am going to try and build some shelves in the spots where there is hidden room. I will show a before and after pic as soon as I get done. Hope it is on Wednesday Jan 26,2011. What is today??

I dont do resolutions for the new year but I do try to do better in all I do. Someday I will get it all right. So my goal is to try and do better with tis blog and learn how to do it without always asking Casie to fix it. So hang on here we go.

This is that girls blog, she is amazing http://sherellechristensen.typepad.com/my_weblog/

10/20/2010

2010-10-20T09:30:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful day, the birds are singing, and the bells are ringing. What am I talking about?
My older sister Barbara is getting married today! She lost her husband earlier this past winter and she has reunited with an old friend. I hope only happy things for her and that her and his children will alow them to live a happy and long life together. She has good kids and I really think they are happy for her. She wont be alone anymore. (We wont have to move her again.;))

There is only on thing bothering me. When did I become the mom and everyone else is my child. I laid awake most of the night with a feeling that something is wrong. I went through each problem it could be and I just cant put my finger on it. I only hope it is not about her.

Many happy wishes to Barbara and Darrel who will in less than 4 hours will start a new life.

Just a thought to self, Enjoy the sunshine and get this house cleaned. Oh, one more thought my sweet granddaughter has such trust in the love from her grandparents, she called grapa last night and asked if she could borrow some of his Santa's for a project next month. Now if any of you know, we have many many many and yes many Santa's that we put out each year. Grandp treasures each and everyone. BUT he loves her enough to say sure. What a trust..

Run and dont be weary

2010-10-17T16:59:00.000-07:00

Sunday, Oct. 17th 2010
Today is a friends birthday and I cant call her - no phone# - cant send a card- no address. I know she is in Wyoming and I know where but somedays go by so fast that I wonder if I will ever catch up.

Happy Birthday LuWayne and wishes for many more.

As I sat in Sacarement today and listened to the speaker and he spoke of Temple and Family History. How we need to commit and the DO it. I love doing both but I am so unorganized that I cant even remeber to wish a friend a Happy Birthday.

I could go to the temple any day I wanted but somehow I always get sideswiped. Husbands, daughters, laziness, grandchildren, housework. I just dont know how to commit and DO It.

The Family History thing, if someone would help me organize all the paper work so I could tell who is next and then go on. What I wouldnt give.

Temple work, I think the only real reason I dont go on a reqular basis is I look for an excuse. I am my worse enemy at this.

Serving my neighbor, I think of it tons and I am to lazy.

So I quess I am asking for someone to challenge me and then ck up on me.
I know Heavenly Father has challenged me but out of sight out of mind.

Man, this sounds bad but this is the thoughts I have had all day.
I love you all and pray (no I won't, I will forget)
Have a Great week, and ck back later.

Monday morning

2010-09-27T10:10:00.001-07:00

It is now 11:15 and I must say, You better hurry up if your to catch me today. I have washed and folded and straighted 2 batches of wash. Cleaned and I mean deep cleaned Dell's bathroom. yuckkkk. and ironed 14 yes 14 shirts and cleaned and organized my closet. Ok I have to go through my shoes.

I will be back with more intresting news later. In the mean time help me think of some easy dinner. I had to cook 4 bags of chicken tenders last night. Some how my freezer in the garage was not shut tight.. Stupid pop cycles.

Just thoughts

2010-09-23T17:47:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here at my computer skipping through everyone eles blog and thinking I really should get something done. My thought is "What have I done today"?

I woke early, and it wasnt long till Casie stopped by and Dell came in from the shop and we had a bite to eat, some Banana bread I had made yesterday. We talked and she told us how her horse had jumped a fence and was at the Vet. I was worried something like this would happen.

Soon it was time for her to go get Bridger. What a cute kid. Next thing I know I am making lunch for all of us and Kinie brough Kinslie by to stay for awhile.

I finish lunch and soon find myself watching both kids while moms and dad go get things done. I cleaned up the kitchen. Wiped everything down and then had to get some old jam and carrots dumped and the bottles washed.

In the middle of this I find myself filing papers that should have been done months ago. I cleaned one desk off and swept the floors.

I am thinking What in the world is for dinner? I cooked once today isnt that enough?
So what is for dinner, it is 7:00 p.m. What 7:00 pm. Isnt it bed time yet????

Now yesterday, I bottled 8 pints of carrots, made Banana bread, cookies and froze 8 bags of corn. But What did I do today?

Around town

2010-09-22T09:41:00.001-07:00

I want to share some of the blogs I come across, Some are food, some crafts some just because I love the pictures.
Please visit them, Let me know what you think.

By the way itis on 10:30 and I have Banana bread made, 16 cups of corn in the freezer and headed to do my carrots. What are you doing today.

Around town

2010-09-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

I have been around the blogs today and have found some real fun ones. Depends on what your looking for. Me I just love to look. I have been looking for Fall ideas to cheer up my house with. I thought it might be fun if each time I post if I leave you with a road trip "Around Town".

Check out www.brownpaper--packages.blogspot.com

come back and let me know how your trip was. If you take a turn in the road let me know, I may want to check it out.

Queit Day

2010-09-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

Today is Wednesday, (know how I learned to spell that) I was about 6 and a neighbor leady that my mother used to clean for helped me. Eisabell Pickering. She said you say it Wed nes day. I never forgot. Oh well, enough silly.

It is quiet and calm around here today. I worked my behind off yesterday picking up and cleaning, till I found out my vacumn was broke. I did get it fixed and finished cleaning today.

Nothing is really going on, except I made a menu and was going to stick to it till, I made Taco's for Taco Tuesday and now I am sick, Too much grease or red meat, not sure. So today I am going to relax a bit and double think my menu. I will be out and about surfing the net today to see if I can find any fun ideas for the up coming holidays.
love ya and hope to see you around.
ps- Bonnie you need to add me so I can see what you have been up too. love

Sept. 6, 2010

2010-09-06T07:02:00.000-07:00

Today I woke early and walked out let the girls (chickens) out to range, checked my garden and so sad, I had frost last night. May have lost the only pumpkin I have. I really hate to see the COLD come. I love the Indian Summers that Idaho has to offer but right behind them is ole man winter and missery.

I have decided this blog will now be a place for me to record my thoughts and dreams. You are welcome to stop by now and then and see if I am doing ok. Somedays I hope to have something worth sharing.

For now I will be gathering my change from Summer and getting my sweet home ready for winter and a bit of Chirstmas.

Today, I will be getting the roof on my chicken coop.

Love to all that stops by, leave me a note or thought of your own.

Valentine Ideas

2010-01-05T20:48:00.000-08:00

Start NOW, and get them done and in the closet so come the 13th of Feb. you are not running around thinking What can I do.
These were ideas found from Pioneer Party out of Lehi Utah. Enjoy.
If you have any ideas PLEASe post under comments to share.

1. Put a can of FANTA soda in a cellophane bag with some taffy and chocolate: "Make my FANTA-sy come true … Be my Valentine!"

2. Wrap up a bag of Swedish fish: "It's O-FISH-al! I'm in love! Will you be mine" or "You're O-FISH-ally the best kid around … Happy Valentine's Day" or "FISHing a Happy Valentine's to the best CATCH around!"

3. Give chocolate covered cinnamon bears, marshmallow bears, or a stuffed bear: "Moms and chocolate make life more BEAR-able!" (Can be altered in a million different ways to include sisters and friends)

4. Tie a six pack of soda with a ribbon: "You are SODA special! Happy Valentine's Day!"

5. Wrap a can of Pringles to look like a stick of dynamite: "I think you are DYNAMITE! TNT!"

6. Tie a tag to a bottle of root beer: "Go ahead, kick up those heels! Have a ROOTIN'-TOOTIN BOOT-SCOOTIN Valentine's Day!"

7. Tied to a purse: "Happy Valentine's Day to someone with a cute PURSE-onality! Luv ya!"

. A bottle filled with candy: "My love for you has been BOTTLED up for too long … so here it is! I love you!"

9. Tied to a can of Crush soda: "I've got a CRUSH on you!"

10. Tied to a jar of honey: "Will you be my HONEY?"

11. Tied to anything sweet for a fun teacher gift: "Please sit back and enjoy a TREAT … you deserve it".

Visit Pioneer party to plan your party, order balloons, make party favors, AND buy a gift! Pioneer Party specializes in unique ideas for every celebration.

They are located at:
154 West Main Street
Lehi, Utah
801-768-3549

2009-12-29T11:28:00.000-08:00

“Homemade” with Help
It’s 5 o’clock and you need to figure out what’s for dinner…fast. Skip the drive-thru and head to your local grocery store. Go straight to the rotisserie chicken. What next? With just a few extra ingredients (hey, you still want to “legally” go though the express lane), you can give the ready-to-eat bird an easy upgrade. After all, it’s used to a few twists and turns.

1. Chili chicken. Combine pieces of the chicken with red chili beans (drain them first), canned diced tomatoes with chili peppers, chicken broth, and barbecue sauce. Simmer for about 10 minutes. Top with shredded cheese, if you like.

2. Chicken fried rice. Sauté garlic and scallions in oil, add shreds of chicken and veggies such as broccoli, mushrooms, and zucchini. Mix in rice and some soy sauce, then add a beaten egg, stirring until cooked.

3. Gyro. For a Greek-style sandwich, fill a whole-wheat pita with shredded chicken, hummus, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese.

4. Salad topper. Slice or shred pieces of chicken to put on top of salads—anything from Caesar to Mexican.

5. Mac and cheese and chicken. Macaroni and cheese can be more than just a side dish when you mix in some shredded rotisserie chicken.

6. Ravioli. Chop the chicken and stir into ricotta, basil, and Parmesan. Fold teaspoons of the mixture into wonton wrappers to make homemade raviolis.

7. Easy tamales. Mix chicken and salsa, then place between two slices of polenta in a ramekin. Microwave a minute to make it gooey and, presto, you have a great-tasting Mexican dish.

8. Super tortilla soup. Heat chicken broth with corn, scallions, and baby spinach. When it boils, toss in bite-sized pieces of chicken, a heaping spoonful of salsa, lime juice, and a handful of tortilla chips.

9. Thanksgiving sandwich. Combine prepared stuffing mix, chicken broth, onions, and celery to make a spread, then mix in slices of rotisserie chicken. Don’t forget the sliver of cranberry sauce!

10. Potpies. Grab a few premade miniature piecrusts at the store. Shred the rotisserie chicken and combine with a can of chicken broth and vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and peas. Add dashes of flour to make the mixture more firm. Scoop into the crusts, heat per crust instructions, and serve.

11. Pizza. Add shredded chicken to the top of frozen cheese pizzas or to homemade pizzas as a healthy alternative to pepperoni and sausage.

Hey, why did the chicken cross the road? To be your dinner!

Why would you want to ever cook chicken again?

Cute link

2009-12-16T20:05:00.000-08:00

http://portablenorthpole.tv
Ck this site out, it is way cool. I send a few videos to my grandkids. They are really cute and a bit personal but not bad.

2009-12-11T20:30:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know I havent posted anything in so long and I'm sorry, I think I lost my sanity. HAHA.
I have been blogging in a mad search for something new for my friends. I found it tonight on the following blog:
www.deckthehalls-christmas.blogspot.com
You have to ck these sweet Snowmen out. They are candy bar wrappers and if you follow the link you can down load the graphic. I did it on plain type paper and put a pair or $1.00 gloves on it with a bow. OH MY GOODNESS, it even made my husband smile.

Surviving you sanity

2009-12-01T07:57:00.000-08:00

Understand what’s most important to you and your loved ones.
It isn’t just about getting things done; it’s about doing the right things…those things that make you and your loved ones the happiest.

Make a plan.
Keep it super simple and just make a list of everything that needs to be done. Prioritize based on deadline and importance, and exercise your option to delete anything that didn’t make it through the filter you established above.

Shop with a list. Make a list of everyone you need to buy gifts for, your budget, and any ideas you have in mind for them. Then, keep your list with you throughout the season. Having a list will save you money and time…two things we could all benefit from using well during the holidays!

Most of all, remember to drink it all in and enjoy!

Reality Check

2009-11-19T06:06:00.000-08:00

ive been slcking ( so whats new ) no I have been a bit under the weather but I have blogged till I cant see trying to find the best information for you. Here it is from on of my favorite blogs- http://justorganizeyourself.blogspot.com/ Here are some really good thoughts. Most of these are really good for the soul, but I have to disaggree and YES my bathrooms need trees. Lighted ones.

It's time for a REALITY CHECK!There are 37 more days til Christmas.
We've started early and we've worked hard to "get the holiday things done in time to enjoy the holidays."

Now that Thanksgiving is upon us and December is around the corner, we need to be brutal with the remaining items on our TO-DO's list. We need to cut any extra or NON-ESSENTIAL items so we CAN enjoy the upcoming weeks!

Today's Task: Be REAListic and SIMPLIFY EVERYTHING!
Home-made Items: While there is nothing quite as personal as "home-made" you need to be careful. A wise man once said, "just because something is good is not a sufficient reason for doing it" You need to spend your time on the most important things. Choose wisely and stash the rest of the ideas in your Christmas Binder for next year. Try to finish up your home-made items in the next couple of weeks, in order to leave December open to enjoy the season!

Gifts: The easiest way to simplify gift giving is to pair down your gift list -Do you have friends and family that would agree to stop exchanging gifts? If NOT exchanging gifts seems a little too harsh - try some of these ideas:

Draw names, and/or set limits on the amount to spend for gifts.

Give family gifts like games, dvd's, or movie tickets, instead of individual gifts.

Buy all the adults on your list the same tasteful, simple Christmas gift.

Meet your friends at a restaurant for a "white elephant" gift exchange!

Decorations: Don’t fall into the decoration trap and think you have to decorate every room in your house, (please – does your bathroom really have to be decorated for the holidays?) Simplify by choosing one main room to decorate like the family or living room!

Activities: Do like they do in the ER – Use the triage strategy! Which activities are most vital or adds the most to the Christmas spirit your striving for? Participate in THOSE and let the rest wait.

Baking: Don't try to make 15 different kinds of cookies like Martha. She may seem like super woman, but she has a whole staff to help her look good. Try ONE new recipe and concentrate more on your favorites! Try Hosting a treat exchange!

Be realistic about what you can accomplish while still keeping love in your hearts and homes. Make the choice to enjoy the season this year!

Ck this out

2009-11-14T19:25:00.001-08:00

http://circlecliffviews.blogspot.com/

She has the cutest blog and is having her first give away, and I think it is the whole house.
Ck out her blog and leave a comment to follow her and get in on this great new friend ship/

The movie UP coupon

2009-11-12T20:28:00.000-08:00

I found a website called. www.sistersstuff.blogspot.com
Cute stuff and they show a coupon for $10.00 off for the movie UP.
I have gotten several coupons from this site for other movies. I would put them in your favorites and ckeck everytime Disney has a new movie.
Pop the corn and I will be right over.

I lost a day

2009-11-12T07:24:00.000-08:00

I was in a real funk yesterday, a bit of a headache that WOULD not go away. So now we need to catch up.

We have cleaned our kitchen and should know what the menu for Thanksgiving is. Do you have the proper serving dishes. I can never have enough serving bowls of different sizes. Platters all kinds shapes and sizes. If the bowl is big becasue you have a lot of family to serve, it will be to heavy to pass. Better to have two small than one huge family size. Also make sure you have serving spoons.

What about the kids, How do you keep them busy? I know every Sunday when my grandkids come my office gets raided. So my goal is to make a box of craft things to keep them busy. Crayons, paper, Colorwonders (my very favorite) a stapler with staples, Tape, some stickers, color books and puzzle books. I may even try to find some of those fun foam things so they can make something. I know if I do this I will have a mess but its better than my whole house becomeing a mess because they were bored. Beads would be good.
Please tell me how you keep your family busy. I have 8 sweet kids who come every Sunday and some days they get along and other days, well you know.

Side note: Bonnie needs some help with side dishes for her Thanksgiving dinner, we all need to give her a hand.

Stress Free Baking

2009-11-10T09:03:00.000-08:00

Todays Task: Inventory your Cupboard and Prepare a Grocery List

It's almost payday for some and grocery shopping for the Big Turkey day is close. Let's make sure we have Poultry seasoning, cinnamon, Pumpkin pie Spice, and all those special things that we will be using. If you have them in your pantry, smell them to be sure they are still fresh.

Now that your Christmas Baking is planned, spend some time today checking your kitchen cupboards and pantry to see what baking items you are going to need for the chosen recipes.

Few things are more stressful than finally having time to do some baking and realizing that you don’t have enough sugar. Or chocolate chips. Or the little crushed red and green candy sprinkles to top your sugar cookies.

Make a shopping list and stash it in your purse so you'll be sure you have it next time you go to the store.

Count Down

2009-11-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

Ok, it is crunch time and count down to the holidays. If we get things done or at least get some ideas going we won't stress as much and WE will be able to get through the holidays with respect and intgrity of our minds.

Each day I will try and post an idea to help keep you going.
Today it is time to start thinking of ideas for teachers. Remeber the child needs to help, if nothing more they need to help cleanup after mom makes the gift. Humor there. I found a website that had ideas for helping a class. So all you Room Mothers ckeckit out. http://www.skiptomylou.org/?s=teacher+gifts. You will need to cut and paste it because I am not smart enough to make it so you can just click on it.

Remember when giving teacher gifts, the best ones are things that will benifit the entire class, pencils, glue, kleenex, clorox wipes, crayons or even just packet of paper. $3.00 cant do any better than that.

2009-11-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

Grand Plan Week 9 Tasks
>
> [ ] Make 1 batch of holiday goodies
Let'a share a reciep, I like to make a batch of sugar cookies and wrap very tight in celphane and tin foil and freeze so when you need a quick batch of cookies they only need a few hours to thaw and bake. Heck- one year I made cookie rolls and tied a bow on them and on the card said something about when the holidays are over and all the sweets are gone, bake this batch of cookies and reflect on the holiday. No it sounded better than than but you get the idea. Maybe Casie could put together a cute poem.
> [ ] Make one extra meal for freezer again labeled HOLIDAY MEAL.
I will post a reciep in a day or two. Look for it on the side bar.
> [ ] Buy 1/8 of TO BUY gifts, save receipts, and ask for gift boxes.
Set up a envelope system 1- for reciepts, 1- for for cash. only use cash for gifts,WE only have 71/2 weeks till Christmas- that is only 4 paydays. Start now and remeber its not how big the gift its how saine you are the day after.
> [ ] Wrap and label packages. Prepare for shipping if needed.>
At Least get your addresses in you purse or Christmas book so when you get to the mail you dont say " oh ------- I'll be back , I forgot the address. (been there Doen that)
[ ] Work at least one hour on homemade gifts.>

> [ ] Take down Halloween decorations. Put up Thanksgiving ones.> > [ ] Clean/clear front hall closet so there will be room for guests' coats. Give
> unwanted coats to charity. Store other things in attic in empty luggage.

Don't forget to post a comment - Leave a reciepe for Christmas treats, and your Make ahead meal. Good luck and remember the Holidays are a time of happiness and good will.

Two areas to organize before the holidays.

2009-10-26T04:48:00.000-07:00

Area to Organize – Family Room
 Since the Family Room is much like the Living Room, consult the notes from that week as well, to be sure we haven't missed anything! Here goes!

 Start by washing the outside of your windows.

 Take everything down off the walls; take down curtains etc. Wash, Vacuum or dry-clean as needed.

 Sweep ceiling corners and other nooks in the room - tops of doorways, windows, arches, bookcases, etc.

 Wash inside of windows and sills. Polish and touch-up stain on wood.

 Re-hang window coverings.

 Take cushions off furniture, vacuum thoroughly. Vacuum cushions, checking for wear and turning as needed. Spot treat any stains or shampoo furniture as needed.

 Wooden furniture and anything with drawers: Empty, sort, and throw away what you don't really need. Put the rest where it really belongs. Dust/Polish the piece you're finished with, repeat as necessary. Do shelves the same way.

 Baseboards - dust or wash as needed touch up scuffs on wood or touch up paint on painted surfaces.

 Clean the TV screen. Dig out and sort all the accumulated electronic equipment--games, tapes, camera parts, wires, connectors, etc.

 Vacuum the entire room. Use a whiskbroom to get into those hard to reach areas and around the baseboards if your vacuum doesn't clean close enough.

 Other items needing attention if you have them are: Fireplace/mantel/chimney/glass doors Lamps - cleaning and/or replacing shade/bulb/wiring Light switches (clean)

 Mirrors and anything framed under glass clean it

 Now is a good time to reorganize the videotapes and CDs, Cassettes etc. If you have not viewed or listened to them in a while, donate or take to a consignment shop or a second hand music store and swap

Area to Organize – Dining Room Using the basic plan, take everything off the windows and clean them.

 Take everything off the walls and clean items and wall.

 Empty all drawers, shelves, ledges, etc. Clean items, but don't replace -- YET.

 Decide what you want to use this area for; eating, entertaining, playing games, etc.; then place only those items back. Declutter! Use the 4-box method.
 Streamline down to what you will actually use in this room.

 Remove all furniture, and clean the floors and baseboards.

 As furniture is replaced, clean each piece with appropriate cleaner/wax. Check legs to see if they need new protective caps.

 Put half the pictures back on the wall. Add more only if you can't stand the empty look.

 Add a new arrangement or fresh flowers and plan to invite company for dinner.

Help with little pantry space

2009-10-21T15:03:00.000-07:00

I was asked if I had any ideas to help organize the pantry. Well, if you could see mine you would say "WHO is she to tell me". The only advice I could give is - if you are a food stroage person, Dont store all of it where you go each day. Use a menu, then go to your food storage and use small baskets to fill what you need for that meal. Do it for a week at a time, Yes that is 7 small baskets. Put as much as you can for that meal in it and lable it. Sunday, meatloaf, Monday Tacos, use 3x5 cards slide into the basket where it is a little visable. Dont change your mind after making the menu. Now go to the fridge and use your shelves for the same purpose. Organizing each shelf the best you can. I would use the door shelves. store remaining food large shelves.
Big items like ceral and flour and sugar need to be where only you can reach them so children cant help themselve. Yes, they need to be independant but not when it comes to groceries.
This is the only idea I have. Anyone else have something better, I'm willing to try..
Good Luck.:)

Sorry, but let's get it done before the Holidays

2009-10-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

This is the week I dread the most. I have a LARGE pantry that ends up being the catch all for everything, pots, pans, dishes, food. I am the worst at being organized so maybe after we accomplish all these tasks we might start on some organizational tips. Till then, put on a cute apron, some fast moving music and attack that kitchen. While your at it start to think of all those sweet treats we will be making in the next few weeks. Suppose we could share some holiday ideas if your up to it.
Good luck and stay in touch this week. If you get discouraged give me a call, I'll bring you a pickerup- Mt.Dew, chocolate what ever it might be and dont think I wont.
love ya all.

Week 6

2009-10-11T20:07:00.001-07:00

Area to Organize – Kitchen
 Kitchen Cabinets: Tackle one by one if the job seems overwhelming. Start above counters, on one side of the room and work in one direction & when done, tackle cabinets below the counter. Save the under-sink area for last, for me it was the hardest.

 Get Rid Of:
• Old, currently unused cleaners
• Cans & Bottles of food over 6 months old unless there is a later expiration date.
• Old cracker/cookie boxes probably stale
• Pans & pots that you don't use, have duplicates of, are in horrible shape, etc.
• Extra serving dishes (store them elsewhere unless you have lots of room) until needed. Donate if you have not used them in the past six months.

 Check any open boxes for bugs

 Don't forget to wipe down empty shelves, re-line (if necessary)

 If you store medicines in the cabinets, check expiration dates. Verify prescription items with your pharmacist. Throw out medicines that "didn't work", expired or tasted so horrible you won't use them, etc.

 Don't forget to empty drawers, clean inside, then replace items. Get rid of duplicate items (utensils) if you can.

 Clean all appliances inside and out (refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, microwave, toaster oven, coffee maker--use vinegar once through, followed by several rounds of water-- stove vent, etc.)

 Sink: Use a toothbrush to get rid of gritty dirt at faucet. Clean drains, disposal, etc Use favorite cleaner to make "shine".

 Pantry: Use same method as for the cabinets. Don’t forget to wipe down while empty. Try to combine duplicate boxes of things to throw out that which you haven't and probably won't use.

 When this is done, you will probably want to dust any appropriate items, vacuum from ceiling to floor, including vents/ a/c ducts, clean any windows, and sweep & wash the kitchen floor (I always do that last!)

 Be ruthless! Go through every drawer, cabinet, and counter. Did you take time to do all that work and sell yourself short? Did your Mama tell you a job worth doing is worth doing well??? Well go ahead an "git": make that kitchen shine. Go through the spices and the cookbooks again. I know there are things you still really need to do.

Week 5

2009-10-05T07:52:00.000-07:00

This week we go through the Master Bathroom,
I also listed the kids room so you can get them started and also some of us dont have kids so we will be one week ahead next week. Good luck and I hope all of you are seeing a difference and feeling better. Let me know.

Area to Organize – Master Bathroom/Linen Closet

 Go through the medicine chest. Do you really store medicine in here? It is not a good idea to store your medications here as the steam and heat of the showers can affect them. Consider finding a new place. While you rearrange them, throw away the horrible tasting stuff that you do not use and the expired items. Check your first aid supplies. Do you have enough Peroxide, Band-Aids, gauze pads, and antibacterial ointment? Find a printable first-aid checklist here.

 Just look at those towels! Are they torn? In need of replacement? You needed some new rags anyway! Put it on your list to replace. Reorganize the ones you have.

 Clean off handles, knobs, and light switches. Does anything need replacing?

 How about the bathroom mat or carpet? Does it need some spot remover while you go on? Does it need to be replaced?

 Clean from high to low. Take down the curtains or blinds and clean them. Vacuum the screens in the windows. Clean the windowsill and wash any knickknacks.

 Clean the entire bowl. Spray with a good disinfectant. How is your bowl brush? Does it need replacing? A sponge brush works better than a bristle brush here.

 Polish all the metal fixtures make them gleam. Get around the bowl and clean spots you have not seen in a while! Open the window while you spray a good mold remover if you need to. Scour sinks and bathtubs, and showers.

 Do you need a new soap dish? A decorative hand soap dispenser?
 Get under the sink. Look at those three bottles of hair spray. Do you need and use all that stuff under there? Consider purchasing some under the cabinet organizers to give you more storage space and allow you to get things easier. Wipe out the bottom of the cabinet.

 Does the shower curtain need replacing? Is it really moldy?

 Wash out the wastebasket and let it sanitize.

 The bathroom scale hasn't been scrubbed in a while. Do it now! Get the baseboards and wipe them down, spray the tile with a good tile cleaner while you are doing the baseboard then wipe the tile down after it had a chance to sit.

 Take note and replace, repair all items that need attention.

Area to Organize – Kids’ Rooms
 Get shelves done first - if appropriate. Use same method: examine, toss/save/ donate, replace onto shelves. Get rid of games with missing pieces or save for while you're in the playroom in case the pieces are there.

 Go through desk drawers: (or have the kids if they're older) and sort out what papers need to be saved or tossed. Get rid of old magazines, McDonald toys, toys in pieces, broken crayons, non-functional pens. Make room for stuff on top of the desk!

 Clothing: check for current sizing. Too small? Donate! Torn? Rags! Box up anything to be saved for a sibling. Label the box and put it away now. Throw out anything you’re unable to repair! Have child try on questionable items.

 Have you thought about taking curtains down, and washing? Throw the bedspread & blanket in the wash too!

 Check under the bed for nasties. Use under-bed storage containers. Don't forget the ceiling fans, ceiling fixtures, windows & blinds. Dust, & polish any wooden furniture.

 If you have boxes stored in bedroom or closets make sure you have a good marker with you to mark the outside of boxes with contents.

 You can use the same methods for playrooms or play areas. Perhaps if you have a hobby room and no children, you can use this for your sewing or craft room. If you have none of the above, then take a relaxing bath. Then go over any areas that still need "doing".

Week 5, The Master Bathroom

2009-09-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Area to Organize – Master Bathroom/Linen Closet

 Go through the medicine chest. Do you really store medicine in here? It is not a good idea to store your medications here as the steam and heat of the showers can affect them. Consider finding a new place. While you rearrange them, throw away the horrible tasting stuff that you do not use and the expired items. Check your first aid supplies. Do you have enough Peroxide, Band-Aids, gauze pads, and antibacterial ointment? Find a printable first-aid checklist here.

 Just look at those towels! Are they torn? In need of replacement? You needed some new rags anyway! Put it on your list to replace. Reorganize the ones you have.

 Clean off handles, knobs, and light switches. Does anything need replacing?

 How about the bathroom mat or carpet? Does it need some spot remover while you go on? Does it need to be replaced?

 Clean from high to low. Take down the curtains or blinds and clean them. Vacuum the screens in the windows. Clean the windowsill and wash any knickknacks.

 Clean the entire bowl. Spray with a good disinfectant. How is your bowl brush? Does it need replacing? A sponge brush works better than a bristle brush here.

 Polish all the metal fixtures make them gleam. Get around the bowl and clean spots you have not seen in a while! Open the window while you spray a good mold remover if you need to. Scour sinks and bathtubs, and showers.

 Do you need a new soap dish? A decorative hand soap dispenser?
 Get under the sink. Look at those three bottles of hair spray. Do you need and use all that stuff under there? Consider purchasing some under the cabinet organizers to give you more storage space and allow you to get things easier. Wipe out the bottom of the cabinet.

 Does the shower curtain need replacing? Is it really moldy?

 Wash out the wastebasket and let it sanitize.

 The bathroom scale hasn't been scrubbed in a while. Do it now! Get the baseboards and wipe them down, spray the tile with a good tile cleaner while you are doing the baseboard then wipe the tile down after it had a chance to sit.

Take note and replace, repair all items that need attention.

Friend to Friend

2009-09-22T08:26:00.000-07:00

Ck out this site, she is a very talented photographer and many other things.
http://crazybunnells.blogspot.com

Week # 4

2009-09-21T14:53:00.001-07:00

Area to Organize – Master Bedroom & Master Bedroom Closets
 All draperies or curtains taken down and washed (or at least vacuumed. While windows are bare, clean blinds and glass.

 Clear off those stacks and piles on and around your dresser/chest of drawers. Now, dump each drawer, one at a time, or all at the same time into a central location. Vacuum the drawers if necessary.

 Go through and sort items. Decide what you want to have in the dresser drawers and put only those items back. Use the 4 box method to sort the remaining items. If you haven't worn an item in a year, ask yourself if you will wear it within the next year. If no then get rid of it! (Garage sale, donate to the needy or someone you know will wear it, or THROW IT OUT!)

 Do similar with items other than clothing that you find along the way. How about those worn undergarments?? Get rid of them and treat yourself to new! You may want to invest in, or make dividers for some of these types of articles.

 Have you checked under the bed yet? You might want to consider getting storage containers for use under there for your off-season clothing.

 Now you're ready for the closet! Use the same technique as for drawers.

 For shoes, try on all pairs if you can't wear them now, chances are you never will. Get rid of them! And if you never really felt comfortable in a certain pair, find a friend who would. Come on now, do you really need to keep the old maternity clothes?? Would anyone else want them? If so, give them away, if not throw them away! Okay now, get ready to fill the closet with things you need and love.

 Have you changed the linens on the bed? Turn the mattress first, so you won't "wear" a valley in it! Throw the pillows into the dryer to fluff, and pull out all the dust they collect also.

 Time to dust and clean off all the furniture with your favorite product.

 Vacuum the floor of the room and the closet!

 List time: do you need new hangers? Have you replaced winter clothes for summer clothes? Have you found that necklace that fell behind the dresser last year? Did you check the ceiling fan, light fixtures & air vents? Do you need a new mattress pad? Mattress cover?

Week # 3

2009-09-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Area to Organize – Entry/Foyer

 Use the basic remove/clean/replace policy for those items which are wall-hung.

 Consider how the area looks when a visitor enters your home. Again if it doesn't belong there, remove it! If you have a chair or rack that welcomes clutter, consider moving it until everyone breaks the habit of just dropping everything off in the foyer.

 The next time you enter the front door after being away a few hours, look around and sniff around just like you were in a strange house. Our homes can develop "houseatosis". There are a great many air freshener products and potpourri assortments on the market today, use one if you need it!!

 Don't forget to clean out the umbrella stand, if you have one. If you don't, do you need one?

 Do you have a rug or maybe carpeting in this area? Do a thorough job of vacuuming it. You’ll be pleased.

 Do you have a window in your front door, or "side lights" which could use bit of glass cleaner? Don't forget to thoroughly dust/wash front door itself, and also the baseboards in the area.

 Plan a place for everything which needs to be kept near the front door… and keep it there! Everything else goes!

 Now, do you need to go back and spend time on last week's project? If not, could you choose another declutter project that would enhance the beauty of your home? Choose something close to the entry or living room to help give that feeling of flow between organized rooms. Like smiles and yawns, organization is contagious!

Week 2

2009-09-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

Area to Organize – Living Room
 Begin by washing the outside of the windows in this room. You will appreciate being able to see outside when you sit down at the end of the week in your beautiful, clean, and organized living room!

 Take everything off walls, dust it, and set it aside. Dust or wash the wall, vacuum or dry-clean draperies and blinds. Get your favorite cobweb killer and sweep down ceilings, corners and tops of doorways.

 Take cushions off furniture. Vacuum thoroughly, replace cushions, spot treat any stains and shampoo if necessary.

 Wooden furniture (and anything with drawers/shelves): Empty, sort and throw away what you really don't need. Put the rest where it belongs. Dust/polish the piece you've finished with and repeat with other pieces. Don't forget the maintenance on piano.

 Baseboards: depending on condition they're in, dust or wash them.

 Clean the TV screen (if you have a set in this room). Don't neglect the stereo items either. Re-organize tapes/records/videos as per your needs.

 Clean/change the silk flower arrangements as per seasonal needs. Wash/trim any live plants in this room.

 Other items needing attention if your room has them:
• Lamps (does the shade need dusting or replacing?)
• Electrical cords (check for frayed wires)
• Mirrors (items framed w/glass) get out the Windex
• Doorknobs/drawer-handles (are they clean?)

 Now is a good time to measure furniture pieces and windows, to enter in your planner or Household Notebook and keep on hand for shopping for necessary items.

 Stacks (of anything!): Take time now to use the sorting method of trash/donate/store elsewhere. Now put these new piles where they belong.

 Vacuum the carpet and clean if necessary.

 Hang the items back on walls, if you haven't already and take a good look around. It should look pretty good by now. Take out camera and take pictures for inventory.

Challenge - You won't be dissapointed

2009-08-31T07:24:00.000-07:00

Area to Organize - Front Porch
 The front porch is an important asset to your home. First impressions are important. If the entrance to your home is a mess, then it doesn't matter how organized the inside is, you're still perceived as a "messy". Assemble your supplies, broom, window cleaner, screwdrivers, paper for lists, trash can.

 Start at the front door. Is there a dead rug for wiping feet? Is it savable? Toss it into the driveway for hosing down, into the trash, or into the laundry basket.

 Remove everything from the porch that you can. Trash bags, recyclables, kids' toys, those boxes that go to Goodwill. Set things in the grass if you have to but get them off the porch.

 Take the screens off the windows. Put them with the rug & cushions for hosing. Using the broom, sweep every windowsill & doorframe. Sweep down the outside walls. Look up high-are there cobwebs in the corners? Sweep 'em down!

 After doing the walls & frames, then you can sweep off the porch itself. Don't forget the steps. Open the front door and sweep off the sill too. Do you need to change the light bulb? Put new bug lights on your list.

 Wash the outside of the windows. While they're drying, get out the hose & spray off the rug, screens & swing cushions. Put the screens back on the windows.

 Now step back and admire what you've done so far. Look at the mess in the yard that came off the porch. Does any of it belong back on there? Do you have to keep the weekly trash there or can you hide it somewhere else? Toys in the back yard? Perhaps a big bucket for front yard toys? Only you know what can stay there.

 Do the hedges in front of the porch need trimming? Either put that on your list for the next nice Saturday or get out your clippers & trim them up now.

 Does the front door need painting? How about its screen? New hardware can make a big difference. What about the mailbox? Does the doorbell work?

 Write down any fixes and set a specific time to do them. And then do them when the time comes! As long as you've done this much, go ahead and look at the sidewalks & driveway. Too much junk? Remove it to the backyard. Sometimes it's easier to hose down the driveway than to sweep it.
 Now go out to the street and really look at what you've accomplished. Aren't you proud to live there now? You should be! Head inside for a well-deserved rest. Don't forget to take that list you made & transfer it to either SHE cards or your planner!

Mirror Mirror on the wall

2009-06-23T12:22:00.000-07:00

You can leave the anserw on comment or mail them to me.. or better yet, bring them the next time you come.

What kind of question would you ask "Mirror, mirror, on the wall?"
If you could change into any creature, what would it be?
How many words can you make from "Wizard Staff and Spells?"

Challenge

2009-06-10T07:13:00.000-07:00

Today I want you to tell me what you did today, what you ate for breakfast, what you did for fun and Did you make your bed?

Now look over what you did, did you make a new friend, did you help someone who might have needed somehelp (mom, dad, brother, stranger-be carefull there)

If you could have anything in the world to eat what would it be?

Looking forward to your comment. love grandma

Challenge

2009-06-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

this one you will need moms permission and maybe a little supervision from mom! GET ON BOARD MOM IT WILL ONLY TAKE A MINUTE.

This is an out door project and remember- You make a mess You clean it up!

What you'll need:
tempera or acrylic paint (darker colors work best)
bubble blowing liquid
a straw
a flat pan large enough to hold your paper size (I use the clear plastic containers that donuts or baked goods come in from the supermarket--you can just throw them away afterward)
paper to print on, white or pastel in color, the thicker the better--half or quarter sheets work the best
newspapers to cover your work surface and to put the finished prints on for drying
How to make it:
Lay out the newspapers to cover your work area.
Pour bubble liquid into the pan to a depth of approximately 1/4" (1 cm).
Stir in thoroughly 1-3 teaspoons (5-15 ml) of paint, depending on the size of your pan.
Insert the end of the straw into the liquid and blow very gently to make bubbles covering the surface of the liquid. Or you can stir the liquid with the straw to make smaller bubbles. It seems to work better to blow fresh bubbles before each print is made.
Holding a piece of paper by the edges, lay it down on the surface of the bubbles, pressing down slightly to pop some of the bubbles. Don't let go of the paper or let it touch the liquid.
Lay the paper face up to dry. If you don't like how it turned out, you can print the paper over again one or more times, or even use a different color of paint.
The paper may curl as it dries, so you might want to flatten it under some heavy books before using it.

Challenge

2009-06-05T12:23:00.000-07:00

Todays challenge is for fun, I dont know why it works but its cool to watch it.

Get a ceral bowl and put some water in it. Now sprinkle some pepper on top. Does it sink or float? Use quit a bit till the surface is pretty well black.

Now with your finger touch the center of the bowl- what happens?
NOW

Put a drop of dishsoap on your finger and NOW touch the center, WOW what happened that was different from the first time you touched it?

Cool huh.

Today is Friday so the real challenge today is to write a story with your family about a MOOSE LOST IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. Remember there are houses and gardens and flower beds adn children and sunshine.

Write me a story and extra for pictures. Have fun this weekend and come to share your story on Sunday at dinner..
love you all and I cant wait to see your comments.

Challenge # 5

2009-06-04T12:10:00.000-07:00

Ok today we are going to do Math!

Ask mom for a measuring stick, ruler or measuring tape. You will need one for you and each of your siblings.

Now get a paper and pencil and draw a column for each one of you.
on the side writed down
Kitchen Table
couch
step highth
car
basket ball hoop
hieght of mail box

Measure each one, add it all up and times it by your age. If you are to young for times tables then add the total twice.

Then take your total and divide it by how many are in your family. MOM you might have to help with this.

Good Luck.
Know that each of you will have a different number.
love grandma

Challenge #4

2009-06-03T06:27:00.000-07:00

Today we are going on a trip. Where you say? You tell me where we are going.
Where would you find the Pyramids? the Hanging Gardens? Zeus Statue? and the International Space station? If you find all 4 you get double points.

Now for you older kids it is your job to help draw a picture of the flag of the USA and help your little brother or sister color it. To help them get double points find a flag from a different country and draw it and help then color it and learn what country it is from.

Good luck, can't wait for your comments.

Challenge 3 Solution

2009-06-02T19:56:00.000-07:00

No takers on this one, the solution is this:When you hold the bottle with your hands, the air inside the bottle heats up. The warm air pushes harder than the cool air that is outside the bottle so it forces the coin up. When the air inside the bottle cools down the coin will stop jumping.

Challenge 3

2009-06-01T19:47:00.000-07:00

Try this as it is written (you may need a little help from your mom)
After the experiment write back and tell me what happened. Let your little sibling help and ask them what they think happened.

Materials you will need:
• Bowl of cold water
• Coin (bigger than the bottle opening)
• Glass Coke Bottle (with a small opening/mouth)
This is magic!
What happens to air’s push when you heat it up?
Air’s pressure or air’s pushing power changes when it is heated.
Steps:
1. Fill a bowl with some cold water.
2. Place the bottle neck and coin in the bowl of water to chill them. This helps to make an airtight seal when you place the coin on the top of the bottle.
3. Place the coin on the top of the bottle.
4. Wrap your hands around the bottle and wait for several seconds.
What happens to the coin?
5. Remove your hands from the bottle and wait.
What happens to the coin now?
Why does the coin jump?

I will post the anserw on Day 4

Challenge 2

2009-06-01T07:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, today we are going to start with words. I want all you older kids, Kayla,Clayson, Michael, Makkena and Jarett. Your job is to find an old tablet and an old magazine and help your little sibling to find 5 words that start with the letter "A". help them cut them out and glue them in the tablet. Then YOU type the words of the picture on the blog with their name.

THEN your challenge is to find 5 words that start with "A" write it down and find the meaning. Use your dictionary and find words that you think I don't know. Send those words to me and I'll see if I can put meaning to them.

Let's get started. I cant wait for your reply.

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ...........................................................

Summer 2009

2009-05-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am going to try and make this a blog for my grandkids. You are welcome to look and participate if you are willing to contribute to the fun of summer.

I want to start by sending a shout out to Clayson, Makkena, Michael, Kayla and Jarett, It is your job to log in each day and share what ever I send you with your little brother or sisters. Then do the challenge and then log back on and tell me what or how the challenge went. Sometimes it will be to try a new food, or look up a new word and the share what you found. Each day through the summer I will send you something so keep logging in and I hope you will take each challenge. At the end of the summer I will total up all the comments and the grandchild who took each challenge and followed through will get a Super Prize from grandma.

So Let's start with Challenge 1.
Tell me what you want to do for the summer, What 1 thing do you hope to do.

Let me know
grandma

Oh, I want to go to the Museum and see The Titanic exhibit.

Birthday for my last grandbaby

2008-08-10T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today was Bridgers b-day. He turned one, and I realized my first grandbabies are 11. I am old, not in age but mind. I just feel like they are growing up and there is nothing as a grandmother I can do to guide and direct them. They are all set in their ways. They have GREAT parents who are doing great jobs. I only hope that when the day comes that I am gone that all my grandkids know I loved them and that going to Heaven is a GOOD thing.

Let's think Christmas

2008-07-22T13:42:00.000-07:00

I would love any and some good ideas of what you'd like to do for Christmas. Did you like the 12 Days last year?

Do you remember what we did for Christmas? Do we want to forget about it and pretend it doesnt happen or would you like to make homemade items, cookies, pictures, quilts? Let's discuss it.

Whats happening?

2008-07-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, Casie has bugged me till I finally got with it. We talk many time a day but now she wants me to tell the world what I'm doing. I really have nothing to tell but I'll try and give something you may want.

Lets start with "Whats for dinner?

We are going to the Pioneer dinner at the church. Dell has to pick up 700 Fat boy ice creams. I have been asked to help show how to make candles. I'll post pictures later.

Picture Tag!!

2008-07-22T10:24:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Casie, so here goes.

1. Vacation, anywhere there is not loud trucks and greasy men.

2. Self portrait, ok, look at that hugh neck

3. Closet, If you can find anything in there that would fit, it's yours

4. My Favorite room is my new painted bathroom. I kept getting mad at my grandkids for using the pretty towels, to my surprise it was my cat playing in them because they almost hang to the floor.

5. Shoes, anything Casie will buy and wear for a week to break them in for me. Except the black leather boots were a gift from my husband. No he didnt include a whip.

6. Laundry room, there is a batch in the washer and nothing in the dryer. I love the fact that they are big, but I have to iron more.

7. My favorite room right now is my new painted bathroom. I love the red.

8. Kitchen sink, rats I forgot to turn on the dishwasher so the sink is full.

9. The fridge, today it is not so full, I havent had any pictures from grandkids for a while.

10. I have no kids, I tried to find the cat but I had just yelled at him for messing up the towels.

Kayla was crowned our youngest YAYA..I knew she was a princess.

2008-05-15T18:17:00.000-07:00

I aint scared..

2008-05-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

2008-05-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

Still Learning

2008-05-13T13:54:00.002-07:00

We played around with a website called picknic.com. It was fun and gave you alot of cool things to work with.

2008-05-13T13:52:00.001-07:00

This is a test.

2008-05-13T07:10:00.001-07:00

We were getting ready for the 4th of July parade and Kinie started playing around. Who said she was'nt a player.

Rain rain and more rain.

2008-05-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

Today is the 12th of May and they are giving us a Freeze warning. What is going on?
I have gotten my pumpkins in cups but that is all I have planted. I hope to get some squash and Sunflowers planted this week. I am not a farmer but hope to try. Look for pics of pumpkins in the fall.

Day 1

2008-05-11T21:28:00.000-07:00

Today is Mother's Day. It blew and rained most of the day. My beautiful daughters and familys came to have dinner. Each son-in-law helped with dinner and all enjoyed the day together. We need a bigger table and more chairs. I wish we could all sit down together to eat.

I have beautiful daughters who have grown into the most amazing mothers. They are all a bit different in the way they raise their children but are amazing to watch.

This week we are going to help Kinie learn to make bread. Casie has become an expert. Her rolls today would put Geraldines to shame.