The Moran Family Blog

My Nephew Ryder . . .

2012-01-29T10:54:00.000-08:00

I was blessed yesterday because I was able to spend the whole day with my 14 year old nephew, Ryder. Every year, I take him and his two siblings out for the day to do a little birthday shopping and whatever else we might want to do, or are able to fit into our "day out" time frame. I look forward to it so much because we get one-on-one time, which is a precious and rare commodity. I know because I have the same challenges with my own three kids. The bad part about yesterday is that his birthday was in August so quite a lot of time had elapsed. Fortunately, kids are forgiving in that regard.

This blond haired cutie just brings so much joy to my heart. Not only is he blond and handsome, but he has a heart that is golden. It is tender, sweet, and kind. He loves God and loves little children. In fact, he plans on having quite a few when he is an adult - some adopted. The highlight of yesteday was when I asked him what kind of music he likes and he said he liked oldies music. I asked, "like in the 80's?" He said, "yes". Lol. He did add that I am NOT old, but he just wasn't born in the 80's, so it was old to him. Gotta love him, I sure do!

Great New Paleo Recipe - Smoked Paprika Chicken Thighs

2012-01-26T20:24:00.000-08:00

I find myself looking for new recipes since going Paleo. I still have my favorites, but I needed something new, easy and different. I fell in love with the Smoked Paprika Chicken Thighs. Make sure you use the smoked paprika, and not the regular paprika because that smoky flavor just can't be beat! The recipe calls for chicken thighs with the skin-on, but I had already purchased skinless organic chicken thighs at Costco so I used those instead, and they were still delicious. I also used grapeseed oil in this recipe and drizzled the thighs with a grapeseed oil before cooking since these were skinless. I served this dish with a side of steamed veggies and had a very filling and satisfying dinner.

Did you know spices are good for you? They were used for medicinal purposes. So stock your pantry with some new ones and give them a try. Not only are they healthy, but they add so much flavor to even the simplest of meals. I actually enjoy searching through the spices at Homegoods and Marshalls. You would be surprised at what you can find for half the price!

My Jewelry . . . on Etsy . . . all of it!

2012-01-21T21:46:00.000-08:00

Yep, it's all on Etsy . . . all 201 pieces of jewelry left over from my Emmie-Lou Designs website. (And did I mention that most everything is 50% off?) I am clearing out my older inventory, making room for the new stuff. I took a hiatus as I was dealing with some "stuff" in my life, but now I am ready to get back to it in a small and different way.

I still have my website up, because my main email address goes through my web-hosting and is connected to my website. I need to remedy that but changing emails can be such a pain and I am not quite ready to make all of the change-overs just yet.

Below are a few of the goodies I have on Etsy - go take a peek! It's all there, in my ETSY shop!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Nobody said it was easy . . .

2012-01-18T10:17:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know, Landon has been gluten-free for a little over a year and a half. To make a long story short, we found out that he had many allergies; gluten and dairy being two of them. Since taking the gluten and dairy out of his diet, things have been much improved for him. However, living this way as a little boy is not always easy. I can understand.

About a week ago, I found a folded up flour tortilla in his room, on the floor. I thought it odd, but just picked it up and threw it in the trash. A few days ago, his sister came to me with 2 folded up tortillas that she had found under his bed. I asked him about it and all he could say was, "it's hard!" And you know what, it is! Making important life changes to ones diet is not easy. For him, it is gluten, and dairy. For me, it is going full-tilt Paleo . . . most of the time. I can't say that I will NEVER eat mexican food again, or tart frozen yogurt with fruit on top, or pizza . . . because I can't imagine it. But I know it will be the exception and not the rule.

Kevin and I get up at 4:30 three times a week to go to boot camp at 5:00 in the morning. I am not a morning person, and it is hard. In fact, we have a new trainer now, and the routine is different. I find myself struggling through it, and not liking it much of the time. I get frustrated thinking that I should be a lot further along, but I then have to remind myself that most of the population wouldn't even be able to do what I have been doing . . . and a year ago, I wouldn't have been able to do it either. I remind myself to have perspective.

For me it is about the quest for optimum health throughout the rest of my life. I want my family to be healthy too. Kevin has a lot of health issues on his side of the family. He lost both of his parents so I know he can't take his health lightly.

I urge you to begin somewhere - anywhere. Just get started. One step at a time, one day at a time. Don't expect perfection, but just do something. You can do it - just like we're doing it.

I am going to help my son by no longer buying flour tortillas for his sisters. We have brown rice tortillas, and corn tortillas and everyone can eat those. My hope is that the kids will one day be more Paleo too, but just because I dove in, I need to give them grace on their journey. And yes I am the parent, but still . . . it is their journey and they have to want to do it. Small steps equal great big steps in the long run, so take those small steps, won't you?

Happy Wednesday!

Monday . . .

2012-01-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

It's Monday . . . Happy Martin Luther King Day! For most of us, that means the banks are closed, the post office is closed, and our kids are home from school today.

I also decided to NOT go to the gym bright and early this morning. I have no guilt and am glad I made that decision. Sleeping in has become a luxury for me and sometimes we need to allow ourselves those little luxuries. I did get a facial this morning and it was so yummy! I highly recommend them once in awhile.

I am in my third week of Paleo and feeling good. I have learned that if I don't prepare, I will possibly run into trouble. Saturday night I went to see a movie with Kevin. The problem is that I was hungry because we didn't have time to eat beforehand and the popcorn smell was definitely calling my name. I didn't answer the call, but I was feeling kinda grumpy. It is a good idea to have some trail mix, plain nuts or jerky in the car . . . for those "just in case" moments that will inevitably pop up.

I am not yet down on my weight, but I feel lighter. Body composition is supposed to be one of those things that changes pretty quickly. Mainly I keep thinking about the health benefits. As a society, something has "got to give". Right now it is our health - but more on that later.

I am off to have a little fun with the kids. I hope you are doing the same. Back to the grind tomorrow. Enjoy the day!

Happy Birthday Ladybug!

2012-01-15T18:41:00.000-08:00

It's that time again . . . Ladybug is 5 years old today! Yes, she is our very loved (albeit a pain in the backside) Greyhound/Whippet/Saluki dog. Happy Birthday Ladybug!

We didn't quite make it out to Petsmart today (shame on us!) We will have to get over there tomorrow instead. (Fortunately she is a dog so she doesn't know the difference!)

Have a great night - and a great day for those of you who have Monday off. I am debating whether I am going to go to bootcamp at 5:00 a.m. tomorrow, or sleep in. It's not often that luxury happens!

More Jewelry Goodies Listed in My Etsy Store - 50% Off!

2012-01-09T20:44:00.000-08:00

I just finished listing more of my older inventory in my Etsy store. Take a look if you want some great deals. I have never had a sale where I offered a discount of 50% off. Please know that I use the best beading supplies available, including lots of sterling silver (which is quite costly these days!) Below are a few photo's of some of my favorite pieces just listed. Enjoy!

Blue Bird on Nest Bracelet

Greyhound Bracelet

Chunky Rustic Pearls Bracelet

Have a wonderful evening and Happy Monday! Make this week a good one!

Why I Chose Paleo . . .

2012-01-07T21:12:00.000-08:00

I hope my Paleo journey will inspire those of you who need it. We all need a little inspiration now and again, don't we? Part of the reason I will be blogging about my Paleo journey is for myself. It gives me focus, and something to look back on as I progress. It also keeps me accountable. I need that accountability in my life. So here goes . . .

About a year and a half ago, I was at my highest weight, I felt gassy, I was bloated, my cholesterol was slightly elevated, and I just didn't feel like myself mentally. I soon found out that my son Landon (who has many allergies to certain nuts, salmon, dogs, cats, dander, grass, feathers, etcetera) had a dairy and gluten allergy - and since it is hereditary, this meant that I most likely did too. (Ahhh, that would explain the stomach issues!) Well, for the most part, I dropped the dairy and all wheat products and just ate corn, rice and potatoes along with a mostly healthy diet. I also began working out on January 3, 2011. I got to the point during this past summer where I was attending boot camp, taking spin classes, and doing kickboxing classes 5 to 6 days a week and sometimes 2x per day. I shed just a small amount of weight but I did lose 8-10 percent body fat. This is all great, and I feel much, much better but I still could not shed those extra pounds that I know I needed to lose. It was frustrating and I am still not comfortable in my own skin.

I heard about the Paleo diet several months ago. My friend talked about it and I read briefly about it. I knew I wanted to try it. This past December the holidays set in and I ate things I shouldn't have, which of course made me feel bloated and fat. This prompted me to start reading about the Paleo way of life. I started with "The Paleo Solution" by Robb Wolff. I then bought and read "Everyday Paleo" by Sarah Fragoso. (This is where I am getting a lot of my great recipes!) Currently I am reading, "The Primal Blueprint" by Mark Sisson. All are great books and it just makes sense! Basically you eat just like your ancestors ate, which would include mostly lean protein, fresh fruits and vegetables including yams and sweet potatoes, nuts, seeds, and a little dark chocolate. In my case, I don't necessarily believe that we have been on this planet for millions of years, but I can go as far back as Adam and Eve, and base my diet on what they ate. It makes a lot of sense, and if you decide to read about Paleo, you will see why. It explained a lot as to why I am not losing weight.

So, today has been my 7th "official" day doing Paleo. I feel good and I have lost several pounds, which is a huge deal for me. I even decided to take Mark Sisson's 6 month challenge, which meant that I had to actually take and send him pictures today. I gotta say, I have come a long way, but that was still hard to do. (I am not quite brave enough to post them here right now.)

So that is the kind-of short version about why I decided to go Paleo. A year ago, I set a goal of 2 years to get myself in the kind of shape that I wanted to be in. I now have a year left, and I feel completely good about the workout part of my plan. I know I am getting stronger, and building muscle - I can see it, but now it is time to do the rest of it, so that is what I plan on doing. Feel free to join me, and let me know how you are doing. I would love to hear about it!

Take care,

Emmie-Lou Designs 50% Off Sale on Etsy!

2012-01-06T22:19:00.000-08:00

For those of you who know I design jewelry (and even if you don't), I am in the process of closing my Emmie-Lou Designs website. I have moved most of my inventory over to my Etsy store. At the same time, I have decided to have a 50% off sale on most everything in my inventory. I have never had a sale like this before, so please take a look if you are interested in some handcrafted jewelry for a steal.

I plan on moving in a different direction this year. I will be headed towards working on more stamped sterling pieces . . . as time allows. Due to "life" circumstances; this past year and a half or so has left me with little time to indulge in my creative side and I really miss it!

Also, some of my sister's amazing handmade greeting cards are also in my store. Yes I know, Robin is my sister - which automatically makes me biased, but truly, these cards are gorgeous, with amazing attention to detail. My sis is one talented gal.

Well it is getting late on a Friday night. Let the weekend begin!

Reconstructing . . .

2012-01-05T21:14:00.000-08:00

Don't mind the mess right now. I am trying to update pictures and change some things around. It has been awhile and I am having a difficult time so bare with me as I try to make these changes!

Paleo - What I had for dinner . . .

2012-01-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

Butter Chicken for Dinner - Yum!

Day two of Paleo and things are going well. I have not been overly hungry at all. Tonight for dinner we had Butter Chicken served over red chard. Red chard was a new one for our family. Steamed, I thought it tasted a lot like spinach. I would eat it again. The kids however, would prefer not to!

Here is the recipe in case you would like to try it: http://everydaypaleo.com/2010/08/11/better-butter-chicken/

Have a great night. I will be writing my "why" later. Too tired to do it tonight.

Happy New Year 2012 and a Paleo Beginning!

2012-01-01T23:07:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! I still cannot believe that we are all the way through 2011. I guess the older you get, the quicker times flies. However, my teenage daughter has even been talking about how fast this past year went.

Our family already eats mostly gluten and dairy free and I would say that our diet is much better than the average diet of an American family but still, I know that there is more I need to do so I started really looking into the Paelo Diet - not as a "diet" per se, but as a lifestyle, which is how it is meant to be. I am one of those people who has been trying for the past year to lose weight through an improved diet and lots of exercise. The more I have been reading, the more I KNOW that embracing the Paleo lifestyle is what I need to do. So today is my "official" day 1 of eating Paleo. I will talk more about my "why" this week. Feel free to follow my journey because I look forward to seeing major results. Blogging about this is as much for me as it is for anybody who needs/wants to make some dietary changes. I am looking forward to the ride - feel free to join me!

Sincerely,

Happy New Year . . . a little late!

2011-01-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

Happy (late) New Year from the Moran Family

I am behind on everything right now. Life got a hold of me at the latter half of last year and I just didn't keep up. So I am late. I am still planning on sending New Years cards (since I didn't get Christmas cards out.) I better hurry on those too, hadn't I?

I have decided to de-clutter my life this year, as much as possible. I am closing my Emmie-Lou Designs website after a lot of thought. I just need to get a new email address first because my current email address is tied to my website. (That is on my list of "things to do".) As I sit here, I am looking at Christmas presents that I have had wrapped and ready to mail since before Christmas but my boxes were thrown out and so I need to find new ones. Another thing on my "to do" list. Have you ever noticed that sometimes when you de-clutter, you make more clutter first? I need to take a week and go through my whole house, cleaning and organizing as I go. Maybe next week?

I have some great plans for 2011 but I was careful to not make any promises to myself that I can't keep. Big changes are coming . . . I just have to be consistent.

I hope this is the year where you can make some important changes too . . . one day, and one step at a time!

Happy Tuesday - have a fabulous week!

Love,

Kitty needs a good home . . . anyone?

2010-10-28T11:53:00.001-07:00

A few days ago Savannah found a sweet little kitten, by looking at her, and knowing where she was found, I would say she was abandoned. She was quite hungry, and a little thin. We can't have cats for several reasons, one being that Landon (and Savannah too we found out) are highly allergic. I have been calling no-kill shelters but they are busting at the seams. People are leaving their animals tied up outside, abandoning their own pets at these shelters.

It makes my heart so sad. These are God's creatures and they need to be cared for too. Today I am taking fliers and putting them out in the hopes that someone will want to give her a loving home. The next option is the kill-shelters, of which I can barely stand to think about.

This kitty is the mildest-mannered, most gentle kitty around. If you are looking for a kitten, please leave me a comment with your email and I will get back to you. (You will have to live close by Palm Springs, California though.) She would make a very amazing and wonderful pet for someone. All she desires to do is to sit in someones lap and purr. Currently she is outside, which is not a very safe place for her where we live.

Day at the Pumpkin Patch!

2010-10-18T10:27:00.001-07:00

Kids at the Pumpkin Patch

Landon found a pumpkin!

Emma found one too!

The bees were everywhere! (We didn't like that part!)

We went to the Pumpkin Patch this past weekend. It has been so hot that I wasn't sure it was going to be cool enough to go, but the weather ended up being perfect. We shopped for little pumpkins, I took many photo's (much to the kids dismay), and I shopped in the gift shop (which was awesome!) I bought some cute Fall decorations. Our friends (Linda and the kids) met us there. It was a very lovely day!

I have lots more pictures I wanted to add but I can't seem to get them to load today for some reason. Weird. Anyway, I added a few. I think Fall pictures at "the Patch" are some of my favorite to take during the year.

How is your Fall going? It is my very favorite time of year!

Have a fabulous week!

Eating Gluten-Free

2010-10-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Tonight Landon said that eating gluten-free is kinda hard, but kind of easy too. Sometimes it is challenging for me not to feel bad for my little boy. At times there are foods such as pizza or cupcakes that are brought into school and he has to turn them down. The teacher has special gluten-free treats in her desk that he can have during those times, but my mommy heart just wants to cry for him sometimes.

Tonight we had homemade tostadas (fried in expeller-pressed canola oil), smashed pinto beans, organic ground beef, shredded romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado (for me), sliced black olives, and yummy chipotle salsa from Fresh & Easy. I thoroughly enjoyed watching my family eat those tostadas in record time - especially Landon, because he enjoyed them SO much, and that is such an important thing.

Tonight before bed, Landon whispered his request for tomorrow night, "Mommy, can we have chili with cornbread?" (I noticed that he didn't ask for the salad that I make him eat along with said meal. :) I am glad he is finding things that he likes. It warms my heart and makes my efforts all worthwhile.

Happy Friday - I am so glad it is here!

My Boy . . .

2010-10-05T10:11:00.000-07:00

My boy . . . isn't he cute?

He is as sweet as he is adorable. He is a bright light when life sometimes feels as if it is closing in. He is a love. He feels for others and wants to make them happy. He is a gift that I am so glad God saw fit to give me.

Isn't he great? I think so!

xo,

Monday . . . a new week

2010-10-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

Playing on the King's Schools Volleyball Team

King's "Lady Knights"

Savannah pretended she didn't know I was there :)

I was sad to see Monday come this morning. I slept in way too late both days this past weekend but the weekdays kick my rear! We are up early for school and have to be out of the house by 7:10 - no later than 7:15 a.m. Last year Emma and Landon didn't even have to get out of bed until that time.

It rained a little bit this past weekend and I loved it. Not too much rain but enough to feel a little "cozy". I didn't do a whole lot but I did get some things posted on Ebay. We are already starting to save for Savannah's 10 day 8th grade trip to the East Coast. The trip is expensive, although not really for all that is included. I am hoping to go with her, so that means a lot of saving and bringing some extra money in. It will be a trip that will be remembered for a lifetime. Check out my website: http://www.emmieloudesigns.net/ because I have some jewelry on sale and that money goes for the trip too!

Landon had his appointment with Dr. Ortiz this past Friday. His ears are clear and his tonsils are a lot smaller. We are staying on the gluten/dairy/egg-free track. He does well with it most days but there are moments when he gets a little sad and has a hard time. Poor baby. I feel bad for him. It is difficult when children have to make these kinds of changes. Sometimes my heart aches for him.

This year, and after 10 years, Savannah has traded her ballet shoes for some volleyball shoes. She is enjoying it so far and her team is very supportive. She has a game at school this afternoon. Of course I will be there with my camera.

I hope you all have a great week. I just came from the gym so I need to go get myself together. Things to do . . . errands to run, and I could really use a green iced tea from Starbucks - shaken and unsweetened of course!

XO,

Landon for President

2010-09-28T19:52:00.000-07:00

What more can I say?

Happy middle of the week,

Emmie-Lou Designs 25% Off Sale!

2010-09-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

I have neglected my Emmie-Lou Designs website very badly I'm afraid! I really do need to "get back to it!" I have decided to have a 25% off sale on all of my Halloween and Autumn jewelry.

Savannah is in 8th grade this year and we are earning money for her 8th grade trip to the East Coast. All of the money earned will go towards this trip!

You can shop here: http://www.emmieloudesigns.net/.

If you have any questions, let me know: michelle@emmieloudesigns.net.

Have a great Sunday!

Easy Fashion

2010-09-24T17:56:00.001-07:00

I had lunch with my girlfriends yesterday. (One of my FAVORITE things to do!) There seemed to be nothing in my closet . . . again. So, I went to Marshall's and found this cute (and inexpensive) denim dress. I can do so many cute things with this dress. I added a thick black belt and a fuchsia rose at the neckline for a pop of color. Easy, simple, (and cheap) fashion. Plus, I received several nice compliments from people I didn't know. It made me smile for the rest of the day.

I am smiling today too, because it is Friday and I am soooooo ready for the weekend. Are you?

Hugs,

Living Gluten-Free

2010-09-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

We are on our 4th week of living gluten-free. Landon is actually gluten, dairy and egg free, and I am gluten and dairy free. I feel much better - my stomach is thanking me! Landon can eat now without coughing and choking. He also no longer snores at night and he says he runs faster! :) I have noticed that his tonsils are a lot smaller, which is fabulous, especially since the doctors were talking about taking them out.

I owe a lot of our new found good health to Dr. Ortiz at the Live Well Clinic. She has been amazing at getting down to the root of our problems. I have come to realize that for our family at least, a more natural approach is best. I do think that "regular" doctors are also needed at certain times; just not for everything. I can't begin to tell you how happy I am because of the difference she has made in Landon's little life. I know there would for certain be a tonsillectomy in his future otherwise.

I am learning a lot about "what not to eat", and every day gets a little easier "living without". I have also found that there are many gluten-free offerings even in restaurants, grocery stores, etcetera, and that is a really good thing!

If any of you have any gluten-free questions, please ask. I would love to be helpful if I can. I have had several friends come along side me and show me the ropes. It is a good thing!

Have a great week,

My Vice . . .

2010-09-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

Unsweetened iced green tea . . . it is definitely a vice of mine. I love it. I used to be a black tea drinker but knowing that green tea is better, I decided to make the change awhile ago. I had to get used to it at first but now I prefer it. I love buying my green iced tea from coffee shops, but I must say that Starbucks truly is my favorite. Their iced tea is supposed to be shaken, which is how I like it best, but sometimes it isn't and I swear I can "taste" the difference. So I guess as vices go, it could be worse, right? What is your vice?

Have a great end-of-the-week,

Be still my heart . . . Anthropologie, my new love . . .

2010-09-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was on El Paseo (the posh part of town.) A new store opened up that I had never been in. I didn't go inside but I definitely drooled on the window as I was looking in, before heading off to my destination. Finally . . . a store with all of the styles that I love. Old-fashioned but in a modern and hip way. I have heard of Anthropologie but I have never been in one, nor have I browsed their website to see all of their cool things. I am definitely in love with their style. If I could have it my way, I would gladly discard my whole wardrobe and fill my closet with their gorgeous clothes. I love the unique styling, colors, patterns, and special touches.

Unfortunately it left me sighing after I visited the website. With three kids, private school and everything else it takes to run a family, there is certainly no room for such extravagances - not many of them anyway. But maybe I can buy a few pieces here and there, and I can certainly dream, can't I?

What do you dream of?

School . . .

2010-09-13T10:12:00.000-07:00

Moran kids on the first day of school

The kids started a new school several weeks ago. They love it because they get to go to school with their much-treasured cousins. It doesn't get much better than that for them. There have been a few adjustments, including some dietary changes for Landon. We are trying to figure out if he has a gluten, dairy, or egg allergy. (Maybe even all three), but I hope not.

Savannah is in 8th grade this year and is trying her hand at volleyball. This will be her first year in 10 years that she is not in ballet. I don't know if she will decide that she misses it or not. It gave her so much grace; and through the years, many people have asked if she dances ballet just because of the way that she carries herself.

Emma is in 5th grade and Landon is in 3rd grade. They both love school but are adjusting to some of the differences . However, they have not had much complaint. Emma had a small "cell" project to do over the weekend. She had to re-create the inside of a vegetable cell in whatever way she wanted. She took some gelatin and filled it with food items that looked like all of the components that are inside the cell. It was very cool and looked very much like the inside of a plant cell. However, since she did it yesterday, it didn't look quite as nice this morning when she pulled it out of the fridge. I told her that the teacher would surely be able to see what "was" and not what now "is".

I am missing the kids quite a lot some days. It is so quiet here. What do you miss during the day when your kids are at school? Or better yet - if you home school, what do you enjoy about having your kids at home?

Have a fabulous week,

Remembering 9/11 . . .

2010-09-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

I still remember 9/11 - where I was, what I was doing. It was unbelievable sitting by the television almost all day, watching the horrors unfold . . . over, and over, and over again. I remember that I was about 3 month pregnant with Landon. Savannah was four years old and Emma was still a baby. I remember asking myself what I was doing bringing children into this horrible world. I remember watching a woman in a bright colored dress, holding hands with a man as they jumped to their death. I wondered if they knew each other before they decided to die together. What were their choices? Die by jumping to their death or die by fire? What would I have done? I shudder to think.

I remember the aftermath . . . sadness, camaraderie, patriotism. We all had flags on our cars, and outside our homes. In fact, it was difficult to find a flag during those times. I remember how much we seemed to all love America. I remember when we went to war and in my naivety, never realizing it would last so long . . . necessary but so very long.

As I look back, I wonder what has happened to us as a country. Where is our patriotism? Where is our love? It seems we have forgotten all that we saw, all that we experienced, all that we learned. I am thankful for the heroes that still remain. I think about all of them when I begin to worry that our great country can't get any lower. I hope you take the time to remember. It is something we should never forget.

Friday . . .

2010-07-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

A day at the beach . . . part of our summer fun!

It is Friday . . . again. Savannah is still in Pennsylvania, Emma is at her friend's house just down the street, and Landon is upstairs watching a little television. The house is peaceful except for the quiet sounds of the washer and dryer behind closed doors. Life is good.

The summer is flying by. Only 6-7 weeks and the kids will be back in school. It is hard to believe. I don't think any of us are going to be ready for school to begin again. I like the lazy, do-what-we-want days of summer. I love getting up in the morning and all of the kids are still sleeping peacefully. I enjoy spending summer days with friends. I don't enjoy the heat but it is a small trade-off for everything else.

Summer is fun! Don't you agree?

Love,

Summer Begins?

2010-06-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

Landon's Fruit of the Spirit Award (shortly before school was out.)

Our family started summer with a few dings and bangs along the way. School was out on a Friday and by Monday, three out of five of us were sick. I am still battling the bug, allergies, or whatever is hanging on. This past week it was my eye. As soon as I started feeling better, I thought I was getting pink eye. Last Wednesday I went to the doctor for some eye medication but by Friday my eye was not better, but in fact was worse - red, burning, blurry vision, red and swollen eyelids. I went back to the doctor (or Urgent Care rather. I don't get sick so have not gotten around to establishing myself with a General Practitioner.) I could tell that the Physician's Assistant was pretty nervous about my eye. She mentioned Shingles. That was scary. Finally since it was 4:00 in the afternoon, she sent me to the Emergency room. As it just so happened, my friend had given me a card for her Ophthalmologist and I asked the PA to call her. Of course the office was closed because it was Friday afternoon after all. However, in the meantime, while I was waiting in the ER to see the Physician for the second time because he didn't know what was wrong either, the Ophthalmologist called the PA back at Urgent Care and they called me and told me to get back there! So I did. To make an even longer story short, the Ophthalmologist was pretty sure I was allergic to the prescribed drops I had been taking. She was out of town but told me to stop the drop and gave me a new protocol until Monday. It was a very long weekend but I was able to get in to see the Ophthalmologist Monday and sure enough, I was indeed having a major allergic reaction (in both eyes now) but my eyes were still healthy (I was worried since my vision had become blurred), and it would be 7 days for my eyes to heal. Already my eyes are so much improved and I feel much better.

I have decided to find a General Practitioner right away so I will always have a place to "go" if and when I get sick again. There is nothing worse than being bounced around from doctor to doctor without feeling as if anyone truly cares. Scary! So hopefully I am well on my way to feeling back to normal. I can see that summer is going to fly this year because it feels that summer is just beginning for our family. We actually have a beach trip planned for tomorrow. I plan on sitting under a beach umbrella, reading a book, enjoying my family and friends, and enjoying the sun.

What are your plans this summer? Whatever your plans are, have fun and enjoy yourself (in good health of course!)

Love,

My Sweet Nephew Mattison

2010-05-23T23:13:00.000-07:00

I had the great pleasure of taking my favorite 14 year old nephew, Mattison out for our annual "belated" birthday outing. We went shopping, saw the movie Iron Man, and ate at El Pollo Loco (his request). I really look forward to taking my nephews and niece out every year. I enjoyed every minute with Mattison because next year he will be 15 and maybe "Aunt Chelle" won't be so fun to hang out with anymore. I sure love this boy, who is fast becoming a man.

Have a great week and hug the special little boys in your life!

Love,

2010-03-30T21:41:00.000-07:00

Spirit Day

Crazy Clothes Day

Crazy Hair Day

50's Day

The kids school had "Spirit Week" just two weeks ago. Every single day is a different theme. It is a lot of cRaZy fun for them. When Spirit Week comes around it reminds me that before we know it, they will be out of school for the summer. This year has gone by so fast. Next year I will have an 8th grader - just one final year until High School begins. What happened to the time. I remember having them all at home and now those days are long past. It makes me just a little sad.

xox,

A long time . . .

2010-03-27T22:37:00.000-07:00

Has it really been over a month since I have posted? That was not my intention at the beginning of the year. 2010 seems like it is going to be one of those busy years. Actually, it seems as the kids get bigger, life just gets busier. Between, soccer, ballet, sewing, baseball and everything in between, I have barely come up for a breath of air! I know of course that I am far from being the only one.

SendOutCards is keeping me hopping, and I love it. It is new and a lot of fun. Besides, I am building residual income which is so important in today's economy. I still have my jewelry business but am in the process of re-accessing things because of time restraints.

I hope you are all doing wonderful in 2010. You do realize that we are 1/4 of the way into the year don't you?

Have a wonderful Sunday! I will write more later - maybe even next week!

The Things Kids Say

2010-02-13T08:58:00.000-08:00

Last week Landon said, "What was it like the first time Daddy kissed you?" I told him where we were and that I was probably happy. To this he said, "Did he take you to a 5-star restaurant afterwards?"

I swear, that kid says the absolute funniest things! He will be just 8 years old next month but sometimes he seems so much older than he is, and his drawings always amaze me too because he is so detail oriented. I told him yesterday that if God had let me pick any little boy, there is no way I could have ever come close to what God had given me in him. Truly, I am blessed.

I'm Glad There are Rainbows . . .

2010-02-06T22:03:00.000-08:00

Each day I say that I am going to blog, and then I get busy. But more then that, sometimes the things I do in my life just seem so utterly insignificant when I look around me. I don't mind insignificant though; at least not in light of the lives and moments that I am deeply touched by.

I am on a journey with loved ones who are battling cancer, and bravely fighting for their lives. I see how bold they have become, and how tender, and caring. Cancer it seems is almost secondary to them, in light of the needs of others that they care about. Sometimes their journey brings me to tears. I pray that they win their fight.

And then there is Haiti, and as I sit in my warm house, with my belly full of food, I cannot help but think about the people over there . . . especially the little children. We have friends from Haiti, and the husband has been there to help, and he tells me about how it is, and about the children, and how he could not stop crying. It made me cry too.

And then there is the woman who was in a plane crash and nearly lost her life. Most of her body is burned. She is a wife, and a mother. She fights the good fight and counts her blessing. I read her blog daily and have great admiration for this woman.

These are only a few stories in a sea of many.

So who am I, and what do I have to say? These people whom I so admire, convict me and remind me to be thankful for the smallest of things . . . and I am. So it rains, and pours, and sometimes there is thunder and lightning, and worse. But eventually the sun comes out again, and we see a rainbow that reminds us of the things we need to be reminded about. And I am utterly grateful. I hope you are too.

New Year . . . New Priorities.

2010-01-08T20:09:00.001-08:00

I can hardly believe I am here, in 2010 that is. Almost a decade ago my Emma was born. A decade ago, I was still fairly newly married (and barely into my 30's!) So much has changed within this decade and here we are, entering the last year of it. I wonder what changes will come this year?

I didn't make any New Years Resolutions per Se, but I decided on a few things, like the fact that I am going to read a lot more books on health and I am going to take a more Holistic and organic approach to the care of myself and my family. Not that we are the worst eaters and not that I am not caring for my family well; but I can do better and I should. After all, we are born with one body and one life . . . well, one earthly life anyway. I want to do the best that I can for us. I am the mom, it is what I need to do. It is my responsibility. We recently watched Food, Inc. I highly recommend it. It will make you think just a little bit more about your food. I am also reading the book Knockout, by Suzanne Somers. I am barely a quarter of the way through the book and I am amazed. I knew a lot of the stuff already but again, it makes one think. And we should. Who better than to be advocates of our own bodies than us? I mean truly, we are responsible for us, aren't we? I am not saying to go off the deep end, but just be informed, that's all. Sometimes I feel as if we as as a whole have become like a herd of sheep heading for slaughter.

We want to be debt free, in a big way. Kevin and I are working on that one. How can we help others as much as we would like when we have bills that we don't need? We realize that residual income is the way to go. I am working on that too. I plan on putting my time and efforts into SendOutCards this year. I see tremendous potential, and it's fun. I love to send cards so it's a no-brainer. Check it out - maybe it will be for you too. We all need more income don't we? If this isn't for you, find something that is.

Mainly, I see my kids growing so fast. I will officially have a teenager this year. Savannah and I are almost eyeball-to-eyeball. What happened to the little girl of a decade ago? I want to savor every moment with the ones I love, and make sure I take the time to enjoy my kids, my husband, my family and my friends. After all, that is what life truly is about, is it not?

What are your goals? I would really love to know. No pressure, but we can do a little bit every day and before we know it, we have accomplished quite a lot.

I hope your dreams become realities this year. I hope that 2010 will be your best year ever!

Much love,

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010!

2009-12-31T17:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Family and Friends,

I want to wish you all a very blessed and prosperous New Year! My prayer is that 2010 will be an amazing year for all of us. Please enjoy your weekend and don't drink and drive . . . be safe out there!

Kisses and Hugs,

Coming up for air . . .

2009-12-16T10:10:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

So much to do, and so little time to do it seems to be my theme right now. I have not felt this harried in a very long time. I will be back again once I can come up for air. For now, I am still swimming upward, or trying.

I hope you are enjoying this Christmas season and remembering that it is the birth of Jesus Christ that we are remembering and being ever-so-thankful for.

Have a blessed week!

Love,

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T19:27:00.000-08:00

You Burnt the Bird? A Dozen Reasons to Be Thankful!

1. Salmonella won't be a concern.

2. No one will overeat.

3. Everyone will think it's Cajun Blackened.

4. Uninvited guests will think twice next year.

5. Your cheese broccoli lima bean casserole will gain newly found appreciation.

6. Pets won't pester you for scraps.

7. The smoke alarm was due for a test.

8. Carving the bird will provide a good cardiovascular workout.

9. After dinner, the guys can take the bird to the yard and play football.

10. The less turkey Uncle George eats, the less likely he will be to walk around with his pants unbuttoned.

11. You'll get to the desserts quicker.

12. You won't have to face three weeks of turkey sandwiches.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! I am so blessed and thankful . . . I hope you are too!

Love and kisses,

Grandma's Green Bean Casserole . . .

2009-11-24T09:06:00.000-08:00

Nope, it is not my grandma's, but I found this recipe and the reviews were all excellent. So, since I am in charge of the green bean casserole this year, I decided to give this one a go!

We are planning to share Thanksgiving with family, at my sister's house this year. Thanksgiving just might be my favorite holiday. This time of year really makes me count my blessings because truthfully, they are many. Not to say my life is perfect, but I have to be thankful for what I do have.

I feel like I haven't been home for about three weeks now with all of the running around I have been doing. I suppose that many of you are feeling the same. Holiday time always seems to be like that for me. How about for you?

So here is the recipe - if you make it, let me know what you think!

GRANDMA'S GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon white sugar
1/4 cup onion, diced
1 cup sour cream
3 (14.5 ounce) cans French style green beans, drained
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup crumbled buttery round crackers
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth, and cook for one minute. Stir in the salt, sugar, onion, and sour cream. Add green beans, and stir to coat.
Transfer the mixture to a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish. Spread shredded cheese over the top. In a small bowl, toss together cracker crumbs and remaining butter, and sprinkle over the cheese.
Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the top is golden and cheese is bubbly.

Servings Per Recipe: 10
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 215
Total Fat: 16.4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 832mg
Total Carbs: 9.5g
Dietary Fiber: 1.1g
Protein: 7.8g

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Love,

A Veterans Day THANK YOU!

2009-11-11T08:52:00.000-08:00

I want to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU first to my dad, who was a Marine and fought in the Vietnam War. I love you and I am so proud of you. I can never tell you enough how very much your service means to me.

My second THANK YOU is to all of the men and women who who have served our country in the past and present. Thank you for the unselfish gift you give to us - yourselves. You put your life on the line so that we don't have to. You protect and serve out country so that we can live freely! GOD BLESS AMERICA, and GOD BLESS YOU!!!!!!!!

Love,

SendOutCards - Woohoo!

2009-11-08T19:49:00.001-08:00

Okay, I am absolutely, totally excited. I love to send cards, but honestly, getting to the store to buy them, going to the post office to buy stamps and then mailing them really slows me down. However, I have recently been introduced to an online greeting card company called SendOutCards and I have to tell you that I am nothing short of hooked! Everything is done online through the SendOutCards website. They have over 10,000 different cards to choose from with different fonts and you can even upload your pictures with their Picture Plus program. And then when you are all done, SendOutCards actually puts the postage on the card and mails it for you. (You can even include a gift if you so desire.)

If you want to, click on the SendOutCards link at the top, which will direct you to my website or just go here: https://www.sendoutcards.com/michellemoran. Click on the banner once you are there and it will take you through the process of making and sending your very own card. If you love it and want to learn more, or would like some help signing up, just let me know and I would be happy to call you!

Have fun!

Happy Birthday Kevin!

2009-11-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/LU4ZmRfq7knTReGy

Today I want to wish my very sweet husband a happy birthday! I am so glad that 44 years ago today, you were put here on this earth. I pray that you have at least another 44 years, and that I will be here with you to enjoy every single one of them! I love you from the very bottom of my heart!

Love,

When You Thought I Wasn't Looking

2009-11-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

Below is a poem called "When You Thought I Wasn't Looking", sent to me by a friend. It is so very true. I hope you enjoy reading it.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make my favorite cake for me, and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a prayer, and I knew that there is a God I could always talk to, and I learned to trust in Him.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it, and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good, and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw tears come from your eyes, and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.

When thought I wasn't looking I saw that you cared, and I wanted to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I looked at you and wanted to say, 'Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.

And the winner is . . .

2009-11-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

Many of you voted for me and my sister to win the Gypsy Challenge. (Thank you!) Needless to say, we didn't win, but Michelle Machado did win the peppermint earrings! Yea! I will get those in the mail to you Michelle!

Have a fun Sunday!

Gypsy Challenge

2009-10-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Gypsy (I want one bad!)

My amazing sis thought we should enter a contest using her new Gypsy - (pictured above). For all of you non-scrappers, it has something to do with creating amazing die-cuts for scrapbooking. It actually hooks up to the Cricut machine and is sort of like a Nintendo DS for big people. :)

We spent all day (and night) Sunday working on this project. Needless to say, this project was much bigger then we expected. Our finished project was a chore chart that my sister thought up. (She is smart like that.) I wish the picture showed all of the detail better because there is so much depth and detail that you just can't see by a single, non-3D picture.

Chore Chart - "A Little Birdie Told Me".

Anyway, the winners will be chosen after midnight tonight, which is when the contest is over. (They extended the voting time by several days.) So feel free to throw your vote out way. We really need your vote, and we really want to win! Here is the link: http://www.cricut.com/gypsy/designchallenge/entries.aspx?did=275

Have a great Thursday!

Still Out of School!

2009-10-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

2008 Halloween Picture

The kids are still out of school. The school decided to close down for the whole week. I can see their point. Hopefully the kids will mostly be well when they go back. I am wondering where the kids are going to make up their 4 days off though. We are all still (very thankfully) well around here.

We went to a movie one day, and Savannah and I spent a chunk of yesterday scrapbooking. That felt good, and I surprisingly got quite a bit done. Today it is bills, laundry, cleaning up and then a trip to Costco to pick up my pictures and then to Walmart to get the kids' pictures taken together. This is sort of a spur of the moment thing and we don't have any special outfits or anything like that but it has been so long since I have taken them in for pictures that I figured, why not. (Most of the kids should be in school so we should be able to get in just fine.)

We have soccer and soccer pictures tomorrow so most of our day will be spent out on the park. So, the weekend will be busy and crazy, just like usual. But it will be fun too.

How 'bout you? Any plans for the weekend?

Swine Flu . . . Stay Home From School!

2009-10-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

I was called to pick the kids up from school this morning, almost right after I left them. Yesterday, 23 kids were out of school, two were known to have had the Swine Flu for sure. So far so good here. The school decided to take precautions and let everyone go home until Thursday. They are sanitizing the school and doing everything they can to keep our kids healthy.

Kevin heard a Homeopathic doctor on the radio talking about Swine Flu prevention; washing hands, vitamin D, lots of fresh fruits and veggies. Prevention of course is the best thing that we can do.

I am not overly-worried, just being smart, and cautious. Pigs are just not welcome in our home right now! :)

I guess we will have 2 days to spend at home. I think we will definitely make the most, and best of it.

Have a great week!

Revolve Tour Success!

2009-10-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

Onstage at the Revolve Tour

Savannah with her friends

Savannah wearing her Revolve Tour Hoodie

The Revolve Tour was a success! The girls loved it and we had such a great time. Savannah can't wait to go to the next one. She said this was one of her best weekends ever. It was so nice to see all of the mothers with their daughters. It was a place where the girls didn't have to worry about being "cool", and holding your moms hand was okay. It was a nice reprieve from all of the pressures that our pre-teen and teenage girls face. It was fun, it was exhausting, and it was oh-so-good!

Revolve Tour . . .

2009-10-16T12:16:00.001-07:00

Savannah and I, along with two other girlie's and a mom are off to the Revolve Tour this afternoon. It ends around 4:00 Saturday afternoon. It is for girls pre-teen through high school and their moms. It is going to be a fun, faith-filled event; filled with bands, and discussions on difficult subjects that face our precious girls today. I can't wait to go as I have heard so many good things about it! I am as excited as my pre-teen!

What are you doing this weekend?

Pretty . . .

2009-10-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

Emma went to a Birthday/Halloween party a few weeks ago. I had bought this Geisha costume for her several years ago and it was way too big. It fit her great this year, but I couldn't get over how grown-up and pretty she looked. Definitely like a beautiful little Geisha girl. Some of the kids didn't even recognize her at first. Some days I don't either. She is getting so tall and her legs are so long. She is still a little girl, but I know she won't remain that way for very much longer.

It's been a busy week . . .

2009-10-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Landon and I at "The Living Desert" on a field trip.

"The Boys" I chaperoned.

Landon in front of the lambs (because they are his favorite animal.)

It has been a very busy week, thus no blogging. All of the school activities and everyday life are keeping me going. I feel like I haven't really spent any time at home since Tuesday. Friday, I went on a field trip with Landon to The Living Desert. The night before he said he was looking forward to spending time with me the most. That boy sure knows how to warm my mommy heart. We did have a great time, and then we left and went to get ice cream.

Sometimes I tend to complain about being busy, but I remind myself that at least I am CAPABLE of being busy. It is all perspective, right?

What keeps you busy?

It's Official . . . Soccer Season Has Begun!

2009-10-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

Emma - soccer player #3 (The Robins)

Emma on the field!

Landon ready to kick one! (The Mountain Lions)

Landon throwing the ball in. (Coach Daddy is right behind him.)

It is official and I have a slight sunburn to prove it. (And yes, I was sitting under an umbrella most of the time, and I DID wear my sunscreen.) The sunburn was worth it because the games were good!

Landon played first. Kevin is coaching his team this year and they are called "The Mountain Lions." Cool, huh? They even get to do a little growling. What 7 or 8 year old boy doesn't like that? The parents seems nice, and the kids played great. So great that they won their first soccer game by a land slide. This is Landon's second year and he was a little more aggressive, which is wonderful because by nature, he is not an aggressive boy. Go Landon!

Emma's game was next, and she plays for "The Robins" this year. This is extra special since her aunt (my sister) is named Robin. Em played well too. I was initially a little worried since she was at a slumber-party the night before, barely got any sleep and was running on pure sugar. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Em was much more aggressive this year also. Go Emma! She even made a goal. Things are off to a very good start!

The weather was gorgeous, which was a huge bonus. Last year they played in 100 plus degree weather and it was not easy (or fun) for any of them. I am looking forward to many more of their games. I will be the mom on the sideline, snapping pictures and making lots of noise. Yep, a true soccer mom.

Apple, I mean raspberry picking

2009-09-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

Me and my sweet Nana.

Cousin Ryder (12) and Landon (7) - Landon ADORES his big cousin.

Robin (my sis) with her basket of fresh-picked raspberries.

Kevin picking raspberries.

Grandpa and Savannah.

Landon looking at the gorgeous sunflowers.

Uncle Matthew helping Emma pick berries.

Me and my sweet nephew Mattison (12)

We all got very dirty shoes!

Silly Emma and her basket full of berries.

We headed off to Oak Glen Saturday afternoon to pick apples. Last year there were plenty of apples and the weather was so nice that we even had to wear light jackets. Perfection. This year was hot, hot hot! Fortunately we did have a cool breeze. Apples were all picked over (so we bought them in the Country Store,) and we picked raspberries instead. So maybe we were hot and dirty, but we left with wonderful memories and important time spent together, which is way more than good enough for me!

Next up will be the pumpkin patch. So tell me, what favorite memories will you be making this holiday season?

Chivalry isn't dead.

2009-09-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

My Gentleman . . . Landon

Just thought you might want to know that chivalry is NOT dead. (Like I was beginning to think it was.) I was in the bank today with some papers to give to the teller. One of the papers flew onto the ground and before I could bend to pick it up, this kind sir swooped in from farther away than I was, picked it up and handed it to me before going about his business. That small kindness made my day because I sometimes wonder where all of the gentlemen have gone and why people seem to be lacking in manners.

Landon (age 7) runs to open doors for people. I have seem him holding a door open for what seemed like a good five minutes as I watched people flow through without a care in the world, or a thought as to how the door was staying open in the first place. Why don't people get out of their heads, look around and say "thank you". Do we all just feel a sense of entitlement these days? From the time my kids were small, I have been teaching them to say "please" and "thank you", and to think of others first. To treat kindly.

My grandpa taught me how a young lady should be treated. he walked on the street-side of the sidewalk. Do men do that anymore? And I can't just pick on the men. Ladies, do you let them hold doors open for you and treat you like a lady should be treated? I have told Landon to treat girls like ladies, even when they don't treat themselves that way.

Maybe I am old-fashioned, but I don't think so. I just want us to treat each other with respect, and kindness and to care a little more about our neighbor than ourselves. That's all. What a wonderful world it would be.

What Bribes You?

2009-09-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

Think about it. What bribes you? For me, some days it might be an iced mocha from my favorite coffee place. And what I might do for that coffee just depends on how bad I am wanting and *needing* that coffee in the first place. You wouldn't be able to bribe me with any old coffee though, it would definitely need to be an iced mocha, whipped cream optional (depending on my mood), and ONLY from one or two certain coffee places that I adore.

Candy seemed to be the bribe for Landon yesterday. Two packages of sugary, sweet hard candy. You see, Savannah was bored and when she is nice to her brother he will do just about ANYTHING for her. (My guess is that he probably didn't even need the bribe at all, but I could be wrong because after all, he is a 7 year old boy with certain "boy" standards you know.) The bribe: Two hours of dress-up for two boxes of candy. That meant hair, makeup and whatever wardrobe struck Savannah's fancy, and there were plenty, let me tell you. The best one though was the Geisha Girl costume. I was about rolling on the floor when I saw this outfit.

So I asked him about the candy before I knew about the bribe. "Oh Savannah bought it for me." he said. "All I had to do was dress up. It was worth it!"

So again, I ask the question, what would you do for a bribe?

Have a fun week,

Small things . . .

2009-09-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

Today I am pausing to appreciate the small things. (It seems to be a common theme in my life lately - something I try to do often.) Butterscotch is one of those small things. He is always there, putting a smile on my face. He has never asked for much, just my gentle touch, a bit of cuddling and tenderness. For that, he brings our whole family great joy.

I guess I have an extra-tender spot in my heart for this little dog who touched our lives just a little over a year ago. He has overcome many obstacles, and still he stands strong, fighting all the way.

His journey had been long. I don't know how many dog years that he will be in our lives but I treasure every minute that this sweet companion chooses to give us.

What small thing do you appreciate today?

The Dentist $$$

2009-09-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

Having a treat at Just Java before going to the dentist.

Landon with his cool shades on. Hey, the lights are bright!

Emma's turn! Landon is playing some sort of video game in the background.

(We go to a very cool dentist!)

Dr. Okamoto checked Savannah's teeth. Oops, he found a cavity on a molar!

Toys and games - this is the reason the kids LOVE going to the dentist.

Today was the day for the kids to get their teeth cleaned. Of course we had to go to Just Java beforehand and have a special treat. The kids have never been afraid of the dentist; in fact, they quite like it. I mean who wouldn't when you get to choose toothpaste and fluoride in flavors such as bubble gum, strawberry, mint, chocolate, marshmallow and many others. Even the gloves are apple scented and the kids get to wear cool sunglasses so the light won't bother their eyes. There are also plenty of toys, t.v.'s and video games. When they are done, they get new toothbrushes, floss, toothpaste and stickers, and even when we are in the lobby, the kids get to dive into the treasure chest.

All of the kids have small mouths and big teeth. Savannah has had a palette widener and now a retainer. She currently has a cavity on a molar that we will be going back to fill next month. She might still need braces. Emma will be needing braces for sure in the next few years, and Landon goes back for a palette widener in March. Hmph!

So like I said, the kids aren't afraid of the dentist at all. Why should they be? Look at all they get to have and do. I however am very afraid. Afraid every time I go up to pay for all of the fun they just had and "free" goodies. And you know what the worst part is? I don't even get a toothbrush or a toy. Double Hmph!

A day with a special friend

2009-09-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

Savannah showing Cheyenne how to make a squash album.

Cheyenne

Friends since Kindergarten.

Scrappin'!

"Now glue here, and fold the ends over like that."

Saturday, Savannah and I got to spend some time with Cheyenne, her friend since Kindergarten. This time together was extra-special because she just got out of the hospital after a 2 week visit. (Needless to say, she was more than happy to be out!)

We took some scrapbook supplies and Savannah showed Cheyenne how to create these cute little books called "squash albums". They decided to decorate them with a Christmas theme and Hello Kitty. The albums turned out great! The best part was watching two friends spend time together, doing simple things, enjoying each other, and enjoying life.

P.S. Hi Cheyenne! We are glad you are home and doing great!

First Day Back to School!

2009-09-10T09:15:00.000-07:00

The kids at Jordan Christian Academy on the first day of school.

Savannah - 12 years old, starting 7th grade.

Emma - 9 years old, starting 4th grade.

Landon - 7 years old, starting 2nd grade.

Walking off to school . . .

My big boy. I think this is such a sweet picture of him.

Savannah and her friends!

Emma and her friend.

Landon walking into his class.

Savannah claims that she hates when I come into her class to take pictures, until I told her that I wouldn't this year! (I guess she likes it after all.)

Emma and her teacher, Mrs. Goff.

Landon in his class.

Landon couldn't wait to get back to school.

The kids started school Tuesday and it has been so quiet. Back to homework, making lunches every night, and going to bed early. Basically, back to routine. I'm not sure I was quite ready for it yet. This year the summer seemed to fly by. I almost feel like summer never happened, except for the hot and humid weather we are still having. That I am DONE with!

The house is quiet and I am still trying to decide what to do with myself. Not that I don't have enough to do, mind you. I am just trying to do it all in a more organized way. I am still figuring that part out and giving myself a little rest this week.

I also decided to spend some time working on me. That means exercising and dieting. Not just a temporary "diet", but something I can pretty much live with for life. I have been reading and researching and am on the South Beach Diet as of this week. I will let you all know how it goes. The first two weeks are very low carbs. In a few weeks I can add in some fruit and healthy grains. I am a carb lover but I need a change, for my health. And the bad carbs are well, just bad. I am looking forward to the results. So far it is pretty easy, with a few carb withdrawals which I expect will stay with me for about a week. Funny but I have never wanted to read "The South Beach Diet" because I didn't like the name. It just sounded too trendy. But it is a good eating plan; easy and healthy.

For now I guess I am going to enjoy the quiet . . . and get poor Juan (our computer guy) to help me with my computer, AGAIN! There seem to be a lot of problems with it right now. I can't send or receive any emails, nor can I get on my website, among other things. I am crossing my fingers as I think my computer might be getting near the end. We'll see. So, if I don't get back to you right away, you know why. And I will, just as soon as I can.

Have a great Thursday!

Back-to-School Dinner

2009-09-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

The dinner table . . .

We even had party favors!

Yummmmmm!

Savannah & Ladybug enjoying the moment!

Landon and Emma blowing party favors at each other.

Emma - my salad eating girl.

Emma's request was chili, so that's what we made!

Landon got to choose desert - homemade chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting.

Blowing out the candles because candles aren't just for birthdays you know!

Last night we had a back-to-school dinner. Excitement was in the air and it was worth every hour that was spent in the kitchen.

The menu was: crock pot chili (Emma's request), roasted cauliflower in olive oil and parmesan cheese (Savannah's request), green salad with ranch dressing and homemade chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting (Landon's request.)

This was the first back-to-dinner that we ever had but it will definitely not be the last. We had so much fun and the time spend with the kids was priceless. Thank you Stephanie for being such an inspiration!

Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-07T11:18:00.001-07:00

Old Town La Quinta -a quaint little place where we had dinner Saturday night.

A small gift - the rainbow that reminds me of God's love, and His promise.

Kevin and Savannah, walking hand-in-hand. It's all about being together.

Happy Labor Day! We spent this weekend doing small things, unimportant things. It is the weekend before school. A weekend where I really appreciated the kids being home and the time we shared this summer. It was a weekend where we had one more day with Kevin before he is back to work, working the many long hours that he does.

I let the kids make messes while I cleaned out cupboards. Not a fun thing to do, but I always love the results. I stayed inside most of yesterday and pretended that the fall weather was here, and that it wasn't over 100 degrees outside. Our pastor says to embrace the desert temperatures, and truly, it doesn't seem quite as bad when you do that!

We saw a beautiful rainbow Saturday night when we were on our way to dinner. It was humid outside and hot, but it looked like it might rain. The rainbow was a beautiful and unexpected treasure that seemed to be put there just for me. I just had to snap a picture from the car.

I have chili in the crock pot. In a few moments I will be off to run some errands and then back to complete our back-to-school dinner. I got this idea from Nie Nie, a blog I follow. Stephanie and her husband were involved in a near-fatal plane crash. She is more than inspiring. She has reminded me to remember the importance of the small things, to delight in the smallest treasures that family and life have to offer, and to make memories. The kids are excited. I am excited. It is going to be great. Go make some memories of your own, OK?

Little Miss Seamstress

2009-09-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

C. Sharp Sewing Camp.

Practicing on paper.

Bernina -the "King" of all sewing machines.

A very proud and happy girl!

She sewed Landon a lamb pillow because she knows how much he loves lambs.

Mrs. Carol Sharp and Emma.

Sewing her first purse.

Stuffing a pillow that she made for Madeline's 1st birthday.

Emma's 1st patchwork quilt!

This summer Emma had the opportunity to take some sewing classes at C. Sharp in Palm Desert. Em has been wanting to sew for awhile now so I was determined to make it happen. Through the years, we have been exploring different things, but nothing quite "fit" who she was. Apparently sewing for Emma is what water is to a fish - a perfect, and necessary match. I know I had tears in my eyes on several occasions when I went to pick her up. I was, and still am amazed at the things she has done.

Emma spent 4 weeks at sewing camp, which was 4 days a week, for 2-1/2 hours a day. She started off by sewing a bookmark and quickly moved on to pillows, purses, tissue covers, stuffed animals and her very first quilt. I am so proud.

Emma has decided that she wants to keep sewing, so she will go once a week. Her Christmas list is extensive, but she wants to sew for everyone this year. Of course she has decided that she needs a Bernina sewing machine for Christmas, just like the one she uses in class! Anyone who is a serious seamstress knows that this is the king of all sewing machines, which also comes with a steep price tag. (Maybe not this year, sweetie.)

I am just happy that she has found something that she loves to do, and does well. I can't wait to see everything that she creates and I know that I will be dumbfounded each and every time!

Precious Moments . . .

2009-08-31T10:38:00.000-07:00

I tip-toed down the hall to his bedroom. The morning light was streaming through the slats of his blinds. Something this morning had prompted me here, so I quietly pulled back the choo-choo train bedding and handmade quilt to lay next to my sweet boy so that I could watch him sleep.

I know I had a smile on my face as I noted his ruffled, way-too-long hair, his sweet cupid lips, long brown lashes and the remnants of his pudgy, silky-smooth baby cheeks. The house was quiet, and it was blissful. Next week we would be hustling and bustling and trying to get ready for school, but for right now, this moment was mine, and I knew that I would hold it in my heart forever.

Soon his sleepy eyes popped open and grew wide as he realized that he was not alone. The sweet smile spread across his face because this was a rare treat for him too.

We were almost nose-to-nose as we stared at each other and barely said a word. We were so close that our vision was blurred. He closed one eye and then the other, over and over, playing his little boy game. Still we stared, and I was happy.

"I love you Mommy," he finally said.

"I love you too Landon". And I did, and we did. And life was good.

Big Bear Vacation

2009-08-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

' Big Bear Cabin.

Horses in town.

Many people had these bears in front of their homes.

Big Bear Blvd.

We found bear tracks!

Greg and Matthew Klein riding the Alpine slides!

Savannah

Landon hated it, can you tell?

Kevin and Emma

Savannah waiting patiently for lunch at the Tea House.

Emma waiting too!

Inside the Tea House, a girls dream!

The "boys" sat at their own table. Not sure if they loved it quite as much as the girls.

Mill Creek Manor Tea Room. (It was much more impressive and beautiful on the inside!)

My lunch - it was muy delicioso!

I love this picture of me and my sweet boy. He has the sweetest face!

Linda hard at play, creating squash albums!

Ahhhhh, a scrapbook store!

Savannah, decorating her pine cone!

A work of art!

This takes concentration!

Kids of all ages decorating pine cones!

This Summer we went to Big Bear for a little vacation with our friends, Greg, Linda, Matthew and Madeline Klein. It was nice to be able to remove ourselves from the desert blast-furnace heat and enjoy the cool, crisp mountain air. I don't think I even "perspired" one time, nope, not even once. If you are a desert dweller, you will appreciate the significance of this statement.

We had a wonderful time. We wandered and shopped in the quaint little town and we visited the scrapbook store probably way too many times. Linda, Savannah and I scrapbooked late into the evening, but who cares, we could sleep in! The men and kids went "sledding" and we tried a lovely little Tea House too! At the end of our trip, the kids decorated and glittered the many pine cones that Landon had painstakingly gathered. All-in-all, it was a wonderful adventure that we will remember for a very long time!

What fun did you have this Summer?

Waffles for Breakfast

2009-08-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

Mm mm good. Take a box of Trader Joe's Buttermilk Pancake Mix and follow the directions for waffles. (I add a few chocolate chips once the waffles are on the waffle iron.) After they are done, sprinkle with a little powdered sugar - or a lot of powdered sugar, whatever the case may be. I have tried other mixes, and also from scratch, but the kids seem to like these the best. This mix makes delicious pancakes too! I also added some nicely browned chicken sausage (also by Trader Joe's.) They have the best sausage - juicy and tender. Yum!

What a fun way to begin the weekend!

Bull . . .

2009-08-20T15:14:00.001-07:00

Today Landon was eating curly fries at lunch, in between errands. He picked up half a curly fry, which was shaped like a "C", put it under his nose like a ring and said, "I'm a bull". Where was my camera when I needed it? He totally cracked me up!

Back in Town

2009-08-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

We are back from Big Bear. We had a great time, and the weather was so beautiful. I even got some scrappin' in. Lots of pictures to post. I will get to it when I have time. For now I am catching up, dealing with a sick puppy and trying to enjoy the days with the kids before school starts.

How is your summer going? Can you believe that it is almost over and soon all of the kids will be back-to-school? I can't.

Headin' Out . . .

2009-08-09T17:18:00.000-07:00

We will be heading off to Big Bear for almost a week of cooler weather, fun and relaxation Tuesday morning. I am looking forward to it and can't wait to go. I hope you are finding ways to relax and get away this summer.

Scrappin' Weekend

2009-08-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

Silly Linda!

My sweet friend Stacy.

Robin, Stacy, Me and Linda.

Me and my Sis, Robin.

Blinged our Cricut (from the back) - all the things I love!

Blinged out Cricut (from the front) - I even used rhinestones!

Emma's soccer scrapbook pages.

More scrapbook pages completed - yippee!

Robin hard at play!

Robin creates THE MOST AMAZING cards!

Our scrapbook haven . . . doesn't it look fun?

Last weekend we made the trek to Apple Valley for our scrappin' weekend. I was able to spend three wonderful days with my sister and two amazing friends. We had such an awesome time together, and of course we got a lot of scrappin' done too! I even blinged out my Cricut! We had a blast; the weekend just went by way too fast!

Scrapbook Heaven . . .

2009-07-31T08:29:00.000-07:00

Off to an amazing weekend of scrapbook heaven. I am going to spend some awesome time with my sister and wonderful friends. We are going to laugh a lot, eat gourmet food, go to bed LATE and get up EARLY so we can accomplish as much as possible, but mainly we are going to relax and have a lot of fun!

What are your plans for this weekend?

Michelle's Macaroni & Cheese

2009-07-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

My mom called this morning looking for a Macaroni and Cheese recipe. This one is EXCELLENT. I took a Martha Stewart recipe and edited it to my taste . . . simple, good, and total comfort food. Everyone I have made it for loves it, I hope you do too. Let me know what you think!

Michelle’s Macaroni & Cheese

Ingredients:

6 Tbs. butter
5-1/2 C. milk
½ C. flour
2 tsp. salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
4-1/2 C. sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
1 C. grated parmesan
1 LB. elbow macaroni

Heat oven to 375 degrees. In medium saucepan over medium heat melt 6 Tbs. butter until bubbly. Add flour and cook, stirring for 1 minute. Heat the milk in microwave until very warm. Slowly pour milk into flour/butter mixture while whisking. Continue cooking and stirring until mixture bubbles and thickens. Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, 3 cups grated cheddar cheese and 1 cup parmesan cheese. Set cheese sauce aside. Cook noodles 2-3 minutes less than manufacturer’s directions. (Inside should be underdone.) Run noodles under cold water after draining. Stir into cheese sauce. Pour into a 9 x 13 pan and top with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake approximately 30 minutes or until as brown and bubbly as you like.

Have a great week!

Friends through the decades

2009-07-19T15:47:00.000-07:00

1944 - My grandma (Mama) and Anne washing my mom and Donna's baby bottles. (Both grandma's were 25 years old.)

Years ago, my grandparents became friends with a couple who had a daughter. I remembered this picture of my grandma (the one facing the camera) and her friend Anne and got it out just the other day. The year was around 1944 and they were at the kitchen sink together washing baby bottles for Judy (my mom), and Donna (Anne's daughter and my mom's friend.) I found out just this week that this picture was taken when Anne's husband was in the Coast Guard. Anne and Donna stayed with my grandparents in California for a period of time before meeting Anne's husband in Long Beach after he came home from the war. It had been at least 6 months before he saw his baby girl for the first time.

Years later, in the 1980's Donna and her three boys (Mike, Steve and Paul), and my mom and her two girls (my sister and I) lived close enough in California where my mom and Donna were able to re-connect. Us kids were all in our early teens and we saw Donna and her boys often. My mom and Donna were so close that they considered and still do consider themselves cousins. I remember that we had a lot of fun with the boys but they ended up moving to Kansas several years later and we stayed in California.

July 15, 2009 - Michelle, Steve and my sister Robin

Just last week my sister Robin and I had the opportunity to have dinner with Steve. (Steve and I are the same age and it has been many years since we have seen him). He was in California for business so we met up with him and reminisced over the "good old days". We had a really great time and I was reminded about life, friendship and the different paths that we take that sometimes come back to cross again. I bet my grandparents never thought about the fact that the two families would still remain friends even 60+ years later. It made me wish I could pick up the phone and tell my grandmother (Mama) about our dinner but unfortunately she is no longer in her earthly home. However, I do know that one day, our paths will one day meet again and when it does, we are going to have the most amazing reunion.

Have a great week! Who is it that you have re-connected with lately, or would like to?

Kastner, Machado & Moran Family Visit

2009-07-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Emma (9) and Samantha (8) playing in the sand.

Bob (4) eating ribs at the BBQ restaurant.

The Moran & Machado kids going into the water.

Landon (7) enjoyed his sand play!

Samantha Machado - she looks so pretty!

Emma (9), Samantha (8), Aunt Bridget (?), Savannah (12), Landon (7) and Bob (4).

Savannah with Aunt Bridget.

Michelle (Kevin's Sis), Kevin and Aunt Bridget.

Landon, Savannah, Emma, Cousin Nathan, Nathan's friend Nick, Samantha and Bob

Me and my sweet boy Landon.

The Moran, Kastner and Machado Families!

Last Saturday we drove to Big Bear to meet up with Kevin's Aunt Bridget, Uncle Bob and their son Nathan and his friend. They live in the Bay Area so we don't get to see them as often as we would like but they stay at their friends cabin in Big Bear almost every summer so we made the 2 hour drive to see them along with Kevin's sister Michelle and her family.

We had such a great time and enjoyed every minute. We had lunch and spent some time at the cabin and then we drove down to Big Bear Lake before heading off to have dinner at a delicious BBQ restaurant that sits right by the lake. We said out goodbyes after that and headed home.

We left feeling a little sad that it had to end, but so happy knowing that we have family such as them. We will truly miss seeing them again until next time.

Who is it that you miss?

Fuzzy Cuzzies

2009-07-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

We are off to pick up the "fuzzy cuzzies" and then we are going to see the FREE movie (Inkheart) at the theatre and have a fun day and then a sleepover tonight! Woohoo! Mattison can't come and we are going to miss him though! :(

Winner! Winner! (And Birthday Wishes Too!)

2009-07-10T14:17:00.001-07:00

I used Random.org and came up with a winner for the "beachy" necklace. Here it is . . .

List Randomizer

There were 10 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

Cyndy Leslie
Glenda
Greta
Debbie
Karen Pendleton
Kris
Michelle Machado
dogmom
Bunny Chic Boutique
Terri A.

Timestamp: 2009-07-10 21:16:49 UTC

Cyndy Leslie is the winner and said . . .

Cyndy Leslie wants to be at Bolsa Chica State Beach digging in the sand for what have to be the largest and prettiest shells I have ever seen at a Southern California beach! I would love to spend every day of summer there!! Of course the kids would have to be with me - they have been converted to beach bums!!

Cyndy, please email me with the chain length that you would like and I will get the necklace in the mail to you right away!

Also, I want to say happy birthday to my beautiful, wonderful sister, Robin! I love you with all of my heart! xox.

Love,

Two More Days Until the Friday Giveaway!

2009-07-08T11:04:00.000-07:00

Just two more days to win the beachy-ocean pendant. Don't forget to leave me a comment on Monday's post (below), and tell me where you would like to be this summer. For me, I think I would like to spend part of my summer at the beach, and part of it in the mountains. Actually anywhere it is cool would be heaven for sure!

I will be drawing a winner this Friday, July 10th!

New Summer Jewelry! Finally!

2009-07-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

BEACHY OCEAN PENDANT

The summer is heating up around here so I was in the mood to create some beach-themed jewelry. Meander over to my website and take a peek.

My blog looks so much better now that it has been redone. It just feels more like me. :) Leave me a message and tell me where you want to be this summer. I am having a drawing this Friday, July 10th and you can win something "beachy". (I will post a picture later.)

Have a great week! Stay cool, it was 103 degrees here today!

Note: I posted the pendant today (Tuesday). It is a lampwork pendant - sort of an ocean-beachy theme. The findings are sterling and it hangs from a steel ball chain necklace.

Productive - Feels Good!

2009-07-05T22:41:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, today was a very productive day. I love those days. I added a few things to my blog and then I decided I would work on a few pieces of jewelry. A few pieces turned into a few more pieces and before long, I had a nice little stash of beachy-summer related jewelry. (Above is a little preview). If all goes well, I hope to add it to my website tomorrow. Maybe tomorrow will be as productive as it was today. I can only hope. ;)

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T09:03:00.001-07:00

Have a wonderful and safe 4th of July! I hope you are doing something fun today!

New Bloggy!

2009-07-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

Happy July 1st! I can hardly believe it! How do you like the new look? I have some pictures to change and add, and a few things to do but it sure is better than the plain blue I had. You can have Jennisa can make you a blog too. You might want to get on her waiting list now because she sure is busy, but worth the wait! Her button is to the right, just scroll down a bit and you can click onto her website.

Since 4th of July is almost here, I thought I would add a recipe for you. I hope you like it. If you make it, let me know what you think. It is my grandma's recipe and truthfully, I have never tasted a better cheesecake.

Mama Sandidge's Cheese Pie

Crust:

6 whole graham crackers crushed, add ½ C. sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla, ¼ C. melted butter. Mix and shape all ingredients into a deep pie plate.

Filling:

Smooth 12 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, add ½ C sugar, and 2 eggs. (I use my mixer to cream until smooth.) Pour into pie shell. Bake 20 minutes at 375 degrees. Cool about 1 hour, and then add:

Top Filling:

1 pint (2 cups) sour cream, 3 Tbs. sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla. Mix and spread on top of the filling. Bake at 375 degrees for 7 minutes. ( It may seem underdone but it won’t be.) Chill in fridge and enjoy!

Note: You may need up to ½ C. of melted butter. Add butter until crust handles and shapes well.

If I don't blog before then, have a wonderful (and safe) July 4th!

How to have fun . . .

2009-06-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning I found the boys on the couch in their pajamas. Landon (7) had his swimming goggles and dog nose on, and was holding his sword. Bob (4) was holding Landon's Nerf gun, which he liked quite a lot by the way.

There were lots of sword fights this weekend. Ladybug (our dog) was the only casualty.

I took Emma (9) and Samantha (8) to get a pedicure. We each decided on blue nail polish. After all, it is getting close to the 4th of July!

Samantha decided to read a magazine while she was waiting to get pampered!

She hated every minute of it, can you tell?

Pretty feet! Can you guess whose feet are whose?

Savannah decided to give Samantha a new "do". She did a great job, if I do say so myself!

Getting pampered . . . nails and now hair. This is the life.

Moran cousins + Machado cousins = a weekend full of fun!

The cousins stayed over this weekend. We had a great time. The girls and I went for pedicures while the boys played in the park yesterday. Cousin Samantha got a new hairdo and the boys had lots of sword fights. And that is only a part of what we did. It was a fun weekend but I have a hunch that we are all going to sleep very well tonight!

Simply Sweet

2009-06-26T18:18:00.000-07:00

Kevin sent this picture to me in an email with a simply sweet note that said:

Honey,

I couldn't have said it better myself.

K

He found it while he was doing a home inspection so he snapped a picture. It put a smile on my face today. :) So sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!

Love,

Michelle

Face Lift!

2009-06-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

My blog is getting a new face lift! It is in the process now and is going to look so cute. I can't believe the talent some people have. I just have none in regards to blogs and websites! It's a good thing that we all have our own unique talents, isn't it?

Michelle

I Wish . . .

2009-06-23T16:04:00.000-07:00

I think I am a country girl at heart. I live in the city and always have, but sometimes I really long for a "country girl" life. And not only for me, but for my kids. I want the best for them and sometimes this life in the city that I have given them really bothers me. Sometimes I daydream of moving someplace quaint, someplace simple, someplace peaceful.

I wish my kids could play outside all summer long in their bare feet until exhaustion (or hunger) overtakes them and they need to come in.

I wish my kids could count wild flowers, run through grassy fields and make a tree house where they could have tea parties and secret clubs with their best friends.

I wish my kids could sleep with their windows open and wake up to a cool breeze and sounds of the country singing to them from outside.

I wish the kids could experience the caring for and birth of various baby animals, from chickens to cows.

I wish the kids could go out in the garden and pick fresh herbs and vegetables for dinner and gather the eggs for pie and homemade ice cream.

I wish television was not even a thought in their heads because they were having too much fun to care; and I wish all of the silly electronic games were something they knew nothing about.

I wish life was simpler, lovelier, and kinder. Sometimes I long so much for this that my heart fills up with sadness and I kind of want to cry. Isn't giving out kids the best we can what it is all about? And I don't mean money, and things, but a good upbringing with amazing memories and a lot of love.

What do you wish for your kids?

XO,

Michelle

Happy Fathers Day!

2009-06-21T19:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Fathers Day to one of the best fathers in the world! We love you Kevin (Daddy!!)

Love,

Michelle, Savannah, Emma & Landon

First Day of Vacation Bible School

2009-06-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

Landon & Emma (T-Shirt Day) at VBS

Savannah with Jonas - she is now a "helper" because she is too old to attend VBS! She loves it!

Landon and friends, singing songs to Jesus!

Some of my happiest childhood memories are of Vacation Bible School. My kids love it too. Today was their first day and talk about a great day- wow! There were about 1000 kids and 4-500 volunteers. All of them there to dance, sing and learn about Jesus!

While the kids were at VBS, I did some long over-do grocery shopping. After such a crazy few months, it felt good to have a well-stocked fridge again. I even prepped a bunch of food and did "Clay Pot Chicken" for the kids because they love it. I even managed to clean out the fridge, freezer, and my food pantry. It is just the simple things, you know?

Summer Vacation Begins

2009-06-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

I can take a nice, slow breath of air. All of the school year craziness is gone (for now), and we can relax and have a little bit of fun! Yesterday the kids all got out of school early and our day was filled with fun! The kids had a pool party with their friends which included swimming, writing on their own t-shirts, and root beer floats - yummy! Then we headed over to Linda's house to eat some pizza, do a little bit of scrapbooking and I left Savannah overnight to do her first real babysitting gig all by herself this morning for a little bit of time so that Linda could run. What happened to my baby girl? She grew up so fast this past year. They all have. I am noticing how tall Landon is getting and his baby cheeks that I love to smooch on so much are going away. Besides that, he now only lets me smooch on him in private. Emma still gets kissy with me but she is looking more like a colt, with her ever-growing legs.

One day the summers won't be as fun anymore, and there will no longer be any "school days", so I figure I better enjoy the ones we have. Everyone I know who has teenage or adult kids tells me to enjoy this time because it goes so fast. I am going to listen to their advice, because it is true, so very true.

Have a wonderful summer everyone!

Big Hugs,

Michelle

Beautiful Day

2009-06-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

I am sitting at my computer getting ready to pay bills. I hate that job. Actually, aside from writing a letter, poem, or a story, I don't really care for any type of paperwork at all. Accounting is definitely not my idea of fun! It seems that crafty people and people who are more accounting-minded usually are not one in the same. I wish I was, but I'm not. If I never had to pay another bill or do another bit of accounting, I would be completely satisfied with that. However, it doesn't seem quite so bad right now as I sit here with my healthy Juice It Up juice, and the windows are wide open with a wonderful cool breeze blowing through as I listen to the outside noises. I am extra thankful because it is not uncommon for it to be 110 plus degrees by now already. I am going to enjoy this beautiful day, even if it does include paying bills.

xo,

Michelle

Moran Happenings

2009-06-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of what has been happening in our lives the past 5-6 weeks or so . . .

Mother's Day - Me and Savannah (age 12)

Mother's Day - Me and sweet Landon (age 7)

Mother's Day - Me and my silly Emmie (age 9)

6-1-09 Father's Day Brunch at school (yep, that is Kevin and we are so proud.)

6-1-09 Father's Day Brunch at Jordan Christian Academy

6-1-09 Father's Day Brunch

6-1-09 We cooked for about 75 people in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. 14 dozen eggs!

6-6-09 My pretty ballerina at her dance recital. This is her 9th year in ballet!

Savannah is such a gorgeous ballerina!

Savannah is growing up so very fast . . . how did this happen??

6-1-09 There is nothing quite like family

June 2009 - Our scroungy little Butterscotch before his first grooming appointment.

June 2009 - Ta da! He is so handsome now!

I can't believe it has been so long since I have blogged. I have been taking a lot of pictures though. Now I am wondering how I am going to get them all scrapbooked! I have high hopes of getting a lot of scrappin' done this summer. I would love to catch the kids albums up to 2008 and then go from there. I thought it would be nice to scrapbook our wedding album also but it has been 15 years so what is another 15, right?

The school yearbook has taken a whole lot of time, not to mention all of Savannah's ballet rehearsals and everyday life. But, the yearbook is done and Savannah's ballet recital is done as of last night. Now we just have to get through this week and school will be out for the summer. I am looking forward to no commitments, just a lot of fun! There is so much I want to do with the kids this summer. Savannah will probably take a few dance classes, maybe even Emma and Landon. We are going to catch some movies, of course! Swim, swim, swim! We are going to spend time in Big Bear, and in Crestline at Grandpa and Tiffany's house - yippee for cooler weather! I want to take a ceramic painting and firing class with the kids! Emma is going to take a sewing class with the new Hello Kitty sewing machine that Deanne brought for her! Savannah and I am going to do some late "Spring Cleaning". I am going to scrapbook, design some new jewelry, get on an eating plan and exercise routine and we are going to have a lot of great fun together!

What are your plans for this summer?

xo,

Michelle

MIA

2009-05-19T15:08:00.000-07:00

Missing in action, yep, that's me. This is probably the busiest time of year for me, with Savannah's ballet rehearsals, regular life, and working on the school yearbook. The deadline is fast approaching so it seems to have taken over my life. It will be nice to have it done and I know the kids are going to love it, which of course makes it all worth while.

My friend Linda and I were able to get away this past weekend. We went away on a previously planned scrapbook weekend where we ate and scrapped. We did manage to take a little time to get a little exercise. Linda is quite the runner, and let's just say that I am not. I used to run at one time but I was never fast, and never good at it, but I did enjoy what it did for my body. I have been considering getting back into it again, so she made me, I mean she urged me to run with her. I did, and just like I remembered, it was no fun at all. But, I am still considering it because although I don't care for running while I am doing it, I don't mind it at all once I have stopped. In fact, it feels pretty darn good a little while later.

Anyway, I got some pages done for Emma's album and that felt pretty good. We almost need a U-Haul to take all of our things. Above is a picture, (and we packed light.) What can I say, you just never know what you might need!

I will be back in touch soon. Life will get quieter and I will have more time again, I am sure of it!

xo,

Michelle

Happy Birthday Savannah!

2009-05-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Happy 12th Birthday to my first born, Savannah. You bring me so much joy! Watching you grow into such an amazing young woman makes me and Daddy so proud. We love you "harder than a mule can kick", as Great-Mama used to say, and that's a lot!

Have a fun day! xoxox

Love,

Mommy

Hope . . .

2009-05-06T14:04:00.000-07:00

Savannah's class had a Mother's Day Tea this afternoon. To say I was blessed is an understatement. Sometimes I wonder if I am doing it right, you know? But then something will come along that gives me hope, and I know that everything is going to turn out just fine, and maybe I am making a positive impact even when it doesn't always feel that way.

Scrappin' Fool

2009-05-03T09:18:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was National Scrapbook Day. A friend and I went out Friday night and scrap booked until the wee morning hours. By the time I got home, it was about 1:30 in the morning. I haven't kept those late hours since I was a silly young adult, with no need for sleep! I guess you could say that we are die-hard scrapbook fans. We are planning a weekend getaway in a few weeks from now and I can't tell you how much I look forward to that. It's not that I need the time away from my family, or because I just need to get away from my seemingly mundane life. I like my life very much actually! No, it is a time for me to create something that will *hopefully* be beautiful and meaningful for my three kids. Now the frustrating part for me comes into play because I am so far behind! I am trying to catch the kiddos albums up to 2008 and then work on them together. Sadly, I realized last night that I was still in the year 2003 for Savannah's albums. I wondered to myself how I would EVER get caught up and came up with a plan to try and do a little at night, when the kids are all tucked into bed and I have a little "down time" before I head off to bed myself. That is the only way I can see that I have any chance at all of getting caught up.

I have so many ideas and plans for future scrapbooks. I want to do some cookbooks, with all of the beloved family recipes. I hope to do one about me, because how many of us have questions about our moms, and their lives? I know I do. I would love to create scrapbooks as gifts. And I want to create cards because there is nothing better than receiving a handmade card. (Besides, the store-bought ones are so expensive.) Oh, and my sister is brilliant at those by the way! Anyway, that is my plan, and my dream. It's a legacy that I can leave my children and my grandchildren. It is something from my own two hands that I have worked on literally for hours. But mostly, it is something from my heart, and something that let's them know how very much I love them, even when I am long gone from this earthly world.

What is your legacy to your kids? Perhaps you journal? Do you scrapbook too? What memories and traditions are you leaving for the ones that you love?

xo,

Michelle

Mommy Sterling Stamped Necklace WINNER!

2009-05-01T13:14:00.000-07:00

We have a winner . . . I used Random.org list randomizer and Robin Jones came in on the number one spot! Robin also happens to be my sister, so what a wonderful surprise because honestly, I can't imagine anyone more deserving than she is!

Robin wrote:

"My favorite Mother's Day memory is when I got to share the birth of my niece on Mother's Day :o) I had experienced "birth" before my big sis and I was so excited to watch her experience it too!"

Keep checking back to see what else I will be giving away! THANKS TO ALL OF YOU WHO PARTICIPATED! I loved reading each and every one of your posts!

List Randomizer

There were 21 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

Robin Jones
Audrey
Lelia
Glenda
Melissa
teachma
Samantha
Jen
Anise
The Lenarth Family
Amy
jeneis02
Kristi
lodyp
Anjie
Michele S
Randa
Cindi
The Giveaway Diva
JO
Jessica

Timestamp: 2009-05-01 20:13:36 UTC

http://www.random.org/lists/

Busy . . .

2009-04-30T21:11:00.001-07:00

The other night I asked Kevin if years ago, when we were first married, if he ever anticipated being this BUSY. His answer was no. I vaguely remember when I used to have plenty of time for myself. I even remember being bored. That has not been a word in my vocabulary for a very long time. I no longer know the meaning of that word. I know this time in my life will pass, and maybe I might even long for these days again. One day my kids will be grown and I imagine I will go through the house remembering this season of my life with a certain fondness and probably even a little sadness.

My life is pretty simple, and I try very hard to keep most of the "clutter" out. Even the things that I want to do, and feel I should do; such as serve at my church, are put on hold. I find that for me, I have to keep my life as simple as possible just to keep up with the day-to-day, seemingly mundane but necessary things. I often wonder how some women can seem to juggle so much, but there is no such thing as Superwoman, and my guess is that although they may appear all together on the outside, they probably really aren't. They probably have bills to pay, grocery shopping to do, and a never-ending laundry basket full of clothes just like I do.

Kevin and I laugh ourselves silly sometimes when we look back on the days when we only had one small child. It was soooooo hard at the time. Hard? Are you kidding me? At least with one, there is still that 2 parent to 1 child ratio. Not anymore. And let's not even talk about finding a babysitter. Three is the "magic", "I won't babysit your kids" number. Well, there are a few brave souls. But you see, I understand, because let's go back to when we thought one child was hard, not three with very different personalities. And in truth, they aren't hard. In fact, I just wish life would slow down just a little bit. I see my Savannah turning into a teenager right before my eyes. Emma is growing up and says so many profound things, and Landon, my baby is not a baby anymore. Even his chubby little face is all-too-fast becoming long and lean.

So maybe I am busy, but years before, I didn't take the time to "smell the flowers" as often as I do now. I am learning to take the small moments with my children, especially since sometimes that is just about all of the time we have. And I blog, to preserve the memories of our life because most of the time I am just too busy to scrapbook, even as much as I desire to. Some things you just have to make the time for. I am still learning that lesson but at least I am getting better at it. What about you? Are you making the time for what's really important in your life?

xo,

Michelle

American Girl Place

2009-04-27T20:04:00.001-07:00

I am a little late on editing my pictures but I thought I would share some pictures of Emma's birthday celebration at American Girl Place. We went on the 18th of April and had a blast. It doesn't matter what your age, if you are a girl, you are going to like it! The boys left for awhile and did their thing while we did ours.

We had a great time eating in the cafe, getting a new "do" and even the dolls ears pierced at the doll salon, and of course shopping! What an amazing day!!!

Nephew Time . . .

2009-04-26T10:07:00.001-07:00

I always enjoy one-on-one time with my nephews and nieces. It gives me a chance to really get to know them on a more personal level. It is time treasured.

Mattison turned 13 on Easter. He is the oldest of the nieces and nephews. We are going out today to do a little shopping and have fun. I look forward to these annual events where it's just me and them. I do realize that one day soon it might not be so cool to hang out with his Aunt Michelle. When that day comes, I will totally understand, but until then, I am going to enjoy every minute. I wonder what new thing I am going to learn about him this year. :)

Have a fabulous Sunday!

Michelle

A rare treat . . .

2009-04-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

Spending time with my girlfriends . . . I am looking forward to an afternoon of shopping, dining, and catching up. Life gets busy with family and life, so it is always a rare treat for us to get together like this. My girlfriends, there is nothing quite like them.

Michelle

Little Vegetarian

2009-04-23T10:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to take Emma and Landon to see "Earth". It was beautiful, majestic, amazing and also a little sad. At one point I turned to Emma to catch a tear running down her cheek as she watched a predator do what it does; hunt for prey. It was an opportunity for me to tell her about the circle of life, and the necessity of an animals instinct to hunt. On the other hand, I understood the raw emotion because I am an avid animal lover too and my heart was hurting as well. I would be lying if I said I did not have a lump in my throat. We held hands and got through the hard parts. Fortunately, they weren't very graphic, but you knew what the outcome was. At one point our hearts hurt for the predator, and if you have the opportunity to watch the movie, you will see what I mean.

My little, barely 9 year old Emma loves meat more then I can tell you. She can chow down a steak or gobble up three or four pieces of chicken in record speed. I used to do the same when I was her age. I still love a good steak every now and again. But something changed in her yesterday and she decided she was no longer a meat eater, but a Vegetarian. I commend her for standing up for something that she feels so strongly about. We need that kind of strength to get through life. We need to be able to do the admirable thing, the right thing, and the hard thing.

Once a week the kids are allowed to order hot lunch at school. Since it is a pre-order, her hot lunch happened to be today and the main course was a corn dog. "But I can't have a corn dog Mommy, it has meat in it."

"Well Honey, I guess you can go make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for yourself." And so she did. Her carnivorous sister took her hot lunch and Emma made a sandwich. I am proud of her.

I don't know how long being a Vegetarian will last. After all, chicken is a big part of our diet. But I support her, and will help her every step of the way. Good job sweet Em, I am proud of you for standing up for what you believe in, but if bacon calls your name the next time we are having it for breakfast, I will understand and support that too.

Michelle

Blessed . . .

2009-04-21T09:18:00.001-07:00

It's a good day and I am just counting my blessings. Life isn't perfect but I try to find happiness even in the small things. I hope you can find it too.

xo,

Michelle

Happy Birthday Emma!

2009-04-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Happy 9th Birthday my very sweet girl! 9 years ago today, you came into our lives, and our life has never been the same. You are sweet and you are spunky, you are our little firecracker and things are never boring with you around. Daddy and I love you so much more than you could ever know. Have a super-fantastic birthday today! xox

Love,

Mommy