Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 28-31

Photo 28 - Karate

We attended our 2nd class at the Wacky Gym. Here Justin is learning karate. Last week they did soccer.

Take things as they are. Punch when you have to punch. Kick when you have to kick.
Author: Bruce Lee





Photo 29 - Miss Popularity

Today in school Victoria received a birthday party invitation. Her sister and brother did not. Why did only Victoria get one? Victoria is very outgoing and makes friends quite easily. Wait! She's only 3 years old! Is this the indication of how the next couple of years will be? She is not going to the party.












Photo 30 - Puzzles

After reading I'm an Organizing Junkie's blog entry about organizing puzzles I had to share a photo of what our puzzles look like at the moment. In November I got fed up and threw away all their wooden puzzles. Why? Not one. Not one. I know I'm repeating just wanted to see if you were paying attention. Not one puzzle had all the pieces to it. December comes around and our Rabbi gives us 2 big boxes full of puzzles. Was God watching over us? Was I blessed or was I cursed? Again, the puzzle pieces wind up all over my kitchen and living room. Will the kids pick them up? No, of course not. So again I got fed up and picked up every piece and shoved them into this garbage bag. Now, they sit in my laundry room. Will I go through the bag? I may at some point or I may just put them in the trash. I may try Laura's idea with the plastic zip lock baggies. I so need more time in a day!

Photo 31 - My office

Okay, we are back in my office. You know the place that is a total mess. No I didn't get a chance to clean. Oh, I'm lying. I did pick up a few things and I gave photos and papers back to my friend as her stuff was clogging up some of my floor space.

Anyway back to my photo. This side of my room is where the loft is overlooking my family room. I have my books here and scrapbook pages that I have completed (paper ones) that so need to be placed in books. If you count 3 piles over you will see a stack of pages that need to be sorted into 3 books. They are of their 2nd year. I may have to get them more albums.

January 08 Roundup

I have been doing the monthly roundups for a couple months now. If you want to find out more about Roundups please visit Katie the Scrapbook Lady's blog here.

Can you believe tomorrow is February? Where did January go? Man it flew by me so quickly. Well, here is my roundup for January.

What books and/or magazines did I read this month?

I am trying to add some reading time to my hectic schedule. I read very slowly so bare with me. I started to read "Five-Star Families Moving Yours from Good to Great" by Carol Kuykendall. I am on page 35. It has 220 pages. I received this book from my friend Jennifer from MOPS for Christmas. I have the book in my pocketbook so if ever I get somewhere and have nothing to do I can pull it out. That's what I did when I was at the movie theatre waiting for my friend to arrive.

The other book that I am reading I rented from the library. It's called "ORDER from CHAOS" a 6-Step Plan for Organizing yourself, your office and your life by Liz Davenport. I am on page 41. It has 211 pages in it. I actually brought this one to the gym with me and read on the treadmill. Right now I'm reading about paper clutter and how to file faster.

Magazines - I got my first issue of Digital Scrapbooking. No, I never had this magazine before. Are you laughing? I normally just use the internet or Creative Keepsakes mag for my inspiration. I only read a few pages in my magazine. It's in my bathroom for when I have a few minutes to just sit and read.

What movies and/or tv shows did I watch this month?

I rented The Heartbreak Kid. My husband would consider this a girly movie but I think men would like it as well because of all the sexual content. Besides that I liked the movie. I usually like Ben Stiller movies. I think he's funny.

I actually got to see 2 movies in the theatre this month. A record for me. I went once with the MOMS Club to see Juno and once I took Justin to the movies alone as my mom had the girls we saw "Alvin and the Chipmunks". Both movies were really good. Of course, the chipmunks really reminded me of my children. Now, when they are bad I'm screaming, "ALVIN"

What special days did I celebrate and how?

There were no special days this month. We did add 2 new things to our schedule though. Gold's Gym and Wacky Gym. Oh, we did go to our friend Cameron's birthday party. He turned 2.

What gifts did I give and/or receive?

We gave Cameron a cute little toy camera. I am always taking photos of him so when I saw the camera I knew I just had to get it for him.

What illnesses or health concerns did I have?

The children suffered from ear infections again! I had to pick up Naomi from school one day because she had a fever and complained of ear pain. Went to the doctor but she said that there was fluid in her ears and that she couldn't give her any medication because she had no infection.

The worst thing that happened this month was that Justin closed Naomi's small finger in the pantry closet door. She lost her finger nail from this incident. She's been wearing a bandaide for like 2 weeks now. I was so scared when it happened and almost rushed her to the ER as the blood was really bad. Luckily my husband was there to calm me down. I could never be a nurse.

What fun things did I do with my friends and/or family?

My mom took the girls to get their hair cut and I took Justin to the car dealer to purchase our car and then to the movies. It's not very often that I just get one on one with my children so this was special.

What new foods, recipes or restaurants did I try this month?

Well, I have been meal planning every Monday. This certainly has been helping with the question, "What's for dinner?" which I really hate. I made spinach brownies which was really good. Broccoli, Sausage pasta was really good too. These recipes can be found on my blog this month. No new restaurants.

What special or unusual purchases did I make?

Stockpiling for my pantry. Let's see! I got tons of peanut butter, ketchup, Ragu pasta sauce and cereals. I have been using coupons for the items that are on sale and getting them for free to $1 each! I've been saving from $30-$80 reducing our grocery bill.

What were this month's disappointments?

Naomi getting her finger caught in the door and her losing her fingernail from the incident.

What were my accomplishments this month?

42 scrapbook pages completed.

Anything else noteworthy to record?

Great website for the month: Hot Coupon World

I have been trying to cut down our grocery spending. I normally spend from $800-$1,000 a month. I actually spent $784 and saved $278 using coupons and price plus only purchasing things on sale and stocking up on certain products that we use often. I also mailed in rebates that total $36 so I should be getting that back in February. I best deal I did was at CVS where I spent .59 and saved $27.92 on Ragu, Skippy Peanut Butter, Twizzlers, Purex laundry detergent getting $8 back in extra bucks to use next time.

Backup your digital pictures to cd/dvd and upload them to an online site or two for an extra backup. Send the links to the online albums to friends and family.

Choose photos (or digital layouts) to be printed out and get that done while you are thinking about it.

Make sure your scrapbooking area is cleaned up and organized. Put away new purchases (or organize your hard drive if you are a digi scrapper)

Look over the calendar for the coming month and make note of upcoming events you will want to capture for your scrapbooks.

Dream Scrapbook Room

Check out this scrapbook room! Now, I thought I had a lot of stuff. Wow!

http://twopeasinabucket.kaboose.com:80/pg.asp?cmd=display&layout_id=1285148

Wrong Time in History

Tue Blog Prompt 1/29

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Have you ever thought (or been told) that you were born in the wrong time? When in history do you think you would best 'fit in'?

__________________
I have never been told I was born in the wrong era. I was born in the 1970's. In the 80's I had the wild hair that everyone had. I wore those bright colors that everyone wore and had my nails matching those bright colors. I also wore leg warmers and who remembers those rubber shoes with the holes in them.

But if I had to choose a time in history where I think I'd be able to fit in it would have to be the 1940's. During the Great Depression women were quilting more for the companionship it provided through church or other sewing groups. They didn't have computers to occupy their time. I know I would have been good at quilting since that's what I enjoyed doing before scrapbooking and would enjoy the friendships between woman. I would fit right in.

Childhood Games

Mon Blog Prompt 1/28

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What were your favorite toys or games when you were a child?

I don't remember any toys but I do remember paying board games. I think my favorite game was mouse trap and then I loved those card games. Uno was my favorite. Oh, I also liked boggle. It was a word game with dice.

Last week didn't go as planned. I wound up doing a bit of shuffling with the recipes because of guests and going out to eat one night. So chicken burgers was left over and will be made for tonight. My review of my recipes from last week. Sherry Sour Cream Chicken was a big flop. However, the carrot souffle was really good. My kids and husband didn't like it but I did. Ultimate Beef Jerky turned out pretty well. My husband liked it. The spinache brownies was a big hit. KEEPER. Not only did I eat it but my mom liked it and my son liked it. Of course, he really liked when we sang the "Popie the Sailor Man" while he ate it. The Baked slow cook chicken was okay. A little dry though.

Now for this week's menu
Monday - Chicken Burgers and Fries (left over from last weeks menu)

Tues - Meatloaf and mashed potatoes

Wed- Whiskey Steak and corn

Thurs - Tater Tot Casserole by The Four Ingredient Cookbook by Linda Coffee and Emily Cale (Family favorite especially the kids. I serve it with ketchup for dipping).
2 pounds of ground beef
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 package (2 pounds) frozen tater tots

Pat ground beef in bottom of a greased 13 x 9 x 2 pan. Spread soup over meat and cover with grated cheese. Top with tater tots. Bake at 350 degrees covered 45 minutes and uncovered fro 15 minutes. Serves 8-10


Fri - Garlic Prime Rib and Lemon Broccoli Pasta

Sat - Homemade Chicken Soup

Sun - Barbecued Meatballs (Another favorite)

Many thanks to Laura at The Organizing Junkie for hosting Menu Plan Mondays!

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 26 & 27

Photo of the Day - Jan 26

Getty Up Daddy. Before going to bed Daddy usually comes and plays with us while we get our PJ's on. Tonight he did push ups with all three on his back.








Photo of the Day - Jan 27

Can I avoid a mess? Why is it that every night their play room looks like a hurricane came. I'm so tempted to throw every single one of their toys in the trash as I'm tired of picking them up every night.

Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing. ~Phyllis Diller, Phyllis Diller's Housekeeping Hints, 1966

CT Call

Bonnie is expanding her CT. Check out her blog here. Check out her kits here. I am on her CT. Her kits are beautiful and she's great to work for. Hope you come and join us.

Independent - Photo of the Day 25

My daughter Naomi (the baby) is starting to help out around the house. Last week I allowed them to take turns making the lemon aide. Now, today she is starting to serve others by pouring each glass. She is so proud to serve her brother and sister a glass of lemon aide.

in·de·pend·ent - adjective

not relying on another or others for aid or support.

Books to Read

Fri Blog Prompt 1/24

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What's on your reading list? How many books are waiting in the queue?

I actually started to read a book called "Five-Star Families" by Carol Kuykendall. It's only 220 pages. I received it from my friend at MOPS as part of my Christmas present. I brought the book with me to the movie theatre this week and as I waited for my friends to come I read 28 pages. That's a first for me. I normally don't have any time to read. Now, the question is, Will I finish the book? Or should the question be When will I finish this book?

There are many books waiting to be read. I think I have about 10 Nora Roberts books sitting on my shelf unread. I used to collect books. Some in book stores and some at yard sales. I mainly read by author so if you looked at my collection you would see lots of books with the same authors.

Coffee or Tea?

Thur 1/24 Blog Prompt: Is it coffee or tea for you in the morning? Give some free advertising for your favorite morning pick-me-up.

I like to drink coffee. We get the Maxwell House French Vanilla coffee. Then we put coffee mate liquid vanilla. My husband makes the coffee in the morning and sometimes he will put whipped cream on top too. I only drink a cup a day and sometimes I don't even get that one cup. It really depends on what I have to do for the day. I like to drink coffee when I'm at home relaxing while reading all the blogs that I read. Unfortunately, I cannot drink coffee if I plan on going somewhere. The main reason is because when I drink coffee I have to be around a bathroom and being stuck in a car when I need to go is not fun! Sorry if that's too much information.

For some apparent reason tea makes me sick. I guess when I think of tea it reminds of the time when I threw up right after drinking it. I know it could have been just a stomach bug or the fact that I didn't eat anything that caused me to throw up. I just don't want to have that feeling again so I tend to stay away from tea in the morning at least.

Clutter - Photo of the Day 24

Man I can't seem to get away from it? What am I talking about? Clutter. These toys. Not only are they all over my house but now they are in my car too! I cleaned out the car last month and again the car is cluttered with stuff!

clut·ter

1.	to fill or litter with things in a disorderly manner

5 Layouts - Photo of the Day

Credits
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Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 23

Like Father Like Son. My son has my husband's feet. What? It's the one thing that annoys me about my husband. I hate when he doesn't clip his toe nails. He'll let it grow and grow. It just grosses me out. And Look what happens to the socks! It starts out being just one little hole. Then it becomes one big hole throughout the day eventually making all the toes stick out. Bet you thought it was a cast on his foot, no? It certainly looks like one in this photo. You can't imagine how many socks I throw out because of holes.

Or for those of you who were born in the 80's doesn't it remind you of leg warmers? Remember those leg warmers. I think I had them in like every color and, of course, I had to have those like hot pink and bright yellow ones too.

Where I Would Like to be Right Now

Wed Blog Prompt 1/23

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The weather is REALLY cold where I am this morning. So the question today is...

Where would you rather be?

Well, since I didn't have much sleep last night because my son had crawled into our bed in the middle of the night and then has coughing attacks throughout the night. Funny thing is he's not coughing now? So I sit here on my computer half a sleep wishing for night time to come so I can crawl back under the covers and get some much needed sleep without interruptions.

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 22

Diamonds found a new use for my DVD "The Best of Adobe Photoshop Elements Techniques". She's using it as a pillow to sleep on. I haven't even opened the DVD up yet. I got it during the holidays. She normally sleeps behind my computer when I'm using it during the day. I think she likes the heat from my EHD that is behind her.

Clothing Attachment

Tues Blog Prompt 1/22

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Have you ever gotten 'attached' to a piece of clothing? One you didn't want to get rid of, even when you knew you should?

When I was pregnant with the triplets I had gotten these really cool sneakers with no backs. They were slip ons. I loved them since I didn't have to bend down to put them on. I wore them throughout my pregnancy and the first 2 years until I wore them out where the sole was starting to rip. I finally tossed them in the trash and to this day I haven't found a new comfortable pair.

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 21

Mon Blog Prompt 1/21

Finish the sentence 'Today I would like ...'. to save money. My plan was to go food shopping after the kids went to bed. This time I preplanned my shopping trip. I sat with all the flyers from all the stores I shop at. I planned out 2 stores and pulled out coupons for each store. Comparing prices to see where I would get the best deals. I used envelopes and wrote on the outside what was on sale and if I had a coupon enclosed. I also planned my meals around the sales too.

My first stop was at Rite Aid. I bought mostly cleaning supplies and health and beauty products all of which I had a coupon for. Some of the things they had on sale was buy one get one. I saved 11.55 and I need to go to Rite Aid's website to get an additional rebate of $3. Then off to shoprite where I got the rest of our groceries. I didn't know that some coupons you were only allowed one per customer so I had to split my order in two. My big order I saved 51.92 paying only $200. My 2nd order I paid $6 saving $7.20. So I saved $70.67. It's the most I have ever saved! I normally save about $15-$30 per week in coupons.

I also mailed in $35 worth of rebates. I am determined to get my grocery bills down. $800-$1,000 a month is horrible. That total doesn't even include eating out! In February I have 2 coupon playdates with the MOMS Club so I'm hoping to trade and save more.

Now for the Photo of the Day:

The kids went to their first Wacky Gym class today. Nanny and Pop Pop gave them 20 classes for Christmas. They had a blast running around. They played soccer today. They were the only ones in the class. Another little girl was supposed to be there but didn't show up.

Menu Plan Monday

Can you believe I have made it 2 weeks now menu planning? It's amazing. It takes me about an hour to plan the meals and it saves so much time during the week as I know exactly what we are having and check the calendar the night before so I can defrost the meat. I think there was only one night I forgot to check and had to use the microwave to defrost but no big deal.

Previews from last weeks menu (all recipes can be found in my last monday's post):
Monday's lemon chicken. It turned out okay. I probably will put that in the rotation again. Tuesday - Mom's Chilighetti. It was a big hit. The kids loved spaghetti and my husband loved having it alone with cheese, of course. A KEEPER. The fast chicken and dumplings (will not make it again). It was way too much bread. The Bracciola came out okay as well. My husband buys a lot of that thin meat so I may use that as one of the recipes for when he purchases that meat. Awesome slow cooker pot roast. Came out really good. The meat was a little dry but the gravy really saved this meal. I made steamed broccoli with baked potatoes which was really good to go with it.

Now for this week's menu
Monday - I took out chop meat as that's the only thing I had in the freezer left. Going shopping tonight. I think I may make Monday's my grocery shopping day. Last week my daughter picked out hamburger helper so I think I'm just going to make that tonight to make it easy on me since I plan on grocery shopping at night after the kids go to bed.

Tues - Sherry Sour Cream Chicken (NEW) and Carrot Souffle (NEW recipe below)

Wed - Ultimate Beef Jerky (***needs to marinate)****NEW) and Spinach Brownies (NEW)

Thurs- filet mignon (husband's turn to cook) - Kids will have chicken nuggets.

Fri-Baked Slow Cook Chicken (NEW) and salad

Sat-chicken burgers with french fries

Sun-Sweet and Sour Meatballs (AGAIN husband's favorite)

Chasen’s Carrot Soufflé by MomLid
• 1/2 cup crushed corn flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons butter -- room temperature
For the soufflé:
• 1 pound carrots, cooked -- until tender
• 3 eggs
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter -- melted
• Dash of nutmeg
• Pinch of salt -- (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
For the topping:
1. Combine the crushed corn flakes or walnuts, brown sugar and butter. Set aside.
2. Puree the cooked carrots and the eggs in a blender (do not use a food processor).
3. Add the sugar, flour, vanilla, butter, nutmeg and salt and blend.
4. Pour into a 1 1/2-quart pan or soufflé dish and bake for 40 minutes.
5. Spread the topping over the soufflé and bake 5 to 10 minutes longer, until the topping is lightly browned.

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 20

Here I am posting my photo of the day at 11:19 pm. I had to think of a photo to take before the next day. The other day someone else who is doing the photo of the day took a photo of some knick knacks that they had so I figured why not take a photo of my cat statue.

This ceramic cat was made by my mom a couple years ago. She is not a creative person. Mom doesn't like to do arts and crafts. One day she went with a friend to a ceramic class. She knew that I love cats so she made this for me. It reminds me of Rocky. Rocky was not that color but he did have the furriness like the statue. This cat sits in my dining room.

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 19

Naomi forgave her brother for smashing her finger in the door. Here they are hugging. Unfortunately, I was too close to get the photo but did manage to get this one.

Forgiveness is a funny thing. It warms the heart and cools the sting. ~William Arthur Ward

Kit I made - Baby Joy

Wanted to get this done before the end of the month approached. This kit I made for contribution to SNL (Saturday Night Live). The theme this month is new beginnings or baby. If you participate in the challenge here you can get this kit free along with everyone else who participated. Come join us.

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 18

This is Victoria. She is the oldest of my three. Today I tried to get some close up photos of her and I liked this one the best. You can see her brown eyes. She is very different than my other two children. She looks just like her Daddy and has his personality too. When Daddy is around she is his shadow. She doesn't like dance and lately she doesn't like when I leave her anywhere. She's been having some separation anxiety that I hope she will grow out of.

A Butterfly in the Wind

A child is like a butterfly in the wind
Some can fly higher than others,
But each one flies the best it can.
Why compare one against the other?
Each one is different.
Each one is special.
Each one is beautiful.

Laughter is Hardly Here

Fri Blog Prompt 1/18

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What kinds of humor do you enjoy the most? Tell us what makes you laugh!

I haven't laughed in a long time. Most of the time I'm just trying to get through the day. Just the other day I cracked up laughing so hard that tears ran out of my eyes. Why was I laughing? Let me give you a little background before telling you what happened. My husband has never changed a diaper. Yes, that's right I have triplets and I changed all the diapers along with my mom who helped in the beginning. He just can't handle the smell or thought of poop. Okay, now back to the situation:

My husband is in the kitchen. He's giving the kids treats. Along runs in Victoria with her potty bowl. My husband says, "What's that smell?" I stand on the side not helping out but just watching. Victoria pushes her bowl out in front of her and says, "Daddy, Look." My husband bends down to look at what's in the bowl and starts gagging and runs out of the room. Here I am laughing so hard that the tears are running down my face. It was hysterical. I haven't laughed that much in a long time.

I know it's gross sorry.

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 17

The Calm After the Storm

I am in a lot of pain. My brother closed the pantry door on my finger. My fingernail is crushed and almost detached. Mommy tried to make me feel better while Daddy played doctor bandaging my finger. I told Mommy, "Put shoes on. I want to leave. I don't like Justin and Victoria. I want to go to Nanny's."

Things that Bug Me

Thur 1/17 Blog Prompt

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Are you up for another interactive prompt? I thought that since on Monday we did 'Things that make us smile', maybe today we could do...

Things that bug us. Make a list, then when the everyone else posts, cross off things that more than one person listed.


In no particular order:
1. Nagging
2. Toys on the floor
3. No one listens when asked to do something.
4. Arriving Late
5. Traffic
6. The gas light coming on when I'm already late for work (happened today)
7. When people don't check their e-mail.
8. Piles and piles of dirty laundry - running out of clean underwear and towels
9. Dirty dishes in the sink in the morning
10. When my cat walks on the keyboard
11. When my battery on the camera dies
12. The ringing of the telephone
13. Running out of toner when you need to print something.
14. When you cook for over an hour and the meal comes out awful.
15. The constant fighting in my house
16. The constant bad news coming in the mail.
17. When you are shopping and the cell phone doesn't work
18. Clutter in every room
19. Snow (I hate snow!)
20. spam e-mails
21. Junk mail
22. Rude comments when you are out in public about having triplets
23. Missing out on a sale
24. Not getting coupons in my Sunday paper
25. Being cold

I just got the mail on the front cover of WIRED Magazine (my husband's) Feb 08 issue it says:

WHY THINGS SUCK!
The 33 Things that make us Crazy by Sarah Silverman

Traffic (crossing off mine)
Junk Mail (crossing off mine)
Booze
Printers (crossing off mine)
Spam Filters (crossing off mine)
Air Travel
Knees
Whiteboards
Batteries (crossing off mine)
Copiers
Credit cards
Tomatoes
Web Video
and more....

Organize Magazine

Have you seen this magazine? My whole goal for 2008 is to get more organized. I came across this magazine while searching on line and of course, I had to order it. Unfortunately, I can't get the current issue as it doesn't start until April/May. Bummer. But you can go to their website and read a bit about the magazine here.

What Type Blogger are you?

You Are a Life Blogger!

Your blog is the story of your life - a living diary. If it happens, you blog it. And make it as entertaining as possible.

What Kind of Blogger Are You?

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 16

Photo of the day: This is my new coupon book. It is a spiral photo album that I got at Target. It has 2 slots on each side. I used my Stampin' Up tab punch to make tabs for the categories. In the front of the book my categories include: Produce, Cereal, Snacks, Drinks, Cans, Condiments, Soups, Pasta, Baking, Paper, Towels, Tissues, Cleaning, Dish, Laundry, HABBA, Medication, Pets, Frozen, Dairy, Misc. Then in the back of the book I have the different stores listed. One page for each store. Target, Walgreens, CVS, Shoprite and Superfresh. While making this book my husband came in the room and said, "You're scrapbooking your coupons too?" I just laughed! Anyway my book is now complete. The way I had it before was sorted by expiration date. So now I will have to adjust to the new format.

Lonely Heart - Changes

Wed Blog Prompt 1/16
I have three photos from stock.xchng posted on my blog.

Go to my blog, choose one of the photos, post it on your blog and write something creative about it. It could be a description, a short story, a poem, how it makes you feel...whatever you want!


Giving up doesn't always mean you are weak; sometimes it means that you are strong enough to let go. ~Author Unknown

When I look at this picture I feel so alone. It reminds me of how empty my life has become and the lack of energy I used to have. It motivates me to do some type of exercise to become strong. To do something for myself. It gives me strength and motivation. I will not give up. I will change things. I have the ability to change the way I feel and to make my life better. I will spend more time with my husband and to get to know him again. I will give up my resentment I felt for him for the lack of helping with the kids. He is starting to help out more with the children alleviating some of my stress and anxiety. 2008 will be a better year for me and my family. Lots of changes will take place but only for the better.

If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it. ~Mary Engelbreit

Links to Share

While searching for some meal planner ideas I came across this blog. It's a lot of reading and even at the end of her entry she has more sights to read. I only read hers and bookmarked it so I can read again tomorrow. Too much information for me for the night.

This is an awesome blog that shares ideas on how to use coupons effectively and she shares some places where you can get more coupons and even freebies. Awesome sight.

Another recipe website.

Do it yourself planner website. You can print out templates and make your own planner. I looked around and bookmarked it as I know I will be going back to read more.

5 Layouts - Photo of the Day

Credits
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Credits

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 15

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 15

Stockpiling grocery items in the laundry room. Yesterday I went shopping at Shoprite. They are having their annual can-can sale. I did some stocking up on some items such as canned vegetables and skippy peanut butter. Luckily I had some coupons so not only did I get the peanut butter on sale but I also got additional cost off using a coupon. This should last us a while

Quote

Tues Blog Prompt 1/15

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Post a quote that you like and write about why it means something to you.

If you want to test your memory, try to recall what you were worrying about one year ago today. ~E. Joseph Cossman

One year ago? What in the world was I doing? I was not working. The kids were not going to school but they were receiving speech therapy. We were still members of the MOMS Club. We were still attending MOPS meetings but went to a different chapter. We were also attending story time at the library at least once a week. I did not remember this on my own. I had to look at the calendar from last year. Luckily I did not throw it away quite yet. Maybe I should transfer my schedule to my Palm (the thing I never carry around but use on my computer) and get rid of the 2007 big calendar with the recycling this week. 2008 note to self to use the palm more often.

One year ago - Jan 15, 2007 - Speech therapy. What was I worrying about? History: Prior to my kids being born Early Intervention was free in the state of NJ. Once my kids were born they changed the Early Intervention program. You now had to pay for services depending on your annual income. In 2006 when Victoria wasn't able to walk we were concerned. We called for her to get evaluated. As they did the evaluation we also had the other 2 tested as well. All 3 had delays. So we got speech therapy for all 3 and Victoria got physical therapy to strengthen her muscles. The cost for all three services was about $50 a month. Affordable. Back to Jan 15, 2007. We received a letter. The letter stated that starting on Feb 1, 2007 there would be an increase of $300 per month for services! CRAZY right? We had the option of continuing service for $350 a month or canceling the service. So we decided to cancel the service. We just couldn't afford the additional cost per month. Not only was I worried about the bills and whether or not we should cancel the service I was worrying about whether the kids really needed speech. I had them tested again on Jan 30th, 2007 and Victoria passed but the other 2 still were still delayed but only slightly.

Fast forward to today. Justin is almost on track and Naomi we feel is still delayed. She struggles with little things like recognizing alphabet letters. Victoria and Justin can recognize letters and can spell their name. Naomi still cannot do so.

Smile List

Mon Blog Prompt 1/14

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Write a list of things that make you smile -- which I know we've done before, but the twist is that each of our lists should be unique. So make your list, then when you read the others' posts, if both of you list the same thing, strike it out on your list. I want to see how many distinctly creative things we can come up with today!

These are in no particular order
1. A clean desk
2. A meal plan for the week complete
3. Savings of $60 using coupons (highest yet)
4. Victoria's happy coolie dance (Stephanie wrote:
A child having a good time and laughing hard)
5. Justin cuddling in bed in the morning
6. A new meal that is a Keeper (doesn't happen often) (Loonyhiker wrote: When my husband really likes something that I've cooked)
7. Completing my photo for the day entry
8. Reaching my goal in scrapbook pages
9. Reading Katie's Blog (it's like reading about myself) (Loonyhiker wrote: Reading something funny on someone else's blog)
10. Reading Bonnie's Blog (beautiful photos and lots of creativity) (Loonyhiker wrote: Reading something funny on someone else's blog
11. No surprises in the mailbox
12. Receiving a package in the mail
13. A finished scrapbook page (Glynis said: Finishing a scrapbook page)
14. Downloading photos on my first try (I think one of my USB ports is broken)
15. When the kids help to clean up
16. When DH makes me coffee in the morning and helps feed the kids breakfast
17. Seeing my husband play with the kids
18. Seeing Naomi carry 3 baby dollies telling me she has triplets
19. Time to watch Days of Our Lives
20. Completing a to do list

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 14

I decided to carry my Sony Cyber-shot around in my purse. It's the camera that is broken. Well, it still takes photos but I have to use the ISO feature because my flash broke.

Today we went to the gym. After the gym I took them to CVS (long story here) to get some sale items to earn cash back rewards and then we went to Shoprite to pick up stuff from the can-can sale. I guess it was a bit too much for them because as I shopping they all fell asleep. On our way out of the store I picked up donuts and remembered I had my camera in my purse and I got this shot of Victoria sleeping.

Menu Plan Monday

Last week's menu was changed a bit because of our schedule. Review of last weeks recipes. (You can find the recipes to these in my last Monday's post). Steak Pizzaiola - got only 2 stars out of 4. My husband said he liked the sauce but not with flank steak. He told me to keep the recipe and maybe try it next time with chicken. Broccoli & Sausage Cavatelli - Got 4 stars. It's a KEEPER. Not only did I get my son to eat broccoli I caught my husband eating it too. I made the meal using fresh steamed broccoli as it was on sale and spiral pasta. Beef Bruschetta Skillet is going in the trash can. The kids and I both didn't like it. I made the lemon chicken tonight and it was okay giving it a 3 star. Actually got the kids to eat red peppers probably because it was very sweet. My husband said it was okay. I did not make the marinated feta cheese spread. I'll include that again in this weeks menu.

Monday - Lemon Chicken with white rice (see last monday for recipe) *** rating above

Tuesday - Mom's Chilighetti (New Recipe)

Wednesday - Fast Chicken and Dumplings by Rachael Ray (New Recipe)

Thurs - Kathy's Whole Slow Cook Chicken (see last Monday for recipe). Since I didn't make it last week it's again on my list as I have a whole chicken in my freezer waiting to be cooked.

Friday - Brocciola (new recipe) I have made something similar to this before. My husband keeps getting this very thin beef.

Saturday - Awesome Slow Cooker Pot Roast (New Recipe trying crock pot again. Hope it's good).

Sunday - Sweet and Sour Meatballs with white rice (See last monday for recipe) (Husband's favorite)

Why does it take me over an hour to pick out recipes? I'm always adding new recipes to my wanting to make list. Hope this gets quicker as I do these.

Obsession / Project 365

What have I been up to? Well, I went to the gym 3 times this week. I took 2 kick boxing classes and today the class would have been belly dancing but it was canceled at the last minute. In place of the belly dancing class they had salsa dancing so I took that. Tomorrow I have an appointment with a personal trainer to go over the equipment.

Anxiety is kicking in. Why? Well, I found this website about coupons. It's called Hot Coupon World. I have been obsessed with the sight. I've been reading so much. I wound up purchasing coupons at ebay for things that I normally shop for and today I purchased 3 newspapers from the deli to get coupons for the week. I've been memorizing the flyers from all the stores. I am going to cancel my newspaper delivery service. Why? Because I have found that I have not been getting my coupons and not reading the paper so I'm trying to get rid of the clutter. I have called 2 times to complain. Now, I will have to try to remember on Sundays to go to the deli to get my coupons. I have also set up 2 playgroups for the MOMS Club for coupon exchanges for Feb. I just cannot afford to spend $800 a month on groceries any more. I sure hope to cut it down drastically with coupons. I always shopped with coupons but I never had more than one coupon so we'll see how this goes.

Finally, Project 365 of 2008 - Day 13

Is this comfortable? Since Rocky passed away this past October my cat Diamonds has been very needy and has to be in the same room as me. She normally sits behind my computer but today I had my Canon Rebel there in her spot. So I look up and there she is sitting on top of my file box behind my adding machine. Not much space was there so she couldn't possible be comfortable. It never seems to amaze me where I will find her sleeping or sitting. Oh, see that mess next to my computer I finally took 15 minutes and decluttered that. Most of it was expired coupons. The things I did keep was my camera manual, coupons for some restaurants near us and some household companies like floor cleaning companies that I found coupons for. Our rug so needs to be cleaned. The kids really ruined it with all their bottles and sippy cups.

Project 365 in 2008 - Photo of the Day 12

What did I do prior to scrapbooking? Back in 1995 when I got married my husband worked 24/7 and told me to get a hobby so I wouldn't be alone so much. I took classes on how to quilt. I started many projects and have many UFO's (unfinished objects). I learned both hand quilting and machine quilting. I finished a few projects. My very first project turned out to be a table runner that I gave to my mom one mother's day. I wanted it to be a queen size quilt but doing this by hand it took me over 3 years I think to complete it. I did complete some baby quilts too that I had given away as gifts. This photo is a quilt I actually made. The top design is done by me but I had it quilted professionally so now it's hanging on my banister. It's the only one that I have that I completed for myself. One day I will go in Justin's closet and pull out all the unfinished quilt squares and tops and maybe one day I will put them together but for now I continue to use all my free time doing my scrapbooking.

Moments 2007

Fri Blog Prompt 1/11

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Describe some of your moments from this past year.

January 07
The children were getting speech help from a speech therapist until the state of NJ wanted to bill us $350 more a month for the service which we could not afford. We discontinued service. Jan 29th was the last day of speech where she did a revaluation. Victoria passed. Justin and Naomi were still behind. The therapist said they weren't very behind just slightly behind and she said they should catch up with the other kids their age by the time they go to preschool. Praying she is right.

February 07
I participated in the Regional MOMS Club luncheon committee. It was a lot of work. I had to catch up on all the scrapbooking since no one was doing it prior. I also had to help design the tri-fold for our table display.

I also turned 37. I celebrated at a MOMS Night out at a spa where I got a full body massage and manicure. I so deserved the pampering.

March 07
Regional Luncheon for MOMs Club was a lot of fun. There were only about 6 of us who went. Stacy won a gift in the raffle. The raffles were amazing. There were tons of raffle prizes way over $200. There were prizes for both children and adults.

Evan turns 37. We take him out to dinner to celebrate.

The children enjoyed their first egg hunt at the park. They had so much fun putting eggs in their baskets.

April 07
We took the kids to see Sesame Street Live. This was also on my father's birthday so we went out to dinner after the show. The kids loved the show. We went with a group from the MOMS Club.

I had my first Mammogram. They sent me at age 37 because I have a history of breast cancer in my family. The test was quick but uncomfortable. When you are small and they squash you it doesn't feel too great. Luckily the test came back fine.

May 07
We went to the Philadelphia zoo with the MOMS Club. My mom also came with us.

For Mother's Day we all went out to a restaurant near my parents house. It was nice to eat as a big family. Hopefully they will do something again next year.

June 07
We went to the sprayground water fun park. Luckily my mom came along since Justin was deathly afraid of the water so she took Justin to the playground while I watched the girls.

July 07
We went to the annual triplet picnic at Veterans Park 2 times. The first time we arrived and it poured like cats and dogs so it was canceled for the day. The 2nd time the kids had a blast going through all the stuff that was being given away such as books, clothes, puzzles, toys. We took home some much needed clothing and some preschool activity books.

August 07
The kids turned 3. We had a party at our house. Miss Amy came to entertain the kids and the theme was the mouse from the movie Ratatouille

We went to Sesame Place with my SIL and BIL. No, my husband did not attend. He never goes to any events. Luckily my SIL helped with the kids. The children were deathly afraid of the characters and cried and screamed. They did love the water. Naomi was the brave one and went on the water tube herself. Hopefully next year they won't be so afraid.

September 07
The kids start preschool 2 1/2 days a week. I return to work doing accounting while the kids are in school. Making not even enough to pay for their schooling but it helps towards their fee.

I taught a Stampin' Up class for Cori in exchange for hosting a jewelry party. Unfortunately, not much was made during this class. Not one person ordered that night. She did get 2 or 3 orders after the party but that still didn't equal enough for a party so I wound up ordering more myself so she could get benefits. I really don't know why I even bother.

I joined another MOPS this year. My friend Jenn from the MOMS Club is the leader of this one. The kids enjoy playing while I go to the meetings. I don't think I will be able to attend MOPS next year since the kids will be going to preschool M,W and F.

We decorated with fruit at Mindi's to celebrate the Festival of the Harvest - Sukkot. We tied fruit and veggies to strings and hung it on her tent like covering over her patio.

The girls started dance. They are taking ballet and tap once a week. They are so cute wearing their little dresses.

October 07
The kids went apple picking at Lees Turkey Farm. Cousin Amanda also came with us.

2 hayrides. One was with my husband. It is the only event that he does attend each year. It is something I started with him way before the kids were born. I look forward to it every year since he attends too. This year Cousin Alexa also came with us.

The day before Halloween we went trick or treating at my sister's house. We all dressed like pirates. We decided to sleep over. At 11 pm that night I received a phone call from my husband saying my cat wasn't moving. He was on the landing of my stairs with his eyes open and not responding to anything. My husband turned him over and found a pretzel bag wedged in his throat. It was too late. He was gone. It was a tragic death. On Halloween day my husband had him cremated. I never got to say goodbye. I explained to the kids that he went to the rainbow bridge. Halloween will never be the same.

November 07
We hosted Thanksgiving at our house. Unfortunately, my SIL did not attend nor did my grandfather. My sister and BIL, grandma and my parents and in-laws were here. Everyone brought something and I did cook a couple side dishes and desserts. My parents gave us the turkey.

December 07
Hanukkah was so early this year. Luckily our holiday was done way before Christmas so the kids got all their gifts early. They each got their own computer and desks plus other toys.

I go to my doctor for my yearly check up and tell her how I have been feeling and she feels that I maybe suffering from anxiety and depression. She prescribed me some medication for my anxiety but says that I can't use it when I need to drive somewhere. So I haven't taken it because every day I have something to do. Don't want to be out of commission. I will have to work it out myself. She also suggested I exercise. So I joined a gym that will open in January.

Two days before Christmas my mom offers to take the kids to give me some time alone. I wind up cooking for Christmas. Christmas day we go to pick up the kids to go to my sisters and they are sick. So sick that they didn't even great us at the door. They were lethargic and all had fevers. We went to my sisters with Naomi only while my mom watched the other two and we had to leave early so my mom could have dinner and we got the kids home. We took them to the doctor when Naomi wound up with a 104 fever. All had double ear infections.

Finally Project 365 in 2008 - Day 11
This is my scrapbook room. This is what you see when you open up the door. I'm a bit embarrassed as it is so messy. There is stuff all over the counter tops and floors. It so needs a decluttering! If only I had the time to clean it up. So maybe 2008 will be the time when I get this room straightened up so I can use the room again. I haven't gone in my room for a while since I now do most of my stuff digitally.

5 Layouts - Photo of the Day

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