I See You
Monday, November 30, 2009
Bucket Filler
Monday, November 30, 2009
Have you ever been around a truly happy person?Happiness is an emotion that is hard not to share... And, it's quite contagious!
Today, be THAT happy person.
Even if you have to fake it... Eventually you won't
and you will BE that happy person!
Life Lessons from Olive Garden
Monday, November 30, 2009
Recently I was invited to go to dinner with a gal I knew from church. We weren't friends, so to speak, just friendly. She was having a little dinner party, and invited me to attend. I really only knew one person there. The other ten women were friends of hers that she had collected over the years.
As she introduced me to one of her friends, she said "This is Motherboard. We go to church together." The woman immediately said "She won't like me then. I scare Mormons" and then she turned around and walked away. I was a little taken back, and wondered why she would draw an immediate conclusion like that about me.
Then I realized why. She was a Lesbian.
I'll be honest with you, I was afraid of her. I really don't know why, but I was.
Now, before you get all Judgey-McJudgey pants on me, let me assure you that I have several friends that are Gay. I don't have a problem with their life choices because they are their life choices. Not mine.
As I sat there quietly listening to the conversation, I realized other than our sexual preferences, this woman and I had a lot in common. She told me that she was a returned missionary... So was I. She worked for a bank that my husband was legal counsel for. She loved Chicago and good food... Just like me. She also told me that she wished her visiting teachers and home teachers would come and visit her, but she scares them away because of how she chooses to live.
Then I understood.
If she had been assigned to be on my route before I had gotten to know her, I would have been like all the others. I would have labeled her with that nasty label and not visited her. I'm ashamed to admit that, but it's the truth. And that totally sucks.
I had judged her when we first met. And, honestly? I had judged her based on a label.. Not the person. But when I took the time to take that label off and see her for who she was, I saw A Child of God. A woman worth knowing.
We all do it. We all have labels that we assign people. There's the Working Mom; Stay-at-home Mom; Lazy Mom; Over Achiever Mom; Scary Lesbian; Super Mom; Perfect Mom; Non-Mormon; Democrat; Freaker Mom. . . You get the idea. We have boxes or expectations of how we assume the "label" would or should behave, act or think.
My epiphany was that these labels are typically wrong. If we stop at only the label, then we could be missing out on not the label, but A PERSON. These labels makes us feel safe, I guess. But by sticking to the labels we assign people, we are avoiding a great gift that God has given us-- Relationships/friendships with others.
If we avoid dealing with people that are different than us or make us feel uncomfortable, how do we expect to become more like the Savior? Becoming more like the Savior-- learning to frankly forgive, not judge and love unconditionally-- can only be done when we engage in relationships/friendships with people. Sans labels. Or judgment.
I left the Olive Garden that night with the desire to try a little hard to be less of a Judgey-Mcjudgey-pants and more like the Savior. More forgiving. More kind. More loving. And to see people the way he does... With unconditional love.
As she introduced me to one of her friends, she said "This is Motherboard. We go to church together." The woman immediately said "She won't like me then. I scare Mormons" and then she turned around and walked away. I was a little taken back, and wondered why she would draw an immediate conclusion like that about me.
Then I realized why. She was a Lesbian.
I'll be honest with you, I was afraid of her. I really don't know why, but I was.
Now, before you get all Judgey-McJudgey pants on me, let me assure you that I have several friends that are Gay. I don't have a problem with their life choices because they are their life choices. Not mine.
As I sat there quietly listening to the conversation, I realized other than our sexual preferences, this woman and I had a lot in common. She told me that she was a returned missionary... So was I. She worked for a bank that my husband was legal counsel for. She loved Chicago and good food... Just like me. She also told me that she wished her visiting teachers and home teachers would come and visit her, but she scares them away because of how she chooses to live.
Then I understood.
If she had been assigned to be on my route before I had gotten to know her, I would have been like all the others. I would have labeled her with that nasty label and not visited her. I'm ashamed to admit that, but it's the truth. And that totally sucks.
I had judged her when we first met. And, honestly? I had judged her based on a label.. Not the person. But when I took the time to take that label off and see her for who she was, I saw A Child of God. A woman worth knowing.
We all do it. We all have labels that we assign people. There's the Working Mom; Stay-at-home Mom; Lazy Mom; Over Achiever Mom; Scary Lesbian; Super Mom; Perfect Mom; Non-Mormon; Democrat; Freaker Mom. . . You get the idea. We have boxes or expectations of how we assume the "label" would or should behave, act or think.
My epiphany was that these labels are typically wrong. If we stop at only the label, then we could be missing out on not the label, but A PERSON. These labels makes us feel safe, I guess. But by sticking to the labels we assign people, we are avoiding a great gift that God has given us-- Relationships/friendships with others.
If we avoid dealing with people that are different than us or make us feel uncomfortable, how do we expect to become more like the Savior? Becoming more like the Savior-- learning to frankly forgive, not judge and love unconditionally-- can only be done when we engage in relationships/friendships with people. Sans labels. Or judgment.
I left the Olive Garden that night with the desire to try a little hard to be less of a Judgey-Mcjudgey-pants and more like the Savior. More forgiving. More kind. More loving. And to see people the way he does... With unconditional love.
Bucket Filler
Sunday, November 29, 2009
"The great question... which I have not been able to answer, despite my thirty years of research into the feminine soul, is What does a woman want?" - Sigmund Freud
Well. I will tell you what I want. A nap. A long, lovely, guilt free nap.
Today, take a nap.
I give you permission to not even feel guilty about it either!
Today, take a nap.
I give you permission to not even feel guilty about it either!
Sunday Devotional
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Bucket Filler
Saturday, November 28, 2009
It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of this time of year. Running here and there to catch all the great deals... It's enough to drive you insane.
Today, stay home and just BE with your family.
How to tell if your Wal-Mart is Ghetto. (which is much lower than trashy, towny OR redneck)
Friday, November 27, 2009
1. You walk into the store with a woman with bright pink hair, a Cigarette hanging from her lip and a GIGANTIC bow in that bright pink hair.
2. You see two men holding hands-- speed walking-- up and down the aisles.
3. You see a woman wearing yellow YARN as hair.
4. When you ask a worker where they moved the Pillsbury Frozen Biscuits to, the lady next to you, who has been eves dropping, proceeds to tell you how there is no such thing as frozen biscuits and you should "Get a Clue."
5. You see two girls making out in the car next to you.
6. You see a drug bust in the parking lot. Again.
7. You watch a strange, scary man yell at his children in the middle of the aisle. For not walking fast enough.
8. One out of every three people are missing teeth. A lot of teeth.
9. You listen to a woman carry on a conversation with someone on her cell phone name Eileen. You now know more about Eileen and "her baby-daddy" than you ever wanted to know.
10. When you ask the Wal-mart worker--who is wearing the blue vest and a name tag-- where something is located, they tell you that "they don't work here." Then proceed to eat the food they had stashed on the shelf.
All in one day.
Me thinks its time to start shopping elsewhere. Except, where would I get my blog fodder from?
2. You see two men holding hands-- speed walking-- up and down the aisles.
3. You see a woman wearing yellow YARN as hair.
4. When you ask a worker where they moved the Pillsbury Frozen Biscuits to, the lady next to you, who has been eves dropping, proceeds to tell you how there is no such thing as frozen biscuits and you should "Get a Clue."
5. You see two girls making out in the car next to you.
6. You see a drug bust in the parking lot. Again.
7. You watch a strange, scary man yell at his children in the middle of the aisle. For not walking fast enough.
8. One out of every three people are missing teeth. A lot of teeth.
9. You listen to a woman carry on a conversation with someone on her cell phone name Eileen. You now know more about Eileen and "her baby-daddy" than you ever wanted to know.
10. When you ask the Wal-mart worker--who is wearing the blue vest and a name tag-- where something is located, they tell you that "they don't work here." Then proceed to eat the food they had stashed on the shelf.
All in one day.
Me thinks its time to start shopping elsewhere. Except, where would I get my blog fodder from?
Bucket Filler
Friday, November 27, 2009
Today, take Donuts to your local Fire Department, or Police Station.Just to say Thanks for doing their job.
They will appreciate it, and it will make you feel great!
Bucket Filler
Thursday, November 26, 2009
We have been working all month long to get ready for this day.Today count your blessings, name them one by one... And, make sure you include your family in the naming of blessings... It's important for them to know.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Don't forget to deliver your chocolates to your chosen workers...
Don't forget to deliver your chocolates to your chosen workers...
Bucket Filler
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
We have been counting our blessings all week long, and have much to be grateful for! However, there are some who, for whatever the reason, have to rely on the generosity of others.
Today, donate food to the local food bank.
There are many ways you can do this.
Most grocery stores have either food bags you can purchase, or donations that you can make. We all have enough that we CAN donate to the local food banks.
Most grocery stores have either food bags you can purchase, or donations that you can make. We all have enough that we CAN donate to the local food banks.
MUSIC TO COOK BY
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
I spent some time yesterday getting my playlist ready for "the day of cooking". It's some of my favorite songs that are great to sing along with and soothing to chefs ears.
I added the playlist to my blog so that I could just park on here and listen away. If you scroll all the way down to the bottom of my blog and you'll see the new tunes. You've probably never been all the way down there before have you? It's pretty cool. There's music. And photos. And labels. Everyone needs labels.
Or you could just click this handy dandy link to go directly to the play list. I'm nice like that, aren't I?
I added the playlist to my blog so that I could just park on here and listen away. If you scroll all the way down to the bottom of my blog and you'll see the new tunes. You've probably never been all the way down there before have you? It's pretty cool. There's music. And photos. And labels. Everyone needs labels.
Or you could just click this handy dandy link to go directly to the play list. I'm nice like that, aren't I?
Happy Listening, and Happy Thanksgiving!
Wordless Wednesday
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
You want it, You got it. (Toyota)
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Wasn't that how that commercial went? Don't blame me, my fingers made me type that...
Anyway, several of you commented that you wanted that recipe for my Nestle Toll House Pie. And, even more of you emailed me for it. Seeing how I don't want to be typing the same thing over and over again-- 20 times over-- I thought I would just post it here.
I never make my own pie crusts. I suck at it, it takes too much time and I have other important things I need to be doing... Like blogging. I always buy the deep dish crust, and depending on how thrifty I am feeling will get either the Marie Calendars deep dish crust or the generic Wal-mart deep dish crust. I like them both, honestly. But, the Marie Calendars one seems to be flakier and it bakes better.
The number one thing you need to know about this pie, is that you can not cheat on it. If you do, it just doesn't taste the same. How do I know? Cause I'm a cheater, and it didn't work out so well with this recipe.
Nestle Toll-house pie
2 eggs, beat until white and foamy
1/2 C Sugar
1 C margarine, melted AND cooled *do not skip the cool down. It ruins the pie. Yes. I speak from experience*
1 C chopped pecans *i usually do 1/2 cup*
1/2 C flour
1/2 C brown sugar
1 C chocolate chips
1 Deep Dish, pre-made crust
Melt butter and set aside to cool. (I usually put it in the freezer. By the time I'm done with the eggs, the butter is nice and cool) Beat eggs until white and foamy. Mix everything else together, folding in the chips and nuts. Pour into a deep-dish pie crust. Bake at 325 for 1 hour. Top with ice cream and hot fudge. (you can re-heat the pie for like 15 seconds per slice. It tastes better hot...)
Enjoy!
This is actually my favorite pie AND I am the only one that likes it in my family. Sweet, eh?
Anyway, several of you commented that you wanted that recipe for my Nestle Toll House Pie. And, even more of you emailed me for it. Seeing how I don't want to be typing the same thing over and over again-- 20 times over-- I thought I would just post it here.
I never make my own pie crusts. I suck at it, it takes too much time and I have other important things I need to be doing... Like blogging. I always buy the deep dish crust, and depending on how thrifty I am feeling will get either the Marie Calendars deep dish crust or the generic Wal-mart deep dish crust. I like them both, honestly. But, the Marie Calendars one seems to be flakier and it bakes better.The number one thing you need to know about this pie, is that you can not cheat on it. If you do, it just doesn't taste the same. How do I know? Cause I'm a cheater, and it didn't work out so well with this recipe.
Nestle Toll-house pie
2 eggs, beat until white and foamy
1/2 C Sugar
1 C margarine, melted AND cooled *do not skip the cool down. It ruins the pie. Yes. I speak from experience*
1 C chopped pecans *i usually do 1/2 cup*
1/2 C flour
1/2 C brown sugar
1 C chocolate chips
1 Deep Dish, pre-made crust
Melt butter and set aside to cool. (I usually put it in the freezer. By the time I'm done with the eggs, the butter is nice and cool) Beat eggs until white and foamy. Mix everything else together, folding in the chips and nuts. Pour into a deep-dish pie crust. Bake at 325 for 1 hour. Top with ice cream and hot fudge. (you can re-heat the pie for like 15 seconds per slice. It tastes better hot...)
Enjoy!
This is actually my favorite pie AND I am the only one that likes it in my family. Sweet, eh?
Two of my favorite Thanksgiving Recipes
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
My sister-in-law is a friggin' genius in the kitchen. No lie. The 2nd time I ever met her (after we had been married for 3 years) she made us a Thanksgiving Dinner. It looked like she had hired Martha Stewart to prepare and present our meal. It was beautiful. The table was incredibly set, our place settings were decked out and the presentation of each dish was just beautiful to look at! She had thought of everything... right down to the edible flowers for each side dish.
I kid you not.
Jefe's mom is the exact same way. She has this way of walking into a room and knowing the perfect ways to decorate. I stressed for days about the table decorations for this years dinner. After a sleepless night stressing (totally not kidding) I called my Mother-in-law. She brought down decorations, table cloths and place settings and within 10 minutes my table looked like it was meant to be in a Mid-West Living Magazine.
I keep yelling at my children to "step away from the table" because I want to keep the beauty around as long as is humanly possible.
My sister-in-law also makes the best stuffing I have ever tasted. I beg her yearly to make the stuffing and then I gorge myself on it. I have tried to make it myself, but its just not the same. She has even started making me my very own batch of stuffing for Christmas.
Can you say Unhealthy Relationship with food?
She also makes the most amazing Autumn Walnut Salad and it totally rocks my world. (repeat after me: Unhealthy Relationship with food) But in my defense, there is nothing better for me than eating good food, with the people I care about.
Isn't that what Thanksgiving is all about?
So, without further adieu:
I kid you not.
Jefe's mom is the exact same way. She has this way of walking into a room and knowing the perfect ways to decorate. I stressed for days about the table decorations for this years dinner. After a sleepless night stressing (totally not kidding) I called my Mother-in-law. She brought down decorations, table cloths and place settings and within 10 minutes my table looked like it was meant to be in a Mid-West Living Magazine.
I keep yelling at my children to "step away from the table" because I want to keep the beauty around as long as is humanly possible.
My sister-in-law also makes the best stuffing I have ever tasted. I beg her yearly to make the stuffing and then I gorge myself on it. I have tried to make it myself, but its just not the same. She has even started making me my very own batch of stuffing for Christmas.
Can you say Unhealthy Relationship with food?
She also makes the most amazing Autumn Walnut Salad and it totally rocks my world. (repeat after me: Unhealthy Relationship with food) But in my defense, there is nothing better for me than eating good food, with the people I care about.
Isn't that what Thanksgiving is all about?
So, without further adieu:
Cornbread-sausage apple stuffing12 Tbsp sweet butter (1 1/2 sticks)
2 1/2 C finely chopped yellow onions
3 tart apples (Johnathan and wineasp are good), cored and chunked. Do not peel.
1 pound lightly seasoned bulk sausage (the one with sage is best)
3 C coarsely crumbled cornbread (preferably homemade)
3 C coarsely crumbled whole-wheat bread
3 C coarsely crumbled white bread (french or homemade)
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried sage
salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 C chopped Italian parsley
1 1/2 C pecan halves
Melt half the butter in skillet. Add onions and cook over medium heat until tender and lightly colored. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Melt remaining butter in same skillet. Add apple chunks until lightly colored, but NOT mushy. Add to mixing bowl with onions. Cook sausage then add to mixing bowl, saving the juices from cooking the sausage. Add the remaining ingredients to the mixing bowl and combine gently. Cool completely before baking. Spoon into a casserole dish, cover and set inside another casserole dish. Pour hot water around the sides of your stuffing pan--until it comes halfway up the sides. (it really is important to do this-- it helps the stuffing to not dry out). Bake for 30-45 minutes at 325, basting occasionally with the cooking juices you saved from cooking the sausage.
yield: 12-14 servings.
Autumn Apple & Walnut Salad
2 Granny Smith apples - chilled
2 Red Delicious apples - chilled
1/2 C sherry vinegar, or more if needed
1 C chopped celery
3 scallions (green onions), cleaned and cut diagonally into 1/2 inch pieces. (lets be honest, shall we? I totally cheat here, and just cut those babies up. See why my SIL's presentation is always better than mine? I'm a cheater!)
1/2 C shelled walnut halves
4-5 tablespoons of walnut oil
Wash and dry apples. Core and chop, but do not peel. Toss in the bowl with the sherry vinegar. Add celery, scallions and walnut halves, and drizzle with 4 Tbsp of the walnut oil. Toss again. Taste and correct seasoning-- adding more vinegar and up to 1 more Tbsp more oil as necessary, and serve immediately.
*as a side note, this is really good served with spinach!*
yield: 4-6 servings
*What are some of your favorite recipes for Thanksgiving?*
Bucket Filler
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Did you know that there are actually people who have to work on Thanksgiving? It's true. There are. Gas station attendants, hotel clerks, airline employees, Blockbuster employees, Police officers, Fire fighters, Doctors, nurses... the list goes on and on... Life keeps on going, even when there is a holiday.
Today, you are going to buy several packages of these chocolates. Then, you and your family are going to identify who in your community will be working on Thanksgiving.
This is WAY more fun if it is someone that you don't know.
On Thanksgiving Day, you are going to go and deliver these chocolates and say
"Thank you for doing your job!"
Trust me on this one. Your family will love it!
*we delivered last year some chocolates to the blockbuster kid, the gas station attendant and the police officer sitting in a parking lot! We also do this for Christmas*
Today, you are going to buy several packages of these chocolates. Then, you and your family are going to identify who in your community will be working on Thanksgiving.This is WAY more fun if it is someone that you don't know.
On Thanksgiving Day, you are going to go and deliver these chocolates and say
"Thank you for doing your job!"
Trust me on this one. Your family will love it!
*we delivered last year some chocolates to the blockbuster kid, the gas station attendant and the police officer sitting in a parking lot! We also do this for Christmas*
What are YOU thankful for?
Monday, November 23, 2009
Bucket Filler
Monday, November 23, 2009
In my old neighborhood, I always took my friends this yummy Toll-house Pie. It really is to die for. It started out that I had to buy more pie shells than I could use, so I started making extra pies and giving them away. It became a little addicting. I love to show up on peoples door 1-2 days before Thanksgiving with a pie for them, and when they ask why? I say "Just because."
When you are planning your menus for the food festival this week... plan for an extra pie to give away.
I promise you, it will be an addicting feeling and you will want to keep doing it!
Bucket Filler
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Simplify! Simplify! Simplify!
Pick one area of your life and simplify.
From now on we are going to Live Simply and Simply Live
Pick one area of your life and simplify.
From now on we are going to Live Simply and Simply Live
Sunday Devotional
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Bucket Filler
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Dessert is my favorite part of the meal. I have been known to order dessert first when I go out to eat. Sometimes the people I am with get embarrassed... but I always tell them life is too short to not eat dessert!Today, invite someone over for dessert.
You never know, you may make a new friend!
MMB's Holiday Giveaway
Friday, November 20, 2009
So. You know that other place I hang out? My other gig? Dood. You need to go check it out. We are doing giveaways every single day with amazing Etsy shop owners.
(except next week, coz you all need to be cooking, not blogging).
Every day there will be two giveaways until the middle of December. TWO! We chose shops that sell some of our very favorite things!
So far, there have been 10 Etsy/Mom Shops featured:
(except next week, coz you all need to be cooking, not blogging).
Every day there will be two giveaways until the middle of December. TWO! We chose shops that sell some of our very favorite things!
So far, there have been 10 Etsy/Mom Shops featured:
White Lace Designs
Butterfly Blankets
Laken & Lila's shop
Bluetm
Spaces for Faces
Lambourne Photography
krize
monsoons & mangoes
Sweet Cake Bake Shop
Shabby Band Designs
Butterfly Blankets
Laken & Lila's shop
Bluetm
Spaces for Faces
Lambourne Photography
krize
monsoons & mangoes
Sweet Cake Bake Shop
Shabby Band Designs
We're also giving away a Jillian Michaels Wii Game and a Wii Fit Plus Board.
I KNOW! Crazy, huh? We still have about 20 more shops we will be featuring with giveaways. Crazy exciting! It's all in an attempt to encourage people to think Mom Shops this holiday season. Rather than give your cash to Wal-mart, Target or even Old Navy-- think Etsy. There are such amazing shops and things you can purchase. I love Etsy! Seriously love it!
I KNOW! Crazy, huh? We still have about 20 more shops we will be featuring with giveaways. Crazy exciting! It's all in an attempt to encourage people to think Mom Shops this holiday season. Rather than give your cash to Wal-mart, Target or even Old Navy-- think Etsy. There are such amazing shops and things you can purchase. I love Etsy! Seriously love it!
Hurry now, and go enter. While there's still time!
Also, take the buy handmade pledge and
remember to shop Etsy this holiday season!
Also, take the buy handmade pledge and
remember to shop Etsy this holiday season!
Random randomness and then some tunes
Friday, November 20, 2009
"If you had a choice between pie heaven and regular heaven, I'd choose pie heaven. It's probably a trick, but if it's not, Mmmmmmm boy." — Jack Handy
About this time of year, that Adam Sandler song up there becomes our family anthem. Jefe wanders around the house singing "Gobble gobble goo. Gobble gobble giggle. I wish turkey only cost a nickle." It's time for some serious loosening of the belt, people.
Turkey, potatoes, stuffing, sweet potatoes and pie. Oh my.
I thought a Thanksgiving play list would be in order, but sadly, there just aren't that many thanksgiving songs. If you know of any others that aren't listed, let me know. I'll add it.
*****
We're having our first round of Thanksgiving this Sunday. Jefe's siblings and Mom are heading on over for the annual food festival. I really love Thanksgiving. My sister-in-laws favorite thing I make is my bacon wrapped water chestnuts. Seriously people. If you want to be the star of the event, you need to make these. Your guests wont leave the platter. I'm totally not kidding when I say they are to die for! TO DIE FOR!
Everyone tells me, "Oh. I make those. They're OK."
Uhh. No.
I have to shake my head and lovingly put my hand on their arms, then I shake them silly. You don't make MY chestnuts!! No one does!
But friends, neighbors and blurkers, come closer.
Closer.
Seriously. Get up here!
For the first time in history, I am going to share my secret recipe on how to make chestnuts that leave your guests begging for a triple batch every year.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
1 can (8oz) whole water chestnuts, drained
1 package (16oz) bacon, sliced in half
6 Tbsp chili sauce or Ketchup (chili sauce is better)
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard (regular mustard works too)
*I always double my sauce, and that uses the entire bottle of chili sauce. *
Wrap each chestnut with 1/2 slice of bacon and secure with a wooden pick. Arrange bacon-wrapped chestnuts in a single layer in a shallow baking pan (i use a 9x13). Broil until crispy, about 5-7 min. Drain well*.
Blend chili sauce, brown sugar and mustard. Spoon sauce over each bacon wrapped chestnut.
Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.
Yield: 30 appetizers**
*I never drain because I'm lazy and the pan is hot.
** I typically triple this recipe. If I don't there would be dog-fighting over the chestnuts. They are that good!
*****
Thing 3 (Ya-Ya as Moxie likes to call her) and I are going to hit the Nutcracker tomorrow. Our local little ballet troupe puts it on every year up at the local college. It is an outstanding show, with a live orchestra even.
We make an event out of it. We get all dolled up in our finest. Attend the ballet and then go out to eat. Last year she requested McDonald's as her fine dining experience. (gag) This year however, she requested "Apple Barrel." I'm thinking she couldn't decide between Apple Bee's or Crackle Barrel. We shall see where our stomachs lead us.
*****
Three more practices for my early morning choir and then we're done. DONE I say. Don't get me wrong, I love doing it. I just hate waking the kids up before Dawn had a butt-crack and listening to them moan about the injustices of me making them sing.
Whatever.
When they're old and have kids of their own, they will reflect back on our time together in Choir fondly.
At least they better, dang it.
*****
The basement is done with carpet and everything. Except now? The kids are afraid to go play down there alone.
I remember as a child being afraid of my parents basement. We would bound down the stairs, then pause at the bottom, while we reached just our arms around the corner to turn on the lights. Then we would run at mock twenty all the way down the hall to our bedrooms. If my Dad's office door was open, that was distressing, because then I would have to figure out how to close that door without looking at the window that was placed so rudely in front of the door.
What was I afraid of?
Seeing Michael Jackson's Thriller eyes looking back at me from all the various windows. Makes perfect sense, doesn't it?
I still to this day, when I go in my parents basement, do a mad dash to the end of the hall. You know, just in case Micheal's scary yellow Ghost-eyes are staring through the window.
*****
Whenever I am needing some new music to listen to, I head over here. I am a total blurker over there, but seriously? This gal has the best taste in music around! Her taste is impeccable, and I always love her play list choices. I promptly write everything down so I can download them for my very own to have and keep and lovingly play.
She also does a giveaway every month for a mix cd of her monthly play lists. Seriously fellow music lovers, go check out Passionistas blog. You will never want to leave!
*****
Do you think I use the word seriously enough?
Because seriously?
I love that word.
*****
My random 10 today is courtesy of Passionistas current November play list. I am loving it! Go get these songs. You will love them too!
Have a great weekend. I am cleaning like I'm ten Merry Maids all hyped up on crack. I have an entire house to clean, a playroom to move (to the scary basement), decorations to gather, and enough food to feed 16 people to make.
I'm tired just thinking about it.
Good thing I bought that extra 12 pack of Diet Coke and 3 bags of chocolate. That will keep the crack-induced-Merry-Maid-cleaning frenzy going. Don't you think?
{{did you post your random thoughts or songs? link up so we can all visit!}}
2. Spilt Milk - Kristina Train
3. Goodwin - Brooke Waggoner
4. Made for Glory - Landon Pigg
5. Dying Day - Brandi Carlile
6. Beautiful Day - Miranda Lee Richards
7. I Am A Storm -Adam Agin
8. Satellites - Matthew Perryman Jones
9. As Much As You Lead - Lex Land
10. On The Stage - Kate Walsh
Bonus: Rescue Me - Seth Wood
About this time of year, that Adam Sandler song up there becomes our family anthem. Jefe wanders around the house singing "Gobble gobble goo. Gobble gobble giggle. I wish turkey only cost a nickle." It's time for some serious loosening of the belt, people.
Turkey, potatoes, stuffing, sweet potatoes and pie. Oh my.
I thought a Thanksgiving play list would be in order, but sadly, there just aren't that many thanksgiving songs. If you know of any others that aren't listed, let me know. I'll add it.
*****
We're having our first round of Thanksgiving this Sunday. Jefe's siblings and Mom are heading on over for the annual food festival. I really love Thanksgiving. My sister-in-laws favorite thing I make is my bacon wrapped water chestnuts. Seriously people. If you want to be the star of the event, you need to make these. Your guests wont leave the platter. I'm totally not kidding when I say they are to die for! TO DIE FOR!
Everyone tells me, "Oh. I make those. They're OK."
Uhh. No.
I have to shake my head and lovingly put my hand on their arms, then I shake them silly. You don't make MY chestnuts!! No one does!
But friends, neighbors and blurkers, come closer.
Closer.
Seriously. Get up here!
For the first time in history, I am going to share my secret recipe on how to make chestnuts that leave your guests begging for a triple batch every year.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts 1 can (8oz) whole water chestnuts, drained
1 package (16oz) bacon, sliced in half
6 Tbsp chili sauce or Ketchup (chili sauce is better)
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard (regular mustard works too)
*I always double my sauce, and that uses the entire bottle of chili sauce. *
Wrap each chestnut with 1/2 slice of bacon and secure with a wooden pick. Arrange bacon-wrapped chestnuts in a single layer in a shallow baking pan (i use a 9x13). Broil until crispy, about 5-7 min. Drain well*.
Blend chili sauce, brown sugar and mustard. Spoon sauce over each bacon wrapped chestnut.
Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.
Yield: 30 appetizers**
*I never drain because I'm lazy and the pan is hot.
** I typically triple this recipe. If I don't there would be dog-fighting over the chestnuts. They are that good!
You're Welcome.
*****
Thing 3 (Ya-Ya as Moxie likes to call her) and I are going to hit the Nutcracker tomorrow. Our local little ballet troupe puts it on every year up at the local college. It is an outstanding show, with a live orchestra even.
We make an event out of it. We get all dolled up in our finest. Attend the ballet and then go out to eat. Last year she requested McDonald's as her fine dining experience. (gag) This year however, she requested "Apple Barrel." I'm thinking she couldn't decide between Apple Bee's or Crackle Barrel. We shall see where our stomachs lead us.
*****
Three more practices for my early morning choir and then we're done. DONE I say. Don't get me wrong, I love doing it. I just hate waking the kids up before Dawn had a butt-crack and listening to them moan about the injustices of me making them sing.
Whatever.
When they're old and have kids of their own, they will reflect back on our time together in Choir fondly.
At least they better, dang it.
*****
The basement is done with carpet and everything. Except now? The kids are afraid to go play down there alone.
I remember as a child being afraid of my parents basement. We would bound down the stairs, then pause at the bottom, while we reached just our arms around the corner to turn on the lights. Then we would run at mock twenty all the way down the hall to our bedrooms. If my Dad's office door was open, that was distressing, because then I would have to figure out how to close that door without looking at the window that was placed so rudely in front of the door.
What was I afraid of?
Seeing Michael Jackson's Thriller eyes looking back at me from all the various windows. Makes perfect sense, doesn't it?
I still to this day, when I go in my parents basement, do a mad dash to the end of the hall. You know, just in case Micheal's scary yellow Ghost-eyes are staring through the window.
*****
Whenever I am needing some new music to listen to, I head over here. I am a total blurker over there, but seriously? This gal has the best taste in music around! Her taste is impeccable, and I always love her play list choices. I promptly write everything down so I can download them for my very own to have and keep and lovingly play.
She also does a giveaway every month for a mix cd of her monthly play lists. Seriously fellow music lovers, go check out Passionistas blog. You will never want to leave!
*****
Do you think I use the word seriously enough?
Because seriously?
I love that word.
*****
My random 10 today is courtesy of Passionistas current November play list. I am loving it! Go get these songs. You will love them too!
Have a great weekend. I am cleaning like I'm ten Merry Maids all hyped up on crack. I have an entire house to clean, a playroom to move (to the scary basement), decorations to gather, and enough food to feed 16 people to make.
I'm tired just thinking about it.
Good thing I bought that extra 12 pack of Diet Coke and 3 bags of chocolate. That will keep the crack-induced-Merry-Maid-cleaning frenzy going. Don't you think?
{{did you post your random thoughts or songs? link up so we can all visit!}}
Catch ya on the flip side!
1. Blue Skies - Noah and the Whale2. Spilt Milk - Kristina Train
3. Goodwin - Brooke Waggoner
4. Made for Glory - Landon Pigg
5. Dying Day - Brandi Carlile
6. Beautiful Day - Miranda Lee Richards
7. I Am A Storm -Adam Agin
8. Satellites - Matthew Perryman Jones
9. As Much As You Lead - Lex Land
10. On The Stage - Kate Walsh
Bonus: Rescue Me - Seth Wood
Bucket Filler
Friday, November 20, 2009
Do you have a favorite notebook?
Today you are going to carry it with you.
Each time you feel an emotion-- that's good-- You are going to write down what it was that caused you to feel this emotion.
Did you feel love, peace, happiness, contentment, amazement, or joy?
Write it down.
At the end of the day, you can count all the things you have to be grateful for!
Today you are going to carry it with you.
Each time you feel an emotion-- that's good-- You are going to write down what it was that caused you to feel this emotion.
Did you feel love, peace, happiness, contentment, amazement, or joy?
Write it down.
At the end of the day, you can count all the things you have to be grateful for!
Actual Conversation
Thursday, November 19, 2009
ima10cow - We're all going shopping after Thanksgiving and going out for Breakfast and Lunch. Want to come?
Me: Uhh... I hate early mornings, standing in lines in the cold.
ima10cow: Well... Your other sister wants to park her RV out in front of Old Navy and sleep there. Then, when people start showing up we can run out and get in line. We'll each take turns standing in the cold.
Me: Wuh?
ima1ocow: Yeah. I know, huh? Parking the RV out front of Old Navy? Isn't that just the most redneck thing you have heard of?!
Me: OH! AND! We could totally take our portable firepit with camping chairs and set that up at the entrance too. That way the person whose turn it is to stand in the cold really won't be all that cold!
ima10cow: Maybe we should make posters and hang them up on the side of the RV that says: "We were first! Nee-ner Nee-ner Nee-ner! Don't you wish you were US?!
Me: Oh my gosh! That's awesome! If I'm anything at all it's totally tacky. Count me in!
My Dad: I'll go. Do you think I can get a water heater on the early bird special?
Me: Uhh... I hate early mornings, standing in lines in the cold.
ima10cow: Well... Your other sister wants to park her RV out in front of Old Navy and sleep there. Then, when people start showing up we can run out and get in line. We'll each take turns standing in the cold.
Me: Wuh?
ima1ocow: Yeah. I know, huh? Parking the RV out front of Old Navy? Isn't that just the most redneck thing you have heard of?!
Me: OH! AND! We could totally take our portable firepit with camping chairs and set that up at the entrance too. That way the person whose turn it is to stand in the cold really won't be all that cold!
ima10cow: Maybe we should make posters and hang them up on the side of the RV that says: "We were first! Nee-ner Nee-ner Nee-ner! Don't you wish you were US?!
Me: Oh my gosh! That's awesome! If I'm anything at all it's totally tacky. Count me in!
My Dad: I'll go. Do you think I can get a water heater on the early bird special?
Bucket Filler
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Subconsciously we are all competing, in some form or another, with each other. Why do we make ourselves sick competing against strangers? It's dumb I tell you.
Today we stop.
No more comparing. No more competing.
We will just be grateful that we are who we are!
No more comparing. No more competing.
We will just be grateful that we are who we are!
Wordless Wednesday
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Bucket Filler
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
"Ignorance gives one a large range of probabilities". - George Elliot
The military has a code that they live by-- a "need to know" code. If you don't need to know, then they don't tell you. That is a great way to live your life. We don't need to know every stinkin' detail of every single person's life... it just creates drama.
Today, start living by the military's code... on a "need to know" basis.
Ignorance really IS bliss!
Besides, it will give you freedom like you have never dreamed!
Ignorance really IS bliss!
Besides, it will give you freedom like you have never dreamed!
Tuesday Trailers
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Bucket Filler
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
If you don't love it, live without it! All too often we think we HAVE to buy something (my son is notorious for doing this) and then we never use it again... all in the name of consumption.
Today, adopt this as your new mantra: If I don't love it, I will live without it!
Bucket Filler
Monday, November 16, 2009
"A perfect treat must include a visit to the second-hand bookshop." - Virginia Woolfe
I have a favorite second-hand bookstore that I like to haunt.
I have a favorite second-hand bookstore that I like to haunt.I get all giddy when I venture inside this lovely shop.
Have you found yourself a good second-hand bookshop?
If not, put finding a fabulous one on your list of priorities!
Have you found yourself a good second-hand bookshop?
If not, put finding a fabulous one on your list of priorities!
Bucket Filler
Sunday, November 15, 2009
November is typically skimmed over when it comes to holidays. We are on light speed for Christmas to come... yet we should be taking the time to think daily of our blessings.
Starting today, write one thing
(Either in your notebook or on your blog)
that you find yourself being grateful for.
Notice how it changes your attitude.
Starting today, write one thing
(Either in your notebook or on your blog)
that you find yourself being grateful for.
Notice how it changes your attitude.
Sunday Devotional
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Bucket Filler
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Did you know that lack of sleep contributes to heart attacks?
Tonight, go to bed early and see if you don't wake up feeling better!
Tonight, go to bed early and see if you don't wake up feeling better!
Random randomness and then some tunes
Friday, November 13, 2009
It takes a big man to cry, but it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. - Jack Handy
Someone asked me if I had missed "all this time blogging" how is it I have been able to post every single day? Let me tell you. There is a handy-dandy feature called Post Ahead. If you look at the bottom of the box you are writing your post in, there is a blue, underlined phrase called "post options". Click that and a new box will open up under your post. On the right side of that box is Post date and time. You can change the date to be anything you want... If you change it to the future, then your post will post at the date & time specified.
When I was so sick back at the end of September, beginning of October, I wrote up all the bucket fillers until the end of December and scheduled them to post in the future. I wrote up a bunch of other random posts, and then literally walked away from the computer. It's actually quite liberating.
I love blogging. I love reading blogs. Yet, its so easy to get sucked into the blogging vortex. You know the one I'm talking about, right? The one where you emerge 4 hours later and wonder what the crap happened to all that time? With the kids and me being sick, I just didn't have that kind of luxury.
Besides all that, I think I have totally lost my freaking mind. I am on the Elementary and Junior High School PTA Board. I write the newsletter for the Elementary school and I'm planning a Career Day for 1,000+ JR high students. (wanna come speak? email me. I need 48 presenters)
I'm also planning a wicked awesome event for MMB that I think will rock your world when I announce it.
Then, I teach choir to seventy-five third-sixth grade students every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30-8:45am. For Free. And, yes. I do drag Moxie, Thing 2 and Thing 3 along with me. (much to Thing 2's horror) Then there are all the other regular mothering & household duties that come with having four children that range in age from teenagers to babies, a dog, a house and a husband.
THEN.
I've been having some personal problems that I have had to deal with, on top of everything else. Isn't that always the way it is? When you are crazy busy, your personal life tends to fall apart? Yeah. That's the story of my life.
So, with all that in mind, I had to make a decision. I've had to walk away from reading blogs for a little while. Just until I can I get back on top of my life that has spiraled totally and completely out of control.
So.
Yes, I have been absent from the blogging world. I know it doesn't look like it, but I have. I am missing you all terribly. I love peeking into your world and seeing the wonderful things you are doing. I have some crazy funny stuff that I am swirling around in my brain for posts as well.
Lets hope life slows down here, and does it soon.
*****
Glee has a soundtrack now you can buy. Did you know that? I have downloaded the entire thing onto my computer. Sadly, I know the harmonies to every single song and I sing a long like the total nerd that I am. I'm a 40-ish woman whose favorite show is a show about a bunch of hormonal, high school misfits that sing everything they are thinking. There's totally nothing wrong with that right? I mean, everyone lives their life in a musical, right?
I really do wish that I could break out into song and dance when I have a point to make... It would make that point so much more effective, don't you think?
*****
Have you seen the new lead singer for Journey? It's this little Asian guy that sounds exactly like Steve Perry. I had to do a double take when I saw who it was singing. That guy has some pipes on him and dude. He sounds just like the old lead singer.
It made me fall in love with that band all over again.
*****
When you sing songs, do you ever get the lyrics wrong? Boy, I do. All the time.
When I was a kid I thought the lyrics to Open Arms by Journey were "I need you Tuesday." not I need you to stay.
The song As I Have Loved You? Yeah. I sang it for YEARS as "by this shalmenno" (which I know is totally not a word). I remember thinking for year, what the crap does shalmeno even mean? It wasn't until I was an adult, teaching the song as a chorister that I realized what the words actually were.
What lyrics have you totally pooched before? Or, am I the only one that has ever done that?
*****
Have a wonderful weekend. I will be chill-axing in my newly finished basement. We get our carpet put in today and a new king sized bed delivered. Boo-yah!
1. Butterflies - Sia
2. Just Like Heaven - The Watson Twins
3. How Am I To Be - The Watson Twins
4. Something Good This Way Comes - Jakob Dylan
5. Over My Head (Cable Car) (live) - The Fray
6. Don't Think I Don't Thing About It - Darius Rucker
7. Somebody To Love - Glee Soundtrack
8. Keep It Loose, Keep It Tight - Amos Lee
9. Halo/Keep Walking On Sunshine - Glee Soundtrack
10. I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas
Bonus: Don't Stop Believing - Journey
Someone asked me if I had missed "all this time blogging" how is it I have been able to post every single day? Let me tell you. There is a handy-dandy feature called Post Ahead. If you look at the bottom of the box you are writing your post in, there is a blue, underlined phrase called "post options". Click that and a new box will open up under your post. On the right side of that box is Post date and time. You can change the date to be anything you want... If you change it to the future, then your post will post at the date & time specified.
When I was so sick back at the end of September, beginning of October, I wrote up all the bucket fillers until the end of December and scheduled them to post in the future. I wrote up a bunch of other random posts, and then literally walked away from the computer. It's actually quite liberating.
I love blogging. I love reading blogs. Yet, its so easy to get sucked into the blogging vortex. You know the one I'm talking about, right? The one where you emerge 4 hours later and wonder what the crap happened to all that time? With the kids and me being sick, I just didn't have that kind of luxury.
Besides all that, I think I have totally lost my freaking mind. I am on the Elementary and Junior High School PTA Board. I write the newsletter for the Elementary school and I'm planning a Career Day for 1,000+ JR high students. (wanna come speak? email me. I need 48 presenters)
I'm also planning a wicked awesome event for MMB that I think will rock your world when I announce it.
Then, I teach choir to seventy-five third-sixth grade students every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30-8:45am. For Free. And, yes. I do drag Moxie, Thing 2 and Thing 3 along with me. (much to Thing 2's horror) Then there are all the other regular mothering & household duties that come with having four children that range in age from teenagers to babies, a dog, a house and a husband.
THEN.
I've been having some personal problems that I have had to deal with, on top of everything else. Isn't that always the way it is? When you are crazy busy, your personal life tends to fall apart? Yeah. That's the story of my life.
So, with all that in mind, I had to make a decision. I've had to walk away from reading blogs for a little while. Just until I can I get back on top of my life that has spiraled totally and completely out of control.
So.
Yes, I have been absent from the blogging world. I know it doesn't look like it, but I have. I am missing you all terribly. I love peeking into your world and seeing the wonderful things you are doing. I have some crazy funny stuff that I am swirling around in my brain for posts as well.
Lets hope life slows down here, and does it soon.
*****
Glee has a soundtrack now you can buy. Did you know that? I have downloaded the entire thing onto my computer. Sadly, I know the harmonies to every single song and I sing a long like the total nerd that I am. I'm a 40-ish woman whose favorite show is a show about a bunch of hormonal, high school misfits that sing everything they are thinking. There's totally nothing wrong with that right? I mean, everyone lives their life in a musical, right?
I really do wish that I could break out into song and dance when I have a point to make... It would make that point so much more effective, don't you think?
*****
Have you seen the new lead singer for Journey? It's this little Asian guy that sounds exactly like Steve Perry. I had to do a double take when I saw who it was singing. That guy has some pipes on him and dude. He sounds just like the old lead singer.
It made me fall in love with that band all over again.
*****
When you sing songs, do you ever get the lyrics wrong? Boy, I do. All the time.
When I was a kid I thought the lyrics to Open Arms by Journey were "I need you Tuesday." not I need you to stay.
The song As I Have Loved You? Yeah. I sang it for YEARS as "by this shalmenno" (which I know is totally not a word). I remember thinking for year, what the crap does shalmeno even mean? It wasn't until I was an adult, teaching the song as a chorister that I realized what the words actually were.
What lyrics have you totally pooched before? Or, am I the only one that has ever done that?
*****
Have a wonderful weekend. I will be chill-axing in my newly finished basement. We get our carpet put in today and a new king sized bed delivered. Boo-yah!
Catch ya on the flip side!
1. Butterflies - Sia
2. Just Like Heaven - The Watson Twins
3. How Am I To Be - The Watson Twins
4. Something Good This Way Comes - Jakob Dylan
5. Over My Head (Cable Car) (live) - The Fray
6. Don't Think I Don't Thing About It - Darius Rucker
7. Somebody To Love - Glee Soundtrack
8. Keep It Loose, Keep It Tight - Amos Lee
9. Halo/Keep Walking On Sunshine - Glee Soundtrack
10. I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas
Bonus: Don't Stop Believing - Journey
Bucket Filler
Friday, November 13, 2009
Stay away from negative people.You know the ones I'm talking about right?
I like to call them Debby Downers...
They are always popping our bubbles and raining on our parade.
Today get rid of those toxic people (in a nice way of course!)
Bucket Filler
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Today, greet the day with "It's a wonderful day!" Then watch it morph into so much more! I'm convinced it's all about attitude!
Bucket Filler
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Count your many blessings name them one by one...Today realize how blessed you are.
(We have internet for Google's Sake!)
Take the time to write down your blessings--
either in your fancy-schmancy notebook or on your blog.
Open Letter
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Dear Library Mother:
kthx,
~motherboard
I think its awesome that your sweet five year old knows how to spell. Really I do. I'm a mother after all and I'm also Pro Education. Not only can he spell, but he can spell really hard words. Like M-I-C-K-E-Y-M-O-U-S-E. Over and over and over again, he spells it. At the top of his lungs.
I know you think this is cute because I heard you say it nine-hundred times. Nine-hundred times! I heard you say "Aww that's so cute! You can spell Mickey Mouse".
Rinse and repeat. Over and over again.
I never thought I would say this, but seriously? If I have to hear your kid spell M-I-C-K-E-Y-M-O-U-S-E one more time, in the library that is supposed to be quiet, I'm going to m-i-c-k-e-y-m-o-u-s-e your kid. For reals. This is a library after all. Not a spelling bee.
I know you think this is cute because I heard you say it nine-hundred times. Nine-hundred times! I heard you say "Aww that's so cute! You can spell Mickey Mouse".
Rinse and repeat. Over and over again.
I never thought I would say this, but seriously? If I have to hear your kid spell M-I-C-K-E-Y-M-O-U-S-E one more time, in the library that is supposed to be quiet, I'm going to m-i-c-k-e-y-m-o-u-s-e your kid. For reals. This is a library after all. Not a spelling bee.
kthx,
~motherboard
Tuesday Trailer
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
I want to see this!
I know it's totally nerdy, but I want to see this movie and dance in the aisles. It's the closest I'll ever get now to seeing MJ live. Nerdy? Umm, yeah. Do I care? Nope. Not one little bit.
Note To Self:
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Dear Self:
~motherboard
Are you sick of all the sick-O's at your house? Yeah. I thought so. It's been a long 8 weeks. I know you must be sick of the sick-O's because of the mad disinfecting you were doing this weekend.
Totally killer, by the way.
The only problem I would like to point out is the dishwasher. And, really? It's not the dishwasher's fault, it's the Dish Washer's fault. That's you, Motherboard.
You probably should have stopped when you were ahead-- the 9 loads of laundry, 3 clean bathrooms, all the banisters and railings bleached, sheets changed and the entire house Lysoled - kind of ahead. But, you didn't. You decided you should wash all the dishes and glasses. Just to be sure.
Only problem? You ran out of dishwasher soap.
You figured that it would be no big deal to use Dawn Liquid Dish soap in the dishwasher, because hey! They both do the same thing, right?
Basically, yes that is true. Both soaps do clean dishes, but you should have listened to that inner crazylady. Remember that nagging feeling you had? Yeah. It was reminding you about that email forward you got with the photo of bubbles coming out of the dishwasher. But, you didn't listen. You shrugged it off as an urban legend.
It's so totally not an urban legend.
Filling up the entire dishwasher-soap-holder-do-hicky-thing-a-ma-bobber with dish soap was a bad idea. A very bad idea. Every thing you have ever seen or heard about bubbles exploding out of your dishwasher when you use Dawn Liquid Dish soap is true. Oh so very true.
Next time, for the love all things holy, do not put the Dawn Liquid Dish soap in the dishwasher. There will in fact be bubbles everywhere and you will be really mad when you have to run the dishes through three more cycles-- sans soap-- just to get them bubble free.
Please, Motherboard, the next time you realize you are out of dishwasher soap, but want to finish your weird cleaning frenzy just go to the store. Step away from the Dawn Liquid Dish soap and go to the store.
You will be glad you did.
kthx,
Totally killer, by the way.
The only problem I would like to point out is the dishwasher. And, really? It's not the dishwasher's fault, it's the Dish Washer's fault. That's you, Motherboard.
You probably should have stopped when you were ahead-- the 9 loads of laundry, 3 clean bathrooms, all the banisters and railings bleached, sheets changed and the entire house Lysoled - kind of ahead. But, you didn't. You decided you should wash all the dishes and glasses. Just to be sure.
Only problem? You ran out of dishwasher soap.
You figured that it would be no big deal to use Dawn Liquid Dish soap in the dishwasher, because hey! They both do the same thing, right?
Basically, yes that is true. Both soaps do clean dishes, but you should have listened to that inner crazylady. Remember that nagging feeling you had? Yeah. It was reminding you about that email forward you got with the photo of bubbles coming out of the dishwasher. But, you didn't listen. You shrugged it off as an urban legend.
It's so totally not an urban legend.
Filling up the entire dishwasher-soap-holder-do-hicky-thing-a-ma-bobber with dish soap was a bad idea. A very bad idea. Every thing you have ever seen or heard about bubbles exploding out of your dishwasher when you use Dawn Liquid Dish soap is true. Oh so very true.
Next time, for the love all things holy, do not put the Dawn Liquid Dish soap in the dishwasher. There will in fact be bubbles everywhere and you will be really mad when you have to run the dishes through three more cycles-- sans soap-- just to get them bubble free.
Please, Motherboard, the next time you realize you are out of dishwasher soap, but want to finish your weird cleaning frenzy just go to the store. Step away from the Dawn Liquid Dish soap and go to the store.
You will be glad you did.
kthx,
~motherboard
Bucket Filler
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Today you are going to stop, sit and just BE. Take 1 hour today and find a peaceful spot to just meditate. Get a good book, or that magazine you have been wanting to read and do it. For 1 hour. No blogging. No telephone (turn the ringers off). Just you and your thoughts. See what your true self is trying to speak to you.
Bucket Filler
Monday, November 09, 2009
My Mom has a Gratitude journal that she pulls out every November. Everyone that comes to her home, she has them write 1 thing that they are grateful for inside this book. She has done this for years! It is always fun to read back when my sisters were little, and see their handwriting evolve and read the simple things they are grateful for. Like getting a blizzard and eating it for breakfast.It's also fun to see all of our friends handwriting in that journal and read the things our friends are grateful for as well.
Today, pull out a notebook, and have everyone that comes to the house, especially
the kids friends, write one thing they are grateful for.
I promise you, this book will become a treasure for you as the years go by!
Sunday Devotional
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Bucket Filler
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Today, our challenge is to pray only in gratitude. How many times do we pray for "stuff"? Meaning stuff we need, or stuff we want, or stuff we want to happen? I would venture to say we all do it. A lot.I wrote a post about this several years ago. The part I want you read is the 2nd Red Paragraph. (aren't I nice to color coordinate your reading material?)
Then today, let us pray only in gratitude and not for things.
Well Hello There.
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Recently I was stopped at a stoplight waiting for it to change. It was an eternal stoplight meant it seemed to make my life just a titch more miserable. My heart was heavy with what seemed to be the weight of the world.As I sat there at the eternal stoplight I wondered what master mind was conspiring against me, and why it seemed that God had forgotten all about me.
Then I looked out my window.
Pressed right up next to my window was the biggest dragon fly I have ever seen. It was so large I could see it's eyes blinking. It sat there buzzing next to the window looking right at me.
I looked at it, and it looked at me when I finally said "Well, Hello there friend." He landed on my mirror, and while he watched me he scratched his nose.
That dragon fly? He saw me. He noticed me.
We chatted for a moment, that dragon fly and I. He flew up closer to the window when I bore my soul to it during those few short minutes we had together. When I was done he landed back on my mirror, watching me again. And you know what? I know he heard me.
When the light changed I wondered if my friend was going to ride along with me on my mirror, but when I looked down he was gone.
My new friend reminded me of Him. Perhaps it was a tender mercy from The Lord, reminding me that He see's me. He hears my pleas and further He notices that I'm having a hard time.
Such a silly thing to have a dragon fly meet your needs. But on that day? He did.
Bucket Filler
Saturday, November 07, 2009
"Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
We all have that "Secret Dream"...
Today write yours down.
That is the first step to making your dream a reality.
Today write yours down.
That is the first step to making your dream a reality.
Bucket Filler
Friday, November 06, 2009
Are you scrambled or fried?
As women, we are pulled in a hundred directions--
daily and sometimes even hourly.
We can forget to take the time for ourselves to fill our own bucket.
Today, take the time to find 1 hour that you
can give yourself that is your own.
Then do something that you have not done in a while.
As women, we are pulled in a hundred directions--
daily and sometimes even hourly.
We can forget to take the time for ourselves to fill our own bucket.
Today, take the time to find 1 hour that you
can give yourself that is your own.
Then do something that you have not done in a while.
(Besides Blogging!)
Random randomness and then some tunes
Friday, November 06, 2009
The face of child says it all, especially the mouth part of the face - Jack Handy
At my kids Elementary School, I'm in charge of the newsletter. Most of the time its pretty fun; however last night? I got bored. As I was finishing up the November newsletter (yes. Its totally late. don't judge!), I started putting random stuff that makes me laugh into the newsletter, like that Jack Handy quote. I put little snippets of funnies, photos or craft projects. Craft projects is hysterical, because if you know me at all, you know motherboard and crafts is an oxymoron.
I was laughing my head off when I emailed it off to the school secretary.
And then.
{dun dun dun dun}
I started panicking. And fretting. What if no one gets the humor? Seriously. What if they. don't. get. it?
Bummer for them, cause Jack Handy? He's funny.
*****
I spoke too soon about us all being on the mends from sick-O land. Thing 1 has Croup. Someone shoot me now, please. I didn't even know that teenagers could get the croup. My kid, the anomaly.
My personal opinion is that teenagers are WORSE than babies being sick. Babies just cry. Teenagers? They whine and moan and talk. They think you should cuddle them like the baby.
Oye vay.
*****
We are having an Indian Summer around here. I think that is my very favorite thing. Ever.
It doesn't happen often, but when it does? I savor every blasted second of every blasted day. All too soon we are going to be in the throes of the winter of our discontent and the depths of snow. I don't do snow very well. Or the cold.
I would be happy if it snowed from December 1 to January 2. Then if the snow would kindly melt and be 55-70 degrees again, I would appreciate it.
kthanx.
*****
I heard the funniest interview the other day. They were talking about the New York Times and how they had teamed up with T-Mobile to do some research on texting. They talked about all the silly text lingo and what was used in texts vs real life.
Then they said that MEN were the ones who were statistically higher with using "signatures" like <3,> or my personal favorite x, Then they gave us the name for this new phenomenon.
Ready?
Metro-textual.
Serious as a heart attack. Metro-textual. I laughed like a mad-man.
I went around all the live long day trying to come up with ways to use Metro-textual in my conversations. It's such a great word, don't you think?
Metro-textual.
*****
I have a pet peeve. Ready. Set. Go. It's when people write ha ha ha or LOL. In the middle of their posts. It's irritating. And, its distracting when you read it. If you write well enough, you won't have to prompt people to laugh. It's like those stupid laugh tracks from the 80's.
Just write the way you talk. Your tone and ability to tell a story is what prompts people to laugh. Not the LOL or ha ha ha. If you do it right, and write the way you talk . . . people will hear your voice and know exactly when to laugh.
DeNae is the Jedi master of this and I am her Padawan. I read her posts and I can actually HEAR her telling me the story. It helps to know that the way she writes is also the exact way she talks... Hilariously.
I'll say it again: If you write well, you will not need to use the tacky laugh tracks.
Amen.
{this is me stepping off my soap box}
*****
Now people are going to be emailing me. Last time I posted one of my blogging pet peeves, I got tons of emails telling me that people were now afraid to comment on my blog because I expected too much.
I don't expect that much. Do I?
(don't answer that)
*****
I have watched the U2 Rose Bowl concert no less than 5 times. I kid you not. I turn that youtube video on and then do my work while I listen. I can't believe the technology we have available now to allow something that amazing. It's not as good as being there, of course. But, I'm a cheap-skate and refuse to pay $250 for the tickets.
When I was in high school, I wanted to marry Bono. I did, its true. I would tell my friends that I was going to get him to divorce his wife, convert to Mormonism and marry me. A girl can dream.
One of my dearest high school friends actually met him when she was working in DC for some Senate Committee. She laughed about how she thought of me and my high hopes. My only question for her? Did she kiss him. Cause I totally would have.
I still have visions of Bono dancing in my head. With a side of Adam.
Yum.
*****
Have a great weekend! It's dang nice around here. What are you up to? I hope its more fun than me. I have an appointment with a can of disinfectant. Again.
I was laughing my head off when I emailed it off to the school secretary.
And then.
{dun dun dun dun}
I started panicking. And fretting. What if no one gets the humor? Seriously. What if they. don't. get. it?
Bummer for them, cause Jack Handy? He's funny.
*****
I spoke too soon about us all being on the mends from sick-O land. Thing 1 has Croup. Someone shoot me now, please. I didn't even know that teenagers could get the croup. My kid, the anomaly.
My personal opinion is that teenagers are WORSE than babies being sick. Babies just cry. Teenagers? They whine and moan and talk. They think you should cuddle them like the baby.
Oye vay.
*****
We are having an Indian Summer around here. I think that is my very favorite thing. Ever.
It doesn't happen often, but when it does? I savor every blasted second of every blasted day. All too soon we are going to be in the throes of the winter of our discontent and the depths of snow. I don't do snow very well. Or the cold.
I would be happy if it snowed from December 1 to January 2. Then if the snow would kindly melt and be 55-70 degrees again, I would appreciate it.
kthanx.
*****
I heard the funniest interview the other day. They were talking about the New York Times and how they had teamed up with T-Mobile to do some research on texting. They talked about all the silly text lingo and what was used in texts vs real life.
Then they said that MEN were the ones who were statistically higher with using "signatures" like <3,> or my personal favorite x, Then they gave us the name for this new phenomenon.
Ready?
Metro-textual.
Serious as a heart attack. Metro-textual. I laughed like a mad-man.
I went around all the live long day trying to come up with ways to use Metro-textual in my conversations. It's such a great word, don't you think?
Metro-textual.
*****
I have a pet peeve. Ready. Set. Go. It's when people write ha ha ha or LOL. In the middle of their posts. It's irritating. And, its distracting when you read it. If you write well enough, you won't have to prompt people to laugh. It's like those stupid laugh tracks from the 80's.
Just write the way you talk. Your tone and ability to tell a story is what prompts people to laugh. Not the LOL or ha ha ha. If you do it right, and write the way you talk . . . people will hear your voice and know exactly when to laugh.
DeNae is the Jedi master of this and I am her Padawan. I read her posts and I can actually HEAR her telling me the story. It helps to know that the way she writes is also the exact way she talks... Hilariously.
I'll say it again: If you write well, you will not need to use the tacky laugh tracks.
Amen.
{this is me stepping off my soap box}
*****
Now people are going to be emailing me. Last time I posted one of my blogging pet peeves, I got tons of emails telling me that people were now afraid to comment on my blog because I expected too much.
I don't expect that much. Do I?
(don't answer that)
*****
I have watched the U2 Rose Bowl concert no less than 5 times. I kid you not. I turn that youtube video on and then do my work while I listen. I can't believe the technology we have available now to allow something that amazing. It's not as good as being there, of course. But, I'm a cheap-skate and refuse to pay $250 for the tickets.
When I was in high school, I wanted to marry Bono. I did, its true. I would tell my friends that I was going to get him to divorce his wife, convert to Mormonism and marry me. A girl can dream.
One of my dearest high school friends actually met him when she was working in DC for some Senate Committee. She laughed about how she thought of me and my high hopes. My only question for her? Did she kiss him. Cause I totally would have.
I still have visions of Bono dancing in my head. With a side of Adam.
Yum.
*****
Have a great weekend! It's dang nice around here. What are you up to? I hope its more fun than me. I have an appointment with a can of disinfectant. Again.
Catch ya on the flip side!
1. What's Been Going On? - Amos Lee
2. Maybelle - Ida
3. I Will Follow You Into The Dark - Death Cab For Cutie
4. See The World - Gomez
5. I Taught Myself How To Grow - Ryan Adams
6. Just Like Heaven - The Watson Twins
7. Something Good This Way Comes - Jakob Dylan
8. Lose That Girl - Saint Etienne
9. Save It For Later - The English Beat
10. Where The Streets Have No Name - U2
Bonus: Have Your Way - Britt Nicole
3. I Will Follow You Into The Dark - Death Cab For Cutie
4. See The World - Gomez
5. I Taught Myself How To Grow - Ryan Adams
6. Just Like Heaven - The Watson Twins
7. Something Good This Way Comes - Jakob Dylan
8. Lose That Girl - Saint Etienne
9. Save It For Later - The English Beat
10. Where The Streets Have No Name - U2
Bonus: Have Your Way - Britt Nicole
Actual Conversation
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Since we have all been sick around here, there has been WAY too much TV watching. We don't watch cool stuff like Leverage or CSI or even 30 Rock. Nope. We watch I-Carly.
I-Carly. {said with extreme horror}
Have you ever wondered about I-Carly? I have.
Thing 3: I love this show.
Me: Where are her parents?
Thing 1: she lives with her brother.
Me: But, where are her parents? Where are her parents?!
Thing 3: She lives with her brother, Mom. He's like twenty.
Me: Her brother is weird. Seriously. Where. Are. Her. Parent's?
Thing 1: They're on a permanent vacation and she gets to live with her weird but cool older brother.
Me: Who does that?
Thing 1: I wish my parents did that.
Me: Uhhh... Gee. Thanks.
I-Carly. {said with extreme horror}
Have you ever wondered about I-Carly? I have.
Thing 3: I love this show.
Me: Where are her parents?
Thing 1: she lives with her brother.
Me: But, where are her parents? Where are her parents?!
Thing 3: She lives with her brother, Mom. He's like twenty.
Me: Her brother is weird. Seriously. Where. Are. Her. Parent's?
Thing 1: They're on a permanent vacation and she gets to live with her weird but cool older brother.
Me: Who does that?
Thing 1: I wish my parents did that.
Me: Uhhh... Gee. Thanks.
Just a normal day at the office (?)
Thursday, November 05, 2009
I want to work here! I don't even know where here is, but I know I want that job. Whatever it is. Work would be a blast!
Testing . . . Testing . . . 1,2,3 . . .
Thursday, November 05, 2009
We've been a bunch of sick-O's over here in Crazyland. Not that kind of sicko. Just sick. I'm sick of us all being sick. We have buckets of boogers, fevers and Lysol.
Oh my.
Because of the piggie-poo-poo-flu my writing fingers have atrophied. I haven't written anything worthwhile in months. I have instead been disinfecting, Lysoling and cuddling a sick Moxie. And trying not to die myself.
OK. So that's a little dramatic. But, as my Dad said "Jeeze Motherboard, I must have died cause you look like hell."
Uhhh. Thanks?
When I get sick I like to go whole hog. I mean if you're going to be sick you might as well hit a home run. Right? I had a triple whammy -- strep throat, swine flu and pneumonia. At the same time. I'm an over achiever like that.
If you're looking for a quick way to drop 15 lbs just follow my lead. You'll be begging your Dr. to admit you to the hospital (and he won't) because you're so sick. You'll want to sleep for weeks, but you can't because you have kids. And dishes. And laundry. And dinner to make.
When I finally got my last round of anti-biotics (and four other prescriptions) I bought enough junk-food to feed an army. I told the kids "You're on your own. Don't go outside. Feed yourselves and no fighting. I'm sleeping."
And I did. For 2 days straight.
Seriously, I have never been that sick in all my life. I think somehow during my hiatus in sickland, my MoJo was misplaced. Or lost. Who know's really. I just can't seem to find it.
If you see my MoJo, lemmeno. I sort of miss it.
Oh my.
Because of the piggie-poo-poo-flu my writing fingers have atrophied. I haven't written anything worthwhile in months. I have instead been disinfecting, Lysoling and cuddling a sick Moxie. And trying not to die myself.
OK. So that's a little dramatic. But, as my Dad said "Jeeze Motherboard, I must have died cause you look like hell."
Uhhh. Thanks?
When I get sick I like to go whole hog. I mean if you're going to be sick you might as well hit a home run. Right? I had a triple whammy -- strep throat, swine flu and pneumonia. At the same time. I'm an over achiever like that.
If you're looking for a quick way to drop 15 lbs just follow my lead. You'll be begging your Dr. to admit you to the hospital (and he won't) because you're so sick. You'll want to sleep for weeks, but you can't because you have kids. And dishes. And laundry. And dinner to make.
When I finally got my last round of anti-biotics (and four other prescriptions) I bought enough junk-food to feed an army. I told the kids "You're on your own. Don't go outside. Feed yourselves and no fighting. I'm sleeping."
And I did. For 2 days straight.
Seriously, I have never been that sick in all my life. I think somehow during my hiatus in sickland, my MoJo was misplaced. Or lost. Who know's really. I just can't seem to find it.
If you see my MoJo, lemmeno. I sort of miss it.
Bucket Filler
Thursday, November 05, 2009
In the final analysis, the only thing that really matters
is the relationships we have with others.
Today, reconnect with someone that you haven't talked to in a while.
Make the phone call or send the email and reconnect.
is the relationships we have with others.
Today, reconnect with someone that you haven't talked to in a while.
Make the phone call or send the email and reconnect.
Bucket Filler
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Writing notes is becoming a lost art.
A note of thanks or encouragement, love or forgiveness...
Today, take the time to write that note and send it. It will make someones day.
A note of thanks or encouragement, love or forgiveness...
Today, take the time to write that note and send it. It will make someones day.
Wordless Wednesday
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Tuesday's Trailers
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Bucket Filler
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Clutter in the home makes clutter in the mind!Today, set your buzzer for 10 minutes and go through your house
with a garbage bag and pick up stuff to throw away.
You will find the act of purging cleansing.
It will also make room in your life for new adventures.
Bucket Filler
Monday, November 02, 2009
Remember that for every YES there must be a NO.
You can not do it all, nor should you try.
Today, be honest with yourself and be willing to let something go.
You can not do it all, nor should you try.
Today, be honest with yourself and be willing to let something go.
Bucket Filler
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Today, take a walk and notice the beauty of the world around you.
There is much to be grateful for.
There is much to be grateful for.