250 and counting

I've been meaning to blog this picture just because it's interesting. If you ever needed to know what 250+ cookies look like here it is. I think I put on about 5lbs that day. I was a cooking machine. Lesson of the day: Abide the rule of not eating raw cookie dough...not because of the eggs but because your waistline and stomach will appreciate it.

Dinner and a Show

I wish I could show you the video that went with this picture. It's way too funny. Z was pretending to be a chef. She came downstairs with a pen and a piece of paper. She told us what she was serving and then took orders on her paper. This would be cute all by itself but the kicker was she danced the entire time. It was hilarious. When she wasn't talking she would hum/sing a little song to dance to. I don't know where she gets this stuff. Part of the time she'd even put the pen behind her ear like she was a waitress in a old diner. She's so funny. Lesson of the day: Dancing waitresses and Chefs=Fun

Moms have Bragging Rights

J made his very first presentation for his Challenge/GT class this morning, complete with a powerpoint. It was very impressive. Dr. J did an excellent job sharing his knowledge on the digestive system and the germs that affect it. I'm so proud of him. He's such a smart boy! Lesson of the day: J can now help me with my sorry powerpoints.

Mani and Pedi for Two

Z had a very special treat this weekend in celebration of breaking a habit she has struggled with for quite awhile. Since she went an entire week without chewing on her fingernails or skin on her fingers, she got to have a professional manicure and pedicure. I wish I had my camera while we were in the nail salon. She was too cute and boy did all the ladies make over her (customers and employees alike). I think she felt like a movie star. Z nails chose sparkly purple with flowers painted on her nails. It was nice to enjoy a little pampering with my favorite little girl. Lesson of the Day: Sometimes the simplest solution is the best solution. I didn't think it work but our pediatrician said put up a sticker chart, check her nails 3 times a day, and promise her something she would love at the end and she'll stop biting. Even though he swore that it worked with many patients, I was sceptical but he was right...worked like a charm!!!  Update:  I spoke to soon by the end of the following week, every bit of polish was gone and the nails were chewed off to the quick. ARGGGGGG!

Cheeeesssseee on Sunday

Just a moment I want to remember.

Awana Awards Night

So proud of my kids. Z received her Cubby Bear book award and J the Sparky Award for completing all 3 Sparks books.

Thank Goodness for Weekends

This week I'm thankful...

1.  That AWANA is over for the year!
2.  That God prepares the hearts of others even when we don't think He will.
3.  A lazy day with no agenda
4.  Watching cooking shows with my enthusiastic chef, Z
5.  The joy a swingset brings my monkeys

Country Life

One of the nice things about growing up in the country is the natural beauty that surrounds you during every season. The last trip out to mom and dad's reminded me of how much I love the country in the Spring: the smells of a million different plants stretching out after a long cold winter, the colorful landscape of Black-eyed Susans, Indian Paintbrushes, Winecups and a plethora of other wild flowers, the baby calves and goats that speckle the surrounding pastures. I love the convenience of the city but I will always miss the country. Lesson of the Day: We too often take for granted what we will eventually miss. Make the most of every moment.

The Backside of Men at Work

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This is what they thought of mom wanting pictures of them working. Niiiice!