Outnumbered Three To One

{Stubborn Little Bugger}

2011-12-30T11:07:00.000-08:00

We have had four days of complaining and tears over a tooth that just didn't want to come out. Thank heavens for tender mercies, we can now again eat in peace! :)

You can watch it here: Video

{Growing Up}

2011-12-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

Caleb loves to climb. First it was trees. And now, it's walls. It has been a fun bonding activity. It's cute to watch your children evolve from little people to a little bit-bigger people. Every once in awhile you get a hint of what they might be like as adults. Caleb, I admire so many qualities about you. I love your determination, your focus, your willingness to take risks and try new things. I love you, kiddo.

"The moves that you do, are based upon the risk you're willing to take. You've got one shot on this dustball, let's have some fun." -Michael Reardon

{Story Photos}

2011-11-18T13:33:00.000-08:00

I'm really enjoying all of these beautiful fall colors on the trees. We've had a relatively mild autumn and so we are soaking up as much time as we can outdoors. I saw something like this on pinterest.com and thought it was such a cute idea to do for yearly photos.

xoxo

{Diving Off The Deep End}

2011-11-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

I'm raising fishies I tell ya. My kiddos (age 7) diving off the board and my (4 year old) jumping off and swimming to the side all by himself...

{Happy Halloweenie}

2011-10-31T21:57:00.000-07:00

xoxo

{Star Power}

2011-10-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

My mother and sister and I took an eventful trip to visit my sister, her husband and her new baby in Pennsylvania. Flying across the United States in storm season isn't easy. We got delayed. We got rain. We got wind. We got stuck on an airplane for 1 1/2 hours in stifled airflow. We got lightening. We got sent to the wrong airport... Uh, what!? Yes, diverted actually. Apparently, there's a thing called tornadoes. They occur east of the Rockies. Us, Seattle-lites don't get to experience those bad boys unless you fly Eastward in prime storm season. We were grateful to eventually land in Baltimore. Sad however, that our ipod, GPS system, a camera and digital recorder flew onto Boston. Recovered, however!.. we got those treasures mailed back to us after our trip. But, all completely worth it to see family and the newest addition!

For your info..if you ever have a lay over in St. Louis, the tornado shelters are located inside the bathrooms.

Me and my beautiful sisters.

I love that this candid shot was taken. After several minutes of snapping pictures we were sweating in beautiful Penn humidity. Uh, we done yet?

The reasons for our visit.
And the star of the show... Vaughn Alan Herman.

Love you guys!

{Back Two School}

2011-10-01T13:46:00.000-07:00

And before I knew it I have two in school. My eldest, a second grader has spunk in his step.

My youngest (in celebration of being officially potty trained at 3 3/4 of age) we get to go big. We are in preschool. And although we don't need it, we also have to have a back pack. (wink).

... Despite a shiner (below left eye) and marker all over our pants, we are loving it!

xoxo

{Party Favors}

2011-09-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

I have a girlfriend who throws the most amazing birthday parties for her kids. She's a fabulous mom and knocks the word "details" out of the park, down the hill and around the corner. Seriously Jen, you are amazing!

I was reading up on one of my favorite blogs, she was quick to point out a few other extremely talented individuals out there that dish up some very nice inspiration and I thought I would continue passing around that love... (Grab a Dr. Pepper, a tea, bottled water, your latte or your whatever beverage catches your fancy and prepare yourself.. you're gonna be sitt'n on your glutius maximus for awhile.)

{A Bunch Of Characters}

2011-09-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

Living it up at our local fair is always a much anticipated event around our house. However, this year was a bit more challenging as the age spread between the boys was evident. Caleb has become to grown up for the kiddie rides and Porter although brave enough doesn't have the inches to qualify him for the big boy ones. However, there was one thing that we could all agree on and that was the food!

Caleb accompanying Porter on a "baby ride"... although, it looks like your enjoying himself to me!

Da-train.

Matador.. the big ride of the day.

Caleb wanted to try out the haunted mansion. Porter declined. Caleb went by himself and came out like this. :)

Bumper Cars... Porter's mad he's not tall enough to drive.

Porter's mad again but this time it's because we are leaving. Perhaps that's a true sign of a fabulous time!

Goodnight, Fair!

{Water You Doing?}

2011-08-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

{Weather Outperforms Cartoons}

2011-08-06T09:44:00.000-07:00

We've had major family changes this past year. And despite it all, Caleb has had a terrific 1st year of school. A typical morning before school would include waking up, going downstairs, asking for a bowl of cereal and then ask for today's newspaper. While chomping and chewing sugar coated Froot Loops or Lucky Charms, Caleb would read, analyze and critique Seattle's Chief Meteorologist's weather synopsis for the week. He would let us know where we could expect thunder and lightening storms, tornadoes and snow blizzards. He learned words like mostly, partly, precipitation, mph, high/low pressure and El Nino. And upon entering class, his 1st grade teacher would get a short weather report for the day.

Jeff Renner's biggest fan.

Caleb was sick one day and stayed home from school so I tucked him on the couch and asked him which cartoon he'd like to watch. I don't want any cartoons, Mom. Can you turn it to the weather channel?

You are one of a kind, sweetheart.

{Chuckle}

2011-08-04T22:17:00.000-07:00

The boys and I were in the car this evening when Caleb gasps the following-

"Mom! You must have spent a lot of money on my flip flops."

Me: "What do you mean, bud?"

Caleb: "My flip flops. They must be expensive. It says they were made in China."

I love you buddy.

{You Are My Sunshine}

2011-06-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

Today I had the privilege of hanging out with this little man. We were sun bums eating watermelon and exchanging knock-knock jokes. It was a sweet and surreal few hours in which I had the privilege of soaking up every word, every face, every exchange. Here's to living in the moment. And here's to a wonderful summer's bucket list.

{Somebody Got Older, Dirty & A New Name}

2011-05-21T09:35:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Porter's Birthday with a race, swimming and a party at Chuck E. Cheese's. Porter has been excited to turn four for a very long time. This magic age of four symbolizes big upgrades to his little life. Like getting a full size Flinstone vitamin like his brother instead of mom biting his in half. Turning four means getting to sit in a booster seat like big brother and saying good-bye to a clunky baby 5 strap harness. Turning four means going to school and wearing a back pack just like big brother. (Sigh.) All things Porter has been excited to do/get when he turns four fingers. Happy Birthday, Big Boy! :)

Dad entered his first running race and took 3rd place! He rocked it and ran his guts out! To his dismay, his bib number goes down in the forever Google race results as Coral Coon by mistake. (Which got me thinking..is Coral Coon a real name?) Go, Coral!...

{Getting Ready}

{Waiting to see Dad}

{On the course}

{and running happy}

{and gett'n dirty}

{Fabulous race time, Dad!}

... I mean, Coral. (wink)

{I Have An Extra $36.00 In My Pocket}

2011-05-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it. We did it. It was no small feet. But we are done. We are official...(well until Mr. & Mrs. Holmes require Depends) this Holmes family is diaper/ pull up free. Can I get a Hallelujah?

Two days before Porter's 4th birthday, he gave US the best un-birthday present ever!
Hand shake, high five, tator, chest pump.
Boy, you are rock'n it in your "pocket" undies. :)

{Float Your Boat}

2011-05-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

I love living in the Pacific Northwest. I really do. And although we get our share of rain and our share of cloudy days.. I still love it. I love running in our weather. I love the greenness and the beautiful scenery.

Boat season just started. Kids are counting down the days until school is out. Watermelon and corn on the cob are in full force at the grocery store... which means summer is around the corner. And it's getting me all smiley.

{Mother's Day}

2011-05-08T22:46:00.000-07:00

This past week has been filled with events that have helped me realize my true simple blessings. I'm so lucky to have a wonderful mother and equally lucky to be a mother to these fun-loving, personality plus little tycoons that have so much unlimited potential .

I love being your mom.

{Jump'n Super Mario}

2011-05-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

There's a first for everything. I'd like to announce to the world that Porter is potty trained, ... but that first has not arrived and frankly if I'm being honest, I'd like to swear.

No, this is not what the post is actually about. But after attending a birthday party this weekend for one of Porter's friends, and being surrounded by children who do use the potty, I'm reminded again that perhaps my son could possibly hold the world's record for being the oldest child to wear a pull up.

We have exactly 19 days before Porter turns four. Hi, my name is Carrie and I'm determined to get there.

{Girls Weekend}

2011-04-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

{Picking up our race packets.}

Twenty fabulous girlfriends and I got together for a fun-filled weekend of eating, shopping and runn'n! We had an absolute blast!

{Loading up on pre-race pasta!}

{Our bellies are officially stuffed. It's hang out time & sign planning for Anna's 10th marathon celebration!}

{Race day- Tiffany hitt'n it}

{The entire group}

Love you girls!

{To The T}

2011-04-21T16:27:00.001-07:00

Caleb and I both had dentist appointments this afternoon. After we were done, we went and got slurpies to celebrate our cavity free teeth before heading back onto the freeway.

Half way through our drive home Caleb is still slurping away and says, "Mom, don't worry I'm hiding."

Totally puzzled I asked, "Why are you hiding?"

Caleb says, "Because that bill board back there said we can't drink and drive."

Thanks for making my day. I love you, buddy. :)

{A Birthday Surprise}

2011-03-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

My sweet eldest turned seven this month. Where in the world does the time go? For months leading up to his birthday, he was determined to have his big day at a local family fun center called, Charlie Safari. When anyone asked what he was doing for his birthday, that was it. And he was excited.

Since Caleb's birthday landed on a week day we told him that we'd pick him up after school and go straight from there. But we are mean parents. And instead of doing what he wanted to do... we planned something a little bigger and crossed our fingers that our focused son wouldn't be too upset.

Here's Caleb as we passed by his school in the morning.

Here's Caleb when we tell him he doesn't have to go to school today.

Here's Caleb when he asks if we are going to Charlie Safari right now!?

And here's Caleb when he finds out we aren't going to Charlie Safari, but somewhere even better...

... somewhere even better sounds fun, eh? Oh man was that an ugly cry. For a brief minute, I thought what have we done?

We planned an overnight trip to The Great Wolf Lodge, an indoor waterpark resort. It took my husband and I twenty minutes of our car ride to console Caleb and convince him that where we were headed, he was going to forget all about Charlie Safari. We get to stay in a hotel for heavens sake. :)

Here are a few pictures from our very fun birthday surprise.

Happy Birthday, sweetheart.
I love you...

{First Dentist Appointment}

2011-03-14T19:20:00.000-07:00

{Anticipation}

2011-02-28T17:26:00.000-08:00

I am absolutely so thrilled to be able to see David Gray in concert on Thursday. So thrilled, I'm dreaming in Gray. Love his tone!:)

{The Reptile Man}

2011-02-18T08:05:00.000-08:00

The Reptile Man came to Caleb's school yesterday. We were introduced to several pythons and vipers, a mamba, a pretty tame turtle, a monkey lizard and oh, this guy.. a baby alligator. Fabulous!

{What Is Ragnar?}

2011-02-14T21:05:00.000-08:00

Picture this. Running a relay race through the Seattle area, starting near the border of Canada and winding south, all the way down to Whidbey Island. This race pushes you and 11 friends, day and night, through 187 miles of stunning Washington scenery. Starting in the seaside town of Blaine, teams head south through farm country, along the coast and ultimately crossing over Deception Pass. The race (and your stamina) wraps up on the southern tip of Whidbey Island.

That's the Northwest Passage.

How do you cover 187 miles? Only one runner hits the road at a time. The rest of your teammates are on support duty in your race vehicles. Oh and am I going to get a lot of support. My teammates are wild, crazy and just plain old fun. And although I voted for the team name, Runnin' Like We Stole Somethin'.... in the end, majority ruled and said Pimp My Stride.

So... Pimp My Stride it is.

And I'm absolutely looking forward to it-

{Harry Potter}

2011-02-13T21:52:00.000-08:00

Over the past few months Caleb's fascination with Ben 10 has diminished and has been replaced with a Harry Potter fetish. You have no idea how many times I've walked by the bathroom only to find Caleb sitting on the bathroom counter, red pencil in hand obsessing and perfecting his Harry scar above his eye. Uh, I'm pretty sure I birthed two boys..

So when I opened up the newspaper and read that the Harry Potter Exhibit would be coming to the Pacific Science Center I knew we'd have to make a trip. Unfortunately picture taking was prohibited inside that exhibit. But an assortment of eye candy was awaiting at the finish line. Harry Potter eye glasses, ties, wands were ~~begged for~~ purchased at the gift shop. Investment in future fun. Expecto Patronum...

{Smart As A Whip}

2011-02-08T13:14:00.001-08:00

Several weeks ago Caleb came down with the flu. The next morning Caleb woke up came downstairs and felt like drinking something other then water. So I poured him some ginger ale to drink.

With a mouth full of cereal Porter said, I want some pop too.
I replied, Oh honey.. this pop is for people that are sick."

Porter looked at Caleb and then at me and without missing a beat, he performed the loudest sneeze.... smart 3 year old.

Did you know that you can burn 770 calories if you jump rope for an hour? Wow. Impressed. Whenever I run, I always enjoy looking at my Garmin to see my calorie burn. But I must admit, it's not quite as impressive as the potential burn of jump'n er rope. Intrigued, I wondered how long could I last?

So I turned on Regis & Kelly and started 'er up. Exhausted I stopped at 30 minutes then did some yoga and called it a cross training day. Impressed by my half hour of jumping and going no where skills I let my mom know about my accomplishment. I bragged to my dad and my husband. I told my sister. In fact I even called a girlfriend to toot my own horn. I was a proud peacock.

This morning however, I dropped to the floor (involuntary) while getting out of bed. My calf's are solid rocks and burn with each step. It's lunch time and I've tried to stretch the heck out of them all morning. This proud peacock who isn't so smart has turned into an 87 year old slow moving grandma. This activity fit for a 9 year old should be worked up slowwwwwwly and come with a caution label.

xoxo

{Sharp Tactics}

2011-01-19T12:12:00.000-08:00

Caleb, I love you sweetheart. I really do. Sometimes you just leave me speechless. Oh to be six years old and have your brain. If you're in the mood for humor feel free to read on, but I'm putting a disclaimer up front. I'm only including this story here because I turn my blog into books so that when I'm old and gray I will still remember...

I picked Caleb up from school and as soon as he came into the house he kicked his shoes off and dumped his backpack in the entry way, then made a be-line into the bathroom. I prepare an after school snack for him and set it on the table. I begin putting a load of laundry into the washing machine and pick up a few toys on the stairs and head upstairs to see what son #2 is doing. After son#2 and I play a few rounds of dinosaur fights star wars guys I can still hear Caleb singing away downstairs on the pot. Not unusual.

Still upstairs, I jump onto the computer to check my email. After a few minutes, Caleb comes up to me without his pants on and we proceed to have the following conversation:

C: "Mom, I've been trying for a really long time, but my poop isn't coming out."

M: "Hmm, well.. sometimes it does takes a little bit longer." (Looking at his no pants) "Uh, why don't you go sit back on the toilet and I'll bring you a glass of water and a book?"

That suffices Caleb and so we initiate our plan of attack. Caleb is set up like he's on a long road trip and I let him know that if after a little while nothing happens that he could finish getting dressed and try again later. (wink)

I return upstairs and begin ~~sifting through~~ organizing paperwork and quite frankly I got a little bit lost in it. I'm not sure how much time passed by but it was quite a bit and I had forgotten all about Caleb and his "problem"... that was until Caleb came upstairs this time with his pants on. We then proceeded to have this conversation:

M: "Hi kiddo. How ya doing? Any better?"

C: "Mom, I need to tell you something." (Not unusual. Caleb is one honest kid. He tells me everything... when he picks his nose, touches his bodily parts, steps on an ant... you name it.)

M: I set my paperwork aside and motion for him to come over. "Okay, bud what's up?"

C: "Mom, I got a knife."

M: "What!? What do you mean you got a knife?"

C: Silence.

M: "Caleb." (My mind is racing.. I'm thinking...what, was he trying to cut an apple by himself? Is he about to tell me that he's made a scratch on the counter top?) "Caleb, why did you get a knife out?"

C: "Mom, I got a knife out because I tried to get my poop out."

M: (Jaw drops to the floor at supersonic speed) "You did what!?" "Oh honey! We never use a knife to do that. (My brain is screaming, what in the world!? where would you come up with such an idea..CAAAAAAALEB!) But instead I say things like, "Are you okay? Have you cut yourself?"

C: "No, mom... I'm okay."

M: And then I think about where that germ infested instrument could be?.. "Caleb, where's the knife now?"

C: "Oh, I put it back."

M: (My jaw flies back to the ground and my body jumps up to match that supersonic speed again."What do you mean you put it back? Caleb, when you touched that knife to your bum bum where do you think those germs went?"

C: "On the knife?"

M: Yes! And when you put that knife back with the rest of the knives in the silverware drawer where do you think those germs went?"

C: The light bulb goes on and he slaps his hand over his mouth. "Oops."

I fly down the stairs at the same time he's yelling to me that he can't remember which knife it was..... Uh, no problem buddy.... I make a dive for every piece of silverware in the silverware drawer and dump them all into the dishwasher.

I can't wait to butter my roll at dinner time.
Oops, poops.

{Someday}

2011-01-18T15:43:00.000-08:00

I'd like to have a fireplace that reaches the ceiling.

Photo by William Waldron Country Living

It would include a large rustic mantel and it would hold lots of bushy green garland at Christmas time.

Courtesy of Thom Scott Studio

Someday I'd like to have enormous wood beams that go the entire length of my ceiling.

Photo Unknown

They would be stained a dark color to match my wide plank floors.

Courtesy of Nest Egg

Someday I'd like to have a white couch with white fluffy pillows and matching white opening shutters.

Courtesy of Decor Pad

It would contrast nicely with my Spanish chandelier, don't you think?

Picture Unknown

I'd putz around barefoot in my little slice of heaven cleaning while listening to this guy...

David Gray

In the meantime I'll continue to look at my glass half full and count all of my many blessings. 1 out of 7 isn't bad... David Gray will not be soothing me in this dream home of mine yet ...however, I look forward to listening to him live very soon. :)

xoxo

{Bliss Knot Tying}

2011-01-14T21:12:00.001-08:00

My beautiful baby sister got married a few months ago. They packed up their belongings and doggie and drove across country. We missed seeing them over the holidays and so we were thrilled to hear that she will be coming home for a visit next week..

{ice hockey n. A game played on ice in which two opposing teams of skaters, using curved sticks, try to drive a puck into one another.}

2010-12-28T23:54:00.000-08:00

{Multiple Choice Christmas}

2010-12-23T11:28:00.000-08:00

Dear

a. Family
b. Friend(s)

We are approaching the end of 2010 and are thankful for the wonderful blessings we've received this past year. We wish for you a wonderful holiday season filled with love, laughter and great memories!

The Holmes family

a. successfully sold their home
b. are currently living with family
c. are anxiously awaiting news to the exact location in AZ that they'll be planting roots

For the most part, Damon is healthy and

a. was lucky enough to have the whole entire summer off from work
b. still has 10 working fingers after a battle with a table saw and two successful surgeries
c. had an enjoyable year full of kayaking, camping, rock climbing and hiking

Carrie

a. finished another half-marathon and gave it her best running her first full marathon and is still running...
b. has enjoyed being a soccer mom and washing mud soaked attire
c. has discovered some fabulous BRAND NEW anti-aging products without the use of chemicals and is loving how they make her feel

Caleb is

a. enjoying first grade and has adjusted very nicely to a new school
b. into Ben 10, riding his scooter/bike, drawing, studying weather patterns and playing the piano
c. animated and loves to ask questions

Porter is

a. a HUGE Cars fan and is still mastering the art of going potty IN the potty
b. enjoying his big brother, learning his letters and sounds, WRESTLING and having tea parties with dinosaurs
c. courteous and polite, a snuggler and loves to be read to

Looking ahead to 2011, we wish you

a. the happiest of holidays
b. a healthy and prosperous New Year

Merry Christmas!

{It's A Bake-a-thon... Not!}

2010-12-10T13:16:00.000-08:00

It's tradition. Every year my sisters, mom and I get together and do a little bit of Christmas baking. We each bring a recipe or two, bake all day long and then divvy out the greatness allowing us to come home with a variety of goodies to pass along to our friends and neighbors.

This year we opted to bag out of the cookie baking and decided to make the masses of two different kinds of treats... just to change things up a bit.

Divine Goodie Number Uno: Carmel, Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Rods

These look really pretty (place them in a clear cellophane bag and tie w/ ribbon) and there's an endless way to decorate the suckers. If you haven't tried them, it's a must. If you can believe it they taste even BETTER then they look!
Ingredients:

A bag of Kraft Caramels
Bag of pretzel rods
A few bags of chocolate (white, milk, dark, whatever kind you'd like to do). Choose several kinds to mix and match. I used Wilton and purchased it from JoAnn Fabrics.

Directions:

1. Melt caramel using the double boil method.
2. While caramel is melting, layer cookie sheets with parchment paper.
3. Once caramel is melted, dip your pretzel rod into the caramel to desired length. Your pan may not be exceptionally deep. I used a spoon to help me coat the pretzels.
4. Allow the excess caramel to drip back into your pan before placing on the parchment lined cookie sheet. Repeat for all pretzels and allow caramel to harden.
5. Melt your chocolate that you want to use as a base. Dip your caramel pretzels into the chocolate to cover the caramel. Again you may need to use a spoon to get the coverage you want.
(Don't be afraid if your pretzel rods aren't looking pretty yet.. the drizzle will hide any non smooth areas.)
6. Allow your chocolate to harden on the pretzels. Putting them in a freezer is also a great option to hurry the process along.
7. Melt another kind of chocolate for the drizzle and decorating. I opted to use a disposable icing bag to help me drizzle, but you could also you a spoon to do the same process.
8. Allow to harden completely before placing them in cellophane bags.

Divine Goodie Number Dos: Rolo Turtles
(Thanks to my sis for introducing me to these!)

Even easier than the 1st recipe... these things take only minutes to make and require only three ingredients. These also look wonderful wrapped in cellophane bags w/ ribbon.

Ingredients:

Bag of small pretzels (traditional shape)
Bag of Rolos
Bag of Pecans

Directions: (if you can call it that!) :)

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Lay out your pretzels on a cookie sheet lined w/ parchment paper.
3. Place one rolo in the middle of each pretzel.
4. Cook for 4 minutes.
5. Once out of the oven, immediately place a pecan down to flatten the rolo into the pretzel.

Set aside to cool or place in freezer for 5 minutes to cool quickly.

Happy flour free baking!

Geritol Beauty Clinic

2010-12-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

NY Stock Exchange eat your heart out. Purchasing fun bath toys has more then tripled our investment in the Holmes household. My kids can play for hours in a bath (okay not really, but yes, close). I love to hear them squeal and play and I also love that I'm able to get few things done without children under foot.

Most of you know that we are temporarily staying at my parents home until our move down south. This morning I announced to Porter that it was bath time. YES!, was his response. After what seemed like 3,500 seconds, I ~~coerced then bribed then dragged~~ got him out of the tub... the water was not even a desirable bath temperature and he was still happy as a clam.

I began drying him with a towel when all of a sudden he looked at his hands. Excited, he shouted "Mom! I've got wrinkles... just like grandma!"

Could everyday be bath day!?

{Truancy}

2010-11-23T19:40:00.000-08:00

School has been canceled for the past few days due to our abnormal icy weather.

Look how sad they are?

{We've Advanced}

2010-11-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

from Rainville to Snowburg with ~~cooler~~ arctic temperatures to accompaniment it.

So with all of this frigidness I thought I'd make something warm and comforting.. Golden Potato Soup (an amazing and easy dinner that with all assurance will warm the cockles of my family's heart (and tummy).

Golden Potato Soup
(courtesy of Allrecipes.com)

Ingredients:

3 cups peeled and cubed potatoes
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cube chicken bouillon
1 cup water
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups shredded American cheese
1 cup chopped ham

Directions:

In a large stock pot add potatoes, celery, onion, chicken bouillon, water and parsley flakes. Season with salt and pepper and simmer until vegetables become tender.
In a separate bowl mix flour and milk. Once it is well blended, add to soup mixture and cook until soup becomes thick.
Stir in cheese, cooked ham or hamburger and simmer until cheese is melted.

I'm not going to include the nutritional information however, I will let you know that this recipe does make enough for five. :)

Enjoy!

{November Is A Time To Be Thankful}

2010-11-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

You can follow beautiful Stephanie here:
Thank you for inspiring me.

{It's Fall 'Yall}

2010-10-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

If you live in the PNW you're aware that our summer weather (ahem) lacked this year. (If you're not from Washington State...bite your tongue... we do actually get nice summers. :)

And although the weather has turned slightly chilly, the sun has been out in full force. (If you could hear me now I'd sing you the na na na na na I'm lov'n it jingle.) We took advantage of it and spent an afternoon at a pumpkin patch.

The pumpkin launch is a favorite activity at the patch and it goes something like this. You ~~waste~~ invest a bunch of money on tiny baby pumpkins with the hopes that one of those itty bitty things will be placed ever so perfectly inside some tubing and get launched graciously through the air with just the amount of velocity and speed to hit a bulls-eye 50+ yards away. If done correctly, your investment in small squash will get you a nice fat Grandad of them all pumpkin.. oh and your name goes on the wall of fame (uh, erased daily). A total man sport.

My husband with both luck and talent behind him has managed to do this for the last two years. But could he do it for a third? We wanted to find out. With an informal poll taken right before our arrival, the boys were split 50-50.

And raw talent it is. Bullseye. :)

{Competition}

2010-10-09T16:46:00.000-07:00

Caleb and I were casually strolling along the cereal aisle at the grocery store. I was focused on the cereal boxes and prices when I noticed how quiet it was all of a sudden. Normally during this time, the sugar cereal questions would have been firing off at machine gun speed...

"Mom. Mom. Mom. Can we get this one?"

I look over my shoulder to make sure Caleb is still with me when I see him eying a lady on the opposite side of the aisle. I quickly put a few boxes of cereal into our cart hoping to avoid the sugar cereal requests all together and begin walking. As we turn the corner into Center Aisle Mayhem Caleb turns to me with all seriousness and says:

"Mom, that lady had short boobies. (Looking at mine) You have long ones, good-job, Mom." And then gives my chest a sort of high five.

Mortified I am. For certainly, he couldn't have picked a more crowded part of the store to share his matter of fact conclusion.

Thanks for the rah rah, sweetheart. If you only knew... short boobies are in.
xoxo

This Week

2010-09-30T22:28:00.000-07:00

I'm up to my neck in boxes and packing tape.
I'm on cruise control with a sharpie.
And I've become Craigslist's newest gazillionare. Alright so not really a gazillionare (but really not too shabby.) :)

$old my refabbed table and chairs I gave a leg lift to..

And started on some Christmas gifts.
All this pre-move prep (say that three times fast) made us hungry.. so we took a little bit of a time out to bake.

These babies have vanilla pudding mix in them! Wanna guess how many I ate?
Eh, too many.

Hope you have a fabulous weekend!

{Halloween}

2010-09-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

How is it possible that the month of October is almost here?

I found tutorials for this cute DIY Halloween Wreath and Silver painted pumpkins at Remodelholic.

I love these black and white pumpkin toparies from Imperfectly Beautiful.

Printable Halloween potions and bottles labels from Fantasy Jr.

I'm loving how All Things Thrifty used paper and a Cricut machine to turn her staple mirror into a unique Halloween decoration.

And these Pumpkin Spice Brownie Bites from BruCrew. My stomach is growling just looking at them. :)

{Semantics}

2010-09-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

Caleb and I had a dentist appointment this morning. After wards, I took Caleb to school, checked him into the office and then walked him down the hall to his class. I watched him go into his class then turned on my heel and started my walk back down the hallway when his teacher opened the classroom door chuckling.

"Mrs. Holmes", he said. "I want to tell you what Caleb just said."

Holding my breath I'm think okay give it to me..

The teacher said Caleb bounced into class and said, "Hi Mr.(teachers name), I'm late because I had a disappointment." (Dentist Appt.)
..............................................................................................................................................................

This afternoon I asked Porter if he needed to go pee-pee in the potty. He nodded his head. So up he went. He sat for a minute, played with the toilet paper roll, touched the flusher, swung his legs, looked up at the ceiling and then said, "Mom, my pee pee's broken, it's not working.

xoxo

{Cooking 101: Follow The Recipe}

2010-09-21T19:33:00.000-07:00

For me the hard part isn't the cooking nor is it the following of directions. It's the "finding a great recipe" to begin with that can sometimes be difficult. Finding a great recipe means that the outcome is exquisite and that it doesn't call for 15 different ingredients (3 of which-you've never heard of before nor do you think you'llever use again (you know what I mean.)

No. I want easy. I want simple. And I want it to taste good. I have a handful of these recipes that fit the easy bill. Most of them have come from my dear friends. Because I'm lucky enough to have talented friends and when we have a get-together it usually always includes food.

I have another source for great recipes. You may have already discovered All Recipes.com but if you haven't, trust me- it's great. Why? Because recipes are submitted from every day people and receive star ratings once people have tried them. And I mean if 3,678 have tried a recipe and it gets a five star I think it's worth a trying. :)

I spotted this incredible recipe for meatloaf. Eww, meatloaf? Really? I know. I'm not a real meatloaf eater myself. In fact, meatloaf is not even in my regular dinner rotations. But this recipe fit my criteria for a great recipe so I gave it a go last night. It was such a hit I thought I'd share...

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Glaze:
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup

Meatloaf:
1.5 lbs ground turkey (original recipe called for ground beef, but this healthy substitute tasted wonderful)
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
1.5 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 tsp ground ginger
3/4 cup finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs

Preheat oven to 425. Lightly grease a 5 x 9 inch loaf pan. Mix the brown sugar and ketchup together in a bowl. Set aside. In a separate mixing bowl, mix thoroughly all remaining ingredients and shape into a loaf. Spread glaze on top of the meat loaf. Bake in preheated oven for 55 minutes.

Enjoy!

Thou Shall Not Covet

2010-09-20T16:24:00.000-07:00

I came across a blog and I started to drool. Okay so saliva was not actually dripping down my chin.. but my mouth did open. I'm in love with this blue piece of furniture. I believe it's an old dresser that they painted and turned into buffet.

Courtesy of hookedonhouses.net

I love that they've taken an older piece of furniture transformed it into something unique and then placed it in a room that it was not originally designed for.

And it's kinda got me looking at furniture in a different way~

{Die Hards}

2010-09-16T09:27:00.001-07:00

We attend our local fair every year. It's tradition. It's been a tradition ever since I was little. And as our little family grows the tradition continues. In fact, it's talked about all year long....like right up there with Christmas. The kids enjoy everything. The animals. The food. And the rides. Well... okay mostly the rides. Me? I love all of those things too. But, I'll personally add that the people watching is particularly awesome. :)

We elected to go yesterday. It was an early school release day. And the forecast was a little bit more promising than our upcoming weekend. So I picked up Caleb from school and we hit it- meeting up w/ Dad later after he got off of work. Except that the 30% chance of drizzle turned into 90% rain with 45% rain showers.

Check out my pant legs. That's not a shadow. We stayed until just after 9pm. That's all complete wetness from the shoes/socks on up. Partly from the rain but I contribute most of my wetness from my youngest- a puddle jumper. Check out his shmants (pants/shorts)...

Rain Shmain.. Kids could care less. :)

{In Nine Days}

2010-09-12T21:03:00.000-07:00

Our house sold. Bittersweet. That's how I'm feeling. As I begin taking things down and placing our possessions in boxes I'm flooded with memories. This is our first home. The home where we had two beautiful children. Birthdays. Christmas's. Projects. Parties. Rainy day fires and movie nights. Smiles. Tears and time-outs on the stairs...

{Kick Back}

2010-09-10T08:09:00.000-07:00

One of the blessings of motherhood is being able to watch, cheer on and give a thumbs up from the side lines.

There's nothing in the world more fun then to observe your child developing their talents and watching them enjoy it at the same time.

Love you, Caleb!

{A Hot Dog At The Ballgame Beats Roast Beef At The Ritz}

2010-09-09T15:34:00.000-07:00

Damon took Caleb to a Mariners game and arrived early enough to watch some batting practice. Caleb received a ball from 2nd baseman, Chone Figgins. Wow! Awesome, Caleb.

Except Chone Figgins batting average eh, isn't so stellar. In fact it's just about as great as his name (I mean really.. who names their kid Chone Figgins?)

See Caleb though?... he doesn't care one bit. He's just plum delighted that he's got mojo and a real baseball.

XOXO

{First Times Three}

2010-09-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

Today marks the first day of first grade. It's also the first day Caleb successfully rode his bike without training wheels. "I'm so proud of myself!"... Caleb

... Unfortunately, today was also Caleb's first physical fight at school... but that occurred on second recess. What!? I know. And after all of the information was gathered, it was my son that lost his temper and threw the kick. Ahem.

{Wrapping Paper Ribbon Wall Rack}

2010-08-31T15:19:00.000-07:00

I came across a blog today called... 33 Shades of Green. If you enjoy ~~wasting time~~ getting lost in idea finding w/ a special emphasis in stylish and functional projects... your behind would be very comfortable being planted at this blog for a really long time.

Mine wasn't planted for too long before I ran into this lovely thing. A beautiful addition to any craft room, I say. I'm a sucker for ribbon. I have oodles of it and yet I still can't pass it by without taking the slightest moment to peruse through a bin or a rack at a store and imagine a card and the right stamp set that would compliment that cute thing.

This set up is perfect. Think of how cute and organized ~~one~~ I could be with two of these next to one another. I could gaze at my ribbon collection at any time rather then string through a storage drawer for hours.

Not only is it visually appealing, but Alissa's step by step instructions make it easy and cheap to duplicate. If you're interested, you can find her fabulous tutorial and blog here.

{Strength Training}

2010-08-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

I've had the kids all week while my husband has been away on a mancation. Camping, river rafting and mountain climbing. Doesn't he look rejuvinated?... Surely enough to take the kids by himself for the day (wink, wink)?

I'm glad you had a good time honey!

{Lip Smack'n}

2010-08-27T10:16:00.000-07:00

I have this problem.

Only I don't really consider it a problem, it's more like an addiction really.

Have you ever tasted something so delicious that you wanted to gorge yourself... for three days straight? And when I say gorge, I mean like eat that same thing for lunch and for dinner and you could still possibly have it again for breakfast? In my humble opinion, it could be worse. I mean I could be in love with ice cream or cheesecake or... chocolate covered something. (To which I actually am in love with all of these things.)

I'm happy to say that my new obsession is slightly more healthy. It makes a ton (freezes for an easy pull together dinner for another night). And it's.... well, frankly delicious. Delicious. Did I mention, delicious?

It all happened so suddenly. I was talking to my sister on the phone and I asked her what she was fixing for dinner.

She happily replied, Carne Asada.

My brain thought, Fancy Smancy, but my lips said, "What the heck is that"?

I have shocked my sister. "What!? You've never had Carne Asada?"

Okay, now I'm feeling dumb. "Uh, no." What's in it?"

She then begins to utter off a list of healthy ingredients that in combination makes my mouth start to water. I decide right then and there that a trip to the store is of the utmost importance.

And after I've come home from that store can you believe that even before I make this dish, I'm thinking about it all day long. The anticipation of all those things mixed together and what it might taste like is for sure pure agony. And can you believe that in all that agony, I begin to prepare dinner at 4:00 because I just can't stand it any longer? What's wrong with me!? (And nope, not pregnant.)

This is what I heard my sister say...

Carne Asada, it's the meat that's already cut up really thin for you.
Add spices to it and bbq it. But not for very long. Cut it into strips.
Warm tortillas over the bbq.
Add black beans (warmed).
Add cilantro.
Tomatoes.
Avocodos.

My brain also said...
Oh and you could add that yummy pepper jack cheese that you have in the fridge too.
And a dab of sour cream would probably taste lovely too!

Ode to my sister!

{Refabbing}

2010-08-18T19:16:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago I found this great set of table and chairs on Craigslist. You may have heard my silent enthusiasm, here.

I'm happy to say that I'm finished and as promised I'm posting some pics of the final product.

Happy Recycling...

{A Low-Key Summer}

2010-08-06T21:03:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that August has arrived. It sure would be nice to be able to do a little of this all year 'round.

Hoping you are able to soak up every last bit of yours!

New Terminology

2010-08-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

As a mother of two boys, I'm outnumbered in our home. Although I grew up with a brother (and two sisters), my sense of boy-ness is sometimes rusty. Well, let's be honest... I'm a work in progress.

Why should I care if my boys are filthy while camping? I do. But, I shouldn't.
Why should I care if they have peanut butter and jelly on their cheeks as they run to go and play? I do. But, I shouldn't.

Why should I care if my boys wrestle and try to tear one anothers arms off? Their boys. Boys are supposed to wrestle, turn red faced and sweat profusely, right? Still caring here.

Why should I care if my newly swept and mopped floor gets wet and freshly cut grass all over it? I do. But, I shouldn't. It's just grass and water and a few minutes of clean up...

Uh, raising boys is a lot different than raising girls. Dummy, slow mom here is beginning to see that. I've decided that I need to shift gears, take it down a notch and reason in a whole new way.. W.W. Be gone.

The boys got new Razors last Christmas. But this summer, they've taken to them. In fact, we've even watched a video with all sorts of tricks that the boys ~~want to do~~ think they can do. I'm learning things like, "tail whip", "bunny hop", and "stall". Perhaps my new found skater lingo will make me cool? Nah, I didn't think so either.

And so with my new cool, calm and collected tude, I used my energy to snap some pictures of them riding today instead of reminding them to look both ways before they cross the street.

{Reminnising}

2010-08-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

It's really a shame that extended families usually only get together for funerals and weddings. There's something about these occasions that bonds families together. I wish they happened more frequently... the bonding, not the funerals.

Damon's grandmother, June Wallace recently passed away. A beautiful person whose character and personality resembled the Savior. I'm grateful for the chance that I had to know her. This event caused us to travel to Spokane this last week.

After the funeral, we headed over to Priest Lake, ID to spend some time in a cabin Damon's grandparents had built with their own hands.

The Outhouse. Although I did most of my business squatting somewhere in the 40 acres.

The Cabin.

Target Practice: The boys first experience with guns.

Before heading home, we visited a little town called, Sandpoint, ID. Ever been? One word... Beautiful.

{What A Find}

2010-07-27T22:08:00.000-07:00

I found this table and set of four chairs for CHEAP on Craigslist. I loved them because it was made from solid wood and it had great lines. As soon as I saw it, I knew I needed it. Had to have her. My vision included white paint, sand paper, and some foam and fabric.

I'm turned on by her legs. And she has two lovely drawers. Ureka, I'm glad she's solid wood.

Those of you that know me may be asking why Care? Why would you put upon yourself a project when you are trying to get a house ready to sell? I know. I know. My hubby said the same thing. But I'm in love with it and it's going to be my new desk.

I promise to post pictures when I'm finished..

{Monday Humor}

2010-07-12T08:37:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!

{All American Huh Moment}

2010-07-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

I was getting ready to BBQ last night when Porter came into the kitchen. I got the normal, what's for dinner question. I rambled off the the menu and showed him the corn on the cob I was about to shuck.

To my surprise he said, " I don't like corn on the cob."

Knowing full well this kid could out butter and salt lick-eat me w/ this numiness, I started shucking the corn. His eyes lit up like firecrackers and I got a huge smile. "Oh yep", he said, "I like corn on the cob!"

Ding-ding-ding. The brain has computed...

Hope you have a cracker of a Fourth!

{Confession Poetry}

2010-06-29T21:58:00.000-07:00

Kids who ask questions are called inquisitive.

Sometimes I feel like I'm at McDonalds. And they've been super sized.

The questions, not the kids.

Kids who ask super sized questions all day long are called...

I'd like to get comfy in a closet and put my fingers in my ears.

Especially when super sized questions get rattled off at machine gun speed.

And I'm in the middle of something.

And my patients level is sub zero.

And I'm reminded that I have a brain the size of a pea since giving birth to two question askers.

Do you know...

How did ketchup get its name?

(While he's looking at mine) Why do people have grey hair?

What is the fastest animal?

Why is my poop brown?

Why do I get goosebumps?

What makes the whistle sound when I whistle?

How do hearing aids work?

Why are some alligators called alligators and some called crocodiles?

Can animals walk backwards?

and my personal favorite... Who made words?

Tomorrow's homework: google.

{The Door}

2010-06-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

When we purchased our home, it came with a purple door. For my husband, a UW alum and a Husky fan he was in absolute heaven. I... not so much.

So in the name of compromise and in the name of school spirit... purple it was.

But, in the name of resell... I got a white door.

Dear Mr. Paint,

I heart you.

xoxo

Water + Dirt=

2010-06-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

This delicious cupcake...

{Mr. Bubble Gum}

2010-06-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

Caleb: "Hey mom, guess what?"

Me: "What bud?"

Caleb: "When I get older, my wife and I are going to move into the house next door. You can meet her and then we can come over and you can cook us dinner."

Me: "Really? I would love that."

Caleb: " Yep, I don't want to go too far. I would miss you."

Thanks for sticking to me sweetheart...

{Changes}

2010-06-13T23:01:00.000-07:00

It's hard to imagine how nine months can change a person. Especially someone who doesn't eat a lot of veggies. But brilliantly smart he has become. And a few inches he has grown.

1st Day of Kindergarten:

Hello Summer Vacation:

How is it possible btw, that a Kindergartner who goes to school for only 2.5 hours a day and every other Wednesday could be so excited for no school?

A girlfriend reminded me that I've made it big time. Carrie, it's not Kindergarten you wait for, but rather 1st grade.. that's when Mom's sport the all day in school hallelujah shake. Hmmm... I've still got mixed feelings. One thing is for sure- I'm grateful for the summer that we'll have together..

{Medical Mayham}

2010-06-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

Oh Mylanta is all I can say. I've experienced one of those when it rains it pours weeks. And whomever started spreading that vicious rumor that things happen in three's... well, let's just say that they lied. It also comes in four's.

Number 1.... Some of you know that I started training for my 1st marathon back in January. June 5th was the big day. But a month prior to that, I was nursing knee injuries and started physical therapy with the hopes that I'd be able to finish what I had started. The marathon was located in a beautiful beach town and we had absolutely fantastic weather. I ran 14 miles before my knee gave out (literally). I had to turn around early and walk back 8 miles to the finish line. And although it was truly disappointing, I'm grateful for the entire experience- a wonderful supportive husband and fabulous friends with whom I had the best time training with.

Moving onto Number 2. While I was away on marathon weekend excursion, my sweet mother watched the boys. Caleb started to develop a fever and an ear ache. We picked him up on Sunday and he had a rough night. I took him in first thing Monday morning to find out that he had a double ear infection. Poor guy.

No time to wait. Let's go right to Number 3. We're back from the doctors, it's mid-afternoon now and Caleb isn't feeling well, so he's napping upstairs in my bed while son #2 is also asleep. And although I feel like taking a nap because I didn't get much sleep the night before, I decide to take advantage of uninterrupted time to gimp around and organize our office closet- we're supposed to be putting our house on the market later in the week. My sweet husband is working outside trying to replace some beams on our porch. It's a warmer day so I have the window in the office open. I hear the table saw start up and within moments Damon starts screaming like I've never heard someone scream before. Oh gosh. I drop everything and ~~run~~ gimp downstairs to find him running into the house with blood everywhere. His face is pale, he's shaking and sweating and I know its bad. I call 911. I'm holding my husband on our garage floor, I've got one kiddy who's got a fever and is upstairs sleeping and another one totally zonked out. I call my sister who lives just a few miles away who rushes over and I follow Damon to the hospital in this. Damon would say later that he received the best drugs in this red choo choo..

But he'd complain that the morphine here, was pretty useless...

{Pre-Surgery} waiting for the hand specialist and plastic surgeon to become available at TG. No, he's not flipping you off.. not intentionally anyway. :)

A close up? Nah, I wouldn't do that to you. Just take my word.. it looks great covered up! Honey, you were a trooper!

Luckily, they were able to get him into surgery after only waiting for two hours.

{Post-Op} Waking up from surgery.. Hello, Sunshine.

Diagnosis:

The table saw won.

He broke his finger in two places between his middle knuckle and the tip of his finger.

Severed his tendon and cut through his nerve.

So, Number 4. While I gimpy is taking care of son #1 and discharged husband, son #2 becomes ill. I take him to the doctor. Double ear infection. Sure. Absolutely. Because Numbers 1-3 weren't enough.

I have survived. The boys are feeling chipper. The doctors expect Damon to make a full recovery in 12 weeks. He gets an extended long vacation from work while he mends. I keep telling him he's going to have a fabulous tan... well at least one hand will. :)

xoxo

{Swap Party}

2010-06-03T19:16:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday I hosted a Swap Party.

The premise of a Swap Party is that everyone brings a few "nice" items they don't use anymore to swap for other people's things that they don't use either. You spend no money and still leave with something(s) cool.

I scored this:

Thanks, Mimi! I'm hoping to use this as a potty training incentive... and secretly hoping that gum balls will solve all of my dreams of being diaper free in mere weeks!

xoxo

{Memorial Day}

2010-05-31T21:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you to those that have served

are currently serving our country..

and to the families that

support,

love

and sacrifice

their loved ones, we appreciate you.

{Make Over & Over & Over... Repeat}

2010-05-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

These loverly oak cabinets came with our home seven years ago. I despise them.

So, a few years ago I thought I'd jazz them up a bit by staining them a dark cherry finish. And after I was finished I tilted my head and concluded that it was better than the original, but I still wasn't gaga over them. Grreeaatt! Now what? I've got dark stain on my cabinets...

I sat on it for four years. During that time I painted my kitchen wall five times. Yeah, you heard me. Five painstakingly times. And each time I'd pick out a new paint color I thought, "Yes, this is gonna be it, I'm gonna love it." But no amount of positive self talk helped, I really truly hated my kitchen.

And it wasn't the choice of paint color... it was the cabinets.

I really wanted to paint my cabinets. In fact, I wish I would have thought of that brainy idea before I started staining away. Because you can't paint over stain....

....or can you?

I heart this chemical I found that allows you to paint over stain without sanding.. yeah you heard me! Without the sanding step it was still a lot of work.. but this time-

A whole lotta worth it!

{One, Two, Three!}

2010-05-21T15:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Big Boy!

{Bloedel Reserve}

2010-05-20T10:39:00.000-07:00

If you live in the area, this is really a great spot to visit. No need to have a green thumb or be a history major to appreciate this prime piece of real estate. Damon surprised me by taking me here yesterday.

Absolutely breathtaking!

Totally "Mom"-sense

2010-05-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

Caleb brought the cutest handout home from his primary class today. (Jennifer, just a guess but I'm pretty sure that this was your idea.) Thank you.

"Here, mom. Let's play."

So I take a peak.

It was a ziplock baggie with M&M's in it. And attached was a piece of paper that said:

You're one special lady and I'm one special child!

Let's play a game with M&M's bright and wild!

Pick a candy, any color will do.

And answer the question through and through!

Then once you're done, toss in the air.

Can the other one catch? Or will it land in her hair?

Have fun and be silly- get to know each other well!

And to each other- I LOVE YOU SO MUCH, don't forget to tell!

Red- What is one of your favorite things to do with me?

Orange- Where would you want to go anywhere in the world with me and why?

Yellow- What do you see us doing together in 10 years?

Green- Name 3 reasons why you love me.

Blue- Ask me any question you like!

Brown- Hum a tune and see if I can guess it!

So fun!

xoxo

Loddy Doddy Look Who's Starting To Go Pee-Pee In The Potty...

2010-05-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

Some experts suggest putting Fruit Loops in the toilet. Some experts suggest using a potty chair. Porter suggested to me that he sit backwards on the potty. Tip from a 2 1/2 year old. He thinks he can see his accomplishment better. He has better access to the flush (his favorite part of going potty). And for some reason his body and legs fit better at this angle. And not matter which kind of potty he is doing... they both drop perfectly.

In this case it's all about the destination and not the journey..

All The World's A Stage

2010-05-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

"You have to know you can win. You have to think you can win. You have to feel you can win." {Sugar Ray Leonard}

Go get-em kiddo!

Brutal Fun

2010-05-05T19:17:00.000-07:00

Marathon..... 30 days and counting.

Me getting ice treatments. Wish me luck. I'll need it!

Bye-Bye Five, Hello Six...

2010-05-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

{two months delayed... not the party, but the post. :)}

The Birthday Boy:

The Birthday Boy Assistant:

In Ben 10 Heaven:

You may have a pinch to grow an inch, but no more. I wish you would stay little forever. You are such a fun boy and we love you, Caleb!

{Pockets}

2010-04-29T15:31:00.000-07:00

have become a new phenomenon around our home. No, I'm not talking about those throw in the microwave Hot Pockets or the miniature dress up lose all of the accessories if you're not careful Polly Pockets.

I'm talking about your regular run of the mill pockets. The simple invention that allows you to hold your car keys, spare change... and well collect lint. When is the last time you used your pockets? Think hard. Can you remember?

I can. It was today.

And yesterday.

And the day before that.

In fact it has been every day this week.

It started on Monday during our day trip to the Woodland Park Zoo. Mommy introduced it, but has sense wished she hadn't. It sounded like such a brilliant idea at the time. And it went something like this.

Me being the ~~standard~~ infinite wise mother that I am prepared for our day trip to the zoo with sandwich style zip lock baggies each containing a snack. This is also the first day trip in which Damon and I agreed that our boys were probably old enough to do without the stroller. So I packed light. Since we have two boys, I would have normally packed separate snack baggies for each lovely son so as to discourage fighting. But this trip I beamed, we will be promoting sharing.

And after a little while of walking around my 2 1/2 year old asked for a snack. And when one asks for a snack there's this magical phenomenon thing that happens. It's called the "Me Too" syndrome. The six year old would like something too.

Notta problem. I'm prepared. "I've got some pretzels, fishies or fruit snacks. What would you guys like?"

My oldest says, "I'd like some pretzels please." "Me Too." says my youngest. (Right on cue.)

(and here comes sharing lesson number 101)...

Sharing Lesson number 101 was preached suburbly. :) (We've got one bag of pretzels. There's two of you. So you'll have to share with one another.. yadda yadda yadda. Okay?)

Lesson number 101 was received with four stars. No complaints. And no whining.

What!?

There was no complaining and no whining and you're only giving it four stars? Yeah, I know. I know! I should have been content and happy with four stars, but I wanted five.

You see the Woodland Park Zoo is a large zoo. And we decided to visit it during the off season which equals shorter operating hours. And ahem, we'd like our money's worth. And, this sharing thing was starting to slow the pack down... We were getting a little behind in our animal viewing schedule. It's because boys.. my boys can be slightly territorial especially when it comes to uh, food. Despite the plethora of pretzels to be had, neither son wanted to stray too far from the bag. And the turtle of the pack was holding the snack baggie. So mom ~~in her infinite wisdom~~ to her demise introduced the concept of pockets to speed us along in hopes to upgrade our journey to 5 stars.

Me: "Porter (our youngest) here honey... let's get some pretzels and put them in your pocket."

Porter: "My pock-ete"?

Me: "Yes, honey your pocket."

Porter: "Where's my pock-ete?"

Me: "Here bud. It's right here."

Porter smiling from ear to ear: "Oh, there's my pockete."

We visited the penguins, we saw a baby gorilla (so cute!), we saw tigers, lions, eagles, snow leapords, flamingos... and you know what ended up being the second coolest thing that Porter discovered on our trip to the zoo? (Top prize was a black push button which emitted a wolf howling .)

Not the animals. But, Pock-etes.

He asked to be dressed in them on Tuesday. He asked for them on Wednesday. And when I didn't have him in an outfit with a pocket, I had to put a hooded sweatshirt on over his shirt so that he could have a pock-ete.

I'll I want to do is put on sweat pants. La-la-la to pocket talk :)

Here's a few from our outing...

Tumble-Ina

2010-04-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

Caleb loves swimming lessons.

Caleb loves gymnastics more.

But we haven't asked for a leotard yet..

Climbing The Pinnacle

2010-04-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

has confirmed my suspicions... I've got no upper body strength. :) But fun none the less!

... and Damon works it like a pro!

New Family Pictures

2010-04-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

How many clicks does it take to get one family picture with everyone smiling?

...Uh, alot. :)

Love,

Ritualistic

2010-03-30T13:06:00.001-07:00

Every afternoon I get to snuggle with this guy for a story before nap time. I'm so lucky.

Porter is in charge of choosing the story. And out of the thousands of books that we have and despite whether or not I place this story in the very back of the stack.... Porter chooses this story every time. Um, I'm beginning to think it's a favorite. :)

Aren't snuggles and story time just the best..

Have a great day!

Marathon Training Week 8

2010-03-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

I ran 15 miles today.

Smiling. :)

Thank you knees!

The Jury Is Out

2010-03-12T15:32:00.000-08:00

or at least.... I've finished my two week jury duty assignment.

If you missed my initial post, you can read it here.

However, sadly enough there are other jury's and other courts and other court systems all over the United States still a going. First, thank you to everyone who watched my children during these last few weeks. It was an interesting experience, one that I'll never forget. I walked away from it with a few a-ha's-

The first. Although our judicial system is not perfect, I believe it to be thorough and fair.

Second. Everyone should take an opportunity to serve when they are called. I was surprised to find out that our county's Superior Court sends out 1600 summons each week and on average will only receive a yes from 300 people. I know it's an inconvenience. That it interrupts our lives. But I believe that it's our civic duty and if all the good people always tried to defer or get excused from it, who would be left to be the judges?

Third. That simple saying we all learned in elementary school... You should never judge a book by it's cover.... is really true. I met lots of new individuals during my stay at Superior Court some of which I didn't get to talk with for very long and thirteen others with which I spent a significant amount of time engaging in small talk, listening to stories and deliberating with. There are really a lot of good people in the world. I was fortunate and lucky enough to have met some of them.

Fourth. Real court is not like Law and Order.

Fifth. It is always better to make a righteous choice then to make a mistake and try to correct it. I know from personal experience. I'm sure that we all do. Feeling peace is a feeling that is worth more then anything money could buy. Our loving Heavenly Father knew that everyone would fall and make mistakes. I'm grateful that we have the opportunity to repent, to change and to make those corrections. There's nothing better then to be able to look yourself in the mirror and to feel good about what you're looking at. I saw several pained faces this week. I felt a small part of their hurt, their guilt and their shame and I also experienced an extraordinary amount of love for these individuals who I did not know. The love that our Heavenly Father has for each one of us is real and it's big. I can't even begin to imagine how our Savior felt as He knelt and He bled and endured on behalf of each and everyone of us. I am grateful for our Father in Heaven, a loving Heavenly Father who outstretches his hands again and again. To sit on the other side of a courtroom and to be free to leave at the end of the day felt significant to me. "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you." John 14:27.

Sixth. I live in a sheltered world. My eyes were opened wider. Never let your children go into a public restroom by themselves even if you are standing right outside the door. There are so many things that occur and can occur inside of a public bathroom besides the obvious predator.

Friends... I am happy and ecstatic to watch your children should you ever be called to serve. Call me, please!

(... and you promise to tell all the deats when you are through, right? :)

Love (jury duty cheerleader),

So Grown Up

2010-02-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

C: "Mom, wanna see a grown up E?"

Me: (intrigued) "Sure."

Caleb writes a capital E.

C: "Here's a lowercase e... see the difference?"

Great job buddy. Great job. :)

For The Birds

2010-02-21T09:23:00.000-08:00

We have the privilege of owning a home that backs up to a busy road which is currently being widened to allow for more busyness. However, one of the perks of not having a neighbor directly behind us is that we get the opportunity to view vast open blue skies... and some power lines. So if you don't mind the traffic noise, continual dust and unobstructed utility views, it really is a great place to hunker down. :)

This morning Caleb was enjoying a bowl of cereal at our kitchen table. It's Sunday which means there's no cartoon viewing which means he's feeling ~~extremely~~ extra chatty. I love this about Caleb, however it's 6:45 am so I'm not there yet, buddy... I'm still in yawn mode. During a spoonful of crunch, Caleb looks through our back sliding glass door and notices a few birds perched on top of the power lines.

C: "Mom, those birds are watching me eat my cereal."

M: "Oh really?"

C: "Yes. They haven't taken their eyes off of me."

M: "Hmm.."

C: "Why do they keep looking at me?"

M: "Maybe they are hungry?"

C: "No mom. They don't eat cereal, they eat worms."

M: "Oh." "Maybe they are resting?"

C: "But they just woke up."

M: "Right."

C: "Maybe they are bored?"

M: "Well, perhaps you should do a little dance for them?"

Caleb digs this idea. He hops off the chair and begins to do a half bop with snappy fingers. But not too long after he starts one bird flies away.

C: "Mommmm.... they didn't like it. One of them flew away!"

M: "Really? Oh, I bet they loved it. I'm sure he's probably flying away to tell the rest of his birdie friends to come over and watch your show."

Caleb's eyes light up. He stands motionless staring out the sliding glass door.

Then right on cue... less than 20 seconds later a few more birds fly over and join the other two perched birds... making it now an audience of 5. Now, I realize that this is pure coincidence, but I think to myself... oh this could be fun.

C: "Look mom! Now, there's five birds."

M: "See Caleb, I told you. Your dancing is fabulous. They want to see more."

Caleb then proceeds to boogy like I've never seen Caleb boogy before. Full on arm movements, facial expressions and bust a move moves. Wow, I thought. I never get that kind of dance magic.

...Perhaps I outta perch myself on top of that utility wire?

Love,

A Staple Around Our House

2010-02-20T12:39:00.000-08:00

Anybody: "Porter, did you go poo-poo?"

Just like clockwork and without any hesitation...this question gets answered 99.9% of the time like this (regardless of what's in the pants)....

Porter: (w/ a slight southern drawl) "Nah, just wet."

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T07:15:00.000-08:00

I LOVE....

My Husband

This Guy

And This Little Man

My Sisters

My Parents

Running

My Wonderful Friends

And My Testimony of The Gospel of Jesus Christ

Happy Valentines Day!

Love,

A New Reality

2010-02-11T07:28:00.000-08:00

Is there anybody out there that finds the HGTV channel as wonderful as I? I love love love it. I'm not sure what the ~~addiction~~ fascination is about looking inside other folk's homes and watching how other people live. I'm sure it has something to do with the lack of Carrie design skills.... I just know I've got the bug.

Imagine my excitement when the concept of room and furniture renovations spilled over into the world of blogosphering. Actually spilled over doesn't really do it justice. More like taken by fire. There are sooooo many cute DIY (Do it yourself) blogs out there with umpteen fabulous project re-do's that quite frankly you could spend ~~hours and hours~~ a lot of time getting lost and inspired and then not understand why there wasn't any time left in your day to clean the house.

I was filled with all kinds of butterflies when I discovered a new twist on reality TV. It's called a Reality Blogivision and it involves all of the elements that I love. Competition. Projects. And inspiring results galore! It's called, So You Think You Can Decorate and the inaugural Season 1 begins, Sunday Feb. 28th. In my ~~obsessed~~ humble opinion, it's worth checking out.

Brilliant Stephanie... truly brilliant!

Calebism

2010-02-09T13:47:00.000-08:00

Overheard by Mom.

Caleb: "Porter, do you want a graham cracker?"

Porter: "Yes!"

30 second delay...

Porter: "Heyyyyyyy, I want two."

Caleb: "Porter, you get one. I have two because my mouth is bigger."

Brudderly love.

Note To Self

2010-02-08T16:18:00.000-08:00

When am I going to realize that the time to look for festive holiday ideas is really the month before the holiday...

I was searching for some FHE ideas and came across a fantastic Valentine tradition. I think I'll hang onto this lotsa-love fest idea and introduce it to our family in 2011. Why? Because I think my youngest will get more out of it and (the real reason) because we've already missed a week of the fun!

In a nutshell: Everyone in the family creates a Losta-Love envelope for them self. They are hung on the fridge and within reach of all the children. A stash of pre-made note templates and crayons or markers are kept close by and for two weeks the family spreads love by writing or drawing secret love messages for one another.... and who doesn't love getting mail?

I'd be willing to bet that the overall level of raised voices and fighting may very well decrease in a household over that two week period. I may even just chart that progress next year. And heck, if that's the case I just might institute Holmes Losta-Love Fest all year 'round... :)

I thought I'd pass along my find. If you're interested in doing something similar, you can find the templates here.

Happy Love Month!

Endurance

2010-02-05T14:17:00.001-08:00

This month marks the beginning of my marathon training. 16 weeks and counting... 16 weeks doesn't feel like nearly enough time to train and running 26.2 miles sounds uh a... slightly excessive (sarcasm).

I hope this preparatory period will go as fast as a turtle speed-o-meter.

No pain, no gain-

Easy As Black and White

2010-02-03T15:41:00.000-08:00

I love all things black. And black and white. Why? I'm not sure. But, I'm truly drawn to them. It's the first thing that I reach for on a clothing rack, the first pair of shoes I peruse through at the store, it's the first car I notice on the road and it's the first home accessory that catches my eye. I'm a creature of habit and I absolutely have tunnel vision for it.

Unless you've been in my house, it might surprise you to know that although I have a fetish for black I don't have any black decor in my home.... This is really unfortunate and frankly quite a bummer. :)

When Damon and I first married we chose to go with the cherry (matchy matchy) look. I've been tempted over the years to purchase a distressed black furniture piece but chickened out due to fear... fear because it would stick out like a sore thumb against the rest of our furniture. And as a realist I also know that it would take awhile before our home would be furnished to fit a new "style".

I have several friends that have LOADS of talent in interior design, they can find a piece of furniture, see a vision for it, refurbish it and put it together with the rest of their house. I love their eclectic style. Along with a good singing voice, this would have been a talent that I would have LOVED to have stood in line for.

Just looking at these things makes me smile...-

Gorgeous Pillow:

I love this vinyl clock pattern:

Cheeky Ottoman:

Collage of Black and White Photos:

Cozy Black Chandelier:

Large Wall Clock:

Magnetic Weekly Planner:

Fabulous Black & White Apron:

Step Stool:

Circular Rug:

Serving Platter:

Table Linens:

I really like this chair:

Newsprint Baskets:

Yummy Barstools:

File Folders:

Black & White Frames:

My wheels are turning...

-Chillax'n

2010-02-01T16:17:00.001-08:00

Damon and I took the boys to Mt. Rainier. We went sledding, built snow forts and threw snow balls. And had an absolutely fabulous time!

Snowflakes are one of life's most fragile things, but look what they can do when they stick together...

A Toss in the Bucket

2010-01-31T13:25:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered why some people have all the luck? You know...

The people that win a raffle prize with only one ticket dropped into the box. These are the same people that stay on number 22 during a cake walk and they call number 22.

...Who are the same people that happen to be caller number 9 during a radio station concert ticket contest give-a-way.

...Who are the same people that can catch an autographed pro fly ball after it's bounced off of a chair then off of the back of someone else's glove and then off of another's someone glove.

You know who I'm talking about. "Them."

Is this just a perception phenomenon or are the words "golden" and "favored" somehow intergalactic-ly tied to their zodiac sign? I don't have an answer people. If you are a "them" by all means please share your secrets... we, the "others" would love to know. (However, don't be surprised if "They" don't even know. Their usually lucky and it's effortless.)

It's disgusting.

I started my post talking about luck because my husband is one of those people... only he's a half-breed "them". A half-breed is one of those people that are lucky only half of the time... A fifty-fiftier. I am neither a full breed or a half breed (although perhaps being married to half-breed might qualify me as an eighth "them")... but that's for another discussion.

Whether people share it or not, almost everyone has a bucket list. You know a list of things that they want to accomplish or experience before they die. Mine is half organized and kept mentally in my brain. I love lists. Grocery lists, Daily To Do lists.. they are gotta haves for me. But what I love more than the lists themselves is the ability to cross things off... it makes me feel so productive even on the smallest of days, wouldn't you agree?

Clean out junk drawer
~~Change baby's diaper~~
Laundry
Mow Lawn
Clean bathrooms
Vacuum
~~Pay Bills~~
~~Empty Dishwasher~~
Shower

Uh, bucket. There are a few things on my bucket list that are beyond my control. They are the things that no matter what I do, I still wouldn't be able to accomplish them unless divine intervention or luck swung my way.

But last week luck arrived in my mailbox!

Now, I realize that jury duty is not for everyone. I realize that in the cosmo of stars not everyone is wishing to waste their days in a large crowded room filled with unexcited potential jurors who may or may not be selected to participate in a case. But, I can hardly contain my excitement. For I am about to be paid $10.00 a day to belong to Juror Group #6 in a Superior Court for which I would undoubtly in a heart beat do for FREE. Think I'm being sarcastic? Wrongo!

Being crossed off my bucket list...

~~Get Selected for Jury Duty~~

Wishing everyone a very lucky week!

Love,

Defined As A Naturally Recurring State of Relatively Suspended Sensory and Motor Activity

2010-01-27T22:08:00.000-08:00

-Soap Box Adjectives

2010-01-26T12:16:00.000-08:00

Millions Shmillions.
Spending Schmending.
Mula Schmula.

Is anybody else tired of watching our money do the hotfoot dash?

I don't care what political party you belong to. It doesn't matter. It shouldn't matter. As a human being who pays taxes, you should be (... thinking of the right descriptor.)

The sad reality is this.. If it doesn't belong to you, it takes more effort to cherish it and respect it like it was your own. The "it" here being soaked in green, silver and gold.

The sad reality is this... That this is just one little needle story in a haystack of several hundred others. However, this little needle was only sung to the tune of 1.1 million dollars. Only.

(This little needle story can be found, here.)

Perhaps if spouses were denied the opportunity to travel on this business trip we could have shaved a few grand off of this number? After all.. surely the spouses weren't expected to demonstrate any influence in the Copenhagen Climate Conference, right? But grand schmand, what's that?... only a few tiny zeros.

Perhaps if our government elected officials who represent us, The People (and our tax schmax dollars) would have stopped for one moment and said, you know what?... our country is in financial crises and in debt beyond our eyeballs. Let's reduce our attendee list down to only those Senate and House Representatives that "need" to go we might have used that money for another constructive cause or better yet... not have spent it at all.

Excessive.
Wasteful.
Feckless.

If only they weren't allowed to come back... now THAT may have been money well spent.

-Hospitality

2010-01-25T12:15:00.000-08:00

My mother flew home from Dallas last week with more then just her suitcase. She also brought with her a bad case of pneumonia. If I had a normal mom with two normal lungs this wouldn't be a problem. But, I've been blessed with an extraordinary mom who actually only has 3/4 of one working lung. Yeah, you read that right. She does what you and I do (with the exception of running) with less then one lung and without an oxygen tank.. oh... and without complaining. Isn't she fabulous? I think so.

So we took the boys to the hospital for a visit to provide some comedy and cheer. Before we could enter the room we were required to put on the mandatory "gear". Then, the boys serenaded Grandma with the cutest rendition of "You Are My Sunshine" (mask style). We are glad to report that Mom is now finishing up the rest of her horse pills from the comfort of her own home and is feeling much better.

There are so many amazing people in the world that have physical struggles and yet manage to stay so positive and not just live, but really make the most out of their lives. They make a choice that their challenges will not limit their goals, their dreams, or their potential. And in lots of cases they defy odds, surpass their goals and dreams and do more in their lifetime with their body then we would ever choose to do with our own healthy ones.

Number One Complainer here needs to kick it in high gear.... I walked away from this weekend hoping to be more appreciative of the things that I have. I hope that I will live more consciously... making the most out of what I've been given. I'm grateful that we are surrounded by people that lift us up and make us better.

Mom, you are one of those people and I love you...

"Mom... What's for dinner?"

2010-01-22T12:37:00.000-08:00

I stood in my kitchen last night barefoot and glassy eyed as I pondered how many times cumulatively that I would be asked this question within my lifetime. I think it would an interesting random fact to know. (Btw- I also wonder how many diapers I'll change as well... I know, Nerd.)

Dinner. Such a loaded question. Why? Because either:

A.) I don't know yet.
Which often times opens the door to a smiley and excited, full of life five year old willing to offer suggestions on what we should have. Which is usually prefaced with the sentence, ..."You know what we haven't had for a REALLY LONG time... and ends with a long list containing only processed and frozen foods. Or by golly yay!... he actually suggests something relatively healthy from the five food groups but darn, wouldn't you know it- I'm out of one or two ingredients and lack the time to run to the store to make his wish come true.

OR

B.) I tell you, but I'm pretty sure that there's a high probability that either:

1. You'll say that you don't like it.
2. You've never had it before, but before you even try it you already have it set in your mind that it's disgusting.
3. You think you're offered this EVERY night for dinner.

4. You like it but you're not hungry for it tonight.

And if it's any of the sub categories within option B it's a guaranteed ongoing conversation during the duration of my dinner prep and cooking which btw I usually start early...

Why? Because my children become banshees come the hour of 4:00. Not because they are really hungry but because they are bored and because when you can't have something... you apparently hurt, starve and die without it.

Why? Because Mom started a somewhat new rule at our home.

Snack all you want between the time school is over and 4:00. Fill your bellies with nutritional goodies (okay, it's not always nutritional... I'm not that rigid) but come 4:00, kitchen is closed.

Why? Because I got tired of cooking to the tune of I'm starving, when is dinner going to be ready, can we eat yet and then sitting down only to hear I'm full. No thanks. That's it. No more. The snack train stops here.

This dinnermony however does ends on a positive note. I came across a news story of a gal that lives in Texas who plans her dinner meals out a year in advance. Yes, I know! A year? Are you kidding me? No. She does. Really.

A smart and organized women named Laura. Who btw also swears that she's cut her food budget in half by doing so. (I'm inclined to believe her. Because choosing option A to appease a 5 year old son and my tummy with what sounds good and a quick run to the store often leads to impulse purchases.) Her annual dinner calendar also eliminates the question, Mom... What's for dinner?

To all of you organized mothers out there that may do this.. even on a smaller level, I applaud you. I am encouraged by your example and... I think I might even give it a try.

To those of you that fly by the seat of your dinner pants and need a quick dinner suggestion, you can catch Laura's story and her year long dinner plan ideas below.

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Parenting/mom-plans-meals-entire-year/story?id=9618348

But however we do it, may we all whistle while we work!

-Uh-Huh

2010-01-20T13:20:00.000-08:00

It's well over due. It's time for a make-over. An overhaul. A face lift. And yes, I'm in need of one too... and a touch up color!.. But it's this space of me that I'm referring to.. and that will get it first.

My list of "want to's" always seem to be longer then my list of "done it's". And it's time to make a cross over. A revolution. A.... okay, it's time to quit thinking about the wants and actually take some action... I need to move some of those suckers onto the other side. The side where I breathe deep knowing that it's been checked off and that I don't have to waste anymore space thinking about it. That my friends and family is the theme of 2010 for me.

So this is one of them. This... the documenting, the journaling, the recording which counteracts all forgetfulness and protects the absence of memory cells which I've been extremely blessed to have (sarcasm). This in a nutshell will always help me to remember the good, the bad, the challenging and the fun so long as blogspot never goes under...

Which brings me to item number two on my "want to's".. I've always created scrapbook pages for other people but have never started them for my own children. It's time to do something with the hundreds of photos that I've taken and the memorabilia that I've hung on to and the stories and experiences that my children have put me through (not sarcastic). I decided several years ago that I would make a digital scrapbook for each of my children every year. An Encyclopedia volume if you will that will grace my tall white built ins one day. I'm almost six years in the hole w/ Caleb and 3 w/ Porter. Enough is enough.... This is the year to play catch up.

So a warning and a favor to anyone who reads this post.

First. I have absolutely nothing recorded on blogspot for 2009. Beware. I'll need that year in review to help me accomplish my digital scrapbooks so... just so you know...I'm not trying to bore you or make you run for the high hills. It's selfish. It's for me. And you can totally ignore that post when you come to it. Geezs.. feel free to ignore any of my posts for that matter. :)

Secondly. The favor. If anyone has created and published a digital scrapbook with a company or process that they enjoyed, would you pass that info onto me? I'd love to look into.

Love,

-I Need A Kick In The Pants

2009-03-24T13:53:00.000-07:00

Alright, I'm dusting the cobwebs off of my blog. It needs a face lift, some attention, and a serious update. Good grief, Care! Just a little bit neglectful, huh? To be honest, I was worried I wouldn't remember how to log in.

Okay, Spring cleaning it is.

More to come soon...

-The Acoustic Movement

2009-01-05T16:26:00.000-08:00

I'm on it. I don't know about you but I really enjoy listening to a great acoustic version of a song. And John Mayer is no exception... Have you heard this version of Free Falling?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNW8q-Ucz18