Organizing Challenge - Wrap Up!

I DID IT!

Here's my wrap up and entry into the contest. I apologize for the photographs. The room is small and it's hard to get great pictures. The best light is probably first thing in the morning and I was at work.

BEFORE PHOTOS


looking in from the door


the closet


work area


wrapping cart, sewing cart and lots of mess


knick knack shelf


shelf above work desk


bookshelf in work area


closet

1. What was the hardest part of the challenge for you and were you able to overcome it?

• There was so much stuff. I was very discouraged and felt like I didn't have enough time to get it done. Our weekends are pretty full. We had to be diligent to find the time to clear the room, paint and then move some of the stuff back in.

2. Tell us what kind of changes/habits you have put into place in order for your area/room to maintain its new order?

• Everything has a place.
• If it doensn't have a place, does it belong here? Where should it go?
• I make sure things are put away when I leave my space. No more empty coffee cups left behind.
  

3. What did you do with the "stuff" you were able to purge out of your newly organized space?

• The toys were relocated to Grom's bedroom and toy shelves.
• 3 big boxes went to a thrift store.
• I returned things to people.
• I gave my mom back a lot of things that she gave me that I never really wanted.
• I had to make some hard decisions. I'm a quilter with many UFOs (unfinished objects). I gave five projects up, knowing that I don't want to finish them.

4. What was the biggest lesson you learned from this experience?

• The time limit of the challenge was very motivating. I developed a "just do it" attitude in order to meet the deadline.
• Sweeping the room clean of everything was also very helpful. I was very thoughtful of what was coming back into the room.

5. Now that you have completed the PROCESS, do you think having and keeping your space organized will make a difference in your life?

• It already has. My room makes me happy. I look forward to the time I'm able to spend in it. My sewing machine was out. I can't remember the last time it was. My projects are organized, I know what I have and look forward to completing some projects.

AFTER PHOTOS


scrapping area, bookshelf and knick knack shelf

work desk


wall above work desk - this just makes me happy - exactly what I wanted!


closet - doors removed - curtains added


closeup of gift drawers


closet curtains closed - "mail" and "at hand" by entrance door


relocated ironing board - new painted orange door


my custom upholstered brick door stop


baskets on shelves about work desk


shelves above work desk - closeup


shelves above desk - closer up - I love the key tag labels


scrapbooking stuff on shelf above scrapping table


wrapping cart - bag on top is package to be wrapped


sewing cart


We painted the walls "toasty tan" and the door "october orange". I had the funky retro fabric in my stash. It was purchased to be curtains for a VW Westy Camper at one time, but I think it was supposed to go in my room. I love the tan, orange, green and turquoise together. SO me.

While I hope I win a prize, I know I already have the best prize I could receive. I have a functional, clean, organized and very happy space. It's a great place to spend the little bits of free time I blessed with. I feel more creative already.

Did you know?

At three minutes and four seconds after 2:00 on the 6th of May this year, the time and date will be 02:03:04 05/06/07.

This will never happen again. I think stuff like this is cool.

"Unbroken" Book Giveway

Overwhelmed with Joy is giving away a couple of copies of Unbroken by Tracey Elliot.

Unbroken shares details of Tracey Elliot's troubled childhood. Orphaned at the age of 6, she was sent to live with her grandmother and her grown, unemployed alcoholic uncles.

The story tells of the abuse she suffered at the hands of her uncles, and her spiral into alcohol, drugs, and eventually stripping.

Without sharing all the details, the book tells of how her life was put back together by the power and redemption of God and the love of her husband and children. It also shares interesting details of her month spent in rehab before she went on to win the title of Mrs. Texas in 2006.

Go and sign up to win the other copy.

#41 on my list of 101 Things to Do is to read 3 auto/biographies. Winning this contest would give me a start.

Works for Me Wednesday - Less Germy Birthdays

Works for Me Wednesday, hosted by Rocks In My Dryer is all about birthdays this week.

I don't have a lot of experience with kids birthdays yet. We are just starting to plan Grom's 3rd.

Moms spend their days getting kids to wash their hands, cover their mouths when they cough and keeping them quarantined from the sick child next door. AND THEN... they go to birthday parties where some snot nosed kid spits blows all over the cake right before serving.

I'm not a hypochondriac. I'm not hyper about germs. But this time tested tradition grosses me out.

Here's what works for me... CUPCAKES!

Family Fun has a lot of ideas for different cupcakes. With just a little creativity you can create a cupcake to fit the theme of your party.

Here's the cake I made for Grom's 2nd birthday. I frosted the cupcakes with canned whipped cream (to cut the sugar a bit). The spots are mini m n' m's. The legs are pretzel sticks and the shoes are half circus peanuts.

The best part... Grom only contaminated his own cupcake. Works for me.

Happy May Day! Consider yourself ding dong ditched.

When I was a child, we lived on a very quiet cul-de-sac. Every May 1st we would clip flowers from Mom's garden, make extensively decorated paper cones with ribbon handles. My sister and I would then sneakily travel to each of the neighbors homes to ding dong ditch them and leave our sweet bouquets behind. I've looked into the origins of May Day. Unfortunately, it's origins are not Biblical. Words like pagan jump out at me.

Here's my problem... Jesus tells us to love our neighbors. Luke 10:27 is just one of many places. We also know that God loves a cheerful giver. And those are things I want Grom to know.

So here's a May Day bouquet for you. Consider yourself ding dong ditched. Pass it along if you'd like.

I'll post some pictures of the bouquets Grom and I take to our neighbors tomorrow.

photo credit

What's for Dinner - Week of April 29th

It's a short week for us. Surferman's sister is getting married and her doctorate this weekend in Denver. It'll be Grom's first airplane trip. I'm going to try to keep it simple and also work on cleaning out the fridge.

Monday - Chicken Enchilladas (making extra for the freezer)
Tuesday - Leftover BBQ Chicken
Wednesday - 4WD Club Meeting = Dinner Out!
Thursday - Quiche in a Bag (from the freezer)
Friday to Monday - In Denver.

My Nest - What's Left To Do

May 3rd is quickly approaching. I haven't given up, but I don't think I'll be able to complete everything that I want to do for my room.

Here's what I have left (no particular order)...

1. paint door
2. sew valance
3. sew closet curtain
4. go through "basket of stuff"
5. mount over door ironing board
6. label baskets
7. declutter and organize bookshelf
8. go through bag of baby stuff
9. decide what to do with the birth announcements
10. decorate door
11. mount R on wall
12. mount clock
13. label drawers
14. take after pictures
    

I'm not giving up.

101 Things to do

I'm a list maker. It's how I get things done and organize my thoughts. I came across this idea of making a list of 101 things that you want to do. The challenge is to complete the list in about 1001 days. I don't know where I first heard about this idea, but here is a site that keeps track of participants and their lists.
My start date is Saturday April 28, 2007.
My finish date is Saturday January 23, 2010.

The Mission:
Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.

The Criteria:
Tasks must be specific (ie. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount of work on my part).

Why 1001 Days?
Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple goals such as new year's resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organising and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.

Some common goal setting tips:
1. Be decisive. Know exactly what you want, why you want it, and how you plan to achieve it.

2. Stay Focused. Any goal requires sustained focus from beginning to end. Constantly evaluate your progress.

3. Welcome Failure. Frequently, very little is learned from a venture that did not experience failure in some form. Failure presents the opportunity to learn and makes the success more worthy.

4. Write down your goals. It clarifies your thinking and reinforces your commitment.

5. Keep your goals in sight. Review them frequently, and ensure that they are always at the forefront of your thinking.

My 101 Things To Do

1. Read the Bible in a year - started January 1, 2009
   
2. Memorize Psalm 19
3. Memorize Psalm 8
4. Decide about cremation vs burial
5. Research traveling to Ireland with Surferman
6. Travel with Surferman to Australia
7. Family Trip to Maui
   
8. Research trip to Costa Rica with Surferman
9. Take Duke and Surferman to Disneyland We went Sept 2008. Wish I had blogged about it.
   
10. Visit Jennie in Massachusetts
11. Visit Surferman's parents in Washington State It was a great trip! May 2008
12. Renew Passports
13. Get passport for Grom
14. Take a weekend camping trip- completed 6/3/2007
15. Finish "Color Block" quilt
16. Finish "VW Bus" quilt
17. Finish "Progressive" quilt
18. Finish "Mykonos" quilt
19. Finish Grom's First Year scrapbook
20. Give away my knitted washcloths I passed them out to my quilting friends. Someday I'll have to blog about those wonderful ladies. We've been meeting forever.
    
21. Digiscrap 2007 Jeep Jamboree pictures unable to complete - the guys didn't take pictures
22. Make felt baby booties
23. Make headband
24. Do something with an empty Altoid's box
25. Sell a quilt
26. Celebrate a Christmas with all homemade gifts
27. Sell a "Cozy Cart Cootie Catcher"
28. Learn how to crochet
29. Knit a sweater
30. Digiscrap the things I'm grateful for - count my blessings -make a book to remember and review
31. Nanowrimo GeMoOrgNo completed 11/30/2007
32. Get to know Kelsey
33. Get to know Nicole
34. Set up 5 Fat Files
35. Blog daily for one month see #31
36. Write a "Letter to the Editor" about something I'm passionate about
37. Find out the name of the Fedex Ground Guy- completed 6/6/2007 His name is Tom.
38. Send ten encouraging anonymous postcards So much fun, I'm going to keep doing it.
    
39. Read 5 C.S. Lewis books
40. Read 10 fiction novels completed 4/22/2008
41. Read 3 biographies or autobiographies
42. Make a lifestyle change that is better for the environment - Reusable grocery bags!
    
43. Make another lifestyle change that is better for the environment - CF light bulb all through the house!
    
44. Get to work somehow other than driving my car
45. Save all $5 bills for a month and do something fun with Grom
46. Stay on budget for a month
47. Stay on budget for a quarter
48. Stay on budget for a year
49. Pay off the house
50. Make a will
51. Get life insurance
52. One month without eating out
53. Take Grom to a park every day of a week
54. Read to Grom until he tells me to stop
55. Build a huge fort with Grom
56. Do an activity from Family Fun Magazine
57. Make the cupcake of the month from Family Fun Magazine
58. Sleep in a tent with Grom in the front yard - Done! I can't remember when, but I remember it was during a heat wave. It was over 100F at 9 pm. Still fun.
    
59. Find a letterbox
60. Family trip to the Drive In movie - Horton Hears a Who. Grom was scared.
    
61. Get an external hard drive and keep computer backed upMac's Rock! Woo Hoo for Time Machine!
62. Change my blog template completed 5/3/2007
63. Customize my blog template (myself)
64. Create 3 iTunes playlists
65. Get a Maccompleted 11/19/2007
66. Learn how to transfer and edit video on computer
67. Transfer all CDs to iTunes
68. Set up monster multi CD playerSold it!
69. Go a whole day unplugged - no computer, no music, no news, etc.
70. Make Tom Kha Gai Soup
71. Complete Organizing Junkie's Organization Challenge - completed 5/2/2007
72. Really de-clutter closet
73. Plant a lettuce garden - planned 2009
74. Get a facial
75. Wash my face every night for a month - completed 6/16/2007
    
76. Wear makeup every day for a month - started 6/23/2007
    
77. Wear earrings every day for a month - started 6/23/2007
    
78. Nap in a hammock
    
79. Pierce my tragus
80. Go to a Dodger game
81. Go to a Blues game - completed 6/23/2007
    
82. Go to a play - We went to the wonderful Great American Melodrama last week. Might not be as cultured as a play, but we had a great time. 12/14/2008
    
83. Weigh 175
84. Complete the Rock to Pier Run
85. Climb Bishop's Peak
86. Eat breakfast daily for two weeks - started 6/18/2007 4/23/2008 12/21/08
    
87. Stop drinking soda (100 days) - started 6/18/2007 6/21/2007 4/23/2008 12/21/08
    
88. Walk on the beach once a week all summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day) planned start 5/2009
89. Play a season of softball with Surferman on church team
90. Plan and execute the best 4WD Club Christmas Party ever!
91. Find out about "Synchro De Maio"
    
92. Take a ballroom dancing lesson
93. Romantic getaway with Surferman - I believe Maui would count.
    
94. Sunset Picnic on the beach - completed 6/21/2007
    
95. Don't say no, even if I'm tired, don't want to, or "have a headache"
96. Throw a Tea Party with women I barely know, but would like to know better
97. Send a care package to a soldier in Iraq completed 5/29/2007
98. Say no to something that I'd usually say yes to - I DID NOT help with a major event at church. We went as a participant. It was weird.
99. Say yes to something that I'd usually say no to -
    
100. Write another 101 Things to dolist

I tried to group my list into similar things. Things on my list fall into categories like... God, Travel, Creativity, Parenting, Marriage. Hey, those are a lot like the categories of the labels for my blog posts. Watch for updates as I cross things off my list.

Frugal Fridays - Make Your Own Mixes

One of the best frugal tips is to cook meals at home. Eating out can be a real budget buster. When cooking at home, cooking from scratch, avoiding processed packaged foods is an additional way to pinch those pennies.

My Frugal Friday post this week is about making your own mixes. A well stocked spice cupboard can supply the ingredients needed for most of these seasoning mixes.

Taco Season Mix - Use this versatile blend for all kinds of tacos, in refried beans, for soup and any recipe that calls for a packet of Taco Seasoning.

Onion Soup Mix - Great for meatloaf, beef stew, you name it.

If I don't have a recipe I just Google - "make your own whatever mix" and a few choices usually pop up. It's Frugal.

Onion Soup Mix

Another better to make it myself recipe.

Onion Soup Mix
Ingredients
1 T Better than Bouillon
3 T dried minced onion
1 t onion powder

Directions
Add these ingredients to any recipe that calls for Onion Soup Mix.

Taco Season Mix

I love watching Good Eats. Alton Brown is the best - entertaining and educational. The last time I watched he said, "Why buy something you can make?". Here's a recipe for one of those things.

Taco Season Mix

Ingredients
1 T dried minced onion
1 t garlic salt
1 t chili powder
1/2 t corn starch (optional - depends on use)
1/2 t crushed red pepper (omit if you want milder heat)
1/4 t dried oregano leaves
1/2 t ground cumin

Directions
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl until well mixed. Use in place of Taco Season Packets.

For Taco Filling:
Add 1 recipe of Taco Season Mix to 1 1/2 pounds cooked, drained ground beef, turkey, tvp (or combination of) along with 1/2 cup water. Simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Mexican Rice

I always made Spanish Rice-A-Roni to go with my Mexican Meals. I don't like Spanish Rice. What I wanted was the spiced red rice that is served as the rice part of rice and beans as a side at the local Mexican restaurant.

Allrecipes.com came through again. I found a recipe and then tweaked it to suit our tastes.

Mexican Rice

Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 T dried chopped onion
1/2 cup tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth

Directions
Heat oil in dutch oven.
Cook rice until slightly browned.
Stir in garlic salt, cumin and dried chopped onion.
Stir in tomato sauce and broth.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 20-25 minutes.

My Nest - Question

So... if Grom will be 3 in July, what should I do with the baby announcements I found while cleaning and organizing?

Works For Me Wednesday - Steak and a Movie Night

I don't know when it started, but we've been doing it for years. Friday night is "Steak and a Movie Night". To celebrate the end of an always long week, we have an easy dinner. Easy to prepare and easy to clean up.

Grom gets to go to bed early. Surferman grills the steak. Top Sirloin is our favorite. I nuke some potatoes and the salad always comes out of a bag. We pull out the trays, pop a movie into the DVD player and kick back and relax.

There are occasional variations. Fish and a Movie Night. Take Out and a Movie Night. But it's really nice to know the plan. The hardest part... who gets to choose the movie.

What's For Dinner - Week of April 23rd

I anticipate a "normal" week around here.

Monday - Corned Beef, Cabbage, Potatoes, Carrots

Tuesday - Turkey and Barley Soup, Biscuits, Salad

Wednesday - Chicken Tacos, Refried Beans, Mexican Rice

Thursday - Farmer's Market - Eat out

Friday - Steak and a Movie Night - Steak, Baked Potatoes, Salad

Saturday - Michelle's Baby Shower - I'm co-hosting and it's at our house. Please pray for beautiful weather. I need to buy a carrot cake. I'm trying to keep it simple. Cheese and Crackers, Veggies and Dip, Shrimp and Cocktail Sauce, Popcorn, Fruit Platter, Coffee, Punch

I know I'm going to be done for the day when it's time to make dinner. We'll have leftover Turkey Barley Soup.

Sunday - Dinner with my folks

Let's Get Real Monday - The Outfit

Randi at I have to say... has chosen "The Outfit" as the topic of Let's Get Real Monday.

You know the one. It hangs in the back of the closet or maybe it lies in state in a photograph. You always loved it, but everyone around you hated it.

A beloved dress jumped into my remembrance.

During High School I was quite the seamstress. I worked at a fabric store and most everything I wore was a hand crafted creation. It was the days of big white t-shirt with big black letters on them. Like Wham!'s "Choose Life". I had one the said "Material Girl". It had nothing to do with a love of stuff or Madonna, but instead, my passion for textiles.

My best dresses were made from a sleeveless dress pattern that I used over and over. The bodice was fitted to the gathered waist. It was simple to make, modest and quick.

"The Outfit" was created from a china blue decorator fabric that had LARGE peach chrysanthemum flowers and leaves. Almost like this. I wore it with the cheapest huarache sandals. I bargained for them on a trip to Mexico. Even though they were falling apart from day one, I wore them for years. I probably looked like a VonTrapp child after the drapes had been attacked, but I thought I was all that when I wore that dress.

The dress wouldn't fit right now. It's not hanging in my closet. I don't know where it is, but I wouldn't be surprised if it turned up packed away in a box of memories.

My Nest - Update #1

I had a huge list of things to do this morning before Surferman came home from (wait for it...) surfing. I was clicking through my list (well, I had checked off at least a couple of things), when my sister dropped by. She was a distraction, but it was a great visit. She didn't leave until after Surferman got home.

Surferman was single-minded. We were going to get my room cleared and painted today - ready or not.

The mess was relocated to our family room. Fortunately I had some boxes and was able to group similar items as I was packing them up. I'll sort through it all and organize it before it goes back into the room.

Two coats of paint later and it's ready for Surferman to clean the carpets tomorrow after church.

The furniture goes back as soon as the carpet is dry.

We painted the inside of the closet so I'm not going to put the closet doors back up. I have plastic drawers and a dresser that have lived in the closet. The closet doors make it difficult to use the drawers and dresser. To conceal the stuff and to add color to my space, I think I'll put up a curtain.

Here are some pictures of the mess progress.

7 Favorite Songs

So I heard about this topic going around blogland. First at Everyday Mommy and then at Rocks in My Dryer. The idea is to list 7 Favorite Songs. I thought I'd give it a shot. Favorite is a really strong word though.

In no particular order...

Mission of my Soul - Peter Himmelman. This is Surferman and mine's song. I found a live version of the song at his website. You have to get past a lengthy intro but the song is there and boy is it nice.

Blessed Be - Tree63. This song gave me great comfort when we were told that we probably wouldn't have a child without advanced reproductive technology and more when I found out I was pregnant. You can listen to it at Tree63's my space page

Everything That's Beautiful - Chris Tomlin This song gives me comfort with the realization that Grom may very well be an only child.

Love Shack - The B-52's Who would've guessed that they have a web site and that they are still touring???

If I Had a Million Dollars - BNL This song is from their 1st album. I've always wanted a monkey.

Fill Me - Sherri Youngward If you dig around her website you can hear this song. She is amazing. I love worshiping our great big God with her.
Here's the lyrics

Fill Me

Holy Spirit the Father’s grace
The promised One in Jesus’ name
I need you now, I need Your power
To walk with boldness in this hour

Search my heart
Cleanse this temple
Holy One, only You are able
To take this life, my offering
Holy One, I am willing

Fill Me
Fill Me
Fill Me

The Hairbrush Song - Veggie Tales (Silly Songs with Larry)
When anything is missing at our house this song is sung with the said lost item substituted for "hairbrush" in the lyric. When Grom sings it I melt.

Frugal Fridays - Freezing Cheese

Cheese, warm and gooey. Most everything is better with cheese.

Here's how I do cheese frugally.

I buy the huge bags of shredded cheese from Costco or Smart and Final. I package the cheese in portions. Most recipes call for 2 cups so to save a little more and to cut calories, I pack about 1 1/2 per zipper bag.

The portioned bags go into a larger zipper bag. After I use the cheese, I put the empty zipper bag back into the freezer to be used again.

Watch for one of our favorite cheese recipes - Macaroni and Cheese. I'll post it soon.

Works for Me Wednesday - Limiting TV

Television. They don't call it the boob tube for nothing. Here's what works for me. I use the channel delete to remove channels that I don't want to deal with or watch.

It all started when I removed the Spanish language channels. I don't speak Spanish so that was an obvious dismissal. delete

Then I zapped the sports channels. delete

From there it's been a little trickier - I have to be discerning. I started noticing that Lifetime which is supposed to be a women's network often portrays behavior in women that isn't consistent with the kind of woman God calls me to be. delete

Then I found I was exposing myself to sin.
MTV. delete
Bravo. delete
VH1 delete
E! delete

Now my channel choices are limited. I've gone from 90 some channels with basic cable to about a dozen channels. I've kept HGTV, Food, TLC, and most of the broadcast networks. With less choices though, I seem to watch less TV. Works for me.

For more Works for Me Wednesday tips, head over to Rocks in My Dryer.

Psalm 19

The heavens declare the glory of God;
And the firmament shows His handiwork.
Day unto day utters speech,
And night unto night reveals knowledge.
There is no speech nor language
Where their voice is not heard.
Their line has gone out through all the earth,
And their words to the end of the world.

In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun,
Which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
And rejoices like a strong man to run its race.
Its rising is from one end of heaven,
And its circuit to the other end;
And there is nothing hidden from its heat.

The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul;
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
Yea, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Moreover by them Your servant is warned,
And in keeping them there is great reward.

Who can understand his errors?
Cleanse me from secret faults.
Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins;
Let them not have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
And I shall be innocent of great transgression.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.

Psalm 19 NKJV

What's for Dinner - Week of April 16th

We have company in town through Wednesday and I'm still trying to keep spending within my budget and use up the pantry.

Here's the plan for the week...

Monday - Spaghetti and Italian Sausages, Garlic Bread, Salad

Tuesday - Shredded Chicken BBQ Sandwiches, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans

Wednesday - Irish Music Night! Dinner Out.

Thursday - Farmer's Market - BBQ Out.

Friday - Steak and a Movie Night - Steak, Baked Potatoes, Salad

Saturday - Pizza Pancakes, Salad

Sunday - Our traditional "Family Dinner" is off as my folks are out of town. I might invite a couple of families from church over. Dinner will depend on who is coming.

Sick of being sick

Warning! Pity post follows. If you'd like you can skip reading it and just post a comment that you hope I'm feeling better soon.

I'm not a sick person. I'm not a good sick person. When I'm ill, I deny, carry on and push through.

STOP READING

I have been 11 days with the sorest throat that I can remember. I feels like it's "around the corner", not the usual back of the mouth. Every time I swallow, searing pain radiates through my throat and out my ears. My ears ache. The sinus pain that made me want to remove my upper teeth from my mouth subsided on Monday. That pain was replaced by fits of unstoppable, "are you going to die?" coughing.

Whatever I have it's tenacious. It won't seem to go away. It doesn't get better. Nothing I do or take seems to help. Tuesday, I even went to the Doctor. I never go to the Doctor. He threw me a bone - codeine cough syrup. Thanks a lot, Doc (said with all the sarcasm I can muster). I appreciate that he didn't just give me an antibiotic to shut me up, but if I end up with one I'm going to be frustrated, thinking that this might have all been over sooner.

Oh, and I forgot to mention... Grom passed on pink eye to me in the middle of it all and I started my period. But ENOUGH! The pity party is over.

RESTART READING

This is temporary. I will get better. This won't end my life. I need to focus my prayers and thoughts towards those who won't get better, those who know the end of their lives is imminent, those who suffer.

And get over myself.

I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up,
And have not let my foes rejoice over me.
O LORD my God, I cried out to You,
And You healed me.
O LORD, You brought my soul up from the grave;
You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.
Psalm 30:1-3 NKJV

Works for Me Wednesday - Bag of Good Food

Here's what works for me this week. For more WFM tips tumble on over to Rocks in My Dryer.

Meals have become a bit of a battle. Grom wants to express his independence and I want him to eat a balanced and healthy meal. Solution? The BAG of GOOD FOOD!

Grom and I pack a bag of different foods for him. He can choose whatever he wants to eat out of the bag. Everything is mom approved - string cheese, cereal, raisins, tangerines, crackers, carrots, yogurt, leftover bits of this and that... you get the idea.

When our family meals are little sophisticated for Grom's toddler tastes, out comes the BAG of GOOD FOOD!

When we're on the run and nap runs into lunchtime, out comes the BAG of GOOD FOOD!

When he's hanging out with me at work, out comes the BAG of GOOD FOOD!

And if you can imagine a 2 1/2 year old asking for his BAG of GOOD FOOD!

Works for me.

What's for Dinner - Week of April 9th

Planning meals last week helped. We had a house full of company until last Wednesday so all bets are off with the grocery budget. To compensate I am going to try to plan my meals this week strictly from the freezer and pantry.

Monday - Crustless Quiche in a Bag with Ham and Veggies, Salad, Ciabatta Bread
~I'll make a couple extra quiches for the freezer

Tuesday - Bean Soup with Ham Bone (leftover from Easter)

Wednesday - Fuss Free Ravioli and Cheese Bake - Garlic Bread - Salad
~thanks Organizing Junkie for this new family favorite!

Thursday - OUT - Farmer's Market for BBQ - yum!

Friday - Steak and a Movie Night - Steak, Baked Potatoes, Salad

Saturday - Freezer Chicken Soup

Sunday - Sunday Dinner with the Folks

96 Days and 7 Books - Bible Reading Plan Update

I started a daily Bible Reading plan with the new year and I'm happy to report that I'm still at it.

96 days in a row I have been in the Word of God. Somedays I'm not able to finish the assigned reading, but at this moment I'm caught up. To date, I have finished 7 books of the Bible. I hope this doesn't sound prideful or bragging. I'm astonished by my follow through and know it is all God.

• Romans
• Genesis
• Joshua
• Judges
• Ruth
• Matthew
• Isaiah

I usually use a New King James Bible, but decided to try a New Living Translation for my goal of reading the Bible in a year. The New Living Translation is softer and easier to read - especially early in the morning or late at night. There have been a few times when I have needed to go to the NKJV to see if the Bible really says that. Some of the New Living Translation is a little loose.

I've enjoyed the discipline in this venture. I've always heard that it's 21 days to form a habit. Well, I can honestly say that there is some truth it. With 96 days under my belt, I can say I don't think I'll miss a day again.

There are some days that I just power through the reading - especially Fridays when I read Prophecy. It's often 6 heavy and long chapters. I can't say that I've retained much of it, but it has given me a desire to go deeper into the book of Isaiah. That has to be worth something.

Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes,
And I shall keep it to the end.
Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law;
Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.
Make me walk in the path of Your commandments,
For I delight in it.

Psalm 119:33-35

My Nest - Before Pictures

Robin's Nest - Before Photos



This is the ugly entrance to my Nest.



The view from the door. YIKES!




The closet



Work area.



In the front left of this photo is my rolling sewing cart. Back left is a fancy Elfa Wrapping Center that is covered with clutter. I wrap gifts on my dining room table.



Knick Knack Shelf



Shelving above work area.



Book shelf in work area

It can only get better! The challenge is on!

Works for Me Wednesday - The Car Edition

This is my first venture into the world of Works for Me Wednesday hosted by Rocks in My Dryer

This week she's looking for hints that make everything related to the car easier.

I have a minivan with FIVE doors that often do not get shut all the way. I end up with a dead battery at least once a month. It used to be a huge hassle. I'd have to call Surferman or the Auto Club for a jump. I would be late. I would get frustrated. Tears were shed.

We invested in a jump box. It lives in our garage and is always ready to come to my rescue. Just pop the hood, hook up the clamps to the terminals (be careful to match the + to the + and the - to the -) and start the car. Perfect!

9. What is my plan of action?

• Get Supplies - I think I already have most everything that I'll need for long term storage and organization of my space. I need to get some boxes for sorting and storage during painting. i would like one more shelf on the wall about my work area. The shelves that are currently up are recycled and grungy. If I can find a decent price, I might replace all of them. I also need to decide on the paint color for the walls. I love orange. I have orange and green baskets and most of the furnishings are white. I'm toying between white white, gold, or a coffee color.
  
• Divide, Conquer and Declutter - Starting at the door, I'm going to start sorting, grouping and decluttering. Some things will need new homes. Some things will be ebayed or sold at a garage sale. I will try to deal with things as I encounter them without stopping my project.
  
• Clear it All Out - To prepare for painting, everything needs to be cleared out.
  
• Paint - Surferman will help me paint one weekend this month.
• Bring Some of it Back - At this point, all of the furniture will return to the room. My plan is to pare down and only bring back necessary stuff.
  
• Window Treatments - I have some orange fabrics that I'd like to make some kind of valance with. I don't have a clear plan, but the bare rod has to be covered.
  

What's for dinner - Week of April 2nd

Food and meals around here were a disaster last week. I had no plan. I ran to the grocery store for most every meal. It was absurd and definitely not frugal. While it may appear that I've been stalking Organizing Junkie lately... she encourages in a couple of areas where I need encouragement right now.

April is another pantry challenge for me through Frugal Families. I'm trying to keep grocery spending to $250 this month. I have a well stocked pantry and freezer.

Here's what is in store for this week.

Monday - Ground Beef or Turkey Tacos - Refried Beans - Mexican Rice

Tuesday - Lazy Mom Lasagna - Green Salad - Sourdough Bread and Butter

Wednesday - No Cooking! Passover Celebration at church.

Thursday - Maple Salmon - Rice - Zucchini

Friday - Steak and a Movie Night - Steak, Baked Potato and Salad

Saturday - Surferman's Pizza - Salad

Sunday - Honey Baked Ham - Aunt Theo's Potatoes - Artichokes - Asparagus - Spinach Salad - Applesauce - Angel Food Cake with Strawberries and Whip Cream.

Lazy Mom Lasagna

Lazy Mom Lasagna

Ingredients:
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1 lb rotini or egg noodles (cooked)
1/2 c. sour cream
1 pkg chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Mix all ingredients together. Put into sprayed 9x13 pan and top with more Parmesan cheese. Bake at 350F until warm and slightly browned.

or

If you're really lazy, serve right out of the pot for an even quicker meal.

Aunt Theo's Potatoes

Aunt Theo's Potatoes

This is the potato casserole made famous by Surferman's Aunt Theo. It's a staple at all family functions. It goes great with holidays. There is nothing healthy about them, but they are oh so delicious. Surferman always wants one pan for the event and another pan for himself.

Ingredients:
2 lbs frozen cubed hash browns (thawed)
1/2 c. butter melted
1 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1/2 c. chopped onion (don't tell, but I use 1/4 c. dried minced onion)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 pt sour cream (don't tell, but I use light sour cream)
2 c. grated cheddar cheese

1/4 c. melted butter
1 1/2 c. crushed corn flakes

Directions:
Mix first set of ingredients together. Place in a sprayed 9x13 pan.

Mix cornflakes with butter. Spread over the top of the casserole.

Bake at 350F for 1 hour uncovered.

This vacuum sucks!

5 Minutes for Mom is giving away a Dyson Slim Vacuum!

If I don't win it, hopefully a friend will.

Dyson Vacuums really suck. Go check out the contest.

Preplanning for my project

Organizing Junkie's challenge is about to start. She posted these preplanning questions.

1. What do I want the purpose of my room or area to be?

• Creativity
• Computing
• Quilting
• Scrapbooking
• Digi-Scrapping
• Present Wrapping
• Present Storage
• Bill Paying
• Ironing

2. What do I need in or near the room to serve that purpose?

• Computer
• Sewing Machine
• Work Space
• Ironing Center
• Project Storage
• Gift Storage
• Seating for me and guests

3. What can I remove from the room?

• CLUTTER!
• Toys

4. What problems do I see with the room?

• No system for paperwork
• Crummy shelves that make me unhappy
• Pink Walls
• Empty Baskets
• No drapes / window treatments

5. What organizational tools might solve those problems?

• In / Out Box and USE it!
• Lock on door to keep people from dumping things in here
• More shelves

6. What habits need to change to solve the organizational problems?

• Procrastination
• Messiness
• Resentment of responsibility for bill paying
• Putting things away when finished
• A place for everything and everything in it's place

7. What kind of a budget do I have to create the organized room of my dreams?

I have been approved for

• Paint
• Shelves

I already have

• Baskets
• Fabric for window treatment

8. What kind of a timeline is necessary to organize the room?

30 Days! I've been challenged!

9. What is my plan of action?

This is the BIG question. So big, it'll be another post.

10. Who can I ask to help me with this?

Surferman is on notice that I'll be looking for help clearing the room and painting. I have a wonderful friend who is on board for some decorative painting. She's awesome.

I'm up for the challenge

My nest is a mess. My nest is what I affectionately call my studio, which is more important word for my craft room. I am so blessed to have a room of my own just for being creative.

Unfortunately my precious space has become over run and there isn't room in there to be creative anymore.

I am committed. I accept the challenge. Watch for pictures of my mess soon.

2 years, 5 months, 3 weeks and 3 days

That's how long we made it without an ER visit for Grom. It all ended today.

Midmorning yesterday, Grom became a hot soggy noodle. He's had a fever of 103F+ since then. He aches and is a zoned out space cadet. I made an appointment for him tomorrow.

But at 6 pm, he got really cranky and his temp was 105.3. I called the MD on call and was advised to go to the ER for a chest x-ray. He suspected pneumonia.

Of course the last dose of motrin kicked in as we waited (and waited and waited) in the waiting room (very appropriatly named). By the time we saw the doctor, Grom was talking, hungry, laughing, playing - basically acting like a toddler.

I did get the correct dosages of motrin and acetaminophen for his weight. Probably could've googled it and saved the $100.

Next time I'm taking video of the kid I have at home that caused the 1/2 hour drive to the hospital so I have proof that I'm not a hyperexcitable mom.

I have PANTRY POWER!

As part of a challenge at Frugal Families (pay - although you can "visit" for a while for free), I'm trying to save money on groceries this month and use up my expansive pantry. It's time to clean it out and start over. There's some iffy food in there. My goal is to limit grocery spending to $200 this month. I feed 5 adults and Grom most days.

It's early in the month yet, so it hasn't been a huge challenge. I hope to post what I do to use up my stockpile and keep my spending down here.

Tonight for dinner:
Lasagna - used up chese that looked disgusting but was still good for melting and some cooked hamburger patties left from Labor Day.

Spending today: $9
Toilet paper - can't go without that
"Day Old" Cookies - into the freezer for a specific occasion NOT snacking

Made the switch

I just switched over to the new Blogger. So far, so good.

Best part is being able to label my posts. I think I got most of them. I didn't bother to label the random, whiney posts - even thought about deleting them. But I guess they are apart of my life just the same.

I was encouraged to see that the majority of my post were labeled "God".

Now, I need to figure out how to get something pretty and not these standard dots. I know that I could figure out how to change it myself. I'm thinking about "hiring it out". Maybe as a reward for reformed behavior?

Happy New Year!

I am happy to report that today marks 10 (YES, TEN!) days in a row that I've been able to do my Bible Reading. If you're confused - I started a day early.

I'm following this great plan that I found out about from Kelli. I have tried to read the Bible all the way through many times. I always seem to get stuck somewhere. This plan has a lot of variety and that seems to suit me fine.

Grom has been cooperative. He even woke us up at 5 am this morning. Fortunately, he went back to sleep quickly, but not quick enough that Surferman and I could justify sneaking back to bed ourselves. Today Joshua lead the people to claim their promised land. So much to learn from their steps and misteps.

Life is better when my day is started in God's Word.

Waaaabin

Grom has taken to calling me by my first name. It's hard not to giggle and smile. "Waaabin, cme ere". "Waaabin, milk pwease". It's so dern cute.

I cried night after night because I wasn't pregnant. I rejoiced when the Lord granted the desire of my heart. I resigned my natural birth for a very unnatural c-section. BUT, not to have a 2 year old calling me my first name... I REFUSE!

I've earned the title Mommy. I want the title Mommy.

I will not respond to Waaabin. I will not respond to Waaabin. I will not respond to Waaabin.

I Think I've Poisoned My Family

What's for dinner?
Gado-gado salad topped with bbq'd albacore.

Now 4 of 6 of us are running to the bathroom. No pain or discomfort thankfully.

Some of the albacore was a bit rare. Surferman said it was fine - we eat sushi (raw) all the time. So far Grom(2) and Grandma(89) are ok. We made sure they ate the well cooked pieces. Please pray they stay ok.

It was delicious, but that's not really any consolation.

I won't live this down for a while I'm sure.

Celebrating 10 Years of Marriage on Maui (A List of 10 Great Things to Do, See or Eat)

Surferman and I had an amazing time celebrating our 10th anniversary on Maui. We've compiled our list of the 10 best things about our trip. If you have a chance to get away with your sweetie, I highly recommend it. If you have a chance to get away with your sweetie and go to Maui, we recommend (in no particular order):

Aloha Mixed Plate - Go at sunset to enjoy the beautiful view and sunset. Great food with casual seating outside. The food is a deal with large portions served. Surferman had the Alii plate which had a variety of Hawaiian dishes and I had the Aloha Mixed Plate which gave us even more variety.

Maui Brewing Company - Ask for Ed. He was the best waiter we had this trip. He really knew his menu, his beers and was happy and fun. Surferman had Ahi 3 Ways, I had a special that was so special words fail me. I felt like an Iron Chef judge tasting the offering of a competitor. Desserts were fantastic too.

Maui Guest House - Our trip wasn't all about eating. We stayed at a fantastic Bed and Breakfast in Lahaina. It had everything that we needed and even a few things that we didn't. It was very clean. The staff was attentive, friendly and helpful. The kitchen is well equipped. We made picnic lunches most days and cooked our dinners in a few of the nights we were there.

Calvary Chapel Westside - We were blessed to be able to worship at both a Sunday and a midweek service with our CCWestside brothers and sisters. Pastor Steve is a great teacher and you can't bet their sanctuary - they meet in a park right on the water.

The Gazebo Restaurant - Ever have a Banana Pancake with Coconut Syrup? This is the place to go for breakfast on Maui as far as we're concerned.

Black Rock and Snorkeling - Park at the Sheraton Maui Resort in Kaanapali. Use their valet service; it's worth every penny. The beach is beautiful and sandy, but a bit crowded and without shade. Don't forget the SPF. We both burned a bit. Next time, I'll be looking for some SPF rash guards to wear. We saw tons of fish, beautiful sea creatures and coral. Surferman even saw a sting ray. We walked down to Whaler's Village for lunch. A great day.

Honolua Bay and Snorkeling - Not as great as Black Rock, but a heck of a lot less crowded at the same time. Easy hike from the car to shore. Clean portapotty.

Starbucks - OK... Venti Iced Cup, filled with ice, 3 shots of decaf espresso, fill to 3/4 of an inch with water - add some half and half and a bit of liquid sugar (Why can't we get liquid sugar at Starbucks in California? It's wonderful.) and you have the perfect refreshing drink. Now officially named a MauiMomma. I think I found every Starbucks on the island.

Queen Ka'ahumanu Center - Frugality gets in the way of shopping. Surferman and I did a lot of looking but not much buying. Queen Ka'ahumanu was our favorite shopping destination. Of course it has a Starbucks.

Hanakao'o / Canoe Beach - Great beach for sleeping, relaxing, and doing a bit of body surfing. You can watch the jet skiiers, check out the Hawaiian canoes, take a walk. I liked it because there was grass and shade. The walk from the car to the beach is very short.

I'd really like a redesign - maybe you'll be the other winner.

I just read a drawing for a free blog design. I'm stuck with a blogger template because I haven't found the time to figure out how to do anything else. It's on my list - #133 I think.

Here's the skinny from Bluebird Blogs.

Autumn is my favorite time of the year, and it's just right around the corner. To celebrate the beginning of the season, I'm having a contest for 2 lucky people to win a totally free, completely customized blog design from Bluebird Blogs.

Information on how to enter:
- Send an email with your name and blog address to bluebirdblogs@gmail.com.
- Entries will be accepted from 7:00pm EST on Thursday 9/14/06 until 11:59pm EST on Friday 9/22/06.

The winner will be announced here on Saturday, September 23rd, 2006. Good luck to everyone!

Baoon, baoon

Ever since Grom was big enough to sit upright in a grocery cart, he's been getting a balloon whenever we shop at Trader Joe's. He used to torture me the entire drive home by rubbing his hands (and teeth) over the tight inflated surface to make noises reminiscent of fingernails on a chalk board. How many kids know that sound now a days in the time of white boards? I used to try to be prepared for him to pop one while I was driving - scaring both of us. When we would get home, I'd make a big deal of letting it go. We'd watch it get smaller and smaller.

Now he's big enough to ask for himself. We get to the checker and he looks up at the balloons and then at his hero and says, "ello baoon peas" or "geen peas" while he points. It gets tied to his wrist and he has great fun with it while I finish my business.

As I push our way to the car, I hear a giggle, a "bye-bye baoon", and then look to see that he has released his treasure.

It reminds me of my treasures; the things I hold so tight. I need to release them, like Grom's balloon, to God. Release my cares as prayers. Release the people I love knowing that God loves them more. Release my stuff as useless in the sight of eternity.

I love how my Father uses my son to teach me about Him.

10 years ago today...

I married Surferman.

It was a beautiful day.

As you can imagine, Surferman was not your typical tuxedoed groom. I wasn't the typical bride in white. We wanted something that suited us. There was a feeling of aloha in the air. The guests were encouraged to wear Hawaiian shirts and dresses. We gave each guest a lei at the door. The sanctuary was filled with green foliage. The bridesmaids and groomsmen wore dresses and shirts of the same batik Hawaiian print. Surferman's shirt was a different color of the same print. I wore a short lace and gauze dress, tuberrose in my hair and Birkenstocks with blue socks.

Family inflated balloons by the millions for the reception hall. We danced to tacky songs like the Macarena. No wedding cake - hot fudge sundaes with homemade ice cream instead.

It was a beautiful day.

Because of Jesus

I was blessed with the opportunity to attend a Pastor/Leadership Conference these past few days. I had the opportunity to worship, pray, fellowship and sit under some wonderful teaching. It was wonderful to reconnect with friends that I haven't had time to hang with and also to get to know people in the leadership of my church that I don't know very well yet. The location was beautiful and it was encouraging to meet people from all over California that are co-laboring in spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Here are some nuggets -

You can't out give God.

The ends never justify the means.

The difference between what you believe and how you live should be continually narrowing.

A farmer can teach us a lot about ministry.

It was a good time and a good rest. But... I'm glad to be home with my guys.

I can't believe it's August.

A couple of weeks ago, I was asked if I was going to update my blog. I have great intentions, but less time.

I want to post some pictures of Grom's 2nd birthday cake. It was quite clever if I say so myself.

I want to post about my diet adventures and misadventures. Maybe that would give me the motivation to get back on track.

I want to post about our Vacation Bible School and the things God taught me through it.

There are also stories from the Family Reunion, Camping Trips, Beach Trips and more.

I want to change the look of my blog. Anyone know of someone who can help me with that?

Watch for new stuff soon!

Fat Flush Update Week #1

11 - yes ELEVEN pounds gone!

My food cravings are decreasing and I feel like I basically know what I can eat.

I made a great dinner tonight. Napa Cabbage with Shrimp. I sauteed some onions, garlic and ginger - through in a couple of carrots, then some mushrooms. Finally a shredded head of napa cabbage and then some shrimp. Served with a tablespoon of flax seed oil drizzled on top. DELICIOUS!

I'm losin' it.

I probably lost my mind the day I met and fell madly and deeply in love with Surferman. So that isn't what I'm losing.

I lose my keys (and find them) daily. So that's not it either.

I'm losing weight. I need to shed the excess pounds that I have been carrying around for far too long. I have made excuses, half-hearted attempts, complained, blamed, whined, prayed and I'm still fat.

I guess it's time for me to do something.

Barbara at Mommylife wrote about the Fat Flush Plan a while back. She has been having great success following it. I bought the books and thought I'd give it a try. I know it's not frugal to buy books, but I couldn't wait to get them from the library- I needed to do something NOW.

I've been Fat Flushing since Thursday. I made it through a bridal shower today and will make it through a baby shower tomorrow.

I can do this. I will do this. I have to do this.

I don't want Grom to be embarrassed by his fat mom. I want to be able to keep up with and play with Grom. I'm an old mom. I have to get fit and healthy if I want to see my boy grow up.

Please pray for me to be strong and to do what I need to do instead of what I want to do.

I weigh every Tuesday so I'll provide an update then. Until then... Please pass the cranwater.