Merry Christmas

I am officially signing off until after Christmas. Finally with all major shopping and tasks done, I plan to kick back and ... you know eat and be merry. And, there's the birthday of one particular soon-to-be 4 yr old in the midst of the many festivities. The excitement level in the house is beyond measure, my friends. Judging by the activity going on in my womb, Baby is pretty enthusiastic as well!

I wish you all a truly wonderful Christmas, filled with the peace and love that can only come from our Savior. May you each, along with me, find time amongst the activities and presents to ponder upon the most amazing gift of all - the gift of God's only Son. He is Immanuel, "God With Us".

Merry Christmas from my family to yours!

Christmas preparations to a child

My son is beside himself with excitement for Christmas and his birthday, which is near Christmas. He started asking me "Is it my birthday or Christmas yet?" every morning, starting in October. That thankfully stopped when we made a paper chain with the days numbered down - a tangible way to see how far/soon it was coming. We make a big deal of ripping off each day.

We have come to love is a little video called "The Very First Noel". It is a cartoon of the nativity story from one of the wise men's perspectives, narrated by Andy Griffith. It's made by the people who make the Boz videos. I have watched a fair share of Christmas movies this season, and I must say that this one is our favorite! Since it's only 23 minutes long, I don't mind him watching it a couple of times a week! :) I HIGHLY recommend this movie for your family! I think I'm incorporating it into some of the classes for my church kiddos.

Also favorite in this house is the a plastic Nativity Set that was given to Jackson when he was born. It's so cute to see him reenact the Christmas story with those little figures! The other day he made one of the shepherds say "Jesus, it's your birthday! Happy Birthday!". My heart melts...

pregnancy FAQ

1. How do you feel? Now - good. (Hooray!) Two weeks ago and the many weeks prior to that – not so good. I was stuck in an almost constant state of nausea and lethargy. Amazingly, the only consistent time I felt good was when we were on the Women’s retreat. That is such an answer to prayer, ya’ll! I didn’t know how I was going to pull that thing off feeling as badly as I had been – especially in the mornings. I guess my illness perhaps will explain the lack of good blogging the last several months.

2. Any cravings? There have been far more food aversions than cravings. Although, I have kept my trusted friend, Wheat Thins, within arm’s reach at all times. Soup, hummus, graham crackers, and ice cream, anything creamy and fattening have also been hits. The food aversions have been much stronger this time around… nothing like cooking a meal for my family only to sit down at the table and realize there is no way it was going to be eaten by me. Remember THIS POST about my favorite salsa? Several days after I wrote it, hubby surprised me by buying some for me. The mere sight of it repulsed me. Poor guy. He tried.

3. When is your due date? May 31, 2009

4. Do you want a boy or a girl? Yes and yes. Just praying for a healthy baby. Are you going to find out the sex? Yep.

5. Are you showing? Heavens, yes. I’ve tried to hide it, but without a whole lot of luck. Oh, the joys of being short and having a short torso... the belly has no where to go but OUT.

6. Do you have any possible names? No way. Mike and I have vastly different tastes in names, so agreeing on one is very difficult. We didn’t agree on Jackson’s name until about 3 weeks before he was born. The few names we have tossed around have all been shot down by the other.

7. What does Jackson think about it? He is excited and seems to get it! At first he told us with certainty that it was a little sister. Then, he changed his mind and told us he wants a brother. He has been very sweet and prays often for “the baby in mommy’s belly”.

Our tablescape

the hostesses with the mostess

Amanda working hard on last minute details

My friend Amanda and I worked together to create our tablescape for The Bridge's first DelecTables event. It was such a fun evening of girly foods, decor and fellowship.

Our table was called Caffeinated Christmas. Coffee-themed, of course! I thought I'd share with you guys this idea, as it was fun and cheap! We used burlap for the tablecloth (really inexpensive!) with red napkins. Our centerpiece was a glass vase filled with coffee beans and springs of holly (clipped from my own yard) adorned with small green and red ornaments. Coffee beans were also sprinkled around the table like confetti. We used small glass votives for some mood lighting. Casual ivory place settings were set on gold chargers (borrowed from a friend). Above each plate was a chocolate dipped spoon that had each guest's name tied to them for place cards. The favor we gave were hand-made gift tags (by "we" I mean, a whole bunch of ladies made them on the women's retreat - and they were SO CUTE!). We put those in cardboard boxes and just wrapped some gold and red ribbon around them.

We served Cappuccino Mousse Trifle (in individual trifle dishes), Oreo Bon Bons, chocolate dipped strawberries, pirottes, and coffee.

A few other pics for you...

[Thanks for the pictures, Abbie!]

gettin' my shopping on

My husband has given me the gift of shopping BY MYSELF two Mondays in a row. Mondays are his day off. It is amazing the level of productivity I have when I don't have to tote around my son!! I love that little boy beyond words, but he is NOT a great shopper. Yesterday, I went to the mall for the first time in ages. Not that I oppose the mall. I would like to go more often. But Jack does not do well patiently walking with mommy in stores. He does okay when strapped in a cart for short periods of time. Armed with snacks. (hooray for cheap, yummy popcorn at Target!)

I ventured into a maternity store yesterday for some much needed items. Unfortunately, I was the only one in the store, and the extremely pushy sales lady hounded me everywhere I went. She didn't clue in when I said, "just want to look around" when I came in. Isn't that the international code for "please don't hassle me - I'll call you if I need assistance"?? She even stood outside the dressing room berating me with questions the entire time I was in there. I had to tell her multiple times that I was fine and no, I did not need a bra, coat, pant, pajamas, or to join their discount program. My tone began to change with each irritating question. I left shortly after without purchasing anything.

I did, however, have sucess finding some gifts for several peeps on of my christmas list. Pregnancy sickness have put me a little behind schedule for my shopping. I still am using my anal-retentive chart (read about it here). It's a lifesaver.

The rest of my shopping, or at least a good chunk of it, will be done on Black Friday. By the way, if you too are a crazy wake-up-at-ungodly-hours-to-save-some-bucks person, you might enjoy checking out this site -- www.blackfriday.info. This is my favorite site that lists many major stores and their friday sales that will be advertised on Thursday in the paper. I like how it gives me extra time to research the sales, compare prices, and check customer ratings for products. And, trust me, I don't go out with the other crazies unless the deals are really worth it.

We Believe in Miracles - Part 3

The lessons we learned in 2004 about trusting completely in God helped to pave the way as we followed His lead to start a new church in '05 & '06. Church planting is truly a faith venture that stretched me in every way imaginable! And yet, God continues to provide, bless, and direct us as we wait on Him. We have praised and trusted Him through some of our darkest days, and we have praised Him in our greatest moments of joy, like today...

I’m happy to say that, Lord willing, our next miracle is on the way – due May 31st, 2009.

We Believe in Miracles - Part 2

At last, the paralysis stopped rising and VERY SLOWLY began to recede back down his body. We waited to find out what toll this syndrome might have left on my husband’s body – as it often will leave people with permanent neurological damage and paralysis. Physical therapy began. Several days later he took his first steps with the help of the therapist, me and a walker.

I wrote a new Bible verse each day on the nurse’s dry erase board filled with hope and God’s provision. We were clinging to Him with all we had. Each day we seemed to get a new miracle, as his condition gradually improved. We received TONS of cards, packages, and calls that were such a source of encouragement. People literally all over the world were praying for my husband’s recovery.

One of the most touching things was how our youth group back home responded. Mike was a Youth pastor at the time. Due to his illness, he had to miss their summer mission trip. One of the college students made t-shirts for the whole missions team and for us. The front read: “We Believe In Miracles, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power” Ephesians 6:10. And, the back of each shirt looked like a jersey with our last name at the top and the number 04 [the year]. The youth were also learning firsthand about God’s mercy and miracles!

I worked hard to convince the doctors to release Mike and allow him to finish his care back in NC, where we are surrounded by great medical facilities and our support system. We had been in the Cape Canaveral Hospital for 2 weeks. As I pushed my husband in a wheelchair through the airport, I felt relief and yet so much fear of what the coming weeks/months/years would look like. The verse, “The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still” (Exodus 14:14) was my constant prayer. I had no control over what was happening. I could only trust in Him, and as it turns out, that was the best thing possible.

Mike began to progress rapidly once we were home. In fact, the day after returning home he was no longer in the wheelchair OR walker. Every day he regained more strength and feeling. It ended up that he never even had to do physical therapy at all in NC. A month later, he was practically fully recovered. Doctors were thrilled with his progress. God was more than blowing us away with His faithfulness.

That December, I gave birth to Jackson. Our birth announcement repeated the phrase from the T-shirt that had become so dear to us – “We Believe In Miracles”. Both of my guys are my miracles!

To be continued…

We Believe in Miracles

In Spring of 2004, we found out that we were pregnant with my son, Jackson. Having endured a very difficult miscarriage and over a year and a half of trying to get pregnant, we were thrilled and scared at the same time. We had decided not to tell anyone at that point.

We went ahead with an anniversary cruise to the Bahamas that had been booked months before. Halfway through the cruise, Mike got very odd symptoms. I knew it had to be bad when he wanted to go to the boat’s medical clinic (he NEVER goes to the doctor!). As his mysterious numbness and pain progressed, they ran tests. It soon became apparent that he needed tests that they could not perform at sea. They were concerned that he might have a form of meningitis and would need a spinal tap.

The Captain was called and we made the decision not to go to a small Bohemian hospital (translation: clinic), but to push the boat to full speed back to the States. As I rushed back to our cabin to franticly pack up our things, I heard the Captain’s announcement over the PA. Hearing him inform the entire boat of the “medical emergency” threw me into a whirlwind. I had no idea what waited for us once we docked.

Once we were back in port, an ambulance waited for us to rush Mike to a hospital in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The ER doctor examined Mike and told us with certainty that Mike had Multiple Sclerosis (MS). He was going to do a spinal tap to confirm. I struggled with being strong for my husband, and yet my mind went crazy with what this diagnosis meant for him and the rest of our lives. It all was happening so fast. Two days before Mike seemed perfectly healthy. Mike had always been very active and in love with sports.

Several hours later that same doctor came in and casually announced that it was not MS. No apologies were given. He did not know what was causing Mike to lose the ability to walk. He simply told us that Mike would be assigned a room and a Neurologist would take it from there. It was quite the emotional roller coaster for my pregnancy hormones.

Our neurologist had Mike go through what seemed like every test imaginable over the next day or two. Finally, it was determined that he had Guillain-Barre syndrome. This is a disorder where one’s immune system starts to attack the nervous system, mistaking it for a virus. In Mike's case, it stemmed from a stomach virus he had 2 weeks before we left for the cruise. After getting over that sickness, his immune system turned to his nerves and started to attack them. It’s nicknamed “creeping paralysis” because your body literally starts to go numb and paralyzed, starting with the feet and progressing up the body.

The following days were crucial as they pumped Mike with immunoglobulin as fast as his body could take it. Mike spent 3-4 days in ICU when the paralysis rose up into his lungs and began to affect his lung capacity. It was a very difficult time. The primary danger lies in the potential for the paralysis to ascend to his lungs or heart, where it is potentially lethal. I “slept” in a small chair in the counseling room just outside the ICU with our luggage (I was eventually able to send most of it home with family a few days later).

Trusting in the Lord became much more real to me in those weeks. Not only was I praying for the life and health of my husband, but I feared what all this stress would mean for the little one growing inside of me. I had to push back all my OB appointments and just trust.

To be continued….

beware the birthday cyclops

Homemade birthday cards: Free

Adorable picture inside drawn by son: Priceless

In Jackson's defense, Mike said that he sneezed while drawing the 2nd eye - giving me the cyclops look. Not sure what that is hanging off my nose. I love the horned look of my hair. Jackson told Mike when he drew it that I was "having a bad hair day" (a phrase he is saying WAY too much lately).

Obviously, he gets his art skills from me.

Mike helped with "the body". Clearly, not drawn to scale. :)

What a fun way to be greeted by my guys this morning!

I am breaking my own rule. We pulled out some of the Christmas decorations last week. Typically, I am the one insisting that we wait until after Thanksgiving. But, I have a good reason this year ....DelecTABLES!

Our church is doing a tablescape event for women this weekend, featuring beautifully decorated holiday tables and desserts. All very girly and fun! I'm looking forward to it! So, I've been sorting through what I have, as well as searching the stores for little Christmas must-haves for our table.

Amanda and I are doing a table together - "Caffeinated Christmas". It's a coffee-themed holiday table. A twist the the traditional holiday table that is both very much our style. I will post pictures next week.

In my defense, our home is not yet decorated for Christmas. Although, I am doubting we can wait until after Thanksgiving this year... Christmas boxes are flooding our garage and playroom!

trusting God with our country

"the Most High God is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and sets over them anyone he wishes" - Daniel 5

I vote. I pay attention to what is going on in our country. I have opinions. But, it all boils down to one thing. I trust. I trust that God can use all things and people for his glory.

Please join me in praying for the newly elected officials - whether you voted for them or not. Pray for wisdom, for direction, and for their hearts to be sensitive to God working in and through them.

Sharing at its finest

A conversation at 6:03am this morning....

Me: Jackson, I think you gave me your sore throat.

Jackson: No, I didn't.

Me: Yep. I'm sick today, too.

Jackson: But, I didn't do it, mommy.

Me: You shared your sore throat with me, buddy.

Jackson: Oh, yeah... I like to share. I 'posed to share with you.


So kind of him! I think I have said, "cover your mouth" and "use a tissue not your hand" and "wash your hands" a million times over the last 2 days. It's hard to resist those kisses and snuggles, even when I have a snotty little boy.

I found a remedy though - chocolate peanut butter icecream. And shhhh -- I'm not sharing! :)

Soup's On!

If there is one thing I crave every fall - it's soup and easy warm dinners in the crockpot. Actually, it doesn't have to be fall. I crave them year round. So when I saw BooMama was holding this event on her blog, I was all in!

I LOVE potato soup. Especially in a crusty bread bowl. I experimented with several recipes, but this one was the winner for our family. Probably because of the cheese.

Cheddar Potato Soup

1 small white onion, chopped
1/4 cup butter
5 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 cups water
3 cups milk, divided
4 teaspoons chicken bouillon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 to 1/2 lb cooked bacon, crumbled

In large dutch oven or soup kettle, saute onion in butter for 5 minutes. Add potatoes and water; bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stir in 2 cups milk, bouillon, salt and pepper. Combine flour and remaining 1 cup milk until smooth; gradually stir into soup. Bring to boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat. Add cheese and bacon; stir until cheese is melted.

Here's some other favorites:

My super easy Garlic Crock Pot Turkey Breast, or Recipezaars' Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken, Taste of Home's Creamy Italian Chicken, or for a yummy crock pot dessert try Minister's Delight.

For more must have recipes, check out BooMama's place.

Retreating

The Bridge Women's Retreat was this past weekend and it went so well. It was a great time of connection with ladies from our church. Despite the rainy weather, we had so much fun. We laughed so hard playing Catch Phrase that we were all crying! As always, it was great to be at camp and see the staff there. Thank you for all of you who prayed for me. All three of my talks went well and I could feel God's presence and direction! There is already talk of next year's retreat!

Also a HUGE thank you to all the women that helped me pull that thing off! Thank you to:
Amanda - who did an AMAZING job leading worship.
Cheri - for creating the cool Shirts, and helped out in tons of little ways during the retreat. Anna - for taking care of the Friday dinner plans. That took so much off my shoulders!
Lauren - for making the cookies, leading the games, and offering constant encouragement!
Joy & Barb - for sharing from their heart.
Lynn & Brooks - for our awesome craft! (even for the non-crafty types like myself)

I hope to get some pictures up soon. Not that I personally took any - because, well I stink at remembering to take pictures. But, Amanda (who besides leading worship beautifully, can also take great pictures) took tons and I look forward to getting her copies!

And, now, I am going to recuperate for a couple of days and try to actually do some housework. :) And, try to keep up with this blog thing better...

Family time at The Fair

My family and I are recovering from a day at the State Fair. We love going, and look forward to it every year - especially sharing it with our son! We brought "grandmomma" (aka my MIL) with us this year.

The fair is entertaining on so many levels...
1. the people watching. My goodness, the spectrum of people you see at a fair!
2. the discovery of what food would they deep fry this year (mac & cheese and pecan pie - and no, we did NOT try them)
3. the other totally fattening and yummy foods that we did partake (hello chocolate covered cheesecake on a stick and fried dough!)
4. seeing all the animals (especially getting to hold the baby chicks and ducks)
5. the free stuff from all the booths (for mike it is all about the free peanuts and hush puppies)
6. rides for Jackson. This year he was old enough to do the roller coaster! He LOVED it and would have done it over and over if his parents weren't so stingy and bought more tickets. :)

Recipe: Fall Apple Salad

I made this recipe for a fall festival with friends last weekend and got several requests for the recipe. I was going to make my Cranberry Apple recipe, but realized that fresh cranberries haven't hit the stores here yet. So, I messed around and came up with this recipe (I doubled it for the festival). It's low in calories and fat. Can't beat that!

Fall Apple Salad
1/4 cup nonfat plain vanilla yogurt
1/4 cup apple juice, unsweetened is best
2 Tbsp craisins
2 Tbsp crushed pecans
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 golden delicious apples or red delicious apples

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, apple juice, craisins, pecans, lime juice, vanilla and cinnamon.
2. Core the apples and cut into thin wedges or bite-size pieces.
3. Toss the apples in the yogurt mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serves 6

laugh, or else you'll cry

Bad economic times call for drastic measures... here's Rhett & Link's take on it. Man, they crack me up. :)

The Economic Meltdown Song

random tips from Bridgemom

Every now and then I feel compelled to share a product, place, or service that is a must-have for my family.

1. Sam's Club's "Fresh Salsa". I am admittedly a salsa snob. I love all these new restaurants with salsa bars (the food, not the dance). Regular jarred grocery salsa is almost repulsive to me now. Then, I found this salsa several years back. Don't worry about the large container - if you are like me, it won't last long. I got some last Friday night and I finished it Tuesday. I am even ashamed to say that I ran out of chips, so I just ate the last bit with a spoon. Yes, it's that good. It's a bit spicy, so I temper that by mixing it with a little sour cream or guacamole, because I am a bit of a weenie.

2. Realty websites (like realtor.com or fmrealty.com or whatever big local realtor company in your area). I like these for many reasons. First, I am just intrigued by real estate. Secondly, I like to look at the pictures of houses in my neighborhood (and others) to see how they decorate it. Or, how they have re-modeled and updated their homes. Amazingly, though, is the state of some houses. When your house is one the market, especially with this type of economy, you want it to look its best. It's surprising to me how many people have plain white walls with no art or pictures on them. Or clothes left on the floor for the internet-world to see. Come on, people.

3. Pull-Ups. After potty training my son, I will never use the pamper's Easy Ups. They easily tear when pulling up or down (especially by toddler hands), and thus are useless and a waste of my money. The Pull Ups, however, have Velcro-like sides that you can reattach. Which is good for me, since when my son was training and was dry, I could reuse the pull up the next nap or night. Is that gross or money-savvy? :)

4. My son, Jackson, is becoming fasinated with computer games. We only allow the very kid-friendly and educational ones. His 2 new favorite sites are Word World and the children's game on The Bridge's website (especially Moses and the tablets and Pacman).

teaching the roles of a fan

Our church has a men's basketball team that is playing in the city league. Last night was their first game, so Jack and I went to cheer on daddy and the other men.

Jackson LOVED it. He sat and behaved so well in the bleachers. He was enthralled with the fast-pace, the buzzers, the whistles, and the fouls! :) We were the first "fans" to arrive. As we sat on the bleachers, I explained some of what was going on. Jackson looked up at me and said, "Mommy, this is so fun!" and he reached out and grabbed my hand. And held it for several minutes.

My heart melts with his sweet, loving nature!

However, this was not to last. Within minutes, we were joined by 8 other boys and their parents. Boy instincts kicked in and he quickly withdrew his hand. (Oh, the peer pressure, already!). Jackson asked if he could sit with his buddies. The front row was filled with boys with ages ranging from 10 to 3 - all chanting "Let's go Bridge!" and having the best time. Bob got a picture, and I'll have to get a copy from him. They were adorable... er, I mean way cool.

During all this, I realized that I am not a calm spectator when watching sports - particularly basketball. I hoot. I clap. I protest bad calls. All within perfectly reasonable good manners. I never boo the other team or anything like that. Come to think of it, I do the same watching sports at home. You know, because they can hear me through the TV and all.

But, what made me realize how vocal I am was how Jackson repeated every word out of my mouth. "Good defense, guys! ... "Way to hustle, Matt!" ... "Great play, Mike!"... Which is funny, since I am pretty sure Jackson's not yet savvy enough with sports to know what most of it means. He's just taking his cues from me. Scary, huh? :)

Even scarier is the thought of how I will react when it is Jackson playing the sport. Poor kid. He's bound for years of embarrassment.

A little quiet

I was told today by a friend that she was a little tired of checking my blog only to find no updates. Not-So-Subtle Hint taken, Lauren. :) I've been a little consumed with some projects and such. Ye old blog had been a bit forgotten.

Saturday I took advantage of having the house to myself for most of the day. It was so QUIET - almost too quiet. Almost.

I was able to work on my talks and the details on the upcoming retreat. I have been completely engrossed with my Bible and commentaries. I LOVE to do research on Scripture like this. I don't even care how dorky that sounds. Digging deep into the Word, looking up the original meaning of the Hebrew and Greek, comparing passages to other passages... I'm in heaven. God has been so faithful to open up my eyes to see more in these passages than I have even noticed before.

And, ya'll, He's been kickin' my tail! In the best way. Perhaps I'll share some of what He's been laying on my heart on the blog after the retreat - can't give it away beforehand. :)

My little furry alarm clock

A little before 6am this morning, I was rudely awakened by my cat, Daisy. She has this lovely little trick for waking me up - she will bat around plastic bags or paper, or rummage through my jewelry. Then, when I rebuke her in the name of all things holy, she jumps on me and walks all over me while I try to return to sleep. Sometimes she gets right up in my face and purrs loudly. Other times she lightly licks my arm. Thankfully, this is not an every morning ritual. Her food bowl was empty and, evidently, she wasn't willing to wait.

Unable to go back to sleep, I decided to go grocery shopping at 6:30am. Just me and all the other money-saving freaks. It's triple coupon time at Harris Teeter, and thanks to saavydollar and sue stock, I had mapped out my trip to use the coupons to the most effectiveness. I got 20 items - 3 were free, for 2 items I got $ back, and most others were for pocket change. Not bad. And, it took every fiber of my being to resist the pumpkin spice latte, as the cost of such would almost nullify the point of all my savings. It's an evil thing to tempt me with starbucks with every trip to the grocer.

One of the best parts was being out in the COOL air. I love it. If only it could be fall all year 'round.

A little distraction, please

If you are like me, it's easy to get down with the way things are right now. I CAN'T STAND the slanderous political commercials. I'm broken-hearted for those recovering from Ike. The stock market is a little bleak and I'm worried about our investments. Gas prices make me want to stay within a 10 mile radius of my house. And, food costs make me want to cry.

Thankfully, coming to my rescue is the television. :) Hooray for the TV shows coming back for the fall!! Tonight is the Biggest Loser premier. I Love Love LOVE that show. Next week, The Office returns. Oh, how I need me some Jim and Dwight to distract me from my frustrations. A little more of a wait for 24, but I'm hoping this 2 year hiatus will be worth the wait.

Nothing better than snuggling up with hubby on the couch with a good show. :)

Fun and Frantic Fall

It is busy times in our house this fall. But, I am just in such anticipation for all the things going on in our church. We had another Lake Day/Baptism today and it was fantastic. It was a great turn out, and I got to see 2 of the kiddos from my class at church get baptized. I am so very proud of them! My class also did a song with dance and motions in the service today - they were great! Can I just say how fortunate I feel to be one of their leaders??!!

In a few weeks (October 4th) our church is hosting our annual Family Fun Day that will be bigger and better than last year. Giant inflatable bouncy things (that's the technical term), putt putt, free Shirt for kids, Italian Ice and free dinner (burgers and hot dogs). Does it get any better than that? If you live in the Triangle area, you're invited, and you'll not want to miss.

Also coming up are fall festivals, the State fair, the Women's retreat, 2 weddings, another trip to TN, and more. Whew. Not all church events, yet things that will keep us busy for sure.

Amidst it all, I can hardly contain my excitement. There is just a sense that God is moving within the hearts in our church, and I couldn't be more delighted to have front row seats to watch Him do it.

Now, if the weather would just turn cooler, all would be great. :)

getting girly

I had a fun weekend filled with lots of fun girl time. Friday, I went to a baby shower for my friend Maggie. And, I was pleasantly surprised to see Caroline, who I had not seen in like 5 years or more. It was so fun to catch up in person - not just by blogs! I always have so much fun with these girls!

me, Christy & Caro

Christy, me, Jen, Stacy, Maggie, Lynn & Anna

Saturday included a Shag party! That is shag dancing - as in the SC state dance or dancing to beach music. NOT ANYTHING DIRTY. I've been told that people outside of the Carolinas have never heard of it. A shame. Clearly they have never seen the movie. Or been to Myrtle Beach.

Anyway, a friend rented out a local club for his wife's 30th birthday and we had got to learn some moves with an instructor. While this is not hubby's forte, he was a trooper and I had a blast dancing with him! I think our son and his buddies enjoyed it more than anyone! They were all over the dance floor getting their groove on!

Then, on Sunday I went to lunch with Christy and Kelli - my old post-college roommates. Although it was not the easiest time to catch up due to the kids, it was great to be with them!

consignment love

My favorite consignment sale starts next week. I am sooo ready. My son is in need of a lot of fall/winter clothes. Plus, I get a lot of his Christmas gifts there! Unlike consignment stores, this sale is just bi-annual, and the prices are much more reasonable. I dropped off a couple of things that I am consigning yesterday, and it was so hard not to look around and shop! One more week to wait. It's a thrilling hunt among scores of deal-seeking mommies (and a few daddies too). My friends and I have it down to a science!

In past sales I have scored some major deals...can't wait to see what I find this year!

Workin' on getting away

Haven't been a good poster lately. Been hectic times 'round here!

In less than 2 months, our church is having our first women's retreat. I am so very excited about it on many levels.
1. It will be at Camp Willow Run. I believe that my affection for that place has been well established.

2. It's a get-away from the daily routine. Can I get an amen?

3. I LOVE love LOVE the women at The Bridge.

Almost 9 months ago, God put this retreat on my heart. Although the initial plan was to bring in a speaker, God has shown me otherwise. He actually laid 3 different talks on my heart one evening several months ago. And I struggled with it for a bit - not wanting to take on so much. But, I felt God leading. So, I will be speaking. And I'm trusting that where God guides, He also provides! :) I am a little nervous, but excited about what God is prompting me to share.

Our theme is Undivided Heart - Where Faith Fits in Frazzled Lives. Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. (Psalm 86:11). Something I feel that every woman can relate to on some level.

Fall, Football, & Family

"Don't you love New York in the fall? It makes me wanna buy school supplies. I would send you a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils if I knew your name and address..."

Do you know this movie quote??

Ya'll know I love the fall (read more here and here). I STILL have the urge to buy school supplies every fall. I'll get my fix getting some supplies for the children's ministries at church. I know the official turn of seasons is a few weeks out... but I can't hold back the anticipation. The turn of autumn compels me to be back in the mountains.

Football season starts this weekend. There is MUCH excitment in this house! My parents are in town and Mike and Dad are all giddy about camping out on the couch and taking it all in. Whereas I like to watch MY teams, they like to watch all games at all times. If fact, hubby has been known to bring down other TVs in order to have several games on at once. It's dedication, people.

PS - the movie quote is from Joe Fox of "You've Got Mail". It's a big favorite in our house.

Awww... thanks!

Wouldn't you know that as soon as I get a new computer... our ISP has issues. We've been without internet since Thursday and hubby and I have had some heated conversations with "customer service". Grrr...

But, on a positive note, I got this the other day....

My friend Caroline awarded me this "little lovely". Actually, it is HER blog that I love. She absolutely cracks me up with her witty humor, sound effects, and kind acts of randomness. I log on daily to see what antics she and her redhead are up to!

Mommy is malfunctioning

So, it seems that not having access to my computer has shown me how stinkin' dependent I am on the thing! For example, I couldn't cook what I remembered to be on my meal plan because I have a huge amount of recipes saved on the laptop. I couldn't mapquest directions to a place I had to go today. I couldn't access my ongoing To Do lists for church and home. I couldn't contact women from my small group with important information. Oh, and I can't really work at all either.

Do you realize that my hand was cramping earlier from WRITING out some things for work. Insane. At this pace, I'll forget how to write at all in no time. Cursive is already getting fuzzy. That's SOOO 1980's.

Thankfully, hubby brings his laptop home at night and generously shares. I don't rip it out of his hands as soon as he walks through the door. I wait a few minutes. :)

Our friend, Saint Carl, has been able to access my old files and is "saving" them for me tonight. He's out with hubby right now looking at new computers. Truly a blessing for which I am very thankful.

As for my adorable little redhead, he is out of time out now. He's been instructed that Mommy and Daddy DO NOT need any help rocking the recliner. He's been VERY apologetic. He even apologized to our cat for breaking Mommy's computer. Unsolicited, of course.

3 yr old + laptop =disaster

Due to a very unfortunate mishap earlier today, my laptop is severely disabled. I was sitting in our rocking recliner concentrating on an email I was typing when my son came up behind it and pulled it backward really hard. In an effort to not flip over and crush him, I jolted forward. The force sent my laptop to the floor. Let's just say that as soon as it happened, my son PUT HIMSELF IN TIMEOUT without me having to say a word. Instantly, I lost my use of the screen.

I am praying fervently that our friend, a computer guru of sorts, can retrieve all or most of my files. Your prayers are appreciated.

My sanity has definitely been tested today!

cute and quotable

My son and I play a little game. I pretend to bite and chew his nose, ear, foot, etc and he squeals in laughter. I jokingly told him the other day that it "tastes like chicken". He told me "no, it tastes like jackson!".

Last night, he and I shared a banana icy pop. He took a few bites and then exclaimed, "Mmmm... it's yummy in my tummy. It tastes like chicken!"

Chicken flavored icy pops. You heard it here first.

Guest Blogger - My husband

Hey Courtney's blog readers! I just got on her site to tell her "I love you!" I LOVE YOU HONEY!

Verse on my heart today

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. Titus 3:3-8

So what if I'm stuck in 1994

One of the things that I am excited about the most is that our new van has a cassette player along with the CD player. Crazy, I know. But, I FINALLY have a place to play my favorite mixed tape from 1994. Even with the sub-par sound quality, I have enjoyed this treasure over and over the last few days.

After exposure to this musical goodness, my son has now declared that Dave Matthew's Band's Ants Marching [extended version] is his new favorite song. He will actually tell me which instrument is playing (piano, drum, violin, saxophone) and then pretend he's playing it too. He's always had a HUGE interest in music and various instruments. Once a guy from church told me that he thought Jackson had unusual musical skills when playing his little plastic drum. I think it could be that he just likes to bang on things. Or that he's watched too many Little Einsteins episodes.

But, I digress.

I have keen memories of dancing under the stars at the DMB concert the summer of '95. It was at the World's Fair Park in Knoxville, and 4 of my closest friends had driven from various cities in NC to visit me and go to the concert. Dionne Farris (remember her song, I Know?) opened for him and it was one of the best concerts I have ever been to. We were all decked out in our new Abercrombie outfits that we had purchased that afternoon. (Back when A&F had more rugged clothing, and not so...well, skimpy. I think I bought a brown plaid button-up and it was my favorite shirt for a long time.)

Seriously, I am the tangent queen today.

Anyway, I couldn't be more pleased with my son's new taste in music. Especially since it was not too long ago that I heard constant begging to hear Veggie Tales' This Is The Day over and over. There is only so much Veggies a mom can take! I thought if I heard it one more time it WOULD be "the day" I lost it!

God Stories

Mike started our staff meeting on Wednesday by just listing off recent "God Stories" at The Bridge - ways we have seen God do awesome things in the lives of people at our church. It was just incredible to look at that list and think about each of those lives that have been changed by God. It's so easy to get side-tracked with doing the ministry that we forget to step back and just praise Him for what He has done in and through us. God has been more than faithful. My heart is so full of praise and celebration!

Now that we are finally back in town for a good stretch, I've been a busy little bee trying to get back into the full swing of things with church. There are so many things coming this fall that I am very excited about... Lake Day/Baptism, Women's Night out events, Family Fun Day, our first Women's retreat... just to name a few.

I can hardly wait to see the God Stories coming in the weeks to come!

I call my hairstyle "Laziness"

We are in a bit of a heat wave here. So much so that I have not straightened my hair in a week. I just can't bring myself to do it in this heat. Plus, with all this going to the pool and thick humidity, I'd just have to re-straighten it over and over.

My curls are kinda freaking some people out that have never seen them before. On Sunday, a man came up to me and said "Somebody has been to the beauty parlor!".

Beauty parlor?? Who calls it that? That's where my grandmothers would go every week to get their hair done.

My confused reaction to his statement caused him to say, "you know, you got one of those permanents on your hair". Um, no.

That just brings back memories of my horrid hair from the 80's. Yes, I got perms in the '80s... that was before my hair and I hit puberty. It took me a while to realize that my hair had changed and that it wasn't the "perm that wouldn't go away".

It's not a perm. It's called laziness. So lazy that it is overstating my usual disdain for my curly hair.

Enjoying The Fruits of My Labor

I wrote here about nature's little surprise on my backyard - 2 beautiful apple trees. We've been anxiously watching the apples grow and change colors all summer. Today, I ventured out to check on their status - and tons were ripe. I mean TONS for just 2 small apple trees. I filled a large bucket up and you can't tell where I was even out there picking them!

I then spent the next hour repeating, "What am I going to do with all these apples? ... WHAT am I going to DO with all these apples?!" I felt like Diane Keaton in Baby Boom. Minus the snow.

There goes my Saturday!

From what I can assess from a little Internet research, these are baking apples - not especially good for eating raw. Jackson and I both ate some and they weren't bad. Though I love to cook, I have never made homemade applesauce. I thought about it when Jackson was a baby, but not for long. I had plenty of other things to do when he napped!


So, I went to my trusted friend, the Internet, and found some recipes. All of which involved the dreaded act of peeling each of those small suckers. An act of which I dread and am terribly slow. I called my mom for suggestions on what to make and she reminded me of all the peeling... she knows me well.


An hour later, I had peeled, baked, and mashed 10 small apples and made some quite yummy applesauce. I wished I had made a bigger batch, but I wanted to test out the recipe first. So I am 10 down, with hundreds to go! I must say it is a satisfying feeling to pick apples off your own tree and make something from it.

After peeling so many apples, I am now quite efficient at peeling and even can peel the whole apple in one long strand.

Notice the shirt in the picture... "My Bad" - Eve. Didn't plan on that when I put that one this morning. Fitting, huh?


Next up I want to try making apple butter (yum-o!) and an apple pie.

So, who wants some apples???

hairspray and milk

A few years ago, a stray ink pen was washed with a load of whites and dried in my dryer. The result was an entire load ruined. And, I spent hours cleaning the ink out of my dryer. (If this happens to you, the best way to get rid of it was nail polish remover on a magic eraser. But, you have to VENTILATE the area well!).

It was a frustrating mess. Lesson learned - or so I thought.

Yesterday, a pen went through the wash. So far, it only got on 2 items - one of jack's pajama shirts, and a brand new pair of Mike's khaki shorts. Thankfully, it was not a "set" stain yet as it didn't go through the dryer.

After some quick Internet research, I started dabbing one with hairspray and the other soaking in milk. Both are taking the ink out, however these ink spots were thick and it has not removed it all. I don't think it will. Ink did come out of my washer, thankfully.

I let them soak overnight. Mistake. My house is permeated with the wonderful fragrance of hairspray and spoiled milk. It's quite disgusting.

Any suggestions for getting the stains out??

Tagalong & Meme

First, a tag from my dear friend Jen....a tag with one word answers only.

Where is your cell phone? purse
Your significant other? amazing
Your hair? frizz
Your mother? beautiful
Your father? wonderful
Your favorite thing? family
Your dream last night? Office
Your favorite drink? mocha
Your dream/goal? mommy
The room you’re in? den
Your hobby? reading
Your fear? sharks
Where do you want to be in 6 years? NC
What you’re not? tan
Muffins? chocolate
One of your wish list items? kitchen
Where you grew up? Raleigh
Last thing you did? read
Favorite gadget? laptop
Your pets? Daisy
Your computer? necessity
Your mood? sleepy
Missing someone? Seesturs
Your car? minivan
Favorite store? Loft
Like someone? husband
Your favorite color? blue
Last time you laughed? today
Last time you cried? dunno


Then, a fun meme that was passed to me...

What were you doing 10 years ago?
I was in the middle of summer camp at Willow Run, where Mike and I were co-head counselors. We were strangers prior to the summer of '98. And, honestly, I didn't know what to think of him at that point. That changed a few months after the summer ended. Also, at this point in the summer, I was also preparing to start seminary and trying to find an apartment for Christy and Kelli and me in Raleigh.

Favorite Snacks
guacamole & chips
Hummus & pita chips or crackers
jumbo soft pretzels

To Do List
I am anal in this area. I have a running To Do list on my computer for each week - with itemized tasks for home & church, my meal plan for the week, grocery list, and errands needed to be ran. Then, I make shorter daily lists on paper for me to cross off for each day. Obnoxious? :)

Today my list consists of the following:
1. reply to gazillion email
2. coordinate meeting with person buying something I posted on craigslist.
3. Get insurance taken care of on new car.
4. Attempt to wipe out the laundry mountain.
5. work on Bible Study for my small group.
6. Clip coupons and make meal plan for this week (I'm behind on this since just getting back in town).

Jobs I Have Had
Salesperson in children's clothing boutique, administrative assistant, afterschool counselor at the Y, cashier at sporting store, library assistant, camp counselor, co-head counselor, afterschool program director at a Y, Counselor, Real Estate Paralegal, Children's Ministry director, mommy. Whew!

Places I Have Lived
Oak Ridge and Knoxville, TN; Boone, NC; and all over the Triangle area of NC

Bad Habits
over extending myself, worry, caffeine (if you count that as a bad thing)

5 Random Things People May Not Know
1. I don't leave the house without at least mascara on.
2. I have been watching Shark Week like crazy this week. I hate it and love it at the same time.
3. I only wash my hair every 3-4 days. (hey, if it took you as long as it takes me to blow dry your hair, you'd do the same. besides, my hairdresser says it is a great thing to do for my hair)
4. I make up very silly songs and sing them to jackson ALL DAY LONG.
5. I just wasted 2 hours on facebook and blogging today.

CDs I would want if stranded on an island - this is a toughie...I'll just list the first ones that come to mind...
Vertical Horizon - There and Back Again
Seestur Mix CD
David Crowder - Illuminate
Steve Miller Band - Greatest Hits
Glory Revealed - Various Artists
Everly Brothers - Greatest Hits

What I’d Do if I Were a Billionaire
1. Pay off anything that needed to be paid off.
2. Set aside money for son's college and our retirement.
3. Donate generously to our church and others we support on the mission field.
4. Take family on trip to Europe and take hubby back to Tanzania to visit where he was on the mission field.
5. Buy a mountain or lake house with a ski boat.

And if you want to play along - you’re it!

Tidbits from our TN trip

Despite that car issues, we had a great time on our trip and I loved being back in the mountains, of course. I grew up in Knoxville, so I have spent much time in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge in the past. It is amazingly more commercial now - "the Myrtle Beach of the Mountains". Nothing like seeing a Wings store in the mountains.

And, we encountered quite a slice of Americana, Southern style. I actually saw a grown woman walking around downtown with a cat tail coming out of her pants. Very Classy. All I could think was where can I get one of those for me. Ha! And who knew that rat-tails and matching air brushed t-shirts are back in style? (actually, were these ever considered 'in style'??)

From Gatlinburg, we went to my parent's house in Knoxville for a couple of days. We enjoyed a big cookout with lots of extended family to celebrate my parents' birthdays (happy birthday, Mom & Dad!).

We also went to church with my parents last Sunday. It is very rare for us to miss at The Bridge, and it feels very odd to attend elsewhere. My parents church is very different - it's huge (over 6,000 people), it has a choir, and just a different feel in many ways. Not bad, just different. Mike and I are always amused to see how others "do church". I was struck with how the preacher had "preacher voice"... you know, when they say the word Jesus and it is so stressed that it comes out "GEEEE-SUUUUSSSSS". I teased my husband on how I'd never hear him talk like that.

I didn't plan to drive over 400 miles to get a new car

Last week my parents mentioned some great deals that they had seen on cars and trucks. Some up to 50% off sticker price. But, we weren't ready. Or so I thought...

We have just returned from a little over a week with 2 sets of family. We were in Gatlinburg, TN with my in laws and family (13 of us) for a week. On the way there, the AC in my car died, so we enjoyed 3 hours of sheer miserable heat. I don't do well with heat and I was in the worst mood. Plus, nothing stresses me out like car trouble.

Since we were going to Knoxville after our week at Gatlinburg, I called my dad and asked him to make an appointment for us to get it fixed. Dad again mentions the great deals he has seen. He later calls back and gives us the dismal estimate to fix the AC. My stress level increases considerably, but I DID NOT want to drive back to NC without it fixed.

Dad convinces us to go out and just look at new cars. We decide not to replace the AC but had them do some other thing that might fix it... and my car's AC got worse. Typical. By the time we crunched figures to what it would take to fully fix it, get the 4 new tires it was due, and fix other minor issues... we realized that my 10 yr old car was not worth the $ we'd have to put into it. A new vehicle started to sound better and better.

And, it seems that God's timing happened to be perfect. We found a minivan for an extreme deal on a good used minivan. Something I didn't think would be possible on our budget. And I LOVE our new van. Not sure who is happier about it - me or my son.

Another thing I didn't think was possible was that I'd ever own a red car. I was raised to believe redheads and red (pink, peach, or orange) don't mix. :) Oh well. God has a sense of humor.

No getting around the fact that I'm a suburbanite mom now.

And, I have to give much credit to my hubby, who sacrificially drove the old heat-mobile all the way back to NC while his wife and son rode in happy comfort behind him. I love that man.

Hello, dear internet peeps. I'm on the tail end of a vacation - mostly without Internet access. Ergo, no posts in a while. Stay tuned for more bloggy goodness soon... including funny anecdotes from TN and details on the newest member of my family.

(Hint: it has 4 wheels and a sliding door)

That party was rockin'

The other night at a party for Mike's softball team:

Me: Come on, Jackson. It's time to eat. Wanna hotdog?

Jack: No. I just wanna rock.

Me: A rock? Where did you see a rock?

Jack: No, mommy. I just need to rock some more.

A Friend: Oh, hahaha. Jackson and I have been playing guitar and he's been singing into the microphone. He wants to rock-n-roll some more.

Jack: Yeah! Let's rock!


Sometimes I feel like my 3 year old is more hip than me....

maybe I should have just gone to the pool instead

I got in my car this morning and smelled the scent of death. After much searching, I found a package of ground beef that I purchased on Tuesday that must have slid out of the grocery bag and never made it inside my house. It had been "cooking" in my trunk for 2 days. Even after discarding that beast I had to drive with windows down and A/C pumping the whole time. And pray that the stench didn't cling to my clothes or hair!

I took my son to the mall for a special ventriloquist/magician show. Show was not so good and within 5-10 minutes in Jackson was laying his head in my lap and asking to leave. We ditched it. After getting some energy out in the tiny play area in the mall, I tried to press my luck and shop in ONE small store. Just one. I had a 20% coupon off of sale items at the Loft, so clearly Anna and I HAD to check to see if any items were calling our names. I spent the next 10 minutes chasing my 3 year old around racks of clothes.

Oh yeah... THAT'S the reason I never go to the mall anymore... He's too big for the stroller and too wiggly to just stand with mommy. So not worth it.

culinary connection

My brother, Tyson, and I are night and day in many ways. He's the athletic, tan, blond, loud, extremely outgoing one that enjoys being on the go and having the latest gadgets. Tyson has a knack for meeting celebrities and always getting great hook-ups of tickets to big events. He always "knows a guy". I'm the pasty, red-head that is more studious, a bit more reserved, & frugal (wow, don't I sound like a barrel of laughs!).

So, we don't exactly look or act related - which prompted my brother to tell his then fiancee, Amanda, that I was adopted. (I'm not) And, he "forgot" to tell her the truth. A year or so later he said something that made Amanda concerned that it would hurt my feelings since I was adopted. Tyson looked at her like she was crazy and then they realized the mistake. Hardy-har-har. Such the prankster!

Although polar opposites in many ways, we can always connect when it comes to Carolina Basketball, our faith, and cooking. Yes, cooking! He does a lot of cooking and is really good at it (we had a great teacher with my mom!). Tyson called the other night for a recipe and we discussed various dishes and recipes for quite some time. We have similar tastes in food (with the exception of his LOVE of mustard and really spicy stuff), so its fun to share ideas with him.

Our differences made for quite a bit of conflict growing up. At one point I was really sad that we never had the type of friendship that some siblings have. Our relationship was just a late bloomer - it didn't really happen until I moved away to go to college. Then, the oddest thing happened when I would come home for visits - we sat and talked for hours. Seems that not living under the same roof was all our friendship needed!

Though many miles now separate us, I know I can call him in a heartbeat and hear his tales of the latest encounters with a celebrity and a to-die-for recipe.

Miss and love you, Ty!

I have Selachophobia

I admit it. I have a big fat fear of sharks. I no longer go in the ocean beyond waste deep - and even that is nerve-racking at times.

Did you see this photo and story on the other day? Holy stinkin' cow. It is a must-see!

The photo was taken on New Smyrna Beach (aka "shark bite capital of the world") - the very beach I went to several times as a child. I have distinct memories of lifeguards blowing their whistles and calling everyone in because of a shark sightings. That doesn't go over well with a young 7 year old. Couple that with Sea World visits and watching Jaws.... I was well on my way to phobia-ville.

Then, around 6 years ago I was at Salter Path/Emerald Isle with my 2 nieces and my mother-in-law when we saw a shark just a few feet away from us. It was circling. We WERE ONLY ANKLE-DEEP IN THE WATER AND A BIG SHARK WAS JUST A FEW FEET AWAY. My MIL and I were shocked and a little rattled. Needless to say, we did not go out any further.

My phobia is not completely pervasive. Somehow, I managed to snorkle in the carribbean and once in the bahamas. I even endured Stingray City (which I loved, by the way). I think the difference was that the water was crystal clear. These cloudy-water beaches freak me out. I wanna see whats out there.

Because, well, I KNOW they are out there.

Another trip down, 2 more to go

Sorry for the little bloggin' hiatus.

I just returned from a brief trip to the beach with my family and 2 other families - including a 1 yr old, 2 yr old, my 3 yr old, and a 4 yr old. We all shared a beach house together. It was fun, relaxing, and also exhausting all in one.

Judging by the pictures taken, I was never there. I prefer to be behind the camera. Especially when pictures are being taken near water. You know, with bathing suits on. Not that I think that I'm a whale or anything... I really am not usually so self-conscientious. It's just that I happened to go to the beach with 2 of my skinniest/fittest girlfriends. And, the beach brings out the "medusa" look to my naturally curly hair. Hello, afro. I didn't think that would make for any pictures I'd want to go in the photo album. Or the blog for goodness sake.

You can thank me later.

One of the highlights was being able to play games with other adults once the kiddos went down to bed. I forgot how much I missed that!

And, when we were not at the beach or chasing our kids around - we ate. We cooked our own food there and you would not have believed the amount that was made and consumed.

Gilad's going to have fun with me this week, I know.

Stay tuned for more bloggy goodness soon. After I attack the mountains of laundry.

Recipe - Cappuccino Mousse Trifle

Here's a cool and refreshing dessert that I love to make, especially for large crowds.

Cappuccino Mousse Trifle

2 1/2 c. cold milk
1/3 instant coffee granules (aka tasters choice)
2 pkgs (3.4oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (16 oz) frozen whipped topping -- thawed and divided
2 loaves (10 3/4 oz each) frozen pound cake -- thawed and cubed
1 square (1 oz) semisweet chocolate -- grated
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

In a mixing bowl, stir milk and coffee granules until dissolved; remove 1 cup and set aside. Add pudding mixes to the remaining milk mixture and beat on low speed for 2 min. or until thickened. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Place 1/3 of the cake cubes in a 4 qt. trifle bowl. Layer with 1/3 of reserved milk mixture, 1/3 of pudding mixture and 1/4 of the grated chocolate. Repeat layers twice. Garnish with remaining whipped topping and chocolate; sprinkle with cinnamon. Cover & refrigerate until serving. Yield = 16-20 servings.

6 jacksons?!

This summer I have discovered the TV show "Jon and Kate plus 8". I realize that this is not a new show. I'm just slow to catch on. (If you, too, are new to the show -- it's a reality show of a family with twin 6 year-olds and 3-year-old sextuplets... yes, 6). They've been running marathon back-to-back episodes and I must admit that I am very hooked.

One of the many reasons I am so glued to these episodes is that the sextuplets are so close to my son's age. And the thought of 6 of him running around is, well... a mind-numbing thought! I watch with amazement as the parents, Jon & Kate, do everyday functions that I do, but on a much grander scale...feeding, bathing, errand running, going to church, etc.

A little perspective for me when I feel so frazzled and worn out!

Look, honey, it's a LOCAL

We have some new neighbors that moved in a couple of houses down from us. I made them some Poppy Seed Bread and we took it to them the other night to introduce ourselves and welcome them to the neighborhood. Perfectly pleasant retired couple with a super sweet dog. Conversation led to where they are from... and, like all of our neighbors, they are not native to NC. They actually got visibly excited when we told them that we both grew up in the Raleigh/Cary area.

"We've never met ANYONE who is actually from this area. I wanted to move to the south to meet real southerners," said the husband.

"Well, here we are - flesh and blood, " I said.

Evidently, we weren't quite as southern as they expected and I informed them that they could easily travel 20 or so miles in any direction and get stronger accents and such.

Later that evening, hubby & I jokingly wondered if they were shocked that we had on shoes and all our teeth.

Even the mighty St. Arbucks struggles

Dear Starbucks executives,

I just heard the news that you are closing 600 locations in the next year. According to this source, specific locations have not been revealed but the closings will most likely be stores opened since 2006. Also at risk are locations that are close to other Starbucks locations. I must say, I wondered why you built 6 locations within a 5 mile radius of my house. But, I knew that you did it cause you cared about my caffeine lovin' needs. Every time I went by for a fix, there were always plenty of other addicts around so I figured you knew what you were doing.

Please know that I am quite a fan of your product. However, your prices make it a "splurge" item as daily consumption would not make our wee budget. And... well, I guess it's time to fess up... I even have resorted to McCafe for a iced coffee or two. How embarrassing. I'm so sorry to have been unfaithful.

Just a suggestion -- Would you even consider lowering the prices a little?? It would draw me in for more mocha lattes!

And, if you have to close one near me, I beg you not to close the 2 drive-thru locations.

Sincerely,
BridgeMom

No "Kum By Ya" this time

Our connection group (bible study group) met tonight at Jordan Lake. Our friends are camping there all week and graciously invited us all to come for a cookout and do our group study there. We had a fabulous time.

My family went early so we could boat and ski a little. Thankfully, I can say that I got up on skis the first try. It had been a while! It is amazing to me the muscles you don't even realize that you have until you water ski (or snow ski, for that matter) and all sorts of aches and pains come up. My back is thanking me today. All worthwhile, though, to see my son in the back of the boat clapping and cheering for his mommy.

Being out on the water and around the campsite made me so nostalgic for my childhood camping days. We spent nearly every summer weekend either camping at the lake or in the mountains. Lots of fun memories like catching my first fish, endless UNO games, making scary faces with flashlights, and catching lightning bugs. There were lots of family time. I remember camping in the Smokies and seeing a black bear come into our camp. Watching 4th of July fireworks from the boat. The first time I tubed with my friend and caught major air. I even parasailed once with a friend.

Somewhere along the line this mommy has gotten a little soft and less adventurous.

I have been wanting to go camping all year. Seems like every available weekend had rain this past spring. Unlike our friends, we only have a tent. Which is fine by me (that's what I'm used to), but hubby is less than excited about sleeping in the tent. I'm determined to drag him and out there sometime soon, though. Our son would love it.

There are memories just waiting to be made.

Hint taken

A conversation a few days ago...

Mike: "When are your parents coming to visit us?"

Me: "Not for a while since we will be heading their way in a month or so, and again later in the summer for my cousin's wedding."

Mike: "Hmm. Guess it will be a long time until our house gets a good clean."

Me: "Grrrrr. Ha ha - very funny."


Today, after we had some church folks over to our house for a class...

Mike: "Aren't you glad I rescheduled the meeting for here instead of at the office? Now we have a clean house!"

Me: "Wait a minute... did you do that on purpose?"

Mike: "Uh... no."

Sad, but true. I had let our house go with all of the hecticness of summer. Why is it that having people over is about the only way I would get motivated for the deep clean that it needed?? Y'all, I even cleaned baseboards! [mom, aren't you proud!] In his defense, mike did help some.

Call the talent scouts

One of the 30+ books we have out from the library is a children's book about a kindergartner who wants to find his talent. My son LOVES it. It helps that the character's name is Jack and he has red hair.

After one of the gazillionth times of reading the book, Jackson said, "Oh no, mommy! I don't have a talent, either!". I helped by listing several things that he does well -- swimming, playing ball, going potty, casting a fishing pole, letters & number, etc. I did not, however, include whining even though he shows exemplary skills in that area.

Unsatisfied with my suggestions, the worry look on his face was adorable. Then, he smiled really big and said, "I know! I really good at singing. I like to sing".

I grinned. My boy will sing to me all day and all night. After our trip to camp a few weeks ago, he has been singing to EVERYONE the "Papaya Song", "King Jesus is All", and the "I Will Sing/Swing Low Sweet Chariot/O, When the Saints" medley. Loud and proud, even to strangers! His favorite thing to make with tinker toys is a microphone stand. As I type, he is singing to himself in his room some silly song he just made up. I love how his eyes light up and seem to dance when he sings.

"Yep. That's it, buddy. You are a great singer".

"Yea", he said with a long pause "...and, I good at snuggle with mommy, too."

"That's my favorite one," I said with watery eyes.

I am not sure how long he'll be at this cute, snugly stage, so I plan to eat it up as long as I can!

The Highs and The Lows

I only have a few minutes before my Connection group, but I wanted to blog some. I am utterly exhausted. I got back from an amazing mountains trip with my college friends last night (more on that later). And, we left for Mike's grandfather's funeral in Eastern NC early this morning. In the span of driving literally from one corner of NC to the other, I have gone through every emotion.

Spending time with my "Seesturs" was just wonderful. Besides getting away and relaxing, we just have the best time together and the friendships are so easy. I always feel like when I see them we just pick up the conversation where we last left off. Definitely an emotional high! It was hard to leave them.

And, today was difficult as we said good bye to one of the dearest men of God I have ever met. Mike's grandfather was such a special man. His funeral today was such a celebration of his life of faith, with testimonies of the people he led to the Lord. He was a navy man and Pearl Harbour survivor. He and Mike's grandmother were married for 65 beautiful years. We have such mixed emotions as we miss him already, yet we rejoice that he is sitting at the feet of His Savior.

I praise God that His presence is felt in the times of elation and also the times of sorrow.

Because mom taught me to share

It has been some time since I have posted a recipe. While I was thoroughly enjoying trying new recipes like crazy, my hubby began to beg for "the classics" (ie bbq pork chops, chicken fried rice, tacos, etc). He likes simple food, not casseroles or food mixed together (or "goop" as he calls it). Meat and potatoes. All the things I get bored with easily. But, I aim to please, so my recipe research frenzy has taken a backslide, at least for a little while.

I will, however, share links to a few gems that I have managed to add to our repertoire...

1. Feta & Bacon Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Oh, how I love love love this recipe. Hubby even liked it. I'm hungry just typing this. Supposedly this is from the South Beach Diet...that's what it says.

2. Monterrey Chicken - Similar to what's served at Chili's. Adds a little zing to the traditional barbecue chicken. And, it's 'bout as easy as it gets.

3. Homemade Calzones - These are a hit. It's fun to mess around with various fillings. Usually, I mix together about 5-6oz ricotta, 1 1/2 cup (or more) mozzarella, pepperonis, pressed garlic and Italian seasoning. I also do sauteed onions and mushrooms for mine. Yum!

4. Pasta Carbonara - Delicious pasta with a bacon white sauce. I'm salivating. I usually make it with bowtie pasta and add cooked chicken (sauteed with garlic & EVOO).

Um... I just noticed 3 of those recipes include bacon. Ha! That's what my man likes. You know, the healthy stuff.

Wanna play along? Share your out-of-the-rut recipes!!

I don't think I'll put the suitcase up all summer

Back at home, and as busy as ever. Summertime is running time. Not as in jogging. *Gag* But, as in break-neck, fast paced trips and hecticness. Lots of church stuff going on. And, six major trips this year (2 down, 4 to go).

While we were gone last week, it seems the ants found 2 crumbs left and decided to make my home their own. I'm waging war, my friends. This happens EVERY year. I even cleaned well before leaving town! I came home to find a lovely line of a thousand ants marching to and from our cat's food bowl. Ugh.

I am finally getting to all the laundry from last week (ginormous pile!!), which is much overdue since I am still smelling the faint scent of boxcars and smoke (from the coastal wildfire - camp had the haze blow in on Friday). It's such a lovely, homey scent.

My next trip is this weekend, my annual "Seestur" trip, with my best friends from college. We decided to go to Boone this year...very fitting with this being the 10th year since graduation. (I won't mention the dear friend [Cheri] who told me the other day..."TEN YEARS...Man, you are old!!"). Just wait, your day will come. ;)

As tired as I am from last week and all the things to do for this week... Friday could not come soon enough! Oh, and did I mention the high is supposed to be in the upper 70's! Hallelujah and amen!

CWR now and then...

As I sit in my cushy Southern 8 boxcar at the infamous Camp Willow Run, it occurs to me that a few things have changed in the 12 years (holy cow - that long?!) since I first worked here. I tried to explain this to one of the female counselors the other day and I got the "Wow. THAT was a long time ago" look. You know, since it was before electricity and the invention of the wheel.

First of all, all the buildings (except the gym) are now air conditioned. No longer do staff and campers have sweat dripping off their noses into the corn dog nuggets during mealtime. No longer to you have to listen to speakers in the Crossing while fanning yourself profusely to cool off. The best is when you think you have a bug crawling inside your shirt, only to discover it is a river of sweat trickling down. Or so I've heard.


Counselors have a new sport they play during their time off...they walk around aimlessly in the field holding a cell phone trying to find the few spots where they can get a signal. It's a fun sport to watch here from my boxcar. Although cell phone signals are hard to come by, camp has wireless Internet. Counselors just sit on their front steps and can have instant access to the outside world.

There are lots of improvements in the rec areas. Fancy ski boats with fancy wake boards, knee boards and skis. Large tarps and tents have been erected in the ropes course, climbing wall, and archery field to keep you in the shade. Tons of improvements on the ropes course (no more rope tunnel!!).

They have a person on staff whose job is to walk around and take pictures of everything. Then, at the last night of camp, they show a slide show set to music. Campers can buy a CD/DVD of said slide show AND videos of the skits AND the music for the low cost of $10. Camp is now high tech, indeed.


The Crossing has been renovated with bathrooms outside AND a fancy-smancy sound system built in. Again, with AIR CONDITIONING.

Hot Rod drives a cool Gator (no more old mail truck!) and there is a small fleet of golf carts that staff other than full-timers can drive. No fair!


These staffers don't know how great they have it. Thankfully, though, there are timeless things that will never change... the same full time staff (that feels like my 2nd family!), good food, the most amazing sunsets, HEAT, pin dodge ball, buddy checks, "Pharaoh Pharaoh", funny rules skits (now on video!), one-on-ones on the boxcar steps, and the sound of laughter everywhere. Most important of all is the life-changing love of God that is taught, sung about, and felt so strongly. There is nothing more precious than a child's new excitement in accepting Christ for the first time.

Truly, there is a "Sweet Sweet Spirit" in this place.

Bunco blast

My mom has talked about the Bunco parties she and her friends have for years. I have never played. I actually looked online on where to buy the game... little did I know! What I did find were HUNDREDS of sites with their own Bunco rules and clubs for playing. (for those of you also ignorant in the world of Bunco, its a basically a game of dice rolling - no game board or anything like that). It seems that Bunco has become a huge phenomena, particularly with women.

For a Bridge Ladies Night Out event I suggested we have a game night with Bunco. Fortunately, my friend Joanne is much experienced with this game, and she was both hostess with the most-ess AND our Bunco teacher. It was fun! Basically, a no-skill game but great for socializing. Since we planned the event in advance, we had decided to have a coffee-house theme for the food. (ALL women's events revolve around food. And, true to all women's events we have, there was more food there than could possibly be eaten.) The only problem was that yesterday was a smoldering 100 degrees here and NO ONE drank any coffee! Ha!

It was a great time to connect with some women relatively new to our church. And, we have had many requests to have another Bunco night soon. Honestly, I think any activity is fun when you get a bunch of women together!

Backyard Science

It seems that while I have been caught up taking Jack to the zoo and local museums, I have overlooked some great nature lessons going on in our backyard.

A family of cardinals have built a nest in a huge hydrangea bush just outside our window, giving us a great view. Bet the mommy bird didn't bank on our beady eyes when she selected this spot for her home! We discovered our little neighbors out there just before Mike was about to cut this huge bush back. We have checked the status everyday, and two eggs hatched with two adorable baby birds! It is so amazing to watch them being fed by the mommy AND daddy bird. Their mouths open so widely every time the nest is stirred.

Aren't they ADORABLE??!!

They make the littlest chirp you ever heard and they have just a few tiny feathers. Jackson asks to hold them over and over, making a little cup with his hands like he was taught when he got to hold some baby chicks at a farm a few weeks ago. But, we are giving these babies their space.

Our cat, daisy is VERY AMUSED at the whole process. She will sit at the back door and watch as the mommy and daddy bird "bark" at her and have an absolute fit! They do not like her one bit. Little do they know that she is an absolute wuss and would probably cower away if she were outside. Even I've been a little leery of being in the backyard for fear of being dive-bombed by 2 protective parents!

Mommy bird (top) and Daddy bird (bottom) barking at me & Daisy

We have also discovered that we have 2 apple trees in the backyard. Last year, these trees did not bloom, nor did they produce any fruit (I am guessing due to the draught - but who am I kidding? I don't know a thing about horticulture).

So, I was pleasantly surprised to beautiful blooms a few months ago and to see the HUNDREDS of apples growing this year. I'm trying to research online to find out what type of apple and when to harvest them. Most are still small and green, but a few are starting to turn red. Jackson goes out to check on the apples everyday and each time I hear "Mommy, LOOK at dees yummy apples! I eat them now?....Awww....How 'bout now, mommy?".