I Can Cook - I Admit It

I’m not a chef, however lately I’m finding out that I can actually cook! Now, don’t go getting all excited, just because I’m admitting that I can cook, it does not mean I love to cook. But, I wanted to share with you all some of the things that I’ve forced on my family tried out lately. I’m one, that hates trying something new and having it turn out like a piece of baked crayon!

For Christmas, I borrowed several recipes from a couple of blogs and foodtv.

I baked my very first ham, using Big Daddy's Spiral Ham recipe – ya’ll the ham was to die for, it was lip smacking, finger licking yummy! Did ya’ll hear me – I baked my VERY FIRST ham! I’m forty-one! This ham will have a special place in my recipe folder! Thank you, Aaron McCargo!

I shared the Whiskey-Glazed Carrots, I found on the Pioneer Woman’s blog. This was the second time I made them and they are delish – this coming from a person that does not like carrots – AT.ALL!

I also borrowed Ree’s Dinner Roll recipe again – I’ll be honest, the first time I made them, they did not turn out – it was Thanksgiving and it was sad! I decided to give them another try, this time I made the dough up the night before and took my time – ya’ll, the yeast rolls need a lot of time – don’t be rushing. They were SO yummy!!!

And lastly, I borrowed a very yummy Ultimate Creamed Corn recipe – ya’ll, there was nothing left – I should have doubled it! My vegetarian loved them – he loved the whiskey glazed carrots, too!

So, here ya go – I don’t have any pictures for proof – just trust me! I’ll be making everything again!

Planning for Next Christmas

This year we bought a very tall real tree, because we have very tall ceilings in the living room. Just one issue with that, I didn’t have enough lights or ornaments or ribbon – one side of the tree was naked.

I decided after three days of decorating this one tree that next year we would not be buying anything that large again. Instead of having a calendar count down for Santa to come – I had a calendar count down for removing the tree from the house. I had had enough – sadly, I know, but I was tired of the tree this year. I only have iphone photos of the tree and just with my daughter, my boys never made it to the photo session! LOL

Christmas is mostly removed from the house; it will be all packed up and ready for the attic this week.

Tonight at Target, I found two 6 ft, non pre-lighted artificial trees for next year. I wanted trees without lights for a reason; we have several strands of LED lights – brand new. So, next year we’ll have two trees, one snowman and the other one, I haven’t made my decision yet – I’m thinking about ALL handmade ornaments. If I do all homemade, I’m gonna have to get busy! Oh, I just had a brilliant idea for a garland for the snowman tree – note to self – buy blue, white, and silver ribbon, and glue gun and sticks!

Also, since the artificial trees are short, I’ll need to plan for a table or chest - for the one in the living room to sit on, so that everyone outside can see it. It’ll look lost in that huge living room.

Sweet Gift

I had quite a nice Christmas. I’m not going to sugar coat it, it was bumpy – but ended up being really nice. However, for some reason, Christmas is still not there for me. It’s a little empty lately and I can’t seem to put my finger on it – the reason for the season is still here – just something else is missing. I probably need therapy; well those that know me would say that I do need therapy! LOL!

So anyway – the whole reason for this post is to share my favorite gift. The very first time I saw this was on Oprah. But Oprah, had a different version on her show, she had the Kindle. I got the Sony Reader, the Touch Edition. I saw the Kindle on Oprah years ago, at least two years ago, I think. Since then I’ve gone back and forth, reading, researching, going to the Sony Style store, etc… And, I decided back then, that when I did get one, I wanted the Sony Reader. I’ve heard stories on the differences, and now Barnes and Noble have one, too, however, I’ve heard that their version will not be available until February. One big huge factor was that I could go to the Sony store and hold the Sony Reader, I could touch it and play with it – I could not do that with the Kindle.

Thank you, Matt for getting me the Sony Reader! Yes, you can borrow it!

Tomorrow I'll tell you about a very special gift that my daughter made just for me! I might even include a photo if I can find my sd card.

Merry Christmas

We had a wonderful Christmas - I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!

Frosty's Snow Tree

Yep, that is Frosty's hat, I found it at Hobby Lobby -

I had to have it!

Happy Holidays

I finally got the tree decorated, we've only had it since Thanksgiving weekend. We actually bought the very first tree off the lot.

It is huge! The ceiling in the living room is about 12 feet, I think. The rest of the house has the standard 8 ft ceilings, except for the master bedroom.

I need to charge my digi.

Yes, I know you're all sitting here thinking - Are you unpacked yet? And that answer would be, no. I'm working on it - my excuse - holidays and holidays! I did some actual work in the master bedroom tonight - I unpacked a ripped bag and 2 more boxes. I folded laundry, too. LOL

We have a room that I'll be using as an office/craft room - and right now it full of pictures and boxes and craft supplies...I need shelves.

So, yeah - I'm still here, I'm still reading your blog and I'm still making notes on things I want to do - decor and craft wise.

Sorry for not being here...

Gobble Gobble

Happy Thanksgiving! Hope everyone has a wonderful day...

- Enjoy the food

- Take a nap

Where Have I Been?

Moving - for the last few weeks I've been packing the rental and unpacking at the new house (new to us - the house is about 18 years old)...

Everything came about pretty fast - the ass of a landlord and house hunting (I'll save all the house hunting horror stories for another blog)...

I'll leave you with a couple of photos of the new kitchen - it is amazing, it really is!!

I'll be unpacking for the next nine years - no, not really - I will if I don't get up now, though! LOL

BOO

Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween!

Still Here

I'm still around - just busy packing and cleaning -

It is so much fun -

I'm so tired and my back would agree -

At this point - I don't even care if anything gets unpacked until next year -

The End...

Time To Move

Sorry I haven't blogged much lately -

We're moving

Did I mention we also adopted a dog from the humane society?

We're moving

I've been tossing everything we're not using down the stairs

The family and dining room and the foyer are full of boxes and some furniture

I still need to finish two of the Halloween spirit bottles - I do have the supplies

Just need the time -

We're moving - in less than a month

But Halloween is one of my most favorite holidays to decorate for and not to have anything done and not really being able to decorate is driving me crazy

We're moving - October 30th

Another Halloween Project

Sneak Peek

I came across this idea on another blog that I just found and have really enjoyed!

Check out - Little Pink Dollhouse for the how to's and more photos of the finished project.

Halloween Spirits

Something I came up with - refurburishing a wine bottle, scrapbook paper, and mod podge.

I actually got the idea from Martha Stewarts wine labels - I can't afford to buy them (no, they aren't that expensive, I'm just cheap
- way too talented to purchase hers
- so I came up with my own. I have two more Halloween Spirit bottles in the works - one orange and one black...check back to see them.

Searching Again -

It wasn't meant to be -

It is ok - even though I had this foreclosure decorated

- in my mind.

It wasn't meant to be - there was something nagging at me about it.

Something about that house - JUST wasn't right.

Well, besides missing ALL of the appliances.

Project Update

I know, I said I’d snap a photo of all my projects that I’ve got going on – well, it rained and it was dark in the house – no, really – it rained.

I was lazy –

Remember, I said I can multi-task! I can’t help myself! I started another project. Today, we went to Michaels to replenish my sliver glitter so that I can finish my Halloween garland. I also picked up the Halloween ribbon to finish it off.

So, now I have another Halloween project on the burner that I am so excited about – I can tell you it is a takeoff from the Country Living – Halloween 101 Ideas – but my version.

I’m really excited to see the finished project – ok, PROJECTS!

I promise!

I Can Multi-Task

At one point today, I started to get up and snap a few photos of the many projects going on in my house. And I do mean many – as a reminder that things need to get done. They will, I just want them done now – or yesterday. So, tomorrow I will snap a few photos of the many projects I need to finish up – pending funds. LOL!

Looking Good

Remember this post - it wasn't that long ago! LOL

Well - pending the inspection - which should hopefully go well - it is ours!

To Do List

1. Finish blue bottle

2. Finish Halloween glitter project

3. Buy 42 x 42 piece of wood (decide blue or red) (I've got my letters printed)

4. Measure for mirror (ohhh what a great idea I have)

5. Work on other Halloween projects (need to get moving on these)

6. Chalkboard – ideas

The Best Part of the Foreclosure

Crossing fingers that they accept the bid -

Going On

I bet you thought I quit blogging – again! And I know I keep blaming things on a busy life – I’m not that busy…as you might have guessed.

The kids just finished their second week of school and I was able to grab two sub days – half days. I have first day photos that I need to load so that I can share them with ya’ll. – Hopefully this coming week.

I also need to finish the Halloween project I’ve been working on – we have glitter EVERYWHERE! Again – Hopefully this coming week – or by next payday! LOL

And, I was hoping to move my blog or at least combine this blog with my very old blog – I haven’t forgotten! It just got moved to the back burner.

Picasa - Collage Banners

Who knew it was that easy and fast using Picasa - to make a blog collage banner. Here is my 4 minute banner- the photos have nothing to do with each other ... just me using what I could find. It never used to be this easy - I struggled with codes and codes - did I mention codes? AND just when I learned how to do it - programs changed - I don't do change - LOL

So anyway - I'd like to thank Sarah over at Clover Lane - she took the time to explain how to - step by step for all of us - Thank you!

Green Monster Challenge - Continues

I've had a green monster everyday but one. So, tomorrow we're going to try the pumpkin green monster - I'm looking forward to this one - I'll let ya know how it tastes after we give it a try.

I've also made a few other things from Angela's blog - Vegan Mac and Cheese was very tasty! And her Vegan Banana Peanut Butter Bomb Muffins - to die for! Now run along and make them - I promise you'll enjoy them...however - I do suggest you eat the mac and cheese the day you make it. That's what Justin says -

1st Week of School

We just finished our first week of school - it went well. I have photos to share, but need to get them off the digi. I still can't believe MY baby is in 6th grade. It is kinda weird only having two in school this year - for SO.MANY.YEARS - I had three kids going to public schools - one graduated, two to go.

Green Monster Experience

This was actually for yesterday...

I’ve since enjoyed several other green monster recipes with my favorite being the first one I made. I noticed energy right away. I love the energy it gave me – not a sugary high, but an all natural high – it feels great! I didn’t notice any type of withdrawals from the green monster at all – unlike the unhealthy sugary energy drinks on the market now.

Today was the first day of noticing – the lack of energy – the lack of not having a green monster is noticeable! It sucks! I needed a nap and I took a nap and I’m tired right now.

Ya’ll, I’m seriously tired, I’ve felt tired all day – I’m kicking myself because I didn’t make the time to make a green monster.

Visit Angela’s blog and check out her green monster recipes.

My First Green Monster

I started this morning off with a Tassimo latte – probably not the healthiest, oh well. I sat here and relaxed and watched the Today Show.

Then – it was time to make it…

Make what?

It was time to make my first Green Monster – I’ve never been one to drink much less make health drinks.

I bought my supplies yesterday at the grocery store to include supplies for homemade hummus.

I made the hummus last night – I used canned beans ya’ll – I was in a hurry and wanted hummus NOW! It was delicious! I will make hummus from now on. I need to learn to make pita chips to go with it. Everyone here loved it – recipe was from Oh She Glows.

Now back to this morning – it is time for me to get off of Angela’s blog and steam the spinach and toss everything in the blender – now I ain’t gonna lie – I was a little worried ya’ll – it was GREEN…like Kermit GREEN! The one I tried had banana and peanut butter in it – and that is what it tasted like! I kid ya’ll not!

So, after I sucked that down – I actually felt great, like all of a sudden I had energy. I made another grocery list and ran back to the store – gonna try a few more of Angela’s recipes. I’m really excited – here I am, eating vegan dishes and actually enjoying them.

- I'm not vegan - yet. I realized the latte wasn't soy milk...don't point your finger at me! LOL

Yard Sale -

I think I totally forgot to tell ya’ll about the yard sale I stopped at a few weeks ago. It wasn’t very big, so it was easy to notice things from the road. I saw a brass headboard leaning up against a very nasty mattress – can I get a eww! So, we stopped, I walked around with nothing else really jumping out at me. I made my way over to the nasty mattress – seriously – what the hell? Who doesn’t see how nasty it is and decides, I think we’ll put this in the yard sale – EWW

Anyway – I’m standing there reading the “sale sign” and I quote “mattress, box springs and brass headboard 75 dollars” – So, I think to myself, surely they can’t mean the headboard is the expense of the “set” or do they?

I find someone and ask – and oh my heck – the woman says “how about 50 dollars for the headboard?” I think the expression on my face was saying – what the hell did you just say, because she says to me – well it is only the first day.

I said good luck with that and mumbled something to myself on the way to the car – empty handed.

PS – the headboard was rusted – I really, seriously thought she would have said something in the less than 20 dollar range but 50…laughs! LOL

Recycled Halloween Project

Step one of the recycled Halloween project is completed. I’m totally excited to see the finished project -

End Of Summer

School will be starting soon – I’ll be subbing, I hope a couple of days a week. I’m really not looking forward to school starting, I have enjoyed this summer, busy as it was with Dylan in summer school, Justin graduating from high school and Raye graduating from 5^th grade. Dylan will be a junior, he worked hard and I hope he keeps it up. He can’t screw up anymore – he has to work hard this year, go to summer school and work hard his senior year – no time to rest. Raye’s starting middle school, while I’m excited that I no longer have to wake up at the butt crack of dawn (for the last 12 years that has been my mornings)…I’m weary of her schedule and the teachers she has – her brothers had the same social studies teacher and she didn’t treat the boys very well. So my guard is up.

Getting Caught Up

I swear I feel like I’m never here –

I’ve been reading blogs – late at night so not many comments – I’m sorry but just know I’m reading and enjoying.

I was up late last night working on a little Halloween project – I got two letters cut out – a long way to go…I can see it in my head, just hope it turns out as cute as I see it. It is a recycle project – using cereal boxes.

LG Fridge Repair - Take One

Here we are – the LG repairman just left, his name was Edgar and he works for the Geek Squad aka Best Buy.

About two years ago I picked out a new fridge with all the bells and whistles or so I thought. I mean, just how many bells and whistles can you get with a fridge? So, anyway – it was the newer type fridge on top with double doors and freezer drawer on the bottom. I soon learned that I truly hated the freezer drawer. The water and icemaker are on the outside of the door…that was a must have!

Fast forward several months, our brand new fridge started behaving like some sort of gremlin was living in the icemaker. If you wanted crushed, you got whole cubes, if you wanted whole cubes, you got crushed. AND there was a time that you couldn’t get either – why, you ask? Let me tell you – because it was FROZEN!! So thankfully we decided to purchase the extended warranty, it’s been well used. That fridge lives in another house – and has been repaired three times now – the fourth is coming next Tuesday. The whole door is being replaced - because ya know that'll work...

Now – the fridge that got repaired today is also a LG –don’t judge me…it’s a side by side, I didn’t think we’d have the same issues as the one above. BUT golly molly – the same gremlin lives in this one.

I originally chose the LG because their washer and dryer was top of the line (I actually own the Maytag Neptune) –well, I’ve learned a lesson.TWICE – OK…I hear you…

The end -

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BARS

And also - I ended up with a pretty busy week and didn't get to bake what I wanted to bake for Matt's National Guard get together...but I did find something really yummy for them. I do hope they enjoy it - next time, I promise something extra special...just ran out of time. I suck - I'm sorry :(

Cupcakes or Cheesecake Pops

So – a while back I saw a cheesecake pops recipe on Bakerella’s site and thought I’d make and send them in for Matt’s Texas National Guard Unit – well, friends, time got in the way. Life gets crazy sometimes. I didn’t forget, but it is all kinds of hard trying to mix a thick batter using just a cheap – o hand mixer. Cheap – o hand mixer that cost $6 using a grocery store coupon. A lot of my baking was stopped – like the parking lot on MOPAC at 5:18pm on Friday. After trying to use the hand mixer and having it lock up on me and smell of burnt plastic – I went shopping and was told to pick out a stand mixer. YAY! Let us fast forward to last week, and this is what was said. “My unit was assigned desserts!” (Honestly, I think they know about my baking and “they” assigned Matt’s unit desserts for a reason – or I’d like to believe that – don’t rain on my parade!) The Heavens opened up and I heard the angels sing – I LOVE TO BAKE!! So I’ve been told I need to bake something for an upcoming event – for his unit. I’ve decided against the original (maybe not...I can't make my mind up) plan but still opting for cupcakes – I have two different recipes in mind. The first being the Malted Milk Balls Cupcakes and the second is one a friend just made - Key Lime Pie Cupcakes with Coconut Meringue (found in the cake mix doctor cupcake cookbook).

Happy Birthday

Today my dad turned 71 years old! Happy Birthday Daddy!

On the 27th, my middle child turned 16 years old! Happy 16th Birthday Dylan!

I'm happy

- chai tea makes me happy

- my children make me happy

- baking makes me happy - even the fat calories

- finding old friends on facebook makes me happy

- time to myself - which hardly ever happens - makes me happy

What five things make you happy?

Daily 5 - 7

- up at 6:47am - took Dylan to summer school

- made malted milk ball cupcakes for Dylan's birthday

- was disappointed in the lack of bacon found in the fridge for my BLT (who eats 39 slices of pre cooked bacon?) I'm not bitter

- upon delivery of said cupcakes - I noticed the frosting on one looked smeared - with the other part smeard on my boob!

- spent several hours sitting at the oasis enjoying the view of the almost nonexistent lake travis

Excited about blogging from my phone!!

Daily 5 - 6

- watched Tori and Dean - Home Sweet Hollywood

- woke up at 4:45am because someone left the alarm set when he went out of town - not bitter

- made chicken salad with grapes and almonds - it was yummy

- finally caught up watching - Army Wives

- working out again

Taste Tester

Well, hey ya’ll, I’ve been kinda busy in the kitchen. I made Malted Milk Ball Cupcakes the other day for my middle boy. He’s birthday is next Monday and he’ll be 16! He loves malted milk balls. I wanted to do something special for him. I did a quick search, ok, so it wasn’t so quick – but, I did a search for malted milk balls on google… a couple of recipes popped up and I looked at both – seems that everyone has their favorite between the two. Well, one just jumped out at me and I knew this would be the one that Dylan would love. So, I made my list and ran to the store and did a test run.

I was really excited, however, being the first time they took me a little while. I’m going to tell ya straight up – I followed the recipe word for word – and let them sit over night before I pounced on one. Did you hear me? I let them SIT.OVER.NIGHT! You do not have to wait till the next day, eat one now! I totally waited till lunch to taste one – they melt in your mouth! I hope you all enjoy them as much as my family did – I’ll be making them again on Monday for Dylan and his friends.

Malted Milk Ball Cupcakes
Recipe courtesy of Cupcakes!

24 cupcake liners
1 package (18.25 oz) plain yellow cake mix
1 box (3.8 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup sour cream
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup milk chocolate chips

Malted Milk Buttercream (see recipe below)
40 malted milk balls, coarsely crushed, for garnish

Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350. Line 24 cupcake cups with paper liners. Set the pans aside.

Place cake mix, pudding mix, sour cream, oil, water, sugar, eggs and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Blend with mixer on low speed for 30 seconds until the ingredients are well blended, then stop the machine and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Increase the speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes more, scraping down the sides again if needed. The batter should look smooth and thickened. Fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they are well distributed throughout the batter. Spoon or scoop 1/3 cup batter into each lined cupcake cup, filling it three quarters of the way full. (You will get between 22-24 cupcakes; remove the empty liners, if any.) Place the pans in the oven.

Bake the cupcakes until they spring back when lightly pressed with your finger, 18-20 minutes. Remove the pans from the oven and place them on wire rack to cool for 5 minutes. Run a dinner knife around the edges of the cupcake liners. Lift the cupcakes from the bottoms of the cups using the end of a knife, and pick them out of the cups carefully with your fingertips. (I left mine in their cups). Place them on a wire rack to cool for 15 minutes before frosting.

Meanwhile, prepare the Malted Milk Buttercream. Place a heaping tablespoon of frosting on each cupcake and swirl to spread it out with a short metal spatula or a spoon, taking care to cover the tops completely. Garnish with crushed malted milk balls.

Malted Milk Buttercream
8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
3-1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar, sifted
5 tablespoons malted milk powder (I used Ovaltine)
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Place the butter in a large mixing bowl. Blend with an electric mixer on low speed until fluffy, 30 seconds. Stop the machine and add the confectioner’s sugar, malted milk powder, milk and vanilla. Blend with the mixer on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, 1 minute. Increase the speed to medium and beat until light and fluffy, 1 minute more.

Daily 5 - 5

- late breakfast early lunch at Kerby Lane Cafe
- bought another Tassimo today
- someone other than me cooked tonight
- someone other than me burnt popcorn
- i nearly died from the smell

Daily 5 - 4

- is irritated beyond belief
- made pulled pork in the crock pot this week
- mopped the kitchen floor
- attended sub training
- forgot to soak the pinto beans for tomorrow - oh well

Daily 5 - 3

- I’m in a total mood – I know why but there is nothing – not one thing I can do about it – but suffer – and bring you along for the ride! HA!
- We didn’t “chalk” paint the driveway yet – this week!
- I made peanut butter and jelly muffins today
- I also made pumpkin chicken enchiladas for dinner yesterday and Spanish rice
- Everyone enjoyed the dinner - yeah, they did!

Summer Fun

Today - we made chalk paint

Tomorrow - we will paint the driveway and scare the neighbors

PS - I've updated my iphone to the newER operating system - wonder how long before another newER one comes out.

Daily 5 - 2

- I finally finished reading that blog –
- I’m still in a funk -
- My house is a pit and I don’t care –
- I’m watching the Michael Jackson Memorial –
- I’m tired of being _____ - (fill in the blank)

Daily 5 - 1

- I made a gooey butter cake yesterday. I ate three tiny pieces.
- I also made mac and cheese - new recipe.
- I also think I found the issue to my allergic reaction - goodbye lotion from Bath and Body. I'm sorry - I will miss you - I <3 you!
- I also got a new phone cover. It's a bright orange cover with Julius (Paul Frank) wearing headphones.
- I made royal icing (Tiffany blue with white sprinkles) tonight for sugar cookies (that were not homemade) Yes - I cheat sometimes.

Happy Independence Day

Happy Fourth of July! Hope everyone had a safe and healthy holiday.

Garlic Butter for Bread

While looking through my stats, I actually found a search for “garlic butter for bread”… To make garlic butter for bread – all I do is melt some butter (not completely) and add crushed garlic (as much as you like). Then I toast it in the oven…with a thick spread of garlic butter – nothing fancy about it…trust me – I’m no chef.

Reading Log - Do I get points for reading?

Look – have you ever needed to reboot your laptop but just couldn’t because you found a new blog to read and you’re in the middle of it and its like years and years of reading and you just can’t – JUST CAN’T reboot just yet? I found that blog! I’m in the middle of 2008 and I need to reboot my laptop, but I can’t! I refuse to reboot until I am finished reading, soaking in every morsel of her blog. It is very entertaining and yes, I have added her to my daily read. I’m also heading to the grocery store because she posted a recipe for making chalk! Guess what I’m doing soon?

Yep - I know, I still owe a photo of the cupcakes. Yes, we did make them - but my family decided against the homemade chocolate frosting - the total horror! They are not my family!

Cupcakes Make The World Smile

Heads up – we’re baking tomorrow or shall I say, we’re going to attempt to bake tomorrow. Raye loves to make strawberry cupcakes. I’m going to make chocolate icing for them this time. I’ll post photos as the day goes.

I've Got Nothing

So – that’s where I’ve been – kinda in a funk again.

Eyes Wide Shut - Almost

Raye has gymnastics tonight; I’m trying to figure out just how I’m going to keep my eyes open! I am exhausted. I’m sure it is just the weather. I sure could use a nap…but that won’t be happening. Onward and Upward!

Hi, I see you visited - again

I’m feeling a little watched lately. I see certain cities (one in particular) pop up in my stats and have to wonder…if you come to read why not comment? I have not advertised my blog to people in that city; actually, I haven’t advertised THIS blog at all. I started it out new – fresh start. I’m not paranoid; if I was I’d just stop blogging here and move to another blog.

I hope to eventually get all of my blogs combined in one place. I’m slowly but surely working on that. Soon, I hope – SOON!

PS. Comment, I don’t bite!

edited - HI!

What Did I Just Say

Just in my last post – I mentioned that I had a favorite Vegetarian, yep, I sure did. I had my very own favorite Vegetarian. I had him for a couple of years, too! I no longer got it out of my mouth and posted here - that he’s now decided to go Vegan, again. Yes, his journey started out as Vegan, and then decided he wanted to be a Vegetarian and now he’s up and decided to be Vegan again. I have no issues with him wanting to be Vegan or Vegetarian. I try to cook for him when possible and he does have the optional frozen meal. He is a healthy eater. I asked if he was going straight Vegan or the occasional Vegan. Look now, straight Vegan can cost a lot of moola. By straight Vegan, I mean – no leather (belts, shoes, etc)… occasional Vegan – food only, please lord, let him be an occasional Vegan. I love my Vegan!

Garlic Butter Cheese Bread

Dinner last night was cheese stuffed shells and garlic butter cheese bread. My favorite vegetarian ate six, cheese stuffed shells. I’m also pretty sure he had a piece of the bread. Who can pass up the garlic butter cheese bread? Honestly, where does he put the food? I was stuffed slap full after eating just three shells and one piece of bread.
My other favorite son made brownies last night. This one has a love hate affair with cheese, so he fought the shells and ate frozen chicken nuggets with Emeril sauce. Look, I don’t judge him, but he ain’t mine – can’t be mine. I love cheese! Cheese is a meal in my mind!
Now it’s another night and I have no idea what dinner will be. I wanted to cook, I found a chicken recipe, but it just didn’t do it for me. I hate when nothing sounds good. I’m just not in the mood for anything – sigh.
Raye is off spending time with her friend. I haven’t seen her in two nights. She asked that I pick her up before gymnastics. LOL!

Apartment - Lease House - Own House

I’m gonna ask because I’m tired of all the searching and time wasting it has caused us. I haven’t lived in an apartment since I moved out of Florida. I only lived in an apartment for one year. I have lived in several leased homes, two here in Texas and several growing up in Georgia. Now, my question to you is, what do you prefer if you have no other choices? Of course our choice would be to own, but even with the crazy economy here, owning a home may not work out for us. The price range that is affordable is very tiny living space. I’m really ok with tiny, most of the apartments we looked at in our range were on the small side. Apartments have some advantages, no grass to mow, fitness center and pools to enjoy. They also have some disadvantages, being that you know everything your neighbors are up to and they know your business, too. I prefer not to hear them – AT ALL. Leasing a house has a few advantages, for one it is a house; you’re not connected to another. The disadvantages, you have a yard to maintain, and some sort of landlord/management company (apartments have management companies, too) to deal with. In our case, our landlord lives across the street. Yes, THE landlord. The person that OWNS this house! I kid you not! I was not thrilled to hear that, it was not discussed during the trips to see the house. He listed it with a management company, but they have NOTHING to do with the house! The only thing they did was the credit check and the application. The owner was asked not to pester us, unfortunately that fell on deaf ears. He claimed he would only walk through the yard every 30 days. I can’t remember the last time that he was NOT in the yard! I can’t open the windows for fear he has someone in the yard looking at the gutters, the roof, the fireplace, etc…for pete sakes, I’m losing my mind. It’s like living in an apartment!

We’re not leasing this house another year and we are not buying this house. It was on the market before the owner decided to lease it. That’s another whole issue. Remember the movie, The Money Pit? Yeah, that’s this house – lots and lots of issues. I doubt it would pass the inspection.

Our lease is up in November. We’ve looked at several apartments; we’ve looked at older homes (I’ve purchased two older homes here in Texas – still own one but that’s another story and not an option) on the market and new home builders (I built a home in Florida). With the new homes, their advantage is that they are new. With the older homes, the advantage is they might have some character the newer homes never have, plus we can afford to add a few updates. And, well you know my theory on apartments.

I’m just so tired of looking and time is closing in. Hmmm, I wonder if this stress is causing the itching.

If you read my blog and have any pros/cons please let me know what you think. I really know we should own if possible.

Itching - Must Relax

Oh my heck – I’m broken, (not hives I went to the doctor last time, a few weeks ago and we learned then it’s not hives) out again! What the…it must be stressed related – I’ve not done much around here to make it anything else?! I’m itching in all the same areas as before – arms and legs – no other areas. I still haven’t changed laundry detergent or softener. I’m using the same lotions, I’ve used before. I’m wearing the same perfume as before. I’m still eating all the same foods as before. I just can’t for the life of me figure this one out…other than it must, has to be stress related. I need to unwind; I need to let things go…yeah, that’s easy to say. I guess my body doesn’t agree with the way I handle things lately. I need more crafting time! I need more ME time! I have several books I need to finish…I would love to sit outside in a comfy chair and read under the many trees we have. Lots of shade to relax and unwind under…lots of birds, too! LOL

Pssh - Don't Pass Out - I Blogged Twice - I Know

Oh yeah, one more quick post. I’m over my obsession of hunting for employment. I was totally stressing out and my body was not happy. So, for now, I’m giving that up and just focusing on summer. When I asked for prayers, you lifted me and I really did (and still do) appreciate the support. I think God has a different plan for me, after going on as many interviews as I did and not receiving one job offer…I have to believe there’s another plan for me. I know the economy stinks right now – and I know millions of people have been searching for employment for months, even years… I do have employment as a substitute, but there’s no guarantee I can sub every day. I was pounding the pavement for something that was fulltime that carried benefits. I’m not giving up – just taking a much needed break from the stress.

5th Grade Graduation

Yes, I’m still around here. :::blows dust off::: Last week was way too busy. I nearly forgot to let ya’ll know – my baby girl graduated 5th grade on Friday (that's last Friday ya'll - LOL). That was the start to a long weekend. I soon realized I no longer have a child in elementary school. I have a middle school child and one high school child…because one of them graduated. I’ll admit it, I cried at Raye’s graduation, every time I looked at a teacher or saw one of her friends – I cried. It seems like yesterday she was crossing the street to start kindergarten.

She has the cutest friends; they became friends in first grade and still hang out together. I hope they continue to remain close through middle and high school. Anyway – the 5th grade graduation started out with them walking the halls of the elementary school, and then they met in the lunchroom for the signing of the yearbooks, back to the classroom for the diploma hand outs and a surprised autograph from Colt McCoy (oh lord – he was born the year I graduated from high school)! HOOK’EM HORNS!! After all the tears and hugs, the girls all spent the night together. Graduation was so much fun!

Proud Mama

Ya’ll I’ve been so busy this week. My oldest baby will be graduating high school this Sunday! I honestly can’t believe where time went, wasn’t he just in Kindergarten? Yes, he was, you can’t fool me! Seriously though ya’ll, he’s graduating high school, I have a child that is eighteen, where did time go? Yes, I’ve cried, I won’t lie to ya. I started crying about three weeks ago, it hit me and I cried. I cried like the first day I put him on the bus for kindergarten. This reminds me, I need to purchase waterproof mascara…making not to self. LOL So, I’ve been busy, labeling his announcements and stamping them – and searching for last minute addresses to let all of our friends know that Justin’s graduating! Well, we were limited to about 50 announcements. I have four left. I should have sent out evites! I also have a confession to make – We haven’t ordered his senior photos…I know, I suck.

I’m incredibly proud of Justin, he had his struggles, and he entertained summer school many times and was a regular in the credit recovery program the school offered but in the end he earned his diploma and that is all that matters. He did it his way, even though it was a wild and crazy path, he did it!

I am so very proud of you!

Longing To Return

I have blogged on and off for a long time – years and years. I’m hoping to get my old blog up and running here soon. It’s kind of a mess at the moment – unloved, unappreciated, left out in the weather, lonely, longing to be used again. No, honestly the truth is, it is ugly at the moment. I started to redo it – and somewhere during that time my stomach was grumbling and needed a pick me up. So, I walked off to grab a snack and here it is years later – my tummy is happy, but my blog isn’t so much. I did keep my original domain. I’ve owned it for a long time and it still fits my “belongs at the beach” personality. So, hopefully I’ll “ahem” you’ll have access soon. It’s not that I don’t appreciate blogger, I do, however, I kind of feel like I’m missing something here. I’m missing years and years of blogging and photos of my kids, my decorating, the before and after transformations and tons of other stories. Soon grasshopper – Soon, the beachhouseview will continue…

Addiction or Obsession?

My very new obsession, ok sure, I have many obsessions, like decorating, and of course emptying liquor bottles and "decorating" them using mod podge and scrapbook paper. Which reminds me, I really need to finish the two I’m working on? Look, my oldest child is graduating from high school, he’s a senior and had prom and last minute, very last minute unfinished home/class work to turn in. Don’t ask, I don’t judge! LOL So, I’ve been sorta, kinda, really busy. Anyway, back to my new, very new obsession – I’m collecting anything and everything from Paris, France. No, I’ve never been to Paris, France, or Texas. I have no idea where this crazy obsession came from, but I love it, I’ve decided to accept it and run with it. I have one plate from Paris, ok so it’s really from Hobby Lobby. Today at TJMaxx, I found several pieces I could add to my newly found, no idea where it came from Paris, France obsession. I’m making a list, checking it twice and voicing my newly found obsession to everyone that will listen to me. (hint hint)

One More Prayer

Since I blogged asking for prayers, I have received several interviews (Thank you Cathe). Before that day, I’d only received two interviews since last September. That’s right, just two interviews out of about 50 applications/resumes that I sent out. I’m going to put myself out there again and this time I’m going to be more specific in my asking. Please lift me up in your thoughts and your prayers for more than just interviews, I need a job. These last few weeks I’ve had at least two interviews a week. It’s awesome! But, I want someone to give me a chance; don’t worry about the low pay. If I didn’t agree with the pay I would not have applied. I know I’m probably over qualified for a lot of the positions that I have applied for. Again, I wouldn’t apply for the position if I didn’t need the income.

I received an email from a real estate company for a part time-work at home employee. That would be perfect for me. Well, actually, I applied for the position and then I received the email. The email asked for me to come by for a quick no right/wrong profile test. I hope the computer enjoyed my humor. If they like me, I'll be called in for an interview.

I, also, just applied for another HVAC company. I think I have applied for this position before. But, who knows, like I said, I’ve applied for over 50 jobs since September. I have the experience, please scroll down my resume. I know, it was a long time ago, but seriously, I do remember how to schedule appointments.

Thank you again :)

Stand Off - Kitty Style

I guess I could blog about stuff other than gluing paper on bottles, but that’s boring – trust me, watch this.

Early this morning when Raye was getting ready for school, we noticed Whiskers, our rental neighbor’s kitty. He’s a sweet kitty; we really do enjoy having him hang out with us. We opted not to pay a pet deposit. So, it’s nice to have a pet without all the responsibilities, like changing the very smelly cat dropped a bomb litter. Now, I love my animals and I will have more, once we buy a house. But, anyway back to this morning – so Whiskers was just sitting on the sidewalk, so I called his name, but he didn’t come running like he usually does, he just sorta “well if I have to visit you, I will “ type of walk. But, he stopped half way…well ok; I guess he’s just not in the mood to really visit. Then I heard a growl and I walked further out of the garage and there he was the black cat. I’m not sure of his name; he looks like the cat on Sabrina. Oh, wait, wait – it was Salem. Yeah, so Salem was growling and Whiskers is just so laid back…not wanting to cause any issues, he stayed near the bottom of our driveway and allowed Salem to growl. We left for school and when I got back, Salem was standing on one of the rocks in our yard, while poor Whiskers sat in the driveway. I guess they handled their business, by the time I left and came back from dropping the boys, the cats were both gone. I wonder who won the stand off?

Absolutely - One More

So, I liked the way the torn red paper turned out on the vodka bottle – so much that I did it again, but this time I used a very light blue material feeling paper. When I tore the paper it seemed to tear with a much worn edge. Lots of texture – again, it’s not completed so I’m here just to tease you all!

xoxo

 

 

PS. This one is for my bedroom.

The Finale

The bottle turned out better than I expected.

 

Actually - I'm not finished with it...I know I'm a tease ;)

2nd Craft Idea - Sneak Peak

I couldn’t wait to post a photo of my (not so) brilliant idea. LOL!! It’s not quite finished, but this gives you the idea. It didn’t start off the way I intended. I wanted it to be covered in red, white and blue scrapbook paper. I did that – but it didn’t have the look I wanted, but the texture of the red paper was really cool. In person it looks and feels like leather. I tore/cut all sizes of the red scrapbook paper – you can see the sewn in pattern. That pattern helps give the leather look and feel. I used the mod podge glue to glue the paper to the bottle and then each piece of paper (the top side of the paper - side you actually see). Once it was all dry – I had this really cool leather looking bottle. I’m not sure I’ll stuff a tapered candle in the top or not.

 

 

PS. Stay tuned for the finale ;)

New Bed Stuff

See - I told you my bedding and bed was so pretty! I love it!

 

 

Rainy Day Fun

Just so ya’ll know things have not been boring or dual here at my house – we bought a bed over the weekend from IKEA. We also bought our bedding from there and I just love it. I love my new bed!! We rearranged the bedroom just a little bit and even though the oversized Ethan Allen chair doesn’t match, I still love it. I’m sitting in it right now. I’m looking for a white slipcover for it – if you know where to find one or make one – please let me know. I’ll snap a photo in the morning, after I crawl out of bed and have at least one cup of coffee – and of course I’ll need to make it up…it is so pretty! I’m just so excited my bedroom is finally coming around.

2nd Craft Idea

Oh, I just had a brilliant idea using a very large Belvedere vodka bottle. I just need some supplies from the scrapbooking section at Michael’s. Other than the cost of the bottle of vodka “ahem” – the craft idea is rather cheap. And hey, the vodka ain’t (yep, I said ain’t – Mrs. McCutchen would die – Hey Ellen did you have her?) bad either – it’s so worth the cost of the fantastic dirty martini!! Look at what I go through for ya’ll? Look someone has to empty out the bottles, and I was the first to volunteer. I also have an empty Patron bottle – I love the shape of that bottle. My first instinct was to slap a tapered candle and let it dribble down the sides, but now I have a little extra work to do before I squish the candle in it. So, hang on and I promise a cool idea – hope it works.

PS. Yeah, I know - I still owe ya'll a photo from the last craft idea. It'll happen - keep your shorts on. :)

Senior Prom

Justin at Anna's door

 

Justin and Anna ready for Prom 2009

 

Need Your Prayers

I don’t normally ask for prayers, actually I’ve never come out and asked for prayers specifically, however, I am asking you to keep me in your thoughts and prayers, yes I said prayers. Tonight, I applied for four more jobs, yes four MORE – yes, ya know, from the site I stalk so much every day. I don’t normally spill my personal stuff here – I originally wanted this blog to be about my decorating ideas and yours that I adopt for the rental that I now live in. I wanted it to be fun – not filled with crazy drama that seems to fulfill my life lately and the future. Yeah, I’m so excited for years of fun filled drama! Unfortunately, my life has taken another turn and it looks like I need an outlet, and I’m sorry, that you have to be it, for me. I’m not going to lie to you, as soon as I get a J O B I’ll be in a much better place in my heart and mind – especially my mind.

Happy Birthday!!

Eleven years ago today, my baby girl was born. I never thought in a million years, I’d have another baby and never thought after having two boys, that I’d have a girl.

Happy 11th Birthday, Raye!

Love you forever, mommy

Still Stuck

I’ve been job hunting since last September and most recently hunting every day. I search one site every day – all day. Go ahead, it’s ok to say it, I know you’re thinking it – I stalk this one site every day! I open every link and study what they are asking for before I jump and email them my resume (with all my personal information planted right on it), cover letter – pleading for them to hiring me. I’ve got a really business like cover letter and one that just says – look – I’m going to be honest with you, hire me, and teach this old dog. I kid you not! And you know what? I’ve got exactly 2 replies from that site and one was – thanks but no thanks. I started just applying for positions near me, but this last week I threw in my towel and started applying for positions near and far within reason. I still don’t want to be employed for $10 an hour and have to drive an hour to work. I think that kinda defeats my purpose. However, I am willing to accept that $10 plus full benefits as long as it is up north near me. Look, I’m separated and have a family to feed. I need something that works around my kids and their schools and their extracurricular activities. I do have to be somewhat picky, I’m sorry, but I do need weekends off.

I’m not completely unemployed, I am a substitute. I’ve subbed for the last five years for our district. Subbing is a job that has no guarantee. I’ve gone from subbing every day all day to hitting the search button all day every day just to find ONE half day job available.

So, that’s where I’ve sorta been this week. I’d much rather be immersed in my craft projects and decorating our rental – but to continue on that path, I need some sort of income. I do feel a bit of depression sneaking around my corner – like millions of other Americans. I’m trying to stay strong and positive. It is hard.