Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Celebrating Fall

We got together with some friends and celebrated Fall in our own way… Being in Florida, we are not able to go Apple Picking, or decorate a pumpkin really, as they rot quickly here. Therefore, we made our own celebration, cause we like to do fun things in the fall. We had the opportunity to go to a Corn Maze, but it was 2 hours away and I didn’t think the kids would do well with that long of a trip. They have been really at each other lately. Four hours in the car, seemed like torturing myself for no reason! (except that I wanted to see the Corn Maze) However like many money has been an issue lately too. As soon it will be Rachel’s birthday and we have some camping trips for Hunter coming up. Busy time of year fall is here in Florida!!! (ok, I’m getting of topic)

Our celebration consisted of friends, fun, food, and fire trucks… what is better than that right?? We went to hang out at a friends house, that we have recently come to know and love a lot. They were a blessing to us in many ways, but that is for another story! (sorry love to ramble sometimes) In the spirit of fun we wanted to let the kids decorate some cupcakes, and here are some of the results…

cupcake fun .
Here is what we started with…

Hunter's Creations
Hunter’s creations

Rachel's Creations
Rachel’s creations

Sage's Creations
Sage’s creations…. we included fall and Halloween themed toppings.

After a few hours of the kids running, jumping, yelling and just plain having fun, we packed up to head home, but not without a quick stop at the Fire Station first. What kid doesn’t like that??? Here are a few shots of them:

Hunter with gear on3
Hunter seeing what the gear feels like…

Rachel with fireman's hat
Rachel only wanted to try out the hat!

my 3 kids in front of firetruck
The 3 Monkey’s

We had a great day, and I think it was a wonderful way to start off our fall. Now to get ready for a birthday party, and Halloween all in the same week!!! Oh my! Stay tuned for that story……

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Crossing some off our list….

 

as I wrote back in June… we have a list of places in Florida we were hoping to visit eventually. Being on a budget, it could take us a few years, but we will get there! You can read about it HERE. This makes number 2 on our list of places we have made it too. Our first being the Explorations V Children’s Museum….which you can read about Here.

On Saturday we went to the Orlando Science Center, because we had a great opportunity. It was what they called Wal-Mart Days and it was only $5 per person to get in. Who could pass that up??? Hunter had been begging me to go since we moved here.. so it was time with such a deal. Rachel was not feeling well, so she stayed home to have a one on one day with daddy. Hunter, Sage and I headed off for a day of fun!

The place is 4 floors of fun… with everything from a nature center, dinosaurs, hands on experiments to a kid play area. Here are some pictures of our day…

Picture 010
The turtle and alligators… We got to feed them!

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This snake, both Sage and Hunter touched… I kept my distance!

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Checking out the scenery from above!

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Hunter & Sage giving being a turtle a try!  
 

Picture 095 
This is the albino alligator the kids got to touch…

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The T-Rex!!!

We had a blast! Lots to look at, and lots of hands on stuff. Worth a visit!

Monday, September 28, 2009

Simple Woman’s Daybook:

 

simplewomandaybooksmall_thumb4_thumb

 

For Today September 28th , 2009

Outside my window.... looks to be another humid day, but nice… in the high 80’s again…

I am thinking.... Is October really only in 3 more days?? Can it be??

From my imagination
....Working on some ideas for Rachel’s birthday and some ideas for Scout meetings.

I am thankful for.... my friends, and people that god wants me to meet for whatever reason!

From the kitchen
.... Steak and potatoes?? Not sure… Maybe something in the Crockpot… Haven’t decided.

I am wearing..... Shorts, a t-shirt, and my Croc’s!

I am reading....  Nothing right now…waiting for some books in the mail! 

I am hoping.....that my friend Cara makes it through her heart surgery today without any problems…. All my thoughts are on that today!

I am creating... A new calendar to keep myself straight…

I am hearing.... nothing everyone has left for school, work, and Sage is still sleeping…

One of my favorite things....spending times together with friends… enjoying those crazy fun afternoon noon's… and talks.

A few plans for the rest of the week
:   not much… dance, Cub scouts tomorrow, library, and relaxing the rest of the week. Maybe a visit to see Cara towards the end of the week.

A picture I am Sharing.…  Hunter jumping off the swing… I think it is to funny!

Hunter flying off swing

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Jousha Bell Cd Review:

Joshua Bell At Home Cover

Jousha Bell is a Grammy Award- winning Violinist! He has over 30 Original Album’s, and was the first Classical Violinist to have a music video played on VH1. He has also had an appearance on all our kids favorite show “Sesame Street”. He has been in the spotlight since he is 14 years old! Can you imagine?? Wow!

He has gotten numerous awards and honors, such as the “Classical Artist of the Year” and “Classical CD of the Year”, by Billboard Magazine.

Jousha's newest Album coming into stores on September 29th is called “At Home with Friends” released by Sony Classical. Here are a list of the songs on this album….

  • I Loves You Porgy featuring Chris Botti, trumpet
  • Come Again featuring Sting, vocals
  • Oblivion featuring Carel Kraayenhof, bandoneon
  • Cinema Paradiso featuring Josh Groban, vocals
  • Para Tí featuring Tiempo Libre, various
  • My Funny Valentine featuring Kristin Chenoweth, vocals
  • Maybe So featuring Edgar Meyer Sam Bush and Mike Marshall, strings
  • Grieg: Sonata No. 3 featuring Sergei Rachmaninoff (Zenph re-performance)
  • Eleanor Rigby featuring Frankie Moreno, piano & vocals
  • O, Cease Thy Maiden Fair featuring Nathan Gunn, baritone
  • Il Postino featuring Carel Kraayenhof, bandoneon
    Left Hand Song featuring Regina Spektor, piano & vocals
  • Chovendo Na Roseira featuring Dave Grusin, piano
  • Look Away featuring Edgar Meyer, bass and Chris Thile, mandolin
  • Variant Moods: Duet for Sitar & Violin featuring Anoushka Shankar, sitar
  • I'll Take Manhattan featuring Marvin Hamlisch, piano
  • Left Hand featuring Regina Spektor, vocals

This album features music from all genres, classical to pop, bluegrass to Broadway, ethnic world music, and jazz. So whatever your taste I’m sure you will find it on here. This CD represents Jousha’s life long career dream of recording a CD of instrumental and vocal duets with an amazing group of musicians.

I found this CD to be calming and soothing… for those times where you want to soak in the tub, or just unwind after a very long, hard day. Or prefect for that Home Date you planned with your Husband this upcoming weekend. My favorite song was the Cinema Paradiso!

JBell_E948_Shot_02_014_R2_hi

Check out Jousha Bell’s Facebook Fan page and his website HERE to find out more about him and his work. If you would like to preorder his CD click HERE. “At Home with Friends” will be in stores on SEPTEMBER 29th! Be sure to get your copy!!!

I want to thank One2One Network for the opportunity to Review this.

Friday, September 25, 2009

Support Save the Children’s CHANGE program:

 

Save the Children

 

 

Frigidaire and Jennifer Garner are teaming up to urge Moms to use the time we get when we turn the clocks back on November 1st to make CHANGE for children.

Devote that extra hour to a child. Raise your hand today to reveal your pledge. I did!

The Save the Children’s CHANGE program is dedicated to providing nutritious snacks and healthier lifestyles for children living in poverty in the United States. For each pledge made, Frigidaire will donate $1 to support CHANGE and Save the Children work to help children in need in the U.S., as part of their $250,000 commitment to this worthy cause! They will also as part of that commitment, for ever new wall oven purchased, Frigidaire will donate $100 to Save the Children’s U.S. Programs.

For more than 75 years, Save the Children has been helping children survive and thrive. They created the CHANGE program (Creating Healthy, Active, and Nurturing Growing-up Environments) to promote healthier lifestyles. How can you help??? Raise your hand today to reveal your pledge to make time for a child….. or you can donate directly to Save the Children’s U.S. Programs.  Just visit Make time for CHANGE today and show your support.

Also if you pledge your time you will be entered to win a New Frigidaire Double Wall Oven….

Frigidaire Oven

Be sure to stop by Frigidaire to check out their new line of Frigidaire More Me-Time appliances!

I want to thank MomSelect  and Frigidaire for the opportunity to write about this amazing campaign.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

The Well-Behaved Child by John Rosemond

Well Behaved Child cover

Book Description

A parenting book!

The biggest frustration felt by today's parents is in the area of discipline. Family psychologist, best-selling author, and parenting expert John Rosemond uses his thirty-six years of professional experience working with families to develop the quintessential "how to" book for parents. Rosemond's step-by-step program, based on biblical principles, traditional parenting approaches, and common sense, covers a wide range of discipline problems applicable to children from toddler to teen.

Sections include:

* Essential Discipline Principles
* Essential Discipline Tools
* Perplexing Problems and Simple Solutions
* Not Your Everyday Problems
* General Questions and Answers






I thought this Book:



was interesting.. I’m not always a firm believer that everything you read is going to work. However, my kids have do nothing but fight with each other, be jealous of each other, and just all around whine. Which in the end results in us not spending large amounts of quality family time together, cause it always ends in disaster. So with that being said, I needed to read this book to see what I could come up with for answers. I was inspired by some of the peoples personal stories of trials with their own children, that I am anxious to try some of them out. I am going to start one this weekend. If your struggling and need help or different views on how to discipline your child, I really think you should take the time to read this book. I thought I would be disappointed in this book, but it turned out it inspired me not to give up.



Buy this book:



You can purchase this book straight from Thomas Nelson Here…. or from Amazon Here





I want to thank Thomas Nelson Book Review Bloggers for giving me the opportunity to review this book.

Harry Connick Jr Album Review:

 

Harry Connick Jr

This handsome guy has been playing music since he was 3! The first time he played publicly was at the age of 6… He has several multi-platinum and gold albums. As well as having won a Grammy, Tony, Emmy Awards. Along with nominations for Oscar and Golden Globe.

Harry Connick Jr, has many talents, he is a singer, actor, composer, painist, philanthropist, husband and father. He has been married to model Jill Goodacre for 15 yrs. They have 3 beautiful daughters ranging in ages from 7-13. Harry belief is “family comes first”….how can you not love that???

Harry Connick Jr, has played in several movies, but the two that stand out in my mind the most is a recent film, P.S. I love you. Where he played a bartender. The other being Independence Day! To see more films that Harry has been in go HERE.

Harry Connick Jr Album Cover

Harry Connick Jr newest album is called “Your Songs” where he performs classic songs with some of the greatest musicians of all time, with a full jazz band and string orchestra! His album will be out September 22nd!!! Here is a look at the songs you can look forward too.

Check out the track list (Originally performed by):

  1. All The Way (Frank Sinatra)
  2. Just The Way You Are (Billy Joel)
  3. Can’t Help Falling In Love With You (Elvis Presley)
  4. And I Love Her (The Beatles)
  5. (They Long To Be) Close To You (The Carpenters)
  6. Besame Mucho
  7. The Way You Look Tonight
  8. First Time Ever I Saw Your Face (Roberta Flack)
  9. Your Song (Elton John)
  10. Some Enchanted Evening
    And I Love You So (Don McLean
  11. Who Can I Turn To? (Tony Bennett)
  12. Smile (Charlie Chaplin)
  13. Mona Lisa (Nat King Cole)

I was very excited to be asked to be part of this review. It has a great list of songs, and the singer is just amazing!!! My favorite song was “And I love her”. This Cd is wonderful, and relaxing. Prefect for when you just need to sit and relax without kids screaming, or cars honking. I listen to it on my way to the grocery store, or to pick up the kids now. My kids even like it… not exactly what they are used to, but I caught my son singing along yesterday.

You can order your album from Here or look for it in your local stores on September 22nd!

Look for Harry to appear on some of your favorite  shows as well… Here is his schedule for his album kick off!

9/25- Oprah “Live Friday”
9/28- Today Show
9/29- The View
9/30- Imus in the Morning
9/30- Letterman
10/1- Today Show
Week of 10/5- Rachel Ray

Here are some websites learn more:

Harry’s Website
Behind the Scene’s Making of the Album
Facebook

I would like to thank One2One Network for this review.

 

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Fall into Reading 2009

 Fall into reading 2009

Over at the Callapidder Days she is running a Fall into Reading Challenge. I don’t normally join in on these things…but I really have enjoyed reading lately. Plus I have been reading some books for reviews. So I figured why not?? Its neat to challenge yourself once and awhile to see what you can accomplish. Like I usually can read 5-9 books in two weeks if I want too. The question is if I challenge myself can I do the same?? Well, I guess we are about to find out!

This runs from September 22 to December 20th… So I have decided to come up with a list of 20 books that I want to read in that time. Do you think I will get them all read???

Ok, now for the list of books…

  1. Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
  2. The Magician’s Elephant by Kate DiCamillo
  3. What Matters most by Melody Carlson
  4. Limelight by Melody Carlson
  5. The Boneman’s Daughter by Ted Dekker
  6. Thirsty by Tracey Bateman
  7. Firefly Lane by Kristen Hannah
  8. Between Sister by Kristen Hannah
  9. Prince Caspian by CS Lewis
  10. Blood Sisters by Melody Carlson
  11. The Scrapbook by Peggy Baker
  12. Scrap Everything by Leslie Gould
  13. Peeing in Peace by Beth Feldman
  14. Because I said so by Dawn Meehan
  15. Life’s a Beach by Claire Cook
  16. Holly’s Inbox by Holly Denham
  17. Harvesting the Heart by Jodi Picoult
  18. Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand
  19. White Picket Fences by Susan Meissner
  20. True Blue by David Baldacci

Now aside from my 20 books I want to read… I’m also going to work on a couple of series with my kids. With my son I’m going to read “39 Clues Series” with him… and with my daughters we are going to work on the “Tinkerbelle Series” of books.  That is what I’ll be doing for Fall Into Reading 2009! How about you??

Fall is here....

Can you believe it is fall already??

Where did Summer go?

I mean really... it just flew by in a flash!

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year.. there is so much fun stuff to do.

Great decorations, and the weather is beautiful!

The kids get to dress up... and

we get to eat Turkey!

Then their is Apple Picking, Pumpkin craving & painting,

corn mazes...

Activities galore....

What are some of your favorite things to do in the fall???






It’s never to early……

 

 

to be thinking about your Christmas cards… Right??  Yes , I said it… I was thinking the other day….I should start trying to get a good photo of the kids for our Christmas card. Yes, it is still a few months away..but by the time I pick a good picture, and have them printed up, and put them in envelopes and mail them, it will be November! Crazy isn’t it???

I have always had this tradition with my mother since I was moved out and had a family of my own. We always race each other every year to see who can mail out theirs first. Last year she beat me, but I blamed it on the move. This year, I have to be prepared!  Therefore, I headed out to our local park today and made the kids pose for some pictures.  Here are some of the pictures we have to chose from….

3kidswalking

HunterB&W

Picture 010

Picture 011

Hunter & Rachel

Sage&Rachel

What do you think?? I’m looking for advice on which ones I should have made up.  Not the best photo’s , but made due with what I had.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Take the Gratitude Challenge







Today is World Gratitude Day... Watch this amazing video and tell me you are not inspired to take the Challenge…. People lose sight of what life is really about everyday. When was the last time you do something nice for a neighbor just because? I am trying to show my kids the difference between should be helping and just because it makes you feel good to help. This is a great way to start that. I think this is a wonderful idea!

Check out the website and watch this video, then tell me if you decided to take the challenge!




Simple Woman's Daybook:




For Today September 21st, 2009

Outside my window.... a bit chilly first thing this morning.. You can tell that fall is coming even here in Fl. Days are done in the low 90's to high 80's and nights are getting down to the 60's. The prefect weather really.. :)

I am thinking.... Rachel is going to 6 in a bit over a month. Wow, where has the time gone??

From my imagination....ideas for Rachel's birthday party, Halloween activities, and so much more!

I am thankful for.... my life, I'm lucky to have such wonderful family and friends, opportunities, and happiness..

From the kitchen.... left overs from our Turkey last night.. Maybe turkey sandwiches, or turkey stew... not sure yet... So many possibilities!

I am wearing..... Shorts, a tank top, and my Croc’s!

I am reading.... Catch a Raising Star by Tracy Bateman

I am hoping.....for a fun day.. The kids have a teachers workshop. We had a great weekend, and I hope it continues through today! Maybe a trip to the park? Get some recent pictures for Christmas cards??

I am creating... Reviews, and more reviews. Be on the look out, got lots of book, cd, and product reviews coming with some giveaways!

I am hearing....silence, the kids are still sleeping and I'm preparing for the day.

One of my favorite things....pictures... I have been getting some recent pictures of my friends and their families. I love it... I miss them so much!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Dance, Library, Cub Scouts, Play date for Sage, and lots of fun, laughs and cuddling!





Saturday, September 19, 2009

Temple Touch Thermometer winner is….

 

11

Congrats Sandy from Tales of a Shopaholic Mommy!!!

~Sandy~ said...

follow your blog!!!

September 6, 2009 12:10 AM

 

I have sent you an email.. you have 48 hrs to respond or a I will have to pick another winner…

Thanks to everyone that participated…be sure to check back I have some more giveaways coming up soon!!! :)

 

Friday, September 18, 2009

Four Foods on Friday:

Four foods of friday

This weeks questions were…

  1. What color is your refrigerator? Our Refrigerator is a White Side by Side…
  2. What kind of toaster do you have? We have a Sunbeam White 4 slice toaster, with 5 or more people in the house, you have to be able to do more than two slices at a time!
  3. Do you use a tablecloth? When - always, when eating, etc. Yes we use a tablecloth all the time, cause the kids are very messy some days. We used to use a plastic one, but they got killed fast when washing them, so we moved on to a nice cloth one…
  4. Do you use paper or cloth napkins? This we are still using paper for…but we really don’t use napkins on a regular basis much… just when we are having things like ribs, or BBQ Chicken… On the other days, we leave a cloth dish towel on the table for the kids.

If you would like to participate in Four Foods on Friday go to Val’s Kitchen and sign up!

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

National Game Night:

 

September 23rd is the first ever National Family Game Night!! Hasbro is trying to get families across America to join in. Will you be joining in??

We already do Family Game Night, usually twice a month. We try to do ours on Friday Nights, so that the kids can stay up a bit later, and we throw in a few special treats or pizza for dinner. Our kids favorites to play are, Candy Land, Chutes & Ladders, Clue, UNO, Sorry, Trouble, Yahtzee, and Memory. We have children ranging from 4-7yrs old, so we try to make it possible for all the kids to play at the same time. Sometimes this is difficult for my 7yr old, so we either have him help a sister, or there is always an adult helping the younger two. We love game night to bring us all together, and have lots of laughs!

We are always on the lookout for new games to buy for birthdays, or Christmas to add to our collection.
I’m curious to know do you have a Family Game Night often? And what are some of your Families favorite games?

For ideas, and more visit Hasbro Here… and don’t forget to plan a Family Game night on September 23rd!!!!

Monday, September 14, 2009

Simple Woman’s Daybook:

 

simplewomandaybooksmall_thumb4_thumb

 

For Today September 14th, 2009

Outside my window.... damp it rained last night, but looks to be a nice day though.

I am thinking.... this month is half over.

From my imagination....Scout lessons..

 

I am thankful for.... my friends..they keep my head up when I can’t.

 

From the kitchen.... nothing, we have back to back activities tonight.

 

I am wearing..... Shorts, a tank top, and my Croc’s!

I am reading....  Catch a Raising Star by Tracy Bateman

I am hoping.....that Sage is free to eat and resume play after her appointment on Tuesday. She is getting anxious to play again.

I am creating... a chore chart cause the kids are getting slack again.

 

I am hearing.... the kids chattering as they prepare for their day.

One of my favorite things....books, and coffee!  Together in an afternoon is wonderful!

 

A few plans for the rest of the week:   Dentist appt, Dance, Girl Scouts, Cub scouts, Doctor’s appt, Library, Doctor’s Appt, and maybe a play date! So happy to see Sage up and moving!

A picture I am Sharing…   She loving that she can ride her bike now!

So happy

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Tweet to help Ovarian Cancer….

 

Electrolux and Kelly Ripa are teaming up again! Together, they are launching another exciting campaign… one that many people do many times a day, TEXTING!

September is National Ovarian Cancer awareness month so they are holding a “Text-a-thon for a cause” to raise money to support the Ovarian Cancer research fund! I mean really how much easier can it get?? That’s not hard right?

All you have to do is throughout September, donate $5 to the cause by texting "KELLY" to 85944 from your mobile phones (standard text messaging rates apply) - or logging on to www.kelly-confidential.com. Every time you log on to the Web site, you'll be entered for a chance to win a really cool front load washer and dryer in the Turquoise Sky color that was inspired by the teal ovarian cancer awareness ribbon!

Text a thon

 

You can also spread awareness by going to the website and sending a virtual t-shirt to a friend. For every virtual t-shirt sent Electrolux will donate $1 to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund! How cool is that?? So go on over to Kelly’s site and check it out!

Anyone can also go to the website and purchase a Limited Edition T-shirt designed by Kelly Ripa and the best part, 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the t-shirt go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund! So what are you waiting for go get one! Look how cute they are!

imgShortSleeveTShirt 

See what Kelly has to say about this….

Friday, September 11, 2009

Cold/Flu season is upon us:

with only a few more days until the first day of Fall coming up! (September 22nd) Seems like just yesterday it was the first day of summer doesn’t it?

Not that any of us like it, but along with the first day of Fall comes the start of the Cold/Flu season! Along with the start of school. Here are a few ways we try to keep the spread of germs down:

  1. Wash hands often: try to remember to teach your child that the proper amount of time to wash their hands is the length of the “Happy Birthday” song.
  2. Keep Hand Sanitizer near by: I have some in my purse, kids backpack, desk, and car. Never know when you might not be able to wash your hands.
  3. Sneeze in your elbow: I taught my kids to sneeze in their elbow.. so if they can’t get to the sink right away. Then they aren’t spreading germs, plus there sneeze won’t make it across the room!
  4. Multi Vitamin or Extra Vitamin C: I have my kids take a Multi Vitamin or Vitamin C during the winter months to help keep the body healthy to not catch every bit of germs!
  5. Keep OJ on hand: Along with the vitamin, I keep OJ handy so they can get Vitamin C that way as well. We start the morning off with a good glass of OJ!
  6. Don’t share: We teach our kids not to share cups, so the spread of germs doesn’t go so fast!

Good luck as you embark on this Fall season, and may the germs stay far away!!!

If you have any other suggestions I’m all for hearing them, leave me a comment!

Lands’ End Feel Good Donations, Twitter Party!

Spread the word about Lands’ End Campaign and FeelGood collection. This campaign is about giving to the homeless individuals and families across the country!

For every Lands’ End FeelGood sweater that is purchased they are going to donate “Signature FeelGood Yarn” to One Heart Foundation’s Warming Families, which is a nationwide knitting charity! One cone of yarn can make 28 Hats!!! Imagine the people you can help!
Lands’ End hopes to be able to have volunteers make up to 25,000 hats and other warm items to give out to the homeless!

Upcoming FeelGood Twitter Party

Join Lands' End and Vickie Howell, host of TV's Knitty Gritty, for a Twitter Party to celebrate the kick-off the FeelGood Campaign! The party will feature more than 20 fun giveaways ranging from the FeelGood sweater and Vickie Howell's books to Lands' End gift cards and FeelGood yarn.

Date: Wednesday, September 16th
Time: 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. CST
Location: #landsend

Lands end knitting

Grandparents day:

is upon us… That’s right this Sunday (September 13th) is Grandparents day! Are you ready to tell your grandparents how much they mean to you?

I’m sad to think that I will not be close to my Grandmother’s this year… as they are way up north in Maine. However, I do try to send them a very special card every year telling them how much they mean to me.

I miss the times when I was a child and we always had our weekly Saturday get together at my Grandparents house with Homemade beans and brown bread! It was nice to have all the family together, and see how their week went.

I feel bad that my kids miss out on that special time with one of their grandparents too. We do call often, and mail them letters as much as we can. They love to make cards, coloring pages, and lots of homemade crafts for them. They will for the first time get to spend a Grandparents day with my husband’s parents. This is exciting for them as well.

What are you doing special for your Grandparents? Do you have special traditions with them?

If you are looking for ideas for gifts or cards stop on by Grandparent.com…. they have some fantastic ones!

Momselect and grandparents.com will be hosting an online twitter party On Thursday, September 1th from 8-9 EST at #grandparents, well be swapping stories, sharing ideas and even giving away great prizes that would make perfect Grandparent's Day gifts! Moms, Dad, Grandmas, Grandpas and Grandkids are all welcome!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Book Basket:

 

Book Basket

This week we have a small list. Its weird going to the library with just one child now… (have I mentioned this already) Sage really enjoys being the only one to go with me though. Its her special thing to look forward to each week. Here is our list this week:

  • Ladybug Girl by David Solman and Jacky Davis: Its about a little girl that likes to dress up… She is bored so her and her dog are on a mission to find something to do.
  • Princess Fidgety Feet by Pat Posner: This one is about a Princess that loves to play soccer but isn’t allowed, so her friend is trying to teach her moves… She then get the nickname Princess Fidgety Feet!
  • Toot & Puddle The Great Cheese Chase by Holly Hobbie: This is based on the Noggin Show Toot & Puddle, my two girls have recently found this show, and seem to really enjoy it. Its about two pigs and the adventures they have. Great for the younger school crowd!
  • My Little Girl by Tim McGraw and Tom Douglas: I have to admit, I snagged this book, because I love Tim McGraw, and his song My Little Girl! Its about a Dad and Daughters Big Day together! It is very cute, and I think a prefect book for a daddy to read to his daughter’s!
  • 39 Clues, The Maze of Bones by Rick Riordan: My son is currently reading this book. Its the 1st in a so far 6 book series with more to come I’m sure! He enjoys it so far. Its a mystery book… About the Cahill Family and how they find clues around the world to become the most powerful family in history.

There is our rather small list for us! Haven’t had much time for reading this week, with school, dance, scouts, Sage sick, and a cold going around our house! We should be back full swing next week. Happy Reading everyone!

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

September is also……….

National Women’s Friendship Month! Did you know that? I didn’t until recently when I stumbled across a blog post by Girlfriendology! I found it inspiring!

I don’t know about you but without the support of my Women friends, how would I get through the day, week, month, or even year. Since moving further away from my Best Friends, I’ve had a difficult time. I mean lets face it, no matter how hard we try to call, text, write, or even get together we can’t always pull it off! I feel guilty sometimes about this, but all and all… a GOOD FRIEND always knows your thinking about them, or that you are there in your time of need… or even theirs!

Did you know that in 1999, National Women's Friendship Day was founded by Kappa Delta National Sorority, which is based in Memphis.

Here are some things that I like to do for my friends:

  • Write a letter, poem, or even a short note to say hi.. I always buy blank cards on clearance for this reason!
  • Get together for lunch
  • Plan a night out with your girl friends to catch a movie, or something you all enjoy!
  • Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, and have a nice conversation to just catch up!
  • Send a care package with some goodies in it… just say “Hey I’m thinking of you” . With a book, jewelry, candle, or something that would mean something to both of you!
  • Have a Scrapbook night with all your gal pals! Or even send a Scrapbook to one of your friends!

Only you know your Women friends the best, so do something that would be fun for both of you. Be sure to tell all your Women Friends how much they mean to you this month.

What is something that you and your BFF love to do together?

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Did you know??

That September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month??  Help the kids that struggle hard to survive! I have a few close friends and some family that struggle with Cancer everyday! Its a scary thing, and to be so young and put your life on hold is so unfair…..

If you have a twitter account put a Twibbon on your avatar to show you support them! By going HERE!

Monday, September 7, 2009

Simple Woman’s Daybook:

 

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For Today September 7th , 2009

Outside my window.... nice and cool, the sun has not gotten up yet. 

I am thinking.... Wow, can it really be September already???

From my imagination....Not much this week… got to much other stuff on my mind.

I am thankful for.... my kids, and the time I get to spend with them…

From the kitchen.... Not sure…. any suggestions?

I am wearing..... Shorts, a t-shirt, and my Croc’s!

I am reading....  Ocean’s apart, but almost done.

I am hoping.....that Sage will make a speedy recovery and be ok…. she is slowly getting there, some days better than others.

I am creating... Boy Scout, and Girl Scout agenda’s!

I am hearing.... Sage whimpering in her sleep….

One of my favorite things....being with friends and family… and realizing I have more than I think at times!

A few plans for the rest of the week:   not much… no dance, or Girl Scouts this week cause today is a holiday! Cub scouts tomorrow, and relaxing the rest of the week. Hoping that Sage feels better at the end of the week!

A picture I am Sharing.…  Minnie getting her meds, and feeling better at the hospital like Sage!

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Sunday, September 6, 2009

Zhu-Zhu Pets Giveaway Winner!!!!

 

Selected by Random.org, and the winner is……………….

 

10

Andrea said...

Following you on Twitter (simplyandreah)

 

Congratulations Andrea!!!

 

Don’t forget to stop by and sign up for my newest giveaway Temple Touch Thermometer!

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Post Surgery Update:

 

Well as many of you that follow me on twitter or facebook know… Sage ended up in the hospital after she had surgery. To clarify she didn’t have the surgery at a hospital, down here they do it in little clinic’s with just the doctors, nurses on staff. The place was amazing and so good to her. She was a real brave trooper in the beginning.

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They gave her a coloring book and crayons to keep her entertained til it was time to go in. She was nervous but didn’t cry when they took her to the Operating room without me.

They weren’t able to get me back in the room before she woke up, so she freaked out a bit when she didn’t see me. It took me a bit to calm her down, but we got her settled, and she started to wake up and be nicer. She was very emotional upon waking up which made keeping her calm a bit harder.  After we got a popsicle in her and some juice, we thought things were going good. Then she fell asleep and her O2 stats kept dropping to between 70-84 which is lower than they like, and made for concern. I was also very concerned cause you could see her stop breathing. So we had to give her oxygen a couple times.

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Check out the Elephant Mask they gave her… Its her new best friend! She even hooked it all up herself and put it on, they were amazed with how smart she was! She was a good trooper thru all of this. However, with the concern meant that we couldn’t go home, so they had to take her to a hospital for overnight supervision. We had trouble finding one that would take her… but found one a half hour from where we lived. She got to take a ride in the ambulance to get there. Daddy at that point had arrived with nana, and got to ride with her. Then I followed so when we got released we would have a way home. It was a very long day/night. She settled into the hospital ok, despite wanting to go home. She managed to keep the stats up most of the night, so we think the swelling was what made them drop.

Friday morning, she even ate 3/4 of a pancake for me! We got her up and out of the bed, and out playing in the play area at the hospital. She played on the computer and did some puzzles, then she joined them for some finger painting.

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She enjoyed it… til she was tired, and we headed back to the room for a nap. When the doctor came in to see us, and then we were able to go home. She was very excited to go home. She wanted nothing more!

We were both very happy to come home. She did better last night, but still woke up several times from coughing and having a sore throat. She doesn’t like the pain meds, so we only take them when absolutely necessary. She has a very big tolerance for pain, and I’m very proud of her! She is holding in there… we are pushing fluids so we don’t end up back in the hospital. So, its rest, sleep, and movies for her! Thanks again to all of you that had us in your prayers, and thoughts!

Temple Touch Thermometer Review and Giveaway!

TempleTouch_Back

I recently was asked to review the Reli On Temple Touch Thermometer. Thanks to Mom Select!  I did need the use of a thermometer this weekend. As you may have read in a previous post about Sage’s Surgery. Being the worried mom that I am, I felt the need to keep tabs on her temperature after her surgery. I worry about infections sneaking in, and such.

The New Temple Touch Thermometer has some really great features that helped me. First being the child can be awake or asleep. My daughter is still not as cooperative about the under the tongue thermometer as I would like, therefore not always getting an accurate reading. This I could take while she was sleeping or even while she was awake.
Here are some of the features of this Thermometer:

  • its lightweight
  • 6 second readout
  • has memory recall
  • no tip covers needed
  • easy to use
  • accurate
  • inexpensive

Its very easy to use, you just press the on/off button and release, the unit will beep twice when ready, and then you hold it to the child’s temple and wait for the next beep, and read your results. Simple! 

You can purchase one from any of your local stores or online line at the Reli On website. They are only 9.94! So hurry out and get one before the cold and flu season hits us.

Mom Select, and Reli On have been kind enough to send me an extra one for ONE of my readers to win. 


To Enter just leave me a comment about one of the best gadgets you can’t live without.

The giveaway will end September 19th @ 10pm EST and I will pick one winner chosen by Random.org, and they will have 48 hrs to respond. Open to US residents only!!!!  Please be sure to leave an email address in your comment.

For EXTRA ENTRIES:
You need to leave a separate comment for each one or they won’t count.

  • Follow my blog
  • Follow me on Twitter (the3kidsandme) or you can
    find it on the right sidebar
  • Blog about my giveaway and leave me a link
  • Tweet about my giveaway and leave me a link

Be sure to spread the word to all your friends out there!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Water fun:

Since the kids had such a great first week at school, and did so well at home. No tantrums, no fighting, no whining (for the most part) which in our house is HUGE at times. We decided to do something special for the kids. Plus it was our first full weekend with all 3 of the kids again, since Hunter got home.

We started the morning by taking the kids to the playground. Hunter had not yet seen or been able to play on it. He was very excited, and the girls were just excited cause its the PLAYGROUND!

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Then from the playground we took them to lunch at Pizza Hut. Which is really a rare treat for them.. which they thought was great. We were able to sit and have a nice conversation without worrying about where we needed to be.

From there we headed over to the new Aquatic Center they built as well this past summer. Its $3 per person to get in… which is not a bad deal…or you can get a season pass. (which I think we are going to do next summer) They have a big lap pool, and then a playground in a surrounding 9-inch water pool, a big slide (which was down the day we were there) and a place where you can get water dumped or sprayed on you. The kids loved it! Its is very nice, and there was always like 4 or 5 lifeguards out and they were very good about keeping the kids in check. Like the ones that would climb up the slides, or go down them head first, or pushing people. Cause for some reason those parents Never seem to be found!!!

Hunter

Rachel

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We had a great day, and enjoyed being together very much. The kids were well behaved, and had so much fun. We were all a bit sunburned and ready to sleep when we were done. Exhausting but fun! We came home and watched a movie, and went to sleep. Prefect end to a prefect day!