Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

This week I’m going to do Thirteen things I never leave home without!

1. Cell Phone: Yup, I’m one of those people, who are addicted to their cell phone. Though, I will have you know originally I only had it cause I traveled a lot and didn’t want to get stranded with a broken down car with 3 kids!!!  I still say that is a big reason…

2. Purse/Wallet: Never good to leave home without ID, or some form of Money.

3. Sunglasses: Cause when the sun is shining and bright, if I look at it to long, it gives me a very nasty headache!

4. Excedrin: Because I am prone to headaches so often, you can usually find this in a number of places, my car, purse, or diaper bag (yes my kids are a bit old for one, so I need a new name for it)

5. Snacks: With 3 kids, you never leave home without food. Never know how long something might take you. My kids get very grouchy if they get hungry, so we try to have granola bars, cereal bars, raisins, or something like that on hand.

6. Hand Sanitizer: I’m guilty I also have this in many locations. I find it to be important for when my kids touch something they shouldn’t ,or if a bathroom is out of soap…

7. Wipes: Yup my kids are again old enough, I don’t really need them, but we keep them on hand anyway… They come in handy for so many things. If you need to wash their hands but no sink near by, sticky hands and face, spills, you just never know!

8. Paper Towels: I keep a whole roll in my car, for any occasions. Picnic’s and you forget the napkins, checking the oil, washing the window, or spills!

9. First Aid Kit: I’m sure I have mentioned before that we have a few of these. My kids are forever getting scraps, cuts, bites, or something. So we have one in the car, and usually in my purse. I like to have band-aids, Tylenol, Benadryl, Neosporin, alcohol pads, gauze, toilet paper, antibiotic ointment, and so much more.

10. Camera: Yes, I’m guilty again! I always try to have a camera on me. Mine is finally dead, so I have to buy a new one soon… If I don’t have a good one on me though, I always have my phone one, not always the greatest pic, but does in a pinch!

11. Telephone Book: The cost of information calls on cells, keep raising. So I try to keep a phone book in my car, under the seat. Never know when you might need a number to call?? (Believe it or not, I’ve used it a few times)

12. Water: I try to keep a few bottles of water in my car. The kids are always thirsty, and again it could come in handy one day!

13. Book or Magazine: Never know where your going to get stuck waiting… or for how long, so I try to keep one in the car, or bring one with me, so I have something to read and keep me busy!

What are some things you never leave home without?? I’m always interested to know!

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

Inspired by my Vacation that I leave for today, I am going to tell you Thirteen of my favorite summer activities!

1. Swimming: is by far one of my favorite things to do in the summer, and of all time. I hope to someday own my own pool

2. Going to a Major League Baseball Game: don’t get to go often… but the few times I’ve been have been great. A friend of mine and I once said it would be a yearly trip to see the Red Sox’s, but seems I’m 1600 miles away… we have had to postpone that!

3. Going for picnic's at the local park: I love just picking from some odd’s and ends in the fridge and heading to the local park for a picnic… The kids love it too!

4. Drive-in’s: We used to just gather up the kids and go to the Drive in, and bring supper and just have a big old party in the car. Always meant a big mess to clean the next day, but it was tons of fun! We just recently was able to find a new one down here, so we are hoping to check it out soon!

5. Going on a Hike: not so much anymore down here… however we have found some good trails…but in Maine we loved to go for hikes, and just take in Nature.

6. Family Reunions: Some might call me crazy for this… We tried to make it a point every year to make it to our Family Reunions. We not only enjoyed the food and festivities, but was great to see those family members you may only see once a year…. Plus I loved to take pictures!

7. Go to a water park: What is more fun than going to a Water park on a nice hot summer day? Lots of pools, slides, and water playgrounds! The kids have fun, and you stay cool!

8. Beaches: The next best option. We tried to find a couple new beaches a few times during the year… so we could say we had been to a new one. We like to explore!

9. Dance in the Rain: Ok, there really is nothing better than letting your hair down and going out and dancing around in the rain! Fun for all ages!

10. Curl up in the sun and read a book: great thing to do on a lazy summer afternoon, but for those of you that are fair skinned like me, make sure you apply Sunscreen!!!

11. Going out for Ice Cream: What is better on a hot afternoon than, going out and getting some ice cream, and watching it melt down your kids faces???

12. Canoe trips: One of my favorite things to do on an afternoon is hop in a canoe on the lake, and just go slowly strolling along the lake, and take in the sights. Its relaxing and fun!

13. Just getting in the car, and going for a ride: Cause you never know what you might see, find, or experience… Always a fun time!

There you have a few of my favorite things to do in the summer… what are some of your favorites???

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

This week, I’m going to list Thirteen of my favorite Music Bands, people…

1. Nickelback

2. Tim McGraw

3. Rascal Flatts

4. Daughtry

5. The Black Eyed Peas

6. Taylor Swift

7. Lonestar

8. Sugarland

9. Garth Brooks

10. Creed

11. Green Day

12. Pink

13. Metallica

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

This week I’m going to do 13 of my all time favorite movies:

1. My Best Friends Wedding with Julia Roberts, great movie about best friends and knowing when to let go!

2. Coyote Ugly with Piper Perabo, always loved this movie.. The soundtrack is good! About a girl making her way after high school.

3. Save the Last Dance with Julia Stiles, another one great movie. Bit sad.. I tend to cry every time I watch it. About a girl who isn’t sure if she should give up on her dream after her mom dies.

4. Pretty Woman with Julia Roberts. About a woman who gets stuck in a life style, but meets a rich guy she falls in love with and shows her she is so much better!

5. All Fast and Furious Movies with Vin Disel and Paul Walker. Action packed and well the actors aren’t bad to look at! These are about racing cars, and an FBI agent.

6. Bad Boys Movies with Will Smith… again a great actor, but the movies are full of Action and I love them. About two best friends that are cops, and trying to keep their witnesses safe.

7. Twister with Helen Hunt. Not only can I repeat many of the lines, but it is a good movie about a couple that tries to learn the most about tornado’s so they can give people warning.

8. Harry Potter Movies are great movies about a boy who looks regular but is a great wizard. Awesome books, and just as good movies.

9. The Love Bug is a classic Disney movie that I love. I think Herbie is the best every beetle. I don’t know what it is about them, but I think they are great movies!

10. Mulan another one of my favorite Disney movies. I think it is a great courage story about a girl who is trying to protect her father, and does something that could get her killed.

11. Never Been kissed with Drew Barrymore. Another classic romance story..but its funny.

12. Speed with Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. About a bus that has a bomb and the police officer has to figure out a way to save them, and then of course their is budding romance.

13. The Lake House another one with Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. About two people who meet but live in different years. Shows how they meet…very nice romance.

I’m sure there are many more movies that I love, but these are some of my top favorites. What are some of yours?

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

 

This weeks is 13 things I like to do with my kids!  I thought it would be a fun one…

1. Read books

2. Play games

3. Go to the playground

4. Swimming

5. Coloring

6. Make crafts together

7. Take photo’s of them (ok they may not always like this one)

8. Eat dinner together, and listen to their stories about the day!

9. Cuddle

10. Watch them accomplish something they try so hard to learn!

11. Go on vacations, and trips.. Nothing like exploring somewhere new with them!

12. Cook together

13. Hug, Kiss, and LOVE them!

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

After such an emotional week…. I decided to do this weeks on 13 reasons I’m thankful, cause we all have to remind ourselves once and awhile right?

1. I live in a country that allows me to think, feel, and speak freely…

2. I have a supportive family that loves me, even when I don’t think I deserve it. (after all we are our worst critic’s right?)

3. I have 2 beautiful healthy daughters whom brighten my day everyday… even when I feel like they are going to drive me crazy, they go and do something silly to make me laugh!

4. I have a bright, handsome, healthy boy, who is beyond his years sometimes. He may drive his sisters up a wall, and send me to the loony bin, but he makes me smile everyday too!

5. I have a supportive husband who loves me despite my nagging, complaining, and serve mood swings at times! (yes I admitted it)

6. I have close friends that are always their for me at the drop of a hat, when i need to talk, cry, yell, or just say nothing at all. But they always understand me, and support me just the same.

7. I’m healthy (or at least think I am) and can get up every morning without major issues. However, I could stand to lose a few pounds.

8. While I may not be rich in money…. I am able to support my kids and allow them to try new things…

9. I’m a happy go lucky spirit, and despite what gets thrown my way… I can stand up and keep on going. I don’t let the little things knock me down, and I don’t let the big things overcome me.  Life is only what you make of it!

10. I’ve been blessed to meet a lot of new people in my journey of life. That have either life a big footprint on my heart, or taught me something that can never be forgotten. I love to meet people…. and your never to young or old to start!

11. My blog… I started it to keep friends and family up to date on our current lives, but have turned it into something more fun. I love to share my life with those around me. I have met some great people on their, that will forever be a part of me, and a friend, even if we never meet in person.

12. I have a love for photography… and it has shown me a different side of life, and myself. I love to experience the world from behind the lense as well.  It has shown me I have talents buried somewhere deep inside me..

13. Life…. this may seem so obvious but is it really. I have recently lost 3 people in 2 weeks that were a part of my family. They were there one moment and gone the next…. we take that for granted sometimes don’t we? I recently had a chance to say goodbye to one of them, but didn’t cease that opportunity and now I can never get it back. Another one I told that I love them every time we spoke. I am now thankful for that, cause I can no longer do that, but they know I loved them! A gesture no matter how small, can be huge in someone else’s eyes. Don’t pass up the things in front of you, thinking their is always tomorrow…cause their may not be a tomorrow.  Cease the day and live it like it was your last… no regrets, no promises for the future… just today! 

Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope that you all have a good list of things that you are thankful for!
Stay tuned next week…. still accepting suggestions of things you would like to see me do a Thursday Thirteen on!!!

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

Well this is the last week of my Alphabet Thursday thirteen’s. And it will be with the letter “Z”

1. Zoo: I love zoo’s I think they are cool. I love to see animals, and see what they have. Do you know how many zoo’s their are in this country? Its crazy! I hope to visit the Tampa Zoo after Hunter returns from Maine. What is your favorite animal at the zoo?

2. Zebra: I find zebra’s fascinating… because they seem so much like a horse to me, except the color. Their strips are neat though, no one is the same!

3. Zipper: I can’t not tell you how many times I’ve hurt myself with zippers…. Sad I know, but I used to get my finger in them, or my lip, when I had my jackets on as a kid. Crazy aren’t I??

4. Zucchini: I love zucchini…slice it up and boil it, then add butter. Yum! My son actually really likes it too. Another one of my favorite ways to enjoy it is a good zucchini bread with chocolate chips in it! Super Yum! I missed having that this year, need to plant some zucchini I guess!

5. Zig-Zag: Who do you think originally came up with that? It is an interesting pattern… I love zig-zags!!! 

6. Zoe: I always loved this name.. If I had another girl, I was going to name her that. What is your favorite name?

7. Zinnia's: What a nice flower this is… we have some in our backyard that the girls planted. We love flowers, can never really have enough can you? What is your favorite flower?

8. Zip code: Who do you think came up with the list of zip codes? How long must it have taken them? I can’t even imagine how many their are! How many zip codes do you know? I think I can remember like 6 from places I’ve lived or have family that live there. 

9. Zap: Don’t you hate it when you are walking across the floor and then you touch something and get zapped??? It happens to me a lot. Maybe I’m electrifying! LOL!

10. Zendik: Meaning Heroic or Magician. Did you know that??

11.  Zazzy: Most people would like to think of themselves at Zazzy! The question is are they really??  Incase you are not aware, Zazzy means flashy, or stylish!  I know, I can be Zazzy since my favorite sweat suit is lime green! LOL!

12. Zampogna: this is an Italian Bagpipe. Isn’t it fun to learn new words??

13. Zizel: Any guesses on this one?? It means Chipmunks. I thought that was kinda a cute name for them. What do you think???

Well there you have “Z”  can you believe I finished the whole alphabet?
I’m still waiting for ideas from you out there, on what you would like me to do next. If I don’t get any by next Thursday I will be forced to come up with my own, and that might be scary!

Thursday Thirteen:

 

This week’s letter is “Y”
Yes that is right one more week and I’m done with the alphabet! Let’s see how I do with this one!

1. Yodel: I always thought the yodeling on the Sound of Music was cool. Can you Yodel? I know I can’t! I think it is kinda neat sometimes though.

2. Yams: I have never been a big fan of Yams. I tried them a couple of times, but didn’t think they were that great. Maybe its just the way my husband makes them! LOL! Anybody got a good recipe for them? Do you like Yams?

3. Yankee-Doodle: Is like one of the biggest songs that have always stuck in my head since I was a child. What is so darn cute about a guy who sticks macaroni in his hat??

4. Yap: I have been told on a few occasions that I tend to Yap a lot. I will admit, I can carry on for hours over nothing…but still not sure where I got my gift of “Yap” from? Do you like to talk?

5. Yogurt: I like a few yogurts. My favorite are the Yoplait whips… (specifically the strawberry) My kids will eat any and all yogurt put in front of them. They love it, plain, flavored or with extras on top! Do you have a favorite brand or flavor?

6. Yard Sales: I have never had “A Lot” of these, however I love to go to them. You know never know what kinds of bargains your going to find, or treasures you might stumble upon. I mean why buy brand new clothes for your kids when they are going to just play in them and ruin them in less than 2 times of wearing? Right? What was your favorite yard sale find?

7. Yarn: I used to collect some yarn. Not sure why really… as I was never a good knitter and couldn’t crochet but in a straight line. We occasionally used them for crafts, but I think it was the wide range of colors that appealed to me! I know, silly!

8. Year: Can you believe the year is officially half over? I mean what the heck?? It just started did it not? How can it really be that in 3 months we have been in Florida for a Year already??? I love that time doesn’t always drag, but I don’t like it when it goes so quickly either!

9. Yeast: I remember the first time I used Yeast to cook. Boy was it interesting. I couldn’t tell what was the right temperature of water without going to hot, or to cold. Why does it need to be so complicated???

10. Yellow: It was never really one of my favorite colors, but I must say it is starting to grow on me. As I get older, I’m liking the splashes of color a bit more. What is your favorite bright color?

11. Yellowstone National Park: This is one of those places on my list of places I would love to one day visit. Yes I will admit my list is a bit long, but I will someday manage to hit a few of them! What fun is life without a few cross country road trips really??

12. Yippee: Is by far one of my most favorite slang terms I love to use! I mean who doesn’t want to be saying Yippee!!! :)

13. Yo-Yo: A wonderful toy from my childhood. I always thought they were slightly boring then. I now find them fun, but get frustrated that I can’t do very well. Hunter has taken on trying to learn how to properly use one now. He is so cute trying!

Next week is the finally alphabet week. Ending with the letter “Z”
Should be a fun one to complete!
I’m still hoping to hear from some of you on some ideas for my continued “Thursday Thirteen” Posts… We would love to hear what you think! :)

Thursday Thirteen:

This weeks letter is “X”
I may not be able to come up with 13, but I will try my best!

1. X-ray: I have had a few of these. More than I would care to have, but have yet to ever really break any bones, just came darn close, and a few times wished I had, cause it would have been less painful! :)

2. X-mas: I love this slang word for Christmas as it makes it easier to write when in a hurry! Lazy I know! Lol!

3. Xenodocheionology: Can anyone guess what this word is? No, ok I will tell you then. It means “love for Hotels”. Interesting don’t you think?

4. Xerotic: I would rather live in an area like this, instead of a humid state. However, no plans for me to move to Arizona anytime soon!

5. Xiphopagus: Another word I would like to share with you. Do you know what this one means? It means conjoined twins joined by a band of flesh on the torso. Can you imagine how many words are out there that we never knew?

6. Xylology: I think this profession might be interesting… What do you think? Do think it would be fun to study wood all day long?? How many different kinds do you think exists!

7. Xylopolist: This is a person that sells wood! Interesting name don’t you think?

8. Xylotypographic: A process printed from wooden blocks. I love prints made from blocks, aren’t they very unique?

9. Xography: Another interesting word. This means photographic process for producing three-dimensional images.

10. Xenurine: The girls and I saw an Armadillo this morning. This is a species of armadillo!

11. Xenodochial: This has lots its meaning in our world I think for the most part anyhow! I do think that it needs to make a come back… and I work on it with my kids often. This word means: hospitable; kindly to strangers!

12. Xebec: Hunter thought this word was neat. As it means small three-masted pirate ship. What little boy doesn’t like a good pirate ship??

13. Xanthometer: Another good word to add to your vocabulary! I love to look up new words every now and again how about you? This one means: instrument for measuring color of sea or lake water!

I hope you enjoyed my “X” list and learned some new words. I know I did! Only two more letters left… so if their are any special Thursday thirteen’s you would like to see me do… feel free to leave me a message! Have a good weekend!
Stay tuned next week for the letter “Y”

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

This weeks letter is “W”

1. Watermelon: What better treat in the summer than a nice, sweet, juicy watermelon??? Oh they are wonderful! I love them, and my kids love them. We are anixous to try to grow some this year.

2. Weekend: The weekends are really no different for us here, than the week.. as my hubby rarely gets them off. We do sometimes do fun things on the weekends, but they are not really anymore special. What do you like best about the weekends?

3. Walk: Our family loves to go for walks. We like to walk thru the neighborhood, or go to a State Park or Trail system and go for walks. What is your families favorite pass time together?

4. Wagon: One of my sons favorite toys as a child was a wagon. He loved to go for rides in it, or to just pull it around the yard.

5. Wiggle: Do children have a wiggle put in them when they are born? Or do they develop it later on? My kids love to wiggle. They can not sit still!

6. Worms: I am not a big fan of worms. I will not scream if I touch one, or go crazy, but they are slimy and icky! I do find it fascinating how they dig thru the dirt by eating their way thru.

7. Words: I find the power of words so amazing. You wouldn’t think that something so little would be so big!

8. Wire: Is one of the most useful things that one can have. It can be used for so many different things. I suggest keeping some on hand.

9. Wasp: I do not like bee’s or wasp’s. I was stung many times as a child, and developed a slight fear of them. My son is allergic to them… so we are very careful around them.

10. White: I can not wear this color. I would have it stained within minutes of putting it on. Does anyone else have this problem? I think it comes with being a mom, its in the handbook “Don’t wear white”.

11. Whistle: Can you whistle? I can a little. I remember practicing as a child, it was kinda funny. Now I get to watch my kids try and practice to whistle. Hunter tries so hard its just cute.

12. Water: I was never afraid of the water.. As a child I feel in the pool several times and almost drowned a couple of them… That never stopped me from getting back in though. I love to swim, even to this day. My children do too… only know I’m the mom that has to worry about my child drowning (my poor mother)… my kids have no fear when it comes to water either.

13. Winter: I do have to admit, I did not miss the winter back in Maine. Snow was not a concern! It was nice… Winter here was beautiful and like spring… what more can you ask for???

Stay tuned for next week and the letter “X”

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

This weeks letter is “V”

1. Violet: Which is a very pretty color.. I also love the flower. I used to have some around my house til I killed them!

2. Vacation: What I am on right now as you read this. Vacations are always nice, but do you ever feel like you need another vacation to recover from your vacation? Where was your favorite vacation?

3. Variety: I like a bit of variety in my life. Same old thing, is at some point always boring… I have a hard time with my dinner menu for that very reason. I don’t like to eat the same thing to often.

4. Vintage: I find it so interesting that when vintage stuff was in (popular), no one really cared for it. Now that it is considered out dated, everyone wants it. How does that work?

5. Violin: I think it would be so neat to learn to play the violin don’t you? I mean it would take great work to learn. But the reward in the end would be amazing. I love watching and listening to someone play the violin! Do any of you know how to play one?

6. Volume: At what age do kids learn that there is two different volumes. One for inside…when they are right next to the person, then the outdoor where you can yell all you want! Why do we need to yell at the person across the room from us??? Is it really necessary?

7. Vote: I was never big on voting… (yes I admit it) Over the recent years I have taken the time to get more informed, and cast a vote. It was a neat experience to watch my son get involved in learning about the presidential vote this year. Its nice to watch them learn at that age.

8. Vegetables: I love vegetables.. I could eat them all the time. Salad is my favorite meal. What is your favorite vegetable?

9. Velour: I love the feel of this fabric. It is very interesting!

10. Virason: Did you know this word means Sea Breeze? I did not… I love sea breezes what about you? I also like to learn new words… What about you?

11. Vest: I love to wear fleece vest in the fall. I have a green one that is one of my favorites from LL Bean. They are comfy and light, yet keep you warm.

12. Van: I love my van… People say they are to big when they only have 2 or 3 kids.. But you know I really find it to be perfect. We have enough room (including space to move) for everyone, and then extra incase we have a friend with us. There is room to haul stuff if needed… Matter of fact, I once moved my whole house with my mini van, multi trips of course..but everything fit in it!

13. Value: I’m always looking to get an exceptional deal for my dollar. Trying to find the value in some stuff is hard now a days. But if you are willing to put in the research and look, you can always find a bargain!

Thanks for joining me this week, and stay tuned for next week with the letter “W”

Thursday Thirteen:

 

This week is the Letter “U”

1. Umbrella: I have never been a fan of using them really. I always thought they were more pain than good. However, living in FL during the summer, may change my mind on that.

2. Unicorn: I think is one of the most beautiful fantasy creatures. They are gorgeous….

3. Ugly Betty: Was an interesting name for a TV show don’t you think? I guess it got peoples attention. I do watch the show on occasion. I like it, but its not a must see for me.

4. Ugli Fruit: Why would you name a fruit that? Why would anyone want to eat something called that? Have you ever tried one? I’d like to sometime soon. The kids and I think its a silly name. Therefore, they must try it out!

5. Unicycle: Has anyone out there ever tried one? I have always found them to be interesting. I’m afraid, I couldn’t keep my balance and I would let it go over backwards. I do think it would be neat to learn how to ride one though.

6. U-turn: Why do most States make these illegal? Wouldn’t they rather you had a spot to use them instead of doing it in the middle of the road anyway??? I love that FL has U-turns often!

7. Ulcer: I’m not sure how I haven’t ended up with one over the years… I often wonder how one develops anyway… Don’t you think it would be cool if you could watch how these things make themselves, or how diseases come to be.. Then maybe we could save people from them!

8. Ultrasound: I love that technology was able to come up with an Ultrasound. Can you imagine living years ago, and not ever knowing what was happening to your baby, or how it was growing? Times have changed so much…sometimes its just amazing to realize how much!

9. Unable: Another word that I don’t allow my kids to use. I don’t like when they say they are unable to do something. I tell them they are always able if they put their minds to it, and if all else fails ask for help!

10. Upload: When I upload pictures, I put them in designated folders and then I go in right then and label each individual photo… Most people find I am crazy to do that..but this way I remember what is of, and why I took it. Plus when I burn them to cd, to give to anyone they know what the photos are for to! How do you organize all of your photo’s?

11. Upside –down Cake: I have experimented with a few different kinds… of these. None that I have made yet have ever come out that great. I love the concept… and think that it would be a great dessert. Anyone have a good recipe they would like to share??

12. Uranus: I think that is the strangest name for a planet! Why couldn’t they have come up with something a bit better.

13. Uniforms: You know at first I was against the idea of uniforms for the kids at school. But I have to say I have since changed my mind. I always agreed with the whole part where then kids all dress the same and no one is better than anyone else. But The other upside is it costs way less! My son wears his uniform all week, so his other clothes get less wear and tear… Plus you don’t have to buy as many clothes at the back to school time. Really not a bad idea!

Stay tune next week for the Letter “V”

Almost to the end of the alphabet, so if you have any suggestions for what you would like to see me do next, let me know!!!

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

This weeks letter is “T”

1. Trouble: Seems to be the word of the house! My kids are constantly in trouble… fighting with each other, driving me up a wall!

2. Talk: I love to talk… and if you know me than you know this already. I will talk to people online for hours, or even on the phone. My record was talking on the phone straight for 8hrs. Yup, its true. If I can’t talk, then I will text. I’m addicted to talking! HELP!

3. Trash: Never been one of my favorite chores… now that my son is old enough, I have him do it. It is so weird that the old saying “one persons trash is another man’s treasure” can be so true. Its amazing what people will throw away!

4. Tinkerbell: A cute Disney movie, and also my daughters favorite character. She was so excited when we finally got to meet her. We are now reading the books. We just finished the first one.

5. Time: Why does no one other than yourself ever think your time is worth something?  I like to use my time wisely, though not always an easy task.. Never seems to be enough time to go around though does it?

6. Tomato: One of my favorite vegetables…ok fruit. (however you look at it) Though if I eat to many at once I get cankers. I do love tomatoes though! Especially fresh picked!

7. Turkey: My new friend.. I have been putting ground turkey in place of hamburger. I also enjoy a good turkey…but I like the dark meat best!

8. TV: I like to watch shows… and i think that a good movie now and again is nice. However, I hate that my children think that life needs to revolve around TV. I don’t let them watch much of it… So many better things you could be doing. What are your favorite things to do other than watch TV?

9. Turtle: I think turtles are the coolest. I love to learn about them. I think they are also cute. Well some anyway..snapping ones not so much! Hunter and I enjoying learning about the different kinds.

10. Tadpoles: Do you remember catching tadpoles as a kid, and watching them grow into frogs? I haven’t had the opportunity to do it with my kids yet, but can’t wait. I think it is cool, to watch the transformation.

11. Team: Its so hard to teach your kids the concept of a team sometimes… I think Hunter finally understood it better after this Baseball season… when he realized what he did affected them to, in some way. I think that team work is a vital piece to teach our children, just not always the easiest.

12. Teach: Speaking of TEACH. I think that teachers are not given enough credit anymore. (well some of them) I think they have a very difficult job in our society now. Parents are slowing not becoming involved anymore, and they are left to pick up the pieces. I think that teaching a child is the most gratifying job. I enjoy doing what small part I do with my kids everyday!

13. Thirteen: A nice number, though many are superstitious of it. Are you superstitious? I’m not… I think that 13 has just as much potential as any other number. What is your favorite number? or do you have one?

There you have this weeks letter…. Stay tuned for next weeks letter “U”   

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

Last week was the Letter “R”
This week I bring you the letter “S”

1. Scream: Some days this is all I really feel like I do. My ears start to hurt from listening to it all. I just keep telling myself one day, life will calm down, and children will listen. :)

2. Squash:  I really like this vegetable. My favorite squash is Buttercup, but we can not find them to buy in the stores here in FL. So we have been eating more Butternut squash…which has become my son’s favorite.

3. Silly: I love having silly days with my kids. Life is so much more fun when you can just stop and be silly. Makes the days go by faster too!

4. Serious: I think that we all take life a bit to serious sometimes… we wander why children are so happy and carefree… its because they can turn anything into a silly moment. Does it really hurt us to stop from the serious parts of life and laugh a little?

5. Sulking: Nothing I hate worse than kids who sulk. Oh my, it is a constant in our house some days. Good gravy… Its almost as bad as whining….

6. Smile: Smiles, are a wonderful thing. Do you ever notice that you can be having the worse day, on the verge of a meltdown and tears, and your child can look at you and smile, and it turns it all around! Its amazing how a smile can have so much power isn’t it?

7. Sage: Its a wonderful spice that I use, but its also a great name. I named my youngest daughter this, and at the time you barely ever heard it. Heck, I even had some people look at me weird…. I thought it was cute, and different. Now, it has become a very well used name.

8. Siblings: I don’t have any siblings. Well except for a step sister that I never see, or has anything to do with me. I often get very confused by the fights and jealousy my kids share over their siblings, cause I never had to feel that way. Do they ever start to get along???

9. Sister: As I stated above, I don’t have any biologically related to me.. but like a parent, blood isn’t what makes someone related to you. I have friends that I consider sisters, cause our bonds are just as strong as ones that would be blood related. I am very thankful and grateful for those relationships.

10. Snickers: One of my favorite kinds of candy bar. Yum… Now I want one for a snack! :)

11. Scouts: I am a leader for both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. I love doing both. As I think shaping our young people into great citizens is very highly over looked these days. What happened to doing community service cause you wanted to help people out, not cause you got in trouble with the law??? I wish that more people got involved!

12. States: I have lived in 3 different states in my life. Maine, South Carolina, and Florida. My goal is to someday visit all 50 states. I think it is wonderful to learn the history of each one, and see what makes them unique.

13. Snow: I’m not a huge fan of snow. That is why Florida was a good pick for our new home. However, my favorite activity with snow is making Snowmen… The kids and I enjoyed doing this a lot. We also liked sledding. I always wanted to learn to ski, but I would kill myself I’m sure!

Well, there you have the Letter “S”
Next week will be the letter “T” ….. Should be just as easy… Join me again next Thursday!

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

Well I managed to get the letter “Q” out there…. This week we have the letter “R”

1. Rude: Is it me or are people becoming worse over the years??? I’m so horrified by some of the kids I see and how they behave in such a rude manor. Do parents not demand respect anymore?

2. Radishes: I have never really cared for them. I don’t eat them often, and usually request not to have them on a salad. Do you like Radishes?

3. Random: I am probably one of the most random people you will ever meet. I will start on one thing and move to the next at the blink of an eye. I’m not sure why I am this way, but it has become part of me now. My daughters are following in my foot steps!

4. Roots: Do you like to explore your roots?? Or more accurately where you come from? I love to look back at my ancestors to see where they came from or what I learned something from. I find it very fascinating…

5. Rubber: Rubber is so bad for our environment, yet if you look around it is one of the most used. I do find it interesting how one came up with the concept of a bouncy ball made out of rubber. Do you think the person was highly bored outside one day???

6. Real: How many “Real” people are there anymore?? Does anyone believe in who they are enough to tell the truth, or has the society driven people into being “Fake” to fit in?? A few months back I found myself not lying to people, but not being “Real” to myself. I didn’t know who I was anymore our who I wanted to be… I’m still trying to find my way back. Do you ever feel this way?

7. Rug: I’m not a huge fan of Rugs if you have animals, or a dirt driveway! LOL! It is such a pain to clean and keep clean. I feel like I vacuum a few times a day! Who has time for that??? Do you prefer Hardwood floors or Rugs?

8. Refuse: Oh my…. My kids refuse to do so much lately… Drives me Looney! I don’t like this word very much.

9. Rocks: My son loves to collect white rocks. I still don’t understand what is so fascinating to him about them. I find some rocks to be interesting, so I don’t discourage him in his pursuit!

10. Rats: For such a filthy creature, that everyone wants to keep out of their house… do you notice there are numerous people who have them as pets?? I really don’t think I could have one as a pet…… How about you???

11. Rachel: A beautiful name, I do say. My middle daughter’s name actually, and my mothers middle name. I do think that with this name comes a huge mount of stubbornness! (however I might be a bit basis)

12. Rainbow: Have you ever really seen anything more beautiful?? It is one of the wonders of the world that I truly adore. There is nothing better than to watch a bright rainbow after a quick rain. I love it! I do often wonder if their could be a pot of gold at the end! But would you really want to fight a little green guy for it??? 

13. Rabbit: I used to have a dwarf rabbit when I was younger. He was a cute gray one… and we used to let him out of the cage every once and awhile. He would do flips and jumps to entertain us. He was a cool little guy. He wasn’t like a regular rabbit though, he didn’t like carrots. Nope he was more of a Ritz Cracker kind guy. No joke!

Well there you have the letter “R”
Stay tuned next week for the letter “S”

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

Last week was the letter “P”
So this week I bring you the letter “Q” could prove to be hard, lets see what I can come up with shall we??

1. Queen: I have always loved history, and learning about the past. I like to find out things about Queens of past eras. Its interesting to see how they got there, or what they accomplished. Don’t you think?? I also have a “Queen” in my house. My middle daughter likes to think she is Queen bee most days!

2. Quadruplets: Could you imagine having that many kids at once?? Holy banana’s! I will admit I always wanted Twins, no such luck though.

3. Quit: I’m not a big fan of quitting things. Except for dieting.. for some reason I have the hardest time there. Maybe its cause changing your whole life around is difficult. Especially when everyone else isn’t on board with you??????? I try to teach my kids that quitting is not ok either. That you need to follow things threw.

4. Quebec: I have never been there..sadly as close I used to live from the Canadian Border. However, I would one day love to go there, as I hear it is a beautiful city.

5. Quality: I think so many people waste money on items that are cheap. Yes they are cheap, but the quality isn’t there so they end up spending more money in the long run. Of course their are so exceptions. Do you shop for Quality or Cheapness???

6. Questions: My daughters are going through the question stage all over again. Oh my, it is driving me crazy. “where are you going to put that?” “Why do you need that” so on and so forth… I love that they are inquisitive but their has to be a limit right??

7. Quiet: My children struggle with Quiet time.. or being Quiet. Do you have this trouble as well? Any suggestions? I constantly have to remind them to use their inside voices. I mean they will yell to each other and they are 2 ft away. Drives me nutty!

8. Quests:  When my children are bored, I will often send them on a quest. To find something, or to look for something… Sometimes I just make things up, and they feel like they are looking for treasure. They find it exciting. I love it!

9. Quarter:  My son is always confusing the Quarter for a Nickel. So I taped each coin to a piece of paper, and made him a chart, so he can see which one is worth how much. He enjoys working on it.

10. Quake: I have never been in a real Earthquake… and I hope to never be in a bad one. Can you imagine the fear of not knowing what is going to happen kinda like a tornado.

11. Queasy: I hate feeling queasy… it is worse than being sick I think. Mostly cause you dont’ know whether you should eat or not.

12. Quote: I love to look up quotes. Its amazing some of the ones people have come up with. There are tons of them out there too. :) What is your favorite Quote?

13. Quarrel: I feel that is all my kids do! AHHHHHHH!

Well there you have my 13 “Q’s” not easy to come by…but I did it!

Stay tuned for next week the letter “R”

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

This weeks letter is “P”

1. Plaid: Not sure why but I enjoy plaids.. Wouldn’t wear them much, but like them in blankets and such. :)

2. Peanuts: Really the only nut I will eat willingly! I’m not a huge fan of nuts.

3. Ping Pong: Never really got the “Rules” for it, but think it can be a pretty fun game.

4. Pictures: My only really big hobby is taking pictures. I love pictures.. Black and White are my favorite. I love to just snap shots, and see what I get when I’m done. I would really like a new digital camera to support this hobby better!

5. Platypus: I think they are cool. I have never really read up much about them, but I think I will sometime soon. Can you imagine having a beak like that though?

6. Popcorn: This is a nice snack every once and awhile. But I hate it when the kernels get stuck in your teeth don’t you? I like to add a bit of cheese on mine… Yum!

7. Playground: We spend a lot time in the summer at the different playgrounds. We like to check out new ones as well. We are eager to see how the new one that is being built next to the library is going to be! 2 more months they should be done! (huge project, not just playground, out door music theater, parking lots, tennis court, and pools)

8. Plantains: Have you ever tried one? We like to pick a new fruit and vegetable when we go shopping to try every month… trying to expand my own and my kids food limits. We tried to fry our plantains, and the kids and I just didn’t really care for them.. but always up for a new one to try. We’ve found a lot that we do like, and a few that we don’t.

9. Power: Something I really couldn’t live with out. Not sure how they did it back in the day. Its a major part of my daily life, what about yours? What is one appliance you can’t live without?

10. Picnic's: Another one of our favorite things to do in the summer. Is to get a blanket pack a lunch and pick a spot to have a picnic….read the kids a story, and just enjoy our time together. We’ve even had a picnic in the house on rainy days… Just to make it more fun! We are planning our first picnic this weekend when we go to the beach. Such fun!

11. Pansy: Is a cute little flower I think. I enjoy cute little flower gardens…don’t you? I love how pretty all the flowers look together, nestled in like they belong. Gorgeous!

12. Potato:  How many potato’s does your family on average go through in a week? We can polish off a 5 pd bag in no time at our house. Why?? Cause we have 7 mouths who love mashed potatoes! How about you?

13. Pickles: I love pickles, does anyone else love pickles? I like sweet and dill.. Sweet for putting them on things like my hamburgers, and sandwiches.. Dill for when I just want to pop on in my mouth!
I also use the word “Pickles” quite often… when I get really mad, and don’t want to use a naughty word… or when I hurt myself. Why you ask?? Well my 4 yr old has started to copy me, so now we all say “Oh Pickles” Its rather cute!  What sayings do you use?

Well there you have this weeks letter “P”
Stay tuned for next week and the letter “Q” (this one could get tricky)

Thursday Thirteen:

This weeks letter is “O”

1. Octopus: I think they are a beautiful sea creature. I love the sea, and learning about the creatures. I always wanted to be a “Marine Biologist”. I think it would be amazing to have 8 arms like them. Don’t you think that would be helpful?

2. Obedience: I’ve often wandered how neat it would be to have a child with perfect obedience! Wouldn’t life be so much easier?? But then I think, what fun would we have without trials?

3. Opera: I have seen one Opera in my life. It was good, and surprising to me. I never thought I’d enjoyed it, not a huge fan of musicals, and thought it would be the same. I would like to one day see another. Have you ever seen an Opera, if so which one?

4. Outhouse: I absolutely hate outhouses! I think they are disgusting and vile! I’m all about sanitary. I don’t think, I would have last back in the day when that was all they had to use! What about you?

5. Overeat: I think most of us are victim to this! I know, I struggle with it often. Why does it seem to be such a demon? I wish I knew. May we all one day overcome this!

6. Oranges: There is nothing better than a fresh picked orange off the tree in the morning. Or squeezed for juice. If you have never tried it, put it on your list of things to do!

7. Onions: I am not a big fan of onions. Over the years, I have become tolerant of them, and will eat them if food contains them. I do not like raw ones though, and often pick them out. Do you like onions?

8. Opponent: Hunter learned what those are…. He is learning how to play chess! He found out the computer does not make a good opponent and kicks are butt every time!

9. Overload: I feel overloaded often! How about you? I’m an interesting person…. I feel overloaded, but yet I thrive and enjoy being busy. Does that make sense? I like to have a purpose…. I think that is what my problem is, I need to feel like I have a purpose, so I overload myself with things to do. Do any of you do that?

10. Oblivescence: I have this problem often too. (Click here for definition) Which scares me cause I’m so young. I need to start exercising my brain more! :) Maybe its just being a mom??? What do you think?

11. Olives: I love olives! Black are my favorite! I could eat them all day long…right out of the can. Green are ok, and I like them as well, but not as much as black olives! Do you like them?

12. Ozone: Do you think we will have much of an Ozone in another year? Do people really care about the ozone? What are you doing to go green? We try to do our best, we are not perfect by any means, but we are trying one day at a time to make a difference.

13. Organ: It is an interesting instrument. I love listening to an organ being played. If you could play any instrument, which would you pick??? Hunter wants to learn the piano. :) I would love to learn to play the violin… You?

There you have this weeks letter.

Stay tuned next week for the letter “P”

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

Last week was the letter “M”

This week is brought to you by the letter “N”

1. Nose: Is it really a helpful body part, or just in the way? I mean you can breathe thru your mouth.. so other than catching dust, blowing out snot,and making you sneeze… what is it really good for?

2. Neat: I’m not the neatest person you will ever meet. However, I do strive to one day have a sense of organization. Will it ever happen who knows! I would like to say it will…but unless I turn OCD is it achievable?

3. Nickel: Why is the nickel special? How come it gets to be bigger than the dime, but worth less? It confuses my kids, they often think of it as a quarter. We are working on identity of Money right now.

4. News: I don’t watch it or keep up with it as much as I should. Mostly because I find it sad, depressing and sickening. Why stress yourself out over things you can not change or make you sad? I keep up with enough to know what is going on at most times, but don’t get in depth, unless I feel the need to get more info.

5. Nectarine: I love this fruit! Yumm.. a nice ripe juicy nectarine. I find it way tastier than the peach. I would some day like to pick some from a tree. Nothing like fresh fruit picked from the tree. What is your favorite fruit?

6. Noodles: My kids love noodles! They could eat them all the time. It’s crazy! That is all they ask for all the time! Never ask them what they want for dinner?!

7. Nephew: I have 3 of these now….. I never thought I would have any being an only child. I was lucky to have married into a big family…. But even luckier to have such wonderful friends that feel like family, so I actually have more like 6! :)

8. Nevada: I have never been there, but would love to visit it someday. I have an Uncle that lives in Las Vegas. I would love to see some of the historical sites, and such. Have you ever just looked to see what great knowledge each state has to offer?

9. Neighbors: I don’t have any close neighbors anymore. I haven’t gotten to know any of them..Our very next door neighbor is an old couple. On the other side was wonderful friendly guy that I did not get the opportunity to get to know long enough. He was a solider who had been to Iraq a few times, and sadly left us to go to heaven a couple months ago. Good neighbors are so hard to find, and sadly are worse to lose. I had the best neighbor ever, my dad, and it was hard to move away.

10. Nuts:  We are all nuts in our own way! :) As for the actually nut family, I’m not a big fan. I will eat peanuts sometimes, but not often. They have an odd taste to me… what is your favorite nut?

11. Numbers: I find it weird that I have always had a good memory for numbers, but was never good with math. I can tell you birthdays, phone numbers, and such…but Algebra forget it! Or measurement forget it!

12. Navigator: I have always been somewhat good with a sense of direction…But with streets being one way, and going every which way…I decided it was time to buy a GPS so we could Navigate our way around easier. Especially for our trip back to Maine this summer, as we wanted to stop a few places on the way back home. I hate being lost, and men always hate to ask for directions! GRR!

13. Noon:  Is ok, but makes life very difficult. I’m always rushing to get things done before noon. Then afternoon comes, we are rushing to get things done before dinner. So really it is hard to keep noon out of your head isn’t it?

Stay tuned next week for the letter “O”

 

 

Thursday Thirteen:

 

 

Last week was the Letter “L”

This week is brought to you by the letter “M”

1. Monkey: I have always wanted a pet Monkey. I think they are cute little creatures, and relatively smart. Of course right now, I have 3 kids that act enough like Monkeys for me!

2. Money:  Really can be a good thing, and a bad thing. I think the world is based on Money to much! I feel that it corrupts to many people, and they become to dependent on it. I would like to have enough to be comfortable…to pay the things we need, not desire. I don’t believe that you have to have money to happy. There are numerous things you can do for free, if you just use your imagination and search. :)

3. Mom: Is one of the names I go by! I love being a mom… I always wanted to be a mom, since  I can remember. I think it is so rewarding, in ways you wouldn’t imagine. I love that I have been blessed to stay home with my kids as they grow up. Yes, we miss out on some of the stuff that others might have, and money can be tight sometimes, but we make due.

4. Math: I am so not good at math. I never have been. My dad helped me get thru Algebra, we had the same teacher (he was taking Adult Ed) so we did our homework together, and it took me a tutor to get thru Algebra 2… My son got blessed with my Husbands knowledge for math, and he is good at it! I hope the girls follow in that too.

4. Macaroni: I could eat pasta often. I think I was destine to be an Italian. :)  I also love macaroni salad…..yum!

5. Movies: I love watching movies. However, we do not make it to the movies much, since for all of us to go its anywhere from 30-45 dollars just to get in. We do however rent a movie or two a week from the Redbox…(gotta love a buck) We have our own movie night every other week with the kids, complete with homemade pizza, popcorn, and sometimes a special treat!

6. Microwave: I really don’t think I could live without this appliance. We use ours all the time! What about you?

7. Make-believe: I love watching my kids use their imaginations to make-believe they are farmers, dancers, singers, parents and more! It is precious!

8. Mozzarella:  Is one of my favorite chesses! I use it on some many things…. I love the taste! Yummy! What is your favorite Cheese?

9. Mahjongg: I love this game! I play it on the computer….and with Hunter. I neat ancient game!

10. Manageable: I wish I could get my house to be completely manageable. But it seems like every time I come close, it runs! (sort of speak) Is life really manageable, or is it a dream?

11. Maine: It is a beautiful state, and has amazing views. There is lots to see and explore. I can see why they named it the vacation state. We miss it a lot, but the rural ness, as much as its nice, can be a big problem too. Can’t wait to visit in 9 weeks! I miss you all up there!

12. Mail: I love mail! Is that weird of me? Whether it be snail mail, or email, its nice to receive it. I love to send mail as well. I love to write letters, and send surprises to people in the mail! :)

13. Massage: I would so love to get a nice massage! I spa day would be an incredible gift! I wonder who ever came up with massages…GENIUS!

Well there you have this weeks letter “M”

Join me next week for the Letter “N”