It's a Thoman-Full Life

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T04:34:00.002-06:00

PBJ Pops

2012-01-09T19:35:00.003-06:00

These are some much fun to make and EAT, YUMMY

PB & J Pops (Makes 4 pops)

1/2 Cup Peanut Butter, smooth
2 Tbsp Honey
1 Cup Milk, divided (any type of milk will work)
1/2 Cup Your Favorite Fruit Preserves (I used Raspberry)

1. Combine the peanut butter, honey and 1/2 cup of milk in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Whisk the preserves and the remaining milk in a separate bowl to combine.
3. Pour both mixtures into 2 separate liquid measuring cups for easy pouring.
4. Pour 2 tbsp of the peanut butter mixture into each Dixie cup, followed by 3 tbsp of the fruit preserves mixture.
5. Freeze for 30 minutes.
6. Pour the remaining peanut butter mixture on top. Pok a popsicle stick in the middle of the cups.
7. Freeze for at least 6 hours or more.
8. Serve.

HAPPY 2012 NEW YEAR!!!

2011-12-31T06:44:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas From our Family to Yours

2011-12-25T06:06:00.002-06:00

Thank You Santa

2011-12-23T04:58:00.006-06:00

I think it is important to teach your children the power of saying Thank you. During the Christmas season there are so many opportunities for that lesson to be taught. Here is a wonderful way to say Thank you to Santa for all the wonderful gifts that are given to them. It's a nice way to show your children to appreciate the gifts that are given to them. Taking the time to write a letter to leave out for Santa is a nice way for this lesson to be reinforced.
Just click here and it will take you to the site to print out your Thank you letter to Santa. Your children will feel really special when they write this special thank you.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-21T05:04:00.014-06:00

Father Jim and Mr. Will

Gift from St. Nick

celebrating Grandpa's Birthday

Grandma and Grandpa

Blowing our the candles

Brothers

visiting with Santa

The Advent season has been such a joy this year. Even though our family has been busy attending lots of fun gatherings, School Christmas Programs, visits with Santa and celebrating Grandpa's Birthday, we have had many moments where we slowed down to remember the reason for the season, Our Lord Jesus Christ. Looking back at all the special moments during this time of year,what a perfect time to reflect on the blessings from our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Christmas Gift Suggestions 2011

2011-12-12T13:51:00.003-06:00

Here are some Christmas gift suggestions:

To your enemy, forgiveness.

To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To a customer, service.

To all, charity.

To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect

Start a Holiday Family Traditon

2011-12-08T14:12:00.004-06:00

The holiday season is a time to build lifelong memories for your family. Traditions help you bond and reconnect with loved ones, friends, and neighbors.

Creating traditions takes just a little time and energy to plan. Iv'e put together a list of fifty traditions that you can choose from to help make your holiday season a little brighter .

Holiday food traditions

1. Make traditional dishes for your holiday meals and include foods from your culture or foods you ate growing up. Ask for recipes from relatives to keep your family food traditions alive.

2. Organize a cookie-baking party. Invite friends and family, or a group of your kids' friends. Ask everyone to bring their favorite holiday cookie recipe.

3. Make the same entree for Christmas Eve (such as stew) and Christmas Day (ham or turkey) every year. Or, choose a side-dish that becomes the yearly tradition, even if it's just for laughs.

4. Make a gingerbread house with your family. Those pre-made sets make it easy and provide you with everything you’ll need! Another option is to use graham crackers, some royal icing and candy you've saved for this purpose. I Love doing this every year

Neighborhood and community traditions

5. Get a handful of friends together and go caroling. You’ll be surprised by how well-received your singing group is, even if you’re out of tune!

6. See a local production of ‘The Nutcracker,’ ‘A Christmas Carol,’ or another holiday-themed show.

7. Check out holiday lights in your area. Get in the car, turn on your holiday playlist, and find brightly lit houses.

8. Record local holiday events on your calendar. Most cities have concerts, festivals, plays, and more to celebrate the season.

9. Walk door to door delivering Christmas cookies after you've made a batch.

10. Go visit Santa! Do your research and find out what times of the day are best to this, like mid-week during the evening.

11. Go sledding, ice skating, or other outdoor winter activity with your family. A great time time to schedule this is on Christmas day, after the gifts are opened, the meal is eaten, and everyone is getting antsy from being inside.

Around the home holiday traditions

12. Start the ‘Elf on a Shelf’ tradition. Your kids will love it and it will keep them on their best behavior! Our Elf is named "Elfie"

13. Read holiday books before bed each night. The Polar Express, Santa Mouse, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas are all excellent tales to boost your family’s holiday spirit.

14. Go to a tree farm to locate the perfect Christmas tree. At home, decorate it as a family or let the kids do their thing. Have some treats and hot cider or cocoa on hand to keep energy levels up!

15. Create a holiday playlist that your family listens to in the car or at home. Don’t forget classics like ‘White Christmas,’ ‘I’ll Be Home For Christmas,’ and ‘The 12 Days of Christmas.’

16. Use an advent calendar to count down to Christmas. There are many varieties of advent calendars, from candles that are burned daily to boxes you open daily.

17. Set aside one night each week to watch a holiday movie or television special, such “Miracle on 34th Street” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

18. Have your child start an ‘I Am Thankful’ list. Have him add one thing he is thankful for each day. You can turn this into a decoration by having him write it on a paper Christmas tree or snowflake that you then hang across the fireplace or some other area.

19. Purchase or make a holiday ornament for each child every year. This is a great reason to reminisce during holiday decorating. All three of our children fill up their tree in their room with homemade ornaments.

20. Sit down with your child and write a letter to Santa.

21. As a family, write your holiday letter. Have each member contribute one memorable moment from the year to be recorded to share with friends and family.

22. Make holiday decorations yourself! Decorate windows with paper snowflakes, glue glitter onto pinecones and arrange in a bowl, and visit kid-friendly crafts sites to get creative and fun ideas that will involve your children.

23. Start a holiday village display. Add a new house or shop to your display each year.

24. Camp out in front of your Christmas tree one night. Keep the tree lights on, read holiday stories, and snack on holiday treats.

Giving back holiday traditions

25. Volunteer your time as a family at a soup kitchen or a food bank that hands out food to families in need.

26. Find a giving tree that allows you to sponsor a family in need or purchase toys for children in need. Go shopping for the items together and donate them.

27. Start a canned food drive in your neighborhood or at your child's school. Ask neighbors to donate canned and non-perishable foods, then donate them to a food bank.

28. Go through closets and donate gently used clothing (coats are particularly useful this time of year) to a local shelter.

29. Hold a book drive and ask coworkers, friends, neighbors, and family to donate books for kids that you can give to your local library, elementary school, or family shelter.

30. Deliver cookies and treats to your local fire station, police department, and even the staff at your local hospital. After all, they’ll be working through the holiday.

31. Don’t forget senior citizens! Volunteer time at your local senior citizens center or see if there is a giving tree specifically for the residents.

Holiday gift traditions

32. Draw names in your immediate family and make a gift for that person. It can be as easy as a playlist for an MP3 player or a photobook of your family’s greatest moments of the year.

33. If gifts have been sent from relatives that are far away (like grandparents), use Skype or another video chat service when they are opened so everyone can share in the joy.

34. Spend a day, and possibly a night, in a local metropolitan area and get your holiday shopping completed. Ask your mom, sister, or sisters-in-law to come along!

35. Pick names randomly and only give gifts to the person whose name you draw. Set a dollar limit to keep it even and have fun!

36. If your extended family is large, make a deal among the adults to buy gifts for only the kids of the family.

37. Spend Thanksgiving night planning your Black Friday. Check out all the sales, map your route, and make your list.

38. Start a gag gift tradition. Give a funny gift to a family member. Each year, pass the gift on to another unsuspecting family member.

Christmas Eve traditions

39. Open one gift on Christmas Eve.

40. Track Santa’s progress across the globe on NORAD.

41. Make reindeer food on Christmas Eve (oats and candy sprinkles) and toss it on the lawn for Santa’s team of reindeer.

42. Read The Night Before Christmas at bedtime.

43. Leave a ‘trail’ of gifts from the chimney to the tree to show Santa’s route in the house.

44. Get matching pajamas for the kids to wear on Christmas Eve. Talk about a great photo op Christmas morning!

Christmas morning/day traditions

45. Open all the gifts under the tree at 12:01a.m. on Christmas Day. This works best with older kids and teens.

46. Don’t open presents until after religious services or brunch.

47. Choose a family member at random to pass out gifts to everyone.

48. Call or have a video chat with loved ones who aren’t able to be with your family.

49. Invite family, friends, and neighbors over Christmas evening for games, dessert, and to decompress from the holiday.

50. Go out for breakfast and let someone else do the cooking!

Thanksgiving 2012

2011-12-03T07:01:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving was a blast with family this year!!! I always enjoy spending time with family over the holidays. Since all my shopping is complete, now we can enjoy all the Christmas activities like baking, wrapping, spending good times with the kids and singing Christmas songs. I love the Christmas season!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-23T13:37:00.003-06:00

Twitter Layouts

Christmas Fun For Kids

2011-11-19T06:09:00.006-06:00

What a fun way to get your little ones into the Holiday Spirit. These easy Happy Holiday peel and place stickers by Oopsy Daisy are so much fun.
You can get them in a variety of different themes. Just click here, and go right to the site to order.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T05:22:00.001-05:00

Hope Halloween was a SWEET one!!!

Happy 5 Birthday SUPER HERO Zachary

2011-10-12T10:20:00.009-05:00

SUPER HEROS

Our Little Buddy, Zachary turns 5 years old. What a Super FUN SUPER HERO party!!
The Family spent the evening bowling and boy did we have a BLAST!!! It's amazing how fun a game of bowling can be when you are sharing time with family. Lots of laughs, giggling and competitiveness!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our SUPER HERO ZACHARY!!!!

William Russel turns 2

2011-08-21T21:04:00.012-05:00

William Russell Turns 2

My 3 little monsters!!!

OOOH...do I see twin monsters???

Favors for the kids

Monster Chocolate Chip Cookies

Grandpa and the birthday boy

Grandpa and Alyssa, holding her pearl necklace that she got for her birthday from Grandma and Grandpa Kay

Zach and the Birthday Boy

Grandma and Grandpa and Zach

Jim and Dad

Me and My Dad

Goodies

Treats to eat

Coloring the monsters on the wall and making Monster Masks!!!

Our baby boy turns 2 years old. What a fun past two years, enjoying every minute with him. As fast as it has gone, our family has really enjoyed our little blessing!!! William Russell is a very high energy little guy. He loves to eat EVERYTHING!!! He loves to spend time with Aunt Ro Ro, Playing with Sissy and Zach, and loves loves to watch Barney. Yes I know what your thinking...that purple silly dinosaur....ugggg....our family has the songs memorized by heart. Oh and another thing that tops Little Will's list....he loves to drink juice, go potty and say Bye Bye to everyone!!!
Such a blessed last 2 years for our family to be able to enjoy watching William Russell grow up. Looking forward to watching him grow into a big boy toddler.

Holiday World, First Day of School and Swim Team 2011

2011-08-16T20:13:00.006-05:00

What a FUN FUN summer. From swim team.... to winning swim conference....to the kids birthdays....to Holiday World with cousins....our summer was a BLAST!!!! Even though it was pretty busy, I have to say it was one of the best summers EVER!!! Our family made some of the best family memories. From laughing, eating, singing, cooking out, riding roller coasters, staying up late to pop popcorn and watch movies under homemade forts, traveling city to city for swim meets, whew.....we would do it all over again...look out SUMMER 2012...here comes the Thoman Family!!!

GOOFY Zach and Tina!!!

Katy, Aly, and Tina going on their golf cart ride

Aunt Patti and zach riding together and having FUN!!!

Taking a boat ride

HOLIDAY WORLD 2011

FIRST PLACE CONFERENCE CHAMP!!!

Conference CHAMPION COACH!!! She was married and won Conference this summer...what a great summer for coach KIM!!!

Swimteam coaches

Mrs. Stacy, Zach and Will on the first day of school

Aly's first day of 4th grade

Grandma's shirt....LOVE IT!!!!

Grandpa and Aly
Gramma and Aly

Alyssa turns 9

2011-07-25T16:13:00.010-05:00

LEMONADE FOR SALE.....LEMONADE FOR SALE.....

FAVORS

TREATS FOR CUSTOMERS

LEMONADE

LEMONADE EXTRAS

LEMONS, LEMONS, AND MORE LEMONS

TREATS

CUPCAKE IS ALL GROWN UP

UNCLE BRAD WAS A GOOD CUSTOMER

MIKE

AUNT PATTI AND WILL SHARING A COOKIE

GRANDPA

GRANDMA

UNCLE RUSS AND AUNT PATTY

UNCLE ANDY, LAURA AND PATRICK

JON HAVING A GREAT TIME

PATRICK AND LAURA

UNCLE BRAD AND JON

Our little girl turns 9!!!!
I can't believe how fast the time has gone. We have enjoyed every minute of these past 9 years with you.
Alyssa had delicious lemonade for sale at her party. She raised $62.00 for her charity. The lemonade stand was a gift from Grandma last year and Alyssa really wanted to use it this year for her party. It was a beautiful day, a little hot at first but in the afternoon, a nice cool front came through and we were all outside enjoying a cold glass of lemonade....and of course LOTS of TREATS!!!! HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALYSSA.....WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH

DIY CUPCAKE STAND

2011-07-11T11:51:00.005-05:00

I wanted to come up with a DIY Cupcake Stand to make for my kids birthday parties and I fell across this EASY CUPCAKE STAND. Check out how easy and quick this stand is to make.....

For the supplies grabbed some small glass candlesticks from the dollar store and some 6 inch plastic cake board circles from the craft store, $2.99 for a 3-pack. Not a pricey project at all.

Take some cute ribbon that goes along with your party and used a hot glue gun to glue it around the edges of the cake board.

To adhere the glass candlesticks to the cake board. You can use some E6000 (strong adhesive).

Just a cute, quick, inexpensive way to dress up a CUPCAKE!!!!!

Father's Day Quote...FREEBEE

2011-06-17T10:36:00.003-05:00

Here's a great freebee!!! Down load here. Print it big or small and put it in a frame or a card!!!! What a great Father's day gift!!!! Use special paper as a background. Happy Crafting!!!!

Father's Day Idea

2011-06-13T13:08:00.006-05:00

Here is a great Father's Day idea!!!Click here to go directly to the link to purchase one or you can make your own.

So here’s what you will need:

a 7×7 wood plaque

your choice of paint color

paint brush

vinyl lettering

dry erase vinyl

First you want to paint your board. Then apply the beige background vinyl. Then decided placement of my words and dry erase vinyl. Get a cute little easel and sit your little plaque on there and write a cute little note to daddy. Happy Crafting!!!!!

Big Juicy Burgers

2011-05-25T12:49:00.005-05:00

Here is one of the best burgers I have ever had!!!! Enjoy your holiday weekend!!!

Big Juicy Burgers
12 oz V8 Juice
3 slices white bread, torn into pieces
3 lbs ground beef
1 large egg
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
Microwave V8 juice in a glass bowl for 1 minute, add bread pieces and let cool. Combine with hands. Combine bread/juice mixture, beef, and remaining ingredients and shape into patties. Grill over direct heat for 8-10 minutes on each side. Serve with toasted buns and YUM YUM, enjoy!!!

2011-05-24T16:33:00.004-05:00

Here is a darling printable to do with you kids. Just click here, and it will take you right to the site!!!

What a great way to enjoy the holiday and teach your children a little something!!!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T05:56:00.008-05:00

Our family had a wonderful Easter celebration!!! Being together with family is what makes the Easter season so special. I hoped all of you enjoyed celebrating what the Easter season is all about.
I love decorating for Springtime!!! I makes the wait through winter worth it.
Enjoying all the fresh flowers all through the house makes me smile. Especially since I received a few extra sprays of flowers for my birthday.

Blessed Life

2011-04-23T07:48:00.005-05:00

Being that today is my birthday, I look back to all the adventures my life has brought me. Three beautiful children, a wonderful husband, and a loving family. On this day, I reevaluate my choices as a mother and a wife. I honestly can can say that I continue my journey through life with an amazing thought of gratitude toward all those blessings that have effected my life in such positives ways. Today I will celebrate my life as a mother, wife, sister, daughter, granddaughter, niece, friend and God's child. Happy Easter to you all!!!!

2011-04-16T12:52:00.003-05:00

Everyone loves a craft made from a child’s hand print. This cute little lamb is a fun craft for young children, ideal for preschoolers and even toddlers! Sit down with your little ones and make some of these hand print lambs to give to grandparents, teachers, friends or neighbors.

2011-04-16T12:17:00.001-05:00

A little bouquet of happiness

CUPCAKE CHAMP

2011-03-20T12:33:00.002-05:00

Such a busy last 2 weeks...Little cupcake went to the District Championships and won 1st place in the backstroke and 3rd in Medley Relay which qualified her for the big STATE/AREA meet this past weekend and WOW did she swim like a champ!!! Congrats to our little cupcake winning a 5th place and a 10th place out of over 50+ teams!!!!
In between meets we got a little break from swim team to enjoy a fun afternoon with cousins and friends at the American Girl Fashion show brunch. My little cupcake is a little Sweet Champ in our eyes!!!

So proud of herself!!!

2nd place team trophy

enjoying time with cousins and friends

Aly is in the GREEN CAP

Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Laura and our little CUPCAKE CHAMP

Our New Addition

2011-03-13T06:39:00.003-05:00

Welcome our new addition...OLIVER. He is such a sweet little puppy!!! The kids all love him and are doing really good with all the responsibilities that go along with having a dog.

2011-03-04T11:50:00.003-06:00

This where is all started....Meeting 2 Olympic Champions 2 years ago...Good Luck Cupcake at Districts...We Love you so much and are so very proud of you!!!!

2011-02-16T14:52:00.004-06:00

What a beautiful weekend from visiting with family, renewing our wedding vows to Baptising our twin niece's. Valentine's Day is a time to remember all the LOVE in your life.

God's Special Blessings...what a JOY

Proud Aunt Laura

Delaney and Lindsey on their Baptism

Daddy/Daughter Dance

Valentine's Day Breakfast

2011-02-14T06:26:00.002-06:00

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!! WISHING YOU ALL A VERY SWEET AND SPECIAL DAY!

CUPCAKE FONDUE

2011-01-29T07:28:00.004-06:00

This is just about the cutest idea I've seen in a long time. Cupcake Fondue, as seen on Pintsize Social by Amanda of Bake it Pretty. All you need is mini cupcakes (unfrosted), powdered sugar, a liquid (juice or milk), light corn syrup, and some dry toppings.

This would be a fun kids activity as well as a romantic Valentine's dessert idea. Check out the full recipe on Pintsize Social.

POLKA DOTS

2011-01-15T06:04:00.006-06:00

I have so many people ask me where I get my party supplies. Well here is a great store. It has a ton of polka dot items and a ton of different colors to choose from. I LOVE POLKA DOTS.!!!!!
So the next time you have a party, check out The POLKA DOT MARKET, you might just find what you are looking for to make your party a little more special.

Yummy Fondue

2011-01-11T06:24:00.006-06:00

When its chilly outside, nothing keeps you warmer than nice warm melted cheese. Here you will find the recipe for a yummy warm Artisanal Blend Cheese Fondue treat to share with friends and family.

Benjamin Jace

2011-01-03T19:16:00.002-06:00

Here is our new little nephew, Benjamin Jace...what a sweet little man

Montana 2010

2011-01-01T18:54:00.004-06:00

We had the most amazing holiday trip to Montana. Spent a week with family, went snowmobiling up in the mountains, sleigh ride with dinner up in a cabin in the mountains, went skiing, and connected with our family. These are memories we will remember forever.

Amazing view from our house

balcony in our home

Little cousin Benjamin Jace

Snowmobiling

2010-12-24T07:27:00.003-06:00

This is the time of year where I really reflect on my blessings!!! Thank you to all my family and friends who love, share, laugh, cry, pray, and talked with me. It really means EVERYTHING.... Merry Christmas to you all and have a safe and HAPPY New Year!!!!

Letters to Santa

2010-12-16T06:24:00.002-06:00

It's time to sit down with the little ones with a nice hot cup of hot chocolate and write your letters to Santa!

December Fun

2010-12-15T15:28:00.003-06:00

School Christmas Party

Girl Scout Christmas Party

Will scared of Santa

Zach playing a snowflake in School Christmas Program

Cute Stocking Stuffers

2010-12-13T07:49:00.011-06:00

These drinking glasses for the little ones are just so much fun! These Smenciles are just as fun for any age!!! Try this cutlery set...so easy for travel!! The Find-It-Game is also great for travel or when you need your little one to sit still for a while. Just a few little stocking stuffer ideas for your little ones!!!

A EASY YUMMY TREAT

2010-12-07T14:26:00.002-06:00

This is a sugar cookie with some added M&M's on top, then just wrap it up and give to a special friend!!!

SNOWMAN CRAFT

2010-12-03T08:28:00.002-06:00

Isn't this little guy cute! Just a few simple items: faux snow flakes, 2 mini fish bowl vases, felt fabric, adhesive gems, and googly eyes.
Simply fill each vase with the snow flakes and stack one on top of the other. Cut a small triangle from orange felt, for the nose, and a long strip from another color of your choice for the scarf. Cut fringe into the ends of the scarf and wrap it around where the vases connect. Use double stick tape to adhere the nose and to keep the scarf in place. Finally, use adhesive gems to create a mouth and buttons and apply googly eyes with double stick tape.

A great project for the kids! Make several using different color scarves and line them up on a mantle or down the center of a dining table. Happy Holidays!

2010-12-02T05:35:00.003-06:00

ALL YOU NEED IS A HOT GLUE GUN, A FEW CUTE SMALL ORNAMENTS AND A LITTLE PIECE OF FELT. CUTE GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL OR JUST A CRAFT FOR THE KIDDIES TO MAKE.

FROST FREE SNOWMAN

2010-12-01T19:42:00.002-06:00

Ever wonder what to do with all those shipping boxes that come to your house...well here is a SUPER FUN idea that the kids can do indoors until all that snow falls!!!!
FROST FREE SNOWMAN....

It's no snow job -- this Frosty requires neither a white Christmas nor freezing temperatures to spread his cheer. All he needs is a stack of leftover boxes, a few pompoms, tape, felt, and some white quilt batting. Bonus: he comes apart, making him easy to store during the off-season.

Materials

5 boxes in varying sizes (see the sizes we used, marked in the illustration)
8 yards of 48-inch-wide, 4-ounce batting
Clear packing tape
Double-sided foam tape
5 medium pom-poms (for the mouth)

8 large pom-poms (for eyes and buttons)
Scissors
7-inch square of orange felt
Hat and scarf

Instructions

Wrap box 1 with batting and secure it with packing tape. Tape together boxes 2 and 3 and boxes 4 and 5, then wrap them as well. Stack the wrapped boxes. Use double-sided foam tape to affix pom-pom eyes, mouth, and buttons to your snowman.
For a nose, trim the felt along the curved line as shown (A), then roll and tape it into a cone (B). Tape the nose to the head, then dress your snowman in a hat and scarf.

BEYOND BROWNIES...HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2010-11-25T10:01:00.010-06:00

Check out this AWESOME BROWNIE pan...one of OPRAH'S FAVORITES...I use it to make my BROWNIES....Here is the recipe....
Happy Thanksgiving from IT A THOMAN-FULL LIFE! In honor of the food-filled holiday, I want to share with you one of my all-time most cherished recipes— Chocolate Dream Brownies. I bake them for my family whenever things are CRAZY...and now you can enjoy them too as a sweet indulgence amidst the holiday hustle! Happy Turkey Day!

Ingredients:
2 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup sweet cocoa powder
2/3 cup flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups semi sweet OR milk chocolate chips OR chunks
1/2 - 1 cup walnuts (optional)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, use a spoon to stir eggs with sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Add softened butter.
Sift ground chocolate with flour, baking powder and salt.
Stir dry mixture into egg mixture until blended and smooth.
Add chips and nuts. (DO NOT OVER STIR!)
Pour and spread evenly into a greased 8" or 9" square pan.
Bake for 20-30 minutes—less time for chewy and more time for cake-like brownies.
Makes 16-20 brownies.
Cut into squares when cooled.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving with vanilla ice cream :)

HOOT HOOT FOR THANKSGIVING

2010-11-21T06:37:00.003-06:00

HAVE A HOOTIN THANKSGIVING!!!

Thanksgiving Decorating

2010-11-19T20:53:00.005-06:00

Flag your guests down for dinner with place cards made from ribbon and gourds. Cut wire-edge ribbon into a flag shape, wrap the end around a toothpick, and hot-glue it in place. Write your guests names with paint pen.

Bright and bold, this eye-pleasing centerpiece grabs attention. Fill a glass hurricane container with kumquats, top with a pinecone-shape candle, and tuck in a few evergreen sprigs. Tie a silk bow around the container, leaving one ribbon tail gracefully longer.

Trick or Treat

2010-10-29T05:25:00.002-05:00

Trick or Treating at the Assisted Living Complex with Alyssa's Girl Scout Troop. All the girls had so much fun but it was even more special for the residents.

TWIN GIRLS

2010-10-24T15:33:00.002-05:00

My brother Ty and wife Kim had twin girls this morning. Delaney and Lindsey...2 darling little blessings

GIVE THANKS

2010-10-20T05:22:00.003-05:00

Turkey of Gratitude

Build in a lesson of how to give thanks this Thanksgiving. This kids Thanksgiving craft is easy to make and good for all ages. Ask each child to write what she’s thankful for on a paper feather, then stick it into this cute turkey centerpiece. If you make this turkey a week or two in advance, you can have your children add a feather each day until Thanksgiving arrives

Zachary turns 4

2010-10-11T14:47:00.005-05:00

Our Little Buddy... 4 years old

Little William

Our little cowboys and cowgirl

Daddy getting ready for a hooting good time

my beautiful blessings

cookies...yum

good ole fashion pies

wearing the pinata

I am the law round these here parts

Yummy Cake

Zach is sooooo excited

Taking a big breath

BABY BOY

2010-10-09T07:28:00.002-05:00

JOE AND NONG HAD A BEAUTIFUL BABY BOY...I AM AN AUNTIE AGAIN!!!!

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL BLESSING FOR OUR FAMILY. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

Zachary 4th Karate Birthday

2010-09-26T12:15:00.005-05:00

ZACHARY ALWAYS HAS A GOOD TIME NO MATTER WHAT HE IS DOING, BUT HAVING A PARTY FOR HIM...HE COULD NOT WAIT!!! ALL THE KIDS WERE TAUGHT HOW TO BREAK A BOARD AND IT WAS SO MUCH FUN TO WATCH ALL THEIR FACES WHEN THEY ACCOMPLISHED IT!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY OUR LITTLE BUDDY, ZACHARY!!!

ZACH'S FRIENDS CELEBRATING HIS 4TH BIRTHDAY

TREATS BAGS FOR THE KIDDOS...

YUMMY CAKE AND COOKIES TO EAT!!!

CONCENTRATING...

SETTING HIMSELF UP...

AHHHHYAHHH!!!!

TAKING A BIG BREATH TO BLOW OUT THE SPARKLE CANDLE #4

CUTTING THE CAKE, ZACH LOVED THIS!

CUTTING HIS CAKE WITH A REAL SWORD...

WHERE IS ZACH IN THIS PICTURE?

HERE HE IS....

2010-09-23T21:50:00.001-05:00

HAVE A SWEET DAY!!!

Kim and Ty's Baby Shower

2010-09-20T13:33:00.003-05:00

2 Peas in a Pod....

Can't wait to meet the twins....

I hope this diaper cake will get the twins through the first few weeks....

Kim's favorite flower are Gerber Daisies....so cute

CUPCAKE BALLOON

2010-09-17T06:41:00.004-05:00

As many of you know, our daughter's nick name is CUPCAKE and when I saw this I could not resist to blog it. You can check out Hip Hip Hoooray,
she has a love for cupcakes too.

Disney Cruise 2010

2010-09-10T12:55:00.005-05:00

All I can say is that Disney really knows how to do things right!! We had the most AMAZING Disney Cruise of our life. We all got a little teary eyed when we had to leave the ship to go home. We will definitely be going back. Thanks Disney for showing our family such an amazing and special vacation. These memories will stay with us forever!!!

Crusin with MICKEY MOUSE!!!

Safety First!!!!

The Cousins

Sweethearts!!!!

Captain Hook

2 little pirates

Zach and Minnie

Uncle Jimmy re-proposed to Aunt Sandy after 35 years of marriage, they will renew their wedding vows

Celebrating our 9th Wedding Anniversary

The kids had animals made out of towels waiting for them in the evenings, every night in the room.

My Family, My Blessings

William's Surgery

2010-09-01T13:02:00.003-05:00

Here are some before and after pictures of Williams hospital visit....He was so happy until the doctors all started coming in to visit him in his room.

Enjoying a Popsicle after surgery and loving it!

2010-08-20T09:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday William Russell

Alyssa's first day of 3rd grade

2010-08-19T11:16:00.007-05:00

Our little 3rd grader!!!

Backpack has three on it for the 3rd grade

Officially a 3rd grader

Teacher and Alyssa

Sitting in her new desk

William's First Birthday 2010

2010-08-15T22:04:00.017-05:00

Little Will is one

YUMMY'S

WILL FEEDING THE CAKE TO MIKE

FAMILY

LOOK AT THAT FACE!!!

SHOWING OFF THEIR NEW SOCK MONKEY NECKLACES

Our baby has turned 1 year old!!! Time has gone by so fast. I remember when baby Will was born, it just seems like yesterday. You have been such a blessing in our lives and I thank our heavenly father every day for giving our family such a joyful gift...WILLIAM RUSSELL

William's First Haircut, Twins Party, Lunch with Minette

2010-08-10T07:32:00.007-05:00

Our baby boy had his first haircut. He was a perfect angel as long as he sucked on his sucker

Before

After

Will missed Bree so much!! He was so happy to see her

The twins Birthday party at Aunt Patti's house. WILL IS SOOO BIG!!

Having lunch with Minette

Happy Boy

Belt Ceremony, Swim Banquet, Camp

2010-07-31T06:11:00.004-05:00

Zach is so proud of is combat green belt. He is ready to break another board

Receiving his new belt

Brotherly Love

Swim trophy ceremony

Cheer-leading and Gymnastic Camp

Chef Uncle Joey Want-To-Be's and One Funny Zachary

2010-07-30T10:44:00.007-05:00

Zachary and Alyssa got first hand instruction from Uncle Joey making Mickey Mouse pancakes!! They had a blast!!! Your hired Uncle Joey. Can't wait to get more lessons this Christmas when we come to visit.
Summer swimming has come to an end. The kids did really good. Alyssa made it to Conference and next year with alot of practice, maybe Zach will too. Now we look forward to the upcoming school year...we are all ready!!!

2010-07-27T06:28:00.003-05:00

The Perfect Neighbor Gift: Mason Jar Cupcakes

These jars full of cupcake goodness are about the best thing I’ve seen this side of anywhere! I would LOVE to get this on my doorstep. Maybe Kelly of According to Kelly wants to send me one all the way from California! Such a cute idea, love the ribbon and spoon! Head on over to Kelly’s for the details.

Our Baby Girl turns 8

2010-07-21T06:07:00.020-05:00

Our little girl is 8 years old!! We remember the day you were born. You are such a blessing and you bring us so much joy!! We all had a BLAST celebrating your birthday. We love you so much Alyssa!!!!

Pinata and treats for the cousins

Under The Sea Cake..YUMMY

Cookies, cookies and more cookies

treat bags for the kids

More goodies

Meg and Zach

just chillin

Family

Big Mike playing with the kidos

Big Jon

The Patty's

Just got there new flippers

flippin for flip flops

Little Will Will

Blowing out her candles, she is officially 8 years old

Our Little Patient

2010-07-20T07:06:00.007-05:00

Zachary went into the hospital to have tubes put in his ears, and when her came out of surgery, he said," Mommy, I can hear so much better." He now is asking us all to stop talking so loud. He is doing GREAT. Way to go Zach!!! You are such a brave little boy!

Taking his sleepy medicine

Doctor and Zach

Going in for surgery

A LOOPY little boy

2010-07-11T20:53:00.004-05:00

The family enjoyed celebrating 80 years of Aunt Rose's wonderful life!!. It is always so much fun getting family and friends together. Not only is Aunt Rose one of the sweetest people you will ever know, she has the heart of a Saint. She is always there for everyone in the family. She is our family ROCK and we could not be more excited to share this joyful moment in her life.
HAPPY 80th BIRTHDAY AUNT ROSE!!! WE ALL LOVE AND ADORE YOU SO MUCH!!!

Aunt Rose is a PRINCESS for the DAY!

Jen and Aunt Rose

Aunt Joanne and Uncle Andy

Aunt Beth, Father Jim and Little Will

Ann and Joan

Meg and Erin

Uncle Russ and Meg

Jon, Uncle Rick and Aunt Patti

Jim and Uncle Brad

Pat and Meg

Mike and Bree

Aunt Rose, Aunt Jo, and Little Will

Aunt Rose and Zachary

The Little Niece's and Nephew

Joe and Nong's Shower

2010-07-05T09:24:00.014-05:00

JOE AND NONG ARE HAVING A BABY!!!!!

Grandpapa and Zachary having a BLAST

Aunt Kimmie, Jen, and Cousin Kristin

The 3 MOMMY'S TO BE...YES ALL 3 ARE EXPECTING

All the kiddos trying to fit into a box

All the COUSINS

Joe and Nong are having a BABY!
Here are some fun photos of their shower

Summer Vacation 2010

2010-06-27T08:16:00.025-05:00

JELLYSTONE, AIRPLANES, AND DISNEY OH MY...

CELEBRATING SISSY'S BIRTHDAY WITH THE DISNEY CHARACTERS

TIMEOUT TO DO SOME CRAFTS

MEETING THE PILOT

10 MONTHS..9 TEETH AND WALKING OH MY!!!

HANGING OUT WITH THE COUSINS

WANTING TO BE LIKE A SUPER HERO!!!

A WELL DESERVED DATE NIGHT

William is 10 Months

2010-06-26T04:48:00.003-05:00

I CAN'T BELIEVE HOW FAST MY BABY IS GROWING UP, HE IS 10 MONTHS OLD

FATHER'S DAY CRAFT FOR KIDS TO DO

2010-06-17T19:09:00.004-05:00

With Father's day coming up, we are ready to make and give him something fun. We wanted it to be a present that is a little more meaningful than a tie or golf clubs. So we are going to share with him 25 things we love about him in a handmade book. It's 25 things that make us smile and cheer for Dad. This is a real treat for Dad and for the kiddos!!!

Eucharistic Procession 2010

2010-06-10T05:33:00.006-05:00

What a special weekend Alyssa was involved in. She was asked to be a flower girl in the Eucharistic Procession at our church. Such a honor for such a little girl. One of the parishioners made a veil for her to wear and she threw fresh rose pedals from one church all the way to the school church (about a mile walk). She Did did it with such grace and pose.

Aly got to wear her communion dress again for the big event

What a darling little face

Little Will Will

Big brother Zach

Dance Recital 2010

2010-06-06T06:28:00.002-05:00

Alyssa had her end of the year Dance Recital. Her performance was Lilac Fairy and she was a showstopper!!! It is always so cute to watch your little ones perform what they have learned and practiced all year long. So proud of our little CUPCAKE!!

Voilin Recital

2010-06-04T21:09:00.006-05:00

Each child is individual; pray that God will help you in developing that individual character

Alyssa had her end of the year violin and singing recital. All the hard work has really paid off. She had so much fun and was really able to enjoy herself this year. She said to me afterwards how proud of herself she was.

Happy Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-30T12:27:00.007-05:00

Last day of second grade is always a bittersweet moment!! I did not cry like I did last year. My little girl is growing up and watching her grow has been easier on me. She has changed so much and has grown into a self confident little women. I am so proud of her.

As you watch your child grow, pray for meekness in that young spirit--a spirit that will grow in the likeness of Christ

Will's first Steak N' Shake outing

Happy Memorial Day

William is 9 month old

2010-05-21T14:15:00.003-05:00

William is 9 months old!! I can't believe how fast this has gone. It was just yesterday when I was pregnant with him. Will Will is such a sweet little boy and LOVES to hang out with big brother and big sissy. Will is just about to walk, which does not surprise me. He tries to keep up with the other two kids!! He always has a smile on his face as you can see. It won't be long when his first birthday is here. I am already planning the BIG celebration.

William at 8 months

2010-05-12T05:18:00.003-05:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2010-05-09T06:14:00.003-05:00

To all the Mother's, Wishing you a VERY SPECIAL Mother's DAY!! God has blessed every Mother with a special gift!!! Many blessings to you all.

First Communion

2010-04-19T19:54:00.009-05:00

Alyssa made her First Holy Communion and it was such a special event for her. The whole family celebrated her memorable day. Thank you to everyone who participated in Alyssa's joyful day and for those who were unable to be here, you were in spirit with her. God Bless

Easter Celebration 2010

2010-04-05T18:08:00.009-05:00

What a fun and exciting Easter this year. Not only did we celebrate our Lord's Resurrection, but we celebrated our new son, William's first Easter. Uncle Rick and Aunt Patti had such a joyful Easter celebration with the whole family. The kids loved the meal, egg hunt and especially the visit from the Easter bunny.

Easter Bunny and William

William, Meg and Erin

Dapper Zachary James

Erin and William

Mommy, William and Daddy

Cupcake and Daddy

Mommy and little Zachary James

Brother and Sissy

Happy Easter! Our Lord Has Risen...Alleluia !!!

2010-04-04T11:38:00.004-05:00

Each and every day I remind myself of just how blessed our family is to be able to capture such memories.

LOOK AT THIS FACE!!!!

2010-03-29T12:31:00.004-05:00

I wonder what little RY RY ate for dinner?
Can you guess?

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-03-28T17:07:00.008-05:00

Little Ryan met the Easter bunny for the first time and he LOVED the bunny!!!
No crying with this little guy!

All the cousins having a fun time with the Easter bunny..check out little Ry Ry's smile:)))

Aunt Lori and Zach Attack...

Uncle Wallce and little RY RY with Easter bunny

Alyssa holding a real baby bunny

Zachary was very gentle with the bunny this year

Little Will Will with the bunny for the first time and he loved him!!!!

We had so much fun with Uncle Wallace, Aunt Lori and little RY RY (that's what the kids call him). Thanks for sharing such a special Easter memory with our family. It is always so much fun hunting for Easter eggs, watching the kids laughing together, and just sharing time with family. We love you!!!

Yo Gabba Gabba Concert 2010

2010-03-22T10:29:00.004-05:00

The kids had a blast at the concert and Will slept through half of it!! So much fun to meet all the characters. I think Zachary was a little STAR STRUCK when he met them at first. The kids even got to go on stage and BEE..BOP with the DJ!! What a memory...

TEACHING THE MEANING OF EASTER

2010-03-18T05:01:00.005-05:00

An Easter Activity for Family Home Evening

I can’t take credit for this idea–these are sometimes called Resurrection Eggs and they’ve been around for a few years. My daughter has done this activity at school and it is a great learning tool for little ones to really learn the real meaning of Easter.

Preparation
(1) Number (with stickers or a marker) 12 plastic Easter eggs.
(2) Put the following items in the respective eggs:

one: a leaf–real or plastic (if it vaguely resembles a palm branch, all the better)
two: a piece of cloth with a little perfume on it
three: a piece of a tortilla, pita, or bread or white clay shaped to look like flat bread
four: a picture of Jesus with children or of a temple or a picture of your family
five: three dimes
six: a piece of purple cloth or paper
seven: a cross made out of wood, toothpicks, popsicle sticks, paper, or brown clay
eight: a nail
nine: a piece of paper that says THE KING OF THE JEWS
ten: a little bundle (wrapped in fabric, a baggie, plastic wrap, etc.) of spices–cloves would be nice
eleven: a stone–rounded would be best
twelve: leave empty

(3) If you have a Gospel Art Picture Kit, get these pictures: 223, 225, 227, 228, 230, 232.

The Activity
You can have your children take turns opening the eggs (be sure to go in order by the numbers). Here are the explanations for the items in each egg; I’ve made them appropriate for a four-year-old; scale up or down as necessary.

One: When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the people waved branches because thatâ€™s what people used to do when a king walked by.

Two: Later, Jesus had a special dinner with his friends. A woman came and poured perfume on his head. This showed that she knew that he was the Christ and she knew that he would die soon.

Three: The next day, Jesus had another special meal with his friends. We call this The Last Supper. This is when the sacrament began, because Jesus said that people who followed Him should have bread and wine or water to help them remember Him.

Four: Jesus went to a garden to pray. Here, he suffered for our sins. Because He did this for us, we can repent and live in heaven again.

Five: Judas was supposed to be one of Jesusâ€™ special helpers, but instead he helped other men arrest Jesus. He did this because those men paid him money.

Six: After Jesus was arrested, the soldiers were really mean to Him and made fun of Him. One thing that they did was to put a purple robe on Him. Only kings wore purple robes. They didnâ€™t realize that He really was a Kingâ€”they were just teasing Him because people thought He was a king!

Seven: Jesus was crucified.

Eight: When the soldiers put Jesus on the cross, they pounded nails into His hands and feet.

Nine: Another thing the soldiers did to make fun of Jesus was to put a sign on the cross that said â€œTHE KING OF THE JEWS.â€? Again, they thought they were making fun of Himâ€”they didnâ€™t realize that He really was the King of the Jews!

Ten: After Jesus died, His friends put his body in a tomb. Later, some of the women who followed Him came to the tomb to put spices on His body. That was something they did back then when someone died.

Eleven: The tomb had a rock that could roll over the opening to seal it. While the women were walking to the tomb, they wondered how they would get the stone out of the way.

Twelve: When they got to the tomb, they were amazed to find that the stone had been rolled out of the wayâ€”and Jesusâ€™ body was gone! Then an angel came and told them, â€œHe is risen; he is not hereâ€? (Mark 16:66). This egg is empty because Jesusâ€™ tomb was empty. Jesusâ€™ tomb was empty because He was resurrected! (You may want to share your testimony of the resurrection at this point.)

Here are the scriptures that go along with each egg if you want them. You could either print them out, cut them up, and place the appropriate one in each egg, or you could read them as you explain what is in each egg.

#1: â€œAnd many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way. And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord:â€? (Mark 11:8-9)

#2: â€œAnd being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as [Jesus] sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head.â€? (Mark 14:3)

#3: â€œAnd as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.â€? (Mark 14:22)

#4: â€œFor behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent; but if they would not repent they must suffer even as I; which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spiritâ€”and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrinkâ€”nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.â€? (D & C 19:16-19)

#5 â€œAnd Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.â€? (Mark 14:10-11)

#6: â€œAnd the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and they call together the whole band. And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head, and began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews!â€? (Mark 15:16-18)

#7: â€œAnd it was the third hour, and they crucified him.â€? (Mark 15:25)

#8: â€œBehold the wounds which pierced my side, and also the prints of the nails in my hands and feet; be faithful, keep my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Amen.â€? (D & C 6:37)

#9: â€œAnd the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS.â€? (Mark 15:26)

#10: â€œAnd when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.â€? (Mark 16:1)

#11: â€œAnd they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.â€? (Mark 16:3-4)

#12: â€œAnd he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.â€? (Mark 16:6)

We’ve done this activity for a few years now and my children always enjoy it.

Disney On Ice Field Trip

2010-03-16T14:27:00.002-05:00

Zach had his first field trip to Disney On Ice. He had a super time!!!

William at 7 months, Alyssa Blessing of the cup

2010-03-08T13:53:00.006-06:00

Little Will at 7 months old

William has turned 7 months and he is now starting to crawl...look out here he comes!! Alyssa had her Blessing of the Cup retreat this weekend and read some of the sweetest letters from friends and family. Thank you to all of you who took the time to write a letter, it really was a tearful moment reading all of them.

Girl Scout Religion Award

2010-02-28T16:34:00.005-06:00

Alyssa earned her Religion Award today and there was a special prayer service at church to recognize her special achievement....We are so proud of her, she has worked on this for a number of months.
ENJOY watching this sweet video..

How To Do A Cupcake Pop

2010-02-21T13:19:00.004-06:00

Many of my followers have asked me how I make my Cupcake pops, well it is so easy and I have a video from the lady who inspired me to start making them for our little Cupcake, Alyssa...click on the link and enjoy. These treats are truly fun, easy and delicious to enjoy.

Valentines Day Cupcake

2010-02-16T09:19:00.002-06:00

Cupcake and her teacher celebrating Valentines Day

OUR SWEET HEART

I KNOW...CUPCAKE RICE KRISPY TREATS FOR ALYSSA'S FRIENDS AT SCHOOL...A LITTLE CRAZY..BUT WHAT DO YOU EXPECT...CUPCAKES FROM CUPCAKE

Valentines Day Party, Daddy/ Daughter Dance, and William is 6 months old

2010-02-13T12:30:00.006-06:00

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE

VALENTINES DAY PARTY AT SCHOOL

WILLIAM IS 6 MONTHS OLD

Mother and Daughter Tea Party 2010

2010-02-08T12:34:00.002-06:00

Alyssa and Hanna...BFF's

Alyssa made a tea party hat out of wrapping paper

Showcasing their COUTURE hats....

Toddler Sewing Card

2010-01-29T21:00:00.013-06:00

Need a quick and easy activity to hand to your toddler so you can get a few things done? You probably already have all the supplies you need to make this toddler sewing card project, and it only takes a minute to put together. This should keep your toddler busy for a little while!

Materials:

Piece of construction paper or cardstock
Length of yarn
Pipe cleaner
Ball point pen
Hand towel

Instructions:

1. Place paper on towel, and poke holes in paper with pen. You can use a random pattern or a pattern that forms a picture, like a heart.

2. Make a “needle” with a short length of pipe cleaner. Bend the end of the pipe cleaner securely around the length of yarn.

3. Your toddler can use the pipe cleaner “needle” to sew through the marked holes. You will probably want to demonstrate it for him/her, and get him/her started.

That’s all there is to it! Don’t be too structured – allow your toddler to sew into whatever holes she wants to. There’s no wrong way to do this fun activity!

My Cowboys/Cowgirl

2010-01-26T05:03:00.004-06:00

Here is a cute picture of our little Cowboys/Cowgirl
They love to dress up and play pretend and even get the little guy in the act!!!

Valentines Day

2010-01-24T16:40:00.002-06:00

Can you all tell how excited I am for Valentine's Day!!! I have to change my blog for each holiday. I know I am a little CRAZY but at least I am enjoying it!! I love to blog to keep you all updated on what's going on and to give you some fun and exciting ideas for upcoming holidays. I will soon post some fun Valentine crafts to do with your kiddos before the YUMMY (chocolate) day comes along. I already told Jim what I would like...if you all know me you probably already figured out that I asked for M&M's...my obsession..HEHEHE

Update.....

2010-01-23T20:36:00.012-06:00

So much has gone on in the past week...Alyssa climbed the wall and she was so excited to finally get to the top and ring the bell, Zach had a "Bring a friend day" at karate and he wanted to bring his cousin Niki, the two of them had a BLAST!!! And our little Will turned 5 months old. He is such a sweet baby and loves having his picture taken!!!

Set The Table For A New Year 2010

2010-01-14T21:17:00.002-06:00

Forget what Miss Manners once said and start encouraging your kids to talk while they eat (after they swallow, of course)! Dinnertime is the perfect time to hear about their day, their opinions, and what’s going on in their little heads. Get past the one word answers and make your kids give you a mouthful of conversation. While getting to know your kids on a deeper level, you’ll also be giving them practice at thinking quickly, forming arguments and opinions, and expressing their thoughts. You will really get a giggle out of what comes out of your little ones MOUTHS!!!

Simple conversation starters will get the ball rolling and before you know it, your kids will be bringing a lot more to the table than hungry bellies. Try some of these conversation starters or make up your own:

What was the __________ (choose one: funniest . . . most surprising . . . most predictable . . . dullest) thing that happened to you today?
If you were writing a newspaper article about your day, what would be the headline?
Teach us one thing that you learned today that you think we don’t know yet.
If you had one hour alone with the President of the U.S., what would you want to discuss or talk about?
Which cartoon character would you most like to have as a next door neighbor? Why?
If you won the lottery (or won $100) what is the first thing you would buy?
Imagine you had an identical twin; name three things that would be really great about having an identical twin and three things that would be “not so great.”
Which fairy tale character would you most like to take a vacation with? Why?
If you were a plant and could be planted anywhere in the world, what kind of plant would you be? Where would you like to be planted and grow?
If you could go on a vacation anywhere in the world, where would you go?
If the sky suddenly started to rain candy, what candy would you want it to rain?
If you were to take a time machine 50 years into the future, what do you think life will be like? What will you do with your free time? How do you think people will communicate or prepare food?
What kind of car would you say you are most like? If you could be any car, which one would you choose?
If you could invite any famous person to your birthday party, who would it be? Why?
If you could create a national chain of restaurants designed for kids, what would you call it? What kinds of food would you serve? What would the theme of the restaurant be?
If you had to choose one modern convenience, appliance, or technology that you just couldn’t live without, what would it be?
What was the best birthday party you remember having? Tell what you remember about it.
Where will you be, and what do you think you will be doing in 10 -15 years?
If you had a choice, would you rather live in the city or the country? Why?
If you could be a TV producer, what would be the name of your new show? Who would you get to star in it? What would your show be about?
In the movie about your life, what actor would play you? Your best friend? Your family members?

Another way to get the table talk going is to play a little game. President Obama plays a game with his family called “Roses and Thorns.” Everyone takes a turn describing a good thing that happened that day (rose) and a low moment or tough problem they had to deal with (thorn) during the day. Whatever the approach, set your dinner table with conversation to strengthen relationships and make memories to last a lifetime.

UPDATE 2010

2010-01-10T05:55:00.005-06:00

Brooke and the kids

Brooke's graduation party was a blast!!! The kids had so much fun getting piggy back rides from Brooke's parents and friends.

Zach's first day of Karate...he was so excited as you can see on his face!!

Christmas is about FAMILY

2010-01-04T14:44:00.004-06:00

Christmas is all about family and when I look back at all the photos that were taken over the holidays, I just keep telling myself how blessed our family really is to have each other...
The cousins!!!

William always smiles...what a happy baby!!!

The kids just woke up...Zach always has such BEDHEAD!!!

Hawaii 2009

2010-01-01T01:00:00.003-06:00

WE HAD SUCH A SUPER FUN DAY IN HAWAII...HELICOPTER RIDE..AND A FUN NEW YEAR DINNER WITH MY BROTHER...THANKS FOR THE GREAT COMPANY AND THE SWEET GIFTS