tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84871647152799159052024-03-14T03:40:34.303-05:00The Sweet LifeJessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-90344904976517358932011-07-06T12:56:00.003-05:002011-07-06T13:15:50.857-05:00So What! Wednesday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z17RQmgsOVY/ThSh4gabPuI/AAAAAAAAAQk/-N-03cmUB4s/s1600/SWWbutton.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 188px; height: 125px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z17RQmgsOVY/ThSh4gabPuI/AAAAAAAAAQk/-N-03cmUB4s/s320/SWWbutton.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626299826638110434" /></a><br /><br />It's So What! Wednesday from <a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/?p=1584">Life After I Dew</a>. <br /><br />So What! if....<br /><br /><br />~~ It's X amount of days till my big trip and I haven't done a single thing to prepare for it....not a thing! <br /><br />~~ I have an insane amount of laundry to fold and put away.<br /><br />~~ I'm slightly jealous that some of my friends have their husbands home on RnR already...even though I'm so glad we are waiting till later in the deployment. <br /><br />~~ If I used the Casey Anthony trial to show my son what a bad mother truly is and told him to stop treating me like I am one. Hey it shut him up really quick. <br /><br />~~ I get annoyed when people tell me "Oh you're such a strong person" blah blah blah...not strong just have to do what I have to do to get through another day.<br /><br />~~ I'm ready to cut family out of my life and before anyone gets upset, I don't mean all my family, just some. My Army family is better anyway. <br /><br />~~ I sometimes wish we didn't have a dog. It would make my life a bit easier but hey I love her so guess I'm stuck. <br /><br />~~ I don't really care anymore.<br /><br /><br /><br />Ok I realize my So What! seems like a lot of complaining but sometimes it's nice to just put some things out there.<br /><br />Now what are you saying So What! to?<br /><br />Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-42845201755961584692011-06-29T16:11:00.002-05:002011-06-29T16:13:40.258-05:00Wordless WednesdayI'm still on a high from my retreat so instead of So What Wednesday I decided to do Wordless Wednesday. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MWzvikGzj_Y/TguVOAGMFzI/AAAAAAAAAQc/YLaH1r2Uv-g/s1600/269789_10150243701759308_505484307_7080753_5827485_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 191px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MWzvikGzj_Y/TguVOAGMFzI/AAAAAAAAAQc/YLaH1r2Uv-g/s320/269789_10150243701759308_505484307_7080753_5827485_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623752627478861618" /></a><br /><br /><br />Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-44815498737926572792011-06-22T11:54:00.004-05:002011-06-22T12:14:01.142-05:00So What Wednesday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qB6k-zTYaEE/TgIeeJga5VI/AAAAAAAAAQU/b5KUJxAzeeE/s1600/SWWbutton.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 188px; height: 125px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qB6k-zTYaEE/TgIeeJga5VI/AAAAAAAAAQU/b5KUJxAzeeE/s320/SWWbutton.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621088788208608594" /></a><br /><br />This week I'm saying SO What! if...<br /><br />I put on sweats in the middle of the day just because I can.<br /><br />I've completely slacked on house work this week. I spent the week focusing on having lots of fun with my kids instead.<br /><br />I bought a ton of sweet baked goods at the farmers market even though I'm trying to lose weight. I did buy spinach, does that make you happy?<br /><br />I enjoy looking at the eye candy at the gym. I'm sexually deprived for your freedom, I can look. Get over it. <br /><br />I have given my kids more hotdogs since the Mister left than I think I have their entire life. They don't complain, why should anyone else?<br /><br /><br /><br />What are you saying "SO WHAT!" to?Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-63356816929974789502011-06-12T17:30:00.000-05:002011-06-12T21:01:10.254-05:00Deployment Check-inAt the beginning of the year instead of New Year Resolutions I posted <a href="http://craftysahmama.blogspot.com/2011/01/deployment-goals.html">Deployment Goals</a>. We are now almost 3 months into the deployment and I thought it was time to check in to see how I'm doing on these goals. <br /><br />Let's take a look....<br /><br /><br />** Focus on and survive my first year of school. ~~~~ <strong>I did great on my first 2 8 week blocks and I'm now enjoying summer break. Love it so far.</strong> <br /><br />** Finally get around to decorating my house after 6 months of living here. ~~~~ <strong>I'm actually making progress with this one! I've redone my bathroom, finally added pictures to the walls in 2 rooms, and my mantle finally looks finished! I still have more to do but I'm doing it. </strong><br /><br />** Paint kitchen cabinets and walls finally! ~~~~ <strong>Yeah I haven't done this one yet. Sorry. If anyone in the area wants to come help that would be fantastic!</strong><br /><br />** Become a real runner again. ~~~~ <strong>I finally started running....2 days ago...hey at least I started. This week I'm registering for the Lake Placid Turkey Trot (5K)so I will be forced to train. Go me!</strong><br /><br /><br />** Grow closer to God. ~~~~ <strong>I realize this one is a personal one but yes I'm learning to draw closer to God during all of this.</strong><br /><br /><br />** Strengthen my friendship and marriage with my husband. ~~~~ <strong>Hmm well this one I'm not sure about yet. We rarely get to talk because the phones are always down. But when we do talk it's like we haven't skipped a beat so that's a good thing. </strong><br /><br /><br />** Take several road trips. ~~~~ <strong>I have my road trip all planned...it's scheduled for next month. I'm not revealing the dates yet. Sorry. But we are hitting up DC, SC, FL, and KY. maybe a few other places in there too. </strong><br /><br />** Make everyday the best I can for my children. ~~~~ <strong>I'm definitely trying.</strong> <br /><br />** Take on new projects and adventures. ~~~~ <strong>I've done a little bit of both but I can't wait to do more in the remaining months of this deployment.</strong> <br /><br /><br /><br />Ok so there's my updates. Anyone else have updates they'd like to share????Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-39932489936835868372011-05-20T08:00:00.002-05:002011-05-20T08:00:11.609-05:00MilSpouse Friday Fill-In!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kEsqBcrlVmE/TdWv_D1Nd-I/AAAAAAAAAQI/eXHXqZ4y3AM/s1600/milspouse-friday-fill-in.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 110px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kEsqBcrlVmE/TdWv_D1Nd-I/AAAAAAAAAQI/eXHXqZ4y3AM/s320/milspouse-friday-fill-in.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608582408854927330" /></a><br />Hosted by <a href="http://wifeofasailor.com/">Wife of a Sailor</a><br /><br />I decided to join in on the fun! Click on the link above if you want to join in as well!<br /><br /><br /><br />1.What is one of the things you always do special when your husband returns from a deployment? <br /><br />Well we've only completed one so far but we took a vacation sans kids. It was the honeymoon we never had! After this deployment we want to take another vacation just the two of us. It's great to be able to enjoy the "honeymoon" phase again. <br /><br /><br /><br />2.What do you do to help your spouse and/or yourself re-adjust after a deployment or long separation? <br /><br />I try to include him in everything. Many women go into the "I can do it by myself" mode after their husband comes home because let's face it, we do it all by ourselves when they are gone. However I go back to letting him do all the normal things he would do. Let him rearrange a room, or reorganize a closet or something that is only his. I want him to feel that even after a year away, this is still his home and that he still belongs here. Also let him make new rules with the kids. For him that's the hardest part because he remembers the rules from a year ago. Seeing his face when his son says "No Daddy, that's not how we do it anymore" is just heartbreaking. Make sure and leave room for them to come back into your life. <br /><br /><br /><br />3.Are you a crazy coupon clipper (I’m becoming one, so share your secrets with me)? <br /><br />Heck no. Although I do have my moments where it intrigues me. I just don't have the patience or time for it. <br /><br /><br />4.What’s your most treasured memory of you and your spouse (not counting your wedding – that’s a given)? <br /><br />I would have to say our 2 week trip to England after his first deployment. Since we got pregnant so quickly into our relationship {don't judge :P}, we've not had the chance to travel together alone or just be adventurous. We missed out on a lot of the fun stuff together. Those 2 weeks were amazing and we got to see each other in a new way and fall in love all over again. It was a magical trip and I'd take it again in a heartbeat. <br /><br /><br /><br />5.If you could live anywhere overseas, what would you pick and why? <br /><br />Oh gosh! I'd gladly live anywhere overseas! Send me to Germany please!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-52368992331976187942011-02-07T15:07:00.003-06:002011-02-07T15:18:35.476-06:00SpecialMy maternal grandmother was always so special to me. I like to think we had a special relationship. We have a large family with lots of grand kids but she always made sure to take time for each and every one of us. She was loved for her cooking as well. Especially her banana pudding (which she showed me how to make one day! I will take her secrets to the grave with me. :)) and her chicken and dumplings. When I had my son (8 years ago...eeekk!!) she brought me a huge pot of her famous Chicken and Dumplings. They were amazing. For some reason though I never returned her pot to her. I always felt bad for never giving it back but in my defense we moved to 700 miles away just 18 months later. She died 4 years ago. Now I'm glad I never gave it back to her. I know it's just a silly pot but to me it's so much more than that. Tonight I'm making homemade chicken noodle soup and of course will be using that pot. I always use it whenever I make any type of chicken dish. When I do, I like to think my grandmother is there, making the food extra special. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TVBhRjCp3sI/AAAAAAAAAPY/YKmsgLGkwLw/s1600/2011-02-07%2B16.03.14.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TVBhRjCp3sI/AAAAAAAAAPY/YKmsgLGkwLw/s320/2011-02-07%2B16.03.14.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571059693149347522" /></a><br /><br /><br />Do you have something "special" from a lost loved one that makes you smile inside?Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-7071320449162761702011-02-02T18:47:00.006-06:002011-02-02T18:55:44.574-06:00Snow daysSnow days rock!! The kids and the mister were off today due to the snow "storm". I say storm loosely because we've certainly seen worse here in the North Country. Here are a few pictures. A lot of the snow we've actually had for about a month now. <br /><br />Before mister started shoveling. I am looking out my front door when I took this picture. (the white house is not mine)<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUn7vba6ksI/AAAAAAAAAO8/6fADc_oDI6Q/s1600/2011-02-02%2B13.58.44.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUn7vba6ksI/AAAAAAAAAO8/6fADc_oDI6Q/s320/2011-02-02%2B13.58.44.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569259206453400258" /></a><br /><br />The mister exhausted after shoveling all sidewalks and driveway. <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUn8Ky2LHZI/AAAAAAAAAPE/xxjuVEQLV3M/s1600/2011-02-02%2B17.06.53.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUn8Ky2LHZI/AAAAAAAAAPE/xxjuVEQLV3M/s320/2011-02-02%2B17.06.53.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569259676598214034" /></a><br /><br />Then there's me.....I just wanted one in the snow. :) <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUn8Y6oxyBI/AAAAAAAAAPM/rDMbetnWxhM/s1600/2011-02-02%2B17.07.20.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUn8Y6oxyBI/AAAAAAAAAPM/rDMbetnWxhM/s320/2011-02-02%2B17.07.20.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569259919207680018" /></a><br /><br /><br />So how did everyone else make out in this winter storm??<br /><br />Oh and did you hear........the groundhog didn't see his shadow! Here's hoping he's right and we have the early Spring! That would be lovely.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-22051171009232221982011-02-01T10:38:00.004-06:002011-02-01T11:30:39.845-06:00Tick TockAfter talking about it several times last year, I officially started school yesterday. I'm doing online classes so we all know that means "first day of school" is a little different than physical college classes. Still, I was nervous and anxious and wanted to make sure I did my assignments perfectly. haha....yeah not so much.<br /><br /> I've been out of school for almost 11 years. And even when I was in school, I did the bare minimum to get by. I forgot how to take notes and how to stay focused. Then add in the fact you have no teacher telling you when to read, when to take notes, what is important and what isn't. I thought I would like online classes. 1 day into and I'm already thinking "What the heck did I get myself into?". Don't get me wrong so far it's easy reading. But still I lack self discipline. And time management. Take into count that I have 3 kids, one of which is a 18 month old very time consuming, temper tantrum throwing, always hungry for food and attention, loving little girl. Let's not forget that yesterday was my husband's birthday and between making his cake, him getting home 2 hours later than planned, going out to a late dinner with all 3 kids, presents, XGames, etc. Yeah I didn't get finished with my assignments for the day. Bright side ~ There's always today! Well...if I work on my time management. :) <br /><br />For those of you who have kids, and other responsibilities that make your schedule completely full, how do you fit in school work, or even bible studies, or heck reading for pleasure even? <br /><br /><br />With my Mister Man deploying soon I realize if I already have a full plate, how am I going to manage it all and then some once he's gone. I'm already praying over my responsibilities and priorities. There will be some things that I will just have to give up. After all there is a season for everything. And right now this is my season for school. Only time will tell what else is supposed to be there. <br /><br />One last note ~ I hope all my East Coast girls are staying warm during this winter storm. I know we will be getting 8-18 inches of snow tomorrow. Add that on top of the wonderful foot or more we have had for...oh... a month now. I love it though. It's a great excuse to sit and bury your face in cake!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUhCBKoaARI/AAAAAAAAAO0/0fAfKAxCHn0/s1600/167988_10150094271529308_505484307_5946681_7169410_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TUhCBKoaARI/AAAAAAAAAO0/0fAfKAxCHn0/s320/167988_10150094271529308_505484307_5946681_7169410_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568773527044751634" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-28353712381531397712011-01-25T19:09:00.003-06:002011-01-25T19:48:43.210-06:00PaintIt's amazing what a little paint can do. <br /><br />Here's what our dining room looked like when we first moved in. Oh and don't worry those vertical blinds are gone. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT91loKWiHI/AAAAAAAAAOM/-t5KXBJlEb0/s1600/IMG_3805.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT91loKWiHI/AAAAAAAAAOM/-t5KXBJlEb0/s320/IMG_3805.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566296953749670002" /></a><br /><br /><br />We removed the wallpaper (yes that yellow is wallpaper) and painted the top half of the wall. At first we didn't think the tan wainscoting was that bad. Ok maybe it was but we were kind of lazy about painting it. So this is what we looked at for the past couple of months. (Don't mind the mess)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT92NxD2BdI/AAAAAAAAAOU/TmmQZNq0FNg/s1600/2010-11-08%2B15.46.39.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT92NxD2BdI/AAAAAAAAAOU/TmmQZNq0FNg/s320/2010-11-08%2B15.46.39.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566297643333060050" /></a><br /><br /><br />Well I got bored the other night and finally painted the wainscoting white. So glad I did! It makes the room so bright. I need to take a better picture. Maybe one day my kids will keep their stuff off my table long enough for me to take a decent picture.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT923bYwwzI/AAAAAAAAAOc/VFGUxQB4Tzc/s1600/2011-01-24%2B14.53.20.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT923bYwwzI/AAAAAAAAAOc/VFGUxQB4Tzc/s320/2011-01-24%2B14.53.20.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566298359069721394" /></a><br /><br />Do you notice the set of ugly oak cabinets that are in the mirror? Those particular cabinets are over our sink/breakfast bar. They are coming down. And soon the rest of the cabinets will be painted white. Although this is a project I will have to tackle after my husband deploys. I'm so ready to get it done. <br /><br />Speaking of paint doing amazing things, back in November while my husband was away for some training, I got bored and painted some cubbies. These cubbies are in the wall that goes downstairs to the basement. Does that make sense? Here's how the previous owners left the cubbies. <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT97T6Nkt3I/AAAAAAAAAOk/cWjXKBMzuMs/s1600/IMG_5625.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT97T6Nkt3I/AAAAAAAAAOk/cWjXKBMzuMs/s320/IMG_5625.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566303246427142002" /></a><br /><br />After a little paint. <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT97ypf9ylI/AAAAAAAAAOs/EeEKf8o-oJ4/s1600/IMG_5633.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TT97ypf9ylI/AAAAAAAAAOs/EeEKf8o-oJ4/s320/IMG_5633.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566303774516824658" /></a><br /><br /><br />I have a feeling paint and I will be best friends.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-74442378380093662492011-01-13T20:09:00.005-06:002011-01-18T21:47:04.877-06:00Deployment GoalsThis time last year I posted goals or resolutions for 2010. Yes I will admit I don't think I ever went back to that post. <br /><br />This year is different. This year will be spent without my husband. So instead of doing New Year Resolutions, which I know I won't keep up with, I am doing Deployment Goals. I did this last time he deployed. Only difference is I didn't write the goals down. I got the idea to blog them from <a href="http://juliethearmywife.com/2011/01/12/goals-during-deployment/">Julie</a>. You may ask, "What's the difference?" Well any military wife can tell you that one of the ways to survive a deployment is to have goals, projects, a million things to keep you busy and help time fly, things to look forward to, to laugh about, smile about, cry about, etc. Deployments are a time for growth as individuals and as a couple. So we take deployment goals seriously. <br /><br />~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br /><br />** Focus on and survive my first year of school. {I start on the 31st..so scared!} <br /><br />** Finally get around to decorating my house after 6 months of living here. <br /><br />** Paint kitchen cabinets and walls finally! <br /><br />** Become a real runner again.<br /><br />** Grow closer to God.<br /><br />** Strengthen my friendship and marriage with my husband. <br /><br />** Take several road trips.<br /><br />** Make everyday the best I can for my children.<br /><br />** Take on new projects and adventures.<br /><br /><br />~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br /><br />There they are. I could come up with more of a list but I figured let's start this off simple. Day by day. <br /><br />I will miss my husband, sure, but this year is my year. I'm ready to own it.... live it.... and get through it with as much laughter, joy, and happy tears (little sad ones please) as I can muster.<br /><br />Bring it on!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-71895357476360327622010-12-07T11:46:00.006-06:002010-12-07T12:11:09.655-06:00Looks like ChristmasThe Big Tree<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP50_zaxtHI/AAAAAAAAAMw/QOcbT09buCw/s1600/IMG_5796.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP50_zaxtHI/AAAAAAAAAMw/QOcbT09buCw/s320/IMG_5796.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548000430450127986" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP51-Lhep8I/AAAAAAAAAM4/Q_OtBgwsCak/s1600/IMG_5802.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP51-Lhep8I/AAAAAAAAAM4/Q_OtBgwsCak/s320/IMG_5802.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548001502072580034" /></a><br /><br />Our family tree in the basement family room.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP53DiyJ7_I/AAAAAAAAANA/8Go4Tf3Ih_c/s1600/IMG_5770.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP53DiyJ7_I/AAAAAAAAANA/8Go4Tf3Ih_c/s320/IMG_5770.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548002693727514610" /></a><br /><br />Winter Wonderland.....we've received a lot more snow since I took this picture. :)<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP54V4eC3_I/AAAAAAAAANI/OIL4kNw2AbU/s1600/IMG_5765.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TP54V4eC3_I/AAAAAAAAANI/OIL4kNw2AbU/s320/IMG_5765.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548004108298018802" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-14351825094479413742010-11-06T19:40:00.002-05:002010-11-06T19:41:30.943-05:00Happy Halloween<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TNX1saWItpI/AAAAAAAAAMg/d5Fevc0cyEk/s1600/IMG_5584.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TNX1saWItpI/AAAAAAAAAMg/d5Fevc0cyEk/s320/IMG_5584.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536601460257109650" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-17671504545412040162010-08-31T22:23:00.007-05:002010-08-31T22:55:33.982-05:00Wish you were hereI've officially seen the negative side of being a homeowner. When we bought this house we didn't know about a not so little plumbing problem. Well this week it's finally getting fixed. Pipes in my foundation will be torn out and replaced. Since my husband isn't here to be apart of this wonderful experience for a homeowner, I thought I would document this "repair" for him to see. <br /><br />Let's see a few snapshots of my basement from before. Please don't mind how bare it is, we knew this major repair would have to be done so I didn't see the point in doing much with the space till it was finished.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3JHCx6YQI/AAAAAAAAAL4/HR-EyAU-4ec/s1600/IMG_4997.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3JHCx6YQI/AAAAAAAAAL4/HR-EyAU-4ec/s320/IMG_4997.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511782641813840130" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3J0QCFn6I/AAAAAAAAAMA/O5aVeMYiOsY/s1600/IMG_4998.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3J0QCFn6I/AAAAAAAAAMA/O5aVeMYiOsY/s320/IMG_4998.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511783418465460130" /></a><br /><br />All in one corner and carpet pulled up.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3LIbpdZJI/AAAAAAAAAMI/bW3FeoDGThU/s1600/IMG_5016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3LIbpdZJI/AAAAAAAAAMI/bW3FeoDGThU/s320/IMG_5016.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511784864692397202" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3OhUsMM5I/AAAAAAAAAMQ/jSsmu_Z7HIM/s1600/IMG_5018.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TH3OhUsMM5I/AAAAAAAAAMQ/jSsmu_Z7HIM/s320/IMG_5018.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511788590856418194" /></a><br /><br />Darn I just realized I didn't take a picture of all the furniture, etc covered in plastic! Anyway that is where we are as of right now. The plumbers and contractors will be here at 8am tomorrow to jackhammer up my foundation to find the old deteriorating pipes. I'll be posting updates as we get through this week.<br /><br />I got this! I have God on my side, beer in my fridge and my daddy! <br /><br />Now if only my husband were here.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-22855198285677623952010-08-27T15:00:00.003-05:002010-08-27T15:00:00.835-05:00Falling for ApplesI love apples. I especially love that they remind me of fall. I realize in most places around the US there is no sign of fall. But here in Northern NY it's been very fall like with temps ranging between mid 60's to mid 70's. Don't worry we still see 80 on a good day but it's been great having the windows open 24/7. Waking up to the cool crisp air. I love it. <br /><br />I'm anxiously waiting for the <a href="http://www.burrvillecidermill.com/">Burrville Cider Mill</a> to open for the season. Fresh warm Apple Cider, Apple Cider Doughnuts, and let's not forget cheese curds. I'm ready to take the kids to an orchard to pick up sweet juicy apples. <br /><br />Then we'll use those apples to make more of these yummy recipes. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/THfZDkvu6gI/AAAAAAAAALo/YKKI0qjhJGg/s1600/45059_426564624307_505484307_4627980_618418_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/THfZDkvu6gI/AAAAAAAAALo/YKKI0qjhJGg/s320/45059_426564624307_505484307_4627980_618418_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510111324537809410" /></a><br />Easy Apple Cobbler<br /><br />3 large granny smith apples, peeled and sliced <br />1 cup all-purpose flour <br />1/2 cup of sugar<br />1/2 cup of brown sugar <br />1 teaspoon cinnamon <br />1 large egg <br />1/2 cup butter, melted <br /><br />Put apples in the bottom of a lightly greased 8x8 inch baking dish. <br />Mix flour, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon. Take a couple of teaspoons (your preference) of dry mix and toss with the apples.<br />Add egg to the remaining dry mix and blend till it looks like cornmeal. <br />Sprinkle topping over the apples. <br />Pour melted butter over the entire dish. <br />Bake 350 degrees for 30 minutes. <br />Serve with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.<br /><br />This is yummy!<br /><br />Next up....<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/THfcKae24CI/AAAAAAAAALw/YaLhKbsfsLk/s1600/meatballs.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/THfcKae24CI/AAAAAAAAALw/YaLhKbsfsLk/s320/meatballs.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510114740576641058" /></a><br />Apple, Cheddar, Turkey Meatballs<br /><br />--1 1/2 pound extra lean ground turkey<br />--1 egg<br />--1 tsp kosher salt<br />--1 tsp ground black pepper<br />--1 tsp onion powder<br />--1 green apple, peeled and shredded<br />--1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar<br />--1/2 cup dried unsweetened cranberries<br /><br />The Directions.<br /><br />In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground turkey with the ingredients. I used my hands.<br /><br />Make golf-ball sized meatballs, and drop them into your crockpot. <br /><br />Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours, or on low for 5-9---the cooking time will depend on how many meatballs are in the crock, and the size of your machine. The more full it is, the longer it will take to cook.<br /><br />Recipe from <br /><a href="http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/09/apple-cheddar-and-turkey-meatballs.html">Crockpot 365</a> <br />Now I didn't cook them in the crockpot because I forgot about them haha. So I baked them in my oven @ 350 for 30 minutes and they were so perfectly brown and just simply amazing. These little gems are a must try! <br /><br />I also love the smell of apple candles in the fall. My good friend makes the best Soy Melts (like Yankee candle tarts, Scentsy blocks, etc). I love her Cranberry Muffin scent, it's the best! But in the fall time she also has the yummiest smelling Apple Cider melts. She doesn't have her fall scent list posted on her page yet but feel free to contact her for more info about her new fall line! <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=616479099#!/group.php?gid=309556486083&ref=ts">Wright Melts</a><br /><br />Now I'm going to go enjoy my sunny 70 degree *almost* fall day!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-38636210264216079022010-08-27T09:31:00.004-05:002010-08-27T09:49:52.761-05:00CurtainsAwhile back I got some new curtains from Ikea. Now if you've ever purchased curtains from Ikea then you know they only come in one length and you must cut and hem to your desired length. No problem. Well the thing is I can't for the life of me decide what length I want them. I don't know what look to go for. What length do you love?<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/THfPzyOKm6I/AAAAAAAAALg/wxpXZqPqadY/s1600/0-7645-5107-8_1505.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 186px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/THfPzyOKm6I/AAAAAAAAALg/wxpXZqPqadY/s320/0-7645-5107-8_1505.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510101157672557474" /></a><br />Photo via <a href="http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/using-curtains-and-draperies-in-your-home-decor.html">Dummies.com</a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-76510117904410282852010-08-11T14:06:00.001-05:002010-08-11T14:09:06.245-05:00Wordless<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TGL1LW8XrTI/AAAAAAAAALY/qBA5v4E_qGo/s1600/IMG_4714+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TGL1LW8XrTI/AAAAAAAAALY/qBA5v4E_qGo/s320/IMG_4714+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504231270086323506" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-29195892851230791832010-08-02T10:35:00.002-05:002010-08-02T10:44:51.202-05:00Make me smile Monday<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TFbn5OlHa0I/AAAAAAAAALQ/R0ZO06BQwJ8/s1600/38558_419137884307_505484307_4445698_2060886_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TFbn5OlHa0I/AAAAAAAAALQ/R0ZO06BQwJ8/s320/38558_419137884307_505484307_4445698_2060886_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500838965231971138" /></a><br />Start the week off right.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-26466604807425596942010-07-21T21:46:00.008-05:002010-07-21T21:59:09.618-05:00In with the newAs you can see by the lack of posts, I've been busy. We've been doing a ton of painting around the house as well as other things. Some things still need to get done. But I wanted to share a sneak peak of the room I'm most proud of so far. <br /><br />Formal {and I say that loosely} Living Room before:<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TEex6XDhMOI/AAAAAAAAALA/m85JcFwYCTY/s1600/2010-06-19+17.33.01.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TEex6XDhMOI/AAAAAAAAALA/m85JcFwYCTY/s320/2010-06-19+17.33.01.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496557486408282338" /></a><br />Hello yucky country! {sorry it's a little blurry} <br /><br />After:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TEeyPuJxUTI/AAAAAAAAALI/ouMQNBQ1P-U/s1600/2010-07-21+17.53.51.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TEeyPuJxUTI/AAAAAAAAALI/ouMQNBQ1P-U/s320/2010-07-21+17.53.51.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496557853385773362" /></a><br />{In case the color looks funny in the picture ~ the walls are a light grey}<br /><br />It's still not complete. I have some things to hang on the walls, picture frames to be changed out, fireplace face to be changed out {bye bye gold} and I'm not sold on the placement of items on the built-ins yet. I literally just threw it all on there to take the picture. Sorry for the crappy camera phone pictures. When all is done I will share "real" pictures. I promise. For now these will have to do. I hope you love it as much as we do so far!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-50552489160561583282010-07-09T12:14:00.002-05:002010-07-09T12:40:20.694-05:00Adapt and AdjustAfter 4 military moves {from Kentucky to New York to Texas, back to Kentucky, back to New York} I'm starting to realize that one of the hardest parts of moving to a new state is grocery shopping. Sure leaving your friends or family and starting all over can be a challenge. But IMO grocery shopping in a new store is harder. Especially since each place is known for different types of food. Here in New York it's all about Italian. Love it! I don't love it however when I'm looking for say Mexican food in the "international" aisle. I'm sorry but Ole El Paso doesn't compare to the authentic Mexican products that I could find in grocery stores in Texas. <br /><br />It's not just the different products that make grocery shopping in a new place different. It's learning the layout of the store. Walking around endlessly trying not to look like a total idiot while trying to find the ketchup. Sure we lived here before but last time I only shopped at the commissary because we lived on post. Now that we live in town I get to shop at a new store. One that was a rare treat the last time we lived here. <br /><br />I did my second grocery shopping trip this morning since moving here. I must say it was still overwhelming. Although not nearly as bad as my first. I cried. Seriously. Who does that?!? Well besides me. Really though I was so overwhelmed and lost. It had hit me right in the middle of the store that I wasn't in <strike>Kansas</strike> Kentucky anymore.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-43696860899605042112010-06-29T20:27:00.006-05:002010-06-30T23:33:21.399-05:00NewHello from New York! <br /><br />The big move is over with...thank goodness! It certainly wasn't an easy one that's for sure. We hit many bumps along the way. As if doing a DITY move was hard enough {Do it yourself move in the military} we somehow managed to have too much stuff for one truck.<br /><br /><br /> We got the largest truck available from Penske. We were living in a 3 bedroom duplex no bigger then maybe 1200sqft. We didn't have a garage or a storage shed. So can someone please tell me why on earth we couldn't fit our stuff in a 26ft truck?! Beats the crap out of me. But of course we didn't find out that we couldn't fit till the truck was loaded to the brim and we still had half of our furniture in the house. We left ourselves absolutely no wiggle room on time so we thought our only solution would be to get rid of furniture. After we parted with as much furniture as we could {including living room furniture and my dining room set}, we realized we had no choice but to rent a second truck at the last minute. My dad is a God send because he offered to drive one of the trucks up to NY with us. But the damage was already done. I had lost a ton of furniture. Bummer. <br /><br />Since we've been in our new house we've had to have pest control come out because we were invaded with carpenter ants. We've had to call out 2 seperate plumbers for 2 seperate problems. And have had one heck of a time with border/wallpaper removal. All the joys of being homeowners! I know, I know! Despite all of the little bumps we've been settling and adjusting pretty well. So far only the 3 rooms have been painted but we are gearing up for a much deserved family vacation to Burlington, Vermont this weekend to celebrate our baby girl's first birthday. Hopefully we'll get the rest of the painting, etc finished after our trip. Kell leaves in a couple of weeks for Texas for 2 months so we're wanting to get as much done before he leaves as possible. Wish us luck! <br /><br />A sneak peak of our house. I'll post more pictures at a later date. I don't want to overwhelm the blog with house pictures. Hopefully after our trip I can back to some baking posts. Have a safe and Happy 4th! <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TCwVJfqp1SI/AAAAAAAAAKw/7XHNfNltpuE/s1600/IMG_3775.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TCwVJfqp1SI/AAAAAAAAAKw/7XHNfNltpuE/s320/IMG_3775.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488785298721199394" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TCwVywEWnGI/AAAAAAAAAK4/txld5nrDJpQ/s1600/IMG_3779.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TCwVywEWnGI/AAAAAAAAAK4/txld5nrDJpQ/s320/IMG_3779.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488786007498595426" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-6905278940553480442010-06-08T09:59:00.003-05:002010-06-08T10:18:09.011-05:00Fireplace ColorThis is the current color of the fireplace {one of 2} in the living room {one of 2}. Now don't get me wrong I love our new house but the previous owners {notice decor in the picture} taste is a little too country for my taste. The maroon-ish color has got to go...among other things.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TA5bKHFZiRI/AAAAAAAAAKg/7aKRmaC5aBI/s1600/Photo24904255-4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TA5bKHFZiRI/AAAAAAAAAKg/7aKRmaC5aBI/s320/Photo24904255-4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480418025814984978" /></a><br /><br />My couch and chair are red and coffee table/end table will be white. A light grey color will be on the wall. So here's what I was thinking.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TA5dHZGQ6qI/AAAAAAAAAKo/xbgYXFbei6M/s1600/inspiration.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TA5dHZGQ6qI/AAAAAAAAAKo/xbgYXFbei6M/s320/inspiration.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480420178134100642" /></a><br />I'm new at this polyvore thing so I couldn't figure out how to add a rug of hardwood floors haha. oops. So anyway the fireplace and shelves would be all white. Or maybe paint the brick a lighter shade of grey then what will be on the wall? hmmmm decisions decisions.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-604128426800707412010-06-07T21:26:00.003-05:002010-06-07T21:41:19.136-05:00Everywhere I lookI see boxes. Ft. Knox is so overbooked with people moving this month that we are having to pack and move ourselves. No big deal really....we are actually excited to finally have control over our stuff and the move. But man am I ready to be done packing. <br />I'm ready to be here......<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TA2sL4WamUI/AAAAAAAAAKY/v4jEQc8HwXI/s1600/Untitled.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TA2sL4WamUI/AAAAAAAAAKY/v4jEQc8HwXI/s320/Untitled.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480225641684703554" /></a><br />{not our vehicle}<br /><br />That's right I'm finally sharing a picture of our {not so} little Cape Cod because we closed on our first house! Less then 2 weeks and we'll finally be unpacking in our new home. Can't wait! My blog posts will probably be sporadic the next few weeks though. <br /><br />Time for bed. Goodnight!Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-47669359613082450612010-05-28T14:12:00.003-05:002010-05-28T14:15:34.035-05:00I'm in love...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TAAWOid9muI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/RWsB3y2c-6w/s1600/IMG_3601.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/TAAWOid9muI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/RWsB3y2c-6w/s320/IMG_3601.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476401585908980450" /></a><br />Don't judge my love of a mini van. :PJessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-54648707540376748792010-05-18T13:57:00.008-05:002010-05-20T20:32:07.000-05:00Congrats MisterI'm sure you can tell by the lack of posts that it's been a pretty busy couple of weeks. May 3rd my husband's family started coming into town for the festivities. May 7th my husband graduated from the Physician Assistant's program for the military. He earned his Masters and was commissioned as an officer. We had family here till the 14th. I'm slowly getting back to normal, or what normal is for having 3 kids. Here are a few pictures from graduation. I'll post most pictures from the family visit later. <br /><br />Brogan thought he was taking the same oath as his daddy.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_Xfodlo4xI/AAAAAAAAAJY/Jw6YtM3Kvsg/s1600/brogan.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_Xfodlo4xI/AAAAAAAAAJY/Jw6YtM3Kvsg/s320/brogan.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473526808368964370" /></a><br /><br />Finally getting to pin my LT.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_Xf-gGrkcI/AAAAAAAAAJg/aLsFDcIO7cA/s1600/28501_389145801764_612581764_4516411_3806982_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_Xf-gGrkcI/AAAAAAAAAJg/aLsFDcIO7cA/s320/28501_389145801764_612581764_4516411_3806982_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473527187001545154" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_XgL72z-AI/AAAAAAAAAJo/upTRbNR3nHk/s1600/28549_392026979307_505484307_3795036_3201197_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 251px; height: 276px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_XgL72z-AI/AAAAAAAAAJo/upTRbNR3nHk/s320/28549_392026979307_505484307_3795036_3201197_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473527417789478914" /></a><br /><br />Our family picture - although I think it's a bad one of me<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_XiRj--BYI/AAAAAAAAAKA/OfrM8OXKSiE/s1600/28501_389145971764_612581764_4516440_4087267_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_XiRj--BYI/AAAAAAAAAKA/OfrM8OXKSiE/s320/28501_389145971764_612581764_4516440_4087267_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473529713483711874" /></a><br /><br />Kell and our big kids<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_XginxmmpI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/rYMEIsqKQpU/s1600/untitled.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S_XginxmmpI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/rYMEIsqKQpU/s320/untitled.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473527807535913618" /></a>Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8487164715279915905.post-3822922658243693202010-05-02T07:00:00.000-05:002010-05-02T07:00:03.147-05:00SimplicityThis is going to seem silly. But one of my favorite things about cooking is separating egg yolks from the whites. To me it's just simple fun!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S9zMTQaB0LI/AAAAAAAAAIo/A78KGM6_wKA/s1600/IMG_3372+copy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S9zMTQaB0LI/AAAAAAAAAIo/A78KGM6_wKA/s320/IMG_3372+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466468678914658482" /></a><br /><br />I shake my head every time I see one of these.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S9zP8BN3U9I/AAAAAAAAAIw/R0IheQsUAxU/s1600/31wnPs2tMoL__SL500_AA300_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_G1PrITOdvNw/S9zP8BN3U9I/AAAAAAAAAIw/R0IheQsUAxU/s320/31wnPs2tMoL__SL500_AA300_.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466472677746627538" /></a><br />Available via <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Egg-Separator-White-by-Progressive/dp/B00167VCRQ">Amazon</a><br /><br />Don't worry I won't hate you if you prefer to separate your egg whites with that handy little tool. But for me that tool takes the fun out of things. IMO there are too many gadgets and tools out there that take the fun out of cooking and baking. <br /><br />One line of products that really irk me is Pampered Chef. Now please no throwing stones at me for saying that. I do love some of their products but recently I went to a Pampered Chef party and the biggest attractions was the stoneware line that you can cook and bake in the microwave. We even sampled a chicken/pasta dish and a cake cooked in the {gasp!} microwave! The microwave! Really?! Everyone was oohhing and ahhing over it. I'm sorry but baking a cake in the microwave should be a sin! What happened to good ole' fashioned cooking and baking. <br /><br />I did decide to finally try out the Pampered Chef food chopper that most people rave about. Biggest waste of $30 in my opinion. You can only fit a tiny amount of food into the chopper and still I ended up having the beat the damn thing 30 times to get it to slightly chop the food. <br /><br />So people, this girl will be sticking with some of the good ole' fashion ways of preparing food.Jessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06082968247689604236noreply@blogger.com2