The Campbell Crew

Oh I'm Thankful

2010-03-02T13:32:00.002-06:00

Oh how I haven't blogged in forever... November 16th to be precise...
but I journal, facebook and have two little ones.

Today I'm thankful for:

Daily reminders I'm not alone, that I have family friends and a great God who meets my every need.

For snow melting so I can run outdoors

For Lindsey's doctor appointments

Sunshine

Encouraging blogs

Grace

New memories made with family over weekend

Change

Everyday reminders, both verbal and written... that God is stirring in me a hunger and desire to know him better, "to grow in the grace and knowledge".

for my family

that I'm not the same person I was even six months ago....

The Unfailing love of God, that reminder seems to come up almost everyday in my psalms reading.

All of these to which I am really thankful for today!!

Plastic sack

2009-11-16T15:47:00.002-06:00

Today I found in my fridge a walmart sack. Not that big of a deal considering my husband packs his lunch in a plastic sack with his lunch in it because...

...he lost his lunch bag somehow. Hmmmmm not sure how that happened

or why

we don't just go out

and

buy a new one

Well we don't so the plastic sack works for him. So today I opened the fridge and Viola plastic sack, what was inside the plastic sack you ask.

No lunch

but i guess according to my husband we use plastic sacks to store our leftover onions. I guess it was a temporary fix he says until he looked for our zillion plastic Tupperware. Hmmmm men our funny!

I am thankful for...

2009-09-22T14:04:00.002-05:00

So it's not Sunday but I am thankful anyway

I am thankful for........

1. some down time in the middle of a busy scheduled week

2. My little Drew's prayers for other people and for thanking God for this day.. so sweet

3. For my morning boot camp exercise class and all the neat ladies there

4. For my wonderful husband understanding me... even if I don't always understand myself

5. For oxiclean getting out my Communion juice out of my nice Anne Taylor pants.. I spilled the entire cup on myself at church Sunday.

6. For a fun Friday football game even if we lost

7. The yummy fall smells out of my kitchen....

8. Wonderful friends that encourage me, inspire me, teach me and are great examples of Godly women.

9. wonderful gifts I've been blessed with.... it's not even my birthday. I am so thankful.

10. For fun children that come in and out of our doors daily.

11. For no plans days.... and for fun filled days that are back to back

12. For wonderful days at the park with friends

13. Kids organizing the house without being asked

14. My 4th grade boys and girls kidsrock group!!!!

15. For Mops and what an encouragement all moms are and can be!!!

I have so much more I could write, for my daily quiet time, my embarrassing stories that have happened lately, funny things my kids say, or husband says. I have so much so much so much to be thankful for... as the song goes...

Love
Tara

It's football season

2009-09-03T22:30:00.002-05:00

Well it's that time of year again..................

the time where I'm the mom.....

the dog feeder

the plant waterer

the laundry person ( I'm always that)

the lawn care woman

the chef

the lunch maker

The mom who works from sun up to sun down, but loves almost every minute of it as this is my life and I love being a mom of two little sweet ones who bless my socks off every day. I love being a wife to a wonderful man who love me with unfailing, unconditional love. Even if this season is a tough one at moments, I love that God uses all these experiences to stretch me and grow me.

Thank goodness for WONDERFUL FRIENDS who help support me with hugs, walks, prayers and support. I love you all.

Things I don't do.....and things I do do

2009-07-28T22:33:00.002-05:00

Things I don't do..

I was thinking as I cruised around wal-mart tonight and this little random thought came to me. Okay things I don't do.....

1. I don't do mini skirts... I do wear a fancy dress or skirt every once in awhile only on fancy occasions.

2. I don't wear glasses, but wished i did so I'd look pretty tailored when I am all fancied up.

3. I don't wear any jewelry at home, only when I leave the home.

4. I don't get to spend nearly enough time with all those friends that have moved away, but I do get to spend quality time with some great ones here.

5. I don't get to spend lots of time with the husband at the dinner table, but I do get to eat 100 miles hours and get all the kids foods and drinks.

6. I don't do bikinis but I do do takinis

7. I don't do the Ipod, but I do love the mp3 player and my new touch screen.

8. I don't look good in purple or red, which happens to be our school color. I do wear purple during football season and red during Christmas only.

9. I don't do well with ticks, but I do well picking out good chick flicks

10. I don't do well with negative people, but like to attempt to cheer them up with sarcasm and my attempted wittiness.

11. I don't tell people enough how much I love them and how much they mean to me. I am truly thankful for all the precious people God has placed in my life.

I'm really alive

2009-07-23T22:59:00.002-05:00

I haven't been in the bloggity blog land for well, a long time. I have been taking my blogcation and I think I may be back. He he, this is the part you laugh. I just love summer, although it takes me awhile to get use to the change from spring, I warm up to the season well. I love to warm up to the things like homemade ice cream, Popsicles, fun days at the pool where you get some color on the pasty white legs. I love the crickets and how they sing at night to me with the windows open. That brings me to the best part of summer: fun with the family, all my perennials coming back, air conditioning. Cool mornings to go exercise, not really cooking lots but grilling a bunch. I love to walk barefoot in the grass, be sporadic, not be so scheduled.

Things I'm looking forward to this coming Fall: routine of knowing what we are doing most of the time, my husband on a routine :), School resuming and all the fun with back to school beginnings. For MOPS starting up again, Foot ball Fridays and cool weather. Sweatshirts, Sweet fall candle scents, Wednesday night church starting.

I'm loving each season I'm in... and don't want to rush to the next. I do like to look forward to something though!

My Thankful list

2009-06-14T23:32:00.002-05:00

1. I'm thankful for a wonderful girls night out five course meal by my father-in-law. What a treat for all us ladies.

2. I'm thankful for a wonderful weekend helping get all the schulte girls makeup done. What a fun day for me and lindsey to be able to help out on their special day.

3. I am thankful for 9 years of marriage to chad this past week. So neat to attend a wedding this weekend and the song at our wedding was played at the schulte wedding. I had lots of tears going as it was a sweet reminder of my special day as well. Not the typical wedding song so that was special.

4. For some great workouts this week.

5. That is rained lots so I wouldn't have to spend lots of time watering all my flowers.

6. For a fun Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Saturday. What a fun week it was.. so much to do.

7. For Lindsey pretending to be a teacher in the van with some older kids and me enjoying her funniness.

8. The A/C. off all week.

9. Chad home lots and us accomplishing a big project of cleaning the basement together and getting rid of lots of stuff.

10. For all the fun text from you all.

11. My new bible study with lots of neat ladies this summer.

12. For a cool prayer I prayed on a run and me thinking it couldn't be answered right away and then it was answered on the run by a person who stopped me. Wow, that's about all I can say.

13. I am thankful for my family, for days we get to sleep in and that is so much fun.

Hugs,
Tara

I am thankful for...

2009-06-06T23:46:00.002-05:00

1. I am thankful that school is out. I have really enjoyed the all the kids home from school and having conversations with Lindsey and the neighbor kids. I've had so much fun learning from them and really feel blessed to live where we live and who we live by.

2. I am thankful for sweet reminders of God's grace from my children.

3. I am thankful I have been married to Chad for 9 years on Wednesday! I grow to love him more and more. I am so thankful he is just mr. right for me.

4. I am thankful for all the free perennial flowers I've received. What a wonderful treat. Took over 4 hours to plant them all and it was so worth it! I still have some work to do to find some a little home in my yard.

5. I am thankful for my morning doves, cardinal pair, and all the little chickadees and finches that find a home in our backyard. My kids now know their birds.

6. I am thankful for simple summer days of playing checkers, board games and all the Nintendo DS' turned off!

7. I am thankful for free lunches at the high school for the kids.

8. I am thankful for friends and how each friend is such a gift to me.

9. I am thankful for spending great time with 3 different couple friends! I am thankful my husband is starting to be social.. Yippee! I am loving that!

10. For new recipes, paper plates, a/c, finding out a friend may be pregnant, planning stuff, a new women's study starting soon, a farmer's tan of my feet, not having the air on everyday, the TV off and kids playing all day with all the kids, slip n slides, did I mention planting flowers...

I am thankful for so much this week. I am so thankful for so many of you who confide in me and share your heart, your joys and even your pain this week. I am praying for you in all your circumstances.

Hugs,
Tara

Play day with some friends!

2009-06-01T22:29:00.004-05:00

We enjoyed a play day with some friends the other day. This is their sweet park like playsets. It was so much fun. The rubber chips were super hot and drew enjoyed throwing them.

Watch out, crazy driver coming!

Lindsey had a blast riding this. Drew liked her driving it around too!

Can't beat the boys and frogs. Drew has a facination with frogs. We go to rand park pond lots now and watch all the frogs jump in the pond.

Drew not sure about this slide.

Laura and Me

My little princess

Hopefull we can have another play day with the boys and Laura again. We sure had fun and love to get out of the house.

Snake man!

2009-05-28T23:15:00.006-05:00

This is me holding some big boa. Isn't this what every good mom does for their kids.. hold a snake so they won't have too?

This snake really wanted to cuddle with me they said. I'm not much into cuddling snakes.. I do children and hubby. Mr. Snake kept trying to get close and coil up to me. I would of let it but I asked girl (katia) if the snake would bite.. she said just don't touch it's mouth. What does that mean... husband thinks I shouldn't of held snake just in case I died... not a very good thing to do since I have children.

Here the snake is... all trying to cuddle and stuff!

I was brave! Drew wants to hold it I think.

This is mr. snake man himself with his albino snake.

drew loved all the snakes

Thought this was a funny picture.

I wouldn't of wanted to see this big snake alive!

Drew really wanted to hold the snake by himself. Cracked me up!

Drew and Brandon enjoying their snake time with animal rings!

" You think we can hold this Brandon" ----Not

Drew's first chance to touch mr. snake

He's not getting on as a pet though. We will just go visit Ms. Dawn's house.

This is as close as lindsey wanted to get.

Can you believe these 2 are only 9 months apart?

t to

Taste and see Thursday

2009-05-28T09:15:00.001-05:00

Taste and see is back!

I have a yummy recipe for taste and see thursday. It is a favorite of mine.

It's a Ham and potato bake. It seems like we always have ham leftovers from the neighbors or my mom. This time it's leftover ham so I thought, why not make the potato bake. My husband calls it my "depression era cooking ". I tend to think of it as being resourceful with what you got.

Ham and Potato Bake

1 can cream of celery, chicken or mushroom. I like chicken have used all of the others though

1/2 to 3/4 c milk

4 c sliced potatoes ( i use mandolin slicer)

1 small onion ( I use slicer again)

Paprika

Dash of pepper ( i use more than a dash)

1 c diced cooked ham

1 T butter

Combine soup, milk and pepper. In greased coated 2 qt casserole, arrange layers of potatoes, ham, onion and soup mixture. ( Be sure ham is covered to prevent drying.) Dot tip with butter. Sprinkle with paprika. Cover. Bake 375* for one hr. Uncover. Bake 15 more minutes or until potatoes are done. Makes 4 or more servings. Try topping grated cheddar cheese during the last 15 minutes.

Enjoy the comfort food like grandma use to make.

Here are the ingredients, I like to cook neat. It makes me feel like Rachel Ray or something!

Kidz Rock Overnighter at the Camp!

2009-05-20T14:00:00.003-05:00

Lindsey was getting into this game, she is starting to get aggressive.
Chad would be so proud of her Broomball skills :)

Jetta being so very brave

Andrew likes broom ball

Bring on the broom ball game

Faith and Lindsey being goalies

The girls dancing to the songs we sing at church. Leader Joy was having fun with them. I eventually joined in.

Amy, joy and me

The cool rock climbing wall

We had a wonderful reward trip for the kids who earned it last weekend. We got to stay at the camp in cool bunk beds. We had the rock climbing wall, crafts, gobs of food, music, board games, fingernail painting, broom ball and a cool indoor campfire. The indoor campfire was my favorite part. We sat around and all 20 kids plus leaders got to listen to the kids tell their favorite stories that mean lots to them in the bible.

Of course my friend dawn (children's minister) was so great at planning this whole trip and she led the talk in the campfire. I was blown away at what meant lots to them over this year and Lindsey really liked it and actually talked. I liked Dawn's idea for the kids when they can't sleep at night to do the ABC's in your head.
Not the kind where you say them but think of a story for A, ( Adam and Even) B, Barnabas, C Cain and Abel, D, David.... and on and on. The kids really liked doing that and it was so cool for me too. What a great idea. I just love Dawn.

So now Lindsey is ready to go to day camp this year after her debut at the camp. I'm excited for her to go for the day (not overnight) but to experience such a neat camp, and build memories that she can take with her for years to come.

Kindergarten Family Tea

2009-05-19T22:31:00.004-05:00

Lindsey , Corey, Jasmine, Colton, Savannah, Zach, Grace and Josh

May 15th we had our kindergarten tea at school. I remember my kindergarten tea we had when I was Lindsey's age. That was quite awhile ago, but I still do remember. I am glad to have some of the same memories that Lindsey is having some 20 plus years later, and especially as a mom. It was nice as the principal noticed that their was 4 of us former students in the audience, me being on of them for the tea, he of course was my principal when I was in kindergarten.

My friend Michelle and Lindsey's friend Corey

Papa and Drew enjoying all the goodies the kindergarten class made. They made mommy's favorite mints. In roses and flowers. They also made snicker doodles, and chocolate chip cookies. They have been working on this family tea for weeks. It was so neat to see all the kids use their very best manners to us all and seat us. It was so fun to see all the properness that they all had learned so very well from Mrs. Hanson.

Lindsey and Mommy taking our own picture!

This is the girls turn to say their lines

So glad Grandma and Pa could come!

Lindsey debuting her first solo. She did so good and I was beaming. She was super brave and something her mother would never do in front of lots of people. I still love the "Over in the meadow" I think I was tearing up at the first word of this.

Here is a cute poem they recited that I have heard lots over the last month. This was also what they sang in the talent show for the school for the other grades to hear.

Growing

When I started kindergarten
I couldn't have felt smaller.
But I've been growing, growing-
And not just growing taller! ( Lindsey has grown 3 inches this year since fall)

I've learned to read and learned to write:
I've learned my numbers, too,
And there are many other things
That I have learned to do.

Kindergarten's over now
But I am not afraid,
Because I know I'm ready
To enter the first grade!

1st marriage proposal!

2009-05-16T23:01:00.003-05:00

My sweet 6 year just turned down her first marriage proposal today. She was rather emotional like her mom because of it. First let me tell you the background of our day/ days. Lindsey had 5 hrs of sleep the night before. We had our first of many overnighter at the church camp in Illinois. She could not fall asleep, until she sleep with me (which btw she never does at home). So we shared a twin bed so very comfy (lol). So we sleep off and on all night. We then had our big dance recital later on that afternoon.

I know that's a lot of stuff for one little girl, but she earned the overnighter. The dance recital was fun, I'm no pageant mom who decorates their daughter like a christmas tree like some do, so I was okay with the whole dance/ overnighter thing. Lindsey did have to dance three dances though and I made sure to bring snacks. All went well and we enjoyed our day out to lunch with the other Campbell's, hair done by fabulous and thoughtful Angie and the dance performances were so cute and fun this year.

So after that we still had lots to do, a college graduation party and then a late cinco de mayo mexican night at some friends house. Melt down happened the first 10 minutes at our friends house. We have not had the kids together in awhile and well, the 5 year old boy told my Lindsey that "he liked her, and he wanted to marry her".

Lindsey comes to me in hysterical tears that she wants to go home, and is freaking out. The boys mom then about kills her son, thinking he did something to Lindsey. Lindsey then starts watching a movie and then tells me "Josh said something really really bad to me". I then assume it's some foul language. She then is worked up to crying again. **** keep in mind the whole sleep deprivation. I then walk away and she says "Wait mom, he said he liked me." I then replied he likes you as a friend. *** Crying some more now. I then listen. She says, " He said he wants to marry me". I am almost in full blown laughter at how sensitive she is, but remember, I am the mom and should be respectful. *** Lindsey is still crying like someone who took some drama classes. I then tell Josh's mom, she is relieved it's not any foul language/ attacking Lindsey. I eventually calmed Lindsey down with all I know i can do. I give her some chips and white cheese dip. She calms down and then had a wonderful evening.

So I guess she turned down her first proposal, Dad is relieved. Story gets funnier each time we tell it. Only told our friends husband and their neighbors who also joined our little party. But it was pretty funny!

I'm going to have to remember this when she is older, and tell it at her rehearsal dinner toast. (I hope that's like 20 years from now)

Hugs,
Tara

Mother's Day confessions

2009-05-10T14:28:00.003-05:00

Okay so I'm using an idea that I got from my friend Amy. I love her little list, so much I thought I'd copy the idea.

Random Mother's Day stuff

Here's my list from the year

1. I allowed my 2 year old drew to put quarters in our van cd player, ( I thought it was a cd) I was too busy texting my friend Donna nonsense drama and then Lindsey said he put money in it instead. He put in 7 coins not 2........ not a good thing to do.

2. I let my 2 year old take a nap with a ring pop once...

3. Several times I let my Drew stay stinky out in public, until we went home to change his diaper.

3. The dog has been known to be my vacuum in the van for all the kids crumbs.

4. I have used the inside of drew's shirt to clean his yucky nose... so gross I know

5. We all were so tired/ sick recently and Drew wasn't... he watched like so much television that he got sick of it and read books while we sleep... Ahhhh

6. I tell the kids to brush their buggies off their teeth. Drew really thinks he has bugs in his teeth now.

7. I also say we need to use sanitizer to get the buggies off.... kids really think we have bugs

8. Lindsey explained to the babysitter in actions what I do with dirty diapers... I put them in a bag, then throw them out the door. It was so funny.. kinda hickish but that's what you do when it's cold and not wanting to put it in the outdoor trash.

9. I painted Drew's toes and nails

10. I have made both kids cry by my disappointment in them. Puckered up faces...

11. At Wal-mart I've been known to open up more than one food item to make it through the store. I recently told friends that and the couldn't believe it.

I have enjoyed a fun filled year with my children. I love being a mom and a wife. Although both are so much work, there is so much joy in it. I hope you have enjoyed my list!

Love,

Tara

Taste and See Thursday....

2009-05-07T14:17:00.003-05:00

*Today's recipe is a recipe for life:

***Say your prayers daily

***Love your family

*** Nuture those around you

***Always make people feel special

***If it is worth doing, it is worth doing right

***Find the positive no matter the circumstance

***Observe and treasure life daily

I think these are great reminders to keep in mind daily. What a treasure each new day is.

Enjoy your day,

Tara

2009-05-04T23:50:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

I am thankful for...

2009-05-04T14:51:00.002-05:00

1. I am thankful I have no chocolate in the house..... only power jelly beans!

2. I am thankful that this is the busy week that I've been preparing for not only physically, but emotionally. Lots of "to dos" to do and finish up.

3. I am thankful this is teacher appreciation week and feel so blessed that we can send our daughter to a school that loves each kid like their own.

4. I'm thankful for a great 2 year old today and how he worked so hard to help me with a appreciation luncheon.

5. I'm thankful that Lindsey is feeling better and so is Chad.

6. I'm thankful I got to spend Friday afternoon with my friend Jill for lunch, then with my friend Donna the rest of the afternoon. What a fun filled friend afternoon. I like chad being home sick!

7. I'm thankful that the things I keep reading in my quiet time are being constant reminders throughout my day that God is at work.

8. For this half-marathon on Saturday morning......... looking forward to it and for completing that goal. I am so thankful, and feel blessed to have working legs and stuff that allows me to do that.

9. I am thankful for all my birds that are back... for the morning doves, cardinals, goldfinches, and the little grey finches and yes even those black birds.... because Drew gets so excited to see them.

10. I thankful for my flower friend Dawn and that she outspends me!

11. I'm thankful it's May, the grass is green, no dandelions in the yard and all my flowers are planted, and bushes are trimmed.

Taste and see Thursday...

2009-04-30T18:42:00.002-05:00

Taste and see Thursday is back. I made a sweet little treat for my husband's homeroom class this week and thought that would be perfect for my recipe for Thursday. I made this divine brownie recipe that I received back in 1994. I was a Senior in high school, in Sunday school class when my friend Rebekah Renard brought a treat for us to eat. Oh boy, this is the first time I asked for a recipe I believe. I had never even thought as a young person to ask for a recipe. This was so worth it. Now I laugh when my 8 year old neighbor always ask if I'll give her mom one of my recipes, partly because I never thought like that till my senior year in high school.

My friend Rebekah is a wonderful patient mom of 5. I am glad we've stayed in touch over the years and look forward to seeing her one of these days. While in college, Rebekah invited me and some other Keokuk people to attend a float trip with her campus house. She was going to be near Joplin so i thought I could canoe, (even though I never had done it). Well my two younger people almost drowned on the trip and I survived and fell in love with float trips. I'm thinking I'd like to do that again with couples sometime.

Here's my famous brownies:

Cookie dough brownies

By Rebekah Renard Whitaker

1 pkg Fudge brownie mix

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup oil

1 egg

1/2 choco chips

1/2 cup margarine

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup sugar

2 Tablespoons milk

1 tsp vanilla

1 Cup flour

Glaze: 1 (6oz) choco chips (1 cup), 1 Tablespoon shortening (or oil).

Heat oven to 350*. Grease bottom of 13 x 9 pan. In a large bowl,combine brownie mix, water, oil, and egg. Beat. Stir in 1/2 cup choco chips. Spread in greased pan. Bake at 350* for 33-35 minutes. (Do not overbake) Cool Completely.

In large bowl, beat 1/2 cup margarine, brown sugar, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add milk and vanilla; blend well. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup;level off. Add flour; mix well. Spread over cooled brownies. In small microwave safe bowl, melt 1 cup choco chips and one tablespoon of marg. on med high. 1-2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Carefully glaze over filling; spread to cover. Store in refrigerator. Makes 36 bars

I am thankful for....

2009-04-26T22:56:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

My Thankful List

2009-04-18T23:37:00.002-05:00

What a wonderful week it has been. I am thankful, for so much. Here's my list:

1. The sound my kids make when they kiss me. " Mmmmmm then the smacking of lips". I love it.

2. Okay for Laundry, because at least I have little people to fill those clothes and that we have clothes. My heart aches for a friend who doesn't have little ones and wants them. I am thankful to be blessed with 2 healthy ones.

3. I am thankful that I have the world's greatest friends.

4. For lots of good laughs with friends, at myself, at my kids. My sensors are full again!

5. For a great long 11 mile run. I did it and feel proud and humbled at the same time. Boy I'm thankful for a able body to take me that far. I'm not too sore either.

6. For early morning get ups lots this week. Even the days I didn't have to be at the gym at 5:30, I was waking up at 5ish. I like that in a weird sorta way.

7. For great spring like weather.

8. For my 2 year old letting me get some shopping in at the mall Thursday and for Chick-fil-a!

9. My wonderful husband taking the kids for a overnight trip out of town and letting me relax on Friday and even encouraged me not to do stuff around the house. He even wants to do that again!

10. For answered prayer to important things, for some fun surprises, that I know i can run this half-marathon, my weekly menu groceries all bought last week.

I am so blessed, so thankful, and feel privileged to be the mom to Lindsey and Drew, the wife to Mr. Chad and a friend to you all!

Hugs,
Tara

Taste and see that the Lord is good....Thursday

2009-04-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today's recipe is one of my new little bars that people just rave over. I suppose it is because it's kinda a comfort type food, rice crispies with a twist to it. I first had this tasty recipe at the Ivy Bakeshope. If you love all girlie food and divine desserts you would love that place. Little did I know they had a cookbook of all their famous recipes. My friend Heather copied this recipe for me, but that did not do it justice.. I had to have the entire cookbook. I love cookbooks, I have lots of them, rarely use all of them. You know how that goes, you have your favorites in one particular book and you kinda just stay with it. The Ivy Bakeshop cookbook is going to be one of my favorites, I just know it, as everything I have tried is simply divine. Okay so I like that word today! Divine, Divine, Divine.

Caramel Rice Krispies Bar

Carmel

1 (14 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped

1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk

1 stick butter

Rice Krispies

1/2 sticks butter, divided

10 cups mini marshmallows, divided

10 cups Rice Krispies, divided

Place caramels, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a bowl and microwave for 3 minuts. Stir until smooth, returning to microwave if not yet melted; set aside to cool.

In another bowl, melt 6 tablespoons of butter with 4 cups of marshmallows for 70 seconds. Stir until smooth and then pour over 5 cups of the cereal; stir until cereal is coated. Place in a greased 9 x 13 inch glass dish.

Sprinkle 2 cups of marshmallows on the top of the cereal mixture. Carefully pour caramel mixture over the marshmallows; refrigerate to set up. Repeat second layer of cereal mixture, using the rest of the butter, marshmallows, and cereal. Place second layer of Rice Krispies mixture on top of caramel layer; chill until firm. Makes lots.

Things I miss

2009-04-15T21:34:00.002-05:00

I miss.....

1. The sound of crickets on a cool summer evening, windows open of course

2. Clothes that don't have stains on them or clothes that are in style

3. Riding my bicycle downhill

4. Friends who have moved away

5. Alone time in the bathroom (w/o toddlers)

6. Family members that have passed on to heaven

7. Nursing a baby ( crazy I know)

8. feeling like I have it together

9. Swimming laps

10. Time to sit around and watch movies/ shows and not feel guilty that I'm not doing something.

11. Real pictures, not just on my digital camera

12. watering my flowers enjoying them

I think all my things I miss have to do with summer. I love spring and look forward to summer and enjoying all the things I miss.

Egg Hunt

2009-04-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

Drew and Daddy finding eggs

Lindsey on the go to find eggs

Lindsey and Hayden enjoying the egg hunt

Drew was all about the eggs this year. He has been practicing lots at home with our own empty egg hunt, pick up all mommies pine cones hunt and church egg hunt. Now he is game for grandpa's 100's of eggs hunt.

She is pausing for me to take the picture.

Lots of pine cones with all the eggs

Ahem Drew is so happy and he's got some jumping skills

Eggstravaganza Party at Church!

2009-04-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

The first friday in April we had a Miss Patty Cake party at church. Miss Patty is a cute video that we have. In the video she teaches kids the story of Jesus' last week as you open up plastic eggs. We made our own eggs like the video, had a snack and a little egg hunt in the church. This was a party for pre-schoolers, Lindsey was able to go as Drew is almost a pre-schooler and I planned the party with Dawn so both were able to go.

Emma and Lindsey

Some of the kids posing for the camera.

My friend Heather and Emma

Collin and his dad who wanted to be on my blog. There you go Matt!

My little peeps!

Lisa, Zack and Bethany!

My friend Jill and Brandon

It's time to color eggs!

2009-04-12T22:00:00.003-05:00

Drew is so excited about blue. That's all he wanted at first. Once he got started he was so excited. He was thrilled that I was letting him get so messy. At the end he kept asking me what was wrong with his hands. We used lots of lava soap!

Drew really enjoyed egg coloring this year. His hands were oh so dyed to match the incredible hulk and his PJ's spider man.

Lindsey worked so nice and neat. Mr. Drew loved making a mess! I loved it all!

Lindsey is loving this!

I need to go take a bath now!

Made with Love by: Lindsey and Drew

My running partner!

2009-04-12T20:55:00.003-05:00

A couple of weeks ago Lindsey and I went for a quick little jog, bless her little heart it was freezing and she was bound and determined to go. She had all the cool gear thanks to Santa Gpa Campbell and we ran. I attempted to teach her to not go so fast at the beginning and be worn out. Guess we will work on that one. We did accomplish a 1/2 mile. She then wanted to get out her bike and ride so went went farther. On the run I had one of those treasured "Mary moments".

Lindsey likes to be ahead of me so I was doing the encouraging thing to her saying stuff like " Good Job Lindsey" to keep her from stopping and saying she's tired/cold. She then glanced back at me and said in her sweet 6 year old voice, " Your doing a good job too, Mom". You just had to be there, it was so sincere and captured my heart. I think I could of ran for miles after that encouragement.

I am thankful for....

2009-04-11T22:36:00.002-05:00

I am thankful for .....

1. Easter and for our Lord who has conquered the grave for us!

2. nice break to relax with the family.

3. One of my funny friends txt messaging me on driving directions( scary I know, but I did know the answer).. I just love her.

4. All the great Easter candy.

5. Putting in 15 miles running this week.

6. Family gatherings and fun Easter egg hunts with extended family.

7. Here's some other random thankful things: Encouraging words, hugs, looking at flowers and getting ideas for planting season 2009, trusting God more than self, my new blueberry tea and great people to share a cup with, the house smelling good, the laundry finished, my sensors when full, realizing all my needs are being met, Answered prayer.

What are you thankful for?

Things I'm thankful for

2009-04-05T06:00:00.002-05:00

I am thankful for:

1. Healthy children

2. Quiet alone time

3. Running time

4. Lots of little people running like crazy in my house, I've been babysitting this week.

5. Prayer time with friends once a week and our tea time as well. See #13

6. Getting meals planned, groceries bought for the week, laundry done..... looking forward to rest tomorrow a wonderful day without the focus on work but on the kids and family time.

7. A fun preschool party at church and the cool craft my kids love.

8. My retired neighbors returning from their winter away.

9. For having fun with the kids through some crafts, making pizza, no bake cheesecake... so much fun to truly enjoy the kiddos, even if the end result is not pretty. It is beautiful in their little eyes and so much value in that.

10. For doing the right thing, for standing up for what you believe and doing what you are suppose to be doing. Even if everyone else is doing something different.

11. For Lindsey and I running together, she is such an encourager. It's fun to see what an influence our family and friends have on her.

12. I'm thankful for Easter and for Jesus. I'm thankful that we can spend time together as a family and enjoy some rest and relaxation this week. Only 3 days of school... Yeah!!!!

13 I'm thankful for hot tea. I have found it is so relaxing and look forward to my quiet time and some tea. Not everyday.... as I love the sugar in it and don't always need sugar.

14. I'm thankful that my friend Katie blessed me with a cool sea shell from the beach, some yummy salt water taffy ( I'm still jealous you went there on spring break) and for sending Drew's bubba blankie back to us.

Have a great Easter Vacation!
Love,
Tara

My Thankful List

2009-03-29T07:08:00.003-05:00

I am so thankful for....

1. That I have a everlasting savior that loves me just as I am.

2. That I do not have the stomach flu and I'm not queasy anymore.

3. I'm thankful for baby Jonah going home tomorrow and many people praying for this little one.

4. I'm thankful for a really refreshing ladies chocolate conference in Quincy yesterday with Monica, Dawn and Joy. It was so encouraging to see so many women who love the Lord and wanting growth in their lives. I don't always see that, so when you do it is so refreshing.

5. I'm thankful for my encouraging daughter who seems to encourage me at just the right times. She has a big heart for others and she is starting to sound like me and all my 1,000 questions. It's funny to see her little 6 year old ask me all about my day and my things. I love that! I feel I'm reaping what I've sown!

6. I'm thankful for a package in the mail of running goodies in the mail this week.

7. I'm thankful for my journal.

8. I'm thankful to try new things after being encouraged to do so this past weekend. I'm always trying something new.

9. I'm thankful for my Spring flowers and how beautiful they are.

10. I'm thankful for good nights of sleep, warm days, chocolate chip banana bread, feeling good again, a 10 minute conversation with a foreign friend catching up on the last year ( you know I'm good when we can get it all in a short time) I'm thankful for so much....

Thankful for you too,
Tara

The Campbell Crew!

2009-03-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

They really wanted their picture taken with the pine cones.

Lindsey and Drew posing in the cold without coats on!

I love it that Lindsey is still such a cuddlier, I think Chad does too.

Okay I love this picture of Drew, it kinda shows his little personality. I also love that my husband is always so funny in his pictures. He really has a hard time with pictures, even when he's trying. BTW- I really wasn't trying to have us all match, I just wanted to wear my new shirt, and then it happened that Lindsey would wear blue and I thought why not drew too. Now with Chad, that was just what he wore as he is low on the dress clothes. So I did kinda match the kids and I, but not Chad. It all worked out though and looks pretty cute!

Awwww my sweet lil peep!

Not sure, but the Lindsey was wanting to pose for the camera, Drew is all messing from who knows what and I'm just enjoying them at Grandpa's house.

Taste and see that the Lord is good....Thursday

2009-03-26T06:00:00.002-05:00

Ahhh I love taste and see Thursdays.... I hope you do too. I'm excited to post ya some good ol' chocolate recipe. I am doing so as i'm going to a ladies conference on Saturday about the chocolate side of life, or something like that. I'm excited and I know those who are going are too, no we are not going to eat chocolate all day, (although that sounds appealing). So in light of my weekend without the kids on Saturday I found a oldy, and yummy recipe in my little recipe folder. I have made these in the past and it melts...... literally in your mouth. It's called Mississippi Mud Cake. I find it appropriate as I live by the Mississippi river...hee hee.

Okay so firs things first. The cake is as good as it sounds.... with it's rich, fudgy frosting poured over a layer of mini marshmallows atop a brownie-like cake, most chocoholics agree that this is sure bet to satisfying your chocolate craving.

So now don't ya wanna make it???? I know you do... or at least Elizabeth and Dawn do!

Mississippi Mud Cake

by the Gooseberry ladies

Prep time 10 minutes

Cook 40 minutes

1 1/3 c flour

1/4 t salt

2 c sugar

1/2 c baking cocoa

1 c butter, melted

4 eggs, beaten

1 t vanilla

2 c mini marshmallows

1/4 c butter or marg

1/3 c baking cocoa

2/3 cu milk

16 oz box powdered sugar, sifted

* Stir together first 4 ingredients in a large bowl. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla, stirring until smooth. Spread batter into greased 13 x 9 pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Sprinkle hot cake with mini marshmallows.

* Combine 1/4 cup butter, 1/3 cup baking cocoa and milk in medium saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly with wire whisk, and boil one minute. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar. Immediately pour chocolate mixture over marshmallows. Let cake cool completely on wire rack. Cut into squares.

Makes lots.

Take a shortcut!

If time is short and cravings abound, substitute a 19.8-ounce package of brownie mix for the cake batter. Prepare mix according to package directions and spoon into a 13 x9 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes and proceed as directed in the recipe.

FYI- to get picture perfect slices from this rich cake, cover and chill it overnight before slicing it. The hardest part about that is waiting that long for the first bite!

Kidsrock reward trip

2009-03-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

My lil Olympian! Lindsey earned this reward trip from church. This is a cool gymnastic center in Quincy, Illinois. I of course would love it if we had this studio here in our town as my little lindsey could have fun learning from them. Maybe she'd be the next Shawn Johnson.... nay I want her to just be what God wants her to be.

Okay so this is one big pit of styrofoam blocks, I must say it is fun and really, really hard to get out of. I took the plunge myself and was sore the next day from trying to get out of it.

Lindsey is brave jumping into the pit!

Here she is swinging on the rope to another big foam block thingy.

My favorite little guys!

2009-03-24T09:51:00.002-05:00

Drew loves to read with Daddy, in fact his nightly routine is read books in the rocking chair, then when it's serious bedtime, we read more books in his rocking chair in his room. We think Drew has become the master of making bedtime last forever.

Okay so this is what we do in winter, I know it's spring but drew was wanting a little chance to ride his bike in the snow, so I let him.

There he goes, boots and all on his favorite, non pedalling bike.

My new song

2009-03-23T06:00:00.008-05:00

Oh Lord to you

We will seek you first Lord, you will hear our voices,

early in the morning and late in the night.

We will sing your praises, giving you the glory,

offering our lives to you a holy sacrifice.

May our praise arise like incense, oh Lord to you.

May our worship be a fragrance, oh Lord to you.

I have found myself thinking about this song, and now I have come to enjoy it. It is very dear to me right now. I'm not sure who the artist is, all I know is that it's on my list of songs I Iisten when I go run. The words are so powerful and to the point.

I will now make it my prayer, that I will seek You first early in the morning ( yes, even now as I start my early morning workout routine again) and that at night you are on my heart. I absolutely love the part in the song where the great crescendo build up is for these words "offering our lives to you a holy sacrifice"--- ooooh I love it, love the whole O.T. background.

I am thankful for sweet reminders in a song that echos my desires to live as your chosen people, holy and devoted to you. I'm excited to be a small part in your big puzzle. Make my life count for something, with my children and with all whom I associate with. Each day is such a gift, I pray I use each gift wisely for you Lord.

Much love,

Tara

My Thankful List

2009-03-22T15:37:00.002-05:00

I am thankful for.....

1. I'm thankful for a wonderful sunny Saturday, lots of time outdoors playing with the kiddos.

2. I'm thankful for Lindsey and Mommy date night together. We had so much fun!

3. I'm thankful for my kind husband who let me sleep in this weekend, took care of the peeps and then let me go on a long fun run, and he never even complained! Yeah Mr. Chad!

4. I'm thankful for a wonderful week at church this week, ladies luncheon and children's revival.

5. I'm thankful for many phone calls this week, despite my land line cutting out most of the time.

6. I'm thankful for many encouraging blogs that always brighten up my day and give me food for thought. Sometimes it's as if I'm supposed to have read that.

7. I'm so thankful that I finished a great book this week. It was such a well written book, with an incredible story. I found myself not wanting to put it down. The book of John is woven throughout the characters story. Great fiction if you want to read it!!

8. I'm thankful it's almost Popsicle season!

9. I'm thankful " I can do all things through Christ who give me strength"- Philippians 4:13. I pray that verse to my kids everyday on the way to school. I'm starting to believe it.

10. I'm thankful my job is that of a stay-at-home mom, that I can dwell well (that's been on my heart lately), that I have healthy children, a husband who loves me. I'm thankful that God has answered a prayer that's been in my heart for years yet I seem to not think I should pray for it. I'm thankful that it is coming to fruition.

11. I'm thankful for great tunes to listen to on my runs. I just started this week to listen to music, I think I'm liking it. I play track # 3 for miles!!!!

12. I'm thankful for you, that as you are reading this, you may see a little window into my heart and maybe still find me normal.

So what are you thankful for?

Tooth on the loose!

2009-03-20T15:44:00.003-05:00

Toward the end of February, Lindsey lost her first tooth. She was so excited that she finally had a loose tooth. We were just about 5 minutes shy of leaving for Cedar Rapids on a Friday when I knew Lindsey's tooth was barely hanging on. Mr. Chad had just got home from school and he was hoping her tooth was still there so he could have a good look and it and pull it. Lindsey was ready so she told him he could, we both could. We both tried. We both failed. Mr. Chad wrapped her tiny lil tooth with some fancy floss and ...... POP it came out. Awwww she was super excited and couldn't wait to show off her little toothless grin to us all.

She also couldn't wait to use her tooth fairy pillow, well it was my tooth fairy pillow as a little girl. At our house the tooth fairy is pretty cheap, then when grandma found out about the tooth she kinda stole our thunder. Oh well, I guess that's what grandma's are for.

Great Giveaway!

2009-03-19T23:12:00.004-05:00

Great giveaway:

If you post it on your blog you get a chance to win some tshirts. I really
like the shirts. Go check them out!!

Taste and see that the Lord is good....Thursday

2009-03-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

Aww what a refreshing week. I'm thinking I should post a recipe for my homemade freshly squeezed lemonade, but everyone knows how to do that, even my little people. I love today's fun fun recipe. It comes from a cookbook that I have, yet I didn't even know it was in my cookbook until my sister-in-law, Elizabeth told me about it. We both got this cookbook from our cool father-in-law ( If your reading, I'm not kissing up). So when she made these tasty bars I feel in love with the bars.
Elizabeth likes to bake lots and always shares her fun stuff with our family. Recently she's taken up making homemade cakes and frosting. She always makes great birthday cakes for her kids and spends like a gillion hours creating cool cakes. I admire that, I spend 15 minutes at Hy-Vee picking out a cake for the little people, does that count? Elizabeth is married to my husband's brother. They moved to Keokuk the year I got pregant with Lindsey and then they too had a baby the same time we did. Our kids are close in age and my kids have special bonds with the cousins. I love that.
One thing Elizabeth and I have in common is talking on the phone. We usually have a reason for calling each other but we get so distracted in our conversation that we end up forgetting why we called in the first place. Elizabeth is good at making people feel comfortable by talking, I think that's one of your gifts, even if it's just talking about silly stuff (Love it). One thing I appreciate about Elizabeth is that she helps out with communication between our family. The men in our lives do not properly communicate and we seem to get the job done. Thank you for staying on top of that. Thanks for all your goodies, fun talks and being my friend ( not just family).
Love your guts,
Tara

Can't Leave Alone Bars
by Elizabeth

1 package of white cake mix
2 eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup butter or margarine, cubed

In a bowl combine dry cake mix, eggs, and oil. With floured hands, press 2/3 of the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 inch dish. Set remaining cake mixture aside. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk, chocolate chips and butter. Microwave uncovered, on High for 45 seconds; stir. Microwave 45-60 seconds longer or until chips and butter are melted. Stir until smooth. Pour over crust. Drop teaspoons of remaining cake mixture over the top. Bake at 350* for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool before cutting( if you can wait that long)
Makes 3 dozen

Enjoy
Tara

My random questions and answers

2009-03-16T14:11:00.003-05:00

This is like the facebook 25 things, I could not do the 25 things on facebook, but I did answer some funny questions.

1.What did you want to be when you grew up? A teacher and mommy. So far my dream is come true.

2. First thing I did today? Woke up to husband’s alarm and then started to pray

3. Funny memory this week? 6 year old getting sick at nice restaurant all over me, the floor and then 2 year old falling in it. Husband was nowhere to be seen:)

4. Best thing about today? Family time, making fabulous dessert and talking on the phone lots

5. Worst thing about today? Eating too much dessert

6. Favorite place to be? Home

7. What do you do often? Text message people

8. What do you love to do in spare time? Lately it’s been get lost in a book, or go on a run

9. Funniest gift you have received? Snow flake earings

10. Goals for 2009? Have lots… hope to achieve most, love it

11.Favorite book? The Bible (good Sunday school answer, but true)

12. Over achiever or under achiever? Neither

13. Content with where you are in life? Always room for improvement, I am enjoying the progressive journey of life right now

14. Lots of friends or prefer a few? That depends, I have lots of friends (look at my facebook page) but only a few I’d really share the real nitty gritty things with.

15. What is the first thing you’d pack if going on a trip? GPS, flat iron, books, snacks, if I had the kids with me I’d pack their stuff first.

16. How would someone else describe you in a few words? Cheerful & loyal

17. What word would you like to be remembered by? Faithful

18. If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be? ( nothing physically)
accept change easier, not a people pleaser, more open and not standoffivish

19. Who do you admire? Mothers

20. Best time in your life? my time at OCC, and Now

My Thankful List

2009-03-14T20:50:00.004-05:00

I am really amazed how fast time goes by, it's seems like I just did this list and now it's time to do another one and I'm thrilled. I think about thankfulness everyday, I'm just not always good at writing down what I'm thankful for each day of the week.

1. I'm thankful for a family in North Carolina who share their heart on their blog. They have a baby with serious health issues and I am thankful for their authenticity. Pray for them. They have a blog. http://www.patriceandmattwilliams.blogspot.com

2. My family feeling better!!!

3. A great getaway at my friend Donna's house this week when the family was sick. I am thankful for our bible study, your hot tea and great jelly beans, and for writing on your hand all the things you didn't want to forget to tell me after the Beth Moore dvd. You bless me so!

4. The simple sweet ways my children show me their love. They are so great, I'm glad they are mine.

5. I'm thankful for a fun filled Saturday, KCA action ( my mom bought about everything), 2 birthday parties ( I attended one) and a fun Kidsrock reward night.

6. I'm thankful that my mom watched Drew this week so I could go shopping kid-free with cool Dawn Farris and for a fun lunch with father-in-law!

7. Funny thankfulness: My let's call everyone I haven't talked to in awhile on my way to and from Mops time. I love it and I loooooove to talk on the phone.... I'm thinking that's one of my gifts :)

8. I'm thankful for family time this week. We haven't really had lots of time together ( when we aren't sick) and Friday we had lots of family time and the kids enjoyed time at grandpas and more fun playing with cousins.

9. I'm thankful it's almost Spring!

10. I'm thankful for the small runs I've had this week, and a great one I'm going to do today. I'm excited for our ladies exercise class continuing on till the end of April.

Taste and see that the Lord is good....Thursday

2009-03-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today's tasty recipe is so yummy and delish delish that I think I may have to go make it this coming weekend. I got this recipe from a girl at a pampered chef party, so I can't really write about her because A. I really do not know her and B. At least she gave me a great little spicy recipe.

Spicy Chicken Dip is it's name and when I was pregnant with my 2nd I craved this and always had people over so I could make it. (Maybe that's why I gained the 50lbs) Guess I'm being reminded I should have people over so I can make this, but not gain 50lbs.

BTW- This is a big hit with the fellas, chad request this at the after the game football parties we have. So if you know people who like spicy things, make this they will looooove it.

Spicy Chicken Dip

2 cans of chicken
2 blocks of cream cheese
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 jar of jalapenos (add to taste)

Soften cream cheese, add chicken, soups, and jalapenos. Warm in crockpot. Serve with chips or crackers. ( We like fritos corn chips scoops) I have a programmable crockpot that just does warm, it works out perfect. I have used the low on a regular crockpot and it gets super hot.

***Enjoy and if you make this you better tell me, or better yet invite us over :)

2009-03-11T12:03:00.003-05:00

Isn't it funny how we can have such a bad attitude one minute, then be super okay then next. Ahem, right now my people are sick. The chaos is almost too much for me. Now as I am reflecting on the blog.... I am changing. It's a good thing, a scary thing, and a trust in Jesus thing for me as well. So when I think about my little household of sickness I am learning that I'm selfish. Okay so my question is why? I like my little schedule, my people here at certain times and not here at certain times. Get the beautiful picture folks?
I think I do my relationship with the Lord like that some days. I like my little schedule with the Lord, certain times I am SELFISH and put that time off for just another hour..... I have dishes to do, laundry to maybe start and then of course my email to check. What? I'm thinking that's so selfish, I need to be where You are, no rely on self. SELF never really gets me anywhere, there is no peace or security in self. So today I've realized that and been in this prayer state since like 5:30 a.m. folks. Yep I am, and I realize I probably need a good dose of His medicine for my soul.
It has been my prayer that last couple weeks to be a truer worshiper, ( by today's attitude I feel I'm way failing). I want to be a truer server, truer seeker and a truer confessor. So today I have highs ( at least a couple), lows (many), celebrations, and frustrations.
A great verse I'm going to pray today is from such a cool old testament story... go read it and enjoy. 2 Chronicles 20:21 " Give thanks to the Lord, for His Love endures forever."

I'm so glad his love endures forever, and our little sickness does not.
Much love,
Tara

My Thankful List

2009-03-07T23:10:00.002-06:00

What a great week this has been and what a great God we have. As I reflect on this past week, I can't help but steal a little saying from my Lindsey's daily devotional sheet from church, this little quote was probably more for me this week than her.

Looking at individual days in our lives can be like looking at one piece of a puzzle. Only God knows what the finished picture of your life will look like. He knows where to fit each piece--each and every day that we live.

1. I am thankful for God's redeeming love, ( can you tell I love francine rivers) and that He has a plan for me.

2. I am thankful for all the ways God has surprised me this week, with prayer, friends and 2 encouraging cards that I read over and over.

3. I'm thankful that I can take burdens of others to God and not try to fix people, that is so freeing.

4. I'm thankful for my new book my friend Donna got for me, can't wait to see it, she even had the author sign it.

5. I'm thankful for a messy, cluttered house with lots of neighborhood kids laughing in it... and of course picking it up.

6. I'm thankful I have AAA, so when I locked my keys in the van at my friend Dawn's house, I didn't have to pay all my tax refund.

7. I'm really thankful for signs of spring, my flowers peeping up a little on the south side, sleeping with the window open and waking to the early birds chirp ( I know call me crazy).

8. I'm thankful for all those people this week who asked me about my running, thank you, you are thoughtful.

9. I am thankful for what God is doing in the hearts of His people. It is so encouraging to share that with others.

10. I'm thankful for so much, so much, so much.... that's a song we sing and Lindsey and i sing it so much. I'm thankful for that reminder.

11. Silly thankfulness- Dancing crazy with the kids, sarcasm with the hubs ( he is so funny), text messaging everybody (loooove it), good hair days, cold house at night so I can sleep.

12. I am thankful to God for introducing me to some awesome people before we get to Heaven! Now that's cool!

Thanks for reading, seeing and understanding my list!
Love,
Tara

Taste and see that the Lord is good....Thursday

2009-03-05T14:21:00.003-06:00

Ahhhh today's tasty recipe is a sweet one, and it comes from a southern sweet little girlie girl friend of mine. My friend Rebecca gave me this recipe, she is so funny. I attended Ozark Christian College with her and have numerous stories I could share, she is very unique and a very organized person. Everything she does is done with such diligence and 100% thought behind her perfect work. I appreciate Rebecca's thoughtfulness in making every gift she gives to have so much thought behind what she does. I pray for her everyday as just recently she sent me these cool magnets she made from clear rocks, behind each magnet she put some cute little color paper , or letters to spell out my name, a picture of a dog because she loves Herky our fox terrier, and baby feet as I had just recently had a baby, and the funny one was her behind a magnet. So thanks Rebecca, my children have tried to shallow you and ask who you are all the time. ( We are now out of the stage of everything goes to the mouth). I really think i need to start a friend journal of all the funny things/stories I remember about my friends, so when I'm in the nursing home I can look back at my life and just laugh.
I will write down Rebecca's dorm room garage sale first because you over drafted. I just recently got rid of those good deals... course they as I remember were free due to your guilt. Thanks for the laughs.

I'm not a real old fashioned custard pie person, I know my mom and her generation are but I gave this a try a few years ago .... due to the fact you can't mess it up in the blender. I found out I really like the simplicity of it, and it tasted good, and I have brought it to family functions and all the old people gobble it up. Hee Hee!

Impossible Custard Pie
By Rebecca Lamke Sas

Ingredients: 2 cups of milk, 2/3 cup sugar, 4 eggs, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/2 stick margarine, 1/2cup flour, 1 cup coconut ( i never put this in), and 1 tsp vanilla.

Pour all ingredients into a blender. Blend for 20 seconds then pour into a 10 inch pie tin. Do Not use a smaller pie tin. If you like sprinkle nutmeg on top. Bake at 350* for 45-60 minutes or until knife comes out clean. ( If glass pan is used, lower heat to 325*)
A crust forms on the bottom, custard in the middle and the coconut rises to the top. The pie will be puffed up when it comes out of the oven, but will drop in the center as it cools. Enjoy!

* Note: The name of this recipe is Impossible but it's really not. It's so simple!

My Thankful List

2009-03-01T22:10:00.003-06:00

I am so thankful this week I could just squeak or maybe just hug somebody! I have thought a lot about what I am thankful for this week. In fact I prayed/ reflected on it today on the treadmill for like the entire afternoon.

1. I'm thankful for my great run and talk with God today. I am realizing God's way is easier than my way in things.

2. I'm so thankful for laughter. I've been doing that a lot here lately with the family, at myself, and with these dear old ladies the other day. I'm still laughing about their stories even right now!

3. I'm thankful for my new book Tender Grace by Jackina Stark. She is an old professor of mine and she really paints a portrait in her book that is so much needed right now in my life. I'm so thankful I had the entire afternoon yesterday to just get lost in it with a box of Kleenex's. Almost done!

4. I'm thankful for the flattery my friend Jill Ralph gave me! Thank-you beary much!

5. I'm thankful for great reminders in God's word this week. Here's a little version of my Psalm 130 in my own words. Lord you hear me even when no one else does. You love me and don't count things against me. You are feared as you are the one who forgives me. I wait for the Lord, my soul will wait- put my hope in You- that's all that matters. With God's unfailing love there is great redemption, you buy us back because we have originally belonged to you. I love you. Tara

6. I'm thankful for real conversations with friends, not just instant messenging. Although I do love that. I'm just wondering if I'm avoiding real conversation by texting. So all you beware I'm going to be calling :)

7. I'm thankful for Dawn for organizing a fun ladies bunco night!

8.Thankful for each of you reading this. I do hope that you are moved to reflect some things you are thankful for this week.

9. Now for my shallow thankfulness: Girl scout cookies, tac0 pizza, eating on my good china, feeling great in my favorite pair of jeans, laundry folded, enjoying this season of my life!

Taste and see that the Lord is good....Thursday

2009-02-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

Okay today's recipe is one of those easy meals I remember making for a special family I use to work for. I'm including it today as I had a walk down memory lane this week. I was able to work for a wonderful family while I attended Ozark. This was my favorite job ever, besides my current job. I was able to travel to Joplin this week with my friend Dawn, I then was able to have a great visit with Debbie at the local IHOP.

I learned so much from this family, that job really helped prepare me for motherhood and the whole parenting process. I am so thankful God placed Debbie and her family in my life both then and now. It's so neat to know that when we have the bond of Christ we have a true bond forever. I am so thankful for all the things "caught" I learned while working for you all. I am anxious to try out this recipe again as I remembered it tasting so good.

I am so thankful I was able to reconnect with Debbie this week, parts of me are sad though as I never realized until this week how much I miss this family. God is good and I'm so thankful for all of you in my life right now.

Smothered Chicken
By Debbie

INGREDIENTS
4skinless, boneless chicken breast
8 slices bacon
16 ounces sour cream
2 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup ( I remember only using 1 of these)

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Wrap each chicken breast in 2 strips of bacon and place in a glass 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and soup. Cover the chicken with the sour cream/soup mixture and bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes or until slightly brown on top. Let cool and serve on top of hot, cooked rice if desired.

My Thankful List

2009-02-24T21:50:00.002-06:00

I'm a little late on my list but I do want to express my thankfulness on the blog, mainly for my own purposes. Plus I have heard that every time you write down what your thankful for it changes your attitude and I really believe that as it's worked the last couple of weeks.

1. I am thankful for the verse in 2 Chronicles 16:9, " For the eyes of the Lord search to and fro the entire earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. (This version is Tara version a little NIV, ESV, NLT) Sorry folks don't have the bible in front of me.

2. So Thankful for a wonderful week of visiting friends, a little shopping, fun road trips ( one with the kids and one without) .... one was a little bit more relaxing than the other but I'm still thankful. (can u guess which one?)

3. I'm thankful for healthy kids.

4. I'm thankful for this running goal even when I feel a little distracted from it right now.

5. I'm thankful that God teaches me through so many simple things everyday, that His word is so real and so useful in my life.

6. I'm thankful for that small voice that keeps guiding me, to do the right thing.

7. I thankful for so much and I could really journal on this big topic right now.. i think I will...
But some fun things I'm so thankful for are : Chick-fil-a sweet tea and chicken sandwich, Shakey's, great deal on a gallon of milk, not gaining weight after all this, and reconnecting with a friend from the past.

8. I'm so thankful as I feel sometimes the luckiest girl in the world to have so many "rubies" as friends, you all are a blessing in my life.

9. I'm thankful my husband got a cell phone.. yeah we can now text message each other. I love that, but I love him more.

10. I am so thankful now for writing this list..

Running Updates!

2009-02-17T20:59:00.002-06:00

11 more weeks till the 1/2 marathon. Doesn't really seem possible that the time has just flown by and yet I'm loving this journey of it all.
Yes it is hard work, but it's so rewarding. I'm probably more excited what this journey is doing to my heart, and my time management skills, Oh don't be suprised I still get off task often but all the important things get done, and the not so important on tara's to do list don't get done.

Here are the one's I just can't keep up on:

LAUNDRY...BTW when you use all caps on the internet it's like talking real loud to get the point across...lol. Laugh now good people!!
Those upset with me because I haven't called them back
Papers around the house... can't seem to throw them out, but really not sure I'll ever use them.
T.V. shows, I dvr them all like 3 of them, yet only catch up on them here and there. I do watch idol though on the dvr.
My journal, I love it and planning on going back to it after my bible study ends in a few weeks.
Ironing and organizing.
Deep cleaning
Taking the dog out
Recycling.. it's so out of control

Here's the one's I do keep up on:

My blog here and there.
Facebook and email... I'm thinking I need to limit it...I just get sucked in like a old lady watching her soap operas.
Text messenging
My running schedule and weight training
Suppers I'm pretty good at that
knowing when I need to spend time with God, and not get caught up in this world.. what a refreshing part of my day...
My family and friends.... I love you all.
The dishes

My Thankful List

2009-02-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for this week, one of those weeks where I'm amazed how fast the went went. Guess when you have stuff going on almost every night that makes for a busy week. I wouldn't of changed a thing though... so you know that means it's pretty good/balanced kinda week. Wow!

1. I am thankful that our family got to have family date night on Friday. I was so relaxed and really enjoyed our little night!

2. I am thankful that I was able to attend Lindsey's Valentine's party and lead the class, it reminded me that I do miss teaching children and how one day that will be part of my life again. I love staying home right now though!

3. I am thankful for what God is doing and even working on with me.

4. I am thankful for all my sista friends! You are wondeeeeeful and bring such fun in my life.

5. I'm thankful for my father-in-law and that he's planned our Valentine's Day for us and many other couples for dinner.

6. Okay I'm thankful for all those who have called this week to talk and to share your heart. I LOVE to talk on the phone!

7. I am so thankful for MOPS, I really enjoy this so much! I love all the ideas from so many wonderful women of God and I'm planning on using the idea of reading a Proverb a day with my kiddos. What a simple idea, to read a proverb everyday that corresponds to the day of the month. Guess this month I'd only read 28 proverbs and skip the rest..... ha ha

8. I'm thankful for you as you read this, that you took a minute of your time to see a small reflection of what I'm thankful for. I do hope you are thankful for so much!

Taste and see Thursday

2009-02-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

Taste and see that the Lord is good Thursday. Indeed I do believe that and I know that the Lord is really opening up my eyes. In so many ways that words cannot describe or paint the picture I'd like to show or tell you.

I'll try in a Psalm though as it's like a song.
"Show me your ways, O Lord,
teach me your paths;
guide me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day
long...... according to your love remember me."

Psalm 25:4-5, 7

How sweet those words touch my soul and make my life sweeter.
Today's recipes are some great mexican sides. I'd like to say the first one is a side dish and the 2nd is what we often have for a meal with chips. (I'm not sure it's suppose to be a meal but we do it)

The first one is a recipe from my friend Katie Desotel on cheesy mexican rice. Katie and I are two peas in a pod. We are big time talkers, complete sanguine people. Katie use to live in Keokuk but recently moved to the cold north pole in northern Iowa. I appreciate Katie and her giving spirit. She is always looking to help anyone out, like finding deals on clothes, shoes, giving me great recipes , encouraging me to run and always making me feel so loved! Thank you very much! Katie and I share the love for cooking/baking so anytime we are together we cook in her big kitchen. We love to do Mexican, it usually takes us all night as we get sidetracked very often with other things. (Remember when we got lost, before the GPS thing due to looking at our silly cell phones/ pictures?) I always have so much fun with Katie... my husband thinks I'm crazy for having to stay all night with my friend Katie..what can I say.. I love girl time and it's good for my kids too! I'm looking forward to another girl night this month!! Yeah!

Cheesy Mexican Rice
by
Katie DeSotel

I cup of chicken broth
I cup of salsa
minute rice
3slices of kraft cheese

Mix first two ingredients and bring to boil. Add rice. Throw in cheese on top and put lid on pan. Wait like 5 minutes and mix rice up. This recipe is great with Katie and Tara's chicken chimichangas.
If you make this have me over.... I love it!!!!

Bean Dip
by
Tara

2 lbs hamburger
2 16 oz cans of refried beans
1 large onion
3 tomatos
2 jalapeno peppers (diced)
salt and pepper
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
garlic salt
16 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
8 oz mozzarella cheese

Brown meat and onions. Drain. Add all ingredients but cheese. Mix well. Divide mixture into 3 pie plates. Divide cheese and sprinkle on top. Bake 350* for 25 minutes.
Can freeze these and they are great.
If frozen bake for 1 hr or until hot.

Eat with corn chips.

OH if anyone makes this remember it makes 3, yes 3 pie plates so remember who gave you the recipe.. hint hint!

I am thankful!

2009-02-09T12:48:00.003-06:00

I am so thankful for so much throughout the week. I really need to write it down so I remember, but I've been not so good at writing down my thoughts lately. Due to well, plain laziness. I know, I know.. I really love my journal and I've been neglecting it... so I plan on getting back to it after my daily bible study with Beth Moore is over in a few weeks. I love her and I am thankful for her... even though I've never met her.

1. I am thankful for a wonderful week with lots of family and extended family time.

2. I am thankful for so much encouragement from random people.

3. I am thankful for the women's exercise class I'm teaching.

4. I am thankful for my one year bible, I look forward to each day's reading. I love the NLT version. It comes alive and really is a fun read. I still love studying from my other bible though.

5. I am thankful for a smaller jean size.

6. I am thankful for the divine appointments this week with random people at the places I did not want to go to. I am so humbled.

7. I'm thankful for text messaging. It is so nice to keep up with friends and is encouraging to me.

8. I'm thankful for Jill and her willingness to step out and volunteer to teach this summer's VBS! I of course will help ya!

9. I'm thankful for chocolate mint brownies, jalapeno bread and my mom cooking supper last night.

10. I am so thankful that I was able to mentally prepare for a long run this week, then put my thoughts into action on Sunday. Yeah I completed 7 miles of running, then 2 more miles of walking back to my car. I feel great and know "I can do all things with Christ who gives me strength"

Taste and see Thursday

2009-02-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Taste and see that the Lord is good Thursday. I do think that Food is so meant to be shared with friends and family. So today I'm posting a recipe from a dear family member who is being laid to rest today. Ruby Campbell is Chad's grandma, who was 88 years young. She was a short little lady that had a heart of gold and loved her grandchildren (chad) and great grandchildren ( our kiddos) so much.
She was born on April Fool's day and I think that made her kinda spunky and liked to be a fun grandma. Grandma Campbell is known for her chip dip, so today I thought I'd post her famous chip dip. I love to make her dip, it's the best with Sterzings potato chips, or veggies (if you want healthy with your dip.... kinda not so much healthy though). I think I will always miss Grandma's chip dip, even if I do make it again. I am so thankful for all the memories we have with her, one lifetime is never long enough with those you love. I am thankful for this recipe and all the recipes/ cookbooks we have from her. She will be missed by all our crew at our house.

Chip Dip
By
Ruby Campbell

1 cup sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
1 Tablespoon Dill Weed
1 teaspoon Beau Monde
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 chopped garlic clove. (She uses garlic salt).
1 Tablespoon chopped onion

Chill overnight before serving.

Taste and see Thursday

2009-01-29T13:31:00.002-06:00

Today is definitely a soup day. I am going to share one of my favorite and good for you soups. I just made this soup for the first time this winter. I have made it now over 7 times in like 2 months. My husband was not much of a soup person, but this winter I have made him one. He now is way burnt out on soups. As I have stated before, it's so easy and it is such a great thing to have for leftovers or for me for lunch. So this soup is my mom's recipe for vegetable beef soup. Growing up my mom was one of those super cooks, she I think fed us homemade mash potatoes like at least 2 times a week. In fact, I didn't even know there was such a thing called instant potatoes until I was a freshman at college and wondered why the cafeteria potatoes tasted so bad. As a kid, this soup was not my favorite. The reason is because it was healthy and had that beef stuff in it, I'm not a big chunk meat person.

Now in my thrifty thirties I like this soup. It's #1 good for you, #2 economical, #3 easy if you plan ahead. I picked this soup this week because I made it just yesterday for a new mommy. I also made if for an old mommy as well who had a busy week with high school games everyday this week. It was fun to do, and my husband remember from earlier didn't want the soup for his supper (I burnt him out). It's funny because another friend, Alisha (who I made this soup for her in December when she had a baby) made this soup yesterday too, so it was only fitting to post this soup for all you to have and make. This is a good soup to freeze too, and has lots of leftovers.

Vegetable Beef Soup

1 pkg Stew Meat

1pkg onion soup Mix

Cook this over night in crock pot. Fill Crock pot up with lots of water

In the morning, or whenever you want ( I have programmable crockpot)

Dump into soup pan the broth. Bring it to a boil with 2 stalks of celery chopped up how you like it, 1/2 onion, 3-5 Carrots cut up and 3-5 potatoes. Cook for like 30 minutes or until tender. Add Meat cooked. Add 1 can corn, 1 can green beans, 1 can peas ( all drained). Add 1 can tomato juice ( I use 2qts) 1 can Rotel.

Hints from Tara the not pro-

That is it folks, it's that easy. I add lots of pepper to mine because pepper is awesome. I usually add 5 carrots because I like the way it looks and tastes in my soup. I slice my carrots in thin circles. I like to chop my celery and onion up, the pampered food chopper rocks at this and is such fun to do. I like to cut my potatoes up small. I like this soup as it has so much into it... chopping, cooking overnight and the anticipation of the next morning waking up to such delightful smell, I like the whole peeling process of the foods and just everything. This is a fun soup to make. So let me know when you make it. Be sure to buy lots of crackers it's yummy in it! My family likes crackers, in fact... my kids eat soup with their crackers.. they really just like that part best.

I'm removing some hats!

2009-01-27T13:02:00.003-06:00

Well I'm not really a big hat wearer. In fact I'd rather wear a visor when it's super duper hot outside. Today though I'm really not talking about hats literally. I think I wear too many hats (aka : jobs or volunteer activities I do, all unpaid of course) My husband thinks I have the most unpaid jobs of anyone he knows.

So I feel led to take off some of those hats I wear, lay them down and put my effort into what I'm really called to do. It's so easy to say "Yes" to this or "Yeah, I can do that once a month commitment". Then somehow I end up being the chairperson of this, the secretary of that and even the chaplain. Yikes how did that happen? I know, it is nice to be involved and I am not praying about what I should really do. Don't get me wrong, organizations need help and good people to run them. Right now in my life I'm trying to set boundaries and live a life pleasing to Jesus. There is a powerful message I've been studying this week in Psalm 127:1-2, " If the Lord doesn't build the house, the builders are working for nothing. If the Lord doesn't guard the city, the guards are watching for nothing."

The message I've got about that verse this week is that all labor spent on ANYTHING God himself has not built is in vain. I definitely will not just leave all the things I am doing empty handed, but I'm no longer going to do a job that I'm not called to do. As Beth Moore would be so proud that I am not just "eating the seed, but sowing the seed, and listening/ doing". I want to pour my life into meaningful things like my children, family and church. I'm excited to feel the peace I already feel, the stillness that has awakened my soul and that I can and will do what God has called me to do.

I am thankful!

2009-01-25T22:42:00.003-06:00

I am so Thankful!!!

1. I am thankful for so much, for this day many years ago my husband was born into the world... Yeah.. I am thankful for Him!

2. I am thankful for my faith, for that small voice that leads me and comforts me.

3. I am thankful for my children, both completely different and yet both complete me and I love being their mom. They are truly a blessing.... I can think straight right now as they are sleeping.. haha.

4. I am so thankful for encouragement this week from a class I attended on purity... wow lots to think about and I needed it.

5. I am thankful that I'm starting to feel like an athlete again. Not going to the Olympics folks, but I am finding balance and contentment in that area. I love this training process, probably so much more than any event I do.

6. I am so thankful for the gift of friendship.. I'm so sanguine to the bone and I love people. I really love all my friends.. You are the best and a major blessing in my life right now.

7. I'm so thankful for my new bible.. it's the NLT and it makes things come alive and easy to understand and well I really enjoy it.

8. I'm thankful for the one day last week where it was warm outside.. I love knowing what is coming in the next couple months (spring) and as our little trees are doing their sleepy dance soon it will be warm and I love seeing all the new growth of spring and all the trees, flowers blossom for us. (BTW- my iris' are coming up, someone forgot to tell them it's January)

9. I am thankful for down time this week, good workouts and taco pizza!!!

Taste and see Thursday

2009-01-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

Hello0000000000000 I'm back! Yes, I love recipes and yes, I love to blog. But lately, I've been trying out lots of new things and lack of computer time for the blog has been pretty dim lately. I have been cooking and taking care of my family though so I should get an award huh?

One thing I've managed to this entire Fall/ Winter is make a soup once a week. I really never intended to do it, but economically speaking it works well and leftovers are usually great, Plus that means I do not have to cook everyday and come up with different ideas. So today I'm going to post my friend Heather's soup. She and I are new friends, well not really. We knew each other in high school, she was one year younger than me. Now I think she likes that she is older than me. It's funny though because I always thought of her as sweet and a nice person in high school but as a typical high schooler I stayed within my class friends. Well Heather and I go to the same church and we both have one boy and girl, and they are both close in ages to play. We both have the same last name now, but we are not related, we both got married on the same day/ same year in the same town. Our birthdays are one week apart, and we happen to go to the same hairdresser that only a few people even know about because this person has no advertising.... How strange huh? I guess this means we are suppose to be friends. Well it's fun now to brag on a friend on this Thursday recipe day so I guess this means I can brag on Heather.

One thing I appreciate about Heather is her genuineness/ realness. What you see is what you get, no pretending to be someone she isn't. I like that quality in friends, and I think once Heather is your friend she is very loyal and will be for life.

One thing I appreciate about Heather is she is always asking our family to do things, like go out to eat, have us over and it always involves food. Recently we've been talking about exercise, but we know food so we stick to doing things involving food. Haha! This recipe I'm posting is a great soup you can eat on a cold winter's day and if you have lots left it freezes beautifully.. whatever that means. I did freeze it and it tasted great. Thanks Heather for your friendship and all the great laughs we have with you... or maybe at you. Just kidding!!

Baked Potato Soup
By Heather

4 large baking potatoes
2/3 cup butter or margarine
2/3 cup flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper ( I didn't have this so I used black)
6 cups of milk
8 oz sour cream
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
10 bacon strips, cooked & crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Peel potatoes, then wrap in foil and bake at 350* for 65-75 minutes. Cool completely then cube. In large saucepan melt butter; stir in flour, salt, pepper, some onions & bacon pieces until smooth. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in sour cream. Add potatoes. Garnish with green onions, bacon & cheese.

It's Snowing!

2009-01-14T08:25:00.002-06:00

It's Snowing out and as I reflect on this beautiful snow while all the kiddos are down stairs making a big mess, ( at least it's quiet up stairs). I am kinda in awe of how white it is and how beautiful. I am reminded that Jesus makes us whiter than snow. That it is His blood, what he did, he takes away our sin and washes us white than snow. He makes alll things new. From my viewpoint this snow is pretty white, yet I'm sure far from perfect. I do know someone who does make things new and perfect. I'm so glad I am His Beloved and he loves me. I like this little quote from Beth Moore, " I love Jesus so much. He is the ultimate Prince Charming to every woman, especially the one who forgot she was Cinderella."

Remember that you are Cinderella and you are a princess in the eyes of our King... remember your his daughter princess.

Much love to you all!

I am thankful!

2009-01-04T21:19:00.002-06:00

Wow my first post for 2009, seems like it's bee awhile since I've last posted. I'm going to put up some pictures soon of the holidays and all the fun activities that December brings.

1. I am thankful for a relaxing 2 weeks with the family. There were times I feel we were together lots and we needed our space, but now that we all are going back to a schedule tomorrow, I'm kinda sad and will miss all the noise in the house.

2. I'm thankful for this new year and all the exciting things that will happen this year. One being trying this half marathon, and all the new little changes in the kids and seeing their growth. I'm excited for what both kids are doing and how each stage is so different but so much fun.

3. I'm excited to learn more in all areas for this 2009.

4. I'm thankful to God for giving me so much and for His giving of His son.

5. On a shallow side, I'm thankful for my new running gear and my favorite lil gloves that have a spot for wiping snot.... gross I know but it's so nice that some company thought of it!!!! On a real non shallow side I'm thankful for all those who are encouraging me in this goal and for all those who are joining me.. Yeah!!

So what are you thankful for?

My Thankful List

2008-12-28T21:20:00.002-06:00

1. I am thankful for my family and how they make me smile everyday. I love being around them and they are the ones that probably drive me crazy the most also.

2. I am thankful for all the new friends and new things I've learned in 2008, I am praying that 2009 will be a growing year as well.

3. I'm thankful I was able to run twice this weekend outdoors, I love to be outdoors and as silly as it is... I loved seeing all the animals out making their little noises to entertain me on a run.

4. I'm thankful for safety on the black ice this weekend.

5. I'm thankful my husband got me motivated and helped me declutter our playroom and basement storage... we have lots to do but it's so cleansing to get rid of stuff.

6. I'm thankful for this Christmas season, even in the stress it was very nice and meaningful.

7. I'm thankful for my little girl and reminded how 6 years ago this new years' eve she was brought into this world. I love her more than she will ever know.

8. I'm so thankful that despite what I do or say that God loves me just the way I am, with all my faults and all my gazillion failures.That His grace and His redeeming love is good enough, I am so thankful that I don't have to earn his love.

What are you thankful for?

35 things to be grateful

2008-12-19T12:00:00.000-06:00

35 Things to be grateful for all year long

I got this from Good Housekeeping... I thought I'd pass it along. I changed a few or added my own comments to some ( of course... because you love my thoughts).

Mistletoe ( and my husband under it)
The holiday dress that still fits- too bad I don't have one
Friends who are like family- I love you all
Men who still open doors
Online shopping
Finding the perfect gift for a picky relative
Waking up to snow
A bank of poinsettias- not sure what a bank is..
Logs crackling, gift wrap crinkling
A lighted tree in a darkened room
Baking cookies for Santa
A babysitter you can trust... Amen to that one
The family member who snaps photos at big event-and gives you prints.. thank you friends you do that.
Hand-knit anything
Nights so clear you can see tons of stars
Taking a nap, then wrapping presents until 2:00 a.m.
Gift givers who include batteries- grandparents are good at this one not me!
All our soldiers, at home and far away- we love you
Adding a leaf to the table for new family members
Clear directions from a stranger when you're lost- Got the GPS baby...
Express lanes
Having the row all toe yourself on an airplane, or for us mommies- having the bathroom all to ourselves without your children
A hubby who warms up the car for you
A haircut that's truly wash-and go
Cute shoes that don't hurt your feet- makes me miss my chacos
Babies when they're babbling
Teens when they feel like talking- I think my neighbor girl talks a mile a minute when she does this
Our 9pm candlelight ceremony on Christmas Eve, it's so wonderful
A sweet glance from your husband that no one else sees, my husband is wonderful at this and I love him so so so so much!!!!
The recipe for your mom's pecan pie- in my case my mom's chocolate thin cake
Knowing you watch It's a Wonderful Life any day this month
Having everyone home for the holidays
The luxury of few moments alone
A prayer, answered
Jesus of course, He's the reason for the Season

Hope you enjoyed this little list. If you have some things you are grateful for please post. Remember I love to hear some feedback.

Taste and see Thursday

2008-12-18T14:35:00.002-06:00

Oh I'm so excited for this recipe today. This is such a fun little treat. Why is it my favorite you ask.... you did ask right? Okay it's because this is a gift you can give away! My family loves hot cocoa and it seems to be that we've tried every package on the market and like some.... some we dry heave over and some are just bland!

I found this Holiday Cocoa recipe from the experts at Gooseberry Patch Christmas Book. I tried this recipe on a whim.... (Imagine that) and I fell in love, and so did my husband with the hot cocoa he's already in love with me!!!

Last year I made this recipe 2 times, now some of you are probably laughing but I'm serious. I gave it to everyone as a gift and had so much fun doing it. If your a little crafty... which I attempt to be once in awhile, then you can put these in the cone plastic baggies they sell at a craft store like Micheal's and put your cocoa in there with marshmallows and present your gift in style, or you can use the Ziploc bags like nobodies business and put it in a little holiday bag or mug.

Here's the best Hot Cocoa recipe...... are you convinced yet?

Holiday Cocoa

6 c. cocoa
2 c. malted milk powder
7 c. sugar
2 T cinnamon
1 vanilla bean, split in half

Blend all ingredients and let sit for 3 days; remove vanilla bean. Spoon mixture into gift jars. Include these instructions with your gift: Mix 1/4 cup of mix into an 8-10 ounce mug of hot milk.

Enjoy,
Tara

The Real Polar Express

2008-12-15T14:40:00.006-06:00

We went to the Polar express in Mt. Pleasant, Ia a few weeks ago. Here are some pictures from all the fun we had. In this picture Lindsey is getting a tattoo from the ice princess.

The Hopper crew enjoying the best hot cocoa and cookies from Santa.

The Campbell boys enjoying the magic of the Polar express train ride.

Drew was really happy to see Santa... not sure why this pictures looks the opposite but he got his bell from him and kept telling Santa he wanted a Thomas. It was cute to see him see on his lap. He of course had his big sister and cousins go first and then he joined right in. I think when Lindsey was his age she just cried, she was way too scared.

Drew telling Santa he likes trains

Lindsey told Santa she'd like ice skates, as we have taught her not to ask for lots of things. Mr. Santa then keep asking "So what else do you want?", So Lindsey thought well I better tell him, she then told him she'd like "a Wii". That was a funny moment. You asked Santa... thanks

Waiting to see Santa.

Gunner and Grandma Vian enjoying the North Pole festivities in the warm craft room. I think Vian is hiding from the camera... maybe too shy she might make my blog!

My good friend Alisha and her little one Gavin making crafts. Bless her heart she's 9 months pregnant here and says this is her last outing before the baby comes.

Lindsey's craft ornament she made.

Brrr it's cold in this train...

Me and my precious little Lindsey. We all had a great time and I look forward to it next year. Although I think Chad is pretty much Polar expressed out since we went two years in a row. So someone else will have to join me next year.

Taste and see Thursday

2008-12-11T06:00:00.001-06:00

Taste and see that the Lord is Good Thursday.

Today's recipe is my favorite Soup. I'm thinking it's comfort food season so I decided to share a little family recipe we have all come to love over the past year or so. It's very healthy and very good. For all you who do not do soup because you only do it if you can open up a can and pour in a pan.... this is a soup for you. Plus you'll be so excited that it's easy, and super good for you and you kids will eat it... that is if you don't use the regular rotel, but use mild instead. I'm choosing one of my recipes in honor of my birthday today. Oh this is one of those soups you can eat on for days.... everyone that has tried it has really enjoyed it and has added it to their repertoire of recipes.

Spicy Chicken Soup

2 skinless chicken breasts
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1 garlic clove ( I used minced garlic in can)
6-8 cups of water, divided
1 (10 ounce) can tomatoes & green chilies (can or rotel)
2-3 carrots sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
1 1/2 cup uncooked small shell pasta or (use frozen Remes egg noodles)

1. Combine chicken, basil, salt, garlic and 4 cups water in large saucepan. Bring to boil, reduce heat & simmer covered, 1 hr or until chicken is done. Remove chicken to cool.

2. Add all the tomatoes & green chilies ( rotel) along with carrots, celery, pasta and 2-4 more cups of water. Simmer until veggies are tender - 30 minutes.

3. Put chopped chicken in.

Serves lots.

One helpful tool i use for this soup is the Pampered Chef chopper. I slice carrots until I'm tired then I chop 'em up with chopper. I chop celery and chicken with in no time. Very fun and a stress reducer. Add pepper and salt if you wish. If you want the soup to be even richer add some chicken bouillon cubes.

Enjoy and if you make it have me over!!!!

Fun things I like...

2008-12-09T14:22:00.002-06:00

Okay so I'm into smelly things. Things that smell good not bad. One of my ultimate favorites is Creamy Carmel wallflower plug ins from bath and body. I just stocked up on some as they were on sale over the Thanksgiving holiday. Normally they are 2 for 2o bucks. I got them for 5 dollars a piece. Yeah!

Some little snacks I love are 1. I love Ocean Spray Craisins, they are so sweet and really good. Not a bad snack for you as if you eat 1/3 cup of these it equals one serving of fruit. I like to put these in my yucky kashi oatmeal I bought. I am making myself eat it till its gone, then never again buying that healthy oatmeal.

I love Propel fit powder, you add this little packet to a bottle of water and it tastes so good. It has vitamin C, B6, B12, Niacin and something else that I do not know what it is. I buy this and make my own with bottled water to save money. You can also buy it already made. My kids love to mix and shake up the bottle. This is a special treat for the kids at our house.

Next on my list of snacks, etc. is Special K protein bars. The come in lots of different varieties and my fav is the chocolate peanut butter. Great thing to have on hand so you aren't snacking on unhealthy stuff., or skipping meals. I get these really for chad as he tends to leave so early in the morning, then at least he's not missing a meal.

While we are on a snacky kick I just found this trail mix I love... so does my hubby. It's Planters Trail Mix. It is called Energy Mix. These too are fun because they are packed in a box of 5. As a mom I need lots of energy so once and awhile I will choose this. I have lately been using this as a treat to myself.
Another Nut I love is Almonds, what I try to do is portion up 1 oz packets myself of almonds. I then put them all over like diaper bags, car, and house for snacking. I'm sorta on a nut kick right now and think I could live off them.

As for something I could not live without is the Steamfresh vegetables. Drew is a big vegetable eater and I love them, quick easy, cheap and great steamed veggies in like 5 minutes. We live off the sweet corn and peas.

So what do you like or can't live without?
Guess my list is all about smell good house and food this time.

My Thankful List

2008-12-07T15:36:00.003-06:00

1. I am thankful for my family and how precious my two little ones are. I love them more than they will ever know.

2. I am thankful for my new Beth Moore bible study on the Psalms of accent and how neat that is.

3. I am thankful for quietness in the house time for me to think, reflect and get things done.

4. On the opposite side I am thankful for little feet that run through the house screeching with laughter and sometimes snorting. I am thankful for my little guy and how he asks first if he can "Make a mess?" meaning take down all the cushions to the couch and jump on them.

5. I am so thankful my house smells good again as I have some great plug ins and they smell the house up without always having to have a candle going. Creamy Carmel wallflowers are the way to go.

6. I am thankful that I had a loving father that set a great example to me of what a humble servant is and I now can pass that on to my kids. This week will mark many years since his passing and I am thankful that It never gets old.... I still miss him dearly, but can rejoice as I know whose he is and where he is.

7. I am thankful that my husband and I are going to spend Thursday together without the kids to Christmas shop and enjoy one another.

So what are you thankful for? Please post

Taste and see Thursday

2008-12-04T00:00:00.000-06:00

Today I'm excited to post a recipe, finally. I have enjoyed doing this and I hope to make it done on Thursdays again! So much has been going on and as always their isn't enough hours in a day to get all that I would love to see done. I'm okay with it as the most important things get done, and well things not so important get done a little bit slower... like laundry, Tee hee hee hee.

Today's recipe is a fun one, well it's fun if you like lots of gooey chocolate. I had this real healthy treat for breakfast once and well let's just say I probably ate all my calories for breakfast and lunch for the day. I got the recipe from Dawn Farris. For some reason she calls the recipe x bars as she got the recipe from her teenage son's x as stated. I find that funny, I think I need to name one of my recipes after someone. Preferably not any X's my husband or I have had.

I appreciate Miss Dawn, as most call her for her deep passion for children and love for God.
One thing I am thankful for about dawn is that she is honest and tells you the truth and always points you towards God with her wisdom. Thank you for all that you do, especially all the stuff that people overlook or do not ever realize you do for children's ministry. Great is your reward someday that you may be able to lay that crown at Jesus' feet as you served your life to the fullest for Him. As, I'm almost tearing up writing this.. I love using verses to describe the people I write about on Thursdays. One of the first ones that comes to mine is " As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another"- Proverbs 27:17.
Thanks also for being a friend and allowing me to text you like a zillion times for really no reason at all, or just to show you what I'm making for supper!

X bars
by Dawn

MIX at low speed until crumbly:
1 yellow cake mix
1/3 cup softened margarine
1 egg

Press into bottom of ungreased 9x13 pan

Bake at 350 about 15 minutes

Put enough mini marshmallows on to cover the cake and then return to the oven for 2-3 minutes.

While the cake is baking:
Stir & Heat:
2/3 c corn syrup
1/4 c butter or marg.
2 t vanilla
12 oz choc chips

When the chips are melted, remove from heat and add"
2 cups Rice Krispies

Stir it up and top the marshmallowey cake with the chocolate goodness, spreading to cover.
Refrigerate about 1 hour to set.

Wrapping present time

2008-12-01T21:59:00.006-06:00

Lindsey is so into wrapping presents, that is presents she has made for us. It is so cute to see, she first draws some sort of a picture then asks me to get out the wrapping paper, tape and then she makes a tag. It is so sweet as she knows her brother loves Thomas the train stuff so she decided to draw a Percy green train for her brother, she saw to every detail of her drawing and actually getting his Percy out so she could draw it and put his number on it too. It was such music to my ears so see her enthusiasm, because she knows the one who will receive will love it so much more. She continued to draw one for mom and dad. I then had to draw her one so she could have a drawing paper gift under the tree. What's more impressive is that she really didn't care if she got anything else for Christmas, now maybe that was just talk because she knows she has gifts already under grandma's tree.

What I kinda learned tonight and reflected on is the attitude in which my little one expressed. So excited and giving unselfishly. I too want to give more, give more with enthusiasm. Not just this time of the year, but other times as well. 2Corinthians 9:7 says " God loves a cheerful giver" , Luke 6:37 states" Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over , will be poured into your lap..."
I want to be a cheerful giver of my time, my resources, my energy and my attitude. Not because I'm expecting something in return but because I know whom I belong to and want to honor God with everything I am.

So thank you Lindsey for teaching mommy to give, not just this once instance but it's what you do most days and how you always want to give to others because you know they will like it or will enjoy the toy more than you do. Sometimes I want to hold you back and not let you give your stuff away and I'm sorry...thank you for teaching me not to hold on to earthly things too tightly.
I love you - Mommy

My Thankful List

2008-11-30T14:59:00.002-06:00

1. What a nice great week! I am so thankful for great time with friends and family this past week. I love the fact that we got lots of down time as a family.
2. I am thankful for my family and my husband letting me sleep in over the holiday and taking care of the kids in the morning.

3. I am thankful for this upcoming Christmas season.

4. As always I'm thankful for friends and all those that encourage me daily... you are precious!

5. I am thankful for what God is doing all around me and for His presence in my life. Although I fail lots, He is faithful.

6. I am thankful for my children , even if they ask lots of questions. (I wonder where they get that from?)

7. I am thankful for Drew and his rendition of "Deep and Wide", and " Banners" ( His banner over me is love song) I love that he is hiding that in his heart and he wants to sing it everyday. May I never take that for granted.

Have a great week everyone!!

What are you thankful for?

My Thankful List

2008-11-23T22:13:00.003-06:00

1. I am so grateful that God has chosen me and pursues me for His work and for His purpose.

2. I am thankful for my prayer journal and all those I interceed for daily. I may never know the outcome but am thankful I'll know in Heaven.

3. I am thankful for this the upcoming Holidays and how that brings all of us together.

4. I am thankful that I finished the 8k Turkey Trot, and even more exciting that I beat my goal time.

5. I'm thankful for new friends and how encouraging that is. I'm really enjoying this season of my life.

Thank you Father for your infinite love and that you came here to this earth and you died for me. Thank you for all the circumstances you arrange, all the divine appointments you put before your people and that you alone can be my hearts desire. I am so thankful you never let go. Open my eyes this week to see what You want me to see.

Okay so I'm behind

2008-11-20T23:02:00.002-06:00

So it's Thursday.... anyone remember what I do on Thursday? Okay so there is like one person who does and has asked me about it. Sorry I've been so busy and I'm fixing to put it up after the weekend. For all ya'll who don't know it's Taste and See Thursday where I put up a recipe.

Well I'm off to visit a friend tomorrow without the kiddos. I'm doing the turkey trot up in the north pole in the cold state of Iowa on Saturday. I'm excited to do it with a friend and just to get away and relax (kinda). Guess I won't be relaxing while I'm running in like 30 degree weather and running for like an hour or however long it takes me to run 4.96 miles (8k).

So all ya'll who read this say a prayer for us. I guess what I'm excited about is that I'm feeling like I did a few years ago. Sounds cheesy but like an athlete again. Let me explain. I am not doing this exercise thing just for outward appearance thing (although shedding my drew weight is fine with me) I love feeling like yes I can set a goal, and yes I can achieve it. And while I'm at it I can have great spiritual time doing this journey and meet some great people along the way.

It's a mindset, not a quick little fix until the next thing comes up. I'm not sure I'm making sense, but in my head/heart I am. I'm looking forward to the progress and even some trials this training is going to bring. I know the preparations are always much more sweeter than the actual race day at any event.

I'm hoping this lifestyle of setting goals will be something my kids will do at an early age, and maybe just maybe they will become lifelong learners and love trying new things.
So what are your goals? With the new year approaching why not try something new.

One thing I wanna try is a half-marathon, the next thing is cake decorating classes. I am thinking they both go well together as I can eat lots of cake because I am running my hiney off :)

Gizmos and favorite things

2008-11-19T14:11:00.002-06:00

Because I am a sucker.... I tend to love things that make life a little bit easier. You know like Pampered Chef.. I love their stuff. ( I recently had a friend tell me why would anyone need that stuff) Sorry I'm a fan.

Okay so I'm wondering about the little Pedi Egg you see on the infomercials.. anyone have one.? I have like the worst calloused feet all the time. Not only that I have some bunionettes and feet issues in which the podiatrist would like to operate on..not just one but both. I found this out 6 years ago but cannot be tied up for 6wks so I'm saying "No, Mr. Foot doctor". So because of my feet issues I cannot wear all those pretty little stilettos and stuff, not that I want to because really when it comes down to it I'm a jeans and tennis shoe girl.

That leads me to one of my favorite things..... Adidas Supernovas. If you like to be comfy wumfy and even remotely like to exercise these are the shoes for you. Now if you like colors you will go for some fun ones like I have..my latest ones are pink, last pair was orange... I have a thing with colors. I'm thinking my next pair will be some kelly green color.

Okay so as I think about my other favorite things it must be things that are simple like Aveeno baby lotion. I love the way it makes my children and my skin so soft. It doesn't smell so on the smell factor I give it a 1.5. So if you like to have smooth skin ,put it on first after you shower. You do shower right? Then you put on another lotion on top of that if you have more than 2.2 minutes to spare. So I then put on some great bath and body lotion on top of that.

My next favorite thing is my Mary Kay perfume Bella Bellara, just thinking about it made me go right now and put some on. It's one of those great perfumes that isn't too much and you won't make others cough or sneeze if they are around you.

My next favorite thing is back to exercising clothes everyone must have. Okay you if you fidget with your pants when you exercise like I do then I have a product for you. iQPEARLiZUMi running tights are the best thing since the modern invention of sliced bread.Great thing about it is it's made in the USA. These tights always stay in the places they are suppose to be. The have a nice soft elastic at the ankles and at the top. Their is a small pocket in the back by the tag for like a gel or something if you are real serious runner. I only have one pair and I have to wash them lots and I then hang to dry as I want them to stay nice forever. So I am asking for another pair for Christmas !!

Okay so I guess I'm going to have to do this little favorite things list a little bit more as I had fun doing it and I had like 40 other things I could of put on here but didn't want to make this a term paper for you all to read. If there is something you cannot live without or some fun snack/thing please post... love to see it hear it ya know!

I am thankful!

2008-11-15T21:37:00.003-06:00

I am thankful....

1. I'm thankful for all the little people I watched this week and how they remind me that the best things in life are free.

2. For a great reminder at MOPS to be on guard, what we watch, and how much advertising affects us. Got me really thinking.

3. For a healthy family

4. For a simple and relaxing weekend with the fam, we just hung out and hunkered indoors and really enjoyed one another.

5. That I have my meals all planned for the week and chad said he'd go to the store! Yeah

6. An encouraging speaker at PEO this week and the great reminder of the history of thanksgiving.

7. That I have some great friends, I Cherish you and just know you are precious and I pray for you.

Philippians 1:3,
Tara

PBS Kids day

2008-11-11T10:14:00.005-06:00

We attended a kid PBS day in Quincy Saturday. Jill and her kiddos went and we took Aubrie brumbaugh and my two little ones. It was so much fun. I got lots of good ideas for fun activities for our kids and for church vbs.

Lindsey playing with " messy milk stuff". I thought Lindsey would never leave this station.

Cool homemade chalkboards. Here's our crew!

Drew and Felicia playing with floam. Drew and I made a dinosaur.

Aubrey and Lindsey

Drew loved all the characters. I was a bit surprised that he liked them so well. I could get him away from anything if I said "Let's go see superwhy" He would then go running 100mph and say whichever character I told him at the top of his little 2 year old voice. Everyone around us just laughed and thought it was cute.

Drew is starting his attacking of Clifford the big red dog.

The girls and SuperWhy!

Cool sand, make shapes and rake it!

What I'm thankful for

2008-11-09T22:04:00.008-06:00

1. I am so thankful this week that I have a Savior that loves me despite all my moods, ( good and bad) and that I He is always there 24/7.

2. For Lindsey's Thanksgiving music reminding me "What are you thankful for?" She then tells me and vice versa for the day.

3. That Chad's football season and college class is over now.. We can have family time now on the weekends.

4. For loyal friends that you can just be yourself with

5. For the beautiful sunrise with beautiful hues of purple and pink rippled in the clouds. I loved that surprise as I left the Y early in the morning.

6. Our Veterans, and our freedom.

7. That you stopped by and read my little list. May it be a small reflection of my heart this week.

So what are you thankful for... pleas post... I love comments!

Taste and see Thursday

2008-11-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome back to Taste and see that the Lord is good Thursday!

Today's recipe is my favorite breakfast casserole. This is one that is always super delish and easy to do. It could be a meal for supper too if you decide to do breakfast for supper. I got this recipe from a lady in our Church named Candy. Candy is a super busy mom of 11. I have known her all my life and she makes every opportunity to love all her "children" me included.... just not one of the 11. Candy always makes things fun and loves to entertain, She is certainly a big encourager to all she comes in contact with. She loves God with all her heart, soul and strength. I would say she is a good example of the Proverbs 31 woman, especially lines like this

Her children (11 of them) arise and call her blessed; her husband also as he praised her.

She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.

She is worth far more than rubies!!

Thank you Candy for all the encouragement you have been to me and a great leader, and someone I look up to. Thanks for all the cinnamon rolls too... I should post that recipe... but first I have to learn how to make them.

Candy's Breakfast Casserole

2 1/2 C seasoned croutons
2 C shredded cheese
2 lbs Pork sausage
1 can crm mushroom soup
4 eggs 3/4 tsp dried mustard
2 1/2 C milk
1/2 C milk

Place croutons in greased 9x 13 pan. Place cheese on top of croutons. Fry and drain sausage. Place on top of cheese. Beat eggs, mustard and 2 1/2 Cup of milk together. Pour over meat mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In morning, pour 1/2 Cup milk mixed with soup on top. Bake in slow oven, 300 *, for 1 1/2 hrs.

Enjoy your company or family will want this recipe... guaranteed!

I think I've become a farmer

2008-11-05T12:44:00.007-06:00

Drew and Felicia on the combine at a farm in Nauvoo, Ill.

I've decided that I'm a green tractor girl! Drew was so excited to see all the tractors.. he squealed so much!

Drew got a ear of corn that didn't make it to to the combine.

Brandon on his little drive

I even got to ride the combine while drew and farmer lady drove. Felicia sat on my lap and loved it too. Drew kept wanting to turn the wheel, our farmer lady was so patient with Drew and told him he did a great job and that he could come back.

I like it!

This is my drew in yellow, Brandon and Chris Ralph. I watch the Ralph kids on Wednesdays and Jill (the mom) had a great idea to take the kids to see the big tractors. It was such a great morning, nice weather, a bit windy.

This is Lindsey and her friends from church on our way to the horse around farm. Lindsey earned this trip from Kids Rock, our church's Wednesday night program.

I helped Lindsey lead the horse (well I attempted to lead the horse) Mrs. Kircher was trying to tell me what to do, I tried but beauty ( horse's name) had her own agenda, she accidentally stepped on my toe also... ouch!!! Next time I'm not wearing my sandals, I wore them because the are so comfortable and with the weather being so great I'm not about to give them up yet.

Lindsey's horse kept kicking it's back legs to swat off a fly, she got really nervous and needed me to then come in the horse pen and help her.

Lot of treats not much tricks

2008-11-03T14:50:00.006-06:00

Lindsey and me at our church "Light the Night". The kids had so much fun.. of course every year for the past three years Lindsey wins a cake the very first time she plays the cake walk game. This year she picked mini cupcakes. It was fun, Mr. Drew even played by himself.

Mommy and Dragon Drew

My little sweet girl

My sweet little boy... he is in schock as we gave him the entire cotton candy.

Lindsey in the bounce house

Overall a great night, lots of fun, food and way to much candy at the bible trunk or treat. Wish Lindsey would of wore her princess cone hat.. only got one pic of it and it was so cute. It's on my neighbor's camera (of course). I found both their costumes at garage sales this year. I think they were pretty cute. At the end of the night Lindsey already started talking about what she wants to be next year...... a Keokuk cheerleader like Kaylee.

Drew went down the slide by himself!

Neighborhood kids
London the boxer, Drew the Dragon, Kaylee the Keokuk cheerleader and Lindsey the Princess

Okay so I love the shots from the back... they are so fun! This is Drew going "tick or tweet"

My princess and her lil sidekick dragon and Chad

Ah so sweet!

Overall we had a great night. Lots of fun had by all. I wish I could of got a picture of Lindsey with her princess cone hat on, my neighbor did so that's good. Lindsey and Drew were most excited for their new movies Grandma got them. Lindsey got her Barbie diamond castle and Drew got a Thomas movie, we loved the sugar cookies most that grandma gave us.. I could ditch all the Halloween candy and just live on sugar cookies.

Lindsey said the best thing of Halloween was her friends. I think I never saw her except to give me tickets she won. Lindsey won 10 tickets and bought a lollipop with it, she of course knew what everyone had for tickets and what they got. Isn't that funny how kids love to know what other kids get.

My Thankful LIst

2008-11-02T15:59:00.002-06:00

Wow I've been missing my Bloggity Blog Blog. It's been a great week, fun filled activities and fun times with family and friends. Here is my thankful list for this week:

1. I'm thankful for a refreshing week filled with friends over, great talks and good memories!

2. For the extra hour due to the time change.. I am loving it!

3. That I can use my gifts/ talents for God's glory, and not need affirmation from others but from God.

4. I am thankful I only hurt my toe (skin all came off) but that it didn't break, due to a horse stepping on it at our Kids Church activity.

5. I am thankful that I can run and swim and have a great spiritual time with God.

6. I am thankful for my divine appointment person I met at the park this week, what an awesome God we have to put the right person in our paths at the right moment. I'm always amazed/ surprised.

Taste and See Thursday

2008-10-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas

This recipe is from Kraft Magazine

It's Taste and see that the Lord is good (Ps 34:8) Thursday. Wow, I can't believe it's been three whole weeks already... that means I've actually continued this taste and see recipe thing for that long. Okay I'm excited about it and I hope some of you are too.

This is one of those recipes that I tried on a whim to make for the family. It ended up being so much better than I thought and now it's our new favorite for enchiladas.

In fact as I'm writing this I wish this is what I was making today instead of my chicken pot pie, oh well .

Prep Time:15 min
Total Time:35 min

Marinate chicken with 1 cup of Kraft Sun dried Tomato Dressing (it really helps) Then grill chicken or cook it in oven in shallow baking pan at 400 F for 20 minutes.

PS.. I use 1 whole thing of cream cheese rather that 1/2 of it!

Makes:4 servings, two enchiladas each
What You Need
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
4 cooked small chicken breasts (about 1 lb.), shredded
1 cup TACO BELL® HOME ORIGINALS® Thick 'N Chunky Salsa, divided
4 oz. (1/2 of 8-oz. pkg.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, cubed
1 Tbsp. chopped cilantro
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 cup KRAFT Shredded Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese, divided
8 TACO BELL® HOME ORIGINALS® Flour Tortillas
Make It
PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Heat large skillet spayed with cooking spray on medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook and stir 2 min. Add chicken, 1/4 cup of the salsa, cream cheese, cilantro and cumin; mix well. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally. Add 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese; mix well.
SPOON about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla; roll up. Place, seam-side down, in 13x9-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray; top with remaining 3/4 cup salsa and remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
BAKE 15 to 20 min. or until heated through.

This is super yummy with shredded lettuce on it and salsa and sour cream !!!

Enjoy

Tara

My thankful list

2008-10-26T15:47:00.002-05:00

It's Sunday.... time to put my list up..

I'm thankful for......

1. That I haven't had to cook all weekend as Chad is at class ... we miss him though.

2. For God always knowing my deepest desire, every moment need ( I have lots, tend to be sensitive) and is always there when I feel He is not.

3. A great 20 minute conversation with a stranger at Mc D's this week and how that has prompted me to give.

4. Lindsey and her enthusiasm for school and learning. She is such a little sweetheart and I'm glad God knew she would be the perfect fit for our family.

5. I'm thankful for fun fall comfort food, my creme brulee (Paula Dean) candle, Comfy cotton sweat sets ( I own like 5 sets at least). My smaller jeans fitting ( one pair).

6. I'm thankful for wanting to set a goal... not sure what to do or what cause to support but that it's a desire of my heart to do a race again. Any one interested?

Looking forward to what your thankful for, Please post . .. I know you have one.

Hugs,
Tara

2008-10-25T22:33:00.010-05:00

I am reading this book called Looking for God by Nancy Ortberg. I am enjoying it and recommend it. Of course someone gave it to me to read and I am thankful. This lady is a great storyteller, her stories will touch you and challenge you.

Here's an excerpt from her book.

"We all have black holes in our souls that keep anything from filling us up for too long. They keep us in a constant state of neediness, always seeking reinforcement through pleasure and comfort and busyness. But if we allow ourselves to experience the longing, refusing easy answers for the aches and pains, we'll slowly build solid bedrock of God in our souls. Those alone places create a foundation that closes up the black hole for good. We all need to hear God's voice. Our longings, aches, and pains are thin threads to that voice. Stay long enough in the aloneness, and you'll find that the silence of God becomes a whisper, and then the whisper becomes the voice that you recognize."

The Psalmist shows God's voice break through in

(46:10)-" Be still and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
In my own life I am trying to be still, that's hard but so much needed.

Thank you Lord for always encouraging me when I'm not feeling the best. I am reminded that that I need not rely on my feelings for my failures today. I am so glad there will be day where there will be no more tears or pain. I am thankful for how you provide so much comfort.

Taste and see Thursdays!

2008-10-23T13:40:00.002-05:00

Today I am excited because it's Taste and see Thursdays. Why did I pick Thursday? Okay I'm glad you asked, I've always love thursday because like most people it's the day before the weekend, there usually is good t.v shows on this night and it's usually just a fun day. Okay so I havent' been watching t.v. lately.. I did watch s.v.u. the other day and I haven't watched anything and let me tell you it is still affecting me. Anyways, I'll just skip shows now until we get abc then bring on the shows for me. Plus I don't have time, with my full time job of kids, pretending to cook well, facebook and blogging and exersise there isn't too much time for t.v.

Okay sorry for my tangent.... let's get back to the good stuff here. I tried this delish delishious apple crisp the other day from my friend Jill. So this is funny as if you know her you know what I mean. I then rave to Jill how great her apple crisp is, she informs me it's a family recipe....
Me in all my questions (for those who know me I ask like 2.2 billion questions) anyway I ask her where she got it, if I can have it, I'm all about hearing stories. So Miss Jill then tells me she got it from her family cookbook which is poorly organized in a binder thing that she got for christmas. Okay people I then ask to see the binder. I then just tell Jill how it is (we have that relationship) I am kinda bold here, funny though. I say something like " Wow, that is so neat Jill, You need to appreciate this. I'd love to have one of these". Jill goes on to say something like " Oh I know but it's poorly organized", I then again state she needs to appreciate it. Anyways, in all good fun she cracks me up.
What I love about Jill is that she does not hold back, if she thinks something she will tell you HONESTLY. There is something very bold about her that I don't have. She is not a people pleaser and I think that's a good thing. Jill is very giving and always comes up with some fun kid activity all the time. Thanks for always organizing things and always including me and others in it. I'm always learning funny things from you. P.S. I think I might make a binder thing for a family gift sometime. Can you help Jill? tee hee hee

Jill's family Apple Crisp-

4 cups sliced apples
3/4 cup flour
1 cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup water
1/3 cup butter
Butter a 10x2x6 pan, place 4 cups of sliced apples in pan. Mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt, water and butter. Sprinkle mixture over apples. Cook at 350* for 40 minutes or until apples are done.

Teachable moments

2008-10-22T14:03:00.004-05:00

Okay any minute they could wake up..

But for now I'm going to blog.. I am watching 5 little ones under 4 today. I know I'm taking on a kinda tough task, because I normally only have one little one at home all day. Lindsey is in kindergarten, so she leaves after breakfast. All the other little people stay here all day long! Whew... anyways they've been a sweet blessing to me today... no crazy things have happened, everyone is safe. I can see how children are such a blessing, and big families have so much fun together.. always someone to play with/ fight with.

We've had our share of not sharing today and the 2 two year olds have been in time out a couple of times today. I love to see them work things out.. they are so forgiving and sweet. When my little guy decides to not share/ take a toy/ not make a good choice I've put him on the chair and he sits.. and I make him then say sorry to one of the 4 that he's done something to and hug and it's such a moment to see the instant sorry (and really mean it) and then hug . ( I'm cheesy i make'em hug) but on their own they choose to kiss.. I love it.

Luckily, I'm not at my wits in. I love knowing that this is teaching them an important lesson of forgiveness. As an adult, I can learn from that instant forgiveness a child feels and then forgets. How often have I forgiven but still held on to some type of bitterness. I've been praying for the last 2 days for a change in my heart.

According the Ezekiel 36:26 "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh."
I really want that teachable heart. Funny that on my prayer list I had for yesterday I prayed for teachable moments with children.. Who knew.

Thank you Lord for always amazing me how you answer prayer, thanks for using sweet little ones to help me examine my own heart. I am constantly amazed that You do as you said you'd do. Thank you for teaching to me to ask, even if small. I am being renewed each and everyday and everyday count it joy to be able to be yours.

I'm thankful for...

2008-10-19T14:57:00.007-05:00

I'm thankful for my relationship with God and how I may look the same on the outside, yet God is changing me so much on the inside.

Beginning of new friendships and how encouraging that is (love you all)

Prayer time as a family before each kid goes to bed... I love it! I love how Drew won't go to sleep until both mommy and daddy have to "pay" for pray.

I'm thankful the many encouraging blogs I'm reading and how they are such an encouragement to me and my walk. (Thank you stiletto army1)

I'm thankful for cool weather and the beautiful drive yesterday down the Mississippi river, it was such a great reflective time.

I'm grateful that God using my running time as some great time to spend meditating/ praying/examining myself. (Ran over an hour non-stop yesterday, lots of discussions to be had)

I am also thankful for you.. as you are reading this you took time from your day to glance at my little list... may it be a small window into my heart and stir you to think what are you thankful for this week.

Playing with chalk water

2008-10-17T15:49:00.005-05:00

Okay I have my pictures out of order.. first they played with chalk. This keep my little people very busy on a lazy Saturday. We really needed some fam time so this was one of the most relaxing Saturdays we have had in quite a while. Drew loved getting dowsed with water.

In your face kind of girl

I like my brother so much!

The kids were pretty excited that I let them play in the water and make a big mess. Clothes can wash and baths can be taken.... even if mr. drew just had one.

Drew's normal saturday gear (Hawkeye stuff) Go Hawks!

I love Saturdays... fun time with both my kids all day long!

Can't help but think of the song One Life To Love by 33 Miles. Gist of the song... you only get one shot at this. For me it's the mother thing.. always a encouragement to me. I do feel so blessed and definately feel like I've found my path these days.

Taste and see ....

2008-10-16T14:49:00.004-05:00

Taste and see that the Lord is good Thursdays! ( Ps 34:8)

Okay I now have a title for every Thursday, I'm excited about this day. I'm planning on putting up a fun recipe here that I love, most of them are probably going to come from dear friends or family... or a favorite from a cookbook. Let me tell you I love cookbooks, my new favorite one is the Ivy Bakeshop cookbook. It's the bomb! Ha Ha just had to use some 1995 jargon from my senior year.

The recipe for today is from my friend Donna. Let me brag on her and then I'll share her sweet treat with you. Donna is a friend, like a sister to me. I would say we kinda have the relationship of kindred spirits. She and I are a lot alike and different at the same time. She is wonderful though, someone who loves Jesus with all her heart, soul, strength kind of person. I want that... you know to love God like that. I love how she is such a giver of her time... she and I share in this area we both are involved in many things, almost like full time job things but not getting paid jobs :)

Thanks Donna for being a leader of Bible studies, a Titus 2 woman and a purpose driven woman of God. If you don't know her, you should she is a real blessing to all with whom she associates. I wanna be like that. Thanks for using your gifts to bless others. I could go on and on, I could also go on and on about many others too, that are like Donna. Maybe I will, another Thursday.

Okay so here's the wondeeefulll recipe:

Best ever Banana Bread- from Donna

1st set aside 1/2 cup milk and 1 T vinegar. Mix and let sit

Cream 3 Cups sugar, 2 Sticks of margarine, add 4 eggs. Then add 2 1/2 cups of flour
1tsp baking soda
1tsp salt
2 1/2 Cups of mashed banana
Now add the first thing you did, the vinegar mixture. It will look curdy. (That's a good thing)

Grease 3 pans
Now put mixture in the pans and top with chocolate chips... i like lots
Makes 3 loaves
Bake @ 350* for 55 minutes

Side note: I like to bake one at a time... works better in my oven. The choco chips end up going to the bottom of pan so when you flip it out you will see. This is divine!

What's noble?

2008-10-14T14:41:00.003-05:00

Okay Let's just say I'd like to be noble...

To me a noble person is reserved for some upperclass aristocrat. Not a midwest living, small town mommy of two. Well, as I decided to find out what noble means in the first place I went to the Bible first... read some 9 passages and then thought, yeah that's noble. But first you may need to know what the word means before using it in context. So that means I have to dig out my dictionary..oh boy I don't have one, but I can look it up on dictionary.com. So noble according to the website means:

Admirable in dignity, of conception manner of expression; of an exalted moral or mental character or excellence.

So there you have it... that's noble according to the dictionary.. I'm still not sure I understand. Let's dig deeper. As I pull out my NIV bible and my online bible (yes I'm loving it) I see Ruth. Ruth probably exemplifies noble character, in fact she is told that "All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character" Ruth 3:11. I love that here Ruth is the leftover-grain-picker-upper (that's her job) yet she is known as noble, I'm sure she did her job with fervour as if serving the Lord. I wanna be like that.
The 2nd woman told in the bible that is of noble character is our well known Proverbs 31 woman. She is told in 31:29 " Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
I like the New Living Translation for that same verse it says "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!"
I still love the Proverbs 31 woman though, even if I can't measure up... who says I have to though. God only wants me to find Him, seek Him, love Him.
In Proverbs 12:4, this woman is described as being a noble woman once again and being her husband's crown. I like that she is described like Ruth, and probably brings him honor and joy.
I too, like Ruth and this Proverbs 31 woman want to honor God first. I'm so glad the our Father in heaven sees our heart... and loves us anyway.

Thank you Lord for using the simple word noble to focus more on you, to seek you and then find You. I pray that I will be Proverbs 31 woman, not seeking perfection, but finding comfort, rest and contentment in your arms. Thank you for the gift of eternal life, Thank you for your Word.

My thankful list

2008-10-12T14:27:00.005-05:00

Okay as I am writing I am avoiding responsibility. I should right now be doing something... ya know the L word. I'll spell it out for you .. L-A-U-N-D-R-Y. But I am avoiding it by reading blogs, writing blogs and everything in between , like googling the sound a cicada.
I think when a stay at home mom has some alone time it's like one big party. Sometimes I like to do the folding of the laundry... today I'm going to put if off for awhile.
Okay so what I really want to write about is not really anything ordinary like laundry but things I'm thankful for this week:

I'm thankful for God stiring in me a desire to serve him

A long walk yesterday, great reflection

Family time making smores

Drew counting... it's so cute

Real genuine friendships

What and how God uses my daily quiet time to teach me and apply God's word to some area of my life.

The beauty in Fall, cool nights, warm afternoons, windows open ( and the birds haven't been waking me up... Yes!

The Christian music channel on my T.V.

Okay that's my thankful list... what are you thankful for this week?

The little things

2008-10-08T14:37:00.004-05:00

You know sometimes I'm just great at little things.. like keeping the dishes clean, (not put away) and laundry, I'm the queen of starting it and then not finishing it for awhile. Why is that??

I think I'm sometimes just ADD with it...I'm one of those that walk to the basement to get a specific something and then go down there, start some laundry that I never finished from earlier, pick up some toy the kids left out and the W-H-A-M.........

I remember I'm suppose to get something from the downstairs... ( I store lots of kitchen items down there and tons of who knows what on shelves). So what do I do...... I go back up the stairs to figure out what I forgot downstairs in the first place. Hmmmm am I getting that old that my memory is only about 2 minutes long for my short term? Hmmmm...............sometimes I remember what it is I was looking for, but more often than not I forget.

I usually shrug it off. One thing I can't shrug off and it really really annoys my husband is when I lose something. I think I turn green, red, and purple all at the same time. It is my loss of control that really bugs me. You know you can't find that one certain paper that you know was their like 2 days ago. I don't like to not be in control. Hmmm I think God has had some talks with me about this subject.

At any rate, I do know I'm not the best of at control and I do know that when I let go and let God, things are smoother. I have definitely felt like the fool in Proverbs 29:11 which says
" A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control"

Although I can still get very impatient you know trying my way to find things, God is again trying to lovingly tell me that it doesn't matter.. and I often see it later after my mess up of what I could of done different. As I read through the proverbs I am thankful for all the wisdom.

I pray that God you will give me your eyes so I can see You and work through things I'm not always good at. I keep missing things and I want to not miss those things.. even the little things that happen throughout the day. Please let me see your people as you do. Please give me eyes to see, arms to hold and a heart to pour out ... In your name.

Tara .....who just read Proverbs 16:32 & 17:1 and thinks she should apply that also to what she just wrote.... Hmmmmm

Family Reunion

2008-10-07T16:24:00.003-05:00

Mom and Mark enjoying all the great food

Mom doing what she does best.. eat and cook!

Chad playing catch with the little people

This photo looks like Drew is really listening to Daddy! I thought it was cute.

Mark's family here

More Coovert family

This is Lizzie, she is my cousin Eric Dunlap's daughter. Lindsey had never met her until this day and they played all day. They were so cute holding hands everywhere they went. Most the day they would bounce from the park to Grandma's camper or Lizzie's camper. I never saw her, at one point I went to check on the girls at the park and I told Lindsey that Lizzie was her cousin. Lindsey was so excited.. she doesn't have any girl cousins (first cousins that is) Well, obviously Lizzie's is not a first cousin but Lindsey was so happy about her "new cousin" she was telling everyone at church Sunday. In fact a friend asked her to come over after church and Lindsey said no because she wanted to go see her new cousin at the camper.

Great Aunt Nancy and Drew

We brought out the bean bag game out.. it's always fun. Especially when you win.. I only won when Chad and I were not partners.

swimming does a body good

2008-10-03T22:39:00.001-05:00

I love to swim. Let me clarify that, I love to swim outdoors with the kids for fun and a good dose of vitamin D. Right now I'm talking about the the kind of swimming you do in a indoor pool, the flip turn, lactic acid sets, leg cramp and feeling like you just swallowed the entire pool. I haven't always loved it though. Just recently I learned to swim, four years ago to be exact. It's not something I wanted to learn to do or even remotely thought much about. I didn't even know there was more than two strokes in swimming, but I could save my life if I drowned.

About the time Lindsey was 18 months I started taking classes at the local YMCA. It was summertime so the classes consist of like five people max. I really just like to soak things in so I do what I do best, listen to people's conversations. You know you can learn a lot about a person by what they talk about. One time I overhead these people talk about training hard for something called a triathlon. I didn't even know what that was, I had to keep listening to their conversations to find out what it was. Well, before long I was gaining confidence in this exercise thing and I decided that if I could learn how to swim, I would train for the triathlon. Wow, this is a big commitment on my part.... could I do it.. I could not even move in the water. Okay I had a great teacher who was very patient with me and some others in my same place and little by little I was learning to swim.

I can still picture that very first lap I did when the teacher said "Go". I laugh now, and the entire time I was given so much encouragement. Wow, I am so thankful that someone took time to believe in me and patiently teach me how swim.

Some great things God showed me through this whole training process:

The journey was so much more important to me than the actual race day

I like to work hard, it feels good

"But encourage one another daily"-Hebrews 3:13 This one was really important. It was probably the heart of what I learned. It was fun to work together, so many of us of different backgrounds, religions, political views, single, married, divorced, and all ages.

I got out of my comfort zone

I met lots of new christians

I need to have a passion for Jesus, just as much as I had a strong desire to train

Okay so as I think and reflect about that time in my life I can say it was a great time, and I will always cherish that season in my life.

Thank you Father God for using something as simple as swimming to teach me and mold me. I am thankful for the constant change you bring about in me and the way you work all things for good. Thanks for guidance and bringing about change that only you can give.

A trip to the pumpkin patch

2008-10-02T20:48:00.005-05:00

The corn pool was a big hit this year for Lindsey and cousin Hayden

Drew is loving cousin Nile on our wagon ride

This is the first year Drew has been able to walk in the corn, it is so deep and last year he was just walking . So cute to see him play in the corn!

Baby "cartin" as drew says for Carson

Drew, Hayden and Lindsey are ready to go pick pumpkins in the field

Hmmm, I think we went to the field with the biggest pumpkins.. next year let's go to the small pumpkin field

I found my pumpkin

I found mine too, and I can't believe my mom gave me the cutters

Gotta love time with our cousins. Lindsey and Drew had so much fun with their Campbell cousins. It was perfect weather and we were lucky to have a private wagon ride.. fun. I think we need to go back and play. Drew and Lindsey loved the play area.. I think Lindsey liked to just be off on her own and play with Hayden.. guess I have to let her grown up and have some independance.

Gotta love my girl

2008-09-30T22:20:00.004-05:00

Lindsey sometimes just cracks me up. Today, I was enjoying my morning (by staying in bed under the covers) because it was absolutely freezing in my house. I was really enjoying the nice toasty covers. I hear the door open and Lindsey pops open and says "Mommy, how is your day so far?" Wow, I thought, what a way to start off the day. I usually start my day off by thinking of myself. Here my five year old is thinking first thing of me. I love that girl,even if it is only 7 a.m.

Thank you Lord for using my little girl to gently remind me that it's not about me today. Thank you for all those that have been such a blessing to me this week. I am so thankful. "I thank my God everytime I remember you"- Philippians 1:3

The Lord's Prayer according to Lindsey

2008-09-27T22:18:00.005-05:00

Right now in our house, Lindsey is learning The Lord's Prayer- Matthew 6:9-13. I really try not to set a specific time for memory verse, we just do it in the car, or whenever we feel like it. She also is going over this at school with Mrs. Hanson. So, today Lindsey told me in her ever proud voice that she was one of two kids that know the first half. So in a way she was bragging that she knows it already and the others don't. So I tell Lindsey it doesn't matter what others do, focus on what you do. She listens, I think. In her mind she is doing good because the first half isn't due till next Friday.

We then start to recite the part she knows, here is her rendition of it,
"Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed..ed be My name."
At that point I stop her and say something like this "No, it's thy name and tell her it is not Lindsey by using (my), but God." She listens. So starts over again "Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed..ed by My name."
I just look at her and tell her it's "thy" and she continues " Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread."

I am now one proud mom thinking Oh that is so great Lindsey. I sometimes can be the drama queen and get super excited.. I actually controlled myself and just gave out a big bear hug and kiss.

So then she goes to her room and I hear her talking, to herself or maybe her build-a-bears. She is repeating her memory verse and then she actually knows the next line. Keep in mind we haven't really reviewed it, so she probably learned it from the teacher. As she cheerfully said her next line I listened with such surprise, not knowing what was coming of course. In her cute, serious voice she repeats " And forgive us this day our daily yucky."

All I could think of was, yeah go girl you are so right. I love how the Lord uses that beautiful little cherub to teach me some good insights on the Word. So all today I have pondered that moment. I call it my " Mary Moment", I love those moments.. it's like God rewarding you for all the hard work you did in labor or just in raising the little people. I will most often think about that every time The Lord's Prayer is said. What a great reminder that we need to confess all that junk in our hearts, or minds and get rid of it and give it to the One who wants to remove it as far as the east is from the west.
Have you confessed your "daily yucky"?

Can books be like people

2008-09-26T21:53:00.007-05:00

I love to read children's books, in fact I have collected them since before well.... I think I was in college. Yikes that's like umph teen years ago, well it all started with seeing the pretty covers in the hard covers.I do not like those flimsy little paperback cheapo books, but the nice good smelling hard covers with the nice protector thing on it. Anyways, I have had a love of children's books for awhile as stated and then once I joined the Mom club that gave me exclusive benefits to buy books for my kids (secretly for me too).

I rationalized it if it were pricey though because I did go to school to be a teacher so I'm sure I could use that in my classroom someday. Excuse, excuse, whatever makes you not feel guilty. Then it hit me, my children love books, it doesn't matter if they are the most popular book, the best looking book, flimsy paperback book, boardbook, itty bitty book, or even our favorite bath books, they just want to read them, not smell them as I did. Can't help but think there is a lesson in all of this.... In 1 Samuel 16:7 We see that "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at", Phew that is good as I really liked those cutsie put together books they sell at barnes n noble.. even if they weren't a quality book, they looked good from the outside, so in my head it's gotta be a good thing right? Wrong, I may be going a little deep here but I really think I have in the past I used my book mentality with people. You know trying to make friendships work with the people who look like they have it all together on the outside, yet may be a shallow and insecure on the inside.

Thank goodness the verse in goes on to say in 16:3, "Man" That's me here. "looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart". I love the word but here. We do this but God does this.. when it comes down to it .. we are not God. But when we see people through God's eyes, we are not focusing on all the outward junk in their life, just that they are a child of God and they too deserve to be loved. I know when I really see friends, acquaintances for who they really are, it changes everything. I then see clearly they don't have to be the perfect little Caldecott book with the clean glossy cover on it and I too can don't have to feel pressure to be that perfect person too.

As a young mother of two, I have learned that I love the flimsy little books, in fact they are now my favorite because we read them, we actually use them and we can mark them up and not worry because of the price tag or the pedestal I have put on it. In my world these books have sadly been people for me over the years, but with God's help I have a whole collection of books and people to love and adore. I like the balance of it all, and maybe another bookshelf!

It's Smore Time

2008-09-22T14:43:00.002-05:00

Lindsey loving her smore she made

The neighbor girls coming over to have some yummy snacks too!

Thanks for this wonderful pic!

The Family posing around the fire, I was pretty proud we got it started, the wood was kinda wet. It worked out well as the kids were so excited to make them.

Drew stay back buddie!

Drew didn't like the smores, he just wanted the graham cracker

All smiles from these girls... this was Lindsey's 2nd one

I love how daddy captured Drew's cuteness in this picture. He is quite the charmer when he wants to be. He loves seeing himself now in the digital camera. In fact, his new thing now is to take pictures of his toys and then look at them on the camera.

Painting with Yogurt!

2008-09-19T15:17:00.003-05:00

I am trying something new here Mommy.

I gave Drew 2 bowls of yogurt, one pink and blue.. the only kind I had, I told him to start to paint and he didn't know what to do because I told him he could eat it. I think he found it strange that it tasted good and yet I told him to paint with it!

Now I am painting with a chubby little brush, I love it!

"Yeah I did it"- Drew

I know now every time I give the kids yogurts, Drew will want a bowl to put it in! It was fun to do some fun things with him.. i think I was on a roll today as we had Kindermusic also at our house. Lindsey and I took a class once when she was little and I remember all the fun stuff they taught us, so today we got out all the music instruments and the kindermusic CD and played. I like this day.. it was productive and fun.

Wednesday making a big cookie

2008-09-17T15:17:00.001-05:00

On Wednesdays I watch the Ralph kids, Here is my Lindsey licking the cookie dough off her fingers. Brandon is carefully putting M&M's on the big cookie!

All four kids on 2 chairs.. the little ones want to see what the big kids are doing
Felicia justs wants to be a cutie to the camera

I like this one... Lindsey is looking at the cookie and is proud and Brandon is still working. Too bad they didn't get to enjoy the cookie.. we made it for Kids Rock at church. Next time kiddos!

Doing dishes in style

2008-09-16T22:58:00.003-05:00

I want to be like mommy and wear pretty gloves to wash dishes

Water is fun, and even more fun with bubbles

Okay I just love this cheesy, chubby little grin
Gotta love a boy who is in touch with his femine side!