Bits and Pieces

Holiday Letter 2011

2011-12-22T12:34:00.000-08:00

We had a great 2011, my little family.

Cole started high school, and played his first year of football. He's a lean, mean Falcon machine, and we're super proud of him. He's on the A honor roll, and he's a pretty nice kid. We have a lot of conversations now, but I'm convinced he never really listens to me talk. He just sits silent thinking of the next smartass thing he can say. He hangs around the kitchen and pesters me non-stop, unless he's pestering his brothers. Or playing XBox Live. (I adore this stage. I never want him to grow up and leave.)

Matthew learned to read this fall. That business makes me thrilled. And proud. And amazed. His whole world is opening up. He lives and breathes Pokemon. And video games. I am proud to say I know absolutely nothing about the PlayStation or the Xbox or the Wii. Or the DS. Or the computer. "Hey, Mom, can you get me to the next level?" Uh...nope. Sorry dude. There are lots of big boys in this family who have that covered (see photo above.)

Jack is doing great in his final year of preschool. (Remind me to schedule his kindergarten screening!). He's still my super hero. I'll be sad when he inevitably stops pronouncing his brothers name, "Maffew." And when he stops saying things from the bathroom like, "Hey, Mom! When I say "Praise the Lord!" come wipe me, okay?"

It's hard to see the taillights of my children. Because one day they're four year olds who need me to zip their jackets and the next day they're fourteen and I'm starting to look at driving schools.

The captain is still the world's hardest-working, most-adored man. He takes incredible care of all of us, and overlooks my many faults and fits. He loves his boys and shares so much of his valuable time with them. I'm thankful.

It was a good year. And next year is shaping up to be even better.

If you were a client this year, I am thankful for your business. If you referred a client to me, thank you for believing in me. If you were a friend...from the very bottom of my filled-up heart, I love you. My life is better for all these bits and pieces.

If you lost a loved one this year, my condolences. May the love of the Creator surround you and give you peace.

God bless you and your family this holiday season!
Joy to the World!

Occupy Wallstreet

2011-12-01T18:17:00.001-08:00

Do you miss my political blog posts? Me too. I've been silent, but I'm not sure why. Partly because I don't want anyone to dislike me for my worldviews. Partly because the biggest thing going on right now is Occupy Wallstreet and people are downright mean about this protest. Even reasonable people who are generally kind, are rude and unwilling to look past the people who are causing trouble to see that there is an actual movement here. But in the last three days, two people have sparked conversations with me regarding this current event, so I thought I'd tell you how I feel.

I think people are going a little crazy. It's been five years now since the market started to fall. In that time, people started to lose their jobs, their retirements, their homes. If they've been lucky enough to hold their jobs, their pay hasn't increased and their costs of benefits have skyrocketed (see: health insurance premiums). They are struggling, and they are frustrated. There is a group of people who are experiencing an opposite phenomenon, however. The bankers and the CEOs of major corporations are taking home record bonuses. In the hardest economic times since the great depression. Our government continues to protect them and their tax loopholes, because -- in theory -- they're creating jobs. We've actually labeled them "Job Creators." But the people in the first group I mentioned...well, they're not seeing those jobs. So they're not mad at people for being rich, but they're mad at the disparity between the situation of those thriving financially and the majority of the people who are struggling financially, and who are hurting.

Occupy Wallstreet (OWS) isn't sponsored or promoted by anyone. No big corporation or corporately-funded group is building smooth websites and putting out the OWS message. There is no group of billionaires behind it. Therefore, the message hasn't been clearly distributed. But that doesn't mean that it's not legitimate. It just means you're going to have to dig a little deeper to find it.

Increasingly, corporations and politicians are in bed together. The corporations pay politicians to protect their interests by way of funding their campaigns, and then the politicians make policy that does just that. They have to, so they get money for their next campaign. And the cycle continues. And I think people are sick of it. I think they're becoming aware that the corporate voices are more powerful than the peoples'. And know what? That's not democracy. That's a corporate oligarchy. I think that most Americans, right and left, liberal and conservative, are interested in preserving the democracy as laid out by the Constitution.

Therefore, I do not understand the anger against the protestors. I don't understand why we don't support not only their right to assembly, but their message. I don't understand why we can't all get behind what is happening here.

The very best part of this movement, in my opinion, is that people are involved. Probably the best way to make a difference, and promote good change, is invested citizens. Tea Party, OWS, doesn't matter. Be informed. Learn the issues. I think we'll find that we actually agree on some of this.

One friend posted this article today. It's written by a conservative blogger (columnist?) in the UK. They have a big battle going on over there, not completely different from the OWS movement in the US. They're calling it an extension of ours, but the conservative legislature in the UK is trying to take away many rights of the people in the name of budget reduction. They're as frustrated as Americans are. But this author said basically the same thing I've been saying: I think we actually all agree on much of this. We'll make more progress united.

So there. That's my political opinion du jour. You're welcome to comment here or by email or on the phone or come on over. I'll pour you something to drink and make you something to eat. And between us, we'll solve this thing. And I'll convince you that you don't actually have to delete me from your friend list this time.

Sharing the Love: Monster Cookies

2011-11-30T20:40:00.001-08:00

This is a half batch of my mom's recipe. And yes. I do juggle the shells to estimate half an egg. Make it work. Or double the batch and use five eggs. But you're gonna need a monster bowl for that!

Monster Cookies:
1 c shortening
1 c brown sugar
1 c sugar
1 c peanut butter
2 1/2 eggs
1/2 T vanilla
2 1/4 c flour
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/4 tsp salt
3 c oatmeal
1/2 lb m&ms
1/2 c chocolate chips

Mix sugars with shortening, eggs, and peanut butter until creamy. Slowly add dry ingredients until well blended. Add vanilla. Stir in oatmeal, and then candy. Drop on cookie sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes for 350 (do not overbake).

*Do not be tempted to double the candy/chocolate. The cookies will not stick together well. Lesson learned the hard way. More than once.

Enjoy!

With Gratitude

2011-11-23T21:09:00.001-08:00

what i am thankful for,
the short list.

the captain.
the rugrats.
the teenager.
the teenager's mom.
summer.
cheese.
hope.
god's grace.
my siblings.
all five senses.
books.
ellen.
the show parenthood.
my friends.
my clients.
teachers.
the president.
california.
the color green.
childrens' artwork.
facebook.
forgiveness.

and you, my readers.

be happy. be thankful!

Sharing the Love: Chicken Pot Pie

2011-11-20T18:12:00.001-08:00

Alternate Title: Longest Recipe Post Ever

This might be my all-time favorite recipe. It's not super simple, so it's not generally my style. But there are definitely ways to cut down the prep time, which I have listed at the end. I also wrote down a whole bunch of miscellaneous suggestions for your culinary convenience. The first time I made this, it took me an entire afternoon. But today, from idea to oven, it took 50 minutes!

This is the BEST meal to make for someone who is sick, or had a baby, or is going through a hard time. It's comfort food, it's a one-dish meal, you can make it ahead and they can refrigerate it or freeze it, and it's delicious. I strongly suggest you use my crust recipe, but if you have to use a frozen premade one, please use Trader Joes.

I hate this photo. I shouldn't even post one.

Corn. I'm sure. You have to use peas and carrots.

Here you are, my mother's Chicken Pot Pie:

CHICKEN POT PIE:

Filling:
1/3 c flour
1/3 c butter
1/3 c chopped onion
1 - 2 chicken breasts, cooked, cubed
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 3/4 c chicken broth
5 oz peas and carrots
2 small cooked potatoes, cubed
2/3 c milk

Melt butter. Add onion, cook for a minute or two. Add flour gradually until cooked together. Remove from heat. Add broth & milk. Bring to a boil until it starts to thicken, stir pretty constantly, or milk will burn. Season with salt & pepper. Stir in vegetables and chicken.

Crust:
3 c flour
1 c shortening (Crisco)
1 tsp salt
1 egg
6 Tbsp water
2 tsp vinegar

Blend flour, shortening and salt until crumbly. Add egg, water, and vinegar. Mix together (I use my hands!). Roll out with rolling pin. I use 2/3 for bottom crust and 1/3 for top crust.

Place bottom crust in greased 9x9 pan (or 9" pie pan). Leave some hanging over the edges. Scoop filling into pan until about 3/4 full (or a little more, just don't fill all the way to the top). Lay top crust over entire pan. Pinch the top and bottom crusts together to seal. I then take a fork and push with prongs all the way around the edges to complete the seal. Poke holes in the top of the crust either with a fork or knife to allow it to breathe while cooking.

Bake at 425 for 30 minutes.
(If frozen, bake at 400 for 50 minutes)
ENJOY!

Tips and suggestions:
- To make in a 9 x 13 pan, triple the crust and double the filling

- I sometimes buy the disposable mini loaf pans at the grocery store and make individual pot pies. They're putzy, but then I can freeze them and make them one at a time. Or I give them for gifts to my friends!

- I never use more than 10 oz of peas and carrots, even when I triple the filling. Just add the amount to your liking. Today, as you'll see from my photo, I used frozen corn because I didn't happen to have peas and carrots. Also, frozen are way better. Canned will do in a pinch, but they don't look very colorful after you cook them for half an hour.

- To speed things up, you can bake the chicken the day before or buy a rotiserrie chicken at the grocery store.

- If you're making this for a weeknight, you could always prepare it on Sunday and store it in the fridge overnight and cook it the next night. If it's going to be longer than one day, though, freeze it so the crust doesn't get soggy. Or you can make the filling on the weekend and put that in the fridge for up to a few days and make the crust on the day of.

- If your crust seems too "wet" and doesn't handle well, just slowly add more flour until it's easy to handle and rolls out well. I always have to flour my counter surface and my rolling pin. To make consistently good, flaky crust, you need to follow these measurements exactly. I learned the hard way that estimating does not a good crust yield.

If you have any questions, please call or email me anytime. I'd be happy to walk you through it.

Full Potential

2011-11-16T18:43:00.000-08:00

I was watching Ellen just now. I tape it every day, and I admit that I fast-forward through some stuff (don't tell Ellen). Look. My time is really limited. I always watch the monologue and then most of the guests. But if there's someone I don't know, as a time-saver, I skip them. Anyway...

I almost accidentally fast-forwarded this segment on the Collins family, who adopted four boys from Ghana. They adopted the three brothers together, at once. The mother sold everything she had, including her car, and has taken three jobs to raise these boys. When they went back to Ghana to pick the boys up, the best friend of the oldest brother asked if he could come with. He said he'd only eat one meal and clean her house if they'd take him too.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
*sob*

What am I doing with my life? Who am I affecting? Am I making anyone's life better? It's moments like these that I ask myself if I am living my full potential. And usually the answer is "I don't know," which likely translates into "Probably not."

A lot of things touch me.
I'm pretty emotional.
I'm pretty passionate.
A lot of things make me cry.

But they also inspire me to be a better person. To have an open mind and an open heart and accept what God has in store for me. I'll find it yet...by the grace of God.

Project Happiness

2011-11-09T16:38:00.000-08:00

It's late fall in Minnesota. Most of the leaves have fallen, and it's chilly. Like, really chilly. If you stand really still and smell deeply, you know that the living things are going to sleep. That they've paid their annual dues and are taking a well-deserved hiatus. They're also going to play dead so what's coming next doesn't kill them. SNOW. ICE. BITTER COLD. Whoa. I even hate those words.

Last year, after the holidays, in the heart of winter, I got super bummed. SADD? Who knows. I call it winter blues. I just get tired of being cold, and spring feels so long away. So I went to the store, and I bought balloons and I took this photo.

And I named it Project Happiness. I vowed to look hard for things that made me happy. I vowed to focus on them. And if I couldn't see anything, then I created it. And I regularly posted photos and thoughts that made me happy.

This year, if the w****er gets to you and the s**w chills you to the bones, and you think there is no end, look around. Find something that makes you happy and share it. With me, with your loved ones. And call it Project Happiness (with no credit to anyone but youself). Yeah. It'll help (me and you). I promise!

Sharing the Love: Apple Crisp

2011-11-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

10 c peeled and sliced apples*
1 c sugar
1 T flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 c water

Topping:
1 c oatmeal
1 c flour
1 c brown sugar
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 c melted butter

Mix first five ingredients together in a large bowl. Pour apple mixture into greased 9 x 13 baking dish.

Mix topping ingredients and sprinkle over apple mixture.

Bake at 350 for 45 minutes.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

*I am partial to Granny Smith, but any tart apple will do.
(good ideas: Braeburn, Jonathan, Pink Lady, McIntosh).

Speaking of Sandwiches...

2011-10-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

No recipe. That photo just reminded me of this photo of a sandwich I made for Cole this summer. Looks yummy, right?

Sharing the Love: Big Boy Slim Jim

2011-10-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

Almost as much as I love a ham dinner with mashed potatoes and ham gravy, a vegetable, and some yummy bread, I love recipes with that leftover ham. I probably love wild rice soup the best, or scalloped potatoes and ham, or a good ham chowder. But I won't lie, I bought a ham to make this week specifically for this recipe. The captain and I were so excited to try it, and we were not disappointed!

My aunt Anne got the recipe from my Aunt Maria, and she shared it on her blog here. But in the interest of keeping the recipe for posterity, and to share my variation, I'm also sharing the recipe with you here.

Slim Jim Sauce:
1 c mayo
2 T dill pickle relish
2 T pickle juice
1 T finely chopped onion

Mix together well. (You can make this ahead of time and chill if you want.)

Hoagie Buns
Ham (I used leftover, but you could sub sandwich slices)
Cheese (I used provolone; Anne uses swiss)
Lettuce
Tomato
Slim Jim sauce

Brown ham in skillet, set aside. Slice hoagie buns and lightly butter each side. Grill butter-side down until lightly brown. Liberally spread slim jim sauce on both sides of bun. Layer ham, cheese, tomato, and lettuce.

Enjoy!

Sharing the Love: Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Frosting

2011-10-24T21:49:00.000-07:00

My mom used to make spice cake with caramel frosting. I love it so much...it tastes like my childhood. I got a craving for it today, and I had pumpkin, so this is what I made:

Pumpkin Cake
1 3/4 c sugar
4 eggs
1 c vegetable oil
1 can pumpkin
2 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Mix first four ingredients until well blended. Add dry ingredients, beat on medium for two minutes. Pour into greased and floured 9 x 13 cake pan.

Bake for 45 minutes at 350. Allow to cool before frosting.

Caramel Frosting:
1/2 c butter
1 c packed brown sugar
1/4 tsp salt
6 T milk
3 c sifted powdered sugar

Melt butter and add brown sugar. Bring to a boil. Boil for two minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, stir in milk. Return to a boil, then remove from heat. Let cool to lukewarm (about 15 minutes). Stir in powdered sugar. (If it's too think, you can add a little milk.) Spread on cooled cake.

Enjoy!

Be Kind Winner!

2011-10-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

CamelBak Water Bottle

(I was going to choose Ellen underwear,

but there ain't nothing worse than ill-fitting underwear!)

After a very sophisticated selection ("Pick a number, Captain!"), Mindi is my Be Kind to One Another giveaway winner!

I loved all of my entries. My friends paid for others' groceries, and gas. They paid compliments, and they sent random gifts. I am so proud of my friend base. I have succeeded in surrounding myself with really great people and I hope this contest carries on into your lives on a daily basis. I know others' are blessed by you the way I am!

I am frequently inspired by this story Mindi told awhile ago, and she is a kind and deserving winner. You all are. If I was rich, I'd have bought you all something!

Thanks for participating. Be kind to one another!

Ice Cream for Dinner Day

2011-10-14T18:18:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is a very important day! It's the Fifth Annual Ice Cream for Dinner Day! It was started by my friend Jen in memory of her father. These are her words:

On October 15, 2005, my father's life was cut short after a very brief battle with cancer. While he was in the hospital, the doctor cleared him to have any food he wanted. I called and had my brother bring a small cup of Haagan Daas Vanilla ice cream brought in for him - his favorite. Unfortunately, he was never able to have that cup of ice cream.

As a tribute to my father, ice cream for dinner day was born. Dad was a funny guy, but most importantly, he had his priorities IN CHECK. If he were here with us today, I know he would not only support ice cream for dinner, but for breakfast and lunch too.

I invite you to join me for one night and get your priorities in check too. Celebrate spontaneity. Realize that life is short and unpredictable and that sometimes you don't get the opportunity to do things that you put off until later (like dessert). Remember those who have left us. Come to terms with the idea that watching the excitement on your children's faces when you tell them you're having ice cream for dinner is way more fun than trying to force them to eat their veggies, and for one night out of the year it truly will not kill them. Join in a tradition. And remember that ice cream has calcium, bananas have potassium and fiber and nuts have protein so all is not lost.

Every year there are always party-poopers who say "there's NO WAY I'd feed my kids ice cream for dinner!" To those people, I say, you have clearly missed the point.

Invite everyone you know! I am always amazed and my heart is so warmed that this event always spreads like wildfire. Every year the response is overwhelming and so touching.

p.s. you know you want ice cream. Live a little.

Brilliant. Participate, and enjoy. (And if you already have dinner plans, choose another day!)

Giveaway Reminder!

2011-10-09T20:01:00.000-07:00

I bought this and read it on the plane ride out. And those in the seats around me must have thought I was crazy...it's HILARIOUS and I couldn't help but roar out loud. I felt like I was watching a comedy show. Read it.

Also, enter my Be Kind to One Another contest! You can enter until Wednesday night! Enter here, or there. I'll get your comment. Or call me, or email me or facebook me. Just enter.

Best Friends

2011-09-30T20:13:00.000-07:00

There ain't any doubt I have the world's best friends. Seriously. Sometimes they take my rugrats, and sometimes they bring me sunflowers when I'm sad that my four-year-old went to preschool, and sometimes they bring me hot tea on a fall afternoon. They do good for their neighbors, and their communities, and they make me smile. I am so blessed.

If you don't read The Bloggess, you should. She is my kind of humor, although she's a bit more crass than Bits and Pieces. I heart her. She's actually following me on Twitter, which would be a huge deal, except that she follows about 10% of her 162,000 followers. She's hilarious. I was attracted to her when her Big Metal Chicken post went viral. If you haven't read it, do it before you read the rest of this blog post.

This week, when I was bringing out the trash in the middle of a monotonous day of cleaning, laundry, and child-rearing, I saw this.

I lost my fool head. I roared for a couple minutes, and then, of course, grabbed my camera.

The note reads: Dear Ms. Leanne: I need a new home. You are such a kind lady. I know you will give me shelter or find me a real good home. Signed, The Wooden Rooster (cousin to the Giant Metal Chicken.)"

It has found a place in my dining room, where I can see its cute little face (and jointed wooden legs) every day. Where it looks at me, and reminds me to thank God for my very. best. friends.

PS Don't forget to participate in my Ellen Show giveaway! You have a couple more weeks, but I'm going to keep reminding you!

Be Kind to One Another

2011-09-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

My sister Laura and I are going to the Ellen Show in a couple weeks. I've been watching Ellen since the very first season. I had quit my full-time job to move out of state. I was home packing, and she came on TV. The first thing I remember her saying was, "...and if you're tuning in for the first time, what took you so long?"

And I haven't missed an episode since. She's funny, Ellen. And she's kind. And generous. I like to think I'm her biggest fan, but truly there are thousands who love her as much as I do. I'm sure if I had an "if you could have lunch with anyone in the world, living or dead..." she'd make my list. And I may never get that, but I am going to sit in her live audience. That'll do, for now.

Since I missed my 500th post giveaway (such a slacker...I'm nine over now), I'd do one now! In honor of eight years of waiting for the opportunity to go to a live Ellen taping.

At the end of every show, Ellen says, "Be kind to one another!" So here's what you have to do: you have to step out of your kindness comfort zone. You have to be kind to another person that you wouldn't normally be. It can't be your kids, or your spouse, etc. (unless, of course, you're not usually kind to them...in which case...you get extra points for changing that relationship!).

Here are some ideas:

Pay a compliment to a stranger.
Do a random act of kindness.
Pay for someone behind you in a drivethrough.
Volunteer your time somewhere you haven't before.

And then, you have to tell me about it. You can comment here, or send me an email or call me. And I'll put you in a random drawing for something I pick up for you at the Ellen shop!

Kindness feels good. Even if you don't get a prize...you'll still win!

Be kind to one another!

An Open Letter to Facebook

2011-09-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Mark Zuckerberg:

I was going to say, "You don't know me, but..." but that would be an inaccurate salutation. Chances are you know more about me than most people.

First of all, I want you to know that I am grateful for you. Facebook has given me the opportunity to know and connect with people in a way I never imagined possible. Like millions of other people, my life is better because of your invention. Thank you.

I watched you via livestream yesterday as you gave your f8 presentation. I don't know what f8 is, but I'm guessing its a really cool technological seminar. Good job. Clearly your team worked hard to pull that whole presentation together!

I do have some thoughts on your new format, and Facebook in general, if you'll indulge me.

I've been doing some research. It appears your average Facebook user is about 38 years old. 38! Now, I know you have oodles of information and data, but I'm not sure you understand 38-year-olds. I'm coming up on 35, so let me share with you how I'm feeling. I think I speak for a many of your average users. Here's the thing, Mark: We're smart, but we're busy.

I'm 35, and I'm a parent, and I'm a professional. I'm very busy with my kids and don't get many opportunities to get out of my house to socialize. Facebook is my daily coffee break, my communication with my friends, my opportunity to maintain friendships with men and women I don't have the time in my busy parenting and professional life. It is, truly, my social network. I realized something really important the past couple days...you don't know what it's like to not have social networking as an adult. But you know what? WE DO. We were without these people, these connections for 15+ years of our adult life. And we really want to keep it.

I'm 35, and I like things to be simple. Between making school lunches, and paying bills, and cleaning my kitchen floor, I don't have time for Complicated. I'm a work-at-home Mom, so I have snippets of time between work-work and home-work to check in on my friends and family online. You don't need me to tell you that Myspace didn't work because of the clutter. Facebook has kept away from that, and there is no doubt in my mind that the streamlined format has been one of its biggest assets. Easy for 35-year-old women like me.

I'm worried about the new layout, Mark.

You say it's a way to showcase our life. Let me tell you, I'm far less interested in showcasing my life as I am maintaining my social network. My relationships. But if half of my friends can't use Facebook any longer, and leave, then Facebook no longer serves its purpose for me, either.

You know who the new layout is perfect for? Every smart 20-something who works for you. It's a beautiful product. Particularly for young, smart-phone using college students. But you know that that's not your only demographic. And I certainly am not that user. I've got kids to read to! I've got cookies to bake!

I have to hand it to you, Z. A lot of people have gotten really rich from Facebook. And I don't pay you a fee to use the service, but I still pay you. My information is invaluable to your advertisers. Heaven knows they pay you a lot of money to obtain it. And you're welcome to it, because it's been a fair trade for the networking I've been given. But don't be fooled -- I'm not oblivious to it. I know that you have to give your advertisers/partners what they want...and you're probably always going to have to keep changing to excite them.

I'd just encourage you, while you're servicing them, please don't forget about us.

I imagine when you come into work in the morning, and you talk to all the other 20-somethings, most likely the smartest tech people in the world, you guys are so excited to discuss the next big thing. And your creative juices flow until that is satisfied. God bless you -- I certainly appreciate you contribution to the world. All I ask is that when you're deciding what to do next, consider how this program works for me. We've put up with an awful lot of changes because there is nothing out there to compete with it (yet).

I can only speak for myself, but I'm not trying to sell anything on Facebook. I'm not looking for a spouse, nor a job. There are different online sites for that. I don't need my site to look like I am. I just want to continue to sit in my virtual living room and share ideas and support with my friends (who range in age from 10 (what...as if everyone is the required age) to 75. I need these people, Mark. Don't make it hard for them to stay here.

Carry on. Be well.

Sincerely,

Leanne

Shannon

2011-09-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

You know how sometimes you have friends and you sort of grow apart from them depending where you are in your life? I've had lots of those. But I've had one friend ALL MY LIFE, with whom I have never grown apart. We've had our share of conflict, sure, but we've never not been friends.

She's the first one I've turned to for so many years, for comfort, for support, for a kick in the ass. And she's always delivered.

For the past 20 years, she's been my very best friend. Even when I got married, and when I started having kids, she was still interested in me. For the past ten years, we've talked on the phone two - three times per week for an hour or more at a time. No one else has gotten this amount of my time and my life. And I'm so grateful.

When we've had conflict, we've resolved it.
When I've hurt her, she's forgiven me.
When I've vented, she's comisserated.
When I've been sad, she has comforted.
When I've had joy, she's shared it.

And for all of that time, we've been waiting for this day.

It couldn't have happened sooner, because Nate is The One.
And I knew she'd find him, because everyone deserves this.
And God is good, and it's worth waiting for.

All the clichés are annoying, but they're true.

So...on the eve of her wedding, I send her my love.
And my wishes for a happy life with her beloved.

And so, once again, I send her off with this Irish blessing.

May God be with you and bless you.
May you see your children's children.
May you be poor in misfortunes and rich in blessings,
And may you know nothing but happiness
from this day forward.

I love you, Shan. Forever.

Sharing the Love: Ginger Crinkles

2011-09-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

It's fall...how about some cinnamon, cloves, and ginger?! My mother-in-law's mother's recipe. Delish.

Ginger Crinkles:
3/4 c shortening
1 egg
1 c sugar
4 T molasses
2 c flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp cloves
1 tsp salt
2 tsp baking soda

Mix wet ingredients well. Add dry ingredients, beat for two minutes. Roll into walnut-sized balls, and roll in sugar.

Bake at 350 for 10 minutes.

Enjoy!

I miss him.

2011-09-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

He's my baby. He's my ninja-cowboy-police officer-getting-the-bad-guys baby. Every day of the past couple years, he's made me smile with his creativity and laugh at his imagination.

He's kept this house free of bandits and never before has a mother felt so safe.

He's mixed that up with hugs and kisses, and never before has a mother felt so loved.

A hundred times a day he says, "I like you, Mom."

But today, I sent him off to preschool. He'll be going four hours a day, three times a week. And that's a lot for Jack. He really does like me. Matthew has always left me pretty easily, happy to explore whatever adventures I couldn't be a part of. Jack would rather stay right next to me, given the chance. At the barber shop last week, when asked if he was going to school like his brothers, he said, "No. I'm just going to stay home with my mommy." But he was wrong. Because there are many things to learn that I can't teach him, and next year, when he goes to kindergarten, he needs to be prepared.

But it's hard for me, because I was Jack. I got hives when my mom went out of town. I cried when we got babysitters. So I know Jack's pain. I feel what he feels.

Today, when I dropped him off with his really great teacher, his soft, still-chubby hand held mine tightly. When it was his turn to go in, she told him to follow the purple footsteps and put his bucket away. He held my hand so tight. I went to let go and he looked up at me, with a look, part panic, but mostly bravery and said, "MOM! I need a kiss!"

So I smooched my baby and let his hand go. And his teacher said, "Oh! That wasn't so bad!" And I replied, "Except for me." And I ran out before anyone saw my tears.

And now I sit here, with no little ninja to protect me, to hug me, to make me laugh.
And I miss him.

I love you, Jack-Jack.

American Heroes Day

2011-09-11T18:47:00.001-07:00

I hereby request that from now until eternity, September 11 be officially known as United States Heroes Day. We will celebrate those who choose professions in which they put themselves in harm's way for the good of our citizens. Heroes.

I went to an incredibly touching 10-year Anniversary Ceremony of September 11 with many of the fire/police/ems employees in the State of Minnesota this afternoon. I couldn't keep it together when I saw the photos of the firefighters' funerals, or the mournful sound of Amazing Grace on the bagpipes.

An awful lot of Americans lost their lives that day. An awful lot of friends and relatives of those victims are still grieving.

And I suppose it's because of my position in life, but I can't stop thinking about those wives. Those children, who are growing up without their fathers because they ran into a collapsing highrise to save others.

Think of that love. That selflessness. It takes my breath away.

I was sitting by friends of ours, who are relatively new parents. I was thinking about how much Matt loves his daughter and how I know he wouldn't hesistate to lay his life down for her. Those 343 firefighters were men like Matt. They were fathers, and husbands. Good, kind, honest men. And in a devastating moment, they made a decision to put others, strangers, in front of their daughters, their families, because they took an oath to do so, and these are men of deep honor. But now those children, and those wives are living without those men.

So, on this day, I stand in solidarity with those women. Because my pain is no worse than another's, but my empathy for them runs deep. And no matter how proud they are of their firefighters, they must miss them something desperate.

My most sincere prayer is that none of the men and women I was surrounded with today know that agony. That none of them ever have to give everything for their profession, even though they are prepared to do so. That my husband always keeps the promise he made me: to always come home. I remain in deep love, and in admiration of each of them -- and thank them for everything they do.

Happy Heroes Day.

Meal Planning

2011-09-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

I thought with the teenager in football and Matty in school all-day, it's time to start planning a meal for every day. Gotta admit, I'm pretty accustomed to winging it, especially when the captain is at work. I made a list of our staple meals. I would love to add a new item each week, so I'm more than interested in your ideas!

Here are mine:

Meatloaf/Twice-Baked Potato Pie
Chicken potpie
Meatballs and gravy with mashed potatoes
Ham
Scalloped potatoes and ham
Rice hotdish
Spaghetti
Lasagne
Stuffed shells
Stirfry
Spaghetti carbonera
Sloppy joes
Chip beef on toast
BLTs
Hamburgers/Hotdogs
French dips
Chili
Beef Stew
Wild Rice Soup
Ham Chowder
Tostadas
Nachos
Tacos
Enchiladas
Quesadillas
Mexican hotdish
Breakfast for dinner

Between Two Worlds

2011-08-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

Once in awhile, a book socks me in the stomach. This was one of them. It's the memoir of a woman who is the daughter of Saddam Hussein's former pilot. Her parents were intimately close friends of the dictator, and it's a facinating look into his private life and rise to power. It will shock you. It will make you cringe.

How this woman escaped Iraq and not came to live a "normal" life, but to thrive and do such wonderful work astounds and inspires me.

This story is why I hate war. This is the woman I've always thought of when we decidedly hate all Muslims, or carelessly drop missles in other countries. The collateral damage of war is real and prevalent today.

Additionally, this book reminds us that there are still oppressed women everywhere. We must spend some of our resources to help them.

I finished it late last night and went to bed sad. Sad that we continue to hurt people so deeply. That one man can rise to power and destroy a nation. Both the physical attributes and the people in it. That we, as human beings, have that much potential to destroy. I was feeling really depressed about the state of our world and overwhelmed with the responsibility of changing it. Because I must. And we must.

It's a powerful book. I urge you to read it.

Turning pages...

2011-08-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

I have been terribly remiss in updating you on my reading lists, but honestly...very little has blown my literary socks off for this summer (trust me -- I'm more disappointed than you are). I commented on a couple, which you should run out and pick up or reserve at the library. The ones without comments, you can probably just breeze over.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Rebecca Skloot

Facinating. Absolutely brilliant. I had no idea anything like this situation existed. It will make you think!

Unbroken, Laura Hillenbrand

You know, my sister couldn't put this book down, but I quit 100 pages into it.

The Lincoln Lawyer, Michael Connelly

The Pilot's Wife, Anita Shreve

Dog On It, Spencer Quinn

Super fun. A man runs a detective agency and this book is written from his dog's perspective. Brilliant, and hilarious. A great summer read. (Way better than The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein).

Sister Mine, Tawni O'Dell

House Rules, Rachel Sontag

This was a good book. A little sad, but a good memoir.

Swallows of Kabul, Yasmina Khadra

Between Two Worlds, Zainab Salbi

You should read this book. The author is the daughter of Saddam Hussein's former pilot. The intimate social relationship with the dictator is facinating. Probably the best book I read this summer.

The 19th Wife, David Ebershoff

I'd recommend this book. It's hard to get into, but about 100 pages in, I was hooked. Another FLDS book...

White Picket Fence

2011-08-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

I do not have a daughter.

I am the second oldest of eleven kids. Of the top five, four are girls. So the bottom half of my family is very boy-heavy. I helped raise those brothers. I held them, and played with them, and rocked them. So raising boys now is familiar, and comfortable, and joyful.

I am not one of those women who has always pined for a little girl. The thought of raising a girl, in fact, has made me nervous. I have enough estrogen for an this household. I love little girls, and I have a few very wonderful ones in my life. I was thrilled when my ultrasound showed boy parts. Both times. Plus I adore my stepson, as you well know.

But I want a daughter for life.

When I see moms getting pedicures with their teenagers, my heart hurts. When I think of not having a daughter to watch go through her life...dating...getting married...having children of her own, well...that kills me a little.

I watched The Help last weekend (which has a thousand lessons in it...I should probably dedicate an entire blog post to it, in fact.). In it, there is a scene with a younger-self of the main character and her maid. It's an intensely maternal moment and it struck me in a place I can't describe to you except to tell you that it made me weep on my husband's shoulder upon returning home from the movie.

I love my family. I love it so much that I'm planning to put up a white picket fence next spring. True story. My boys are awesome and healthy and someday they'll marry well and I'll have daughters-in-law, and granddaughters if I'm lucky. And I have little girls in my life to bond with, and love. And I'm grateful.

But I'll mourn not having one of my very own for just a little while before I move on. (Because it's okay for us to grieve for things we don't have, so long as we're thankful for the gifts that we do have.)

It's my mom's fault, really. If you know my mom, you'll know that she's kind to everyone. She's gentle. She's an amazing listener. I told my mom everything growing up. I spent countless hours with her in the kitchen (not helping...just watching her work and visiting (she was a far superior mother than I was a daughter)). I'd be sad, and I'd sit in the living room. She'd give me some time, and then she'd come in and touch my hair, giving me permission to cry. She loves me so deeply. I think she's still mad at the first guy who broke my heart. So you don't need a psychology degree to see how her beauty as a mother inspired me to want to provide that for another human being.

I'll be 35 on my next birthday. It would be more information than you'd like (and inappropriate on a public blog!) if I shared with you why I'm pretty sure that the childbirth chapter of my life is closed. And I trust that God knows best. And I trust that my boys will always love me, and share with me and want to be with me. And who knows...maybe I can even drag one of them for a pedicure someday.

Thank you to my God and my dear husband for understanding and kindness and patience, and Kleenex. And for my white-picket-fence life.

Virtual Reality

2011-07-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

In 15 days, the teenager has sent and received...wait for it...4,081 text messages. Holy crap, Cole. That is an average of 272 per day. I expect it'll calm down when the novelty wears off a little but WOW. That's a lot of texting. (He totally cracked up when I told him, by the way. I'm guessing we'll add to that number when he texts his friends that information.)

When I posted the phone contract, I had a good friend ask me if I thought I was invading his privacy by reading his text messages. She said, "would you read his diary?" I thought about it briefly before I responded that it's not apples to apples. What the teenager says in public...via text message or facebook is just that: public. Therefore, it impacts his reputation and it impacts other people. His diary would be for his eyes only, and wouldn't impact someone else directly. I do not ever want to say, "I had no idea my kid was..."

I have checked his phone a couple times. He always hands it over willingly. He says, "Don't worry. I told my friends I'm not allowed to swear." SUPER. Nice. Good job, Cole. It's vanilla. Nothing to worry about. I don't read for content (trust me, it's almost all nonsense!), but for red flags. If knowing I'm "peering over his shoulder" makes him think twice about behaving inappropriately, so be it.

When we were teenagers (a hundred years ago), I have no doubt that the boys sat around the fire or in someones bedroom on Friday nights and tried on bad words. They talked about girls, and practiced swearing. BUT that was the primary extent of their opportunity. Those moments. Now, kids have 24/7 access to each other. What is the consequence of that? If they start using that language now, at that frequency, I'm pretty sure it becomes part of their vernacular. No thank you.

And what's the consequence of having primarily virtual relationships? Do you learn to communicate well? Do you learn eye contact? Do you know how to read body language? I am worried about these things. Therefore, I will continue to make sure the teenager has real face time with his friends. I will continue to talk to him about relationships and how to treat women. In real life (in addition to via text).

It's complicated. This is the first generation of kids who will have access to their social network at all times. I do wonder what the result/benefits will be. I read this article while getting a pedicure tonight, which mirrored a lot of my thoughts. Take time read it if you're interested.

4,081. Seriously.

High School

2011-07-17T19:50:00.000-07:00

I've only told a few people sporadically, but after a heartwrenching struggle to figure out what's best for him, we have decided that the teenager is going to high school here! God bless his mother for putting his wishes before her own. We could not be happier. And you should be too. Now I'll be able to share photos of his life in detail. (Did I mention we're not supposed to tell him about this blog? :))

Everything that Glitters

2011-07-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

I have been getting some killer swag in the mail these days. Everyone should have friends like me.
(And I should mail stuff more often.)

"I made a few cards just for me and decided that this one was clearly meant for you," she said.

She's right.

(You can check out her whole beautiful line of cards here.)

I won a contest. This is the last package of Kool-Aid. I hope she sends more.

But I owe her a bag of lollipops, so I'm guessing she won't.

I finally know what I'm going to do with this beauty. She is so thoughtful.

I don't have a lot of stuff, but I'm wealthier than most in fantastic relationships.

My mail proves it.

Where there's a Will

2011-07-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

Holy sweet mother. That totally sucked. But we now have legal, notarized last will and testament (and health care directives) for both of us.

We were fortunate enough to have been able to participate in the Wills for Heroes program. The attorney we worked with said that a will is most important for parents of minor children. Us. YOU?

But then, you have to think about who would raise your children were you no longer here. ACK. Torture! NO ONE would raise them as well, love them as deeply as I do. But I'm surrounded with lovely people in my life. So I say to my executor, "You're going to have to do this for me. Because what if I choose "Sam and Sally," But they're breeding rottweilers at the time of our death and have no spare room? What if I choose, "Charlie and Charlene," but they're about to embark on a two-year Safari? What if I choose Mark and Mary but they suddenly decide they're REPUBLICANS?! (teehee)" No one knows these circumstances. So...beware...you might be on the list. (Don't worry...they're cute rugrats.)

Then the attorney gives me a list to write down my personal property and who I would like it to go to (who wants the captain's Dodge Stratus?!). But I realize I have no valuable personal property. Except my wedding ring. THAT, my friends, is valuable. Well, kind of. Sentimentally.

But then I have to consider it. I don't have a daughter, so to whom would it go? The boys? How about whoever gets married first is welcome to give it to his fiancée. If he doesn't want it, the next to be married can use it, or the third. If no one wants it, screw 'em.

Hawt.

When we were engaged, Cory's 1974 Camaro got stolen from his parking garage. He was devastated. So sad. He loved that car. (I'm exaggerating. He had actually tried to sell it shortly before it was lifted.) With the insurance money (LUCKY!), he was able to buy me my ring. Every year, on our anniversary, I'm obligated to give it a little "vroom, vroom."

So...Cory suggests the boys sell my ring and buy a retro Camaro. Say WHAAA? The only way I'll agree to that is if the boys buy it jointly and use it for weekend car trips...brother time. I wrote that in the will; don't try to mess with me.

At any rate, don't bury me with it. That's a waste.

So that's settled. One day of alternating weeping and planning.
All for a document I will NEVER NEED.

Amen.

Enger Tower

2011-07-03T20:04:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that in all the years I've visited Duluth, I never made it to Enger Tower. I will likely never visit Duluth and not take the drive up there again. It's beautiful, wonderful, magical. This is the dedication to the tower. Politically, I adore it. We should celebrate our diversity on Independence Day and always!

Bert J. Enger

1964 - 1931

NATIVE OF NORWAY

CITIZEN OF DULUTH

From common laborer to merchant prince, he demonstated in his own life that America is a land of opportunity for the immigrant, and that her civilization is enriched by his citizenship.

During his lifetime, by a very generous gift, he enabled the City of Duluth to acquire and develop the land adjacent to this tower as a park, children's playground, and golf course for the enjoyment of future generations, and at his death bequeathed two-thirds of his estate to the people of Duluth. Hereabout, in his lifetime, he spent leisure hours in admiration of the panorama of Duluth and its environs, which you may see from this tower.

In recognition of his devotion and benevolence, the people of Duluth elected him to their Hall of Fame, and will always cherish his memory.

Dedicated June 15, 1931,
By Olav, Crown Prince of Norway

Phone Contract

2011-07-03T19:23:00.000-07:00

There are so many things I have to figure out about parenting a teenager. Primarily, I have to figure out how to give him enough space to grow, but not enough that he'll do damage.

We're super lucky, because the teenager didn't ask for a phone until he was 14. But once he decided he wanted one, he did NOT let up. So today, after a month of nagging, I took him to get one. He's thrilled.

He said that all of his friends have phones and they all have internet access on it (say WHAT?!). So I told him his friends must have really nice, and wealthy parents. Then I asked if any of them have to pay for their phones. He said no, most of them are a reward for good grades. I told him it's too bad he's such a crappy student (he finished eighth grade with a 3.7 GPA). *sigh* What to do? Here's what we came up with.

He signed this before taking possession of his phone:

PHONE CONTRACT

I, The Teenager, understand that the phone I have received does not belong to me, but is on loan from Dad and Leanne. I can use it for my personal use so long as I follow these rules:

I agree to leave it on top of the fridge when I go to bed (or 11:00 p.m., whichever comes first), and I will retrieve it when I'm up for the day.

I agree that any of my parents can read my text messages at any time.

I agree that if any one of my parents asks me for my phone, I must relinquish it immediately, not after I 'clean it up.'

If any of my parents call or text me, I agree to respond within five minutes, unless I am at school or a participating in a school-related activity.

I agree that any of my parents can take my phone away for any reason, at any time, as they see fit.

I agree to pay Dad and Leanne $10/month in cash, chores, or babysitting. If I don't meet that financial requirement, I will forfeit my phone until that amount is met.

I recognize that this phone is for my personal use, but I will not use it inappropriately. I will not use bad language, hurt another person, use inflammatory or derogatory language, or take inappropriate photos. If I do these things, I risk losing my phone permanently.

I understand that my parents trust me, and will continue to do so until I give them a reason not to.

Signed by the teenager, July 3, 2011.

I gave a copy to his mom and patted myself on the back. Nothing like making a contractual agreement with a 14-year-old. I should have had it notarized. Let the nagging cease.

HEY!

2011-06-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

Did you know this thing had stats? I had no idea I could see how many pageviews I got per day and where they came from. Eeks. My ego does not need that knowledge. I'm going to forget I know that.

Privacy is for the birds.

2011-06-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

I am completely overwhelmed by the number of readers I have. Man. You guys must be really bored to read my drivel. Heh. No, honestly, I'm flattered. The thing is, these thoughts are always in my brain. So to me, they're old, tired opinions. But I forget that I don't share them out loud very often, so to you it's not old. And I'm grateful for your audience.

So...the teenager is on Facebook. And honestly, I want to hide this place from him. I adore him, and someday, he can know everything I think and feel about parenting him. But right now, at fourteen years old...please God, no. Not yet. Our relationship needs to be strong. He needs to think that I'm strong and unwavering because that equals security.

I can never remember my mother being weak. Ever. She's told me as an adult that she had her moments. That she thought we'd always remember her laying on the couch because she was always so tired (and often pregnant!). I don't remember that. The only times I remember her laying on the couch is when we played "barber shop." And I LOVE that. I love that my parents were a portrait of strength and security. And although they were fallible, I didn't know it. I want that for Cole, too.

Aaaand, while I'm on the subject, just so you know, I hesistated accepting Cole's friend request. (Shhh...don't tell him that either). I teased him for a few weeks about him friending everyone but me, but I didn't really mean it. I want to be his friend, but I don't want him to be mine. It's like having your teenager in your living room in the middle of all your adult conversations. Annoying.

So, mum's the word. I'll keep on keeping on and when I post a link from this blog to Facebook, I'll hide it from him. I thank you, dear readers, for helping keep my secret.

Besides, I'm probably flattering myself. I'm guessing he thinks I'm old, and boring. And could give a rip about my thoughts or opinions or my blog. And if that helps keep him away from here, super. Although someone should probably let him know how young, and hip I am. What UP, Johnny?!

Thanks for working through that little dilemma with me!

Can I get a little privacy, please?

2011-06-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

My blog is going to go private this weekend. If you want to continue to read it, please comment here with your email address, or email me at leanne dot peterson at comcast dot net. I will explain more, once it's private.

Muchos gracias. And I miss you!

My Crush(ed Heart)

2011-05-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

Don't be creeped out, but I have a crush on teenage boys. Ever since I wasn't a teenager myself, I have been enamored by kids that age. They're silly, and they love to have fun and to laugh. They're smart and are sure they know everything. They're awkward, yet coming into themselves.

So when my teenager hit this age, it was no surprise that I fell in love with him all over again. He is all of those things, as I previously shared.

He's been bringing his friends home for the first time ever. I love it. He has a couple really great friends, and I love having them here. I told my mom that today and she said, "Did you feed them, right away?" And I got the giggles, because that's the first thing I wanted to do.

And then, overwhelmingly, I got sad. Because for the next four years, he'll be with his mom, an hour away. And for the first time in eight years, he won't be coming home to me after school. I won't be his constant. I don't even know if he'll think of me, or miss coming here, or me. But I sure as hell know I'm going to miss him. I don't see him most mornings, but I love when he walks in off the bus in the afternoons. He usually lingers for five or ten minutes while we talk about his day and go over homework. His mom and dad have always worked full time, so I have spent so much time with him over these years. My heart breaks when I think of next school year, when he's not here at all. Not getting off the bus. Not walking in the door.

I know he'll do well. He'll make friends in his new town, and he'll continue to be a smart kid. He'll do what he loves to do and he'll probably make girls crazy, with his good looks and warped sense of humor. Hopefully he'll play football like he wants to do, and we'll drive up to his new hometown on Friday nights for games. And I'll spend some time feeling cheated out of the high school years, but more time feeling proud. That I laid some of the groundwork for this kid. That he knows, without question, that I love him, and that he's mine, as much as he belongs to his mother and his father.

I feel like we're losing custody, after eight years. I'm not mad at his mom. I know she did what she did with good intentions for her own family. But I still feel gypped. For today, I feel sad. I know avoiding the fact that this was coming isn't healthy. So I'll share it here, with you, so that I can start to work through the pain of losing him.

And so that someday, when he's older, he can know how I felt about him moving away from us. And how important he always has been to this family. Blended families are hard, folks. These are the consequences. Thank you for supporting me and allowing me to share this part of my life with you. I feel inspired by your support and kindness, as always.

Cool Mom

2011-05-11T20:48:00.000-07:00

I'm trying hard to be his cool, hip mom. I am not succeeding. He won't friend me on facebook because he says I'll embarrass him. He's probably right.

Our conversation tonight:

The teenager, playing Xbox Live with his friends:

Cole: Hey, Leanne, Johnny says hi.
Me: Oh! What UP, Johnny?
Cole: She says, "Hi, Johnny, how are you?"

ROAR! Can't blame a mom for trying.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T18:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Boys:

Everything I did before I became your mother was preparing me for raising you. I know that now. Here are some examples:

1. I learned to work hard. My parents didn't expect me to work, per se, but I knew if I wanted anything special I would have to earn the money for it myself. So when I was thirteen, I got a job. And I never stopped working. I'm not afraid to work hard, and you can rest assured that I will do everything in my power to make sure you have all of the basic comforts. And you can bet I'll ask you to earn some of your own money when you're a teenager. (Get a job, Cole!)

2. I learned to take care of kids. I am the second oldest of eleven kids. Of the oldest five, four are girls. Of the bottom six, four are boys. So when I was a teenager, there were lots of little boys to care for. Raising boys is familiar to me. I thank Tim, Mike, Dan, Stevey, and Ryan for that. You are better cared for because I cared for your uncles first.

3. I learned the value of a hug. Your grandmother, my mom, has always been affectionate. To this day, there isn't a finer memory of her stroking my hair or my face, or wrapping me up in a hug. So, following her example, you will always know what my arms around you feels like. I'm sorry in advance for how embarrassing that will be as you get older.

4. I learned to follow my inner voice. I am going to teach you the basics, boys. I'm going to teach you to trust God, and be good. I am going to insist that you love yourself and your neighbor. I am going to remind you that God loves you deeply. And then, when you're older and you hear the calling of your own heart, I am going to encourage you to sit still, say a prayer and listen.

5. I learned I don't know everything. Here is something I really want you to learn: It's okay to not have the answer. It's in those moments, you will learn the most. It will cause you to look around you, listen to God and search out your own answer. It's good to admit to yourself, and often out loud, that you simply do not know. Then, once you do that, I will expect you to go find it.

I learned a lot before you were born, and you have taught me so much since. I am blessed beyond greatest measure to be your mother. I take my role very seriously and my heart simply overflows with the love I have for you. Every day I thank God that He gave me to you. For every moment that you are on this earth, I will love you.

Be kind, boys.

Love, Mom

I kind of like it like this.

2011-05-01T18:12:00.000-07:00

This is the last photo he'll ever allow me to take with him.

The Surprise Smooch was the perfect Last Shot.

In December of 2002, when we told Cole his dad and I were getting married, he threw both arms in the air and with a fist pump said, "YES! I'm going to have TWO moms!"

I gush about the teenager all the time. Because he's totally gush-worthy. He's helpful, and kind, and so funny. He's clever and has a good heart. I adore him.

But if I'm being perfectly honest, and I think it's important to be: It wasn't always this easy. There were times when I didn't gush at all.

I met Cole when he was five. He was a bright, albeit hyper little boy. Those first couple years were good. But things started to get difficult for me when he was about eight. I was pregnant for Matthew, I think, when things got challenging. A) Eight to ten is kind of a rough age for little boys. They're no longer cute and silly, but they're not old enough to reason with. Its an age filled with frustration and boredom (the desire to "play" wanes a bit...) and annoyance. B) I had my own child to compare motherhood to. I won't lie. It was hard. I had to force myself to love him sometimes. And, the one and only time he played me (lied to his mom to get his way), happened in October 2004. It was horribly painful for me. And only he and I knew the truth.

I remember around that time, I heard somewhere that you're supposed to smile every time your child walks into the room. I remember feeling like I just couldn't always do that. I was home with Matthew on maternity leave, and because it was summer, I was spending a lot of time with Cole too. His mom and dad both worked a lot, and I admit that I had some resentment about how much "care" I had to give him. Because it wasn't me he wanted to spend time with. The second I picked him up, and every hour until Cory got home he's say, "Where's my dad?" "When will he be home?" That used to be very difficult for me, being a parent, but not being one he wanted.

But here's the thing: I tried my damndest to make sure Cole never felt my frustrations. I have always been very honest about my feelings, and believe in sharing them and getting them out. I found friends who I could trust, and my mom, of course. I talked to them about my challenges, so I could be the best mom to Cole possible.

In September 2009, Cole and I had the mother of all fights. It started with something silly, and erupted into a "you're not my mom!" fight. A horrible, terrible fight in which Cole went on a rampage saying things that were hurtful. So terribly hurtful. After that fight, he and I didn't talk for a couple weeks. At all. We had taken the television out of his room as a consequence. I had told him that to get it back, all he had to do was apologize.

When I was ready, I picked him up from his mom's. It was clear that we were both done being hurt and angry, and we had a long talk. I talked to him about anger, and hormones. And I told him that it's okay to feel anything, but it's not okay to hurt other people. I said, "You know how sometimes you'll be having a perfectly normal day and then all of a sudden you're so mad you want to punch a wall? Well, that's hormones. And it's normal. And it's okay to be that mad, but it's not okay to punch the wall." I followed it with, "You know what you have to say. And I know it's really hard, but it's important. Just say it quick and be done with it." He turned to me and said, "Sorry." I said, "I forgive you." And we haven't had a fight since. No lie.

When boys are eight, nine, ten, and they get mad when they don't get their way. They scowl, say ugly things, march down the hall, slam their door, and keep the silence until they're over it (with Cole, it's always over after a good night's sleep). I used to follow after him with my own "last word." And one day, I realized that I was part of the problem. It got so much easier once I learned to walk away. Once I learned to let him storm down the hall without my voice chasing him down, making him feel worse, things got so. much. better.

When boys are thirteen, they reason with you. You give them a consequence for behavior and they understand it. If I'm not being fair, they say, "That is really unfair. Do you think we could..." They reason. They negotiate. They learn that if they help out willingly, they will get extra video game time. The art of you-scratch-my-back-I'll-scratch-yours is mastered. YES. This is the good stuff. Real life skills, implemented.

For the past 20 months, things have been dreamy. Cole often walks in the door and says, "Hey, can I take the kids to the park?" He helps me haul in groceries -- every time -- without being asked. He automatically clears the table after dinner. He loves to help me cook. He's been with us full time since January, when his mom moved a few towns away. Next year, when he goes to high school, he's going to be with her the majority of the time. And my heart catches when I think of it, because he's such a treat to have around. I no longer have to worry about not being able to smile when he walks into a room.

What I've tried to remember every day for the nine years I've been a stepparent is this: I picked Cole. He was part of Cory's life when I met him and I CHOSE him. I married both of them, and there is a huge amount of responsiblity in that. It hasn't always been easy, but it's always been good. I've been good for Cole. He's been good for me.

Last winter, I had an opportunity to talk to Cole about blended families (REAL conversations. I love having real conversations with him). We were talking about how you get multiple holidays if your mom and dad split up and I suggested to him that most kids would prefer to have their mom and dad together than have bonus holidays. And I asked him, boldly, and for the first time, "How about you, Cole? Do you wish your mom and dad had stayed together?" He thought for only a brief moment before he answered, "Nah. I kind of like it like this." Halleluja.

And now, on his fourteenth birthday, I can feel confidently, that through my hard work and my constant self-examination and hours and hours of prayer, I've earned those fist pumps that little guy gave me nine years ago. I kind of like it like this too.

Happy Birthday, Cowboy Jack!

2011-04-10T19:15:00.000-07:00

It's Jack's fourth birthday. It's absolutely astonishing how time flies. If you're interested, there's a montage I put together for him here, and here are a couple photos from his cowboy birthday party. We were blessed to have a house full of friends and family this afternoon -- we are truly blessed.

Spring

2011-04-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

I know we're officially done with winter because my allergies have set in. Also, I see things like this, and these are not winter images:

Sharing the Love: Flatbread (Take II)

2011-04-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

This is another really great recipe for flatbread:

10 - 12 oz warm milk
2 T butter
4 c flour
2 T sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 1/2 tsp yeast

Put ingredients in breadmaker according to your machine's instructions. Run on dough cycle. Flatten into oval on lightly greased cookie sheet. Puncture a dozen times with a fork. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise for 20 - 40 minutes. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes. Cool on baking rack.

Enjoy!

Sharing the Love: Cowboy Caviar

2011-04-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

This is going to go down as one of my favorite appetizers of all time...you can expect to see it at all of my get-togethers in the future (from MIL's friend Katy, who got it from her daughter in law, Sarah.)

Cowboy Caviar

1 can black beans, rinsed & drained
1 can Mexican corn with red & green peppers, drained*
½ red onion, chopped
2-3 tomatoes, diced
3-4 avocados, diced

Dressing:
1 pkg dry Italian dressing
¼ c. white vinegar
½ c. vegetable oil**

Whisk vinegar, oil, and seasoning together, then stir in the beans and vegetables; add avocados at the end.

*I prefer corn, and then add fresh chopped peppers.
**I'd use a little less next time, I think.

Serve with scoop chips...ENJOY!

Legacy

2011-03-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

I have a card I love. It's funny. It says, "They say you must learn something new every day. That's not true. I don't learn something new every day; I even forget stuff some days."

This week was not one of those. This week will go down as one of those weeks where I learned more than I wanted to. I cried more than I wanted to. I felt more than I usually do. And it wasn't funny.

My sister-in-law lost her 23-year-old brother in a tragic car accident a week ago. I didn't know him, but I know his family. My sweet sister-in-law and my kind and loving brother. Their kids. Her mother. All these people torn by grief and loss. I was surrounded by sad young people who lost their good friend.

I am a Relationships Person. I genuinely love the people in my life, and I like to have conversations and spend real time with them. I am absolutely facinated by people, and I want to learn how each of them work and why. And, selfishly, I want to learn how I can affect their lives positively. I am not perfect. I am not always a good friend. I hurt people, sometimes accidently, and sometimes on purpose. Luckily, I believe in forgiveness as much as I believe in kindness, as do the many forgiving people around me.

You find you are made up of bits and pieces of all who have ever touched your life
and you are more because of them.

It sounds so cliche, but this week, more than any other, I am reminded that each of us are going to leave a legacy. At this man's funeral, it was so clear that he was kind and positive and affected each person he touched in a beautiful way. And life is so unbelievably fragile. I encourage you to dig deep and think about your legacy. How you want to be remembered. How you can affect lives around you and make the world a better place.

Like I said, I didn't know Tyler. But I still owe him a nod of thanks, for being such a great person and for reminding me to be one too, to the very best of my ability, and by the grace of God.

Be kind.

Irish Firefighters

2011-03-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

Cory's paternal grandmother was a Kelly. They, and my kids, have some strong Irish blood. I think each generation of Americans moves further away from their heritage, so I am thankful for these holidays to help us celebrate our roots. It's good to take a day to remind the kids where our ancestors came from.

Additionally, this is a special holiday for firefighters. In the mid-1800s, during the Great Potato Famine in Ireland, many Irish men and women fled to America. They were greatly mistreated and discriminated against. They were unable to get jobs in the factories, or in retail, so they had to take jobs as firemen. In those days, it was a horrible job -- one that no one else wanted. It was incredibly dangerous, and many of them died. Bagpipes were customary of Irish funerals, and thereby they became customary of firefighter funerals. That tradition remains today.

Your St. Patricks' Day Irish history lesson. You're welcome.

My favorite Irish blessing:

May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
And rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

I win

2011-03-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

This is for a contest on Mindi's blog. I should at least get the prize for greatest effort. (come on. purple hair.)

PROUD FINN

URHO is the boy for me!

Happy St. Urho's Day!

Since I proudly and thankfully won this great contest, I have to tell you the whole story.

Yesterday, I woke up at normal time. Forgot it was St. Urho's Day until I turned my computer on...sent my kids to school in absolutely no purple at all. Went about my busy day. I got an email and a text from Mindi and Peg regarding this fabulous contest. So, because we like to roar our heads off about really stupid things, I decided to win the contest.

At 2:00 or so yesterday, I pulled out paper and paints. I sat down in earnest to make my signs. Jack asked, "Can I paint with you mom?" To which I responded, "Sure. But don't mess my signs." (Seriously? I said that to my three year old?) When Cory got home, I asked him to spray my hair purple. Mid-spray, Cole gets home from school and asks what we're doing. I said, "Duh! It's St. Urho's Day! Wanna be an honorary Finn?" (He said sure, and got purple hair, too, but didn't enter the contest. It's okay. He wouldn't have won.)

When I was ready for my photo shoot, Cory was busy. I got really grumpy, because by this time, I was very invested in my project. Grumpily, I asked him, "Do you want me to just have Cole do it?" What I will say about the captain: he is very supportive of my lunacy.

(We DID have pannekkuku for dinner and had a Finnish heritage lesson. It wasn't a total loss.)

So...was it worth it? Heck yeah. Winner, winner, mojakka dinner. If Mindi, Peg, and I aren't still up to these antics when we're 70, we'll have failed. These two make me laugh til my cheeks hurt.

Proud Finn.

Traveling as a Mom

2011-03-08T19:09:00.000-08:00

If you missed it, Cory and I just spent a weekend in California. An adults-only, couples retreat. Well, for us. We left Friday morning, and landed around noon. We drove south to Huntington Beach, where we spent the first night.

May I just say -- drool.
Gorgeous.
The sun, the surf, the stucco, the nice (clean) cars.
The smell of the ocean air, the sound of pounding waves, palm trees.
Drool.

We woke up Satuday and drove down to Paradise Point resort in San Diego. We had one day of sun, and one day of overcast skies. Man, I love the southwest. Like, made-me-cry love the southwest. I guess because I lived in Arizona for that period of time, and I learned to love living without winter, or snow. And I fell in love with the desert, and the mountains, and the ocean (well, not in Arizona, of course, but on weekend CA excursions). Yeah. I'd live there in a beat of heart.

But it's different traveling now. The day before I left, I had an are-my-ducks-in-a-row panic attack. A phone call to my brother, an uncomfortable conversation about my preferences. And then that doggonne turbulance. With each bump, that never used to bother me, now total panic. "I have boys to get home to. Please don't let me die today." Argh. Rough. Ask Cory.

And I love alone-time with the captain. Love it. But now, because of the rugrats, I found myself interjecting them into our activities..."Oh! Wouldn't the kids just love to play in the sand?" "Oh! Wouldn't the boys love to collect seashells?" I think of them all the time, and the fun they'd have -- going on an airplane, swimming in the pools, etc. Their joy is mine. I think that's true of parents everywhere. I expect the next trip we take will be with them.

I strongly recommend, to couples everywhere, try to find time to be together. If you can't get on an airplane, get away for an evening. Or an afternoon. Go see a movie, have dinner together, find some activity so that you remember -- in the midst of life, parenting, work -- why you are together. That you still like each other. I've always said -- if Cory and I don't work, then none of it works. And I'm pleased to say, after a weekend away, we still work. Amen.

California

2011-03-06T19:40:00.001-08:00

It's beautiful here.

I'll be happy to see the rugrats, but I'll miss the ocean.

My poor tootsies.

2011-03-02T18:52:00.000-08:00

My feet have had a rough two years. Here's the timeline:

July 2009 - initial numbness/pain in my right foot/toes.

Sept 2009 - visit with podiatrist, determine cause is Morton's Neuroma in third interspace on my right foot.

Nov 2009 - after several unsuccessful Cortizone shots, had neuroma excision (removal)

Dec 2009 - incision didn't close properly, so had it cleaned/resutured

March 2010 - after months of swelling/pain, determined there was infection in same interspace. Also had a neuroma on my left foot at that time. On the day of surgery, however, there was NO swelling. Surgeon decided to remove the neuroma on my left foot, but leave right foot alone.

May 2010 - swelling returned on right foot, so had right foot operated on again. Surgeon removed three types of fluids (clear, yellow, and puss-like matter), cleaned, and resutured.

Nov 2011 - after continual pain, surgeon determined I had another neuroma in my second interspace. Another neuroma excision

Mar 2011 - continued pain in right foot. Saw a new podiatrist who determined I had an excessive amount of scar tissue/bursitis in my right foot. Taped up my foot (photo) and schedule physical therapy. He's confident that in 4 - 6 weeks, I'll be pain free in my right foot. SAY IT'S SO!

He also explained to me why I got them in the first place. You know how women have bigger feet after babies (I was an 8 1/2, now I'm a 9 or a 9 1/2, depending on the shoe!)? Our feet actually stop growing at 12 - 13 years old. But the hormones that cause our ligaments to soften to prepare for childbirth aren't exclusive to our abdomen. So that, compounded with the extra weight of a pregnancy cause our feet to flatten/spread out. Then, because the mechanics of my feet changed, I was susceptible to neuromas. Huh. Facinating.

I'm really really hoping this is the end of the pain in that foot. I'll still have to focus on the other neuroma I have pestering me on my left foot, but hopefully my new treatment plan will improve that foot too! Here's to healthy feet!

Disclaimer: Not looking for sympathy. My problems are fairly benign, actually. BUT...I want to have record of this incident, and this is the best place to do that. And if it helps someone else, fantastic!

Sharing the Love: Meatballs

2011-02-19T18:08:00.001-08:00

YEARS ago, I was at my friend Peg's (Penny's). She's a wonderful cook. That particular day, she made meatballs and cheesy potatoes. SO GOOD. Recently, I called her for her recipe. I scribbled it on an envelope, which I promptly lost. Then I called her for the ingredients I couldn't remember from memory. And then I emailed her for the complete recipe. She warned me that this is the very last time she's sharing this recipe with me (She said my requests are getting out of hand. She's right.), so I needed to type it up and share it here, pronto. These are SO delicious.

Balls of Meat:
2 lbs ground beef
1/4 c milk
2 beaten eggs
3/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp pepper
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 T Worcestshire sauce (I skip this)
3 slices of bread (I put 1/2 cup crush saltine crackers instead)

Mix up, roll into balls. I coat a large skillet with olive oil, and then fry for about 10 - 15 minutes over medium-high heat. Once they are completely brown, I bake for another 10 minutes. In the pan where I fried the meatballs, I deglaze with two cups of beef broth. Then I make a mixture of about 1/2 cup water, and 3 T flour. I whisk that into the beef broth to make a delicious hamburger gravy.

Serve meatballs with mashed potatoes and gravy and my homemade flat bread, and a veggie for a perfect winter comfort meal!

Ninja

2011-02-15T19:22:00.000-08:00

Last night, I was reading in bed around midnight when Jack came downstairs. He was still wearing part of his ninja costume (because that's how he rolls).

"Mom, can I sweep wif you?" Of course, I can't resist a three year old ninja, so I let him climb on up.

As I stroked his sweet, soft cheek, I said, "Jack, you're my favorite ninja."

"I'll be a ninja so I can take care of you, Mom."

"And I'll be a mom so I can take care of you, Jack."

And he smiled a sleepy smile and replied, "Deal."

And so, I snoozed with a ninja.

Pages Update

2011-02-15T17:16:00.001-08:00

I must update this before I forget what books I've been reading!

The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Wonderful books. Absolutely riveting. Early on someone said that there were parallels between Panem and America. And I have to admit, shamefully, that I see it. I even saw myself in the Capitol. As horrible as the storyline was, it really made me think about our world today and its excesses, while so many in the world struggle. Facinating stuff.

The Red Queen by Philippa Gregory

As I've said before I really love historical fiction, particularly from this time period. But neither the White Queen nor this one captivated me like I would have liked. I think its because I don't hear the old English dialect in her writing. When I read Alison Weir, for example, I find myself talking and thinking in that dialect...it's so catchy and wonderful. A good read, but not great.

The Forgotten Garden and The House at Riverton by Kate Morton

The House at Riverton was good but The Forgotten Garden was magical. I absolutely loved this book. I love a book that I can't wait to lie down at night to dig into. This was one of those!

As always, looking for more recommendations!

Some things I love...

2011-02-14T20:06:00.000-08:00

This guy has been wearing his 'ninja' costume for two full days. And I love him, although I wish he'd get over his facination with guns, swords, and 'bad guys.'

Brach's Jube Jel hearts. Seriously, these things are like crack. I'm always glad when my grocery store runs out. It happens earlier than you'd think...I'm not the only Jube Jel addict.

A good neighbor. Seriously, I have a neighbor who is always there for me. Cup of sugar, sure. Baking soda, of course. A cup of Caribou on a bad day, she's got it. I'm very grateful for all of my friends who fill my heart with love. I am so very blessed.

Happy Day of Love!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

Matthew has started to understand the basics of phonics. Mmmm.....iii...iii....llll....kkk. M-i-l-k. Milk! It's really fun to watch. I love all aspects of learning, but this one -- this one is super cool, dude. The whole world opens up. Last year, he had to write his name on all his Valentine's and it was a f-i-g-h-t (try that one with the silent letters, tough guy!). This year, he studiously wrote out 19 Valentines for his party next week, sounding out most of the names as he went. Awesome.

Project Happiness

2011-02-03T19:03:00.001-08:00

(P300S no longer exists, FYI.)

Yesterday, when I went into the boys' room in the morning, all the blankets were lying in a heap...pulled off both bunks. When I asked Jack what happened he responded, "Wew, I was wooking for the Weapster."

Sharing the Love: Sloppy Judies

2011-01-26T19:08:00.000-08:00

These are in the Magnolia Lane cookbook on Page 134 (My aunt Tricia's recipe). I've made them half a dozen times or more...I absolutely LOVE these sloppy joes. They make a lot, so they're perfect for entertaining. My nephew Dylan requested them for his birthday party, and until this recipe, Cole wouldn't touch sloppy joes. Proof is in the beef, friends.

Sloppy Judies

3 lbs ground beef
2 cans tomato soup
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1/2 c brown sugar
1/4 c ketchup
1/4 c mustard
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
2 - 3 T chili powder

Brown ground beef, onion, and celer. Drain juices. Add other ingredients and simmer or cook in crockpot (the longer, the better: let those flavors marry!).

Enjoy!

(Someone other than) Ted and Me on a Tuesday...

2011-01-25T11:40:00.000-08:00

It has come to my attention that this not was NOT written by Ted Nugent. I should have checked my sources, first, and I apologize for that. Regardless, the opinions of (someone other than Ted Nugent) are prevalent, and my comments don't change, regardless of the author. Thanks, Chuck, for your great detective work. You are my favorite Nuge lover.

~~This is a note evidently written by~~ ~~Ted Nugent, a famous musician.~~ He's an outspoken activist, and I applaud him for his passion, if not his viewpoints. I am finding, more and more, that my conservative friends agree with his positions on issues, and I found myself startled this morning when I read this note.

If you've been following this blog for awhile, you might remember the backlash I recieved for supporting President Obama during his campaign. If I remember right, the quote was, "I don't know how you call yourself a Christian and vote for someone who supports abortion." And it was a long, nasty, emotional conversation...double dog dare you to go find it if you're interested. I plan to never read it again, myself.

More and more, as time goes on, and I follow the stories of the day, and the issues we struggle with as communities and as a nation, I realize that the viewpoint of the "Christian Right" and my own viewpoint as the "Christian Left," so to speak, is really far apart. And it's quite painful for me. I believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and try to live a life He would be proud of. And time after time I ignore comments from similar-faithed, but differently-minded people...because there seems to be no way to reconcile it. I've highlighted and commented on a few of the statements from Ted below. Some of them are apolitical or not specifically Christian, so I've ignored them. My comments are in bold.

Disclaimer: If this doesn't apply to you, then it doesn't apply to you. Please don't let my humble opinion offend you!

------------------------------------

I'm a Bad American.

This pretty much sums it up for me. I like big trucks, big boats, big houses, and naturally, pretty women.

I believe the money I make belongs to me and my family, not some mid-level governmental functionary with a bad comb-over who wants to give it away to crack addicts squirting out babies.

I believe the money I make should be shared with those less fortunate. I believe I shouldn't discriminate my grace based on others' less fortunate situations, just like God doesn't discriminate his love for me based on my lack of worth. (Thank God!)

I don't care about appearing compassionate.

I believe that compassion is Jesus' primary instruction. Do unto others...

I think playing with toy guns doesn't make you a killer. I believe ignoring your kids and giving them Prozac might.

I think I'm doing better than the homeless.

I think I'm no better than the homeless.

I don't think being a minority makes you noble or victimized.

I think being a minority makes you victimized if you are treated unfairly in the workplace, or by the government, or by the people of this country.

I have the right not to be tolerant of others because they are different, weird or make me mad.

I must always be tolerant.

This is my life to live, and not necessarily up to others expectations.

This is my life to live. However, my legacy will be something I leave behind, and I hope that I make a difference...at least for a moment in time. The only expectation I care about is my Father in Heaven.

I know what sex is and there are not varying degrees of it.

I don't celebrate Kwanzaa. But if you want to that's fine; I just don't feel like everyone else should have to.

I believe that if you are selling me a Dairy Queen shake, a pack of cigarettes, or hotel room you do it in English. As of matter of fact, if you are an American citizen you should speak English. My Uncles and Forefathers shouldn't have had to die in vain so you can leave the countries you were born in to come disrespect ours, and make us bend to your will. Get over it.

I believe that it is easier for a country to run on a single language, but I certainly don't hold it against someone if they don't know English. Maybe we should come up with a solution to this problem instead of feeling so angry about it.

I think cops have every right to shoot your sorry ass if you're running from them after they tell you to stop. If you can't understand the word 'freeze' or 'stop' in English, see the previous line.

I don't use the excuse "it's for the children" as a shield for unpopular opinions or actions.

We make decisions every day based on the country we will leave to the next generation(s). Perhaps you have to be a parent to fully understand this, but I want to leave a healthy, safe world for my boy. I feel very strongly about this.

I know how to count votes and I feel much safer letting a machine with no political affiliation do a recount when needed.

I know what the definition of lying is, and it isn't based on the word "is"-ever.

I don't understand this...?

I don't think just because you were not born in this country, you qualify for any special loan programs, gov't sponsored bank loans, etc., so you can open a hotel, 7-Eleven, trinket shop, or any thing else, while the indigenous peoples can't get past a high school education because they can't afford it.

Small businesses keep this country running. If you're capable of adding to this economy, more power to you! (See my comments on tolerance).

I didn't take the initiative in inventing the Internet.

I thought the Taco Bell dog was funny.

I want them to bring back safe and sane fireworks.

I believe no one ever died because of something Ozzy Osbourne, Ice-T or Marilyn Manson sang, but that doesn't mean I want to listen to that crap from someone else's car when I'm stopped at a red light. But I respect your right to.

I think that being a student doesn't give you any more enlightenment than working at Blockbuster or Jack In The Box.

Equals, all.

I don't want to eat or drink anything with the words light, lite or fat-free on the package.

The one statement I completely agree with. :)

Our soldiers did not go to some foreign country and risk their lives in vain and defend our Constitution so that decades later you can tell me it's a living document ever changing and is open to interpretation. The guys who wrote it were light years ahead of anyone today, and they meant what they said -- now leave the document alone, or there's going to be trouble.

Interesting. I've been making the point lately that the "right to bear arms," doesn't mean the same thing today as it did when the Constitution was written. In those days, we had no standing army. There were militias, and men could be called at any time to go fight. So our founding fathers wrote in that they had the right to bear arms in their homes. That amendment still stands, of course, but we've certainly changed the meaning. All documents are living and breathing. If this weren't, we'd still have slavery and women wouldn't have the right to vote.

I don't hate the rich.

Of course you don't, Ted, you're one of them.

I help the poor.

The other statement I agree with. Now just throw "crack-addicts spitting out babies," into it, and you're on to something.

I know wrestling is fake.

I've never owned, or was a slave, and a large percentage of our forefathers weren't wealthy enough to own one either. Please stop blaming me because some prior white people were idiots -- and remember, tons of white, Indian, Chinese, and other races have been enslaved too -- it was wrong for every one of them.

I believe a self-righteous liberal Democrat with a cause is more dangerous than a Hell's Angel with an attitude.

There's a vast difference between 'self-righteous' and 'righteous.' I actually just remembered a blog post I'd been planning on this for a long time.

I want to know exactly which church is it where the "Reverend" Jessie Jackson preaches; and, what exactly is his job function.

For what purpose? He's a strong advocate for many people, and that should be good enough.

I own a gun, you can own a gun, and any red blooded American should be allowed to own a gun, but if you use it in a crime, then you will serve the time.

I think Bill Gates has every right to keep every penny he made and continue to make more. If it makes you mad, then invent the next operating system that's better and put your name on the building. Ask your buddy that invented the Internet to help you.

I don't believe in hate crime legislation. Even suggesting it makes me mad. You're telling me that someone who is a minority, gay, disabled, another nationality, or otherwise different from the mainstream of this country has more value as a human being that I do as a white male. If someone kills anyone, I'd say that it's a hate crime.

Let's say a man walks in and shoots his wife because he finds her in bed with another man. He should pay for that crime under the law, certainly. Perhaps its a crime of passion and he gets ten or twenty years, because the crime was isolated, and he's not likely to shoot another person. However, if a man shoots a gay person, simply because he or she is gay, he should go away for the rest of his life, because his crime is focused on a group of people and that entire group will always be at risk. He's much more likely to kill again, based on the type of crime. This is why we have different degrees of murder, and why it's extremely important to have hate crime legislation.

We don't need more laws! Let's enforce the ones we already have.

How about both? Is that an option?

I think turkey bacon, turkey beef, turkey fake anything sucks.

I believe that it doesn't take a village to raise a child-it takes a parent with the guts to stand up to the kid and spank his butt and say "NO!" when it's necessary to do so.

I'll admit that the only movie that ever made me cry was Ole Yeller.

I didn't realize Dr. Seuss was a genius until I had a kid.

I will not be frowned upon or be looked down upon or be made to keep silent because I have these beliefs and opinions. I thought this country allowed me that right. I will not conform or compromise just to keep from hurting somebody's feelings. I'm neither angry nor disenfranchised, no matter how desperately the mainstream media would like the world to believe otherwise.

Neither will I, Ted. Neither will I. Carry on.

Yes, I guess by some people's definition, I may be a bad American. But that's tough.

---------------------------------------------------

We're not either good or bad. We're all both. But we need to work together to get through some of these issues. And it's going to be a lot easier if we're tolerant and loving, regardless of our religious affiliation. It's going to be a lot easier if we're looking out for each other and our fellow man, and yes, our children. I will continue to work through my own personal struggles. It's been a confusing couple years for me spiritually, but I have no doubt that God will lead me where I'm meant to go. And I have no doubt that as I achieve clarity, I will also use it to my best purpose. In the meantime, I'm sure, I'll keep talking about it!

Malia

2011-01-19T20:03:00.000-08:00

I don't have a girl. And I have boys who never really liked to snuggle. But I've been blessed to have this precious girl in my life, who adores me, and whom I adore. When Malia comes over ever other week or so, on her mom's day off, she comes willingly into my arms. Most times, she lays her head on my shoulder. She's a very busy two-year-old, and she loves to color and play (she's an incredible independent girl), but when she needs a hug, she gives the best hugs. She'll simply lay her head on my shoulder for as long as I'll allow (which is a long time). I've never had that with either one of my busy boys, so I'm grateful for her sweetness.

But she has two big brothers, and can hold her own. Every time. She's a tough one...she cries less than my boys put together!

Maybe that's why I love her so much: she's the perfect combination of affection and strength. The future President of the United States! Go, Lia!

P300S

2011-01-18T13:46:00.000-08:00

Photo 9

Someone drowned the chipmunks.

Photo 10

I decided they really just wanted to go for a swim.

(Three cheers for Momma!)

P300S

2011-01-14T20:27:00.001-08:00

Photo 8We all have days like this.

P300S

2011-01-12T19:24:00.001-08:00

Photo 7

The captain brought me tulips. It's Spring on my dining room table!

Tucson Tragedy

2011-01-11T19:12:00.000-08:00

I have to talk about this. If you don't appreciate my political opinions, and you think this might put a bad taste in your mouth, close this window and move on to something else. This is too important to ignore.

Last weekend, Congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford (a Democrat from Arizona) was hosting a public town-hall event at a grocery store in Tucson. A young man named Jared Lee Loughner shot her point blank in the back of her head with a semi-automatic weapon. In the process, he also killed six people and injured 13 others. One of the victims was nine-year-old Christina Taylor Green. She was born on September 11, 2001 and was part of the Faces of Hope: Babies Born on 9/11 project.

We MUST talk about this senseless act of violence. It was clearly politically motivated. We don't know if Loughner was motivated by any particular politician or commentator, and we might never know. But it doesn't change the fact that the rhetoric in this county is out of control. That it wouldn't hurt a single one of us to dial back a bit and make sure we always communicate in a respectful manner.

With power, comes responsiblity.

I listen to the radio talk show host Ed Schultz regularly. He is very progressive, and very loud. And sometimes he's kind of arrogant, but I think he's spot-on with the issues of the day. Yesterday, when I tuned in to hear him, his message was basically this (paraphrased, of course): He said that everyone with a microphone has a responsibility, himself included. He said that he spent a big part of the weekend in self-reflection. He acknowledged that he's a partisan commentator, and has crossed the line in the past, and said that it was a good opportunity for him to consider how he relays his message.

Brilliant. Thank you, Ed. It's exactly what I wanted to hear from you. In light of such tragedy, some humility.

I'm not playing the Blame Game. It's not that I'm not interested. It's not that I don't care. It's just that there is no evidence. But every politician and commentator, in this world of communication and transparency, should take this opportunity to check themselves. It would be great to hear more apologies. In the future, I will expect more. If there is a chance that rhetoric could lead to actual violence, then it would be a good idea to withhold the angry, hateful speech, lest someone consider it a call to action and more people get hurt.

Christina Taylor Green's entry in Faces of Hope, reads: "I hope you know all the words to the Star Spangled Banner and sing it with your hand over your heart. I hope you jump in rain puddles."

May her legacy change the world.

P300S

2011-01-11T13:16:00.000-08:00

Photo 4

Photo 5

Photo 6

P300S

2011-01-10T18:20:00.000-08:00

Photo 3

Moon Sand and Moon Dough are messier than Play-Doh.

Project 300 & Something (P300S)

2011-01-07T09:36:00.000-08:00

I can't commit to 365 photos. But I'll try to share a daily photo that makes me smile.

Photo 1

My kids were using my kitchen as a war zone, which is actually quite appropriate.

Photo 2

Self-imposed Star-Wars Lego Jammies Wedgie

2010

2010-12-31T21:37:00.000-08:00

This year, I:

Loved.
Spent a little time in the hospital with Matthew.
Had three minor foot surgeries.
Grew closer to Cole.
Spent a week-long vacation with my inlaws.
Organized the first annual camping trip with my family.
Worked.
Took a bazillion pictures.
Saw my husband receive a much-deserved promotion.
Cooked.
Made new friends.
Compromised.
Put myself out there.
Smiled.
Laughed.
Prayed.
Read a ton of books.
Watched a good friend a fabulous sister become parents.
Fell in love with Hawaii Five-O.
Supported health care legislation.
Sent Matthew to kindergarten.
Sent Jack to preschool.
Kissed my children.
Reconnected with friends.

Next year, I hope to:

Read more books.
Pray.
Watch the economy improve.
Pursue financial freedom.
Kiss my children.
Take a bazillion pictures.
Be confident.
Be happy.
Be happy.
Be happy.

Thank you for following me another year. I wish you health, peace, and prosperity in the coming year. I hope your faith helps you achieve your goals, as it always helps me pursue mine. God can do magnificent things, and above all, I hope I remember that.

God bless you...Happy New Year!

The longest season...

2010-12-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

To say that I am not a fan of winter would be a gross understatement. In October, when it cools off here, I start to feel anxious and panicky about winter. It feels like such a long time until Spring, and the best description is that I feel claustrophobic.

Getting his gear on is a pain, but his adorableness is worth it!

I can get through the holidays because there's so much fun thrown in. And January is a month we simply have to 'get through.' Then February is a short month and we pack some fun stuff in there as well. By March, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Mostly, I just 'survive' winter. Someday we'll move south.

My husband is hot. (Literally and figuratively in this photo.)

But once in awhile, a day like today comes along. It's sunny, and warm (30 degrees) and beautiful. I open my kitchen window a crack and breathe in the outside air. I go outside without the cold biting my lungs and freezing my nosehairs. I actually enjoy the day. It refreshes my spirits and I am grateful for it.

A path from the front door through the new tunnel.

A facebook friend just said he heard on the news that February and March are going to be among the coldest and snowiest on record. I'll get through it, if God gives me breather days similar to the one we had today.

My husband's handiwork.

In other things to be grateful for, the photos are of a tunnel Cory built for the kids. He so totally rocks.

Turning pages...

2010-12-26T19:58:00.000-08:00

I’ve read a few books since the last update. Last week, I received four of my library requests at once. I am pleased to say, I am on the final book (although I didn't read Freedom (see below)), and read the other three in a single week. Oh, how I love books. (Although I am thrilled to have learned that I can suspend my requests so there's not so much pressure in the future!)

Here are the latest and my comments on them:

The White Queen, Philippa Gregory

I love this historical period and the novels that so many talented authors present to us. I really appreciate this author (The Other Boleyn Girl), but the style of Alison Weir is preferable to me (The Lady Elizabeth and Innocent Traitor). If you love historical fiction and haven't read either of those, I highly recommend them.

Fall of Giants, Ken Follett

I liked it. It’s the first book in a trilogy. This first book takes place during WWI. It’s pretty history-intense, and the personal plots are a little thin, in my humble opinion. It didn’t compare to either Pillars of the Earth or World Without End in the way they captured my attention, but I did finish it and I will try the second book in the trilogy when its released.

Dirty Sexy Politics, Meghan McCain

This was a really fun non-fiction book. It’s the story of the daughter of John McCain’s experiences during the 2008 campaign. She’s a young American who is fairly disenfranchised with the Republican party. She thinks the party could use some energy and needs to try harder to keep up with the issues of the young people in this country. I like some of her ideas, and it was really fun to get a sneak peak into what happened behind the scenes and her take on the political process, and her view of Sarah Palin. I highly recommend this book.

The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins

My friend Molly insisted I read this book. She's a avid reader like I am, and I've loved every book she's recommended. I read the synopsis of this book many months ago, and decided against it. But when Molly pressured me, I agreed to try again. I read a lot of books…many of which I enjoy. But it’s been a long time since I read a book that I could not put down. I was horrified at the subject matter, but there was no way I could stop reading it; and I can’t wait to read the next book, Catching Fire. There are evidently parallels to the world we live in today, but to me they are not obvious, so I'd love to discuss this in a book club someday.

Freedom, Jonathan Franzen

Ugh. Couldn’t do it. Partially because I was coming off the intensity of the previously mentioned book, but it was a total bore. I read the first 70 pages before I quit. I don’t get what the hype was over this book...I thought it was very laborious to read, and the reward wasn't worth it.

I'm currently reading Sold by by Patricia McCormick, for an online book club. I'm a third of the way through and will give you my thoughts when I finish it.

I recently thought of a book I read a long time ago, The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. It’s such a good read. If you haven’t read it, I strongly recommend this as well.

On reserve for me at the library are Catching Fire and Mockingjay (the second two books in The Hunger Games trilogy), Ape House by Sara Gruen (author of Water for Elephants, which I adored -- read it if you haven't!), Choosing to See by Mary Beth Chapman, The Good Daughters by Joyce Maynard, The House at Riverton by Kate Morton (a recommendation from my friend Krista, another avid reader), and The Red Queen by Phillipa Gregory.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T20:19:00.000-08:00

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Luke 2:8-12

He learned how to play...

2010-12-18T12:27:00.000-08:00

...Uno. And now, that's all we do around here.

Family Guy

2010-12-13T18:52:00.000-08:00

I was reminded on facebook today about a story I really need to write down and remember.

Matty was about two and a half; Jack was a baby. It was a Sunday evening in the fall; we had been watching the Vikings game, but it had ended. I was in the kitchen, baking, and Cory was playing on the dining room floor with Jack. I suddenly noticed that Matty was standing next to the recliner, leaning into it with his elbow intently watching an episode of Family Guy that had come on after the game.

I freaked out.
"Cory! Change the channel! Look what Matty's watching!"

Matthew sauntered into the kitchen, looks at me and says, "Mommy! Me and Poppa watch this show when you're not here!"

Uh huh. Really? Cory and I exchanged some glances (mine, furious; his; embarassed).

A couple hours later, I was on the computer downstairs. Matty clearly wasn't done talking about it. He stood next to my desk, put his hand on his hips and said:

"Mommy. When you're here, you change the channel. When Poppa's here, we watch that show. OKAY?"

I had to tell him, behind my hands to hide my laughter, that he wasn't the boss and that show is never appropriate for children.

He crossed his arms, gave me a "hmph" and stormed out.

It hasn't happened again. Now that he's old enough to tattle. :D

Sharing the Love: Peanut Butter Bark

2010-12-13T16:23:00.000-08:00

This is Cory 's (and my) new favorite holiday treat. It's so super easy and totally delicious. Try it!

1 lb almond bark
1 c peanut butter
1 c peanuts
1 c rice krispies

Melt almond bark and peanut butter and mix together until smooth. Pour in bowl over peanuts and rice krispies. Mix well. Pour onto wax paper until cool. Break into pieces.

Enjoy!

And the Traditions Winner is...

2010-12-10T20:38:00.000-08:00

...my childhood friend and dear cousin, Liz! Watch your mail, girl!

I wish I could send each and every one of you something special for sharing your holiday traditions and memories with me. It was absolutely positively my favorite blog post ever. I will go back and read those over and over. Advent calendars, holiday food, the anticipation and excitement...delicious. Thank you a thousand times over for sharing!

For those of you who commented on my blog for the first time, thank you. It was a delight to hear from you...feel free to comment anytime!

I wish you a blessed holiday with nothing but happiness and love. And tradition. God bless.

Giveaway

2010-12-07T17:46:00.000-08:00

This drawing has been postponed until tomorrow. Momma had a crazy busy day. Thanks for understanding!

Don't forget to comment on this post to be entered for my Christmas gift giveaway tomorrow. What's the prize, you ask? I have absolutely no idea. Something I love at the holidays. To be revealed tomorrow (I hope you sleep tonight in anticipation!).

Sharing the Love: Beef Stew

2010-12-06T14:36:00.000-08:00

I had to blog about this one. For me. I make it once a month or so and every single time, I have to call my mother. I can never remember how long to simmer the stew, or how many potatoes to use. Meals without a recipe are really my favorite to prepare. But since I love it so much and want to share it with you, I am going to attempt to write it down.

Beef Stew:

2 T olive oil
1 lb stew meat
1 medium onion
2 - 3 beef boullion cubes
6 - 8 c water
3 - 4 medium potatoes, cubed
1 - 2, carrots sliced or cubed
Seasoning salt
2 bay leaves
salt & pepper to taste

Cut beef into bite-sized pieces. Season liberally with seasoned salt (I love the Tastefully Simple variety, but Lawrys will do just fine!).

In large stock pot, heat olive oil. Add stew meat to pot. Once browned, add the onions and allow it them to cook for another five minutes or so. The longer you brown your meat, the darker your stew will be. I suggest browing it until its almost burned.

Once onions and meat are browned to your satisfaction, add six - eight cups of water to your stockpot (about half full). Bring to a boil and add beef boullion cubes and bay leaves. Cover, reduce heat, and continue to simmer for an hour and 15 minutes. Check the pot periodically to make sure its not reduced greatly. Feel free to add more water if it is.

After it simmers, add carrots and potatoes and cook for another 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Mix the flour with half a cup of water (I shake it in a closed Tupperware), and add to the stew, to thicken. Stir until its to your desired consistency. You can always add more flour/water mixture if its too thin.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to remove bay leaves before serving.

I recommend serving with homemade flat bread!

Enjoy!

Traditions

2010-12-02T17:35:00.000-08:00

I love traditions. I love love love traditions. I've been compiling a list of some of my favorites. I'll be sending a Christmas gift, in a random drawing, to someone on December 8...all you have to do is share one of your favorite traditions -- holiday or otherwise.

My mother used to make Betty Crocker blueberry muffins. Warm, with a dab of butter, they taste like my childhood. She also used to make caramel rolls on Saturday morning, and cool them on a flattened brown grocery bag. We'd have them for breakfast on Saturday, and also on Sunday morning. Oh, how I loved those caramel rolls.

My dad always brought my mom a poinsettia on Christmas and an lily on Easter. It always made her cry. I love that memory so much; I've been adding both plants to my holiday table.

My dad didn't like getting up early and rushing before church on Christmas morning. So, while we went to my Grandma K.'s on Christmas Eve, Santa would come to our house. My dad would take the "long way" home from town, and we'd be jumping out of our excited skin the whole way. We'd walk in to loads of gifts Santa had left. My dad would take his time starting a fire, and my mom would mix some punch (7-Up and green sherbet). Then we'd do the whole hurrah that night. In the night, so that we'd have something to wake up to, Santa would come back and fill up our stockings. Ah, love. That is a most cherished memory.

Now that I have kids of my own, we've been building our own. Because of shared custody of Cole, we've had to be creative. We have him Christmas Eve, and Kelly has him Christmas Day. So, the past couple years, we've had a wonderful family Christmas on December 23. We go see a movie, have a special dinner (complete with eclairs) and Santa visits us that night, so that we have our own Christmas morning as a family. I bake a strata and it's a delightful, wonderful holiday with tradition all our own. We spend either Christmas Eve with my family and Christmas Day with Cory's or vice versa, depending on the year. But, always, Christmas morning, we go to Christmas Mass with my inlaws. The liturgy of a Catholic service fills my heart with the real reason we celebrate this holiday and I find, every year, I am so thankful for all of it. The love, family, and tradition. I hope my kids remember theirs as fondly as I remember all of mine.

Enjoy the season, my friends!

Sharing the Love: Peanut Butter Temptations

2010-12-02T17:25:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays, my guiltiest pleasure. These cookies are so good. Peanut blossoms, shmeanut shlossoms. These are WAY better.

I got this recipe from my friend Jill a few years ago, and its really the best cookie. It's soft and moist, not hard and crunchy. Today, when I was making these, I realized that the Reese's recipe on the candy package is very similar to this one. Please do yourself a favor this holiday season and make these babies. You won't regret it.

Peanut Butter Temptations:

1 c butter
1 c brown sugar
1 c sugar
2 eggs
1 c peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 c flour
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 bags of mini peanut butter cups

In mixing bowl, beat butter, sugars, eggs, peanut butter, and vanilla. Add dry ingredients and mix well.

Cover and chill dough.

Roll into walnut-sized balls. Roll balls in sugar, if desired. Place in lightly-greased mini-muffin tin.

Bake at 375 for 8 - 9 minutes. Immediately after taking out of oven, gently press one peanut butter cup into each cookie. Cool for 10 or 15 minutes minimum before removing from the muffin tin onto cooling rack to cool.

Enjoy!

Life is Fragile

2010-11-29T15:58:00.000-08:00

I have drafted a wonderful post about tradition, which I will post later this week.

On my mind tonight, however, is how fragile life is. Two weeks ago, I attended the funeral of a friend's husband. They married in 2004 and adopted a little boy the same age as Jack, as well as are raising a 10 year old stepdaughter. She had the life so many dream of...a husband, a young family. Then, in a moment, at 40 years old, he died of a massive heart attack. And her life changes forever.

Today, we are mourning the loss of my brother's wife's dad. He died unexpectedly this afternoon in a tragic accident. He's 60, surely retirement was in his near future. And while I didn't know him well, I know my brother and my sister-in-law. And I know how close they are as a family. And its impossible to not put myself in their situation and know the grief I would feel if I lost someone that close to me. And my heart aches.

So, while I'm celebrating the holiday season, I'm also remembering those who have to deal with loss, now and in the past. And in the midst of their celebrations, must feel tremendous vacancies for their loved ones. If you are one of them, my prayers are with you.

Life is fragile, be kind.

Sharing the Love: Rice Hotdish

2010-11-27T17:58:00.000-08:00

This is a family favorite (also called chow mein casserole). So good on a cold winter night and so super easy. It has always been Matthew's favorite. :)

1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can cream of celery soup (or cream of mushroom)
1 can water
1/2 heaping c uncooked white rice
3/4 lb ground beef
onion and celery

Brown ground beef with onion and celery.

Mix beef with remaining ingredients. Bake uncovered at 350 for an hour and 15 minutes. Serve with chow mein noodles, if desired.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T20:15:00.000-08:00

I am insanely grateful for so many blessings in my life. I'll give you a Thanksgiving thankful list as they pop into my head. :)

1. My parents, my siblings, my inlaws. My kids. My co-mom. My family.
2. Cheese.
3. Sleeping in.
4. Jesus Christ.
5. Kindergarten and preschool. Teachers.
6. Summer.
7. New, renewed, and timeless relationships.
8. Jen, and my childcare swap.
9. My husbands' job. The other firefighters.
10. Business.
11. Twitter and Facebook.
12. The Ellen Show.
13. Prime time television.
14. Couch to 5k.
15. Knowledgable doctors.
16. Peanut butter and chocolate.
18. Laughter.
19. The color green.
20. My good health.
21. Paying it forward.
22. Grace.
23. Omertà.
24. Solitude.
25. Love.
Edited to add an important 26. Employment. Prayers for those of you looking for work.

Happy Thanksgiving, my friends. God bless you now and forever.

This and oh, that teenager...

2010-11-23T19:24:00.000-08:00

Tonight, Cole was helping the babysitter take care of the boys so I could go to a funeral (another post for another day).

The bathroom was a disaster (bad), but the kids were freshly bathed (good).

He let them play with the batcave in the bath (questionable), but he rinsed out the tub (good).

He didn't put the trainset back together like I requested (oy), but he did help them clean the toys in their room (yay!).

I got home at the rugrats' bedtime. I was fighting with them to turn off Monsters Inc. and go brush their teeth. Cole said, "Hey! Want me to tell you guys a Thanksgiving story?" He closed their door for about ten minutes, lest my audience distract him. Then, when he opened the door and I heard Jack arguing that he was going to have a bad dream, and didn't want to go to bed. I heard Cole say, "I'll give you something Poppa always used to give me so I wouldn't have bad dreams."

He came out of the bedroom, got a bowl and re-entered their room. He asked them both to lie still and close their eyes. He then sprinkled fairy dust on them. As he closed their door, he said, "Now, guys, if you dream about pumpkin pie, you'll taste it."

Oh, that teenager. He's not perfect, but he's wonderful.

Elf on a Shelf

2010-11-22T20:10:00.000-08:00

If you have small children and are looking to start a Christmas tradition, I strongly recommend this one. This elf (named by your children, in our house his name is Fredison) comes to visit during the holiday season. Every night, he goes back to Santa and reports the kids' behavior. When he comes back, he assumes a new position in another room. It's such a treat for the kids to wake up each day to see where he's landed for that day (although I've been surprised how creative I've had to be!).

I snuck him out of the box earlier today and put him in their room, and then put the box back in the Christmas bin he came in. When Matty found it in the decorations, he was floored that Fredison had already magically positioned himself in their room. They spend time talking to him, and heaven knows I need actual elf eyes to keep them in line! Ha! Take that, rugrats.

It comes with a book that we read when we take him out, so they remember the drill. And we re-read it at the end of the Christmas season, when the elf goes back to spend the rest of the year with Santa.

It's a sweet, magical tradition that I'm so happy we discovered when our kids were still little. I'm certain its one they'll remember all their lives!

Sharing the Love: Scotcharoos

2010-11-21T18:33:00.000-08:00

My mom made these when I was a kid. All the time. They're so easy and yummy. If you've never made them, give 'em a whirl:

Scotcharoos:

1 c sugar
1 c light corn syrup
1 c peanut butter
6 c rice krispies
1/2 bag chocolate chips
1/2 bag butterscotch chips

In medium saucepan, mix the corn syrup and sugar. Over medium heat, heat to almost-boiling. I always take it off the burner as soon as it boils around the edges and I'm sure the sugar has dissolved (if it heats to a full rolling boil, your bars will be hard as a rock. Trust me.). Mix in the peanut butter until smooth and creamy.

Pour the peanut butter mixture over the rice krispies (I always cut the cereal by 1/2 a cup because I like mine extra chewy). Mix well. Press into greased 9x13" pan.

Melt chocolate and buttercotch chips in the microwave for 90 seconds (if they burn, it'll taste very bitter...check and stir every 30 seconds, as microwave speeds vary). Pour over scotcharoos and allow to firm up before serving.

Enjoy!

Friendship

2010-11-16T17:28:00.000-08:00

I have been given many gifts in my life. None of them compares to the gift of friendship. My life is so full of amazing relationships:

A friend willing to help me out at a moment's notice. Without even asking for it. Who doesn't take no for an answer, and I feel no guilt because I know she wants to.

A friend spending hours and hours and hours talking about life. About stuff that matters, and stuff that doesn't.

A friend so loyal it actually makes my heart hurt.

One who accepts my gifts without question, because she has to.

One who loves my children as much as she does her own.

One woman who gets me. Who has the same world views and spirituality. A gift beyond measure, to be understood.

A friend who shares. Who allows me to share back.

A group of friends, a safehouse, a hiding spot, where I never doubt that I am loved.

One who does not judge me, but challenges me.

Friends who allow me to help them buy or sell a home. It's my business, but it's your life.

A friend who reaches out. One who I thought was disinterested. And yet, we add value to each others' lives by being there.

A friend who thinks of me. Without strings or expectations, simply because she cares.

One who makes me laugh until I cannot catch my breath.

One who admires me, even if there is nothing admirable in my character. Who respects me, who believes in me.

I could not make it without you. If you found yourself in there, then I am grateful for you. Thank you for being kind to me, my friend.

The Teenager and His Mom

2010-11-12T17:53:00.000-08:00

A couple months ago, my stepson's mom (my co-mom), Kelly, told me that she and her boyfriend had put in an offer on a home 45 minutes away. She was concerned about my reaction, and I think I surprised her when I was immediately supportive. Cole had already mentioned it, so the surprise factor was missing for one thing. (And when he told me, I cried. So I had already crossed that off the list.)

Kelly is a wonderful mom and a really good friend. She's always been so supportive of me and I would not have been able to be a successful stepmom to Cole without her kindness and support. She always backs me up. Always. And we're a strong united parenting force, and for the rest of my life I will be so grateful for our relatively uncomplicated blended family. (Disclaimer: No relationship is perfect, and ours is no exception. But it's really good.)

When I thought about Cole moving away (except for the eight months we were in Iowa, we've never lived more than four miles apart), I was so sad. The boys will miss him so much. I will miss him so much. He's such a wonderful person. The past year of his life have been amazing. He's grown into a person I can have regular conversations with. He's helpful and kind, and calm. We talk things through and he shares his life with me. I adore him.

Kelly has spent the past ten years or so raising Cole in a small house in a nearby town. She has worked hard to make sure his needs were always met. Now that she's expecting her second baby with her boyfriend, they have definitely outgrown her little house. And when I think of how supportive she's always been of our life changes (the job in Iowa, our new homes, jobs, etc.), I knew I couldn't withhold my support now. She's going to have a big house with plenty of space for all of them. And she deserves that.

Cole is really excited about the move. And I'm sort of grooving the idea of him going to a smaller high school. I never missed living in a small town until I had kids of my own. There is something amazing about growing up knowing all of your classmates. I will miss that for the rugrats.

Our visition will naturally change. But when I think of his age (and the fact that he'll be a freshman in high school (high school! how did that happen already?!), I realize that visitation will probably happen in the next couple years anyway. And now that he's older, and presumably well-adjusted, and understands his important role in our family, I think it'll be okay. We'll hog him on holidays and in the summer, and whatever other time we can steal away. He knows how much we love him and how much we need him in our lives. The timing is better than if he were eight or nine.

At the end of the day, it's not perfect, but it's okay. When I weighed the pros and cons, I realized that it will suit all of us better to be supportive of Kelly and her new opportunity. I really am so happy for them. And while I'll miss seeing The Teenager as much, I can't begrudge anyone this change.

Over and over I am grateful that my life gave me all this. That Kelly has been so kind and loving and more than anything, so supportive of my role as Cole's stepmom. I wish them God's blessings in their new home as they settle in later this year and wish them nothing but happiness. I'm willing to shelve my selfish feelings and our time with Cole for their growing family. Because many times over, she's done that for me. I am SO blessed.

Fall Photo

2010-11-09T20:20:00.001-08:00

The teenager, the fivester, the threester and a stick. Oh, how I love my boys.

These Boys

2010-11-03T17:11:00.000-07:00

They make me smile.
They make me nuts.
Their innocence humbles me.
They ask me hard questions.
They give me easy answers.
They see things I don't see.
They trust me.
They have so much to learn.
They are good friends that fight alot.
They are my Purpose.
I love them.

The President

2010-11-02T20:20:00.000-07:00

A note from my sweet overseas friend:

"Hi Leanne

So, elections-time again - go tell your friends to be proud of the President! He had REALLY hard odds, and people might be disappointed (the media tell me the Americans are disappointed), but I am convinced that no other person in that chair would have been able to do as good a job as Obama. With any other president everything would have been much worse.

That's all, happy elections :-)"

Boy, I love her. And the president.

Reading Update

2010-11-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

It dawns on me that I haven't shared my reading list with you recently! These are the books I read the past two months:

Sarah's Key, Tatiana de Rosnay
Liked it. I thought the first half was better than the second, but it's definitely thought-provoking and reminds us that there has been/is much suffering in the world.

Spellmans Strike Again, Lisa Lutz
Loved all four books in this series!

The Millenium Trilogy, Stieg Larsson
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl who Played with Fire, The Girl who Kicked the Hornet's Nest
Loved all three books in this series!

The Art of Racing in the Rain, Garth Stein
Good, not great. I found myself skimming it, and it was pretty sad.

Comanche Moon, Larry McMurty
I love all of his books, although nothing will ever top Lonesome Dove.

Pigs in Heaven, Barbara Kingsolver
I'm having a love affair with this author. She's amazing.

------------------------------------------------

Books on reserve at the library:

Ape House, Sara Gruen

Choosing to See, Mary Beth Chapman

Dirty Sexy Politics, Meghan McCain
(this woman intrigues me...an strong gay woman with a powerful father, both of whom are Republicans. I'd like to get inside her head for a moment and find out why she supports a political party that )

Freedom, Jonathan Franzen

The Good Daughters, Joyce Maynard

The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins

------------------------------------------

At home I have:

Streets of Laredo, Larry McMurty

I, Elizabeth, Rosalind Miles (love me some good historical fiction!)

How about you? Read anything good lately? I love recommendations!

Halloween

2010-10-31T20:59:00.000-07:00

This year's costumes.

Jack was going to be a puppy, but fell in love with this skeleton costume at Kmart. And since it was 50% off, I let him get it. He might be the cutest skeleton ever. He said his mask was "stinky" but wouldn't take it off.

Matty first wanted to be the Scream ghost, then a ninja, but fell in love with this Transformer costume...evidently is Bumblebee, but I didn't know the he had ever seen Transformers and knew who Bumblebee was (am I already losing touch with my children??)

Cole wasn't going to dress up, but we convinced him to do a pirate costume. I don't think this even looks like him. He's such a cool kid. (new Cole post coming soon.)

I love my dressed-up boys. So much.

Just Keep Swimming...

2010-10-25T18:57:00.000-07:00

I miss my Halloween babies. I almost shouldn't pull up old photos because they make me cry.

Matthew -- October 2005 (5 months)

Jack -- October 2007 (6 months)

(startling how similar they looked at this age!)

Happy Halloween!

Hockey Mom

2010-10-17T18:22:00.000-07:00

I grew up in a hockey family. My dad played Old Bucks on Friday nights. My brothers played in high school. I watched more Zion (Illinois) ZeeBee's hockey games my sophomore year than my own high school team. I'm loud in the stands -- so loud, in fact, that my dad stopped sitting by me in or around 1993. Last year, my mom bought me an LDC hockey sweatshirt for my birthday. My first one ever. I love it, even though it has my maiden name on it, which was a happy accident on her part, since I've primarily let my maiden name go (another post for another day...).

I needed to blog about what just happened to me. It's significant. Huge. I became a Hockey Mom. When Cory and I were dating, I told him I wanted six boys. A hockey team. It was a running joke for a long time among those who know us. We have three boys, and the middle one is now starting his hockey career.

It's time consuming.

It's expensive. (my estimate, if he plays traveling teams -- by the time he starts high school hockey, we'll have spent between $5,000 on registration fees alone, not including gear or the actual travel expenses. And that's just one kid. If Jack plays, we're going to have to sell our cars and refinance our home. Oy.)

But it's WICKED FUN.

Seriously, watching my little boy on the ice this weekend, my eyes just teared up. He's decent on skates, but there's no way to know what his ability will be. So long as he enjoys playing, I'll spend the time and the money. There is no comparison to sitting on those bleachers, watching my boy handle a stick for the first time. I can't even imagine how it's going to feel when he plays a game.

I am a Hockey Mom. An answered prayer, one I had completely forgotten about. Gratitude.

(Now I just gotta figure out a system to air out hockey gear. Ick.)

Sharing the Love: Meatloaf Pie

2010-10-17T15:34:00.000-07:00

I wish I had a photo of this baby...it's so good. I'm putting it on my menu for this week!

1 lb lean ground beef
1/4 c chopped onion
1/4 c bread crumbs
1/2 tsp sage leaves*
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg
1 (1 lb 8 oz) pkg refrigerated mashed potatoes**
1 c shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 c diced tomato, optional
2 slices precooked bacon, chopped, optional***
2 medium green onions, chopped, optional

Mix beef, onion, breadcrumbs, sage, salt, and egg until well blended. Press in bottom of 8" square ungreased baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over top. Sprinkly evenly with cheese (I added the cheese at the 30 minute mark instead).

Bake uncovered at 350 for about an hour (the recipe says 50 minutes, but my meatloaf was still a little pink then). Meat thermometer should read 160 degrees in the center of beef mixture.

Sprinkle with tomato, bacon, and onions.

*I always skip the sage
**I usually use sour cream/chive potatoes, and I'm partial to Bob Evan's brand.
***Two slices is for wusses. Put at least four.

ENJOY!

Plymouth Fire Department 50th Anniversary

2010-10-15T21:59:00.000-07:00

This year, we are celebrating the Plymouth Fire Department's 50th Anniversary. I am proud to be part of such a great organization. Thankful for Chief Kline's acknowledgment of firefighter spouses who stand behind those who work hard and commit to such an unstructured (and sometimes inconvenient) job. It meant a lot to me, and likely to the other spouses in attendance.

The highlight of the evening was a "Panel Discussion" but should have been called "Reminisce" or similar. Two retired firefighters, Chuck Scharlau and Butch Evenson joined two current firefighters, Rick Luth and Tom Evenson in a heart-warming, hilarious, and completely charming series of stories -- some sad, some happy -- of their experiences over the years. It's good to listen to the old-timers. I wish someone had videotaped their accounts, because it was as much the delivery as it was the content. At the end, we gave them a much-deserved standing ovation for their years of service.

The light was terrible, this was the best shot I could get.

It was a great night with friends. I am sorry I didn't take more photos of everyone out in their finest, but it just was a quiet night for my shutter. I do, however, have it forever imprinted on my heart. Gratitude.

Sharing the Love: Farmer's Strata

2010-10-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite breakfast dishes. I made it for the first time for a bridal shower when I lived in Arizona and have made it countless times in thirteen years since (wow! has it been thirteen years?!). We made too much, so my sweet friend Peg ate it for days afterwards. (Miss you, Peg.)

Additionally, it's our Christmas morning and Easter morning breakfast. You make it the day before, so it's easy peasy on holiday mornings!

(ugh. i am not a food photgrapher!)

1 lb sliced bacon, cut into 1/2" pieces
2 c chopped ham
1 small onion
10 slices white bread, cubed
1 c cubed cooked potatoes
3 c shredded cheddar cheese
8 eggs
3 c milk
1 T Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dry mustard
salt & pepper

In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp, add ham and onion. Cook and stir until onion is tender; drain. In a greased 9 x 13 baking dish, layer half the bread cubes, potatoes and cheese. Top with all of the bacon mixture. Repeat layers of bread, potatoes, and cheese. In a bowl, beat the eggs; add milk, Worstershire, mustard, salt and pepper. Pour over all.

Cover and chill overnight.

Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Bake, uncovered, at 325 for 65 - 70 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

My notes:

*I use other ingredients sometimes. Feel free to add green pepper, mushrooms, sausage (spicy breakfast sausage is Cory's fave), or substitute swiss (Gruyère, Andy?) for cheddar. Make it your own. That's the beauty of a brunch strata!

*frozen hash browns work great for the potatoes.

*Crusty bread is better that regular white bread. French bread, or my absolute fave: asiago cheese loaf. YUM.

Enjoy!

The Captain

2010-10-04T18:18:00.000-07:00

My husband would never brag. If it were up to him, he'd never even share with the general public big things that happen in his life, but he's married to me and let's face it: I would. This post is dedicated to my husband -- the hardest working, hottest firefighter anywhere.

We spent the first couple years of our marriage formulating a plan for our life. We are very aware that life doesn't always go according to our will, but in accordance to my character, we roughed it out anyway. We talked about children, our careers, retirement.

In order for Cory to advance his career as a firefighter, we knew there were a lot of things he'd have to accomplish: education, training, hard work, consistent commitment. He's done all of that. He obtained his fire science degree by taking two classes at a time (at the same time as working three jobs + be a parent and husband), attended additional trainings and has taken every opportunity the fire departments afforded him. It's been a lot of hard work. And a lot of sacrifice.

Today, for the first time, we are celebrating a major reward of that hard work: the fireslayer was promoted to the position of Captain at the airport fire department. There were several other very qualified candidates for the position, and we wish them our best.

I have no doubt he'll do an excellent job in this position and I am so proud to be his wife.

Thank you, God, for this opportunity. Please continue to protect him and firefighters everywhere as they serve their communities. Give them courage and return them safely to their families. Give Cory wisdom and humility in his new postion. Amen.

Fall.

2010-10-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

Easy to Love. With an L.

2010-09-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

These guys fill me up. Every day. As hard as life is sometimes, I can count on them for a smile or a hug.

Matty: Mom, do you have any tricky letters in your name?
Me: Well, I have an L...
Matty: L's are easy. That's just two lines.

I'm glad my name doesn't start with a tricky letter like S. Or P.

Sharing the Love: Flatbread

2010-09-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

My mom always made flatbread with soup. I remember most: ham chowder, navy bean with ham, and beef stew. A loaf of this bread for dunking makes those meals even more comforting (if that's possible...ah, soup.). She probably didn't use a breadmaker when I was a kid, but that's the recipe I'm sharing with you. Knead and rise, knead and rise? No thanks.

Sandy's Flatbread

9 - 11 oz warm water
2 T butter
3 1/4 c flour
2/3 c oatmeal
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 T brown sugar
2 T (one pkg) yeast

Put ingredients in breadmaker according to its instructions (mine is in the order I listed them, with the yeast in a valley in the flour and the other ingredients heaped around the edges).

Run the dough cycle.

When dough is risen, shape the into an oval on a lightly-greased baking sheet. Puncture all over with a fork. (No idea why...maybe that's for show?) Rise for 30 minutes in a warm kitchen. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes.

Slice bread in strips, butter and dunk into soup.

Notes: I'm terrible at measuring. While it's mixing, if it seems dry, add water. If it seems too moist, add flour. Wow. Helpful, huh? Also, honey is a fine substitute for brown sugar. This bread is best the same day. You could freeze it that day, but it seems to dry out quickly. If anyone has suggestions for that, I'd love to hear them!

Enjoy!

Peace.

2010-09-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

To start out a new week -- and take a little break from the recipes -- I thought I'd post something topical. I recognize that this is a hot topic, and I know the opposing side of my argument. Feel free to post your thoughts in the comments, as always.

We've been having a bit of a conflict in the US of A. Well, we've been having a few, but this is the one I want to talk about. In case you've been living under a rock, I thought I'd inform you that there is a group of Americans who want to build a Muslim community center in Manhattan. The proposed site is near Ground Zero, and many Americans think it's disprespectful to the memory of the lives lost to build it near the place of the September 11 attacks. Truth is, there was a mosque there previously (as well Muslim religious facilities within the Twin Towers themselves).

The argument has become: does religious freedom exist in America? "Tasteful" or otherwise, the project has been deemed perfectly legal. The outcome is yet undetermined. The funds aren't even in place to actually build the community center, and the plan isn't to construct it in the immediate future. But, in my humble opinion, that's not the real issue. The issue is whether or not we're assuming that all Muslims are terrorists. It turns out that a great many Americans are making that assumption.

Then, just before September 11 of this year, a pastor in Florida by the name of Terry Jones tried to start a "holiday" called National Burn a Quran Day. Luckily, he called it off, but not before he posed as a Christian representative to the rest of the world. If the terrorists are a case of extreme Islam, then Pastor Jones is surely an example of extreme Christianity. And I feel sad about that image. I realize that most Christians don't feel the way Pastor Jones does, but with the press he received and the attention we all gave him...it validated his opinion. So loving, isn't it...burning another person's holy book? So kind, isn't it...spewing that kind of hatred for an entire group of people?

I've always maintained that one of President Obama's major accomplishments has been restoring our reputation in the world. I think he is a great diplomat, and the rest of the world listens. In the midst of the controversy, he made a statement (in part, please feel free to seek out the entire speech):

But let me be clear. As a citizen, and as president, I believe that Muslims have the same right to practice their religion as everyone else in this country. And that includes the right to build a place of worship and a community center on private property in Lower Manhattan, in accordance with local laws and ordinances. This is America. And our commitment to religious freedom must be unshakable. The principle that people of all faiths are welcome in this country and that they will not be treated differently by their government is essential to who we are. The writ of the Founders must endure.

Last week, out of the blue, I got an email from a friend of mine in Denmark. She and I have recently become reacquainted and I assume she knew little of my political opinions prior to this email. When I asked her if I could post her email on my blog her response was: "Go ahead and post it, whatever it takes to change the mind of just one person ;-)"

So. Here it is. Enjoy.

"By the way, I wanted to congratulate you on your president (Obama) again! I heard parts of his speech on 9/11 - or the day before - in which he insisted that we should not fight muslims but terrorists and that if you could build a church or a synagogue, then you could build a mosque as well. I really do believe that he is doing a HUGE leap for world peace saying those things. People in the entire world listens to what he is saying, and I know that for the many Muslims in Europe, this is so important. Especially the young Muslims here, when they become teenagers they often get this "who-am-I?" feeling, because they realize they are not REALLY turks (or whereever their parents come from) and if they feel excluded from the West as well, their only identity is being fundamental, extreme Muslims. However, when Obama says those things about being equal, I think they feel welcome and included and part of the society they live in. And it is strange, that what the American president says has this effect on Europeans - but that's just the way it is :-)"

So don't take it from me. Take it from my sweet friend in Europe, who offers us another perspective and gives us something else to mull over. We are not the only citizens of the world. I think we'd do ourselves a service by looking outside of our own lives and loving everyone. And as Christians, let our light truly shine. Not only when it's painless and comfortable, but all the time. Instead of carrying around signs of protest that speak of hatred and fear, can we not reach out with love? Especially in a time when the world is fragile and people are hurting...can we not seek out peace?

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:15-16

Pork Schnitzel

2010-09-15T16:56:00.000-07:00

I made these tonight, kind of by accident. I thought I had no meat for dinner, but I found a pack of four pork chops in my freezer, so I called my mom and asked how to bake them. (I think I've made pork chops twice. Both times on the grill.) She gave me this recipe out of the Betty Crocker cookbook and it was superb. A definite make-again.

Pork Schnitzel
4 - 6 pork chops (mine were bone-in)
6 T vegetable oil
1/2 c flour
1 1/2 c bread crumbs
2 tsp seasoned salt*
2 tsp paprika
2 eggs
1/4 c milk

For Schnitzel sauce:
1 can chicken broth (divided)
2 T flour
1 c sour cream
1/2 tsp dill

Mix eggs and milk. Pour into shallow bowl.
Mix flour, bread crumbs and seasonings in shallow bowl.

Season chops with seasoning salt. Dip them in egg mixture, then dredge in breadcrumb mixture until completely coated. Pour 3 T vegetable oil into frying pan. Add pork chops (two at a time) to oil and cook over medium-high heat 4 - 5 minutes/side, or until juices run clear. Remove from heat.

In small bowl, blend flour and 1/2 c chicken broth for thickening sauce.

When chops are cooked, pour the rest of the chicken broth into your frying pan. Use the broth to deglaze the pan. Slowly pour broth/flour mixture into the pan, and heat to boiling. Turn off heat and stir in sour cream and dill.

Serve sauce over pork chops.

Enjoy!