Staying Grounded in Minnesota

My Biggest Parenting Mistake

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 11 Jan 2014 10:51:00 +0000

We have all made one. Let's be real. Let's be honest.

I believe as a parent, there is always a part of you that feels as if you are failing....maybe you are failing your kids, your expectations of yourself as a parent, or you are just failing life. Chances are...you probably aren't! Nobody does it perfectly and nobody gets it just right. If you think you are, you are fooling yourself and nobody around you.

I think of the scene from Sex and the City. Charlotte had it all. It was perfect. Until her daughter put her grubby little handprints on her white pants...on the butt!

Charlotte broke down, went in the pantry, and had a good cry. Luckily the nanny came. Realistic? Who wears white pants around kids under the age of five? I live in Minnesota, not New York. Plus, I can't afford a nanny. I have in-laws. Not realistic in that sense, but the point is, not everything is always perfect. You need to have a good "crying, while pulling out your hair, with a glass of wine in the other hand" type moment. That's ok. You are human. You are a mom. We all do it.

An example...Last week, I was sick and my kids were eating cereal for dinner with re-heated bacon and using large soup spoons, because nothing else was clean. My worst parenting moment? No... but I felt pretty crappy. Way to start 2014...mom of the year.

This actually leads me up to my worst parenting moment thus far. It happened right before Christmas. Now, if you aren't familiar with my life, I have two kids. Natalie is six and Eli is three. Eli is going through the "I don't have to listen to you, I'm just going to take down my pants and fart on you stage." He's gross. I still love him though. Except on the day I am about to tell you about.

Dealing with holidays, Christmas break, lots of fighting, trying to "get over" depression and family issues, I was already feeling stressed and tired. My husband was working a run of night shifts, so he was sleeping. It was 11:00 a.m. and I already wanted to trade my kids in for a couple of gerbils. Then it happened.

They were supposed to be playing. I heard a crash. Ran from the kitchen, to the living room and what do I see? The goldfish flopping on the wood floor, the clock across the room, the fish bowl with a hole in the side and rocks and water spewing onto the nearly dead fish. I lost it! But first!...I grabbed a bowl and saved the fish, then I lost it some more.

I yelled at Eli in a way I have not yelled in a LONG time. I was hoarse afterwards. What were you thinking, I asked? He told me he climbed up the stairs to grab the clock off the wall and he dropped it on the fish bowl by accident. I knew it was an accident. I couldn't help myself though. I needed a release and he was the only one there. I yelled so loud, I woke my husband. Ross went into Eli's room, who at that point had been punished and all Eli could say was "Momma's really mad at me."

I of course calmed down and we both apologized, but as of late, that is my biggest parenting oops. I don't like being angry at my kids like that. I love them. I want to enjoy them. Most days I do enjoy them. I enjoy them, because they make me happy! They make me smile.

Last night I was going on 14 hours straight with a migraine. I was lying on the couch in tears. What do my kids do? Natalie gets an ice pack and they both crawl up on me and give me hugs and kisses and tell me they love me and tomorrow will be so much better. Little stinkers. I'm doing something right! The sense of compassion they have for others!

Being a mom is tough. No joke. I am a stay at home mom and it is the hardest thing I have ever done. If men could be pregnant and push out a baby, I would let them, so we could share some of that responsibility (mad props single dads), but we all know why they can't.

Just remember, we all have those days. You are not alone. Cheers to you parents! It is a tough job, we chose to do it and just be thankful that you end everyday with your kids still alive! That, my friends, is a good day! A good day to me is getting out of sweat pants! Just keepin' it real!

What is your worst parenting moment? Share below!

MarianneB.

Quesadillas and Fiestaware

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 17:52:00 +0000

In the above photo, there are three of my favorite things. Can you guess?

1. Homemade Salsa

2. Homemade Cheese Quesadillas

3. Fiestaware Dishes

I have already shared the salsa recipe and my mom was kind enough to tell me that my food photos looked crappy on my brown dishes. Cue my Christmas present...Fiestaware! I have the fancy Canon camera, now I have the beautiful dishes too!

Finally, the quesadillas. So easy, you are probably wondering why I am even sharing the recipe. Cheese and tortillas right? Right! I also wanted to show off my new dishes :) Quesadillas are a "go-to," family favorite that guarantees my kids will be cleaning their plates. Lunch or Dinner, either way, the perfect meal that tastes good and is good for you!

All you need is a hot pan, two tortillas (whole-wheat works great) and your choice of shredded cheese. If my husband and I are eating, I fry up some chicken and onions too, making them taste even better!

Once the cheese is melty and the tortillas are crispy, you can top the quesadilla anyway you want. We choose to eat them with lots of veggies, sour cream, and salsa. In this instance, we had corn and black beans! So good!

Whats your "go to" meal that is easy and everyone loves?

Marianne

Arctic Freeze 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 06 Jan 2014 15:02:00 +0000

The Great Arctic Freeze of 2014

Done Minnesota Right!

When I woke up this morning it was -24 below zero. That is not in the positive, people. When you mix the air temp with the wind, it actually will feel like anywhere from -40 to -50 below today. That's cold. How cold? The Governor of Minnesota called off school for today....on FRIDAY...in preparation for this cold snap. A Governor hasn't done that in our state since 1996. Brrrr......

To give you an idea, for you lucky SOB's who live in a warmer climate, when you walk outside and step on the snow, the snow actually sounds like styrofoam. When you breathe, after roughly ten seconds, your nostrils stick together....Gross. Another sign it's cold? Your jacket makes that crinkly noise. Or? Your car just doesn't start.

So, what do we do to beat the cold on a day like today? Number one? We stay INSIDE! Except when the dog has to pee and I can honestly say I have never seen her pee so fast :) Number two? We get creative! So far today, we have played Tinkertoys, Play-Doh, built a fort and I actually took a shower...all before 8:00 am!

Number three? There are always the every day activities, such as laundry and cleaning. We will also toss in some baking, some CindyBlue Designs work, puzzles, reading time, I am distressing a shelf...who knows! A nap sounds nice too!!!

What are you doing to beat the cold? heat? boredom?

Marianne

Top 10 Christmas Movies...For Kids!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 15:17:00 +0000

In my house, the kids and I have been watching Christmas movies since July. We love Curious George Christmas and nothing cools you down faster, on a hot August day, than Mickey Mouse trying to save the day before Christmas.

I consider myself, almost an expert on all things kid movies and this gave me the idea of compiling our first Top Ten Movie List! Without further adieu....

Natalie and Eli's: Top Ten Christmas Movies

10. Barbie:A Perfect Christmas...Not my Choice :)
9. Prep and Landing

8. Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas
7. Mickey's Christmas Carol

6. The Polar Express

5. A Garfield Christmas...An Oldie but a Goodie!
4 .Curious George:A Very Monkey Christmas
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Animated)

2. Frosty the Snowman and Frosty Returns
1. The Santa Clause...We Can't Get Enough of It!

Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 01:01:00 +0000

Did I just say bacon? Did I just say cheese? Um...yeah!

Trust me when I say, my husband is NOT a soup eater...until...I introduced him to my homemade, bacon cheeseburger soup! Living in Minnesota and considering that is it -8 right now, and the ground is snow covered, I like to eat hot and hearty meals. Chili gets a little old, so I needed a recipe to expand on. I have shared my chili recipe, my enchiladas, and now for the soup! Comfort food at its finest on this cold Sunday!!!

Introducing....

Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

1 Pound Ground Beef-Browned and Drained...Set Aside
4 Strips Bacon-Fried to Crispy and Crumbled...Set Aside

3 Medium Carrots...Peeled and Shredded...Hint...Food Processor!
2 Stalks Celery...Diced
1/2 Medium Onion...Chopped
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley

6 Large Potatoes...Diced
3 Cups Chicken Broth
6 Tablespoons Butter...Divided
3-5 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour

1 1/2 Cups Velveeta
1/2 Cup Medium Sharp Cheddar...Shredded
Fresh Ground Pepper
Salt
1/4 Cup Sour Cream

It seems like a lot of ingredients, but trust me...they go together quickly! In a stockpot, brown the burger. Drain and set aside. Next fry up the bacon, until crispy. Crumble and set aside.

In the same stockpot (we want all those great meat flavors!), you are going to melt 3 Tablespoons butter and sauté the carrots, celery, and onion. Also add the basil and parsley. Saute the veggies for roughly 10 minutes, until they are tender.

Add chicken broth, potatoes, bacon, and ground beef to the vegetable medley. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender and soft! No one wants to eat a semi-hard potato!

While the potatoes are cooking, in a small saucepan, melt the remaining 3 Tablespoons of butter. Add equal parts flour. Using a whisk, stir mixture for 3-5 minutes, until the flour mixture is smooth and bubbly. Add this to the potato soup.

Stir. Bring to boil and reduce heat to low. Mixture will thicken. Stir in the remaining ingredients (minus the sour cream). Stir constantly until cheese is melted. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat. Blend in the sour cream.

Serve with crackers, croutons, or fresh baked bread!
You will want to add this recipe to your winter-dinner rotation!!

Baked Caramel Corn

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 14 Dec 2013 22:34:00 +0000

Looking for a new Christmas treat? Something different for the next cookie exchange or gift for teacher? I have been making this recipe since I was seven years old! It is one of my family's favorites! I only make it during the Christmas season, so it is an extra special treat!!! Like most of my recipes, there are few ingredients and it is very simple to make. I hope you enjoy our favorite Christmas-time goody!!

Baked Caramel Corn

6 Quarts Popped Popcorn-spread out on 2 cookie sheets, remove unpopped seeds

1 Cup Unsalted Butter
2 Cups Light Brown Sugar
1/2 Cup Light Corn Syrup
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp Vanilla

Preheat oven to 250 degrees. While making caramel sauce, keep popped corn warm in preheated oven.

Melt butter. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil without stirring, on medium heat for five minutes.

Remove from heat. Remove popcorn from oven.

Stir in baking soda and vanilla to caramel sauce. Pour over corn and evenly coat.

Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Remove from pans immediately, once hour is up. Enjoy! Sprinkle in peanuts or M&M's to make it extra nummy :)

Struggling Through Depression::Baby Steps

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 15:03:00 +0000

Baby steps. That is how I plan to get through this.

Baby steps. One day at a time.

Baby steps.

Since I first posted about my struggles with depression, I have had a lot of time to just "think." Tuesday was a really tough day for me and my husband came downstairs to a blubbering mess on the couch. He asked the basic question of what's wrong? What can I do? What makes you so sad? I had no answer. I didn't know. That is when I realized I needed some serious time to think and pray to Jesus. The next question he asked...will you dance with me? I of course declined. Nope. Would.Not.Do. He swept me in his arms and as we moved back and forth to no music, he whispered in my ear "I will get you through this funk. I love you too much not to."

I have so much to live for. I have no reason to be depressed, but yet I am. That is the crazy thing with depression.

Baby steps.

I called my grandma, who has suffered from depression since my grandpa died. I needed to talk to someone who truly understood. She told me some great advice...
-do something for me. Not something that is best for the kids or my husband.
-what makes Marianne happy. Even if it is only ten minutes.
-yoga? crosswords?
-pray baby girl

Baby steps.

Yesterday morning I received the most loving email from Ross' grandpa. He told me this, "Grandma and I sincerely love you and respect the person you are...You are a capable wife and mom. You are experiencing the process all of us go through for God to mold us into the person He created us to be. It is not a comfortable process, but a good one...I urge you to yield yourself to him and allow Him to have His way in your life. His is always the best. We think we can work things out, but He is better at working things into our lives." Cue the tears. What an amazing reminder.

Baby steps.

Here it is, now Friday. I have had some great conversations and time to contemplate my situation, my life, my family and what I need to get through this struggle. Depression is tough but it doesn't have to be forever. This is what I have come up with for my baby steps:

-Pray. I may not be involved in a church right now, but that does not change my faith in God. When I pray, I am at peace.
-Cook. I find joy in cooking. I find joy in providing.
-Reading. I love to read and this is something I would like to do more of.
-Treat myself to a hot bath. Simple, yes!
-Surround myself with positive people who want to better my life and my situation. Steer clear of the negativity and what makes me angry.
-Light a candle.
-Breathe.

Baby steps.

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 23:43:00 +0000

These cold Minnesota days, cause me to crave the food heavy-laden with cheese and gooey-ness! Introducing....Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas...the epitome of all things cheesy and gooey!

I want to put a disclaimer on my recipes. I cook for comfort. I cook for cravings. My recipes contain meat. They contain fat. They contain butter and cheese. They may even contain some whiskey. I love to cook and even more, I love to eat what I cook! This is not a place to find healthy or light recipes...possibly down the road when I am 10 pounds heavier and 10 years older :)

The origination for these enchiladas is actually Colorado. Ross' uncle Paul made these for us when we visited him, back during our college days. We loved them so much, they have been on our permanent menu rotation ever since!

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients:
4 Chicken Breasts, Thawed and Boiled in Water

8 oz. Cream Cheese, Softened
1 Cup Sour Cream
1 Small Can Diced Green Chiles
1 Small Onion, Chopped and Sauteed in Butter
Cayenne Pepper, Salt, and Tobasco to Taste

5-7 Buritto Size Flour Tortillas
1 Pound Grated Mozzarella Cheese
1/2 Cup Liquid Whipping Cream

Once chicken has been fully cooked in boiling water, shred meat.
I found a super easy way of doing this with your KitchenAid! Pop it in the bowl and mix it up!

In separate bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, green chiles, onion, and spices. Add chicken. Mix.

Take filling and spread down middle of tortilla. Fold tortilla over, lay seam side down in 9x13 pan. Repeat. Sprinkle enchiladas with mozzarella and pour whipping cream over top.

Bake in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until enchiladas are bubbly and browning on top.

Serve with salsa.

The Perfect Tree

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 14:47:00 +0000

The day had arrived! It was time for our annual trip to Rudolph's Tree Farm. Luckily, it wasn't too cold out, so we loaded up the truck and headed out to find the "perfect tree!" In my husbands mind, he thinks like the Griswolds', in National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. Does the perfect tree exist? When I think Christmas trees, I think the tree from Charlie Brown Christmas is perfect! I grew up with a fake tree, so switching over to a real tree when we got married was a bit of a compromise. I have to admit, now I can't imagine not having the smell of fresh pine spread throughout my house!

The "scope out" begins...

Which tree should we pick?

Eli thinks this one!

Too Small...Let's Keep Looking Kids!

As you can see, the perfect tree was finally acquired and cut!

She really wasn't the "perfect" tree, there are some large gaps between branches and she is missing some branches at the top, but that is why I feel in love with it! I have a heart for broken things. Things that need a home. That is why we got our dog from a shelter. She needed us...just like this tree! Check out the final product below...400 lights and lots of ornaments later, our tree is...Perfect!

Struggling through Depression

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 22:56:00 +0000

I'm going to be honest. The last couple of weeks have been difficult. Blame the holidays. Blame the pms. I know it is so much more than that. It is a funk that won't go away and a gray cloud that doesn't lift.

Since I had my second child three years ago, I started to receive treatment for depression. I knew something was wrong, when I had this perfect baby boy, but I had no joy in him. The tears would flow and the bouts of happiness were few and far between. The medication has helped but I have hit that low spot again. The spot with the tears and the sadness and the need for sleep. I need to share something. This may sound stupid, but it makes sense to me. Being depressed, depresses me. I am typically a very happy and optimistic person, who finds joy in crap like sunbeams and raindrops. Right now I feel burly and I want to growl at you. Complete opposite? I would say so.

I have heard it all. I know what I should be doing to get better. Exercise, eating right, trying to find happiness in the simple things, exposing yourself to other people. First of all...have you ever been depressed? Then you know how DIFFICULT all of these things are. Getting out of bed and off the couch is a struggle. Daily tasks are a struggle. Being social? Please...next to impossible. There is a sense of failure and a lack of motivation. I feel as if I have failed my husband and my kids, when I have done nothing to generate those feelings from them. My heart knows that. My head doesn't.

I have faith and trust in my Lord Jesus Christ. I do not trust the foundation of the church...sad to say. A rough split will do that to you. The friends that I have are fabulous, but I am not openly seeking new friends or a book club. I would rather be myself. I work better alone. This doesn't make me sad. It is just easier for me. That is why I work from home. That is why I blog. I like the quiet.

Can you understand this? Do any of you feel like this? Let me know that I am not alone. We are in this together. I understand you. I understand your tears. You don't need to explain them to me. Depression is hard, it is a struggle, I want to win the battle. I plan on winning the battle. How? I am going to be honest with myself. I'm going to pray. I am going to have those tough conversations with my husband and keep open communication. I am going to take my meds and not be ashamed of that. I am going to love me for me. That is all I can do. How do you fight the struggle?

Marianne

Holidays=Drinking

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 27 Nov 2013 12:37:00 +0000

Why is it, the holidays make me want to drink? In excess?

Good question? It must be, since it is past my bedtime and that is what I am pondering at this late hour of 9:14 p.m.

It's interesting. What you say? The holidays. I love Christmas. I love the movies, the baking, the time with my kids, the snow, and the magical feeling that comes along with it. I don't really care for the hustle and bustle though. Thanksgiving is ok. Halloween is for the kids. I picture the meme of Santa saying, "Calm the F*$@! Down. It's Only October!" Well, now it is November and in a couple of days, it will be December.

Don't take this rambling the wrong way. My immediate family is a sweet side of fabulous, but when you put us all together...cue the dysfunction. As with any family, there are topics you CANNOT talk about...politics for sure (half are democrats, the other half republicans), gun control, stay away from religion, family "hot" topics. What does that leave? The kids in college with their vicarious experiences, stories about the children, the WEATHER, business, latest "fad" movies, the cousin who loves to talk about herself....

I am sure some of you will read this and think that we aren't that bad, my family will take offense and have feelings hurt. Well, I have news for you. This isn't your blog :)!

Let me put it this way. My mom and my favorite movie to watch before Thanksgiving is "Home for the Holidays."

Have you seen it? If not, you need to! Now this movie is Robert Downey Jr. PRE-PRE-PRE Iron Man trilogy. Mom and I tend to pick out which character in the movie symbolizes us. My favorite is the old aunt with the fruit loops necklace.

So, here I am on the Eve of Thanksgiving Eve with no fingernails (I chewed them off) and dreaming of my bottle of whipped cream Vodka

and being tipsy by noon! It's the best way to bake you know...half in the bag :)

While the children are coloring turkeys, I will be sipping Creamsicles and thinking that in a mere 28 days it will all be over!

Happy Thanksgiving, from my family to yours!

P.S. To all you mommas....here is my recipe for Creamsicles....

All you need is:

Ice
Whipped Cream Vodka
Sprite or Sierra Mist
Orange Juice

I do 1/3 of each beverage. Mix it to your specific tastes. Trust me, you can't even taste the vodka. This is a great party drink. Enjoy!

Thankfulness Times 30!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 25 Nov 2013 18:37:00 +0000

There are 30 days in November and since November also carries the holiday of Thanksgiving and massive gluttony, I thought I would write about the thirty things that I am most thankful for. I am going for the non-traditional here. Let's start with the basics and move on from there. I am thankful for:

1. My husband of 8 years. My marriage. The need I feel for him still after 13 years together. Without him I am nothing. He is my rock, my paper, and my scissors.

2. My kids. I always wanted kids. I have been blessed with the two most loving and accepting kids. They love me through my mean-mommy days and they love me through my best days. They make me want to have more good days than bad. I never thought I could love anyone so much, and then I had TWO kids. They amaze me.

3. My dog, Cinder. We rescued her a year ago from a shelter and she has been a part of this family ever since. We are not the Benzens without her. Cinder has turned my husband into a dog lover, so much so, we had our Christmas pictures taken with her. She completes our entire family. The acceptance of a dog is like nothing I have ever seen. She knows when I need a snuggle and she knows when to get out of my way. Mostly, I just want to snuggle her.

4. Candy Crush. Hell to the Yeah.

5. A good book. I am on the third Hunger Games book and I don't get a ton of time to read, so when I can't put it down...you know it is fabulous! I love to read. I love books. The smell, the sound they make when you open them, the turning of pages. So thankful for books.

6. Magazines. I subscribe to six or seven magazines. Some for me, some for the kids, some for the business. Yes, I have an iPad, but there is something about the tangible. I love that. I love the simple things still. A magazine, writing a letter to my grandma, putting in a disc in the DVD player....consider me old school 32.

7. My home. We live in an older, stucco home and she is SOLID. I generate safety from my house and "she" truly is a home.

8. Mr. and Mrs. Darwin Nelson. They started out as teachers back in High School, but I can honestly say that they are truly friends. Friends that the kids consider "GandG Nelson." Friends that I can call on when I have a question about business or life. They are friends, but more so, they are family. We love them. So thankful for the Nelsons. So thankful.

9. Snow! I love winter, I love the snow...but I hate to be cold. Let me repeat this...I HATE to be cold! I LOVE the snow though! It is so beautiful. One of the true gifts from God.

10. My brother and sister. Older and Younger and I am stuck in the Middle. I have learned so much from both of them. Very thankful for my siblings.

11. Chocolate and Coffee and Carbs and Chips and Ice Cream...I am so thankful for FOOD! I love to eat!

12. Thankful for the passion to cook and being blessed with the ability to be fairly good at it. There is no greater joy than providing for your family through food....andy my bestest friend Josh....

13. I am a stay at home mom. Everyday I get to do what I love.

14. My husband has two jobs. One full time and one part time and I guess you could consider the on-call one too! Blessed and thankful for employment!

15. HALF WAY!

16. Technology. I love TV, Movies, my computer, iPad, the kids Leap Pads...I know when to turn it off, but it is so nice to have.

17. Heat. This time of year it is the little things to be truly thankful for. My family has so much when others have so little. I am thankful for never being cold or hungry.

18. Finances. My husband and I have finally gotten a "strong-hold" over our finances over 8 years of marriage. No better feeling. No credit card debt and the truck is almost paid off. To finally have control is an amazing feeling. It took a change in attitude, but I am so thankful that we are finally there and we did it together!

19. My mom and dad. What would life be like without my mom and dad? So boring. We have weekly meals together, they are so amazingly awesome to my kids and they have never questioned it when we needed help. My mom and dad are such a gift to my family and they bring us all absolute joy. Trust me, never a dull moment when we are all together!

20. Reliable vehicles.

21. Having a husband who is blessed with the gift of song. He is so amazingly talented and I am thankful that every day I get to hear that gift. You are missing out if you haven't heard him sing. I am very biased :)

22. A college education. Yes, I am a stay at home mom, but my time at Bethel has and never will be wasted. I have a love for learning that can never be extinguished.

23. My in-laws. Always accepting and loving to myself and my family.

24. Faith. I have a faith in God that will not waver, no matter what the circumstances.

25. Friends. True friends that have stuck by me through everything. I am very guarded and choosy with who I let in my life, so to have this select few that has stuck with me, by my side...is such an amazing gift.

26. CindyBlue Designs. What would I do without my small business?

27. My grandma. There is nothing I can say that I have not already said about her. Such a truly fantastic woman, with undeniable class and grace.

28. My grandpa. He was taken too soon, but the memories I have of him live inside. So thankful for the memories.

29. Rainy Lake. Where the memories start and where the memories will end.

30. Passion. Passion for photography. Passion for love. Passion for everything I do. Passion that gets me through.

Marianne

Our New Normal? Life as a SWAT Family.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 24 Nov 2013 18:58:00 +0000

Friday was the day. The text came in. Possible call out tonight. What does that mean for me? Instant panic attack! My heart rate increased, I had rapid breathing and sweaty palms. Is this what it's like to be married to someone on a Special Response Team (SRT)?

I didn't really know what to expect when my husband would be called out for the first time. It is a waiting game. Waiting for the warrant to be signed. Waiting for the word "go." To anyone else, this may not seem like a big deal. Family caught word that there may be a "call out" and all they could say was "it's gonna be so awesome!" After that, all I heard was guns and blah, blah, blah.... People forget that this is my life. My husband is not just a man on SRT or a dispatcher, firefighter, or EMT...he is my husband and the father of my children.

Forget awesome. You just said guns and awesome in the same sentence. Thats all I heard.

My brother-in-law is a cop. He has trained for everything my husband is doing. My husband is a medic for SRT. He is not a gun slinging, handcuff handling, taser wielding police officer. He is a bandaid bearing, emergency kit carrying and blood clotting professional....who has to wear a bullet proof vest. I trust the men who are covering him. I trust the training that my husband received at Camp Ripley and trust that God will protect the men when the call does come out. What I do not trust is the unknown. The not knowing factor and the unpredictability of others.

So the next time you want to talk me and IN FRONT of my kids about how awesome it is. Think twice. I support my husband 100% in everything he does. I love his passion and live for that. The support doesn't remove the fear. This is something I am learning. When he was a worship pastor at a church, you didn't really have to worry about any of these issues. As time goes on it will get easier. I am excited for the experiences that will be presented to my husband but I am still a wary wife who has a lot to learn about trust, faith, and remembering always who is in control.

Road-Trippin

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 24 Nov 2013 14:42:00 +0000

Two weeks ago, I was lucky enough to road trip from Minnesota to Colorado with my sister-in-law, Nora and my best-guy-friend, Josh. This was a HUGE adventure for me! I had never left my husband or my children by myself before, but I did it, and it was AWESOME!

I had been to Colorado once before to visit family but that was before Ross and I were even married. The mountains did not disappoint...absolute beauty! My good friends, Nancy and Gary, own a mountain home in Crystal Lakes, about one hour from Fort Collins, and the views are something I will never forget!

We enjoyed hiking, watching snow move across the mountains, fireplaces and wine, catching up on some reading, lots of laughs, "neat" nature, and an interesting flight home. Looking forward to my next trip away, hopefully it doesn't take me another 8 years to leave my husband and kids!

Check out some of my pictures!

One Word: COFFEE!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 21:25:00 +0000

That's right. Give me coffee and no one gets hurt. Funny thing is, it never used to ALWAYS be like this. Before I had kids, ew...coffee was gross. Give me a Coke and I was good. Then Natalie came. Sweet, colicky, didn't want to nap, Natalie. I started to drink coffee less than a month after her birth. I needed it. I craved it. I haven't gone back. If anything, I have gone to the dark side. How dark?

I have a Bunn Coffeemaker. I have a Cuisinart Grind and Brew Coffeemaker. I have a Frappuccino Coffeemaker. I have an Espresso Machine. I also buy my coffee beans in bulk from Costco.

: We take coffee drinking very seriously in my house. So much so, my husband has joked that he wished there was a way to hook an IV up to my arm and insert the coffee that way, before I even get out of bed. Personally, I don't think I am THAT bad.; My son knows that when the coffee maker beeps, he comes and tells me "coffees done, momma, your coffee is ready." Good boy.

One of his first words was Caribou. Smart boy.

Some people have addictions to porn. Some are addicted to food, shopping, gambling, or the like. I literally have an addiction to coffee. Not the best answer to migraines (so my doctor informs me), but I guess it could be worse!

Remember...Coffee before Talkie...ALWAYS!

Marianne

Another...Five Facts You Didn't Know...About ME!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 21:22:00 +0000

Let's keep the list going...

I am a Disney fanatic! I love Disney cartoons! This started when I was young and just never stopped. I think they are fantastic!!! Somedays I feel like I am a 10 year old in a 32 year olds body. My cousin Sara and I would ALWAYS act out scenes when we were younger!

Sara and I
I have an uncanny ability of memorizing lyrics to songs. You play some Ace of Base or TLC and I start singing along like it was 1995!

Back in the Day...circa 2000...not 1995
Food Network is my friend. Give me an episode of Chopped, Cutthroat Kitchen, Next Iron Chef...I will be a happy girl. I like TV...no...I LOVE TV and movies!
In 5th grade, I took 3rd place in our schools spelling bee. It wasn't first or second....but what the heck! I placed!!!!! The word I got wrong? Anniversary. I have never spelt that word incorrectly since.
Finally, I am a stomach sleeper

**Bonus Fact! I used to own a white rat named Abigail. There you go!

This now ends the TMI portion of Staying Grounded in Faith and Family! Have a great day!

Marianne

Meatloaf...with Bacon!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 14:39:00 +0000

I actually thank my momma for giving me a great meatloaf recipe. The only problem is, it isn't really a meatloaf "recipe". Whenever you get a "recipe" from her, it reads something like this..."a dash of this, a sprinkle of that, a glob of butter"...you get the idea. My favorite recipe from her is her meatloaf. Surprised? It is not your typically Loaf.Of.Meat. Be thankful people! I am going to share it with you!

Mama Blue's Meatloaf:

1 Pound Hamburger

1 Pound Ground Turkey or Chicken

1/4 Cup Oatmeal with a Dash of Toasted Bread Crumbs

1 Egg

1/2 Medium Onion-Cut in Small Pieces

Pepper

Gariic Powder

Generous Squirt of Ketchup

3 Pieces Bacon-Cut in Half

What to Do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In large bowl, combine meats.

Add all other ingredients. Gently mix with hands, until blended.

Take meat mixture and put in loaf pan. Give another "hearty" squirt of ketchup to the top and add the bacon.

Cook for 30 minutes and pour off fat. Cook for another 40 minutes or until done in center. Total cook time is roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.

I hope you love this as much as we do!

Do you have any meatloaf tips? How do you prepare yours? Any secret ingredients? Share in the comments!

Marianne

Dealing with Migraine Pain...Meh!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 14:33:00 +0000

Today...was one of those days! I woke up and instantly knew. Gross. Ick. Yuck. Ugh! Migraine!

If you are a migraine sufferer, you know exactly what emotions I am talking about. At this point in my life, it isn't even an emotion I feel. It is a sense of dread. Why dread? My day is pretty much ruined when I get a headache of this magnitude. It is nearly impossible to be a mom, a wife, or even function with a migraine. Can I get an AMEN from all you other Momma Migraine Getters?!?

I have been getting migraines since I was 16. I am now 32. Do the math. That is a whole lot of years of complete SUCKAGE (is that a word)? I have been on medication to prevent the migraines, medication to take when I get the migraines, I have had a change in diet and exercise, no alcohol, no chocolate, lighten up on salt, watch out for too much sun or humidity...basically...be careful how you live your life. Avoid these triggers.

I am going to be completely honest. Migraines make me angry. Let's take today for instance. My family had a perfect opportunity to enjoy our Sunday together. I spent the entire day in bed and plus my in-laws had to take my kids, when my husband went to work, because I couldn't function well enough. That angers me. I missed out on an entire day, because the sound of my son's voice made me cringe. This is sad to me.

I have to look at the bright side of all of this. I only get a couple migraines a month. I rarely end up at the hospital...yay? and most of the time, I can feel one coming on, so I can stop it before it blows up.

I do have a couple tips for those of you that suffer from this torture. If you are like me, you are always looking for a new type of "relief." Once the migraine hits, try to:

Take some Tylenol/Advil and then take a nap in a dark room with a fan running. There is something about the sound of a fan that is so relaxing.
Eat an apple! Weird? It helps or just eat anything!
Caffeine! Sometimes the cause of the pain, but when I need relief, it helps!
Ice pack on forehead. So soothing!
Hot pack on neck...awesome!!!!
Limit bright lights and loud noises...if possible...hardest one for me to eliminate!
Take a hot bath or shower
NO electronics...there is no need to update Facebook right now!!!!!
Get some fresh air!
Drink some water! Stay hydrated!
Peppermint oil on your forehead...just a dab :)

These are the main things I try to do whenever I get a migraine. When I stick to this list, typically within 24 hours all major pain is gone. If you suffer from migraines, what do you do to ease up the pain? Any suggestions? Share them below!

Making the Switch...Blogging Hiatus...No Show...Lights Out...Whatever...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 14:30:00 +0000

Where have I been and why am I posting so many things at once????

Last month I switched over to WordPress but I am not happy with it. I am a Blogger girl. I think it is in my blood. What does that mean for you, my loyal following? I'm BACK!

The posts that you are seeing today, are ones that I did over on that "other" account. I tried to import them in but I am not technologically smart for that, so copy and paste I go!

The writers block is coming to an end! I miss sharing my stories of life and craziness! Let's get back to it!

Marianne

Five Facts You Don't Know About...Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 14:26:00 +0000

My Sister and I Fondling Mermaid Rock These are in no particular order...they are all just...ODD! I have a tendency of sticking things up my nose and then trying to shoot them out to see how far they go. Doesn't everyone do this? No? Shoot... I used to have my lip pierced. Not professionally done either. My friend did it...with ice...and a needle. It seemed smart at the time! I snort when I laugh super hard. Like a pig. Yes, I snort....like a pig. After having 2 kids, when I sneeze unexpectedly...I pee. Just a little. Too much? I love history! Especially anything that has to do with the Titanic or Tutankhamen. I am a nerd. A really big nerd. I gave you 5 odd and somewhat embarrassing facts. This was fun! There may have to be a follow-up post to this! Do you have any oddities for me? Don't be shy! Share them!! Marianne

Remembering Fire Prevention....

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 14:21:00 +0000

This is a post I wrote last month but wanted to repost it. Earlier in the week, my husband was fighting a fully engulfed house fire, where two people lost their lives. We are from a small community and any loss hurts. Remember the tips. Take the time. Be safe.

Last week was a very important week in schools nationwide.

It was Fire Prevention Week.

Fire Prevention week is especially important in our house, because my husband is a firefighter and he, along with his department, conducted fire prevention at our local elementary school.

We capped off the week with a chili feed at the fire hall. It was a fun and informative week! We had a great turnout by the community in support of our local fire department and the kids learned a lot about fire safety!

I am pleased to announce, that my husband is my guest blogger for today. Please give a friendly hello! to my "hot" firefighter husband who loves to put the wet stuff on the red stuff! He is going to share some tips about keeping cool during an emergency and some about fire safety. I now hand it off to Ross!

Wow. Well than... It's a pleasure to give a few tips on fire safety!

I, along with my department, had the privilege of going to the elementary school to teach kids about fire prevention.

We taught kids from Pre-K to 4th Grade. We made things simple. Here are some of the main points we taught them:

1. Smoke detectors. Where are they in your house? How many do you have? How often do you test them? How do they work?

2. Make sure to find 2 ways out of your house. Try this in every room. Even if you're on the 2nd or 3rd level, how can you get out? If you're upstairs and you can't get out through the door, open your window and wave something. Be SEEN!

3. Meeting Place. If you have a fire in your house, get out and STAY OUT. Find a meeting place where your whole family can go, to find each other. Go home and talk to your family about where you would go if you had a fire.

4. Stop, Drop, and Roll. The younger kids loved this station! We made flames for the kids to put on themselves and we said, "if you had fire here, get it off!" We taught them about what to do if their clothes caught on fire.

5. Smoke. If you had smoke in your house, where does it go? UP! Smoke rises. So, we built a smoke tunnel that simulated how low you have to get. Again, another favorite for the kiddos!

6. Learn your address. Do you know your address has a first and last name? My address's first name is "208". My last name is "Elmhurst Ave". How do you teach 1st or 2nd graders this? Make it simple. Go home and have your parents teach you what your address's first and last name is!

We wanted the kids to think about these things and go home and talk with their parents. We always get stories from parents that say, "thank you for sending my child home with lots of questions!"

This is one of the funnest weeks for my fire department. We get on the level with the kids and have some fun!

We ended the week with inviting families to the fire hall for a chili feed and had numerous activities for them. They sprayed water out of the hose, made fire trucks, took home coloring books and fire hats, and played in the smoke tunnel! Great time!

So, my tips for you. If you're a parent, if you're a grandparent, and those rugrats come over from time to time, make sure your smoke detectors are working and in every room, make sure you always can find 2 ways out of each room in your house, and find a good meeting place if you ever have a fire in the home.

Thank you, Marianne, for the opportunity to give your readers some tips on fire safety!

Thank you to Ross! Be safe everyone and don't forget to practice these tips!

Marianne

DIY Window Cleaner

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 14:15:00 +0000

I HATE dirty windows! You would never know this though, by the look of my windows...AT ALL TIMES! I have a three year old and a dog who LOVE to climb on the back of the couch and put their grubby noses and fingers (son, not the dog) all over my front window! Since I have children and a puppy, I have chosen to not care so much. Pick and choose your battles. Clean laundry is much more important than clean windows!

I still hate dirty windows, so if they could be clean for at least a couple of hours...I am satisfied! To continue on with our DIY posts, I have a DIY window cleaner! Great transition?!?! If you are like me and you want your kids to help with chores, Windex can be VERY expensive for the amount of cleaner they use :). So, why not make your own!?!? I also recommend letting them use a cotton towel versus paper towels!

Perfectly Perfect Window Cleaner

What You Need

1-Empty Spray Bottle

1/4 Cup White Vinegar

1 Cup Water

3-4 Drops of Dawn Dish Soap (once again, I used Target brand)

Combine all ingredients. Give a little shake and you, my friend, have created your own window cleaner! Congrats!

Have any other tips for DIY? Leave a comment!

Marianne

New Product Line!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 14:09:00 +0000

Here at CindyBlue Designs, I am so excited to announce our new product line! We are now creating color sheets, that can be downloaded instantly! Our target market for these are primarily children, but my mom and I are really focusing on churches and Sunday Schools.

The idea came from my own kids! Natalie and Eli LOVE to color! So...why not offer an affordable option to churches and Wednesday night groups. For $1.00 you get the rights to the artwork and can make as many prints as you need!

Here are the prints we have so far, with more in production!

They can be found at my Etsy Shop, CindyBlue Designs

Have a great day!

Marianne

Super Simple Stuffed Shells Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 02 Oct 2013 16:13:00 +0000

What is on the menu tonight? For us, it is stuffed shells. A super easy, go-to recipe, when I don't have anything else in the house! Looking for easy? Look no further!

Super Simple Stuffed Shells

What you need:

12 oz box Jumbo Shells...20 of the shells
1/2 Pound Hamburger or Italian Sausage (if desired)
1 Large Container Cottage Cheese
1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Handful of Frozen Chopped Spinach...thawed and patted dry
1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella...divided
1 Jar Spaghetti Sauce
Fresh Ground Pepper...to taste

What to do:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Bring pot of salted water to boil. Cook Jumbo Shells for 10 minutes. Drain, do not rinse.

While noodles are cooking, thaw and brown meat. Drain.

For the filling you will mix the cottage cheese, parmesan, spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and pepper. Add meat. Mix.

Pour roughly 1/2 cup of spaghetti sauce into bottom of 9x13 pan. Spread to cover bottom. This will be your base.

Fill shells with filling. Add to 9x13 pan. Cover with remaining sauce and 1/2 cup cheese. Cover with aluminum foil.

Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly. Remove foil and cook another 5 minutes. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.

Enjoy with garlic toast or salad or both! My kids LOVE these!!!

Marianne

Welcome Home!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:36:00 +0000

A year ago, last September, my brother-in-law Hugh and his girlfriend Brittni, along with their trusted pup Lily, packed up all of their belongings and headed to Williston, North Dakota. No, not to pursue a job in the oil fields, but to pursue a job as a police officer.

You see, my brother is a cop. Living out close to the Montana border, we don't get to see him very often. This sucks and FaceTime only does so much for us! We have seen him only once since he left, until this last weekend!!!!

It was amazing! You don't realize how much you miss someone, until you don't get the opportunity to see them everyday. Take my advice and don't take family for granted because one day they may have to pack up all of their belongings and go where the work is.

We were all so happy to have Hugh and Brittni home for a weekend visit and cannot wait until the next time we get to see them. We are a very close family and the kids LOVE Uncle Hugh and Auntie Brittni! We are just waiting for the day when she "officially" becomes a part of our family!

Check out some of the pictures from our fabulous weekend with family!

Surprise! Natalie didn't know he was home!!

Loves!

Natalie, Hugh, Eli, and Brittni

Having fun!

The girls!

Time to Wrestle!