Aren’t these little hearts just delightful??  They make me smile.  On the spur of the moment, I decided we needed a little festive sweetness around here.  So, in the ten minutes before nap-time, I whipped these babies up and tossed them in the freezer.  Perfect!

All you need?

8 oz. white [...]]]>

Aren’t these little hearts just delightful??  They make me smile.  On the spur of the moment, I decided we needed a little festive sweetness around here.  So, in the ten minutes before nap-time, I whipped these babies up and tossed them in the freezer.  Perfect!

All you need?

8 oz. white chocolate chips (or vanilla flavored almond bark)*

pink sprinkles or crushed pink candies **

silicone muffin tins or molds

Melt chocolate or almond bark.  (I did mine in the microwave on med-high heat.  It took 2 1/2 minutes, but that will vary from microwave to microwave.)  While that’s happening, scatter about a teaspoon of sprinkles or crushed candy in the bottom of each muffin tin well.  Spoon a good tablespoon of melted chocolate/bark over the sprinkles/candy.  Gently slide the tins from side to side until the chocolate settles evenly up to the edges.  Toss them in the fridge or freezer until set up.  They should just pop right out!

yield: 12 muffin tin hearts

* White chocolate tastes better.  Almond bark melts beautifully.  Totally up to you.

**I made 6 with sprinkles– those are the neater polka-dotted ones.  The other six five (whoops!) have crushed Canada mints and oh.my.word, they are wintergreen-y perfection.  Delish.

I’ve tossed a few ideas around here but, in case you’d like to read even more on the topic, [...]]]> Well, by now I’m sure you have all realized that I’m not afraid to just say it out loud– you both can and should have a hot and spicy love life in your marriage!

I’ve tossed a few ideas around here but, in case you’d like to read even more on the topic, you can hop over to Amazon right now and download a free Kindle edition of Under the Sheets: The Secrets to Hot Sex in Your Marriage, by Dr. Kevin Leman.  Amazon prices can change at any time so, if you’re interested, I recommend you take advantage of the zero dollar price tag as soon as you can!

If you don’t have a Kindle, there’s a free Kindle App download available right here.

(Disclaimer: I’ve NOT read this book.  Dr. Leman does write from a Christian perspective on sex and marriage, so I feel relatively confident sharing this deal with you.)

*hat-tip to Jessie– thanks for letting me know so I could pass it on!

Valentine’s Day will be here in just a few short days, but you still have to whole weekend to plan some special treats for your little ones!

Stumped for ideas? Wondering how to make it fun when your kids will be away at school all day?

I’ve got plenty of suggestions for you [...]]]>

Valentine’s Day will be here in just a few short days, but you still have to whole weekend to plan some special treats for your little ones!

Stumped for ideas? Wondering how to make it fun when your kids will be away at school all day?

I’ve got plenty of suggestions for you over at Life as MOM! Read the full article right here.

He clenched the ten dollar bill tightly in his little hand– a hand that I still imagine chubby with babyhood and dimples though, in reality, it’s growing long and broad and more capable with each day.  The excitement vibrated in his steps and his eyes quickly moved around the store when we entered. [...]]]>

He clenched the ten dollar bill tightly in his little hand– a hand that I still imagine chubby with babyhood and dimples though, in reality, it’s growing long and broad and more capable with each day.  The excitement vibrated in his steps and his eyes quickly moved around the store when we entered.  My little mathematician was bound and determined to make that ten dollars stretch as far as he could.

His karate class had announced their annual “Kick Out Hunger” drive at his last session.  We didn’t have to remind him.  Or ask if he wanted to contribute.  He remembered all on his own and had been looking forward to this trip.

Up and down the aisles of Aldi he wandered, reading labels, checking prices.  He saw that corn and French cut green beans had been temporarily marked down– and that he could afford to buy a case of each with his money.  That.  That was what he wanted to do, he decided.  He could afford 24 cans of vegetables (bear with me– I know corn is a grain) and he was mighty proud of this fact.

Four days later, it was time to deliver them to the class.  I wish, more than anything, that I had captured a picture of my five-year-old son carrying one of those cases all by himself to add to the contributions.  Such joy.  Such pride.  Such determination to do good and make a difference.

And, I kid you not, the very next day, I read an article that dripped with loathing toward the donations of “canned vegetables” and “sugary cereal” that come into food pantries.  How sad, the author went on, that we would donate food that we would never feed our own families.  Things that don’t measure up to our own standards.  She spoke of a need for abundant fresh produce, organic oats, and pastured eggs for the poor and malnourished.  Honestly, I would much rather my family eat the things she mentioned, too, but it left me feeling bitter and annoyed…

Saying that something isn’t ideal does not necessitate suggesting that it is bad or wrong.  And packaged foods?  Lend themselves to drives like this.  They’re individually sealed, keep for a long time, stack easily, and facilitate distribution.  They’re also familiar to many and easy to prepare.  Does that negate the fact that they’re less nutritious?  Maybe not, but it’s certainly worth mentioning.

I read that post and I thought of my sweet little boy and the joy radiating from his innocent face and I realized…

I’m so happy the organizers of that food drive didn’t feel the need to engage in food snobbery.  I’m so glad they met our generous-spirited son’s contribution with smiles of gratitude.

Even if it isn’t perfect.

I have to admit that the title of this book– The Weird Sisters– made me giggle.  I have a sister… and we have been known to be weird!  Of course, the book’s title was making a Shakespearean reference, not talking about how my sis and I like to order the item with the [...]]]>

I have to admit that the title of this book– The Weird Sisters– made me giggle.  I have a sister… and we have been known to be weird!  Of course, the book’s title was making a Shakespearean reference, not talking about how my sis and I like to order the item with the funniest-sounding name off the menu (“Moons Over My Hammy”, anyone?).  Anyway…

This novel follows the journey of three sisters, all of whom have found their way back home after having been on their own for some time.  (They range in age from 27 to 33.)  Not surprisingly, they have vastly different personalities and histories and struggle to find common ground.  The sister-relationship IS a complicated one and the fact that there are three separate sister pairings makes it even more challenging and complex.

I absolutely enjoyed delving into the sister relationships in this book and I was also interested in the Shakespeare quotes and references– I wouldn’t have made a very good Brit Lit major if I didn’t enjoy those!

The author, Eleanor Brown, appears to put a lot of stock in birth order as she crafts these characters.  I must confess that I have always found birth order fascinating, though I don’t necessarily feel comfortable “blaming” it for traits and circumstances.  The oldest daughter of The Weird Sisters is organized, controlling, stable, and, well, a touch boring.  The youngest is flighty and bohemian and loved for her child-like joy and compassion.  The middle child?  She’s the rule-breaking rebel who seems to always make bad choices.  Oddly enough, she was the most likable of the three, to me, and the one for whom I constantly found myself rooting.  (But here’s where I also must point out that my own sister, the middle child, bears little to no ressemblance to Bianca in the novel.  Like I said– birth order does not dictate who you become. )

What do you think?  Whether you’ve read The Weird Sisters or not, do you believe birth order affects personality and the paths we choose?

*Be sure to check out more discussion about The Weird Sisters at the BlogHer Book Club Page!

This is a paid review for BlogHer Book Club but the opinions expressed are my own.

For some odd reason, people don’t like to think that married relationships can be “spicy.”  We’re okay with the “sweet” part.  It’s what we hope for, after all… that we’ll find someone who is kind and gentle and loving and considerate– sweet stuff.  And no one is a bit bothered to hear about [...]]]>

For some odd reason, people don’t like to think that married relationships can be “spicy.”  We’re okay with the “sweet” part.  It’s what we hope for, after all… that we’ll find someone who is kind and gentle and loving and considerate– sweet stuff.  And no one is a bit bothered to hear about sweetness within a marriage.  At most, we might roll our eyes a bit at the “mushiness,” but it’s rare to see anyone offended by sweet.

Spicy though?  That’s a whole different ballgame.  I have a theory that it stems from our first exposure to marriage being that of our parents and, well, most people have no interest in even thinking about their parents having any kind of hot, spicy union.  Because we don’t like to think about wild passion in terms of Mom and Dad, it can be too easy to apply that same philosophy to the whole of marriage.

But that’s sad.  And, quite frankly, incorrect.

Have you ever heard alcohol described as a mood enhancer?  Happy people often get happier.  Sad people get more depressed.  Mean people get meaner.  Flirty people get flirtier.  Angry people get angrier.  Well, at the risk of making a crazy analogy, I’m going to suggest that marriage can act in the same way– it is an enhancer.

What was sweet when you were dating?  Is even sweeter when you’re married.  That whole time of “discovery” is lovely.  But you know what’s even lovelier?  A man who already knows your favorite color, the brand of juice you prefer, the music you like when you’re sad, and that you like your pinky secured when you hold hands.  (Oh, wait, that last one is probably just me…)  Going through the daily dance of life and being able to anticipate one another’s moves and needs is amazingly sweet.  The trust and understanding that comes with time allows you to brace each other through missteps and just keep on dancing.  Beautiful.

And what was spicy when you were newlyweds?  Can get kicked up several notches over time.   Because what’s hotter than a partner fumbling around trying eagerly to make you happy?  One who already knows how… and who wants to consistently improve on that game.  Because, and this is the key: passion can and should be like a fine wine or a great cheese– it should intensify and age well.  Beautiful.

So… how to live up to those lofty ideals I describe?  Well, I think there are three simple things we can do that will go a long way:

Don’t accept society’s implications.

Society and media will try to tell you that multiple sexual partners and finding new conquests are the keys to a spicy, passionate sex life.  They are wrong.  It is as simple as that.  Don’t ever buy into the idea that a string of meaningless encounters would be hotter than a lifetime with someone who cherishes you.

Expect the best.

When you’re expecting good things, you tend to LOOK for good things.  You’ll pick up on subtleties that might otherwise be lost.  If you simply assume that your husband wants you desperately, you’re more apt to notice the sidelong look he gives you.  If you go in to the situation believing that he wants you to feel cared for, you’ll notice when he refills your water glass without your asking.  Expect it.  And look for it.

Be willing to work.

People who go out to bars and clubs have to work to get their conquests.  Whether it’s the girl who spends hours choosing the perfect dress and getting her hair just so, or the guy who lays the groundwork making conversation and buying her a drink– it all takes time.  The fact that you’re married doesn’t mean that you should never have to put any effort into maintaining the sweetness and spiciness.   Be willing to make some effort– your marriage is worth it.

What have you found helps to keep your marriage sweet AND spicy?

 linked to WFMW

Been married for awhile?  Chasing kids around, managing work, and juggling household tasks keeping you hopping?  If so, it may have been too long since you did one of these ten things…

There’s a TON of prepped/cooked/ready-to-eat meat in my deep freeze but, I don’t know, somehow I feel guilty pulling those meals out if I don’t have a “good excuse”?  (I’m weird– I know this.)  So, as a result, I’m scrimping my way through the dregs of my pantry and regular freezer for [...]]]>

There’s a TON of prepped/cooked/ready-to-eat meat in my deep freeze but, I don’t know, somehow I feel guilty pulling those meals out if I don’t have a “good excuse”?  (I’m weird– I know this.)  So, as a result, I’m scrimping my way through the dregs of my pantry and regular freezer for this week!

Here’s what’s hittin’ the table around here:

Sunday: 

Breakfast- Cereal, Yogurt, Juice
Lunch-French Toast, Apples, White Cheddar
Dinner-Should have been a Super Bowl party at Bama & Papa’s.  Alas, my house has been full of sickies lately and I don’t want to expose my 89-year-old grandma!  We’ll have Chicken, Broccoli, & Carrot Stir-Fry over Rice instead.

Monday:

B-Raspberry Oatmeal w/ Yogurt-Covered Raisins, Milk

L-Black Beans & Rice, Apple Slices, Pretzels, Water

D-Spaghetti, Green Beans

Tuesday:

B-Cinnamon Roll Bread, Cheese, Juice

L-Egg Salad Sandwiches, Cooked Carrots, Pretzels, Water

D-Chicken Strips, Tater Tots (still more dregs in the bag!), Roasted Cauliflower

 

Wednesday:

B-Cinnamon Roll Bread, Apples, Milk

L-Chicken & Macaroni Salad, Raisins, Chex, Water

D-Spanish Rice w/ Chicken, Peas

 

Thursday:

B-PB Raisin Toast, Milk

L-Buttered Macaroni & Carrots, String Cheese, Pretzels, Water

D-Tomato Soup, Cheddar & Onion Breadsticks

Friday:

B-Plum Smoothies, Toast

L-Cheesy Beans & Rice, Raisins, Cereal, Water

D-Pepperoni & Onion Pizza

 

Saturday: 
B-Egg Sandwiches on homemade English muffins, Fruit

L-Noodles, Carrots, Chocolate Milk

D-Sloppy Joes, Pickles, Corn

 

And, of course, Wednesday night for my husband and me will be the traditional date night!  Always something to look forward to.  Do you ever eat after your kids are in bed,  just the two of you?

This post is linked to Menu Plan Menu.

I don’t tend to do this sort of Sunday post, but I just felt compelled to share the joy!  This is the hymn that I keep belting out today and it fills me with tears and shivers.  ”I love you and you are Mine.”  How AMAZING is that???

“You Are Mine”, by [...]]]>

I don’t tend to do this sort of Sunday post, but I just felt compelled to share the joy!  This is the hymn that I keep belting out today and it fills me with tears and shivers.  ”I love you and you are Mine.”  How AMAZING is that???

“You Are Mine”, by David Haas

 

Lyrics:
I will come to you in the silence
I will lift you from all your fear
You will hear My voice
I claim you as My choice
Be still, and know I am near

I am hope for all who are hopeless
I am eyes for all who long to see
In the shadows of the night,
I will be your light
Come and rest in Me

Chorus:
Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow Me
I will bring you home
I love you and you are mine

I am strength for all the despairing
Healing for the ones who dwell in shame
All the blind will see, the lame will all run free
And all will know My name

Chorus:
Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow Me
I will bring you home
I love you and you are mine

I am the Word that leads all to freedom
I am the peace the world cannot give
I will call your name, embracing all your pain
Stand up, now, walk, and live

Chorus:
Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow Me
I will bring you home
I love you and you are mine