Raising Tomorrow's Men: one day at a time...

new cookie recipe for us - m&m monster cookies!

2011-08-27T13:43:00.000-07:00

Thomas is the chef of the family and I love to bake - a perfect combination. Thomas' teacher's son had been at Children's Hospital for a nasty virus and then was told he would have to skip football camp. His mom launched operation Cheer Up Tyler! Thomas wanted to make some fun cookies to cheer him up!

I really had stopped trying to make my own chocolate cookies since they have the ready made dough, but he picked out a cookie recipe called Monster cookies, really they just looked like chocolate chip cookies with different candy pieces in them. Since I wasn't sure if Tyler liked butterfingers or other candy like Heath Bars that were in the cookies, I looked for a similar cookie on Allrecipies.com

I found Robbi's M& M cookies which had 4.5 stars with 566 reviews...looked like a winner. I read the comments to see needed mods and then decided to add mini chocolate chips too. Result: Sauer Family WINNERS!!

We even doubled the recipe since we never seem to have enough - whoa, the yield was correct and we ended up with a ton of cookies. Daddy had some for work, Cheer Up Tyler had some delivered and we even dropped off a plate to our hardworking school custodian, Buddy!

Thomas' Monster Cookies!

Ingredients

1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup butter flavored shortening
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2-3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
M&M's for the tops!

If you like your cookies thinner, then delete 1/4 cup of flour.

Yield 4-5 dozen cookies depending on how large you make them!

Directions

In a large bowl, mix sugar, eggs, butter, shortening, and vanilla thoroughly. Mix together dry ingredients in a bowl : flour, salt, and baking soda. Add dry mixture to creamed mixture. Blend well. Add in chocolate chips and stir.
Drop dough by teaspoonful onto cookie sheet. Slightly push a few candies on top of each dough ball with remaining candies.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 9 to 11 minutes, to your liking.

Treasure Trove: Online coupon deals

2011-05-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

[I didn't drop off the face of the Earth, just got busy with life, work, kids, soccer, etc!]

TREASURE TROVE: ONLINE DEALS

A treasure trove is a place that I bookmark similar ideas, or links on a give topic. Like a section in a notebook. This week's Treasure Trove is on Online Coupon Deal sites. This is also a personal place I can check back daily or weekly to find my favorite online deals. Most of my bookmarks will be relevant to the Denver/Boulder Colorado area, but many of these sites also have national deals or you can select your city!

Most of these sites have you subscribe by email and then you are emailed the deals to check out....but my email is so full of stuff these days, that I prefer to stop by the sites on a regular basis and many of them I also follow on Facebook.

Groupon! - Many of you are probably familiar with this site which posts daily deals. Many are just available for one or two days. Remember to sign up by email for the daily deal, or you can just check their site regularly. I use the iphone app also to see the deals and redeem paperless! I also follow Groupon on Facebook.
Denver Link

Summary of my Groupon Purchases - and feedback after use:
1. Estelle Bicycles - Bike Tune up Deal -purchased for maintenance on my son's Redline BMX bike - expires 12/31/2011 - $30 for $60 worth of service, which would cover one maintenance trip.

2. Blockbuster Express Codes - I have used two out of the five codes. These are a real deal, only if I can remember to return them on time! It was $2 for 5 one night rentals! Expires in 2013!

3. Whimsy Paint and Sip - Erie, Co. I love this place. I have been, but did not use my Groupon yet because the night I went was a fundraiser for a friend's Avon Breast Cancer Walk. I bought two of these in order to take a friend for a treat! $22 for a $45 event. Expires July 10th! - only good for three months, but such a deal!

Daily Deals for Moms - This is another one with multiple cities and the opening site takes you to an easy National map. Click on your city! I also follow this one on Facebook. I don't like that there is not a "my deals" tab where you would be able to check what you have purchased previously (groupon has this feature) Therefore you must keep track of your purchases and flag them in your email

1. LLC Cleaning (have to look back in my email before I can add the details)
2. Child portrait session

WeeklyPlus.com - It looks like this one just has Denver, Dallas and Pheonix so far, but I love this one! It has deals that last a week. You can check in less frequently and scan the variety of deals. They also have the tab that tracks your available deals. It also has a discussion feature where you can read the Q & A that have come up about this deal.

(geez I had forgotten about this purchase...guess tracking them on my blog will be a good thing!)
1. Up Up Jump Admission - $4 rather than $8 per child and I purchased three - great summer break destination. We end up going to places like this on school breaks, so why not save some cash! Expires 9/30/11

Mamapedia Sweet Deals - has national and city based deals. I follow this one on Facebook too. One of my favorite aspects of this one is 5% of your purchase can be designated to go back to your school! They also have deal tracking for your account. The national deals seem to be the same as for when I select Denver, so they may not have local deals in all areas yet. You get credit for referring friends and can link right to your facebook, etc.

My Deals:
1. ProFlowers discount code - $15 for $30 worth of flowers. Can be applied to any amount $30 and above. If you are going to have flowers delivered to someone, why not use a deal?

2. Meal Planning from Six o'Clock Scramble $14 for 6 months - normally $30

Your Lucky Deals - Not sure how many cities this one has, I just see Denver - but you put your zipcode in at the top. This one also lets you track your purchases one you log in and you can follow the deals on Facebook.

My Deals:
1. Nickel-A-Play - again another thing to do with the boys. I purchased two and used one on spring break. $12 for $25, which got us admission for all of us and several bags of nickels. Most of the video games are free, so this was a DEAL! Expires 6/23/11.

Have any others you use? One friend put on Facebook that I might need an intervention, but hey every bit helps! I use paper coupons for food, etc....why not for entertainment and gifts!

Scripture & a Snapshot: Joy

2011-02-13T19:04:00.000-08:00

The simple smile of a child.

The joy that they exude.

You would think this was at Disney,

but it was just Wal-mart!

Sometimes I get overwhelmed,

I get stressed or just busy.

It is often a smile like tihs that reminds me

that I need to rejoice and be glad for this this the day that the Lord has made,

for you and for me!

Check out others' reflections from the blog hop "Scripture & a Snapshot"

Meet Me on Monday, get to know me!

2011-02-07T19:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome to "Meet Me on Monday" I found this blog hop through another blog I follow. I might not always participate since I usually do Multitude Mondays, or Not Me Mondays.... but thought I'd check it out! This way I might meet some new bloggers. I only have a few followers and I have a few stalkers ;) this way maybe they can get to know me more too!

Week 34 Q & A's
Questions:1. Did you watch the Superbowl?
2. What is the last book that you read?
3. What is your favorite kind of cake?
4. Do you snore?
5. Do you play an instrument?
My Answers:
1. Did you watch the Superbowl?

Does an ant like a picnic? Of course I watched every second, while also not missing any commercials...which makes it hard to run to the bathroom. I cheered my favorite Steelers on until the bitter end! I hold my head high as a Steeler Fan today! I also put out fresh snacks every quarter...which made full bellies for the whole family and a ton of dishes that I am not afraid to admit are still waiting to be tackled tonight.
My favorite commercial was the Darth Vader Passat - what mom didn't love it! I wanted a Passat until kid number 2 came along and I knew I would need a van
Favorite part of the game was how the Steelers kept coming back, they did not give up!
Half Time...love the Black Eyed Peas, but they did not sound good and what was up with the ice cube heads? Does that make me old that I say I didn't get it?
2. What is the last book I read?

Well with three kids I am sometimes behind on the latest pop fiction. I just read the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Loved it, sort of...read my review here. Now I am reading Sweet Potato Queens Book of Love! Lent to me by a co-worker since I am really a southerner after almost 20 years in the south.
Next I am going to read book 2: The Girl Who Played with Fire. Oh and then on my shelf are the Alex Cross (James Patterson) books I am behind on and the Kay Scarpetta (Patricia Cornwell)books I am behind on reading! Can't wait for the new Janet Evanovich book to come out either!
The best part about being behind is that I can get the good ones at Goodwill dirt cheap!

3. What is my favorite kind of cake?

Well that would be the four letter kind...C...A...K...E! That's right, what can be better than cake? any kind of cake? ok, ok, if I must answer the question I guess it would be carrot cake. The good kind from a bakery or a restaurant with really sweet cream cheese frosting. Thanks for making me have to fight the urge to bake CAKE!

4. Do I snore? Hmmm....since I am sleeping, I would of course say NO. If you asked my husband of 11 years, he would say, "sometimes" and then I would punch him in the arm. The sometimes would be sick, pregnant or just a freak freak once or twice in a lifetime night which cannot be attibuted to reasons (a) or (b) above! Maybe I should have just said "No" or pled the fifth! moving right along...

5. Do I play an instrument?
play or played....or is it like a bike? I grew up playing piano and clarinet. Then because the clairinet was not helping my buck teeth...the orthodontist asked my mom to have me change to a brass instrument! One that pushes against your teeth. I then played french horn for several years. The sad thing is that I have a natural, unappreciated talent. I love music, and apparently I am pretty good at it. I can sight read and can pick up new instruments pretty easy. I almost never practiced. My teachers would praise me on how hard I must have worked...the guilt was horrible. A few beloved music teachers would catch on, and luckily didn't brow beat me about it. I even was chosen and sent to a local music camp for a few weeks. It was actually a music writing camp. I guess with the other talents should have paid off in this area, but I didn't really have a knack for it or enjoyed it. The concert at the end did have a piece written by each of us, so I guess I can say I composed a music piece that was then performed.
I played in all county bands, etc. and loved every minute of it. I just didn't enjoy practicing by myself. The sound was just not that impressive. I think with today's technology there probably is an app where I could play along with a whole band...then I would rock! and practice!
Was that so much more than you wanted to know? I guess I needed to process and vent about my wasted musical talent! P.S. same thing for math - was great at it in many aspects, but HATED it!
Well now you know more about me, and mayble more than you wanted to know! If you stopped by from the blog hop feel free to stay awhile, look around, and leave a comment!
Have a great week!

Check out others from "Meet Me on Monday"

God carrying me, as a father would carry his child

2011-02-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

This week on KLove I listened to the story of the son who carried his mom through the snow. Love does that to us, it allows us to do the impossible. God loves us and carries us too. This picture was taken in Golden, CO when I came to visit my husband. He was living in CO working while the kids and I lived and worked in NC. God carried me, carried us during that time. He carried me to CO. He opened doors and helped me through a difficult time. Now we are here together. At times I feel he is still carrying me, that is what those who love us do....they carry us.

Click links below to read others' scripture and a snapshot. Each has a story and each is inspirational.

Not my family, again!

2011-02-05T16:08:00.000-08:00

Whatcha been up to? This is what my ~~perfect~~ normal family has NOT been doing! (living on the edge, being brutally honest and living to tell about it!)

Let me tell you:

The little one would not blame "tooting" on me, and then the oldest would never say "no, that was not mommy, if it was, it would be much worse!"

The middle child when asked if he cleaned his room would never say "yes, mommy...just please don't look in the closets or under the bed, please mommy"

Mommy of the year would never let her kids have apple pie for breakfast, one because the kids wanted it, and two because there were not really any other breakfast options in the house!

The oldest would never say "hey ~~Thomas~~ (middle brother), I just asked the magic eight ball if you are retarded and it said 'most likely' "

I would never put the chewed up and spit out egg with biscuit the littlest one handed me, into a compartment of my purse because we were in a store and I couldn't find a trash can. How gross!

My oldest would never make me feel old by asking "Mom when you were little did they have cars yet? oh, ok....but were they like these or more like a Model T?"

Geez....oh and of course names have been removed to protect the innocent and images have been altered to protect the poor children!

Potty Training Tips, been there, done that!

2011-02-03T18:44:00.000-08:00

10 tips for potty training your toddler!

1. Don't wait too long, it can become a control issue! - I know most say that you have to wait until they are ready...but really the older they are, the harder it becomes. They almost become too smart for their own good and can make it a control issue. Some people do potty train infants, that might be extreme - but all of my boys I started potty training a few months after they turned two. It might take more work on my part at this age, but from what I see with friends, it is hard work for shorter time and then they are trained! Many experts say 22 months is a good start time. I would say 22-26 months for a start time.

2. Capatilize on early interest! When my boys would get undressed for bath, I would always sit them on the potty for just a minute. It was novel and they were excited to be a big boy and just sit for a minute. Never know if you time it right they will eventually pee and then they are excited!

3. Go to Pull-ups and stop the diapers - pull ups do have more sensation than a bulky diaper and they will not stay content being wet or dirty. Have a party to say bye-bye to diapers because they are a big boy or girl. You can also pick a holiday and have the easter bunny, santa, leprechaun, pick up the diapers for babies who need them. Now with night time pullups you don't even need to save the diapers for night. The pull ups also train them to use the up and down motion like underwear. I would even recommend putting them on like underwear rather than opening the sides. Save the opening sides for removing stinky pull-ups!

4. Praise, Praise, Praise: sometimes it is a big hug, or a high five, but sometimes I use stickers or an m&m. changing it up keeps it a novelty. Have relatives call and praise him/her too on a day they have done well. My boy's face lights up when Grandma says, "I hear you used the potty today!" You can also have relatives call and pretend to be their favorite superhero.

5. Don't go back! - some days and some weeks will be better than others, but going back to diapers sends the wrong message. Even after they switch to underwear, there will be accidents, but don't go back!

6. Go cold turkey eventually! Yes, that means plenty of laundry , but if you have a few days where you plan on being around the house, just go to underwear. They will not like dirtying their underwear. I usually push up the heat and have mine wear underwear and a shirt. without the pants they seem more aware of the "need to go" and it also means less to pull down in the bathroom and less to wash! I just plan short trips, and have them use the potty before going. Normally they will make it back home before having to use the potty again or having an accident.

7. Use a potty seat or potty chair: This is simply because it will take time, and if the child is trying to balance or feels unsteady, they will not just sit there. We prefer the ones that actually fit on the toilet. Using the one on the floor, might work for some, but for my first child, he then didn't want to use big potties when we were out or at friends. The size, height and the sound of the flush scared him. For child 2 & 3 we used the seats for the big potty and didn't have those issues.

One product I would recommend for that 2.5-3 year old range is the foldable potty seat. It folds up and fits in a small diaper bag, backpack or large purse. It is perfect for public potties. You don't have to worry about dirty seats or your kid trying to be held/balance over a public seat. It gives them the same comfort and confidence as home. We had a white one with my first boy and then this spongebob one for kid #2.

#8-10 tips still to come...what are your potty training tips?

Wordless Wednesday : Crabby Thomas

2011-02-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

On this cold day, I thought I would look back to a warm day at the park!

Banana Bread - from "it's a keeper!"

2011-02-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

I love banana bread and I have blogged before about making a healthy version of the Willams-Sonoma banana bread....but the last few times I have made it....I don't know...it was just blah!

Maybe I just needed a new one, or maybe it was too healthy :) I know the whole grain flour does give it a unique flavor and it is much darker than other banana breads.

While blog hopping I bookmarked a new banana bread last week. It is from Southern Living magazine and I found it on the blog It's a Keeper! Today we made it and I don't even have a picture of my own because the two year old in my life went and tried to help himself with a butter knife...now it is not so picture perfect.

IT IS AWESOME! I made some minor tweaks to ingredients and the process. I haven't tried the chocolate chips, but I do think it would make a perfect addition!

Ultimate Banana Bread
[Compliments of It’s a Keeper, Original Recipe From: Southern Living Magazine, www.everydaytastes.com, currently modified by Amanda from Raising Tomorrow's Men]

Bread

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

2 cups sugar (or I used 1 cup Splenda and 1 cup sugar)

2 large eggs

1-1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 4 medium)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

(1 cup chocolate chips (optional) tossed in 6 Tbs flour)

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

Streusel Topping
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 Tbsp flour
1 Tbsp melted butter
1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 8×4 inch loaf pans.

Using and electric mixer, beat butter and cream cheese until creamy. Slowly add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time until incorporated, add bananas, applesauce and vanilla. Mix until well blended.

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a separate bowl. While mixer is on low-speed, slowly add flour mixture to cream cheese mixture until just combined.

If adding chocolate chips, combine chips and flour in a separate bowl then fold into batter.

Spoon batter evenly into greased loaf pans.

Stir together all ingredients for streusel topping. Sprinkle streusel mixture evenly over each.

Bake for one hour or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. To prevent over browning, cover loaves with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking. Cool pans on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pans. Cool an additional 30 minutes before slicing.

Multitude Mondays, counting my gifts #140

2011-01-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

I am thankful...

#140 for the Lord who watched over my son when he wandered off on his tricycle to follow his big brother

#141 for the the neighbors who stopped Jordan and waited with him until his brother came back by on his bike

#142 for the insight given me after prayer, to find my word for 2011: discipline

#143 for the gift cards from generous people in our life that helped facilitate a much needed date night

#144 for our wonderous bodies that God created that are able to heal themselves, slowly in my case, but it is healing

#145 for neighbors that I trust when my kids go off and play in their homes

#146 for sleep to help our bodies and minds rest before the next day

#147 for weather warm enough to go out for an excercise walk even at the end of January.

#148 for a day off tomorrow to enjoy the kids and get caught up on work!

#149 for my little one who said the blessing over his cereal this morning even when no one asked him to...

#150 for a big brother who taught his baby brother to take a shower last night

Discipline as my "one word".... week 1 cont.

2011-01-30T09:08:00.000-08:00

As I try to figure out what this word will mean for me in 2011...I am starting at the basics
What does it mean?

Since I want an active life, living my word & my year
I am going to use the verb form...

(from Dictionary.com)
–verb (used with object)

10.

to train by instruction and exercise; drill.

11.

to bring to a state of order and obedience by training and control.

12.

to punish or penalize in order to train and control; correct;chastise.

Where in my daily life and in my character do I need discipline?

scripture reading

living a Christian life for others to see my example

diet

excercise

finances

oh and the list grows....God knew what my word needed to be!

How do I see this word being applied? in the "train by instruction and excercise, bringing a state of order, and to train and correct"

Bridge between goals and accomplishments... I like that! I seem to have so many goals, but struggle at times in my life to get there. I get overwhelmed and shut down, I get paralyzed with fear. Sometimes fear of success sometimes fear of failure.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me....and a little discipline in 2011 too!

My One Word for 2011

2011-01-29T06:55:00.000-08:00

In my weight loss journey last year I actually selected a word to frame my year and would often reflect upon the word, etc....but it just didn't have that guiding value. This year while listening to KLOVE, I have been hearing about other Christians and how they are selecting a word this January to frame their life this year.

I loved hearing the words others had picked they were wonderful beautiful words..."abide," "follow," etc. I began wondering what word was right for me. Of course, the part of the process I didn't follow before was praying about it. Having God help guide me to the word the needed to frame my life.

Most on the journey were selecting their word by the end of January, even though I am sure you could jump in anytime. I actually had some quiet time in the tub last night (rare in a house of three boys) and I began to meditate and pray around what do I need to frame my life with. It was hard as usual to try and listen and not just direct what I thought. I was trying to direct it because the word that kept popping into my head scared me!

I was trying to avoid the word....it kept popping back in.... it wasn't pretty, it sort of scared me, I didn't like what it might say about me and needing this word. Then I thought, no it is time to embrace the word!

My 2011 ONE WORD:

DISCIPLINE

I think that the word can have so many negative connotations because of images of parental discipline without love or failed self-discipline in areas like weight loss. I am working to find how this word applies to my life and accepting it as my word.

I am not arguing that I need this word and it is perfect....just thought it would be more beautiful, more bling; "hope" "cherish" "love" .....maybe that is why it is my word. I need to realize that it is not all pretty or bling, maybe sometimes it is just discipline.

So as I begin my year of discipline my first step is in finding out what does this mean for me? How does this apply to the various aspects of my daily life? for my character? for my relationships? for my relationship with God?

hmmmm....now the juices are flowing in the right direction!

First, working on the new frame in my mind about discipline - so I am finding new visual images for the word!

a beautiful image of discipline and a great subtitle...

Serving others: Scripture and a Snapshot

2011-01-28T21:16:00.000-08:00

Trying to get back in the swing of posting after a very busy week at work (three of the five days were 13 hours) Tonight I just was in the mood to play work some more with Picnik! I just recently discovered the free online site that easily adds text, etc. to photos...essentially it is just fun!

I also wanted to create my "scripture and a snapshot" even though the linky blog hop does not start until Sunday each week...I just love the concept!

Here is my Scripture and a Snapshot!

Ryan helping to serve the other students in the school cafeteria! I have never seen any school do this, but I think it is wonderful! Students take turns working in the cafeteria for a week serving others!

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Please feel free to check out the other posts from the linky, but if you join us...don't forget to go back to Scripture and a snapshot and read the rules.

30 days of posting! goal attained!

2011-01-26T16:55:00.000-08:00

I had set a goal through my 101 in 1001 days blog to post on this blog every day for 30 days. Why? for many reasons: creativity outlet, writing experience, to bring more traffic, to develop my blog further...

I am not sure why I decided to start, but once I was in the habit, it was easy. I found it helped to have several posts in edit mode so that I could finish and post them at any time. I also tried to change it up so that I don't get bored. I know some say to specialize your blog and stick to one thing....but really this is a blog in which I vent, create, express myself and share with others. To me that wouldn't stick to one category!

I especially enjoyed trying to get around to other blogs more frequently and joining in on some creativity challenges such as "Scripture in a Snapshot." This helped to develop my picture editing skills.

By spending more time on my blog, I was also inspired to make it better. I noticed that many of the blogs that I visit have at the bottom of the post pictures and links to other posts. I also noticed that I often use those buttons and end up surfing all over interesting posts of other bloggers. One night I google searched to figure out how to add that feature to my blogger template. I found out that it was an outside source html provider and it was very simple to use! It is called linkwithin. Now looking at my stats, I have noticed some of my readers are using it on my blog too!

If you are trying to develop a blog for whatever reason, I suggest you set a goal of posting every day for thirty days. It will get you in the habit, it will get the creative juices going and it will improve traffic to your blog!

This month's results:
Top posts:
#1 - previous posts about cub scout cakes -I combined the top three since they all are dealing with the same topic-about 800 views.

#2 - new post on Snow Cream! you can tell it is winter time!

#3 - post as part of the Multitude Monday's series from aholyexperience.com

#4 - not my family, nope not them! This is a reality check moment: a post that helps me share how crazy my life is, perhaps to help others or myself feel more normal!

#5 - Zesty Chicken recipe also a new post from this 30 days

Some of my top referring sites:

holy experience

productively unproductive

scripture & a snapshot blog hop from Katie Lloyd Photography
and the link within feature I placed on the blog this month

Happy Blogging,

All Creatures Great and Small

2011-01-24T04:00:00.000-08:00

Growing up, one of my favorite hymns was "All Things Bright and Beautiful." (click here to see the words, etc.) I don't know if it was the music or that it appealed to a child because of the words. What kid doesn't love creatures! In honor of one of my favorite childhood hymns...here is "scripture and a snapshot."

Click here to see other Scripture and a Snapshot entries at Katie Lloyd Photography.

Wicked Appetite - Book Review

2011-01-23T09:52:00.000-08:00

Another book review for January 2011: Wicked Appetite by Janet Evanovich!

First let me say that I LOVE the Stephanie Plum series books by Janet Evanovich, which is why I decided to read this book no matter what it was about.

I also, as I have stated in a review previously of Nora Roberts' books, that I really don't care for books with witchcraft/mysterious/non-realistic elements.....which Wicket Appetite has...

All of that being said, I liked this book. I was concerned that Janet was tired of writing Stephanie Plum books because this one mimics it. If you like the laugh out loud comedy of the Plum series...you will laugh out loud at this book. My only concern is that it went from like a comedy movie, to "dumb and dumber" or "airplane." In other words it is funny, but it went to the extreme funny "stupid" range. I was concerned that it would turn me off, but it didn't.

Summary: Here is a link to the summary on Janet's website

Characters: Janet does a great job of having great characters and action from the start. You end up loving her characters. This element too was like Plum on steroids: the characters all have their quirky facets, but it is as if the author doesn't take the time to develop them or introduce them slowly. Maybe it is just because I have read 15 Plum novels, but it seems rushed as far as character development. Of course, it really didn't deter me either! Lizzy is like Stephanie, Diesel would be Morelli and Ranger wrapped in one. Wulf is the resident bad guy, Glo is like Lulu and of course there is a crazy funny monkey and a one eyed cat!

I admit, I skipped the "between the numbers" Plum books and need to go back and read them...now looking at the summaries online, I feel like a goof because "Plum Spooky" which takes place between #14 and #15...has Diesel, & Wulf in it! Well now I have to go read "Plum Spooky!"

Why do I have to go read it? Well, because despite being funny to the point of being stupid, and despite the copying of the Plum characters, and despite the witchery element...I am hooked! That's right, the book I criticized all along, the book I couldn't put down, the book that left me wanting more....that's what good authors do, right?!

P.S. - you can buy a signed copy off of her website with free shipping cheaper than the bookstore!

Other book reviews:
Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Happy Ever After
House Rules

Learning App for iPad Reviewed: SpellBoard

2011-01-22T13:19:00.000-08:00

I had started a larger post with various apps, but then thought I would review them one by one as we used them! I would also like to say that I paid for this app myself, I was not paid by anyone to review this app!

I was looking for an app that would help my sons prepare for their weekly spelling test. There are many spelling apps that were for practice in general or as games...but I was looking for one that I could import their words. I read the review of SpellBoard on the itunes site and decided to try it!

The app is $4.99, so it is not one that you might take a risk on...but it is worth every penny! My boys argued over the ipad all week. The results are in (or at least for the third grader) and Ryan almost every week missed 2-3 words no matter how much we study. Some weeks he will just miss one, but the only time he got a 100% was when I told him for three weeks in a row I was not buying the clip shoes he needed for BMX until he scored a 100%!

Well....Ryan got a 100% after practicing with SpellBoard for four nights this week. I was worried they would tire of it since it did not have games, but they enjoyed it.

You enter their words and speak the word using the internal mic. You can also add a phrase or definition, but we didn't do that for this first week. You can also add multiple children's names and it tracks their work and practice time.

My first grader loved the whiteboard feature. For practice time, you can select the marker color and write the words with your finger. Then in quiz mode you get both the whiteboard and keyboard. He would write it with his finger, check it by sounding it out and then typed in his answer.

When finished with a quiz it gives your score and shows the ones you missed and how you spelled it vs. the correct spelling.

Each night I would say that they could practice and then take a quiz, the person with the highest score was given 15 minutes of play time on the ipad games we have downloaded.

You can share lists with other spellboard users (only one parent would have to enter the words.) There also seems to be a companion app for the iphone to practice what you have put on the ipad...but I think we will stay with just the ipad since the keyboard and whiteboard would be easier for them to use on the ipad.

This week I am going to let my first grader demo it for his class and then utilize the spelling app in centers. So for our family I would give it 5 out of 5 stars even without any cutesy games...it works and that is what counts!

Check it out here in itunes.

P.S. - I have noticed that there is now a link from the SpellBoard app page to my review. I appreciate the blog traffic and hope my review helps you decide what is best for you, but I wanted to note I did not receive this app from them free of charge and have not/do not recieve any compensation from them. I say that since many Mom Blogs are asked to review items and get compensation. I wanted you to know my non-bias and that I just love the app! I am a principal and our team of teachers that use ipads and ipod touches now use this app as well.

The Rain

2011-01-21T19:16:00.000-08:00

Some of you might know that for over one week I have been in severe pain....oral surgery that did not go well. I am not going to go into details, but it has been one of the hardest weeks of my life. To be in constant pain, to be in pain that heavy pain killers just took the edge off....by the evening each night I just wanted it to STOP, I would even be so selfish to say that if it wasn't for my wonderful family, I would just want to die...rather than try to tolerate the pain on a daily basis.

Last night I was in the shower, the best place I think, but also a quiet place for me in this busy house, and I began to cry. I caught myself starting to try and barter with God. The "if you would only take the pain away I would...." then I stopped myself. I began to think of all the people in this world who live in constant physical pain. The people with cancer whose treatments sometimes are more like torture. I thought about Brad, a wonderful Christian father and husband who is not only fighting cancer but dealing with pain that the tumors are causing.

I realized...how dare I complain about severe pain when I know it is not permanent. How dare I try and bargain with God. It is not what he wants and is not the purpose of the pain. I opened my eyes to see my six year old with a picture pressed to the glass of the shower with a "get well" message.

I began to hear a song in my head: "Bring the Rain" by Mercy Me...I thought of the words and how if this is what it took to make me appreciate "normal" and appreciate a day to day life without pain, well then "Lord, bring the rain!" It is sad that it takes that level of pain to remind me that some people face pain on a daily basis, that I should be thankful when I do feel fine. No matter how boring or crummy a day, I need to be thankful that it is a pain-free day. Thank you Lord for helping me put everything in perspective. Forgive me for feeling sorry for myself when there are so many that fight the fight daily. Most of all, Thank you Lord, for the rain of my life and how it makes the joy that much sweeter!

"Bring me joy, bring me peace

Bring the chance to be free

Bring me anything that brings your glory

And I know there'll be days

When this life brings me pain

But if that's what it takes to praise You

Jesus, bring the rain"

Mercy Me, "Bring the Rain"

Before clicking video, you might want to scroll down on the left and press pause on the playlist player for my site....

P.S. - if you are visiting me from the Social Parade Follow on Friday Blog Hop, welcome...come in and take a look around! Hopefully you will find something that reaches out to you! Don't forget to leave a comment so I know you were here, and feel free to "follow" my blog!

January Book Review: Girl with a Dragon Tattoo

2011-01-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, ok I know I am behind in reading this popular book - heck the third one in the trilogy is already out and the movie! I was given the book for Christmas and I read it as book one in the page to screen reading challenge. Now I have to decide if I want to read all three before watching the movie of the first book....

Summary: I am not good at writing enough without giving away the whole plot. so here is the synopsis from Barnes and Noble:

"A spellbinding amalgam of murder mystery, family saga,
love story, and financial intrigue.It s about the disappearance forty years ago of Harriet Vanger, a young scion of one of the wealthiest families in Sweden . . . and about her octogenarian uncle, determined to know the truth about what he believes was her murder.

It s about Mikael Blomkvist, a crusading journalist recently at the wrong end of a libel case, hired to get to the bottom of Harriet s disappearance . . . and about Lisbeth Salander, a twenty-four-year-old pierced and tattooed genius hacker possessed of the hard-earned wisdom of someone twice her age who assists Blomkvist with the investigation. This unlikely team discovers a vein of nearly unfathomable iniquity running through the Vanger family, astonishing corruption in the highest echelons of Swedish industrialism, and an unexpected connection between themselves."

Strengths: I did get hooked and wanted to find out what happens. Not only with the murder mystery, but with the two main characters: Lisbeth and Mikael. At the end I didn't want it to end, which is a good thing since it is a trilogy. It makes me want to pick up the second book in the series! Good characters grow on you. I want to find out what happens with Lisbeth and even Mikael. I love the way Lisbeth goes after "bad guys." Even though she struggles socially, I love her blatant confidence and skills. She is dependant on no one, despite being legally dependant. It is a long book, yet once hooked it moves quickly. It was not one that I felt went on and on, or that I kept putting down because of the length.

Weakness: I don't normally have too many weakness to report on and would rate all books four or five stars, because to be honest, if it is not good....I don't finish it! My time is to precious to waste on books that are not going well! That being said, this book had some "issues" I didn't like.

First of all this might seem very "American" of me, but since it is written in a foreign land, the characters names and the places are harder to pronounce. On top of that the author refers to some characters by first name, and some by last name. This would not bug me (heck some of my favorite characters: Scarpetta, Morelli, etc. are last name characters) except that the author toggles back and forth constantly, I mean even in the same sentence! One sentence referred to Erika and Birger in the same sentence and they are the same person. It wouldn't be that hard except there are a ton of characters. I have heard from a friend on facebook that it gets worse in book three...geez!
Second it is slow to start. The book opens with a libel case and I know that they are trying to build a character and background action, but I tend to prefer action to drag me into the plot. The quirky character Lisbeth starts to get interesting and then finally when they get to the murder mystery I am hooked.

Overall...a must read! Just stick through the beginning and at times just give up on trying to keep all the characters in your head.

I guess I will write a review after I watch the movie too - Book one of Page to Screen Challenge - Done!

Wordless Wednesday - kid morphing!

2011-01-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

Two of my kids morphed...not too bad looking either!

Not my family, Nope not them!

2011-01-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

NOT My Family....
(living on the edge, being brutally honest, and living to tell about it!)

Let me tell you:

1. My husband would never say something like this to my middle child who is always hungry..."It wouldn't matter if I was sitting here eating a pile of cat s*%$, you would want some!" - Not my husband!

2. My husband getting up from watching t.v. to get a snack would never say "This is my couch" - middle child "do you need me to guard it for you?" perfect husband " NO, it will guard itself, stay off!"

3. Little two year old angel would never make a habit of unwrapping cheese slices and sticking them to the fridge like stickers. That would be gross!

4. Middle child would never burn a sock and put it in the sink? - haven't gotten the whole story on what did not happen yet!

5. Oldest child would never belch loudly in the family locker room and then ask his brother "How was that?"
His younger brother would never respond "not bad, but mine at iHop that embarrassed mom and dad, still was best!"

6. The mother of the bunch would also never share all the things they have NOT being doing on the internet and not include one item about herself!

Too perfect to even put a price tag on them, but might be willing to barter! 1800-555-MY-CIRCUS!

blessings continued #127-139

2011-01-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

I am thankful....

#127 for a two year old who says the blessing on his own before eating his lunch

#128 for a big brother willing to hold the football to let a two year old kick it

#129 for the doctors and nurses taking care of my mother-in-law.

#130 for Netflix....I know that sounds bad, but sometimes I need a break from the squabbles of three boys.

#131 for friends willing to pray for my recovery when I am not feeling well.

#132 for a wonderful 1st grade teacher and literacy teacher who have helped my little guy go from behind, to a reader!

#133 for strong medication that lets me sleep while recovering

#134 for the strength to take the kids swimming, something they love to do as a family

#135 for online deals that save a family money, now we will be going to the rodeo we didn't think we could afford

#136 for holidays that although it is not their purpose, give me a break from work and time with the kids

#137 for "a holy experience" and the accountability to keep a gratitude journal weekly

#138 for a surgeon who gives you his personal cell number to call if needed over the weekend & evenings

#139 for a little one who will just softly close my laptop and climb up in my lap when he wants my undivided attention :)

Craft Hope Project #11 - Birthing Kits for Haiti

2011-01-16T12:48:00.000-08:00

I want to do something to help the people of Haiti. I know it may be awhile before I have the time and money to join a group that would be going on a missions trip to Haiti. I like to think of myself as a crafter and a sewer, but to be honest....my skills are rusty!

I have been following Craft Hope for about a year now and in reality stalking the facebook and the blog: reading, but not participating or commenting.

Now I am going to change that! I am posting about it here to help spread the word, but I am also going to form a small group in the town I live to participate in Project #11.

If you have never followed Craft Hope, they bring online crafters together to support various needs & charities. As it has grown they now get overwhelming response. That is what Haiti needs...overwhelming response. Their craft sales drive last January raised $35,000 for Doctors without Borders to provide support to Haiti. At the time of overwhelmed airports, etc. that was the most immediate way to help: CASH for an organization already on the scene.

Now that it is a year later, Haiti still needs support and Craft Hope has devised a way to get more direct support from crafters. They have partnered with Konbit Sante to provide health support to Haitian women. Konbit Sante is a creole phrase that means "working together" and "health." Craft Hope is asking crafters to put together birthing kits. Just the raw simplicity of what they are asking for to provide sanitary birth areas is enough to catch your breath....let us be thankful that the birth of our children did not consist of plastic sheetings, a razor blade and string.

Click over to Craft Hope and read the directions of what to collect and then create a handmade tote bag and blanket. All of the items will then be shipped to Maine to be sent to Haiti. I am debating making stuffed animals or just buying small ones to be included as suggested.

I will keep you posted, but I hope you read more at Craft Hope and consider joining project #11, for healthy babies everywhere.

Kid Friendly Things to do in Denver - Part I

2011-01-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

Not that I am the resident expert since we just moved here this summer, but since we are new we do feel like tourists! If you live in the Denver, Colorado area, or if you are traveling to Denver ....here are some things to do with elementary age kids! Of course older ones would enjoy most of these too!

Part I - Denver Aquarium, 16th Street Mall, short/close side trips: Hammond's Candies & Celestial Seasonings Tours

1. The Denver Aquarium: First let me say that it is pricey (I would say the same as some large city/larger aquariums, but we found Family Friday Nights... and it was a deal!) Not only "extras" going on and reduced prices, but no crowds! We were amazed how few people were there! Kid's ate for $1.99 at the restaurant and parking was free with dinner. We enjoyed the restaurant with views of the aquarium tanks. The kids loved the aquarium itself - plenty to keep their attention and tigers too! So if you take advantage of the discounted Friday night, The Denver Aquarium is a must see!

2. 16th Street Mall - This is a pedestrian zone of downtown Denver. The traffic still crosses 16th street at every block, but the West/East route is just people and the FREE bus that runs the route of the mall - an essential for when the kids wear out. We usually park a street or two over from the mall for either lot parking ($5 for the day) or using the parking meters. There are pianos along the way the kids can play, art statues, muscians, etc. If you need a bite to eat we like to take the kids somewhere like Rock Bottom Brewery where we can eat outside and people watch or they have other kid friendly places like Johnny Rockets, etc. There are fast food places and plenty of Starbucks. We usually wander into the large Barnes and Noble too. There is a movie theater and bowling alley too!

3. Hammond's Candies - If you have a rental car or are going to be leaving the immediate downtown area, Hammond's Candies, is right off of Interstate 25 and is not too far out of Denver. My children and I first heard about Hammond's on the Food Network's "How it is Made." It was fascinating to see old fashioned candy made by hand on t.v. Then when we moved to the area we found out that they have free tours! As we headed out of downtown one day we stopped in and it was a great side trip. I warn you that the tour is not long, or extensive - which can be good with little ones. We arrived and they tell you what tour time you are assigned to and there are free candy samples and old fashioned hats available. The kids loved the hats. You can also wander through the gift shop before or after the tour. The tour was only about 20 minutes - including a video. The kids loved seeing the man make candy canes by hand. They were not making taffy or ribbon candy that day, but the candy canes were a thrill. We then had to buy some of course! Because the tour is behind glass - all ages are welcome and strollers too!

4. Celestial Seasonings Tour - outside of Denver....this is actually in Boulder (and not downtown Boulder) but it is a lovely trip and would not be but maybe 20-30 minutes from Denver. One caution is that children under 5 are not permitted on the factory portion of the tour. I went with my mom to check it out first, but since it was so good and it was educational, I will be taking my 6 and 8 year olds back. The tour center has unlimited free samples of hot and cold teas in a variety of flavors in a a nice cafe setting while you wait for your tour. We purchased a cookie and sat for awhile talking and sampling teas. There is a movie and then a tour which goes on the factory floor (which is why the age restriction.) The tour itself is educational and takes you through production. The mint room is something you will never forget! The gift shop is wonderful too! You can't take pics on the tour, but don't forget to snap a picture of your family member in their hair net - so fashionable! So even though toddlers or infants would need to stay with someone in the cafe, or gift shop...it is a wonderful stop in the Denver area!

Hope you enjoyed Part I of Visiting Denver with kids...

Social Parade: Finding new blogs to follow!

2011-01-14T20:13:00.000-08:00

I love the blogs I follow, at the same time I am ready to hunt down some new ones! Just like friends: old ones are great, but new ones are exciting too!

Ok, I hope I am doing this right, but I am joining the social parade today! Click here to read more about it on Smart and Trendy Moms. I am following them and posting a link on their Social Parade linky for 1/14/2001.

I hope to find some new blogger buddies and perhaps a few will find me too! Click the button to join the parade! (I am on an exclamation point kick today - scary hunh!)

P.S. Don't forget to leave me a comment if you found me through the parade! I love visitors and followers!