Serene is my name, Not my life!

Kids Say the Darndest Things - Mother's Day Edition

2013-05-20T08:47:00.002-07:00

I honestly can't remember the last time I went a whole week without blogging.

And I've just spent the last five minutes trying to think of something terribly clever and funny to say about that. But I couldn't even manage to pull a smile from myself, so clearly nothing was working.

Can I just blame that on pregnancy brain? Am I allowed to do that yet?

(Please say yes. I have lots of things I need to start blaming on that.)

Last week started out with me being so dang sick I hardly did anything at all, mostly because I really just couldn't work up the motivation while feeling to lousy. Then by the time I was starting to feel a bit better on Thursday, I was so dad-gum far behind on everything it was time to play catch-up.

I do believe I managed to cross one whole item off my to-do list.

I'm on a roll!

I think I deserve a cupcake for that. Hang on a sec while I go grab one....

*slurp* Ahh, much better. (yes, really did eat one)

Anyhow, now it's time to play catch-up on the ole' blog so, let's start with Mother's Day.

The older kids were super excited to show me all the fun Mother's Day things they created. And boy oh boy, was I in for a treat!

I was laughing so hard by the time I was done reading through everything.

I do believe I'm going to REALLY miss when my kids start making sense and become all logical. This stage is much for fun.

From Savannah: The Girl With A Dramatic Flair

I especially love that I have "shining eyes". LOL!

Does that make me part feline? Or part Disney princess?

The whole "one of five" thing is a riddle her daddy taught her, and she LOVES a good riddle. Can you figure it out?

I was especially stumped on the part where she says, "Thanks for nursing me when I was a baby."

I mean, what the... haha! I'm going to give her the benefit of the doubt and assume she just means, "taking care of".

Oh, and she thought she was particularly clever with, "You're lion in my heart and I'm not kitten."

And I can honestly say I've never been accused of being "delicate" before.

That girl, what can ya do.

From Joseph: The Boy Who Stumps Me With His Many Personalities

This was on the back of his card.

Wow, I never knew he thinks I'm "cute, good looking, and caring." I guess I should take comfort in the fact that another guy besides my husband thinks I'm cute. LOL!

And to be honest I'm surprised the whole school part was on there. Getting that boy ready for school is like pulling teeth from a crocodile.

From Jacob: The Kid Who Cracks Me Up

So, this is me.. apparently.

No wonder Joseph thinks I'm cute!

Okay, allow me to translate. *clearing throat*

I love it when my mom cooks rolls with butter. This is how she makes it. With dough and bread in the oven, 1 hour.

My mom's favorite t.v. show is exercising. (not really)

My mom's favorite song is random songs. She sings like a cole flower. (I have no idea what that means)

It bugs my mom when I do not brush my teeth.

To relax my mom likes to sit on the couch. (in my defense, it's called morning sickness, not relaxation)

I wish I could buy my mom a flower.

My mom is special because she cooks for me.

I love it when my mom bakes cupcakes. (for the record, I love that too)

When my mom is driving she texts my dad.

What the... this last one really threw me for a loop! LOL! I will only text at a stop light or if I'm in a line. But I guess I better break that habit. The last thing I want is for my kids to think it's okay to text and drive.

*sigh* The things you learn about yourself.

So there you have it.

Now we both know what my children think of me.

Should I be worried?

Where does all the cereal go?

2013-05-10T12:27:00.002-07:00

Sometimes I think to myself, "Sheesh! We go through cereal so fast it's down-right ridiculous! How does this happen?"

I don't even know why I bother wondering.

When I told the kids to clean it up, they just ate it all off the bed instead of putting it back.

The box gone in thirty minutes.

That's a new record.

Baby Update and Zumba (Is that a weird topic combo?)

2013-05-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

I had my follow-up ultrasound yesterday to check on the hemorrhage.

I was feeling pretty good about how it would turn out since I have had no bleeding for a couple weeks now.

But it was still nice to be shown and told that the hemorrhage is completely gone. Prayers have been answered and all the blood has been re-absorbed, everything is looking wonderfully great!

Well, except for maybe the weight scale.

Eh hem.

Perhaps I shouldn't mention this, but I took up Zumba a couple weeks before I was pregnant, when a friend who use to be an instructor decided to do a free class in the morning for anyone who wanted to come. I was excited because mornings work better for me than evenings and I can bring the kids with me and they just play, or dance. Whichever they decide.

Anyway, I actually use to go to her house and we'd do Zumba together. So when she failed to find a back-up teacher for days she couldn't be there, she asked if I'd be willing to learn a routine and be her back-up instructor.

I wasn't sure how well I'd do but I was excited to at least try. So she made me a dvd and I took to trying to memorize the routines.

At this point I now knew I was expecting, and also that I might have a complication.

But practicing Zumba was a good distraction, especially since when I'm concentrating and my heart rate is up, my nausea tends to ebb away.

Then when the doctor told me about the hemorrhage, I asked him if I could keep exercising. At first he said yes, then he stopped and said, "Well, maybe not. I don't think you should be running or lifting weights. In fact, don't lift anything heavy."

I decided it was pointless to mention I have a toddler.

Still, I wanted so badly to keep exercising through this pregnancy and be all healthy and stuff, (without having to actually give up chocolate) I decided I would practice a few songs at home, taking it very light and easy and see how my body would react.

Especially since I wasn't running or lifting weights. *wink wink*

No cramping, no bleeding, in fact it felt good! So I kept going to the classes, just taking it easy to gauge how my body would respond. Nothing. I felt no bad after-effects at all.

I even had a chance to play instructor once when my friend was out of town. It was so fun and the ladies were so good to work with me and my goof-ups.

Because I didn't have a severe hemorrhage, there's a chance that the exercise actually may have helped my body re-absorb the blood.

So now I am back to learning a few new songs and exercising (not rigorously, so don't worry) five days a week.

Since this is the first time I've ever exercised during a pregnancy, it has been... interesting, but good.

So yes, I'll be that weird lady with a ginormous belly shaking her chocolate-filled booty like nobody's business.

I'm so, so sorry for anyone who stands behind me.

I hope my awkwardness won't disturb them... permanently.

Overheard in Primary

2013-05-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

The children in my church primary class are really excited that I'm having a baby, especially the girls.

But I was rendered speechless when one of them came up to me, laid her hand on my shoulder and said softly, "But... Serene, I thought you were fixed!"

Once I had a chance to recover and not feel like a puppy, I burst out laughing. "Fixed? Why would you think that?"

Her response was given in genuine concern. "Because you have like, fifteen kids already! At least that what it seems like anyway because they are all so little and crazy!"

Well, it's good to know our kids have a such a splendid reputation.

This next one has a lot to live up to.

What's Been Going On the Last Few Weeks

2013-05-01T20:32:00.001-07:00

It had only been a few days since the pregnancy test came back positive.

I figured I was about 5 weeks along when the cramping started.

They were different from "labor" pains, more like a cramp you get when you exercise, only the pain was everywhere, through my whole mid-section. At first I thought I was miscarrying, but there was no blood. Still, it felt like all my insides were getting ripped apart.

A couple hours later, I was fine. It gave us a scare but I let it pass as one of those weird things that happen and you'll never really know why.

The next day I was fine but the day after, the cramping started again. They were pretty bad so I started debating with myself on whether or not to go see a doctor.

Since I was only 5 weeks I felt kind of stupid for going in so early, yet something clearly wasn't right. I finally compromised with myself and called up my O.B's office and talked to a nurse.

She convinced me to come in after she pointed out that if it was something like a tubal pregnancy, it was better to know sooner than later.

So I set up an appointment to go in just a couple hours later.

Calling up my neighbor, she graciously came over to keep an eye on my kiddos.

Upon doing an ultrasound, this is what was found.

Sorry, I took a photo of the ultrasound picture with my phone so it's not very good.

Anyway, the little black circle is the normal baby sac. That second weird blob thingy? Ya, they were stumped. The doctor said he had never seen this before and ran through a couple scenarios of what it "might" be. As I kept asking questions, the doctor finally admitted that there was a small chance it could be what is called a "Molar Pregnancy"

I won't go through all the details of what it is as you can read up on it, but he did point out that if it was a Molar Pregnancy, they would need to do a d&c right away and remove it before it became attached and possibly cancerous.

Yes, I knew what a d&c was, but I asked anyway; would they be able to remove it without harming the good baby sac?

The answer was no, they would have to remove the good baby too.

I was horrified and sick to my stomach over the thought. But the doctor assured me that most likely that wasn't what it was, but they couldn't rule out the possibility.

We scheduled an appointment to do another ultrasound in 2 weeks and by then they would be able to tell what was going on.

I called Hubby to fill him in, and that's when he reminded me that the week the second ultrasound was scheduled for, he was going to be in Guatemala for work. So I was doing this solo.

I had to go in for blood work a couple of times and since everything was coming back normal, the doctors were speculating that perhaps it was a "disappearing twin". But again, it was just a guess.

It was a strange two weeks. We decided to let our parents in on what was going on so they could pray for us, but decided to keep it as quiet as possible from everyone else until we knew what was going to happen.

Whenever I would pray about the situation, I always felt at peace afterwards, like everything was going to be okay. So in truth, I wasn't overwhelmed with worry. But at the same time, I kept reminding myself to be prepared for worst case scenario.

Our Salt Lake trip was actually right smack dab in the middle of this two-week waiting period and seemed like it would provide a good distraction. But as we left and had been on the free way about ten minutes, I turned to Hubby and went... "uh oh".

Not that any of you want to know this, but it didn't take long to realize I was bleeding. I am proud of myself for not punching Hubby when his first reaction was, "Did it get on the seat?" LOL!

Anyway, we found the closest Walmart and I discreetly tied a jacket around my waist all punk old school like. Not that anyone would think anything of it since it was Walmart after all. Then I went about buying a whole new set of clothes since our bag was buried deep in the back of the car underneath the mountain of kid necessities.

The rest of the weekend went fine other than some more minimal cramping, but when we spent Sunday morning at my brother's place, he guessed we were expecting. So we gave him the low-down on what was going on.

Fast forward to the day I went in for the second ultra-sound. Hubby was in Guatemala for the whole week so my neighbor offered to come with me to the appointment. She was super sweet to offer, but I decided I would rather go by myself.

The ultrasound showed a little white blob with a perfect little heartbeat, inside of the regular black blob, which was half surrounded by another irregular black blob.

The ultrasound tech wouldn't tell me anything, so when I met with the doctor he informed that I have what is called a "Subchorionic Hemorrhage"

In layman's terms, I have blood between the wall of the placenta and the baby sac.

You can't really see it because the picture they gave me to take home is zoomed in so I wouldn't be able to see most of where the pool of blood is, but you can make out the very bottom of it right above the baby's sac.

The doctor said that there are some increased risks, such as miscarriage or placenta abruption. However, in most cases the hemorrhage heals itself and everything is fine. And since I don't have a history of miscarriage or high risk pregnancies, my doctor wasn't feeling concerned.

I was told to take it easy and try to relax.

I tried not to laugh out loud at that and point out that my Hubby travels fairly often for work and I have five other kids at home.

Still, I was beyond relieved to know that it wasn't "worst case scenario" and more than likely everything would be okay.

I actually have another ultrasound scheduled for next week to make sure the hemorrhage isn't getting worse. But my bleeding has slowed to the point of having stopped almost two weeks ago so I think everything will be okay.

Part of the reason we made a public announcement, is because of this.

At only 10.5 weeks I look ridiculously pregnant and it was getting ridiculously hard to hide.

Anyway, to answer a few questions, yes, I have been sick.

As far as my morning sickness history goes, I was sick all nine months with my first, seven months with my second, and after a couple diet changes, I finally got to experience second trimester relief. Though I do tend to get sick in the morning or when I get really hungry for my whole pregnancy.

While I don't throw up very often, I tend to live in a never-ending state where it feels like everything is sitting at the base of my throat or half-way up it.

I also experience insomnia and since my back is a bit messed up, lots of back discomfort.

This pregnancy has been a bit different in that my morning sickness seems to have a mind of it's own. Some days I'm okay, other days I'm knocked flat on my back. Some days start off okay then end very badly, and some days are just the opposite.

Very strange.

Still we are surviving and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that in a couple weeks, the worst will be over.

There is more to tell, more I'd like to record just for my own sake more than anything else, but I'll save them for other posts since this one has gone on long enough.

Thank you for all the supportive comments!

Someone asked me the other day if anyone had given me a hard time about having another baby. I said, surprisingly no! Everyone has been very nice about it... well, to my face anyway.

I'm sure there's been a few whispers and comments going on behind my back.

But whatever and who cares.

We are all very excited and happy around here with this soon-to-be addition to our family.

Our Not-So-Secret Family Announcement

2013-04-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

The kids keep asking me if it's time for the baby to come out yet, or if I'm ever going to stop being sick.

The boys are hoping for a boy while the girls are hoping for a girl.

Either way, Alayna is dead set on naming it "Sparkles".

Anyway, there is a lot that has happened with this pregnancy in it's short ten weeks that my family doesn't know. I will write a full report next post.

Promise.

The Importance of Listening to Your Child

2013-04-26T08:56:00.002-07:00

We got a call from my children's principle last week to tell us that one of our children had punched another kid in the face and knocked out their tooth. Though the teachers suspected the kid's tooth was already loose.

I was stunned.

And mortified.

Yes this child has acted out before and has had some trouble with tantrums at school, but it had been a long time since we've had an incident, and they had certainly never hurt someone before! I could not really fathom that they would just... punch someone!

I thought for sure they would get sent home from school at the very least, or even suspended or something. But the principle assured my husband that they had everything under control at the school and that they had just wanted to let us know about the incident.

I confess I thought it odd that they weren't taking some sort of serious action against our child. And what about the other kid? How would their parents react?

Hubby and I talked on the phone and worked out how we would handle it and what the consequences would be. We were both feeling incredibly worried at this point.

For the rest of day I felt like the world's worst mom.

Where did we go wrong? What have I done to my child that would create this kind of lack of control or caring for another person? Thoughts and questions swirled through my brain for the whole afternoon as I struggled with my epic parenting failure.

But I had been taught more by example than by words from my own parents, that every child has a right to explain their side of the story. My parents always listened to us.

So when my children came home, I called in this child and asked them to explain what had happened.

This was their version.

A kid behind them was trying to pull on my child's hat (a winter beanie) while they were standing in line. Because of this my child turned around and pretty soon they were goofing off and pretend karate chopping each other. As my child went to swipe the other kid with their hat, a miscalculation in the heat and fun of the moment caused my child to accidentally hit the other child in the mouth with his hand instead of the hat.

The story was told without hesitation or embellishment. I knew they were telling the truth. My children are still young enough that it's obvious when they lie. They hesitate because they know lying is wrong, they won't look at me, and they take time to think about what they are going to say.

Thankfully we have taught our children to be honest so lying is not a big issue.

It had started to be at one point with one child, until it occurred to me that this child was afraid of getting in trouble. They were extra sensitive to that and so would come up with stories to get out of trouble.

We worked out ways of clearing that up so now we don't have a problem with it.

Anyway, as I listened to my child's story, I realized that it had merely been an accident caused by two children who were goofing off together.

When I asked if the other child was upset that their tooth was knocked out, my child said no, they were actually happy because the tooth was loose and they really wanted it out so they could put it under their pillow for the tooth fairy.

Well.

That was sure a whole different take on my child "punching someone in the mouth and knocking their tooth out" and explained why the other child wasn't upset or that my child wasn't in trouble at school.

My relief was palpable.

I called Hubby right away and explained what really happened, his relief was obvious as well. We still talked to our child about how they shouldn't have tried to hit the other kid with their hat, but the consequences we had planned on earlier were no longer necessary.

I can't help but think how important it is that our children can trust us.

And especially that they can trust that we will trust them.

Each child is different and there is certainly not a "one plan fits all" for building that trust or even in some cases, honesty. But I truly believe that if we will take the time to listen and try to understand, children will want to tell you the truth, even if it isn't always good.

Giving your child a chance to explain their point of view is key. Because so often, their understanding is limited and their viewpoint is vastly different from ours.

I'm so glad I listened.

Trampoline Art

2013-04-22T11:26:00.000-07:00

I sort of have this love/hate relationship with chalk.

I love it because it can keep the kids busy for hours! It's doesn't stain and it doesn't stink, and it's relatively easy to clean up.

It helps them use their imaginations and I love seeing all their creativity.

I can only assume it was my children who started this particular creative project in which the neighbor kids happily joined.

But it can also be annoying when the kids throw the little pieces all over the yard.

Or bring them inside to color with as though they were crayons and chalk dust covers everything.

Or when you catch the baby eating them.

Or when the kids go all crazy and color everything, then crawl through their chalk designs and coat their clothes, then come in the house dancing and prancing as though they had just won the "World's Cleanest Kids" award, and pretty soon you're wiping down couches and cabinet doors.

Hubby on the other hand has a straight up hate relationship with it and tends to scowl a bit whenever someone busts out the chalk.

He can't seem to let go of the past.

Not since last year when Alaya decided to color the brick on the front the house solid chalk colors.

Which was surprisingly hard to get off.

I'm helping him work though his chalk issues, trying to get him to move on.

Maybe seeing the trampoline with help!

Or... not.

Pizza Pile

2013-04-19T09:59:00.002-07:00

I made homemade pizza for dinner last night.

For whatever reason this became the main idea for my children's after-dinner trampoline game. They put a new twist on the traditional dog-pile.

Savannah was the "crust", Joseph was the "sauce", Jacob was the "cheese", and Alayna and Claira were the "toppings".

Until Claira decided it was easier to just jump around the pizza pile rather than be a topping. So Savannah dubbed her the "drink that comes with the pizza".

I gotta say, my kids are so dang awesome.

Especially when they aren't fighting.

Or whining.

Or coloring on the walls.

Or....

But seriously, my kids are so dang awesome.

Secrets, Hair, and Shoes

2013-04-17T08:10:00.001-07:00

Whew! So much going on! So much to tell! Yes, there is a good reason why my blog is struggling to stay alive.

But patience, all secrets will be revealed soon enough... perhaps sometime within the next week or two.

And now with that suspense hanging in the air, (mwah ha ha ha ha!) here is a post about well, nothing in particular.

Because that's just how we roll around here.

~~~~

Claira did my hair this morning. Not bad eh? What do you think? Could I pull off the hippie mom look... er, with pink satin and lace headbands?

I understand this look is coming back. Claira is ahead of her time.

It even goes well with my pre-shower, slept in make-up look, don't-cha'think?

Love this thoroughly frustrating almost two-year old who still doesn't talk, who refuses to drink out of a sippy cup, and won't eat more than three bites of food a day.

I've never had a child not eat before. It's... strange.

If the word stubborn had a face, her's would be it.

Did I mention she comes equipped with some powerful vocal cords? Oh ya, this whole not talking thing doesn't go well with those. I'm wearing my orange ear-muffs a lot lately.

~~~~

I also did something I probably shouldn't have.

But I couldn't help myself! *blissful sigh* It was love at first sight.

I know! I know! But... but... aren't they just, beautiful?

And I got them on sale too. Twenty bucks shipped!

That sealed the deal for me. So yes, I caved.

And I love 'em.

Eggless Eggnog - A Re-Post

2013-04-15T09:04:00.001-07:00

I try not to re-post old blog posts very often. But I was thinking of this one today and it made me laugh. So if you haven't read this one before, enjoy!

Well, maybe.

~~~~~~~

This story came up came up last weekend while talking to my younger brother. I was surprised he had never heard it before, as it was one of the finer moments for my younger self and proves that I have always been a cooking goddess.

And so, I have come forth to record it for all to see, and bow before my cooking prowess... or not.

I can't recall exactly how old we were, perhaps 10 and 11 or so? But it was Christmas time when my older sister Jenny, and I decided to take matters into our own hands.

(This picture has absolutely nothing to do with this story. We were merely trying to save all the "wild flowers" (aka weeds) from death by lawn mower. Cause we had big hearts like that. I'm sure my mom appreciated the giant bouquet we made.)

We really, really wanted eggnog. When you grow up in a house where sweet things were rare, you learned to improvise... a lot.

I would spend an hour tackling the lid on the five gallon bucket of raw honey, as it was quite often the onlysweet thing in the house, just to be able to slip my spoon in under the corner I barely managed to pry up.

But that was before I learned where my dad hid his candy stash... errr, not that I ever swiped anything dad... honest! Mostly... *cough* anyway.

I digress.

As there was no eggnog to be found in the house, we decided to make some, because we were cooking geniuses.

We dug up a recipe for eggnog and immediately headed for the kitchen.

"6 eggs" were the very first items on the ingredient list.

Jenny and I looked at each other. Having always been warned of the evils of raw eggs and knowing full well that one never just ate them let alone drank them, we set about hard boiling six eggs.

While that was cooking, we mixed all the other ingredients together and had some nice, sweet, cinnamony flavored milk. All we needed was the eggs.

After all, it is called "egg"nog, right?

Once the eggs had finished cooking, we peeled off the shells. That's when we suddenly realized that there was something odd about this recipe.

"Umm, how do you think they mash up the eggs so well there aren't any chunks?"

"I don't know! But let's try."

Getting out the eggs masher and taking turns, we mashed, and mashed, and mashed, and mashed, and mashed some more, trying to make them all "creamy". But all we got was a bowl full of dry, crumbly eggs.

Finally frustrated, we decided that we should just add the eggs to the wet ingredients and blend them. Perhaps then they would creamify! (cause creamify is a cool word)

But alas, to our great disappointment, all we got was chunky milk.

Finally deciding that whoever wrote the recipe was a total idiot, or had some fancy mashing machine, we strained out the eggs and drank the milk.

Yes, you read that right.

And so, my sister and I continued to make egg less eggnog for many a special occasion, and sometimes even went to far as to share with our siblings.

(picture taken before my youngest brother was born)

We always wondered how the store bought eggnog makers managed to mash their eggs up enough so they were creamy enough to drink.

To this day, it remains a unsolved mystery.

P.S. My sister added: By the way if you recall I think this recipe called for egg "whites" and we couldn't figure out how to get the white of the egg unless it WAS boiled. That was an awesome time!

You Can Be A Book Nut Too

2013-04-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

I get a phone call from my little sis in which she says she has a HHHHHHUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUGGGGGGGGEEEEEEE favor to ask of me.

Here we are last year. Not that it has anything to do with this post. You're welcome.

Since she lives clear across the country, I wasn't sure what to expect.

Did she want me to re-name my children after her?

Did she need me to step down from my self-proclaimed status as our parent's favorite child?

Did she want me to give up chocolate?

What did she want from me that was so huge?

Finally she asks if I'd be willing to do a little shout-out on my blog about her new blog.

*silence*

She decides to sweeten the deal and promises to send me chocolate if I do it.

*silence* At this point I wanted to see how much I could get out of her.

Oh... cha... come on. I did not!

I said of course I will! You're my sister after all! Yes, I will do a shout-out.

For a hundred bucks.

Okay not really.

Anyhow, here's the deal.

Rebekah has started up a super fun blog called, "Be Awesome Be a Book Nut" in which she does book reviews, giveaways, shares news on books becoming movies, makes YouTube videos, etc!

And since we have all established long ago that most of us here love to read, you guys NEED to check her out, she's very honest and will tell you how it is.

So if you wear ugly shoes, beware. Don't have them on while you're visiting her blog. She'll know.

Anyway, if she gets enough followers on her blog, the big fancy shmancy publishing companies will start sending her unpublished books to review and blog about.

And here's the icing on the cake. If you publicly follow her blog, you can participate in her TEN BOOK GIVEAWAY going on right now! All the details are there.

So, here's all the ways you can follow her. Just click on the words below to be taken to her sites.

FACEBOOK
BLOG
TWITTER
YOUTUBE
GOODREADS

So go, and follow away! Especially her blog. Just scroll down a little ways until you see her "followers" app. She's pretty awesome and had good taste in books.

And even better taste in sisters.

Just sayin'.

Our Salt Lake City Spring Break Trip - Part 2

2013-04-08T07:38:00.003-07:00

I meant to finish blogging about our trip last week, but... ya.

I left my Captain Obvious cape on the closet so I won't finish that thought.

Hubby and I were at odds for most of the week and it finally all came to head Saturday afternoon. All I can say is, after almost 10 years of marriage we've finally gotten to the point where we can work things out right then and there instead of dragging out the solution for a couple days.

By Saturday night we were happy with each other again, just in time for him to leave for a business trip to Guatemala the next day.

At least now we can text each other sincere love notes like:

Hubby: Are you trying to avoid saying that I'm right? Because I always am.

Me: I don't want to pop your homemade happy bubble, so I'm just going to smile and nod. :)

They could write a romance novel about us.

Then make a movie.

Then everyone could wear shirts that say, "Team Serene".

Anyhow, moving on to the rest of our family trip!

Saturday morning everyone was sadly up by 7:30am. Our hotel room was actually on the first floor right across the hall from the breakfast room. So we more or less stepped out in all our freshly rolled out of bed head glory and went to get some breakfast.

Several spilled cartons of chocolate milk and ten pounds of bacon later, the kids were happy and full. After getting ready for the day, we piled into the car and drove down to Temple Square.

Our first stop was the Church History Museum.

It started out well enough. I mean, they have a few "child friendly displays". Like ship bunks,

and handcarts.

"Take a picture mom!"

"Me too!"

"Wait for us!"

I know Savannah was simply trying to look like she is working hard to pull the handcart, unfortunately... well, let's just say it's not her best moment.

However, soon we were constantly pulling Claira out of displays, and re-straightening the large framed images on the walls she tried to pull down; telling the boys "not to touch", and at one point, Alayna wanted to walk through the "pretty doors" and climbed up into a display and turned the knob to what was probably original temple doors.

I don't remember exactly because I was too mortified when I noticed her just in time for museum staff member to poke his head through the other side of the door and tell her she needed to get down.

So... not awesome.

We made a quick escape to the upstairs where they have an entire children's play area. It was "The Latino Culture and the Book of Mormon."

Nephi's boat was immensely popular.

As was the building of a wall.

Claira's favorite part was the kitchen area. Complete with a garden where she couple pull out vegetables.

And I know you probably can't see, but if you look really close at the picture on the right, she's holding a chicken. There was even a chicken coop with several chickens in it that clucked and carried on.

She especially loved the chickens.

Alayna made some new friends,

while Savannah learned some new dance moves.

She even convinced Daddy to dance with her.

What a daddy won't do for his daughter. I never could get the man to dance with me.

Sorry the video is so shaky, I was having a really hard time not laughing.

Finally after two hours, we managed to drag the kids away. They probably would have stayed there all day if we had let them. Especially Claira.

After a quick snack, we visited the Tabernacle.

I never cease to be amazed at the pioneer's incredible craftsmanship and devotion.

I love visiting the Tabernacle!

Just outside of it was a fountain, one of many on Temple Square.

As soon as the kids saw it they charged over. Next thing I know they are all begging me for a coin to toss into the fountain.

Amazingly I had enough pennies for each of them to have one.

Check out Joseph there on the right. He's wishing pretty intensely.

I would love to know what his wish was.

We made a quick stop into the Assembly Hall.

Jacob particularly thought the spiral staircase was cool and wanted me to take a picture of it.

By now the kids were starting to wear down and we knew we needed to start wrapping this party up.

We decided we walk around the Salt Lake City Temple before heading back.

"It's too bright! We can't see!"

Joseph: "Now mom and dad, go sit down and I will take your picture."

In which daddy goes on a picture taking spree.

As we headed back to the car, we really wanted to take a quick walk through of the Conference Center so the kids could see where General Conference takes place.

Unfortunately, it was closed because there was going to be a YW broadcast there in a couple hours.

But the kids didn't care one they saw the water!

Once the realized I was fresh out of pennies and they couldn't make anymore wishes, they were practically dying to go swimming in it. They even asked if they could drink it because it looked so crystal clear and clean.

We shut that idea down as fast as we could.

And thus ended our adventure to Temple Square.

There was tons of other buildings to visit, but the kids had had just about all the walking they could handle.

So we grabbed some food and headed back to the hotel, where the kids promptly announced they wanted to go swimming!

Figures.

So we all changed and headed down to the swim park. Claira didn't last long though, she was super tired. So she and I went back to the hotel room, got cleaned up, and watched "Wizard of Oz", and then "The Ten Commandments" that was on TV.

Around 7:30pm, after several hours of swimming, daddy and the rest of the tired crew tromped back into the room.

Once everyone was ready for bed, they all plopped in from of the TV, just captivated by "The Ten Commandments". I was surprised, but all of them, even Alayna was fascinated.

Slowly, one by one, they all fell asleep to the show except Savannah.

By 10pm, we told her it was time for bed. She was disappointed she didn't get to finish the movie, but was tired enough not to put up a fight.

Sunday (Easter) morning, we all groggily got up to get some breakfast. After ensuring that the breakfast room was covered in scattered fruit loops, we got ready for church and headed over to my brother's apartment where they let us hang out until their ward started.

Since it was already after 2pm by the time Sacrament meeting was over, we went ahead and started for home.

A few hours later, we pulled into the garage and spilled from the car.

Home Sweet Home.

The End

Six hundred loads of laundry later........

Jacob's Hot Girl

2013-04-03T12:30:00.000-07:00

Jacob came tearing through the door after school yesterday with a huge grin on his face.

Jacob: "Mom! I got me a hot girl!"

Me: *blank stare, cricket chirping* "Say-a what who now?"

Jacob: "I got me a hot girl!"

Me: "A hot girl?"

Jacob: "Ya! Look I'll show you!"

I gingerly perch on the edge of the couch next to him, as though I was preparing to leap away from a fire.

I wasn't entirely sure what to expect here. He'll be six years old next month.

He reached into his backpack and pulled out a magazine. *gasp*

Relief came flooding when I read the title, "Parks and Recreation".

But relief was brief as I started wondering what "hot girl" he had found in the magazine.

I started biting my nails. Finally he found the page he was looking for and pointed to the picture.

Jacob: "See? A hot girl!"

I finally breathed.

Then laughed. Probably more than was necessary.

Oh blessed innocence.

Apparently shooting a bow makes you "hot". What you look like is totally irrelevant.

I suspect he's really going to like "Hunger Games" some day.

Our Salt Lake City Spring Break Trip - Part 1

2013-04-02T07:16:00.002-07:00

Determined that we would do something fun together as a family for at least a tiny bit of spring break, Hubby worked 15 to 16 hour days all week long, just so he could take Friday off.

Poor guy. I have to admire his determination.

For me, Thursday was spent cleaning... sort of, and packing... kind of.

Hey, I do the best I can. But a grouchy almost two-year old is a grouchy almost two-year old.

If you have one, you know what I mean.

Anyway, Friday morning the kids were bubbling with excitement and as we got everyone dressed, I gave strict instructions that breakfast be toast and juice only! No milk allowed!

If you've read my blog for a long while, you'll know that car sickness runs rampant in this family. And we ALWAYS travel with a "puke bucket"... and extra bags.

Luckily this time around it was not needed, thanks to the toast and juice.

And no joke, about five minutes into the trip, we got the first, "Are we there yet?" If I had a dollar for every time one of the kids asked that question on the trip, I'd be able to buy a new car.

With cash.

Seriously, that question is forever burned into my brain and I wake up in cold sweats because of it.

Okay not really. But needless to say, the kids shouted off that question A LOT.

Once we reached Salt Lake, we drove straight over to Hogle Zoo.

It was pretty busy, but the kids were darn near bursting with excitement As we trolled the parking lot looking for a decent parking space, low and behold, we stopped to ask a lady if she was getting ready to leave.

She was kinda looking at me funny as said, "Serene?"

It took her saying that we had met at the blogger's conference a couple years ago for it to register.

It was Rachel from "Trapped Between a Scream and a Hug"!

Seriously small world. I am down-right impressed she even recognized me.

Anyway, once we got into the zoo, we had a huddle to decide which way we were going.

Obviously the elephants came first.

Claira was super impressed and let the whole world know it.

Hangin' with the rhinos. They're back behind my head.

The kids really liked the seals and the sea lion!

Especially Claira.

Where to next?

Crazy girls.

My boys.

The giraffes were quite a sight.

Claira was yet again, quite impressed.

I think she scared half the zoo with all her excited yelling. She not talking yet, even though she's almost two, so she just yells and screams for communication.

Drives me to near insanity.

The porcupines look so soft! Jacob really wanted to pet one.

Trouble makers.

Nice... very nice.

Claira was fasinated by this restless cat that just kept stalking back and forth.

I finally had to drag her away.

She also loved the monkeys... so much. And made it known by yelling in complete excitement.

We got a lot of looks and raised eyebrows.

Ah well, what can ya do.

Once we made it through the whole zoo and saw everything we could see, we headed herded our tired crew out to the car.

Although I have no pictures for any of this, we met up with my brother and sister-in-law and their adorable twins for dinner.

Once we stuffed ourselves, we drove over to the hotel.

Hubby and I were ready for bed right then and there, but the kids knew we were staying at this particular hotel simply because it was an indoor water park!

Because of this knowledge they all got a second wind at 7pm.

They wanted to go swimming! They would surely die of anticipation if they didn't.

So, we went swimming.

A couple hours later, and after promising and crossing our hearts that they could swim again tomorrow, we finally convinced them it was time for bed.

The boys took the hide-away couch bed, we had brought a pack-n-play for Claira, Alayna wanted to sleep on the table but we convinced her to make a special bed from the couch cushins instead, and Savannah shared the king-sized bed with Hubby and I.

That girl single-handedly took up the whole bed, and morning came far too soon, all bright and cheery.

TO BE CONTINUED.....

April Family Challenge - Plant Something

2013-04-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning! I hope you all had a splendid Easter.

We spent our weekend out of town and I can't wait to show you all of our fun photos! In the meantime, I will be doing a ridiculous amount of laundry to clean up from our mini vacation.

Anytime we go somewhere as a family I feel like we're moving since we have to pack so much stuff.

And "back-up stuff".

And "just in case stuff".

You get the picture.

Anyhow, I am determined to do better at posting these monthly family challenges. My friend Michelle from "Fun on a Dime" had asked me to participate and I've been lousy at it.

So here we go. This month the Family Network Challenge is a fun one.

Challenge: Plant something new with your kids. Care for it, take to it, check up on it. Bring the magic of growth into your family.

Although I don't know how well it will work out for us since very few people plant things around here until Memorial Day weekend.

Late frosts and all. They get'cha every time.

But this month's challenge is hosted by Sarah from "Play With Your Family". She says:

Spring = Hope

Spring feeds my soul. Its rain cleans the stains and mud of the last year. Its wind carries away worry, doubt and fear. Its flowers deliver optimism, smiles,and love. Its bird’s put a song on all of our lips. Its sunshine pulls my body to do cartwheels and toe touches. The blossoms on the trees and the green hint in the grass mean play and memories are on their way. Birth of chicks and bunnies reminds us all of the precious gift of life. Easter reminds us all that none of this is possible without Christ.

All of these emotions and feelings can be explained to a child by watching a plant grow. By taking an insignificant little seed, putting it in plain dirty dirt and watching something beautiful, almost magical and full of life emerge.

Here are a few articles that I enjoyed that discuss good kid friendly plant and ideas:

GREEN THUMBS IN TRAINING - SHEKNOWS.COM

HOW TO PLANT SEEDS WITH KIDS - NUTURESTORE.COM

HOW TO GARDEN WITH KIDS - KIDSACTIVITIESBLOG.COM

CHOOSING WHAT TO PLANT - COMMUNITYPLAYTHINGS.COM

Fun right? I'll add the linky below so you can add your posts just as soon as I can figure out why it's not working.

Buried Treasure

2013-03-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, back when I use to have an amazingly awesome and funny blog... at least in my happy place I liked to imagine it was so.

And because my invisible friend assured me that it was.

Anyway, I blogged almost every day.

Totally crazy right?

But I use to write down funny things my kids had said or done, otherwise I'd forget.

As I was going through my junk drawer... I mean *clearing throat" my assorted drawer of miscellaneous papers, I discovered something I had written down and completely forgot about.

It was like finding buried treasure.

The Scene:
Hubby is asleep on the couch while Jacob and I converse in the kitchen.

Jacob looks up at me and asks:
How can I wake up daddy?

I quickly respond:
Well, I don't think you should try right now.

But Jacob doesn't seem to hear me as he is looking extremely thoughtful before stating:
I bet a ham will wake him up!
Or a violin.
No, that won't work, that will just put him back to sleep.
Oh! I bet a whack on the head will wake him up!

A really hard one........

No more Batman for this kid.

Hello Spring Break

2013-03-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of Spring Break.

And while having all five of my amazingly fantastic and funny children home all day can be down-right fall-asleep-while-folding-laundry exhausting, and I can erupt into a steaming twitchy maniac at the drop of the third full cup of juice, it is also great and fabulous.

I actually love having all my children home together.

Now, don't look at me like that!

My kids have already done several jobs this morning to earn their movie and game time.

Pish, I also didn't let the boys eat candy for breakfast when they begged. So there.

However the question reminded me I had some chocolate stashed away in my church bag.... Sure it was only 9am but dang-it-all, they were sooooo yummy!

Eh hem....

Besides, it's still about 20 degrees outside. I'm looking forward to the warmer weather coming later this week so they can run wild at free at the park!

And I'm wearing flip flops all week.

Boo-yah!

Anyhow, while my kids have been good sports so far about doing chores, I really need to do some of my own.

Now now, let a girl explain herself!

A couple weeks ago I posted pictures of a some fabric scarves I had made and put them up for sale onto a craft website.

Little did I know that it would result in 42 more orders.

Yeeowza!

Sure it's awesome! But with that many to make, I moved my craft station temporarily upstairs so I could keep an eye on everything while making them.

So our kitchen has looked like an awesome disaster for over a week now.

It's driving Hubby to drink.... lots of chocolate milk.

He's been a surprisingly good sport about it, though he is quite ready for our kitchen to be a kitchen again.

And despite my best intentions to have everything upstairs so I could keep track of the kids, it took Jacob and Alayna less than ten minutes to destroy the downstairs.

The best laid plans... HA!

Living Room Picnic

2013-03-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

Me in horrified shock: "Jacob! What in the world are you doing?"

Jacob looking at me as though I had just sprouted horns: "Uh, having a picnic, obviously."

Me trying to decide whether or not to leave them be and enjoy their disastrous creativity that they were clearly enjoying, or to enforce the "no food out of the kitchen" rule and make them clean it all up right then and there: *heavy silence... utter defeat* "Fine, but no more! Please!"

Jacob, seeing that he would live to make a mess another day, happily turns back to shoveling food into his mouth: "Here Claira, try crackers on your bread!"

Ten minutes later...

Jacob obviously bored with his picnic: "Mom? Can I play on the kindle?"

I look over into the living room: "Sure, after you clean up your gigantic picnic mess."

Jacob also looks into the living room, then back at me with incredulousness written all over his features, and in total seriousness asks:

"Why?"

Hysterical Laughter

2013-03-21T06:26:00.000-07:00

They're going through a phase right now.

When these two aren't pummeling each other... lovingly, of course, *cough* they're on a hysterical laughing kick.

The other day at the dinner table, the boys kept goofing off and showed no interest in eating, just pushing and poking each other while laughing hysterically.

I was waiting for a cup of juice or a plate of food to get knocked to the floor and suddenly wished I hadn't bothered to sweep it.

Both Hubby and I asked them to calm down but to no avail, they were too busy laughing at each other to pay us any attention. They were starting to get rather wild.

We finally busted out the word "consequence" and said if they didn't settle down and eat, they'd be getting some.

A slight pause, more hysterical laughing.

Fine. No treats after dinner.

A pause, some whining... more hysterical laughter.

Fine, then no game time on the kindle tomorrow.

A pause, some intense whining and crying... more hysterical laughing.

Fine, you guys can clean the bathrooms, the basement, and fold all the laundry!

Weeping, wailing, gnashing of teeth... more hysterical laughing.

Everything we said was met with hysterical laughter and accompanied by the simple explanation from them that, "We just can't stop laughing!"

I'm already seeing their teenage-hood flash before my eyes....

Then there was bedtime the very next night.

Just use your imagination. I'm sure you can figure out what happened.

Maybe it's the hair.

Wait... There Was A Holiday?

2013-03-19T06:10:00.001-07:00

While I don't believe in going all wild and crazy for every holiday, (it would just make me more wild and crazy than I already am) I do try to do a little something with my kids.

Generally for St. Patrick's Day, we make leprechaun traps.

Aaaaaaaaaaand............ that's about it.

I don't even wear green.

But this year, we didn't get around to it, even though I had already bought chocolate for it.

Pish, of course I bought chocolate! Oh ye of little faith.

Savannah was a little bummed we didn't make traps. But don't worry, it all worked out in the end.

The kids down-right loved it.

Sometimes my brilliance amazes me.

I've said it before and I'll say it again. It's all about the candy.

KEEPING IT REAL

Not long after discovering the note, a huge fight broke out over the chocolate coins... before 7:30am. It was so bad that I took them all away, laid down the rule that no friends were allowed over, and we were going to spend the entire afternoon cleaning the house.

I am proud to say that I followed through with that. The kids did earn a chocolate gold coin at the end of every room cleaned.

Now my house it SO much cleaner than it had been, the chocolate is almost gone, and the kids had a good afternoon.

Score one for Mom.

I get an extra chocolate for that.

Joseph Turns Seven

2013-03-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

As I was trying to find Joseph's newborn pictures, I discovered that there really aren't that many! While I was sad that we didn't have more of Joseph in all his fuzzy newborn glory, I was also feeling selfishly relieved because what few photos there are of me post delivery, are not pretty.

I looked like Violet who had just reached the blueberry pie dessert portion of Willy Wonka's three course meal gum. Well, minus the blue color.

And that's just a kind description.

Anyway, enough about me, let's talk about me Joseph.

When I took cupcakes over to the school on his birthday, he was wearing this birthday crown. He loved it so much and wore it every chance he got for three or four days straight. He would fly into a tizzy any time anyone else dare to even look at it, let alone try it on.

Hubby and I took him out on a special birthday date. When asked where he wanted to go for a treat, his response was shouted with lots of enthusiasm.

Jamba Juice!

That boy has good taste. He totally gets it from me.

Wowza, I was a lucky girl getting to go out on the town with these two good looking fellows.

Joseph thought he was so funny giving daddy bunny ears, though you can barely see them, and you can't see them at all on me!

He gave it his best shot though.

Once we got our order, Joseph apparently decided he was going to see if he could blow bubbles in his smoothie.

Next thing I know, the lid had exploded off the cup and half his smoothie covered his shirt, coat, and was splattered all of the floor.

He made such a mess.

Totally gets it from me.

Jamba Juice was nice enough to give him a new smoothie.

An even bigger one too. Lucky guy.

So with his shirt and coat sopping wet, we made our way over to the store to let Joseph pick out a birthday present.

I admit, it was so fun watching him oogle over all the toys and as we went isle by isle checking out every option to see what he wanted the most.

Naturally he settled on something much too expensive.

But we were able to talk him down to a compromise.

The next day, these three musketeers put their heads together and worked on Joseph's new legos for hours until they had them all put together.

It was most fascinating to me to watch them work so hard together without fighting!

I'm half tempted to buy more legos, just to see it again.

When I asked Joseph what kind on cake he wanted, I almost kissed him out of relief when he settled on a simple football cake.

Deep down, he must really love me.

The kids chowed down with much eagerness... except poor little Claira.

She was denied cake and ice cream since she refused to eat even a single bite of her dinner.

It did NOT go over very well.

Ya......

Jump over to Facebook and leave your input as to what you want for my 1000th post giveaway!

Cushioned Glory

2013-03-13T07:53:00.001-07:00

Upon hearing an angry or pain-induced ear splitting scream, it is usually followed by one of two sound groups.

a) more ear splitting screams, growling, and thumping noises as the two go at it like bats out of h... well, you know.

b) lots of shushing and "I'm sorry, I'm sorrys", followed by promises of sugary or intrinsic gifts if they will "not tell mom" and "stop crying".

And occasionally, something else entirely happens.

I walked in upon this the other day.

I asked Jacob what in the world was going on. He explained that Alayna had accidentally hurt Claira so they were trying to make her feel better.

Clearly it was working.

As she sat there in all her cushioned glory, Jacob and Alayna kept faithfully bringing her toys, books, and snacks.

And she milked it for all it was worth. She's a smart cookie.

Totally gets it from me.

Man, I'm feeling a little jealous! After all I endured to bring them into the world, don't you think I deserve a turn on the couch surrounded by comforts while the kids bring me books and snacks?

*sigh*

Ah well. Guess I can always live the life vicariously.

Thanks to all you who have joined me on Facebook! We're having a blast!

Come On Spring! Don't Let Me Down!

2013-03-11T06:40:00.000-07:00

You know how it is.

You walk into the store for one thing. ONE THING! Well, two counting the chocolate bar you plan to snag off the rack while standing in the check out isle.

Am I the only one who unsuccessfully tries to look inconspicuous when they do that? I can't seem to help myself. Especially if it's only 9:00 in the morning. It's like I don't want the all the other people standing in line (who I'll never ever see again) to know it's not the first chocolate I've had that morning.

As if they would know.

Must be the guilty conscience.

But I digress.

So you go to the store for one thing! Next thing you know you're walking out with ten items you hadn't planned on getting and forget the one thing you went to buy in the first place!

So been there, so done that.

In this case it was a large box of sidewalk chalk this last Saturday afternoon that distracted me from the reason I had gone to the store in the first place.

It was beautiful, just sitting there calling my name, demanding me to acknowledge that spring is coming. And yet, I hesitated. I've lived out here in the west long enough to see SNOW IN FRIGGIN' JUNE!

*clearing throat* Said in the most ladylike manner of course.

And so yes, I hesitated. My hand hovered over the box handle that was just begging to be grabbed. We stared at each other for what must have been at least four minutes. Even I will admit it was awkward.

Then, I caved. I hurriedly snatched the box, tossed it into the cart, and took off speed walking down the rest of the isle and avoided making eye contact with all the fancy bubble blowers before they took it as an invitation to jump into my cart too.

Then yesterday after church, Alayna begged me to let her play with the chalk. It was windy, and still pretty dang chilly, but the sun was shining and demanding to be noticed.

So out we went.

Oh my... I just LOVE these ridiculously adorable monster monkeys!! Ahhhhhhh...... so cute!! Love 'em!

Except at 2:00 am.

But other than that, I love 'em!

I adore watching my kids play. As difficult as motherhood is, and despite the fact that but the end of the day there's a good chance I'll be a bit singed around the edges, perhaps even some smoke coming out my ears. But I sure do love watching these guys play together.

They make me happy.

And maybe I was just in a good mood from watching, "The Sound of Music". *sigh* They just don't make good movies like that anymore.

I was having the strangest urge to break out into song and dance.

Thankfully Savannah distracted me before I could totally embarrass myself by doing those very things outside in the driveway instead of in the safety of the kitchen while making dinner.

What? I'm not ashamed.

Naturally Savannah made a hopscotch game.

And this was her motto.

Probably because she made a 38-hop long game. I'm pretty sure I pulled something while I was attempting to completed the weird maze of oddly-shaped hopscotch... not squares. Hopscotch spaces... areas?

Oh whatever, you know what I mean.

All in all, it was a pretty good Sunday afternoon.

Come on spring, don't let me down!

"Dear Kitchen" - A Recipe Roundup

2013-03-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Kitchen,

I really hope you can understand and not be too upset, but this relationship isn't working. Truth be told, I just don't like what we do together when we hang out. Every single day it's the same thing. You want me with you, not to relax and hang out, but to work! Always cooking and cleaning, cooking and cleaning. Who do you think I am!? Serenederella?

I even try new recipes with you, all the time! Just to keep things exciting and fresh. But do you appreciate my efforts? NO! You just bring along all your dish friends. I mean, I have nothing against dishes in general, but the ones you spend time with are always get so dirty and smelly! AND THEY NEVER E-HEH-HEH-HEEEEND!

*deep intake of breath* Look, I just need some space, okay? Maybe once you mature and become like the Jetsens kitchen, we can get back together.

Deep down, just know that it's not you, it's me.

~Serene

P.S. Here is a photo for you to hang onto your wall for inspiration. I have high hopes for you my friend.

High hopes.

I envy those women who find great joy in cooking. I really do.

And it's not even that I really dislike cooking itself, it's mostly the mess cooking creates! And actually starting is hardest part.

Like exercising.

Only... not.

Anyway, here are a few Pinterest recipes we've tried here at our house.

Click on the titles to be taken to the recipe. Enjoy!

Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

Okay, so this first one isn't a recipe I found on pinterest. In truth, I've been using this recipe for a really long time now. I LOVE it! I know it has become rather famous so I'm sure many of you have seen it. But if for some reason you've missed out on this plate of joyful yumminess, I suggest you give it a try.

NOTE: If I'm in a hurry... okay, let's be honest. If I'm in a lazy mood or if we're running low on chicken (which I didn't feel like cooking anyway) I'll use a can of refried beans instead of the chicken, keeping all the other ingredients the same, and make burritos. YUM!!

Taste: 5 out of 5 stars
Ease: 4 out of 5 stars
Time: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Penne Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

While the creamy sauce was pretty darn delish, (very restaurant tasting) neither the Hubby nor the kids liked the sun-dried tomatoes. You'd like I had put fish eyes in it they way they carried on and on about the evils of having to be my children and eat their dinner. *insert eye roll*

Would I make this again, yes.... minus the tomatoes.

Taste: 4 out of 5 stars
Ease: 5 out of 5 stars
Time: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Yes, another soup recipe. I've discovered that as long as cheese is involved, my kids will likely eat it.
So it was with this soup. After the big hit the Cheeseburger Soup was, I was curious to see how the broccoli cheese soup would do.

To my exceedingly overabundant relief, most of the kids liked this soup and ate with without too much complaining! And no canned soups at all in this recipe so it's very healthy too!

Hubby did claim that it had a weird after-taste so he thought it was a store-bought mix. But I liked it just fine.

Taste: 4 out of 5 stars
Ease: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Time: 3 out of 5 stars

Oreo Cheesecake Cookies

Do you think it's a bit... ironic that some cookie recipes require you to buy and smash other cookies, just so you can make a different kind of cookie?

Hmmm... cookie for thought.

Anyway, I was finally able to but the brakes on my chocoholicism long enough to refrain from drowning all the oreos in milk before they made it into this other cookie recipe.

Not bad! I was going to give them four stars but my sister-in-law said she's give them five. Lucky girl, she was here when I made them. So I shared.

I've come a long way.

Taste: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Ease: 4 out of 5 stars
Time: 3 out of 5 stars

What recipes have your tried recently?

Come join the fun on Facebook too!