The Park Wife

Ask The Park Wife: Not From Scratch Cookies

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 15:06:00 +0000

Is making cookies from a bag (like Betty Crocker's sugar or choc. chip) qualify for homemade? Upnorth

Dear Upnorth,
I would have to say NO. But, that does not mean that they are not tasty and completely acceptable to serve. You could doctor them up a bit or if you are taking them to a party, put a few minutes into the presentation.

But, as with everything in life, be upfront and honest. When I get compliments on pre-made food, which just has to happen sometimes when you have kids and 3,248 other things to get done in a day (I hear all my foodie friends GASPING ), I say, "I was up all night making that". Then I say, not really, and tell them what brand it is.

As if we as women need one more thing to feel inadequate about, girl, just get that roll of dough and pop them in the oven. Remember, it is the thought that counts and the people you want to surround yourself with in this life will be perfectly happy with Betty Crocker as long as you are there with them.

The Park Wife, who will never be featured on the Food Network

It is better to live your own destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else’s life with perfection. ~ The Bhagavad Gita

Ask The Park Wife: Holiday Guests

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:59:00 +0000

Park Wife, please help! I have family coming in for Christmas. We drink decaf coffee, they like regular. We use 2% milk, they like whole. We eat cereal, they cook a full breakfast everyday. We don't drink wine, they have a glass every night. Am I expected to buy new coffee, milk and stock my liquor cabinet? Should I get up and make breakfast everyday? I want them to feel 'at home' and I don't want to make them mad but I still want to stick to my grocery budget. Julie

Oh Julie, you might as well readjust your grocery plan to include Ramen Noodles for the remainder of the month. Yes, if you are hosting guest in your home, you will need to make some adjustments for hospitality sake.

With that said, there are ways to make them feel welcome without TOTALLY messing up your routine or breaking the bank. I recommend that you make a nice basket to have in the kitchen when they arrive with a small thing of coffee, a nice, yet affordable bottle of wine, and make some kind of breakfast pastry so they will have something to nibble on when they wake up and you guys are still warm under the covers. I am sure you can think of a few other affordable things to put in the basket according to what you know about your guests. If all else fails, you can print out a map with directions to the nearest Waffle House, I jest.

I don't think you have to go overboard, but you will need to do your best to make them feel welcome in your home. And, that might require an early rise, some extra caffeine and a couple of wine glasses in the sink.

Happy Entertaining,

The Park Wife

Ask The Park Wife: Children's Manners

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 15:04:00 +0000

Dear Park Wife,

We have been invited to a holiday party at the home of my husband's boss. There will be a sit down dinner. Here is the kicker, they have invited our children too!!! I am worried that they will spit out the food, talk with their mouthes full or say something inappropriate. What do I do?
Shaking Like A Leaf in Missouri

The Park Wife responds:
Sweetie, Rome was not built in a day, but don't plan your conniption fit yet. You are going to be able to make it through so that your husband will still be employed by the end of the night. At least I hope, the economy is bad, so sistah start NOW!

How I see it, you have two options: 1- Tell your hostess that you and your spouse would love to come, however, the kids are quiet busy with school, sports, science project, basket weaving, trying to secure their space on Santa's NICE list, etc or 2- Have a "manners bootcamp" from now until the party time. Make it fun, but keep them focused on what is expected of them. Hit the big things like please and thank you, no elbows on table and basic dinner conversation.

The night of the party, have a pre-party refresher (additionally, you may bribe and threaten to take away their Ipad, oh wait, that was my secret). I think you will be able to limp through, HOWEVER, manners like all child training is not a one time thing, it is on-going. They might go through a rebellious stage where they want to chew gum like a horse, don't freak, just get a bit tighter on your training regimen. A glimmer of HOPE, I have never seen a child with well-mannered parents who grew into an adult completely devoid of social grace

Good luck and I hope they don't serve spaghetti,
The Park Wife

Tis the Season- "Ask The Park Wife" Is Here To Help

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 20:19:00 +0000

Ask The Park Wife starts tomorrow, December 1! I know, the excitement is overwhelming, calm down ladies, I am here to save the day. Bless your little hearts.

I will spend December covering all your holiday dilemma's, like being on the receiving end of a re-gift, handling all those tough questions like Did your son really drop out of college?, declining party invitations and other answers to prevent a seasonal snafu of humongous proportion.

Silly, serious, or fun...I've got an answer for everything (just ask Big Buckaroo)! If you have a problem, I'm your girl. If by some strange reason I don't have the answer (math is not my strong suit), I will channel my inner Emily Post or ask someone from my "expert" panel (um, friends).

I will then kick off the new year with more answers to your pressing questions. I will cover well-rounded interests --- child training, etiquette, relationship advice, homeschooling, community development, simple living, gardening, what to name your kids, why Gilmore Girls went off the air, you know the important life stuff.

Ask me anything- I assure you I will always give you an answer that is heartfelt with a touch of Southern charm and sass!

In the name of full disclosure, it’s important to admit I don’t have a background in psychology, unless you count the one college course I took. Well, maybe we should not count that because I made a C. But I promise I will give you the best advice I can. I also promise to keep it anonymous. Don’t worry I would never give out your real name unless you wanted me to.

I look forward to your questions, send them to theparkwife@gmail.com!

Welcome to the party,
The Park Wife

**** The Park Wife, does not accept any responsibility for what might happen if you accept or attempt to follow any of her advice. Unless of course you have a financial windfall, then I would like to get a cut of that please.

The Giving POW WOW

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:15:00 +0000

A Tradition Worth Sharing, you still have time to do this!

Hello, I am The Park Wife and I am a tradition junkie. (Let me hear you say "Hello Park Wife"). I was raised in Mississippi with many wonderful Southern holiday traditions and have added a few as I married and started my own family. However, I found out that there is such thing as tradition overload.

I live on a state park, love the simplicity of my life, and am trying to keep the holidays from getting out of hand, so I have chosen the traditions that speak to our family and have thrown out the rest.

A couple of years ago, I started a tradition with our two little buckaroos that is wonderful for character training, a history lesson (we are homeschoolers), and it helps to de-clutter before the holidays. Now that is a win-win tradition that fits our life perfectly, it is THE GIVING POW WOW.

In Native American culture, true wealth comes from sharing with others instead of amassing material wealth. The gesture of giving illustrates selflessness while it strengthens the community bond. The gesture is more important than the value of the gift. Now, that is something I want our boys to understand and embrace.

Last year, we invited some other families to join in on the fun of our Giving Pow Wow. All the kids cleaned out their closets of toys that were still in good shape and brought them to our volunteer fire station/community library wearing full Native American regalia. We sat in a circle around the treasures we would donate to a local charity and the festivities began. The children were given a history of pow wow’s and of the tribe’s from our area, that fulfilled history class for the day. Also, several of the children shared what they know about the Native American culture from sign language to the meaning of face paint colors. We then all held hands and prayed for the recipients of our gifts, that their lives would somehow be better from our act of generosity.

Plan your Giving Pow Wow today and give your children a shared past that they can pass on to future generations, a tradition that embodies the qualities of the person you hope them to be.

We return thanks to our mother, the earth, which sustains us.
We return thanks to the rivers and streams, which supply us with water.
We return thanks to all herbs, which furnish medicines for the cure of our diseases.
We return thanks to the moon and stars, which have given to us their light when the sun was gone.
We return thanks to the sun, that has looked upon the earth with a beneficent eye.
Lastly, we return thanks to the Great Spirit, in Whom is embodied all goodness,
and Who directs all things for the good of Her children.
--Iroquois

In everything, give thanks,
The Park Wife

Raising Warriors That Protect Their Hearts

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 15:35:00 +0000

Raising two warriors is a bit overwhelming at times. My brain gets tired answering questions like how do rockets work, what years did King Louis XVI live, why don't worms have legs and so on. In response to the elevated sense of wonder as they progress in age, I have had to beef up my tool bag. In addition to the crayons that are always in my purse, (along with some organic suckers when I get really desperate) I keep a dictionary in my car, yes one that is paper and bound, so I can throw it in the back seat when Little Buckaroo asks me the 50th question of the day and what it means and a Bible to seek answers in God's word. I am all about teaching them to find the answers.

But, with their hearts, I am holding on tight, not allowing to go with the flow. The condition of our sons hearts determines the course of their life and that is HUGE, I will not waver.

Every Saturday at the soccer field, the kids on the team I coach tell me about their girlfriends/boyfriends and who is "going out with" whom (which yes, is amazing since they are 8-years-old and can't drive, so I am not sure where they are going, ha).

Last soccer season, Little Buckaroo observed this and I watched peer pressure happen right before my eyes. On our way home after a game, Little Buckaroo said he likes kicking the soccer ball with Jordyn, so should she be his girlfriend. All I could think at the moment was, HERE WE GO......

I did not get married until I was 29, so I was in the dating world for a while and know how it all works, yes, all to well. I want better for our guys, I want them to save their hearts for the one God has purposed for them, but how can they do that if they give up pieces of their heart along the way?

So, here is how I explained it to Little Buckaroo. I grabbed a piece of bread and told him that is his heart. I began to pull pieces off a little at a time telling him that was him giving his heart away to a girl. When I was done, there was only a small circle of bread left. I told him that if he gave his heart away piece by piece that when he is older and found the girl God had planned for him, he would only be able to give her a piece of his heart and she deserved better than that. Does it sound like a hard thing to do this day and age, you bet. On the flip side, do I want him to end up with a girl that at 6-years-old began repeatedly giving her heart and then every other part of herself to guys. Um....no.

We hope to raise warriors that seek the face and heart of God, as they learn to wield a sword and conquer the ugly in this grand adventure called life. And, yes, I hope they will one day save the damsel in distress and treat her as the princess God created her to be.

Oh, by the way, I do find peace and humor in knowing that Big Buckaroo is charged with giving them the sex talk. I hope he is planning his tool bag for that one right now!
The Park Wife

Thank You Mr. Army Man

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 20:59:00 +0000

Dear Army Man from Walmart:
I am in awe of the sacrifice you and your fellow soldiers make so that I can take our kids to the county fair, gather with other families for BBQs, watch our kids play soccer, homeschool them in a country that allows me to be their teacher, to have Bibles all throughout our home, and so much more, all while you have to wave goodbye to your wife and children and go and fight for me to have those rights.

But, that is not why I write this letter. I have an extraordinary 5-year-old who has a spirit of justice, who is disciplined, yet forgiving, courageous, yet kind and who more than anything wants to be "an army man" when he grows up (actually he is leaning toward Marines right now, it changes often). I would like to thank you for smiling at that little boy in Walmart and when he told you that he was going to be an Army man when he grows up, you squatted down to his level, put your hat on his head and told him he could be anything he wanted to be as long as he worked hard and sacrificed for what was right.

I know sir that you and your fellow soldier had been traveling a while and still had hours to go to get to your destination. But, that did not stop you from going a step further and telling this little soldier that he could come outside and see inside your rig.

In a world where priorities are so askew, you sir symbolize what is right~ duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and courage. Thank you....for your service to our country and for epitomizing what a true American hero is to a little boy who I pray will not be afraid to live courageously among his peers and who will walk humbly with God.

Blessed at Walmart (not because of saving money, but yes, living better),

The Park Wife

Short Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 20:56:00 +0000

Little Buckaroo has been using my camera to take some pictures to enter in the county fair photography contest. So, before we went into town (we sound so rural) to film a morning show about one of the bazillion things I get myself into, he asked to take a picture of me.

I am usually the one taking the pictures so there are not many of me, as compared to all the ones with the Little Buckaroo's and Big Buckaroo. Our grandchildren one day will not know that I was ever less than 60 with white hair as they will know me then, now wait, Miss Clairol will probably still be visiting every 6 weeks, so the white hair thing might be an exaggeration.

So, I gave in and let our 4 ft 5 inch child take my photo. I give you that bit of info because it may explain photo 1.

Hey, at least it is a good shot of my beloved boots.

So, I then asked, "did you get my whole body in the picture or just my face?" His reply, "um, not sure I got either, can you squat down so you will fit in the picture?"

I went into a lesson on framing your picture in photography at this point, it lasted about 3 minutes. He then said, "oh, I get it. Now, can you squat down now, it would make framing the picture easier."

I gave in because 1-I was sweating like Paula Deen when she runs out of butter, and 2- Littlest Buckaroo was in the chicken coop trying to catch a chicken so I could hold it in the picture (yea, that was going to happen).

I hope some of his fair photos turn out better, and thankfully my friend Nikki at Delta Ridge Photography will be here next month for a visit and can take a picture of me for our grandkids.

Plus, she can photoshop ten years and 20 pounds off me hopefully.
The Park Wife

Tell Me Your Favorite Blogs

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:51:00 +0000

I love to stumble onto a blog that really speaks to me. Sometimes it feels like that blogger and I are soul sistahs and other times there are bloggers with ideas or a lifestyle that might not have any resemblance to my life, but my eyes are opened to some truth.

So, I want to know the top 3 blogs that you read on a regular basis so I and all of my readers (yes, all 5 of them) might find that kindred spirit blogger that they might not have found without you introducing them to us.

I will go ahead and throw The Pioneer Woman out there because many of us read her daily and are inspired by her. So, no need to put her on your list, she is a given.

Looking forward to "meeting" your favorite bloggers!

The Park Wife

Fried Green Tomatoes on the Mountain

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:17:00 +0000

View from our room at The Studio.

I had a fabulous time recently on Petit Jean Mountain when the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute hosted myself and the other ladies who make up the Arkansas Women Bloggers Leadership team ( Fawn, Beth and Julie) for a whirlwind overnight planning session. We were treated like royalty staying in The Studio, named aptly as it was formerly Mrs. Rockefeller’s art studio. It is perched high above the Petit Jean River Valley with an extraordinary view from the back porch. Of course, this was not my first time here since I used to work on the mountain when this facility was part of Winrock International. My dear friends held Little Buckaroo's baby shower for me here (great memories), however, it has been extensively remodeled, it is extraordinary!

There is a long list of the fantastic things that came from the planning session which we will soon share as we relaunch our AWB site. But, one of the main highlights of our time on the mountain was a culinary demonstration in the Institutes state-of-the-art kitchen. Chef Robert Hall, a native Arkansan, Olympic chef, and army veteran, treated the AWB Leadership Team and some Arkansas Women Blogger members, who are some of the top foodie bloggers in our state, to a five-course meal.

Everything was delicious and Chef shared all of his recipes with us. Go over to Arkansas Women Bloggers for all the yumminess.

Now, I am a bit more into growing veggies and selling them at the farmers' market than cooking, but like all true Southern Belles, I know how to fry me up some green tomatoes. So, go check out Chef Hall's recipe for Fried Green Tomatoes and then take a recommendation from me on how to kick it up a notch.

Fried Green Tomato Po'boys, yes ma'am, yummalicious. Cut some French bread baguettes into 6-inch lengths. Split each lengthwise but not through to the other side, Spread with some Rèmoulade Sauce. Yes, it is getting dangerously delicious right now. Layer some shredded lettuce, the Fried Green Tomatoes, cooked bacon (oh yes, bless your heart), and some avocado slices. Then, devour.

Or, you could also place some fried green tomatoes and cooked bacon on a hot buttermilk biscuit. uh-huh, that's right, I went there. Crisp, golden-crusted, hot out of the skillet fried green tomatoes, not sure it can get much better.

From one of my favorite movies, yes, Fried Green Tomatoes:

Missy: I hear they've got an assertive training class for southern women. [looks puzzled] Of course that's a contradiction in terms.

A contradiction indeed,

The Park Wife

Disclaimer: The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute provided the Arkansas Women Bloggers Leadership team with overnight lodging in their facility for a working meeting and culinary event. However, this blog post was not solicited or compensated. My opinions are my own and I have chosen to share this experience with you because I truly believe that the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute is offering something fantastic.

Thank you Gov. Rockefeller from the bottom of my heart for all you did for Arkansas and especially for Petit Jean Mountain. A life well-lived, a legacy that changes lives.

Going Home Again, Thank You Gov. Rockefeller

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 16:37:00 +0000

Home again, home again, jiggety-jig.

After I married Big Buckaroo, I moved to Petit Jean Mountain State Park where he was a ranger. Of course, moving from downtown Memphis to the top of a mountain was a drastic change, but I was in love and would have lived in a cabin in the woods, eaten beef jerky and sewn my own clothes (alright a huge exaggeration there) for that man.

Thankfully, the Lord does provide because I landed a Public Relations job at an international development organization that was headquartered on top of the mountain. Yes, I said international development and mountain in the same sentence. How does that happen? Well, one name says it all- Winthrop Rockefeller.

Yes, of THE Rockefeller Family, but Winthrop Rockefeller was a rebel. He chose not to take a job at the family business, Standard Oil, he quit Yale in his 3rd year, took a job as a roughneck in the Texas oil fields, and fought for our country as a commander in WWII receiving the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Purple Heart. Oh, and he was a two-term Governor of the state.

Through his leadership and philanthropy, he transformed the state’s politics, economy, culture, and education for the better. And, he changed Petit Jean Mountain, the place he CHOSE as his home.

A year after I chose dirty diapers, Cheerios all over my floor and baby kisses over hopping on a plane to D.C., writing brochures, website hoopla and all the other stuff that goes with promoting an organization, Winrock International moved their headquarters to Little Rock. Now, on the estate of the late Governor sits the extraordinary Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, an educational institute and conference center centered around the legacy of the ideas of Rockefeller, a place where collaboration and change thrive. And.... I have been invited home.

You have seen my ramblings about that little group (403 women strong) I founded called Arkansas Women Bloggers, right? Well, the world-class convening center WRI has invited myself and the AWB go-to gals Fawn, Julie, and Beth, um, the ladies who make it all happen, for a day at WRI. They are not only allowing us use of one of their meeting rooms for brainstorming and organization that is going to launch AWB to a whole new level (more to come on that), but they are also hooking us up BIG TIME. At noon, their culinary staff will be sharing a demonstration with the AWB ladies and some foodie bloggers from throughout the state. Yes ma'am, my belly is already preparing for the yumminess.

Go learn more about WRI at LivetheLegacy.org, it is an incredible place. WRIs Heritage Farmstead and their Growing Healthy Communities Initiative fits right into my life as a farmers' market chic and community organizer, I can't wait to learn more. Plus, I am going to be able to visit with many of my friends from my life on Petit Jean. So much fun!

Watch The Park Wife on Facebook and Twitter this weekend, I can't wait to share with you about this extraordinary opportunity to go home again.

Arkansan By Choice,
The Park Wife

An Uplifting Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 01:41:00 +0000

WARNING: All of my male readers (yes, all two of you...um, my brother and Taz) stop reading now because this is going to be about bras and not in the way that you would enjoy, sorry, I will blog about food, adventure, and single friends later.

Alright ladies, all but a few of my readers are wearing the wrong size bra. Yes you, um...don't click off, I am talking to you. Up to 85% of women are in bras that they spill out of, bras that are not supportive, bras where the straps fall down constantly and bras that flatten, squish, droop or just plain look unattractive on the body.

Hop over to Sharing The Park Wife Love site to read my article and find out about a fabulous giveaway from Le Mystère Lingerie valued at $125.

Recharging Mom Batteries

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:24:00 +0000

My BFF Jenn and I ran away. Well, we actually drove since we were going all the way to Hot Springs, Arkansas and because we really don't run unless someone is chasing us. Of course, we eventually came back, but we took a day off from boys, dirt, "look mom", making meals, and cleaning toilets.

The day began with a hour and half drive. Now, many people are usually in a hurry to get where they are going, you know the whole destination/journey debate. We are two moms with five boys between us, believe me, we can appreciate time in a vehicle without kiddos yelling behind us - "he touched me", "he is singing too loud and off key", "are we there yet?" Much needed, uninterrupted girl talk was had on the drive.

We arrived at our destination:

The Chrysalis Day Spa is a wonderful, serene place with some very nice women that work there. A deep tissue massage was first on the agenda. The lady message therapist I had was very good, however, I always get chatty and do not relax like I should. I know her entire life story.

Then, it was pedicure time. Jenn is enjoying being pampered, the massage chair was a highlight of the pedicure.

Here is my new nail color, Tropical Punch. I try to find time to paint my toenails (especially during the summer when it is against Southern Belle rules to wear sandals with naked toe nails), but honestly, I'm lucky to get to use the restroom alone most of the time. So, having someone do this for me was fabulous, a real treat!

Sushi time! My adventurous friend had never had sushi and hopped on board when I suggested it. She preferred the tempura, true to her southern roots that anything battered and fried is good. I agree, plus I love me some Philadelphia Rolls and Osaka's OMG roll, delicious!

We did a little shopping and then saw a Merle Norman. Jenn suggested makeovers. Hey, I am not under any illusion that my 40-year-old crows feet don't need some attention, so in we went.

Merle Norman (the one at 242 Cornerstone Blvd) Owner Tiffany Story got us glammed up, we were feeling pretty feisty and fun at this point. So, we went and got ice cream.

Some days I feel like running away and assuming a new identity, in Italy preferably, but most days I find there is nothing in this world that I have sacrificed that is worth more than the overwhelming love I have for my husband and children and the love I receive back from them.

We had replenished our super mom powers, so we headed home.

Our brave husbands took all the boys (pic from Army party we had a couple of weeks ago) to see Cars 2 and to Chuck E. Cheese for lunch. Jenn and I are extraordinarily blessed women, park wives of two men of integrity who love the Lord and adore their wives and children.

And, hey, they are doing a great job running two of the best state parks in Arkansas. Plan your summer vacation now at one of the 52 wonderful parks in the natural state, check out arkansasstateparks.com for more info. (I know, shameless plug, but The Park Wife must promote state parks, it is part of who we are).

A day off, fun was had by all,

The Park Wife

Our Little Navy Seal

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 04:27:00 +0000

I was raised with five brothers, gasp...I know, yes, I played a lot of hot wheels, rode motorcycles, climbed a lot of trees and yes, have even been shot with a BB Gun. No, I did not say I shot a BB Gun, I said I was shot WITH a BB Gun. Of course, to balance everything out, my mom made sure I took dance lessons from the age of 3, that I wore pretty dresses, and learned all the southern belle basics of how to sparkle.

I wondered, and asked God frequently, why there could not have been at least one sister, I mean, seriously, FIVE brothers. I found out why about eight years ago. God had been preparing me to be the mom of our two buckaroos. Our little guys have very different personalities, strengths, and interests. I am constantly in awe of their creativity, ingenuity, and lust for life.

Littlest Buckaroo is five now and he wants to be an "army man". He had planned on going to West Point, but has now decided that the Naval Academy is a much better fit. Did you read that he is only 5? He climbs the rope on his playground, does push ups and is really trying to do pull ups, hilarious. Yes, hilarious that he does better than I can.

If you are new to my blog, let me tell you a little something, when our guys get into something, they are REALLY into it. They dress the part always, spend hours researching and reading/looking at books and then act it out for days and days and weeks and weeks, sometimes months. Mercy, I thought Little Buckaroo's Peter Pan stage would never end, I thought he really was never going to grow up and become a permanent resident of Neverland. Pirates, firemen, Indians, the list goes on and on.

Here is Littlest Buckaroo, he is in some form of "army man" gear pretty much all the time. Yes, he has dog tags with his name on them. Um, did I mention that I might over-indulge their creativity a bit?

He will probably change his mind a few more times, he is five (he has not been through an astronaut nor a paleontologist stage yet). But, then again, maybe not. He has a spirit of justice, there is right and there is wrong. He is rough and tough and most importantly, he already has the discernment to know when to wield a sword.

Life needs a man to be fierce—and fiercely devoted, to God, to his family, to our country. I pray that he will wage war against against principalities, powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places and come out victorious, that he will blaze trails, be a warrior, and live a life full of adventure!

Going to practice my duck and cover,
The Emotionally and BB Scarred Park Wife

First Arkansas Women Bloggers Unplugged Conference a Huge Success

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 18:36:00 +0000

This past weekend, 45 women bloggers from all parts of the state of Arkansas loaded up their cars, trucks, SUV's and bicycles (alright, the road in was way too bumpy for bicycles) and headed out to the first ever Arkansas Women Bloggers Unplugged Conference held at the Ozark Natural Science Center. The Center is an environmental education and conference facility located in the Ozarks of northwest Arkansas. Yes, it was like going to camp, with bunk beds and giggling late into the night with your roommate. But, the lodge was air conditioned and very comfy and the folks at Off Botanicals protected us from the wild with their fabulous products.

We meeted and greeted on Friday night amidst the chirping critters, surrounded by 500 acres of Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission land. Yes, that means we were 35 miles from anything! Thankfully, I brought my own Dr. Pepper. Some of the women began hyperventilating as they drove in because there was limited (very limited) cell reception. Did you catch that this was an "unplugged" conference? Twitter withdrawal starting kicking in at about 9:00pm., but, laughter, connections, and some yummy food and drinks filled the gap.

It was a weekend filled with sessions with titles like Blogging 101, How Not to be a Schmuck, Pulling Blog Topics Out of Thin Air, Maximizing Social Media, Generating Traffic, Food Fantastic and so much more. A hugely successful craft sponsored by Elmer's (yes the glue company, and oh so much more) was the highlight of Saturday evening. Even though chronic twitching is the result of me having to use some form of specialty scissors (scrapbooking is like fingernails on a chalkboard, that is why I blog), I made it through and had a blast.

Many thanks to all the wonderful sponsors of the event. Our presenting sponsor Collective Bias, Partner Sponsor Off Botanicals, and all the other fab companies that stepped up making it all possible: Murphy USA, Petit Jean Meats, Field Notes Brand, Ghiradelli Chocolate, H.J. Heinz, NWA Motherlode, and SC Johnson!

Oh and the SWAG bags, mercy. Great stuff! I just might be giving one away real soon here on The Park Wife blog, hint-hint.

Also, to Beth of ONSC, you rock, yes, you are extraordinary! Julie and Fawn, the two ladies I suckered into this Arkansas Women Bloggers world, for your friendship and willingness for anything I suggest, you are priceless. No really, you are priceless, I can't afford you.

Looking forward to the next one, now I must go check for ticks,
The Park Wife

Cover Family

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:02:00 +0000

This time of year, I see many of my Facebook friends with family pictures at the beach, all matching with white shirts and khaki pants, then, of course I get all those cute Christmas cards with everyone in matching holiday scarves. We have never done anything like that, and truthfully, we are not very photogenic as a group. There is always one of us that will have their eyes closed, a weird look on their face or picking their nose, um... of course I mean one our boys.

Now, I have a ton of pictures of my husband with the kids because I always make them stop and pose. They have figured out that if they go ahead and look at the camera and smile quick, they can go on about their business of go-cart riding, zip lining, or whatever current adventure they are on. My friends Susan and Nikki have taken pictures of me with our boys while we were on park outings, but we have not had anyone take a family portrait, yes all four of us, in some matchy clothes EVER.

But......looky -looky what was in 14 out-of-state market newspapers (five of our neighboring states), and during the same week in every daily and weekly newspaper in Arkansas, a total print and online circulation of more than six million.

Yes, that is our family. I sure wish they would have airbrushed me some, but I will take it. As usual, we do not do everything exactly like everyone else does, but our kiddos will have some pretty cool family pictures when they get older, they just won't have well planned outfits on a sandy beach. Hey, I will take the natural state of Arkansas as family portrait backdrop any day.

Thanks to Arkansas Tourism for choosing us to model for their ads and being our family photographer,
The Park Wife

Blogoliscious Update

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 12:58:00 +0000

I started blogging back in 2007 after falling in love with The Pioneer Woman's blog, seems like forever ago.

History (in case you have never read my blog): I was a follower of Ree's in the early days and have benefited from her kindness and generosity many times. I first met her in person in Little Rock at her cookbook signing, in her re-cap of that evening she listed my blog with a notation that I was her "old Internet friend". Of course she did not mean old as in ancient because everyone knows we are spring chickens. People still click over from her site to mine, years later. She has sent me numerous P-Dub shirts and a signed cookbook for me to give away at our first Arkansas Women Bloggers meet-up last year. I adore her and am sure many women out there started blogging because of her.

In the beginning, I did not know how to do this blog thing so I just wrote about what I know- kids, park life, marriage, gardening, community involvement, my relationship with God (even though I am more interested in living my faith than writing about it), chickens, pigs, and goats, yes, it gets a little diverse. I was always concerned about getting more followers, posting every single day and carrying my camera with me at all times so I would not miss that hilarious thing that I just had to blog about.

Over the years I have found my own style and have sometimes been consistent and at other times, not so much. It seems that my kids want to eat, want me to play guns and Legos with them, oh and I have to educate them, no pressure there, ha! And, let's not even get started on the mess in my house. I finally took a breath and realized I am not a failure if I do not blog every day or my Google Analytics are not what I hoped for. Instead of blogging for my readers, for higher numbers or more recognition, I started thinking of it more as a love letter to my children, one they can look back on and see their childhood while knowing who their mom truly was through her words.

I have met so many wonderful, inspiring women through blogging, some I have never met in person: Strawberry Cake, Huckleberry Prairie, Fire Wife Katie, and more. Then there are the ones I have met in person and am blessed to call them friend: Fawn, Julie, Beth.

A couple of weekends ago I spoke at our state's homeschool conference (yes, times are tough, they were desperate, I chat for cheap) and I had dropped off a form at the homeschool alliance booth so they could make me an educator card (gets me a discount in many places teachers get a discount and visible proof when I am in Walmart in the morning with my kids that they are homeschooled and not playing hookie). I was walking off and the lady at the booth yelled, "are you a blogger?" I turned around and boldly said "yes, I am The Park Wife". She proceeded to jump up so fast her chair almost fell backwards and attacked me with the warmest, kindest hug. Yes, I have a new blog friend in real life, Jill from Team Wait.

My jail shirt, trying to be the rebel homeschool mom, no denim here. And, yes I was helping out at the booth that says "Expert" behind us. One of best friends, Jennifer, and I went to the conference together. After signing in, they told me what booth they had me scheduled to help with. We walked over, Jenn looked at the sign and started rolling laughing...and so did I. Needless to say, I am not an expert at much, but I was able to encourage some new homeschool moms.

Back to blogging. Blogging is about balance. I like to write, to document our life, but I know that my real life community, the people I actually interact with face-to-face on a regular basis, is where I need to focus. I want to leave this place better than I found it and it takes time and energy, the two things that are in short supply. I blame my Dr. Pepper addiction on that. So, when I don't post regularly, know I am still around, just busy with our boys, farmers market, and the other bazillion things. And, that I will be here when I can.

Thanks for hanging with me!
The Park Wife

Blog Conference Just Exploded

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Tue, 24 May 2011 19:01:00 +0000

I, along with my bloggy friends Fawn and Julie, have been working with Beth from Ozark Natural Science Center (who is Carpe Diem Beth in the blog world) on a little blog conference in Arkansas. But, this little blog conference that was a yummy peanut butter and jelly kind of conference just became a big time birthday cake kind of conference! Because.......

The phenomenal social media company Collective Bias has signed on as presenting sponsor for the Arkansas Women Bloggers Unplugged Conference. They manage brands such as Elmer's Glue (& their trifold science project style display boards!), Truvia, ConAgra Foods and many others. Specifically, they have an invitation-only "exclusive community designed to connect influencers, brands and retailers" called Social Fabric and work with thousands of women and bloggers nationwide.

We will be announcing the lineup of workshops in the coming days, and ladies, you will most certainly want to attend. Let's just say "ROCKIN'". We even received a nod from SheBlogs about the event recently - read more here.

Here are all the delicious details:
The Arkansas Women Bloggers Unplugged (#AWBU) Conference will be held June 10 - 12 at the Ozark Natural Science Center in Huntsville, Arkansas! This mini-conference is a networking retreat and informal blogging conference all rolled into one. The cost is $199/person (a weekend getaway including two nights of lodging, meals, speakers, networking, relaxing and *ahem* beverages).

The ultimate goal for the weekend is to unplug. Feel free to bring those laptops, chi chi tablets and smartphones if you have separation anxiety, but don't plan to spend any time with them. You won't want to with the speakers, activities and old fashioned chatting you'll cram into every spare minute. Hop over to Arkansas Women Bloggers for more information!

So, all you Arkansas, Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma, Timbuktu or wherever you are from gals, sign up today before it is too late!!!! I can't wait to meet you!

Getting excited about a weekend with fellow bloggers (and not wiping little boys behinds),
The Park Wife

Lost in Space

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Wed, 04 May 2011 13:27:00 +0000

Yes, that is how I have felt lately, lost in space. Not on a cool mission, but on one that is consumed with meetings, running the roads, phone calls, events, errands, and other time suckers, yes, I am referring to Facebook, Twitter and blogging. Gasp! I am sure none of you are addicted to Facebook. Oh, poor lonely me, the only one who checks status updates four times a day, yes four (sometimes five), and I even quit a while back and loved it!!!! I am weak.

So, I am stepping back AGAIN, taking a breath, and refocusing. This is a constant battle for me. I want to only do what blesses my little family and glorifies Him. I recently got to a point where social media was taking more time out my life than actually spending it making my community a better place, yes the one with real live people that you are face-to-face with when you talk to them. Yes, I am very weak, need discipline.

With that said, I am hitting my main priorities first and with gusto. Husband is happy. Kids are educated, healthy, happy and FUN. Garden is planted. House is not spotless, but, clean as can be when you live with 3 boys.

Hey, being lost in space is not all that bad. The Buckaroo's had a pretty cool mission last week. I got a freezer box from a local store, taped it up with help of an 8-year-old and then let him paint it.

We bought Moon Pies, Starburst, cosmic brownies, and Milky Ways. All my foodie friends are hyperventilating right now. We spent a lot of time all week with the NASA channel on in the background. Got ready for launch of Endeavour. UGGGG! No go for launch. Oh well, we ate some of our "out of this world" food anyway.

Happy astronaut who knows more about the solar system and how it works than his parents put together. I love homeschooling!

I am a work in progress (with many warning and danger signs),
The Park Wife

Hot Ranger Search, Thank You Janet Evanovich

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 12:49:00 +0000

I have been reading Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels (hilarious!). I often wondered (and was a bit disturbed) by the fact that one of the common searches that landed people on my blog was Hot Ranger. But, after reading these books, I totally get it. So, in honor of all you HOT RANGER searchers out there, here is an old post that lands people on my blog with that search! Sorry if you are disappointed, but if it makes you feel any better, I am married to a mix of Ranger and Joe Morelli in the books. Yes, I love my life.

Unfortunately, a few months back one of the barns at our Park did not like the hay that they decided to put in its loft. Or, well, I guess the hay had a problem with being trapped inside an old, drafty barn. So, it took revenge and spontaneously combusted.

Um, where are the firetrucks? firemen?

Remember we are in a rural area so we depend on the Volunteer Fire Department. Our town's department consists primarily of Park staff.

Park Rangers are usually also First Responders (medical) and Fire certified. So, here Big Buckaroo (on the right) is trying to save some of the barn or at least contain the fire so that it would not spread to any of the historical homes, i.e. matchsticks waiting to be lit. Also, my friend Nikki's house is only a few hundred feet away and let me tell you she was not getting Smores ingredients out at this point.

Big Buckaroo finally decided that his Park brown uniform might not be the protection he needed and put on his fire gear. I think that was a good idea because, um, did you see this fire?

Yeah, looks a little hot.

Time to reload, thank goodness there were many Volunteer Fire Departments that responded to help. It is amazing how people pull together during these times. Politics, religion, race, education - none of that mattered, there was a goal and everyone was working to achieve that goal. Just think what kind of world we would have if everyone worked together like this on a daily basis.

Most of the tack was saved and even some old wagon wheels.

Smokin'!

The fire was put out and although the barn did not make it, the town was saved.

I told you it was going to be a very hot post today! Also, I am single-handedly trying to clean up the Internet. When anyone Google's Hot Ranger (and I know you people are out there) they will be brought to this clean, family-friendly site!

So, for all those Googlers out there: Hot Park Rangers, Hot Park Ranger, Hot Ranger, Love Park Rangers. Park Rangers are Hot, A Ranger's Life. I can't wait to see what kind of ads show up on my site--tsktsk.

Have a great weekend,
The Park Wife

Since this post which was a few years ago, the barn has been rebuilt and is beautiful!

The Chicken Whisperer

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 16:40:00 +0000

This is a post from a while back, I thought of it since I am going to pick up 25 baby chicks this afternoon. I just never learn.

We have chickens. Lot's of chickens. We ordered 10 chickens for Little Buckaroo's 4-H project this year. I was excited, fresh eggs for the family and the extras we could sell at the Farmer's Market.

Yea, best laid plans. The 4-H truck delivers the chickens throughout the state to the different 4-H clubs. We were the last stop. There were 100 left on the truck. Yea, we brought home 100 baby chicks.

Thankfully, there were area 4-H'ers that needed chickens so we ended up with 28 chickens.

Then Lucky decided that he liked chicken, so we were down to 24. Bad dog.

They get to go out on fresh grass in the afternoons so now I have to chain Lucky (appropriate name because he is lucky to be alive) up. Then, at dusk when they go in, I let him off the chain.

The chickens started laying eggs the week of the last Farmer's Market for the season. So, now I get about 22 eggs a day. Call me if you need eggs, cluck, cluck.

Oh yea, the chicken trauma. So, whenever Big Buckaroo goes out of town there is inevitably going to be a chicken trauma. A few weeks ago, I heard a bit of a ruckus at about 10:30 p.m. and went out with a flashlight. All looked well until I looked up here (see photo below).

There were 3 hens up there roosting because they did not make it back into the hen house before I closed the door. I know, I really should count the girls. I spent the next 30 minutes in my pajamas with a boat oar trying to coax them down and get them in the hen house for the night. I kept looking around to make sure I was not on candid camera. Ugh, life on a mini-farm.

So, last weekend while Big Buckaroo was out of town hunting, I went to get eggs and there were only five in there with all the rest broken. Yea, I forgot to get them the day before and someone benefited from my absentmindedness, glad someone benefits from it. Plus, there were some wing feathers on the ground, uh oh, not good.

The next day I made sure before dark that all the girls were inside and all the eggs were picked up. I heard a ruckus at about 11:20 p.m. Lucky was inside with me so he could guard the family during the night (if he could hear anything over his snoring). It was the rooster and a couple of hens making it sound like a Desperate Housewives cat fight.

I went outside, did not see anything. I started back in, turned around and looked up. In a tree by the chicken coop sat.....

a possum! (no, I did not take that picture, I was running the other way!)

What to do???? Where is Big Buckaroo???? I want my mommy! (not that she could help, she is afraid of chickens)

I went inside and got a pellet gun, I thought I would scare it out of the tree and maybe Lucky would run it off. Did not work. Neither did the rock I threw up at him.

At this point I am thinking how did I go from Memphis chic to chick defender?

I knew that if I did not take care of this situation I would have some dead chickens in the morning. So, I went inside to get the shotgun. Not a good idea because I am scared of it kicking back and bruising my shoulder. But, I was being bold, I had to defend Tara. Oh wait, I am not Scarlett.

I went back out with the gun, aimed, then stopped, talked to myself a while, aimed again. This went on for about 3 minutes. I finally got up the nerve, took off the safety and.....click. There was not a shell in it. I could not go through that again. So I walked back to put the gun up and thought about what Big Buckaroo would do.

Well, he would have put a shell in the shotgun, but anyway, I decided to get the small animal trap, put some dog food in it and hope for the best.

The next morning I went out and SUCCESS. I had trapped a possum, I am a real country girl now. Just call me Ellie Mae. Woohoo!

Next predicament ~ my husband was not home to relocate it, I was surely not picking that cage up, have it hiss at me and risk it rushing out and attacking me. What to do, what to do????

Thanks park maintenance for giving ugly, nasty possum a new home about 5 miles from us!

Going to make eggs Benedict,
The Chicken Whisperer

***Disclaimer: We are very good to our animals, all of them, from the rabbit to the dog to the goats to the chickens to the brand new Texas brown tarantula that I would rather not be good to, but I am. Just had to say that, there are some crazy folks out there who would want to cause a ruckus over me permanently eliminating (which I did not) a possum that was about to kill my chickens.

Blingity Bad

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 14:34:00 +0000

Uh oh, watch out, The Park Wife is on a bit of a tear. Yes, it happens, just ask my husband.

Really, I try hard not to judge, it is a bit of a struggle at times, especially when I am in a situation where PEOPLE WATCHING could be considered a sport. I was at a big festival recently and since I had my camera with me, I thought I would share something that my friend Jenn and I have been ranting about for a few weeks now.

Butt bling, with crosses no less. Now, I love me some Jesus, and I am in awe of His majesty, His grace and His power (among many other things). HOWEVER, I am not going to put some bedazzled crosses as an advertisement for people to look at on my bottom. Um, what exactly would that be advertising?

These were not the tightest ones I saw that day, I had to choose one that was not like a blinking arrow sign to post. You are welcome.

I don't think the Lord wants this type of advertising, actually I am pretty positive that He is just fine on His own.

I also hear they cost well over $100, yes ma'am, we are in a recession, people are losing their homes, food costs are skyrocketing, unemployment is up, but they have some bedazzled bottom jeans.

Mercy, you can tell I am in a bit of an uproar, but hold on to your bling jeans, when this little lady turned around, she had on this shirt.

Yes, this might send me over the edge. Are you kidding me? This is just wrong on so many levels. I don't think I can even go there.

A cross is not a fashion statement, it is a way of life.

The Park Wife

Going on a MOMcation

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 01:34:00 +0000

We have two boys. I homeschool them. We do not have any family that lives close. They are with me 24-7. I adore them and love our life, but seriously, a sister needs a break.

Last year, I ran away from home for a MOMcation. MOMcation is the brainchild of my good friend Fawn over at Instead of the Dishes. It is a vacation for Mom, away from the kids, with the goal of relaxing, renewing, and repairing mom so she can be an even greater Mom when she returns home.

Last year, after frantically cleaning my house, making sure all the laundry was done and food was prepped in the fridge for the Buckaroos (it was not in this shape when I returned), I set out under a weather advisory to drive 2 ½ hours to Heifer Ranch. I like to think I am adventurous but storm chasing is not my thing. Well, and I don’t think I would like to bungee jump, skydive, or climb Everest. O.k. maybe I am not the adventurous type.

Oh wait, I am a mom to two little boys, yea, that is an adventure all its own. Sorry, I get a little sidetracked, be thankful you are not in my head all the time, whiplash honey. ANYWAY…I love a big storm as long as I am wrapped in a comfy blanket on my couch, driving in it is a different story. My knuckles were white most of the time in anticipation of this huge storm that was supposed to hit. But, I was fortunate to not run into any bad weather until Murphy showed up. As I drove up and was getting my bag out to go inside the lodge, oh mercy, the sky opened up. I freaked for a minute because I had dressed cute and fixed my hair because all you women know that we are each others biggest critics. So, I opened the door looking like a drowned rat but the warmth and laughter radiated from the room.

Of the 18 women attending, I only knew Fawn. Is that scary and intimidating? Heck yeah. But, by the end of the weekend, I had made some wonderful new friends. We had cooking demonstrations, yoga class, a tour of Heifer Ranch, book discussion, jewelry making, a bonfire, and so many more wonderful activities. Let’s not even talk about the karaoke, some things that happen at MOMcation need to stay at MOMcation, got it girls?! My favorite part was just sitting on the couch talking to the other women, hearing their stories, learning from them, commiserating with them, and enjoying getting to know them.

This year's MOMcation will be held April 29-May 1 at Heifer Ranch near Perryville, Arkansas. Join us in connecting with and learning from other Moms as well as enjoying some quiet time alone in self-reflection. For more information on this professional development opportunity for your most important job – being a Mom, visit momcation.org.

I hope to see you there,
The Park Wife

The Real World of Boys

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:04:00 +0000

My sister-in-law Katie was married a few weeks ago. It was a beautiful wedding, she looked gorgeous and has been blessed with an incredible man to be her husband.

Katie and her dad approaching her future.

Now, all of you that have young children (especially boys) know that it can be touch and go at these type of events. See, our two are ALL boy, from zip lining to tree climbing to mutton bustin', they live for dirt and danger.

However..... there are times they have to be clean and smile pretty. You know we don't want all that "unsocialized homeschooler" judgement cast upon us. So, they got gussied up for their Aunt Katie.

The Little Bucakroo's (in bow ties, we are Southern like that) and the cousin buckaroos sitting there waiting, aren't they so well behaved?

Smoke and mirrors my friends, smoke and mirrors.

Reality

And, I would not have it any other way.

Letting boys be boys while teaching them to be gentlemen,
The Park Wife

A Little Boys Trip to a Wonderful Life

noreply@blogger.com (The Park Wife) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:23:00 +0000

A little story for you today.

There once was a little Louisiana boy that went to a state park in another state.

It took them 6 hours to get there, seemed like forever to a small child.

Are we there yet?

Adorable little boy's picture was taken at one of the overlooks.

A picture that would give a glimpse into his future. Mercy, he is precious.

Little boy grows up. Through a twist of fate (yes, God's plan), he gets hired as a Ranger at the state park he visited as a small child.

He marries the woman of his dreams (yea, that's The Park Wife) and becomes assistant superintendent of that mountain park.

They have a baby boy who has his dad's good looks, intelligence, and heart of gold.

Years later, they move to another park, in another part of the state, for him to be the superintendent.

No more mountain views, lots of really old stuff (a historical park).

They have their second child. A boy who has his dad's warrior spirit, loving heart, an adventurer. Help me, that boy is gorgeous.

The Ranger and The Park Wife always take their kids back to the place they fell in love.

Where their story began.

Where their kids can experience the beauty of God's creation and the community that made them one of their own.

Even though they love their current community, they hope to move back to the mountains in the future ......waiting.....waiting.....

Are we there yet?

Still waiting.......and probably will for a while longer.

Story to be continued.
The Park Wife

***for those of you who have asked since this posted, NOPE, not leading up to some big announcement, nothing on the horizon. Learning to BE STILL AND KNOW HE IS GOD.