Pulling Curls

Summer Favorites : Rubbermaid Mop

2013-06-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

Summer is a hard time, I feel like I'm just following around tornadoes just trying to keep things in check as they just rip my "systems" apart. It's hard for me.

But there are a few products out there that make it all work.

This is one of them.

I bought it when I moved here, and it's still going strong.

I've tried lots of different recipes in the spray bottle and they all seem to be great. I found a few on pinterest.

Do you have a floor care product you love? Comment below, I'd love to hear about it. But, I kind of love my rubbermaid mop so, I doubt I'd step out on it. :)

Summer Schedule Under Attack

2013-06-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

I knew it was going to be hard.

3 kids, 3 different lessons, all of them with questions. All of them coming from my own womb, hence, each thinking their question is THE most important that anyone could ever produce. And it needs to be answered NOW.

And in the meantime I feel like I am being pecked to death by ducks.

Add braces for El Presidante and I'm ready to wave the white flag.

But I won't. Scout camp is next week, which knocks it down to just 2 kids wanting my attention. And we all know that 3 kids is a world away from 2 kids.

So we sojourn on.

I'm a huge fan of summer work, and showing my kids how to think stuff out and being their teacher. But I honestly have NO idea how homeschoolers do it. Especially all year. Especially once it gets into hard stuff. I mean, I'm doing algebra with Conner and I'm having to use brain cells that haven't been used in a LONG time. I actually preferred to let those brain cells hibernate another long while, possibly forever.

So, for any of you, what are some successful lesson tips. We do a group activity at the end, and I do ask them to go on if they have a question and I will get back to them, but it just seems like it's neverending.

Thoughts?

My main tip is to get up early, and try to center yourself before it all starts. Life gets crazy and in order to be on top of it I need a plan and be able to not lose my peanuts on anyone who says mom 42 times in a row.

I just need to say "yes sweetie", and smile. I don't have to smile inside though, that's just too much to ask.

Blessings of Being LDS

2013-06-11T18:41:00.002-07:00

This week I am teaching on "Blessings of Baptism"

I was left frustrated from this lesson. I think that kids need to understand how LUCKY they are to be in this church. Their mothers and fathers are constantly being taught how to be better parents and they take that role VERY seriously.

Beyond having the Holy Ghost, Being Forgiven and Being Able to be a Member of the Church, the third of those things offers a lot to people.

I know when I lived in California, I was nervous to share a gospel that required SO much of me, with someone else. Who would want to spend hours and hours with youth, or prepare a lesson for rowdy four year olds, or create church parties, or do genealogy. I only seemed to notice that our church was HARD to be a member of. And it's true, membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is not easy. We are constantly asked to give more, and figure out our own boundaries in where that has to end.

But there are countless good things that I don't remember all the time. Here's some of my favorites.

1. It's nice to have the same thing everywhere you go. When I go in Utah it will be pretty well the same, when I went in California it was pretty well the same. Consistency is a big thing in our church, and it's nice to be able to count on that when you move.

2. Genealogy -- although not currently my "thing" -- it is a huge blessing for people to research their family history. I know this appeals to a lot of people.

3. Ward Parties -- we have lived in wards that really have church parties to bring families together and have a good time. It's fun for the kids and the parents.

4. Primary -- We are so lucky to have people willing to teach our kids. I have recently learned how much effort goes into this. I think I didn't really know how much my kids primary teachers loved them. The more people that love them, the better.

5. Young Mens/Young Women -- speaking of people loving them. I am SO grateful for people who spend time with Conner. When he hears important things from other people it seems to stick more, then my constant rants. I don't know of another youth program where the leaders work so hard (at no gain for themselves) to help the kids. It is a HUGE blessing.

6. Relief Society/Priesthood -- we split into men and women the third hour, and I am grateful that we do it. It's nice to be with those of your own gender as that brings challenges of its own.

7. Church-house. We have lovely meeting halls which are meant for a variety of purposes, we are lucky.

8. Friends -- the women of the church meet with other women in their homes monthly. They check on you to make sure you're alright. I have to say if more people in this world had visiting teachers the world would just be a happier place. I am assigned to 4 sisters, and there are 2 sisters assigned to me (we call the women in our church sisters)

9. It's a lovely culture. I find fast and easier friendships with women who are LDS because we both usually come from the same place of a strong emphasis on family and community, and doing right. It's nice to have that.

10. The Spirit of it. We've had many people walk into our home and just notice it's different. When you spend your time doing things with the church and doing the things our leaders ask, the home just tends to be a more peaceful place. Maybe not while I'm writing this, but in general.

Anyway, have you thought of all the blessings you have because of your religion? They aren't always the "not going to hell" variety, there are plenty of them if you look for them. I am lucky to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I hope you have many blessings because of religion in your life.

Step Away From the Facebook

2013-06-08T05:26:00.000-07:00

It's graduation time back in California. Plenty of pictures of smiling faces moving up a grade, or moving up to college.

Sometimes it's just too much for a person to take on her phone screen.

I hate seeing kids that I have known since they were LITTLE move on. I hate it. I hate how kids grow up. Isn't that awful. Somehow I don't hate it (or notice it) as much in my own kids. Sure, they growing up. I hate parts of how the baby is shed from Princess P, but I do like how she's starting to make her own bed, we had a lovely date last night. She's kind of a gem.

But, also watching from far away makes it all even worse.

Not that I'd want to be there, either.

While I was reminiscing/moping about it yesterday I got a text from a friend to go on a walk. A friend who lives JUST. AROUND. the CORNER.

Which is amazing, better then I'd ever dreamed. I'm so darn lucky.

I remember my last day of school in Santa Clara. I don't know if I've ever lost so many fluids through tears since that day. Such a miserable day -- selling the house, moving on to the great unknown. I hated it.

Yet, look how great it turned out.

This is a bit of a windy blog entry that just wants to say that things are great all over. The changes you hate will one day be the changes you embrace. It just takes time. I hate that. ;)

Running With Zombies: aka, laying in my bed and sleeping

2013-06-06T05:23:00.000-07:00

It's not what you think. Ok, maybe it is.

I have this weird hip pain. I had it on Sunday and I tried to ignore it, I ran with Drew on Monday (we tried the Zombies, Run! app) and every time I'd hit the ground it would hurt worse.

So I took Wednesday off, and I want it to feel at least 85% by the time I run again.

I have no idea what it is. It's not in the socket. My main pains have been lower ab pains since I started running. I am hopeful that this is cinching-in my hips and helping with all the pelvis issues I've had since P and S were born. This pain is right on the same level as the ab pain, so I think it's all associated, but I have no idea. Anatomy was never my strong point.

I am still doing weight watchers and rockin' my 29 points each day. On the days I work out I tend to give myself up to 30 points, mostly because I really like that nice round number (seriously, stopping at 29 can be hard for me). I'm hopeful the scale is good to me today, as it has been in the past.

This is a neverending story... I'm going to go ride a fuzzy bear. Or whatever it was that kid rode in that movie.

Swimming Lessons: Money Well Spent

2013-06-04T08:35:00.001-07:00

Newsflash, Hilary doesn't like to pay for things that she can do herself. Hence, she does her own piano lessons, she tutors her own kids, she fixes her own drip system. I'm just that kind of a gal.

And I swear I could teach my kids to swim.

But 3 kids later, I just can't. They wine and beat me down until I want to cry, and they're obviously crying. El Presidante does really well. He learned strokes last year with our teacher. Mr Middle isn't a fan of his face in the water. It obvious that he doesn't swim as well as most of the kids his age at scouts. We did have lessons last year, but she wasn't firm that they were going to swim. Kept it so darn enjoyable for all of us...

{sigh}

Enter me with a fistful of money handing it a woman who'd had good references.

And it's one of my better choices.

We used Chris Parker's Swim school. It was 4 days a week for 2 weeks (one hour each time). And it was wonderful. I have a whole new girl that I'm looking at. Here's a little video footage (the Harlem Shake is because they were all shivering so much, I think it fit in well).

By the end, Princess P was able to

Get dropped in off the edge, and swim to the edge and get out (fully clothed, shoes, socks -- the whole thing).
Jump from the diving board, and swim to the other edge, with just the teacher holding her hand to help her get her breath.
She knows she still shouldn't go by the pool without a grown-up, she talked a LOT about this, and because my children are robots she tells this to me too.

Plus, she had a GIANT helping of self confidence. This was a girl, who -- along with ever other kid in the class -- was crying like we'd ripped her arms off when we made her go down to get rings. Last year she would barely put her face in the water to blow bubbles. She knew she had done a HUGE thing by getting over her fears. Mrs Parker is SO great with them, constant compliments and saying how amazing they are. I love her.

Fast forward to yesterday, when I took them to the community pool. Drew had taken them last Friday and said he'd had luck, but I was nervous about 3 kids on my own. I had taken Mr Middle to the class a couple of times so he could see how putting his head in the water would make him a better swimmer.

He did it yesterday. He swam all the way to the edge, even coming up for air. I feel like he's a safe swimmer and ready to learn more strokes at this point.

Princess P even is started to learn how to come up for air on her own. It's hard, because they feel like they're sinking when they pull their head up, but she's doing it. Mrs Parker gave us some tools before we left to get her to breathe on her own when she swims. We tap on her head to remind her to come up for air. So far she's only doing it one or two times before she runs out of steam but I think if we swim a couple of times each week she'll have it down.

I think I'm going to put both P and S in the refresher course next year.

Here's a video from the week before...

So, maybe the money, every now and then is worth it. Lesson learned. By all of us. :)

Running with Zombies Week 7

2013-06-01T07:34:00.002-07:00

Today, while running. I learned:

I can't skip. Week 7 has 3 15 second "skipping" periods. Seriously? It took me a full 15 seconds before I could remember how to do it. And the 2 after that made me feel like a complete fool. Good thing I run early and on the canal. Thank goodness.

I do like how running gets me out and thinking. Conner is headed to his first Bar Mitzvah for one of his very best friends today. I was just thinking about how I met his mom at the school schedule pick-up, just randomly and how they've had almost every class together. It just gives me warm fuzzies, knowing someone is watching out for me.

There are no prizes. I worked the past 3 days and I still was able to get up at 5:20 and go running today. Yet, no one had a prize for me at the end. I did, however, feel pretty great about myself. It's a good feeling. Mostly that it's done. Only 5 runs left with this program.

I have no idea how in 5 runs I'm going to run a full 3 miles. That seems unlikely, at best. I mean, they're still giving me 3 minutes of stretching a few times during these runs right now, and I'm not hitting 3k. BUT, running a 5 k isn't really my goal. So, whatever. We'll see how it happens. I am running all of their "free form run" parts, so that's good.

I don't think I actually hated it at any point today, but I was only running in 5 minute spurts, so I knew I could do that (as I was doing 7 and 10 minute spurts last week).

Go me. And if you're a runner, go you. :)

Hi, I am Insane.

2013-05-28T06:37:00.000-07:00

Hello Summer! Now that Memorial Day is in our rearview mirror it's time to kick these kids butts in gear. I'm sorry, I just said "butt." I meant bum's.

Either way it's time for Hilary to get her schedule on.

I got cancelled a couple of weeks ago and came up with our summer schedule. I modified last year's a bit and here it is. Mock all you want, but if one more child asks me "what are we doing next" I may scream.

And that is all.

The summer schedule:

Before 8 (my kids tend to get up around 7) get ready/do jobs
8:00 breakfast
8:30 outside time (gotta get it in quick around here)
9:00 Workbooks (they each have them -- even Conner, although his is only math)
9:30 Writing (P will work on some handwriting and then do puzzles -- I have writing assignments for the boys) -- workbooks and writing may be flip flopped if the boys need to use the computer.
10:00 "Specials" (we call them this at our elementary school -- they consist of art/music, library, PE, science)
Next (because specials are a bit random in their length) practice time (both the boys have instruments)
Next Playtime/finish jobs if needed (jobs will be checked before lunch and if they're not done, they won't get paid)
12:00 lunch
1:00 reading/naps (haha, the only one napping around here is me, but P still really needs downtime, and the boys will have some books I choose as well as ones they choose -- still on the lookout for great books for C if you have any suggestions)
2:00 Computer time for child #1 (they do 15 min of typing, at least 15 minutes of a learning game and then the other 30 is whatever they're in the mood for, within the filter)
3:00 Computer time for child #2 (only C and S have computer time, thank goodness)
4:00 Electronics time (TV, DS or wii) if earned by behavior
5:00 Help with dinner

This summer is made even more interesting by the fact that I am not dong my usual working full time stint. Drew has a pretty serious class load for the first 3 weeks and then he just has a regular class load (and we will be on vacation for some of it). I am nervous about being home alone with these 3, and a schedule helps me to find it manageable. I find that a plan of what we're going to do helps immensely. This isn't to say that we stick to this schedule 100%, it varies if we have an activity with friends or something fun at the library, but this gives us a loose structure to get stuff done with.

As for writing, I have each week assigned a topic. We only do lessons for 4 days, but within those 4 days I am pretty sure they can do a pre-write/research, a first draft, and an edited draft as well as a "project" (which could be on the computer during computer time if they want, or just a picture or something like that). We will be doing narrative, information, persuasive, and a book report. The kids also have these mini book report books that I picked up at the Target dollar section, just to write down each book they read and a little about it. We will be doing the summer library reading program as well as the Barnes and Noble one and anything else I find along the way.

What are your summer plans?

Running with Zombies Onto Week 6

2013-05-25T05:45:00.002-07:00

I am onto week 6, I've done it twice (that means only one day left). At the end you run 7 minutes, stretch/ walk for 2 -- X 3. And I run the whole thing. That means a 21 minute run. Plus, I do the 10 minute free-form run in the beginning and we are right around 30 minutes. There is NO. WAY. I could've done that earlier.

So, that's a happy thing.

But, I am gaining weight. And I'm just sick of it. I'm trying to watch what I eat, but with the end of school and so much busy-ness I am sure it got away from me.

I've been thinking a lot about protein and how it's my friend, especially as my body is adapting to my ludicrous running plan.

So, I'm back on weight watchers. I have a fancy app. It's super exciting. Can you tell I am thrilled. Because I am.

No really.

Anyway, I hope it helps. I really need to see that scale move down. I have just about 2 weeks left in my 5k app. I'm not sure what I'm going to do after that, although I have already bought the other zombie run app and I'm excited to use that. I'm thinking of running twice a week and then doing a strength video once a week. I just need to stay on track with the points.

And I can do that. 60% of my recipes are already pointed out, and it's summer with lots of delicious fresh fruits and veggies which are "free".

Anyway, that's where I am at. I am excited and mad. The end.

Oh, but the high point of my week was P in swimming class. This is a girl who last week was barely willing to blow a bubble in the water. Strong P. Strong like bull.

What I am Learning at Swim Lessons

2013-05-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Princess P is doing swim lessons. And this isn't the "let's all blow bubbles in the water" kind of swim lessons.

It's the, after 2 weeks, we throw you in fully clothed and expect you to get out on your own kind of swim lessons.

I haven't had a large amount of luck teaching my kids how to swim. I'm wondering why as I watch these lessons and something came to me.

I need to be better about making kids do things that are good for them, even if they don't want to.

She blows in Paiges face and dunks her down to grab a ring. She comes up crying, but in 2 weeks I won't have to have a knot in my stomach every time we're around a pool (I still will -- but as of now she'd sink like a brick). She's already able to swim a couple of feet and get out on her own -- after 2 lessons.

There is a great deal of crying involved in these lessons. From all the kids. It's something they don't want to do. They're scared and they think that they should just be able to play.

I sit in ACLS class hearing about every baby that someone has gotten out of their neighbor's pool. I see it on the news. My kids need to know how to swim. So she is going through a little "pain" to get a positive end result.

I feel like that's a lot about love and logic -- they go hand in hand.

So, today's question is -- what have you done that your kids don't like that you make them do for their own good? Inquiring minds....

Do You Love a Teacher

2013-05-21T18:16:00.000-07:00

I do.

Well, I love one teacher in one way.

And I love a lot of other teachers, in a different way.

A lot.

I used to think that maybe our first school was just THE most amazing school in the world. And, while that is true I am finding I just ADORE people who help my children.

My pride, my joy, my everything -- they help them. If there is anyone out there who loves my children almost as much as I do (outside of Drew and our parents) it is their teachers.

Even our swim teacher, as P has lessons right now. I get emotional with people helping her. I just feel warm inside, even if they're getting paid they're being amazing with MY KIDS.

Hip hip horray for them!

And now we're here, and we've got amazing teachers all over again. All of them, some may have aspects that I don't adore but wow. I'm just so thankful for them.

I try to write a really heartfelt, specific appreciation letter for what they have done for both my child and my family during the school year. I find that the teachers are SO appreciative of these. They don't take long, although I do mull over what I am going to say while I work out or do housework so I'm prepared when I sit down. So, I would encourage you to do the same. Let them know that you've appreciated all their hard work.

They don't get paid enough, the kids are just as horrible to them as the are to you (sometimes), they are constantly being asked to try/do new things. Parents are often unhappy with them, even though they are trying their best. Parents are apt to complain to a principal (or even higher) instead of the teacher, and the frustration just mounts.

So, what I have to say is to thank a teacher. Show them you love them, and that you hope they have a great summer. Because, boy oh boy do they need a little time "off" (and by off, I mean doing summer ed rquirements so they can keep their job paid for out of their own pockets).

Thank you teachers. You're the best. :)

ETA: I forgot to mention that I REALLY feel like the situations played out in Oaklahoma or Sandy Point with teachers literally shielding children with their bodies is what happens each day in the classroom. They sacrifice their lives for those kids. And often they just complaints and requests to do things another way. It's not how it should be. We need to see that these teachers are doing their very best, regardless of what is swirling around outside them. We need to not be the tornado they are facing. We need to ask them what they could use help on and do it. We are lucky to have them.

Tip of the Day

2013-05-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

I love Pinterest, but I HATE to print recipes with a lot of pictures. Up until now I was pasting them into a word document, which can have odd results. Until now.

Now, I just use PrintFriendly.com -- I used it on a recipe here.

For instance, I wanted to make Million Dollar Spaghetti -- so I just went to the print friendly web page, pasted in the URL and then clicked what I wanted deleted.

HORRAY, a totally great recipe that's totally useable!

Just Some Thoughts on a Friday Night

2013-05-17T20:43:00.003-07:00

Just another boring Friday night around here... here's what's wandering in my mind:

Drew's former principal left his job and is switching districts. Sad. Good guy, fought hard for Drew, gave him a lovely letter of recommendation. I hope he's happy in his new home. Other fascinating facts from the board meeting facebook page. So many thoughts of Santa Clara coming full circle there.
I had a patient yesterday that had her last 2 babies at my last hospital. I mean, WHAT are the chances. It was a happy coincidence for the both of us. Lots of warm fuzzies.
Huh, ADHD less in other countries who may put more of an emphasis on discipline. Imagine that. I will say there are kids out there who really NEED the medication. Some of the rest of them are just rowdy or the school needs a bit more tolerance for ants in their pants. I think we'll find issues with the Ritalin's of the world at some point. Be it the next generation. Drugs are like magic, they come with a price. Thank you Rumpelstiltskin.
A good friend took me for a pedicure today. It was seriously divine. Warm fuzzies every time I look at it.
I didn't want to die after I ran 10 minutes this morning. The day was busy and I got a lot done. Still going strong at 8:36, I see that happening another 20 minutes or so.
Friday nights are obviously quite happening around here!
My shins are tender to the touch sometimes (not bad at all, it's just weird). Is that shin splints? Or am I just tender? Wait, don't answer that.
There are so, So, SO many good moms out there. I am uber impressed with moms who volunteer and take a strong interest in other's children. They are amazing.
Sad for President Monson on the passing of his wife. That must be really hard. I am guessing he has an extra strong testimony of the plan of salvation, but it's still hard. Still trying to figure out how her not getting into priesthood session made it into the official statement. Either way, I am hoping that's a policy that changes.
I went to quite possibly my last playgroup today. 13 years of playgroup down the tubes. What do I have to show for it? :) Oh wait, like 9 million great memories. I love my mom friends.
And finally, I watched the Office Finale. I was struck by whoever (was it Andy) said that you need to know that what you're living now, will someday be the "good ol' days" -- so very true. So hard to treasure each moment. But I know I will miss things that happened, even today, someday.

Happy Friday everyone, I hope you all have a GREAT weekend. {mowah!}
(that was a kiss, in case you didn't notice -- an air kiss, as to prevent the spread of germs)

Running with Zombies, week 5

2013-05-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

I am over half way done! Honestly, if I didn't like the story so much I'm not sure I'd finish this. I didn't really set out to think that I'd actually run 5k. I'm not sure I want to, but I do know my endurance is increasing, which is exciting.

I ran a full 10 minutes yesterday. It was even at the very end. I'd probably already ran a good 25 minutes (on and off) before that, so I was pretty proud. I had to do some serious self talk to get myself down that road and home. It took me a good 30 minutes to settle down once I got in, but I was proud of myself.

I was pretty spent the rest of the day. Princess P wasn't feeling well so we had a little stint on the couch together. Thank goodness.

I still haven't lost any weight. I know something's probably wrong with me eating, but I feel like I'm doing pretty well... I just don't know. I'm frustrated. If it wasn't for the fact that I actually ran 10 minutes (honestly, UNHEARD of prior to now) I'd be really sad.

So, just a few more weeks, and then I will start the Zombies RUN app. I will say the app keeps me going. I'm thankful for it.

My Experience at the Allegiant Ticket Counter in Mesa

2013-05-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

Oh, Allegiant airlines. You perplex me so. I have had my eye on plane tickets from Mesa to Provo for a few months now, as if I bought at the right time it's pretty close to how much it would be to drive there. Here are a few things I've learned:

1. You can save 10 bucks/person/leg of your journey if you buy at the Allegiant ticket counter. For us, that's 80 bucks -- which is worth what I will now share:

They don't really want you to buy at the ticket counter. It's only open like 6 hours/week and they only staff one person there. She is nice enough, but yeah. They really want your 80 bucks (it's an online "convenience" fee -- and by golly, after you go through the ticket counter the internet sure does feel convenient)
I got there a little after 5, it didn't open until 6. I was 3rd in line. I was smart enough to bring my NRP book to study while I was there. Luckily, the people there were nice enough. We had a nice chat. I didn't have kids. It was moderately enjoyable.
I think as long as I got there before 5:30 or 5:40 I would have probably been alright. By the time I left at about 6:30 there were a good 20 people in line. Who knew if they'd get to buy tickets, as it closes at 9 (and I have heard sometimes they do a hard shut down at 9, regardless of who's in line).
Did I mention there's one ticket agent. And everyone that's there is buying multiple tickets. It takes her about 15 minutes for each person. She's not slow, it's just a process.
They tie your ticket to your allegiant account (if you have one) that makes adding bags later easier.
The woman at the ticket counter can't refund you a penny. She made that REALLY clear, SEVERAL times. I listened. :)

2. You can have a "personal item" and they charge for anything else. You don't have to pay for it at the time that you ticket (and the price is constant for those items) but it does add to the price. I will probably be bringing at carry on and one checked bag for me and the 3 kids and it will probably cost us about 70 bucks.{sigh} I'm wondering if I could make it with JUST a checked bag and stuff a lot of clothes in the personal items. I could always ship a box back... The personal item just has to sit under the chair in front of you -- anything that doesn't fit there, they charge you for (and I think it's like 50 bucks/bag to do it at the airport). They don't charge for strollers or car seats.

3. You have to pay something like 10 bucks to pick your seat. I have read online that parents and children will not be separated, so we haven't done this. I doubt anyone's going to want to sit next to Princess P without me there anyway.

We flew it last fall and actually had a great experience. It's easy with kids. Sure, they will nickel and dime you to death, you just don't have to buy. It's no different then gum at the cash register. Just stick to your list. Just like any airline they could have delays and since they fly out of small airports that delay could be substantial but I've been delayed or cancelled on major airlines. Life went on.

Anyway, that's my info. I had a lot of questions about the ticket counter so I thought it might be helpful to have this out on the internets. It was worth the trouble. Without baggage we bought for just over 350 for the 4 of us. I did notice that every Monday night (which is when their ticket counter is open) my flight tended to be its cheapest. It was 69/person when I left, and it was 57 when I got there. So, who knows. I'm happy either way. Happy flying! {ha, that, coming from me!}

Mom Hacker: Kitchen Food Cabinet Shelves

2013-05-13T12:21:00.002-07:00

Ok, ladies -- I had a problem. My kids were taking stuff out of my shelves and then just SHOVING it back in. I mean, don't they understand that I have a rhyme to each placement. Can't they READ the labels. No? Wait, what's that you say? -- yours don't either? Blasted.

So, I spent some time perusing my favorite organizational bloggers

Alejandra Costello
Do It On a Dime
Organized Clutterbug

And I got a few things:
1. These women are obsessed with baskets and I knew there was just NO. WAY my kids were going to pull out a basket and toss it back in there. They'd just shove it around the basket, or tell me we didn't have any and open a new container. Also, I have a hard enough time keeping my cabinets clean, BASKETS, with GROOVES, and CUTENESS? Not a chance.
2. Baskets waste space.
3. These women like Lazy Susans.
4. Lazy susans waste space.

My mind still lives in California where I had to use EVERY. SINGLE. SQUARE. INCH to my advantage. and while I still think each inch is valuable real estate, I am slowly coming around to the fact that perhaps being organized allows that every square inch isn't being taken up in the most efficient manner humanly possible.

As if I was human.

So, I broke down and bought a lazy susan. I then, bought another one -- after I made sure the one fit well.

AND {drumroll please} I did a VIDEO of the difference for y'all. I LOVE watching other people's videos about their organization, so I wanted to do it up right for you all.

So, what do you think? Do you think they're helpful or a waste of space? Will I regret my 20 dollars in expenses? I doubt it, I bet I can use it somewhere else if I don't ened up loving it here. And so far, so good (I've had them in for a couple of weeks, yes, I am slow).

Hey Honey, this crazy Mormon is using Beans in Cookies!

2013-05-09T12:23:00.001-07:00

I know, who am I? I garden, I know WAY more about our drip system then my husband, I compost, I am a plumber. I am making myself sick just talking about it.

One of my other dirty little secrets is that I add beans to cookies in lieu of the fat. Well, in lieu of SOME of the fat. If you've seen my kids lately, you'll know that fat isn't really their issue, but I really like the added properties the beans give the cookies. And since they're hidden, they are none the wiser and gobble them up.

It started with Everyday Food Storage she uses white beans in cookies and it got me thinking about using them in other things.

I'd tried it in these chocolate cookies and I finally came up with a pretty decent recipe, I'll put below. These cookies are REALLY good. I just ate 3. I can hear the zombies in my ear right now...

Chewy Beanie Cookies
Makes about 100 cookies (when I make cookies, I make a LOT of cookies, also this works out well for the bean/butter ratio)

1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed well
1 cup of shortening
1/4 cup of butter (completely random application of fat products, I would just use what you have, thi just worked for me)
6 cups brown sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup vanilla
8 eggs
6 cups of all purpose flour (I used half wheat, half white)
1 1/3 cup of cocoa (frankly, I may try 1 cup next time, I think they wouldn't suffer)
2 tsp salt
1 tsp. baking soda
2 bags of chocolate chips (I always use one milk and one semi sweet)
Nuts if desired (and my kids do NOT desire, but I think they'd be great)

Okeydokey. What do you do is put the beans, shortening and butter in the bowl. I don't soften the butter because I use it to help mash the beans. Some people puree the beans ahead of time. I am not one of those people. Then, I slowly bring my mixer up to a high speed and beat the crap out of the 3 ingredients. Til' the butter turns an ugly shade of grey and the beans look pretty well squished.

Then, add the sugar, water, vanilla and eggs and beat again. Again. Beat this part a lot. While the chocolate chips will hide a lot of the bean-ness, I just prefer not to have a lot to hide.

Then, add the flour, cocoa, salt, soda, mix until moistened and then add the chocolate chips. Once those look encoporated. I always take it off my mixer (I have a 6 qt kitchen aid, so this may not work for everyone, in which case you'd have to use half a can of beans, or cut down on your shortening) and mix it a bit by hand with a spatula.

Then, place them on a cookie sheet, cook at 375 for 7-9 minutes.

These don't do well with over-crowding, I don't know why. So I did a 4X5 pattern and they did well. Any more, not so well. But, ovens and cookie sheets will vary.

And that is all. Here's some extra photos for your viewing pleasure.

And I don't add beans to everything, but I think they're good when you can hide them. Believe me, with all the chocolatey goo in these, they're pretty well hidden.

Everyone likes them, even the batter.

Well Spaced

Running with Zombies -- onto week 4!

2013-05-08T10:31:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day that it was hard to get up. I'd walked a lot at work yesterday and I ate some crappy stuff and I was tired.

But, I got up. I don't want to miss my zombies, after all.

Last week was alright. I built up some stamina and I felt good about it.

This week is a little weird. They have you do 'fast walk/slow walk" drills, and then some running drills and THEN a free form run -- for 15 minutes.

Today I actually ran for about 10 minutes before I had to stop. I may have been able to run a bit more. I walked for a small while, maybe a minute and then a ran the rest of the way. I'm almost to a 5k, which is really exciting.

I am still running under 5 MPH. That, somehow, makes me not happy. I'd like to run faster. Does that seem like I should? I have no idea. I'm also annoyed by the songs I have on my playlist so I'm working over that too.

I also want to take a nap almost every time I am running. My lower abs are getting quite a workout. As for weight loss, I've gained a pound. I don't know what the deal is. I'm watching what I eat and just eating until I'm full. I'm not sure.

I do know this is changing my body, so that's good. I just wish it was changing it to be smaller.

Discount Foods

2013-05-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that I am a HUGE fan of the Goodwill. In fact, Princess P is so proud of the Goodwill that she flaunts it when she gets things there. Like it's Nordstroms. Should I be embarrassed about that?

Problem is, there's no food at the Goodwill. Nor, would I want there to be.

Enter American Discount Foods. I've known about it for a while. It used to be further into Mesa -- more of a pain to get to, but it's closer now.

And it's kind of scary. You never know what's going to be there.

But my family are going to be eating pepperoni and hamburgers for the next 6 months, and boy were they cheap. Oh, and we've got enough popcorn for a while. Horray! :)

Let's see, what did I pick up last week... I got:

Brown Sugar 69 cents/pound
Popcorn 69 cents/pound
Fish sticks 99 cents/pound
Corn dogs -- I got like 6 of them for like 1.50
Cheese for 2 bucks/pound
Beans for 69 cents/pound
Small things of OJ 99 cents for 6
Small snack packages (great for Drew to take to school this summer) 10/$1
Hamburger patties 1.39/lb
Pepperoni 99 cents/lb

That's the main stuff.

It's not a place you'd want to take a lot of children with you (I bribed P with a princess book while we were there), because you need to focus on prices and what's a good price (and what's not, because there was a fair amount that isn't, although their daily specials are usually pretty good).

Anyway, just a little tip. If you're looking to get some foods for the cheap. The main thing is we really need to remember to have something with pepperoni (I do have a few recipes that require this, and they are all favorites -- this one's a recent favorite) weekly and lots of hamburgers, but with Summer coming I doubt that will be an issue.

Go team.

Tis a Gift to be Simple

2013-05-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

I was in the Power of the Wasatch a few years ago... {aka, the BYU marching band} -- we played a Copeland Medley that ended with a full front march to "Tis a Gift to be Simple." I loved that show. I got chills every time we'd blast out :

Tis a gift to be simple
Tis a gift to be free
Tis a gift to come down where we ought to be.

I know these words to be true.

{on another note, it's amusing to have 100 brass players saying it's good to be simple... but I digress, it's still true}

I've been reading Little House on the Prairie. I have a strong addiction to both the TV Show and the books. I'm WAY too excited to have a little girl to share them with, and I'm slowly building my collection at Goodwill. Lately I've had a hard time going to sleep, so this has been a nice calming way to end the day.

Last night we had a huge run down on money. Tuition is more then we thought it was going to be, and somehow we are determined to pay it in cash. I feel free-er living debt free (besides a mortgage, which thankfully is a LOT lower then we had in CA), so I'd like to stay that way.

But in order to stay that way we need to realize what a gift it is to be simple.

Last year my BFF Lara went to the actual Prairie home. I was so insanely jealous. I mean, these were real people who enjoyed chasing flies and running through the grass just as much as we enjoy going to Disneyland. Their eyes were open to the many amazing things in this world. It's truly a gift to read how happy she was as a child, with so little.

And my children have a WHOLE LOT more then that.

I REALLY wanted to go to Disneyland when school got out this year. I'd checked out the prices and figured out how much it would be. We could swing it with a student loan to cover tuition (and honestly, I think there is NOTHING wrong with the judicious use of a student loan, it's just not for us -- right now, ask me again next year). I finally just came to terms that maybe I'd be happier without Disneyland, but also without student loan payments barking at our door. I finally prayed to know what was right. I'd heard both sides -- your kids are only young once, you don't want to be in debt, I hear both sides. I asked Heavenly Father to help me to not want it, if that's what we needed to do. And it turns out, it's not what we needed to do, and I'm not really even all that bummed out. We did save a little money for me to make the trip to Utah with the kids. It's not like we are without some extras. Just maybe not ALL the extras.

There truly is a gift to be simple and free. Have you found it? How do you simplify?

Plan B

2013-05-01T18:04:00.001-07:00

First off, if this little pill is plan B. What is plan A?

I mean, in my book A is for abstinence....

In some people's books I guess plan A would be a condom?

Or adoption... or the other A word?

Either way I'm pretty bummed that kids 15 and over can get the plan B pill -- which is pretty much like 3 birth control pills all wrapped up for their swallowing pleasure. Some call it abortion, I'd call it preventing implantation and that may verge on abortion. It's certainly not the best plan, and I hear it's pretty painful. I know, on the rare occasions I took two pills after forgetting one I felt pretty yuck-o -- and three would probably have put me over the edge. no bueno.

The fact that a girl can go out, take these pills that are NOT going to make them feel all that great and then she will bleed and AWFUL lot it just seems like not a great plan.

And I will instruct my daughter to NOT get this pill without talking to me first. We will talk about it, and what it's for. I will tell her if her friends are thinking about getting it to also talk to me first.

My main problem is this scenario:

"Oh baby, we're so in love here while we are 15 let's get it on."
"Sure, do you have a condom."
"No, can't you just go get that pill tomorrow."
"Ok...."

{ME, SCREAMING}

SO many issues with this scenario

The condom has no risks with it (unless you're allergic to laytex), it's cheap and protects against STI's, AIDs, hepatitis. I think boys are going to stop even considering to use them (and we all know why) because now girls can just go get this pill. The girl will suffer in SO many ways.

And this blog somehow just made it seem like I am pro-condom, but I am aware that sex happens. It happens early and often and while I am doing my best to educate my kids to the consequences of that (cue my awesome abstinence song) I think they need to be aware of ALL the issues with sex, besides pregnancy.

Anyway. I'm just bothered by it.

I have a HUGE beef with kids who are sexually active in high school (or before). I see how they can't think about anything else, I see how break-ups ruin them. It's just not good. Pregnancy is one flaw in having sex before marriage, but there are SO many others.

I hope I can just be open and honest with my kids, leaving the line open for them to talk to me about it.

Ok, here's the first line --
"Abstinence, abstinence, it is very smart..."

Where I Was Four Year Ago...

2013-04-29T12:24:00.003-07:00

I was in a bed, 12 days over due...
Yes, TWELVE DAYS.
I'm a strong advocate of uteruses and vaginas...
But I had to be induced. My uterus was just done. I bled for a LONG Time after too.
I didn't want them to break my water, because I know that's the point of no return.
I finally let them (after an epidural).
She was born a few hours later.

I cried for a solid week before she was born. Maybe not the whole time, but stuff set me off like nobody's business. I was sad that things weren't working out according to my "plan"

Princess P has now almost been alive as long as it took us to "try" for her.

And she's downstairs fighting with her friends.

It's better then in that bed, and I haven't cried in days.

What a difference 4 years makes. :)

Running With Zombies, week 2.

2013-04-24T10:29:00.003-07:00

I am on to week two with the Zombie 5K app.

The first week you did a 10 minute walk, followed by 15 seconds of running and 1 minute of walking (repeat that run/walk cycle 10 times) and then a 10 minute "free form" walk. I try to run on the chorus of the songs. Sometimes I'm more successful then others.

This week (week 2) it's a 10 minute walk followed by 30 seconds of running, 5 heel lifts, one minute of walking (repeat that 5 times) and then a 10 minute free form walk.

A good friend looks great, and is following a green smoothie for breakfast, and then eating sensible the rest of the day. I'm trying it, it seems to be working. We'll see.

I do really like the running part, mostly because of the app. I like that it tells me what to do, it's methodical with a somewhat good story (I wish there was more story, but I think they go low on the story during the 5k app). I look forward to it, so far.

My toes go numb about 1 mile into it. Not sure what's causing that, it does go away as soon as I'm home. I need to pay more attention to it, and a few people mentioned maybe my shoes are too tight. Imagine that, Hilary with her shoes too tight!

After I get home I try to do some squats, arms and abs exercises as well as stretching. I was somewhat sore last week, and I don't see me being as sore this week.

And that is all.

Do you like to run?

Learning for Four: Word Puzzles

2013-04-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

We are slowly moving away from the world of sight words and sound out words. That's been the majority of our flash cards up until this point. Now it's time to get on a few other items. Here we go!

Today it was word puzzles. We've done flashcards here and there before, but now I am hoping to do them every time we work on lessons. I have a LOT of different sets. Lakeshore (or whatever local learning store is close to you) has a lot fun ones.

SO, the set we used has a noun on one side (aka, cow) and then in black and white on the other side (so the kids don't get confused) it has an adjective. So, like sad, or wet or whatnot. I'd make her use them both in a sentence. So, "The cow feels wet." I am hoping she starts to come up with some more imaginative sentences, and if not we'll take turns coming up with the sentences so I can model some more fun ones. Aka, "I don't like wet cows, they are slimy."

I set the timer for twice her age (it's 7 minutes right now, but soon it will be 8) and we just plow forward for those 8 minutes. Somehow that is the magic equation I have found. I don't want her getting bored, but I want her engaged and enjoying it.

And then, we counted the sets she'd done and she got that # of skittles (which, today was 6). Horray! It keeps her excited for lessons. And, for 6 skittles, I think that's worth it.

Pray For...

2013-04-18T16:52:00.000-07:00

All this "pray for" {Boston}{Newton}{Texas} (BTW, I think "Texas" is extra funny. As if there are 3 people that live in the state...)

And it's not like I am against praying. Far from it. I'm a huge fan of prayer, I do it at least 5 times/day. Wait, no -- usually 6. Sometimes up to 9. That's all planned prayers, not the ones I quickly say in my heart.

And the problem, and really the MAIN problem is that most people don't. They DON'T pray. And then something crazy happens and they're all "LET'S PRAY." And don't they feel like whiny teenagers who only talk to their parents when they want money?

Do they pray to help people out throughout the day to help people who need an extra "something", do they pray for opportunities to help those in need, or to look for someone who could use something that person could provide.

Because prayer isn't just about asking for peace -- it's telling your Heavenly Father (or, God or whoever you're praying to) is that you're on their side, and you're willing to do what they want you to do, and that you have more blessings then you can endure to speak on your knees

And frankly, I think if we ALL did that daily (even once), we'd have less to pray for.

More prayer=less tragedies

Think about it.