Pink Stinx

2013-04-19T15:50:00.000-05:00

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Featured Art

2013-04-12T15:04:00.003-05:00

Kiera's Masterpiece - Age 5

Beautiful Front Walkways

2013-04-11T15:35:00.002-05:00

I am on a quest to make an entry walkway from the driveway to the front door (truly so no one breaks a leg tripping over one of the bikes on the porch but shhh...). I certainly don't want to increase the taxes on my house so concrete is out. Eight residents also means trippers (pavers, throwing discuses) are out of the questions as well. I am thinking about a gravel walkway. Here are some photos of styles I am leaning toward. What are your thoughts?

Traditional Patio by Seattle Landscape Architect Lankford Associates Landscape Architects

Traditional Landscape by Vancouver Landscape Architect THOMAS KYLE: Landscape Designer

Traditional Landscape by Atlanta Landscape Architect Joe A. Gayle & Associates

Mediterranean Landscape by Dallas Landscape Architect Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

I adore the monkey grass above AND the fern border below too!

Eclectic Landscape by Tarrytown Landscape Architect Westover Landscape Design, Inc.

What are your thoughts and ideas for an inexpensive, practical, kid friendly, do it yourself walkway?

Amazing Concrete Floor Treatments

2013-04-04T21:50:00.000-05:00

1. We have a new puppy in the house.
2. Our house is home to six kids, two grown ups, three cats (two outside) and seven, yes seven, dogs (five are outside and most are available for adoption, hint, hint, hint).
3. This house was a rental for about fifteen years, we rented it for two years and then we purchased the home.
4. The whole house padded indoor/outdoor carpet that has the special skill of snagging and getting sucked up in the vacuum brush roller, followed by cursing and surgery on the vacuum....

I want new flooring!!! I need new flooring!!! Our budget most certainly will not allow hardwood flooring, carpeting or even vinyl so I am considering treating the concrete slab under the carpet. There are so many creative people out there. I have seen, stained concrete, painted, concrete, paper bags glued to the concrete and then polyed over, so many ideas!! (Eeeek)

Here are a few of these great ideas I have run across on the web, what is your favorite treatment?

Source

Google Images

Source

What do you think?

70 Percent of Easter Items at Select Target Stores

2013-04-04T19:19:00.000-05:00

Heads up bargain hunters, readers say Target has now put Easter clearance to 70% off. Check your local stores to verify the clearance percentage.

I always scan each and every item at a self serve price checker to verify prices before I go to the register, some items actually ring up for less that the 70% off. Happy Bargaining!

I already stocked up on Monday at our CVS store (50% off) so there will be NO MORE CANDY IN THIS HOUSE. For the time being that is...

A Special K Chocolatey Delight and Red Berries Reviews

2013-03-26T20:30:00.001-05:00

Kellogg's Special K Chocolatey Delight, not delightful in our household'a opinion. I always love the flakes in all the Special K cereals. The flakes have substance, good flavor, hold up well in milk and best of all have a crunch factor! However the "chocolate" aspect tastes nothing like chocolate. It must have some chocolate in it because I have the first pimple I have had in about two years thanks to the two bowls I had last week... ugh. Even my sixteen year old son said there was something wrong with the chocolate in it. I bought three boxes of it at Wal-Mart for one dollar a box. I never would have payed the higher than average retail price.

Kellogg's Special K Red Berries, very enjoyable. I loved this cereal and wish I had grabbed more than five boxes of it when Wal-Mart was closing it out at one dollar a box. We woofed that stuff right down! However, the higher than average price for a box of this delicious cereal will not have me placing this in my shopping cart, I shall stick with the store brands. The store brand flakes don't hold up as well or taste as good but for that much savings I will buy store brand.

My February Reading List

2013-02-12T14:41:00.002-06:00

Here is a list of some of the books I am set to review this month. What are you reading??

You're Sill the One

By Janet Dailey, Cathy Lamb, Elizabeth Bass, Mary Carter

Description

Headlined by New York Times bestselling author Janet Dailey, a compelling collection of four contemporary romance novellas in which couples who were once together—and then broke up—find their way back to each other many years later.

“The Devil and Mr. Chocolate” by Janet Dailey tells of art gallery owner Kitty Hamilton, who is newly engaged to a delicious Belgian chocolatier. But her artist ex-husband, Sebastian is determined to sabotage her plans with an even more tempting indulgence—the irresistible chemistry they still share.

In “The Apple Orchard” by Cathy Lamb, when an injury lands Allie Pelletier in the emergency room, she comes face-to-face with the only man she’s ever truly loved—Dr. Jace Rios. Can Jace mend their wounded past and show Allie they’re destined to be together?

Mary Carter’s “A Kiss before Midnight” introduces Rebecca Ryan, who has never forgotten the magical night she spent in New Orleans with musician Grant Dodge. Now 20 years later, Rebecca is reunited with Grant. Their attraction is as electric as ever—and they have more to catch up on than either imagined.

In “Romeo & Juliet…and Jane” by Elizabeth Bass, veterinarian Jane Canfield’s first love, Roy McGillum returns to town, and memories of their high school performance as Romeo and Juliet—and their real-life romance—come rushing back.

Like Bug Juice on a Burger
By Julie Sterngerg

Description

I hate camp. I just hate it. I wish I didn’t. But I do. Being here is worse than bug juice on a burger. Or homework on Thanksgiving. Or water seeping into my shoes. In this sequel to the critically acclaimed Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie, Eleanor is off to summer camp. At first she’s excited to carry on the family tradition at Camp Wallumwahpuck, but when she gets there she finds icky bugs, terrible food, and worst of all: swim class, where she just can’t seem to keep up with everyone else. But as the days go on, Eleanor realizes that even the most miserable situations can be full of special surprises and that growing up is full of belly flops.

The Cassoulet Saved our Marriage:
True Tales of Food, Family & How We Learn to Eat

edited by Caroline M. Grant, Lisa Catherine Harper

Description

The oysters they ate together the first night in their new city. The chicken Milanese she learned to cook after weight-loss surgery. The cassoulet that both anchors and rebuilds their crumbling marriage.

From the $6 peach to boxed macaroni and cheese, food is never just about what we eat. It is the fuel for our life stories. The Cassoulet Saved Our Marriage is an anthology of original essays about how we learn (and relearn) to eat, and how pivotal food is beyond the table. Without mantras or manifestos, twenty-nine writers serve up sharp, sweet, and candid memories; salty irreverence; and delicious original recipes.

You will recognize yourself in these stories. These writers, journalists, and chefs are also parents, husbands, wives, children, and caregivers-just like us. They let you see behind the scenes into the kitchens (and shopping carts) of real American families. With crisp honesty, they articulate for us how food-in our culture, in our lives, and in our families-is sometimes as simple as a pasta sauce, or as complex as cassoulet. The true gift of these essays is that they give voice to our own innermost thoughts and questions. Who hasn't considered the ethics of not eating meat, or eating meat again? We all mull over fat, calories, GMOs, and whether to shop at big-box stores or farmers' markets. We celebrate and grieve with food, and we wonder what to do when food becomes the enemy. With reassuring candor, these writers show that it's never too late-and easier than we think-to change what we serve on our tables every day.

Princess Addison Gets ANGRY

Written by Molly Martin
Illustrated by Melanie Florian

Description

Princess Addison is used to getting whatever she wants. But when it starts raining and she can't go outside with her dogs, she gets very angry. Princess Addison becomes Princess Angry and must learn how to deal with her emotions.

From the Princess Heart series. For ages 2-6. The Princess Heart series offers charming, relatable stories that help a child identify and deal with emotions. Fresh art and adorable princess characters will fill every heart with happiness!

* Perfect for teaching how to deal with different emotions
* Different princess character in each story offers variation to the series
* Universal topic that girls can relate to: every girl wants to be a princess; young children experience these common emotions (anger, happiness, sadness, and fear).

Every Day is a New Shade of Blue:
Comfort for Dark Days from Psalm 23

By David Roper

Description

Many people live each day overwhelmed with anxiety and fear—afraid of what has happened in the past, unable to deal with the present, and anxious about the future. Finding a sense of peace and direction can seem hopeless, especially when your heart is troubled.

Every Day Is a New Shade of Blue offers wisdom from Psalm 23 to strengthen your faith and encourage your heart. Focusing on the Shepherd and sheep relationship and drawing from the well of his own experience, author David Roper shares biblical insights and timely quotes that reveal the heart of God as the Good Shepherd.

Gain a deeper understanding of the importance of trusting God to provide for you, guide you, and protect you. Discover how you can put your trust in God, develop an attitude of contentment, and experience a sense of well-being under His watchful care.

There's a Green Plastic Monkey in My Purse

By Jessie Clemence

Description

There’s no doubt about it! Motherhood changes your life—mentally, emotionally, and physically. “So if you’re feeling inadequate for the job, join the crowd!” says Jessie Clemence. “No one is adequate! We all need to humbly seek God’s wisdom and blessings to raise these children.”

There’s a Green Plastic Monkey in My Purse creatively expresses many parenting issues faced by moms and offers encouragement to help you on your journey. You’ll enjoy Clemence’s sense of humor and casual tone as she explores God’s perspective on motherhood and also shares her personal experiences as a mother of two. Not only will you find practical insights and biblical wisdom, but you’ll also find a funny quiz, interesting interviews with moms, study questions, and more.

Reminding you to rely on God to help you display humility, patience, and love, Clemence says, “Thanks to God’s grace, I have far more patience than I ever knew existed. And you, too, can have this blessing. May God teach you about His patience as He continues to teach me.”

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet: A Review

2013-02-04T14:57:00.000-06:00

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

By Jamie Ford

Publisher’s Synopsis: In the opening pages of Jamie Ford’s stunning debut novel, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, Henry Lee comes upon a crowd gathered outside the Panama Hotel, once the gateway to Seattle’s Japantown. It has been boarded up for decades, but now the new owner has made an incredible discovery: the belongings of Japanese families, left when they were rounded up and sent to internment camps during World War II. As Henry looks on, the owner opens a Japanese parasol.

This simple act takes old Henry Lee back to the 1940s, at the height of the war, when young Henry’s world is a jumble of confusion and excitement, and to his father, who is obsessed with the war in China and having Henry grow up American. While “scholarshipping” at the exclusive Rainier Elementary, where the white kids ignore him, Henry meets Keiko Okabe, a young Japanese American student. Amid the chaos of blackouts, curfews, and FBI raids, Henry and Keiko forge a bond of friendship–and innocent love–that transcends the long-standing prejudices of their Old World ancestors. And after Keiko and her family are swept up in the evacuations to the internment camps, she and Henry are left only with the hope that the war will end, and that their promise to each other will be kept.

Forty years later, Henry Lee is certain that the parasol belonged to Keiko. In the hotel’s dark dusty basement he begins looking for signs of the Okabe family’s belongings and for a long-lost object whose value he cannot begin to measure. Now a widower, Henry is still trying to find his voice–words that might explain the actions of his nationalistic father; words that might bridge the gap between him and his modern, Chinese American son; words that might help him confront the choices he made many years ago.

Set during one of the most conflicted and volatile times in American history, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet is an extraordinary story of commitment and enduring hope. In Henry and Keiko, Jamie Ford has created an unforgettable duo whose story teaches us of the power of forgiveness and the human heart.

My Thoughts: I review books and receive most of them free for review but I actually purchased this book full price for my Nook. I was disappointed. I had been on a blah book reading run and really wanted to read something good. The storyline was good. The writing style lacked though. I did read it through though and toward the end did pick up and become more enjoyable. Personally though, I would recommend using your hard earned money on something a little more entertaining. If I was asked directly by a friend what I thought of this book I would say – It is alright.

Soup of the Day (Williams-Sonoma): 365 Recipes for Every Day of the Year

2013-02-04T13:43:00.000-06:00

Soup of the Day (Williams-Sonoma): 365 Recipes for Every Day of the Year
Kate McMillan (Author), Erin Kunkel (Photographer)

Publisher’s Synopsis: Williams-Sonoma Soup of the Day offers a tantalizing collection of 365 soup recipes: one for each day of the year. Colorful calendars at the beginning of each chapter offer an at-a-glance view of the dishes best suited for the ingredients, occasions, and typical weather of the month. From January to December, you’ll find a seasonal soup that will satisfy any craving, and match any meal ranging from a quick weeknight supper to an elegant dinner party. A handful of the recipes are even appropriate for the holiday table, while others are perfect for using up a leftover roast or chicken. Notes accompanying each recipe offer ideas for ingredient variations, garnishes, and other helpful tips. All of the soups can be dressed up or dressed down; served in rustic earthenware mugs or on heirloom china; garnished with a flourish of fried herbs or dollop of pesto, or stripped down to the bare, tasty essentials—the possibilities are endless, but always delicious.

Whether it’s a hearty beef stew suited for a chilly winter evening or a cool tomato gazpacho perfect for a hot summer day, the wealth of simple and delicious recipes and beautiful full-color photography will satisfy any soup-lover’s craving throughout the year. Soup of the Day is also available as a digital edition on the iBookstore.

My Thoughts: As a fulltime working mom of six I have become a pro at tweaking my recipes to match my measly grocery budget. Over the years I have come up with some creative ways to stretch my grocery budget, most of which include a casserole, soup or stew. This recipe book from Williams-Sonoma is right up my alley! I am a seasoned mommy chef/cook so I absolutely love using recipe ideas to conjure up my own creations. This book has some terrific inspiration. Whether you are a strict recipe follower or a creator like me you will definitely enjoy this book. It will become your go to resource when you are craving some comfort food. Highly recommended.

Disclosure: I viewed this e-book free from the publisher through Netgalley.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

A Review: I Didn't Sign Up for This: Navigating Life's Detours

2013-01-31T15:09:00.001-06:00

I Didn't Sign Up for This: Navigating Life's Detours

By Aaron Sharp

Publisher’s Synopsis:

Without the least bit of notice, life can take a sudden turn down a road we never anticipated or never would have chosen to travel. I Didn't Sign Up for This: Navigating Life's Detours offers insights from the life and times of the prophet Elijah to encourage readers who have suddenly veered off the road into a wilderness experience. It provides guidelines and tools to help readers align their expectations with God's plan, fuel their lives with faith to overcome their fears, and find their way home. It offers fresh perspective on the need for God's direction throughout life's journey.

My Thoughts:

The book is based upon Elijah and 1 Kings 19. The author also explains how to use the Bible to retrace the steps of how we get on these “detours”. The author teaches that a detour often is a result of unmet expectations. This book is inspirational and uplifting and could benefit people who are currently facing life’s challenges. Readers will develop an understanding that sometimes God is silent, sometimes he intervenes and sometimes he speaks, it is His choice, not ours.

Disclosure: I viewed this e-book free from the publisher through Netgalley.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Merry Christmas

2012-12-26T23:10:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas everyone. I hope you all enjoyed time with family and friends.

I continuously prayed for the families of those sweet children and teachers from Connecticut that were able to spends this Christmas with the birthday boy Himself in heaven.

May the Lord continue to comfort those families.

Hair Appliance Organization

2012-09-17T23:49:00.000-05:00

I thought I was rather clever the other night. I decided to organize my "hair appliances". Honestly, now I think this was rather brilliant! I even use it when my appliances are heating up or preheating! I purchased the hanger at the dollar tree so this sanity saver cost me a whopping $1.00!

Forgive the low quality photo and drawer ajar... I just had to share!!

Rescue Horses

2012-07-08T20:01:00.000-05:00

My sister, Debbie, rescues unwanted and neglected horses at Rescue Riders in Malabar, Florida.

What funds she needs to support this she raises through riding lessons and selling her handmade crafts. The necessary funds come out of her grocery budget. If you are interested in horse lessons, if you would like to donate to the care of horses, adopt a horse, sponsor a horse or purchase some of her lovingly hand crafted items please give her a call and also check out her website: http://www.rescueriders.net/ or her blog at http://rescueriders.wordpress.com/

Kiki's First Fish

2012-06-26T15:59:00.000-05:00

While we were camping Kiki decided she would fish.

We had no poles. She didn't care. She found a stringer and a hook and put on a piece of leftover sausage. Low and behold after about two minutes, SHE HAD A FISH!!!

She asked for a fishing pole for Christmas.

S'mores!!

2012-06-25T15:48:00.001-05:00

We took five of the kids camping a couple weekends ago. I guess they got the s'more bug! Miranda made these one day while I was at work. She wanted my to post them here on the blog.

I must say they were delish! (Shhhh, I ate three of them! Don't tell please!)

Kiera is Engaged

2012-04-30T21:02:00.001-05:00

Kiki told me a story tonight:

When she was on the school bus today a boy asked her "Will you marry me?" Kiki being in kindergarten told the boy, "no".

She then told me, "But mommy, he is handsome." (Mommy and Miranda both say awe..... Now your turn.)

Relay for Life 2012

2012-04-24T14:09:00.000-05:00

It is Relay Time!!!

Our local Relay for Life is on Friday. I will be a part of the Survivor Lap of course. Here is last year's Relay here in our county. Can you find me?

Last Friday we stopped in at the Survivor's Dinner and had our photo taken. I wasn't able to stick around for the entire event because my sister was visiting from Florida and this was her last night here.

I am honored to be a survivor and wear my survivor shirt with pride.

If you haven't made a donation to Relay this year, please do so, just click here...

My Five Year Old Daughter and Her Children are Moving In

2012-02-28T17:07:00.001-06:00

We will be going to the Dollar Tree this evening after picking up all the bigger kids from track practice and drama practice today. Kiki is armed with her bag of money (2.60) saved from discoveries around the house and her first youth fairy visit.

While we drive to the Junior High:

Kiki: Maybe I should save all this money do I can buy a house.

Me: Houses cost ALOT of money honey. More than you can count.

Kiki: Oh

Later, Kiki: Mommy, when I am a mom I am going to live with you.

Me: Why? So I can help with the kids?

Kiki: no.

Me: Because you love me so much?

Kiki: No.

Me: Then why Kiki?

Kiki: Because I don't have enough money to buy a house.

Love her!

Funny commercial!

2012-02-24T22:46:00.001-06:00

Have you seen this commercial yet? Too funny! Love it, well done Mentos.

Watch "Mentos UP2U Gum Commercial - Tiger" on YouTube

Chickpea Heaven

2012-02-21T20:10:00.000-06:00

I have been on a healthy food quest. I have made some chickpeas but I am eagerly awaiting making these recipes I "pinned" on Pinterest. Don't these look like delicious snacks?

Baked BBQ Chickpeas

Via Pickles and Honey

Easy Salt & Vinegar Roasted Chick Peas

Via Oh She Glows

Spicy cinnamon roasted chickpeas

Via Running to the Kitchen

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Via The Realistic Nutritionist

Lemon & Garlic Roasted Chickpeas

Via Moderate Oven

Honey Cinnamon Roasted Chickpeas

Via Sweet Pea's Kitchen

What is your favorite, yet nutritious snack??

Healthy Freshness

2012-02-21T16:13:00.002-06:00

Via Tumblr

Guaca-Mango Bagel via Healthy Happy Life

Now there, isn't you mouth watering for some good, fresh, raw, (healthy) food?

Spinach Goodness

2012-02-21T14:32:00.001-06:00

I adore spinach! Just call me Popette!

I have been on my Green Monster Smoothie kick lately and just fell awful if I skip one.

Unfortunately I ran out of Spinach last week and now my digestive system is still totally out of whack. So... I went to Sam's Club and STOCKED UP!!

Thus, LINKY TIME to more great Spinach Recipes!

A delicious Strawberry, Asparagus and Spinach Salad.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad via bean town baker

Chicken and spinach patties

Chicken and spinach patties via Juls' Kitchen

The surprisingly tasty combination of Roquefort and Spinach in a Quiche.

Roquefort Cheese and Spinach Quiche via The Purple Calabash

Gotta love guilt-free snacking!! Oven-baked spinach chips...

Oven-Baked Spinach Chips via the food faffer

Enjoy. Aren't these great food blogs?

What is you favorite way to eat this miracle food?

Paper golf phase 2

2012-02-16T17:14:00.001-06:00

Nathan expanded his paper golf course!

Kitchen Aid Breast Cancer Awareness Goodies

2012-02-16T12:26:00.001-06:00

A friends at work have me an awesome Anniversary present today! Looky!

Paper Golf Anyone?

2012-02-15T07:17:00.001-06:00

Nathan, my little brilliant 12 year old, apparently was bored after he completed the mock testing at school yesterday. He created this elaborate paper ball golf course. The double with the ramp and chute certainly would be a challenge.