2 Big Mouth Sisters

Goals NOT Resolutions

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

I asked Laura if she wanted to a blog on "New Years" Resolutions. She was really opposed to the word "Resolutions". She suggested the word Goals and ~~thought to myself that this was the same thing~~ thought this was a great substitute word for resolutions.

It is said that you don't have a real goal till it is written down. So I am now officially writing my goals down.

Here are Mary's ~~Resolutions~~ Goals for 2012:

1. Continue to read scriptures every morning...finish the Doctrine & Covenants
2. Continue to work out 3 times a week ie biking, running or gym
3. Run at least 3-5K's this next year
4. Make 1 new meal every month
5. Make homemade bread (and master it)-please pray for me on this one
6. Have more patience with my daughter
7. Save $10 every 2 weeks-just to learn how to save and then spend it on something for myself or someone else at the end of the year
8. Go to the temple at least 1 time every 3 months
9. Read 1 Jane Austin book all the way through
10. Don't be so hard on myself about the things I didn't do

Laura's Goals 2012
1. Catch up on my photo album
2. Work out 3 days a week and win Ken in our competition.
3. I hate weight lose resolutions so I refuse to make one.

Couple Goal-
-We set a goal to go to the Temple more this year.

Family Goal-
Ask the family what are goal should be.
Faith said "Pick up litter"
Drew said "Be kind to one another"
Me and Ken came up with "Keep on, keeping on" Thats as good as it gets at our house.

GOT ' EM

2011-12-30T07:25:00.000-08:00

I thought I would update you on my quest for the "perfect" boot.

OH YA BABY I GOT ' EM. I got the boots I have been searching for and they are fabulous. Got them at Famous Footwear online and got a great deal-with online coupon too. I ended up only paying $65.00. (just wanted to also point out my thrifted outfit, the sweater and skirt-under $8.00 for both) YEAH for boots!!!

Favorite books of 2011

2011-12-24T15:49:00.000-08:00

Laura's list

1. Bruiser by Neil Shusterman
2. Rules by Cynthia Lord
3. Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
4. Sean Griswolds Head by Lindsey Leavitt
5. It was a tie- All these thing I've done by Gabrille Zevin/ The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen

I have read 126 books(* Updated to 128) this year. For some reason this number freaks people out. They believe I am not watching enough TV......and I'm not. Thanks to all the great Book Blogs I read and their excellent reviews.

Mary's List

***As a note I have not read anywhere near 126 books. I would guess a good 30 books this year (maybe more maybe less).

Here are my top 5 this year in no particular order

1. Dracula by Bram Stoker
2. Battle Hymn of a Tiger Mother by by Amy Chua
3. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
4. Bossy Pants by Tina Fey (this is a hilarious book, but WARNING there are some "F" bombs
5. Bloody Jack by L.A.Meyer (I am currently reading this book and love it)

Let us know what were your favorites for 2011. Happy reading in 2012

Step by step

2011-11-26T14:56:00.000-08:00

Step 1:

Take one flugly lamp from a garage sale.

Step 2:

Take one sexy Ironworker who moonlights as an electrician.

Result:

You get a new lamp for my living room. Cost me $2.00. Thank you Ken.

Halloween

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

Frankie in his Patriotic Morph suit

Alex a Jasmine from Aladdin

Here I am a very virtuous nun and Francisco went as him self (scary)

Alex and her entourage.
Notice Pocahontas, Jersey shore cast member and
a very sexy sleeping beauty

Frankie's friends dressed as girls and the
girls dressed as boys

Out of all the costumes this was the most hilarious.
Frankie has had a fractured leg for the past 10 weeks.
This is Frankie's friend, Alex. He
went as Frankie for Halloween.

This is the lamest costume I have ever done.

Faith as a Bumblebee.

Drew as Star Wars Storm Trooper (Ken hated this cheap costume)

Happy Halloween

Homemade Mac n Cheese

2011-11-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

The other day I found very simple homemade mac n cheese recipe. The family "proclaimed" it was good. Frankie said he stilled like the "Kraft" Macaroni and Cheese best, but he could definitely eat this again.

**Disclaimer I was suppose to post a picture of the finished product, but just did have the energy to move the picture from my phone to the computer, so just imagine the most yummiest Homemade Mac n Cheese ever, and that is what it looked like***
Homemade Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

1 lb (1 box) elbow noodles

1 lb cheddar cheese

4 tablespoons butter

salt & pepper

1/2 cup milk

*cook your noodles to al dente as per the package instructions

**set oven to 375 degrees

1. Pam/grease your baking dish.

2. Place cooked noodles in the bottom of the dish (enough to cover the bottom).

3. Salt and pepper generously.

4. Add two large handfuls of cheese.

5. Start second layer. Repeat exactly what you did in the first layer until you fill your dish.

6. Place 4-5 tablespoon slices of butter on top of the mac and cheese and pour 1/2 cup milk over the top.

7. Bake for 35-45 minutes uncovered

Thrifty sisters

2011-10-29T13:57:00.000-07:00

Mary and I have loved Thrift Stores for a long time.(we have planned many trips around our stop at DI) With our not so excellent economy people are finding out how great Thrifting can be. Here are so good deals we both recently snagged up.


Whoa where is my head? Sorry had to crop it because I had a weird look on my face.					Cardigan $3, Skirt $3 and Shoes $3.

Mary, is wearing $3 cardigan, $3 skirt and $3 shoes. She got her shirt from Target a while ago.

Be brave and try a thrift store. You will be so happy with the price, that you will be hooked too.

Another "BOOT" post??

2011-10-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

Theses look like something
from the 1920's

I have wanted a pair of boots for the past several winter seasons. I have looked in every store that I usually shop in and have looked on line too.
I just can't seem to find what I desire.

Here are just a few of the styles I keep seeing that I know I don't want.

Chinese hooker boots is definitely
a NO

This boot is what my hubby would
wear to work

Boots from DORA the EXPLORER
I can't fit his size on my foot.

Now some people say I should be wearing
this boot to fit my "witchy" personality.
But I don't know what they are
talking about

American Hooker boots-these
are a maybe. What do you think
they would say at church?

These "shiz kicking" boots are
fine, but not my style

Giving that BLOG the "BOOT"

2011-10-11T20:03:00.000-07:00

I went though my Google reader tonight and thinned it out. I got rid of a few of the blogs I just can't stand anymore. Here was the "Criteria" for giving those blogs the "BOOT":

1. The blog I have not really looked at that blog for over 2 months
2. The blog with unrealistic projects or food ( you know the blogs I am talking about... the blogs with the major projects that they magically created or the amazing food creation with a strange food product I would never use)
3. BORING blogs
4. CLEANING blogs-YUCK!!
and last but not least....
5. The blogs that make me feel inadequate as a person. (I already get a nice healthy dose of guilt from life already SO... I decided I don't need those kind of blogs anymore)

I sure hope you don't give this blog the "BOOT"

Little Lindsey would be proud of me

2011-10-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

Last week my kids were sick. In between cleaning up puke I decided to clean out the pantry. It was horrible. I didnt take a "before" picture with the food in it because I never want any one to see that mess.

Threw away a garbage bag full of stuff we never use or expired food. Weirdest thing I found was a button??

Painted it and put everything back in. Notice I put the cereal on a lower shelf so the kids can reach it without a stool. I didnt realize my lack of canned goods. I must go shopping soon. I love how clean it is in there now. Kids are better and pantry looks great. I hope Little Lindsey is proud!

The Teens

2011-10-04T06:54:00.000-07:00

Thought I post a picture of Alex and Frankie's closest friends. These kids are pretty awesome. The great thing about my kids is that they are actually friends with each other too, and most of Alex's friends will hang out with Frankie's friends. On any given day we have a minimum of 8 teens at our house. I am so grateful that my kids feel comfortable enough to bring them to our home.

Brad, Alex, Matt, Crump, Keg, Frankie and Jake

Jordan, Brennah, Arianna and Alex

Cock pot Meals

2011-09-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

I try to make anywhere from 5-6 nightly meals a week. (We really try not to eat out if possible). I wanted to make it easier on me since I seem to be the assigned one who comes up with the meals and fixes the actual dinner. I found this website called cock pot girls. I LOVE IT !!!! It gives easy and real recipes that I would actually use. I am hoping to use it more this fall and winter.
Check it out: http://crockpotgirls.com/

They are also on Facebook.

2nd part of Robles Summer

2011-09-21T06:52:00.000-07:00

To Continue our Robles family summer:

We celebrated my birthday along with my friend/coworker Neydis (far left). We do a whole week celebration. Love theses work people

Alex and myself did go to Sea World in San Antonio TX. We rented her a scooter which she loved and wants to have one every time we go to any amusement park from now on.

We did go to the midnight premier of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows. We saw a few people there you might recognize. Harry, Harmonie, Ron and Snape (he looks the best). There was a really good Dumbledore too but did not get a picture.

Here is Brennah ,(Alex's friend) Frankie ,Arianna (Alex's friend) and Alex. They were headed to a "before school" party.

This is not a very good picture, but this is how our summer ended. Alex got her cast off on a Monday the last week of summer vacation. We planned a big beach trip the Sat after Alex got her cast off. The Robles family with several other families were suppose to go. Just 2 days later Frankie brakes his foot playing baseball. I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT!!! We started and ended the summer with broken limbs.

Part one Robles Summer-Not Phineas and Ferb

2011-09-05T18:21:00.000-07:00

The summer started off good. Here are the "teens" with a few of their at a baseball BBQ
And the picture of Francisco and Jack (another coach). Theses two together spent about 40 hrs a week
at the baseball field. Obsessive is an understatement.

There was lots of baseball involved. Here is Francisco's summer legion team in San Diego

Then after 7 years of doing gymnastics Alex breaks her ankle . This is 2 weeks before her National gym meet

Alex and I had no refunbale tickets to Texas and still headed out there to support our team. We had a hit and run on our rent a car the very first night in San Antonio. WELCOME TO TEXAS.

Even though Alex could not compete, she was able to March in with her team. It was amazing over 2000 young people from all over the country. Don't you like the "TEXAN THEME" ?

We stayed with our friends that moved there a few years ago the Foote Family . Here we are at the San Antonio River Walk. (this is where there Alamo is too)

THIS SUMMER IS TO BE CONTINUED......

Gone...but not forgotten

2011-08-31T07:25:00.000-07:00

Look what was gone when I got home yesterday!! What a relief. It was been there since July 5th. I finally got to tell that certain "someone" how long it was sitting there. His response "I was wondering when YOU were going to pick it up" That was his little joke. He honestly never noticed it till yesterday. Got love that guy.

I was wondering where he actually put it???..........................................

About a half a step away, under the sink.

Not such a good idea and Best Day Ever!!

2011-08-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of June the Cars 2 exhibit came into to town. I thought it would be fun to go there and let the kids take pictures with the Cars characters. Once we got to Town Square, I could see the line wrapped all around the parking lot and it was out side! In June?? Not a good idea. But the kids really wanted to stay. An hour or so later we get to the front of the line and suddenly one of my kids decides that she is ready to go home now? Oh no, we are taking these dang pictures . Check out the one I took....

Not the best idea I have ever had.

On a funner note, we decided to do a hike up in Red Rock. Nice and cool.

This is a easy hike for kids and out of shape adults. My nephew got married here and I always wanted to come back and hike around.

Have you ever been to this place? It has a 1980's theme. We played Pac Man while we ate. Great 80's stuff in the bathroom. I should sell them my Garbage Pail Kids cards, I could make Millions off of those.

Later we found a New York pizza place.

We felt like Rapunzel and kept say " Best Day Ever"!!!

Our Phineas and Ferb not bummer summer. Part 3

2011-07-24T16:07:00.000-07:00

This may not seem like a Giant Sundae but it fed 4 kids!

This is as long as we could make the Giant Telescope. Any bigger and it would have folded in half.

Giving a Monkey a Shower!!!

This is one of my favorite one so far. We made a Hot air balloon for Drew's army guy. We stood outside and watched it fly away. It looks like it was heading toward our family in Utah.

Just wanted to add a picture of Mary in her swimsuit .

My experiment continues.....

2011-07-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

My research continues. It seems my "specimen" is immune to this annoying tool.

Phineas and Ferb summer continued

2011-07-13T22:31:00.000-07:00

Having a lot of fun thinking of things to do with our P&F summer

Thumb wrestling

Love this picture of Faith laughing

Inside Bowling

Car Derby. Boys versus Girls!

Its all fun and games till someone gets hurt.

Ken and I . Lets just say that Girls didnt not win this one.

A little Experiment...

2011-07-08T07:23:00.000-07:00

A little over a week ago "someone" changed our toilet seat. It was so nice and sweet of this person. And I really appreciate what he can do. For some reason one of the tools didnt get put away. And I just wanted to see how long it would sit there before "someone" would notice it and put it away. Your probably thinking "Why don't you just put it away?" Normally I would but I wanted to conduct a scientific experiment to see how long it would go unnoticed. Keep in mind how many times a day we are both in this little room. It drives me crazy not to pick it up but I'm going to be strong.........

Our Phineas and Ferb summer

2011-06-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

The kids and I have decided to have a Phineas and Ferb summer, and Ken is along for the ride. Our activities are based on all the crazy adventures of Phineas and Ferb but on a much smaller scale. We have fun remembering episodes and planning what we will do next. Here is some stuff we have done so far.

Building a robot

Daddy aka Perry - helped a lot with building this robot

Faith came up with name Jack for our robot. I wonder where she got that name......

We had a restaurant. Our "customer" had a choice between waffles, eggs or hot dogs.

The cook and waiter. Look Jack the Robot is on the table as the center piece!

Building the Eiffel Tower

Eiffel tower.

I think someone got a hold of my camera

Faith had a hard time making the Eiffel tower. The next day she finally built one that didnt fall down.

Making a rock band

Our songs included... Baby Baby. Row Row Your Boat and Old McDonald

Painting a picture of ourselves and Daddy. This one worked out well because we did it the day before Father's day.

Me and My Dad. I still draw like a 1st grader.

Drew's picture.

Father's day

Lemonade Stand. This has been the kid's favorite some far. They like having the money to split. We ended up doing it 2 times. The 2nd time the Cavalieri families came and bought us out. Thank goodness because it was 110 outside.

Aren't you a little young to making a Rocket Ship??

Yes, Yes we are!

Cant wait to see what else we will do this summer

Mary's Favorite Things

2011-06-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

I asked Laura to post this song on our blog but she wouldn't so I did (who doesn't love Julie Andrews and The Sound of Music) . Feel free to listen while you read over my list.

I numbered my favorite things, but they are in random order.

NUMBER 1: Frankie's Facial Expression You can't see it very well in this picture, but my son Frankie (who doesn't look like my dad at all) makes a face just like my dad did. He does it only when he is concentrating real hard at baseball.

Number 2: For years I worked the night shift and to help sleep during the day I wore a sleeping face mask to make my world darker. I work days now but, I can't seem to break the habit. The mask almost forces me to close my eyes and go to sleep. I love it.

Number 3: 2:1 full body massage at the "Massage School"

So many people don't know that the local massage school students do a fabulous job and every couple of months they have a 2:1 special. I get an hour massage for $15.

Number 4: Starbucks Vanilla Bean drink

This cold drink is awesome (no coffee involved). It is like a very overpriced vanilla shake but better. I also think it has a bazillion calories, so it is not the most figure friendly of drinks.

Number 5: Kirkland brand (from Costco) face moisturizer

This product is amazing. I have tried several other brands, but to me this is the best. It is reasonably priced and not greasy.

**** As a side note Laura wanted me to add her 5th favorite because she forgot to. It is Khols. I love this place too. Nice fashions for everyone, good savings and lots of coupons.

Soon a list of our not so favorite things

Favorite things- ala' Big Mouth Sisters style

2011-06-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

Here is my first favorite. Ion hair gel. I buy this like once a year from Sally's and it works great keeping those fly away hairs under control.

Both Mary and I have never been big fans of Oprah (gasp), I know its OK. But I have been watching Oprah Behind the scenes and the Favorite Things episode looked fun. I really enjoy when other blogs share their random thoughts or favorite things. So here are mine. (oops pics are out of order , my list starts up top)

My kid's pictures are definetly one of my Favorite Things. The sign says "I love Mom, Andrew H" I could decorate my whole house in this kind of decor.

I have never been a yogurt gal and especially not a Plain yogurt. But in the last couple of months I have grown to depend on yogurt for so much. Love it with my smoothies,fruit and granola. Cant get enough of this stuff.

Ahhhh a dresser full of books for me to read. This is like food storage for my brain. The higher the stacks, the better.

I know you have some favorite things to share too. So please share on your blog. And stay tuned for Mary's choices.

Love that BLOG

2011-06-04T06:38:00.000-07:00

I have a couple of blogs that I follow on a regular basis (about 28). Some are friends and others are.... well just blogs.

I have 2 favorite blogs ,as of right now, that I look at on a daily basis and I wanted you to know about them too. I think the reason I like these blogs so much is because they are so down to earth and the things they blog about I can relate to also.

The 1st is: The Pioneer Woman Cooks This blog talks about yummy food (that I would actually make). She also just announced she will have her own show on The Food Network.

The 2nd (Laura introduced me to) is: Freckles in April She blogs about fashion (that I would actually wear).

Check them both out , you wont be disappointed.

Time to let em' go

2011-05-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

I have an old pair of overalls that I LOVE LOVE!!. This weekend I had to throw them away. They had an unrepairable rip. Lets look back at all the good times I had with them......

Great to wear for a Bunco costume

Thanksgiving day pics. Plenty of room in them to eat a big plate for dinner!


Can you wear overalls for a family picture.......sure you can. They go with everything


And of course what goes best when reading the Book of Mormon?? Overalls!!!! Goodbye my old friend.

Mango Quinoa Salad

2011-05-21T08:51:00.000-07:00

I was watching the Biggest Loser the other night and the contestants made, what looked like, a very yummy salad. I wished I had wrote down the recipe but didn't. Lucky for me another blog I was stalking did post the recipe. I made it yesterday for my co-workers to try before I posted it on our blog. Everyone at work loved it. Hope you will too.

ALI VINCENT'S MANGO QUINOA SALAD

"A protein-loaded treat!" - Ali Vincent

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white quinoa (cooked in chicken stock) (at room temperature or cold) *** You can also substitute the quinoa for brown rice

1 diced mango (I used frozen then let it defrost)

1 handful chopped cilantro

1 15-ounce can black beans

½ red bell pepper, chopped I add ¼ of orange and yellow pepper too

3 green onions, thinly sliced

salt and pepper to taste

2-4 Tablespoons red wine vinegar

3-4 Tablespoons olive oil

1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice

You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp to this.

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine vinegar, oil and lime juice. Combine everything else in a big bowl. Drizzle liquid mixture over the salad, and toss until well combined. Chill for about an hour

Hawaii

2011-05-15T14:44:00.000-07:00

My Mom treated the whole family to a Hawaii vacation. It was the best vacation we have ever taken. We stayed in Maui for 7 days and then the Robles family and Ma went to Ohau for 3 days. The weather was great and we all had a great time. We took 715 pictures, but will only share a few of them here with you.

The whole family at the Old Lahaina Luau

The picture was taken right off the
famous black sand beach. The sceaneary
was so beautiful.

USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

Robles family and Ma at the USS Missouri
right near Pearl Harbor

We celebrated Frankie's 15th birthday and Laura's 15th
birthday too.

I tried a new dish called a
Moco Loco. It is rice with a hamburger
patty brown gravy and an egg. It was delicious

Dave and Shawna on the dinner cruise

Humphries Family on a catamaran to snorkel

Andrew built a huge sand castle on the
beach with the help from the family

Katelyne and Faith

This is actually a tissue holder in the men's bathroom at a
restaurant we went to. Fran thought it was awesome and
snapped a picture

The Robles family drove "The Road to Hana"
It was an all day event
This is a waterfall we hiked to see.

Ken snorkeling

Hawaii Temple

Ma on the dinner cruise

Ma and Sydney before our helicopter ride

Zip line crew. This was awesome 9 zip lines
through the tree tops of Maui

I had to put this one in just because
Laura hates it so much. I happen to
think she is adorable

Goodreads

2011-05-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

Are you a member of Goodreads? Well you need to be. Its a site where you keep track of what you and your friends are reading. You can also rate the books and see your friends ratings on their books. I love it. Its like Facebook for readers. Join today and request me and Mary as friends.

A little change

2011-04-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

This is what my mantel looked before General Conference. I was very inspired by all the good talks that were given, that I decided to change it................

There are so many iffs in life. This is one thing I am sure of....He Lives!

Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother

2011-04-02T13:58:00.000-07:00

Read this book ASAP. Then call me!!!

Mixing chocolate with fruit

2011-03-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

I firmly do NOT believe in mixing fruit and chocolate. It has never done it for me........................butI tried this recipe the other day and I like it. May have to re-think my whole life???????

Kindergarten pics

2011-03-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

Andrew 5 years old

Faith 5 years old

Ahhh doesnt Frankie look sweet. That kid didnt have top teeth for like 5 years!!

Alex, so sweet. Remember those days???

16 Candles!

2011-02-09T11:54:00.000-08:00

How did this happen? Just the other day , Alex was a little Nanners now she is a big 16 year old that wants to drive??!!

As her Aunt , I take full responsibility for all the good things she has become, all the rest is her parent's fault. We love you Al.

Microfiber

2011-02-07T06:52:00.000-08:00

I think it is kind of funny that my previous post was making fun of the blog-lady that is obsessed with cleaning, and now I am going to talk about cleaning myself.

For the last several months I have been reading on several blogs about microfiber towels and how great they work. I didn't want to buy one more towel when I have paper towels and a bunch of rags to clean with. I happen to go to Target the other day where microfiber towels were on sale for only $1. I bought one and used it to clean not just one bathroom but two. They are awesome!!!! I immediately ran back to Target and bought a total of 5 more towels. These towels are great and can be thrown in the wash after you are done. The towels seem to clean better than the old rags that I have. I highly recommend you get one.

To Clean or Not to Clean??

2011-01-28T07:20:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to post a link to this blog all month. I have been watching this particular blog since the beginning of this year and am just floored by the calendar of cleaning she has posted. *** LOOK CLOSELY AT THE CALENDAR*** Some of these ideas are great, but the schedule is ridiculous. I can't believe anybody has this much time to clean. Why would you want to clean this much? Even if you stayed at home 24/7 who has time to clean this much? If you do please come to my house.

http://cleanmama.blogspot.com/2010/01/its-cleaning-month.html

Neal Shusterman

2011-01-24T06:00:00.000-08:00

Remember when I did the post on the book Unwind? The same author has written Bruiser. I just finished it and really enjoyed it. Here are some of the other books he has written that I also enjoyed

-Everwild
-The Schwa was Here
- Antsy does Time

He is becoming one of my favorite new authors. Check him out, you wont be disappointed.

French Onion Soup

2011-01-22T09:37:00.000-08:00

I tried to get Laura to make French Onion Soup with me, but I ended up making it by myself. It was so warm and yummy. (and I am not even a huge fan of onion soup)
Here is a great recipe for you.

French Onion Soup
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups thinly sliced yellow onions (abt 2 large onions)
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
dash of black pepper
6 slices of bread toasted
1 cup Swiss or Gruyere cheese

In large saucepan melt butter: add onions. cook, covered over medium low hear for 8-10 mins. stir in broth, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper. Bring to boiling and then reduce heat and simmer covered for abt 10 minutes

Meanwhile sprinkle toasted bread with shredded cheese. Place bread under broiler until cheese melts and turns light brown. Then serve

It is fast and super simple.

*****I would like to make a full disclosure that the above picture is not of the soup I made. I actually did not take a picture of it, but it looked almost identical to it. You get the idea.****

Best book of 2010 according to Mary

2011-01-17T09:34:00.000-08:00

AND THE WINNER IS......

I have to rate this the best book that I read in 2010. What a wonderful novel. The book takes place in the 1960's in Jackson Mississippi, right during the black civil rights movement. You would think this book is pretty depressing, but it is not. I actually listened to this on e-book and the readers were fantastic. If you are looking for a good read, I highly recommend this one.

BLOG POLICE

2011-01-12T07:08:00.000-08:00

Yes I am a slacker. I have not posted a blog in a long time. (I was lovingly told to do so by my not so "small mouth sister")

I am not sure why. Right now there is really nothing I want to blog about. Laura and I decided that if we had nothing to say we didn't have to post anything. BUT.... apparently there are the BLOG POLICE. These are people who monitor blogs and see if you have posted anything within a certain amount of time. I am not sure what happens if you are not posting something. So this is a WARNING to all you bloggers. BEWARE of the BLOG POLICE.

Have a nice day.

Last book of 2010

2010-12-30T16:50:00.000-08:00

What a great book to end this year with. Rules by Cynthia Lord won a Newbery Honor and I can see why. Although it is geared towards middle school kids, I still loved it . Just try it, you might like it.

Click on the link below to see a message Santa sent me.

2010-12-24T17:11:00.000-08:00

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/guest/sN6177M5rTqXWmR7o3bP5g

Ken's project

2010-12-10T06:47:00.000-08:00

Ken has been off work a lot this year. He desperately needed a project. We got this sweet night stand at DI for $1.50.

He used about $20.00 worth of spray paint and accessories (well worth it). I probably should have wiped off the finger prints before taking the picture. But it turned out so nice, I put it in the guest/playroom. Good job , Ken.

the present were placed on the CABINETS with care..........

2010-12-05T18:46:00.000-08:00

This is where we keep our gifts before Christmas. I have no doubt that my kids could get up there but I hope the height deters them for a while.

Go Geckos!!!

2010-11-23T09:44:00.000-08:00


Faith decided to do soccer this year. It was really a lot of fun (not as boring as baseball, sorry Frankie)

Faith's soccer coach, Sue. She didnt know anything about soccer but volunteer anyways.They also made all the T-shirts for the parents to wear. She did great!

Sue's daughter Evenlyn, and Faith became buddies. Her dad happens to be an Ironworker too.

We celebrated the end of the season at Chuck E. Cheese.

Hopefully Faith will want to do soccer again. All that running around helped calm down some of her craziness........kind of.

Why Doesn't he SMILE??

2010-11-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

Everyone always asks me why doesn't Francisco smile in pictures? Is he mad? He really isn't. He is actually a very happy person. Anyone who knows him, knows that he has a good sense of humor (sometimes better than mine). I really think it started at a young age. He has not smiled in pictures for a long time. Notice the picture of him as a toddler then as an adult. He has always said that he is happy on the inside. I guess we just have to accept that this is all he can give.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

Faith was Snow White

My friend Carolyn helped me straighten her hair and curl it. She looked so different.

I was a polygamist. Carolyn also did my hair. So funny.

Andrew was batman. He had a hard time seeing out of the mask but he was still able to fight crime.

My Bunco group

Alex and her friends dressed like Teletubbies. One of her friends is wearing fish net stocking, I dont remember that from the show.......................

Wedding

2010-10-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

The other weekend my long time friend Jenn was married here in Vegas. It was a beautiful wedding. It was so nice to see so many of my friends from high school

Jenn and Dennis

This is such a cute cake topper. My friend
Jenn and her husband are both cops.

Here is the Robles clan

Wendy, Laura, Kelli and myself
Wendy and Kelli are sisters from our old high
school flag days.

Laura, Alex and Frankie really
having a good time

This is Denise and Wendy. Denise was
our flag coach in high school.

I really love this picture of us three.

Homecoming-Toga party

2010-10-25T13:18:00.000-07:00

Homecoming was last week. They are both not 16 yet and officially are not suppose to date. One of Alex and Frankie's friend had a homecoming party at his house (with parents present-including myself). His house was just awesome. It had a beautiful heated pool, jacuzzi, and full size volleyball court. I think all the kids had fun eating, drinking, blasting music, swimming and playing volleyball all night

Homecoming Toga party. You can see Alex right in the middle and Frankie is the
posing statue in the back left.

This is for all my friends who are big Twilight fans.

2010-10-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

WE DID IT!!

2010-09-30T06:21:00.000-07:00

16 years ago today WE DID IT...........

Skywalk

2010-09-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

Andrew, Jacob and Faith. Jacob was so good to my kids all weekend. They loved him.

Grand Canyon. You can see the Colorado River

Jacob and Drew. Andrew fell asleep driving there and back.

Andrew

Jacob and Karen

Jacob , Chris and Karen

Faith and Sarah. Dosen't Faith seem awfully close to the edge?

Sarah, Karen and me. So glad these girls came to see me.

Sky walk is on the right side

In August my friend Sarah,Karen and her family came for a visit. We decided to go to the Sky walk at the Grand Canyon. The Sky walk is a walkway that is made of glass. It is an awesome way to see the canyon. I'm not afraid of heights but even this made me nervous. They encourage you to jump up and down and lay face down on the glass. Super scary. It only took 2 hours to get there but was NOT cheap. You pay to get into the park . And will need to take out a small loan to go onto the Skywalk. Cell phones and cameras are not allowed so that you buy pictures thru them. What a rip off. Besides that it was Awesome view!! You should definitely put in on your bucket list.

CALL ME CRAZY-I AM OK WITH IT

2010-09-19T07:20:00.000-07:00

Here are the 4 sister wives on the new show on TLC

I don't know if any you remember I was on a kick last year about reading a lot about polygamy. I read the book Escape, The 19th Wife and The Chosen One . I was actually a little obsessive. I was watching the TLC channel the other day and saw a new show that is starting on Sept 26th it is called Sister Wives. That's right a show about a polygamist family in Utah. I am so excited. I already have it scheduled to record on my DVR. I know some of you will think I am crazy and you know what? I am OK with that.

These are not the sister wives on the new show

38 is Great!

2010-09-16T07:47:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to you!

August

2010-09-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

A lot has happen in August. Here is a couple of highlights.
Mary and I started a Finer Things Club. What is that you say? Well , both of our families are extremely picky and refuse to try anything new. In our Finer Things Club, we make dishes that are new and different. We know our family would HATE this food , so they are not invited to eat with us.

Mary's first dish was Acorn squash. It was pretty good. It tasted like stuffing to me.

My first choice was Edamame and mushrooms. It was good. I took leftovers home and accidentally left it in the trunk of my car.

We loved trying new foods. Next meeting with be at a local Jewish Kosher restaurant. Hopefully we decide to shower for our next meeting.

We got together Sunday for our Ma's birthday party. Ma turned............?

The next day was the 1st day of school.
Here is Faith doing some stretching before she runs a muck.

Andrew-
He tries so hard to smile.

I have felt so blessed to have been home with these stinkers. I have mixed feeling about them starting Kindergarten. I am excited for them and sad for me. Hope it will be a good school year.

A New Season of TV

2010-09-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe I am going to blog about the new season of TV shows I will be watching. I have done this before, but my list seems to get longer each season... BUT here I go.

1st show to debut is SURVIVOR Sept 15th

The 2nd show is called THE EVENT it is new starting Sept 20th (I can't find a picture for this show)

The 3rd is the BIGGEST LOSER Sept 21st

The 4th is LAW AND ORDER SVU it starts Sept 22nd

The 5th is AMAZING RACE it starts on Sept 26th

So there is my line up for the fall season. Happy Fall TV watching.

Winner winner chicken dinner

2010-08-28T13:56:00.001-07:00

Its no secret how much I love Book blogs. After almost 3 years of reading them , I finally won a book giveaway!!! Yeah Baby. I love books and I love free!

Amish Proverbs Giveaway Winner

Thanks to random.org, the winner of the Amish Proverbs Giveaway is:

Laura H!

2 kids and Tired book reviews is one of my favorite blogs. Check her blog out. She reads so many books , she makes me look like a slacker. Thanks Holly.

My Daddy all day long

2010-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today would have been our dad's 74th birthday. Laura and I would not be the people we are today with out the influence of our dad. We truly miss him.

On a lighter note:

(Can I just say that what were the people in the 70's thinking. Look at my dad's pants and his shirt didn't even match. I find this too funny)

We did it!!!

2010-08-10T08:59:00.001-07:00

Alex and I started the Book of Mormon early this year. We finally finished it!! I have loved reading it with Alex. Because we live so far away, we have read most it over the phone with each other. Sometimes its been hard to coordinate our schedules but it goes to show you that it can be done. I love you Al, glad we did this together.

We have agreed that our favorite scripture that we found was
2 Nephi 9 :51
..........let your soul delight in fatness.

Something I Learned

2010-08-04T20:51:00.001-07:00

I was chastised by my sister Laura for not doing my part in posting a blog. I thought I would share something with the thousands of people that read 2 Big Mouth Sisters Blog, that you probably already know, but I just learned. I must start at the beginning of my story so you will get the full picture.

This last Saturday Laura and I took part in a local c0-op group here in Vegas called Bountiful baskets. Every other week this group sells locally grown veggies, fruit, bread and honey and sells it at different places in the valley. The basket is only $15. We got a bunch of fruits and veggies. (If I was a professional blogger I would have taken a picture and posted it now, Oh well ) (Picture above is not mine, it came from the internet)

Two of the veggies were green peppers and banana peppers. Now in the Robles family we do use these veggies in moderation. I did not want them to go to waste. My wonderful sister-n-law Shawna suggested that we cut them up and freeze them. YES, you can freeze peppers. And that is what I did.

So that is what I learned. I hope this helped someone.

Good books for kids and adults

2010-07-19T06:35:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading all 3 of these books. They are great! The Grandma im these books is my favorite character of all times. Be sure to read them in order so you do not get confused.

1. A Long way from Chicago
2. A year Down Yonder
3. A Season of Gifts

My friend, who is a 4th grade teacher is going to read the first book out loud to her class next year. I'm slowly working my way through the Newberry books.

Vacation

2010-07-10T21:05:00.000-07:00

The Robles Family Vacation was in Virginia Beach and Washington DC this year.

In VA Beach there were road side fruit, flower and vegetable stands everywhere.

They were just so cute.

Look at this house with the amazing flowers and garden right out side it.

We don't ever see anything like this in Las Vegas.
We were driving and they had this amazing Lotus Reserve right off the road.
We actually went out to VA beach so that Alex could compete in Nationals.

She did really well. Placed 5th on trampoline and tied 9th for tumbling.
Francisco's cousin Johnny lives in VA with his family. He is in the Navy and happen to be in port when we were visiting. We were able to tour his ship. It was very exciting.
And of course the Robles family is a baseball family. We did head up to Washington DC for just one day. It was more important to everyone (except me) to go to a Nationals Baseball game. We only were able to see few historical site in WA DC.
Had a great time. I really love being a part of such a awesome family.

15 years and counting ..........

2010-06-30T07:11:00.000-07:00

Our first little house off of Major.
Ken looks kind of grubby but I look smokin' hot!!

Fathers' Day

2010-06-20T06:10:00.000-07:00

My Father-in-law, Buck

Baby Daddy, Ken- Love you!

Our Dad. Andy, Papa, Pops...we miss you

Memorial Day

2010-06-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we have big plans on holidays and other holidays we just kind of wing it. We had no big plans this holiday. I had to work on Memorial Day so Francisco hung out with a pack of teenagers all day. When I got home all of them decided to go swimming. 3 girls and 5 boys. We grilled some burgers and the boys decided they wanted to impress the girls by jumping off our back wall into our pool. I don't know if this was very responsible of us, as we were suppose to be the parental type figures, but no one died or was injured. I am glad my kids feel comfortable enough to bring their friends around.

Until We Meet Again

2010-05-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

I LOVE THE MORMON MESSAGES. THIS SHORT CLIP HAS A TWO FOLD MESSAGE. FIRST: IT REMINDS US OF THE WILLINGNESS OF OTHERS WHO HAVE SERVED OUR NATION. SECOND: IT REMINDS US THAT WE WILL SEE ALL OUR BELOVED FRIENDS AND FAMILY AGAIN.

I WANT TO PAY TRIBUTE TO ALL THE MEN

AND WOMEN THAT HAVE EVER SERVED OUR GREAT COUNTRY SO THAT WE

CAN BE FREE TODAY. LET US REMEMBER THEM AND THEIR GREAT

SACRIFICE THIS MEMORIAL WEEKEND.

Sharing our Bday parties

2010-05-15T11:49:00.000-07:00

Frankie and I have been sharing birthday parties for a long time now. I was nice enough to let him be born in the same month as me and he is kind of enough to share his birthday parties with an old lady.

We both are getting bigger. Me, sideways. Him ,vertically.

Love you Frankie.
(Did you notice in both pics I'm wearing a American flag on my shirt, I'm such a Patriot!)

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

2010-05-08T16:37:00.001-07:00

Happy Mothers’ Day with love….WHY GOD MADE MOMS

Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.
How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.
What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.
Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?

1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff

2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.

3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.

2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?
Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.
Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.
What's the difference between moms and dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friends.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.
What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.
What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

Karen

2010-04-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

This is me and my friend Karen Smith. This will be her 3rd year participating in the Revlon Run/Walk for Women's cancer. This year I'm joining her. Probably will walk more than run. Here is her fund raising page.

HERE I GO AGAIN

2010-04-21T08:11:00.001-07:00

Do you know what theses are??? YEP, it is 4 tomato plants. For the past 2 years I have tried to grow tomatoes. I have tried growing them in a pot. We did have minor success with the pot version. It yielded about 4 small tomatoes. The next attempt was the "upside down" contraption. This might have worked, but watering the darn thing was less than easy, and it slowly withered and died in the Las Vegas heat. About 5 years ago in our 1st house I successfully had a garden in which I planted cherry tomatoes. This was big success. So I have decided to try again this year. (My family and myself just really love tomatoes and I am determined to be a master gardener of tomatoes this year) I cleared some space in my planter and loaded the area with lots of rich soil. These plants were planted about 3 weeks ago. I have them watering on my drip system and they seem to be doing great. I even have my "roaming gnome to bring some luck.

Unwind: a most distrubing book

2010-04-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

I just finished this book the other day. Could not put it down. It was SO disturbing but soooo good. I would not recommend this for young kids/teens (or wimpy adults) It deals with a lot of touchy subjects. This one is on my top 10 list for this year.

2010-04-05T18:17:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed General Conference this last weekend. All the talks seemed to be just what I needed in my life at this time. I especially enjoyed the talk in the Sunday morning session given by Dieter F Uchtdorf. In his talk he related a story about a statue of Jesus in Germany that was destroyed in WWII. He said that the experts were able to put all of the statue back together except Jesus' hands. The statues hands were utterly crushed. The town's people debated what to do. Should they hire a sculptor to make new hands or just leave it. The town's people ultimately decided to leave the statue without hands and pa plaque was placed at the base of the statue saying "You are my hands."

This led me to think. Am I Jesus' hands? Am I doing everything I can to help my fellow men? Am I being kind and trying to bless all people that I come in contact with? I love being inspired by our prophet and leaders to be a better person. May we all be the hands of our Savior.

New Recipes

2010-03-19T07:52:00.000-07:00

I found some recipes that I think I will try in the next couple of weeks. Most look fairly easy. I thought I would post them for those of you who are also need something new to try.

EASY CHICKEN STROGANOFF ITALIAN BREAD TOSSED SALAD

2 Tablespoons butter 1 lb. chicken breast, cut in strips 2 cups mushrooms 1 medium onion, chopped 1 can cream of chicken soup 1/2 cup sour cream 4 cups egg noodles

Directions:

1. Cook chicken in 1 Tablespoon butter. Remove.  2. Cook mushrooms and onions in remaining butter.  3. Stir in soup and sour cream. Heat until boiling.  4. Return chicken to the pan. Heat thoroughly.  5. Serve over noodles, with a tossed salad and buttered Italian bread

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

½ cup packed brown sugar ½ cup ketchup 1 ½ lbs. lean ground beef ¾ cup milk 2 eggs 1 ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 small onion, chopped ¼ teaspoon ground ginger ¾ cup finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs (about 10 crackers)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 5 x 9 loaf pan. 2. Press the brown sugar into the bottom of pan and spread with ketchup. 3. In a mixing bowl thoroughly mix all remaining ingredients and shape into a loaf. 4. Place loaf on top of ketchup. 5. Bake in a preheated oven for 1 hour or until juices run clear. 6. Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered corn and brown-n-serve dinner rolls

Mexican Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 jar salsa 1 (16 ounce) package Monterrey jack cheese

Directions:

1. In a 9x13 pan, cover the chicken breasts with the salsa.  2. Cover with foil, bake at 350 degrees F for 25 minutes.  3. Cover each chicken breast with Monterey jack cheese. 4. Bake for 5-10 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. 5. Serve with white rice and tortilla chips.

BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE WITH HAM

1 pound cooked ham, cubed ¼ cup butter or margarine, divided ¼ cup flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 cups milk ¼ pound Velveeta Pasteurized Prepared Cheese , cut up 1 (8 ounce) package shredded cheddar cheese , divided 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked, drained 2 Tablespoons seasoned dry bread crumbs

Directions:

1. Melt 3 Tablespoons of the butter in large saucepan on low heat.  2. Blend in flour and salt; cook and stir 1 minute. Gradually add milk; cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.  3. Add prepared cheese product and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese; stir until melted.  4. Stir in macaroni. Add cooked cubed ham.  5. Pour into lightly greased 1 ½ quart casserole.  6. Melt remaining 1 Tablespoon butter; toss with bread crumbs.  7. Sprinkle casserole with remaining ½ cup cheese and bread crumb mixture.  8. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Easy Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup

1 (9-ounce) package refrig. cheese tortellini

1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth

1 (10 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed

cooked diced chicken breast

1 cups fat-free milk

1/2 tsp. dried thyme

1/4 tsp. pepper

Step One: Cook tortellini according to package directions, using 1 can broth instead of water. Step Two: Add soup and remaining ingredients, stirring well. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until thoroughly heated

Happy Cooking !

Our Family

2010-03-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

March 11th 2006

One of the best days of our lives!

Sydney's Baptism

2010-03-07T15:27:00.000-08:00

Our Niece , Sydney, (Dave's daughter) was baptized yesterday. Shawna's parents have not been in good health and we were glad they were both able to come for this special day. Our only wish was that our Dad could have been there too. We are so proud of you Syd!

Wonder Woman

2010-03-04T18:53:00.000-08:00

Below is picture of Linda Carter aka Wonder Woman. Doesn't she look great? Is this how you feel. Like a wonder woman? "Wonder" mother, daughter, sister, wife, friend and employee.

Can you do it all? Can you keep a clean house with 4 little kids under the age of 7? Do you complete your visiting teaching in the first week of the month with a note and treat for all 5 of your ladies? Are you the one that has exercised and showered by 5 and then makes a full 3 course breakfast for your family? Are you the one that has delicious and nutritious homemade meals every night that everyone loves and eats? Have you read the BOM all the way through just this year and are now working on the Bible? Do you work part time and volunteer 20 hours a week at the local nursing home?

And after all that you had time to save the entire planet from destruction.

If you answered no to any of these questions that does not mean you are not a super woman.

I have been putting too much pressure on myself lately. I want to be everything to everyone. I want to be Wonder Woman, headband , wrist bracelets and all. (and looking as good as she does after all of it) I have been told I need to not be so hard on myself. I am going out on a limb to say that alot of us do what I am doing too.

I am going to really try to "give myself a break." Not like a vacation or anything, but I will give ME permission (and you if you need it) to not be so hard on ourselves. Do what we can and don't beat ourselves up because we can't do it all.

This is my Ideal Wonder Woman picture of Myself

This is how I feel sometimes

Andrew's room

2010-02-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

My in-laws Buck and Dawn were down to help us out and while they were here, they painted pictures in Andrew's room. Dawn drew all the pictures and Buck did all the detail. They worked so hard and did a fantastic job. Andrew loves it!

They even let the kids help.

I was very nervous. I had to walk out of the room. In case you cant see , that is RED paint in her hand. But surprisingly we had no spills.

I loved how his name came out

Can you see? It says Drew's Construction on it. All the workers have D.C on their hats. So cute.

Love it

Everything turned out great. My in-laws really helped us out that week. We are so lucky to have them.

The Ten Things I Love about You

2010-02-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today is Alex's 15th Birthday. I really can't believe it. When my mom used to say time goes by so fast she was right. I decided to post 10 things I love about Alex.

10. I love when I can't text very fast you help me out and text for me.

9. I love that when you are fighting with your brother it is not only loud but sometimes turned into a sport.

8. I love that you think you are above crying and other "girly" emotions and think that they are not part of your life.

7. I love that you can shoot your Glock at a moving target and hit it dead on.

6. I love that you think you will marry Alex Wolff from the Naked Brothers Band when you grow up.

5. I love that you believe the Kiefer Sutherland is really a CTU agent in real life, and that when he went to jail it was just a cover up for his job.

4. I love that when you argue with someone, you always think you are right.

3. I love that when you say you will keep a secret, you do.

2. I love that you are a good and loyal friend.

1. I love that you are reading the Book of Mormon and have chosen to follow the Savior and try to do what is right.

I love you Alex. Life would not be this wonderful if it were not for you.

Love Mom

I love the D.I.

2010-02-04T20:31:00.001-08:00

Its no secret that both Mary and I LOVE the D.I. We go as often as we can (and as our budgets allows us). This year I decide to look for some Valentines' decorations.

I found this first. What the heck is it? Oh well for 50 cents I will figure something out.

Ahhh picture frame. We look good.

Another cute frame , 50 cents.

Love these heart wreaths for $2.00. They still had the Target price tag for $14.99.

Another heart wreath. Target price $12.99, D.I. price $2.00!

50 cent heart.

Love these candle holders for 50 cents each!

Ok not from the D.I. but I made it myself for $2.00. Not professional but cheap and cute. I even had enough left over to help Mary make one.

Side note: I'm on the look out for 2 wooden shelves. I'm determined to find a screaming deal at the D.I. I will just have to go more to keep checking for some. Wish me luck.

Teddy's Birthday party

2010-01-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

Andrew has a teddy bear that he loves very much. Somehow Faith and Andrew got it into their heads , about giving Teddy a birthday party. They would not forget about it, so I decided the next time we did the babysitting swap , then we would have one.

So everyone brought their teddy bears (or any stuffed animal)

And we played some games like Pin the Tail on the Teddy.

Teddy got an outfit from the dollar store.

We decorated cupcakes

We played games like musical chairs and the limbo. The kids seem to have a good time and made the time go fast. I only spent $6.00 on the party. I wish my kids parties were that cheap.

Weird pictures

2010-01-13T18:40:00.000-08:00

Here a few pictures of the family that are a little weird.

Time and Seasons

2010-01-04T09:14:00.001-08:00

I have been thinking lately about when my kids were younger . (Having the drama of teenagers is not easy, and I think that remembering when they were little helps remind us that we do love them and can't kill them). These teen years, albeit the very beginning have not been easy. When there is hard times happening now, I nostalgically think back on only good times when they were babies, toddlers and little kids. Alex and Frankie are only 14 months apart so most of their stages in life have come together.

I like to think that I tried to enjoy my kids when they were little, but there were times that I would want to pull my hair out because of my utter frustration too. I wondered if they would ever grow up. When would they sleep though the night,feed themselves, tie their own shoes, take a shower by themselves, not cry as much and wipe their own backsides.

All this thinking led me to one the thought, Am I enjoying my time with my kids now?

Last year I listed my New Years resolutions on our blog. I did accomplish some and others I am still working on. This year I have one major resolution that is too be happy at the stage of life I am in right now.

Alex and Frankie are now 14 and 13 yrs old. Needless to say my kids can now do all of the above, but to what end? They are growing up to attempt to be independent responsible young adults. But before I know it they will be driving, dating, going to college (we hope), moving out, going on a mission, getting a career, marring and starting a family of their own.

Time goes by so fast. We all need to (pardon the expression) but take time to "smell the roses"of own life. Whether that be in regards to enjoying our kids more, appreciating our husbands, fulfilling church callings or having a good attitude at our job. I love the scripture that says "Men are that they might have joy." I think we all want joy. This is not to say that all will be joyous all the time, but if we can take the time to really appreciate the time and season of our lives right now, I think we will be working towards that joy.

Happy New Year to you all

40 years and counting

2009-12-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

December 27th 1969

Our parents celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary recently. Because of our Dads condition they did not do anything big. But we want to tell them that, We love them and appreciate that they stuck together all these years. Thanks for being our parents and raising us right. We love you guys.

Christmas time.

2009-12-31T07:39:00.000-08:00

For many reasons this was best Christmas I have had in a long time. We did not get the kids tons of presents (although our relatives were very generous) but they loved all they got.

Hungry hungry hippo games is so fun.

My mom came and stayed with us for awhile.

We went to Ethel M. chocolate factory. I loved this sign. If you cant read it , it says " Exercise is a dirty word. Everytime I hear it I wash my mouth out with Chocolate!"

P.S. We had our 1 year Blog anniversary. Yeah us!!!

Pine Cones

2009-12-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Did you buy some of those cinnamon scented pine cones?? Do NOT throw them away , I want them. I want to make 2 of these......

I saw these wreath on Casa Haus blog. Would love to make it but the pine trees in our neighborhood are being very stingy (probably because of the economy.) So if you have some you want to donate to me, I will come and pick them up.

Norman Rockwell

2009-12-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy the pictures by Norman Rockwell on the old Saturday Evening Post. Here just a few from the 1920's the were related to the Christmas season.

I remeber why I hate crafts!!

2009-12-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this cute wall hanging the other day on Craftaholics anonymouse blog. Looks easy right??? I thought so too. So I tried it and failed miserably. I tried again. This time , after much muttering and a little swearing I got this....

Not exactly what I wanted but I'm done. The bulbs are way too small but by this time I wanted to throw the thing across the room. It reminded me that I HATE CRAFTS!!!!

The Christmas Spirit

2009-12-12T16:02:00.000-08:00

I have really loved Mormon messages that are posted on LDS.org and on youtube. Here is the most recent one. We hope that you are finding the real meaning of Christmas in your home this season.

Click the link below.

The Christmas Spirit

Happy 35th Birthday Francisco

2009-11-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

Happy 35th Birthday Francisco. I love you!!!

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-11-20T06:37:00.000-08:00

It is just about that time of year when we are really aware of our blessings. So what am I thankful for:

-The Savior, His living gospel and the Atonement

-A living prophet that leads and guides us

-A true and faithful husband

-My two children

-Extended family and friends

-Good health

-my job

and so much more that I can not count.

The church puts out these short video clips. Here is the link below:

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

What is for Dinner?

2009-11-17T10:04:00.000-08:00

I thought I would post my weekly menu for those of you who need maybe a new idea for a meal. If you have a new recipe. Please share it with us. We are always looking for new meals.

Sunday : we had Bacon cheeseburgers

Monday: we had Beef Tostadas

Tuesday :Peanut Chicken Pasta (this is a new one for my family , see recipe at the end)

Wednesday : Bag meal and a salad

Thursday: Orange Chicken/ white rice

Friday: OUT TO EAT

Sat: Leftovers

Sun: Grilled Carne Asada, rice and beans

Found a new recipe that I thought I would try. Sounds Yummy.

Peanut Chicken Pasta

1 bag of your favorite frozen stir fry vegetables

1 lb Fettuccine noodles (or spaghetti noodles)

1 tsp oil

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken sliced thinly

1 tsp fish sauce or 1 tsp salt

1 13 oz can of coconut milk

1 packet of "A Taste of Thai Peanut Sauce Mix"

hand full of peanuts-garnish

Cook noodles according to directions, slightly al dente (I don't think I spelled that right). Heat oil in large skillet over high heat. Add Chicken, vegetables and fish sauce. Saute 3 minutes Add Coconut milk and Peanut sauce mix. Bring to boil and while stirring and boil for 3 mins. Add drained noodles and combine. Add peanuts as garnish.

Happy Cooking this week!!!

More projects

2009-11-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

This was a old drawer from work that we were throwing away.
I saw an idea on this blog. They had some great ideas.

Nice little shelf. Not my favorite project because the paint
keeps chipping.

This is my door in the garage. So gross and grundgy. I saw this door on this blog.
Loved it and wanted to try it out. I've gotten so much crap about this project.

But I loved the way it turned out. I even painted some of my garage. Big improvement!!
Dont think that I'm all crafty now. I'm not. I get all my ideas from other blogs. I also
get advice from Mary and a REAL crafty person, Carolyn .

Humphries' Halloween

2009-11-03T13:57:00.001-08:00

Our niece Britney just had a baby. She brought Bella over for everyone
to hold before we left for trunk or treat. Faith loved holding
her so much , she didnt want to get on her costume.
Not even talk of candy would persuade her.

Andrew was Bumblebee from Transformers

Faith was Tinkerbell

Ken has been working nights , sooo we did not exactly carve our
pumpkins. We glued on faces and they turned out FINE!

Before and after Halloween edition

2009-10-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

Before:
This little cabinet has been in my bathroom for 100 years

After:
A cheap mans update-a little spray paint.

No before and after on this one. I bought a plate at the dollar store and it did not
fit my plate holder. So I cut a piece of wood and glued it on.

Before:
I saw these Halloween jars on this blog. I am NOT a crafty person but even
I could do this one.

After:
This is what happened to my jars. The kids pulled the cabinet down on themselves.
Thank goodness they were all right. I cant say the same for my jars and Precious Moments
porcelain dolls that I have been given over the years. But its just stuff and can be
replaced. I actually feel very lucky.

Sweet Pumpkins

2009-10-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

Faith looks a little stunned in this picture.

Ahh Andrew.

Watch out Jack Bauer

2009-10-14T14:53:00.000-07:00

My friend and her husband invited myself and Alex (my 14 yr old daughter) to a 4 day defensive handgun class. Alex was so excited. She wants to be a federal agent when she grows up. Alex is an impressive shooter. I was told by experienced shooters and several range masters that she is a natural. As for myself I am one of those individuals that will need a lot of practice.

Alex with her Glock.

Mother and daughter out for nice fun shoot

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-06T08:01:00.001-07:00

We went to our local Pumpkin Patch. So fun. Kids went on all the rides and in the petting zoo. My camera is broken so my friend, Alisa took these pictures for me. Thanks Alisa.