Aloha Friday

Today is friday whoooo hoooo so in the tradition of An island life we will take it easy on posting so we can kick back and enjoy the weekend.

Post your own question but be sure to visit the other blogs and leave some love.

http://islandlife808.com/blogging/aloha-friday-29/


This weeks Question: What are You looking forward to this Summer?


I am looking forward to a rock climbing trip as well as a trip to atlanta. Theres tons more but thats what comes to mind right now.

Long Time No See

I realize I have been absent for some time now. Allot of things have happened this past week and half that held my attention and not allowed me the time to sit and write. My husband has returned to us from a month long school that was terribly hard on his body. He came home with some injuries that we are still working to heal, he has mentioned to me that he feels he has aged his body by 10 years at that school. So much of my time has been working on getting his feet and body healed so he can go back to his other job tomorrow. I had taken on all the housework plus more so finding a free moment can be a bit of a challenge.
My son Bug decided this past Sunday that he needed to take a ride to the hospital in a ambulance. We had made a trip out to do some quick errands and once back inside the house I simply sat him down and off he tottered to play. While I sat everything down on the table and walked back into the living room Bug came up the hallway and he was gasping to breath. He started crying but not able to take a full deep breath I ran him down to my neighbors. The reason I ran to my neighbors is because he is a medic in the military and they do have allot of medical training. While looking him over he suggested I call an ambulance because Bug was turning a blotchy shade of blue and becoming rather lethargic. While in the ambulance his oxygen level dropped and they gave him oxygen. When we arrived at the hospital he was SO much better and within 10 minutes of being at the hospital he was acting normal again. Right before they had planned to discharge us he suddenly got a fever 102.8 and they gave him Motrin. As fast as the fever came on it was gone and they were shoving us out the door. I wasn't given and reason as to why he was having the problem or nothing. The hospital checked him for strep throat and the flu but nothing associated with his oxygen level or shortness of breath.
So in closing this last week has and half has been very interesting to say the least. I hope everyone else has had a wonderful week and your out enjoying the beautiful spring weather!!

WW-strawberries

Sorry for such a quick post things have been super busy the last few days!!

Almost Better than Sex Cake

That's what I have always heard it called but please feel free to call it "Better Than _____ Cake" fill in your own blank :)

Here are your ingredients

1 German chocolate cake mix
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
caramel topping 12 ounces
Cool Whip
3 heath bars, crushed

Heat oven to 350 F. Grease and flour 9 x 13 inch pan.
Prepare cake mix as directed on package; pour into prepared pan.
After 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle with chocolate chips.
Continue baking until cake is done.
While cake is still hot, poke holes in it with handle of wooden spoon.
Pour sweetened condensed milk over cake; let cool.
Top with caramel sauce, then whipped topping.
Sprinkle with candy bars.


This will end up being Very moist. I hope you enjoy!

Aloha Friday

Oh thankfully the weekend is right around the corner! Yes even a stay at home mom like myself even looks forward to the weekend. Over at An Island Life Kailani does Aloha Friday because in Hawaii they like to take it easy on Friday and look forward to the weekend. Make sure You jump over there and give her a visit. If you would like to post your own Aloha Friday sign her Linky and Post Your OWN question :)

What is the funniest little quirk that one of your children have?

I know its a odd question but my 1 year started walking about a week and half ago and when he doesn't have a shirt on he walks around with his finger in his belly button. Its too freaking cute but odd at the same time to see the tiny little guy walking around with his bitty little pointer finger in his belly button.

1 Million resuable bag give a way

1 Million Reusable Bag Give Away
As part of Earth Month 2008, Wal-Mart will be giving away a million custom-made reusable shopping bags on Saturday, April 19 at 8AM Local Time.*
Plastic bags can take as long as 1,000 years to degrade. Wal-Mart sells reusable shopping bags made from recycled materials you can use instead, for just $1. <--- That's the regular price when they're not free.

*While supplies last.

You can find more information about it here, it also links up to their other green products they offer.



http://walmart.triaddigital.com/Sustainability-Article_ektid39874.aspx

Wordless Wednesday

Be sure to check out 5 minutes for mom to see other Wordless Wednesday participants.

Happy 1st birthday Baby Bug

Its been a very short year and I can't believe one year ago today we were preparing for you to come into the world. We love you even more everyday! Even though your smaller than most your personality makes up for physical size.

Happy Birthday Little Bug, We love and Cherish every moment we have with you!!

Aloha Friday

TGIF! Its finally the start of the weekend most of us like to take it easy and sit back and relax. Over at www.islandlife808.com kailani Posts her question you leave your answer and go back to your blog and post a NEW question. Don't forget to sign her Mr. Linky! This is a wonderful way to take it easy on posting and make some new blog friends! So sit back relax put your feet up and take it easy today :)



What is the one thing you could eat your weight in and still want more?


It is a toss up between homemade Taco Salad and watermelon for me I LOVE LOVE both!!

WW-little girl or mountain goat?

Go check out the other ww posts http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/ <------here

or here---->http://www.5minutesformom.com/

Yummy Banana Bread

INGREDIENTS
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup Brown sugar

1/2 cup white sugar
2 eggs
5 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup margarine
1 cup mashed bananas (2 to 3)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter or margarine.

Beat the egg slightly, and mix into the creamed mixture with the bananas.

Mix in sifted ingredients until just combined.

Stir in milk and nuts.

Spread batter into one greased and floured 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until top is brown and cracks along the top.

Happy Monday

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter!

We actually celebrated early my husband had to leave on Sunday for a few weeks. The glorious military likes to send them away for school and training in between deployments. The biggest drawl back for me other than obviously being gone is my sleep patterns go outta whack! When he's home we go to bed at the same time and normally fall asleep around the same time also, when he's gone I CAN'T sleep!! There's been times where at least 1 night a week I will stay up the whole night! I bought two new books in case that happened again this time, that got a chuckle out of the hubby. He teases me because I can sit down and read a entire 300 page book in a day. I do my housework and then slip away for a bit and read or just drag my book around with me all day reading a page or two where I can.

Books are by far my addiction. I need to join a swap site and just swap books with others it would save me money and gas :)

We took our children to a sushi restaurant this past Saturday and our 4 year old amazed them all by loving sushimi. We gave her sushi but she would peel off the fish and leave the rice people were getting the biggest kick out of seeing eat her fill. I hope she continues to enjoy it. I prefer sushi with cooked ingredients and California rolls and seaweed salad. We hope to fly to one of the Asian countries in the future to immerse ourselves into their culture. I consider myself a "foodie" I LOVE trying/making new foods and dishes. I happen to be one of those odd women who could spend tons of time in those kitchen gadget stores.

"He is not here, but is risen" (Luke 24:6).

What an awfully sad day it had been for the friends of Jesus! They had stood watching sorrowfully, as Jesus hung on the cross dying. They didn't fully understand why it had to happen.
They believed that Jesus was the Son of God, and they remembered how He had healed the sick and made blind people see. They remembered how He had fed thousands of people with just a few loaves of bread and fish. They even remembered how He had caused dead people to come back to life. He was such a good, kind man; why did He have to die?

Just before the sun was beginning to sink into the west, Joseph, one of Jesus' friends, noticed that Jesus was no longer breathing. He hurriedly went to ask Pilate if he could have the body of Jesus so he could bury Him. When Pilate agreed, Joseph and Nicodemus (another friend) carefully wrapped Jesus' body in clean cloths. Then they took Him to a tomb to bury Him.
The next day, the Pharisees started thinking about Jesus. They were the people that had wanted to kill Jesus. They remembered how He had taught them, saying that He would rise again after three days. They were worried that it might be true! They also thought that Jesus' disciples would remember and might try to steal the body from the tomb just so they could say that Jesus rose again. They went to Pilate, suggesting that the tomb be closed up with a huge stone and that guards be placed all around the tomb.

Just before daylight the next day, the most amazing thing happened! There was a GREAT EARTHQUAKE! An ANGEL from the Lord came down from heaven, moved the gigantic stone away from the door of the tomb and sat on it. The guards began to shake with fear! They fell down to the ground as if they were dead!

Mary and some other women had decided to get up very early in the morning and go to visit the tomb where Jesus was placed. While walking down the road, they were discussing how they were going to get inside the tomb. They had brought along some spices and perfume that they wanted to place on Jesus' body. They knew the huge stone had been placed in the doorway and they had no idea how they were going to move it.
What a SURPRISE they found when they reached the tomb! The stone had already been moved! And . . . there was an ANGEL sitting on the stone! The women were quite afraid, but the angel spoke gently to them:

"Don't be afraid. I know that you have come to see Jesus. He is not here; for he is risen just as he said. Come inside and see the place where he lay."
The women went inside the tomb and found it empty, just as the angel had told them.
The angel spoke to the women one more time:
"Go quickly and tell the other disciples that Jesus has risen from the dead; and he is going into Galilee where you will see him."

The women did just as the angel had told them. They ran quickly from the tomb, with fear and great joy, to tell the good news to the other disciples. But . . . when the women found Peter and their other friends and tried to tell them the good news, . . . no one believed them!
When the women persisted, Peter decided that he needed to find out for himself.
He ran all the way to the tomb.
He went inside.
He saw the cloths that had been wrapped around Jesus, but the body was not there.
He wondered if it could possibly be true. Did Jesus really raise from the dead? Was Jesus really alive?

Two of Jesus' other friends were going on a journey to a village called Emmaus. As they walked and talked, they discussed all the things that had happened over the past few days. A man came along and joined the group. He walked along with them and wanted to join their discussion. Cleopas began telling the man about how Jesus was crucified on the cross. They talked about how the women found the empty tomb.
As they continued their journey, they invited the man to come in with them and have dinner. When they sat down to eat their meal, the man picked up a loaf of bread and broke it in pieces. Then he prayed for the meal and gave the bread to the men. At that very moment they realized that the man was JESUS! They had been talking to Jesus the whole time and didn't even know it!

Then . . . ANOTHER strange thing happened. As soon as they realized who it really was that sat at the table with them . . . Jesus disappeared! They talked about the wonderful time they had talking with Jesus down the road, and they just couldn't help talking about his strange disappearance. They got up from their meal and returned to Jerusalem where they told all the other disciples the good news that Jesus REALLY DID raise from the dead and had talked with them.
As they were talking, Jesus again appeared to them. They were afraid and thought they were seeing a ghost, but Jesus told them not to be afraid. He showed them His hands and feet where He had been nailed to the cross, so they would believe that it was really Him.
When they saw the nail holes in His hands and feet, they finally believed that Jesus had risen from the dead, just like He said He would. They were soooo happy and joyful to have their friend with them again. They were soooo excited that they had to tell EVERYBODY the good news that JESUS IS ALIVE!

http://childrenschapel.org/biblestories/easter.html

Aloha Friday

Ahhhh the weekend so lets take it easy on posting! Hop on over to http://www.islandlife808.com/ and check out Kailani's Aloha post.

Make sure to sign Mr. Linky and post your own question :)

If you could spend the day with anyone Past or present who would you choose?

I could come up with a million and one answers to this question but I think I will have to say my ancestors. Believe it or not I have allot of native American blood both paternal and maternal, you wouldn't know it too look at my medium skin and freckles. But I would love to absorb some of the culture of my past since soo much of it has been lost.




Happy Blogging!

Starbucks Caramel Macchiato

Starbucks Caramel Macchiato


You can purchase all the specialty syrups used in Starbucks's drinks at any Starbucks coffee shop.

Serves: 1

I N G R E D I E N T S

2 tablespoons Starbucks' Vanilla Syrup
1/2 cup fresh brewed espresso (I also like to use starbucks Doubleshots)
8 ounces steamed milk
3 to 4 tablespoons Starbucks' Caramel Sauce

I N S T R U C T I O N S

Add vanilla syrup to 16oz glass.
Add steamed milk and caramel sauce and stir well.

WW-Tree Elf

On another note today is my dearest hubby's birthday :) He's a wonderful caring father who started out not know anything about children until 4 and half years ago when our goose came along. It seemed to come naturally to him, he loves his babies immensely. He works hard daily defending our country so that my family and yours can sleep peacefully at night. The things his beautiful blue eyes have seen in the middle east would make most of us have nightmares. But he holds strong and holds his family stronger! So a VERY happy birthday to my dear husband, my very own G.I. Joe :)

Happy St. Patty's Day!

St. Patrick's Day – Celebrating the Green

St. Patrick is believed to have driven the snakes from Ireland. Once a pagan himself, St. Patrick is one of Christianity's most widely known figures.

The modern secular holiday is based on the original Christian saint's feast day also thought to be the date of the saint's death. In 1737, Irish immigrants to the United States began observing the holiday publicly in Boston and held the first St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City in 1766.
Today, the tradition continues with people from all walks and heritages by wearing green, eating Irish food, and attending parades. St. Patrick's Day is bursting with folklore; from the shamrock to the leprechaun and to pinching those that are not wearing green.

How does your family celebrate St. Patricks Day?

Do NOT mess with Little old Ladies

Here is a program that ran a phone call from a gentleman and his friend. During said phone call the gentleman describes a accident that happened directly in front of him. I do want to warn you he does say a few mild curse words. Can you listen without giggling?

http://www.chumfm.com/MorningShow/bits/march24.swf


Respect your elders!!

Ultimate Blog Party!!!

HI! hello, hows it going?

Take a seat sit back relax and here have a cupcake:)

Hi, I am Natasha and welcome to my blog. I just recently started blogging after seeing many blogs written by wonderful caring ladies. I loved the facts there were so many blogs out there to help us learn new child rearing techniques, how to be more "green".

I am the momma to a 4 soon to be 5 year old lovingly called my little goose. I refer to her as that because she's always been my little tag a long always a set behind me. Then came along my little bug who will actually turn 1 year old the 31st of this month. He is my little bug because when his sister was born she weighed a whopping 9lbs 1oz and when he was born he was 6lbs 3oz's. He was so tiny and still is, he was weighed two days ago and just hit 20lbs :)

One of my jobs is being a loving military wife, my husband is a career military man and honestly he loves his job. He's been in for 8 years and plans on retiring from there. Our family has survived 4 deployments in the last 2 and half years and there will be more in our future.

We live a quite life outside our military post and enjoy taking day trips, rock climbing, hiking, fishing, boating and other outdoor adventures. I am actually originally from Wv and my husband Pa he was a city boy and I was/am a country girl through and through! I just wish at times my children were able to have the childhood I had growing up in those mountains.

I am glad you stopped by to take a peek and I'm pleased as peaches to have met you!! Feel free to look around and by all means your welcome back anytime.

There are so many cool prizes to be won at this year’s Ultimate Blog Party, but my top three picks would be:

1. 5 — Pro-breastfeeding onesie

2. 37 — Moby Wrap

3. 84 — Baby Sling

But truthfully I'd be please to get anything!!

Aloha Friday

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that they take it easy and look forward to the weekend, Kailani Posts a question every Friday. You answer her question then run to your blog and make ask your own question! Its a great way to meet new friends.

Go check it out at http://www.islandlife808.com


What is your favorite "green" thing you do daily to help our environment for our future generations?


Mine isn't a daily thing but changing from plastic bottles to aluminium bottles, water seems to taste colder and better from those bottles. I know its all in my head but that's what makes it fun LOL!!

Wordless Wednesday

Super easy Chicken Dish

Sometimes you just don't feel like cooking or have the energy to cook a large complicated meal, well this dish is super easy takes less then 30 minutes and best of all my 4 year loves it! You can always tweak it to your tastes. Such as taking the thinly sliced chicken and pounding it out then placing some low fat Mozzarella cheese inside and rolling it up. Do you have a favorite recipe you would like to share? You can find alot of quick tasty recipes at Campbell's kitchen.

Ingredients:
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts halves (about 1 pound)1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Healthy Request® Condensed Tomato Soup 1/2 tsp. dried Italian seasoning OR dried oregano leaves, crushed1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 4 cups hot cooked corkscrew-shaped pasta, cooked without salt

Directions:
Place the chicken in an 11 x 8-inch (2-quart) shallow baking dish. Stir the soup, Italian seasoning and garlic powder in a small bowl. Spoon the soup mixture over the chicken.
Bake at 400°F. for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Sprinkle the cheese over the chicken. Let stand for 5 minutes or until the cheese melts. Serve with the pasta.

Senso coffee maker

The Domestic Diva is giving away a new black senso coffee maker!! The perfect coffee pot for the coffee addict in all of us. Take a few minutes and hop on over and take a look at her blog (which is fantastic by the way) make sure to follow the rules and you very well may win! I sure have my finger crossed!


wait what are you still doing hanging around here go check it out! :)

http://www.thedomesticdiva.org/blog//2008/02/25/senseo-coffeemaker-giveaway/

WW-Private Eyes are watching You

Super moist Vegan pumpkin bread

I am not Vegan but this pumpkin bread was prolly one of the best pumpkin breads I have ever made. I did omit the the shredded coconut because my husband and I have issues with the texture. I enjoy the coconut flavor but don't like shredded coconut. This will come out every moist and sweet. Don't wait for fall to try it :)







INGREDIENTS
1 cup chopped walnuts
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups packed dark brown sugar
2/3 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 cups pumpkin puree
1 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup coconut milk
2/3 cup flaked coconut



DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour two 8x4 inch loaf pans.
Spread walnuts in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet. Toast in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, stir together the flour, brown sugar, white sugar, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Add the pumpkin puree, oil, and coconut milk, and mix until all of the flour is absorbed. Fold in the flaked coconut and toasted walnuts. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven, and cover loaves tightly with foil. Allow to steam for 10 minutes. Remove foil, and turn out onto a cooling rack. Tent loosely with the foil, and allow to cool completely.

Aloha Friday

Over at An Island Life Kailani does Aloha Friday its a great way to meet new people and read some thought provoking questions!

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing heavy or too thought-provoking.

My question this week is: What is your favorite Childhood memento?

I have a strawberry shortcake blanket that my Mam maw made and I am turning 27 this year so the blanket is about 25 years old. Its still in great condition and my 4 year old daughter whom loves strawberry shortcake enjoys cuddling with it!

Go check out other blogs at WWW.islandlife808.com !

My late WW

DTV

I will begin by apologizing for my absence again. There times that when my husband doesn't have new cadets going through his school and he has time off so that is spent with the family.
These past few days have been a big headache though. Not because of my husband LOL! It started off with our Xbox 360 having that dreaded red ring of death, so we need to send that back to the company. Then I bit the bullet and finally gave in and told my husband it was ok for him to order HD from DirecTv. It cost almost 300 dollars because they were charging for the HD receiver, 20 dollars for delivery, plus the service itself. They came out to install it about 3 days after my husband made the call.
Installation went rather quickly, my husband actually made it home as they were leaving so he was able to ask any questions that lingered. The installers hadn't been gone for 1/2 hour when the HD cable quit working. We called Directv and they walked us through trouble shooting and got the satellite to work again but not on the HD cable. While on the phone my husband asked if they could send a replacement cable. We were informed that they would not under any circumstance send out another cable....ok. In order to just get my husband off the phone they offered us a premium channel for a month free, with a huge sigh we gave up on getting anything done.
Now the HD really wasn't much better then non HD, it took a very long time just to switch channels. By a long time I mean it wasn't instant it actually took 20 seconds or so to switch channels because it had to adjust pic size and all kinds of tweaks. They (direcTv) did not work with TiVo to develop the HD DVR so there are features that we had on the TiVo DVR (which was through Dtv) that were simply not there with the HD. All in all it ended up being a huge disappointment to my husband. We called Dtv and explained to them these products were just not for us at this time and we would like go back to our regular program with our Tivo dvr, which they had no problem doing for us. While on the phone my husband asked 3 times if we would still be billed for the HD things, he was told we would get a prepaid box and to return the receiver and remote and we would not be charged for anything. They actually said they were taking 5 dollars off our bill for 3 month because of all the trouble. The box came quickly and the very next day I mailed off the receiver. You would think my story would end there...........Nope of course not.

A couple of days ago I got a bill in the mail where they had taken 160 dollars out of my bank account, by they I mean DirecTv. My husband calls and was told that they were putting in a request to have the money returned but could not guarantee that it would!!! He promptly took us off the auto pay. He was told he would be contacted in 5 days if the money would be able to be returned. So we are being charged for a service, receiver that we don't have and actually only had for about 4 hours. I do plan to allow them the five days but after than I am signing a affidavit to have the return of 100 of the 160 returned.
I believe that they need to work out all the bugs and perhaps go back to working with TiVo in developing the DVRs. But as the programming and equipment stands now it really isn't right for our family at this time. For us we were greatly disappointed by the customer service and the programming.

WW

Even though this is supposed to be Wordless I feel I should point out why I like this pic and why it makes me laugh. The look on her face plus the chunk bitten outta the dino behind makes it seem as if she is say something like "yeah thats right I did it, whatcha gonna do about it"

Hop on over to http://www.5minutesformom.com/ to see many more WW posts.

Play and a Picnic at the park

My little goose and Little bug on one of the many very nice days we've had. Thankfully it seems the cold weather is gone (knock on wood) We have had many nice 70 degree days here this month.

Sorry about the pics being all wonky

Have You ever Had a Deep Dish cookie?

I recently won a 25.00 gift certificate from www.Momintheknow.blogspot.com during the bloggy giveaway. The gift certificate was for Big Pink Cookie Company. I had read Heather's review of the company so I was Very excited that I was able to try them for myself.

They were SO helpful and easy to order from. I had some issues with my faxes not going through but Marcie Maggio one of the co founders of the company allowed me to email her with the information they needed to ship. They even covered the shipping cost!!!! It made for a wonderful experiance being able to deal with a company that cares about their customers.
Thank You so much Heather for allowing me the oppertunity to try such a treat!!!

My package of cookies arrived safely at my door this afternoon and let me tell ya, the pictures on the website don't do the size justice. Imagin a personal pan pizza, these cookies are THAT big! The website states they are 6 inches across and approximately 1 inch deep, I am here to tell you they are every bit that big. Each cookie actually starts as a 1/2 POUND ball of dough.

My cookies came in a sleek red gift box tied with a white satin ribbion, very classy! They also included a short hand written thank you note which was also a very nice gesture.

The best part though was biting into the cookie itself. I forgot to mention that we recieved the Chocolate Chip cookies, although I need to order some of the peanutbutter now!!
When you bite into the cookie they have that crunchy edge but just past that was a soft, sweet yummy goodness. Pure cookie perfection, and if you pop it into the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds it only gets better! Pair them up with a nice tall glass of Milk or Soy Milk and your in for a great treat.

So in closing go check out their site and try an assortment package if you cannot decide which cookie you want most. I know you wont be dissappointed!


While surfing the Big Pink Cookie Co, you might also notice something else:

Big Pink Cookie Company is a Proud Sponsor of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. A portion of all online proceeds will be donated to help save lives through education and free mammograms.

A company with a great product and gives back to the community!

Aloha Friday

Copied from An Island Life


Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday.

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that they take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So Kailani asks a simple question for you to answer. Nothing heavy or too thought-provoking.

If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and Leave a link over at http://islandlife808.com/
Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

OOOPPPSS!!!

I was supposed to ask a different question! So here I am editing and fixing things lol this is my first Aloha friday post so I'm still figuring things out :)

MY question is:

If you could visit ANY place in the World (or space) Where would you go?

I have so many places I wanna go, but New Zealand looks beautiful and I have always wanted to see the country.

Wordless Wednesday

http://www.fiveminutesformom.com/ check out all the other Wordless Wednesday pics!

Lovely spring like days

I have been a lazy blogger as of late, but I do have a pretty good excuse :-) The weather has been very nice lately (in the upper 60's and 70's) so we have been out enjoying all the beautiful weather and sunshine. I believe we have hit up about 4 different parks this week and accidently came across another today while out shopping. So tom morning we will pack up a picnic lunch and go play at the park for a bit then head over to the rock climbing gym. Our 4 year old loves to climb and has recently climbed to the very top of a wall which was about 30ft. Needless to say she is very proud of herself for one climbing to the top and secondly for overcoming her fear of height.
Oooooh I must tell you about one of my new fav drinks at starbucks, little goose wanted a blended drink so I ordered her the green tea blended creme' and YUM its very tasty and light. I believe that will be my new fav for the summer because of how refreshing and light it was, it might help beat the southern heat!
We try to live a active lifestyle and have thought about buying a trampoline for us to enjoy as a family, but the catch being little goose is 4 and will turn 5 in may. Is she too young for one? Those of you who do have one how do you rate it with durability, withstanding the elements and safety? I had read that there are now two kinds of them on the market the orginial with the springs and those that use straps instead. This matter is going to take some time to think through and I welcome any suggestions or comments on the subject.
I hope each of you are doing well out there in Blogland and many happy blessings to each of you!!!

Wordless Wednesday

Thankful Thursday

Today and everyday I am thankful for many things. God has blessed me beyond anything that I could have dreamed of.

I am thankful for my little family and all of our little quirks, Little Bugs 1 toothed grin, Little goose's joy at cranking the radio to sing at the top of her lungs, the way that upon entering and leaving the house my hubby always has a "hey babe" and a kiss for me :)

Luke 1:37 - For with God NOTHING shall be impossible!

Wordless Wednesday

Babies do grow on trees!!!!

Getting to know You

I came across this and thought it would be a nice way for you readers to get to know me a bit better. If you fill one out leave me a comment so I can get to know you too:)


1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE ?
No, my mom actually opened up a book and pointed to a name. I ended up being the only one in my town for 21 years with that name

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? The other night because my hubby had worked night and day for a week and I was frusterated at not seeing him or spending time with him.

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? It could be better

.4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Turkey

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Two little blessings

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? I would like to hope so, my friends mean the world to me

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Only with the hubby and close family

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? I want to buy I'm not sure my nerves would let me.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Honey Nut Cheerio's

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? no

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Yes, strong willed, minded my body is a little soft

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?I don't eat icecream

.14 WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Smile, eyes and shoes

.15. RED OR PINK? Pink

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF? temper and my weight

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? my dad

.18. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? blue jeans and brown mules

.19. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? Fried rice I made at lunch

.20. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? My hubby and daughter watching cartoons

21. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Pink

.22. FAVORITE SMELLS? Lilacs, wood burning, fresh cut hay

23. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Mom

24. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Colt's football

.25. HAIR COLOR? Auburn

26. EYE COLOR? green

27. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? no

28. FAVORITE FOOD? homemade taco salad

.29. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?Both

.30. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? The Game Plan

31. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Brown

32. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer

33. HUGS OR KISSES? Both

. FAVORITE DESSERT? Strawberry Shortcake

35. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? I am listening to Brother Odd.

36. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? don't use one

.37. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT? I believe we finished up watching Last Man standing on the Tivo.

38. FAVORITE SOUNDS?Thunder storms, my kids laughing, the ocean

39. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Stones.....

40. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Key West, Fla

41. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I wish :)

42. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? In the mountains of WVa

Toffee-Top Cheesecake Bars

If you love cheesecake brownies you will love these. Every since my hubby bought me my first standing mixer we sit down each week and pick out a tasty treat to bake. In our home when little goose finishes her lunch or dinner without being asked to she gets a small treat. Plus my husband loves having yummy homemade treats in the house instead of spending money on products that dry up, taste terrible and are horrible for your health. I know there are times I make things that could possibly put a person in a sugar induced coma, but at least I know what is going into the product. One of my fav's to make is a Vegan Pumpkin bread that is extremely delish!






Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14-ounce) can EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk)
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (10-ounce)package English Toffee Bits, divided





Instructions
Heat oven to 350°F. In medium bowl, combine flour, confectioners' sugar, cocoa and baking soda; cut in butter until mixture is crumbly. Press into bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake 15 minutes.
In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add EAGLE BRAND®, eggs and vanilla; beat until smooth. Stir in 1 cup English Toffee Bits. Pour mixture over hot crust.
Bake 25 minutes or until set and edges just begin to brown.
Remove from oven. Cool 15 minutes. Sprinkle remaining 3/4 cup English Toffee Bits evenly over top. Cool completely. Refrigerate several hours or until cold. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator.

Wordless Wednesday

My little goose laying on her back smelling a rose from my vase. :)

Valentines Day Swap :)

I am participating a Valentines day swap, and I am SOOO very excited! This will be my first swap but very eager to brighten someones day or put a smile on their face :)

Valentines day is special to me not only because of it being V-day but also my Anniversary. In the last 4 years my husband has been here in the states for 2 of our anniversarys this year being number 5 he will actually get to be here! Last year we had the pleasure of going to a really nice upscale dinner, even 8 months preg I was able to enjoy myself. This year I'm not sure what we will get the chance to do, maybe nothing but he's in the states safe and sound so if we just make dinner together and watch a quiet movie I will be happy. What will you be doing this year?



Questionnaire:

What is your idea of a romantic Valentine’s Day?
Valentines day is also my anniversary so a nice, fun night out with the hubby is always great!

In reality, what is your Valentine’s Day really like?
We give the kids a little treat, and I bake my hubbys fav brownies for him. Last year we actually had a nice dinner out.

If you could have a lifetime supply of your favorite sweet indulgence, what would it be?
oooooohh White Chocolate Lindt Bars YUM or even the balls you pop em in your mouth and the white chocolate inside melts with the temp of your mouth SOO yummy!


Is there any sweet treat you absolutely do not like?
Black liquorice, Marshmallows, Dark Chocolate (hubby loves it I don't)

If you fell into a pool of chocolate, how would you get out?
I would yell for my Husband and Daughter they would eat the chocolate and free me.

An Island Life give a way!

If you get a chance "surf" on over to an island life, not only does she have a blog that rocks but she has several rocking give-a-ways going on just in time for V-day or otherwise known in my household my anniversary awwww :)


January 17, 2008
giveaways
What’s one item that goes perfect with Valentine’s Day? Bling, of course! And if you’ve never checked out Twisted Silver before, now’s your chance.
From the site:Twisted Silver is the imaginative trailblazer of the “convertible jewelry” movement. Belts become necklaces…become chokers… become multi-wrap bracelets! Rare is it to find a piece of jewelry always outside of the box, yet instantaneously fashionable and recognizable.
Because Twisted Silver lets you define how to wear the jewelry, your imagination is your only limitation. Give free reign to your individuality. One piece of jewelry…..SO many options! It’s great to be a girl!
After browsing through the site, I found so many things that I would love to have! There are beautiful necklaces, bracelets, rings, belts, and earrings which have been worn by celebrities such as Brooke Burke, Nicolette Sheridan, and Ming Na.
Twisted Silver has generously offered to give away their gorgeous Align Convertible (value $100) which can transform from a belt to a bracelet to a necklace and back. How cool is that? To enter, just stop by their site before midnight, January 23rd and view all the great pieces they have. Then come back here and let me know which one is your favorite. That’s it! A random winner will be selected and notified on January 24th.
As usual, you may earn extra entries by subscribing to my feed or posting about this giveaway at your blog with a link back here and to Twisted Silver. Please let me know if you’re doing the extra credit so I can make sure you’re entered properly.
This giveaway is open to U.S. addresses only. Good luck!
If you’d rather not wait for this contest to end, Twisted Silver is offering everyone a 20% discount off a minimum purchase of $100 and will even ship it anywhere in the U.S. for free! Just use the code “ISLAND” during check out. Hurry! This promotion ends on January 31st.

5min for mom giveaway

January 18, 2008
Win an Insignia Bluetooth MP3 PlayerWritten by Janice
Have you got an MP3 player yet?
Or maybe a more fitting question for your family is, how many MP3 players do you have in your household?
With every family member wanting to get into the fun of technology, one MP3 player per house doesn’t always cut it. Everyone from toddlers (Julia used one to watch Dora videos on her flight to Italy) to Grandmothers (my mom enjoys hers) is in the market for a good MP3 player.
So if someone in your family is waiting for an MP3 player, maybe this Valentine’s Day you can surprise them with an Insignia® MP3 Player.
Or if you don’t have one to call your own yet - then this one is for you!
Thanks to Best Buy, we are giving away an Insignia® - Pilot 4GB Video MP3 Player with Bluetooth Technology just in time for Valentine’s Day. So you can slip on some headphones, open up some chocolates and feel the love!
Oh - did I forget to mention our winner will also be getting a pair of Insignia® - Bluetooth Wireless Behind-the-Head Headphones? Yes - Best Buy is in a loving mood!
The Insignia® - Pilot 4GB Video MP3 Player with Bluetooth Technology is on sale at Best Buy for $109.99 and includes these features and more:
Plays music, videos and photos
Built-in Bluetooth wireless audio
Built-in FM RDS tuner (shows Song and Artist)
2.4″ wide viewing angle display
Easy set-up, CD ripping and audio/video synch with included software
and more…
If you want to win this MP3 player and headphones, all you need to do is:
Publish a post on your own blog linking back to this giveaway post and also linking to Best Buy.

Paint paint and more paint!

We have now finished up painting about 40 percent of the house. WOW was that a undertaking!! But now the living room, hallway, kids bathroom and kitchen are all painted. I am loving small amount of red in my kitchen, it actually goes very well is all my chrome and black appliances. Which I have upgraded and all I have left to upgrade is my bread maker, hang a wine glass rack and my hubby is hanging me a Pot and Pan rack over my bar. That is all we have decided to do with this house because We will be moving in a year or so. If everything goes right (Pray for me that it does) We will be moving a short distance but it will make a huge difference for us. If things dont work out we will be moving in about 3 years anyway, Thats just how the military work.

Those of you out there with 3 and 4 year olds what is the wildest things they have said to you? My little goose has told a few that just make you laugh but blow you away. I have recently heard my daughter ask her daddy "daddy, does my boogers know just how big I am?" and on one occasion while stalling to go to bed she not only told us she couldn't go to bed because her legs had ran out of gas, and she was hungry for a snack and if we didn't give her one she would starve and we would find a little skeleton in her bed!! Where in the world do kids come up with these things???

5 minutes for Mom :)

January 16, 2008
We Want To Give Your Child Their First Car…Written by Janice

We’ve got a Red ‘65 Mustang Pedal Car just waiting to be signed over to a lucky preschooler.
Some of you may not know that Susan and I, along with our mom Joan, have two online stores, www.pedalcarsandretro.com and www.a-rocking-horse-to-love.com. Our experience as work-at-home moms - and living through how tough it is to make it all work - is the inspiration behind 5 Minutes for Mom. It is why 5 Minutes for Mom is committed to bringing mom-entrepreneurs exposure and credit for the amazing work they do.
Today we are offering from our store, Pedal Cars and Retro Collectibles, one of our favorite pedal cars. This AMF Mustang Pedal Car design is completely authentic and has been re-manufactured using the original AMF tooling.
It is identical in every way to the original ‘65 Mustang Pedal Car. It is an incredibly popular pedal car and we are giving it away to one of you!
This car is CHILD SAFETY TESTED and APPROVED and conforms to ASTM

The biggest Loser

I have watched several seasons of "The biggest Loser" and they always seem to amaze me in the amount of weight they drop in just a few weeks alone. Before little goose I was in wonderful shape and felt like I could beat the world but alas two babies later I am surprised I have enough energy to make it to the gym 3 times a week. One day I do want to get a personal trainer and try to sculpt back some of my more problematic areas instead of just losing baby weight and maintain afterwards.

Workout Mommy is doing a great give a way over at her blog, maybe it will inspire you to become more fit :)


Reduce your waist while reducing waste! Brita, FilterForGood, and The Biggest Loser
By workoutmommy January 9, 2008
Did you catch “The Biggest Loser” last night?
I think if I was forced to go into a room and see on big screen TVs just how much sugar I eat in a year (or even a month) it might just help me kick my habit. What do you think, would it help you?
And have you seen the contestants carrying around their fancy water bottles?
Brita and FilterForGood are partnering with “The Biggest Loser” to eliminate bottled water from the ranch in efforts to help contestants reduce their waists and their waste. Bottled water waste has become a very real environmental concern, with more than 38 billion disposable bottles sent to U.S. landfills last year. Trainers and contestants will pledge to use FilterForGood reusable bottles in an effort to take positive steps toward a healthier body and a healthier planet. You can check out the FFG bottles and take a pledge to reduce bottled water waste at FilterForGood.
Now grab yourself a giant glass of water and have a seat because I have a Brita faucet-mount filter and a reusable FilterForGood bottle to giveaway to you!!

Wordless Wednesday

My view while belaying DH while he top roped a path to the top of the climbing area

Wordless Wednesday

Look mom I think the Duck got me!