Celebrate The Journey

Top Ten Tuesday

2012-01-16T23:04:00.000-05:00

Top Ten Things needed for my Head Cold

This past weekend I got the worst cold ever!!!! I've been lucky enough not to have had one since last spring but unfortunately it hit me hard, so hard that I that I didn't leave my house for three days.
These are the things that got me through feeling totally awful!

1. PUFFS PLUS and lots of them. This is how I buy tissues...in bulk. When I get a cold I need lots of these. I actually went through almost 3 boxes in 24 hours.

2. Vaseline - My poor nose was so sore that I had to constantly rub this all over it. It's feeling much better now.

3. Hot Tea with Honey- the hot tea temporarily gave some relief.

4. My Gray Sweater with pils all over it. I love this sweater. I love it like a little one loves their favorite blanket. I wear it everyday (at home only). It's so warm and comfy. Unfortunately it doesn't look as good as the one in picture below.

5. A Hot Bath

6. Heating Pad - used for my head....it hurt so bad I had to lay my head on it.

7. Halls Cough Drops

8. TV - I actually caught up on some shows that I had recorded. I had quite a few.

9. My Bed - Oh, how good it felt to lay in my bed. I could have stayed in there for another day but too much to do.

10. My Family - they were so helpful and good. I was totally useless and they knew not to ask me to do this or that. My hubby even worked on the laundry (his least favorite thing to do).

Hopefully I won't have a cold this bad for a very long time. Gotta love January!

Our Beloved Trixie

2012-01-11T21:53:00.003-05:00

*Please forgive my writing, it's not the greatest.

I didn't spend much time proofing since reading it over and over would be to hard.

In Memory of Trixie

February 1997 to January 5, 2012

That awful day had come. The day that I knew was in our near future but was hoping would never come. We had to make that awful decision to have our Miss Trixie put down. Any pet owner knows this is one of the hardest things you will ever have to do. The hardest part for us was that Trixie mentally was with it....100% with it, but unfortunately her body wasn't. Her legs were failing. For the past several months we had rugs going across the kitchen floor for her to walk on, if a rug was out of place she would usually stand and whine for us to come help her or fix the rug. One of her front legs was in rough shape but she managed to get around, she could still jump up on the couch and go up and down a few steps.

Last Tuesday my husband was home sick from work, while he was laying on the couch he heard her fall and yelp in the kitchen. She had decided to go off the rugs and head to our mud room where the cats eat. She hurt herself when she fell, we thought she would be ok but on Wednesday her leg was swollen. I had to carry her everywhere and lay her down. She could get in a standing position but that was it. Late that afternoon she let out a scream and I mean scream of pain. At this point I knew I needed to call her doctor immediately. He called in a pain killer to the pharmacy and told us to see how she's doing in the morning but this may be it for her. He's been seeing her quite regularly lately, so he knew her condition. That night she screamed again when she tried to get comfortable, at that point Eric and I knew we had to make that awful decision. Her arm was shot and we didn't want her to suffer.

Thursday morning when we got up I called the vet and made the appointment. I made the appointment for later in the day so that Eric didn't have to miss work. I ended up having the worst headache ever along with a queasy stomach all day which caused me to throw up several times throughout the day. I'm not sure if I was sick or was stressed from all of the crying and knowing what was coming. The kids stayed home from school to spend one last day with her . When the time came, I pulled myself together the best I could. I sent the kids to their grandmothers while I'll got ready to take Trixie in. Eric was meeting me at the vet. I took her outside and while getting the car ready with her favorite mat she tried to go back into the house (this broke my heart even more). I loaded her up very carefully since her arm was hurting. On the way I had to pull over and throw up again, at this point I was praying I would make it until after everything was done before I threw up again.....I needed to be with Trixie to say goodbye.

When I arrived at the vet my parents and Eric were waiting. My Dad built a very nice box that day to bury her in. My step mom, Beverly stayed with Eric and I along with Trixie during the procedure. My parents loved Trixie too. At times like this Beverly is the person you want to be with you, she's so calming. We laid Trixie on the table on her favorite mat. She wagged her tail one last time before we got started. She went peacefully, no more pain. I feel so guilty, I know it was the right thing to do but still I feel awful.

Trixie was such a HUGE part of our family; she went every where she could with us...rides in the car, Ethan's baseball games, trips and so much more. We had her for close to 15 years. She was like a first child to us. So many people knew her. I could go on and on about her but I'll save it for a different post.

This picture was taken a few hours before we took her in. I think our Dexter knew something was wrong, he seemed to stay close to her. The day before and that day he stood over her several times and barked at her. He NEVER barks in the house, it was if he was trying to get her moving. Now that she is gone it seems that Dexter is listening for her and looking for her. They've been together for close to 14 years; they ate together, slept together, made their rounds together and so on. It's been a week and I still cry everyday. I know in time it will get easier.

One thing I know for sure is that we have been truly blessed with a very special dog and I'm very thankful for that!

One Week until Christmas....

2011-12-18T21:53:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I have one week until Christmas and I'm not really into it as much as I'd like to be. I've been so worried about my dogs these days. They are both old and aren't doing so well. Our Trixie will be 15 in a couple of months and our Dexter will be 14 soon. They both have issues and the future isn't looking so bright. We've had them both longer then our kids. We got Trixie when she was just a pup from a shelter. She has been the BEST dog (besides eating and rolling in some very unpleasant things now and then...I think that's the terrier in her.) Trixie isn't using one of her front legs anymore and her back legs aren't going to last much longer. She takes three different meds...one for her heart, one for wetting the bed and the other for her arthritis. I'm worried that we will have to put her down because her body won't work but her mind his still good. How do you it? This is eating me up. I know we still have time but I'm guessing months.

Our other dog Dexter we saved when he was around 8 months old. Our Dexter has a massive tumor hanging off his chest...bigger than a grapefruit. When I took him to the vet the other day his doctor mentioned that there's a 30% chance that it could rupture and that it's pretty bad when that happens or it could just keep doing what it's been doing for the past 3 or 4 years...slowly continue to grow and not bother him. i have a feeling it will rupture...its huge and I can see that it just grew more this past month. So, now I'm worried we won't be home , it will rupture and he will bleed to death. His mind is good, the rest of his body fine too I try not to worry but as much as I try not to the thoughts keep popping back into my head.

You can see the tumor under his arm.

I know they've both had a great life and pretty long but it still is hard. I think what's the hardest for me right now is knowing we will have to make that awful, awful decision in the near future. I wish for a peaceful parting....like not waking one morning. I need to pray more!

I did manage to get my Christmas cards sent, which takes a load off. I got them in November and planned to send them out early but then they got pushed to the side. I love getting cards in the mail, I figure most people do so I really like sending them. Every year I put my cards in this box with a Christmas-e air freshener and let them sit for a week or so. I love how good they smell. It makes it more festive when I'm filling them out and for those receiving them. I always hand write the addresses and our return address on them to make it more personal.

We also managed to see a play...."A Christmas Story". It was great. The kids really enjoyed it.

It was perfect for our Ethan (10 years old) who is begging for a airsoft gun for Christmas. What is it with boys and guns?!?!?!

Audrey and I went to see the Nutcracker last night. She loved it and so did I!!! We went five years ago when she was 3 but she doesn't remember any of it.

And, of course we had to get a Nutcracker so that we would remember this special night.

Now, I just need to finish my shopping, wrapping and hopefully squeeze in some baking. I'm also hoping for a little snow. I love a white Christmas.

Bonnie

Simple Things Sunday

2011-11-06T11:26:00.000-05:00

Our First Sign of Winter came this past week.

I was not ready...........mentally anyways.
We had snow on the ground for Trick or Treating but it didn't seem to matter.
The Pumpkins, they didn't let it get them down either.........
they kept a smile on there face the whole time!

Happy Sunday!

Bonnie

Christmas Cards

2011-11-05T15:41:00.002-04:00

I'm so excited.......I've ordered my Christmas Cards and it's only November 6th.

And, the best part about it is that I got 25 cards with pictures on them for $17.00 (shipping was $8.)!

I'd joined Living Social a few months back to get some great deals.

simplytoimpress.com was offering a deal.......pay $15.00 for $40.00 worth of product. I had $10.00 in Living Social bucks (not sure how I got them) so I paid $5 bucks for $40.00 worth of product. SCORE!

This is my card:

I normally send out 50 cards but that would be too costly since each card is around $2 bucks,

so I decided I would send these cards to close family and regular cards to others.

I got my regular cards after Christmas last year when they were %75 off at Target.

However, if I come across another great deal on photo cards I may order 25 more!

I can't wait to see them up close and address them to be sent out after Thanksgiving!

Is that too soon? When do you send your cards out?

Friday Favorite Things

2011-11-03T22:48:00.005-04:00

Following along with Rachel at Finding Joy

Happy Friday EVERYONE!

Here a few of my Friday Favorites:

This is a drawing by my Audrey.

I love it! And, I love my little artist!

I thought she did a wonderful job for this being her first attempt drawing the famous Peanuts.

This is where she got the inspiration to draw them....Starbucks.

Oh, how I love a Cafe Mocha made with soy milk from Starbucks. If you haven't tried it with soy milk, you should! I don't use soy any other time but with a latte, it adds a much better taste. Seriously try it! I could drink one every day but I don't and I'm sure you all know why.....yup...too much $. $5.00 a pop adds up quick. I usually get one a week, or two.... occasionally three but that usually means I've ended up at Target to do some shopping. More than one a week and I start to feel guilty. I wish I could make them myself!

Since I'm on the subject of Starbucks....I found this mug a few weeks ago and had to have it. Why? Because of the year 1971...the year I was born. I use it all of the time.

These TWO are always a favorite of mine.

I'm sure you can all relate!

We had pictures done at the apple orchard that we've been going to since Ethan was born.

The smirks on their faces is so them when their together. Ethan's face is saying "I'd shove this in your face if this photographer wasn't taking our picture!" and Audrey is saying " Ha Ha, you can't do it cuz you'd get in trouble! " True Love!

One last favorite thing of the week:

This wreath I made last year is all over Pinterest.

I thought that was pretty exciting for a little crafter like me.

Click here for the original post on this wreath.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend and don't forget to follow along at Finding Joy.

Bonnie

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T16:07:00.000-04:00

Another year of Trick or Treating.......well just lots of Treating really.

Ethan is at the age were he wasn't sure if he wanted to dress up but after a little convincing he decided to be a "ZOMBIE". I think most 10 year old boys go as something gruesome. My Audrey was a "SPIDER LADY". We found the hat and glasses this summer and worked off them. She wanted to make her own outfit which I thought was awesome....she's so creative at 8! She decorated her shirt and wore some webbing for a spidery look along with a few spiders hanging off of her . I think she looked pretty cute!

Love those BLUE eyes!

I had a bit of fun with the first three pictures using picnik.com.

You could spend hours messing with your pictures using this site!

After an hour of walking the streets we made a quick stop to Stephen Kings house for a picture. It was very dark so you can't see much . He only spends summer in his

Maine house but I think he should stick around for Halloween and pass out candy

....wouldn't that be cool and most likely very scary!

After we got home the kids checked out their loot......

.......lots of ExCitMenT and trading of course!

I think this is their favorite part of the night!

At the end the kids put most of their candy in one big

container to share with eachother (and mom & dad ;)

Well, the decorations are put away and the Thanksgiving ones are out.

I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving....family, good food and Macy's Parade (on TV)!

a few favorite quotes

2011-10-06T18:58:00.000-04:00

Like many of you, I've joined Pinterest and LOVE IT!

I love that I can get my fill of inspiration, ideas or of colorful and wonderful things all in one place. I use the search button often when looking for something specific. Check it out if you haven't joined yet....beware.....it's a little addicting.

One thing I've found on Pinterest are many wonderful quotes....these are a few of my favorites:

and my absolute favorite....

Bonnie

Turning 8

2011-09-29T13:55:00.000-04:00

My baby turned EIGHT last week. Time is moving way to fast.......it seems like yesterday when we were working on this.......

(she would kill me if she knew I posted this pic....but I couldn't resist!)

And...now here she is growing up. At her eight year well check I was informed that she will be developing early and that I should start talking to her.....say what?!?!?! She's EIGHT!!!! The thought of talking about boobies is not really something an eight year wants talk about, in fact it's not what Mom wants to talk about either, well at least not yet. I know I have a little time but I'm wanting my baby back more then ever.

Celebration ONE:

A Roller Skating Party with a few classmates. Lots of fun except that Audrey didn't like being sung "Happy Birthday" too. She hates a lot attention. After a little down time she was happy again.

Celebration TWO:

My dad came for a visit the day before her birthday to bring gifts since they would be leaving on a trip the day of her birthday. Audrey didn't mind since it meant she got to open gifts a day early.

Celebration THREE:

Her BirthDay.

We celebrated at her Nannie Wizza's with gifts and cake. She was so happy to get Julie (an American Girl)....Molly needed a friend you know.

She also got Hello Kitty earrings from her Nannie and Papa which she's been wanting since she got her ears pierced.

Celebration Four:

A trip to the Humane Society

We asked that Audrey's classmates bring donations to the Humane Society in lieu of Birthday gifts. She truly wanted to give and of course make a trip to the Humane Society. Her friends gave great gifts for the animals and some friends and family gave blankets and towels to give. She also used $25.00 of her birthday money to buy toys for the animals. We took a trip to bring the donations on Saturday. Audrey couldn't stop smiling! We went with no intentions of getting an animal since we already have two dogs and three cats. But.....we ended up bringing home 15 year old Ziggy. We have a senior center for pets here anyway....so what's one more!?!? All of our pets are 13 and up! She is a good kitty and we are happy to have her.

Oh...... to be EIGHT again!

Dolls and Animals seem to be what life revolves around right now!

I love it!

Cheers to my Miss Audrey for being so sweet!

Holl-oween Pup-kin' Biscuits

2011-09-21T07:48:00.000-04:00

Healthy Howl-oween treats for your Pups!

My dogs love food!!!! (what dog doesn't!)

Our Trixie especially ......it use to be that I couldn't even move in my bed after 5am because she would think it was time to get up and eat. I actually think she would lay in her bed and wait for my husband or myself to move. Once we moved she would start bugging us to get up. Now that she is almost 15, she can't hear as good and goes into a much deeper sleep so it's not so much of an issue anymore.

I enjoy making healthy treats for my dogs and they love them too!

Especially warm out of the oven.

Rachel Ray has Doggy recipes every month in her magazine and I often try them.

This month it was these...Pup-kin Biscuits.

Super easy!

All you will need is:

2 eggs

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

2 tbsp. dry milk powder

2 1/2 cups of whole wheat or white flour

and a little time.

Preheat oven to 350.

In a bowl mix together the above ingredients; add 2 tbls. water, or enough so that the dough just comes togehter.

Roll dough on slightly floured surface (1/2 inch thick).

cut into shapes.

Place biscuits 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 20 mins, then flip over and bake another 20 mins

(I only did about 12 mins on each side, it seems that, that's all they needed ).

*I basted mine with egg for a shinny look.

I doubled the batch and they've held up well without spoiling for two weeks and counting.

I hope you pups like them as much as mine did!

This is why I love Target......

2011-08-11T20:01:00.000-04:00

WOW, right? I eyed these lamps in the Spring but when I saw the original price I kept going. A few days ago while strolling the isles, I saw these two on the bottom shelf of an end cap.....I almost fell over when I looked at the price. I couldn't get them in my cart fast enough ( I did examine them first, thinking something must have be wrong with them but nothing. Now that I think of it, I haven't plugged them in yet ?!?!?!?!) I do need to get lamp shades for them...which I'm guessing will cost more then the lamps. I can't wait to rearrange my living room and swap out my old lamps with the new. This project will have to wait until the kids go back to school in September. Oh, and I also love Target because it gives me an excuse to visit Starbucks to get a Cafe Mocha with Soy Milk.

Friday Favorite Things

2011-07-15T23:05:00.000-04:00

Piercing of the Ears

I always said that Audrey would have to beg me to get her ears pierced. I wanted her to be ready and really, really want them. Well, she didn't have to beg but she did really want them. We have been talking about it here and there over the past year. Most of the girls in her class have them, cousins have them and I have them. She was shocked when she heard her younger cousin Jenna got them before her; I think she thought there was some kind of rule on oldest to youngest. Anyway, a few days ago when we had plans to go see Mr. Popper's Penguin (cute movie), I decided to ask her if she would like to go have her ears pierced before the movie.....

her reaction:

SERIOUSLY?

NO, REALLY?

ARE YOU KIDDING?

REALLY?

ARE YOU SERIOUS MOMMY?

me:

Yes, I'm serious Audrey.

Do you want them?

audrey:

YES!

Will it hurt?

What will if feel like?

Will hurt badly?

How long will it hurt?

Will I bleed?

me:

It won't hurt for long, it's quick, no blood.

Are you sure you want to do it, we can wait.

audrey:

I WANT TO! I WANT TO!

The Big Day

She choose her birthstone for her first pair of earrings.....sapphires.

I wish I could had captured her face as we walked into the mall. She had that nervous but happy face that she tried to hold in. When we walked into Claire's she didn't say a word and when I talked.....she gave me a face that said "MOM, STOP, I'M FINE!" A face that I should be use to by now but don't think ever will be.

She was very quite from start to finish, it was fast, she didn't cry and I was exploding with questions....

ARE YOU OKAY?

DID IT HURT?

ARE YOU SURE YOUR OKAY?

TELL ME WHAT YOUR THINKING.

ARE YOU SUPER HAPPY?

SPEAK TO ME KID!!!!

audrey:

STOP IT MOMMY!!!!

I'M FINE!

MOMMY...STOP!

I should have stopped but instead I tell her that it's a BIG deal for me too and I just want to know what she's thinking and of course snap a few pics. She finally relaxes and tells me she's happy and lets me get a picture or two.

She's only 7 (almost 8) and I'm filled with emotions just with a simple ear piercing.....can you imagine what I'll be like when she goes on her first date, gets married, has babies...Lord help me!

__________________________________________________

Swimming

The weather as been perfect for lots of swimming this summer.
The kids go at least 3 times a day...and, what I love about this time is that they actually get along during this time (well,for the most part) which makes for a happy momma!

We also go to the nearest lake (30 miles away) to have fun in the water too.

Ethan chillin'

Eric teaching Audrey how to do a hand stand

Audrey's hand stand.........love it!

Happy Friday!

Join Rachel at (friday) favorite things @ finding joy

Strawberries!!!!!

2011-07-12T22:07:00.001-04:00

From picking Strawberries,

to making Strawberry Jam,

to picking more Strawberries,

to freezing Strawberries,

to eating Strawberries........

is what I've been up to lately!

I'm surprised I haven't turned RED yet!

first trip, 21 quarts

My helpers.

Audrey inspected every strawberry before it made it into her box.....it had to be BIG and juicy! Of course, she would eat every other one so you can imagine how long it took her to fill a box. As for Ethan, when he picked he did it in good time but when ever any of our boxes were filled, he insisted he'd be the one to run the box to the car. Since the car was a bit away, I didn't object. Even though they did some complaining, I loved having them with me. I'm sure when they get older they will look back on these days and have good memories attached.

An Audrey Sized Strawberry

75 jars of jam

The day after we picked our strawberries, the kids and I headed to my mother-in-laws house to make jam. When making 8 batches of jam, I highly recommend doing it with someone.....it's much funner! Last year we made a 112 jars together that we split, this year we decided to make less strawberry and make blueberry, raspberry and black raspberry for a variety. We actually were down to our last jar when we went strawberry picking!!!

Next.....Blueberry Jam!

Wordish Wednesday

2011-06-14T22:45:00.002-04:00

I was lucky enough to join my Ethan and his 4th grade class on an awesome field trip recently. Diver Ed. We went out on a boat into the ocean. Diver Ed dived into the water bringing up sea creatures for the kids to check out. He also filmed underwater with an HD camera (like the ones they use on the Discovery channel) for us all to view on a HD screen on the boat. We had the most perfect day....sunny, warm and we all learned something. I could have spent the whole day on that boat! Oh, and did I mention how there were two huge newphies on the boat that I couldn't get enough of. They were rescue dogs....thankfully they didn't have to work during our trip!

My Ethan having fun!

Love this picture! The boat was just a cruising when I took this.

This is the Margaret Todd Ship

Someday I hope to take a 2 hour cruise on it.

Have a Wonderful Wednesday and join along at Supermom!

Bonnie

One Proud Mama!

2011-06-02T21:51:00.002-04:00

Join along with Rachel at Finding Joy
(Friday) Favorite Things

Our Miss Audrey's Art was selected to be hung at our Local Tim Hortons for the month of June. This is truly a big Friday Favorite of mine, in fact it's the only one I'm posting about today. It was quite an honor to see it hanging up on the wall for lots and lots of people to see. Hers got chosen from a district of 2500 kids (Pre-kers to 12th graders, she's in second grade).

There were a total of 10 pieces of art selected. The district does this once a year but according to the Art Directors it's quite a process. I can only imagine breaking it all down to 10 pieces would be hard.

Hers was Van Gogh inspired. She did this at the beginning of the school year when she just turned seven.

Tonight they had a reception for the artists....Audrey was a little nervous when she got there because there were lots of people, along with music and goodies...overall she did great.

Love this girlie........Super Proud of her!

She sits and looks at her art work from her seat ....I think she's proud of herself......as she should be it's quite an achievement! She certainly didn't get her talent from her mother....maybe from her PaPa, Uncle and Aunt from both sides of the family.

Checking out some of the other artists work.

She gives compliments......proud again!

Lots of smiles from me tonight and Tim Hortons has a new customer! I will be visiting on a regular basis now to sit and enjoy a coffee as I enjoy my Audrey's art.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-01T08:49:00.000-04:00

First S'mores of the Season

mmmmm...............gooooood!!!

Join

for Wordless Wednesday

Friday Favorites

2011-05-26T22:10:00.000-04:00

Here are a few of my favorite things this week

Spring.........it's FINALLY here and I'm loving it........

and so very Thankful for it!

Even the dandelions!

But most of all the BLUE sky and the SUN

that finally came out after 12 days of being covered.

Oranges

unsweetened iced green tea

Ethan playing baseball.

It's truly a joy to watch....for me anyways. Watching our kids work so hard to do their best is so rewarding!!! This kid loves all things baseball!

Bug Spray

It's black fly season here in Maine...yuck!

A walk along the ocean with this sweet girl!

AND,

Our small country store where gas was $3.69 a gallon

vs the $3.91 in town.

HAPPY FRIDAY and hope you will follow along with Rachel at Finding Joy!

Bonnie

My First Lisa Leonard Necklace

2011-05-25T13:52:00.000-04:00

I've been eying this dewdrops necklace by Lisa Leonard for sometime now (close to two years....yes really). I'm not one to wear jewelry, in fact I only own one other necklace that I wear once in a great while. This necklace seem to catch my eye and I just knew I had to have to have it...eventually. I told my husband that I would love it for my 40th birthday (we aren't ones for BIG surprises) .....so here it is. LOVE IT!!! I think I'll be wearing this one all of the time!

I had my kiddos names put on one side and on the other my husband Eric's name and my name. I'm so happy with my choice.......my family is everything!

This is another one I'm eying .....hoping it won't take two years to get but really I'm in no hurry since I'm loving the one I just got!

Bonnie

miscellany monday

2011-05-22T21:41:00.000-04:00

1. on Sunday my miss audrey and I walked the great strides walk for cystic fibrosis.

The walk was for this guy……

my nephew jackson and to support others with CF.

2. my life seems to have been taken over by all things baseball......baseball games, baseball talk, baseball cards, baseball books, baseball gloves, baseball bats, baseball caps..........and so on!

my ethan is all baseball!

3. i often wonder why the weather doesn't seem to bother kids like it does adults. the sky has been gray for 8 days and it's really starting to make me grumpy.....i need to see blue and brightness....i need my vitamin D!!!!

4. have you ever had a whoopie pie?

it's a new england thing. i attempted to make them last week...not bad but it's definitely one of those desserts that you have to make a ton of times before you get it just right.

5. i can't wait for my late birthday present to come in the mail this week, it was shipped on friday and i'm super excited.....it's a necklace by lisa leonard. i'm not one to wear jewelry but this necklace is one that i've been eying for sometime now. i will share it with you when i get it.

have a wonderful monday and i hope the sun is shining where you are!

Bonnie

The looooongest Red Sox Game and Post........

2011-05-18T13:17:00.001-04:00

EVER!!!!!!

* Warning: this is a long post with lots of pictures!

A Pre-birthday getaway with my family was a little trip to Boston to see the Red Sox play against the LA Angles. We drove less than 4 hours to a hotel outside of Boston the night before the game. (Staying on the outside of Boston aloud us to stay two nights rather then one since the cost was less then one night right in the city.)

The first morning we slept in a little, took our time getting ready to go to a late breakfast then back to the hotel for swimming. I’m sure you all know if you have kids you can’t go to a hotel and NOT use the pool.

Note: During this time the weather was talked about a lot, it was muggy with a thick covering of clouds in the sky and rain was in the forecast.

After swimming we got ready again and headed into Boston but before leaving we checked the weather forecast….50% chance of rain during game time. When we got into Boston we walked around a little then we decided we would head towards Fenway Park and find parking. Since we had plenty of time we drove around for a bit(in the pouring rain) while Audrey slept, we figured we’d let her sleep since it would be a late night, thinking like 11:30ish late….little did we know what was ahead. We found parking straight across from were we had to enter the park. Audrey was awake now so we walked around to some of the shops and then to eat before the game.

When it was time to head into the park the rain was coming down…..by time we got in and found our seats the rain had stopped...Phew!

We got our seats dry and looked around at the Park,,,,,it’s nothing like watching it on TV. This was our view.............AWESOME right?!?!?

The bullpen (where the pitchers and catchers warm up) was just below where we were sitting.....I got a few pics of Jason Varitek warming up, he stretches every muscle in his body. Nice!

The game got on its way.....

and the clouds too...

By the fourth inning this is what things were looking like....

Some people sitting next to us shared their plastic roll with the kids at the start of the rain delay. After sitting for a bit we decided it was time to take cover below. The rain was coming down hard at this point.

Thank goodness for gadgets and cotton candy!

After 2+ hours most fans had left and we were thinking to do the same. We thought they would replay the game tomorrow but they (the guys who make the BIG decisions) really wanted to get this game played since they had a game at 1:00 the next day and the LA Angels weren't coming back to Boston again this season. At 10:40 the game was going to start up again after the humongous tarp was removed from the field, this is quite the process.

(this pic was from earlier)

At this point most fans were gone so you could sit anywhere you wanted to, we decided to hang out by the bullpen....here the pitchers and catchers are coming back to warm up....

Daniel Bard, Tim Wakefield, Jarrod Saltalamacchia

Watching the pitchers warm up is amazing....the speed of the ball up close is almost shocking. I took lots of pictures of the pitchers but I'm sure anyone who is viewing this post is already on overload of pictures. Anyway.....it was late, we were damp and the temperature was a bit chilly when we thought the game was almost over and the unbelievable happens....the Sox tie it up in the bottom of the 9th inning, yes the 9th. It was already 12:30am...wow..I couldn't believe this was happening.

Fenway gave away free Hot cocoa and coffee which was helpful and nice. We warmed up temporarily with that. Audrey's feet were wet so I bought her a pair of $15.00 Red Sox socks and put thin plastic bags over her feet and socks before putting her shoes back on(plastic bags were complimentary of Fenway Park that were found in the janitors closet in the ladies room.... a mother has to do what a mother has to do) .

Our Miss Audrey was doing so good considering she's only 7, thank goodness for the late afternoon nap. Ethan our 10 year old was fine since he's a baseball nut. He was in his glory hanging over the bullpen, especially when Pitcher Daniel Bard tossed him a ball. Of course I missed it, I was below with Audrey for a bit.

The ladies room was the warmest place so we took a little break from the game to warm up, Audrey got a ball too from one of the coaches for the pitchers.

So the game went into 13 innings....crazy! You may wonder why we stayed but when you travel 4 hours for a game, wait out a rain delay you just can't get yourself to leave!

2:25AM

My husband turned his hat inside our hoping this would help the Red Sox win but no such luck...they lost and the game didn't get over until 3am. I can't believe we all made it. The craziest of it all was our friend Jeremy and his soon that drove almost 4 hours to the game and drove

back after the game.

I have to say Maine Red Sox fans are tough and dedicated!

The next day we were going to go around Boston before heading home but we were to wiped. After getting sleeping in until 11am (the hotel let us have a late checkout) we packed up and headed home. This was event I'm sure my kids will never forget! I'm hoping we make it back for a normal game before the season is over!

FORTY

2011-05-15T15:41:00.002-04:00

It's official.......I've joined the 40's club !

On Friday, May 13th I turned FORTY...the big 4-oh! Yikes...that sounds crazy!!! I can remember being a kid and thinking 40 was old and now I'm here but I don't feel that old, maybe it's because I'm the baby of the family or to someone that's 80, I'm still a kid. I've never been one to dwell on being a year older......I try to embrace it instead knowing I've been blessed to have made it this far. The thing about being older is becoming wiser....something I love. What I don't love are the wrinkles!

Cheers to being 40!

Our Easter Day

2011-04-24T21:11:00.000-04:00

Easter Day

5:45am - Kids awake. Heard them chattering back and forth for a bit before waking us up.

6:20am – We’re up (too early).

6:25am – Easter Baskets found (they found them before we got out of bed but didn't touch them until we got up).

8:00am – Easter Egg Hunt outside

8:30am – Opening Eggs

8:45am – Begin making breakfast,

German Pancakes, Turkey Bacon, Melon

9:30am – Eat together

10:30am – Eric and Ethan go out to play baseball.

Audrey goes to her room to play.

Mommy takes a catnap.

11:45am – Awake, off to take a shower.

12:00pm – Start to prep Easter Dinner dishes that I’m making –

A Sweet Potato Puff, Carrots, Asparagus

1:30pm – Coffee Break

3:00pm – Head over to my Mother in Laws for dinner.

4:00pm – Sit down to eat,

The Menu

Turkey

Stuffing

Mashed Potatoes

Seasoned Red Potatoes

Asparagus

Baby Carrots

Puffed Sweet Potatoes

Broccoli

Dessert

Easter Cupcakes

6:00pm – Time to Relax!

Hoping everyone had a wonderful filled day. I love holidays that simple but so fulfilling! Easter has to be one of my favorites!

Bonnie

Springtime Muffins

2011-04-16T08:43:00.000-04:00

Recently I picked up a copy of Rachel Ray's Every Day magazine and discovered I loved it! Colorful and down to earth! There are lots of great recipes to try but so far I've made one. And guess who it was for.............

my dogs!!! Yup, that's right my dogs Trixie and Dexter. They deserve good food too! In the back of the magazine Rachel Ray had a recipe for Springtime Doggy Muffins that I thought my dogs would love (turth is...they pretty much love anything in the food department, but a special treat is always better).

Aren't they cute! (and yes, that's cat grass that I planted and grew in jelly jars early this spring. I needed to see green, our winter was way too long)

The Recipe for Springtime Doggy Muffins

1 egg

2 tbls honey

2 bananas, mashed with a fork

1/4 cup peanut butter (natural)

3 cups water

3 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour

1 teas baking powder

1 teas cinnamon

cooking spray

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, whisk togehter the egg, honey, bananas and peanut butter. Stir in 3 cups of water; whisk until smooth.

2. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder and cinnamon; add to the egg mixture.

3. Spray two 12 cup muffin pans with cooking spray; fill each cup three quarters full. Bake until browned, about 30 mins.

* I filled the regular muffin pan 1/4 full to create a smaller muffin and I also used a mini muffin pan for the other half of the mix. The mini muffns were a perfect size for our 60lb dogs. I baked them for 20 minutes instead of 30.

Freeze and thaw muffins as needed.

Have a WONDERFUL weekend!

Our weekend here in Maine is going to be a wet one.

I'm not going to complain since the grass is finally starting to turn green! Yipee!

Bonnie

National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day

2011-04-02T13:39:00.002-04:00

National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day

Today is a national celebration of the Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich! According to some legends, American soldiers during World War II mixed their rations of peanut butter and jelly to make this delectable new treat. When the soldiers returned home after the war, sales of peanut butter and jelly shot up. No one could get enough of the delicious mix of sweet and salty ingredients!

Since then, the PB and J sandwich has been a staple in many American lunchboxes. By the age of 18, the average American has consumed at least 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!

To celebrate National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day, get two slices of bread, a jar of your favorite type of peanut butter, and some yummy jelly. You'll know what to do!and jelly to make this delectable new treat. When the soldiers returned home after the war, sales of peanut butter and jelly shot up. No one could get enough of the delicious mix of sweet and salty ingredients!

Since then, the PB and J sandwich has been a staple in many American lunchboxes. By the age of 18, the average American has consumed at least 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!

Who doesn't love a peanut butter and jelly sandwich?!?!?! We go through a ton of peanut butter at our home (mostly by my husband....it's quick and easy and full of nutrients. We go for the natural peanut butter since it's not full of sugars and hydrogenated oil. Last summer I picked lots and lots of strawberries and made my own jam....so yummy! Cheers to P&J!

Bonnie

Mint Brownies

2011-03-23T19:23:00.000-04:00

These are the most delicious Brownies EVER! I made them for St. Paddy's Day but will make them again and again before next St. Paddy's Day!

Brownies:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup butter (2 sticks)
2 cups granulated sugar
4 eggs
½ cup chocolate chips (milk, white or mint)

Frosting:
4 T butter
2 cups confectioner’s sugar
4 T cream
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Green food coloring

Glaze:
½ cup chocolate chips (milk, white or mint)
2 T butter

Brownies:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9”X13” pan with foil. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
In a medium mixing bowl combine flour, cocoa and salt. Set aside. Melt the butter. In large mixing bowl add the melted butter and sugar, stirring well to combine. Blend in eggs until frothy.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix well. Gently stir in the chocolate chips. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 35 minutes, until the brownies are set in the middle and pull away from the sides slightly. Do not over-bake. Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.

Frosting:
Beat together 4 T. of butter, confectioner’s sugar, mint extract and cream. Add one drop of green food coloring and mix well. Frost brownies and refrigerate for one hour.

Glaze:
Melt chocolate chips and butter in small saucepan on stovetop or in microwave. Drizzle over mint frosting. Chill for another half hour.

Cut and serve!

Enjoy!!!

(friday) favorite things

2011-03-10T22:51:00.004-05:00

Today I'm joining along with
Rachel at finding joy
and listing some of my favorite things.

To start.......

Rachel is one of my favorite bogs to read,

I love her openness on her everyday life.

She's real and honest.

___________________________

a few of my favorite things at this moment:

a hubby that does the grocery shopping for the week

a march birthday....my first will be

celebrating his 10th birthday tomorrow.

my crockpot that's cooking a wonderfully

good smelling meal for my family

my audrey playing with her

vintage barbie camper that she had to have

(she used her own money for this big purchase)

sounds of giggles made from

my two playing together

a healthy ethan (he was so sick last week

with the flu and is just now starting to feel better)

fresh oranges for 25 cents each

fresh tulips sitting in my windows to

remind me that spring will come

rain, yes rain because it's melting

the ton of snow on the ground

the paint that's transforming my cupboards

my puffy llbean jacket that continues

to keep me warm when going outside

a quite ride to work

hearing my kids read aloud

my stepmom for insisting on driving

an hour and 1/2 to bring homemade

chicken soup to my sick family

ingrid michaelson's "be ok"

my go to song when i need a lift

my list could go on and on.........but i think i'll stop now and save some for another (friday) favorite things.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Bonnie

March Freeze

2011-03-08T21:49:00.001-05:00

After three days of pouring rain and sleet we awoke this morning to a beautiful blue sky, bright sunny sun and trees covered in ice.

It was absolutely gorgeous! Although I can't wait for winter to be over the scenery was breath taking.

A Lemon Cake

2011-03-03T21:10:00.001-05:00

Lately I've been exploring baking cakes.....something I've never done much of besides the occasional boxed cake. I always worry that it may not taste good but my little Audrey tells me their good and that I worry too much....she so sweet.

Well since my Chocolate Peanut Butter cake came out so well for my hubby's birthday last week I decided I could make my mother in laws birthday cake. I asked what kind she would like, she replied "A Lemon cake sounds good". I replied "Sure, I think that sounds like something I could do". After searching for a recipe I decided to go with a Martha Stewart recipe found here. I had all of the ingredients and it seemed simple enough (Note To Self: always read through the WHOLE recipe before starting). I started to mix the ingredients and as I worked my way through the recipe it seemed to get a little more complicated.......candied lemons? Huh? Glaze the top of the cooked cake. Huh? I managed to do what it said but after the cake finished baking it seemed a bit dense (heavy and flat; I'm not sure if that's how it was suppose to be or if I messed up). I made a lemon butter frosting that actually made the cake edible. My mother in law was kind enough to say it tasted good and that the frosting was delicious.....smooth on her part.

If any of you have a delicious Lemon Cake recipe you'd like to share I'd love to try it!

Bonnie

Thursday Thirteen

2011-03-02T22:00:00.003-05:00

Thirteen Things you must have to Survive a Maine Winter

1. Smart Wool Socks

They keep my feet warm without having to wear sleepers and they are super comfy.

2. A Thick Sweater

I wear a sweater like the one below all most every minute that I'm home. It has a ton of pils on it but I love it anyways. It's warm, it buttons up to my chin so I stay cozy warm.

3. Blistex

I never am without it.....NEVER. It's a must throughout the day. The cold weather is brutal on my lips.

4. Vicks Vapor Rub

Since my nose gets stuffy from the heat going so much, I like to rub a little under my nose before bed.

5. Puffs Plus

We buy these in bulk. Runny noses from the cold and long lasting colds that we catch must be wiped with something soft and durable.

6. Warm Boots

7. Assortment of Scarves

I like to prevent any type of cold drafts getting down my shirt so I bundle my neck with a scarf .

8. Mattress Pad Warmer

This truly is the best thing ever!!!

I don't think I will ever again go without one.

9. Heating Pad

I use it in the living room in my chair so I stay warm.

The kids love it too.

10. Travel Mug

Since a hot beverage is a must, I use my Starbucks Coffee Travel Mug daily. I often fill it with hot water, honey and cinnamon. This warms me up.

11. Lotion, Lotion and more Lotion

Cold weather means super dry skin.

12. Undershirts

It's a must to layer or you will have to listen to your teeth chatter.

13. Pets

Good for warming up your seat.

Throw a cat on your chest or lap and you have an instant warmer. Train your dog to lay on your feet, this is the best foot warmer ever.

Happy Thursday Thirteen!

Wordful Wednesday

2011-03-02T10:14:00.000-05:00

Our Ethan has been on the couch now for 24 hours with a yucky nose, a cough (he has cold induced asthma, which makes is cough awful), and on top of that he's been throwing up here and there but says he doesn't have a stomach ache. Hopefully it will pass soon. Oh, How I can't wait for Spring.

Ever since my Ethan was born it seems that he gets the sickest during his birthday month - March. It started when he was only ten days old, he got a fever and had to go to the hospital for a two night stay; this is standard with a newborn, a fever equals lots of test and a hospital stay. He had to have a spinal tap, a catheter put in and blood drawn, all of which was very heartbreaking, on top of everything I was a new mom and couldn't even believe this was happening. Let alone taking care of a newborn, now I was dealing with my mind going crazy thinking the worst possible things, not completely understanding can cause our minds to race. In the end, they found nothing and said it must have been viral. Thankful that thats all it was but how awful to have your child go through this. I'm thankful everyday that my children are overall healthy. I don't ever take it for granted! I know many parents (first hand) that having a child that has a disease or life threating illness isn't easy. The stress of worrying that goes through your mind consistently is simply sad. I have the highest respect for those of you that this is part of your daily lives.

Happy Wednesday!

Bonnie

Thoughts of Spring - Random Things About Me

2011-03-01T12:28:00.003-05:00

Join Lynette's "Thoughts of Spring" Blog Party here.

Ohhhhhh................ how I can't wait for SPRING!

Living in Maine means we won't see any green for awhile longer. We have a ton of snow on the ground right now and the it doesn't seem that the snow storms are going to stop anytime soon but that's ok I can still dream of spring.

That's our picnic table today!

I'm planning to plant some grass in some containers to place around the house, I know this will bring some smiles (to me at least).

To get started here are few things about me:

I live in Maine. I was born in up state New York. My father decided he liked Maine after we came for a visit in 1983, in 1984 we moved here from Colorado. It felt a bit bizarre at first because it was so different then Colorado. I will never forget my first day at my new school, it was a tiny school- K-8th grade and there was only one class for each grade, it was nothing like where I was going before. I adjusted over the years and now can't imagine living anywhere else.

I work 35 hours a week outside my home. My husband I have always made an effort to have one of us home with the kids, this was especially important when they were babies. I try very hard to have a balance between work and being a Mom (which always comes first) but it's not always easy.

My husband and I have been together for 21 years (married for 13 1/2 years). I was 18, he was 20.
Here we are now.

Here are some of the questions Lynette asked to get this Spring Blog Party Started:

How would people describe your personality? (If they could only use ONE word.) Are they right?

Flighty - Yes, they would be right on. My mind is racing and I seem to be thinking and doing many things at once. At work I talk to myself way to often, but it's how I work things out. I just need someone to listen why I ramble, then I'm good to go!

Who is your favorite blogger? Why?

Geez, I'm not sure that I have one favorite. There are too many interesting and talented bloggers out there in blogland. Some of my favorites are the everyday people that I can relate too.

What is your comfort food/drink?

Pretzels! I love my pretzels. I grew up with pretzels, they were always in the house. I was actually holding pretzels in my hands when we had this photo session done (I'm the one in the middle). You can't see them in this picture but some others that I haven't scanned have me holding them. I think my mother took them out before the picture was taken because my fingers were squeezed has if I'd been holding onto something.

Be brave – tell us something very random and weird about yourself.

I ABSOLUTELY hate my ankles touched, just thinking about it gives me the jitters.

Books: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Romance, Biographies, True Stories, Self-Help,

Hands down Biographies. I love to read about people, I think that's why I enjoy blogging so much.

Music: Funk, Rock, Country, Jazz, Classical, Film Score, Blues, Classic Rock, Crooner, Alternative, Heavy Metal, Techno? What are your favorite types?

I pretty much love all kinds of music. It totally depends on my mood, although I can skip the heavy metal screaming music (which to me isn't really music to begin with).

If you inherited a million dollars, what is the first thing you would do with your money?

Buy a new house and donate.

Name one weakness of yours (confession is good for the soul).

I could be a better listener and I truly have a weakness for SUGAR.

What is one of your favorite things to catch a whiff of?

Lavender. I just can't get enough of this smell. It's so calming, something I need a lot of.

When you leave a social gathering, do you wish: You would have talked more or You would have talked less?

Both. It seems that I talk a lot with the people I'm most comfortable with but avoid starting conversation to get to know others better, I'm shy that way.

If money wasn't a factor, what stores would you shop in?

Pottery Barn, Anthropologie and Antique Stores but I would still look for a deal .

What is your greatest fear or strange phobia?

That something will happen to my children. Phobia- again, ankles being grabbed.

What is your greatest accomplishment?

Breastfeeding! It was so hard and not that enjoyable for me but I told myself my babies would starve if I didn't do it. I breastfeed both of my babes for 10 months and I will always be proud of myself for doing it.

What are your favorite animals?

All of them, really. I just love animals.

I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL day and I look forward to reading about you all!

Bonnie

Kindle

2011-02-28T08:00:00.003-05:00

‎We finally decided to buy a Kindle for the family. When I first mentioned the idea of getting one the kids and hubby responded by saying "I like a real book in my hands" (I think everyone responds this way at first). I explained that it doesn't mean we will stop buying books altogether it just means we will cut down on books that we only read once. The kids read so many chapter books that are read once and put on the shelf to sit. I think this will save us some room on those shelves. We do like going to the library and I don't think that will ever change, e-books still cost money. I ordered it from Amazon and it's expected to be here in a few days. Everyone is already talking about what book they are reading first. We can pick out books now and when the Kindle arrives in a few days they will already be downloaded on it.....how cool is that! I have a feeling the kids are going to love it which means they might have to get their own for Christmas.

I looked into getting a cover or some sort of protection for the kindle but was a bit shocked by the prices $25 to $60....eeks. I decided to go to good old Etsy.com and this is what I found for $15.00 at RogueTheroy. They had lots of cute patterns but this was the most fitting for the family.

Of course there are disadvantages to an e-reader; such as not being able to pass a book along to someone else to enjoy, something I like to do. A real book can be tossed around or can slip out of your hands as you fall asleep reading without damage (something that often happens while I'm reading at night) . And, no more reading in the bathtub! I think I can adjust to these things without to much fuss.

I would love any tips any of you may have if you have a e-reader.

I will be sure to let you know how it all works out for our family.

Bonnie

Celebrating a Birthday and Recipes

2011-02-24T22:57:00.002-05:00

Tonight we celebrated

my hubby Eric's 42nd birthday. It was simple and

wonderful which means

PERFECT in my opinion.

We stayed home to

celebrate this year;

my in-laws came over for

dinner and cake. I was so proud of myself since I did all of the cooking and baking this year and it all tasted wonderful.......

mother-n-law approved!

The Menu:

Baked Chicken with feta Cheese wrapped in Bacon

8 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons lemon juice
4 cloves crushed garlic
1 tablespoon dried oregano
salt and pepper to taste
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
4 slices feta cheese
4 slices bacon, fried and drained (I used turkey Bacon)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
In a small bowl combine the oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Mix together. Place chicken in a 9x13 inch baking dish and pour oil mixture over chicken.
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on each Chicken breast then wrapt with 2 slices of bacon each.
Bake uncovered for 30 mins.

Asparagus

Wash and cut ends off Asparagus, lay on tin foil, sprinkle with olive oil and garlic. Lay a few pieces of fresh thyme on top of asparagus. Wrap tin foil closed and bake for 20 minutes in oven at 350 degrees.

Long Grain Rice

Cook rice (I use a rice cooker) when done transfer to a frying pan, add olive oil and seasonings (I use garlic and a little low sodium soy sauce). Make a hole in the center of the pan and add a few eggs. Once the eggs are fried stir in with rice.

And, for the best part

Ultimate Chocolate Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

2 cups flour

2/3 cup cocoa

1 1/4 t. baking soda

1/4 t. baking powder

1 2/3 cup sugar

4 eggs

1 t. vanilla

1 cup mayonnaise ( I used Hellman's Olive Oil Mayo)

1 1/3 cup water

Grease and flour 2 (9") layer cake pans. Sift flour, cocoa, baking soda and baking powder together; set aside. In large mixing bowl beat sugar, eggs and vanilla at high speed until light and fluffy. At low speed beat in mayo. Add dry ingredients alternately with the water, mixing well after each addition. Pour in pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 - 35 mins. Cool for 10 minutes. Remove and cool completely on racks. Frost.

Peanut Butter Frosting

1 stick of butter

1 cup Natural Peanut Butter

1 teaspoon of vanilla

Powdered Sugar (about 4 cups)

Milk

Mix butter and peanut butter until creamy, add vanilla. Slowly add powdered sugar and milk until it becomes a good spreading consistency.

This cake is so moist and so yummy! I highly recommend it.

__________________________________________________________

Happy Birthday Eric. I love you and was happy you loved your dinner, even

if you weren't feeling so good because of a yucky cold that invaded your body.

Catching Up

2011-02-23T17:14:00.000-05:00

I've been terrible about Bogging lately. I feel like I have nothing good to share but that's not even why I started a blog to begin with. I started it to record memories. It seems that I go through cycles and lately I've come to a road block.......I need to plow through it and go with it. So here is a little about this and that......

The kids are on vacation this week, February vacation they call it. Ethan has been going to baseball camp at UMaine every morning from 8:15 to 10:30am and LOVING IT! He wishes it was all day....so do I because there is nothing worse then hearing "I'm bored". Boy I hate those words and as the kids get older I hear it more and more. It's been so cold out that it makes it hard to send them out to play. Audrey has been sick with another cold, poor thing. I'm glad it's now rather then her missing school. She seems to keep herself busy with her Barbie Dolls and playing in her room.

On Sunday we went to The Chicken Barn, the Chicken Barn is a big Barn full of Antiques and books. It's famous here in Maine. We picked up a few books, an old Pepsi crate (love) , a Blue Mason Jar (love), Audrey found an old Barbie carrying case and Ethan found some Baseball cards. We then headed to another antique store where Ethan found more baseball cards and Audrey found a 1970 Barbie Camper that she had to have (she used her own money, it was quiet the find). My kids love old things which I think is pretty cool.

Our Miss Trixie turned 14 this month and for the first time EVER had a bow put in her hair by the groomer.......too cute. I got such a kick out of seeing it her hair when I picked her up. She didn't seem to mind at all. It's really not her but will leave it in until it falls out. Miss Audrey loves it and thinks she should always wear one.

And this is what I did with the Pepsi crate.....

A Perfect organizer for all of those markers, scissors and such.

Tomorrow is Eric's (my hubby) Birthday. I'm planning to make a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake.....wish me luck it will be a first. His mother usually makes the most delicious one ever but she won't have time so she gave me the recipe to make it. Oh boy! We will have a blueberry pie for back up.

Have a great day! And, f the cake comes out good, I will be sure to share the recipe.

Bonnie

The Pioneer Women - A Love Story

2011-02-20T19:24:00.001-05:00

I just finished reading this book and

loooooooooooooved it!!!

I really enjoy reading about real people and real life, I guess that's why I love reading blogs. This was a simple book but yet so enjoyable to read. I read it in just a few short days; I found it hard to put it down. Ree is so much fun......you probably know that already if you read her blog and if you don't...check her out. If your looking for a wonderfully real love story...this is the book to read!

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T05:00:00.001-05:00

Hoping you all have a wonderful day

filled with Sweetness!

All SO TRUE....

2011-02-06T10:55:00.000-05:00

I came across this today and had to share it.

I instantly loved it.

It's perfect and true.

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Bonnie

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-02T13:00:00.001-05:00

How many Barbies should one little girl own?

Join Wordless Wednesday at

Parenting BY dummies and Seven Clown Circus .

Dear Mr. Punxsutawney Phil,

2011-02-02T00:27:00.002-05:00

Please No shadow today!!!!!!!!!!!!
Pretty please with sugar on top!!!!!!!!!!
and a cherry!!!!!!!!!!!!!
or whatever your favorite food may be!!!!

Oh Please, Oh Please, Oh Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I need to hear the words "EARLY SPRING".

Spring has never sounded so good to me. I can usually handle our winters in Maine but all of this snow is getting...well, not so fun anymore. We are getting more snow today, actually I wouldn't call it more I would call tons more (up to 20inches). The words "EARLY SPRING" will make this snow storm easier to accept knowing spring will be here sooner rather than later.

Oh Please, Oh Please, Oh Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have I ever mentioned how adorable looking you are? Such a cute nose you have and you wear that coat of yours so well.

Oh Please, Oh Please, Oh Please !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Your's truly,
Bonnie

P.S. One last thing...........my hair is really a mess! I've had to cancel my last 4 hair appointments due to the weather and being sick one week. You don't want me walking around scarring people. DO YOU!?!?!?

Oh Please, Oh Please, Oh Please !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I will be truly grateful!

Click Punxsutawney Phil for more info on this cute guy.

Friend Makin Monday

2011-01-31T08:31:00.001-05:00

1) What is your favorite household chore? And what is your least favorite?
My favorite chore is Vacuuming, the house instantly seems cleaner, which makes me feel good! My least favorite is the bathroom. Scrubbing a tub is so not fun!

2)What is your favorite city?
I haven't spent enough time in a big city to have a favorite. I wouldn't mind exploring Chicago for a day or two. I loved spending the day in San Diego but needed more time to explore.

3) Have you found real love yet?
YES! My Hubby...we've been together since I was 18. 21 years now......WOW!

4) What's one thing you eat almost everyday?
Pretzels. I just love them. Growing up we always had pretzels in the house and now I always have them in the house. My kids even love them.

Synder's are the best.

5) What was your last thought before falling asleep last night?
I was thinking my alarm isn't set and I hope I wake up on time. Yes, I could have set it but I couldn't see and the alarm is on my husbands side of the bed and he hadn't come to bed yet, this is usually his job but on Monday's he doesn't have to work so he gets to sleep in why I get the kids to school and go off to work. i woke on time.

6) What's the worst injury you had as a child?
Our dog Suki bit my upper lip and I had to have stitches. I was in her faces, she warned me, I didn't listen, end of story, I was 7. And, when I was 8 or 9 I begged my mother to let me start taking showers and when she finally did.....I slipped and cut my chin on the faucet, yes more stitches.

7) Will you/have you worked out today?
No. Something I don't do but really, really should.

8) Do you tweet? If so, what's your name?
Nope.

9) List three things you wouldn't want to live without:
My family, of course. A car and i do love my laptop.

10) Hold old were you when you had your first kiss?
I was 13 and so nervous.

Now it's your turn! Link up at ALL THE WEIGH so we can see your answers too!

Have a Fantastic Monday!

Bonnie

Goodbye January.........

2011-01-30T14:40:00.001-05:00

I have a love hate relationship with January. I love the beginning of the month when it's time to start fresh after a busy December, I love the newness of the new year. Come late January the weather is getting hard. The cold temps, usually in the teens (and lower, like below 0) are hard to handle. We've also had lots and lots of snow this winter. February brings more snow and colder temps but it's a short month and a busy month so it whips by. Birthday season starts for us , basketball season is in full swing and the kids have a one week school vacation. Oh, and we can't forget Valentine's Day which is always full of love and fun!

The kids were having fun in the snow.....I'm glad they love it! Some days they play in it for hours.

I think I will start working on some Valentine's Day goodies!

That's always fun!

Bonnie

miscellany monday

2011-01-23T21:44:00.003-05:00

1. strep throat - it absolutely sucks! it's a first for me, i hardly even get a sore throat. since eating isn't an option, i'm pretty much sticking to hot water and honey. talking causes to much stress on my throat (i think my family may like this version of me, i usually have plenty to say to them). hoping i will feel better by tomorrow. the doctor said 36 to 48 hours of meds usually takes the pain away. i've been taking lots of ibuprofen and tylenol to help take the edge off but it still kills. i don't wish this on anyone...i'm so hoping my family doesn't get it!

2. the waltons - i was always a little house on the prairie kind of gal, i loved watching that show when i was younger. i never watched the waltons until now since my husband loves the show and we found that it's on the hub channel (inspiration channel). thanks to our DVR we can record the show and watch it at night. our 9 year old ethan will even sit and watch it with us, which i love. the show is so wholesome, a bit corny at times but overall a good family show!

3. snow - we've been getting lots of snow in maine these past few weeks. anywheres from 4 to 8+ inches at a time. i like to keep my vehicle clean but it seems to be impossible. this is what most cars look like in my parts.

4. ramona and beezus - my miss audrey (age 7) has been a reading machine lately. she's hooked on the ramona and beezus books. i love that my kids love to read, they didn't get it from me, well that's not completely true since my husband and i have been reading to them since they were just months old. i've never been a big reader. i do like a good book every so often but not often enough.

5. couch - we are looking to get a new couch. last time we did this (9 years ago) we ended up couchless for awhile. you see i thought i had found the perfect couch but when they delivered it i hated it in the my space. so we sent it back after we had already got rid of our old one. i'm hoping this time around it goes much smoother. i would love a pottery barn couch but don't love the price so it isn't going to happen. i found this couch at jcpenney.com, it has a good price on it and i love that you can buy extra slip covers for it. the reviews overall are good but do i dare to order a couch online? any advice would be helpful.

6. a mouse - some how a mouse came into our house and our three cats didn't seem to care which meant eric and i had to capture it . after 15 minutes we got it (actually eric did) we didn't know what to do with it since the temps are below 0 outside. yes, call us crazy......we both have soft hearts when it comes to animals (i guess our cats do too :)

eric thinking what to do with this little guy

look how cute!

we ended up putting it in a clear plastic container with nuts, raisins and a paper towel tube for the night and in the morning will take it over to the abandon barn across the road. most people would have tossed it right outside or worse but for us that just isn't something we could do so for now he's comfy and cozy in a warm house.

Happy Monday to all! And, don't forgot to join along at lowercase letters for miscellany monday.

Bonnie

Valentine Wreath

2011-01-19T11:51:00.001-05:00

Yes, another burlap wreath! I just love the natural look of burlap and it pretty much goes with everything. I used what I had so the colors aren't your traditional Valentine's Day colors but it works. I decided to paint a piece of cardboard with chalkboard paint to add a message in the center. I felt like it needed a bold color to add a little pop. My pictures aren't the greatest, I didn't have good lighting due to the weather being so gloomy.

Since taking this picture, I've trimmed the stray pieces of burlap that seem to have sprouted out.

I think it's time to get out my other

Valentine's Day decorations...............off I go!

Bonnie

Love Mini Book

2011-01-15T10:24:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day seems to be in the air..................today when going over to Ali Edwards site I saw that she had posted this which made me think of the post below from 02/05/09 and thought I'd repost it. I loved making this mini album and think I'm going to make another for someone special. There are so many fun projects out there and inspiration about LOVE, makes me want to make something.

I think it's almost time to get the Valentine's Day decorations out (I only have a few). I've loved having the house simple after all the Christmas stuff around. I haven't even filled my 3 large apothecary jars since emptying them from Christmas. I kinda like it but I know I won't forever since I chnage my mind about things all of the time!

Oh, and go over to Becky Higgins has a free Valentine's Day printable that is simple and so cute. ! She also has a fun idea on spreading the love with post-it notes.

Original Post
I'm a huge fan of Ali Edwards and recently saw this on her blog; a very cute mini book for Valentine's Day. I decided to try one myself. I've never made anything like this before so it was a new experience for me. It was so much fun! It brought back many memories when I started to go through some old pictures (pictures before digital sorted in photo boxes, it seems like a million years ago since film).

This will be my Valentine to Eric. He will love seeing some old photos.

at this moment............

2011-01-12T13:37:00.005-05:00

Outside my window.......snow is falling and the wind is wiping. Not a good day to have to go out. We are in light blue area on the map. Ick!

I am thinking....if the wind keeps this up our power may go out. That's never fun!

I am thankful for....having the day off from work so I didn't have to drive in this messy snow.

From my kitchen.....I smell white bean chili cooking in the Crockpot. Meals are so much easier with a Crockpot. I need more recipes if anyone would like to share. I have a few Crockpot cookbooks but I would like recipes that have been tested.

I am wearing....jeans and a big gray pilly sweater that I wear at home all of the time but not out in public since at has so many pills on it. I think I should invest in one of those pill shavers. I wonder if they really work?!?!?

I am creating....a Valentine's wreath. Hoping it comes out cute.

I am going.....to attempt to convince my daughter that she can part with some of her stuffed animals. We've already packed away totes over the years. I can't stand so many around. She keeps her favorites on her bed already. I will never ever give a child a stuffed animal for a gift... I believe kids should have a few but not dozens!

Miss Audrey sitting on a pile of stuffed animals in the closet.

I am reading.... my "Back to Eden" and "Food Rules" book. I'm trying to take better care of myself (as I'm putting a gumdrop in my mouth).

I am hoping....to try and accomplish something today. When the kids are home sometimes everything that needs to get done has to wait until another day.

I am hearing....my 9 year son smacking a big wad of gum while playing Baseball on the wii.

Around the house....the kids are still in their Pj's ( it's already 1:30), were taking it easy today since there's no place to go.

One of my favorite things....is my Project Life. I just love recording everyday life with my family. And, a favorite is OhLife, an online journal. So EASY! I love it! Check it out!

A picture to share....an winter wreath. It didn't last long but was cute while it lasted.

Have a Wonderful day!

Bonnie

Project Life

2011-01-09T22:14:00.002-05:00

I was super excited when I got my Project Life in the mail on Wednesday.

Before going to bed I filled every pocket with the journaling cards and Card fillers, I thought this would be easier then filling them as I go. Last year I din't do this and I had to deal with the supplies laying around throughout the year. I think this will work out well. At first I tried to coordinate the colors but realized that would be to complicated and really it's designed to all go together anyway.

The Opening Page

I left the next two pages blank and plan to put current pictures of the family and at the end of the year I will take pictures of everyone again and put them in the last two pages. It will be interesting to see how the kids have changed.

Week One

I'm looking forward to filling the pages and hope every pocket will get filled this year. Last year, summer came and went without me touching it. I plan to print the pics for that time period and fill the pockets but as far as the journaling goes it will be left blank.

This is such a great way to record everyday life throughout the year and overall easy. It's not to let to start!