Tim & Jules

You Might Live in Scotland if...

2012-01-26T07:44:00.000-06:00

... your outlets (called power source here) have ON/OFF switches and have a 3 pronged plug. It's always a bummer when you *thought you were charging your phone, but the outlet switch was OFF ;) Oh and to confuse the situation more, a light or outlet is ON when it is in the downward position -weird.

I thought it would be fun to do a series of blog posts on cultural difference here in Scotland for our American friends and family back home to have just a little window into this strange new world ;) So expect a lot more of these posts! I've got a bagful of ideas already!

Menu Plan Monday (all meals with calorie counts)

2012-01-23T09:33:00.000-06:00

Well, sad news- I GAINED a pound last week! Bluck. I didn't sleep well, so I only worked out 2x, and in turn just made some bad food choices. I felt like I was in a funk all week. Have you been there? Well, this is a new week and a new start (says my sweet husband :) - Sooo I worked really hard to enter all of these recipes(except those that already had nutritional info) into Livestrong to be sure I knew the calorie counts for each. Hope you can find them useful as well!

Monday- Chicken with Asparagus and red roasted peppers and rice
(184 calories per serving without rice, 294 with 1/2 cup of rice)

I searched my blog and found the first time I made it was almost 3 years ago because I had the random ingredients lying around(asparagus, red roasted peppers, and chicken :)

Tuesday- Pioneer Woman's Sour Cream Noodle Bake. (333 calories per one cup)
See a pic of it here. I made this when Tim and Katie Barker were in town and they both seemed to really enjoy it :) Katie said that it was nice that the pasta/cheese/sauce was moist and not dry. We love it!

Wednesday- Chicken pot pie (430 calories per 1/4 of a 8x8 pan).
This one is totally worth the calories! Plus we don't have any other sides.

*Note - I made a bunch of changes because it turns out this recipe WAS 900 calories! So I cut the recipe in half and then used half and half (or single cream here) instead of double cream or heavy cream. I also used *light puff pastry sheet and since I cut the recipe in half I was only using half of the puff pastry. I just use regular white onions, not pearl onions. I did not use crimini mushrooms, I used baby button because they were the cheapest. I also don't make the chicken broth by boiling all of those things - I just use pre-made chicken stock. That saved me a ton of time in chopping.

Thursday- Bacon, Tomato and Lentil Soup (237 calories per one cup), Bread

Friday- Mediterranean Chicken Wraps (217 calories per wrap), cucumber, feta, and tomato salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing

Find more meal planning ideas at Organizing Junkie

Maddy Says

2012-01-20T07:45:00.000-06:00

*She dropped a box of raisins on the floor and I said, "Come on, I'll help you pick them up". So I quickly started scooping up raisins and dropping them back into the box while she stood there and stared at me not picking up one. In frustration I said, "Maddy, what are you doing?" She cooly said, "I'm waiting for YOU to pick up all the raisins." It was all I could do not to burst out in laughter :)

*Maddy: Mom, Daddy just leave to school.
Me:Yup, he did sweetie.
Maddy: Do sometimes you go to school?
Me: No, I don't anymore.
Maddy: yea - because you're short, so you don't got to school.
Me: um, well....no...that's not the reason...

(haha -I think she said that because we say that when she is "big and tall" she can go to school too. Guess I never would have gone to school under those conditions (and she might not either!). Perhaps we should think of another way to say that :)

*She and Rose were playing in the bath and I started to take Rose out to dry her off and Madison quickly proclaimed, "Mom don't take Rosie out; she's my friend!"

*As she was drawing a little picture, "This says: Happy - Birthday - Mama!"

You know your child is living in Scotland when she says:
"Mom could I have a biscuit please" (meaning cookie!)
"Mom could I have a pound for________?"
When I said the word "porch" and she said, "What's a porch? Is it a garden?"
When I tell her to put on her rain boots, she promptly says, "Mom in Scotland we say Wellies".
"My sock is wet, I'm just going to hang it on the heater to get it reaaaaaal dry!'
When we walk out the door to go somewhere, she says "are we walking or driving?"

Menu Plan Monday

2012-01-16T09:08:00.002-06:00

Monday- Slow cooker potato soup ($5.87 recipe, $0.73 serving), (195 calories for one cup)
Tuesday- Whole Chicken in the Crock Pot (160 calories per 3oz serving with no skin), baked sweet potatoes

Wednesday- Fajitas with fresh tomato and black bean salsa and chips

This is my first time trying this salsa recipe, so we'll see how we like it. It's hard to find good salsa here. As well, we don't like the taste of the taco/fajita seasoning packets here(plus they are pricey) so I'm making my own taco seasoning.

Thursday- Chili (leftover that I had frozen) - woohoo - no cooking :)

Friday- Smoked Haddock(145 calories per filet), grilled asparagus

For more great recipe ideas check out Organizing Junkie

Rosebud: A Blossoming Flower!

2012-01-12T18:24:00.000-06:00

Time has flown by since we moved here to Aberdeen in the end of September. Rose had basically just turned one, was sucking a pacifier, only crawling, and barely saying any words. Now it's just 3 months later and our little Rosebud is blossoming into a beautiful toddler flower haha! Ok so I guess that's where my analogy breaks down, so I'll stop trying to use it :)

I did a post on her turning one, but realized that I had forgotten to post pictures of her little birthday party in Pennsylvania, so I wanted to share a few of those.

This is how I found her after her nap :)

Ballerina?

Kisses!

Well - it's hard to believe, but Rose is 16 MONTHS OLD now!

Even thought life has been so busy here, I want to make sure I document some of Rose's progression from baby to toddler so that I don't' forget how amazing the change was.

Here are a few areas she has changed in the last 3 months:
*Bye-Bye Pacifier! It was just about two weeks after we had been here, she had basically just given up her bottle in PA before we left and was waiting to pull the paci until we got here and everything wasn't so new. Well, I only brought about 5-6 pacifiers and one day when we were walking with the stroller, Rose threw her pacifier out on the ground without my realizing it. I said to Tim, we'll I guess that's it. she cried a bit for a day or two going to bed, then it was over. I can't believe it! She immediate started seeming older!

* FIRST STEPS at Lloyds bank in Aberdeen just a week after our arrival(13 months).

* At 14 months she was saying: up(u), down(d), book(bu), apple(she would eat an entire apple core and all while we were taking long walks!), ya, that(dat), this(dis), dada, mama, uh oh, all done (ah duh)

* She started taking 3-4 steps consistently(prior to that she was much happier crawling and cruising) on November 12 (15 months)

* Now at 16 months she is also saying: up please (up, peas), dance(dac), juice(juc), Cheese(chee), Hat(at) - she love to put anything on her head and say, "at"

* SHE LOVES TO SLEEP! If we don't lay her down at 6 or 6:30 pm she is a mess! And she will sleep until 8/8:30am. Fortunately Maddy has been walking out of their room quietly when she wakes up around 6:45 or 7am and Rose keeps on snoozing away which really helps us get the morning going and me to get my workout in!

* Down to one nap - she will usually sleep from 12p -3p.

* She is a little climber, but is much more careful than Maddy and usually asks for help to get dow (down).

* She is happy to play by herself (in that fun mischievous stage of taking things out of cupboards and hiding them other places in the house - not so fun when I really need that mixing bowl to make dinner - haha!

* She also loves to follow Maddy around and just do whatever she is doing. They really have started to play well together. I have learned that sometimes when I hear a frustrated squeal from the other room when I'm doing dishes, that I need to let them work it out. And they seem to have found a "peaceable" way to play together ---most of the the time :0)

*She nods her head vigorously when we ask her a question that the answer is "yes" and shakes it no too! It's so fun to see her express her opinion.

* She has a great attention span! THAT she did not get from me - Thanks Tim!

*Even though she is still itty bitty - she eats a ton. I swear she eats all day long!

Just met with their doctor for the first time here(very nice lady!)
Weight: 8kg (17.6 lbs) 9%
Height: 74.5cm (29 inches) 9%

LOVE this sweet girl. She is so calm, mild natured, easy going, happy, and loving!

Menu Plan Monday

2012-01-08T07:21:00.005-06:00

Monday- Shepherd's Pie - Last time I made it I froze half of the base so that I could make it quickly this time. Yay!

Tuesday- Chicken Roulade and roasted carrots - never got to make this last week because we had leftover chili and ended up doing a pizza night because there was a buy one get one free deal :)
*Last time I made this, I made it with pasta and just added some of the extra cranberry's, nuts, and spinach to the pasta. It was yummy! This time I'm just doing baked carrots to trim down the calories.

Wednesday -Baked Chicken, crispy broccoli(drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with salt and pepper and baked at 425 for about 7 minutes
Thursday- Chicken Quesadillas - I am usually able to use the leftovers from the baked chicken above to make the next two meals!
Friday- White Chicken Chili, crispy bread

Madison You're THREE!!!

2012-01-05T16:38:00.000-06:00

Dearest Madison,
It's hard to believe, but just a few short weeks ago, you turned 3 while in Scotland. I honestly can't believe it! It really seems like yesterday that your Dad and I met you for the first time on that cold winter morning in Chicago! Here are our first few moments with you. It was like time stood still.

Our lives became fuller and more meaningful that day Maddy!

We thank the Lord for you.

Soon you started to grow up and even make lifelong friends (maybe husband?) right Kim and Sam?! :0) Your personality and zest for life became evident.

I love this precious picture of you and your Daddy napping together. I treasure those moments!

Before we knew it, a year had flown by and you were toddling around like you owned the place

(and still do might I add :)

And you were only 1 1/2 when your little sister Rose was born. You were so brave and such a great big sister, even though you were so little yourself!

And ZIP - there went another year. You turned two and had a My Little Pony party with some of your favorite buddies in Chicago.

I remember distinctly the fun you had running around the house playing with your friends on your big day. It made your Dad and I so happy!

You and your sister bonded quickly, although not always seamlessly ;) You always took such good care of her and were very protective of her - that is unless you were the one doing the damage ;()

Soon we started packing to leave Chicago to move to PA for a month, only to move to Scotland for 3 years! What a big transition! There were a few tough times, but all in all in time you handled it beautifully and bounced right back to your happy self! Your Dad and I were amazed!

~~~~~~~~

Now here we are and you just turned 3!

You asked specifically for a Disney princess party and the little girl in me was happy to oblige!

Star wand cookies

You can name every princess now and have seen every Disney princess there is to see I think.

You think yourself a little princess and your Mommy and Daddy King and Queen - I certainly don't mind that when you bow and say "Thank you your Majesty" when your Dad or I get you something :)

You were so antsy waiting for your friends to arrive to your party...

You sang, "Bippity Boppity Boo" to your party food, pretending that they themselves were turning into princesses. Could you please not grow up any more sweetie?

I just can't get enough of these precious moments!

It's only been 3 short months that we have been in a new COUNTRY and yet you have managed to make little friends already -that's when I'm grateful for your happy outgoing personality.

Your friend Rebekah, who you look up to like a big sister, gave you her "well-loved" Belle dress for you to have now that she's outgrown it and you almost wear it every day!

You were in tears when you friends had to go home... but I love that about you.

You feel things with such passion.

Your Dad and I have enjoyed three wonderful years with you and we are so thankful that you are part of our lives! You make us smile, giggle, dance, sing, play, and just plain enjoy the little moments of life more. You are precious in the eyes of the Lord and in ours too!

Your sister adores you and loves nothing more than to toddle around after you. I love to see that you are such wonderful friends already!

You are becoming such lovely young lady and we just can't wait to see all of the amazing things God has in store for you!

Menu Plan Monday + BEST Cornbread!

2012-01-02T04:34:00.000-06:00

Monday- Beef stuffed peppers (389 calories per pepper- More nutritional info here.)

Tuesday - Salmon with Lemon and Dill (320 Calories per fillet), Salad with Lemon-Dill Vinaigrette (43 calories)

Wednesday - Red chili and cornbread. I got this Chili recipe of my Friend Suzanne's blog called, Frugal Rock - love her and her blog! Thanks Suz, I've been needing a good chili recipe!

*I serve this chili with the most amazing cornbread ever. One of my college professor's wives gave it to me way back in 2000. Every time I serve it people go nuts! It's a souped up jiffy mix recipe and we can't even get jiffy mix over here. I have to order it off of Amazon UK - that's how good this stuff is - I have to have it :) But I will say this - it makes a HUGE amount of cornbread 9x13 and THICK! So I usually make a whole batch and freeze half of the batter for the next time I make chili :)

-Oh and it's absolutely terrible for you. BUT it's SO worth the calories! So with my calorie counting, I'll only be having one piece with my chili.

THE BEST Cornbread:
3 small boxes of jiffy cornbread mix
1 stick of melted butter
5 eggs
1 (12 oz) can of evaporated milk
1 cup of sugar

* Beat eggs and mix in sugar. Add milk, stir well. Add melted butter and jiffy mix, stir well. Put in a 9x13 pan and bake (at 350) until golden brown (about 45 min). It makes A LOT of corn bread. So I usually freeze half of the batter in a tupperware container and bake only half in a 8x8 pan ;)

Thursday - Cream of Broccoli Soup (309 calories), crispy bred

Friday- Chicken Roulade and roasted carrots

I'm linked up with Orgjunkie

MPM, Christmas, and Weight Loss

2011-12-26T16:44:00.001-06:00

Well, the Christmas weekend was such a blast. We just relaxed and made some new traditions as a family. Saturday we made Sugar cookies. I love this recipe for the cookies and this recipe for the frosting. Yum! Although, I still hate rolling and cutting out sugar cookies. I read like 5 different posts on little tricks to make it easier, but it still kind of annoys me. But Tim LOVES them and the girls really enjoy making them with me(aka: eating all of the raw dough and frosting :) SO in the long run it was worth it! Here's some pics of us baking :)

I made Paula Dean's Baked French Toast for Christmas morning and it was pretty amazing.

I also made this yummy Bacon Cheese Dip that a friend had given me the recipe for years ago and that was delicious! We just relaxed Christmas eve and snacked on appetizers.

"Warm Bacon Cheese Spread"

1 round loaf sourdough bread (1lb)

1 package(8oz) cream cheese softened

12 oz sour cream

2 cups(8oz) shredded cheddar cheese

1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

3/4 lb sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled

1/2 cup chopped green onions

assorted crackers

Directions:

1. Cut the top fourth of the loaf of bread; carefully hollow out the bottom, leaving a 1-in. shell. Cut the removed bread and top of loaf into cubes; set aside.

2. In a mixing owl, beat the cream cheese. Add the sour cream, cheddar cheese and Worcestershire sauce until combined; stir in the bacon and onions.

3. Spoon into the bread shell. Wrap in a piece of heavy-duty foil (about 24inx17in).

4. Bake at 325 fro 1 hour or until heated through. Serve with crackers and reserved bread cubes

Yields 4 cups

On Weight loss...
We have eaten very well (and badly) basically since Thanksgiving, and it was so amazing and worth it, but now we are trying to eat lighter for the New Year. Mainly me, but Tim is always supportive acting like he needs to lose a few...sweetie! But all that to say, I am going to start to *try* to include calorie counts next to my recipes mainly for planning on my part. I am back to counting calories, being sure to exercise 5 days a week, and weighing in once a week. I'm determined to finally lose this baby weight (after all, my "baby" is almost 16 months old- gasp ;)

Monday - Broiled Tilapia, broiled olive oil and salt and pepper broccoli (225 calories) I know I said I was going to make this last week, but my local grocery store didn't have the fish I wanted let time I ordered, so I just postponed it. But his week - it's happening :)

Tuesday- Chicken Parmesan (couldn't find calls, but on a healthy website and no pasta) with green salad

Wednesday - P.F. Chang's Chicken Lettuce Wraps (580 cals, but that's without the sauces only 160 calories a serving!)

Thursday - Baked Honey Mustard Chicken (232 Calories), Grilled Asparagus

Friday - Spaghetti and Meatballs (291 Calories), Salad

I'm linked up with orgjunkie

Menu Plan Monday

2011-12-19T07:47:00.000-06:00

One of these days I'll actually get to go back and rate some of the new recipes that I have tried. There have been some amazing ones and some terrible ones-ha! But for now, here's another week.

Monday- Baked Chicken because we're having company over and it's easy, yummy and looks impressive ;)

Tuesday- Chicken Noodle Soup -Let me just start by saying, there is no science to this one. I just take the leftover chicken bones and pieces from the above baked chicken, and boil it in about 4-5 cups of water, 3 carrots, 1 onion, 3 stalks of celery, two more chicken breasts, salt and pepper and let it simmer away for a few hours. It must be the seasonings from the cavity of the above baked chicken, but this broth tastes amazing! I just strain it(settling aside the yummy carrots, onion and celery), cut up the chicken breasts, and add back those veggies, and put some cooked noodles or rice in. We love it especially on a cold day!

Wednesday- Baked Mac and Cheese -Tim's birthday was Sunday and he wanted a burger out that day, but then after it was all over, he requested Mac and Cheese this week :)

Thursday- Chicken fajitas

Friday-Broiled Parmesan Tilapia - I'm giving this one a second go. My first attempt was not successful, but it sounds so good so I'm trying it again!

Check out orgjunkie for more menu ideas!

Aberdeen Update

2011-12-14T14:38:00.004-06:00

Tim is writing a quarterly update letter while we are here in Aberdeen. If you are interested in reading it you can follow this link to download the letter.

Motherhood is Application

2011-12-14T08:20:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine passed this article(Motherhood is Application) on to me from John Piper's "Desiring God" website. I am so glad that I took the few minutes to read it. It was just the encouragement and conviction my soul needed today. Especially since both of my girls were hanging onto my legs yesterday crying to be held while I REALLY just wanted to finish the pile of dishes on the counter.

Here's a little snippet to whet your appetite:

" Imagine yourself in your kitchen trying to make dinner for a group of little kids who are tired and should have eaten a half hour ago. Imagine that things are going wrong beyond that — maybe you are out of something you assumed you had, children are fussing with one another, and maybe your littlest is still at the age where they come stand on your feet and pull on your pant leg. Bonus points if you are wearing maternity pants and this little person is actually capable of pulling your pants down. You are hot, you are tired, and you are sick of it.
This is no time for a gospel presentation. There isn’t time. There isn’t anyone to lead the discussion around the felt board, because you are still scrambling to figure out dinner. This isn’t a time for a gospel presentation because it is a time for gospel application."

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-13T18:00:00.000-06:00

Photo Card

View the entire collection of cards.

We can't send out as many cards as usual this year,so I wanted to post our card and say Merry Christmas to you all! Praying that Christ blesses you and your family this year!

First Visitors to Scotland!

2011-12-13T17:34:00.000-06:00

We were so excited to have our first visitors come at the end of November. Tim and Katie were in the Cambridge and Leeds area for work and decided to take a train up to see us in ye old Aberdeen. We are so glad they did! It was wonderful sitting across with familiar faces over cup of coffee/tea again!

Tim and Tim catching up in Aberdeen's City Centre

We enjoyed showing them around our little town

Aberdeen houses and steeples

Local Park

Then we got to show them around Dunnator Castle.

We were able to climb down to the sea since we had a babysitter! We had so much fun being goofy and exploring all the nooks and crannies of the area!

They are just so cute!

Climbing down to the sea

Tossing smooth rocks into the water - quite therapeutic!

After we were finished checking out the castle, we were told by the locals that we couldn't/shouldn't leave the Stonehaven area without first trying the "Best Fish and Chips in Scotland". And oh my word - The Bay Fish Shop was amazing!

The only problem is that they only had take out(the locals were lined up) and we had driven 30 minutes to get there. So even though it was about 40 degrees out, we sat outside and ate every last amazing morsel of our fish! I'm salivating thinking about it right now! It's such a good price too...yum!

Such good memories! I'm so glad we did it!

COLD!

At the end of the week, we drove with them out to Inverness (about a 3 hour drive).

We toured Urquhart Castle together and got to see Lake Loch Ness - very cool.

Tim and Katie on the top of the hill looking out at the lake

It was a gorgeous sunny day for it too!

After the Castle, Tim and Katie headed on to Isle of Sky and we just stayed in Inverness for the afternoon and then headed home. We had lunch at a little place called Bella Italia.
I highly recommend it! Yummy Italian food at a good price!

Maddy got a balloon and to keep it from blowing away we tied it to her pony and it created hours of fun :)

We enjoyed poking around Inverness. It was such a nice little town. Tim checked out the used book store while the girls and I wandered the cobblestone streets popping in and out of shops. It was such a relaxing afternoon!

It was such a nice week. I'm thankful that they took the time and extra money to come and see us. What a blessing to have friends (of 10+ years) here with us when we are so far from family and friends!

menu plan Monday

2011-12-11T09:52:00.001-06:00

Monday- Martha Stewart's Lentil Soup

This one is a new one and I'm looking forward to trying it!

Tuesday - Chicken with Red Roasted Peppers and Asparagus

Wednesday- Beef Taco ring from Pampered Chef

This is super simple and you can add whatever extra veggies you want. I usually have lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa in the middle!

Thursday- Chicken Rice and Gravy with Broccoli
This one is my mom's recipe as well, so very unspecific amounts - she goes by memory. It's basically pieces of chicken in chicken gravy poured over white rice ( I know - terrible for you, but every once in a while I crave it! I grew up eating it regularly, ha! So yummy! Plus I had a side of steamed broccoli, so that evens things out, right?

Ingredients:
2 chicken breast
2 pieces of celery
2 carrots
1 onion
2 T butter
1 cup white rice
3 cups water
2 T flour

Directions:
1. So I boil the two raw chicken breasts in 3 cups of water with the celery, carrots, and onion chopped up in the water. After the chicken is done cooking, the water has magically turned into about 2 cups chicken stock :)
2. Set the cooked chicken aside to cool a bit, in a new pan, melt the butter and mix in the flour to make a roux (actually had to look the spelling of that word up!) - cook for a few min, then add 2 cups of chicken broth (strain out the carrots, onions etc before hand). Let the broth simmer for about 10 min or so to thicken up
3. Tear up the pieces of cooked chicken and place in gravy
4. Scoop Chicken/gravy mixture over rice and enjoy! - oh don't forget to have some broccoli on the side!

Friday- Christmas Party :)

I'm linked up with Orgjunkie

Menu Plan Monday

2011-12-05T11:08:00.001-06:00

Monday
Shepherds Pie

My mom taught me how to make her Shepherds pie and she doesn't really use a recipe. This is how she makes hers. It's pretty plain, but we all like it :)

Ingredients:
1lb ground beef
1 package onion soup mix
1 bag of frozen corn
1 bag of frozen peas
10 potatoes
1/4 cup water
1 onion
Directions:
1. brown ground beef
2. mix in onion soup mix and water into the ground beef
3. add frozen vegetables
4. peal, cook, and mash the potatoes (season to taste) and then layer on top of the beef/vegetable mixture.

Tuesday
Mexican Spaghetti and Mexican Pinwheels

“Anyone Can Do it Chicken Spaghetti” (Mexican Spaghetti) This one is from my sister in law Shannon.

2 (6 or 8 oz.) cans white chicken

½ Cup chopped onion

½ cup chopped bell pepper
2 (10 ¾ oz) cans cream of mushroom soup
1 ½ cups milk
1 can of Ro-Tel
1 (12 oz) package thin spaghetti cooked
8 oz cheddar (mild) cheese grated
1. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients together in order listed, using only half of the cheese.
2. Pour into a 9x13 baking dish and spring remaining cheese on top
3. Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees
*Serve with “Mexican Pinwheels” (recipe below) and chips, salsa, and cheese dip

“Mexican Pinwheels”
Mix together:
8 oz. cream cheese
½ can chopped black olives
4 chopped green onions
½ jar chopped jalapeño peppers
1 tsp garlic salt
Spread layer over flour tortillas. Roll up and chill one hour. Cut rolls in ½ - ¾ inch pieces. Serve plain or with Salsa.

Wednesday

Stuffed Shells, Salad, Garlic Bread

Thursday
Red Chili and cornbread

Friday
Pasta with Tomato and Blue Cheese
I didn't get to this one last week because we ended up going to Edinburgh to visit 4 of our old college students from the College Ministry from Chicago. We had such a nice time with them! Picture to come!

I'm linked up with Orgunkie

Britain's Saddest City?

2011-11-28T14:18:00.001-06:00

So Tim shared this article with me today called, Welcome to Aberdeen, Britain's Saddest City. Nice. Read it if you get a chance. It's crazy! I have to admit after reading it I was kind of depressed. I mean I knew the dark winter would be hard due to the fact that we are so far North, but I didn't think about all of the problems they say that could bring: sleepiness, lack of motivation, depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder), weight gain, higher prices for heat and lights etc. etc.

To give you an idea of what I'm talking about, on the Winter Solstice, when the earth is tilted at its' maximum degree away from the sun, there are only 6 hours and 40min of daylight!

To flesh that out for you, that means on December 22 the sun will not even begin to rise until 8:47am and will be completely set by 3:27pm! Wow - talk about a "short day". I'm already having a hard time getting my booty out of bed at 7am when Madison wakes up because it is PITCH DARK out - weird. On the up side, the girls are taking longer naps because by the end of their nap time - yup - you guessed it - it's dark again!

But the weird thing is that on the S ummer Solstice, when the earth is tilted at it's maximum degree towards the sun, there are 17 hours, 55 min of daylight! So that means on June 22nd, the sun will rise at 4:12am and set at 10:08pm! Weird. And because of the angle the sun is in the sky, it seems so much brighter as it's just about always right in your eyes -haha! The little things I didn't think of before we moved here!

So we have quite the adjustment to make with seasons here. To be completely honest, I'm kind of dreading December, January and February. We have no visitors and it's going to be cold and dark.

If you think about us, pray that we can keep our hearts and minds focused on Christ's faithful love for us. For in Him there is no shadow of changing!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-11-27T15:50:00.001-06:00

Monday

Pasta with Tomato Blue cheese sauce

Tuesday

White Chicken Chili, crispy bread

(one of our all time favorite soups!)

1 T. Olive Oil
1 Medium Onion, chopped
2 Cloves Garlic, chopped
2-4 oz. Cans Chopped Green Chili Peppers
4-6 Cooked, boneless, skinless Chicken breasts, cut into bit-zis pieces
3-10oz. cans Chicken Broth
5-6 cans greg northern beens
2t. ground Cumin
2t. Dried Oregano
1 t. Salt
1-2t. Cayenne Pepper(this is what makes it SPICY)
2c. Sour Cream
1c.Heavy Whipping Cream
Monterey Jack Cheese
Directions:
1. Heat oil in large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic, and sauté for 10 minutes or until onion are tender
3. Add chicken, broth, chili peppers, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper
4. Bring to a boil
5. Reduce het to low and add beans. Simmer for 20-30 minutes or until heated thoroughly
6. Before you serve, mix together sour cream and whipping cream until well blended
7. Mix into chili and simmer until heated through again.
Pour into individual bold and top with shredded cheese.

Yield: Approx 8 servings

Wednesday

Chicken Oriental Salad

*Spinach

*Mandarin Oranges

*Almond slices

*Wonton strips

*Grilled chicken

Toss all of the items above and drizzle the below dressing on top

Oriental dressing:

1/3 cup oil

¼ cup sugar

1 season packet from “Oriental Ramen Noodles”

3 T. Red Wine Vinegar

Whisk all ingredients together

Thursday

Quesadillas with rice

Friday

Roasted Ricotta Roma Tomatoes
I found this one on Pioneer Woman and it looks so yummy! To be honest, I'm not sure if It's meant to me a main meal or not. It kind of looks like it would make an amazing appetizer. But I'm going to add garlic pasta to the side and call it a main dish :)

I'm linked up with Orgjunkie

Thanksgiving in Scotland

2011-11-27T08:20:00.001-06:00

We had a low key, relaxed day spent with family and some of our new friends here in Aberdeen. It started out with some cooking...

Madison Smashing sweet potatoes for the best ever Sweet Potato Casserole

Rose got in on the action

"The Turkey!" 21 Pounder - my biggest yet. I was nervous, but Martha Stewart's recipe helped a ton!

Sweet Potato Casserole and Coffee cake- Thanks mom for the best recipes!

We lazied around and had appetizers during the afternoon while the turkey cooked. We also watched "Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" - which is surprisingly historic. I forgot about that. I liked it! Oh and we watched "Garfield a Thanksgiving Special" -so fun!

Sparkling grape juice - fun that the girls could even get in on :)

The finished turkey! People said it was flavorful and tender. I was so grateful. It was a butter herb recipe where you rub the butter under and on top of the skin. I had never done that before. In fact, after I finished the butter part, I told Tim I would never do it again. But after we tasted it, we decided that I should :)

Aberdeen Student fellowship Thanksgiving Dinner Celebration

Kid's table

Maddy and her friend Luke

Rose and her friend Ian

Baby Lizzie and her Grandma

The guys always seem to find one another to talk theology with

The spread!

The turkey Maddy and I made together. She came up with all of the names to thank God for on each feather. I was so proud of her.

We decorated for Christmas! We just did a little tree up on a bookshelf this year to keep Rose out of it and save money. I actually love the simplicity of it!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-11-20T15:43:00.001-06:00

Monday

Baked Chicken

From : Barefoot Contessa’s Cookbook

My friend Joy here in Scotland so kindly brought us this amazing chicken when we first moved and had no food in our pantry :) We loved it so much I got the recipe! It's so easy - even I can do it!

1 whole chicken

1 bunch fresh thyme

1 lemon

1 whole head clove of garlic

Salt/Pepper

3 T. melted butter

1. Place chicken in sink, rise with water and clean out insides of chicken (giblets) if any J

2. Stuff cavity of chicken

a. with ½ bunch of thyme

b. lemon sliced in half-add both halves,

c. take garlic head and slice off of top 1/3 -add to chicken cavity

d. sprinkle liberally inside with salt and pepper

3. Place stuffed chicken in 8x8 or small glass pan-legs up (if you have kitchen string, tie legs together, to keep moist)

4. Brush melted butter over entire chicken-yes, fat is good.

5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper

6. Place in preheated oven (425 degrees)

7. Cook for 1 ½ hours

8. ENJOY with bar b que sauce! (use leftover chicken for chimichangas, chicken salad, taco salad, bar b que sandwiches, curry chicken-which we like a lot, on pizza, use chicken bones to make homemade stock…)

Tuesday

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Wednesday

Meatball Sandwiches

1 pound lean ground beef

1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs

2 tablespoons chopped onion

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon dried leaf oregano

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/8 teaspoon paprika

1 cup spaghetti sauce or marinara, plus 2 tablespoons for meatballs

3 tablespoons chopped parsley1 loaf Italian bread or 4 large sub rolls

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine beef, bread crumbs, onion, garlic, Parmesan, oregano, pepper, paprika and 2 tablespoons sauce in bowl. Shape meat mixture into 12 equal meatballs. Place on a jelly-roll pan.

Bake in preheated 350° oven 20 to 25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Heat the 1 cup sauce in a saucepan; stir in parsley. Divide bread crosswise into four portions; split each. Spoon meatballs and sauce into bread.
Serves 4.

Thursday

bld carbonara pizza

Friday

Thanksgiving Celebration with Divinity students and their families.

I'm making one of the turkeys, using one of Martha Stewart's Recipes (roast turkey with herb butter) and Mom Baylor's sweet potato casserole (per Tim's request :)

I'm linked up to Organzingjunkie

Menu Plan Monday

2011-11-14T08:35:00.000-06:00

Last week's planning went well, but again, I have a few recipes left over due to busy schedules and changes in plans. I think I've decided to do what orgjunkie does and just meal plan Monday - Friday. That way I have two slush days to move around and do what I want with. That doesn't mean I'm going to eat those exact meals on those days, I usually look at the plan and make what we feel like that night anyways. This way I have some wiggle room for leftovers(a lot of the recipes make way more than we can eat in one night and i hate to waste it) or if we end up being out and about or someone invites us over ;)

So I guess you live and learn, right? We'll see how this works. I never said this was full-proof :)

Monday

Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Tuesday

Chicken and Waffles

Wednesday

Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

I have to admit, I kind of keep putting this off because I'm a tad skeptical of how good it will be. But I AM going to try it this week. I bet it's going to be great.

Thursday

Loaded Potato soup

Friday

Asian Orange Chicken

I'm linking up with Orgjunkie

Advent Calendar Giveaway!

2011-11-11T14:15:00.001-06:00

A friend of mine clued me into this Advent Calendar giveaway at-
Amoretti.

Check it out - you just might win (but I kinda hope I do :) - Let me know if you get it though and I swear I'll rejoice with you ;)

Menu Plan Monday

2011-11-07T09:33:00.001-06:00

ok - well, last week ended up being a little crazier than we though it would be, so I have a few repeat meals this week. I hate to let food go to waste! Hope you had a good week. Anyone else meal planning with me? Any good recipes or strategies you use in planning?

Monday

Orange Chicken, Broccoli, and rice

Tuesday

Stuffed green peppers

Wednesday

Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

Thursday

Baked Mac and Cheese, Salad

Ok, so before you judge me for making this again so soon, a friend is having a baby (*Wink *Wink Emily!) so I always bring a new mom this wonderfully creamy comfort food! And Tim made me promise to make our family some as well :) Oh and I forgot to say that if I am trying to save money or don't have the second kind of cheese on hand, I will use all white sharp cheddar and that tastes fabulous!

Friday

Breakfast for dinner: french toast, bacon and eggs

Saturday

Greek Salad with Chicken

Sunday

Bobby Flay's Chicken and Waffles -

Our dear friends the Barkers arrive in Scotland on this night for a visit! Woohoo!

Now, little disclaimer here - I don't use a whole chicken like he does, I uses chicken tenders because it's so much easier to make and to eat! I also usually cut recipe and marinating time in half . I can't make this meal alone though. Tim always helps me. You really need one person manning the waffle iron while the other does the chicken. It's AMAZING though!

I'm linking up to Orgjunkie

Maddy Says

2011-11-04T08:23:00.000-05:00

Madison is only 2 months away from turning THREE and her personality is really showing. She is a hoot and is always cracking us up. I want to remember some of those hilarious conversation that every mom has with her toddler. Here are a few of her recents.

* Since about summer time, Maddy has developed these imaginary friends (Ariel and Eric, Dora and Diego, and the "Thing"(from this book she read recently). Well, it didn't bother me at first because it was just cute imaginary play, but recently she has been having me do things for them and it's driving me crazy! She'll say things like, "Mom, Diego really wants you to wash his face, get him dressed or get him a cookie(I think she's hoping to get two for herself ;) Like I don't have enough work to do with 2 REAL kids!
It can get kind of embarrassing when we're in public too.
*One day we were out for a walk and a man with a dog walked by and Maddy got to pet the dog and then she yelled, "Mom, Dora wants to pet him too!" I tried to ignore here but she kept getting louder. So I kinda pretended Rose was Dora and then quickly got out of there - ha! How terrible am I?!

*After we had recently had a conversation about the fact that Jesus is everywhere and he is always with us...Maddy(on the tire swing) - "mom, mom, Jesus is sitting right across from me right there. Mom, Mom! You need to stop; Jesus' belly is getting sick because we going too fast!" Oh boy. We have a little more teaching to do on this topic :)

*After a man at the park said Madison could not pet his dog, "Mom, why can't I pet that dog?"
Me - because he might be mean and he could bite you.

Maddy- and he would bite my hand like this (putting whole hand in her mouth) and he would bit my hand off, and I would have to get a new one! And I would be so sad because I can't pic up candy any more!!!" (Yes, because picking up candy is the most important thing you do with your hands all day :)

*Maddy - "mom I have a boo boo on my eye, can I have a bandaid on it?"
Me - "no, we can't put bandaids on your eye because you can't see and it will get stuck to our eyelashes."
Maddy - "Then my lashes be gone and I say( yelling at the top of her lungs), "Momma Momma Momma, where my lashes go? (in sad voice) we can't get new lashes!"

*When she was coloring in her coloring book, "Mom I'm doing my work home." haha! We were recently with her cousins who had to do their Homework after school :)

Trick or Treat Fun!

2011-11-01T10:40:00.000-05:00

Our first time making Rice Krispy treats together!

We made pumpkin treats!

I had fun making faces!

Rosie was a little dancer!

Maddy was a Fairy Princess!

The whole AWF group! We all walked together.

Really nice night for it!

Maddy and her new friend Abigail holding hands! THAT does a mother's heart good :)

Menu Plan Monday

2011-10-31T04:30:00.004-05:00

Menu for this week is...

Monday

Halloween Party with friends!

I am bringing these cute pumpkin pop treats!

Tuesday

Chicken with Asparagus and Red Roasted Peppers

This is a family favorite. I found it a few years back and we all loved it! It's so tasty and good for you too -only 184 calories a serving (not counting any rice or pasta you may choose to have with it, which I always do!)

Wednesday

Stuffed Green Peppers with Cheese - they also include beef and rice inside,

so I call THAT a balanced meal :0)

Thursday

Corn and Cheese Chowder

This is a new one from "The Pioneer Woman".

I'm really looking forward to trying it!

Friday

Date night!

(We didn't actually get to go last week!) I'm looking forward to a night out!

Saturday

Asian Orange Chicken and broccoli

Sunday

Stuffed Shells and green salad

I make mine by memory from an old recipes, but it basically includes: cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, an egg, oregano, browned ground beef, salt and pepper- all stuffed into cooked pasta shells. Then I just pour spaghetti sauce over top,

sprinkle with a little mozzarella and bake til bubbly. YUM! I'm also making a double batch and freezing a pan for next month.

I'm linking up to Orgjunkie

Rating of Last Week's Meals + Coffee Cake recipe :)

2011-10-31T04:29:00.001-05:00

I thought I would give a quick update on how meal planning went for us last week. I don't know that I'll always do this, but I made a few new recipes and Tim like to help me rate them so we can remember how we liked them and if I want to make them again!

Our rating system: First each of us give it a number out of 10 for TASTE,

then I rate it for "Ease to Make"

Broiled Parmesan Tilapia (Taste: Julie - 4, Tim - 5, Ease to make-7) Now the low ratings are not really fair. I kind of botched this recipe. I plan on trying it again. #1 problem - I accidentally got smoked haddock when I shopped online. It was just too salty for us with the parmesan and smoking. #2 problem - I am still trying to figure out my stove. I could not for the life of me figure out how to broil with my oven. So the topping that was supposed to be golden and crispy was mushy - yuck. Of course as soon as we finished dinner, I accidentally pressed the right button and it went to broil - haha! Now I know! So don't discount this one - it does look like a really great recipe!

Pasta Pie - (Taste: Julie-7, Tim 7.5, Ease to make -8) I had made this one before and we had forgotten how much we liked it!

Chicken Fajitas - We didn't rat this one because it wasn't new. It's one that is easy and we love so it always gets thrown into the rotation! I set it up like a "burrito bar". Tim's exact words were, "It looks like a Chipotle up in here!"

Baked Mac and Cheese - (Taste: Julie -9.5, Tim-10, Ease to make -6) Thank you Martha Stewart for this recipe! YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS make and cheese! It was a little more involved and made a big mess (probably because the girls were helping me), but it's worth it! We ended up eating this two days in a row for lunch and dinner -yum!

Chicken Pot Pie (Taste: Julie -8.5, Tim-9, Ease to Make: 5) This was absolutely delicious! Tim loved it and thought I was from another world for making it(so of course I'll make it again). It was just a lot of little steps and I think next time I will make the filling during nap time or the night before and then just throw the crust on and bake it before dinner so that I don't loose my cool while kids are hanging on me and Tim is on his way home!
Here are the pics I took of it:

Harvest Salad - I'm a little bummed that I didn't get to this one this week. We ended up having so many leftovers, that we didn't need this meal. But I plan on making it for lunch this week :)

Nana Baylor's Coffee cake - I made this last week and a few people asked for the recipe. It's seriously amazing! I make this coffee cake for every holiday and probably once a month when there are no holidays(per Tim's request :) We all love it! Usually I make it in a bunt pan, but this last time I made part of it in a loaf pan (for our sweet neighbors who give us fresh eggs and homemade jam) and then the rest of it in muffin tins.

Mom Baylor’s Coffee Cake

1 stick of Butter (soft) 2 Cups flour

1 Cup of sugar 1 tsp baking powder

2 eggs 1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp vanilla ½ tsp salt

½ pint sour cream (8 oz) ½ Cup chocolate chips

½ Cup of chopped pecans

Topping:

¼ Cup sugar ½ cup pecans

1tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream- butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream until blended

2. In a small bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add dry bowl of dry ingredients to wet ingredients slowly until fully mixed.

4. Add ½ c chocolate chips and ½ c chopped pecans

5. Spoon half of the batter evenly into the bottom of a bunt pan.

6. Sprinkle half of the pecan “topping” over the bottom layer of batter.

7. Spoon the last half of the batter evenly into the bunt pan.

8. Sprinkle the last half of the pecan “topping” over the final layer of batter.

**Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes (check after about 35-40 minutes – every oven is different)

Take out of oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes.

Use spatula or knife to release from edge of pan

Flip onto a dessert plate to finish cooling.

Nearby?

2011-10-30T17:05:00.000-05:00

This is NOT my idea of the "Petting Zoo Nearby" I was looking for ;)

Mischievous and Helpful?

2011-10-29T17:32:00.002-05:00

Double the Trouble!

It was cute at first, but I did have to let them know they had BETTER not do that again. After all, Toilet Paper doesn't grow on trees ---oh wait, yes it does. Never mind.

I had given them bowl of popcorn to share while I folded laundry...and well... you can see how THAT went!

They both got some good giggles out of putting the bowl on their heads and yelling into it!

But they can be helpful too! We made apple crisp together the other day. It was messy, but we had a lot of fun :)

Rosie just keeping wanting to eat the apples. This girl is addicted to apples; No lie.

My little girl is growing up so fast!

At one point, I turned my back to grab something and Rose jumped up on the table!

Helping me make Nana Baylor's coffee cake this morning

Love my helpful girls!

What?! I have A LOT of dishes to wash every day by hand ;)

Menu Plan Monday

2011-10-24T09:18:00.002-05:00

Well, I am starting a new series of posts called "Meal Plan Monday". I got the idea from a new friend here in Scotland, Emily, who has this fabulous blog called, "The Adventures of Miss Mommy" and she got the idea from "Organizing Junkie" who hosts the official "Menu Plan Monday" and has all of these wonderful banners and other great ideas :) If you are interested in getting in on it, just check out her guidelines here.

I am doing Meal Plan Monday for a two reasons:

1. I want to keep myself accountable to meal planning. I am try sporadic at best in my meal planning endeavors. I always have the best intentions, but then somehow just end up running to the grocery store and grabbing things I "think" we need. Then I make meals on the fly and I HATE it because it really stresses me out!

2. I need to save money on our grocery bill. Bottom line- when you only buy what you really need for the week, you spend less! Who would have thought?!

3. I would like to share and to get new recipes! When I link up to Org Junkie, they have a whole list of people who also do Meal Plan Monday and who have links to their recipes or have their recipes posted. I'm excited to find some new recipe ideas! So hear goes nothing!

Monday

Broiled Parmesan Tilapia, rice, and grilled broccoli

* I got this one from Emily and am excited to try it tonight!

Tuesday

Pasta Pie, salad, and garlic bread

Wednesday

Chicken Fajitas and Rice

Thursday

Baked Mac and Cheese and green salad

Golden and crisp on the outside...

Creamy and gooey on the inside. Need I say more?!

*When I had just had our second daughter Rose, a friend brought us this Baked Mac and cheese (by Martha Stewart) and my husband ate it 4 or 5 days in a row it was so stinkin' amazing!

Friday

Harvest Salad with honey balsamic vinaigrette and french bread

Picture and recipe by Missy of "So Freakin' Delicious"

* I just found this one on my friend Missy's blog, and am really
looking forward to trying it!

Saturday

Left overs or Date night

Sunday

Chicken Pot Pie

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts
6 chicken thighs
1 medium onion, diced
2 stalks celery, sliced
3 whole carrots, chopped
1 cup baby carrots, chopped, blanched and shocked in ice water
1 cup frozen green peas, blanched and shocked in ice water
1 cup crimini mushrooms, quartered, and sautéed in butter, and cooled
½ cup pearl onions (fresh or frozen) peeled, blanched and shocked in ice water
1 whole egg beaten
1 sheet frozen puff pastry
1 recipe chicken sauce (see below)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Place chicken, onion, celery, carrots, salt and pepper in large stock pot, cover with water. Simmer in covered pot until chicken is no longer pink. Approximately 25 minutes.

Strain the broth, and set aside to use in the chicken cream sauce.

Remove chicken and cool, cut into bite size pieces.

In a non-reactive bowl combine celery, carrots, peas, mushrooms, onions, and chicken.

Evenly divide mixture into deep pie pans.

Cut puff pastry to fit pie pan, leaving a 2 inch border.

Lay puff pastry over filling crimping edges, trimming edges if necessary.

Cut a hole in the center of the pastry to allow steam to escape.

Beat 1 whole egg, and brush over crust.

Bake until crust is golden brown, and filling is bubbly. Approximately 25 minutes.

Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Chicken sauce
Ingredients
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons AP flour
¼ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ tablespoon Tabasco
½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan once the butter has melted stir in the flour. Add the reserved chicken stock and heavy cream. Stir constantly until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for two minutes. Remove from heat, add Worcestershire, Tabasco, salt and pepper (to taste).

One month ago today...

2011-10-22T15:32:00.005-05:00

It's hard to believe that ONE MONTH AGO TODAY, we stepped off a plane in Aberdeen, Scotland. The days seem like they have just flown by! The first week with jet lag was pretty rough, but once the we all adjusted, everyone started sleeping better and feeling better too! Then we had a nice week with Tim home before he started up his studies and got to do a few "touristy things". That was nice.

Then we hit kind of a rough week (with no internet still) and very few friends yet and just some normal transitional stresses. Tim and I were feeling pretty alone and stressed, but instead of naturally turning to the Lord and each other for strength, we were kind of turning inward and struggling to trust the Lord and to serve ONE ANOTHER in love. We were reminded of Philippians 2:4 "Let each of you look not only to his own interest, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus..." God is so faithful to convict us of sin and to put us back on the right path. We got our priorities straight again and things started to get so much better! But of course we need to renew our minds with that truth daily and trust our great Savior for strength.

This was taken by a new friend Leah (of "Sand and Flowers" blog) who is learning more about photography by practicing. And we lucked out and she took some GREAT pictures of us! More to come :)

Tim has been enjoying his studies so far, but is still trying to settle into a good groove. He seems to be getting along well with the other guys, which I'm glad for. Right now He walks to and from school each day, which round trip is probably 3 miles. And I would say 4 out of 5 days this week he has walked home in the rain :( He's such a trooper and doesn't complain though! We are looking for a car though. We have determined that it is just necessary with two little girls and the weather getting colder and more windy every day! So now we just have to find a good deal.

ahhh- sisters!

We are still looking around for churches. We have visited a few promising ones. Nothing is like the quite like our church back home in Chicago though. But honestly, the churches are just so different here that we are having to adjust our whole frame of reference! For one thing, the buildings are almost all stone on the outside and wood on the inside, very tall and beautiful. I love that part. The singing is very plain, but genuine and worshipful, and the preaching seems a little dry (often times read from a manuscript), but the few we have been too have been right on as far as scripture goes, so that's what's important. But I'm really trying to be open minded and not compare - just trying to find the best place for us now in this phase of our lives, ya know? So you can be praying that we would find the place God wants us.

Got out the warm gear already. We walk a lot in the stroller and it's so windy and cool that the girls get chilly so quickly!

The girls and I are doing really well. They have adjusted so easily really. There is a group of christian women (Aberdeen Women's Fellowship) that I have been able to jump into and start to get to know some other ladies, their kids, and their husbands. Once a month they have a social event just for the women, every Monday they have a women's bible study, and every Wednesday there is a play group! Not to mention that there are plenty of family events planned already like a trick or treat party, and a big American Thanksgiving meal together! I'm feeling blessed that we already have a community of strong believers to step into!

The girls at playgroup. I'm not sure what's up with Maddy's face :)

Please pray that I will be patient in getting to know other ladies and allowing them to get to know me. I don't want to feel like I'm always pretending to be someone I'm not, just wanting to be genuine and yet feeling a little out of place. Everyone is so sweet and I have no need to feel that way. It's just that weird transition phase. I know God is good though and will allow those friendships to build over time.

Thank you for all of your love, prayers, and support of our family in this endeavor. It really does mean the world to us!

Here are some more pictures of our comings and goings this month if you are interested :)

Dunnottar Castle

2011-09-29T16:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday it was a gorgeous day here in Scotland: 65 degrees and sunny with a strong wind blowing near the sea. We decided that before Tim had to officially report for school on Monday that we should see a castle together as a family. We chose Dunnottar Castle, which is only a 30 minute drive from our house and what a lovely drive it was! The road took us along the coast of the North Sea.

We kept ooohing and aahhing as we turned around each bend in the road. The views were breathtaking-rocky cliffs that jutted against the sea, lush green hills with sheep and cows lazily grazing -all against the backdrop of a bright blue sky and a few white puffy clouds! The castle began to come into view from probably a mile or two away. It's on an island that juts out into the sea.

What a stunning silhouette on the horizon!

Maddy running ahead on the path as an older gentlemen head back from his visit

Isn't it amazing? We had a to walk the entire way down that path to the left and then up stairs to get to the castle. Quite the workout, especially when you are each caring a child. This is when I am thankful ours are little :)

Maddy was yelling, "Castle"! Although, she was very disappointed that there was no princess in this castle.

The view of the sea from inside of the castle

The Baylor family in front of the castle. Can you believe this view?!

Afterwards we went into town and had our first Fish and Chips. Apparently it's scandalous to visit Stonehaven and not have the fish. It really was pretty amazing!

Here is the link to the rest of the pics in the facebook album here.

We made it!

2011-09-26T09:27:00.000-05:00

I am have a few moments online at the University library. Tim was sweet and put the girls down for a nap for me while I stayed and connected with "the outside world" :) We made it in on Thursday morning and spent a few awful days dealing with jet lag, but we are all feeling much more normal now.

We should get internet at our place this Thursday as well as access to cheap international calling. I can't wait! Things have gone well our first few days here. The weather has been gorgeous, sunny and cool! Our flat is even nicer than the pics. We are having fun settling in as a family. I don't have a dryer or dishwasher-so that's interesting! So no one better ask me what I'M doing while Tim is at school :)

We share a garden with a sweet older couple who owns chickens and a large black lab named Brodey(can't you hear the r rolling in your head?). They allow us to gather eggs-which is so nice! They taste so fresh too! The second night we were here, Maddy woke up at 2am and asked me if we could wake up the chickens to say hello to them :)

View of the Church's dome across the street from us. This is our view from our living room window!

The girls at ASDA (like walmart)

The park is just down this hill

Here is a link to an album of pictures that I uploaded to Facebook if you are not a member (Suz D :)
Thanks to everyone for your love and prayers!

We Have a Flat!

2011-09-16T20:51:00.000-05:00

Well, it was quite the process, but the Lord has provided us an apartment (flat) in Aberdeen. Our new address is: 25 Church Street, Woodside, Aberdeen, AB24 4DQ :) :) :)

Here is a link to pics of the new place. I am getting so excited now! God has been so faithful to provide everything we need every step of the way! I'm not going to lie. I was really beginning to stress about not having a place to live and started to doubt the goodness of God. But He reminded me again that HIS timing is best. HE is so good!

Celebrating 1 Year of our Sweet Rose Lillian's Life!

2011-09-07T22:42:00.002-05:00

Rose turned ONE just a few short days ago and I am so glad to finally have the chance to sit down and reflect on her YEAR with us in the Baylor family.

Rose - you have such a sweet and yet "Rosie" personality :) We are so thankful to the Lord for this year we have had with you. We pray that we will have many more! Here's a quick stroll down memory lane.

She was 7lbs 3 oz and 20.5 inches long. She arrived on August 30th at 5:47 pm. I had fun reading her birth story again here. Crazy how it just seems like yesterday in some ways!

2 weeks old - our sweet little bundle

One month old - becoming more alert!

1 1/2 months old getting snuggles from her big sister

2 months old and smiley

3 months old - our little pumpkin for Thanksgiving

4 months old and ready for her 1st Christmas!

5 months and having fun on her belly

6 months and as happy as ever

7 months and in her high chair ready to eat

8 months celebrating her first Easter

9 months and happy that the weather is getting nice again!

10 months - climbed up in Maddy's chair by herself

11 months and cruising like crazy

12 months and lovin' life!
I wanted to jot down a few of my memories of her at this stage in her life so that I don't forget :)

*At Rose's 1 year doctor appointment, she was 29 inches tall and 15 lbs 12 ounces. She's a tall drink of water.

* She is walking well with holding our fingers and can stand on her own for about 5 seconds. She is getting very close to taking her first steps!

*She likes most fruits, but loves grapes. I think she would eat them for every meal if I would let her.

* She does not like broccoli! She has already started tossing food off her tray if she doesn't like it!

* She adores her sister as always and giggles and crawls to her and away from her!

* She is nuts about cats, dogs, and zu-zu pets! She Squeals, giggles and waves her arms like a wild woman when she sees any of hem :)

* She's a mama's girl! It's happened mainly because I am home all the time with her, but I don't mind at all! If she is tired or doesn't feel good or even just nervous, she clings to me for her life!

* Daddy can always make her laugh and giggle! She loves when her flips her on the bed and tickles her!

*She has her bottom two middle teeth in already and her back right tooth as well as her top two front teeth are presently coming in - which as made for a pretty cranky baby :(
*When she is excited and happy she will bury her face into your shoulder and squeal. It's so sweet!

*When she is feeling well, she is just a peach! She loves her family, her toys and her life. She is just pretty much a content baby!

Dearest Rose Lillian,

Your Dad, Sister and I are so very thankful that you came to join our family a year ago! The Lord knew that you would be the perfect puzzle piece that would fit into our family. You have brought so much love and joy into each of our lives. We couldn't do without you. You are a gift from God! We can't wait to see how the Lord will use your precious life for His glory!

Quick Update

2011-09-05T22:39:00.000-05:00

Friday, August 26th - Tim's mom and sister came to pick up the girls in Chicago and bring them to PA so we could finish packing and cleaning. The girls hardly seemed to miss us and did great (praise the Lord!). BIG shout out to Tim's parents and sister and her family for caring for our girls for 6 days and driving in the care with them for 12 hours!!!!

Monday, August 29th - some sweet friends from church threw a little good bye party for us. I of course cried (but I had been crying probably 3x a day for the past month, so that was nothing new :)

Tuesday, August 30th - dear friends came to help us pack up our moving truck and clean our condo before our walk through at 9pm. Yes, CLEAN! Aren't my friends the absolute best?! Yes, the answer is yes!

Wednesday, August 31st - We met Ryan and Kelly at 7am for breakfast before heading off to PA with all of our worldly possessions in a 16 ft. Uhaul truck. We had such a nice time with them - but yes, more tears! The ride was so weird (but nice) with no kiddos :) We almost didn't know what to do with ourselves! We arrived into Bellefonte around 8:30pm PA time and had a few minutes of a joyous union with Maddy before we started unloading the truck. Poor girl just kept asking for us to hold her! I gave in after a while and just sat down and snuggled her - so sweet! We got the truck half unloaded that night (thanks to my dad, tim's dad, my brother, tim's sister, mom and brother in law),

Thursday, September 1st - We finished unpacking the truck , returned it and got on the road for MA by 1pm. We arrived at my sister Jen's house at 8:30pm I think. We chatted for a bit and all went to bed.

Friday, Sept 2nd - Sunday, Sept 4th - we spent with Tim and Katie Barker as well as Dawn, Nate, Noah and Sophie Mihelis. It was such a great time catching up with dear friends and seeing the church plant that they are starting there in Somerville. God is really doing a great work in and through each of them and we are so excited to see it unfold and to know how to better pray for them now that we were there!

Sunday, Sept 4th - Wednesday Sept. 7th - We are chilling with my sister, her husband and their three girls. Just wanted to hug them all one more time before we head overseas. They are a pretty cool family.

Wednesday Sept. 7th - We drive back to PA to spend time with our parents and siblings before we FLY OUT of Philly on Sept 21st. We have a night flight starting at 6:15pm.

So thankful for our many dear friends and family members we have been able to spend time with and trusting the Lord for each next day, each next step.

It's a renter's market...

2011-08-19T15:02:00.002-05:00

Still looking for housing and we are about one month away from being in Aberdeen, Scotland. I just read this little blurb on the "Aberdeen Women's Fellowship's" website.

"The renter’s market in Aberdeen is very competitive. Properties are often listed and taken within days, sometimes hours, making it difficult,although not impossible, to secure housing while still abroad. Many landlords require a personal viewing of the property before they will agree to rent it to you. If no one in your family is able to come early to look and secure a place, then you may need to wait until you arrive in Aberdeen before you find permanent housing. It is a good idea, if you are able, to start looking at what the market has to offer no more than 1-2 months before you arrive although you can start looking earlier to get an idea of what the market is like. Some properties will be “available for immediate entry” while others may list another entry date. Many flats and homes come fully furnished, which is particularly helpful for those moving from overseas."

Pray for me to have patience and faith in my mighty God!

It's Just Stuff

2011-08-14T08:58:00.003-05:00

This weekend we had our last yard sale in an effort to get rid of all the things we can't ship to Scotland with us or that we don't feel are worth storing. Most of the girls' toys fall into that category. There are a select few little ones (pinky pie pony, panda pillow, and her special tea pot set...) that are dear friends of Madison's and are small enough to take with us. But for the most part, all we are taking is clothes, a few toiletries, our computers and U.S. measuring cups :) So it doesn't really make sense for me to store all of the girls' toys for three years when they won't be interested in them when they come back to the states in three years and they are 4 and almost 6 (ok - that's just crazy when I actually write it. Surely my girls will never be THAT old?)

So I spent Friday packing up most of their toys and many other things that I realized I just don't NEED. I had worship music playing while I was working and there were several times that I started to tear up as I would place something in the yard sale pile. I packed up Maddy's princess castle and enjoyed reminiscing about how she learned how to play make believe with that castle.
I remembered a sweet little stuffed animal that a dear friend had given her at my baby shower. She has grown up with these toys and there are so many fond memories that go along with them. I hadn't anticipated that the emotional element of giving our things away.

Funny though - she wasn't the one attached - I was. She hasn't even noticed her things are gone. She's just having fun playing in the empty moving boxes. I was the one that found myself attached to these "things". But as each new item went into the "For Sale" pile, my heart found deeper refuge in my Savior. I cried out to him in my sadness and asked for strength and hope. He is faithful. I was soon comforted by the wonderful truth that this is just "stuff". The toys, the cars (we just sold last week), the extra dishes, and clothes. It's not WHY I'm here on this earth. I was reminded that Where my treasure is, there will my heart be also. I was created to bring honor and glory to my Father Jesus. This move is helping me to see things a little more clearly-without all of the "stuff"of this world clouding my view.

Phil. 3:14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Summertime Gaze?

2011-08-09T23:09:00.001-05:00

I don't know about you, but I often struggle to keep my gaze cast towards Christ during one of the most beautiful time of the year. Maybe it's just the late nights and business of activities, but this short article by John Piper was a much needed encouragement and challenge for me tonight.

I love Piper's encouragement, "Don’t let summer make your soul shrivel. God made summer as a foretaste of heaven, not a substitute. If the mailman brings you a love letter from your fiancé, don’t fall in love with the mailman. That’s what summer is: God’s messenger with a sun-soaked, tree-green, flower-blooming, lake-glistening letter of love to show us what he is planning for us in the age to come—“things which eye has notseen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered into the heart of man, God has prepared for those who love him"- I Corinthians 2:9. "

The solution? "If then you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth." Colossians 3:1-2

It was just the reminder that I needed that no matter how busy I am this summer (and oh boy is this a busy one) to take every chance I get to turn my heart and mind to the things of Christ. For me

personally that means a few things:

1. Getting up a tad earlier to get in The Word. I truly want my mind filled with scripture so that I am not tempted to doubt the goodness of my Heavenly Father.

2. Savoring each beautiful moment as a gift from God that points to His own majesty and should cause me to give glory to Him!

1 month shy of a YEAR!?

2011-08-06T14:40:00.000-05:00

Seriously, how is it possible that my little baby is almost 1 year old?! I have just loved my days with Rose. She is such a sweet and mellow baby. But it as been fun to see her little personality start to peak out lately as she interacts with Maddy and us.

Ready to go to the park! She LOVES her Daddy :)

What's NEW:
* Two little bottom teeth (but she can still mash about any table food!)
* Says: dada, mama, ah duh (all done, and also does the sign), shakes her head for no
* Favorite foods: bananas, peaches, cheerios, chicken, cheese, and (gasp) peanut butter and jelly ;)
* Crawling around super fast these days (this is definitely her preferred method of transportation)

* Cruises around the furniture to get where she wants to go and walks holding onto our hands. But she doesn't seem to interested in walking alone quite yet, which I am totally fine with :)
* Sleep: she is a wonderful sleeper. She and Maddy share a room and are awake around 7am each morning. I think if Rose slept in her own room, she would probably sleep til 8. But it all evens out because she will usually take a nice 2 hour morning nap for me from 9-11. Then she takes another 2 hour nap from 1-3 (right when Maddy naps!). Then she goes back to bed for the night at 6pm. She doesn't even fuss when I lay her down any more- just plays until she falls asleep!

*Giggles and Smiles: she has become much more giggly, which I love! Things that make her giggle: playing peek-a-boo, when we take her pacifier and hide it behind our backs or pretend to put it in our mouth, when anyone else laughs or giggles, when she sees Maddy after nap time.
*Frustration: SHe has just started to show her frustration with Madison when she takes a toy from or is "too close for comfort". She'll squawk and flap her arms to get Maddy away. It's kind of funny.

* A Partner in crime - Rose as become Maddy's partner in crime. The other day I found them both quietly sitting on the floor of their room sucking sugar from the sugar bowl with straws!!

oh dear - what am I going to do with these girls? Oh -ok, I guess I'll keep them :) LOVE them so much!

Rose love to be EVERYWHERE that Maddy is :)

Rose we are so glad that you are a part of our family. You are so special to us! We love to see you grow bigger every day!

They Call It This in Scotland

2011-08-01T22:45:00.000-05:00

Life has been pretty crazy lately preparing for our move. But one of my favorite things to do in my *ahem* "free time" has been to read up on "Life in Scotland". There is a great website I have been frequenting called, Aberdeen Women's Fellowship. It's set up primarily to help families coming from many parts of the world to the University of Aberdeen with their transition. It's been so helpful! I found this list, "They Call It This" and had to laugh. Enjoy :)

They Call It This
aubergine (eggplant)
bap (roll)
banger (sausage)
candy floss (cotton candy)
courgette (zucchini)
mange tout (snap peas)
jelly (jello)
tatties (potatoes)
neeps (turnips)
swede (rutabaga)
polenta (corn meal)
crisps (potato chips)
chips (french fries)
corn starch (corn flour)
porridge (oatmeal)
tea (dinner/supper)
stovies (stew-like leftovers)
coriander (cilantro)
non-brewed condiment (white vinegar)
streaky bacon (regular bacon like in the U.S. full of fat!)
icing sugar (powdered sugar)
mince (ground meat)
bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
rocket (arugula)
sweetie (candy)
biscuit (cookie)
white sponge (white cake)
custard (pudding)
pudding (dessert)
spring onion (scallion)
jacket potato (baked potato)

The Baylors are Moving to Scotland!

2011-07-06T11:11:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that I just wrote the title of that blog. This news has been coming about for a few months now, but we weren't able to share it publicly. The Lord in His is gracious kindness has led us very clearly in this decision. I think Tim and I would both say that there are few other decisions in our life, that we both have felt so sure about. God has confirmed His leading in this move time and time again. Tim has the full detailed explanation here on his blog. I figured there was no point in my re-typing the whole thing :) But I thought I would post a few more details and my response to the move.

We plan to move from chicago to PA at the end of the summer. We wil store our things in PA with family. We will then spend 3 weeks there with family and friends before taking the 7+ hour flight to Aberdeen, Scotland. Yes, you can start praying for that flight now :)

It has been a whirlwind of events and emotions. Sometimes I feel a little sad to leave our family and community of friends here in Chicago. We have been so blessed to have family that loves us and cares for us! But in reality with living so far from family now, we only see them in person about 2x a year. So I'm hoping the distance won't feel as bad since we are somewhat adjusted to it. And we hope to make it home to the states once a year if possible to spend a good chunk of time home with family and friends.

And it's hard to believe that 4 years ago we moved to Chicago only knowing one other couple, and thought we would never find a close, loving community of friends like we had in VA Beach. And here we are, struggling to say good bye again to this new wonderful group of friends from church, work, and school. These years in Chicago have been such a wonderful blessing, just as the 4 years in VA Beach were!

Looking back on God's faithfulness to provide for us in each move we made, strengthens my faith that He will pave the way for us yet again in Scotland. He is so very good! Even more than the days of uncertainly and sadness, I have more days filled with excitement in taking this leap of faith and trusting that the Lord has an exciting adventure in store for our family. Fortunately, it's only for 3 years, so we feel like with modern technology, we will be able to stay in close contact with those we love most!

Please pray for us as we try to tie up all of the loose ends here in Chicago, raise support, finalize our visas, and try to find housing etc. overseas. Thank you so much!

"Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and he will make your path straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

A Woman Who Fears the Lord Will be Praised

2011-07-05T22:31:00.000-05:00

One of my all time favorite verses is: Proverbs 31:30 “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

I found the following points about proverbs 31 on "Redeemer Blog" and I thought it was worth sharing! It was a wonderful reminder to me tonight.

From a John Piper Sermon (May 10, 1981)
What does a woman who fears the Lord look like?
She is not anxious about the future.
• Proverbs 31:25 “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come”
• Proverbs 14:26 “In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have refuge”
She has practical wisdom.
• Proverbs 31:26 “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of her kindness is on her tongue.”
She is strong.
• Proverbs 31:17 “She girds her loins with strength and makes her arms strong.
• Moral strength. Proverbs 23:17 “Let not your heart envy sinners, but continue in the fear of the Lord all the day.”
She will live not for herself alone but for others—especially her husband if she is married.
• Proverbs 31:11-12 “The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not harm all the days of her life.
• Proverbs 12:4 “A good wife is the crown of her husband, but she who brings shame is the rottenness of his bones.”
• Proverbs 31:20 “She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.”

Entrusted with a Child's Heart

2011-07-01T22:48:00.000-05:00

I took this amazing 24 week class at my church this past year called, "Entrusted with a Child's Heart". It was such a blessing and encouragement to me! I got so many great biblical tips on being a Godly Mother.

It was a video series we watched every Wednesday for an hour and then talked about the concepts with other moms at our table (while our children played in the nursery for FREE for 2 hours!). I have been wanting to buy the series for everyone, but don't have the money ;0)

Well, I'm so EXCITED, because I realized they have a website and blog with great tips! I am planning on putting them into my Google Reader and I hope you will too :)

Check it out here: Entrusted With a Child's Heart

Stop Talking.

2011-07-01T22:36:00.000-05:00

I read this little blurb in my "Real Simple" magazine a few months back and just had to quote it. I have totally been a culprit of this one!

"A lot of folks have a habit of imparting endless information during a first encounter. I call it male-pattern lecturing, though it's by no means exclusive to men. The listener smiles, nods politely, and asks questions, and so the male-pattern lecturer keeps...on...talking. The lecturer comes away from the experience thinking that it went really well. He felt so confident and interesting! But for the listener, it was a bust. She didn't feel affirmed or appreciated. It's natural, especially when you're nervous to focus on whether the conversation is going well for you. But make sure you're also thinking of ways to make the other person feel good. Honestly, that can be as simple as asking about her day."
- Ann Demarais, PH.D., is an executive coach and a coauthor of First Impressions

Hahaha - I could seriously take a cue from this quote :)

Life

2011-06-30T22:09:00.001-05:00

You know life is just BUSY when you got to finally post on your blog and it's been over a month!!!

Let me just give you the cliff notes of what's been happening this past month:

* End of May - early June we spent a week in PA with family. It was such a wonderful time with siblings, parents, grandparents, and cousins! Here are a few highlights.

More pictures here.

* Then the day we came back I started my College Algebra class. It's Monday and Wednesday nights (6:30-9) during June and July. So I feel like I am studying all the time, going to class, and then getting behind in all of the other normal things that I do... oh dear! I just have to pass it. It's been 12 years since I have even touched the stuff and let's just say that Math is not my forte. Anyways, it's just one of the requirements for my Master's in order to gain state certification. I'm half way through...so gotta just keep on keeping on!

***ROSE turned 9 and then 10 months :0) - Yikes - so behind!

Here are a few of her stats from the last two months:
* started officially crawling at the end of May(9 months) - she's really moving now and comes to fine Maddy, Tim and I wherever we are :)
* Pulled up on coffee table at 9.5 months
* Cut her first tooth (bottom middle one) at end of May, now has two little teeth coming in the bottom middle of her grin -it's pretty sweet, I have to say :)
* Saying : baba(bottle), dada, mama, often at the right time
* loves eating small pices of table food - favorites are bluberries, pasta, and peas
* Calm personality. She does a lot of watching and just takes things in
* She is happy, but not hyper (unlike her sister)
* sleeping patterns: bed at 6pm, wakes at 7pm, 1st nap 9-11, 2nd nap 1-3.
* Waved for the first time at 9.5 months
* 9.5 month stats - Weight - 14lbs 9 oz. (5%), Height - 28in (70%)
* Tattle tale - if Maddy is even getting too close (and about to strike if you know what I mean) Rose sounds the alarm and starts squawking and looking over at me - like what are you going to to Mom?
* She LOVES to play in the bath and swim
* She did wonderfully on the trip to PA!
She is such a laid back little girl with a sweet curiosity about her!

*** MADDY turned 2 and half!

* Height - 35.5in.
* Weight 24 lbs, 5 ounces
* She is talking up a storm lately. It's been so much fun! She even is starting to get humor, such a blast!
* Loves to swim with her new swim vest
* Loves reading books, following ants, playing at the park, painting, coloring, singing(she will put about anything to song :), dancing, running, jumping, finding and throwing rocks and sticks, snuggling.
* Loves to watch Strawberry Short cake(especially loves the song, "back together again"), Elmo, Blues Clues, Veggie Tales, Praise Baby, The Wiggles.
* Loves to say "no" - hmmm --still working on that one.
She is such a joy to us! So full of life and energy that comes through in everything she does!

I'm thankful to the Lord for these days home with my gals :)

If you give a Mom a Muffin!

2011-05-25T14:14:00.001-05:00

I read this on my friend Jessica's blog. I got a good laugh out of it and thought you would too ;)

If you give a Mom a Muffin!

If you give a mom a muffin, she'll want a cup of coffee to go with it. She'll pour herself some. Her three-year-old will spill the coffee. She'll wipe it up. Wiping the floor, she will find dirty socks. She'll remember she has to do laundry. When she puts the laundry in the washer, she'll trip over boots and bump into the freezer. Bumping into the freezer will remind her she has to plan supper. She will get out a pound of hamburger. She'll look for her cookbook. (101 Things To Make With A Pound Of Hamburger.) The cookbook is sitting under a pile of mail. She will see the phone bill, which is due tomorrow. She will look for her checkbook. The checkbook is in her purse that is being dumped out by her two-year-old. She'll smell something funny. She'll change the two-year-old. While she is changing the two-year-old the phone will ring. Her five-year-old will answer and hang up. She'll remember that she wants to phone a friend to come for coffee. Thinking of coffee will remind her that she was going to have a cup. She will pour herself some. And chances are, if she has a cup of coffee, her kids will have eaten the muffin that went with it.

by Kathy Fictorie

Our Rose is 8 months!

2011-05-13T16:22:00.000-05:00

Our sweetie pie is 8 months old. We are just loving every moment with her! She is happy and carefree!

Went for her Wellness checkup last week and here are her stats:
Height: 23 3/4 in
Weight: 13. 9 oz
Head: 42 1/2 cm
I asked the doctor if I should be worried that she is so small ( I swear, she eats a lot of food!).
He said, don't worry at all. You just have small babies! haha- and that really is so true.

*Her favorite thing is to sit on the living room floor and pull toys out of a her toy basket and look each one over carefully, put it in her mouth, shake it and throw it to the side. Such a simple life - love it!

*She is cooing and screaming up a storm lately. The coos are sweet of course. there are lots of bababas and dadadas! Now the screams are not quite so sweet. Although it's kind of hilarious because Maddy, Tim and I will all be running around doing different things and she will let off a high pitched scream and we will all stop and look at her. She inevitably grins and goes back to playing. She knows what she's doing ;)

*No teeth yet - but I'm pretty sure she's working on them.

* She LOVES to swing. She just giggles and giggles. It makes my heart sing!

* Not crawling yet, but definitely scooting and moving to get where she wants (within a 3 foot radius)

MOST of all though, I am loving how she and Maddy are interacting more. SO MUCH FUN to watch!

* We dedicated her to the Lord on Mother's day.

Before our church, we committed to be a Godly example for her as well as to teach her about God's Word, Goodness, and Grace! We have been entrusted with her heart and are so blessed and honored to be her parents. Rose you are a gift from the Lord!

You Know You’re a Mom When…

2011-05-08T14:30:00.001-05:00

You Know You’re a Mom When…
You have signed a check with a crayon
You wish your baby monitor had a snooze button
You can feed a small family with all of the french fries, goldfish, and various other crumbs found in the back of your mini-van You find yourself constantly talking in 3rd person, “Mommy said NO!” You child has taken two baths today but you haven’t had a shower in two days!
You can think of 1000 different ways to use a baby wipe that don’t involve changing a diaper.
Instead of singing in the shower you say things like:
Don’t open the door
Go watch dora
No, you can’t get in
Is anyone hurt?
An uninterrupted shower feels like a day at the spa.
You know all the words to every theme song on Nick Jr. but you can’t remember where your keys or cell phone are .
When on that rare chance that you go to the grocery store alone, you walk the isles slowly as if in a museum.
By Holly Furtick

One of my dear friends sent me this and it made me laugh. Hope it made you smile ;)
Have a Blessed Mother's Day!

An Excellent Response to "The Adjustment Bureau"

2011-05-06T22:18:00.000-05:00

My pastor wrote an excellent review of the movie, "The Adjustment Bureau" on his blog.

You can read it here. His article does a great job of dealing with the issues of "Free Will" and "God's Sovereignty" according to the Word of God. Very insightful! It's a short article. Whether you have watched the movie or not yet, I highly recommend the read! Don't worry - it won't give anything away ;)

Master's of Arts in Teaching

2011-05-06T08:38:00.001-05:00

So in January of 2008 (almost a year before Madison was born!) I started my Master's degree at Trinity International University because I could get half off my credits while Tim was going to school and I really wanted to get certified to teach in IL as well as continue my understanding of teaching. Well, here I am 3 years and 2 sweet girls later and I am just now trying to finish up all of the last requirements for state certification and graduation.

AllI have left is:
1. College Algebra class (an undergrad class that I never took and need for certification)
2. Health class with a lab (also and undergraduate class that I never took and need for certification)

Once I have those two done - I can send in all of my paper work in to be certified to teach in the public schools in IL.

And then to actually graduate and receive my Master's degree, I have to also write my THESIS! So I am taking it one step at a time. I just registered for a College Algebra (yuck!) course at Harper College. The class will be on Monday and Wednesday nights through June and July. I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.

Maddy Says

2011-04-25T20:42:00.001-05:00

* One day I was a little sad and Maddy said, "Mommy sad; she needs a paci!"

* She likes to insert random words into her favorite songs. For example: " Twinkle, twinkle, little ROSE, how I ROSE, ROSE, you are!" Usually it doesn't really fit -but it's hilarious!

* "I can't fall!" She says this when she is about to fall and she needs help getting down from somewhere.

* I was in the kitchen washing some dishes and Maddy was playing in her highchair when I heard her say, "Don't grab my shirt!" as she lowered herself down from her chair. She ran to me (obviously frustrated) so I said, who grabbed you? She said through tears, "The chair grabbed me!"

* One night at dinner Tim Said to Madison, "Obey your parents in the Lord for this is right." Maddy quickly responded, "YES JESUS!"

* We have been doing lots of pretend lately (with her ponies and her dolls). It's so fun! Well, one day, I asked Madison to please pick up the crackers that she just dropped onto the floor, She quickly opened up her empty hand and said, "I did it!" When she had clearly NOT picked up the crackers...haha.

* We were leaving Target (which she loves!) and she said, "I LOVE you store! Pick up store?" "Hug store?"

* One day we were at the library and I told Maddy, "No, do not get out of the stroller yet", She looked me right in the eye and said, "Don't say no to me mom!" I had to stifle laughter as I said, Maddy, the Bible says that children need to obey there parents. We're still working on this one.

* One day in passing, I told Maddy that Rose doesn't have any teeth yet, but they will be coming in soon. Then I found her looking in Rose's mouth saying, "Rosie's Teeth coming Mom!" (As if they might appear at any moment ;)

Madison Hope,
Your Dad and I love you so much and are thankful for your great sense of humor and spunky spirit!

Holy Week

2011-04-20T23:53:00.000-05:00

In celebration of Holy Week and preparation for Good Friday (celebration of Christ's death for our sins) and Resurrection Sunday (Celebration of Christ's victory over sin, death, and the grave 3 days later) my friend Kelly and I decided to read the book of Luke. We decided a little late though (Two days ago to be exact) so we have been reading several chapters a day, just so we can be reading Luke's telling of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ over the Easter weekend.

I have been excited about his challenge because to be honest, I have just been struggling to get into the word lately. And I know that once I do, I will "Taste and See that the Lord is good" and find my JOY in Him again. This exercise so far as proved to do just that. Reading through the book more quickly has been so refreshing, giving me a great overview of Christ's life. I mean think about it. Sunday I read about Christ's birth; yesterday I read about his childhood; today I read about some of his many miracles and His temptation in the wilderness. In two days I will read about how he was betrayed by a close friend, nailed to a cross, pierced with a sword, and then on Sunday about how he was raised from the dead! What way to celebrate Holy Week?!

How have you and your family been preparing and how do you celebrate Easter week/weekend? I am really wanting Easter to become as big (if not bigger) of a celebration in our family as Christmas is. Any ideas for me?

I wanted to include and expert from Luke 6 that was water for my dry soul today.

Luke 6:20-26
"And he (Jesus) lifted up his eyes on his disciples and said:

Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the Kingdom of God.
Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.
Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold your reward is great in heaven, for so their fathers did to the prophets.

But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.
Woe to you who are full now, for you shall be hungry.
Woe to you who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep.
Woe to you, when all people speak well of you for so their fathers did to the false prophets.

But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies and do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you."

Clinique Bonus!

2011-04-16T14:05:00.000-05:00

I went to the mall today with Tim and the girls. We usually walk around some and then let Maddy play. I had to grab some facial moisturizer, so Rose and I walked to find some while tim hung out with Maddy while she played. I was walking by Macy's and found this deal at Clinique!

With any $21.50 Clinique purchase receive this free gift valued at over $60:

Lash Doubling Mascara in Black (0.14 oz)
Take The Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes and Lips (1.7 oz)
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion (1 oz)
Choose your eye, cheek, and lip colors: Pinks includes a Clinique Colour Compact with Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in Rose Wine and Soft-Pressed Powder Blusher in Pink Blush plus a Lipstick & Gloss Duo in Different Lipstick in Think Bronze and Long Last Glosswear in Air Kiss; Violets includes a Clinique Colour Compact with Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in Twilight Mauve/Brandied Plum and Blushing Blush Powder Blush in Smoldering Plum plus a Lipstick & Gloss Duo in Different Lipstick in Shy and Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 in Mystic
Cosmetic bag set
Shipping is free when you spend $50 on beauty (any brand)

I think they may be doing different deals for different states/stores, so look here for your local store and deal information! If you already need something, this might be a great deal for you too!

Spring is in the Air!

2011-04-15T20:24:00.000-05:00

Rocking the double stroller!

Fun outside!

Rose was in awe of the grass!

My friend Jordan hanging out with the girls and I ;)

Me and my gals ;) Of course we couldn't even get one picture with both of them looking!

I don't have very many pictures of just Rosie and I. I just love this little Rosebud ;)

Rose is 7 months!

2011-04-10T15:45:00.000-05:00

Time is just flying by these day! I know that's what everyone says, but I literally feel like I just sat down yesterday to write about Rose's 1/2 birthday! She is getting so big and starting to be able to do so many things!

We got home from her 7 month wellness visit on Friday and her STATS are:
Height - 26 3/4 inches (75%)
Weight - 13 lbs 2 oz. (5%)
Head Circumference: 42 1/2 cm

She is growing nicely in her curve and looks like she is going to be long and lean ;)

Things she can do now:
* Sitting pretty - she can sit on her own now and by far she prefers this position most now!

* Foodie - she LOVES her some baby food, in fact I think she would rather eat pureed food rather than ever drink milk. I feel like I have to force her to drink her bottles now that she is eating 3 meals a day in baby food. But all in all, she still has 3-4 bottles and 3 "meals' of veggies, fruits, cereal a day. She also as started to try and drink water out of a sippy cup at meals. She seems to like it!

*Not a Nurser: for various reasons, I decided to stop nursing her. Mainly, she was just so nosey that she would watch Maddy or look around the whole time instead of nurse. She was getting so frustrated (and frankly so was I) as one feeding could drag out to almost an hour as I am trying to get her to focus (when normally it would take her 15 min). So I had gotten to the point where I was *maybe* getting one good nursing in the morning if she was really sleepy still. Otherwise I was pumping for the rest of the feedings, which was getting stressful with Madison- I think we were both ready to move on. Things are much easier and happier around here now ;)

* HAPPY - She is still a happy, laid back little goober ;) She giggles and laughs when we kiss her neck and belly or when Maddy is anywhere in eye sight! She gets this really sweet, knowing grin when she sees that we are going to kiss her and turns her head away to try to get out of the way as she SMILES from ear to ear!

* Mover and shaker- ok, well she's not actually going anywhere (which I am COMPLETELY fine with!) Maddy started crawling and pulling up on things at this age and I am so happy that Rose is good with playing in one spot. But she loves to kick like crazy, jump and bounce in her exersaucer or in the bouncer at church. She is just so wiggly it makes me laugh ;)

*Grabber - She grabs everything and anything that is in front of her! The other day I was on my way out of the house with the girls when I realized Rose (who I was holding on my hip) had leaned way over and was sipping the cold coffee out of top of my travel mug!

*Talker - She has some great sounds these days! She says, baba and dada the most. But she also makes raspberry blowing sounds which are just hilarious. Maddy and I always giggle at her and then Maddy asks her to do it again (which of course she can't do on command) at which point Maddy gets miffed with Rose- oh dear!

*Snuggler - When she is sad or tired, she will kind of grab me around my neck/chest and snuggle into me. It is the sweetest thing ever! At her 7 month check up, she got the biggest poochy lip ever and burst into tears when the doctor listened to her heartbeat, looked at her ears, and her eyes. I felt so badly! She almost NEVER cries or fusses - so it was shocking! When I was allowed to pick her up again, she grabbed me around my neck and just nuzzled her little face right into the crook of my neck and quickly calmed down. It was so sad, but precious too.

I snapped this pic of Rose and I after church today - poor girl was SO tired after nursery!

*Blanky - She now holds her soft little blanky when she goes to sleep. She loves to pull it up to her cheek and snuggle into it to fall asleep. I LOVE how she is attached to it already!

*Bath time - She and Maddy are hilarious in the bath together! Rose lays on her back and kicks her feet way up in the air and then splashes them loudly into the water and giggles as water goes flying! The funny thing is now Madison is getting annoyed with Rose splashing and will say, "Rose stop splashin' me!" Haha! For the most part though, they have so much fun in their together splashing and giggling - by far one of my favorite times of the day!

*BACK girl -she sleeps on her back and would much prefer to play on her back than her belly. In fact when we force her to have some tummy time, she gets so stressed out and spends most of the time with her hands out like superman instead of supporting herself with her arms. Ha! So no where near crawling yet - which again, I am FINE with!

Rose you are a sweet gift from the Lord to our family and we LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

Chicken and Waffles

2011-04-04T20:46:00.002-05:00

So Tim and I saw an episode of "Throwdown with Bobby Flay" making Chicken and Waffles last night on YouTube and and we were drooling! We decided to make it together tonight! I would definitely recommend making it with another cook. We felt like you needed one person to man the waffle iron while one person watched the chicken. It was really fun working with Tim in the kitchen ;)
And I am dieting right now, so you might be thinking - WHAT?! How can she eat that and lose weight? Well, I am of the opinion that if you completely deprive yourself of what you are craving, you will never be able to stick with your diet. So I ate like a bird most of the day and then FULLY enjoyed my two waffles and two chicken strips -yum!

I didn't want to do whole chickens, so we used chicken tenderloin and only marinated them for two hours instead of 4. As well, we cut the entire recipe in half because it's a HUGE recipe calling for two whole chickens!

As well, I couldn't find whole pink peppercorns by themselves, so I got "rainbow peppercorn" and probably used less than they called for. Oh and I couldn't find "chile de arbol powder" so I used hot sauce (tobasco) instead. Does anyone know if chile de arbol powder is just regular chile powder? Anyways, even with our little changes, it was AMAZING!

I was a little bit skeptical with how savory the recipe seemed to be. But It was the perfect balance of sweet and savory! The wheat waffles weren't too sweet. The honey peppercorn butter was a perfect balance to the chicken tenders and horseradish syrup! Tim, our friend Stacey, and I just kept taking bites and saying how well everything complimented one another so well! WOW! Even if this doesn't sound like something you would like, you should totally try this! It took a bit of work, but it was worth it!

Have you ever had chicken and waffles before? Does it sound like something you might like? I am finding a ot of people think it's totally weird-haha- well- call me weird ;)

Here is the recipe from the Food Network:

Fried Chicken and Wild Rice Waffles with Pink Peppercorn Butterand Maple-Horseradish Syrup

Wild Rice Waffles:
    * 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    * 1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
    * 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
    * 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
    * 2 teaspoons baking soda
    * 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    * 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    * 4 cups buttermilk
    * 4 large eggs
    * 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    * 1/2 cup cooked wild rice (rice should be overcooked) drained well
    * Melted butter, for the waffle maker

Fried Chicken:
    * 1 quart plus 2 cups buttermilk
    * Kosher salt
    * 2 teaspoons chile de arbol powder, or 2 tablespoons hot sauce ( I used hot sauce)
    * 2 chickens (3 to 4 pounds each), cut into 8 pieces - (I used about 15 chicken tenders)
    * 3 cups all-purpose flour
    * 1 tablespoon garlic powder
    * 1 tablespoon onion powder
    * 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
    * 2 teaspoons cayenne
    * Freshly ground black pepper
    * Peanut oil, for deep-frying

Pink Peppercorn Butter:

2 sticks unsalted butter, slightly softened
1 tablespoon pink peppercorns
3 tablespoons clover honey
Salt and pepper

Maple-Horseradish Syrup:

1 cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish, drained
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Directions

For the Waffles: Whisk together the flours, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in a large bowl.

Whisk together the buttermilk, eggs and oil in a separate large bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and whisk until the mixture just comes together. Add the wild rice and fold until just combined. Let mixture rest for 10 minutes.

While the mixture is resting, heat the waffle maker. Brush the waffle grates with some of the melted butter and make the waffles according to the manufacturer's directions.

For the Chicken: Whisk together 1 quart of the buttermilk, 2 tablespoons salt and the chile de arbol in a large bowl or large baking dish. Add the chicken, turn to coat, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Stir together the flour, garlic and onion powders, paprika and cayenne in a large bowl and divide among 2 shallow platters. Season generously with salt and pepper. Drain the chicken in a colander and pat it dry. Dredge the pieces a few at a time in the flour mixture and pat off excess, then dip in the remaining 2 cups buttermilk and allow excess to drain off. Dredge in the second plate of flour and pat off the excess. Put the chicken pieces on a baking rack set over a baking sheet while the oil heats.

Pour about 3 inches of oil into a deep cast iron skillet; the oil should not come more than half way up the sides of the pot. Put the pot over medium-high heat and heat the oil to 375 degrees F on a deep-fry thermometer. Working in batches, add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, 3 or 4 at a time and fry, turning the pieces occasionally, until evenly golden brown and cooked through, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and transfer to a rack to drain; repeat to cook the remaining pieces.

For the Butter: Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until combined.

For the Syrup: In a small bowl whisk together all ingredients.

To serve: Place waffle on plate, top with 2 pieces of fried chicken, and a dollop of butter. Pour syrup over top.

Maddy Says

2011-03-16T23:42:00.002-05:00

Maddy is almost 27 months old and is just cracking us up these days with the things that she says! She has such a fun and outgoing personality!

* Me: Maddy, don't pick your nose, let's get a tissue.
   Maddy: no
   Me: Do you just want to pick your nose?
   Maddy: yes!

* Maddy: Maddy's Happy day?! (Birthday)
   Me: No, it's not now
   Maddy: yea, Maybe after nap Happy Day.

* A sample Maddy prayer: Thank you mommy, rose, dad, juice, nana, kel, Ry... AMEN!

* Maddy: Mama Dance? Rose Dance too? (we love to dance in a circle around her pop up princess tent in her room) It's so much fun. Maddy dances behind me (with Rose over my shoulder). Rose squeals and giggles at Maddy and Maddy does it right back - so much fun!

* When I tell Maddy that we are going to go see dad at work she will often say, " Hug him, and love him and kiss him! Tickle him, make him laugh!" It's so sweet ;) She LOVES here Daddy!

* "Oh No! What happened?!"This one can come after just about any accident. (potty accident, dropping food or any other type of item on the floor). Generally I do not love hearing this statement ;()

* Her recent saying as been, "Oh - my - gosh!" She said it the other day when she was in the cart at Aldi. She dropped a grape on the floor and said, "Oh-my gosh mom! Dropped grape! I have to admit it is kind of funny at first and Tim and I have both said this in front of her and not thought anything of it. But when we actually hear it coming out of her mouth, we don't really love it. I think we'll have to be a bit more careful.

* "Oh SO cute!" She will say this after I put on a scarf, she puts on a hat, or I put on make up. I LOVE having girls ;) After church one day, she saw our pastor's wife and said, "Nice hair!", "Pretty Eyes!"

And a new little section I like to call:

Things I never thought I would have to say:

* Madison, we don't put cheese in the dishwasher!
* We do NOT poop on the carpet!
* It is not your job to roll Rose over!
* We can't run down the hallway with no clothes on(after she has snuck past Tim into the hallway on his way to work). It's socially unacceptable ;)
* Maddy, you cannot change your sister's diaper by yourslef!
...and the list goes on!

We love you Maddy girl! You are certainly full of LIFE!

Happy Half Birthday Rose!

2011-03-11T22:13:00.002-06:00

I must always say this every month with each of my girls, but I can hardly belive that Rose is 6 months old already! Where did the time go?! I feel like it was just yesterday that it was Augutst and I was 40 weeks and 5 days pregnant with her, waiting for her impending arrival ;)

Boy, was I ever ready for her to come!

She is doing so many new things these days and is looking so much older! She has been such a sweet addition to our family! If anyone even talks to her or looks in her direction, she smiles and babbles like there is no tomorrow! She has such a mild and sweet nature! We love you so very much Rose!

I enjoyed the little stroll down memory lane as I wrote this ;)


Newborn

1 month old

Halloween- 2 months old!

Pumpkin pie for thanksgiving- 3 months old

Christmas in PA- 4 months old

Christmas Dress - 4 months old


Valentine's Day -5 months old

Playing dress up with Madison. She is our little sunshine - 6 months old!

Things our sweetie can do now:
* Sits up briefly by herself, then topples over.
* Reaches for anything in front of her (including coffee -yikes! Gotta get used to this one!)
* Officially started eating baby food this month and has done so well with it! She opens her mouth very wide and So far she has had rice cereal, oatmeal, carrots, peas, apple sauce, and mashed bananas (WHY oh WHY do I think of "The Wiggles" song when I write "mashed bananas"!? I must have a 2 year old - haha!)
* Has found her voice - that is for sure! She has started screeching and screaming like her sister! She also makes some great babbles, coos, and raspberry sounds too! I love hearing she and Maddy "chatting" to one another ;)
* Rolls over from back to front almost as soon as I lay her on her back, but not so quickly or as often as from front to back (probably she is a back sleeper unlike her sister).
* She loves her sister most of all! She cranes her neck to find Madison and smiles, giggles, and babbles at her! It's so sweet seeing them to start to interact! The other day I put an inch of warm water in the bath tub and laid Rose on her back and threw Maddy in there with her and they both kicked in the water happily while giggling, screeching and smiling. It was such a fun moment for me! They absolutely adore one another and I am unbelievable thankful for that!

Her schedule:
*She is on a 4 hour schedule: Wake, Eat, 2 hours awake, 2 hours asleep - repeat ;)
* She has been having her last feeding at 8pm, stays awake til 9 or 9:30 and then wakes up at 9am! It's been wonderful! Sometimes she wakes at 5am, but if I put her pacifier in, she falls right back to sleep. the only bummer is that Madison often wakes up and in my sleepy stupor, I have to sing to her to get her back to sleep - but she always falls back to sleep within 5 min!

Here are a few of her 6 month stats from her pediatrician visit today:
Height: 26 1/4 in - I can already tell she may be taller than her sister when it's all said and done! We will have to wait and see ;)
Weight: 12.8 pounds
Head: 42cm

As I did for Madison on her half birthday, I would like to write a little letter to my sweet Rose.

Dear Rose Lillian,

I didn't know how much I would come to love you. You have become part of the fabric of our family!

Your Dad, sister and I love you more than we could have ever imagined! You are a sweet blessing from the Lord! Your nature is sweet and easy going. You are almost always happy and content. I could learn a lesson or two from your spirit :) Your joyous squeaks and squeals make us all so happy when we hear them! What would we do without you?! The Lord gave you to us and we hope and pray that you will come to know the Lord as your personal Savior and grow to love him and live for Him with all of your heart and life.

We pray for you every day and we will do all we can to help you to grow physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. We LOVE you and can't wait to see the impact your little life has on our world!

Love always,

Mom

Kale Chips

2011-03-09T13:58:00.000-06:00

Ok, so even though yesterday's post about Chipotle may not seem like it, I have been making some serious changes to my diet and exercise regimen since January 1, 2011 and I have been feeling SO much better! Oh and BTW when I do Chipotle, I do half of the burrito bowl and save the other half for another meal ;)

My goal is to lose the baby weight and get healthy again. So far I have lost 10 lbs! Some weeks have been better than others, but I am on the slow and steady progression DOWNWARD ;) Perhaps I will blog about that journey another day, but today's post is about KALE CHIPS! I found this recipe on one of my new favorite blogs called "Snack Girl" that my friend Abbey turned me onto. It's a blog all about healthy snacks. She has some really great and practical ideas.

Kale chips are one of my new favorites. I have to admit, I didn't think that I would like them, but for a whole bowl of these crispy salty chips it is only 100 calores and you are getting some major nutrients too! You definitely should try them. They're super easy and oh so yum!

Kale Chips
(Makes 2 servings)
1 bunch kale (or 1/2 pound)
2 teaspoons good quality olive oil
salt to taste
Preheat oven to 375 F. Line rimmed cookie sheets (also called hotel pans) with parchment paper (see note below). Tear the leaves off the thick stems into chip sized pieces. An easy way to do this is to fold the leaf in half and just rip toward the stem. Spread pieces out on cookie sheets. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt to taste. Bake 8 minutes or until edges are brown and kale is crispy when moved in pan.
If you don't have parchment paper, you can use aluminum foil or neither. The idea here is to make clean up easy (just toss the paper and then you have less work to do).

If you LOVE Chipotle...

2011-03-08T14:42:00.000-06:00

...then go to this website and watch a 90 second video promo for "America's Next Great Restaurant" and you will get a coupon for a FREE burrito, bowl, taco, or salad with the purchase of one. The only catch is that you have to use it by 3/12/11, so you'll have to hurry!

Tim and I LOVE Chipotle and will definitley be cashing in on this deal!

Thanks to my friend Lisa for the heads up via e-mail :)

Happy eating!

GIRLS :)

2011-03-06T14:06:00.001-06:00

I LOVE having girls! This morning before church, Maddy watched me as I tried on shirt after shirt only to throw one after another into a pile on the bed with a grunt. Then she pointed to one and said, "Try this one mom!"

And low and behold it was one that worked :)

My 30th Birthday Surprise!!

2011-02-20T22:04:00.000-06:00

Tim did a fabulous job this year for my Birthday. It was the big 3-0 and I was feeling a bit ambivilent about it. Whatever -we all get older right.? The actual day was on January 13th on a Thursday night, and I thought we were just going to celebrate quietly with homemade pizza Thursday night and a dinner out just the two of us Saturday night. It turned out to be MUCH MUCH MORE!

It all started with Friday afternoon when he told me that He and his friend Ryan would be coming over to the house around 2pm to hang out for a bit and catch up. Which to me meant that I wanted to make sure the house looked half decent and that I am not in my sweatpants and a tank top or nursing a child when they walk in-ha!

Well, he walked in by himself (said Ryan would be there later) and he handed me a card that said a lot of sweet things, but ended with the idea that this would be a Birthday that I would never forget -hmm... Then he said my present was out in the hallway! I was like, WHAT?! What would he get me that was too big to bring in and wrap? So I opened the door and saw my best friend DAWN from Boston was standing in the hallway! I flipped out!!! I was screaming and hugging Dawn and then hugging Tim - yahoo!!! What a wonderful surprise! You may have seen the video that he posted on facebook - that I will not post here. I looked a bit too ridiculous ;) He had worked out all of the details with her husband and Nate agreed to fly Dawn out here and to watch the kiddos for her. Thanks Nate!

It was so wonderful because we got to to hang out and catch up for a few hours before we left for dinner. Tim had told me that he had planned reservations for Dawn and I to have dinner at one of my favorite restaurants here in Chicago- Hot Chocolate.

So we drove out there together casually ad when we walked in, the hostess walked us the whole way back to the this little curtained in room and I noticed familiar faces just as everyone yelled -surprise! I was SHOCKED for the second time that day! I had such a lovely time with all of my girlfriends enjoying some fabulous food and warm fellowship. My dear friend Kelly had helped to organize it all for Tim and had decorated our little room so beautifully!
Thanks Kelly for all of your help!

The whole gang - so fun!

Kim and Helen

Katie and Claire

Stacey and Kelly!

Dawna and I :)

To DIE FOR Mac and Cheese!

Great Burger Dawn got

Fabulous Chocolate Dessert and Hot Chocolate of course too!

Then Saturday night Dawn watched the girls so that Tim and I could go out for dinner just the two of us! Tim knows me so well and planned the best weekend ever for me with all of my favorite things ;) It will certainly not be a Birthday that I will soon forget ;) Thanks baby - you're the best!