Snapshots of my Life

Owls....

2011-03-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have found a new love....Owls...They seem to be everywhere and are so cute.
I think I found a project for Jenna and I to work on over Spring Break....

I stumbled across this wonderful blog post....
You HAVE to check it out....
http://snowybliss.blogspot.com/2011/02/night-owl-party.html

This wonderful woman is my hero...I have no idea how she gets the creativity for all this and the energy but I absolutely love it.....

Then after checking out a few other things on her blog I stumbled onto another party for another daughter. Could this get any better.....Yes.....It can
Check this out.....

http://snowybliss.blogspot.com/2010/06/sweets-for-sweetie.html

Declutter

2011-02-27T07:37:00.001-08:00

Ok, I think I have to admit that I have tendencies of collecting too much stuff, but I do get moments of purging. Right now I am in the purging and organizing mode.

I am in the process of organizing my scrapbook room. I also am trying to redo some things that are well over do too.

What things are you redoing, reorganizing and purging?

Luanne

Gymnastics in Full Swing

2011-02-15T15:44:00.000-08:00

Yep, that is what it is like around our house now.

Samantha is half way through her season already.
We have been to Elkhorn WI, Orlando FL and Chicago Il so far this year.
This weekend is the big Harley Meet Downtown Milwaukee. I will be working 3 shifts and making the meal for coaches and judges on Saturday. I will be doing a Bake Potato Bar Which includes.....
-Bake Potatoes
-Ham Cubes
-Bake Potato Dip (my friend Sherries Recipe) Sour Cream, Cheddar Cheese Bacon and Scallions
-Hot Cheese and Broccoli
-Cheddar Cheese
-Salt and Pepper Grinders
-Butter
-Plain Sour Cream

I also am making some Carmel Puff Corn for munching on.

Desserts will be
-Gooey Carmel Bars
-Chocolate Covered Strawberries
-Graham Crackers Toffee (I call CRACK) because you can't stop eating it.
-Oreo Balls

I truely enjoy making all this yummy stuff. All I need is one thank you and it is all worth it.

New Year, Giving it another Try

2011-01-05T15:20:00.000-08:00

Sorry about my missing for 6 months....I just felt I didn't do enough to keep going with the blog...After much reconsideration I am giving it another try. I am not sure how many people read my blog, but feel free to post about what you like about my blog. It might help to inspire me....

I am an average Mom and Wife, working each day trying to help make ends meet (which by the way never seems to happen). I run kids around often with the Dog in tow most of the time.

Here is a picture of our DEMON....Yes, that is his name and he is sporting his Christmas Bow.
Even though I voted NO Dog....he has become part of our family and all he wants is to be loved. So that is what we do...Love him.

I am excited for the month of January.
Samantha will be competing level 8 for gymnastics and we will be experiencing our first Travel/Fly meet at Walt Disney World as a family. We all are excited. Maybe not Demon, but he will be well taken care of.

Luanne

Summer Fun

2010-07-21T13:48:00.000-07:00

Well it has been awhile since I posted. No Excuses, just don't know why....We have been busy doing some stuff, so here is
a recap of some things we have done this summer....

Went to Build a Bear at Mayfair and made one of the Ice Cream bears

-Went to Noahs Ark in the Wisconsin Dells

-I took Jenna and her friend to the Octagon House for a tour

-Jenna had her first Violin Concert

-Samantha went to Summer Gymnastic Camp

-Library program called Snakes Alive

Luanne

Another Scrap Project

2010-06-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

My Niece has graduated from High School and My sister asked me to do "Something" with the pictures of her high school years. This is one of the "Something"
that I did with her senior pictures.
I went to my favorite photo sites and ordered pictures and put this little project together. I tryed to find some fun papers and put a little bling into each page. I love doing mini albums. The album has a number of pages but here is a sample of a few.

Luanne

8th Grade Graduation

2010-06-12T15:27:00.000-07:00

Graduation time.....

Dad touching up Samanthas Nails....who needs to go to a salon when your Dad can do your nails.

My mini photo shoot

Samanthas friends getting ready for the Dance (the whole 1 1/2 long one)

Well....I can NOT believe that my daughter has graduated from 8th grade and is going to High School next year. Time has flown by. Life seems to play tricks on you. One minute you have a baby, the next they go to Kindergarten and then next they are entering High School. Who knew...

Graduation is only a concept. In real life every day you graduate. Graduation is a process that goes on until the last day of your life. If you can grasp that, you'll make a difference. ~Arie Pencovici

Luanne

19 Wonderful Years.....

2010-06-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

Yep, that is today, Our 19th Wedding Anniversary.

It was pretty much an ordinary day. Work, but no chasing, the girls didn't have anything going on.

Troy surprised me by bringing home 19 beautiful red roses.

I made Pizza for everyone.

Here is Jennas (lactose intolerant)

Samantha's before it was baked.

Troy and Mine. It was loaded

Fresh Mozzarella Cheese Slices
Italian Sausage
Caramelized Onions
Mushrooms
and Fresh Parmesan and Basil.

It was delish. Here is to another 19 wonderful years.

Luanne

Another fun Album....Gymnastics

2010-05-13T16:01:00.000-07:00

Here is Another Album that I have made recently.
My daughter Samantha eats, sleeps and breaths gymnastics.
To honor her in the sport, I made an album about her level 6 year. She did awesome and we are so proud of her.
I used a lot of Teresa Collins line of paper and chipboard book.
Luanne

Family Mini Album

2010-05-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry this shows the end of the album first.

I wanted to share a mini album I made with some of my favorite photos of my family. I did get the Idea for the album on the Internet. I would give credit, but don't remember who I got it from.

The paper is all Pink Paisley Autumn collection.

Luanne

Pray for You

2010-05-06T16:43:00.000-07:00

Someone was telling me about this song last week called " pray for you". Wasn't sure if I really liked it at first.

But after hearing it a few times, I really love the music and realize I do have a sence of Humor. Enjoy with a Grain of Salt......Or maybe a Margarita with a salt rim.

Luanne

Fun on the Farm

2010-05-02T09:36:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of going to a friend/coworkers farm with Jenna.
She had two cows that had baby calves. I love Baby calves. The Momma Cow let us take a peak at him, but then let us know that we got to close. She was very voicestress about this. We took our peak and got away from him.

We got to feed chickens marshmellows. They were very much pigs about the whole feeding thing. They even decided to peck at my purple toe nail polish (I know I was told to ware shoes, but forgot that part. I got to even hold "BIG ROO"

The biggest rooster of the pack who happened to be the most gentlest out of the Coop.
I was also amazed at how the dogs were not fazed by the animals.

The pigs were a bit skiddish but thoughly enjoyed all the extras we brought for them from the compose bucket at school that day.

At the end of the mini field trip, we each got a dozen of fresh eggs. We came right home and guess what we had for supper that night.

All in All it was an awesome visit and Made me long for my younger years. At that time in my life I did not apprciate the Good Ole Farm upbringing, But I now know that it was a Awesome way to grow up.
Luanne

Lazy Saturday

2010-04-24T17:19:00.000-07:00

Well today has been a lazy day. The weather is cold and cloudy. I need to clean my scrapbook room but found no energy to do it.

Here are a few things that make me happy.

What are a few things that make you happy?

Luanne

Princess Birthday Cake

2010-04-17T17:25:00.000-07:00

Well, here is my interpretation of a 18th Birthday Princess Cake.
My sister asked me to make one for my DN. My ability to work with butter cream sucked. I got the shell piping down, but that was about it. I took about an hour to whip this together. I didn't have any patience at all.
Here it is....Not real proud.....Time has taken a toll on my talent...

Luanne

No Posts for Awhile

2010-04-17T06:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting, It is a combo of laziness and just nothing exciting going on sometimes. I need to get going. I am making a birthday cake today, so I will post later about how that is going.

Thanks for stopping in.
Luanne

Easter Dreams

2010-03-17T15:58:00.000-07:00

With Easter just around the corner and my dreams of someday being a pastry Chef (in my own Kitchen) I love to look at all different types of fun things.
Here is my favorite site to peek at.....http://www.bakerella.com/eye-candy/

This gal does so many wonderful and exciting things. I can just squeal with excitement and dream. Dream with me........

I may have to try this soon.

Crunch and Munch for Breakfast.....Is that Bad?

2010-03-09T05:15:00.000-08:00

I just had the breakfast for Champions here....I could not help myself. I should not buy this stuff. Dt. Mt. Dew and Crunch and Munch, this stuff is like Crack to me. Can't get enough.

Our Finished Bathroom

2010-03-01T06:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, it took a bit but we finished the bathroom. Here it is. The blue matches the blue in each of the girls rooms. I love it.

Troy used up all the touch up paint for the living Room. Now we can paint the kitchen and living room a different color than it is... YIPPIE......
I know....the little things....

Luanne

Wow, the week is over.....

2010-02-26T18:16:00.000-08:00

Uneventful but glad it is over.
I think the winter/snow is getting to me.
I need some.........

Videos of Samantha

2010-02-15T11:04:00.000-08:00

Here is her bar and floor routine.

Bar routine she is the 2nd set of unevens, kinda hard to see but you get the picture,

Luanne

A Gymnastic Weekend in St. Louis

2010-02-15T09:29:00.000-08:00

Sorry for not posting for a couple of weeks....just got lost in the everyday stuff not too exciting to post about.....BUT.............

Last weekend I went to St. Louis with Samantha and a couple of Gymnasts and Moms.
We had a great time (See I did not put relaxing).

We left Friday and spent 7 hours in the car driving. Got to the hotel and met up with some other families and went to Macaroni Grill. I had a fabulous Honey Balsamic Chicken. It was very good and not heavy. Shared a Teramisu and all was good.

Saturday we just vegged around the hotel and took it easy. Let the girls sleep in, shower and get ready. Shared a chicken Sandwich for lunch and headed to the meet at the American Cup center Downtown. We were a bit worried about finding parking and running into traffic because of the Mardi Gr as celebration but found our destination easy to find, just had to fork out $12 for Parking.

The girls had a So so Meet. Samantha did great on Bars and floor. Not so great on Vault (missed her second vault with off footing) and fell off the beam 3X's. She has not fallen off the beam in ages. But oh well, life will go on. In fact all the girls fell off at least once. They complained that it was padded and slanted on each side. The coach was having nothing of it and said they have to adapt to all kinds of equipment.
Samantha ended up taking 3rd place on Bars and 6th on the floor. She was very happy dispite the trouble she had on the other 2 events.

After the meet (6pm) we headed to Union Station and walked around in awe of the beautiful building. I love history on old building. Didn't appreciate in my younger years, but I do now.

We tried to eat at the hard Rock Cafe but would have had to wait for 2 hours to get a table. We chose food at the Food court and headed back to the hotel to watch the Olympics.
The girls all hung out together all over the hotel. Encountered a few drunk people and a Youth Minister that was very kind to them.

Sunday we got up and headed to the Arch before taking the long ride home. Though the nervousness that my stomach felt and my hands sweating, I did go up into the Arch. It was a neat experience.

The girls ended up doing handstands in the little 5 seat pod that took us up to the Arch because then they could tell they did a handstand on the top of the Arch. Also they did them outside of the Arch.Silly girls.

The ride home was long but we got safely home.
Luanne
Luanne

Delta Phi Scrappa Weekend Fun

2010-02-02T16:35:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I was able to go away scrapbooking.
My friends Jodi, Cheri and I took a 9 hour train ride up to Staples MN. We just had a blast with our Delta Phi Scrappa Friends. Jodi and I went last year and was a newbie to all the fun. This year we felt like an old pro.

The company, food and atmosphere was awesome. Lorna the gal who put this all together is such a wonderful funny and warm person. All the fancy outfits consisting of pink and black and white polka dots are a hoot. I accomplished my scrapping goal so that was a bonus. I can't wait to go again next year.
Luanne

First Level 7 meet

2010-01-21T05:22:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday was our first level 7 meet. With only 2 months of practice on level 7 we were not sure how Samantha would do. She surprised us with taking 2nd place on the bars and a 5th place overall score. Way to go sweets. All your practicing is paying off.

Luanne

My favorite Cup

2010-01-11T07:25:00.000-08:00

With 2010 rolling in, one of the things I wanted to do was to post more on my blog. Well I have to come to find out I lead a pretty simple life and don't think I have much to blog about sometimes. Well I was thinking........

A coworker gave me this cup this year. It is awesome. I love it.
I have several special cups, but this is my favorite. The straw can not fall out, the cover screws on so no spillage (I do that alot), Ice stays for a long time and I love that it is clear so you can see in it. Troy noticed it too (he like cups too, I know we are a simple family sometimes). Looking for another one at the store, they are gone. I went on the Internet and they seem to be selling for $36 and up. Oh well I feel lucky I was special enough to be given one of these babies. Too bad for Troy.

Getting back in the Swing of Things.....

2010-01-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

Even though it was hard getting up today, I so enjoy a schedule. I never realized this until about 3 years ago. Better late than never Right????

Luanne

Happy New Year....

2010-01-02T06:32:00.000-08:00

Well, it is January 2nd already. Wowzer time flies, the holidays are over and time to go back to work. Vacation is over. I actually am looking forward to going back to work. I miss my coworkers. They are a very fun bunch and truly enjoy working with them.

I have a few things to work on this year.

-trying to be more patient with Samantha. I have to remember she is 13 and somewhat self centered (trying to be positive here)
-declutter my home (I know this will take all year but I am bound to to it)
-spend more time for me, enjoy the good things in life.
-be healthier exercise a bit and eat a bit more green.
-reflect on the positive things in life, not the negative

I also found a new shower curtain and boarder to match the bathroom. Troy said in order to redo it, I have to find a boarder to replace the old boarder.
So yep, it took me a year or so but I found one. This will be the main bathroom, the one the girls use. I wanted something colorful.
We will paint the bathroom a grey.

What do ya think? The girls rooms each have the blue in it.

Luanne

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

2009-12-28T06:32:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe that Christmas has come and went.
I notice the older I get it seems like the years seem to just fly by.
Just wanting to wishe Everyone a Very Merry Christmas and here is to a Healthy Wealthy and Wise New Year.

Luanne

Christmas Magic with Pizza and Santa

2009-12-13T16:15:00.000-08:00

Saturday night Jenna and I went to a special event with my neighbor and friend Laurie and her granddaughter. We got to go to Pizza with Santa sponsored by the local library.
It was just Such an AWESOME event.
We got our own personal table with a beautiful Christmas Candy filled Tree to take home.
We got to eat Pizza, Bread sticks, Salad, Soda, cookies and Ice Cream.
I had to pick off the cheese off the pizza and no ice cream for Jenna, but she didn't care she was in awe of the whole event. Santa and Mrs. Claus came to each table and talked one on one with each child.

After dinner, we got to attend a Christmas Magic show. Jenna is so into magic tricks, this was right up her ally.

After the Magic Show we got to Decorate Giant cookies, make a Cinnamon Ordainment, make a necklace and reindeer ears hat, make a card, got a tattoo and then got to visit with Santa again. He gave each child a stocking filled with goodies and a large Teddy Bear sticking out of it.

It will be a night to Special night for Jenna and I to remember.

Luanne

2009-12-08T15:42:00.000-08:00

State finals
State finals

Well, since Gymnastics rules our lives right now, I just have to boast about my girls.

Jenna had her state meet on Saturday. She did her very best and came in 9th out of 25 girls in her age. She was very happy. Scores were

Vault 9.3
Beam 9.025
Bars 8.850
Floor 8.450

Total.....35.625

Samantha had her State meet on Sunday. She was very pumped for the meet. She said she poured her heart and soul into it that day.

Judge Judy was on the Bars and was very stingy with her scoring. We saw all 7's and low 8's. Not one 9.0. She is tough......

Samantha Placed overall 2nd. She Went all out on the Floor Exercise. Sometimes it works in your favor, sometimes it doesn't. This time she stumbled a bit after her split leap because she gave it her all.
She missed the top spot overall by 2 tenths of a point. So Close....and we are so Proud.

Vault 9.350
Beam 9.1
Bars 8.375
Floor 8.825

Total...35.650

Now in 1 month she will be competing at a Level 7. She is very nervous but still excided.

The 25 Days of Christmas Countdown

2009-11-30T14:23:00.000-08:00

This year I want to try to make a 25 days of Christmas scrapbook.
I think I will start tonight by watching my favorite of all time Christmas Movie.
Each and Every time I watch it I laugh harder.

So my countdown is starting.

1. Favorite Movie Christmas Vacation

Luanne

Got Chalk????/

2009-11-15T06:20:00.000-08:00

Well we spent our Saturday at a gymnastic meet in Whitewater this past Saturday. We ended up being there 10 1/2 hours. Both Jenna and Samantha competed, but just at different times. We went out to breakfast at a little cafe in between the girls competition's. We are so proud of both girls.

Jenna didn't have her best meet, but she tried her hardest and did her best for the day. At her level they all get a participation metal. She loves it.

Samantha came in 2nd in each event and ended up taking the first place overall for her age. She was flying on cloud nine. You couldn't wipe the smile off of her face.

Luanne

Halloween and the Annual Chili Dump

2009-11-01T12:57:00.000-08:00

1997 Julia Samantha and Jake

2009

When I think of Halloween I think of the annual Neighborhood Chili Dump. This is a time for all of us 7 neighbors to come together and celebrate.
We celebrated our 13th Annual or Maybe it was 14th Annual, I am not sure. I can totally remember the very first one. Samantha was about 6 months old. She was the second oldest out of 5. They all sat on the couch most of the kids were proped up by eachother because they were so small.
I found a picture of the 2nd Annual event. My how the kids have grown.

Carving pumpkins

2009-10-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

Saturday Night we carved pumpkins using stencils. I think they turned out awesome.

Luanne

Nothing much new

2009-10-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

I guess I don't have much to talk about lately.
Life is busy doing the same ol stuff, work and doing the running for gymnastics.
Enjoying all the beautiful colors of all the trees and bushes.
This fall is turning out to be very colorful.

Luanne

Fight like a Girl....

2009-10-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month I share this song.

It warms the heart....Enjoy being a girl

Link below....You have to hear the music...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRWZ1A-CbJA

Lyrics

Little girl alone on the playground
Tired of gettin' teased and gettin' pushed around
Wishin' she was invisible
To them

She ran home cryin'
"Why do they hate me?"
And Mama wiped the tears and said
"Baby, you're brave and you're beautiful.
So, hold your head high.
Don't ever let 'em define
The light in your eyes.
Love yourself, give them Hell.
You can take on this world.
You just stand and be strong
And then fight
Like a girl."

At 31 she was wheelin' and dealin'
Kept on hittin' that same glass ceilin'
She was never gonna be one of the boys, no
She coulda gave up on her ambition
And spent the rest of her life just wishin'
Instead she listened to her mama's voice sayin'

"Hold your head high.
Don't ever let 'em define
The light in your eyes.
Love yourself, give them Hell.
You can take on this world.
You just stand and be strong
And then fight
Like a girl."

Oh, with style and grace
Kick ass and take names

Ten years of climbin' that ladder
Oh, but money and power don't matter
When the doctor said "the cancer spread"
She holds on tight to her husband and babies
And says "this is just another test God gave me.
And I know just how to handle this"

I'll hold my head high
I'll never let this define
The light in my eyes
Love myself, give it Hell
I'll take on this world
If I stand and be strong
No, I'll never give up
I will conquer with love
And I'll fight like
Like a girl

Ooh

Luanne

I love Fall

2009-10-18T06:52:00.000-07:00

Boy, I just had to say it. It is my favorite time of year. I love all the beautiful colors on the trees and the smell of Pumpkin Muffins baking in the oven. Nothing much new with me but just had to share my feelings about Fall. The time of the year makes me HAPPY!!

A Great Find

2009-10-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

Last week the school I work at had a rummage Sale.

I have always wanted a Le Creuset Cast Iron Dutch Oven but never could swallow the cost of them. I saw it from afar, went up to it and scooped it up for $20.oo. Here is a pix of it only it is dark Green. I know it is a discontinued color, but who CARES...it is my favorite color.

I feel lucky to have found it!

Luanne

Pumpkin Day

2009-10-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

For At least 12 years now, we have been Celebrating Pumpkin Day at my Family's House.

Each year we come up with so many fun things to do. Each year is different.

This year we....

-had a duck race

-made corn husk dolls

-made chocolate pretzels

-harvest the pumpkins and took family photos

-outdoor nature scavenger hunt

- AND ate like Kings....Everyone brought such great stuff.

Luanne

Jenna's first level 3 meet

2009-09-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

Well this weekend was Jenna's first Level 3 meet of the season. Samantha is not competing yet, she will be doing a 6/7 level year so her level 6 meets will be limited.

We were so happy that Jenna did so well.
3 events in the 8's and 1 event she got a 9.0. Yeah for her, we were so proud.

Luanne

Vintage Halloween Charms

2009-09-26T14:43:00.001-07:00

***Just click on picture and it will go full size***

Here are some pictures of my first ever Swap that I hosted at Two Peas.

Each and every charm is unique and wonderful.

This was so much fun, I can't wait to put them

on a bracelet.

Luanne

Glasses

2009-09-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

Well today my baby got glasses.

She just told me last week that she was having problems seeing the board at school. After a eye exam, we found out indeed she was not seeing right. So here she is ......

Luanne

First day of School

2009-09-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

A bit late with the pictures but oh well.....

Luanne

Summer is over

2009-08-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

Sad but true, only because School Start On Tuesday.

I spent the last two days thinking and preparing for school to start.

I did spend my last Sunday with my neighbor and found a few goodies for myself.

I got a "Got Wine" Tshirt and a safety Pin Watch.

I love it! I also found a few goodies for the Girls too. Samantha got a necklace and Jenna got a snow globe.

Good Bye Summer HELLO School Year.

Luanne

Back to School

2009-08-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

As much as I enjoy the summer and having a bit of time off, it is nice to see the girls and I go back to school. Life is much easier with a schedule and a paycheck.

Each school night there is some practice going on, which will mean very few family dinners. I will have to think up some individual fast and healthy meal selections for the girls.

Luanne

pantry

2009-08-19T09:11:00.001-07:00

Every month I have to clean out my pantry. Men and children can't move things in order to find them.

I also have finally labeled all my baking staples. I have put them in glass jars a year ago or so but never put a label on them. I like how they look, kinda Martha Stewartish.

How do you organize your pantry?

Luanne

Dreaming.........AGAIN

2009-08-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

I am a person who loves pedestal things...........

Today I have the bug......Hell......everyday I have the bug to dream about having a small but Divine fancy smancy coffee shop with funky sandwiches and fun baked goods. I found these pedestal items that I thought were cool...

Luanne

State Fair

2009-08-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

Wow, there is nothing like a day of .......

Cream Puffs

Fried Cheese

Bake Potato w/ everything on it

AND

The big slide.

Do I need to say more?

Luanne

Julie and Julia...A night out.......

2009-08-11T07:40:00.000-07:00

Oh.... My.....What a WONDERFUL night out......

Had great company (Michele a friend I meet at cooking school) , great food, and a nice movie.

I knew who Julia Child was but didn't realize the impact that she had on Bringing French Cuisine to American Women.

We went to a local theater and had a great night with our dinner being inspired by Julia Child.

We had a Champagne reception before with 3 french inspired appetizers.

Something Duck pate' related

Something Trout related

and these fried Rice Pilaf balls.............All were yummy..............It might have helped that I had my glass refilled 3x's.

Then we got into the Theater and a nice Chilled Leek and Potato Soup with a Creme Fraiche Crouton on the top was waiting for us. Also a nice semi sweet white wine was paired with it.

Second course was a mixed field green lettuce salad with Chardonnay poached apples and Crumbled Blue cheese and green apple vinaigrette.

Third was a Roasted Breast of Chicken, pear onions, bacon and mushrooms. A creamy potato puree and Tomato Provencal. That was paired with a dry Red wine.

Last but the best was a House made chocolate mousse, chocolate "tulip"with seasonal berries.

Everything was a perfect proportion and timed oh, so, right.

Such an enjoyable evening out with a great friend.

Julie and Julia

2009-08-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to seeing this movie for Months now. My good Friend Michele and I are going to see it along with a special WINE dinner inspired by Julia Child at the Theater. Oh the little things that make you happy.........

Can't Wait.......

Luanne

Another Library Program

2009-07-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Jenna took 2 friends to another Library program. David Stokes was the guest.

He was a very interesting person to say the least. A very different but likable humor.

We then set out to a local park, had a picnic supper, came back to our house to play and make some fun summer crafts.

Luanne

44.....Is that a Big Deal?

2009-07-23T10:39:00.000-07:00

Well yes, it is becasue that is how old I am today.

I am still on the downside of 40, but this is the last year.

Happy Birthday to me.

Luanne

Summer and Snacks

2009-07-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

Even though I enjoy the warmth of the sun and the kids off of school, I get antsy not having a schedule. I can't get use to have some free time on my hands. I should enjoy it, but honestly I have a hard time with it. I think this summer I will be making some fun *standby* snacks. Last week I made Carmel puff corn.

Last night I made Puppy Chow.

Crap, There goes my diet.............

Luanne

Noah's Ark

2009-06-30T13:59:00.000-07:00

We spent last Saturday at Noah's Ark. Jenna has been dreaming about it for Months now. She is a Black Anaconda Junkie. Loves, loves Loves the ride. We went with my sister's Family and Jenna brought her friend. We promised to bring them their for their birthday's. They also got to get a Black Anaconda Beach Towel.

We spent about 9 hours their going all as many rides as possible. They hit the BA at least 8 times. The weather was warm, not hot, so crowds were minimal. Lucky for us.

Animal Encounters

2009-06-24T16:24:00.001-07:00

Jenna and I spent an hour this afternoon at a special program put on by the library. We were one of the lucky people who got tickets to this awesome learning experience.

Dr. Robert James a Zoologist and author goes on the road all over the world and tells about animals. Just from hearing him talk, he is very passionate about what he does.

We got to see a possum, hedgehog, bat, snake, ostrich and alligator.

Summer Camp.....ALREADY?

2009-06-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

We are 1 week into Summer Vacation, and We just picked up Samantha from a week of summer Camp. This was her first experience away from home and I think she did great. (I on the other hand missed her very much and couldn't not believe that she was old enough already to go away). But time plays a serious game on you by making your children grow up way to fast. She absolutely loved it. She wants to go back next year.

Her days consisted of ............

Wake up and Breakfast

4 hours of Practice

Lunch

Free time

Supper

3 hours of practice

Free time

Bed

I think she will do awesome at College life, when that day comes.... way too fast.

A Mid Week Surprise

2009-06-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

I was in the baking mood and made a Banana Cake. It smells so good right now. I thought it would be a great surprise to the week.

Recipe....

1 yellow cake mix

1 small box of Vanilla Pudding

3/4 c. Oil

2 eggs

8oz Sour Cream

1/2 c. Water

3 bananas

1 c. Chocolate Mini Chips

Bake about 50-55 min on 350

Luanne

Happy Birthday Jenna

2009-06-04T19:04:00.001-07:00

Well, My baby is 8 today. Here she is celebrating with her best friend. Her best Friend just happens to have a birthday today too. They have way too much in common.

Hugs

Luanne

Going Green with Shoes

2009-05-24T16:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to get DH a gift card and a pair of smartwool socks from REI. Just browsing around I found a pair of adorable shoes that I couldn't resist. Taking a closer look they are 100% sustainable. Pretty neat huh.

Finding Treasures

2009-05-17T15:52:00.001-07:00

For the last 3 years, I have been going atleast twice a year to http://www.nlpromotionsllc.com/shows.html Elkhorn Antique Flea Market with my friend and neighbor Laurie. The first one of the year is always a treat because we get to see all the stuff that has been collected over the winter. Not a lot of junkie trinkety things, Just real old stuff.

I love to imagine when I pick up something, if it could talk, I would love to hear about all owners and travels. I usually don't pick up a lot of stuff, I truly enjoy looking at everything. I also try to pick up a different potato masher each time.

I found one, But looking at it now, I am not sure that is what it is. I am wondering if it is a rosette stamp tool thingy for making those yummy fried treats. Anyhoo I like it and will put it up with my collection.

Luanne

Iced Coffee "Is it an Additction"?

2009-05-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

A Couple of weeks ago, my coworker and I went to a food show. We both saw a neat little dispenser filled with Ice Coffee. We fell in love with the first taste of the Mocha Iced Coffee Drink from Sara Lee. We talked to the vendor and and found out you didn't need the neat disperser, it basically was like wine in a box, except for it was coffee in a box.

We came back to school the next day and talked to our Superintendent and got permission to buy a box or two and share our new found addiction with our coworkers. We figured out what the cost of the coffee in a box, ice and cups cost. Put together a price and 2 sizes. Sent out an email that today would be the day we would crack open the box.

Well, We had 12 coworkers come and get iced coffee today.

It was a success! We sold 1/2 the box today alone.

Today I was thinking about buying a box or two to save for the summer so I could enjoy it then too.

Could this become my next addiction??? Is that bad?

Luanne

Signs of Spring

2009-05-06T14:38:00.000-07:00

Well I know it is definitely spring when my nose starts to run and my mouth itches. The month of may is my allergy month.

I went around yesterday and just enjoyed the smell in the air and the flowers bursting with blooms. I also Bribed Demon with treats if he would sit still for one minute so I could take a picture.

Luanne

Happy Scrapbook Day........

2009-05-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say **Happy National Scrapbook Day to everyone**. I wish I was scrappin, but instead I am trying to get my room organized so I can be productive.

Luanne

First Communion

2009-04-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday was a very special day for Jenna. She made her first communion. She was very excited and enjoyed her special day.

After her big moment, we had everyone over for Bunch and then her cousin made her first communion early that same afternoon. She was excited to have her first and her second Communion all on the same day.

Luanne

Communion Preperation

2009-04-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

I decided to bake some cut outs for Jenna's first communion instead of the standard decorated cake. Wow, I usually am proud of my baking skills. I feel I am in the medium category.

Well, I Guess I don't do so well with cutouts. I found a great recipe, mixed them, rolled, cut them out, and baked them. Frosting went on pretty easy. But the end result, they are Delish but hard to look at, not as pretty as I had in my head.

Who knew........I think I will stick with Cheesecake Stuffed dipped Strawberries and Mini Cheesecakes.

Luanne

2 Team Girls

2009-04-22T16:57:00.001-07:00

Well Tuesday we found out that Jenna was asked to be on Level 3 Team. She was so excited! All her hard work has paid off.

Now we have two girls on a competitive team.

Congratulation Honey!!!!

Reality has set in and All I can think of right now is.......Cha...Ching........$$$

Luanne

Ikea.....do I need to say more?......

2009-04-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

Ikea....Do I need to say more?

Can you tell we had fun, and yes, that is all the stuff we bought.

Had a great day at Ikea.

Can I tell you that I

LOVE..........

that store. It is so fun to look and imagine my home different. Not that I am not happy with mine now, but a girl can dream ya know........

Here are my big Purchases

Shelves for the Basement, thought they would look good with games on them.

A coffee table for my scrapbook room.

a couple of more jars, I have all my baking items in others I have bought on previous trips.

Bought a bunch of little stuff and each girl got a photo and frame for there room.

Cha...Ching.....Gotta love IKEA

Luanne

Another hobby CHARMS

2009-04-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a new found hobby. I have been in several swaps lately on Two Peas. Here is the latest. I wore it on Easter Sunday.

I make a number of charms all the same. Send it to the host and she sends me back an assortment. How cool is that............

Luanne

Time for the Easter Bunny.......Shocker....

2009-04-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

Well, Saturday Jenna and I went out to Walmart to run an errand.
We saw the Easter Bunny and Jenna wanted to get her picture taken. Wow, I WAS IN SHOCK. The last picture I got with the Bunny was when she was 2.
Well, I just picked up the picture and I am IN SHOCK of how goofy the bunny looks. I think he needs to fatten up a bit. LOL

Luanne

Thirteen......Wow.....

2009-03-30T04:54:00.000-07:00

Well today Samantha is 13. Welcome to teenage years. It seems like yesterday we went to the Hospital. Wow, time sure can fly.

Every time I hear this song, it reminds me to Cherish every moment I can.

Click on this link.......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at_lUnFjXg8
This song is very emotional for me. I will be doing a scrapbook page about the song.

Samantha was a crawl in bed and leg clinger. If you listen to the song you will understand.
Enjoy and Happy Birthday dear Child.......

Luanne

Sunday.....Sunday......

2009-03-29T18:04:00.000-07:00

Well, it is Sunday nite and I feel like I never got a weekend to rest.

It was a busy one. I scrapbooked Friday nite not accomplishing a whole lot, but enjoyed the company of my scrappin buddy Jodi. She is just a breath of fresh positive air. I wish I could be more like her, but I am who I am.....Luanne

Saturday I went to breakfast with a couple of the gymnastic moms at a I-hop. We all had egg, bacon, hash browns and this.....http://www.ihop.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=2 The Stuffed French Toast. It sat like a rock, but oh, it was so good. We then proceeded onto Miller Park. We had to do a refresher Training so we can fund raise some of our gymnastic competition expenses. We sat though two hours of how to identify what a drunk person may act/look like and how to say I can no longer legally serve you alcohol.

Then I came back home just in time to take Jenna to her first communion get together. We had fun making a candle holder, a note to her confirmation buddy, and some other churchy things. We then went to mass and went for Pizza at Mama Mias. It is so yummy. I love old fashion made pizza. It is hard to come by these days. We celebrated Samanthas birthday early. Came home and went to bed.

Sunday we spent the afternoon at Jenna's State Gymnastics meet. She did the best she could. Got high scores on Vault, Beam and Floor. Got a lower score on the Bars, but I didn't see anything really wrong to justify her score, but oh well that is the way it goes. We went out to celebrate by going to Subway. I had a turkey flat bread toasted. Wow it was yummy. Then we hit the grocery store, spent our 100 and out we go. Got home and we sat down to watch Jenna's video of the day. Then we started to watch older videos. We laughed a lot as a family. It was a good day, exhausting weekend, but feel connected as a family.

Luanne

Monday My Day OFF

2009-02-16T17:52:00.000-08:00

Well today didn't end up the way I wanted it to be. I wanted to be selfish and get a whole day of ME TIME.

I spent the morning taking Jenna to her final dentist appointment. We told her about it on Saturday. She woke up crying this morning, cried though Cereal and was pretty good about not crying in the car. She took a stuffed animal with her, I think it helped.

She did awesome. I was really proud of her. They called us Back to see her about the last 10 min. of the appointment. She sucked it up and was a great patient.

I took her to school and happened to have my credit cards in my pocket. They conventionally feel out of my pocket at her school. I was about 15 min. away from school and they called to tell me they found them. I am grateful that someone turned them in.

I then proceeded to go to M's and buy a birthday gift for a coworker. Went to Target to get a few needed items and then onto Sam's to buy rolls for Lunch on Tuesday. I forgot to order them and 200 Hard rolls are hard to come by at a Regular Grocery store.

I came home ate a leftover Burritto put my feet up for about 30 min. and Samantha was coming home from school.

wowzer, The day flew by..........being a MOM.................

Luanne

Welcome to my blog

2009-02-09T16:33:00.000-08:00

I don't lead the most exciting life, but it keep me very busy....
Enjoy
Lu

Snapshots of my Life

Owls....

Declutter

Gymnastics in Full Swing

New Year, Giving it another Try

Summer Fun

Another Scrap Project

8th Grade Graduation

19 Wonderful Years.....

Another fun Album....Gymnastics

Family Mini Album

Pray for You

Fun on the Farm

Lazy Saturday

Princess Birthday Cake

No Posts for Awhile

Easter Dreams

Crunch and Munch for Breakfast.....Is that Bad?

Our Finished Bathroom

Wow, the week is over.....

Videos of Samantha

A Gymnastic Weekend in St. Louis

Delta Phi Scrappa Weekend Fun

First Level 7 meet

My favorite Cup

Getting back in the Swing of Things.....

Happy New Year....

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Christmas Magic with Pizza and Santa

The 25 Days of Christmas Countdown

Got Chalk????/

Halloween and the Annual Chili Dump

Carving pumpkins

Nothing much new

Fight like a Girl....

I love Fall

A Great Find

Pumpkin Day

Jenna's first level 3 meet

Vintage Halloween Charms

Glasses

First day of School

Summer is over

Back to School

pantry

Dreaming.........AGAIN

State Fair

Julie and Julia...A night out.......

Julie and Julia

Another Library Program

**44**.....Is that a Big Deal?

*Summer* and Snacks

Noah's Ark

Animal Encounters

Summer Camp.....ALREADY?

A Mid Week Surprise

Happy Birthday Jenna

Going Green with Shoes

Finding Treasures

Iced Coffee "Is it an Additction"?

Signs of Spring

Happy Scrapbook Day........

First Communion

Communion Preperation

2 Team Girls

Ikea.....do I need to say more?......

Another hobby CHARMS

Time for the Easter Bunny.......Shocker....

Thirteen......Wow.....

Sunday.....Sunday......

Monday My Day OFF

Welcome to my blog

44.....Is that a Big Deal?

Summer and Snacks