Some Kind of Wonderful

A birthday party at Chuck E Cheese

2012-02-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

The kids had a blast at their cousin's birthday party. They even got to meet Chuck E. Cheese himself!

Rag Curlers

2012-02-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

Last night after bath time, I thought it would be fun to try and curl Audra's hair with rags. So I cut up an old t-shirt and wrapped up her hair. I don't know what I was expecting, but instead of pretty curls, we got poodle hair. Thank goodness she's so cute :)

6th Wedding Anniversary and Happy Birthday to Kevin!

2012-01-24T11:47:00.000-08:00

January is a busy month for us. We celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary earlier this month, then Kevin's birthday on the 13th. For our anniversary, we went to the temple in Denver. Afterwards we went to Crave Burger for the first time. It was pretty good!

Every year for his birthday, Kevin asks for a cake made of mozzarella cheese sticks and jalapeno poppers. I finally humored him, and of course he loved it. At least I get to do the traditional cake for the kids birthdays :)

Picture Share

2011-11-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

Last week we went to the Broadmoor with my parents, and I managed to get several cute shots of my Mom and Audra. The others are from different days, just wanted to share!

P.S. My Mom made the cute hats the kids are wearing. :)

Happy 5th Birthday, Hayden!

2011-11-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

Well, it happened again. Hayden got a year older, and smarter too! His fun birthday week started on Monday, his actual birthday, when Granny took him to a glow-in-the-dark miniature golf place, and out to eat.

Right before they left:

On Saturday, Hayden and I went on a date to La Baguette and shared a yummy croissant with chicken salad. Then we had fun taking photos all over Old Colorado City. Here are my favorites:

Later on Saturday we had family over for cake a presents. Hayden chose a yummy coconut carrot cake this time.

Hayden and Papa

Hayden and Uncle Anthony

Hayden and Grandma

Hayden and Grandpa

Hayden and Granny

And one of Audra, for fun. She was walking around with the hat over her eyes, but it didn't seem to bother her!

Happy 5th Birthday, baby! We love you so much!

Hayden's Favorite Things:

Friend: Marijane and Phoenix

Restaurant: McDonald's

Movie: Planet 51

Toy: Cars (birthday gift from Uncle Anthony)

Sport to play: Baseball

Favorite outfit: Superman shirt and pants

Pizza topping: Pepperoni

Song: I am a Child of God

Favorite thing to do as a family: Play Mario Kart

Food: Peaches

Ice cream: Strawberry

Treat: Cotton Candy (even though he's never had it... :))

About Parker: He plays with me, because he likes me

About Audra: I love her

What do you want to be when you grow up: Dentist (so I can look at people's bones)

Apple Cider Press

2011-11-06T19:21:00.000-08:00

I love my dad. Any normal person would just buy apple cider at the store, but on a whim he makes his own cider press to have fresh apple cider. I like to think I inherited a little bit of that from him. Just a little.

By the way- the cider was delicious!

In case you're wondering, the apples are in cheesecloth, being juiced between those white cutting board-type squares.

Sunday Pictures

2011-11-06T14:43:00.000-08:00

I have been having so much fun with my new dslr camera, and I find myself taking pictures every opportunity I get. I love that there is so much information online at my fingertips. I can find anything I need to learn about photography online, or from my Dad, who is an amazing photographer.

Here are a few shots from yesterday and today:

Parker

(My most cooperative subject by far)

I think he was about to sneeze here:

Audra

Hayden

(Unfortunately, he looks sad in these. I think he's getting tired of me practicing on him!)

Marijane

(cousin)

Halloween Festivities Part One

2011-10-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

We had heard about some coffin races in a nearby town, and decided to check it out. There was a parade first, then the coffin races. The story goes that Emma Crawford came to Colorado in hopes of regaining her health. Sadly, she passed away soon after. She was buried on top of Red Mountain, and throughout the years the rocks corroded and Emma's remains were washed down the mountain. So for the races, there is one person dressed up as Emma, riding in a coffin, and four people pushing the coffin. Sounds like fun, right? We didn't last long enough to find out. It was so crowded, and every other person was smoking. Not fun.

I loved this neat little place we found right next to where we parked. This bridge was a little scary to walk across- the boards seemed to be loose. It made for a neat picture, though!

I got a few pictures of the creepy parade before we left...

Fun photoshoot with Kevin

2011-10-26T14:11:00.000-07:00

Although reluctant, Kevin was willing to let me do some practice shots with him after our temple session. Plus, I had to get some pictures of him with his new glasses. (I think he looks really good with glasses!)

The very top of the Denver temple.

Trip to Rexburg, ID

2011-10-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

About 2 months ago, my sister and I took a road trip to Rexburg, ID for her sophomore year at BYU Idaho. (The trip up was fun, the 14 hour trip back by myself? Not so much. Anywhooo...)
There is a beautiful garden right by the school, and we had fun taking some pictures there.

Here is my beautiful sister, Jessica.

And one of little old me.

Bigfoot?

2011-10-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

I have yet to figure out this strange anomaly. The kids' bright idea was that one of Daddy's feet must be bigger than the other. I'm pretty sure that isn't the case. What do you think?

Lost

2011-10-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

We went to Sam's Club yesterday with my mom. We were browsing through the books, and I turned the corner to look at the cookbooks. In a few seconds I realized Hayden hadn't followed us. I guess he was wrapped up in a cool skeleton book and didn't see us walking away. We went back to where he was, and he was gone. My mom stayed with the other two while I went to look for him. Up and down the aisles, searching for any sign of him. I tried to remember what he was wearing that day so I could tell people. Red shirt, green sweatpants. I didn't see him anywhere, so I went up front to have them call him on the intercom.

As I was looking for someone to help me, I saw him. I was so relieved that my emotions got the better of me and my eyes filled with tears. I managed to say "Hayden!" and he ran towards me. "I thought you guys left me!" I assured him that would never happen. He had been standing with a woman, another shopper, who was looking for someone to page me. I thanked her and then crouched down to have a chat with Hayden. I told him if he ever looks up and doesn't see us, to make sure and stay where he was so we could find him. I kept going over it every few hours, just to make sure he understood.

Today I am so grateful for the blessing of finding him. I am grateful for the woman who was kind enough (and honest enough) to stay with him until I got there. I don't ever want to feel that way again. I can imagine that Hayden feels the same way, he was so scared. He didn't want to leave my side the rest of the day.

Audra, October fun pics

2011-10-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

She's such a doll, I just had to share these pictures I took for fun. She's almost 18 months now.

Copycat Clock

2011-10-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

I have been admiring these clocks from Deseret Book for months, but haven't been able to buy one. I have a clock in the living room, but it's plain jane. So, I decided to make use of my silhouette and vinyl and make my own clock into one like these.

Here's the result:

I think it's pretty great, especially since it cost pennies!

Guess Who's Three?

2011-08-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my baby boy!

My beautiful blue-eyed boy is 3! He is such a doll, and loves to make us laugh. His favorite thing to say now is "Are you my dad? Are you my mom?".

Parker's favorites: (in his own words)
Hi favorite...
Movie is Herbie (Or "Kerbie", as he calls it)
Color is "Lightening McQueen Car. Orange."
Food is "not Cars, food"
Person is "Dad"
Toy is "Lightening McQueen Car "

A few snapshots from the party:

Parker's Favorite Things:

Friend: Granny

Restaurant: Sandwich!

Movie: Herbie

Toy: Horsies

Sport to play: Baseball

Favorite outfit: Pirate shirt

Pizza topping: Pepperoni

Song: Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star

Favorite thing to do as a family: Play!

Food: Pizza

Ice cream: Strawberry

Treat: Hot Chocolate

About Hayden: Play with him and his orange car

About Audra: Play with her

What do you want to be when you grow up: A Tiger! With sharp claws and a tail.

2011-07-16T19:38:00.000-07:00

I went to download picture from my camera, and found these. It looks like someone hijacked my camera while the rest of us were sleeping...

This one is my absolute favorite. This Thomas just happens to be the picture on the back of Parker's favorite pair of underwear. The ones he was wearing at the time :)

Teddy Bear Days at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

2011-07-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

No words today, just lots and lots of pictures :)

Moments That Matter Most

2011-07-03T14:40:00.000-07:00

A Date with Hayden

2011-06-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

I love going on dates with Hayden. I think it really helps our relationship when he gets one on one time with me. Plus- he is just so darn cute! For our last date, we went out to lunch and then to Kung Fu Panda. We loved it!

Audra's first birthday party!

2011-06-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is one! (A month and a half ago, that is. Better late than never, right?)

Can I just say how much I love having a girl? She is so cute and sweet and fun to dress up! We've recently started doing pigtails, and she looks adorable with them! So much fun.

We had family over for her birthday party. It's always fun to have an excuse to invite everyone over!

And now- picture time!

Audra and Grandpa (Kevin's dad)

Audra, cousin Marijane and brother Hayden.

Audra and Uncle Anthony (my older brother)

Audra and Auntie Jessica (my younger sister)

Audra and Papa (my dad)

Happy first birthday, baby girl!

Workin' Girl

2011-05-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

Starting tonight, I'll be working again at a salon, doing haircuts, color and waxing. The last time I worked at job was when Hayden was a few months old. I quit to be a stay at home mom.
Circumstances have made it so I need to get a job. I'd much rather not. I love being just a stay at home mom. But- I am very grateful that I have a trade I can do, and that the salon is working around my schedule. I'll be working nights after Kevin gets home, and Saturdays. I will still be there for my kids during the day, and their dad will be there for them at night. What a blessing.

Wish me luck!

Where have you been?

2011-05-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

I have been seriously neglecting this blog. I've been really busy with my new website: www.giveawaycorner.com. At Giveaway Corner we have daily giveaways that are open nationwide and very simple to enter! Come check it out sometime.

Worldless Wednesday

2011-05-18T05:02:00.000-07:00

Mind Organization for Moms

2011-05-12T09:21:00.000-07:00

When I am working online I have at least 15-20 tabs open at any given time. If I open an email that needs to be addressed but I don't have time right then, I just leave the tab open. When I have more time, I just go through the tabs and do what I need to do.

I wish I had tabs in my mind. I feel like I am always on the verge of missing important things. I have so many things going on at the same time. I have a calendar/planner which I write things in, but then I forget to look at it!

I've started the Mind Organization for Moms program. I am hoping it helps, cause I need all the help I can get. Now I just need to get organized enough to make time to read it!

(And I have a copy to give away to one of my readers here- stay tuned for that!)

So what are some of your mind-organization techniques?

Counting blessings

2011-05-06T19:37:00.000-07:00

I've been a little irritated by some things lately (like having only one car!), so I thought it was about time to count by blessings.

And I am so very very blessed.

I have a beautiful family.

I have a car.

I have a nice home.

I have many friends.

I have the truth of The Gospel in my life.

I am healthy and happy.

I am blessed.

And there is nothing really to complain about.

What are you blessed with?

Winners of the "31 Days to Clean" e-books

2011-05-04T21:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Cath H. and Janita A., the two winners of Sarah Mae's E-book "31 Days to Clean: Having a Martha house the Mary Way".

If you didn't win, the e-book is only $5! You can purchase it here.

Giveaway! 31 Days to Clean E-Book (CLOSED)

2011-04-30T13:29:00.001-07:00

I am not a natural born housekeeper. In fact, I really really dislike doing housework. It's a dirty job, and it's not fun. But I do know how important it is. When my house is clean, everyone is happier. The mood feels lighter and more peaceful.

31 Days to Clean is not a how-to manual. It's more of the "why" behind cleaning. I really enjoyed reading it, and it gave me a renewed sense of determination to keep my house clean. Now, as Sarah Mae stresses, it's not about having a perfectly spotless home all the time. She says it's about "giving life" to our homes. I love that!

The e-book is written in 31 separate days, each with a Mary challenge and a Martha challenge. The Mary challenge focuses more on the spiritual aspect, and the Martha challenge has a physical chore to complete. You'll be able to have a clean home while putting yourself in order!

Sarah Mae blogs over at "Like a Warm Cup of Coffee"

Here is Sarah Mae herself, talking about her e-book.

Two lucky winners will get a free download of Sarah Mae's e-book "31 Days to Clean: Having a Martha House the Mary Way". (Which just happens to be #2 on Amazon's best seller list!)
If you do not win today's prize, you can just order the book for yourself- it's only $4.99!

Please fill out the form only once.

To enter to win the e-book, simply fill out the form below. Your name and email address are required, and there are two optional entries.

Two winners will be chosen Wednesday, May 4th.

The winners will be contacted and will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

31 Days to Clean facebook page

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New vinyl design! Sugar Shakers

2011-04-27T10:01:00.000-07:00

I love these! Although I am so silly- I put the stickers on the wrong containers! Now I have to switch the sugars. Doh!
(You can contact me if you want to order these or more from If Walls Could Talk Vinyl)

Wordless Wednesday: The Cocoa Incident

2011-04-27T05:36:00.001-07:00

Link up your Wordless Wednesday posts here!

Confession

2011-04-26T16:46:00.001-07:00

I ran over my stroller a while ago. Just backed right over it after getting the kids in the car. Thank goodness it still works, even though it's a little hard to steer sometimes. :/

This is for you, Elizabeth: Whole Wheat Pizza Crust and Homemade Pizza Sauce

2011-04-21T11:34:00.000-07:00

Honey-Wheat Pizza Dough

Yields 2 9-inch pizza crusts

Ingredients:
1 teaspoon yeast
½ cup plus 1 teaspoon lukewarm water
1 1/2 c whole wheat flour
5 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil

Directions:
I use my bread machine for my pizza dough, but you can certainly knead it with a mixer or by hand. Just knead it thoroughly, and let it raise for a good 30 minutes or so before forming the crust. When adding the flour, add most of it and see if it needs the rest. The dough should be firm enough to handle, but soft enough to roll out fairly easily.

Easy "Homemade" Pizza Sauce

1 small can diced tomatoes
1 small can tomato sauce
Various herbs and spices
Salt and Pepper
Sugar

Directions:
Heat the ingredients together. I like to throw in any Italian-sounding herbs I have. Basil is good, a little garlic and onion as well. Add a little sugar to cut the acidity of the tomatoes (tastes much better with a little sugar). Salt and pepper to taste. You can leave it chunky, or blend it for a smooth pizza sauce.

Top with anything your heart desires. One of my favorite pizzas is a Margherita Pizza: fresh basil, fresh mozzarella cheese, drizzled with a little olive oil. Divine.

Credit: The pizza dough recipe is adapted from California Pizza Kitchen's recipe

Need some feedback- Pizza

2011-04-21T10:10:00.001-07:00

What is your favorite *healthy* pizza topping(s)?

Fabulous Quote by Sis. Hinckley

2011-04-20T12:29:00.000-07:00

My friend shared this quote on her blog, and I just had to put it in my quote frame.

New Kitchen Color

2011-04-19T17:02:00.000-07:00

It's not finished yet, but here's a sneak peak:

BEFORE

AFTER

School Uniforms: Yea or Nay?

2011-04-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

My kids aren't in school yet, so I haven't had to deal with this. There are pros and cons to uniforms in schools, as it says in this article:Pros and cons of School uniforms (click on the link to go the the article).

What do you think? Uniforms or no uniforms?

Coffee Cake. It's good.

2011-04-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

I love coffee cake. (Without the coffee, of course)

I've tried many recipes, and put several elements together to create this one. In my humble (ha) opinion, it's the best. It's soooo good. I don't like nuts in mine, but you can certainly add walnuts or pecans with the topping.

Coffee Cake (high altitude)

Ingredients:

3/4 cup butter

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 eggs

3 cups flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1/2 cup buttermilk

3/4 cup half and half or regular milk

Topping:

1 Tbsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/2 cup flour

1 1/2 cups brown sugar

3/4 cup cold butter

Directions:

For the cake,cream together the butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time until well blended. Sift the dry ingredients together. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture. Mix just until well blended. Spread into 9x13 pan.

For the topping, cut the topping ingredients together with a pastry cutter or two knives. Sprinkle over the top of the cake.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. The cake should be set in the middle. Let it cool for a little while before cutting into it, if you can manage.

$100 Visa Gift Card Giveaway!

2011-04-12T08:44:00.001-07:00

Today's the big day! Head on over to Giveaway Corner for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card. It's so simple to enter!
http://giveawaycorner.blogspot.com/2011/04/tuesday-april-12th-today-we-are-giving.html

Calling all Bloggers!!

2011-04-11T09:16:00.001-07:00

Giveaway Corner is having a contest for bloggers. Simply write a post about the new Giveaway Corner website, telling your readers about our big $100 Visa gift card giveaway, and daily giveaways after that. When they come to sign up for the giveaway, have them enter your name in the “Who referred you” section. Whoever refers the most people wins a $20 Amazon.com gift card!

http://giveawaycorner.blogspot.com/

The contest will run from Tuesday, April 12^th to Tuesday, April 19^th.

Please leave the link to your post!

Please contact me if you have any questions or comments.

Thanks!

My Spoils

2011-04-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

I went with 5 bags of snickerdoodles, and came home with tomato plants, strawberry jam, pancake mix and cute hair bows. Love it! I am going to have to steal my friend's idea and host my own "handmade trade" party. So fun!

Snickerdoodle Swap

2011-04-09T17:53:00.000-07:00

My friend is hosting a "Handmade Trade" party, where everyone brings handmade items and swaps, so you all go home with several different items. What a cute idea! This is what I'm taking...

(Ahem, I would like to thank my Silhouette machine for cutting out these perfect scalloped squares. What would I do without you?)

In which I thoroughly embarrass myself...

2011-04-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

This is why...

2011-04-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to keep a clean house with kids. The living room was vacuumed, everything was in place. I moved the chairs into the living room so I could mop the kitchen. After moving the chairs back, this is what I find. My mom and I were just talking about this the other day. I find myself thinking the same thing she used to: "I just want all the rooms to be clean at the same time!!".

Jensen Family Rules

2011-04-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

A while ago I was reading a parenting book by Richard and Linda Eyre. I can't remember the name, but all of their books are great! When their kids were younger, they came up with some general family rules- I think there were 5 words. I thought that was a great idea, so we picked 4 words that I think encompass all of the rules we want in our home. We go over them every once in a while during Family Home Evening.

1. Obedience
2. Peace
3. Respect
4. Order

Obedience is pretty self-explanatory, but it includes obeying quickly when asked to do something.

Peace includes no yelling, angry or mean words.

Respect means we respect not only mom and dad and each other, but also our things. We don't jump on furniture or throw things around.

Order is keeping our home clean. It's picking up after ourselves. It also means that we do essential things first- we read scriptures in the morning, every morning.

Have I told you how much I love vinyl lettering? The only other way I could have done this would be to paint with a stencil. What a pain that would be! I just love this sign. It's a visual reminder to us of what we are striving for.

Lemon Ice

2011-04-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

Whenever I'm out to eat at a restaurant (which, admittedly, is not very often), I always drink several glasses of water. Partially because I am sitting there while someone serves me, and not getting up every 5 seconds to get something for someone... anyhoo, back to the point. I think another reason is the lemon. I always ask for lemon in my water. It makes it taste good! So I recently realized (after how many years??) that I should put lemon in my water at home too!

Something you may not know about me- the ice maker on my fridge doesn't work. I know, it's a travesty. So my brilliant mind (ha) came up with this amazing idea- lemon ice!

Just flash- freeze some lemon slices or wedges, pop one in your drink and you're good to go. And then you can store the rest in a bag in the freezer!

See how easy it is? :D

My lemon-ice concept is currently patent-pending. Or not.

Ultimate Blog Party 2011!

2011-03-31T20:46:00.000-07:00

Hi party-goers! I'm Anne, I'm a momma of 3 great kids, and this is my life.

Take a look around, and enjoy yourself. Leave a comment, and I will visit your blog and return the favor! A few of my favorite posts:

Kindness of Strangers

Cookie Dough Cupcakes

How I Painted My Kitchen Cabinets

(If you want to join in on the fun, just click on that cute button on the right hand side.)

Easter- What it means to me.

2011-03-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

This was taken Easter Sunday, 2009.

What comes to your mind when you think of Easter? When I think of Easter, things that come to my mind are bunnies, jelly beans, grass, eggs, pastel colors, and candy. Lots and lots of candy. There are so many fun things about Easter. That's just part of it, though. Put aside all of the candy, the bunny, the games, and what do you have? You have Jesus Christ. You have His glorious Resurrection.

Growing up, I remember coloring easter eggs, and getting a fun basket Easter morning. I also remember going to the mall to pick out a special Easter outfit. I always had a pretty hat, a dress and some matching gloves. It seems people don't dress up for Easter as much anymore. My family didn't tell us to believe in an Easter Bunny, so we didn't. A friend's family, however, went all out. They had someone dress up in a bunny suit so the kids could spot him. I bet that was so fun for the kids!

In addition to the traditions of coloring eggs, we have added an annual egg hunt. It's small, just our family, but I love it. We don't hide real eggs, just the plastic ones you can fill. Can you imagine the stench if you were to forget one? Ick. Recently we've been doing the fun Easter stuff on the Saturday after. This has two benefits- we can buy all the candy at a discounted price, but more importantly we get to focus on the reason we celebrate on Easter Sunday.

To me, Easter Sunday is all about remembering the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made for us, and how He was Resurrected after 3 days. I am so grateful for my Savior, and His Atonement.

We start the week before Easter with a Family Home Evening lesson all about Jesus and His Resurrection. I want the children to know without a doubt the real reason that we celebrate Easter. We talk about the tomb that Jesus was laid in, then we talk about the best part- that after 3 days, Jesus arose from the dead! What a wonderful truth to have!

May we all focus on the right things this coming Easter. It's so much fun to have egg hunts, and give gifts. But the most important thing is remembering Jesus Christ, His Atonement and His Resurrection.

Have a Happy Easter!

P.S. What are your favorite things about Easter? Do you have fun traditions?

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Personal Pizzas

2011-03-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

We looove pizza around here. We make it at least once a week. Here's an easy way to make personalized mini pizzas, and your kids can help make their own!

Start with a good pizza dough recipe. I use this one. It's a good simple crust, good for rolling out. I'm still on the lookout for the perfect crust, though.

Divide the crust evenly onto the plates. You can roll it out separately, or just on the plate.

Add your choice of toppings. Our favorite is just cheese and pepperoni. You can add anything!

Bake at 425 degrees for about 10 minutes.

I didn't realize you could cook it directly on a paper plate, until we went to a friend's house and she had done that. So easy!

Enjoy!

Pizza Dough (Bread Machine)

2011-03-28T13:26:00.000-07:00

Yield: 2 12-inch Pizza Crusts

Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups water
2 Tbsp. olive oil
4 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. yeast

Directions:
Load ingredients into bread machine according to the directions of your specific machine. (I do liquid first, then layer on the dry.)

When the dough is done, divide into two and roll into pizza crusts.

What I love about being a mom...

2011-03-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

My kisses make owies all better.

I get to act like a silly kid sometimes.

I have an excuse to watch all the kid movies.

The questions. I learn so many new things, just because Hayden asks me about something.

Every day is a new adventure : )

What do you love about being a mom?

New Winner of If Walls Could Talk Vinyl

2011-03-24T06:40:00.000-07:00

Leigh S.

Congrats, Leigh! Send me an email at anne@ifwallstalk.com

Brand New Giveaway Site!!

2011-03-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

Ya'll ready for this?

I am so excited to announce my new website- Giveaway Corner!

Starting April 12th, each and every weekday we will have a fabulous giveaway. Anyone in the US will be able to participate, and it is super easy to enter- we just need your name!

Check out the new blog, and stay tuned for the launch. The first giveaway is going to be BIG!

The Lobster

2011-03-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

One fateful day last year I decided to buy a lobster and cook it myself. Little did I know the horror that would unfold before my eyes.

We brought the lobster home in his bag, the children were scared to go near it. I was fine with it, until the bag moved. Aack! He's coming for me! Kevin does not like lobster, so he wasn't even going to touch the thing. I had to cook it myself.

I only own one large pot. And by large I mean it holds enough water to cook spaghetti, not a huge lobster. But that didn't stop me. I figured I would just bend the poor thing and shove the lid on and it would be fine. Not so.

I started the water boiling while I looked around for something to hold the lobster with. Ah, my grill tongs should work. It took a good 10 minutes for me to work up enough courage to grab the lobster with the tongs- he kept looking at me! And have you ever tried grabbing a moving creature with a hard shell with tongs? It's not easy.

When I finally grabbed it, I quickly dropped it in the pan, and the poor thing started freaking out! It was flipping all over the place, and hanging half out of the pan. So of course I scream. And not just any scream, an 'I'm riding the scariest roller coaster and just lost my voice' type of scream. Hayden, who was standing by, screams too.

Luckily Kevin was near and saved the day- flipping the lobster back into the pan and putting the lid on.

Surprisingly enough, I did manage to eat the lobster. Even though it was still looking at me. It wasn't the same. And I will never try to cook my own lobster again.

Giants Birthday Cake

2011-03-19T15:16:00.000-07:00

I made this one for my father-in-laws birthday. Chocolate Cake with a thick layer of Raspberry Bavarian Creme, and frosted with Whipped Cream Frosting. It got rave reviews! The baseball part took a while- I tried a new technique where I basically hand painted it on. It was fun!

Giveaway! If Walls Could Talk: Vinyl Decor

2011-03-17T06:41:00.000-07:00

At If Walls Could Talk, we create custom vinyl lettering. It is self-adhesive, easy to apply and easy to remove. There are many possibilities...

For your business...

For your sweetheart...

Or for a photo wall...

Aren't these the cutest?

The best thing about If Walls Could Talk vinyl lettering is that it's affordable. And it's custom- you choose the color, the size, the font, and we make it happen. Or, if you see something you like we can try our best to duplicate it.

If Walls Could Talk is giving away a $15 gift certificate today.

Click here to see what that can get you.

First entry (Mandatory):

Visit the If Walls Could Talk blog and come back here and comment below telling me something you saw that you liked.

Optional entries (comment once for each):

Follow or subscribe to the If Walls Could Talk blog

Follow or subscribe to Some Kind of Wonderful

Share this giveaway on Facebook or Twitter (http://bit.ly/eEs5mA)

Follow If Walls Could Talk on Facebook

The winner will be announced on Monday, the 21st of March. Check back here to see if you won, if the prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

I'm linking up at Dear Crissy for Wordless Wednesday.

Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes

2011-03-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

I made these for a Relief Society activity the other night. I am very please with how they turned out- they were really good! Chocolate cake (my grandmother's recipe) filled with raspberry bavarian cream and topped with chocolate ganache.

A New Blog

2011-03-14T14:51:00.000-07:00

I know it's been quiet around here, and it's because I've been busy designing my new blog! I joined forces with a friend - Elise- to design custom vinyl lettering. She's actually been in business for a few years, and she's great at what she does!
Here's some vinyl she made for me:

I need some feedback though- we are having a giveaway at the end of the week. What sort of thing would you like to have the chance to win? Maybe a cute quote for St Patty's day? Or a family saying? Or something else?
Go check out our new blog- http://ifwallscouldtalkvinyl.blogspot.com/

Habits

2011-03-11T10:57:00.000-08:00

How many days does it take to form a habit?
I've read so many different things, 21 days, 28 days, 30 days, 90 days. Who knows?
I am trying to form a new habit of following my schedule. It changes day to day, but whatever it is that day- I need to follow it. I've gotten into a bad habit of inconsistency. And of busier my life gets, the more I crave structure.
April 15th is a big deadline in our family, because it's the last day of tax season! So that's my finish line. I will make a great effort to follow my schedule at least until then, and hopefully it will be easier by then!!
Wish me luck : )

Tweet Tweet

2011-03-08T14:43:00.000-08:00

I'm still not entirely sure what I'm supposed to do, but I'm twittering now. Or tweeting. Whatever it is.

Find me! Here's a link.

Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-03-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

We're watching Planet 51 right now. It is hilarious! I love movies that make me lol. (that's laugh out loud for you old fogies- mom...hehe, just kidding)

Ok, on to the goodness...

I've been making this recipe for years, and I've never tried another. That's how good they are. And quite easy to memorize too- I mean look at those measurements! 1/2 of everything.
These cookies just melt in your mouth. They are good warm or cool. Make sure you have milk, you'll need it.

Peanut Butter Cookies
(High Altitude)

Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar (-1 Tbsp)
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Granulated sugar

Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a mixer or a bowl, cream the butter and peanut butter together for about 30 seconds. Add the sugars and baking powder and soda. Beat until combined. Mix in the egg and vanilla until combined. Mix in the flour.
Form the dough into 1 or 2 inch balls, and roll in sugar. Press the balls down with fork tines, making a criss-cross pattern. Bake at 375 for 7 or 8 minutes, or until the edges are slightly browned. Let them rest on the cookie sheet for about a minute before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Pour yourself a giant glass of milk and enjoy!

Credit: Adapted from the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook

The hats I wear...

2011-03-03T06:42:00.000-08:00

I am a:

Mother

Wife

Daughter

Sister

Friend

Housekeeper

Nurse

Hairdresser

Handywoman

Painter

Chef

Baker

Gardener

Teacher

I get payed in hugs and kisses. I'll take that over money any day : )

What hats do you wear?

Creamy Stove top Macaroni and Cheese

2011-03-02T11:31:00.000-08:00

I have tried countless recipes for stove top mac and cheese, and this is by far the best. Creamy, a hint of spiciness, yum.

Yield: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

1/2 pound elbow macaroni
4 Tablespoons butter
2 eggs
6 oz evaporated milk
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper
10 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Directions:

Cook pasta in salted, boiling water until al dente. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs and next 5 ingredients. When the pasta is done, drain and return to pan. Melt the butter in the hot noodles, then add the egg mixture and cheese. Cook on low for 3-4 minutes, or until creamy, stirring frequently.

Bon Appetit!

Warm day

2011-03-02T07:39:00.000-08:00

It was so beautiful yesterday- almost felt like summer! Audra took her first swing, and she was pretty indifferent. She loved it when Hayden pushed her.

She also had her first taste of rocks. Yummy!

Little trip to the mailbox.

First ride in the wagon- wheee!

Quarter-Century Birthday

2011-03-01T12:29:00.000-08:00

I turned 25 last week, and decided to throw myself a party! It was so much fun to get my girlfriends together. We played some silly, hilarious games. I remembered playing this balloon game at a party of mine when I was younger. You have to put a balloon in between your backs and stand up without using your hands or popping the balloon. So funny!

My beautiful friends:

Sheesh! Look at all that smoke!

I feel older than 25. It may have something to do with the fact that I have 3 kids, and have been married for 5 years : )

I am very content with where I am at in life. It's so much fun to be a mom, and I have some pretty great kids. And my husband isn't too shabby either ; )

Happy Birthday to Me!

Letters and Penpals

2011-02-28T11:25:00.000-08:00

These are my letters. Some of them. I've been saving notes, cards and letters since I was little. I have notes from high school friends, birthday cards, wedding announcements, Christmas cards and more. Every once in a while I will pull the box out and go through them. I just love reading them all and remembering friends and things from my past.

When I was in middle school, I took a class all about Japan. We were each given a penpal from Japan, and that was so neat. I only have two letters from my penpal, and I don't remember why we didn't keep writing. It's too bad, it would have been cool to keep it up.

I love the less than perfect English, and the fun doodles.

I have two penpals now, one lives in New Zealand and one lives in Utah. I absolutely love having penpals. I think I know my penpals better than I know some of my local friends. There's just something about writing to someone you haven't met in person. It's easy to be open and share all about yourself. I highly recommend it : )

Look what arrived today!

2011-02-25T14:40:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to Me!

I got a Silhouette SD! I'm so excited to try it out : )

Kindness of Strangers

2011-02-24T11:19:00.000-08:00

My morning started off like many others. I dropped Kevin off at work and ran an errand before taking Hayden to Preschool. Then I went to Walmart for some groceries. I got to the register and my total was forty one dollars and thirty two cents. I swiped my card. *Beep*. I swiped it again. *Beep*. Had I miscalculated the amount in my checking account?

I quickly called Kevin and asked him to check my account balance online. "$17.49" he tells me. Shoot. That's too much of a difference to just put a few things back. Kevin reminds me that his wallet is in the car, so I tell the cashier that I have to go get my other card from the car. She calls a manager over and, embarrassed, I apologize to the people waiting behind me.

Just then, the gentleman behind me comes up to me and pushes a hundred dollar bill into my hand. I start to protest, but he insists. So of course, I start to cry. I hand the bill to the cashier, and then feel a hand on my back. An older gentleman hands me a twenty dollar bill. "Oh no, I don't need this" I say. "Take it, please" he tells me. More tears. The wife of the first gentlemen refused the change, hugged me and accepted my thanks. The manager, standing by through all of this, hugged me and said "Pay it forward". And I intend to.

I found it interesting that the first thing I heard when I turned on the car was someone singing "You Are Not Alone".

So Thank You so much to those strangers in line with me. It truly made my day, and in a way, changed my life. What I keep thinking about is how selfless these people were. They don't know me, they don't know my circumstances. But they helped me out. And I am so grateful for their example.

If you are ever in a situation where you can help someone, please do. You never know when you might be an answer to a prayer.

My Wedding Box

2011-02-23T12:43:00.000-08:00

When I was a Laurel in Young Womens, we put together wedding containers that we were to open when we were engaged. I was just looking through some old things and found this fun stuff:

Check. I think I did pretty good there : )

I'm happy to report that I am completely patient ; ) Not!

Oh dear, 10 kids! What was I thinking?!?

We never took a honeymoon, but we will someday, I'm sure.

Did your happily ever after end up like you dreamed?

New Hairdo

2011-02-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

One of the fun things about being a hairstylist is being able to cut your own hair, on a whim. It's not always a good thing, I've cut without really thinking in the past, but most of the time it's good. I cut quite a bit off, but mostly from layers in the front. I like having long hair, so I didn't touch the length at all.

(If I look tired, it's because I've been sick for a week. Just now starting to feel better again.)

Sweet talk

2011-02-21T11:24:00.000-08:00

"Do you have another baby coming out of your tummy?

Look how big it is. You have a big baby tummy."

- Hayden (age 4)

Confession

2011-02-20T09:30:00.000-08:00

I didn't get my Christmas cards mailed out. They are still sitting in a pile, half of them without addresses and none of them stamped. And I think we've officially past the deadline for getting Christmas cards out. By a few months. Maybe this year it will happen. Maybe not.

Feeling Crummy

2011-02-17T06:35:00.000-08:00

I've been feeling crummy for a few days now, and woke up this morning with a 102.2 degree fever. My wonderful mom offered to take the kids for the day so I can rest. Thanks, Mom! I have plenty of Gilmore Girls and I Love Lucy to last me through the day, and a comfy bed to rest in.

There is never a convenient time to get sick, but why now? I was planning on painting the dresser for the boys' room, and finishing my awesome shelves, and painting the guest bath. I sometimes wonder if my body is telling me to slow down when I get sick. : )

Valentine's Day Fun

2011-02-16T09:28:00.000-08:00

We started off the weekend with a Valentine Cake Pop Party. I think the kids had lots of fun dipping the cake pops in the sprinkles and especially eating them. : )

Valentine's Day began with pink heart pancakes and bacon.

After breakfast, I had a treasure hunt set up for the kids. I drew pictures of things like the tv and fridge where I had hidden more clues, until they found the prize! They were so excited, it was adorable.

Kevin and I rented a free movie from redbox, and enjoyed pound cake a berries with fresh whipped cream. Yum!

Hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day!

P.S. I'm sick. Bleh.

Bob's Green Drink

2011-02-14T09:54:00.000-08:00

This is what I'll be having for breakfast for the foreseeable future.

Bob Harper's Green Drink (398 calories)

Add all ingredients (listed below) to a blender and blend until combined.

Supplements (218 calories)

1 TBSP Ground Flax Seed (40 calories)

1 ½ TBSP Hemp Seed (80 calories)

1 TBSP Dulse Flakes (8 calories)

2 tsp Maca Powder (40 calories)

2 TBSP Protein Powder (50 calories)

Fruits & Veggies (180 calories)

1 Cup Fresh Kale (30 calories)

1 Cup Frozen Spinach (30 calories)

1/2 Cup Blueberries (35 calories)

1/2 Small Banana (40 calories)

1/2 Cup Frozen Pineapple (45 calories)

20 oz. H20

I had to alter the recipe a little with what I could find, but I think it will work. Wash your fresh veggies, and measure out your ingredients. Bob says you can half the supplements if you are watching your calories.

Blend it for a few minutes, you don't want to be chewing your drink.

Looks appetizing, huh?

I'm set for about a week!

Credit: recipe from Bob Harper's Website.

A Birthday Party

2011-02-14T07:43:00.000-08:00

A few days ago we went to a cousin's birthday party at this awesome place where they had trampolines and foam pits and more. The boys had a blast on the bungees. I wish I could have done it too!

Hayden couldn't quite flip on his own, but he thought it was so fun.

Parker on the trampoline with Grandpa.

Parker was so excited to jump on the tramp. The harness looked so big on him!

And then he got stuck upside down. : )

He thought this was hilarious to squish daddy.

Hayden and Parker next to the birthday boy, Cayden.

What do you think, do we look alike?

Temple Trip Reflections

2011-02-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

Kevin and I went to the temple last night. It's about an hour away. Sometimes I wish it was closer, but we have it pretty good. I love being in the temple. It is such a peaceful place.

As I sat there, I was thinking how cool it was that I didn't know anyone in that room (except one friend), and yet they all felt like family. I am so grateful to know that we are literal sons and daughters of God, so we are all brothers and sisters.

I love looking at the names of the people we do proxy work for. Kevin's was from the 1700s. That's a long time to wait for those blessings. I wonder who they were, what were their lives like? Maybe they'll visit us when we get to heaven : )

I am so incredibly grateful to be sealed to my honey for time and eternity. I feel such a peace inside knowing that as long as I keep my covenants, I will be with my family for all eternity. What a wonderful knowledge to have.

Credit: Photo from here.

YW New Beginnings Dessert Table

2011-02-09T15:23:00.000-08:00

I had lots of fun designing and executing this dessert table. I wanted petit fours in each value color, and a matching candy or treat. I got most of them done, but ran out of dipping chocolate part way through so a couple things didn't make it. The petit fours were a sour cream pound cake, filled with either lemon curd or raspberry mousse, and covered with white chocolate ganache.

Desperate Times...

2011-02-04T08:58:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when I run out of paint stirrers.

New Additions to the Family

2011-02-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

Meet our new fish. Bought on a whim. (Why not, only 28 cents!)

What should we name them?

Matthew Mark Luke and John... Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thyme...

Valentine Surprise Cupcakes

2011-02-02T15:01:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Valentine's Day, these sweet cupcakes are the perfect way to celebrate! Red Velvet with Cream Cheese Frosting, and a little surprise inside!

Can you see the heart?

Make the cheesecake first. I wanted it thinner than usual, so I put it in two 8-inch pans. I tried one with a water bath, and one without. You definitely want to use a water bath. After the cheesecake is done, leave it in the oven with the door opened a crack and turn the oven off. Leave it for about an hour. Take the cheesecake out of the oven and put it in the fridge to chill for about an hour.

Meanwhile, make the red velvet batter. Fill cupcake papers about 2/3 full.

When your cheesecake is chilled, you'll want to get it out of the pan onto some wax paper and cut out your hearts. Place the hearts in the cupcake batter, making sure they all face the same way so you know which way to serve it.

Bake for about 14 minutes or until the top springs back when lightly pressed.

Frost and enjoy!

Tip- if you want to see the heart when you bit into it, make sure you keep track of which way it faces.

Yield: 24 cupcakes

Ingredients:

Cheesecake

2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened

²/3 cup sugar

3 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Red Velvet Cake

2 1/2 cups all purpose flour

2 T cocoa

1 t soda

1 t salt

1 cup + 2 Tbsp sugar

1 1/2 cups Corn oil

4 eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1 t white vinegar

1 t vanilla

1 oz red food coloring, or desired amount

Cream Cheese Frosting

1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter, softened

1 8 oz package of cream cheese, softened

1 1/2 pounds of powdered sugar

2 Tbsp vanilla extract

Directions

For the cheesecake, combine all ingredients. Mix well, but do not over-mix. Pour into two 8-inch pans. Bake at 325 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked for about an hour. Chill in the fridge for about an hour. After it's chilled, turn out onto wax paper and cut with heart cookie cutter. *You can substitute your favorite cheesecake recipe.

For the cupcakes, whisk the dry ingredients and set aside. Beat the wet ingredients together, adding eggs one at a time. Mix until well blended. Add the dry ingredients and mix on low for about 2 minutes. Fill cupcake papers about 2/3 full. Carefully drop the hearts in, making sure they stay upright and are all facing the same way. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until tops spring back when lightly pressed. Leave them in the pan for a few minutes, then move to cooling rack to cool completely.

For the frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add the powdered sugar a little at a time. Mix in the vanilla. Pipe over cooled cupcakes. Enjoy!

Shabby Ruffle Flower Tutorial

2011-02-01T06:46:00.000-08:00

Cut strips of fabric according to the size of flower you want. Mine was about an inch wide and 12 inches long. Using the longest stitch on your sewing machine, sew down the middle of your fabric. Reverse stitch on one end, but not the other.

Taking the top thread, pull the fabric down until it's all ruffled.

Start rolling the ruffle like this:

When your flower is complete, take a needle and thread and sew it together, be careful not to pucker it. Trim the extra threads.

These are going on my new living room pillows, but wouldn't it be cute on a headband for a little girl?

Totally Random Thoughts

2011-01-30T16:40:00.000-08:00

I was walking through the hall at church today and passed a group of children. A boy was saying "I'm Sir Farts-A-Lot". Then I smelled it. Gag.

On a sweeter note, I was on my way to the Bishop's office to deliver the leftover cookie dough cupcakes when I saw them. A hoard of children all waiting to see the Bishop. As they spotted the three cupcakes on the tray, pandemonium ensued. I was begged by no less than 6 of them to "please please please give me one of those!". I didn't. Sorry, but the Bishop works long hours and thus deserves them more.

Last but not least, I had just fallen asleep when Hayden rushed into the room to tell me about something. Sigh. At least I haven't broken my no-nap streak. I think I'm going on 2 years without a nap now.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes

2011-01-30T14:26:00.000-08:00

I heard about these cupcakes months ago, and have been wanting to make them ever since. I finally had an excuse- I made them for a "homemaking" lesson in Young Women's. If you like cookie dough, you will love these. They are so good.

First you'll want to make the batter for the cupcakes (recipe is at the bottom of the post) and fill your cupcake papers 2/3 of the way full. I used my big scoop and it worked perfectly.

Bake. You'll know they are done when the center springs back after lightly pressing it with your finger. Cool them in the pan for a few minutes, then on a wire rack.

After the cupcakes are completely cooled, carve a cone out of the center of the cookies.

Take a small portion of the chilled filling and place it in the holes you just made.

Cover with a swirl of the frosting and garnish with mini chocolate chips.

Yum!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes
(High Altitude)

Yield: 24 cupcakes

Ingredients:
Cupcakes:
3 sticks (1 1/2 cups) butter, softened
1 cup plus 2 Tbsp. packed brown sugar
5 large eggs
2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
¼ tsp. salt (heaping)
1 cup milk
2 tsp. vanilla extract

Filling:
4 tbsp. butter, softened
6 tbsp. packed brown sugar
1 cup plus 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
7 oz. sweetened condensed milk
½ tsp. vanilla extract
¼ cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

Frosting:
3 sticks softened butter
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3 cups powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1-2 Tbsp. milk
2 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions:
For the cupcakes, cream butter and sugar together for a few minutes or until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Whisk dry ingredients in a bowl and add to butter mixture alternating with milk until mixed thoroughly. Add in vanilla. Scoop batter into muffin cups. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes, or until top springs back when lightly pressed. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then move to rack. When cooled completely, cut a cone from the center and fill with cookie dough filling.

For the filling, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Chill until ready to use, or at least 20 minutes.

For the frosting, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the remaining ingredients and blend well. Pipe on top of cupcakes, and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips if desired.

*I saw two different types of filling for these. One was an actual cookie dough without eggs that you freeze and bake in the cupcake, and the one above. I tried both, and I loved the second option so much better.

Credit: Inspired by kevinandamanda.com, recipes adapted from Annie Eats

How I Painted My Kitchen Cabinets

2011-01-28T13:02:00.000-08:00

Whew! Going through these pictures makes me realize how glad I am to be done! It was a big job. I did it by myself, with the 3 kids hanging around and trying to run through the wet paint. So if I can do it, anyone can! Really.

Here is how I painted my kitchen cabinets.

Step 1: Prep Kitchen

I took everything out of the drawers and cabinets. The food and plates and silverware and some other things went in the pantry. Everything else went on the countertops, which I covered with garbage bags.

Tape around the cabinets, and on the shelves right next to the frame.

Step 2: Remove hardware

I found it was easier to take the doors off the frames first, and then remove the rest of the hardware from the door.

I took off all the old bumpers. I didn't want to have to paint around anything.

Make sure to label your drawers and doors, and keep the hardware together.

Step 3: Sand. My dad let me borrow his orbital sander. I really don't think I could have done this without it. I highly recommend using one.

You don't have to sand a ton, just get the shine off.

SHINY! DULL.

Step 4: Caulk

When I starting painting the cabinets a few months ago, I didn't do any prep work. There was a pretty big gap in all of the cupboard doors where the trim and panel met. This is what happened with the paint:

So I decided to caulk in that space. It was a huge pain, it took forever and was messy. If I could go back, I would still caulk the doors. However, I wouldn't have tried to get it done so fast. I got sloppy with the cleanup, thinking I'd sand it down later. Didn't really work out that way. If you are going to caulk, definitely make sure you wipe it up thoroughly before it dries.

This is what I used. I actually got two on clearance for 25 cents each!

Run the caulk along the edges.

Smooth with your finger. Keep a wet rag handy to clean off your finger.

Clean up the excess (very important!)

Step 5: Paint

I painted the cupboards first, and then the doors and drawers.

I ran out of floor space, so I just stacked up the drawers on bar stools.

The cupboards were all over the kitchen floor. It was too cold to paint them in the garage, so I just layed out a plastic painter sheet and lined them up inside.

I used plastic bathroom cups to prop up the doors so they wouldn't stick to the plastic. I painted two coats on the front of the doors, let them dry for 12 hours or so, flipped them over and painted two more coats on the other side.

I cut into the corners with a paintbrush, and used a high density foam roller for the rest. Like this:

Step 6: Finish

After letting them dry for at least one full day, replace all the hardware and hang the doors back up. Put some new bumpers on the doors and drawers. If you don't, the doors will stick to the frame.

Remove the tape. I like to run a razor along the edge so the tape doesn't pull the paint off with it.

My Christmas Gifts

2011-01-27T09:32:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas I asked for two things. A new rolling pin and a big scoop. My wonderful hubby pulled through, and got both! He got me a french-style rolling pin. It's tapered in the middle. It is surprisingly easy to use- probably easier than a regular rolling pin. I love it!

The scoop is perfect for cupcakes or muffins, or giant cookies. I would definitely recommend these scoops for cooking and baking. I have a smaller one I use for cookies and other things. I got mine from Sparrow Hawk, a local kitchen store. You can find them in a few different stores as well, but I don't know about the quality of the other ones.

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-01-26T12:57:00.000-08:00

I found this recipe while searching for Cookie Dough Cupcakes (which I will be making soon!). I love the way they are crisp around the edges and chewy in the middle. Delicious. I changed up the recipe a little to suit my taste, and adjusted it for high altitude. Let me know if you try it!

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies- high altitude

Ingredients:

4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

3 sticks (1 1/2 c) butter, melted and cooled until warm

2 cups brown sugar, packed

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs plus 2 egg yolks

4 tsp. vanilla extract

2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (more if desired)

Directions:

Preheat oven 325°. Move rack to upper position.

Whisk dry ingredients together in a medium bowl; set aside. With electric mixer, or by hand, mix butter and sugars until thoroughly combined. Beat in eggs, yolks, and vanilla until combined. Add dry ingredients and beat at low-speed just until combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Form 1-inch balls. (I use my cookie scoop from Sparrow Hawk)

Bake until the edges are light golden brown (approximately 9-11 minutes). Do not overbake.

Cool cookies on sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Yield: Approx 8 dozen small cookies.

Credit: Recipe adapted from Annie's Eats.

New Curtains and Pillows (sneak peek)

2011-01-26T11:02:00.000-08:00

Cowboy Nachos

2011-01-25T09:29:00.000-08:00

I have recently fallen in love with The Pioneer Woman's site, and especially all of her recipes! Seriously good. Not only does she have delicious recipes, but she takes photos of each step and she is a great photographer.
I've made nachos before, but usually just taco meat and cheese on chips. Enter Pioneer Woman's Cowboy Nachos. Yum. And that's an understatement.
I realize my photo doesn't do it justice- hers is much better : )

The Pioneer Woman's Cowboy Nachos

And just for fun...

He thought it would be fun to suck on a lime. And of course, he's naked again. He strips as soon as we walk in the door- am I alone here??

Painted Kitchen Cabinets: Before and After

2011-01-24T15:24:00.000-08:00

There's still a lot of work to be done: hardware, baseboards, decorating...
But I love it! I think it looks loads better than it did before.
I took tons of pictures of the process, so I think I'll do another detailed post about how I painted them.

Runaway Baby

2011-01-21T07:35:00.000-08:00

If I Had to Choose...

2011-01-20T09:21:00.000-08:00

If I had to choose only two blogs to read, it would be these two:

71 Toes

and

Clover Lane

Every time I read either of those blogs, I feel like my cup is being filled. I feel a new sense of determination to be a great mother. They are more than cute crafts and nice pictures- they inspire me to be better. Please stop by if you have a chance.

What are your favorite blogs?

Mom Bucks/ Chores

2011-01-20T09:03:00.000-08:00

I made this money with my face on it for "Mom Bucks" several months ago, and am just now getting around to finishing the concept. This will be the first time the system is implemented, so we'll see how it goes. I really wasn't sure how many bucks vs. rewards I should do, so that may need some adjusting after we try it out for a while.
So the basic concept is Hayden (and Parker, but mostly Hayden) will have a list of chores he can do throughout the day. For each chore he completes, he gets one "Mom Buck". Then he can cash them in for special rewards.

P.S. I finished painting the cabinets!! Thank goodness...

I like to live life on the edge

2011-01-18T10:42:00.000-08:00

(alternate title: call me crazy...)

I braved 4 stores today with 3 kids

AND

I didn't have a stroller

AND

I bought some curtain fabric without measuring my window, just because it was on sale

AND

I decided to park at the opposite side of the strip mall so I had to carry said fabric on a huge bolt all the way across the parking lot, with 3 kids and no stroller.

AND

I'm thoroughly exhausted.

Immeasurable Love

2011-01-17T07:09:00.000-08:00

As I sit here, my children are eating breakfast.
I hear slurping milk.
I've already had to give a time-out warning this morning. "We do not throw milk on our brothers!".
All 3 kids are making noise. It seems they can't ever be quiet.
The kitchen is in disarray.
The couch pillows are off the couch. Again.
I'm tired from a sleepless night. Hayden crawled into bed with us without detection, and then peed the bed while he was sleeping. Love it when that happens.

Then Hayden climbs on the couch next to me and gazes in my eyes. He says "I love you to the moon", so I say "I love you to the moon and back to Earth!" And he replies "I love you to the moon and back to Earth too- we love the same kind of love!". And my eyes fill with tears. The love that I feel for these children is immeasurable.

There are no perfect days around here, but there are perfect moments. And that was one of them.

Empty Kitchen

2011-01-13T15:27:00.000-08:00

Guess I won't be cooking until the painting is completed! If all goes well, I'll be painting tomorrow.

Warning, Overload

2011-01-11T16:23:00.000-08:00

I've been wasting away my time looking at fun DIY blogs and such. Please make me stop before my brain explodes with all the ideas! Focus, Anne, focus. Kitchen now, other rooms later.

5 years down, many more to go!

2011-01-10T07:28:00.000-08:00

Kevin and I just celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary. Our plans to have the kids gone so we could enjoy a nice, quiet dinner at home didn't pan out. So we all had a picnic in the living room and watched "The Kid". I wish I could say that the kids were angels that night, but they seemed to be more ornery than usual.

The next day, Kev and I went to a movie. I love dates.

Happy Anniversary my love!

Halloween 2010

2011-01-09T17:44:00.000-08:00

I just realized that I never posted pictures from Halloween, so I'm going to now. Just cause they're cute.

Hayden was so excited to be able to paint his own face.

Parker got tired of carrying his candy around...

Recent Pics

2011-01-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

On new year's day we found some playdough stashed in the pantry, that I completely forgot I bought for Christmas. So it became a New Year's gift! Hayden was so ecstatic (who knew it just took playdough?)

Here's his first creation; a hamburger.

This is my favorite- playdough man.

Silly face...

Helping Daddy grate cheese.

Hayden ventured out into the snow in Daddy's shoes- and came in a few minutes later barefoot. He thought it was so funny that the snow ate his shoes.

Kitchen Makeover- Phase 1

2011-01-06T15:15:00.000-08:00

Sanding, sanding, and more...sanding.