Wednesday, December 31, 2008

New Years Eve

What will I do in 2009 that I didn't do in 2008? Hmm

  1. Well one thing is I am going to try to pull my family back together. There is allot that happened in 2008 that I would like to forget but at that same time they were learning experience's that I wouldn't want to do with out or again.
  2. I would like to spend as much time with my parents as I can.
  3. Go to camp more.
  4. Take the kids to the park more.
  5. Work on my Christmas goals
  6. Go away for a weekend with dh.
  7. and of cource I would like to shed some pounds.

What goals do you have?

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Snowman craft

This is so cute and adorable.

http://familycrafts.about.com/od/snowpeople/ss/buttonsnowman.htm

If you make it please share picture.

Monday, December 29, 2008

For the person that Loves Snowmen

Here is a really cute outside snowman.

http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=12097&campaign-NLC-NL_Wkdr&link=Feature%20Photo

After Christmas Goals

Christmas is over and I wish it wasn't. I love to give to others and see there faces light up. I have goals I would like to set for Christmas next year and there is no better time but the present to start on them. I will need you to help so if you have any ideas to help me please pass them on to me.

Here is what I want to do.
  1. I would like to be able to help one other child have a great Christmas morning.
  2. I would like to make more gifts.
  3. Start my Christmas shopping in Feb.
  4. Start decorating my house begining of Nov.
  5. Get my Christmas cards made before Nov.

I don't feel like I have pressured myself at all. Do you have any goals you would like to do for Christmas 2009?

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

My Christmas Letter

This year Christmas is a little different around here. We didn't have the money to buy alot of gifts but we have the love to share and that is more inportant then any gift.

There are loved once that are not able to be here with us but they are here in are hearts.

At Christmas time there are know rules, you make the best out of what you have. We have are family and friends and we are the lucky once to have each other.

Merry Christmas

Christmas Tree 2008

Decorating the tree is always fun with the kids.
This year Alan cut the tree down, put it in the stand and brought it in the house.
The kids were so excited, they couldn't wait.
I put the lights and the beads on it.
And here is the kids having fun.













Sunday, December 21, 2008

Holiday Tip

Tempted to give your teens gift cards?
Go one better: take them shopping.
They'll get what they want, and more importantly, you'll get time together.

http://www.bhg.com/

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Holiday Tip

Use lighter-colored cookie sheets to keep cookie bottoms from over-browning. Or, line dark cookie sheets with parchment paper.

http://www.bhg.com/

Friday, December 19, 2008

Holiday Tip

Is it looking fabulous? Take a photo. You can use your photos next year as a guide for what worked beautifully, and what you might want to tweak.

www.bhg.com

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Holiday Tip

Make sure you got all your batteries and film for your cameras and toys.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Christmas Concert

We had a great afternoon watching the kids sing. They put so much work into learning there songs.

Holiday Tip

Add a personal touch to your decor by stringing your prettiest holiday cards on bright ribbon and draping over chair backs, along mantels, or over doorways.

www.bhg.com

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Holiday Tip

Add a sweet family touch to gifts:
pick up plain wrapping paper and let your kids decorate it with drawings, cutouts, stamps, and glued-on pom-poms.

www.bhg.com

Make a Snow Flake

http://snowflake.bhg.com/?sssdmh=dm17.351879&esrc=nwwr25_09&email=847010344

Monday, December 15, 2008

Christmas Tree

Today is the day we get ready to get the big Christmas tree.

Three years ago today we adopted 3 wonderful children. On that same day we try are hardest to get are tree and have pizza while we decorate it. It is always a fun day and its a day we all don't want to forget.

Young Children always bring so much joy to Christmas. All the other children are grow so what a joy to have the chance to start over again.


I Love You Guys

The Day We Adopted You
Submitted by:
akr7677
Author: Unknown

If we had it to do over again
Adoption is what we'd choose
We got more than we had hoped for
The day we adopted you
For you have given us more in life
Than we could ever want or need
You made our house into a home
And made our family complete
We love you more than life itself for all the things you say and do
And if we had it to do over again
You'd be the only one we'd choose.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

No-Waste Gift-Wrapping Ideas

  • Wrap the gift in a drawstring bag and use an inexpensive luggage tag for the gift tag.
  • Decorate oversized gifts with just a bow that can be used again.
  • Put toy animals in a cowboy hat and wrap a cowboy scarf around it.
  • Use a jewelry box for some flea market 'jewels.'
  • Use a knit hat to wrap a small gift. Close the hat with a barrette or a decorative hat pin.
  • Games or toys for a child can go in a new backpack designed pillow case.
  • For a person who is handy, wrap a gift in a tool box.
  • Put blouses and other gifts in decorative hat boxes and tie with a hair ribbon.
  • For the sewing enthusiast, wrap a gift in a fabric remnant and tie it with a piece of lace or ribbon.
  • Any kitchen gift can be wrapped in a colorful dish towel. Kitchen utensils can pop out of an oven mitt.
  • Place home-baked cookies in a reusable tin box, a kitchen container, or a decorated oatmeal box.
  • Use a colorful tablecloth to wrap dishes or dining room gifts.
  • For a reader, wrap a book in a reusable canvas shopping sack.
  • Wrap tools for a gardener in the pocket of an apron, planter, or bucket.
  • Hang earrings, bracelets, or necklaces right on the Christmas tree, or put them inside or around an open ornament.
  • Search the flea market, garage sales, and thrift stores for interesting old boxes that can be used as decorative packages.
  • Search the attic for old family photos and mementos and give them to your favorite relative wrapped in grandma's old hat and a lace curtain.
  • Salvation Army and Goodwill thrift shops often have good prices on leftover holiday wrapping paper.
  • Purchase gift bags from your local dollar stores and reuse them each year.
  • Used, but attractive, gift baskets are often offered at local thrift shops.
  • Christmas-theme fabric, with Velcro strips attached, can become reusable holiday wrap.

http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/publiced/holidays/NoWaste.htm

Friday, December 12, 2008

Oyster Cracker

Fun snack to make with the kids.

2 bags of oyster crackers
1 package of dry ranch dressing
a dash of dill (to taste)
a dash of garlic powder ( to taste)
1 cup of oil

Mix all ingredients in large bowl

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Cinnamon and Pie Crust

My kids call these poptarts.

All you need is to make a pie crust, roll it out, cut into rectangles
put butter, cinnamon, and sugar on half of it
the other half is to cover the butter, cinnamon, and sugar
use a fork to seal the edges and bake until brown.

Its make a good breakfast or snack.

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Biblical Birth-day Verse

http://www.mybirthverse.com/

Mine is:

Matthew 5:9 NIVBlessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Crock Pot Sweet Potatoes:

4 large sweet potatoes peedled and sliced (my father gives me his sweet potatoes and when I say large, I mean large)

3 large Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and cubed (or your favorite sweet baking apples)

1/4 lb butter melted
1/2 c brown sugar
1/2 c apple juice (I just use water)
1 t. cinnamon1/2 t. nutmeg (optional)

The Recipe says:

Layer sweet potatoes and apples in slow cooker. Mix melted butter and brown sugar, spoon over the top of the sweet potatoes and apples. Pour the apple juice or water over the entire mixture. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Cook on low 6 to 8 hours.

Stir and serve.

I admit it - I'm lazy when it comes to cooking - and I like quick recipes without a lot of prep time so I usually don't bother melting the butter and mixing it with the sugar, I just cut up the butter and put it, the brown sugar and cinnamon on top of the layered sweet potatoes and apples, pour the water in and stir everything about 1/2 way through cooking. My crock pot has a low, high and autoshift setting (the setting I use) so my cook time is about 4 hours. It comes out like a dark apple sauce and can be eaten hot or cold. My boys eat this as a side dish, I have a small serving in place of my desert.

Recipe by dcfrances (Butlercafe)

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

OVER NIGHT SWEET ROLLS


6 pm, mix together
½ cup lukewarm water
2 tsp sugar
2 pg dry yeast

Let mix and stand for 10 minutes

Add 4 cups lukewarm water
1 ½ cup sugar
1 egg
3 tsp. Salt
1 cup oil or melted margarine
15 cups flour

Knead 8 to 10 minutes

Place in greased bowl, cover & set aside
Let stand 2 ½ to 3 hours or 9 pm
Shape rolls, put in pans, cover well, but not tightly,
Let rise on table overnight.

Bake at 350 degrees till brown, when you get up

Depending on how you shape, you will get between 4 and 5 dozen.

Recipe by Lenora (Butlercafe)

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Christmas Ornaments

I have been making some ornaments, there are so many to choice from. Here are a couple I have made. Sorry the color is off, I guess scanning wasn't the best way to do it.





http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/christmas_ornaments.php

If you find a site you like or would like to share what you have made I would love to see it.

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Christmas Decorations-Crafts

Here is a website I have found, there is so much to do here. If you make anything I would love to see it or hear about it. If you have a favorite sight I would love to see it.

http://www.allfreecrafts.com/christmas/index.shtml

Friday, November 28, 2008

Thanksgiving Leftovers

Check this site out. Yum makes me hungry looking at it.
Make the Most of Yesterday's Leftover Turkey

Christmas is coming

and what fun stuff there is to do. Yes I still have my cleaning and it is not on
my fun list, but someone has to do it.


This year I have been making some gifts and cards.

My cards are made from odds and ends I have in my stash. I didn't go buy anything not even the stamps I bought them earlier in the year because I new I wouldn't have the money to get them now. The nice thing is some of the materials were gifts from some very special friends.

Material:
Christmas cards and envelopes
stamp- front of card Tis The Season- inside To Be Jolly
winter wonderland embossing powder
sizzix cut outs

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving

Give us this day our daily bread, O Father in heaven, and grant that we who are filled with good things from Your open hand, may never close our hearts to the hungry, the homeless, and the poor; in the name of the Father, and of the Sone, and of the Holy Spirit.

- from the abbey of New Clairvaux, Viña, California

Friday, November 21, 2008

Cleaning

I am still cleaning everyday. I don't think I will ever be done. Here is the bingo list for today. don't forget if anyone wants it in bingo form email me. If I don't send a new one grab a old one. Have A Great Day and I hope you get lots done.


spend 15 mins picking up living room
run vaccum
find a hotspot anywhere in your house and clear it
movers-let's unpack 3 boxes. YOU CHOOSE...everyone else..pick a room and spend 15 mins cleaning in there.
light a candle
work on crafts or christmas cards set timer 20 mins
make beds
figure out what's for dinner
clear dining room/kitchen table
sweep kitchen
run any errands you need to do today
pick up and put away 10 things out of place
Laundry or Go find another hot spot and attack it
spend 15 mins in your bedroom doing whatever cleaning or organizing you need to do
deal with dishes
clear off kitchen counter
see if you can find any clutter to list on freecycle
spend 15mins on cleaning up computer arrea or another area if computer is done (mine's not)
pick up stray laundry..shoes..coats
etc..and change washer loads
spend 15 mins in a room that's screaming for attention
(like your bedroom)
spend 15 minutes in YOUR play area picking up and putting away
spend 15 mins in dining room
do something you been needing to do..hang a picture..wrap it for christmas..dust it..etc..don't have to be a picture just something you been "meaning to do"
tidy up the bathrooms
find 10 things that need put away..movers you know you got em!!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Cleaning Not

Today just didn't work out the way I wanted it to. I did a little cleaning but not alot. I hope others got more done then me.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Day 5 Cleaning

Here is another bingo card if you would like to see it in bingo format e-mail me at juggaloonfire@zoominternet.net

I hope you get lots done.



spend 15 mins picking up living room floor
run vaccum
Organize all books and movies
clean lampshades
/globes
light a candle
load of laundry
if done do something else small
make beds
swish toilets and swipe sinks & mirror
clear dining room/kitchen table
sweep kitchen
spend 10 mins in a childs room picking up before it gets majorly outta hand in there (or your room)
pick up and put away 10 things out of place
find one thing you've been "meaning" to do, like unpack a box, or fix a frame..file papers.,etc
load of laundry if done do something else small
deal with dishes
clear off kitchen counter
see if you can find any clutter to list on freecycle
spend 15mins on cleaning up computer arrea
load of laundry if done do something else small
spend 15 mins in a room that's screaming for attention
(like your bedroom)
spend 15 minutes in YOUR play area picking up and putting away
spend 20 mins working on a craft (we should do this one together)
Go in your bedroom and find 6 things that do not belong in there and put them where they go
spend 15 mins on craft table cleaning not playing
spend 15 minutes clearing something in your room..dresser..nite stand..closet..etc..

Monday, November 17, 2008

Day 4 Cleaning

This was a cleaning bingo card, I see on here it isn't working. So I guess its just become a list of things to do today. Have a Great Day.


spend 15 mins picking up living room floor
run vaccum
clean off a hotspot in living room
wipe tv sceen and monitor to if it needs it
light a candle
load of laundry
make beds
clean bathroom
clear dining room/kitchen table
sweep kitchen
spend 10 mins in a childs room picking up before it gets majorly outta hand in there (or your room)
pick up and put away 10 things out of place
find one thing you've been "meaning" to do, like unpack a box, or fix a frame..etc
load of laundry
put dishes away that need to be put where they belong
clear off kitchen counter
spend 10 minutes tidying the fridge
spend 15mins on cleaning up computer arrea
load of laundry
spend 15 mins in a room that's screaming for attention
spend 15 minutes in YOUR play area picking up and putting away
find something that need organized and spend 10 mins doing that
pick up 10 things that need thrown away
spend 15 mins on craft table
check all trash and see if it needs empty

Friday, November 14, 2008

Day 3 Cleaning NOT

Chris is coming home for a visit this weekend Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. I went to the store today and got some of his favorite food. So that means I didn't get my cleaning done. Tomorrow is another day.
I also picked up a couple more little Christmas gifts.

Day 3 Cleaning

Housework is something you do that nobody notices until you don't do
it. ~Author Unknown


8:30-9:00
Get dressed.
Turn off TV and turn on the radio.
Chat
9:00- 9:30
Fold clothes, put them away, wipe off washer and dryer.
9:30-9:45
Chat
9:45-10:00
Clean steps (wash or sweep) inside or outside.
10:00-10:15
Chat
10:15-10:30
Find 10 things you need to put away or throw away.
10:30-10:45
Chat
10:45-11:15
Go to 1 of your bedrooms pick up and dust it.
11:15-11:30
Chat
11:30-12:00
Sweep the bedroom and the hallway.
12:00-
Chat, eat lunch and work on the rest of the list we have for are everyday stuff.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Day 2 cleaning

Our house is clean enough to be healthy, and dirty enough to be happy.
~Author Unknown


8:30-9:00
Get dressed.
Turn off TV and turn on the radio.
Chat
9:00- 9:30
Go into 1 of your bathrooms and take everything out that you can (waste basket, brushes and combs, shower curtain, rugs, hand soap, etc) Spray everything down and make it shine. 9:30-9:30-9:45
Chat
9:45-10:00
Clean brushes and combs and sweep bathroom floor. If you have time wash floor.
10:00-10:15
Chat
10:15-10:30
Put everything back in bathroom.
10:30-10:45
Chat
10:45-11:15
Go look at your diningroom and find that spot that has everything you tried to hide. Get rid of or put away as much as you can. Wipe of table
11:15-11:30
Chat
11:30-12:00
Wipe chairs and sweep the floor.
12:00-
Chat, eat lunch and work on the rest of the list we have for are everyday stuff.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Day 1 Cleaning

House Cleaning Blues
by Ellen Bailey


I have the house cleaning blues
I look around and see so much to do
I look at the walls, the windows, and the floors
I see heaps of dust layered like boards

What I need is a good house cleaning crew
But where to get one, I haven't a clue
I asked for volunteers, but none would relent
Their community spirit, it seems, had been spent

I could wish for an occasional hurricane
For me, that may not be such a bad thing
I could raise the windows and open the doors
And be done with these house cleaning chores

But hurricanes don't occur where I live
So its left up to me to clean this crib
I have devised a plan to get the job done
Since I can no longer depend on anyone

My plan is as simple as it can be
One that is not very taxing on me
My walking shoes I will lace up tight
And from this nightmare I will take flight



8:30-9:00
Get dressed.
Turn off TV and turn on the radio.
Chat
9:00- 9:30
Do dishes and pick up 10 things that don't belong in there and put them away or throw them away.
9:30-9:45
Chat
9:45-10:00
Clean out microwave- if clean scrub kitchen sink and counter
10:00 -10:15
Chat
10:15-10:45
Clean out one shelf or cupboard- now we all have to have a untiedied shelf or cupboard.
10:45-11:00
Chat
11:00-11:15
Put away the mess that you have made. If done sweep floor.
11:15-11:30
Chat
11:30-12:00
Clean outside of stove- if clean, clean off cupboard doors.
12:00-
Chat, eat lunch and work on the rest of the list we have for are everyday stuff.

Getting ready for Christmas

CLEAN THE HOUSE



There are 3 of us girls that have a bad habit of chatting in the morning, sometimes all day and we don't get to the extra house work (well at least I don't). So everyday one of us will make a list and we will follow it as close as possible to get are house ready.

I want to start getting out the decoration next week, but I can't put them in the different rooms until there clean.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

A Mother's Child

A Mother's Child
by Mom
A mother's child is every breath that she takes,
walking hand in hand, they are every step that she makes.

And as their steps will grow to strides,
still a child, in mother's eyes.

Every ache and pain they shall feel,
mother will share and with love she will kneel.

She will pray to God to take care of her child,
to protect and guide them through every mile.

Her child is the very core of her soul,
from baby in arms to an adult they will grow.

For to a mother, her child will stay,
the precious infant she held that day.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Have a safe Halloween Everyone

The Night Wind
by Eugene Field

Have you ever heard the wind go "Yooooo"?
'Tis a pitiful sound to hear!
It seems to chill you through and through
With a strange and speechless fear.
'Tis the voice of the night that broods outside
When folk should be asleep,
And many and many's the time I've cried
To the darkness brooding far and wide Over the land and the deep:
"Whom do you want, O lonely night,
That you wail the long hours through?"
And the night would say in its ghostly way:
"Yoooooooo! Yoooooooo! Yoooooooo!"

My mother told me long ago
(When I was a little tad)
That when the night went wailing so,
Somebody had been bad;
And then, when I was snug in bed,
Whither I had been sent,
With the blankets pulled up round my head,
I'd think of what my mother'd said,
And wonder what boy she meant!
And "Who's been bad to-day?"
I'd ask Of the wind that hoarsely blew;
And the voice would say in its meaningful way:
"Yoooooooo! Yoooooooo! Yoooooooo!"

That this was true I must allow--
You'll not believe it, though!
Yes, though I'm quite a model now,
I was not always so.
And if you doubt what things I say,
Suppose you make the test;
Suppose, when you've been bad some day
And up to bed are sent away
From mother and the rest--
Suppose you ask, "Who has been bad?"
And then you'll hear what's true;
For the wind will moan in its ruefulest tone:
"Yoooooooo! Yoooooooo! Yoooooooo!"

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Chris is off to PTI

October 18, 2008 mom, dad, and me moved Chris into his apartment to go to school. It is very hard for me to let him go. We talk everyday, sometimes more then once. He tells me he misses me and of cource I miss him.
He has been there a week and I said I was not going to go see him, and I'm not. Mom, Dad and Miya went to see him and to take him a computer, drafting table, and left overs that I know he will love to eat. They are going shopping for a couple more things he needs. Boy do I wish I would of went, but dh is working and I am home with the other 2 kids.
Here are some pics on his apartment.





Friday, October 17, 2008

Time Out

Time out isn't always the way to go. I am puting one foot in front of the other and moving on.

Quote

I am a great believer in luck. The harder I work, the more of it I seem to have.

-Coleman Cox

Friday, September 19, 2008

It's Christmas Time Again

Put your problems on probation
Run your troubles off the track,
Throw your worries out the window
Get the monkeys off your back.
Silence all your inner critics
With your conscience make amends,
And allow yourself some happiness
It's Christmas time again!

Call a truce with those who bother you
Let all the fighting cease,
Give your differences a breather
And declare a time of peace,
Don't let angry feelings taint
The precious time you have to spend,
And allow yourself some happiness
It's Christmas time again!

Like some cool refreshing water
Or a gentle summer breeze,
Like a fresh bouquet of flowers
Or the smell of autumn leaves,
It's a banquet for the spirit
Filled with family, food and friends,
So allow yourself some happiness
It's Christmas time again!

(by Bob Lazzar-Atwood)

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Vacation on the Liberty of the Seas


Hi,
I have missed everyone, but I would leave again tomorrow to go back.

We left home at 3:30 AM Saturday got to PIT and ran into Aunt Barb and Ly. They helped us get are luggage into the airport while dad parked the truck in extended parking. PIT airport was easy to get around. We were flying out on US Airway, they had some problems getting the wheelchair into the plane. what a pain they came on the plane to find me to ask how they can get the chair into the plane. Anyways we made it and we were in the air. The flight was good but of course none of us could sleep we were just to excited.

We landed in FLL. around 11:00 PM got the wheelchair it had a couple scratches but it still worked fine and at that point that is all that mattered to us. We had to wait until a bus came with a lift ( I was just looking for a place to have a smoke). That took another 30 minutes. We went outside around 11:30, it was hot and humid. Wouldn't you know the bus lift didn't work, they played with it for a hour. Not a good thing. RC ended up getting us a taxi that took us to the ship. About 40 minutes later Yaaaaaaaaaaa we made it to the ship. Liberty of the Seas is a big ship.

Embankment went pretty smooth after we found out were we needed to go. We got are sea passes and on the ship we went. We went right to are stateroom 10th floor JS 1328 and dropped off are carry on bags we had 7 of them oh what fun it was making sure we didn't lose any of them. We all were hungry so off to the Jade and Windjammer buffets. Everyone had to eat here it was the only thing open. There were lots of people just as excited as we were but getting through with a wheelchair was not fun. The rest of the day we spent walking around the ship, we didn't want to be lost all week. It was so pretty, elegant, and there was so much to look at.

Sep. 7, 2008 was a sea day, we got to catch up on some of are sleep and look at places on the ship we didn't have time to the day before ( there is still places we didn't get to see ).
Of course we went shopping and played in the casino ( we all lost but had fun doing it ), I went to a scrapbooking class ( Yaaaaaaaaaa ) we made a page and they shared some ideas. There was food everywhere and I think that was one of the things we did most LOL. It was all good and if you didn't like it they gave you something else. It was great not having to do dishes or cook.

Sep. 8, 2008 we sailed into Cozumel, Mexico we didn't book any excursions here so we just went shopping. Pushy people but we got some deals. Chris didn't bring a hat or sun classes so we got him some sunglasses. We only spent about 2 hours there and back to the ship we went. It was a nice and sunny day but very hot. After dinner we went swimming and then to a show. We are still trying to catch up on a sleep but who wants to miss all the fun.


Sep. 9, 2008 we were suppose to go to Grand Cayman but the water was to chopping for the tenders to safely get us to shore so we were not able to go. So it was another day at sea. There was lots to do Chris got online ( pricey but he had fun ). Me and Chris went swimming, of course there was breakfast, lunch and dinner ( YUM ), and finding more views to see on the ship. Mom, dad, Chris, me, Aunt Barb and Ly went to the Hoof and Claw bar to listen to a guy play guitar and we all sang along.

Sep. 10, 2008 we went to Ochio Rio, Jamaica. Mom and dad went to Duns Falls and to see some gardens. Since we were not booked to go here we didn't have anything set up for Chris in a wheelchair, so me and Chris went swimming and shopping. I got my hair braided ( love it). We had fun but it was a different place and I don't think I would ever want to go back there without a excursion booked. I was asked if I wanted to by weed or any thing else. There were cement walls and barbwire on top of them around the shores, cops everywhere, and lots of people wanting to sell you something. On the ship we went swimming and to the show.

Sep. 11, 2008 we went to Labbade, Haiti it is so pretty there I could of moved in. Labbade is RC island me and Chris rented floating mats and did some sopping, mom and dad went on a walking tour of the island and went shopping, Aunt Barb and Ly went shopping. We all had lunch and back to the ship. Me and Chris got sunburned I guess 2 hours in the ocean was a little to much. We still went swimming on the ship and walked around.

Sep. 12, 2008 was a sea day. It rained for about 3 minutes and we got to see a rainbow. We did the normal of lounging around, ate to much and went to the show, I was in tears it was so funny,and I got to scrapbook again,. We had to get are luggage packed and set outside are rooms by 11:00pm. we didn't want to go, but we couldn't afford another week.

Sep. 13, 2008 up at 5:30am got some breakfast and off the ship we went at 6: 30. Everything went smooth until it came time to catch a bus to Miami airport. The ship told us someone would be waiting for us ( that didn't happen ) we waited about a hour and a bus came to get us ( this one worked ). We got to the airport 3 hours before but wouldn't you no the elevator we needed to use didn't work, so we were off walking again. I would never fly into or out of this airport if I didn't have to. We made it home the flight was great. I slept the hold time. We stopped and got something to eat, Last time to be pampered and not have to cook or clean.

All and all it was a great trip the only thing i have to say to RC is you need more elevators 8 is not enough when you are in a wheelchair, and I would work on the airport to ship and ship to airport transfers. PIT airport was the best out of the 3.

Monday, August 4, 2008

Cards

Here are a couple cards that I made for a sketch challenge.

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Paper Crafts


I had seen this on http://365-days-of-memories.blogspot.com/ and I fell in love with the idea, so here is what I made last night.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

All You Need

My eyes are here to see you
through times of doubt or strife
My legs are here to leap you
over obstacles in life
My hands are here to push you
a little further toward your dreams
My voice is here to teach you
life's not always what it seems
My arms are here to hold you
when you feel you're going to fall
My finger's here to point you up
when your confidence grows small
My heels are here to stomp you down
when you fail to hide your pride
My elbow's here to shove you
toward the truth when you have lied.
My tongue is here to talk you through
solutions you may seek
My fists are here to fight for you
whenever you're too weak
My shoulder's here to lean on
when your innocence is at stake
My lips are here to kiss you
down those paths you'd never take
My tears are here to flood you
with more grace than you can bear
My feet are here to walk you past
the times when life's not fair
My mouth is here to answer
to your every desperate plea
And my heart is here to love you
if my love is all you need.

Miyas in Love


Miya has her first crush, it is so cute. She gets all excited when Mark comes to visit Ray and Jess. She says he smell good and he talks real nice. LOL It is so hard to keep from laughing.

What are we going to do with her.


Miya is only 5 years old and just getting ready to go into Kind and she likes boys already, we are in big trouble.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Be Your Own Boss

Great News! Start Your Own Health Benefits Business for only $20.00!


I have some really great news for you! For a limited time only, you can start your AmeriPlan business for just $20.00 for the first month. This promotion begins on June 30th, 2008 and ends July 31st, at 5pm central time. This is an excellent opportunity to try a new business and see if it is right for you with minimal financial risk.

About this opportunity

As a new Independent Business Owner signing up during our February promotion, you will receive the Dental Plus plan for your entire family. This plan will help you save up to 80% on dental, vision, prescription and chiropractic services. You will also receive 5 professionally designed websites, a computerized back office, full training and staff support, and a broker's kit containing brochures, DVDs, and application forms to help you make those sales. In addition you will receive two $25 certificates redeemable in our sales aids store for additional sales tools and supplies.


AmeriPlan has been in business for 16 years and is a member in good standing of the Consumer Health Alliance, the National Association of Dental Plans, Dun & Bradstreet, the Direct Selling Association, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Well-known companies such as Lenscrafters, Pearle Vision, J C Penney, CVS, Walgreens, and Rite-Aid are vision and prescription providers for AmeriPlan.

As an AmeriPlan Independent Business Owner, you will have the opportunity to:

Earn significant immediate income
Earn a six-figure residual income in 2 to 4 years
Qualify for a lifetime, vested, willable, and sellable contract
Help others save money on their benefits or make money in their own business
And every broker receives free benefits

For more information on the business opportunity visit my website at: www.freedomathometeam.com/TCottrill

Friday, July 11, 2008

Fun in the Sun


Me and the kids gave Niki (Dog) a bath today. Fun Fun. We were more wet then her. LOL Alan is getting the grass cut, it smells so good. Summer can be so much fun if it isn't in the high 80's or 90's and today has been a great day. The kids played in the water and ran around the yard. I hope they are tired and go to bed early (you know this will never happen).

I hope everyone is having a great Summer.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Library Day

Today was story time at the library and the kids had a great time. We all got some new books to read. Fun Fun


A book is not only a friend, it makes friends for you. When you have possessed a book with mind and spirit, you are enriched. But when you pass it on you are enriched threefold.

-Henry Miller

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Fourth of July Week


Fourth of July week me, the 4 kids, mom and dad went to camp (the yellow house camp is what the kids call it). We got some work done and enjoyed are time there. The weather wasn't to bad, we had a couple days of rain in the evening, but after it we still got to sit out around the fire and we only had one day that it rained all day. Out of 8 days I don't think that was bad at all.

I got to read 2 books and started on another one, the kids got to go to the park, and we all got to watch the fireworks. We sat around the fire everyday, got a ditch dug to put the electic lines underground, wood cut and split for the rest of the summer and the shower rebuilt. I am so glad the temps were in the 70's not in the 80's and 90's like this week.

None of us wanted to come home but it was time to. We all had to get back to work and Shema is going to summer camp 2 days a week. We will be going back soon to enjoy just a weekend.



Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Yard Work

Is it ever done? today we go the grass and veg. garden all planted. A little late but better then having nothing.

Each flower is a soul opening out to nature.
- Gerald De Nerval

Monday, June 23, 2008

Monday

Its slowing down around here this week. I have been playing with the kids, getting some paper work done, and trying to get some yard work done. The garden is almost done being planted. I hope I get lots of veggies this year.

Everything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it.

Monday, June 16, 2008

Week of Party


Boy am i behind on post.
It was a fun week. Dad got hurt at work while he was out of town so we went to Danville to pick him up. It was a 4 hour drive one way. So there went one day and the morning of another that I didn't get nothing done. Plus it had to rain a couple days so I was behind. Jess and Ray went food shopping for me so I didn't have to go no where and that really helped.
The day of the party it rained up until a half hour before the party started. I was so bummed. Everything turned out real nice. There was lots of food and smiles.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Count Down 5

Am I ever going to get this done????
Of course today was very hot, and I have a couple metal chairs that had some rust on them. I decided to clean them up and paint them. Oh my, I got one chair almost ready to paint, I hope Alan will be home tomorrow to help me get them done. I also got the living room put together, now I need to find somewhere to put all the stuff I don't want in there. So it looks like I better get busy and get some more done tonight.
Hopefully know rain tomorrow.
I got the kids slip and slide out today and they had a blast and stayed cool. I hope it will entertain them tomorrow to.

Sunday, June 8, 2008

Count Down 6

I really feel like I got alot done. I got 3 tables painted and my livingroom floor scrubed, and moved around. Now onto other things on my list. I'm tired.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Count Down 7

I'm trying to get things ready for Chris's party. It is so stinken hot outside. I did go out and put some more bark in the beds, so there will be more pictures comeing soon.
I'm going to go scrub the kids carpet today and finish cleaning my bedroom. Fun Fun. Everything is in the livingroom right now. So I will have to get it cleaned then. The list goes on and on.

"If it weren't for the last minute, nothing would ever get done"

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Home for the Summer

Should I pull my hair out now or wait another day or two.
I made a chore list for the kids, today is day 1. Now they just need to play together and be good. Any ideas?
I need to get my business moving, the sooner the better. The kids need to get into a routine first.
It will all pull together soon.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Christopher

Graduation is over. Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. I never thought I would get thru the day. It started off good then I decided before I started getting everyone into the shower, I would iron Chris's robe. Big mistake, I have ironed 3 other robes with this iron and everything was fine. Not this time. it burned a hole right thru it. I am so glad I started to iron in the back on the bottom. I was panicing, thankfuly I was talking to my mom, she said I will be right over. We got it hemmed and I thought ok were back on track. The iron is in the garbage were it should be, I hope know one fines it and tries to use it. Then I couldn't get ahold of Alan he was suppose to leave work early and his cell wasn't. Here he did leave work ontime he just never turned it on. Everything went fine. Dad, Layne, Raymond, Jess, Alan, Me, Tashema, Tayinna, and Miya were there to watch Chris get his deploma. Now you can see him get it to. I didn't get them calling his name but I did get him walking across the stage.
Here are some other pictures of my little boy.





Monday, June 2, 2008

The Law of Clarity

Clarity accounts for probably 80% of success and happiness. Lack of clarity is probably more responsible for frustration and underachievement than any other single factor. That's why we say that "Success is goals, and all else is commentary." People with clear, written goals, accomplish far more in a shorter period of time than people without them could ever imagine. This is true everywhere and under all circumstances.

The Three Keys to High Achievement
You could even say that the three keys to high achievement are, "Clarity, Clarity, Clarity," with regard to your goals. Your success in life will be largely determined by how clear you are about what it is you really, really want.

Write and Rewrite Your Goals
The more you write and rewrite your goals and the more you think about them, the clearer you will become about them. The clearer you are about what you want, the more likely you are to do more and more of the things that are consistent with achieving them. Meanwhile, you will do fewer and fewer of the things that don't help to get the things you really want.



The Seven Step Process for Achieving Goals
Below you will find the simple, seven-step process that you can use to achieve your goals faster and easier than ever before.

First, decide exactly what you want in each area of your life. Be specific!

Second, write it down, clearly and in detail;

Third, set a specific deadline. If it is a large goal, break it down into sub-deadlines and write them down in order;

Fourth, make a list of everything you can think of that you are going to have to do to achieve your goal. As you think of new items, add them to your list;

Fifth, organize the items on your list into a plan by placing them in the proper sequence and priority;

Sixth, take action immediately on the most important thing you can do on your plan. This is very important!

Seventh, do something every day that moves you toward the attainment of one or more of your important goals. Maintain the momentum!

Join the Top 3%
Fewer than three percent of adults have written goals and plans that they work on every single day. When you sit down and write out your goals, you move yourself into the top 3% of people in our society. And you will soon start to get the same results that they do.

Review Your Goals Daily
Study and review your goals every day to be sure they are still your most important goals. You will find yourself adding goals to your list as time passes. You will also find yourself deleting goals that are no longer as important as you once thought. Whatever your goals are, plan them out thoroughly, on paper, and work on them every single day. This is the key to peak performance and maximum achievement.

Action Exercises
Here is how you can apply this law immediately:

First, make a list of ten goals that you would like to achieve in the coming year. Write them down in the present tense, as though a year has passed and you have already accomplished them.

Second, from your list of ten goals, ask yourself, "What one goal, if I were to accomplish it, would have the greatest positive impact on my life?" Whatever it is, put a circle around this goal and move it to a separate sheet of paper.

Third, practice the seven-step method described above on this goal. Set a deadline, make a plan, and put it into action and work on it every day. Make this goal your major definite purpose for the weeks and months ahead.

Get ready for some amazing changes in your life.

By: Brian Tracy

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Flowers




Me and Alan put some bark in the flower beds today. There is lots more to do, but you got to start somewhere.

Saturday, May 31, 2008

AmeriPlan

Take the 30-Day Challenge!

Enroll today for the AmeriPlan Dental-Plus plan. You will receive:

up to 80% discounts on dental
up to 60% discounts on vision, Rx, chiropractic
No waiting, No deductibles, No co-pays
All pre-existing conditions accepted
Pay only $19.95/mo for your entire household with a 100% satisfaction guarentee! Here's my 30-day challenge - if you are unhappy with your savings, cancel within 30 days and get a full refund of your first month's payment!! ($20 enrollment fee not included)

PLUS enjoy a 3-day get-away on us! As my personal thank-you for taking the 30-day Challenge, I will send you a certificate for a 3-day/2-night vacation for two, including round-trip airfare and hotel, to your choice of the following locations:

Orlando, Reno, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New Orleans,
Cancun or Puerta Vallarta

Enroll directly on-line at: www.mybenefitsplus.com/TCottrill

Call for more information to Teresa at 1-866-308-2250

Friday, May 30, 2008

10 Ways to Have a Better Day Today

1. Wake up 30 Minutes Early.
Get up 30 minutes before the alarm goes off and take the first half hour for yourself. Once you get busy and into the day there never seems to be the time for yourself. Take this time to plan getting the most from the day.

2. Read, Listen, or Watch Something Uplifting.
Make this a daily habit. Get out of starting the day with no mental food. A great day does not begin with the news or the paper, it begins with ideas or energy that will propel you through the day. What you first hear will stay with you throughout the day.

3. Eat a Good Breakfast to Start You Off Right.
Get something good into your body to wake it up and get it going. Think about the energy you will need to perform. Everyday we run a marathon. What would you need to eat and drink to win it.

4. Choose Your Winning Attitude.
There is enough to go wrong without sabotaging yourself. Your attitude is a choice you make. Don't let it come between you and your success. Be careful to keep it positive all day long.

5. Be Aware of What They are Telling You.
The people around us have a profound effect on how we get through life. Our closest friends and family are our greatest environmental influences. Make sure you have the best advisors you can find.

6. Make the Most of What You Do.
When you get to your work, make it the best place to be. Most people go to work and never think about work while they are there. Focus on your contribution. What would it be like if you were not around. Strive to give a 100% each and every day.

7. Always Remember that People are Listening. My favorite!
Make a point of talking well of others. Wish others the best in life. What goes around does come around. Don't talk negative about anyone. Try to understand their circumstances Practice being a support system to your friends and family. They need you.

8. Be Honest and Fair to Others.
It does make a difference. What you give to others is usually what you get from others. Practice integrity that people can see and feel. Be aware of what you say. Learn to walk your talk at all times. The more people trust you, the more of their time they will trust with you.

9. Pace Your Energy to Last All Day.
Be careful of bursts of energy. Pace your energy throughout the day. If you get to crazy early in the day, you will reach a point of exhaustion before the day is over. By planning your entire day before you begin, you will have what you need. You've heard the old saying "look alive."

10. Get in Bed Early and Study for the Future.
I have a friend who keeps a journal at his bedside. Every night he writes what he learned new on that day. The only way to keep one step above the masses is to learn new ways to do things. Develop the habit of reading a work or personal development book before you go to sleep. Reading for 30 minutes a day is like a year of college. You can't succeed if you don't read. Remember throughout your day that life is what we make it, day by day. Practice having the best day ever. It adds up to a great life.

by Geno Stampora

Christopher



Its Friday and its Christopher's last day of high school. My baby is growing up. He has had so many ups and down times in his life. I will miss him when he goes on to school. Out of all the kids he has needed the most care. I am afraid to let him go out on his own, but right now I'm not going to think of it. I'm going to think of one last summer with him at home.

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Day 3 Thanks

Well I made it to day 3 on my blog, thanks Storm for all your help. Now I hope I can meet lots of new people.

This week has been a busy week for me. We came home from camp, so that means tons of laundry. The yard needed cut, the flower beds need bark put on them, and I trimmed the burning bushes and azaleas. Don't forget about the everyday stuff fun fun.

I wanted to touch base on why I picked my title. There are 8 people that I see everyday in my life and they are very special to me. I don't know what I would be doing without everyone of them. My sons Raymond, Christopher, and Tashema, my daughters Tayinna and Tamiya, and we can't forget about Jess, dh Alan and myself. We all make the 8 of us. Jess if you ever read this I hope you know you are loved just like my own daughter, I don't know were I would be without you.

There is also the list of 8 things about me. Its fun having this list, even know I could change it daily or add more to it. I will be adding a page into my Book About Me on this subject. 8 is such a great number. I will share when I get it done. I better go make a to do list on here today so I don't forget about it.

The sun is shining here today. It will be a great day to get outside.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Christopher

Memorial Weekend

We spent a relaxing family weekend at are family camp. It was so nice to get away. Here is a picture of my mom, dad, and the 3 youngest kids trying to all fit on the swing. I wish moms eyes were open, but love the picture.


The kids learned a new song that my grandma m. use to sing with me and my brother. It is the Nothing song. I know nothing nothing nothing, I know not a thing at all, I know absolutely nothing, How do you like my nothing song, 2nd verse same as the first. The kids are still singing it, and they got me hooked to. Thanks to my grandma m. my mom also is teaching them to say If I'm kid then your a goat, you stink and I don't. If we say kids be good or quiet there suppose to say it to us. The laughs and memories of growing up at camp are there always for me and my kids to remember.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Life At Home

Being at home can be so tuff, and then there is so many perks to being at home everyday with all my children around me. I feel lucky that I'm able to do it.

Monday, May 19, 2008

We Adopted 3 Wonderful Children

In August 2003 my dhs grandchildren came to stay with us thru kinship.
It was a big change for us. Ray and Chris were doing there own thing. Me and Alan were starting to get the freedom we had been looking forward to,but when CYS called we had a family vote and they moved in.
We never thought it would end up with us adopting them but there parents were not able to take care of them, so Dec. 15, 2005 we adopted 3 wonderful children that became my children.