Cooking Catalyst

Another Round of "What Kaden Says"

2012-01-19T11:13:00.000-08:00

My kids are hilarious... How can I not share the daily conversations held in the Alcott-Stone household? Sometimes however, I wish they would keep it to themselves :)

Enjoy.

While watching a movie this weekend, there was a scene where Jessica Simpson smooched a guy.
Mason: I wish I could be that guy and kiss her.
Kaden: I wish I had that scooter that guy has been riding around on in the movie.

It snowed last week. I find it very amusing Billy took off of work today "just in case," he needed to drive me to work. Mason turned to him and said "geez dad, even I could have come up with a better excuse about taking a lazy day."

During the UK game today... Billy.... screaming.
Kaden: Gawsh, why is dad screeching so much?
Mason: Duh Kaden, that is what people do who pretend like they are playing. It is called Jealousy.
Me: Evil smile... lol.

Kaden: I cannot live in my room anymore, I saw a mouse in there.
Me: Kaden, it's just a mouse. I will see if I can find it.
I look under his bed and these are the contents in which I pulled out: 1 bag oreos, two peanut butter granola bars, one bag of gushers, two opened capri suns, and a breakfast bar.
Me: Kaden! Why is all this under here?! No wonder there is a mouse.
Kaden: Well, sometimes I just need a snack.

Mom: I got you boys some clothes.
(Holding up different sweaters and long sleeve shirts).
Mom: Kaden do you like this one (a striped gray sweater)?
Kaden:Oh I love this, I have always wanted an old man sweater.

We have started putting up the outside Christmas lights, the rope lights... we decided to drive down the road and back to see our Christmas lights. When we drove back up Kaden had a few comments.
Kaden: What, you mean we drove all that way for this?
Me: Kaden, we just wanted to look at how our lights were looking.
Kaden: How LAME.... all this and we could have just walked outside to look at them.
Me: sigh

Driving down the road I sniff and ask Mason if he has on cologne.
Mason: Of course mom, I gotta smell good.
Me: Well Mason, when I can taste it, that means you have to much on. And you don't need to be wearing it anyway.
Mason: I just want to smell like a teenager. Can't you at least let me smell like one?
Me: sigh

A couple of weeks ago Kaden did not do well on his spelling test, this week he only missed two :) The conversation which followed praise.
Me: Kaden, I am so glad you did awesome this week.
Kaden: I know, last week I did Hoooorrribbbbllle.
Me: Yes, but they were silly mistakes you made.
Kaden: NOOO!! They were REAL mistakes mom!

Kaden: I want a baby sister.
Ang: Ask daddy...
Kaden: I ask for things and then I get them.
Mason: We have to ADOPT one Kaden, gosh!

Kaden: Mom, does this card look good for Granny?
Me (as I glance over): yes bud, it looks awesome.
Kaden: HaHa, I am smarter than you, I spelled Granny wrong and you didn't even know it!

Kaden: Emily, I have loose teeth wanna see?
Emily: So what is the going rate for teeth.
Kaden: there is no such thing as the tooth fairy, daddy is!!
Mason: KADEN!! Dad can't even multiply and Mom would forget, so there is a tooth fairy!!

Kaden: Mom, don't you think I'm acting like a teenager?
Me: Ummm, not really, why?
Kaden: Mom! Didn't you see me walkin' all those places during the football game, and now I smell like a teenager. You know how they sweat and then they stink? That's me mom, gosh.
Me: Well, I guess you better take a shower.
Kaden: Mom, teenagers don't take showers.

Mason helped me yesterday by giving Kaden his spelling test. Here is how Mason used one of the words in a sentence.
Mason: "Dad, the word is dad, ddaaaaddddd. Our dad is chubby. Our dad is big"
LOL! P.S. Kaden got the word correct.

Personalized is the BEST!

2011-11-14T12:46:00.000-08:00

In hopes of making some extra cash for the holiday season, I pulled out the ol' creative block and got to decorating. I started last year, personalizing cake carriers and chip/dip carriers, but as usual, I got bored with it and went on to another venture. Guess what? I'm baaaccckkkkk!!! This is just one of those Blog posts where I am sharing how grateful I am to have people who like what I do, and requested, LOTS of cake and chip carriers.

Below are a few that I have recently completed.

Personalization is always free :)

GO BIG BLUE!!

What? Me? Creative?

2011-11-14T12:37:00.000-08:00

YES! Can you believe it?! I finally found my calling! Melting crayons.

I admit, I tend to sometimes complain about my two budding artists and their tendencies to leave broken and abused crayons, dried out markers, bottles of glue and glittered scattered around my abode.

NOT ANYMORE.

To complete my latest project from Pinterest I actually had to steal a box of there new crayons (shhh, don't tell).

Even though during the melting process, your house will smell like BO, the end result it fantastic! If you can, look at the second picture upside down, that is my favorite. So excited to find the artist in me while recycling at the same time!

Onion Dip is Legit

2011-08-09T12:07:00.000-07:00

Many have asked about my newest recipe... So here, ya, go :)

This is the regular recipe, you can always double it for larger crowds.

One LARGE white onion (chop it really little)

One cup of Mayo (Miracle Whip makes it taste YUCKO)

One bag of THREE cheese blend

Mix ALL these ingredients together, spread in a pan.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and bake for 45 minutes to an hour at 325 degrees :)

Serve it with wheat thins (yes, you can use generic).

Talk about DELICIOUS!

You are just 27?

2011-08-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, once you have children your birthday is about as important as National (insert a day you have little concern for). Which is fine with me. Once I had children, the years started whizzing by faster and my birthdays seem to be happening multiple times per year, which may be why I have had two comments about my birthday "oh you are only going to be 27?"

Hmmmmm..... no wonder.

My friends all just tell me I am mature for my age, you know since I am so sophisticated and all.

Well, we partied like it was my 30th bday. Not only did my lovely B.Stone throw me an awesome surprise party (which he ended up telling me about five hours before because he KNOWS I am anal about having a clean house and food ready before anyone arrives), I got a DOUBLE BACON bagel for breakfast, the night before the girls and I went out and enjoyed some music and yummy food (not to mention meet the self proclaimed Mayor of Applebees and a girl who answered to the name "Mustang SALLY"), and I was greeted at my party with an aray of bacon food!! Candied Bacon, BLT dip, Bacon fudge, and the yummiest of ALL, Chocolate Chip Bacon cookies! What a weekend.

My heart doctor would be thrilled ;)

Peanut Butter Bacon fudge.

Chocolate Chip Bacon cookies.

Girl's night at George J's on the Square in Glasgow, KY.

Good Bluegrass music and yummy food, accompanied by side stitch laughter made for a hilarious evening.

Yummy Reese cup homemade cheesecake my lovely sister made for me <3

Some of the best friends around came to my surprise birthday party :)

If I got all this for my 27th birthday, I can only begin to imagine what my 30th will be like ;)

Corn Salad Beener Style

2011-07-25T12:36:00.000-07:00

I LOVE BUNCO, not because I love to win tons of FREE stuff (I have couponing for that), but because I get to create/alter and serve YUMMY dishes. I always like to push the limits of the taste buds. Corn Salad is my newest addition of flavor tastebud overload. Check it :)

Ingredients

32 oz. of frozen corn cooked and chilled (after I cook it according to the directions on the bag, I then put it in the fridge for a couple hours or overnight).

1-1 1/2 cups of three cheese blend shredded cheese

2-3 diced green peppers

1/2 red onion chopped

1- 1 1/2 cups of mayo (depending on how creamy you want the salad)

Mix it all together in a bowl and chill for one to two hours. Right before serving, crunch up Chili Cheese Frito's and spread over top of salad (you can mix them in if you like).

Enjoy!

Where has the time gone?

2011-07-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe I have not Blogged in FIVE months!!
There are so many whirlwinds, recipes, and ADVENTURES I have to tell you about :)
Hold on to your desk chairs, it's about to get interesting.

You're the Apple of My Eye

2011-02-11T09:20:00.000-08:00

I LOVE easy crafts. I am not a very crafty person, but I am okay with this because all of my friends are DIY prodigies. I am so excited about this DIY project from Twig & Thistle I found that is so simplistic yet genius. My kids are banana jammas and my love BStone is an "apple a day keeps the doctor away" kinda guy, so I will be able to share and bring a smile to all their faces.

White Out

2011-02-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Be Still My Beating Heart

2011-02-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

What more could a girl want for Valentine's Day than Bacon and Sugar!!

Oh' the things they SAY

2011-02-09T10:33:00.000-08:00

My children.
Their smiles.
What comes out of their mouths.
Priceless.

When I was young, I was the perfect child. Never got dirty, always polite, very generous, and kept to myself. Ha ha, just joking. My parents wouldn't take me into a resturant to eat until I was six because on the few occasions they would let me tag along, I always managed to interview the majority of the patrons who were trying to eat their food in peace. Mom said I would ask everything from "what are you eating" to suggesting people "eat less." **In my defense I was a very intellectual child who was always learning and I couldn't help if I was taught to tell the truth.**
My parents always would say "just wait until you have kids." I was always a bit outspoken through school. And like everything else... my parents were right. My children are the most brutally honest kids and sometimes as they comment in public I look the other way as to take ownership off my shoulders, lol... Now what kind of Blogger would I be if I didn't share with you some of their witty remarks

Mason's definition which earned him extra credit.
Economy: When a place goes low and after Christmas is is not so good for people.
It is pretty sad when an 8 year old sees what shambles the American economy is in.

Mason: Mom, Kaden's voice is really deep sounding.
Me: That is because he has strep throat and the flu.
Mason: Oh' I thought he had "the puberty" or something.

Mason: Mom, I cannot drink this milk, it is going to make me throw up.
Me: Mason if you don't drink your milk, you won't get any sweet tea (he agreed).
Two days later Mason: Moooommmm, you are so mean, how can you make a deal when you know I am a kid who loves sweet tea.

Kaden: Mom, Mason would go to Juvie before I would.

Me: Why?

Kaden: Because I share my Legos, but he won't share his.

While in the vehicle.
Kaden: Mom, look at this big bubble I just blew. (I look over my shoulder to glance).
Mason: Mmmmoooooommmmmmmmm!!!!! (I gasp and yell "WHAT," looking for a deer or something).
Mason: Keep your eyes on the road.

Kaden: "Since I am growing up, I can fart now."

Made a salad for dinner, Mason looked at me and said, "good idea."

*sigh*

A mom at Mason’s school said that her daughter came home and said that there was a kid at school who liked her; turns out it was Mason. So, I asked Mason and he said "Well, you said I am too young to have a girlfriend, sooooo I told Davin to tell her to ask me out." BAHAHA, I almost died laughing. And I said "well how did that work out for you?" He said, "weeeellllllll, I am a single man." I am guessing she didn't concur with the idea, lol!

All of Kaden's class had scarecrows and each student wrote what there scarecrow does, like go to the zoo, go to the park etc. What did Kaden's say? "My scarecrow is blue, he likes to stand." How can you argue with a five year old who has logic like that?

My Valentine

2011-02-06T19:22:00.001-08:00

The Stone Brothers UNITE

2011-02-06T19:19:00.000-08:00

I enjoy snapfish, the millions of photos I can order at once while in my jammies; not having to wait in line at Wal-mart behind someone who has never used the machine before, or in Rite Aid (every time I am in there they ALWAYS run out of paper). And of course with Snapfish I can order photocards for any occasion or unocassion I see fit. BUT, whenever I WANT the boys to pose a certain way, it never works out (chuckling as I type)... here are a few from the Valentine's day "photo shoot."

Kaden said his one eye was tired and he was trying to push it open (Oh' lord).

Kaden wanted an "I need chocolate face" on the card.

Call it a Canjo

2011-01-17T13:44:00.000-08:00

Forget the guitar, forget the Banjo. MStone is now the proud owner of a CANJO.

MStone's words "I will be a famous CANJO player. Bigger than that Justin Beaver guy."

Save that SPAM can and make ya a CANJO!

(I actaully had to find one since that is one thing NOT allowed in my house)

Not only a great thing to play around the campfire, but also to serenade that special person.

Too hot to handle!

Yes, Bstone is obsessed with anything music and along with a friend created the canjo (yes I am sure someone has already created this masterpiece of Redneckism)... complete with a Spam can (they claim it makes the best sound). MStone says since he got his Redwings for Christmas a Canjo is ALL he needed to make his Hillbilly ora complete (I had to remind him that "Hillbillies" don't wear Under Armour).

My Face Hurts

2011-01-13T09:30:00.000-08:00

I have "adult" acne. And it SUCKS. I blame it on my father, I may age gracefully being Native American, but I have the most oily skin ever. Over the years I have tried NUMEROUS products, I use to buy EVERYTHING and ANYTHING that promised to get rid of blemishes, acne, etc. I even used Acutane, which was one of the WORST decisions I ever made in my life. The repurcussions of taking Acutane are never worth a couple of years of clear skin. After Acutane and bags of facial products in the end only a couple products work. There are some that were the worst. I don't know if anyone else has this problem, but I am sharing my "opinion" on the best and the worst facial products.

Arbonne's Clear Advantage Line

Grade: A-

Thoughts: For the Clear Advantage to work, you have to use all three products, the cleanser, toner, and clarifier. BUT if you do it WORKS, and it is not too harsh on your skin. I only experienced three days of dryness. It is a little pricy for the size.

Clinique Acne Solutions

Grade: C-

Thoughts: Just because they slap solutions on the name, does not mean it is a solution for everyone. If you use this, your face will not get CLEAN. However, if you use the Clinique cleanser with microbeads, your face does get clean and feels refreshed.

Clean and Clear

Grade: D

Clean and Clear smells good, but after a month it ALWAYS stops working :(

Glytone Acne Treatment System

Grade: A+

Thoughts: Even though the kit is $60.00, it will last four months, which means you are ONLY spending $15.00 a month of facial treatment. Even after I had chemical peels and laser treatment, Glytone is the reason my face cleared up. Even though the spot treatment is stronger than ALL others on the market, it doesn't burn. And your eyes don't water when you use the toner.

Proactiv

Grade: F

Thoughts: Not only when you order this do you have to pay for shipping, but you are automatically signed up to receive a shipment every month. And once again you have to use every single product, just as described, twice a day, and after all that... it DOESN'T work. You have a permanent residue left on your face. Even people it did work for, when they thought their acne was "cured" would stop using it and their skin troubles would come back in full force.

WASTE OF MONEY!

Mary Kay

Grade: D

Thoughts: For the price you pay for this cleansing line, you really should get more results than a smelly, dry, and peeling face which brings on redness and soreness. The toner is WAY too strong for anyone's skin and you never get that "truly" clean feeling.

A New Kind of Resolution

2011-01-10T09:02:00.000-08:00

I heard on the radio this morning that people who make resolutions have a 30 % more chance of doing something positive in their life. I told myself I was not making a list of resolutions this year, because they are ALWAYS the same... lose weight, be nicer, etc. So this year instead I am making a list of things I want to accomplish within 2011. Here are a few of them...

1. Get to my goal weight of 130 lbs.
2. Be able to wear a bikini by summer.
3. Run a half marathon.
4. Take Mason to the Lego Store in NY (this would have been accomplished in December, but the weather was HECTIC).
5. Run enough 5k's to complete my quilt blocks.
6. Try one new recipe per week (last weeks was a french onion roast in the crock pot=YUM).
7. Go spulunking in Mammoth Cave (there is a six hour tour I plan on going on).
8. Take Kaden to at least four demolition derbies (he is crazy about them).
9. Get MARRIED.*haha yeah right, I am perfectly happy being happily unmarried.*

I feel like we live life for others, and our children. These past few years I feel like I have forgotten what it is like to do things for myself, so I am going to focus on "me" time this year. Not that my children will get any less time or attention from me, but I may run an extra half mile some days, or I may let BStone take them to the movies while I go running, lol. I don't know... I just know it is going to be a GOOD year.

Fat Man's Misery

2011-01-03T13:13:00.000-08:00

One of our latest adventures included a trip to Mammoth Cave National Park with some of our dear relatives from California and Edmonton. This was the kiddos first trip to Mammoth Cave and I was so scared they would get hungry, or tired, or annoyed with each other, maybe even scared of the dark.

Needless to say I was wrong, Mason was to busy designing his Batman lair during the two hour historic tour to even notice the creepy characteristics on the cave, and Kaden was fascinated with the steps and the Russians and Chinese tourists that surrounded us. His favorite line while laughing "Mom, I thought I knew all the English but I don't know that." Yes he is nosy.

The boy's favorite part of the cave. Fat Man's Misery, it should also be considered Tall Women's Misery, I felt hunchback once I left the cave.

We made it! two hours, two miles, and no tears later, we emerge after walking up 200+ stairs.

http://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/gocavetours.htm

My Christmas Present

2011-01-03T12:53:00.000-08:00

BStone and I agreed this year that we weren't going to get each other anything this year for Christmas. As the boys get older their gifts get more expensive and of course Santa can't pay for everything.

On Christmas Eve morning, after a breakfast of homeade waffles and bacon Billy quietly went behind the tree and pulled out a couple of boxes. He handed one to me and one to Gab.

Notice how BStone addresses my sister's present, LOL!

And below is mine.

I was surprised, humbled, and somewhat upset, I had NOTHING to give him.

But he simply said, "it is not a Christmas gift." It is simply a "thank you" for being such a good mother and wife figure to the boys and I.

*After nine years he still keeps me smiling.*

It Is Times Like These

2010-12-17T11:22:00.000-08:00

That I am thankful for.

Going on adevntures with the kiddos.

Conquering the "creek on the hill."

Dueling on the tree with official "Big Pop Pop" swords

Cookie? Yes please.

2010-12-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

We all know who our strongest critics are. Our kids, our significant others, ourselves. Okay, so everyone. In my world, it is my children who are the ones I strive to please when it comes to food. Why? Because they are STRINGBEANS who are so PICKY; so when they say they like something (even if it may be cookies), I latch on and add the recipe into my "binder." The latest cookie craze in my house has been over Kris Kringles. I found the recipe on the kraft website and tweaked it to my liking.

1 cup margarine, softened

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2-1/4 cups flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 pkg. (6 squares each) White Chocolate, chopped
1 cup chocolate chips
1 ½ cups chopped Pecans
1 ½ cups dried cranberries

HEAT oven to 375ºF.
BEAT margarine and sugars in large bowl with mixer.
BLEND in the eggs and vanilla.
ADD flour, baking soda and salt; mix well. Stir in chocolate, nuts and cranberries.
DROP rounded tablespoonfuls of dough, 1-1/2 inches apart, onto baking sheets.
BAKE 10-12 min. or until lightly browned.
COOL for 3 minutes and transfer to wire racks. Cool completely.

My child, my stereotype

2010-12-16T12:13:00.000-08:00

I am Native American, not an Indian (I am not from India).

But yet EVERY Thanksgiving holiday I have to bite my tongue as my children arrive home donning “Indian” headdresses and beaded necklaces. Or the ever so famous paper bag costume, Kaden came home with one that had a stick figure and a river on it. I was even serenaded with “One little, two little, three little Indians.” I hate to tell them, but “Indians” ain’t little. So below you will see what I must go through to be a wonderful parent, as it is not my child’s fault they are dressed up and paraded around in stereotypical gear. I have to admit though, he is one of the cutest stereotypical “Indians” I have ever seen.

Oh' Christmas Tree, Oh' Christmas Tree

2010-12-16T11:31:00.000-08:00

As I have grown older, my inner child has remained strong. This meaning, I think it is a requirement for BOTH my parents to have Christmas trees every yeat. I have let my dad slip by for the past three or four years, but this year my sister and I decided it was high time he quit being a Grinch. Sooooooooo, WE ventured out last weekend and found a uuhhhmmm "perfect tree."

We went to a LARGE patch of Cedar trees to find the perfect one.

I almost lost a finger, but we got it cut down. (*wink, wink*)

Mason and I carried it to the truck and you will notice below I even managed to knock him down.

Sister carried it in.

And let the decorating begin.

*I was SO excited when I realized dad had colored lights. Have you noticed how colored lights are slowly dying... and they are SO pretty!*

The finished product, our beautifully, imperfect SQUARE tree.

*Talked to Daddio last night and he has yet to turn off the lights.*

This was a nice reminder of what CHRISTMAS is really about. Family, spending time with family, and doing something nice for someone once in a while.

Oreo Balls

2010-10-25T12:49:00.000-07:00

Oreo Balls

A Cooking Catalyst’s Signature

www.cookingcatalyst.blogspot.com

Ingredients:

• 1 package of Oreos (if you are making large quantities it can get pricy, the generic chocolate sandwich cookies work just as well).

• 1 package of cream cheese (softened)

• 1 package of almond bark (vanilla or chocolate)

Directions:

Crush the Oreos (into crumbs, not dust). I use a Ziplock bag and a rolling pin, the Pampered Chef chopper works well too.

Mix the cookie crumbs with the softened cream cheese. Form into the desired size balls (I usually make them about one inch). Place on a cookie sheet covered in wax paper and refrigerate one hour.

Melt the almond bark in the microwave as directed.

It is a good idea to melt the chocolate in smaller batches so that it keeps soft enough to dip and you won't waste the leftovers if you have melted too much.

Dip the Oreo balls into the almond bark to cover. Place on a sheet of waxed paper on a cookie sheet.

I like to dip them in the vanilla or chocolate and then whichever one I didn’t use I melt a small portion of and drizzle over the Oreo balls. They look very fancy.

Refrigerate. Once they harden you can package them into containers.

October

2010-10-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Be aware. There is help out there for victims. DV is not just physical abuse, but mental and verbal as well.

www.barrenriverareasafespace.com

www.kdva.org

There are grants avaiable for Victims of Domestic Violence for schooling and other finacial needs.
The number one reason victims don't leave their abusers is financial.
THERE is help.

The IDA program is a match program that helps vicims save money for schooling, homeownership, and even to start a small business.

http://www.cfed.org/programs/idas/

I received my first F

2010-10-18T19:25:00.000-07:00

As a Blogger, I have failed. The reason for my blog is to enlighten, amuse, irritate, and maybe even inspire my readers. Well... how in hell's bells am I suppose to do that if I don't write?!?! So, from the bottom of my heart I apologize, and I PROMISE to never fail you again. So, I am going to do a short synopsis of the past month and a half.

#1 As I hope you know my children are my LIFE. Forget about everything else. So, with the help from some other parents we organized a fall baseball "camp" (if we called it a league the Park Board insisted we charge $45 per player instead of the $15 we planned to).... and through all the doubts of people I will not name, it has been a GREAT success. 65, yes 65 kids have participated. We will conclude the two month camp at the end of this month.

Mason playing "pitcher" watching for his next stop

#2 I have ALWAYS loved running. And believe it or not, my kids do as well. Before the 5k first race where both boys and I ran I made sure to tell Mason he didn't have to try and "keep up" with me. I sure did stick my foot in my mouth because he beat me with a time of 25 minutes versus my 28 minutes. And Kaden who stayed with E Jeffries and Gab ran the ENTIRE way... to see this child who use to not be able to walk ten feet without falling semi jog through the finish line brought tears to my eyes. The determination he carries with him in everything he does in hopes of someday being able to play football is amazing.

Kaden crossing the finish line... he jumped in front of the guy behind him right before he crossed and yelled

"I beat the old guy!!"

Running Club members, Mason, and Myself

#3 Kaden has graduated Therapy :) He is reading ABOVE his level and he is 40 pounds!!!

#4 My sister had FINALLY moved back to KY and I am so grateful for all the time I am getting to spend with her

#5 We took a trip during fall break to Jackson's Orchard and has SO MUCH FUN! Between the yummy Apple Cider Slushies, the slides, hayride, and apple pickin', and corn maze it was a day of pictures, smiles, and NO fighting.

Peace and Pumpkins!!

Mason, Kaden, and cousin Macy pausing a moment in the corn maze.

Hanging out on the tractor @ Jackson's Orchard... Mason really thought the tractor was moving :)

YUMMY apple Slushy

Fun on the Tube slide.

# 6 Life is GOOD.

So, I shall sign of for now, but not for long. Love to all. Peace and Pumpkins!

It Ain't always a Purdy Sight

2010-09-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

As most of you know Kaden is our miracle child. To be born almost two months premature with an imperforated anus and a tethered spinal cord, and having to under go twenty something (I stopped counting) surgeries/procedures he is the definition of fighter. I could go on forever, but I won't... we found out a few months ago he wouldn't have to get another colostomy as long as we continued to irrigate him daily (basically a catheterized enema) and he doesn't get a blockage. SWEET!
I have been irrigating him daily now for about three months and Kaden is such a tough kids. He even asked me last week if we could go ahead and "tubigate" him so he would have more time to play. The term irrigation is somewhat comical, we all know afterwards it is more like a geyser. So, I happily go along with "tubigate."
Of course with any "insertion," it always works better when lubrication. Unfortunately, it take s a lot... so much in fact that I am starting to get weird looks from people in the local store as buy my weekly two to three bottles. I stare back at them wondering what is playing through their head. I have started reaching out getting other family members in different counties to pitch in on buying the lube.
Bstone and Mason usually steer clear of the bathroom during the routine, Mason said he isn't tough enough to be there without crying (OMG, why are my kids so perfect) and Bstone, well.... his idea of helping is throwing a handful of apple jacks into the toilet and telling Kaden to aim for them. Needless to say it is usually just Kaden and I.
All in all the "tubigation" is going great. We had our first breakdown the other day. A kid can only be perfect for so long :) Kaden screamed at me the entire time and it just broke my heart. Usually what takes us twenty five minutes, took forty five. But once again, he toughed it out and at the end he smiled, rolling his eyes up and said "dang Mom, i ain't screamed like that in forever, cause I am tough." I just smiled, hugged him tight, and didn't even correct his grammar.

Just call me Angelina Jolie

2010-08-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

I LOVE orange juice, the abundance I have consumed in the past has come back to smack me in the back. I can't so much as look at a glass of orange juice without getting an ulcer. Every once in a while I give in to temptation and on my birthday weekend, I consumed half a gallon of the good ol' OJ. It was worth the ulcer that has taken over the upper portion of my mouth. NO, PROBLEM.... Billy just told me to rinse it out with peroxide like I usually do. Then, five minutes after I rinsed my mouth started tingling and this happened.

The start of my "reaction." This is where Mason started calling me "two-face" from Batman. He always knows how to make someone feel better ;)

The Nurse thought he was making me feel better when he told me people pay thousands of dollars to have lips like these, lol.....

My Angelina Jolie look.

Needless to say I am now highly allergic to hydrogen peroxide. Another one for the list.

My Melons are Jellin

2010-08-11T12:14:00.000-07:00

Jello, is pretty awesome.

#1 It's always a pretty color.

#2 It's squishy.

#3You can add all kinds of stuff to the mix and it still tastes good.

#4 It's edible with or without teeth.

#5 It makes your fingernails hard as rocks...

#6 Jello Jigglers

#7 Sugar Free

#8 My kids will actually eat it.

So, in hopes to get my children to branch out of the yogurt, dried fruit, and peanut butter world I have started making melon jigglers (I still need a less suggestive name). And it is so easy!

Take a melon (watermelon has to much of a water base and doesn't work very well).
Cut it in half
Clean the seeds out of the middles.
Mix your Jello as directed on the package.
Pour into the melon bowl and refrigerate until Jello is firm.
Cut the melon into slices and TADA you have portable Jello with a dash of fruit!

Hot Tub Time Machine

2010-08-11T08:02:00.000-07:00

I love water. Even though the only swimming form I've mastered is the doggypaddle, I love it. The ocean, the lake, a pond, or a river... throw me in and I'm happy. Billy is the same way, so you would assume our children would be water babies.
That is what you get for assuming.
My cousin Braber" (whom I love), invited us out on the houseboat at Dale Hollow Lake, for my birthday last weekend. *two claps* We both worked our normal schedule Friday, and rushed home to pack and head for the lake.
#1 Billy was halfway home and received a service call.
#2 I forgot to buy groceries until I was halfway home.
#3 Mason and Kaden decided they needed to try and pack their entire toy inventory and their dogs.
We ended up running two hours late, but that's okay, cause IT'S MY BIRTHDAY....

Kaden informed us that he would be staying inside the houseboat and watching Spongebob the whole time...

That lasted until he realized there was a "swimming pool" on top of the houseboat.

And until he realized you could sit on the back porch of the houseboat and feed the nighttime fish.

Mason on the other hand, told me he would only swim off the beach and would NOT be going down the slide.

That lasted all of five minutes until he was a sliding fool.

Mason even helped cook breakfast!!

We had a wonderful weekend, I had a wonderful birthday, 's times like these that remind me how wonderful my family is.

http://www.sulphurcreek.com/

-- the home away from home.

Look Mom those turtles are hugging!

2010-08-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

I have NEVER been a big fan of the zoo.... it is depressing and usually hot. You see these poor animals enclosed in these tiny areas and they all look either bored or depressed. Mason quickly pointed out the importance of zoo's and their role in keeping endangered animals safe.

"Well, excuse me." Anyhoo, we took a trip to the zoo last week and they thoroughly enjoyed it.

And of course like every other time I have been to the zoo, there is always a pair of animals adding to the circle of life. Or as Kaden said when he saw the two turtles, "Look Mom! Awwww, that turtle i sad.... the other one is giving it a hug." Oh' my! I quickly averted his eyes to the piranhas.

They hung out with Gorillas.

They sized themselves up with a gorilla.

Kaden rode on an elephant.

And I got my daily laugh with the color coordinated, or should I say print coordinated family.

Remember the Granola Bar Commercial?

2010-07-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

Why do I blog? Well duh, cause everyone else is doing it… and we all know I am a follower, not a leader….

Psssshhhh, yeah right. I really don’t know why. I think because it is just another form of communication I can have with people. Plus, I love reading other’s blogs and I hope some people enjoy reading mine. So, I have decided to make Wesnesdays a random day… I pledge to always write on Wednesdays, but only because Wednesday and Write both begin with “W.” This week’s menu, just random conversations between my children and others.

Discussion One

Whenever we arrive at Dr. Foley’s office (Kaden’s surgeon), you get to sit in the nice waiting room until you are called back. The same nurse has been working for Dr. Foley since Kaden was born. This is the first year Kaden will actually converse with the nurse and not scream.

Kaden- “Ummmmm, your pants are on backwards.”

Nurse (as she turns around)—“Kaden, they are not, look I have my other pocket in the back see?”

Kaden-“I’m just telling you they are on backwards, that’s all.”

Discussion Two

Kaden and I were both sitting in the recliner watching television, when he looks at me very seriously.

Kaden-“Mom, are you ever going to get rid of those dimples” (he means pimples).

Me-“Well, if you guys would quit stressing me out and get along with each other.”

Kaden turns to B.Stone and exclaims “Daddy, Mason causes more dimples on Mommy than I do cause I play good.”

Discussion Three

Mason’s birthday is the first week of September. He is obsessed with two things, Legos and Batman. So, for his birthday what does he want? Batman Legos. The Batcave is $800 and Arkham Asylum is $599, bringing the total to “only” $1,600.00. I explain to him that it is a lot of money and he simply says…

“Just take the rest out of my allowance or write a check out of daddy’s checkbook like you do whenever you want something.”

Discussion Four

I walk into the kitchen to see Kaden sitting quietly on the floor with a plate. He has a few marshmallows and the peanut butter crackers I just made him sitting on it. In his hand he held his little Crayola scissors cutting a marshmallows into pieces… the peanut butter crackers were getting ready to be the next victim.

Me-“Ummm, Kaden what are you doing?”---I keep thinking I will learn to quit asking questions that are pointless.

Kaden-“I’m chopping my marshmallows up.”

Me-“Well Kaden, we don’t cut up food unless it is with a knife and then mommy or daddy will. And you only cut paper with scissors.”

Kaden-“well I can fit more in my mouth and not drool like I do when I but the bog marshmallows in.”

*My kids should have starred in the Granola Bar commercials.*

Finally!!

2010-07-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

All I can say is THANK GOODNESS!!! About TIME!! I think this year is truly an epic one. I may be up to my ears in student debt, the weather may have my allergies in cahoots (not really), and I may be falling behind in the working class (because of student debt)... BUT....
KADEN IS GOING TO CONTINUE TO BE COLOSTOMY FREE!
Say what?!!??!?!
I could have kissed Dr. Foley today, really.
For the past month I have been a ball of nerves, I mean how in the world could I take away the freedom of choice from Kaden and agree to a colostomy? I have been irrigating him, a few mistakes here and there with the occasional eruption, but the past few weeks has been GREAT. We even found under jams that look like boxer briefs, so he is going to be as normal as the next kindergartner.
When Dr. Foley walked in the room it was different than the usual. Kaden didn't start crying and screaming "don't hurt me"---yes talk about heart breaking.
Instead he simply said, "what's up Dr. Foley, like my new hair-do?"
We spoke, I told him the events and he said "looks good." We have an ongoing "colostomy free" contract, with check ups every six months.
As a mother I feel as though we have reached a milestone... there is no longer the chance of a forced colostomy. The decision is now ultimately Kaden's, which as a mother is a relief. The irrigation is now just part of the routine, and we found boxer brief PULL-UPS!!!
Thank you all the for support. Silent or spoken, it really touches my heart.
Until next time, don't forget to wipe :)

Mother May I NYC Ulysses Jess Sandidge

2010-07-13T08:29:00.000-07:00

An amazing artist.

2010-07-12T13:02:00.000-07:00

I do love my B. Stone... I know I pick on him, well a lot (but the treatment is mutual)... Anyhoo, he works a lot and when he called to say he wasn't just taking the boys to the river to swim, but taking us all to go camping, you know I couldn't refuse. I load up the truck with this and that, throw the tacklebox in the back, checking to make sure I packed the bacon and we were off!

Kaden made a new friend as soon as we arrived.

Kaden was making his "stay away deer face."

We cooked corn in the husk by the fire and after we shucked it, we added some butter and pepper... YUMMY!!

The final product... roast and carrot cooked in the dutch oven over the fire pit, grilled chicken, and grilled corn. And yes I already took some bites of my roast ;)

~ ~ ~ Enjoying the small things of life, while being a catalyst so others will do the same ~ ~ ~

These are the days...

2010-07-12T11:24:00.000-07:00

“Sooner or later we all discover that the important moments in life are not the advertised ones, not the birthdays, the graduations, the weddings, not the great goals achieved. The real milestones are less prepossessing. They come to the door of memory unannounced, stray dogs that amble in, sniff around a bit and simply never leave. Our lives are measured by these”

~ Susan B. Anthony

As summer vacation is coming to a close (only three weeks left)... I look at my to-do list and realize only a couple things have been marked off... we have yet to go to Pennsylvania, my kitchen is still unpainted, I don't think the first hole has been dug for our building. BUT I have had the chance to go on many adventure with the kiddos, even B. Stone has got to accompany us on a few.
In a couple of months Mason will be eight, and in a few weeks Kaden will be entering Kindergarten (which he wants everyone to know he is only looking forward to it so he can pack his lunch). It seems like just the other day I was wondering if Kaden would ever be able to go to school or if Mason would ever get tired of Batman... and now all I can think of is how much they each have learned in the past school year and what will their little minds mold this year....

Banana's=Success

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

I am an EATER... I LOVE food... which is why I can't diet correctly. Call me Elvis, I may start eating healthy but I am going to increase my portion.

One thing I have learned to portion out is dessert. I have finally found a recipe, and it is a family favorite that you will NEVER want to eat a big portion of. It is so rich and sweet, but not full of calories. I will now introduce to you.....

BANANA SPLIT CAKE

1-1/2 cups Crushed Vanilla Wafers

1 cup Sugar, divided

1/3 cup Butter, melted

2 pkg. (8 oz. each) Cream Cheese, softened (use low-fat if you would like)

1 can (20 oz.) Crushed Pineapple, drained

6 medium Bananas, divided

2 cups cold milk

2 pkg. (4-serving size each) Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding (sometimes I will substitue one package with banana pudding)

2 cups thawed cool whip, divided (you can use low fat or sugar-free)

1 cup Chopped Pecans

MIX crumbs, 1/4 cup of the sugar and the butter; press firmly onto bottom of 13x9-inch pan (spray lightly with Pam before you pour in crumb mix). Freeze 10 min.

BEAT cream cheese and remaining 3/4 cup sugar with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Spread carefully over crust; top with pineapple. Slice 4 of the bananas; arrange over pineapple.

POUR milk into medium bowl. Add dry pudding mixes. Beat with wire whisk 2 min. or until well blended. Gently stir in 1 cup of the whipped topping; spread over banana layer in pan. Top with remaining 1 cup whipped topping; sprinkle with pecans. Refrigerate 5 hours. Slice remaining 2 bananas just before serving; arrange over dessert. Store any leftover dessert in refrigerator.

This is Heaven! A great Pot-Luck Dish... and you will NEVER have leftovers :)

Am I that Crazy Baseball Mom?!?!

2010-07-08T08:41:00.000-07:00

Taking a break during the Louisville Bat's Kids Day

Phillies vs. Reds 6/30/10

Mason was happy, the Reds won.

I look back at my years in little leaugue... esecially before I started pitching and was stuck in the right field. You know, small towns, we are from Pennsylvania and at that time I still carried the thick northern accent. We were OUTSIDERS... so before knowing my true talents they wrote me off.

*Just a little tangent*

Anyhoo... while meandering around the right field territory, I often scoped out the bleachers, too see who had the latest bad haircut, who smoked the most ciggarettes, etc. But I quickley learned that the best form of entertainment was watching "the parents." You know, the ones who scream, jump up and down (which can be very unflattering), yell at the umps, the coaches, and their kids...

AND fifteen years later, I very well might be becoming "that parent."

It is not because I am crazy ;), but because I just LOVE baseball.

I have heard with alcoholics and such that the first step is to admit you have a problem. Knowing I may be on the verge of having the annoying parent syndrome, there are a few things I do.

#1 I dont stand near my dad. Why? Because if we are together there will be running commentary the entire time.

#2 I always keep a drink in my hand, if I feel the urge to yell and scream from excitement I simply take a swig of my Diet Coke.

#3 I don't stand near the dugout. Why? Because those kids are in the zone and they don't need or want my random advice.

#4 I am always respectful and never talk or question the coaches or umpires. Why? Because, pardon my language but that makes anyone a pompus ass.

So, even thought I am one of the loudest clappers and I can't always hold in my exciteed Yips, I hope my kids or other parents never think of me as "that parent."

Lazy Mommo's Veggie Casserole

2010-05-19T06:37:00.000-07:00

Lazy Mommo's Veggie Casserole

In my quest to be the Betty Crocker the Rocker, I have been looking for

easy and delicious recipes.

Among, them I have had my disasters (never try and curry cauliflower).

Below, is a recipe for a yummy and EASY casserole, remember you can always substitutle low-fat/low-carb.

2 C. Mixed Veggies (I used a can of corn, a can of carrots, and a can of green beans)

--make sure you drain them if you can.

1 C. Mayonnasie (you can also use Miracle Whip, but Billy doesn't like it).

3/4 C. of shredded Cheddar Cheese

*Mix it all together throw it in a casserole dish*

For the topping crush a sleeve of Ritz Crackers and mix with 1 stick of melted butter.

Cook @ 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

The casserole was a hit with my picky eaters!

Betty Crocker the Rocker

2010-05-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

Here's the deal. I am not what I would consider a "conventional homemaker."

#1 My mother bought me a sewing machine... and I gave it away.

#2 My garden last year consisted on one tomato plant, which grew one tomato.

#3 I'm not down with the "down home" cooking, I love my arteries too much.

But, I do SO desperatly want to be more self sufficient in my home, mainly with food. Thanks to Linda M. I planted close to twenty tomato plants this year (in big flower pots), and I have been stocking up on Mason jars and what-nots. Yep, gonna make me some salsa. But first, how about some jam? My traveling chick gal Linda M. inspired me to take a trip to a local strawberry patch.

and of course I had to bring my sidekick K with me to help find the perfect strawberries.

We ended up picking two gallons, with Linda M.'s it made four

I took them home, washed them up, got my ingredients, and got to work.

smooshed em' and got all my ingredients out (notice the time of night)...

But smooshing (I used a flat ladle was a great stress reliever).

Mixed the 1 1/2 c. sugar with the packet of pectin... added the strawberries, mixed for three minutes and whaaalllaaaa!!!!

STRAWBERRY JAM, and mmmmmm this catalyst did good.

So there ya have it folks, my tip-toe into the world of homemaking.

Who knows what I'll do next.

Stab Apples

2010-05-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

I am out of shape.
I have been running for two months (no, I'm a mom so it hasn't been consistant), and I am still out of shape.
Time to get serious. And here is how I am doing it. Well, here are the "things" I am using to help me get that killer runner's bod. Bikini here I come!

this sports watch is amazing. I knew I had to have one when I saw a couple girls who had just run a half marathon displaying one on their wrist.

I never really thought about listening to music when I run... I use running as a time to think and reflect. Then Emily B. voiced her liking for the Rocky soundtrack, especially when climing the hills... Music is a great motivator. I of course am on a budget so my iphone now doubles as an ipod.

Here are some websites I have been frolicking around latley...

All of these have race calendars for the TN, KY, IN area along with registration links etc.
http://www.bgrr.com/
http://www.johnsrunwalkshop.com/races/
http://www.swagssportshoes.com/runningracecalendar.htm
http://sites.google.com/site/glasgowhrfc/

http://www.active.com/women/Articles/Skinny_Sweets.htm?cmp=545
Get your BUTT of the couch and train for a 5K! This website offers programs, tools and lots of great tips.
http://www.c25k.com/

Until next time my running friends, keep your form, keep your smile, and move those arms as though you are stabbing an apple.

Running through the Sidestitch

2010-05-10T10:24:00.000-07:00

Ok... here is the deal. I love running. Love, as in, I ran so much in highschool I now have bone spurs (extra bones formed when the body tries to repair itself by building extra bone) sprinkled all over my knees. But hey, that's okay.
I know, I know, "running" is not for everyone and a lot of people ask "why in the world why you ever run?" I would love to say "so in thirty years I won't look like...." well you get the point.
This past Saturday I had the pleasure of running in a 5K with Emily B., my friend speed walker, and my son. It was a bit windy outside meaning the son kept running around in circle, hopping over things he shouldn't, and trying to justify why I should pay $30 for a sweatshirt that is faded and 4X to big for him. Finally the race started.
Trying to be the "good" parent I dressed son in a neon yellow reflective shirt... you know, because when I take off and am WAY ahead of him I want to be able to look back and see him in the crowd.
When the race started I realized I had completly stuck my foot in my mouth (and my count had been so low for the week)... here goes this little highlighter sprinting through the crowd of runners... stopping only to tie his shoe and get a drink... Eventually I catch up to him while he is standing at the water table. I ask what he is doing and that we have to stay focused and he says "well mom, this girl is behind me and I feel bad if I beat her, plus I wanted to wait for you." (heart melting as I type)
Without drawing out the saga, he beats me.
He makes sure to cheer for the rest of our group.
And after he gets his medal for second place, I turned and asked "So, why did you let that girl beat you again?"
He smiled "Because mom, she was cute."
Ohhhhhhhhhh' lord.

All Washed Up

2010-05-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

I am apologizing in advance to those I promised that I would blog about the recent Political Forum in Greensburg, KY. And don't worry I WILL... BUT I was a little wet this weekend and learning to properly use a bucket when scooping water too precidence.

This weekend, FOR ONCE, the weather "man" was correct. I almost sent the WBKO weather team a basket of fruit. You know positive reinforcement (We always learn this is PD form). But of course, I am ALWAYS speculative of the weather forcast and I often downplay whatever they suggest. Of course, this time they were right on the money...
When I woke up after a night of helping my friend work on a Jimmy Hoffa Conspiracy paper it was raining. You know the annoying, stinging rain. The puddling rain, that will hydroplane your car if you aren't careful, the rain that when you are driving behind a car (no not tail-gating) spits up muddy phlem that sticks to your windshield.
After a late morning errand run I return home to the water still under our bridge. Quickley we pack up the boys and head to Mason's batting practice... along the way this is what we saw....

This use to be a front yard (EEK!!) and we had to drive through a lot of water to get to practice, but we made it :) So we stay at the park for about an hour inside the community center. Long enough for a kid to get hit in the head, get gossip updates, yell at Kaden for throwing baseballs at kids etc. We drive the 3 miles home and this is what we see.

What?!?! The water literally rose four to six feet in one hour.
And of course you have the father who wants to sit there for twenty minutes calculating if we can get across or not... luckily both my children are very vocal and quickley detered him. We went around the back way. Through Sunday and Monday here are some pictures of how the flood waters rose.

Here is twenty minutes later after our first encounter with the flood waters. We circled around the back way and twenty minutes later came back to look at it.

Here is a picture from yesterday morning. EEK!

I am still in astonishment about the flood... and we didn't even get it "bad." The stress that the overflowing creeks caused for Greensburg, the basements that are now serving as oversized bathtubs... I can only imagine what people are going through who have lost their homes, and even the loss of lives. I know it may be cheesy... but it is catchy.
TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN.

I'll Run Through You

2010-04-30T12:43:00.001-07:00

The large group of runner's waiting for the 5K to begin

Biggest Loser teams participated.

Families got into the mix as well.

Last week in my Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University class we discussed what kind of animal we were. I think you had a choice between a lab, an otter, a lion, and something else. Emily B. and I looked at each other at the same time and said "I, Angelina am a LION." Yes, yes... most people would be eager to be a lioness... I have to admit it is somewhat enlightening to know that I get things done ladeda... but at the same time the "book" says I hurt people's feelings. I am sure I do, and I apologize in advance. It is just with my vision, sometime it is a tunnel vision. I am too determined.
Last weekend my tunnel vision paid off. I recently with the help of MANY people coordinated a 5K fundraiser with all proceeds going towards a Domestic Violence Shelter in Greensburg, KY. It is so sad that so many rural communities are seeing a large influx of DV....
I am SO proud of my community. We raised $4,000.00!! Our goal was only $1,500.00. I just wanted to say thank you to everyone, the entier community pitched in to help and we had runners from all over KY. I am so proud to say that I have made a positive impact on the community. All the runners had a positive impact on the community showing they are backing our project. We had all ages show up, we had families, college students, MMA fighters, college athelete, Biggest loser groups etc!!
I would love to know how you have impacted your community.

A day of Enlightenment

2010-03-11T09:33:00.000-08:00

I would like to say thank you. I know I don't haev many readers, but to those in which read my blog take minute and give yourself a high five from me. I am so lucky to haev such wonderful people surounding me.
With Kaden's "disability" (FYI, I absolutely HATE that word.... I prefer the term ability), I feel like we have hit one brick wall after another... surgery after surgery, test after test, bad news always followed by more... bad news. Until yesterday.
We took Kaden to have an MRI done to see if his spinal cord had retethered once again. Kaden has been having a lot of backpain during play activities. Another surgery, another week in the hospital, another moment where I am helpless in helping my child.
We go through the MRI, he doesn't wake up possessed, screaming and biting (usually the effect of him being sedated), he even sleeps throught he neurologist's visit. Five hours later Kaden wakes up just as Dr. Moriarty says, "Kaden's cord is still dangling where it needs to be, he is simply going through a growth spurt."
#1-- NO TETHERED CORD!!! YYYEEEESSSS!
#2--He is FINALLY growing!
#3--This is the first time we have been to a Dr. and received good news. Life is good. Kaden is happy, and Mason wants to know why he didn't get a push-pop.

Catalyst on Facebook

2010-03-08T08:45:00.000-08:00

I am beginning to think that the percent of the population who doesn't have facebook is the minority. Even my aunts and uncles have joined in the facebook madness! We have more friends on facebook than we do in real life, we are fans of things onlty because our friends suggest it, if I went to every event I was "e-vited" to, i would NEVER be home.
BUT.. there is one upside to facebook that many overlook. COUPONS! That's right, so many companied now have facebook pages and if you become a fan, they give you great coupons. Here is a list of my finds this week:

Become a fan of Ritz Crackers, get a coupon for $1 of the NEW Ritz Munchables.

Become a fan of What Thins, get a coupon for $1 off a box of Wheat Thins.

Become a fan of Starburst, get a buy one get one free coupon.

Yoplait's FB page has a coupon for a $1 off 8 yogurts (you don't have to be a fan to get this coupon).

Physician's Formula FB page has a great Buy One get One Free coupon!

Become a fan of Jimmy Dean, and get a coupon for a $1 off ANY Jimmy Dean product!

Want an extra bag of skittles? Become a fan of Skittles on FB!

Become a fan of Nabisco Cookies on FB and get a coupon for a free package of Nabisco cookies.
-- this begins April 5th

Become a fan of Tornados and get a Buy One get One Free coupon! You have to fill out a survery to get this one.

Alice in Wonderland (3D)

2010-03-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

Friday Mason and I had our monthly date. Well, he actually had a friend spend the night and I was allowed to grace them with my presence when we went to watch Alice and Wonderland in 3D. The boys LOVED the movie! They were glued to the seat and did not budge... you can rate the quality of a movie by the number of bathroom trips. Alice in Wonderland had ZERO! I on the other hand gave the movie a B-. Only because I based everything on the original movie... I just got tired of seeing the big headed red queen is all

Shake What Your Mother Gave You

2010-03-05T11:20:00.000-08:00

So, when I started blogging I thought I would be one of those bloggers who would religiously write every day, always coming up with some witty story or idea to share. BAHAHAHA! Turns out, all these funny stories lead to me shaking my head or silently cursing myself for WHY I let my kids do that, or WHY I agreed, or WHY oh WHY have I become the parent that I use to roll my eyes at in Wal-Mart. Here are just some examples.

1.) As a parent I feel as though I should allow my children to express themselves for the most part as they feel necessary. So I was all for it when father suggested we buy Kaden a drum set for his birthday. Why not, as long as they were kept in the man cave in the basement? I knew father would give Kaden much needed attention and teach him beats and all that good stuff. Which he would have if Kaden would let him. Kaden would much rather sit in the basement (With the man cave door OPEN and the basement door OPEN) and beat away, no particular beat, no particular rhythm, as long as it is LOUD, that is all that matters. *Thank you for Advil*

2.) My children, are somewhat spoiled. They are my parents first grandchildren and my grandmother's first great grand children... not to mention I come from a very Italian loving family. Yes, I admit... I have spoiled them some too. When they were young, i could get them to sit int he cart happily with a cheap little toy. They were always SO good and QUIET. This is when I should have listened to some friends who said "Now Angelina, if you start always buying them a toy, you will never be able to stop." I always looked and replied "I'm the boss, if I say no... that will be it."
-- Here is where I admit, I am an idiot.
Well, within the past few years, my children's taste has gotten more "mature" aka more EXPENSIVE. It isn't a .99 hot wheels car, it's a $99 Batman Lego car or every single box set of Sponge bob there ever was. And then I said "NO" (because don't forget I am the BOSS)....
You would think that I literally broke their heart. Mason has mastered the temper tantrum... not that it is a loud one, but a very physically tiring one. He simply goes limp and acts as though he is nearly unconscious because I have caused him so much emotional pain. Ask Emily B., She had to carry him out of the store on day, draped across the front of her arm like a fish. So what does the "boss" do now? She simply goes to Kroger instead.

3.) Look either of the bathrooms.... you can find your way to the toilet once you sift your way through all the bath toys. Note to future parents: It is fine to have a few bath toys when the child is young, but cut it out once they are three or so. Especially when your seven year old gets out of the bathtub with his hair still dry because he was too busy playing to wash it.

4.) I am a sports fanatic and couldn't wait for my kids to start playing sports, any kind is fine with me. So, of course when Mason turned four we signed him up for tee ball. He liked the practice, it was basically just another form of playtime... no real coaching going on they gallivanted about the field running after a ball here and there. Fun times were had by all...
Until the first game. "Mom.... Mom... MMMMOOOOOMMMMMMM... why do I have to just stand here?" You can only ignore your child for so long before they turn their volume on MAX... I shot him my dagger eyes and then motioned for him to come over to me. I explained how he had to stay in one spot so if the ball was hit to that spot he would be there to catch it. The rest of the game, the rest of the season each game was full of glares from Mason, mouthing the words "I hate you and this more...," crawling out to his spot, and walking around the bases.
-- we let Kaden start whenever he wanted and he would play a game of tee ball, quit for a few weeks and go back... not a problem for me.

So, there you HAVE it! Just a tiny recap over the past few years. What is the news now-a-days?
Mason is taking baseball lessons, so when that one kids on the baseball team who runs wherever the ball is and screams at you to give it to him, he can pitch it nicely over his head... and I can smirk at the other kid's parents who give me a look like my child committed a crime.
Kaden is starting gymnastics. He has stated that he WILL NOT do a cartwheel. He will do tumbles and then he may do one.
I just started ZUMBA... and I love it! I can finally "shake what my momma gave me" even if it isn't much, we can all still shake it.

Life is good.

Don't Forget To Wipe

2010-02-22T11:31:00.000-08:00

Today is the beginning of the ten week Biggest Loser contest in my little ol' home of Greensburg, well I am going to say the pudgy little town.... because we want to get MEAN and LEAN! Heavier on the lean than the mean. Of course hundreds of people are going to be changing their diet, cutting this and adding that... which is why I dedicate this blog to #2. You can act like you are not effected by POOP, but yes you ARE!

Here is my advice! If you are in the midst of your diet and you can't poop that means you need FIBER! And I speak from experience it sucks when you lack it! So, here are some food which can help eat the tension. Activia Cheese! When it says "eat one piece a day," it means if you eat more than one you will be gracing the bathroom throne for a couple hours straight. Or you could make the mistake like I did and go overboard when eating Sugar-free sweets (diabetic foods were a lifesaver during my South Beach Diet days). If you eat more than the suggested amount on the package it will also have a laxative effect. Also, the FIBER ONE bars are amazing and tasty, but don't let anyone eat more than ONE! I am guessing that is why it is called a fiber one bar (ya better not eat more than one).

Here are some items which have NATURAL fiber in them:

Bananas, Raspberries, Oranges, Brown Rice, Special K, Oatmeal, Broccoli, Carrots, Sweet Corn, Baked Beans, and Whole Wheat Spaghetti.

~ of course I only listed the stuff I enjoy!

So, I am asking you... what keeps you regular? Or irregular?

Cheese Face kisses are the BEST

2010-02-18T15:10:00.000-08:00

Today Kaden's father and I had the privilege of joining in the Valemtimes day festivities at Headstart. Yes I know, it is Valentine, but Kaden calls it Valemtimes. Why? I don't know, but it is cute.

We walk in to see twenty children sitting orderly in their chairs. We are talking about three and four year olds here. I was impressed. The kids recognize that "Kaden's mom" has arrived and all greeted me with their sticky fingers and cheese covered faces. Kaden however completely ignores me and rushes over to Billy in his one size TOO big muck boots to give him a hug. He then looks over and says "oh' hey mom, I already knew you were coming." And goes about his business eating and handing out Valemtimes.

*sigh, that is what I get for being a hovering mother*

Kaden handing out his "Valemtimes."

Kaden had to show daddy and I the newest member of the Headstart Family. But said it was just a fish and it wasn't in a movie, so it didn't need a name (well, excuse me).

New Years Update

2010-02-15T12:20:00.000-08:00

Am I passing or am I failing?Lets just say my grade is

AVERAGE.

I am trying to possess a more positive Ora and it is slowly working. I am doing a lot of "woo saaaassss" throughout the day and luckily I have a great co-worker who is keeping me positive. So yes, I am being "somewhat" of a nicer person.

My Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University Class is AMAZING!!! If you haven't taken on of his classes yet, you really need too!!! Tonight we will be cutting up credit cards. I have cried and spent the last few days apologizing to my credit cards for the mutilation they are about to suffer. But hey, they never apologized to me when they raised my interest rate to 18.9% at one time (yes, Capital One received many harassing phone calls from me until they lowered it). The class is very interesting and I am enjoying Dave's quirky dvd's. If you are interested in this class go to his website and find one near you!

http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/home/

As far as weight control in my life goes, I have not lost a SINGLE pound!! Am I crying and complaining about this? NO.... I am simply waiting until February 22nd @ 9 am (after I weigh in) to begin my weight loss adventure. Thanks to the Amazing Audrey Myers, Green County is hosting its' own Biggest Loser contest!! I am so excited! I am pulling out and dusting off the VCR today so I can pop in Billy Blanks Tae-Bo as soon as Emily B. brings them to me! If you are interested in joining the Biggest Loser in Green County just follow this link for details.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Greensburg-KY/Green-County-Cooperative-Extension-Family-and-Consumer-Sciences/224727226977?ref=ts

On another note:

We are only a month and a half into the year and I feel like finally my family and I just continue to rise! I have so much support and love from my family, Billy, and my wonderful friends I couldn't ask for more. We are taking Kaden's recent diagnosis in stride and capitalizing on the positive. We just had his meeting with the school about starting his therapy and I got to pick the PT's brain a bit. And man o' man is Kaden going to LOVE her. Not only is she nice, but she suggested purchasing a Wii for Kaden to help build muscle tone. So, of course as soon as Billy found out, this became priority number one :) He has also volunteered to be responsible for making sure Kaden uses the Wii regularly to get the best results. Hmmmmm, is there an ulterior motive here? ~Carpe Diem!

Dear Valentine's Day, Remind Me Again of Your PURPOSE?

2010-02-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Valentine's Day,

Well, you have done it once again. You and Hallmark have teamed up with Wal-Mart and ProFlowers to pry the last few dollars out of the hands of our unemployed or underpaid society. You have shoved chocolate into the mouths of our already overweight country, and for what? So they can get a cavity and suffer since they don't HAVE health insurance and can't afford a dentist? And flowers, all these flowers EVERYWHERE?!

If Valentine's day is suppose to symbolize love why in the world are you promoting something that will DIE within a week? Yes, flowers are beautiful, but in this day in age I need practicality. Why don't you start promoting deep freezers or laundry detergent? What happened to the handwritten poems or homemade cards?

I know I am loved. I am shown that every day. I don't need the huge bouquet of roses or the twenty pound box of candy. But of course, you know I got both. Why? Because men think if they don't get their significant other something that they will be labeled insensitive like Homer from The Simpson's. I on the other hand, think you are one smart cookie if you don't play into the commercialized and overpriced holiday. A make out session for any gal in love would be sufficient enough.

Until Next Year,

Angelina

P.S. Here's to you Valentine's Day, my flowers.

Bringin' Home the BACON

2010-02-11T07:52:00.000-08:00

Bacon, is my FAVORITE food. Ask anyone who knows me and they will tell you that I, Angelina Alcott have a borderline obsession with the crispy morsels of piggy. So much in fact, that in 7th grade English I wrote a song about bacon. And it won 2nd place in the classroom contest.

Bacon, is crispy and crunchy.

Bacon is made of pig.

Bacon is tangy or tasty.

Bacon is my favorite meat... (da na na)

So eat your bacon alone,

it's not bad for you or me.

So just eat it alone.

Bacon goes good with eggs.

Bacon goes well with tomatoes.

Bacon is fried in a pan.

Bacon is not made of man. (da na na)

So eat your bacon alone,

it's not bad for you or me.

So just eat it alone.

Thank you, thank you (I'm bowing). Now, I know you are wondering why in Jupiter am I dedicating an entire blog to bacon? For the simple reason of I want to lose weight! I no longer want Kaden to ask me if I have a baby in there when I sit down with my slightly too tight jeans or Mason to comment on how I have an inner tube around me. So, how did I fix this problem? I joined Green County Extension Office's Biggest Loser contest!!!

It starts on February 22nd and I am EXCITED! You are now looking at a member of Bringin' Home the Bacon BL team! Are we going to win?!?!?! No, probably not. But at the end of this ten week contest am going to be bikini ready? YES! and that is what matters.

We all know after children you expand and stretch in all these areas of your body that you didn't know even existed... and to get them back to "normal" you have to almost go through the Marine's boot camp (no... I lie, I have seen women who have gone through that boot camp and they still need help). A year ago I lost 60 lbs. after ballooning to 200 lbs.... with the South Beach Diet. I love South Beach!! Why? Because, you can eat BACON! And lots of other stuff that you think you would have to cut out. So we know that my plan during the biggest loser is of course to eat Bacon, but what else? Here is a plan I am devising.

#1 I am Italian and I LOVE carbs.... but alas, I will be cutting a large majority out. No potatoes (but you CAN have instant potatoes, and with enough pepper they are a step above wall paper paste). I will only be eating whole wheat breads and pasta.

#2 A large portion of my weight loss last time is because I stopped investing a branch of Coca Cola.... and I started investing in DIET drinks! Well, now thanks to diet drinks my teenage acne has decided to grace me with its presence and then my partner in crime Emily B. investigated and solved the case of my achy joints... DIET drinks!!! So, as much as I love Coke Zero I have to stop drinking soda. I have limited myself to two a day and by February 22nd, I will be clean of soft drinks!

#3 I use to be an exercise junkie, like seven years ago. Now exercise to me is running away from my children as they pelt me with Nerf bullets or as I walk down to get the mail. I have NO motivation when it comes to exercising. Even though I whined and complained to Billy for months until he bought me a top of the line treadmill. As soon as it was set up in my office, I realized I had no reason to use my office anymore.... in the year I have had my treadmill I have used it for maybe two months total. So, I am going to get my eating habits down until I even think about starting an exercise regimen.

#4 McDonald's, oh' how I love you and your juicy Big Macs with the tangy sauce smothered over the meat... The way your french fries cure my salt cravings. I am sorry, but I am breaking up with you.... I will always love you and I will still visit you occasionally since we still have joint custody of the kids... you'll still get to see them every Wednesday for a few minutes while I pick up the chicken nuggets and chocolate milk. But for us McDonald's, this is GOODBYE.

Will I follow all of these? No human is perfect, but I will try and keep in mind that I can eat Bacon... yummmmmm......

Jude's Chicken Casserole

2010-02-08T12:12:00.000-08:00

It tastes as good as the Beatles sound.... This is one of my favorite casserole recipes. And get this! I HATE stuffing! But I love this! Here is the recipe:

Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees

1 pgk. of chicken flavored stuffing mix

2 c. chopped cooked chicken

1 can (10 3/4 oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup

1/2 lb. Velveeta cheese cubed (very small)

** cook the stuffing as directed.

** add remaining ingredients and bake for 30 minutes.

This is so easy and so GOOD!

Rubbing Elbows

2010-02-05T07:58:00.000-08:00

40% of our Leadership Green group was in attendance. We were the power team for the day only getting kicked out of the house floor. Even though 98% of the news was bad, the lasagna in the capital's cafeteria was AWESOME!

Representative James Comer and myself. I was taller than 70% of the politicians in Frankfort. Is this an advantage for my political career?

I had the pleasure of venturing with my Leadership Green group to Frankfort on Wednesday. Aside from one of the buttons on my first long "professional" jacket popping off and rolling over a high class BMW. The kind of car that if I wasn't careful when I retrieved it alarms would sound and a net would be cast over me. I even got over the fact that when I was on my way to the Kentucky League of Cities reception the strap on my purse fell off.... I had made up my mind, if one of my heels broke I would sit in the car for the remainder of the night. Luckily, my heels made it through.

Is Snow Earth's Dandruff?

2010-02-02T06:07:00.000-08:00

Many people don't realize the importance this snowfall had on my children. As a child snow was something more common than not in the winter time. I could sled down hills and with the lack of my steering ability, crash into fences to my heart's content. Mason and Kaden on the other hand? They get excited if I accidentally spill a snow cone on the ground. Snow in Kentucky is like a friendly wave in Pennsylvania.... it just don't happen.

In Kentucky, to be a successful weather person, you have to have luck. I am guessing all of the weather personnel for Kentucky has had one or two successful stints at the tables in Vegas.

"If you don't like Kentucky's weather, wait until tomorrow."

This is SO true.

I didn't believe we would get more than an inch or two maximum, and we were in the 10" of accumulation area. I mean, hello? We weren't even sure when the snow would make its' debut. The weather guy, after changing his guess 17 times he nailed it perfectly!

We woke up to around 7" of beautiful white stuff. This is the first snowfall since my children have been born, which I would label a GOOD snow. In case it doesn't happen for another twenty years we sledding to our hearts content, made an army of snow angels, competed in super sledding behind the four wheeler, heck our old school sleds with the metal runners even joined in the fun.

Our snow adventure ended with my first attempt making snow cream. I scooped a bowl of CLEAN snow (around 6 c.), added 3/4 c. of sugar, 1 1/2 c. milk, and 4 tbsp. of vanilla. After mixing we spooned it into bowls and melted as we tasted the most simplistic sweet taste of snow cream. It was delicious!

This past weekend is just another way I prove to myself that I live every day to the fullest!

~ Carpe Diem

The only moment in which Kaden was not laughing was when Mason headbutted him.

Mason dubbed himself Cowboy Mason as he wrangled the bumps, curves, and snowphoons which blew in his face (I never saw this, but as parents we are suppose to be relieved once their creative juices start flowing).

So many people who have seen this picture comment on Mason being so protective over his younger, fragile brother Kaden as he runs alongside the sled. WRONG! Mason had just got done pelting Kaden with snowballs.

All the NEW mothers... put your hands up!!

2010-01-29T10:18:00.000-08:00

As I think TGIF.... I also think, where in the world has January gone?! My parents we RIGHT, there I said it. They always told me that the older you get, the faster time goes by, and for the past few years I feel like I have been Dorothy caught in the whirlwind.... I keep clicking my heels hoping it will slow down, but alas I have just learned to take everything with a grain of salt, sea salt that is.
My children are already in school! What?! I remember the days when I couldn't wait until they started school and now I can't wait for the next holiday where we are off and going on adventures together. Recently, I have noticed many of my friends, whether from high school or ones I have made along my post-high school years. So, I dedicate this BLOG to you and I am going to offer you some advice that I wish someone had told me along the way.

~ Baby Einstein truly makes your child smarter! But the dvd and videos are the only things I would invest in. Everything else is over priced and lacks inspiration.
~Teething tablets! Last two to three times longer than baby orgel, no mess, and they're a lot safer.
~ My hair was so shiny and bodiful during the first six months after I had my kids. Why? I only found time to wash it twice a week....
~Go ahead and start practicing "the look." It is imperative that you master this before your child turns three, especially during family outings.
~ www.diaper.com
~ Do not spend hundreds of dollars on baby clothes. Your child will not stay in one size long enough for you to even get through their wardrobe. www.ebay.com has clothed my children for years.... they always look good and I spend dimes.
~You will use your Boppy for years! Don't get rid of it, after the baby stages pass, it is a great pillow for movie night and even can be substituted for a kid's horseshow.

So, I congratulate you all! Your life is about to get a WHOLE lot better! Kids are amazing and you will become such a better person because of them.

The meaning of Kaden's name...

2010-01-28T11:11:00.000-08:00

Kaden's birth truly was a life changing experience... not saying that Mason's wasn't, but having Kaden and what followed made me a stronger person. Of course Kaden was suppose to be a girl, and we had already picked out the name Isabella. When he was born two months early and sent to Kosair, picking out a new name was last on my list. After a few days I asked my wonderful sister to start looking for names which had a meaning that would help carry us through. And we decided shortly after on Kaden Asher.
Kaden=fortunate
Aasher=hebrew for fighter
Anyone who knows him, would agree I could not have picked out a better name. Five years and twenty five surgeries/procedures later he is still Mr. Sunshine, with a dash of attitude and a sprinkle of sneaky. Along with Mason, I could not have gotten a better pair of kids. Recently, he went back to his surgeon, Dr. Foley (who btw is thw best surgeon in the world) for a check-up. A few items on the agenda.
#1 I have six more months to get his daily irrigation under control before I would have to decide whether or not we should allow for another colostomy (I am determined to get the irrigation mastered).
#2 he is GROWING! Finally, he has a steady weight gain, I am please to announce we are now in 3T clothing.
#3 Kaden is a very active child, and we encourage this. But recently it has been causing him some pain to his lower back, directly on the spot where his tethered cord surgery was. We have to go back to the neurologist in a month for another MRI. They think his spinal cord has retethered, ugh.
Aside from the tether cord issue, Kaden's health is stellar, which goes along perfectly with his attitude. One thing I can take away from this experience is best explained in a quote.

"While we try to teach our children all about life,Our children teach us what life is all about."

~Angela Schwindt

New Years Resolutions--not in ink!

2010-01-06T11:23:00.000-08:00

Every year I start with a list a mile long of New Years Resolutions, I continue to add and delete as I deem necessary throughout the year and on December 31st I realize I usually don't complete a single one. So this year I have it not in ink but in digital format which I will be looking and marking off as I succeed. Considering I am not a procrastinator but an over-achiever who always overloads the plate, I will be happy if I complete 80% of my resolutions. Here goes nothing...

#1 I want to in general become a nicer person. WHAT?! But Angelina you are nice. Okay, let me rephrase that, I want to limit my facial expressions during inappropriate times. "Yes Angelina that girl does have shorts that are shorter than the pair of underwear you have on, but you don't have to make a face like you are the shorts."

#2 I want to do a good deed a day. I know this may not seem like a big deal, but think of how SELFISH we are as human beings? It is sad really. Now I will not log my good deed every day, but I will tell you if I have failed or succeed in this field. I really hope to succeed in this one.

#3 I am attending the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University starting in February. I don't consider my elf to have a huge amount of debt, but with the economy and our president, I would like to have a lot less. I know my kids are following in my shopping and loving money habits and with Dave Ramsey's class I also hope to find ways to instill financial savy skills in my children's lives so they don't go down the same credit swiping road I did.

So there you have it! My oath of ATTEMPTING success. And so twenty ten begins.

(Yes I called it twenty ten. I also am telling everyone how 1990 was twenty years ago).

Flip flop Friday... I mean Thursday

2009-12-24T16:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Christmas Eve to everyone! I only have one question. SNOW... where are you?!?! It's the end of December and I am back in my flip flops. I promise I would happily wear my snow boots religiously if only it would snow!!
*stepping off my soap box*

Happily Imported

2009-12-22T06:17:00.000-08:00

I am not what you consider a homegrown Kentuckian, but I make a mighty fine transplant. I always thought upon graduation that I would hop on the next flight back to Pennsylvania. Ummm.... no. I love KY! I have a great job working with people who want to further their education. Even if it meant entwining myself in that thick southern accent with an over the top drawl so they could understand what I was saying, it was worth it.

I am a full-time mom as well. I have the best kiddos in the world, Mason and Kaden. Mason is a self-proclaimed artist, actor, and singer while Kaden is a firecracker. Their personalities keep me hopping. I also enjoy anything that has to do with food. I sell Pampered Chef and make gourmet candy on the weekends, my kids have become great "assistants." All I had to do was buy them each a robot apron and BAM... they are stirring and whisking like crazy.

I hope you enjoy my blog. I love life through the ups and downs and you will get to hear all about it!

~ Que, Sera, Sera!

Angelina Raven

Cooking Catalyst

Another Round of "What Kaden Says"

My kids are hilarious... How can I not share the daily conversations held in the Alcott-Stone household? Sometimes however, I wish they would keep it to themselves :)

Enjoy.

While watching a movie this weekend, there was a scene where Jessica Simpson smooched a guy.Mason: I wish I could be that guy and kiss her.Kaden: I wish I had that scooter that guy has been riding around on in the movie.

It snowed last week. I find it very amusing Billy took off of work today "just in case," he needed to drive me to work. Mason turned to him and said "geez dad, even I could have come up with a better excuse about taking a lazy day."

During the UK game today... Billy.... screaming.Kaden: Gawsh, why is dad screeching so much?Mason: Duh Kaden, that is what people do who pretend like they are playing. It is called Jealousy. Me: Evil smile... lol.

Mom: I got you boys some clothes.(Holding up different sweaters and long sleeve shirts).Mom: Kaden do you like this one (a striped gray sweater)?Kaden:Oh I love this, I have always wanted an old man sweater.

Kaden: I want a baby sister.Ang: Ask daddy...Kaden: I ask for things and then I get them.Mason: We have to ADOPT one Kaden, gosh!

Kaden: Mom, does this card look good for Granny?Me (as I glance over): yes bud, it looks awesome.Kaden: HaHa, I am smarter than you, I spelled Granny wrong and you didn't even know it!

Kaden: Emily, I have loose teeth wanna see?Emily: So what is the going rate for teeth.Kaden: there is no such thing as the tooth fairy, daddy is!!Mason: KADEN!! Dad can't even multiply and Mom would forget, so there is a tooth fairy!!

Mason helped me yesterday by giving Kaden his spelling test. Here is how Mason used one of the words in a sentence.Mason: "Dad, the word is dad, ddaaaaddddd. Our dad is chubby. Our dad is big"LOL! P.S. Kaden got the word correct.

Personalized is the BEST!

What? Me? Creative?

Onion Dip is Legit

You are just 27?

Corn Salad Beener Style

Where has the time gone?

You're the Apple of My Eye

White Out

Be Still My Beating Heart

Oh' the things they SAY

My Valentine

The Stone Brothers UNITE

Call it a Canjo

My Face Hurts

A New Kind of Resolution

Fat Man's Misery

My Christmas Present

It Is Times Like These

Cookie? Yes please.

My child, my stereotype

Oh' Christmas Tree, Oh' Christmas Tree

Oreo Balls

October

I received my first F

It Ain't always a Purdy Sight

Just call me Angelina Jolie

My Melons are Jellin

Hot Tub Time Machine

Look Mom those turtles are hugging!

Remember the Granola Bar Commercial?

Finally!!

Mother May I NYC Ulysses Jess Sandidge

These are the days...

Banana's=Success

Am I that Crazy Baseball Mom?!?!

Lazy Mommo's Veggie Casserole

Betty Crocker the Rocker

Stab Apples

Running through the Sidestitch

All Washed Up

I'll Run Through You

A day of Enlightenment

Catalyst on Facebook

Alice in Wonderland (3D)

Shake What Your Mother Gave You

Don't Forget To Wipe

Cheese Face kisses are the BEST

New Years Update

Dear Valentine's Day, Remind Me Again of Your PURPOSE?

Bringin' Home the BACON

Jude's Chicken Casserole

Rubbing Elbows

Is Snow Earth's Dandruff?

All the NEW mothers... put your hands up!!

The meaning of Kaden's name...

New Years Resolutions--not in ink!

Flip flop Friday... I mean Thursday

Happily Imported

While watching a movie this weekend, there was a scene where Jessica Simpson smooched a guy.
Mason: I wish I could be that guy and kiss her.
Kaden: I wish I had that scooter that guy has been riding around on in the movie.

During the UK game today... Billy.... screaming.
Kaden: Gawsh, why is dad screeching so much?
Mason: Duh Kaden, that is what people do who pretend like they are playing. It is called Jealousy.
Me: Evil smile... lol.

Mom: I got you boys some clothes.
(Holding up different sweaters and long sleeve shirts).
Mom: Kaden do you like this one (a striped gray sweater)?
Kaden:Oh I love this, I have always wanted an old man sweater.

Kaden: I want a baby sister.
Ang: Ask daddy...
Kaden: I ask for things and then I get them.
Mason: We have to ADOPT one Kaden, gosh!

Kaden: Mom, does this card look good for Granny?
Me (as I glance over): yes bud, it looks awesome.
Kaden: HaHa, I am smarter than you, I spelled Granny wrong and you didn't even know it!

Kaden: Emily, I have loose teeth wanna see?
Emily: So what is the going rate for teeth.
Kaden: there is no such thing as the tooth fairy, daddy is!!
Mason: KADEN!! Dad can't even multiply and Mom would forget, so there is a tooth fairy!!

Mason helped me yesterday by giving Kaden his spelling test. Here is how Mason used one of the words in a sentence.
Mason: "Dad, the word is dad, ddaaaaddddd. Our dad is chubby. Our dad is big"
LOL! P.S. Kaden got the word correct.