Mcfurr Moments

Photo Shoot 6/27/09

2009-06-27T11:37:00.001-07:00

Today I had a friend of mine go to a local park and to Ashland (Henry Clay's home) to have a photo shoot with my very beautiful daughter. Below are just a few of the wonderful shots we got. The first 3 are ones I edited using photoshop.com pop color option.

Grilling Goodness

2009-06-26T07:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Tina and her Texas friend!

1. When you were growing up dreaming of having children...dreaming of what their names would be...did you stick with those names?
No I didn't, I used to always name my babydolls Emily Michelle and that is not my daughters name.

2. Are you affected by the death of Michael Jackson?
Affected? Well I think it is sad, he has some good old music, but sadly he had become very strange. But would I say his death affected me? No.

3. Do you use your dishwasher and your fireplace?
Opted not to get the fireplace in our house because of the weird place the builders would've put it but we probably wouldn't have used it anyway. Yes my husband (and I occasionally) uses the dishwasher.

4. Have you ever been on a mission trip?
No I have not.

5. Will your kids participate in a Vacation Bible school this summer?
Not sure they have that at our church.

6. What about the economy is affecting you the worst?
Well my husband was unemployed from Jan 1 to TODAY!!!!! So that was affecting us the most, although thanks to Dave Ramsey and unemployment we weren't doing so bad. But he got offered an awesome job today, praise God!

7. Do your kids do chores?
Bailey sorts the laundry and whatever else I tell her to do.

8. Do you use energy efficient light bulbs?
Not yet the other ones haven't gone out yet.

Ten on Tuesday

2009-06-16T15:44:00.001-07:00

Ten random thoughts for today.

1. I hate AT&T, 2 year contracts are ridiculous. If you currently have 2 lines under contract and you already have a phone that you'd like to add a line for you should not have to sign a 2 year contract.

2. It seems to be raining a lot so far this summer, although I guess it's not technically summer yet. I hope it stays clear so we can enjoy the pool on Friday.

3. I love the photo editing site www.picnik.com . I have been having fun with it, I did the header on my blog and the pictures down the side using the basic program, but I am going to upgrade to premium.

4. I have a good feeling about Chris' interview on Thursday, but would still like everyone to pray very hard that this opportunity works out for him.

5. Jodi Picoult is a new favorite author of mine, if you haven't read anything by her you should. I have read 7 of them so far and have yet to be disappointed.

6. My daughter recently tried out for and made a select soccer team, we are very proud and excited to see how this will go.

7. Does anyone else think 5 months before is too early to be planning my 30th birthday party?

8. I really wish we were taking a vacation this year, the beach house last year was a dream and I have a hankering to get away from here.

9. I think I watch too much HGTV. When I found out one of my best friends was looking to buy her first house, I thought it was my own personal version of House Hunters or Property Virgins. I hope I was helpful and not pushy.

10. I think I really want to be a realtor, do you think I could get a job doing one of those shows on HGTV?

Grilling Goodness

2009-06-12T05:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks as always Tina, I love the questions even if I have been a slacker lately!

1. What's the heaviest thing in your purse?
My camera, although it really shouldn't stay in there, at least it will be handy should I need it.

2. Do you mostly use cash or debit/credit cards?
Cash, because thats what Dave Ramsey says. Sometimes debit, but NEVER credit cards.

3. Do you cut your hair shorter in the summer or pull it up a lot?
We have a convertible, so I actually let it grow in the summer so I can pull it up and not have to deal with the tangles. But I am scheduled for a haircut tomorrow and am contemplating cutting it off, I haven't had a haircut since Feb.

4. Do you like your man scruffy or clean shaven?
Definitely clean shaven

5. What have your children done/said to embarass you lately?
Nothing that I can think of, but I am sure she did plenty when she was smaller.

6. Do you use plug-in type air fresheners around the house?
Yes I like glade clean cotton, smells like I actually keep up my laundry :)

7. Do you have any interest in the NBA or NHL finals? (Do you even know who's competing?)
NBA is the Lakers and the Magic, but I really only know this thanks to the husband and the ESPN that is constantly on our tv. And does anyone really care about the NHL?

8. What is weighing heavily on your mind lately?
My husbands continued unemployment (he lost his job in January). He has a second interview with a company on Tuesday which we feel would be a great fit for him, so I ask that everyone please pray for him and this opportunity.

Grilling Goodness -- Lazy Edition

2009-05-04T05:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks Tina! I enjoy the lazy edition!

1. My ex is...the father of my beautiful daughter, and that is the only nice thing I can think to say about him right now. (Might've been a bad day for me to get that one.)

2. I should learn to...be more patient

3. I love...my daughter and my husband more than words can say.

4. People would say that I am...crazy. In a good sort of way of course.

5. I don't understand...a lot of things, but the thing I am struggling with right now is probably best left to God.

6. When I wake up in the morning…I take a shower.

7. I lost...my mind, have you seen it?

8. Life is full of...disappointments, things are going to happen I guess we just have to make the best of what we're handed.

Grilling Goodness #25 and #26

2009-04-17T05:18:00.000-07:00

I have missed a couple of weeks, so I am doing double Grilling Goodness today! Thanks Tina and other question contributors.

Grilling Goodness #25

1. What's one of the best things you've seen lately?

I thought the Easter service (and the whole Man Series) at Quest Community Church was great!

2. Has Spring brought you something you don't like?

Out of control allergies

3. What kind of sandwiches do you like?

Turkey or PB&J

4. Do you carry GermX with you at all times?

No I don't

5. Does each person in your house have their own hamper or do you have a central hamper for everyone?

We have a "sorter" that has 3 compartments for lights, darks, and whites.

6. How often do you balance your checkbook?

We mostly bank online and rarely write checks and neither of us fools much with the checkbook.

7. What's the hardest thing you've done lately?

I can't think of anything hard I have done lately. What a slacker!

8. Are you a texter?

Absolutely, I text like crazy all the time.

Grilling Goodness #26

1. Do you prefer reality tv or dramas or comedies?

I like a good mix of all 3.

2. If you could have free cosmetic surgery, what would you have done?

breast reduction without a doubt

3. What are you itching to get but you have 'bitten the bullet'?

A Dooney and Bourke purse (if my husband gets a job maybe I'll get one for Mother's Day.)

4. Do you have a bad habit that you hope your children don't pick up?

I think my child has picked up most of my bad habits all ready.

5. What was your favorite meal growing up?

I am going to copy Tina and say moms biscuits and gravy. I have never attempted it and probably won't, it's just not the same.

6. What meal did you have as a youngster that you don't have as an adult?

Liver and onions. And Spam.

7. What is your earliest memory of a "vacation"? Where'd you go?

We went to Tennessee and stayed in a cabin with my grandparents, our car broke down on the way, and I almost drowned but it is a great memory.

8. What was the "Best Thing" you ever got for Christmas, before age 12?

Twin cabbage patch dolls.

Grilling Goodness #22

2009-03-13T05:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks again Tina, always love to play along!

1. Did you learn anything new this week?

I learned some stuff about estates, wills and probates when people die that I didn't already know.

2. Will you wear green on St. Patty's Day or do you not give a hoot??

Do I really give a hoot, no.... But will I wear green, yes (to prevent having to hit anyone should they pinch me.)

3. Do you wash clothes throughout the week or only on a specific day?

I used to do laundry on Sundays, but now it mostly just gets washed whenever it needs it.

4. What is one of the most popular 'spams' you get in your junk email inbox?

I get emails for male "enhancement" products quite often

5. Are you where you want to be? (you decide the meaning of the question for your answer)

No, I want to be home in my bed.

6. Do you know how to swim?

Yes

7. Do you take trips with your girlfriends?

Scrapbooking ones with my sisters but I would love to take more girlfriends trips

8. What was your favorite purchase this week? (big or small)

I guess I will say Baileys Easter dress since I haven't really bought much this week.

2009-03-06T05:19:00.000-08:00

Last week was crazy and I missed Grilling out but I am back because I love it. Thanks Tina!

1. What do you do when you get mad?
Depends on how bad it is and what has made me made. Little things make me rant and rave. Big things make me cry.

2. Do you wash your hair everyday?
If I didn't I would gross everyone out, I have the oilest hair ever.

3. How often do you speak to your parents?
Mom at least once a week, Dad less often but now that he has facebook and is obsessed probably a little more often

4. Your nails - painted or nude?
Never paint my nails, it takes more time than I have patience for it to dry and then starts chipping in a few days.

5. What pair of shoes do you wear most often?
In the winter sneakers and in the warmer months flip flops

6. If you could do anything you wanted to do this weekend, what would it be?
Take a shopping trip in Chicago

7. What's the best cough medicine you know of?
OTC --- delsym is good stuff, but I prefer the stuff the doctor gives you that knocks you out if I am really sick

8. How do you feel about 'springing forward'??
It doesn't really bother me.

Grilling Goodness #19

2009-02-20T05:35:00.000-08:00

It's that time again, time for some Grilling Goodness. Check out Tina's blog and join in the fun!

1. What is your favorite family activity?
Playing board games or traveling

2. Do you know how to play poker?
Absolutely, we play a friendly game now and again and I sometimes win.

3. Have you ever been to a chiropractor? Regularly?
No, chiropractors are quacks (which is a statement heard from an orthopedic surgeon I used to work for. ) "Cracking" your back is probably not going to cure what ails you if you have a serious problem that a chiropractor is not qualified to diagnose or treat. And Tina, they tell everybody that one leg is longer than the other so you'll think you need more treatment. That being said, they scare me.

4. Have you ever slopped pigs or milked cows?
HaHaHaHa!!!! No way no how!

5. How are you doing with the goals you made for the New Year?
Well pending the diagnosis on my knee I have not done much, but I found out I will not be requiring surgery and will start my exercise program this week. I am under strict orders from the doctor to lose 50 pounds in the next year. Wish me luck!

6. Is there something you dread doing every day?
Getting up at 5:40. I would LOVE to be able to sleep later.

7. What room in your home would you most like to buy new furniture for?
My bedroom since the living and dining rooms are done and I would like to have a new bed.

8. If I had a dollar for every _______________ I'd be able to ______________.

If I had a dollar for every time my husband has road rage I'd be able to get a new bed and a new house for the bed to go in, and a new truck to deliver the bed, and a new car and................. LOL!

Grilling Goodness #18

2009-02-13T05:24:00.000-08:00

Go check out Tinas 400th post and do Grilling Goodness, the highlight of my Friday morning.

1. How long has your longest friendship been?

I guess pretty much my whole life since my cousin Amanda was born 6 months after me and she is one of my best friends. I also have been friends with Natasha since the first day of high school which was 14 years ago.

2. What made you happy this week?

New shoes, that I did not pay for!

3. Are you planning any kind of event right now?

A sleepover with my 10 year old is apparently an "event" even if there is only 1 girl spending the night, so I guess I am planning that (not near as much as they are planning though.)

4. Do you wear your wedding ring? What is it made of?

Yes I wear them all the time, I only take it off for lotion or mixing meatloaf or something of that sort. They are white gold

5. Do you shave your legs in the winter?

Not as often as in the summer.

6. What time do your kids go to bed?

9 o'clock during the week

7. Right this minute, is your laundry caught up?

HA!HA!HA!HA! Its a never ending cycle and I have a 10 year old and a full time job, it will never be caught up.

8. Do you want flowers for Valentine's Day?

If I get them I will enjoy them, but I do not encourage or expect my husband to get them. I too enjoy them way more when it is random and unexpected. My husband and I make homemade Valentine cards every year and that is all I expect, it really is an over rated holiday.

Grilling Goodness #17

2009-02-06T05:11:00.001-08:00

Thanks again Tina!!!!

1. Have your children corrected you somehow this week?
My daughter is entering puberty, there isn't a day that goes by that she doesn't correct me.

2. Are you waiting for a particular something to happen?
I am waiting for my husband to find a new job.

3. Do you chat online?
I met my husband chatting on AOL 5 years ago this month, but I very rarely chat online anymore, just occasionally on facebook.

4. What is the oldest thing you own?
A ring that was my grandmothers

5. What's for dinner tonight?
WEEEEEEELLLLLL....... Its Game Night at my house so we will be having Pizza Hut which I have been craving all week.

6. Are you artistic?
I would say I am crafty before I would say artistic.

7. Are you getting an income tax refund? Plans for it?
Yes, Chris will be doing our taxes tomorrow. Plans are to pay off my car YAY!!!! and buy an eliptical machine for me!!! YAY!!!!

8. Do you use 'zero payments/zero interest for XX months' to buy things?
No, we "Dave Ramsey" so we only pay cash, which may take a little longer to get what you want but it sure feels good not having to worry about a payment every month.

Grilling Goodness #16

2009-01-30T23:27:00.000-08:00

Good post Tina!

1. Do you and your spouse still celebrate Valentine's Day?
We make each other homemade cards, but that's it. Yes my husband makes homemade cards.

2. When's the last time you licked a stamp?
I usually use the postage machine at work or self stick stamps

3. How many clocks are in your home?
3 alarm clocks no wall clocks

4. What holiday is closest to your birthday?
Thanksgiving

5. Do you cook anything the same way your mother made it when you were growing up?
I ask my mom when I am not sure how to make something, but I usually do my own variation of things.

6. Do you pay bills online?
Yes, its awesome.

7. Will you be gathering to watch the Super Bowl on Sunday?
Only with my husband and daughter in our house. Go Cardinals!!!

8. Have you treated yourself to something this week?
A night out with the girls tonight, the comedy club was lots of fun. And mother nature treated me to 3 days off of work this week thanks to bad weather, but I worked very hard today to make up for it.

"M" things I love

2009-01-26T07:40:00.000-08:00

My friend Tina from Golden Goodness played this little game on her blog today. The 'tagger' gives the 'taggee' a letter...any 'ol letter...and the 'taggee' has to write 10 things they love that begin with that letter.

So I requested that she give me a letter and she granted me the letter 'M'.

Mountain Dew

Manning brothers (Peyton and Eli)

Mashed Potatoes

McDonalds sweet tea and french fries

McDreamy

Mexican food

Montery jack (cheese is yummy)

Mon amour (my love in french)

Mobile phone

Magazines

I have to say the letter M was very hard for me. Let me know if you want a letter.

Kurtis the stock boy and Brenda the checkout girl (sweet story I just had to share)

2009-01-23T05:26:00.000-08:00

KURTIS THE STOCK BOY AND BRENDA THE CHECKOUT GIRL

In a supermarket, Kurtis the stock boy, was busily working when a new voice came over the loud speaker asking for a carry out at register 4. Kurtis was almost finished, and wanted to get some fresh air, and decided to answer the call. As he approached the check-out stand a distant smile caught his eye, the new check-out girl was beautiful. She was an older woman (maybe 26, and he was only 22) and he fell in love.
Later that day, after his shift was over, he waited by the punch clock to find out her name. She came into the break room, smiled softly at him, took her card and punched out, then left. He looked at her card, BRENDA. He walked out only to see her start walking up the road. Next day, he waited outside as she left the supermarket, and offered her a ride home. He looked harmless enough,and she accepted. When he dropped her off, he asked if maybe he could see her again, outside of work. She simply said it wasn't possible.He pressed and she explained she had two children and she couldn't afford a baby-sitter, so he offered to pay for the baby-sitter. Reluctantly she accepted his offer for a date for the following Saturday.
That Saturday night he arrived at her door only to have her tell him that she was unable to go with him. The baby-sitter had called and canceled. To which Kurtis simply said, "Well,let's take the kids with us."She tried to explain that taking the children was not an option, but again not taking no for an answer, he pressed. Finally Brenda, brought him inside to meet her children. She had an older daughter who was just as cute as a bug,Kurtis thought, then Brenda brought out her son, in a wheelchair. He was born a paraplegic with Down Syndrome.Kurtis asked Brenda, "I still don't understand why the kids can't come with us?" Brenda was amazed. Most men would run away from a woman with two kids, especially if one had disabilities - just like her first husband and father of her children had done. Kurtis was not ordinary - - - he had a different mindset.
That evening Kurtis and Brenda loaded up the kids, went to dinner and the movies. When her son needed anything Kurtis would take care of him.When he needed to use the restroom, he picked him up out of his wheelchair, took him and brought him back. The kids loved Kurtis. At the end of the evening,Brenda knew this was the man she was going to marry and spend the rest of her life with. A year later, they were married and Kurtis adopted both of her children. Since then they have added 5 more kids.

So what happened to Kurtis the stock boy and Brenda the check-out girl?

Well, Mr. & Mrs. Kurt Warner now live in Arizona , where he is currently employed as the quarterback of the National Football League Arizona Cardinals and has his Cardinals in the Super Bowl. Is this a surprise ending or could you have guessed that he was not an ordinary person?

GO CARDINALS!!!!!!

Grilling Goodness #15

2009-01-23T05:12:00.000-08:00

Thanks Tina! Yes Grilling Goodness is the highlight of my Friday morning.

1. Have you ever ridden a horse?
Probably when I was a child, I'm not much on animals or the outdoors so it isn't something I would do on a regular basis.

2. Have you ever run out of gas?
No, I am SUPER anal about that, I cannot stand it when it gets near the 1/4 tank mark.

3. How many different schools did you attend growing up?
6 from kindergarten to High school

4. Do you have, and use, a library card?
Yes I have one, I have used it, I think I owe a fine so I can't use it until I pay that, lucky for me my cousin has a lot of books I haven't read yet and we have the same taste in books. Eventually I will break down and pay the fine and start going to the library again.

5. Hand-wash or dishwasher?
I told my husband that I would never live in a house that didn't have a dishwasher. But truthfully he does the dishes most of the time. We do have KitchenAid pots and pans and knives that have to be hand washed, which he hates so I usually end up doing those.

6. Does your alarm clock beep or play music?
Beeps otherwise I might never wake up.

7. Do you know how to roller skate?
Of course, I am a child of the 80's.

8. What would you consider one of your biggest accomplishments?
Having such a smart well adjusted child despite the circumstances.

Grilling Goodness #14

2009-01-16T05:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks TINA!!!!!

1. Do you like scary movies?
Not at all, I would have nightmares for sure.

2. What kind of cell phone do you have?
Quickfire by AT&T, although I am really wishing I would've held out for an Iphone.

3. Do you have a passport?
No but I would like to have one and actually use it

4. Has anything sad happened in your life this week?
My baby is turning 10 on Sunday and that is kind of sad for me.

5. Have you ever broken any bones?
No thankfully

6. Did you do anything this week that you don't normally do?
Nothing that I can think of.

7. What's the worst thing you ever had in your wardrobe?
Oh I am sure there were plenty of totally hideous things back in the day.

8. Did you have braces on your teeth?
No, but probably needed them, thanks a lot mom and dad. Bailey will definitely have them eventually, we're probably getting really close to that actually.

Grilling Goodness #13

2009-01-09T05:57:00.000-08:00

Time for at least the once weekly blog of terrific Q & A by Tina.

1. What's your 'dream machine' - as in vehicle? Do you think you'll ever own it?
A luxury sedan like BMW or Mercedes. Maybe someday I will own it.

2. Can you water ski?
Haven't ever tried and don't think I ever will, I am NOT so coordinated.

3. What kind of milk to you prefer?
I don't drink milk but if I were going to it probably would have to be 2% but I keep skim or 1% at my house.

4. Have any of your pet peeves 'gotten your goat' this week?
none that I can think of

5. How do you prepare your taxes? HR Block, Turbo Tax, by hand - or does someone else do it for you?
We use TurboTax

6. Did you start a workout program this New Year?
Not yet, I have been eating a lot better, and haven't had sweet tea or mt dew in 5 days. I actually hurt my knee @ a year ago and just keep letting it go because it wasn't a constant pain, but now it is REALLY bothering me, so I might have to get that checked out before I can do too much.

7. Do you have a certain meal that you cook each and every week?
No not really, I need to change it up a little. One of my goals this year is to try 1 new recipe per week. (suggestions are welcome)

8. When do you normally write your blog posts?
Whenever the mood hits me.

Grilling Goodness # 12

2009-01-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

Thanks Tina for taking time out of your VERY busy schedule to think up more wonderful questions. Happy 2009!

1. If you could have done something different in 2008, what would it be?
I think 2008 was pretty good, not sure there is anything I would change.

2. What is something that you know will happen in 2009?
My baby will turn 10 and I will turn 30.

3. What is something that you hope will happen in 2009?
I hope that I will really stay serious about getting healthy.

4. Do you already have a vacation planned for this year?
Hopefully a short trip to Chicago in May, provided my husband finds a new job (prayers welcome). We took a big trip in 2008 so the budget isn't allowing for a major vacation in 2009.

5. Are you relieved that the holidays are over?
Yes, ready for things to slow down and get back to normal.

6. Did you make a resolution? Will you share it?
Not really into resolutions, I think people make them knowing they will be broken. I do have high hopes to be more healthy, eat better and exercize and to stop wasting so much money eating out.

7. How old will you turn in 2009?
I will be 30 this year, start planning the celebration now.

8. What did you do to celebrate the New Year?
We had a game night/ celebration at our house. It was fun, we might have to make it a tradition.

Grilling Goodness #11

2008-12-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

1. What pain reliever do you swear by?
Used to be Ibuprophen but due to ulcers I am banned from using anything but tylenol. I like the Tylenol rapid release (wal-mart brand of course)

2. Have you gotten up-to-date with a flat screen HDTV?
We have what was the latest and greatest @ 7 years ago, which is not good enough now (or so says my husband who is anticipating getting a new tv soon, after he gets a new job of course.)

3. Have you honked at anyone lately?
I would have to say probably so, I am a honker.

4. What is your favorite household product?
The magic eraser is pretty cool. But I LOVE LOVE LOVE lemon pledge (mostly the smell).

5. What is the earliest you've gotten up this week and why?
I get up at 5:45 every weekday morning and that is way to early in my opinion.

6. Do you travel out of town for Christmas?
We travel about an hour and fifteen minutes to my husbands grandparents on Christmas Eve.

7. Have you been listening to Christmas music? (Favorite?)
OF course. My all time favorite Christmas song is Away In a Manger. I know my sister will say the same in her blog (if she does it), but I also like Home for Christmas by Steven Curtis Chapman

8. When do you exchange gifts with family?
Yesterday with my dad and his wife, the sunday before Christmas with my mom and her husband, Christmas Eve with my husbands family, Christmas Day at home and with extended family at my aunts house.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-17T07:11:00.000-08:00

Snow day fun!

Grilling Goodness #10

2008-12-12T05:39:00.000-08:00

1. How many Christmas parties have you attended or will you attend?
Well, it depends on how you define "party". I have 4 family things, 2 of which are actually hosted at my house this year and one thing with my friends from high school.

2. What is your favorite dish to take to a party?
Some kind of dip or dessert usually. (Easy)

3. When you're at home and your feet are chilled, do you wear socks or houseshoes?
I always wear socks at home. I love fuzzy thick warm socks in the winter.

4. What are your plans for this weekend?
Tonight dinner with my favorite cousin and shopping for the last few things I need for Christmas, tomorrow scrapping all day (well actually I am crafting Christmas presents) at Lasting Legacy, Sunday grocery and cleaning for the first of the Christmas gatherings.

5. What is the most expensive Christmas gift you are buying for your children this year?
I bought a lot of little things really since Chris' grandma and grandad (thankfully) bought her the expensive thing she was wanting.

6. Do you have a family portrait made each year?
No, at some point I get Baileys picture taken (she's the cutest anyway), but I am happy with very few pictures of me.

7. Do you drive your kids around looking for decorated homes?
Not yet this year but usually.

8. What is your least favorite thing about cold weather?
Bulky coats. I hate bulky coats, I usually just wear my Columbia fleece jacket. But I did score a new wool coat retail $200 for only $45 that I am getting for Christmas (thanks again to Chris' grandma.)

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-10T05:12:00.001-08:00

Bailey putting the star on the Christmas tree.

Stay in Shape Over the Holidays Giveaway

2008-12-05T07:15:00.000-08:00

Check out this and other cool giveaways at Momma Findings. Or check this cool product out at http://www.hoopnotica.com

Stay in Shape Over the Holidays *Giveaway*

Grilling Goodness # 9

2008-12-05T06:21:00.000-08:00

Thanks Tina! I missed GG last week!

1. Do you send out Christmas cards? Have you done it yet?
Yes I do. This year they are homemade. I haven't sent them yet because my husband said it was a little early to at least wait until next week.

2. When you cook chicken, do you cook a whole chicken?
What? Who has time for that? I wouldn't even know how to cook a whole chicken unless I googled it, or called my mom, although I can't ever remember her cooking a whole chicken either. If you want a whole cooked chicken just get a rotisserie one from your grocers deli.

3. What is your favorite Christmas movie?
Miracle on 34th Street. Bailey and Chris just saw it for the first time on Thanksgiving, I plan to make them watch it every year from now on. We have DVRed How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Christmas Story, and Home Alone to watch too. I pretty much love all Christmas movies except Its a Wonderful Life.

4. How often do you go to the grocery store?
Once a week, generally on Sunday afternoon, but I always end up back there at some point during the week because I forgot something.

5. Do you play games online?
I love word games and I play them online

6. Do you make your bed everyday?
No, usually only when company is coming over. My mornings are hectic and I don't have time for that.

7. What is one of your favortie websites? (Hopefully this is understood, but please share only the G rated sites! lol)
Facebook. I LOVE FACEBOOK (sadly it's really almost an addiction.) Oh and of course http://goldengoodness.blogspot.com/ :)

8. What gives you the most laughter in life?
I usually laugh the most with my besties from high school. I am looking forward to a weekend of laughing until my face hurts with Cheryl, Tina, and Debbie at Cropical Paradise.

Grilling Goodness #8

2008-11-21T05:28:00.000-08:00

You can either answer these questions about yourself or mix it up a little and answer them about your spouse!! I chose to answer about my spouse.

1. Sitting in front of the TV, what’s on the screen?
Most likely ESPN if not that then either a car show, how its made or The History of _________ (anything really, he really enjoyed the history of cheese.)

2. You’re out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad?
Ranch

3. What’s one food he doesn’t like?
Onions, he doesn't even want a raw onion to touch his food.

4. What is his favorite type of sandwich?
Colby Cheese with tomato and miracle whip

5. What would this person eat everyday if he could?
fresh tomatoes

6. What is his favorite cereal?
Cinnamon toast crunch, golden grahams ( I think, he very rarely eats cereal)

7. What would he never wear?
Anything pink

8. What is his favorite sports team?
College Basketball--- North Carolina, MLB--- Red Sox, NFL--- Miami Dolphins, and in college football he doesn't have a particular favorite, NBA --- not a huge fan

Grilling Goodness #7

2008-11-14T05:08:00.000-08:00

1. What's the worst thing you've ever sent through the washing machine/dryer?
My Husband once washed a red pen, in a load of whites, lucky for me that usually when he decides to do laundry its usually only his laundry, so none of my stuff was ruined.

2. Do you do any of your Christmas shopping online?
Yes I do, especially since my daughter mostly wants American Girl stuff.

3. What are you looking forward to this Thanksgiving?
Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, broccoli casserole, pumkin pie............ and time with family :)

4. What did you do before you had children that you miss doing now that you have children?
Nothing really, as soon as I was an adult I had a child and my child usually lets me sleep in, that would be what I would miss if I had an early riser.

5. Do you have a fireplace? (Do you use it?)
No we do not have a fireplace, and if we did we probably wouldn't use it. Although I do wish I had a mantle to hang the stockings on.

6. Do medical shows showing surgeries and blood freak you out?
Real surgeries yes, fake stuff not too bad. If it gets too bad I cover my eyes.

7. How long have you lived where you live?
Since January 2007 after a 4 week stay(during Christmas) in a hotel because our house wasn't done when it was supposed to be.

8. What is one of your favorite seasonal items?
Ornaments, I love ornaments and I love reminising about each one while we decorate the tree.

Thanks Tina!

Grilling Goodness #6

2008-11-07T05:28:00.000-08:00

1. What is one of your 'must see' tv shows?
Greys Anatomy, although until last night I had been disappointed with the new season, but I think its finally coming around.

2. Do you have a facebook page?
I do and I like it more than myspace, it seems more grown up somehow. I have convinced others to join too, including my husband who used to make fun of it (although I am positive he will not become obsessed as I am)

3. How old were you when you got married?
The first time I was 19 (too young) and this time I was 26

4. What is one bad habit that you need to break?
Not exercising, meaning I need to start exercising again.

5. What is your favorite cold-weather activity?
Curling up with a good book.

6. At church, do you always sit in the same area?
Yes

7. What do you like best about blogging?
I like reading about other peoples lives (I am nosey) and I like that some people(Tina in particular) have such a gift for it.

8. What's the last funny thing you remember hearing from a child?
This morning on the traffic report they said something about Palumbo Drive and Bailey was cracking up and I ask her what was so funny and she said Bumbo thats a funny name for a street.

Grilling Goodness #5

2008-10-31T05:12:00.000-07:00

1. Is there anything peculiar about the way you sleep?
I sleep on my side with the covers up to my chin and I am a cover and a bed hog. And I have allergy issues, so according to my husband I sometimes breathe like a dragon (LOL). I make a horrible bed mate.

2. Are you in with the fad...do you own something with giraffe print?
No, don't think I will any time soon either.

3. What color do you have the most of hanging in your closet?
probably black, supposedly its slimming.

4. In the spirit of all the candy that will fly around today...what is your favorite kind of candy?
Minature reece cups

5. Is your thumb green or are you a plant killer?
I kill plants.

6. Do you have a crazy pet story?
At our old house we had a stray cat that we fed because my husband is a cat lover. This particular cat would slobber whenever you would pet him so my husband named him Slobber. Well slobber got in a fight and had a huge sore on his head so my husband took him to the vet and the vet prescribed some medicine. My husband took it to Wal-Mart to have it filled and when it was ready they paged, " Slobber Furr your prescription is now ready." (Furr does happen to be our last name.)

7. Did you ever tight-roll your jeans?
Of course

8. Does your family read your blog?
My sister does, but she is probably the only one

Grilling Goodness

2008-10-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

1. The World Series has begun...do you watch it? (and do you care who wins?)
My husband is a sports fanatic so yes it is on in my house, not that I pay a great deal of attention and I am rooting for the Phillies, even though my husband is rooting for Tampa Bay. I personally think a baseball game is more interesting in person than on tv.

2. Is the inside of your car clean or 'garbage dump filthy'?
I wouldn't say its clean but its definitely not garbage dump filthy. I am trying to be better at keeping it clean.

3. Who is the next person in your family to have a birthday?
MEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Only 25 more days(Nov 19). And my niece Gracie is the day after mine.

4. Do you wear glasses or contacts? (how old were you when it became necessary?)
I got glasses in the 5th grade. I now mostly wear contacts though.

5. What is your major form of exercise?
Exercise? Seriously? Soccer is over this week though and I promised my husband I'd go back to the gym with him as soon as I had more time. No more excuses. When I do go to the gym I prefer the eliptical machine. I have tried to convince my husband I need one at home.

6. What is something you could do to make your spouse's day easier today?
Not complain that he didn't do the dishes. Otherwise his days are always fairly easy.

7. How much is gas where you are?
I paid $2.54 yesterday. WOO HOO!!!!

8. What the furthest away from home that you've ever traveled?
Las Vegas

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-23T03:24:00.000-07:00

Look at the difference!

Ten on Tuesday

2008-10-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

1. Bailey got all A's on her 1st report card and had perfect attendance.

2. Bailey has grown 4-5 inches since last year at this time (you can see for yourself on wordless Wednesday tomorrow), she will soon be taller than her mom (which won't take much).

3. We started Financial Peace Junior with Bailey this week and she gets fined for arguing or talking back, wonder if that will tame her attitudes?

4. I purchased new living room furniture and a dining room table and chairs on Sunday. I am so excited to finally be getting some stuff done in my "new" house (that I have been in since Jan '07).

5. I talked about Chicago so much that my husband has agreed that we can go back next year, because I love Chicago. Not that I would ever want to live in that big of a city but its nice to visit.

6. My husband informed me the other day that I am not a very nice person in the mornings.

7. I let him know that I never claimed to be a morning person, I love to sleep and it takes me a while to wake up and be able to be nice.

8. Most people can't believe that Christmas stuff is out before it is even Halloween, but I am already gearing up and planning. I love buying stuff for other people (especially Bailey).

9. Only 29 days left until my 29th birthday!

10. I attended my 10 year high school reunion on Saturday, it was interesting how most people had not changed much at all. I am glad I went but not sure I would attend again. I am still friends with my 2 best friends from high school and can keep tabs on others through facebook and that is enough for me.

Grilling Goodness #3

2008-10-17T05:31:00.000-07:00

1. What is your least favorite aspect of Election Year?
All the negativity

2. What is something your spouse could do to make you feel special?
Plan and execute a nice meal (with no input from me)

3. Do you complain at restaurants or do you just tip less?
Depends on the situation and who's to blame

4. If you had it to do over again, would you choose the same wedding date you had?
Yes I don't see why not

5. What kind of car do you drive?
2001 Mitsubishi Galant that will be paid off at the first of the year and then I can save cash for a newer (but not new) car. Doing it the Dave Ramsey way

6. If you have siblings, are you close to them?
1 sister and we are very close I also consider her one of my best friends

7. Do you spend the same amount of money on each child at Christmas or just buy a certain number of gifts?
I only have 1 child and I would go crazy but we try to stay within a certain budget

8. What phrase do you find yourself saying all the time?
Seriously!
You have got to be kidding me!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-15T17:41:00.000-07:00

Grilling Goodness #2

2008-10-10T05:42:00.000-07:00

Tina, Have I told you how much I love Grilling Goodness????

1. What can cheer you up when you're feeling grumpy?
Bailey (unless she is feeling grumpy too) and Ice cream, usually I just need time to get over whatever is making me grumpy though

2. Give one feature that could make or break the deal if you were shopping for a new home.
Not having at least 2 bathrooms

3. What's the craziest thing you've ever let your children eat for breakfast?
I can't think off anything out of the ordinary other than letting her drink Mt Dew with her breakfast, but thats the norm for me so I can hardly say thats crazy

4. If you are a 'watch what you eat' kind of person, share a meal or dish that makes it easier to diet.
I FIND IT INCREDIBLY HARD TO WATCH WHAT I EAT!!!! So I would like to read what others have to say.

5. Is there something you used to do as a child that you would never let your children do now?
Go swimming in a pond or the KY River. I cannot imagine ever letting Bailey in that disgustingness

6. If you have a daughter, are her ears pierced? When did you allow it?
Yes Bailey has had her ears pierced since she was @ 4 months old.

7. Are you the only person in your house who changes the TP roll??
I am the only person who actually puts it on the TP roller. They (Chris and Bailey) will get a new roll and just sit it on the counter or back of the toilet and it drives me crazy.

8. How old were you when you no longer lived with a parent(s) for the first time?
20

Grilling Goodness #1

2008-10-03T05:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks Tina for the thought you put into this, its fun getting to read what you and others answer.

1. Do you snort when you laugh?
When I laugh really hard yes, and then that just makes me laugh harder

2. Do you have any idea might have to google it see what I can learn.why we don't sneeze in our sleep? Wild guess?
I have never ever wondered this and have no clue why we don't , now I might have to google it and try to find out

3. Do you give much thought to astrology?
No, its just general mumbo jumbo that anyone could read into and make relevant in their life.

4. What is the most expensive thing you've purchased this year?
New flooring for the living and dining room, but I am getting ready to purchase new furniture.

5. What kind of shampoo do you use? Loyally?
Currently John Frieda Luxurious Volume, which I like, sometimes I use herbal essence (although it has yet to make me feel like those girls in the commercials) or sometimes Sunsilk, mostly I am always searching for extra volume and something that will not make my hair a grease pit by 6pm.

6. Whose music are you really diggin' right now?
Keith Urban and whatever is playing on the radio in the background. I should really pay more attention.

7. What is your favorite thing about the Fall?
Jeans and sweatshirts, cooler weather (but I don't want it to be too cold) and Thanksgiving

8. Do you have a GPS?
My husband works for Rand McNally and is a walking map himself (or so he likes to think) so usually we use a map or atlas, but occasionally if we go somewhere we are both unfamiliar with, then we borry Maggie Magellan from Chris' parents.

Let me ask you this #1 and 2

2008-09-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

I like surveys and questions and learning about other people (probably just the noseyness coming out), not to mention I haven't posted much lately (and I'm at work with not much to do) so here goes.....

1. Where do you fold your laundry?
In the laundry room, unless it is towels then I usually do those on the couch

2. Must you be sure the dishes are washed before you go to bed each night?
No, my husband generally does the dishes and he can do them whenever he wants, I am not about to complain

3. Do you use caller id to screen your calls?
Absolutely

4. Do you let the low fuel light come on in your car before you fill up?
Very rarely, 1/4 of a tank is cutting it close for me

5. Are you a registered voter?
Absolutely, I think everyone should vote if you can

6. Breakfast for dinner is one thing, but can you eat dinner for breakfast?
Not at all

7. Do you click on the ads you see on people's blogs?
No, should I?

8. Do you just want to yell at smokers who are clearly standing within 50ft of the door at a restaurant?
YES!!! But usually I just cough loudly and obnoxiously, and my daughter generally states how disgusting smoking is not caring who can hear her( one instance when I am not embarassed by the blunt things she sometimes says loudly)

#2

1. Rare, medium or well-done?
burgers well done (but not crispy or dry) Steak medium well

2. Do you plan to stay in the house you're in for the rest of your life?
Probably not, I'd like a brick house with a basement thats not so close to the neighbors but its a good house that serves us well

3. Why do you have the size bed you have?
Queen, I'd like a king though, I don't like to be breathed on either and I take up a lot of space when I sleep

4. When you buy milk, do you just grab a jug or do you look for the latest exp. date?
Look for the latest date, we don't use much milk and I want it to last as long as possible

5. Do you and your spouse go on dates? How often?
As often as possible

6. Do you like to play board games? Favorite?
LOVE to play board games. Scattergories although not really played on a board and scrabble but recently apples to apples (if you haven't played it check it out best for groups 0f 5 or more.)

7. Do you have a day each which that you sleep late?
Try to sleep as much as possible on the weekends since I get up at 5:30 on weekdays

8. Do you wear shoes in your house or park them at the door?
Take them off as soon as I walk in, not because I am worried about the floor but because I just like to not have on shoes

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-10T17:41:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

Touchdown Taco Dip

2008-08-29T12:04:00.000-07:00

Ok here's the recipe for the touchdown taco dip.

1 16 oz container sour cream
1 8 0z block cream cheese
1 packet old elpaso taco seasoning
2 medium tomatoes
1-2 cups finely shredded taco blend cheese
lettuce (optional, I opt not to have it)
black olives (optional, I don't like them so I don't)

Mix together sour cream, cream cheese, and taco seasoning until well blended and lumps are gone ( I use the hand mixer to make it more smooth)
Spread mixture into the bottom of a round dish ( I use a pie pan)
Sprinkle cheese evenly on top, then top with other ingredients of your choice (my family only eats with the tomatoes)
Serve with tortilla chips

Yummy Bacon Ranch Dip

2008-08-29T10:28:00.001-07:00

I made some dip for game night tonight and it was so yummy I thought I'd share it with everyone.

1 16 oz container of sour cream
1 8 oz bar of cream cheese (let soften)
1 pkg hidden valley ranch dip mix
1 pkg oscar meyer real bacon pieces
1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese

Mix the sour cream and cream cheese together until smooth before adding the other ingredients ( I like to use the mixer to get it a little smoother)

Serve with your favorite potato chips YUM! YUM! If you like this ask for the touchdown taco dip recipe, similar ingredients but different flavor.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-06T18:24:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-30T11:48:00.001-07:00

Baileys Back to School Fashion Show

2008-07-28T12:46:00.001-07:00

Back to school shopping

2008-07-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

My child has grown a lot since the spring and has suddenly developed a definite opinion about her wardrobe and the way she should look. She picked out all of her new clothes and informed me that she never again wanted her hair to be shorter than it is now because it makes her look younger. I can tell I am in for a time of it already. Check out her back to school fashion show.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-23T06:25:00.000-07:00

Tacky Tuesday

2008-07-22T08:19:00.000-07:00

It is tacky to start a new job and on the first day try to change the flow of the whole office. It is also tacky to use the phrase, "Well at my old job.....", because we all know if your old job was so great you'd still be there. But its day two so maybe today we can start out on a better note, I will try very hard to have a more positive attitude.

Good Books

2008-07-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

I love to read so I thought today I would list some of my favorites.

Nicholas Sparks is one of my favorite authors for a good story that will envoke many differrent emotions, my favorite is A Bend In the Road, but they are all very good (and clean) books.

Another favorite of mine (who is very different from Nicholas Sparks) is Jane Green and I have read all but 2 of her books (but they are both on the list). These books are full of sarcasm and usually good for a good laugh.

A must read for wives everywhere is Why My Wife Thinks I'm an idiot by Mike Greenberg. This book is HILARIOUS!!!!

While on vacation last month I read The Faraday Girls which I decided to add to my faves because it was heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time and I had a really hard time putting it down.

A great christian author that my sister turned me on to is Ray Blackston I've read Flabbergasted, A Delirious Summer, and Lost in Rooville. WONDERFUL books, and I have just learned he had another book come out this year and I might stop and buy it on my way home....review to follow.

I have always loved a good book so if anyone has any suggestions let me know.

Things that make me smile

2008-07-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

Not a lot of time tonight but I am home alone for the rest of the week so I am sure I will post a better blog sometime this week, but here is a list of random things that make me smile (in no particular order.)

Baileys giggle

How beautiful and intelligent Bailey is

The smell of Mens Lucky You (it reminds me of my first date with my husband)

The smell of Irish Springs as my husband gets out of the shower

New episodes of Greys Anatomy

Seeing how much my neice getting bigger and learning everyday (even if the little stinker refuses to even try and say my name)

New Shoes (thanks to my MIL I will be wearing a new pair tomorrow)

A new box of crayons (the more colors the better)

Finding old friends online or new ones at Cropical Paradise

When my husband gets nostalgic about silly stuff and acts like a kid

Hugs... I like hugs

Football season will be here before we know it. GO COLTS!!!!

Sappy love songs

A good deal

A good steak

Chick Flicks

A good haircut

Long hot baths

A good book, one that you can't put down until you finish it