1. Diet Pepsi
I don’t know if this is as much of a guilty pleasure then it is an addiction. I would like to state for the record that my doctor has told me to cut out the diet soda ASAP while I am pregnant, so I have quit cold turkey (not the first time). This will be a day by day choice; we will see how it goes.
2. Popcorn with REAL melted butter
Now this is a pleasure that I don’t often indulge in. One bag of microwave popcorn with half a cube of REAL melted butter. Okay, I know this is a heart attack in a bowl, that is why I don’t eat it very often, but it is SUPER yummy.
3. Sudoku
I love Sudoku and have a hard time passing up this little puzzle. My daughter has a Sudoku game on her DSI and I sneak into her room once she goes to bed and take her DSI and play Sudoku before I going to bed..
4. Watching Movies
The joy of watching new movies with my husband. I enjoy all movies and I think I like the time alone with my hubby as much as I like watching the movie.
5. HOT baths
Who doesn’t enjoy a nice relax in the tub. Add bubbles, candles, maybe a book, and of course locking the door; that is a nice way to spend an hour after a long day.
6. My green/white softy blanket
I bought this blanket at Homegoods a year and a half ago. It is fuzzy on one side and soft on the other. Secretly, I don’t go far without my blanket.
7. Creating things in Excel
I am kind of a computer nerd. I love creating and editing things. I use Excel for just about anything and I always find a reason that it is important to use.
8. Seat warmers in my car
I use these silly things in the middle of the summer. Enough said.
9. Taco Bell (bean burrito)
My favorite fast food place yummmmmm.
10. The TV Show House
I would love to be Dr. Gregory House for just one day.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Another Miracle
Last Monday morning, Jay started his normal morning routine when he was suddenly shocked to learn his contact had a BIG crack in it. Now those of you that know Jay and the story behind these contacts, there was a “slight” panic.
Once the panic wore off a little, he remembered he had a backup lens that didn’t fit great but it would work for the time being. We were then discussing ways to send Jay on an emergency trip to Texas to replace his lens. We knew that this trip was coming soon, but we were thinking we could hold off at least another 6 months or so with the whole baby thing in all.
Just to catch you up for those who don’t know. In 2005 Jay was diagnosed with keratoconus in both eyes and on top of having the disease, it was severally progressive. There were glasses, contacts, more contacts, surgeries, unsuccessful transplant attempt and then God, Brenda and Dr G. stepped in. I will save that story for a different day.
With the panic of think about a trip to Texas and new contacts; God would STOP us yet again in our tracks!!!
I emailed Dr. G in Texas to find out what we can do. With his quick response, he told us to find a doctor to do a color topography scan of Jay’s eye, send it to him and he will check for any significant changes. If there were no changes, he would just send us a new lens and we would be on our way. $250 is much more manageable than $2500. But if there were changes, he would have to see Jay in Texas again. Then the reminder, Jay’s disease is severally progressive so don’t be surprised if there are changes.
On Thursday, Jay was able to get his eye scanned for $65.00. We just had to pay for the scan (excitement)! Then our amazing, wonderful school secretary Nicole was gracious enough to scan the color paper for us, so we would be able to email it instead of mailing it. This was exciting because now we will not have to wait days, only hours.
Within a couple of hours we received the email……
From Dr. G. – “Jay, it does not appear that anything has changed.”
HUGE sigh of relief, there will be not trip to Texas and now we just pay for the contact and he will ship it. Then I continue reading the email…..do my eyes deceive me???
“If anything, the topography looks slightly flatter.”
What does that mean, Jay’s eye is in the shape of a cone, it is not suppose to be getting flatter. That is the COMPLETE opposite of what all the doctors have told us. We were told it would NEVER get flat again, that doesn’t happen.
Well low and behold WORLD (and Laura), God likes to answer prayers!!! For some reason, God likes to shock me with miracles.
Now, just for understand, this does not mean that Jay’s eyes are normal again. He still GREATLY needs the contacts to see anything, but what I do believe is that the “disease” is NO longer severally progressive. There will be NO bursting corneas and blindness in our future.
Thank you to all the people that have prayed for this!!!!!
Now we patiently wait (by the mail box) for the new contact.
Once the panic wore off a little, he remembered he had a backup lens that didn’t fit great but it would work for the time being. We were then discussing ways to send Jay on an emergency trip to Texas to replace his lens. We knew that this trip was coming soon, but we were thinking we could hold off at least another 6 months or so with the whole baby thing in all.
Just to catch you up for those who don’t know. In 2005 Jay was diagnosed with keratoconus in both eyes and on top of having the disease, it was severally progressive. There were glasses, contacts, more contacts, surgeries, unsuccessful transplant attempt and then God, Brenda and Dr G. stepped in. I will save that story for a different day.
With the panic of think about a trip to Texas and new contacts; God would STOP us yet again in our tracks!!!
I emailed Dr. G in Texas to find out what we can do. With his quick response, he told us to find a doctor to do a color topography scan of Jay’s eye, send it to him and he will check for any significant changes. If there were no changes, he would just send us a new lens and we would be on our way. $250 is much more manageable than $2500. But if there were changes, he would have to see Jay in Texas again. Then the reminder, Jay’s disease is severally progressive so don’t be surprised if there are changes.
On Thursday, Jay was able to get his eye scanned for $65.00. We just had to pay for the scan (excitement)! Then our amazing, wonderful school secretary Nicole was gracious enough to scan the color paper for us, so we would be able to email it instead of mailing it. This was exciting because now we will not have to wait days, only hours.
Within a couple of hours we received the email……
From Dr. G. – “Jay, it does not appear that anything has changed.”
HUGE sigh of relief, there will be not trip to Texas and now we just pay for the contact and he will ship it. Then I continue reading the email…..do my eyes deceive me???
“If anything, the topography looks slightly flatter.”
What does that mean, Jay’s eye is in the shape of a cone, it is not suppose to be getting flatter. That is the COMPLETE opposite of what all the doctors have told us. We were told it would NEVER get flat again, that doesn’t happen.
Well low and behold WORLD (and Laura), God likes to answer prayers!!! For some reason, God likes to shock me with miracles.
Now, just for understand, this does not mean that Jay’s eyes are normal again. He still GREATLY needs the contacts to see anything, but what I do believe is that the “disease” is NO longer severally progressive. There will be NO bursting corneas and blindness in our future.
Thank you to all the people that have prayed for this!!!!!
Now we patiently wait (by the mail box) for the new contact.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Jay's the Man!!!
I have been gone for a long time, but I am slowing going to work my way back into this blog thing. Here is a brief recap of the past couple months. I AM PREGNANT!!! No, this was not planned, but Jay and I are VERY excited. We have always wanted more children, but have always been told that we could not, but I guess God had different plans for us.
With pregnancies of course come side effects. I would have to say the biggest side effect would be fatigue and being overly tired. I am sleeping every moment I get, for example in my classroom during recess, in the car before baseball games and pretty much all the time at home. This has put a real damper in housely duties and school work.
Now I will talk about my how amazing my husband is. Over the past couple of weeks he has REALLY stepped up and helped out around the house and with Jera. Now let me please explain that my husband is the boy of all boys, like you mean the toilet paper doesn’t change itself, there is no laundry fairy, and since when don’t we have a personal chief. So, you can see my amazement when he just starts doing things on his own around the house and cooking dinner.
Happy to married to my hubby!!! Now, time for a nap.
With pregnancies of course come side effects. I would have to say the biggest side effect would be fatigue and being overly tired. I am sleeping every moment I get, for example in my classroom during recess, in the car before baseball games and pretty much all the time at home. This has put a real damper in housely duties and school work.
Now I will talk about my how amazing my husband is. Over the past couple of weeks he has REALLY stepped up and helped out around the house and with Jera. Now let me please explain that my husband is the boy of all boys, like you mean the toilet paper doesn’t change itself, there is no laundry fairy, and since when don’t we have a personal chief. So, you can see my amazement when he just starts doing things on his own around the house and cooking dinner.
Happy to married to my hubby!!! Now, time for a nap.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Pictures This Week
DAY 36 – DAY 42
During this busy week, I was determined not to forget to take pictures of everything happening around me. With that being said, some days have more then one picture. Hope you enjoy!!
Day 36: Saturday 2/5
Our varsity boy’s basketball team matched up against the Mohawk Indians. These are both strong teams; working hard for a state playoff spot. Even though this game did not change anything we still wanted to win:-) and we did!!!
Day 37: Sunday 2/6
At church this morning, the McGrath family had a dedication for their newly adopted daughter Audra. It has been a long time in the making and we are sssooooooo excited for their family and Audra.
Day 38: Monday 2/7
Every Monday right after school, Jera has piano lessons with Mrs. McKinley. Jera enjoys playing the piano and we are looking forward to her recital in April.
Day 39: Tuesday 2/8
Today I got a new student in 6th grade, making 15 students in my class now. This is a picture of his deck with all the books he will be using. I believe it looks pretty overwhelming, but he jumped right in and is doing great.
(I do not have a picture of him, because I did not want to scare him his first day with my crazy picture taking.)
Day 40: Wednesday 2/9
Picture 1
Jera came home today VERY excited to show me her “Plant Book.” Her class has been working some time on making these little plant books, filled with lots of information. She received 100% on her book, and was eager to tell us about it.
Picture 2
After school today, I had the privilege of going fabric shopping with my SIL Sarah. She is an amazing seamstress and crazily making totes, necklaces, push pins, purses and more right now. I asked if she could make me a laptop bag, because I was having trouble finding one long enough. While looking for that fabric, it was overwhelming with all the different options. But we did make it out after a couple hours and here is all the fabric purchased for different projects. Sarah was also VERY excited to get a new addition for her sewing “THE SERGER.”
Day 41: Thursday 2/10
Picture 1
Today the 5th and 6th grade classes went on a field trip to OMSI. We explored a couple of exhibits, ate lunch, watched the IMAX movie Hubble, shopped and then came home. I believe the trip was a HUGE success and the students enjoyed themselves. I know that I did!!
Picture 2
At the basketball game tonight, we had surprise visitors. Lisa and Alex had come up to Salem for the week and were able to come to one of the basketball games. Jera was excited to see them.
Day 42: Friday 2/11
Picture 1
Okay, yes I know this is a picture of a toilet. Last night and most of the early morning I had a little stomach bug. Enough said:-(
Picture 2
Bowling
Picture 3
My new amazing laptop top bag by sarie june!!!
Picture 4
This picture has a long story, but I will do my best to keep it short. I will start by saying that one of my favorite books is The Shack by Paul Young. Last night at the boy’s basketball game, I had the privilege of meeting Paul Young. This is how it went. I am sitting at the scores table; setting up the boy’s book, a man walks over to do the book for Damascus Christian. I went to introduce myself, which is normal, here is the conversation.
Laura: Hi my name is Laura
Paul: Hi Laura, my name is Paul Young, we are excited for this game tonight.
Laura: Paul Young, are you the author of The Shack.
Paul: Yes that is me.
Laura: WOW, I am so excited to meet you, I LOVE your book. (with a huge cheesy smile on my face)
Paul: Thank you
After that point, I was a little embarrassed about how excited I was to meet him, which I could not ask for his picture or autograph. He had a son on the other team he was very excited to watch.
Picture 5
This is after our boys had an amazing win against Damascus Christian.
During this busy week, I was determined not to forget to take pictures of everything happening around me. With that being said, some days have more then one picture. Hope you enjoy!!
Day 36: Saturday 2/5
Our varsity boy’s basketball team matched up against the Mohawk Indians. These are both strong teams; working hard for a state playoff spot. Even though this game did not change anything we still wanted to win:-) and we did!!!
Day 37: Sunday 2/6
At church this morning, the McGrath family had a dedication for their newly adopted daughter Audra. It has been a long time in the making and we are sssooooooo excited for their family and Audra.
Day 38: Monday 2/7
Every Monday right after school, Jera has piano lessons with Mrs. McKinley. Jera enjoys playing the piano and we are looking forward to her recital in April.
Day 39: Tuesday 2/8
Today I got a new student in 6th grade, making 15 students in my class now. This is a picture of his deck with all the books he will be using. I believe it looks pretty overwhelming, but he jumped right in and is doing great.
(I do not have a picture of him, because I did not want to scare him his first day with my crazy picture taking.)
Day 40: Wednesday 2/9
Picture 1
Jera came home today VERY excited to show me her “Plant Book.” Her class has been working some time on making these little plant books, filled with lots of information. She received 100% on her book, and was eager to tell us about it.
Picture 2
After school today, I had the privilege of going fabric shopping with my SIL Sarah. She is an amazing seamstress and crazily making totes, necklaces, push pins, purses and more right now. I asked if she could make me a laptop bag, because I was having trouble finding one long enough. While looking for that fabric, it was overwhelming with all the different options. But we did make it out after a couple hours and here is all the fabric purchased for different projects. Sarah was also VERY excited to get a new addition for her sewing “THE SERGER.”
Day 41: Thursday 2/10
Picture 1
Today the 5th and 6th grade classes went on a field trip to OMSI. We explored a couple of exhibits, ate lunch, watched the IMAX movie Hubble, shopped and then came home. I believe the trip was a HUGE success and the students enjoyed themselves. I know that I did!!
Picture 2
At the basketball game tonight, we had surprise visitors. Lisa and Alex had come up to Salem for the week and were able to come to one of the basketball games. Jera was excited to see them.
Day 42: Friday 2/11
Picture 1
Okay, yes I know this is a picture of a toilet. Last night and most of the early morning I had a little stomach bug. Enough said:-(
Picture 2
Bowling
Picture 3
My new amazing laptop top bag by sarie june!!!
Picture 4
This picture has a long story, but I will do my best to keep it short. I will start by saying that one of my favorite books is The Shack by Paul Young. Last night at the boy’s basketball game, I had the privilege of meeting Paul Young. This is how it went. I am sitting at the scores table; setting up the boy’s book, a man walks over to do the book for Damascus Christian. I went to introduce myself, which is normal, here is the conversation.
Laura: Hi my name is Laura
Paul: Hi Laura, my name is Paul Young, we are excited for this game tonight.
Laura: Paul Young, are you the author of The Shack.
Paul: Yes that is me.
Laura: WOW, I am so excited to meet you, I LOVE your book. (with a huge cheesy smile on my face)
Paul: Thank you
After that point, I was a little embarrassed about how excited I was to meet him, which I could not ask for his picture or autograph. He had a son on the other team he was very excited to watch.
Picture 5
This is after our boys had an amazing win against Damascus Christian.
Friday, February 11, 2011
It's Not Your Grandma's Cookbook
TURKEY BBQ MEATBALLS servings: 6-8
This is a recipe from Jay’s family!
Ingredients:
MEATBALLS
2 lbs. ground turkey (We started using turkey because it is healthier, but you can use ground hamburger also.)
1 c. milk
2 c. oats
½ t. pepper
2 t. chili powder
½ t. garlic powder
2-3 t. salt
2 eggs
½ c. chopped onion
SAUCE
2 c. catsup
1 ½ c. brown sugar
1 t. liquid smoke
½ t. garlic powder
½ c. chopped onion
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients for meatball together, and then form into 12 balls. Place them in a 9 x 13 pan. Mix all the ingredients for the sauce together; pour sauce over top of the meatballs. Bake for 1 hour.
This is a recipe from Jay’s family!
Ingredients:
MEATBALLS
2 lbs. ground turkey (We started using turkey because it is healthier, but you can use ground hamburger also.)
1 c. milk
2 c. oats
½ t. pepper
2 t. chili powder
½ t. garlic powder
2-3 t. salt
2 eggs
½ c. chopped onion
SAUCE
2 c. catsup
1 ½ c. brown sugar
1 t. liquid smoke
½ t. garlic powder
½ c. chopped onion
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients for meatball together, and then form into 12 balls. Place them in a 9 x 13 pan. Mix all the ingredients for the sauce together; pour sauce over top of the meatballs. Bake for 1 hour.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
JERA
My daughter, Jera has quite the personality and can be pretty funny. Here are just a couple stories from this last weekend to share with you.
The Fungi
Jera: Mom, Dad what is fungi?
Laura: It’s fungus, kind of like mold, the green stuff that grows on bread.
Jera: Oh
Jay: No Jera, it’s the you know, the “fun” “guy”, the guy at the party that is always having fun.
Laura: Really Jay?
Jera: Dad you’re a fungi (“fun” “guy”)!!
At Aunt Sarah & Uncle Doug’s House
Jera: Mom, do I have to do my sit-ups tonight?
Aunt Sarah: What did she say?
Laura: We make her do sit-ups every night before bed.
Sarah: Jera you can come to Auntie Sarah’s house and have a bowl of ice cream every night before bed.
Lots of Laughs, then we get home.
Jera: Mom, can I have a bowl of ice cream.
Laura: No, it’s past your bed time, maybe tomorrow.
Jera: Mom, wouldn’t you be really sad it I left.
Laura: Yes, why would you be leaving?
Jera: Well, I might have to move to Aunt Sarah’s house, so I can have ice cream every night.
The Fungi
Jera: Mom, Dad what is fungi?
Laura: It’s fungus, kind of like mold, the green stuff that grows on bread.
Jera: Oh
Jay: No Jera, it’s the you know, the “fun” “guy”, the guy at the party that is always having fun.
Laura: Really Jay?
Jera: Dad you’re a fungi (“fun” “guy”)!!
At Aunt Sarah & Uncle Doug’s House
Jera: Mom, do I have to do my sit-ups tonight?
Aunt Sarah: What did she say?
Laura: We make her do sit-ups every night before bed.
Sarah: Jera you can come to Auntie Sarah’s house and have a bowl of ice cream every night before bed.
Lots of Laughs, then we get home.
Jera: Mom, can I have a bowl of ice cream.
Laura: No, it’s past your bed time, maybe tomorrow.
Jera: Mom, wouldn’t you be really sad it I left.
Laura: Yes, why would you be leaving?
Jera: Well, I might have to move to Aunt Sarah’s house, so I can have ice cream every night.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
RANDOM INFORMATION
Jay and I sat down and answered some random questions about ourselves. Here you are to enjoy getting to know us...
If you could be in a rock band what instrument would you play?
Laura: the drums
Jay: the bass
If you could be any animal, what animal would you be?
Laura: tiger
Jay: grizzly bear
If you could be the opposite sex for one day, would you?
Laura: yes
Jay: yes
What is more difficult for you; looking into someone’s eyes when you are telling someone how you feel, or looking into someone’s eyes when they are telling you how they feel?
Laura: both :-)
Jay: it doesn’t bother me either way
Think of the last time you were REALLY angry.
Laura: at the last basketball game, the official was breaking the rules
Jay: during one football practice this last fall
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Laura: Africa safari
Jay: Australia or Paris with my wife
Think of the last person who you really knew that died. You have the chance to give them 1 hour of life back, but you have to give one year of your life. Do you?
Laura: this is too hard to answer for me
Jay: no, because their just going to die in another hour, who wants to die twice in one day.
Are you the kind of friend that you would want to have as a friend?
Laura: no, I am not the best people person
Jay: Yes, I love myself. I am a blast!!!
Is there something you've dreamed of doing for a long time?
Laura: hmmm, I have a lot of dreams
Jay: take a really long, extravagant vacation
If you had one day in your life to live over, which would you choose and why?
Laura: the birth of my daughter
Jay: the day I asked Laura to marry me
What do you think is the single best decision you've made in your life so far?
Laura: becoming a Christian
Jay: marring my wife
Name one thing you could do to improve any important relationship in your life.
Laura: honest communication, my husband and I have learned to be brutally honest with each other during the last couple months and it is amazing what it does for your relationship. Now I just need to be that way with other people in my family.
Jay: this is Laura answering, LISTENING!!! I have asked him this questions four times now and he keeps saying, what was the questions?
What scares you the most and why?
Laura: creepy bugs
Jay: my child dying, because no child should ever die before their parent
Do you like rainy days or snowy winter days more?
Laura: snowy winter days
Jay: snowy winter days
Which is your favorite part of the human face and why?
Laura: lips, because they have so many uses
Jay: eye, because they tell you everything
Have you ever gone cow-tipping?
Laura: no, I lived on a cattle farm; you cannot “cow-tip”
Jay: no, am I supposed to tip the cow for the steak it gave me?
What's your worst pet peeve?
Laura: obnoxious noises; like snoring, eating, ticking clocks, passing gas, etc.
Jay: bad breath
Do you dance crazy when no one is looking?
Laura: yes, I love to dance and do it all the time
Jay: no, but I have been told I am going to
Do you like to sing in the shower?
Laura: no
Jay: no, but I like to pee in the shower
What is the funniest name you’ve ever heard?
Laura: twins, named Eileen and Ben Dover for REAL people
Jay: He is making me type this one: Anita Peter
What is your most embarrassing moment?
Laura: one I can think of is when I got hurt during a softball game and cried like a baby and had to have help off the field, and people this was last year
Jay: when Pastor Garylee was using “Mr. Bones” in his sermon and I thought it was a real person standing up there
How much sleep do you require a night?
Laura: 5 to 6 hours
Jay: too much 10-12 hours
What's the first thing you thought about this morning?
Laura: I need to seriously start getting up on time and stop sleeping in.
Jay: the dreams I have during the night
What's the last thing you thought about before you went to sleep last night?
Laura: how much I love my husband
Jay: I can’t remember, I fell asleep
What do you have handy at your bedside?
Laura: books, ear plugs
Jay: MP3 Player, alarm clock
What are your nicknames?
Laura: LC
Jay: Jay, Dub, J Dub, Wartburg, lighting
Do you still have your tonsils?
Laura: no
Jay: yes
If you could be in a rock band what instrument would you play?
Laura: the drums
Jay: the bass
If you could be any animal, what animal would you be?
Laura: tiger
Jay: grizzly bear
If you could be the opposite sex for one day, would you?
Laura: yes
Jay: yes
What is more difficult for you; looking into someone’s eyes when you are telling someone how you feel, or looking into someone’s eyes when they are telling you how they feel?
Laura: both :-)
Jay: it doesn’t bother me either way
Think of the last time you were REALLY angry.
Laura: at the last basketball game, the official was breaking the rules
Jay: during one football practice this last fall
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Laura: Africa safari
Jay: Australia or Paris with my wife
Think of the last person who you really knew that died. You have the chance to give them 1 hour of life back, but you have to give one year of your life. Do you?
Laura: this is too hard to answer for me
Jay: no, because their just going to die in another hour, who wants to die twice in one day.
Are you the kind of friend that you would want to have as a friend?
Laura: no, I am not the best people person
Jay: Yes, I love myself. I am a blast!!!
Is there something you've dreamed of doing for a long time?
Laura: hmmm, I have a lot of dreams
Jay: take a really long, extravagant vacation
If you had one day in your life to live over, which would you choose and why?
Laura: the birth of my daughter
Jay: the day I asked Laura to marry me
What do you think is the single best decision you've made in your life so far?
Laura: becoming a Christian
Jay: marring my wife
Name one thing you could do to improve any important relationship in your life.
Laura: honest communication, my husband and I have learned to be brutally honest with each other during the last couple months and it is amazing what it does for your relationship. Now I just need to be that way with other people in my family.
Jay: this is Laura answering, LISTENING!!! I have asked him this questions four times now and he keeps saying, what was the questions?
What scares you the most and why?
Laura: creepy bugs
Jay: my child dying, because no child should ever die before their parent
Do you like rainy days or snowy winter days more?
Laura: snowy winter days
Jay: snowy winter days
Which is your favorite part of the human face and why?
Laura: lips, because they have so many uses
Jay: eye, because they tell you everything
Have you ever gone cow-tipping?
Laura: no, I lived on a cattle farm; you cannot “cow-tip”
Jay: no, am I supposed to tip the cow for the steak it gave me?
What's your worst pet peeve?
Laura: obnoxious noises; like snoring, eating, ticking clocks, passing gas, etc.
Jay: bad breath
Do you dance crazy when no one is looking?
Laura: yes, I love to dance and do it all the time
Jay: no, but I have been told I am going to
Do you like to sing in the shower?
Laura: no
Jay: no, but I like to pee in the shower
What is the funniest name you’ve ever heard?
Laura: twins, named Eileen and Ben Dover for REAL people
Jay: He is making me type this one: Anita Peter
What is your most embarrassing moment?
Laura: one I can think of is when I got hurt during a softball game and cried like a baby and had to have help off the field, and people this was last year
Jay: when Pastor Garylee was using “Mr. Bones” in his sermon and I thought it was a real person standing up there
How much sleep do you require a night?
Laura: 5 to 6 hours
Jay: too much 10-12 hours
What's the first thing you thought about this morning?
Laura: I need to seriously start getting up on time and stop sleeping in.
Jay: the dreams I have during the night
What's the last thing you thought about before you went to sleep last night?
Laura: how much I love my husband
Jay: I can’t remember, I fell asleep
What do you have handy at your bedside?
Laura: books, ear plugs
Jay: MP3 Player, alarm clock
What are your nicknames?
Laura: LC
Jay: Jay, Dub, J Dub, Wartburg, lighting
Do you still have your tonsils?
Laura: no
Jay: yes
Monday, February 7, 2011
Pictures This Week & Some :-)
Well, I have to tell you that I am WAY behind on my posting. Here are my pictures from the last two weeks to get myself updated.
Day 23 - Day 29
Day 23 - Jera's Art Supplies!!
Jera loves to do art; painting, drawing and coloring. She decided it was time to clean out her supplies and organize them (Oh how I love my daughter for organizing :-)
Day 24 - Yearbook Deadline!!
Today was my first yearbook deadline. I will admit, it was REALLY hard to hit the submit button. People keep yearbooks forever, show them to their kids and then to their grandkids. It was VERY important for me to have every page perfect, but I can not tell you if very page was perfect. Because my husband told me stop obsessing about it and just hit the submit button. I guess we will see in June when they arrive.
Day 27 - Day 29 BEACH TRIP!!!
I spent 4 night at the beach with four of the most amazing ladies (Tricia, Sarah, Jodi and Kelly). My next few pictures are just a tiny glimpse of our scrapbook beach get away. There was scrapbooking, shopping, amazing food, fellowship, prayers, crafts, exercise, talking, personality test and a lot of laughing.
OUR HOUSE
GIFTS AND FOOD
SATURDAY
Day 30 - Day 36
Day 30-31
My beach trip continued for the next two days :-)
CRAFTS
THE GIRLS
Sarah and I had a basketball game to go to during our trip. Really I can not explain this picture, but it is pretty funny if you were there.
Day 32
Jera received her 2nd quarter report card today. She was very proud of it and I was also very proud of her!!!
Day 33
Today, being the beginning of the new semester, I have new students in my publications class and a couple have left. I am excited for this group, adding a few students makes the workload easier on everyone.
Day 34 - My 6th Grade January Student of the Month: Taris Krutsch
Day 35 - CCS Homecoming 2011
Day 23 - Day 29
Day 23 - Jera's Art Supplies!!
Jera loves to do art; painting, drawing and coloring. She decided it was time to clean out her supplies and organize them (Oh how I love my daughter for organizing :-)
Day 24 - Yearbook Deadline!!
Today was my first yearbook deadline. I will admit, it was REALLY hard to hit the submit button. People keep yearbooks forever, show them to their kids and then to their grandkids. It was VERY important for me to have every page perfect, but I can not tell you if very page was perfect. Because my husband told me stop obsessing about it and just hit the submit button. I guess we will see in June when they arrive.
Day 27 - Day 29 BEACH TRIP!!!
I spent 4 night at the beach with four of the most amazing ladies (Tricia, Sarah, Jodi and Kelly). My next few pictures are just a tiny glimpse of our scrapbook beach get away. There was scrapbooking, shopping, amazing food, fellowship, prayers, crafts, exercise, talking, personality test and a lot of laughing.
OUR HOUSE
GIFTS AND FOOD
SATURDAY
Day 30 - Day 36
Day 30-31
My beach trip continued for the next two days :-)
CRAFTS
THE GIRLS
Sarah and I had a basketball game to go to during our trip. Really I can not explain this picture, but it is pretty funny if you were there.
Day 32
Jera received her 2nd quarter report card today. She was very proud of it and I was also very proud of her!!!
Day 33
Today, being the beginning of the new semester, I have new students in my publications class and a couple have left. I am excited for this group, adding a few students makes the workload easier on everyone.
Day 34 - My 6th Grade January Student of the Month: Taris Krutsch
Day 35 - CCS Homecoming 2011
It's Not Your Grandma's Cookbook
BAKED SPAGHETTI servings: 8
This is a yummy spaghetti casserole!
Ingredients:
16 oz. package spaghetti noodles
1 lb. ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
26 oz. jar meatless spaghetti sauce
½ t. seasoned salt
2 eggs
1/3 c. grated Parmesan cheese
5 T. butter, malted
2 c. small curd cottage cheese
4 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and season with salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, Parmesan cheese and butter. Drain spaghetti; add to egg mixture and toss to coat.
Place half of the spaghetti mixture in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Top with half of the cottage cheese, meat sauce and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes. Uncover; bake 20-25 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
This is a yummy spaghetti casserole!
Ingredients:
16 oz. package spaghetti noodles
1 lb. ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
26 oz. jar meatless spaghetti sauce
½ t. seasoned salt
2 eggs
1/3 c. grated Parmesan cheese
5 T. butter, malted
2 c. small curd cottage cheese
4 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and season with salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, Parmesan cheese and butter. Drain spaghetti; add to egg mixture and toss to coat.
Place half of the spaghetti mixture in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Top with half of the cottage cheese, meat sauce and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes. Uncover; bake 20-25 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
It's Not Your Grandma's Cookbook
TERIYAKI CHICKEN STIR-FRY servings: 4
Yes, this is an easy one and I really should not be adding it here, but sometimes in life you need simplicity.
Ingredients:
1 lb. pre-cook teriyaki chicken (Costco brand is my favorite.)
16 oz. bag frozen stir-fry vegetables
1 c. of your favorite teriyaki sauce
4 servings of couscous, rice or noodles
sesame seeds
Directions:
Cook chicken according to package, than cut into 1 inch cubes. In a large skillet, add cooked chicken, frozen vegetables and ½ cup of your teriyaki sauce; cook on medium heat covered. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until heated all the way through, stirring occasional. Meanwhile, prepare couscous, rice or noodle according of package.
To serve, divide couscous onto four plates, top with stir-fry; then add the remaining sauce; prinkle with sesame seeds and serve.
Yes, this is an easy one and I really should not be adding it here, but sometimes in life you need simplicity.
Ingredients:
1 lb. pre-cook teriyaki chicken (Costco brand is my favorite.)
16 oz. bag frozen stir-fry vegetables
1 c. of your favorite teriyaki sauce
4 servings of couscous, rice or noodles
sesame seeds
Directions:
Cook chicken according to package, than cut into 1 inch cubes. In a large skillet, add cooked chicken, frozen vegetables and ½ cup of your teriyaki sauce; cook on medium heat covered. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until heated all the way through, stirring occasional. Meanwhile, prepare couscous, rice or noodle according of package.
To serve, divide couscous onto four plates, top with stir-fry; then add the remaining sauce; prinkle with sesame seeds and serve.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Monday, January 24, 2011
My Life
I have neglected my blog during the last week. I could give you many excuses and reasons, but the real reason was a phone call I received from a relative that felt I was revealing too much of my personal life. So tonight I am going to explain why I started this blog.
First, it is a way for my old friends and family to stay current on my life. To see pictures of what’s going on in my life and the different things I am involved in. I am not good at staying in contact with old friends and my family. I am very much a “what is in front of me right now is what I am focused on and thinking about” person. Being far away from my family is difficult for me, and this was a way to communicate with them.
SIDE BAR, just a little family history. I come from a small family. My mom lives in western Washington with her amazing husband. My dad lives in eastern Washington with his amazing wife. My sister is in Nebraska with my niece. I am also lucky enough to still have grandparents. My Grandma Pauline lives in eastern Washington but is at my mom’s house a lot throughout the year. And last my Grandma & Grandpa Rinker live in eastern Washington during the summer and Arizona in the winter.
Second, this blog was a way for my new friends and family to learn more about whom I am and were I came from. Yes, some of it is very personal and revealing. I felt like I was in a place in my life where I was hiding from my past and making sure nobody would know anything about me.
So going forward, I am not going to hold back. I will apologize in advance to anyone who may pick up an offense to what I say but the reality of it is, this is My life.
First, it is a way for my old friends and family to stay current on my life. To see pictures of what’s going on in my life and the different things I am involved in. I am not good at staying in contact with old friends and my family. I am very much a “what is in front of me right now is what I am focused on and thinking about” person. Being far away from my family is difficult for me, and this was a way to communicate with them.
SIDE BAR, just a little family history. I come from a small family. My mom lives in western Washington with her amazing husband. My dad lives in eastern Washington with his amazing wife. My sister is in Nebraska with my niece. I am also lucky enough to still have grandparents. My Grandma Pauline lives in eastern Washington but is at my mom’s house a lot throughout the year. And last my Grandma & Grandpa Rinker live in eastern Washington during the summer and Arizona in the winter.
Second, this blog was a way for my new friends and family to learn more about whom I am and were I came from. Yes, some of it is very personal and revealing. I felt like I was in a place in my life where I was hiding from my past and making sure nobody would know anything about me.
So going forward, I am not going to hold back. I will apologize in advance to anyone who may pick up an offense to what I say but the reality of it is, this is My life.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
It's Not Your Grandma's Cookbook
LAST NIGHT’S BREAKFAST
This is a great breakfast casserole that I got from my mother-in-law. This recipe is made the night before and is super easy. The side column is a more health version.
Ingredients:
8 slices of bread, cubed (use whole wheat bread)
2 lb. ground sausage or bacon (use low fat ground sausage)
2 ¼ c. milk (use fat free milk)
¾ t. dry mustard
¾ lb. grated cheddar cheese (use low fat mozzarella cheese)
5 eggs (use 3 eggs & 2 servings of egg beaters)
1 t. salt
1 can cream of mushroom soup (use low fat cream of mushroom soup)
Directions:
Night Before:
Crumble sausage and brown. Divide cubed bread, browned sausage and cheese into half. In a large casserole dish, place the first layer (bread, cheese, sausage); then repeat another layer with the remaining bread, cheese and sausage. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat eggs, than add milk, salt, mustard and soup. Pour over the layers of bread, cheese and sausage. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
The next day bake at 325 degrees for 60 minutes.
This is a great breakfast casserole that I got from my mother-in-law. This recipe is made the night before and is super easy. The side column is a more health version.
Ingredients:
8 slices of bread, cubed (use whole wheat bread)
2 lb. ground sausage or bacon (use low fat ground sausage)
2 ¼ c. milk (use fat free milk)
¾ t. dry mustard
¾ lb. grated cheddar cheese (use low fat mozzarella cheese)
5 eggs (use 3 eggs & 2 servings of egg beaters)
1 t. salt
1 can cream of mushroom soup (use low fat cream of mushroom soup)
Directions:
Night Before:
Crumble sausage and brown. Divide cubed bread, browned sausage and cheese into half. In a large casserole dish, place the first layer (bread, cheese, sausage); then repeat another layer with the remaining bread, cheese and sausage. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat eggs, than add milk, salt, mustard and soup. Pour over the layers of bread, cheese and sausage. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
The next day bake at 325 degrees for 60 minutes.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
She Shoots, She Scores!!!
This last Saturday I had the parental privilege of watching my daughter play her first basketball game of the season. Let me start by saying that the last two years have not really been basketball, more of a lets chase each other on the court and throw a ball around. This year she is on the 3rd & 4th grade team and has real basketball rules to follow.
Watching her line up against the other team (they still have to play man to man), I was signaling (moms you know what this means) to her to stop biting her nails. Then it hit me, she is really nervous for this game. I decided to have the talk about how it’s just for fun and it really doesn’t matter. Just learn the game and have fun. She was good then.
I was not good however. I always told myself I would not be one of those moms yelling on the side at their child to do this and do that. Well people I was and it was BAD. Jay happened to be videotaping the game, after listening to myself I was horrified, and poor Jera. She was probably very confused, here is her mom yelling at her and just a moment ago I told her it was all about having fun. We were sitting by Russell Halverson, whom has a daughter on the team. I kept asking him questions about her skills and abilities. What she should know and be doing. Please remember that he is also the varsity girls coach. He would politely answer me; now after looking back I can only image what he was thinking about me.
One thing he did say will stick with me on my journey through the next many years of competitive sports. “Don’t say anything during that game, just cheer her on.” From now on I will be reminding myself if this quote and that it is just for fun!!!
PS. She did make one basket and was very proud and excited!!!
Watching her line up against the other team (they still have to play man to man), I was signaling (moms you know what this means) to her to stop biting her nails. Then it hit me, she is really nervous for this game. I decided to have the talk about how it’s just for fun and it really doesn’t matter. Just learn the game and have fun. She was good then.
I was not good however. I always told myself I would not be one of those moms yelling on the side at their child to do this and do that. Well people I was and it was BAD. Jay happened to be videotaping the game, after listening to myself I was horrified, and poor Jera. She was probably very confused, here is her mom yelling at her and just a moment ago I told her it was all about having fun. We were sitting by Russell Halverson, whom has a daughter on the team. I kept asking him questions about her skills and abilities. What she should know and be doing. Please remember that he is also the varsity girls coach. He would politely answer me; now after looking back I can only image what he was thinking about me.
One thing he did say will stick with me on my journey through the next many years of competitive sports. “Don’t say anything during that game, just cheer her on.” From now on I will be reminding myself if this quote and that it is just for fun!!!
PS. She did make one basket and was very proud and excited!!!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Addiction
Yes, I will admit, I am literally addicted to diet pepsi. There is not a 12 step program to break this addiction. Every now and then I tell myself, “okay Laura it is time to stop. You can do this, it’s just soda. You have broken worse habits.” But it seems every time I lose the battle and start back up. There really are no excuses; it is a choice I am making.
I will open up my private world about some past habits/addictions. Starting very early in my life I knew I had an addictive personality. It has created events that do not leave the best of memories.
Boys would be my first major addiction; always trying to find one to save me from the lack of having my dad in my life. The boyfriend I had all through high school was my first addiction. We had a very dangerous, violent relationship. There were drugs, sex, weapons, alcohol, abuse, and police almost on a daily. I think you can get the picture. I know looking back, it was one of those relationships people looked at and said “why does she stay with him” or “one of them is going to kill the other.” At the time I can say I believed 100% I couldn’t live without him. It took my dad, restraining orders and moving out of the state to break that addiction.
The next addiction would be drugs. Coming off my relationship in high school moving straight into another one with a guy that I didn’t know doesn’t put you into the right frame of mind. I found I was using to function with daily life and trying to coupe. I cannot say I ever had a moment were I hit rock bottom, but at some point I decided I wanted to take control of my life again I moved in with my sister in a different state.
The third addiction I am not ready to talk about yet, but lets just say my amazing husband Jay, changed my life.
Currently I like to say that God is my addiction, but I don’t think addiction is the right word. He has put me in a place to learn about him and turn to him for everything in my crazy life. He has made me stronger to deal with this “addictive personality” and not allowed it to control my life any longer. Someday I hope to help other young girls that are in “bad” relationships, but that is not Gods plan for me right now.
In closing, my “addiction” to Diet Pepsi does not seem so bad. But it really is a habit I would like to break, so I will continue to pray about it and listen for the right time.
I will open up my private world about some past habits/addictions. Starting very early in my life I knew I had an addictive personality. It has created events that do not leave the best of memories.
Boys would be my first major addiction; always trying to find one to save me from the lack of having my dad in my life. The boyfriend I had all through high school was my first addiction. We had a very dangerous, violent relationship. There were drugs, sex, weapons, alcohol, abuse, and police almost on a daily. I think you can get the picture. I know looking back, it was one of those relationships people looked at and said “why does she stay with him” or “one of them is going to kill the other.” At the time I can say I believed 100% I couldn’t live without him. It took my dad, restraining orders and moving out of the state to break that addiction.
The next addiction would be drugs. Coming off my relationship in high school moving straight into another one with a guy that I didn’t know doesn’t put you into the right frame of mind. I found I was using to function with daily life and trying to coupe. I cannot say I ever had a moment were I hit rock bottom, but at some point I decided I wanted to take control of my life again I moved in with my sister in a different state.
The third addiction I am not ready to talk about yet, but lets just say my amazing husband Jay, changed my life.
Currently I like to say that God is my addiction, but I don’t think addiction is the right word. He has put me in a place to learn about him and turn to him for everything in my crazy life. He has made me stronger to deal with this “addictive personality” and not allowed it to control my life any longer. Someday I hope to help other young girls that are in “bad” relationships, but that is not Gods plan for me right now.
In closing, my “addiction” to Diet Pepsi does not seem so bad. But it really is a habit I would like to break, so I will continue to pray about it and listen for the right time.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Friday, January 14, 2011
The bits and pieces of our life.
EATING OUT
We are still working hard at our weight loss, not as hard as we were this last summer but we are still on plan. With our busy lives, we find that we are eating out more that we like. Eating out has always been one of our down falls, so I have come up with a few things that help us when we have to.
• Ask for a box to go before you receive your food. Once you receive your meal put half your meal in the box and set it aside to take home. Most all restaurant meals are double sometime triple the needed serving size.
• Plan ahead; if you know you will be eating out, look at the menu ahead of time online. Plan your meal out before you go, then DO NOT look at a menu. This way you will not be tempted to order those items you crave the most, but don’t need.
• Share a meal. Again, restaurant meals are WAY more than one person needs. Share a meal with your spouse or someone else at the table.
• Order off the kiddy menu; only when there is no age limit.
• Plan your day around this meal; eat less throughout the day knowing that you will be eating out.
• Portion control equals palm size, watch how much you are putting into your mouth and control it. LOL
• DO NOT drink your calories. Stay with water, this will also help you feel fuller while eating less.
We are still working hard at our weight loss, not as hard as we were this last summer but we are still on plan. With our busy lives, we find that we are eating out more that we like. Eating out has always been one of our down falls, so I have come up with a few things that help us when we have to.
• Ask for a box to go before you receive your food. Once you receive your meal put half your meal in the box and set it aside to take home. Most all restaurant meals are double sometime triple the needed serving size.
• Plan ahead; if you know you will be eating out, look at the menu ahead of time online. Plan your meal out before you go, then DO NOT look at a menu. This way you will not be tempted to order those items you crave the most, but don’t need.
• Share a meal. Again, restaurant meals are WAY more than one person needs. Share a meal with your spouse or someone else at the table.
• Order off the kiddy menu; only when there is no age limit.
• Plan your day around this meal; eat less throughout the day knowing that you will be eating out.
• Portion control equals palm size, watch how much you are putting into your mouth and control it. LOL
• DO NOT drink your calories. Stay with water, this will also help you feel fuller while eating less.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
It's Not Your Grandma's Cookbook
VANILLA CUPCAKES :-) serving: 12 cupcakes
In my adult life, I realized I had not made cupcakes. I decided to give it a try for Jera’s birthday. I must say they turn out pretty good. (Side note: I bought the frosting at the store; we will have to wait another day to make frosting.)
Ingredients:
½ c. unsalted butter, room temperature
2/3 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 t. vanilla
1 ½ c. flour
1 ½ t. baking powder
¼ t. salt
½ c. milk
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. In a bowl with a hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add one egg at a time, and then beat in the vanilla. In a separate bowl whisk flour, baking powder and salt together. On low speed, add flour mixture and milk. Evenly fill the muffin cups with the batter and bake for about 18-20 minutes, check with toothpick if needed. Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, frost with icing.
In my adult life, I realized I had not made cupcakes. I decided to give it a try for Jera’s birthday. I must say they turn out pretty good. (Side note: I bought the frosting at the store; we will have to wait another day to make frosting.)
Ingredients:
½ c. unsalted butter, room temperature
2/3 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 t. vanilla
1 ½ c. flour
1 ½ t. baking powder
¼ t. salt
½ c. milk
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. In a bowl with a hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add one egg at a time, and then beat in the vanilla. In a separate bowl whisk flour, baking powder and salt together. On low speed, add flour mixture and milk. Evenly fill the muffin cups with the batter and bake for about 18-20 minutes, check with toothpick if needed. Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, frost with icing.
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