tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57355684166735771972024-03-13T14:48:45.630-07:00Oberhaus Clan Happenings (& Eatings)Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.comBlogger152125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-87799439030695618822013-02-28T19:38:00.001-08:002013-02-28T19:51:35.884-08:00Why Should Facebook Get All the Love?<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJU7K5Q0Fus/UTAZ-K02hdI/AAAAAAAABLI/bSVYvyl5OZ0/s1600/like.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJU7K5Q0Fus/UTAZ-K02hdI/AAAAAAAABLI/bSVYvyl5OZ0/s200/like.jpg" width="200" /></a>OK, I admit it. It's my fault that this blog has been dormant for far too long. (Um, duh. Who else's fault would it be???) Oh, wait! I blame Mark Zuckerberg. Facebook has made it exponentially easier to post all of the adorable things that my kids say and do right there on my handy-dandy, at-my-fingertips smart phone. So, sorry Followers. I'll do better. Promise.</div>
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In case you missed these posts on Facebook, here are a few of the things the kids have come up with lately:<br />
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<span class="userContent">Brogan was bummed when we explained to him that our most recent Monday holiday was "President's" Day...not "Presents" Day.</span><br />
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<span class="userContent">Today's post-Diego conversation...<br /> Brogan: Mommy, do you know what "Oscar the whale" means?<br /> Me: No, Honey, I have no idea.<br /> Brogan: It means "see you later."<br /> </span><br />
<span class="userContent">*** Pause to process ***<br /> </span><br />
<span class="userContent">Me: Oh! You mean "hasta luego."<br /> Brogan: Yeah, but that's too hard so I say "Oscar the whale."</span><br />
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<span class="userContent"><span class="userContent">So Brogan has been waking up scared because he thinks he hears a tornado. When I asked him what noise he heard he said, "They sound like a train, right? Well, I heard 'woooo, woooo'." I was happy to ease his fears by explaining that tornadoes do not sound like that part of a train. </span></span><br />
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</a><span class="userContent"><span class="userContent"><span class="userContent">Brogan loves to help teach Brynna things he already knows so when we were going over what the colors on a traffic light mean, he chimed in: "Brynna, red means stop, green means go, and yellow means speed up so you don't have to stop at the red light." <br /> <br /> Oops. My bad.</span></span></span><br />
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(This one hasn't made it to Facebook, yet. That's right -- a blog exclusive!) Brogan asked if we have any "Bill the Barber" cartoons recored (which is what he says for DVRed). It took several 20 Questions-style inquiries to determine he meant "Bob the Builder." Which supports my theory that getting names wrong is tied to the Y chromosome. That, and not listening to me.<br />
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While Brynna, at 2½, is signficantly less conversational, she manages to provide her share of comic releif. Case in point:<br />
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When football highlights come on, Brynna's usual rant is "C'mon, Guys! Dats tewible!" (That's terrible!) Hmmm...where could she have gotten <em>that</em> from?<br />
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When I dress her in something new and extra-cute, she jumps up and declares, "I adorable!" Then heads for my full-length mirror to make sure she's delivering on her promise.<br />
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And finally, a few of the things she's saying now:<br />
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"Nilk" = Milk<br />
"I big gir" = I'm a big girl<br />
"Nuggle, nuggle" = Snuggle, snuggle<br />
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Hopefully I can catch some of their antics on video. Look for that soon. :)<br />
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<br />Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-34955174149480176382012-10-18T19:37:00.001-07:002012-10-18T19:37:13.929-07:00Soy Butter & Banana Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1tXy4zT-F0I/UIC5QnplMEI/AAAAAAAABKY/VKAYCjl4OrE/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1tXy4zT-F0I/UIC5QnplMEI/AAAAAAAABKY/VKAYCjl4OrE/s200/DSC_0018.JPG" width="200" /></a>I was looking for a balanced, nutritious option for my family's breakfast -- something that I <em>knew</em> was good for them. Well, the only way to really know what you're feeding them is to make it from scratch, right? <br /><br />I found myself with a few extra minutes this morning so I whipped up these new muffins. I thought they turned out great but the true test was what the munchkins thought. And...they loved them! Sure, it could have been these super-mini, bite-sized muffin cups I found at Target that piqued their interest. But I like to think that, while the portion size and presentation got them interested, the taste made them ask for seconds.</div>
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Below is the recipe...well, actually, <em>recipes</em>. I made half the batch for the kids then mixed in a few extra goodies for the Daddy version. Take a look and, if they sound good to you, give them a try. </div>
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Happy Baking!<br />
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<strong><em>Soy Butter & Banana Muffins</em></strong><br />
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<em>1/2 c wheat pastry flour</em><br />
<em>1/2 c all-purpose flour</em><br />
<em>1/2 tsp baking soda</em><br />
<em>1 tsp baking powder</em><br />
<em>1/2 tsp cinnamon</em><br />
<em>1/2 tsp salt</em><br />
<em>1 T chia seeds</em><br />
<em>1 c quick cooking oats</em><br />
<em>2 T ground flax seed</em><br />
<em>1/2 c soy butter (or peanut butter, almond butter, etc.)</em><br />
<em>1/2 c sugar</em><br />
<em>2 very ripe bananas, mashed</em><br />
<em>1 egg, lightly beaten</em><br />
<em>5 T milk</em><br />
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<em>Optional add ins: Dark chocolate chips, dried cranberries</em><br />
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<em>Preheat oven to 350 degrees. </em><br />
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<em>Sift together first six ingredients. Mix in chia seeds, oats and flax.</em><br />
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<em>In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, add soy butter. Microwave for 30 seconds or until it begins to soften. With a fork, mix sugar into soy butter until all of the sugar is absorbed. (Mixture will still be grainy.) Mix in mashed bananas, egg and milk.</em><br />
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<em>Mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients in two batches. If adding chocolate chips or dried fruit, mix it in at this point.</em><br />
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<em>Bake for 12-17 minutes, depending on the size of the muffins. They're done when the tops begin to brown.</em><br />
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Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-48748979398318779222012-09-27T03:54:00.004-07:002012-09-27T03:58:07.395-07:00Light the Candles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ohESqSWfAmc/UGQw6NdZy0I/AAAAAAAABKI/yUoJRpHOM1I/s1600/candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ohESqSWfAmc/UGQw6NdZy0I/AAAAAAAABKI/yUoJRpHOM1I/s200/candles.jpg" width="146" /></a>The other night I was looking around the house and noticed how many candles I've incorporated into the decor. Quite a few. And then I realized that, in 10 years, I can count on one hand the number of times I've lit them without being prompted by a power outage. Gumpf. Really? How sad is that? Why have candles if you don't light them? It's like owning gorgeous shoes that you don't ever wear (which I am also guilty of--especially since I started toting small children around and all of my heels became obsolete). </div>
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My point is short and sweet: If not now<em>, when?</em> <br />
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Life goes by in a blink. We need to take every chance we have to make each day special. For our kids. For our families. For ourselves.<br />
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So, I lit several candles that night for absolutely no reason at all. Just me. In my kitchen. Mopping the floor. But, let me tell ya, that was the most enjoyable mopping has ever been.<br />
<br />Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-69241258545445426462012-03-20T04:20:00.017-07:002012-09-27T03:26:01.577-07:00Jibber Jabber x 2<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITh6EjG1ZU4/T2jlyw66hBI/AAAAAAAABJs/LT8M3OD0GtI/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722075986862441490" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITh6EjG1ZU4/T2jlyw66hBI/AAAAAAAABJs/LT8M3OD0GtI/s200/DSC_0007.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 144px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 200px;" /></a>So here's what these kiddos (when not in a cartoon trance) are saying these days...<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Brynna</span> (18 months)<br />
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Her words started multiplying the day after her 15-month check-up where the doctor asked if she was saying "uh-oh," yet. "Nope," we answered. "Nothing even remotely like it." The next day, Brynna said "uh-oh" and has not stopped since. When anything is amiss (or not really amiss and she just feels like saying it), Brynna is there to alert us with her loud proclamation: "Uh. Oh!" It's adorable.<br />
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No longer content with the simple, understated "Dada" and "Mama," she has moved on to the more mature, very articulate and often adamant "Daddeee!" and "Mommeee!"<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T-eW0l-kiL4/T2jlOm-vpZI/AAAAAAAABJU/p6jUBAYxiIM/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722075365718861202" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T-eW0l-kiL4/T2jlOm-vpZI/AAAAAAAABJU/p6jUBAYxiIM/s320/DSC_0018.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 263px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 182px;" /></a>She loves to point at her, or anyone else's for that matter, "noh" (nose) and "eyeee" (eye).<br />
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She knows most of her animals. Not by name, though. By sound. So a cat is "meow, meow," a duck is "cack, cack," a dog is "oof, oof," and a horse is "neeeeeh." The only animal she calls by name is a "bir" (bird).<br />
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She's also started using a fairly whiny version of "no." We have big brother to thank for that one.<br />
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She's obsessed with balls so that word is clear as a bell. Although it sounds more like "bahl" with only a hint of the "l" sound at the end. <br />
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One of her cutest sayings, not because of the word but because of the timing and accompanying hand gestures, is "Goooo!" This happens, almost without fail, when I stop at a red light and is accompanied but two outstretched arms and index fingers pointing forward like she's leading the charge. To her great delight, this always makes Mommeee and Daddeee smile.<br />
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Speaking of smile...she automatically says "teeze" (cheese) and flashes a cute grin anytime she sees a camera or cell phone or other people taking pictures of their children with said devices.<br />
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Oh, and, lest I forget, we figured out a while ago that Brynna has been saying "Brogan" for much longer that we realized. She pronounces it "Daggin," which we were mistaking for "Daddy." Silly us.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lEUGD-kHvSE/T2jl_0-5ohI/AAAAAAAABJ4/A_wx3PRDxbc/s1600/DSC_0028.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722076211291202066" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lEUGD-kHvSE/T2jl_0-5ohI/AAAAAAAABJ4/A_wx3PRDxbc/s320/DSC_0028.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 234px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 180px;" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brogan </span>(Will be 4 in six weeks)<br />
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With Brogan, it's sort of two steps forward and one step back. All of the ooohing and aaahing going on around here over Baby Sister's new words launched him into his own version of baby talk. He often pretends to be Brynna (among the ever-growing cast of characters in his repertoire) and takes to babbling up a storm. Who can blame him? Being a baby seems pretty great to me, too. Minus the sitting in your own poo aspect, of course.<br />
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On the other side of the coin, Brogan (pictured here at his first T-ball practice with Coach Dave) is well on his way to learning how to read. He's mastered the alphabet and has moved on to phonics. When Jason and I speak, he often picks out unfamiliar words (such as "observation" or "dilemma") and asks what they mean. He's also started asking us to spell words for him. It's only a matter of time before he's spelling them on his own, I just know it.<br />
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And, one last, off-the-scales-cute thing he says... Instead of saying "I sneezed." Brogan says, "I blessed you'd." Good stuff, right? I love it.</div>
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Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-64218846787800452032012-02-19T11:47:00.016-08:002012-02-21T12:49:41.410-08:00My Daughter Eats Crayons<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-USFpR1DZG5E/T0QA3IzSeII/AAAAAAAABJI/jsL6z0uUJK0/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-USFpR1DZG5E/T0QA3IzSeII/AAAAAAAABJI/jsL6z0uUJK0/s320/DSC_0013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711691174668040322" border="0" /></a>Yes, it's true. <span style="font-style: italic;">This </span>sweet, innocent-looking angel--while not eating crayons here--does love to take a chunk out of our Crayolas. Add "crayon munching" to the long list of things that my second offspring does that, to my knowledge, my first offspring has never even <span style="font-style: italic;">considered </span>doing. Sigh.<br /><br />But, alas! A solution! I was at a local <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://knoxvilleshepherd.com/mwm">Mornings With Mommy</a> program and I noticed these thick crayon disks. They were really easy for my 17-month-old to grip and color with and, while she had the courtesy not to take a nibble, I think she'd have a hard time chomping a piece off. The disks appeared to be homemade so I asked the program direction and--sure enough--they were lovingly made in her very own kitchen. Bingo!<br /><br />It couldn't be simpler to do and my son loved making crayon "soup" with me. Here's a quick step-by-step on how to do it:<br /><ol><li>Remove the paper wrappers (I used an XACT-O knife to slit the wrappers and they peeled off very easily). Break the crayons into similar-sized pieces.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OvEC-jBxPQw/T0P-ZoDLhYI/AAAAAAAABIw/kZ3q73_CLUk/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 243px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OvEC-jBxPQw/T0P-ZoDLhYI/AAAAAAAABIw/kZ3q73_CLUk/s400/DSC_0020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711688468636861826" border="0" /><br /></a></li><li>Add your crayons to the pan. I used two crayons per cup. FYI, from what I've read, it's best to use like-colored crayons otherwise you get a lot of brownish crayons once the colors melt together. You can either use a muffin pan with liners or use a molded silicon tray, which is what I did. NOTE: My crayons did leave a little residue ring on the tray so you may want to use some non-stick cooking spray in advance.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gr_93TmT1wE/T0P-QmdHpBI/AAAAAAAABIk/p_Imt0rO-o0/s1600/DSC_0026.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 263px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gr_93TmT1wE/T0P-QmdHpBI/AAAAAAAABIk/p_Imt0rO-o0/s400/DSC_0026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711688313589965842" border="0" /><br /></a></li><li>Pop the pan/tray into a 200-degree oven until you have little pools of crayon soup. It took about 20 minutes for ours to melt completely. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before turning them out.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8aMybdwZ2U/T0P-MsoacBI/AAAAAAAABIY/nQ1aE-Pq1LA/s1600/DSC_0028.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8aMybdwZ2U/T0P-MsoacBI/AAAAAAAABIY/nQ1aE-Pq1LA/s400/DSC_0028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711688246528471058" border="0" /></a></li></ol>Now, instead of giving Brynna the snack-look-alike, taste-test-tempting crayon "sticks," she can safely color all over my kitchen table (yeah, that's on the afore-mentioned list, too) with these cute block crayons.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X6MZgw0M3vk/T0P-A8w2f-I/AAAAAAAABIM/MlKEK6bSy0Q/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 261px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X6MZgw0M3vk/T0P-A8w2f-I/AAAAAAAABIM/MlKEK6bSy0Q/s400/DSC_0033.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711688044700401634" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Happy mommy. Happy babies. Happy home. :)<br /></div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pDuheaubNM8/T0P94CQFSSI/AAAAAAAABH0/JNlERqofi3Q/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pDuheaubNM8/T0P94CQFSSI/AAAAAAAABH0/JNlERqofi3Q/s400/DSC_0032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711687891554748706" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A_E5Gc7rNbU/T0P98VSdP2I/AAAAAAAABIA/00kbRMN6Qc0/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A_E5Gc7rNbU/T0P98VSdP2I/AAAAAAAABIA/00kbRMN6Qc0/s400/DSC_0034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711687965384458082" border="0" /></a>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-22157873944802516012012-02-10T11:57:00.001-08:002012-02-11T03:27:30.705-08:00Tickled Pink<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--pD9_sCt6gA/TzZP_7q6IZI/AAAAAAAABHo/BdZBXHJ4FHg/s1600/DSC_0049.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--pD9_sCt6gA/TzZP_7q6IZI/AAAAAAAABHo/BdZBXHJ4FHg/s200/DSC_0049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707837537506697618" border="0" /></a>It's happening. Right before my eyes. The adoration Brynna has for her big brother gets stronger by the minute. <div><br /></div><div>I see it in the way she tries to suppress an ear-to-ear grin when he takes her by the hand and they walk around the house together. I see it in when he cracks her up with his silliest of antics while trying to get her to stop fussing at the dinner table. I see it when he sweetly gives her a toy he had been playing with that she suddenly decided she wants.<br /><br />To Brynna, Brogan is pure gold. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's nothing that we, as parents, can teach. It's just there. It's God-given, for sure. It also helps that Brogan really is a terrific big brother. He impresses us constantly with his unprompted acts of kindness toward her.<br /><br />And Jason and I have the pleasure of having a front row seat at this magical event. Thank you, Lord, for these little gifts.<br /></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-12128525907818889022012-01-31T11:54:00.000-08:002012-02-10T20:51:22.601-08:00Big Bear Time<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TePWRmX0G44/TzXyfv5U-wI/AAAAAAAABHE/kBqfgBoKX5Y/s1600/bear1.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 190px; height: 190px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TePWRmX0G44/TzXyfv5U-wI/AAAAAAAABHE/kBqfgBoKX5Y/s200/bear1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707734730008754946" border="0" /></a>We have a new routine. It consists of going in to wake Brynna up at full 30 minutes before we actually need her up. Why, you ask? She needs her Big Bear Time. She can't leave the crib without it, actually.<br /><br />I'll tell her "good morning" or "hello" and ask her if she's ready to get up. Then she stands up, points to the giant bear that Nana and Papa gave her for Christmas and utters two syllables from behind her paci that only I can interpret as "Big Bear" and the games begin. The bear hops into her crib. Then she very discriminately selects which book she would like to share with Big Bear by adamantly nodding yes or no to each book that I offer. Once her selection is in hand, she snuggles in for a little quality time. With her bear.<br /><div><br /></div><div>It looks a little something (or a lot, actually) like this:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6j0qNFivUCc/TzXy5ZgsRNI/AAAAAAAABHQ/cyk2zcrw10U/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6j0qNFivUCc/TzXy5ZgsRNI/AAAAAAAABHQ/cyk2zcrw10U/s400/DSC_0002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707735170676442322" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5A76Q7OO4o/TzXw1V8Ib0I/AAAAAAAABG4/sJNm7PXWPtA/s1600/DSC_0002.JPG"></a><br /><br /></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-41810224966547808142012-01-28T07:51:00.001-08:002012-01-28T08:05:08.113-08:00Thank you, Toby Keith<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpACIqlQgtI/TyQborjBAsI/AAAAAAAABGs/7Fu9rk5ajjQ/s1600/Red-Solo-Cup-300.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 155px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpACIqlQgtI/TyQborjBAsI/AAAAAAAABGs/7Fu9rk5ajjQ/s200/Red-Solo-Cup-300.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702713413856199362" border="0" /></a>Brogan's memory has always been sharp but he's just now getting to the point that he remembers songs that he hears on the radio or that - eh hem - Mommy sings around the house. So the other day he was climbing the stairs and I heard him singing something familiar. He was <span style="font-style: italic;">very clearly</span> singing:<br /><br />"My soda (solo) cup...I fill you up...Let's have a party!"<br /><br />What can I say? It's a catchy tune. At least he didn't learn it from watching the video version. There are entirely too many questions-in-waiting in that one. Phew!Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-34002241784132621312012-01-24T12:23:00.000-08:002012-06-08T12:11:17.714-07:00Iced Mocha Cocktail<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aB6woym54WE/Tx8V155K63I/AAAAAAAABGg/I_YPgdOmoH8/s1600/iced-coffee-cocktail.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701299669092199282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aB6woym54WE/Tx8V155K63I/AAAAAAAABGg/I_YPgdOmoH8/s200/iced-coffee-cocktail.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 200px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 133px;" /></a>Wow. That's all can say. Wow.<br />
<br />
This cocktail -- <span style="font-style: italic;">if you like coffee</span> -- is A-MAZ-ING.<br />
<br />
Here's what to do:<br />
<br />
Dissolve a <span style="font-weight: bold;">teaspoon of instant coffee</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">granules </span>in a shot* of water. Add a shot each of <span style="font-weight: bold;">vanilla vodka</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">milk chocolate liquor</span>, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">white chocolate liquor</span>. Fill glass (or shaker) with ice. Stir (or shake) well.<br />
Serve and savor!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">*Shots are approximately 1 ounce. Give or take.</span></span><br />
<br />
It's heaven in a glass. I swear it.<br />
<br />
Oh, and, drinker beware: These go down <span style="font-style: italic;">really </span>easy!<br />
<br />
If you'll excuse me, I need to go "test" this recipe again. For recipe integrity purposes, of course...Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-68621826450943502462012-01-22T19:36:00.001-08:002012-01-22T20:03:31.915-08:00More Mommy Genius<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kLDDIvOJWr0/TxzYeK6FbHI/AAAAAAAABGU/APGlSIWFths/s1600/snowflakes1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 126px; height: 126px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kLDDIvOJWr0/TxzYeK6FbHI/AAAAAAAABGU/APGlSIWFths/s200/snowflakes1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700669241179860082" border="0" /></a>I came across a few more winning ideas recently and I thought I'd spread the word. Check out these great brain-children from moms who have found that necessity (and wine, I can only assume from <span style="font-style: italic;">my</span> experience) is truly the mother of invention.<br /><br />So, does that mean these moms are the step-mothers of invention? Or maybe the grandmothers? Hmmm....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tub Angels</span><br /><br />When Jack Frost is being none-too-kind and temps outside make playing in the snow a no-go, load the snow into a bath tub and let your rugrats enjoy it without the threat of immediate frostbite. When the snow melts, the water simply runs down the drain. No muss, no fuss! You may just want to establish a firm "no-snowball-fights-in-the-house" rule.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Peanut Butter & Baby Food Sandwiches???</span><br /><br />Substitute baby food purees, like blueberry or pear-strawberry, for jelly on your kids' PB&Js. Or, in our case, SB&Js. (Hooray for soy butter! Don't judge...It's yummier than you may think!)<br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rice Krispie Treat "Cookies"</span><br /><br />Instead of laboring over the mixing, rolling and baking of sugar cookies, opt for a batch of Rice Krispie Treats! When you spread the warm mixture out, use a rimmed cookie sheet and press it down to close to 1/2-inch thickness. Allow to cool then use cookie cutters to create festive shapes. Decorate as you would regular sugar cookies and enjoy!<br /><br />I actually made these at Christmas time this year. They were a huge hit with Brogan and the "cookies" were really delicious!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">*************************************<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />What genius tips have you come across that you love? I'd love to hear them!<br /></div></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-8220948606681487722012-01-08T04:39:00.001-08:002012-01-09T04:13:45.371-08:00Diet Tricks, Part 2<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lNfhqSwYP2I/TwmS4rIth7I/AAAAAAAABGI/RUkXzJCZtxg/s1600/lettuce.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 189px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lNfhqSwYP2I/TwmS4rIth7I/AAAAAAAABGI/RUkXzJCZtxg/s200/lettuce.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695244706136295346" /></a>I'm dusting off a few of my old tricks for the new year and--since I doubt I'm alone in this quest to shed the holiday pounds--I thought I'd share them with you all.<div><br /></div><div><b>Get More of the Green Stuff</b></div><div><br /></div><div>While, yes, more <i>cash </i>is always nice, that's not the green stuff I'm referring to. I'm talking leafy green veggies here. My personal favorite is spinach. I eat it all the time. Straight from the bag. Yep, I like it <i>that </i>much. So, I capitalize on my love of this iron-packed, meaty leaf and bulk up my pastas with it. Not everyone's...just mine. Aside from my son, my family does not (yet) share my appreciation for spinach so I don't load the main dish with it. Here's how to do it a la carte:</div><div><ol><li>Create any pasta dish for your family as usual.</li><li>Fill your bowl or plate with fresh spinach. </li><li>Drizzle it with olive oil. Add a dash of salt, pepper and garlic powder.</li><li>Microwave your plate for 30-45 seconds, just until the spinach is warm and starts to wilt.</li><li>Top with a small serving of the pasta dish and enjoy!</li></ol></div><div>This way, you get to enjoy the yummy meal but you'll be filling up on spinach and not calorie-heavy pasta.</div><div><br /></div><div>My other green friend it romaine lettuce. I like to buy the big heads and use the cruchy hearts for salads. Those big, floppy outer leaves are my secret weapon. I use them for sandwiches...<i>instead of bread!</i> Wrap them around some deli turkey with a dab of low fat honey mustard and you'll never go back to bread. It's crispy, filling and, therefore, satisfying. The fact that you're skipping carbs and will look great this summer isn't a bad side effect either.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sweet and Creamy</b></div><div><br /></div><div>I mentioned my final trick already: Low Fat Honey Mustard. I tend to like sweet things so this condiment is right up my alley. I use it as a dipping sauce for, to be honest, raw spinach leaves, which it a great way to get your "chips and dip" fix. I also use it in place of mayo on my sammies. What's great about it is, because it's so sweet, a little goes a long way.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Slimming, My Friends!</div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-86057422720498477422012-01-04T18:40:00.000-08:002012-01-05T08:14:52.055-08:00Happy Holidays 2011<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FX4D3-BZ7VE/TwXMTCyWw_I/AAAAAAAABF8/m8oCY3M9Bfo/s1600/holiday-card-2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 280px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FX4D3-BZ7VE/TwXMTCyWw_I/AAAAAAAABF8/m8oCY3M9Bfo/s400/holiday-card-2011.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694181931417519090" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br />(Click to Enlarge)</span><br /></div></div><br />This is the image I'd like to use to remember the 2011 holiday season. Not the <span style="font-style: italic;">actual</span> image.<br /><br />The <span style="font-style: italic;">actual</span> image from our holidays would include projectile vomiting (Brynna on Christmas Eve while trying to open presents), coughing up a lung (me, starting a few days before Christmas and lasting nearly to New Year's Eve), lethargy and loss of appetite (Brogan, starting on Christmas day, which, if you've followed my blog, you <span style="font-style: italic;">know</span> is completely out of character for my little trash compactor), and intense body aches (Jason, the day before New Year's Eve). Now <span style="font-style: italic;">there's</span> a Christmas card that would not soon be forgotten.<br /><br />Let's just say we were all happy to say good-bye to 2011. Here's to a happy and HEALTHY 2012!Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-69400170610316615322011-12-17T12:41:00.002-08:002012-03-30T19:40:27.915-07:00Brogan Live, Act 1, Scene 1<div align="center"><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yU70qwmffjQ/Tu0EtDiJwPI/AAAAAAAABFk/us1Am0RO0_4/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 148px; height: 200px; float: left; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687207076527980786" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yU70qwmffjQ/Tu0EtDiJwPI/AAAAAAAABFk/us1Am0RO0_4/s200/DSC_0008.JPG" border="0" /></a>Brogan's very first music performance was last night and it was every bit as memorable as we expected but in some unexpected ways.<br /><br />The kids, including ours, were <span style="font-style: italic;">darling</span>. That is one for the "expected" column. As were the smiles that both Daddy and I got, individually, from Brogan each time he picked out our faces in the crowd. (I was a moving target because I was following/chasing Brynna around the sanctuary. In hindsight, we <span style="font-style: italic;">really</span> should have gotten a sitter.)<br /><br />What was in the "unexpected" column was that there was little or no antsing, no nose picking and absolutely no inadvertent flashing of the audience. Not a single kid! And these were all children between the ages of 3 and 5. It was remarkable.<br /><br />What also surprised us was Brogan's utter indifference to the whole program. Sure - he sang, marched and rang his little bell with the best of 'em. But, truly, he could not have cared <span style="font-style: italic;">less</span> about being there. To each his own, as they say. And this was obviously not high on his To Do list.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Here are a few glimpses of our unforgettable evening...<br /><br /></div></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UtJm8RgBFEY/Tu0Eg2tes3I/AAAAAAAABFM/bWfttZKTrsU/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687206866927399794" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UtJm8RgBFEY/Tu0Eg2tes3I/AAAAAAAABFM/bWfttZKTrsU/s320/DSC_0047.JPG" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzepw8hobEY/Tu0EUk4qTkI/AAAAAAAABFA/4Ln1wj9N1yw/s1600/DSC_0035.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687206655984029250" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzepw8hobEY/Tu0EUk4qTkI/AAAAAAAABFA/4Ln1wj9N1yw/s320/DSC_0035.JPG" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J818IGv4Ju0/Tu0ENTEICUI/AAAAAAAABE0/Wxaqon5zKSk/s1600/DSC_0024.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 218px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687206530941192514" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J818IGv4Ju0/Tu0ENTEICUI/AAAAAAAABE0/Wxaqon5zKSk/s320/DSC_0024.JPG" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJKMMlglmf4/Tu0D6r7ORUI/AAAAAAAABEc/Z6Nq3s7DYSs/s1600/DSC_0014.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687206211197224258" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJKMMlglmf4/Tu0D6r7ORUI/AAAAAAAABEc/Z6Nq3s7DYSs/s320/DSC_0014.JPG" border="0" /></a><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">Brynna wanted to check out the stage and see what all the fuss was about.</span><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyTVlDidSQr52fl_bAb5bcJOM6lUqergO7wKIUkVmt_5ko4WU7phOFUkkleguPIDIbEyMFFu6n748IxYQxBNw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-miAGRL0qMb8/Tu0EA8OJmCI/AAAAAAAABEo/ged70H2TZ9Q/s1600/DSC_0052.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687206318650791970" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-miAGRL0qMb8/Tu0EA8OJmCI/AAAAAAAABEo/ged70H2TZ9Q/s320/DSC_0052.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">Brogan and Addison were each other's moral support throughout the evening. Their exchanged glances were priceless! Just check out this video and you'll see what I mean...</span><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy6L03SN27YGF8zoKZEHpF57cqpQoA5k9Yz-ErzdXlvv_Qz9uKXLvhvuKfJBDs0_jBtO8M8GiCaMgpuuixaUg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Adorable, right?</span></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-26412026126969454652011-12-04T04:14:00.000-08:002011-12-19T05:12:10.891-08:00Wanna Hear Something Random?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MqjbebfSyqM/Tuz8C4tHOBI/AAAAAAAABD4/s9s78DYo8E4/s1600/mic.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 118px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MqjbebfSyqM/Tuz8C4tHOBI/AAAAAAAABD4/s9s78DYo8E4/s200/mic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687197555973634066" border="0" /></a>Rest assured, this <span style="font-style: italic;">is </span>going to be one of those posts that rehashes some of the cute things my kids are saying right now but I have to start with the "random" inspiration for this post.<br /><br />If anyone of you have ever had the pleasure of knowing and having regular conversations with a 3 year old, you are familiar with the off-the-wall stuff that they talk about. For those of you who have not had this pleasure (or it's been too long to remember that special phase), it goes like this: If a thought enters their mind, they are going to talk to you--and anyone else in earshot--about it. Or, at least, that is what <span style="font-style: italic;">my </span>3 year old does. I mean it. If he <span style="font-style: italic;">thinks it</span>, he <span style="font-style: italic;">says it. </span>I'm hoping he'll develop a filter soon but no luck so far.<br /><br />Anyway, I guess I've gotten into the habit of responding to these one-off thoughts by saying something in the ballpark of "Well, that was random," because Brogan now prefaces his rambling by saying, "Wanna hear something random?"<br /><br />Ah-hem. Yep. That one is all me.<br /><br />And in other Random News, here are a few of the other hot phrases around here...<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vj7NNkJ1Dcs/Tuz3141PYxI/AAAAAAAABC8/BqgQ2cuzRjo/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG"></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0lSRx_IbPw/Tuz646Xsi1I/AAAAAAAABDU/pkG3_B0Uih4/s1600/DSC_0028.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 122px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0lSRx_IbPw/Tuz646Xsi1I/AAAAAAAABDU/pkG3_B0Uih4/s200/DSC_0028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687196285110356818" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brogan</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">still</span> says "mazagine." Daddy has tried working syllable-by-syllable with him to get it right. Brogan can do it slowly but as soon as he says it in regular conversation, it's right back to "mazagine." I, for one, love it that way. I know he'll figure it out eventually and I'm going to enjoy it while I can.<br /><br />I've lost track of the bagillion other witty things he's said lately. He's speaking so well and really picking up slang terms and colloquialisms. He's a riot to listen to. Just ask his Nana and Papa...they're excited to be able to talk to him on the phone and not need me to interpret 100% of the time anymore.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ovofz-qTQHk/Tuz7-fOHlnI/AAAAAAAABDs/kZ3dqoq-MPY/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 172px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ovofz-qTQHk/Tuz7-fOHlnI/AAAAAAAABDs/kZ3dqoq-MPY/s200/DSC_0006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687197480413271666" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brynna</span> says "nah-nah" for just about everything right now. It goes something like this:<br /><br />*Points Finger in general direction of desired object * Says "Nah-Nah!" * And if it's her sippy cup that she's wanting--look out! "Nah-nah" is said with increasing intensity until said cup is on its way to her gaping, baby-bird-like mouth. The girl loves her water. Not so much juice, but she digs water.<br /><br />When she races Brogan down the hall, you're sure to hear her say "Gah, gah, gah!" (Translation: "Go, go, go!"). She's also recently added "bah" (ball) and "uh-oh" to her lexicon. Oh, and instead of saying certain animal names, she makes noises that somewhat resemble a "neigh" when she sees a horse and "raar" when she sees a tiger. It's pretty darn cute. And so is she.<br /><br />P.S. Here's a quick run down of the random kids pics: (1) Brogan dressed up as an Indian...I mean, <span style="font-style: italic;">Native American</span>...for his Thanksgiving Feast at school. His vest is the first "costume" I've made for him. (2) Brynna barely sits still anymore so cute pictures are a rarity. This is one of her literally backed into a corner (so she couldn't move) at Brogan's Christmas performance. More to come on that soon...Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-76875381097951271822011-11-29T04:07:00.000-08:002011-11-29T08:15:24.707-08:00Look Who's Talking Now<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TDeLxg_tuv8/TtUEk4wjwmI/AAAAAAAABCw/SyVeDmuoG58/s1600/DSC_0071.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 138px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TDeLxg_tuv8/TtUEk4wjwmI/AAAAAAAABCw/SyVeDmuoG58/s200/DSC_0071.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680451536755606114" /></a>Brynna said her first word!<div><br /></div><div><b>TICKLE!</b><br /><div><br /></div><div>It would be out of my nature to not set up this story properly so bear with me... </div></div><div><br /></div><div>We do a lot of <a href="http://oberhausclan.blogspot.com/2011/03/tickle-monster.html">tickling</a> around our house. Jason and I are addicted to hearing our children laugh and the quickest way to get our fix is, well, by tickling them. This, apparently, has not escaped the keen notice of our now-15-month-old daughter.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was working on the computer one morning last week with my legs crossed. My socked-foot was dangling at just about Brynna's tummy height. She saw her chance. She seized it. She toddled over to me, grabbed my foot and said, "Tickle, tickle, tickle." I was stunned. It was one of the cutest things I have ever seen.</div><div><br /></div><div>Since then, she capitalizes on every tickle opportunity that presents itself. If she catches sight of a foot without a shoe on, she's going for it. Even if that foot happens to belong to her. (Which is adorable in a completely different way.)</div><div><br /></div><div>So, there you have it. Brynna's first word, beyond Momma and Daddy, was "tickle." I love that she used her first word to try to make someone else laugh. I take that as a sign of good things to come.</div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-2909410560393083662011-11-22T03:58:00.000-08:002011-11-22T12:59:29.651-08:00Thanksgiving Plan<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TkUuEObpZRs/TsuWcJ9S0hI/AAAAAAAABCk/kdZMiObLCXo/s1600/gameplan.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 147px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TkUuEObpZRs/TsuWcJ9S0hI/AAAAAAAABCk/kdZMiObLCXo/s200/gameplan.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677797165684150802" /></a><div>Once upon a time, I considered Thanksgiving just holiday that someone made up as an excuse to eat in excess. (Much like some people think that Valentine's Day was contrived as an excuse to sell chocolates and greeting cards. I'm not one of <i>those </i>people, by the way.) </div><div><div><div><br /></div><div>Now that I love to cook, though, Thanksgiving is like a culinary Super Bowl. It's what I've been training for all year long. With only two days to go until game day, it's almost Go-time. Much like the crazy Black Friday lady on the Target commercials, I'm running drills and getting stretched out for the big event. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a peek at my Thanksgiving play book:<div><br /></div><div><b>A Salad, for Good Measure </b>(and so no one gnaws an arm off while waiting for the Main Event): </div><div><br /></div><div>Walnut Side Salad</div><div><br /></div><div>1 bag spring mix salad</div><div>1/2 cup balsamic dressing</div><div>1/2 container grape tomatoes</div><div>1/3 cup bacon crumbles</div><div>1/2 cup red onion, chopped</div><div>1/3 cup feta crumbles</div><div>1/2 cup walnut pieces, toasted</div><div>Black pepper, to taste</div><div><br /></div><div>Toss spring mix with dressing, onions and bacon. Top with tomatoes, feta, walnuts and pepper. Serve immediately.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Bird</b>: Maple-Roasted Turkey with Sage Butter (<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/maple-roasted-turkey-with-sage-butter-recipe/index.html">Get the recipe</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Gravy</b>: Turkey Gravy, from scratch, thank you very much (<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/gravy-1-2-3-recipe2/index.html">Get the recipe</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Dressing</b>: Pepperridge Farms Herbed Stuffing</div><div><br /></div><div>Simply prepare as directed on the package, mix in one beaten egg and pop it in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is a family tradition and, as my husband informed me, is not to be messed with.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Main Side</b>: Hashbrown Casserole</div><div><br /></div><div><div>2 lbs frozen hashbrowns, thawed</div><div>1 stick melted butter</div><div>2½ c corn flakes, crushed</div><div>1 tsp salt</div><div>¼ tsp pepper</div><div>½ chopped onion</div><div>1 can cream of potato soup</div><div>1 pkg (8 oz) sour cream</div><div>1 block (8 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded </div><div><br /></div><div>1-Thaw hashbrowns in bowl filled with ice water; drain. Return to bowl. Set bowl in refrigerator while mixing the other ingredients.</div><div>2-Sautee onion until soft.</div><div>3-Crush corn flakes and mix with melted butter; set aside.</div><div>4-Mix salt, pepper, onion, soup, sour cream and cheese in very large bowl.</div><div>5- Preheat oven to 350-degrees. </div><div>6- Working fairly quickly so hashbrowns do not start to turn color, fold hashbrowns into sour cream mixture. Spoon into greased 9x13 casserole dish. Sprinkle with corn flake mixture.</div><div>7-Bake for 45-55 minute or until top is toasted. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Instead of Sweet Potatoes</b>: <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/roasted-butternut-squash-with-onions-brown-butter-and-sage?fb_ref=fw-vert&fb_source=profile_oneline">Roasted Butternut Squash</a>, a new one this year</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Cranberry Kicker</b>: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/cranberry-fruit-conserve-recipe/index.html">Cranberry Conserve</a> with the addition of a little red onion for a savory note</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Bread</b>: Another family favorite, Pillsbury Cresent Rolls</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm leaving desserts up to my In-Laws this year but if I <i>were</i> going to make something, I was going to try <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/338531/pumpkin-bread-pudding">Pumpkin Bread Pudding</a></b>. How good does <i>that</i> sound???<br /><div><br /></div></div></div></div></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-70011515491273630672011-11-17T10:35:00.000-08:002011-11-17T12:15:53.574-08:00God Gave Me You<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jkZI9NyQ-uQ/TsVXhj_XZxI/AAAAAAAABCM/P7owUkrdmmY/s1600/gift%2Bfrom%2Bgod.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 5px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 175px; height: 127px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jkZI9NyQ-uQ/TsVXhj_XZxI/AAAAAAAABCM/P7owUkrdmmY/s200/gift%2Bfrom%2Bgod.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676039139478693650" border="0" /></a>So I've had the Blake Shelton song, "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCf2PoTuh4Q">God Gave Me You</a>," stuck in my head the past few days and I was singing it while cleaning up after lunch today. Brogan asked me what I was singing and I told him the name of the song. <div><br /></div><div>Then I asked him, "Did you know that God gave me you?" In his three-year-old voice of disbelief he answered, "Nooo." As if I were just being silly. So I said, "No, really, Buddy. You were a present to Mommy from God." <div><br /></div><div>What happened next was priceless. </div><div><br /></div><div>Brogan's face lit up and he looked up toward Heaven and said, in his most sincere tone, "Thank you, God, for giving me to Mommy." My heart melted right there on the kitchen counter. I know I've said it before but, he is <i>such </i>a sweet little guy. I love, love, <i>love</i> that kid.<br /><br />Thank you, God, for Brogan.<br /></div></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-4320452987745035172011-11-08T07:39:00.000-08:002011-11-08T11:13:55.884-08:00Yielding to a Higher Power<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhszc-zFslo/TrlQ3RXqcmI/AAAAAAAABBY/LQLRwiSwz3I/s1600/sunlight_through_clouds.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhszc-zFslo/TrlQ3RXqcmI/AAAAAAAABBY/LQLRwiSwz3I/s200/sunlight_through_clouds.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672654116135531106" border="0" /></a>So, Brogan recently started asking God questions. Wonderful, right? Well, sort of. In theory, it <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> wonderful and something that I hope he continues to do his entire life. The problem arises when he also <span style="font-style: italic;">answers</span> the questions himself and, miraculously, God tends to rule in Brogan's favor. <span style="font-style: italic;">Amazing, isn't it?</span><br /><br />For instance, this morning, Brogan asked God if he could roll his truck on the table behind the sofa. The one that displays several framed family photos and a few breakable nicknacks. The same table that Mommy had just reminded him <span style="font-style: italic;">not </span>to roll his truck on. Yep, that 's the one. So, in this instance, when "God" told Brogan that it was OK, I quickly stepped in and said, "No, I think God said to ask Mommy if it's OK, and Mommy says no."<br /><br />Nice try, though, Little Man. Nice try.<br /><br />I think it's great that he recognizes that God is the ultimate authority. And, although I don't approve of it, I do think it's pretty crafty of him to circumvent Mommy's authority and go straight to the Big Guy. I'm going to have to keep my eye on this one. He's just now 3 and a half and is learning how to work the system. Lord, help us.Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-89877402960507365092011-10-25T03:24:00.000-07:002011-10-25T03:53:32.109-07:00Genius Mommy Tips & Tricks<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UMLiE4s9iqo/TqaUCyQZyVI/AAAAAAAABBM/WeXsBuC0vws/s1600/mommy-genius.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 190px; height: 190px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UMLiE4s9iqo/TqaUCyQZyVI/AAAAAAAABBM/WeXsBuC0vws/s200/mommy-genius.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667379956663568722" /></a>If you're like me, you <i>love</i> learning about those little things you can do that will make your life as a Mommy (or Daddy, for that matter) more efficient and just plain easier. If you're <i>really</i> like me, you forget all of those great tips about 30 seconds after reading or hearing about them. Ugh.<div><br /></div><div>So I've decided to compile a list here and add to it as I come across new gems of wisdom. Please, please, <i>please</i> leave a comment if you have anything you'd like to share!</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm launching the list with several goodies I found in the October 2011 issue of <i>Parents Magazine</i>. The magazine celebrates its 85th anniversary this year so the staff compiled tips from across the decades. Pretty timeless stuff. I hope you find it as helpful as I do!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Art To-Go</b></div><div>Save the cardboard tubes from paper towels and wrapping paper to store or transport your child's artwork home from school.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tidy Treat</b></div><div>To avoid messy drips from the bottom of an ice-cream cone, put a small marshmallow in the bottom of the come before scooping the cold stuff. It absorbs any melted ice cream before it can leak out, and it makes a sweet surprise when your kids reach the end of the cone.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Art Smart</b></div><div>To make painting less messy, put old baby bottles to good use. Remove the nipple, snip off part of the tip, partially fill the bottle with paint, and reassemble the bottle with the nipple inverted. The bottles are less likely to spill and the nipple removes excess paint from the brush on the way out.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Clean Routine</b></div><div>One squirt from the liquid soap dispenser tends to be too much for little hands. To dispense a pint-sized amount, wrap a rubber band around the neck of the dispenser several times so the pump will only go down halfway.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sticker Shock</b></div><div>Kids tend to gravitate toward food products with cartoon characters on the package, but most of those products are not the healthiest or least expensive choices. To keep everyone happy, add stickers of their favorite characters to the products <i>you</i> want to buy once you get home from the grocery store.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Don't forget to leave a comment with tips and tricks you've come across. It may just be the solution that another mommy needs!</i></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-70681582979175731572011-10-24T07:12:00.000-07:002011-10-24T07:27:45.841-07:00Sticky, Sweet & Salty Appetizer<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oL18xBVRdyM/TqV0WPUQfrI/AAAAAAAABBA/6NPKMM_cBe8/s1600/devils.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oL18xBVRdyM/TqV0WPUQfrI/AAAAAAAABBA/6NPKMM_cBe8/s200/devils.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667063631533080242" /></a>And did I mention <i>delicious</i>? Because they really are. I was skeptical when I made these for my newly formed Supper Club last night but they were a huge hit. <div><br /></div><div>They can be served warm, at room temp or--as I learned this morning after sampling a leftover Devil--cold and are equally fantastic. Which makes them pretty perfect for taking to holiday parties. Just make sure to let them cool for a few minutes after removing them from the oven... That bacon grease is HOT! (That's experience talking, folks.)</div><div><div><br /></div><div>Enjoy!</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Devils on Horseback</b></div><div>(From AllRecipes.com)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ingredients</b></div><div>20 wooden toothpicks</div><div>1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce</div><div>1/2 teaspoon ground ginger</div><div>3/4 cup dark brown sugar</div><div>20 dates, pitted and left whole</div><div>20 whole smoked almonds</div><div>10 bacon slices, cut in half crosswise</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Directions</b></div><div>Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Soak the toothpicks in a bowl of water. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.</div><div><br /></div><div>In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce and ground ginger. Place the brown sugar into a shallow bowl. Spread open a pitted date, then stuff it with a smoked almond. Wrap the date with half a bacon slice, secure it with a toothpick, dip the bundle in soy sauce mixture, and then dip it into brown sugar. Place the wrapped dates into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle a little more brown sugar over the bundles.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bake in the preheated oven until the bacon is brown and crisp, 15 to 25 minutes. Allow to cool for about 15 minutes before serving; serve warm or at room temperature.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>NOTE:</b> I made another batch the same way but subbed small chunks of gouda for the almonds. I think a more pungent cheese (like asiago) would be even better.</div></div></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-33571021830864526252011-10-19T18:08:00.001-07:002012-03-30T19:41:05.716-07:00Brynna Walks!This hardly needs an intro but I will say this: There are not many things more special in life than watching a child take some of her first steps. Brynna started her journey 3 days ago. It's a journey that I hope takes her to many wonderful places during her lifetime. We love you, Baby Girl!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwvcjiAwpo7FvnTRe6OQJRZFKR9jOw0y-d71iLzMFQSjmzgH1JsB6Uj21ht_5UQLCTunk0rzbZ3s3BQtrvdzw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-77863269831793558342011-10-17T07:00:00.000-07:002011-10-17T07:10:29.202-07:00Small FeatsI've noticed that there is a serious lack of Brynna videos, or any videos for that matter, on the blog lately. So, to celebrate Brynna's latest achievement (she walked last night for the first time!), I thought it fitting to post a video. Only, it's not of her walking. Sorry. I haven't been able to catch her in the act, yet, but as soon as I do, I'll post that video, as well. In the meantime, sit back, relax and enjoy this short but sweet clip of Brynna being Brynna.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwvFm0aXzWJPQ9dTz_ScCkCx_gLaDB1bniM1zgbFfWQcQnfCrcmwTjfVdD-FwDcCaxDi51zoMxYigH9hvFukw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-6826194446422282702011-10-12T10:19:00.000-07:002011-10-13T03:32:25.469-07:00Bedtime PosseBrogan takes quite an entourage to bed each night. It started out small enough, as I'm assuming most entourages do, and has slowly grown over time. I'm thinking it won't be long before we'll have to move him into a larger bed to accommodate him and all of his amigos. Please, allow me to introduce you to the crew:<div><div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pHmldMatE1I/TpZG-uI1qbI/AAAAAAAABA0/HaPTIuk7Uqg/s1600/Bedtime_Posse01.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pHmldMatE1I/TpZG-uI1qbI/AAAAAAAABA0/HaPTIuk7Uqg/s400/Bedtime_Posse01.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662791624815913394" border="0" /></a><br />Jirafe (second from left) started the party. He was actually the first stuffed friend ever given to Brogan. You may notice the star on his left foot...that signifies that he came with a star--yes, a <span style="font-style: italic;">real</span> star--that we registered in Brogan's name. Sweet, right? Jirafe was a present from Grandma, purchased within probably 2 hours (if that) of her learning that she was going to be a Grandma for the first time. I love that about her.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Next, came Barry (center). He's a Build-A-Bear bear that we outfitted in Brogan's first Gator onesie. What I would have given to watch Grandpa go through the song and dance that is standard protocol at the Build-A-Bear Workshop. I bet it was priceless.<br /><div><br /></div><div><div>The next friend to join our group was the legendary Gerry (seated on Barry's lap). He came to us from one of my co-workers in New York, Lauren, long before Brogan arrived. Little did we know then what a constant companion and comfort Gerry would prove to be for Brogan. Let's just say, I ordered an extra "Gerry" and stashed him away in the event that the original Gerry meets an untimely demise. Lord only knows the drama that would follow such a catasrophe as that. It's unthinkable. </div><div><br />The smaller bear on the right is "Birthday Bear." My sweet Aunt Lisa sent him to us for Brogan's 1st birthday. He didn't actually join the posse right away, though. He used to reside somewhere random in the toy room but has since been promoted, for whatever reason, to a nighttime comrade.<br /><br />Baby Alligator (who is actually a crocodile) hails all the way from the San Diego Zoo. Brogan's Godparents, Gene and Barbara, brought him back for Brogan after a family vacay to California. He has been going "night, night" with Brogan since the day he came home with us. He is the one cotton companion most likely to do a disappearing act in the wee hours of the night (or morning), usually because he slipped through the bed rails. Since Brogan is <span style="font-style: italic;">such</span> a good boy, he doesn't get out of bed to retrieve him...No, no...He leaves that to Daddy or Mommy. Lucky us.<br /><br />You may or may not have noticed earlier...but Jirafe is packing heat. Yes, that is a gun he's holding in his lap. A water gun, of course. That gun made it's way to Brogan's bed right around his third birthday after several nights of hysterics about "bad birds coming." To this day, I have no idea where this originated or what it really means. All I know is that giving him a water gun to shoot the "bad birds" away totally worked.<br /><br />And finally, Monster (far left). This little guy was a present from our friends, the Holt family. The Holts hosted an Easter Egg Hunt this year and Monster was part of the goody basket that Mama Holt (aka Becca) sent home with each child. I wasn't able to go but I can only assume that it was one great Hunt since Brogan wants to remember it every night. That's the only thing I can think of when I look at that crazy little blue creature. You just never know what they're going to love, do you?<br /><br />Taking all of these stuffed friends with him to bed, I think he feels less alone for the long stretch that is Nighttime. One day, he'll be too big for these friends and they'll be retired to a box somewhere in the attic, no doubt. (Sniff) But for now, they are his besties and snuggling in with them makes all the difference in the world.<br /></div></div></div></div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-26186310153081190812011-10-10T18:31:00.000-07:002011-10-10T19:16:46.903-07:00Columbus Day Resolutions<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xw20X8RoeSk/TpOkEN9-7hI/AAAAAAAABAc/XGhObGX1uKo/s1600/columbocp.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 127px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xw20X8RoeSk/TpOkEN9-7hI/AAAAAAAABAc/XGhObGX1uKo/s200/columbocp.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662049548910915090" border="0" /></a>In general, I am not a big fan of New Year's resolutions. I think it's silly to wait for a particular time of year to make a change for the better. Especially New Year's Day. Most resolutions made on New Year's Day are made with the understanding that most people <span style="font-style: italic;">don't keep</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">them</span>. What a cop out. If you're really serious about making a change or taking a new direction, why wait? Do it now.<br /><br />And so here I am. Celebrating Columbus Day, if you could call it that, and I'm making a few resolutions of my own. (Yes, it was a complete coincidence that today is a national holiday, but it sure made for an interesting blog post, don't you think?)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">#1: The obligatory "lose weight."</span><br />I <span style="font-style: italic;">really</span> hate when people make this one because it usually packs the gym with well-intentioned shape shifters from about January 3 - February 15 every year. I do have a <span style="font-style: italic;">really</span> good reason for this one, though. My 10th anniversary is in less a month and I would like to shed the extra 5 lbs. that have crept up on me. Forgive my hypocrisy just this once because I'd like to look really hot (or as hot as I can after 2 kids) for my sweet husband. I'm working out harder and trying to eat less. We'll see how it goes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">#2: Drink more water.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br />As in a gallon a day. Seems like a lot, doesn't it? Well, I managed to do it today (in addition to two 20 oz. coffees, at that) and it wasn't too difficult or annoying (think potty breaks). I'm interested to see how easy it seems day after day after day, though. I have enough "annoying" in my life right now, I really don't have time for self-induced annoyingness. Here's to my attempt at epic hydration...Cheers!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">#3: Wash my face nightly.</span><br />I realize that I should already be doing this but I'm not. After getting the kids in bed, putting the house back in order, and spending some uninterrupted time on the computer or talking to my husband, I'm happy to have brushed teeth by the time I collapse into bed. I have to admit, though, I started this one last night and my skin feels so much better in the morning after having rid it of the day's gunk the night before.<br /><br />So, that's it. Nothing to difficult to commit to but big enough that I think I'll see results of some kind fairly soon. As we all know, nothing it more motivational that results.<br /><br />What would your Any Ole' Time resolutions be?Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5735568416673577197.post-89666389654636865762011-10-06T07:01:00.000-07:002011-10-06T17:48:25.027-07:00You've Gotta Try This Recipe<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-li39mLJfpqk/To21thqnrnI/AAAAAAAABAU/TxWE6RuDSZ8/s1600/spinach%2Bdip.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-li39mLJfpqk/To21thqnrnI/AAAAAAAABAU/TxWE6RuDSZ8/s200/spinach%2Bdip.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5660380100410453618" /></a>I made my Spinach & Artichoke Dip Chicken again this week and felt compelled to post the recipe again. It is <i>really</i> good. Jason even dubbed it "good enough to make for company." Nice.<div><br /></div><div>Click <a href="http://oberhausclan.blogspot.com/2011/02/spinach-artichoke-dip-chicken.html">here </a>for the original post with the full recipe. Your mouth will thank you. And if you do try it, please post a comment and let me know what you thought. Be honest!</div>Mama Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13243397734999394303noreply@blogger.com0