Simply the Stamps

Grand Opening

2011-09-05T10:04:00.000-07:00

I have opened up my own little business! It has been months in the making and now, today, is the GRAND OPENING! I am offering 15% discount on purchases ordered today, to celebrate my grand opening as well as Labor Day.

Click the above link to check out my shoppe. Also, on the left hand side is a link to my shop. I have a total of 9 items in stock, but have no fear. I will be making to order, so if you see something you like, but not the colors, no SWEAT! Just get ahold of me with the colors that you want w/the design you like and I will make it for you.

Here is a glimpse of what I have to offer...

Are you tired of loosing your earrings or having them get tangled up in you necklaces? Do you want to take earrings on a trip, but are always looking around for a way to transport them without getting lost? Do you want all your earrings in one place?

If your answer is YES, to any of the questions...

Then this convenient EarRing Book is for you! It can be taken on the go. It's portable, compact and can hold hundreds, yes, HUNDREDS of your earrings!

Each book is approximately 5.25x4.25x3 inches (13x11x8 cm). There are 4 pages to a book. Each page can hold approximately 60-70 pairs of earrings, depending on size. This book can hold your studs, hoops, and dangly earrings. If you want, you can even store some of your pins and broaches in the book too.

*** Earrings and pin are not included... for display only***

How Once Upon an EarRing was born:

I inherited a book to hold my earrings in, that was my Grandmothers. I have had it for a good 15-16 years or so, and it still looks as good as new!

When my daughter got her ears pierced, I wanted something that she could hold her earrings in so they wouldn't get lost or misplaced. So... I made her a book similar to the one I inherited.

This is when 'Once Upon an EarRing' was born! I took the book I had and duplicated it, and here we are today.

Fresno & Hanford Fun

2011-07-24T22:09:00.000-07:00

Get ready for a long one...

We went to hotter weather this weekend. On Friday, we drove to Fresno to see Nat's cousin's. That night, we had the chance to go and Salsa Dance (I never got out there). It was neat to watch, but very H O T! (the lighting was bad, so no pics to post)

Then, Saturday morning, we hopped on the train and went to Hanford. Hanford is where Nat grew up in his elementary years. They were also holding an Amtrak Employee Appreciation Day, and we couldn't pass it up, and it was nice to see where Nat grew up.

We basically had a private tour around the town. When we got to the train station in Hanford, we had a special surprise waiting for us. Meet Freddie the Fire Truck.

He was nice enough to chauffeur us all over town for 5 hours.

We hit up China Alley

Then, we went and ate lunch at a wonderful little Mexican Restaurant. (sorry, no pics of us eating our lunch)

After lunch, we headed over to the town square

The kids standing outside the Bastille

the Hanford Theatre

on the Courthouse steps, (hitting the shade whenever we could... it was 100 degrees out)

while waiting for....

our private Carousel ride

After the Carousel ride, we were able to go into the old courthouse

Judge M

Judge J

Court Reporter

First Witness

inside, on the courthouse steps

Next Stop was the old Fire Station (Freddie's home). We had fun looking at Freddie's friends, as well as the fireman's pole

Nat

Grandpa Stamps

Fire Fighter M

Fire Fighter C

Fire Fighter J

Sweating and needing a cool down, we headed on over to the local ice cream shoppe, Superior Dairy

These pictures don't do justice to the size we were given. Think about ice cream piled up about 6-8 inches above the bowl (yep, that would be their single scoop) This place was packed (standing room only for the most part)

Once we were done, with the ice cream, we walked across the street to check out the library (and a needed break from the heat. I have never seen a fish tank in the kids area. It was neat to see and find all the different fish and crabs.

Our last stop on the tour was a Cupcake shop. These look to die for (but since we were soooo full from the ice cream, we gave these to Nat's cousin when we made it back to their house.

on the left: Strawberry Pineapple

on the right: Key Lime Pie

Then, we were back on the train to start our long trek home. We had a wonderful day, and were exhausted and some had extremely sore feet due to blisters that had popped, by the time we arrived home late Saturday night. I don't think that Nat will let me drive next time (my speed made the van real hungry and we had the idiot light for gas come on when we were about 10 minutes from exiting the freeway). Hope you enjoyed our family outing as much as we did.

Family Time Fun

2011-07-17T09:11:00.000-07:00

We started out by going on a walk to full fill one of M's requirements for Girls Scouts (which we did do). In the meantime, we ended up having Family Home Evening at the ball park. Yes, we have a ball park near us, and we can watch games for FREE! The Maidu Softball Complex had several games going on, so when one ended, we hopped on over to another, and then another, before leaving with heads down to needing to eat (we were only going to be gone a short time, and didn't pack a picnic dinner). Unfortunately, we didn't get any pics of the games (we knew no one, and out of respect for the players & their parents, we didn't take any of them). But here are the pics that we tried to take w/my phone of all of us...

Nat & the kiddos

M wanted to take one

Nat trying to get the whole fam in the pic, at least he got all the boys

Me trying to do it, almost made it

me trying again, better than the last

After this, we watched part of our 3rd game while at the park (the others had an inning to go)... then several of us started saying they were hungry. We never did finish a game all the way through. Maybe next time we will plan ahead.

I was reminiscing about the 8 years or so when I played as a young girl. I miss those days. I really enjoyed explaining the game to the kids. Maybe I just might have to find an adult league to join.

Belated 4th of July Pictures

2011-07-16T13:22:00.000-07:00

We never buy our own fireworks (I hate seeing my money actually 'burn up'). But we do go over to a neighboring city to watch their fireworks for free. The place to be is at Sunrise Mall.

Here are just a few of the pics I got watching fireworks in 3-D...

This vidoe is taken in 3-D

I love how the Fireworks set off car alarms.

Goats & Goats

2011-07-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

Living on the green belt is AWESOME, most of the time. I love the feel of living out in the country, while living in the city. Since the green belt is a nature refuge, the weeds get a little out of hand, and don't even get me started on the ticks... oh those pesky little things.

Well, the city had an great idea, they farmed out the green belts to a local goat farmer. While over at a friends house yesterday swimming (they live on the other half of our green belt behind us), I saw many goats go running by behind their property.

I like seeing this rather than hearing the lawn mowers (and the allergies that arise from them). I can't wait until they are brought over to our area. They are fenced in and have guard/herd dogs with them. The goats seemed like they had gone to heaven.

New Beginnings

2011-07-11T08:55:00.000-07:00

I have been so bad about blogging. We haven't really been up to much, just the same stuff. Nat has landed a permanent position with Amtrak. No more on call 24/7. YAY! He is in charge of the buses (yes, Amtrak has buses) that go through Sac, Reno, and a few other places. He is working 4/10's and unfortunately, he can't attend church due to the hours. It is so nice to actually have a schedule now, and not having to wait until 2 in the afternoon to see if he is working or not. No more having to pay for parking (he commutes in on the train Mon-Wed. and Sundays he can park for free on the street) or traveling to a station which eats the gas budget.

M has joined a Girl Scout troop and is loving it. J is enjoying Cub Scouts. C is having a blast in Boy Scouts. Nat is the Cub Master for our troop, and I am the Bear Den Leader. Scouting has become our life. But we are enjoying it, and wouldn't trade it in for the world.

We are still homeschooling. I have decided to go back with a charter school, after 2 years of being independent, I just need that re-enforcement and back up. With Nat's new schedule, he will be able to help out in teaching the kids some of their lessons. We have found a wonderful homeschool group in the area, and have made new friends. We also just joined another (an outdoor one), and this week we will be meeting for them for the first time. Make sure you go check out our homeschooling blog (Stamps Meadow Academy), click the picture on the left!

I will try my hardest to keep up. Right now, I am busy gathering all of the school material, curriculum, and making lesson plans. Our plan is to start the beginning of August, but will wait until I talk to our teacher who is going to be overseeing us. Hopefully we hear from her/him soon.

He is Risen! Happy Easter Everyone

2011-04-24T09:17:00.000-07:00

This Easter, remember the sacred name, life, and sacrifice of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Great Depression Cooking

2011-04-19T14:56:00.000-07:00

She is the cutest lady I have seen! Clara is 95 years young and is a hit. She has her own YouTube show thanks to her grandson), and now has a recipe book.

I just found her yesterday, and ran out and bought her cookbook (I am an avid collector of cookbooks). She has a whole series of videos, (the one above is the very first one). She also has a website

Great Depression Cookign with Clara. Also, her cookbook can be pirchased at Barnes & Nobles, Amazon, and Borders, just to name a few. All her recipes cost as little as 50 cents a serving... my kind of deal, I am always on the lookout how to S..T..R..E..T..C..H the dollar that my husband works so hard to bring in.

Rip Roaring Books

2011-04-08T18:06:00.000-07:00

I am an avid reader, whom doesn't always get the chance to read to my hearts desire. In order for me to keep my brain active and exercising, I joined a book club with some wonderful ladies from church. I am hoping that I can also get Nat into helping out with that blog, as he reads his books as well. Who knows, I might even get the kids involved (well, M will for sure, maybe even J, hopefully with not much of a fight, C) will help out as well.

Since joining a book club, I have started a blog all about the books that we have read and our reviews, so, here it is Rip Roaring Books.

CRAZYness

2011-01-22T16:28:00.000-08:00

we have been flying by the seat of our pants since just before Christmas. I promise to upload pictures and update everyone on our Quiet Christmas, J's birthday & Baptism, Indoor ponds, trains & Tech field trips.

This past month, I have been trying to catch my breath from being on the move so much last month, and getting myself and the kids back into the swing of things with school. Yes, I am still homeschooling them even though I have been quiet on that subject, nothing much has happened during last year, but this year, we have had plenty going on with school... As I watch the news, I am very thankful that I homeschool my kids... Yes, I am protective of them, the kids are only on loan to me while here on this earth.

More to come, so stay tuned!

Happy Birthday!

2010-12-30T08:39:00.000-08:00

Happy 8th birthday James!

We are so blessed to have such a wonderful boy to be apart of our family. It is hard to believe that you have blessed our family for eight years. You are a very loving, caring, selfless, carefree, lovable, imaginative, spiritual, happy child. Never loose that sparkle in your eye. We enjoy all the spontaneous imaginary play and your love of using your imagination and love of all things. Thank you for being apart of our family, we wouln't be the same without you in our lives and hearts.

2010-12-25T09:53:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to ALL!

pic takem from here

From the Stamps family to yours, We wish you all the best on todays celebration of Jesus' birth

Merry Christmas to Us

2010-12-17T15:16:00.000-08:00

After some thought and talk, we decided it was time to get a new ~~car~~ van, after all, we had our Venture for the last 7 years. So, just the other day, we went and ''looked" at the new cars, debating whether or not to get another minivan or downsize to a station wagon - READ - an HHR. But after looking at both, I came to the realization, that I was not ready to give up having a 'MOM' car. We looked, and looked, and looked some more at all the different vans... this one was to small in the back, that one has the benches, then ALAS... I saw THIS and fell in love.

The best part... (I am vertically challenged and usually have to sit basically right on top of the steering wheel in order to touch the pedals), anyway, the best part... the gas pedal can be adjusted and moved to the position that feels comfortable to the driver AND leather seats (I knew this was the van for me).

We are now the proud owners of a Chrysler Town & Country Stow & Go Minivan. It has every doohickey that you can imagine. A DVD player for the kids, and... a NAVIGATION system (for someone whom shall not be named) who gets lost regularly. Here is the link to see all the pics of the van (link will be good until Jan 14, 2011).

The Ultimate DOG house

2010-12-06T14:44:00.000-08:00

Men, Beware, this place may exist in the near future...

May your Christmas be a Bright One

2010-12-05T13:44:00.000-08:00

By focusing on your loved ones, enjoying or building holiday traditions, and following the Savior's example of service, you can give yourself and your family true, lasting Christmas gifts.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T08:58:00.000-08:00

picture taken from here

I hope that on this Thanksgiving day, all are well and with loved ones.

On this day, I am very thankful for everything that I have been given. I am thankful for a wonderful husband (he is all that I ever dreamt of and more), for the precious children that I have been given, for family and friends that are dear to my heart. Most of all, I am thankful for all of the trials that I have in my life... they have made me who I am today and have taught me so much. I am also thankful for the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father.

Christmas Nativity Exhibit

2010-11-23T12:57:00.000-08:00

You are all invited to join in this festive season to come and experience the wonder of Christ's birth depicted in over 400 nativities from around the world.

The 5th Annual Granite Bay Christmas Nativity Exhibit is finally here! This is my all-time favorite time of year and exhibit to go and see.

The Exhibit will be on display from December 2-4, 2010. Thursday, Friday, & Saturday from Noon - 9 pm. Held at 6460 Cavitt-Stallman Rd., Granite Bay, CA. Admission is FREE.

There will be some Musical Performances included each day.

Oh, if you have never been, this is a MUST SEE! Room after room filled with all different kinds of Nativity Sets, all donated for showing by people/families in our very own community.

Davis' Hopper Fun

2010-11-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

Horrible... driving in the rain at night

Lovely... Family Get-Togethers

Here is to a wonderful evening. Oh my, I am still on my high (pure excitement) from spending an evening with my cousins and their families. We missed a few key players, but hope that in the future, we can get all cousins and their families to a Davis' Hopper.

Family get-togethers are known as Hopper's in the Davis' family. Why Hoppers you may ask? Well, that is a very good question. I think that they are called Hopper's because it sounds way more fun than a 'get-together'. Not sure though, so I will have to ask and find out why the Jim Davis (my Uncle) daughters started calling them Hopper's

We celebrated Thanksgiving early this year with the Davis' family. Oh how I love to spend time with my family and letting Nat and the kids get to know my side of the family (most holidays in the past have been spent w/Nat's family). It is sooo nice to rekindle, and reunite with my family. I can't believe that it has been almost a year since seeing some of these wonderful people. Now, we just need to plan a day/week/month so we can get the whole Davis' clan together for a reunion.

All I can say is, we Davis's KNOW how to have fun!

This is just a small portion of the Davis' Cousins clan. We were missing quiet a few of the cousins and their families.

A-MAY-ZING!

2010-11-17T07:59:00.000-08:00

I just love this little girl's enthusiasm.

The story of Jonah from Corinth Baptist Church on Vimeo.

9 Days 'Til Thansgiving

2010-11-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

Our countdown to Thanksgiving has begun...

click the above pic and it will take you to the calendar

Yesterday, was the first day of the countdown, and we were asked...

"If you could make your own pie, what yummy things would you put in it?"

I say pumpkin or apple, the kids all said, ICE CREAM!

What would be in your pie?

Today, we are to do...

Call a relative, just to say, “hi.”

Which we plan on doing tonight, or would that be tomorrow morning since we are calling Japan? The kids can't wait to call, talk, and see their cousins (thank heavens for Skype).

Deepest Gratitude

2010-11-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

Horrible... grey skies

Lovely... Family ties

I would like to thank all of my/our wonderful friends who took the time to call, email, or just ask about my Aunt Jean. It really means a lot to me that so many care enough to see how I am/was holding up. Everyone in the family appreciates all the prayers and thoughts that were given/said on our/her behalf.

We are holding up well, and are comforted that she was found. No foul play was determined and that has helped with the healing process.

I know that this ordeal has brought my family closer together and we have become stronger because of it. We are very grateful to know that she is now where she belongs and that Heavenly Father has called her home. Family means everything to me, and I am grateful to be apart of a family who holds each other up when another is weak, and how we rally around each other to give comfort, love, and encouragement. No matter our differences, separation geographically, we are still a close knit family and I love being apart of the Davis' heritage.

Thankful

2010-11-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

Horrible... freezing the tushie off in the beginning of a morning walk

Lovely... coming home to open arms, kisses, and I love you's

You know, I am a really lucky woman, and I mean REAL lucky. I have the most wonderful children any mother could possibly ask for (yes, I am biased). I also happen to have a pretty wonderful husband. As I look at other married couples from a distance, I count my blessings each and every day for what I have.

When my dear sweet beloved husbands sees that something NEEDs to be done around the house, he DOES it. Not waiting for me to finally get around to doing it, or thinking about doing it, then not do it, he just does digs in and gets it done. He lets me be my own person as well. He helps me by encouraging me to get out and spend time with myself, with other women... WITHOUT the children in tow, for a few hours each and every week. I am a better wife and mother because I am able to take time for myself.

I am a very busy person. Yes, I am a stay at home mom, so you think that I should be able to do it all on my own, and generally, I do. But, besides 'just' being a stay at home mom, I am a homeschooling mom. I am constantly on the go.

This time of year, I am extremely busy... and I mean extremely BUSY. You see, we don't buy Christmas gifts for family members (immediate or extended)... I make them. Sometimes, Nat and the kids chip in and help make gifts. I do a lot of knitting, crocheting, and sewing this time of year, so from October all the way through an all nighter on December 24, I am constantly getting materials, making gifts from the heart, and so forth. And the house seems to fall apart, especially when I am trying to do all the above as well as school with the kids... there just isn't enough time in the day for me to 'clean' the house as well.

This is where I become the luckiest woman EVER! My hubby doesn't complain about the house becoming messy or the laundry piling up. He steps up to the plate and gives the extra 75-80% that I am lacking and just does the work for me. Yes, he is still working during this time as well, but he also knows, this time of year just STRESSES me out. I am ever so thankful to have married a man who is willing to do WOMEN's work to help me out and not take advantage of me or expect me to be wonder woman.

I say that this is a stressful time of year for me, because...

I make and spend hours and hours on gifts for family, and most of them don't even thank or seem to appreciate all the hard work that I do for them. They seem to be ungrateful for the time, love, and effort I put into making such gifts. Do I expect recognition and praise, of course not. I just wish that they would care enough to pick up the phone or write a note to say "Thank You." How hard is that to do?

So, to make it all bearable, I remember (once the holidays are over) just how grateful I am for the husband and children I have, who do love and show me the appreciation for the things that I do for them.

A New Found Love

2010-11-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

While in Target yesterday, we went through the kitchen goods (one of my fave sections of any store) and saw a donut maker machine for the home. I immediately started coveting it and I am sure that it will become a member of my kitchen appliance family sometime in the near future (hint for Birthday/Christmas present).

Whoever invented this for the home is an awesome person. I can just taste the day that when the kids answer the daily question of, "What do you want for breakfast?" and they scream excitedly, "DONUTS!" I won't cringe at the thought of going to the store, buying some donuts (paying an arm and a leg) that have been fried. I am not a fried food kinda person. Now, I do make some muffins that taste like old fashioned donuts, and boy, are they YUMMY! You can find the recipe for these scrumptious donut muffins here. But, sometimes the muffins just don't cut it with my brude.

click on the picture to take you to the site where you can purchase it, if you like to shop online, or just head to your local Target or other retail store, to see if they carry it.

Thankful for Crafts

2010-11-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

O.K., ok... I am a little on the less creative side tonight. I was looking up some crafts for the kids and I to do for Thanksgiving over at Family Fun, and saw this. I hope to make a better one for next year, but this will have to do until then. I was happy to see that there is a way to Count-Down to Thanksgiving.
I am still coveting this one for Halloween, and plan on making it next year.
I did manage to already make some crafts, with the help of Nat and the kids...

We went into the field behind our house and picked some fall colored leaves and some twigs so I could make these. I also picked some berries from our tree out front to add to the vase.

a Fall Bouquet of wonderful

a Thankful Tree

(we will be putting leaves on it once we write on them what we are thankful for)

Why Vote? Here are 10 Reasons You Should

2010-11-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

Today is election day and everything you hold dear – your values, life issues, taxes, health care, and more, will need your vote.

Top Ten Reasons Why Christians Should Vote:

1. Voting publicly recognizes that we submit to the authority of the political system in our nation as established by God. Romans 13:1-7

2. Voting recognizes the equality of all people and their right to speak and be heard. James 2:1

3. Voting is one way that we can obey God's command to seek the good of those around us and our nation as a whole. Philippians 2:3

4. Voting shows that we care deeply about who our leaders are as we are urged to offer prayer and intercession on their behalf. 1 Timothy 2:1,2

5 Voting is a simple yet significant way we can do something about politics in our nation. ‘All that is required for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing, Edmund Burke. Psalms 34:14

6 Voting makes a difference in the same way a grain of salt makes a difference, and that is how we are to influence our society for good. Matthew 5:13

7 Voting is a privilege not to be taken for granted. Those of us who reap the benefits of living in a democracy should play a part in upholding democracy.

8. Not voting is a form of voting, as it will influence the outcome. We need to take responsibility for our actions, as well as our lack of actions. I Peter 1:13

9. Voting is part of our stewardship to use all the resources we have been given in ways that honor God; to waste a vote is to squander a gift.

10. Voting is Biblical. Jesus commands us to fulfill our responsibility to the civil authority. Matthew 22:21

* Source: Adapted from Florida Family Policy Council and Let Freedom Ring, Inc. which referred to original source: "Fact file: Top Ten Reasons to Vote"

by Kandiah Krish in "Just Politics."

Happy Halloween Everyone

2010-10-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

Harry Potter

Ninja

Cleopatra

Raggedy Ann

Tonight is a night for staying in and handing out candy. We did our Trunk-or-Treating last night. We had a good night hanging out with friends from church, enjoying all the yummy foods and games.
Now, if we can just get some Trick-or-Treaters to come, we will be happy campers. We live in a neighborhood that doesn't have many children living around us.

R.I.P.

2010-10-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

We are deeply saddened by our loss, but we know that Aunt Jean is in a better place. She is with loved ones who have gone home to be with our Father in Heaven before her. Thank you to all who have kept my Aunt and us in your hearts, thoughts and prayers. My Aunt Jean's body was found yesterday (10.28.10). We are glad that our search has come to an end and that we have closure. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandma, aunt, and friend.

We love you! You will always be in our hearts

2010-10-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Horrible... sewing through a bug

Lovely... freshly baked bread spread with Jam

Happy Hallows Eve eve Everyone. I hope that ya'll are in good spirits this GOOOOLish season.

I know it is late in the game, but I found this BOO game, and it sounds like sooo much fun. It is a good way to get in the spirit of the season, fun and best of all, it is building memories for the kids. But since I found it so late in the month, it will have to wait til next year.

Still Missing

2010-10-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

36 Days Missing. We love you Aunt Jean and want you to come home to those who love you!

We ask that you please keep my Aunt Jean in your prayers, as well as the rest of the family. We are holding up and doing well. She is never far from our thoughts or prayers. There was a siting reported about 2 weeks ago, but that led to dead ends.

Bland to Creative

2010-10-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

Horrible... real spiders of any kind, just thinking about them makes my skin crawl

Lovely... Quality time with Nat and the kids, they are the BEST

After we went to the Pumpkin Patch, the kids decorated their pumpkins for the FHE activity last night.

Before

After

Mummy, Witch, and Dracula.

We haven't decided if we are going to decorate/carve the huge one. I can't stand messes that are eeeewwwy and gooy. I thought about just drawing a picture on it or coming up with a costume for it. Although, some roasted pumpkin seeds do sound delicious right now, so I might just have Nat cut into it tonight. To bad it's too big to fit in the oven, a nice soup cooked in the pumpkin would be nice.

Fall Fun

2010-10-25T14:22:00.000-07:00

We went on our annual trip to Bishop's Pumpkin Farm this morning. It was so nice, not crowded at all, and just a little muddy. The main events we hit up every year are... Hayrides, train rides, petting zoo, corn maze, and stories told by Mother Goose and her Pigs. This year, we opted not to do the corn maze because of the muddiness factor... a big storm swept over the valley yesterday.

We started off going to see Mother Goose and the pig race, but there was no pig race. They started something new... Mother Goose now tells the story of 'The Three Little Pigs' Bishop Farms style.

Then the kids played in the barn and on the toys around the farm

the Train Ride came next

then the Petting Zoo which happens to be right next to the line for the Hayride

(piglets are just shy of a month old. They were born on 9/27/10)

lastly, into the pumpkin patch we go so the kids could find a pumpkin of their own

(only catch, they have to be the ones to carry the pumpkin out)

Now, I couldn't walk away without getting my usual assortment of gourds for decorations around the house. I went light on the assortment, there were many to choose from.

When we got there, I saw these...

Now, how UGLY are those? No, I didn't get any, but it was very tempting.

Brewing Apple Cider Time

2010-10-24T13:51:00.001-07:00

Horrible... cold feet

Lovely... warm blankets and quality time with the family

Here is what I am up to this fine Sunday afternoon, while Nat is taking a nap after his 12 hour work day last night and while the kids watch Bedknobs and Broomsticks.

Homemade Apple Cider

the BIG stewing pot is full of...

APPLES and spices! This is before the 1 hour of rapid boil (it is almost there) but the smells that are already coming from the stove is making my mouth water.

With the rain and the wind howling outside, this is the perfect afternoon to make such a treat. It sure is beginning to feel, and smell, more like Autumn weather.I am beginning to think that this IS easier than making applesauce... I didn't have to peel and core the apples.

OH, the smells that are coming from my kitchen... I wish there was smell software for the computer, so you could add them to emails, blog posts, etc... The aroma that is filling our home is soooo much more enticing than a little candle that has the scent of apple cider can offer and provide (and I LOVE burning scented candles in our home).

after an hour of boiling. Now it's time to cover and bring down to a simmer for 2 hours. The house is smelling sooooooo scrumptious now.

after two hours of simmering. Now it's time to take off the heat and cool down

finished product!

And the verdict? It was a hit! Nat says that it could be a little sweeter, but I like the tartness to it. We added a caramel to it, and that was an even better treat, almost like a caramel apple

Saturday Simmerings

2010-10-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

Horrible... Kidney Stones

Lovely... Homemade Apple Cider

What a lovely overcast day with rain in the forcast. We are sooo much in need of rain. The air smells so fresh and clean and the air is brisk and tickles your skin so you get goosebumps. It has turned cool enough to start up the oven and crockpot, and bringing in all the smells of fall and holidays are approaching.

We went and bought the kids Halloween costumes last night. I was going to make them, the kids had their costumes all picked out and everything... but, do to money issues and time, I opted to just let the kids buy their costumes this year (it would be a time crunch for me to get all 3 costumes made in just a week). I just don't need that kind of stress on me right now.

So, M is going to be Cleopatra, C is Harry Potter, J is a Ninja, I am going to be Raggedy Ann, Nat, well, he really hasnt decided yet. He has to work the night of our Trunk-or-Treat with our church.

I am just loving the fact that the house is starting to smell really good... especially since I am making Potato Soup for dinner tonight. I also, mabye, will be making some Apple Cider with all the extra apples I bought this morning. But the Potato Soup smells so good, I don't want to cover that smell up, mabye I will make the cider tomorrow after church so we can have some to go with Family Night.

Now, I just need to finish sewing up the kids trick-or-treat pillow cases, go to the Pumpkin Patch on Monday, and get in some last minute Halloween decorations/crafts made and all will be good. I especially want to make this advent calendar for next Halloween. A BIG thank you to Bees Knees for finding and making one herself... that I too must get into the spirit of what is upcoming

Taking it Easy

2010-10-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

Here it is, Friday morning and I am not really motivated to do anything today. I did go on my walk this morning w/my walking partner, and took a good friend to the airport, but not much has happened since.

On Wed. morning, I woke up feeling fine. Went on my walk as usual, came home and got the day started and the kids working on school. Then, around 8 or so, my lower back began to bother me. Walking, sitting, laying down, nothing helped (imagine you are in labor and the contractions don't go away), I couldn't get comfortable. I was getting a little nauseous, so, I cleaned the toilets (who really wants to get sick in a smelly toilet?) After wards (round 9:30 or so), the pain was getting worse. I laid down in bed praying the pain would go away, or hold off until the kids and I could go on our planned field-trip that afternoon. By 10, the pain was unbearable, so I called Nat (who was working in Stockton at the time) that I was needing to go to the hospital. Once off the phone with him, I texted a dear friend (the same one I walk with) if she could watch my kiddos, so I could go to the ER. No sweat, I had then in the car in less than 5 min, dropped them off and was all checked in @ the ER by 10:30.

I had figured that I had a kidney stone (I've had one in the past, the pain is unmistakable). The Dr's did all the tests, and I had a Cat Scan done. Viola, it of course was a kidney stone (they estimated it about 15 mm), but along with that, my pancreas was also inflamed (as they see in drinkers... which I am not) and that baffled the Dr's even more. So, they said that I would be admitted to the hospital for a day or two, until my tests came back 'normal'.

By the time that I was taken to my room, it was 6:30 pm. I passed the stone around 10 pm Wed night. And was ~~pain~~ labor free. YAY! To help get my pancreas back to normal, I was given lots of potassium and some magnesium. By Thur morning, I was ready to go home and EAT (I was on a no eat diet, no water, no ice, nothing, until everything looked good) I was on a liquid diet for breakfast and lunch.

While waiting for the test results to come back from the morning blood drawing (those DR's and nurses sure are vampires!) On the news, I go to watch and listen and watch some more about our mall (the largest one in our region) go up in flames. Click here to read the story. You can google Roseville Gallaria Fire and get a lot more info. What a major blow to our city, to all those that worked there. I don't like shopping at the mall, but it is sad that our city will be losing a lot of revenue, many jobs were lost, and with the holidays fast approaching...

Anyway, as I was just watching in aww, the Dr came in and told me that I was good to go and she was discharging me. YAY! I called Nat, and told him not to bother stopping bu home to pick up my knitting and reading materials, and to just come get me. I was home by 12:45 pm at the very latest.

So, today, I am taking it easy. Not going to to muchm except for knit and read, enjoy the rainy weather, and let the kids play. We can make up this school day another day.

2010-10-18T16:18:00.000-07:00

Horrible... getting shorted in on a paycheck

Lovely... making the house smell yummy with baking banana bread

Nat is back home with us and we are glad he is back. This week and next, he will be working 5 days a week, then, subbing is on the agenda.

Not much happening in the Stamps' household, well, that is noteworthy anyway.

I has started exercising, which I am enjoying very much. I walks 3 times a week for 45-60 min with a dear sweet friend. This has helped me to stay motivated on getting up before the kids do to go for the walk... it helps to have someone depending on me.

Also, I had two bunches of bananas that were nice and brown, with a little yellow, so what else could I possible do with them? Make banana bread of course. There are a total of 6 loaves of bread... yup, rubbing your eyes won't change that number :-). Two regular no nuts of course, two banana chocolate chip, and two banana poppy seed.

Nothin beats snack time when you can slice into a warm loaf of banana bread with butter smeared on it. YUUUUUM!

The kids are doing good in school. We have our very first field trip this week and they are looking forward to going to the Blue Line Gallery. Then, next month, the kids and I will be heading to Monterey to go to the aquarium... we got free tickets! Thank heavens Nat works for Amtrak, we can travel down for free as well.

I will have Nat post the pictures and tell about his events while in he was LA sometime soon. I am just sorry that the kids and I weren't able to go to San Diego with him.

This & That

2010-10-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

Horrible... having my sister living on another continent

Loveley... being able to video chat with her via Skype & having family stepping in to fill in the void

I have no idea how I would be able to manage 3 years of not being able to see my sister and her family. I am very grateful to have a FREE service so we can talk hours and hours. I also am very grateful that our children can get to know each other and talk as long as they want as well without having to watch the clock.

I love this picture of M. It reminds me off one of the Who in Who-ville. It is not very often that she likes to do things with her hair. I am not going to discourage her creativity. I love the fact that she is starting to show her individuality.

My sister and I have been reading and discussing this book, and let me tell ya... it is an EYE opener. I am glad that I am reading this book now, so I know what 'traps' are out there that my children are/will be facing and how to stay ahead of the game. There is a lot, and I mean A LOT of good info the book, and we have hardly scratched the surface of it all.

I am also reading this, just because.

The next books on my to read list are this and this. My sister is currently reading the this one, and she says that it is a must read. I am all for learning more on how to do both.

2010-10-13T12:37:00.000-07:00

Horrible.. having the temp reach 90+ degrees in OCTOBER and Nat being gone for 3 weeks.

Lovely... being able to take walks in the brisk cool air of the early mornings, completing 1 Christmas present, and Nat coming home in 2 days

A blog that I enjoy does the Horrible/Lovely. I thought that I would give it a try. Ya know, I might just have to "steal" the idea from her and continue the tradition on my own sweet little blog. Just so ya'll can get just a glimps into my not-so-adventurous life.

She is an inspiration to me to become a better mother, wife, homemaker, and just to have a love for life. The most important lesson that I can learn from her is... NEVER take life for granted.

What on Earth?

2010-10-12T11:51:00.000-07:00

picture taken from here

How can confuse myself even more?

This is October, right?

I thought so.

I find it strange that in the middle of October, I am in the process of decorating my house for Halloween and Fall, not even wanting to think about the other holidays coming up, BUT, here I am...

Making Christmas presents (a holiday that I don't even buy/pull the decorations out till the 1st of December). But, so I am not rushing, and I mean RUSHING, to get all the homemade (read, knitting, crocheting, sewing, etc) that need to get done by Christmas, I must start now.

Why do I HAVE to start now, you ask?

Well, one simple, little thing called... SLEEP.

Yes, you read that right. I am a very grouchy person if I don't get at least 8 hours of sleep, so I must start on the present/gift making now, so I don't have to pull ALL NIGHTERS as the deadline approaches. You see, I have pulled the horrid ALL NIGHTERS in the past and my poor, supportive, loving family have to endure a very ~~irritable~~ cranky wife and mother... which is not so good.

You see, I feel like making all the gifts for loved ones comes more from the heart, than a store bought one (this is just my opinion of course). As I make a gift, I am thinking fondly of the person/family that I am making it for, so, literally, the gifts are from the heart and made with love.

I also love to see how my children have come to love making things for their Cousins, Aunts, and Uncles as well. I am very happy that they are giving from the heart as well.

Now, all this gift/present making, you would think that I would show some of the works... well, why on earth would I do such a thing, especially if it will ruin the surprise? I promise, I will post pictures after the holidays are over.

I know, you are crushed, but, I can't spoil the surprise for those who are the recipients of such gifts, now can I?

picture taken from here

Craftiness

2010-10-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

It all started when a dear friend of mine sent me a link and now I have been bitten by the Craft Bug. Here are just a few of the things that have been crafted up. More to come soon that the kids have made. I don't know why, but I love decorating for the holidays and I am always on the look out for new ideas. My fave ideas are the ones that I can take ordinary household items and turn them into something new...

Our Friendly Ghost Guests

Material Flower Balls

An eclectic Pumpkin Patch

Words vs. Actions

2010-10-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

So many times, I have told my children that their actions speak louder than their words. So many times, I have tripped myself up over this very thing, I am human after all. But, I am trying to live by example and teach my children to do as I do, not as I say. Same thing goes for respect. I teach my children, that in order to be respected, they, in turn, need to show respect. What about that saying, "you treat others like you want to be treated."

So, why do some people feel that they don't have to respect me? They say they have nothing against me or my family, BUT, their actions speak SO much louder than their words. I show them the respect that they deserve, and treat them the way I ~~want~~ expect to be treated, but they insist on disrespecting, and not treating me fairly. There are times, I resort in treating them the way they treat me, and I feel awful about it. When I call them on their bad behavior towards my family or I, I am the 'bad person', the mean one, the outcast.

Really, am I such a bad, mean, terrible person? I think I am a nice, caring, and loving person, but, that is not only my opinion, but many dear friends who have let me cry on their shoulders. Would my dear sweet husband have chosen ME if I was mean, cold hearted, and a terrible person?

How many times, weeks, months, years, should I have to keep enduring this torture, this level of severe dislike, just to be accepted and loved? Frankly, I have given up on trying. I am me, and that is all that matters. I am tired of trying to be someone else, being beaten down, trying to be someone who will do anything to be accepted by them.

My dream, is to have two families come together in harmony on special occasions. Not, for me, but for my children. They are my life, my love. I am not sure if some can put aside their differences, their attitude towards others, so that way MY children can have memories of their whole extended family together on Christmas morning, family get togethers, etc.

From the beginning, I have been looking in from the outside and I SEE the things that my children, Nat, and I are missing out on. I see the relationships forming with extended family members, and long for that, but I know in my heart that THAT will never happen.

Missing Person Alert

2010-10-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Jean is missing. If anyone has any info, please contact the Riverside CA Police Dept. (info is on the picture). She was last seen on Sept 21, 2010. She left her home on her own accord between the hours of 1 and 4 pm. She left behind all ID, purse, money, and everything else, except for her medication and a set of keys.

She is very loved and we want her to come home.

2010-09-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

Nat got a JOB! As you can see by the above picture, Nat was hired on with Amtrak. He is a substitute ticket agent. The kids and I could not be more proud of him. This is the dream job that he has been wanting for quite awhile. Yes, he had opportunities in the past, but the timing was not right until now. He will be working here out of Sacramento, so no relocating... just yet. So, now we are excited about starting up our search of home ownership again.

It feels so good to have the trial of unemployment behind us. We believe that it was meant to be, especially since Amtrak posted his job the day before he was laid off. I just love the fact that Heavenly Father has a plan for each and every one of us and will always open up new doors for us to walk through.

Now, as we are very excited for this new journey in life, my (Nic's) family has hit on hard times. On this last Monday night, we were given some news that feels like we were hit by a train at full speed (no pun intended). We found out that my Aunt has been missing since the 21st.

Even tho I am grateful that Nat has a job and is away on training, I am struggling to stay afloat with this. Nat is my rock, and I wish he was here to help hold me up. Don't get me wrong, I am also depending a lot on my Heavenly Father to get me through this. I know that He will not give me/my family any trial that we cannot bare and get through, but nonetheless, it is a struggle and painful. We ask that you please keep our family and my Aunt in your prayers.

A True Love Story

2010-09-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

This is sooo true! I do feel Nat is my Prince Charming when he can save me from the usual daily happenings and takes me out on a date. The dates don't happen often, but we always make time for each other every week.

Heading Back in Time

2010-09-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

We are heading to the 11th Annual Gold Rush Days in Old Sac today, on this fine Labor Day. What a way to start out the second week of school with a field trip! Better hurry, today is the last day and it is going on from 11-4.
Nothin beats going and wishing that I could bring back those days back. It is my altime fave time period. Simplicity is the best. We will surely post pics when we get back.

Giving Blood = Saving a Life

2010-09-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 2, 2010 3:30-7:30 pm at the LDS Stake Center - 211 Estates Drive Roseville, Ca 95661

To all who will be in/near Roseville tomorrow: There is a community Blood Drive being held at the address and time stated above. Please come and bring your friends!! It only takes 30 minutes to save a life :-)...

Those who come and donate blood will receive a FREE T-shirt as well.

Leave me a know if you have any questions!!

Wedded Bliss

2010-08-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Thirteen years ago today, my father walked me down the isle and handed me over to my prince charming to become his wife and he my husband. From that day forward, I left my parents and he his, and began to cleave unto each other. He is my help meet, my soul mate, my beloved, and I his.

We have had our struggles, I will not lie. We have overcome the hardships, pressed forward and have drawn closer to one another as a couple and to Heavenly Father. Most of all, we are very happy together.

I still look into Nat's eyes and fall in love with him all over again. He keeps me grounded, I don't know what I would do without him. He has given me the most beautiful, most precious children in the world.

(words from Nat)

With all my heart I want to tell Nikki how much I love her. I look back and cant believe that it has been 13 years. I remember how beautiful you looked when we got married, I am a lucky man to have you as my wife. I LOVE YOU.

Hope & Faith

2010-08-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

I joke around that I love having my husband around, but just as long as he is working... outside the home. Mostly, I'm not joking. Don't get me wrong, I love the fact that the kids and I have some quality time to spend with him (this is the most and longest we have had him all to ourselves in 13 years), but I also love having him go to work.

But, while we have had him home, we have been having fun. We have gone to the movies (for free of course), went swimming, and more swimming, and even more swimming, and have hung out with friends and family. I will say, that when Nat does finally find a job, he will surely be missed around the house.

Since Nat's layoff (almost 2 weeks ago), school has been on hiatus... dare I say that? For some reason, the kids and I just don't really want to be doing school. We want to hang out with our favorite person, our hero, our prince charming, our jungle gym. We want to get some quality bonding time in as a family. I can say that we have had a lot of fun just hanging out and getting to know each other better.

Most in our situation would be going crazy, pulling their hair out, looking for a job (I am guessing). I think that this time has brought us closer together as a family, we have been growing stronger. Not on our own of course, we have put all our faith into Heavenly Father to get us through this, we haven't lost hope. I think that because we haven't lost faith, haven't lost hope, we aren't stressing. Don't get me wrong, this isn't an easy thing for us to go through, but, we know that trials are a part of life and that everyone must go through them. All, I have to remember (especially when I start dwelling on it), is that we are supposed to be going through this, this is going to make us stronger, and MOST important... Heavenly Father will never give us anything that we cannot handle.

On Sunday, we learned/talked about the Widows Mite in Sunday school. I was brought to tears. I felt exactly like the widow felt. I now know where she is coming from. Granted, we don't have it as bad as she had it, but it still, I made that connection with her. I have the fears of running out of food and providing for my children, just as she did. I also have the faith that she did. That Heavenly Father will always provide a way for us to get what we need.

When the prophet Elijah asked the widow for a morsel of bread, and she replied that she had none to spare, and was gathering twigs so she and her son may eat of it and die. This is when Elijah made the promise to her. All she could go on at this point was faith that Heavenly Father would provide for her and her son. (1 Kings 17:10-16).

Sunday's lesson must have been just for me... even the Relief Society lesson was on Hope and Faith. "When we fail to choose hope, we risk allowing despair to overcome us. Despair is one of Satan's most powerful tools. Once we allow it to grow in the least, it will take over with very little cultivation... Let us choose hope instead of despair. Hope will anchor us to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who is the author of hope. If we will put ourselves in his safe harbor, we will be kept safe from the tidal waves of evil in the world." Pam Whitman. Hebrews 6:18-19 -- scriptures on hope.

Still no word on jobs... the waiting game continues, as well as the filling out of applications.

I joked w/Nat... maybe we should see if someone has a motorhome that we can use/have/buy for fairly cheap, and go find a campground that needs caretakers. Sounds so very tempting right at this moment, no rent, no bills (except for the necessities)...

Friday Fun

2010-07-31T10:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday morning, we got on the move by starting our day out by heading up to my cousin's house for a visit, picnic and a swim. We had a fun couple of hours watching the kids swim in the lake and just visiting with each other. It was a nice to take a break from being stressed and just relax with some good company. Unfortunately, I never got a picture of our time together.

Then, we finished off the evening by meeting up with a high school friend of Nic's and her husband over at the Fountains in Roseville. There was supposed to be a live band playing 80's music, but there wasn't, but that didn't bother us. Needless to say, we had fun just hanging out listening to the music that they had playing, talking, and walking around (thank you Mark for willing to stay up a little late to spend time with us). The kids were able to paint their faces and had some balloon artists make them swords and aliens.

I think by far, the best thing about the Fountains, IS the Fountain in the center of the courtyard. It is a big hit with everyone, young and old. I love the fact that they have something for everyone (shopping, eating, a playground and a water area for kids, live music (most Fridays)). We loved just being able to enjoy the wonderfulness of the community. We are always on the look-out for things that we can do for free around town.

UUUGH!

2010-07-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love hackers?

That happened to me yesterday! I went to check my email yesterday morning and found out that it had been hacked into. The person sent out a mass email to everyone in my contact list saying that I was stranded somewhere in Europe, got mugged of everything - except my passport (ironically), couldn't pay my hotel bill and was leaving the country in just a few short hours and I needed $1,600 wired to me to pay all outstanding bills.

Needless to say, yesterday morning, I painstakingly went through and changed all passwords, got a new email account, deleting the old, and thanked all my friends who called to let me know that I had been hacked into.

I can say, we have some of the best friends in our lives. They got the email, called to check on us and to let us know what happened. We don't know what we would do without them.

On a GOOD note... Nat had two job interviews yesterday. Both look promising, but now we are playing the waiting game. We are also continuing our hunt for a job or two, just to be on the safe side.

One of Nat's long-time friend called (shocked to find out about being laid off) yesterday and let him know of an opening coming up soon, so he went to go pick up an application, and ended up having an interview with the manager... which lasted an hour. The manager had already called on some people who worked w/Nat at one time or another to get some references. Not bad, especially since Nat hasn't even turned in his application yet. The manager was even about to call Nat, just as he walked into the store.

We are very thankful for all the prayers still coming our way. We know that we are in good hands, and that our Heavenly Father will always provide for us. Like I always have to remind myself, we will never be given anything that we cannot handle. We have a plan, but that plan is not always the same plan that our dear Heavenly Father has for us. Please keep the prayers coming. We are seeing the many blessings from them.

Dark Times

2010-07-24T21:25:00.000-07:00

As some may know, Nat lost his job Thursday morning. Yes, it is sad, but everything happens for a reason.

I saw this quote and I fell in love with it, it is so true, and it definitely fits our situation right now...

"Like a photographer carefully developing his film in a darkroom, God allows us to go through dark times because He is trying to develop a beautiful image of Christ in us." Tony Evans

Thank heavens for Heavenly Father's insight on our lives and has everything planned out to a tee. Not only do we not have a mortgage payment, but we don't even have a car payment, our debt is very little, so we are going to make it until Nat, or I, or both, find a job.

The store that Nat was assigned too, closed... so, he was let go with a heavy heart. But, they do have a job open for him... down in Bakersfield (can you see the ~~scared~~ look of horror on my face?) I don't even want to come close to living in Bakersfield (neither does Nat), but if that is the only thing, then we will take it.

Nat has two job interviews for the next week. It doesn't happen often when you get laid off from a job, after being unemployed for one day.

Please keep us in your prayers, we definitely need them right now. We want to thank all the friends that have given us a heads-up on jobs (including out of state ones).

We will keep everyone updated as we know more of our future outcome.

Our Sunday Affair

2010-07-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

Car Troubles... OI!
Last night, Nat and I went for a walk around the block to get our daily exercise in, after we put the kids to bed (9 pm) and were on our way to sweating... it was humid out. Well, we come around to the side street, to finish 1 lap. Nat notices that the break lights of the car were, and the kids are in the driveway. Wait a minutes, what are our children outside when we told them to stay in bed while we went on a short walk? Well, our neighbor across the street came over, knocked, and told the kids that the lights on the car were on. Luckily, the kids did listen to our advise, Charlie looked through the peep hole and recognized our neighbor. So, after one lap around the block, we try frantically to get the break lights turned off... to no avail. So, Nat pulled fuses from the engine compartment... Nothing. Nat had called his brother to see if he knew what could cause it, but he had no idea what it could be. We are grateful to our friend who was able to figure it out (just by Nat describing it what happened). So, Nat and Charlie went out this afternoon to fix it. Apparently, there is a mechanism on the break pad that can get stuck open, making the breaks stay lit. An easy fix to what could have been a major headache.

Frying an Egg...
Mari has a book called "The Pocket Book for Daring Girls: Things to do", which has a recipe on frying an egg on the sidewalk. Well, today, since it hot outside, thought that this would be a perfect Sunday afternoon activity. Here is the photo process of frying an egg. It took awhile to do it... maybe a 110*F or hotter of a day would have been better.

It didnt fry, but it did get cooked. this process took about 4 hours, yeah, it could have used some more heat

Banana Smoothiesicles...
The kids decided that they wanted to have some ice cream, but we don't have any in the house. So, the kids took some Vanilla yogurt, ripe bananas and some milk, blended them all together and poured the mixture into popsicle containers. What a nice refreshing, healthy, low-fat treat for their dessert tonight (and of course, they were all eaten up before I could get pictures of the finished product).

Happenings

2010-07-17T08:11:00.000-07:00

Well, not much has been happening here @ the Stamps' house. We are having fun trying to find ways to beat the heat... last night we bombarded our really good friends and used their pool last night... we didn't get out of the pool till 9 pm or so. We sure miss having the Pfingston's in our ward, but love the fact that they are still close enough for us to go and visit.

We are enjoying the fact that we are now in touch with some of my (Nic's) cousins and find any opportunity to spend time with them. I love having them so close... they are stepping in and filling the void of my sister (who is in Japan for the next 3 years). I don't know what I would do without them... they are the best fill-in sisters a girl could ask for.

Nat has been busy with work, and Nic, well she has been busy planning and starting school this last week. (will be posting about our first week of school later).

The kids... well, they are being kids. They complain that they are bored (hence one of the reasons for starting school so early), and joy to be around. We have been going on library visits, outings (swimming) with friends and just plain having a good time. Charlie is now almost as tall as Nic is and still loves to build things with Lego's and is our go-to car guy. Mari is very much inquisitive and is such a girlie-girl and has a ball putting make-up, and an avid reader. Jim is just as tall as Mari (they could be twins), and is very much the actor of the group, oh how we love to watch his imagination.

Whiteboards & Chalkboards

2010-07-11T22:18:00.000-07:00

I can never have tooo many whiteboards or chalkboards lying around... especially homeschooling. Sooo, Nat made me this cool chalkboard. I then (with a little help from Nat) painted it with chalkboard paint and re-painted a whiteboard with whiteboard paint. Yes, they really do make these, they are a little pricey, but it was worth it. Now, I have 1 whiteboard, and 4 chalkboards (3 are the kids personal ones--those were bought @ a local school store). You can make your own chalkboard paint, but buying it, there are so many choices of colors. It comes in spray as well as brush on (brush on is better, since you have more control of how even it goes on).

I like using them both... chalk reminds me of my old school days of chalk dust on my fingers as well as when hitting two erasers together. Now, I just need to get some chalk that are different colors, so I'm not using just plain old white... and that way the kids can have some color for drawing as well. Whiteboards, I associate with the awful fumes that those darned whiteboard pens would put out every time they were used. Boy am I glad that they now have low odor ones, especially when the kids want to use the pens to draw with on the white boards.

I just love having a handy husband who just happens to love to build things and use his tools.

1st Scout Campout

2010-07-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well, Charlie went on his first camp out as an 11 year old scout this weekend. Nat was lucky enough to be able to take Friday off and go with the troop. They went up to Malakoff Diggins (this is the place we went to in 2008 for our History ELP with our homeschooling group at the time).

They made the 2 hours up trek up to Nevada County at 9 am on Friday and didn't come back home until Saturday around 4 pm. They went on a hike (but Charlie wasn't feeling well, so he stayed back @ camp w/Nat), and the boys cooked all the food for dinner (tacos, and watermelon). On Saturday they made breakfast (pancakes, sausage, and eggs), packed up camp, and went down to North Bloomfield (the town by Malakoff Diggins... the place where we did the ELP), and got their feet wet in Yolo River. As per Charlie, the best part of the trip... they all stopped and got some ice cream before heading home.

Happy late 4th of July!

2010-07-11T18:57:00.000-07:00

I hope that you all had a good Independence Day. I know we had a good and relaxing one.

We spent the afternoon with my (Nic's) parents, had a BBQ, and played with their new toy... a remote control car (they need to get a couple more). Afterwards, we came home and popped 3 batches of popcorn, grabbed some bananas and apples, filled a gallon pitcher of water, loaded up in the car and headed to Citrus Heights for their fireworks show.

We would normally stay here in Rsvl, but, do to budget cuts, the city isn't doing their fireworks show from the County Fair Grounds anymore, so we did some research around the local areas and found that Citrus Heights were doing some.

We got there, and found a parking spot in the mall parking lot, pulled out our chairs, water, popcorn, and fruit and sat and waited for the show to begin. Yes, that was our dinner. We had fun 'people and dog watching' while waiting for the show to start. We even got some free 3D glasses out of it. At first, we thought that they were going to have a special show afterwards, but know, the glasses were for watching the fireworks with. SOOOOO cool!

(these are without the 3D glasses)

(and these are with the 3D glasses)

Happy Birthday Mari!

2010-07-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

I know this is a little late, but I just wanted to feature Mari for her birthday last month. She is now 9 years old and has blessed our life more that we can imagine!

Mari keeps us on our toes and our minds thinking. She is such a joy to have and is very curious about the world that she lives in... always asking questions about how this or that works, why is it like this or that... She is also the one who takes after me (Nic) in the artistic talents. She loves to draw and write stories down in her journals.

For Mari's birthday party, she wanted to have a sewing party, and that is just what she got. She only had a few friends over, but that was just fine with her. They each got to sew their very own little tote bags and learned how to make some friendship bracelets. In the above picture, the cake is supposed to be a pair of scissors (I cut the cake free hand), but it also looks like a butterfly, oops. The girls had fun doing all the sewing and ironing all by themselves, and once they got the hang of making the knots for the friendship bracelets, they were in heaven.

the girls having fun sewing their tote bags together

then there was cake and ice cream, followed by

opening presents, and then making friendship bracelets (which we never got pics of)

Gearing Up

2010-07-10T12:35:00.000-07:00

picture taken from clker.com

We start our first day of school on Monday (yes, July 12th)... I am a prepared, but need to still make some last minute lesson plans, organization, etc. We ended school a little early last year (ending @ the end of April), because I went and helped my sister for two weeks, to get ready to move to a different country. What a better time to actually start school? I mean, we are going to have some HOT spells here in Ca, and what a better way to spend the hottest part of the day when we can't go out and play? We are going to slowly work into our schedule and just plain have fun. I have decided not to go with a charter again this year for a couple of reasons... 1- last year I was just getting my feet wet for not having to answer to anyone, and learning how to do it on my own. I have learned what I loved & not loved about not being with a charter school, what I need to work on for myself, the style that I/we want to go with. 2- we might be moving out of state. When I started homeschooling, I had no idea how I wanted to do it, it was kind of a spur of the moment decision. But, it was the best decision we ever made four years ago. I tried and loved the Classical Education the second & third year, tried and liked most of the ideas from Charlotte Mason method the fourth year (last year), but found it a little to 'unschooling' for my taste (it is just me, my personality)... So, this year, I am going back to Classical, with just a little twist of Charlotte Mason. I guess that is why I love homeschooling so much! I can teach and nurture my children the way I want and the way that they need it. This year, we are doing things a little different... we are doing school for three weeks, then taking a week off, year round. Another thing is, I am not going to do 'grade' level with the kids. When they finish a book (math or what ever), we will go onto the next book. I think that this is the best for our family as I have two struggling learners and one that I have to challenge so as not to get bored.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

2010-07-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

I am making some changes to our family blog...

I am now combining our family and homeschooling blogs. For a couple of reasons, 1- so everyone can see everything that we are doing, including school, and 2- I am tired of trying to keep up two blogs. I think that the latter is the one that finally made me do it. As you can tell, up in the pages, I have included some of our homeschooling faves, curriculum for this school year (2010-2011), and others as well.

Our homeschooling school is called Adventurous Instruction. So, be on the lookout for many new updates, schooling activities as well as the normal every day postings for the family.

I have been absent for awhile since I got back from VA and NH, and that is because I have been prepping, planning lessons, and organizing for our new school year which starts on Monday (yes, this Monday as in July 12th).

My Two Week Vacation

2010-06-01T09:17:00.000-07:00

I had a blast spending two weeks with my sister and her family. We kept busy by cleaning, straightening, organizing, playing w/kids, and just plain enjoying our time together. I will miss my sister and her family once they move to Japan for 3 years.

I loved watching my nieces play soccer and just hanging out with my wonderful and adorable nieces and nephews... I loved getting to know their personalities and having fun with them.

After a week and a half, I help Jen and four of the kids drive up to New Hampshire. I was able to spend a couple of days with them there as well. I love the area, so beautiful, so green, and trees galore! (something I am not used to seeing).

While in New Hampshire, Pam and Jenn took me for a drive and did some sight seeing and some hiking. I really enjoyed it and am just amazed at how much love Heavenly Father has for us, by giving us beautiful things to look at and enjoy -- especially in nature.

I had a wonderful time with Jenn's in-laws. They made me feel so welcome and loved. I am just sorry that Nat and the kids won't be able to see them before they leave.

Mother's Day

2010-05-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful mothers in my life.

picture taken from http://www.celticwoman.com/trellis/Members_Gallery

I had a nice Mother's Day, which was spent with Nat's brother and his family. Nat and the kids got me tickets to go and see Celtic Women, which performed Sunday afternoon @ the Memorial Auditorium in Sac. I had a blast and was in tears at some point during their performance. Oh, how I love their music. They have brought on a new addition to their wonderful little family, a gentleman who plays the Bagpipes (an instrument that I love to hear playing). The day couldn't have gotten any better! Jon and his family where nice enough to stay a little while longer and watch the kids for us, so Nat and I could go on a 'date' to go and watch them. As I was sitting in the audience, mesmerized at their talent, I was thinking that next time they come to Sacramento, I need to take Mari, I think that she would love to see and hear them. Nat enjoyed himself as well.

Happy Birthday Charlie

2010-05-11T09:14:00.000-07:00

Charlie is now 11 years old! Where does the time go? It seems just like yesterday that he was born. His birthday was actually on the 6th and I am just now getting time to sit down and actually have time to blog about his birthday.

Let me see, as his friend Kimball asked, "Are you short or is Charlie tall?"
With a chuckle, I responded, "Both."

My once little munchkin is now almost as tall as me (He comes up to the top of my nose, right @ my eyes). It seems just like yesterday I was bringing home this little bundle of joy (well... not so little, he was a whopping 10 lbs 3 oz when he was born).

I cannot imagine what my life, our family, would be like without him in it. He keeps us on our toes and teaches us patience each and every day. He has had, and still has struggles in life and always seems to endure them without complaint. Charlie is very kind and loving, and bossy (just like his mom). He has it hard being the oldest child, that is a bond that only he and I share, I know exactly what that is like.

For his birthday party, he wanted a Pirate theme. I love planning, prepping, baking, and making of all the little details of his party. I have so much fun doing them. I may grumble and get a little impatient, especially as the time clock is running down and the project isn't turning out just how I like, but I would not trade those moments for anything, just to see my beloved son enjoy his celebration with his friends and family. It has been a couple of years since the kids had birthday parties, and I have forgotten how much I love to plan them.

Pirate Hat cake, Pirate Medallions, and a Compass

Extra Pirate Eyeballs

Pirate Bones (tasted like roasted marshmallows)

the pirates found a treasure map and decided to search for the hidden treasure

the treasure contained, gold nuggets, diamonds, rubies, and amethysts

gettin ready to dive into Pirate Hat mountain

and the crew that Capt. Charlie put together

National Library Week 4/11-4/17

2010-04-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

picture taken from ALA American Library Association

Visit your local library website for more details

For those of us in Roseville, here is what is going on...

Free Special Events:

Sunday, April 11

Recreational Swim* 1 - 4 p.m., Central Park Indoor Pool

Monday, April 12 Read with a Gymnast 10 a.m., Downtown Library or 11:15 a.m., Maidu Library; Afternoon Admission* 2 - 4 p.m., Maidu Museum & Historic Site; Read with a Princess 3 p.m., Downtown Library

Tuesday, April 13 Read with a Princess 10:30 a.m., Maidu Library; Afternoon Admission* 2 - 4 p.m., Maidu Museum & Historic Site; Read with a Firefighter 3 p.m., Downtown Library or 4:30 p.m., Riley Library

Wednesday, April 14 Read with a Police Officer 10:30 a.m., Maidu Library; Read with a Princess 10:30 a.m., Riley Library; Afternoon Admission* 2 - 4 p.m., Maidu Museum & Historic Site; Read with a Soldier 3 p.m., Riley Library; 22nd Annual Youth Poetry Awards Ceremony 4:30 p.m., Maidu Library

Thursday, April 15 Afternoon Admission* 2 - 4 p.m., Maidu Museum & Historic Site; Read with a Garbage Man 3 p.m., Maidu Library or 4:15 p.m., Riley Library

Friday, April 16 Read with a Police Officer 10:30 a.m. or 3 p.m., Riley Library, Downtown Library; Afternoon Admission* 2 - 4 p.m., Maidu Museum & Historic Site; Recreational Swim* 3:30 - 6 p.m., Central Park Indoor Pool; Campfire* 7:30 p.m., Maidu Museum & Historic Site

Saturday, April 17 Celebrate the Earth: Earth Day, featuring a Book Exchange, Puppet Shows, and Recycled Craft 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Mahany Regional Park & Riley Library; Art & Antiques and 3rd Saturday Art Walk, featuring Storytimes, arts and crafts 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Downtown Library and other venues; Recreational Swim* 1 - 4 p.m., Central Park Indoor Pool

*Note: Roseville Public Library card must be presented for admission. Restrictions may apply.

I Looked Out My Window...

2010-03-31T18:47:00.000-07:00

... and what do I see... Popcorn popping on the apricot tree.

Well, not exactly but, for almost a year now, I have been without my van. I had a perfect view of the empty field across the street and the greenbelt. A sight that is now blocked by this.

On Saturday, Nat and I drove into Sac and purchased this...

Nat's 'new' car. I am greatful and thankful that the kids and I have our freedom and independence back to do and go where ever our little hearts desire. No more calling up friends to borrow their car or to pick up a kid or two who need to be somewhere (which I am very greatful to have such wonderfull friends), no more asking if Nat can get a ride into work (when he is working in Rancho) so I can have the van Fieldtrips, park days, library trips (those that are farther away), get togethers, etc... here we come.

I have come to appriciate those who are a 1 car family. I walked the walk and talked the talk. But I am not looking forward to the extra gas to be bought, and the upping of car insurance rates. Those who say that can never do without, just try it... you never know. You will find out what your true priorities are. I used to be one of 'those' people who said, "We can never be a 1 car family." I tried it, and we DID it for 10 months. Sacrafices had to be made, but the kids and I are glad to have some of those sacrafices back. With Nat jumping from location to location, it was hard for me to justify having the van when he needed to get to work and not being able to carpool.

So, I thank a dear friend of Nat's (whom he works with). He saw a need and he fulfilled that need by letting us buy one of his cars off of him.

Celtic Women

2010-03-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

I sure do love their voices. They are coming to Sacramento in the beginning of May, and I would love to go and see them. I want their albums, I want their DVD's, I want it all! I love watching them on PBS when I can catch them on (usually when PBS is doing their fundraising). I need some advice on how to drop hints without coming right out and saying "I want to go" to Nat... After all, they are here right after Mother's Day. I would love to make it a date night with him, but I will be happy to take the kids with us, so they can hear and see them in concert.

American Speedway Free Day Fun!

2010-03-20T16:16:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, Nat and I took the kids and Nat's Dad to the races today. The kids had fun watching all the preliminary races. The kids had a blast and want to go again. I am all for going to see the races, as I saw them as a kid. Nat has never been to a race, and that is going to change! It was loud, and the vibrations from the engines running through my body got me to remembering those fun nights. We are going to make this a regular outing as a family. The kids enjoyed seeing all the different types of cars that were out racing (practicing) each other. I have a feeling, next weekend, the Stamps family will be up in the bleachers for one of the season's first races.

Play Days

2010-03-19T08:29:00.000-07:00

picture gotten from here

Come join the fun at the Roseville Speedway tomorrow for FREE! Check this out for more info. This event is free for those who want to go to the grandstands, but if you want to be close to the drivers and go into the PIT, then, you will have to buy tickets.

I can't wait to go. It has been sooooooo long since I went and saw a race, let alone hear a race -- as I lived a hop, skip, and a jump away from the All American Speedway growing up.

What are we UP too?

2010-03-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

That is such a good question... let me see...

We haven't gone or done anything out of the ordinary, so my life is pretty much boring right now (yes, even with 3 kids around).

I have been doing is gearing up for yet another year of homeschooling and preparing curriculums, shopping for curriculums and finding lots of wants, wants, and even more wants. We are just finishing up this year and trying not to get Spring Fever to bad.

On a good note... I get to go on yet another vacation with out the family... this time, I am the one leaving. It all started with a joke between my sister and I.

She had asked if I was ready to have a vaca away from the kids... and of course she just had to ask me on an off day (yes, even those of us with older kids have them too) and I said sure, that would be great.

Long story short, I am going to be leaving and going to help my sister (who by the time I get there, will have 5 kids, one of them being a newborn). So, why am I going you may ask...

Well, this is a bitter sweet for me... My sister and her whole family are moving to JAPAN in just a few short months, and I am going to go and help her get organized for all the movers to come in and pack up all of her belongings, to help keep the fort tied down and to just plain spend some quality time with her, the kids , and her hubby before they leave. Not only will I be helping with the packing, I am also going to help her and my brother-in-law caravan up to his parents place (which I am SUPER excited about). I just wish I could see the srping of New Hampshire, but I will get there just after it happens, but I will still be able to see all the beautiful colors. I will be with my sister for 14 days (the last time I went, it was for 11, and that was for 11 days as she had baby #3). I just need to keep telling myself that I will be able to be away from my beloved children for 2 weeks. At least my neices and nephews will help with my kiddo withdrawls. Originally, it was talked about a long weekend (5 days), if Nat could get the time off work, but Nats parents said that they will come watch the kids so Nat doesn't have to take time off work (he is anyway, so I can go a few days earlier), but I can stay longer, which is what my sister needs.

Blue and Gold

2010-02-26T10:41:00.000-08:00

Last night was the Blue and Gold dinner for Cub Scouts. Scouts has been around for 100 years, and so, the theme was HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Scouting. It couldn't have been on a better day, it was also Nat's birthday as well. As the usual tradition that our troop has, it was the anual Father and Son (moms are not allowed to help make/bake it) cake making contest. So, as the procrastination set in, Nat and Charlie made this wonderful cake just 3 hours before the dinner. I think they did a great job in just 3 hours (best part... I didn't have to make a cake for Nat's birthday). The boys cake turned out really yummy, it was German Chocolate. Charlie got the award, "Wilderness Survival and Readiness". All the boys did a great job on all of their cakes. I think there were 10 different cakes that we got to choose from for dessert.

It is a backpack with a sleeping bag... The C.S. stands for Cub Scouts... not Charlie Stamps :-)

Also, I (as the best mom ever), got pinned by Charlie last night. He has finished all the requirements and earned his Weblo badge last night.

Now all he has to do is concentrate for the next 2 months is earning his Arrow of Light. Then, it is off the the 11 year old scouts. Man, I can't believe that he will be 11 in just over 2 short months.

EEEEwwwwww!

2010-02-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

I was bored and decided to do some re-arranging and consolidation in the classroom. Less is more, right? I used to have 3 bookshelves to store and hold some school stuff, but it was so dark in the corner, I wanted change. Since I have Nat home for 5 days straight, he was able to help me move them. Since I consolidated and got rid of one bookshelf, I gave it to my mom who so desperately needs shelving in their new home. Once back and had the remaining shelves put into their prospective spots, I find this on the floor (it was under one of the shelves that we moved)...

I turn to Nat, pointing and asking, "Is that what I think it is?"
He looks down and says, "Why YES, it is."
"Is that the skeleton, or the skin?" I ask.
"Both" was his reply.
"How in the world did it get in here?"
"I have no idea."
Ok, now I have the chills running up my spine again. EEEwww!

Don't get me wrong, I ~~love~~ am ok with frogs, but as long as they STAY outside and I don't have to get close to those slimy, slippery little things that go CROAK all through the night.

What in the World?

2010-02-22T15:55:00.000-08:00

Last night, as Nat and I were watching the Olympics in bed, we heard some grunting noises coming from Mari's room. We called out to see what was going on and she told us that she was 'stuck' falling off of her bed. Nat went to go see what was going on, and this is what he saw...

We don't know how she got herself into this predicament. No, she wasn't hurt in any way. She was able to get out all by herself.

As much as I just loved the baby and toddler years, these middle aged years are far better. I can hold an actuall conversation with them without having to figure out what they are saying, and, they make me laugh and are picking up on so many of the world things -- in a good way.

Just the other day...

Charlie was trying to get a plant stand out of his bike spokes and Mari came over to watch (I wish I got it on video or at least a picture).

Charlie is shaking and shaking his bike to try and get the plant stand loose (I wouldn't do it for him, he needs to learn how to fix problems on his own). Mari suggests a way to do it, and Charlie said, "I already tried that." Well, he tried it her way, 'again' and the plant stand came loose.

Next thing I hear Mari say is, "Well, there ya go."

I got a kick out that and was laughing. I am gonna have to tell her that she can say "I told you so" to her brothers, but to wait till she's married to try and say that to her future spouse.

Valentines Breakfast

2010-02-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

I wanted to do something special for my family for breakfast on this fine Valentine's Day, instead of the usual muffins, hot cereal, or pancakes/waffles and eggs, I made (with Nat's help)...

Breakfast Sundaes

made with homemade yogurt, homemade granola, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and chopped almonds.

Here is what the finished product looked like...

How Many is Tooo Many?

2010-02-13T15:49:00.000-08:00

That is the question of the day...

While we were out this morning running errands, we went to one of my favorite stores... our local Hospice store. I always make it a point to go in there to see what they have when we are on that side of town. Well, as we walked in the door, we saw this HUGE sign saying that everything in the store was 1/2 off. My eyes went from brown to GREEN dollar signs. I love sales, especially at second hand stores.

So, anyways... we have been using plastic bowls and plates since the kids were very young. I have had it about up to my eyeballs, I am so done with using plastic. We do have a dish set that is ceramic and black, which I love, but they are my 'good' dishes and don't want to use them, 'cause I have a fear of them breaking (as I can't replace them, and I can't stand having miss-matched anything and odd numbers). Well, I found a set at the Hospice... not all pieces are there (just short of a a complete set), but hey, they are 1/2 off, no biggy. Now, I just need to donate all the plastic ones to a well deserving family.

Now, not only will I have these beauty's with the fruit theme,

I also these, my 'good company' black ones,

and this flowered set from my grandmother. I remember eating off these plates when visiting my grandparents.

I have come to realize that I need to let go of some of my OCD and that it is OK, to be unique and have an eclectic style, and have WAY to many dishes. But, some of my kids are like me... a ~~klutz~~, all thumbs, so I need lots of them. I like variety and I am pretty sure that I won't be getting bored looking at and using the same set of dishes over and over and over again.

KVOR 13 News

2010-02-10T08:36:00.000-08:00

Tonight, Nat and Charlie were able to go to CBS News and meet and talk with Dave Bender about the weather and stuff. Unfortunately, they didn't get to be put on camera with Dave, but we were very excited to see them in the background of some shots of the anchors.

Why were they there? I know that is what you are asking right now. Well, this was a trip for Charlie's Weblo troop to go and talk weather with Dave Bender for one of there badges. Nat met up with them there (as he works right across the freeway from the station).

Museum Fun

2010-02-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

The weather for the day was supposed to be raining all day long, so we took umbrellas along with us and were preparing to get wet and cold. When we left to go and see museums we thought that since there was a break in the weather, we would hit Sutters Fort first since it is mostly outdoors. Lucky for us, there was no rain to be spoken of or seen in the Sac area on Saturday. Mari enjoyed making her own little doll and the boys loved seeing the guns. The next stop was Old Town Sacramento. Once we got there and parked, we made a list of the museums that we were going to go to and walk to all of them (they were all within a mile from where we parked). Subway, was our first stop (as it was lunch time) then we hit up the California State Military Museum. The kids had fun climbing the fire truck and moving the cannon into different positions. Then, to my fave museum... The Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum. I want to go back in that time period and live, but with some modern day convienences. I just had to get the list of punishments for the school house from the 1848 (go here to see it). Unfortunately, that was the last museum that we were able to go to because of the fact that a couple of the kids gave us attitude for not getting there way, so we didn't go to the other three museums on our list (the Railroad Museum, the Automobile Museum and the Crocker Art Museum).

Waiting to get into the Fort

Posing with the Civil War Cannon

2010-02-07T21:56:00.000-08:00

31 - 17

... that was the final score of the Super Bowl tonight. It was a very fun, intersting, and fast game. Unfortunately, I missed the last 5 minutes of the game do to a VERY important calling in my church... Visiting Teaching. I had to control myself when Nat texted me the final score... So, when I got home, I did the happy dance... My Saints WON! Time for Mardi Gras celebrations to begin

Saints Pride

2010-02-05T13:14:00.000-08:00

My grandfather would be so proud of his team, the New Orleans Saints, FINALLY making it to the Super Bowl. I have to say that I am not one to watch the Super Bowl (well, since I moved out of my parents house), but I plan on it this coming Sunday. I have to root for my Grandpa's favorite team. I just wish that they made it while he was still here with us. I do know that he is very happy for his team and will be watching from heaven. Not only is this team my grandfathers favorite, it just so happens to be one of my favorites as well.

FREE Museum Day

2010-02-02T14:04:00.000-08:00

has come once again to the Sacramento area. I know we are looking forward to the 6th Anual Free Museum Day. I already have a list of them that I would love to go see, now if I can just squeeze them all in for the day.

2010-02-01T15:30:00.000-08:00

I have had this cookbook on my shelf for the last couple of years, and after growing tired of fighting with a child or two on eating their veggies, I broke down and actually started reading and doing some of the puree's, as well as making some of the foods. My question to myself is... WHY didn't I start doing this when I first got the cookbook? That is the question I am asking as well as kicking myself in the behind for not starting sooner. So far, all the recipes (3 to be exact) came out very good and was pleasantly surprised that all went well and was good. When I first got the cookbook and looked through it, I thought that it was going to be time consuming making all the puree's, but they are easy peasy and hardly take any time at all.

Normally, I would say to keep putting the veggies on the plate and the kids will eventually start liking them, but, after several years with one child not eating their veggies and all the nagging, irritations, crying and whinning, I gave in and tried hiding the veggies. Let me tell you that our meal times are so much more relaxing and enjoyable now. Am I decieving my children? No. They know I am using this cookbook, and what it entails. Do I tell them? Yes, but not right away (usually wait till towards the end or after the meal).

Another good cookbook is Pantry Principles from Kate's Kitchen. I have gleaned a lot from her and I just adore here recipes as well. A few of the recipes of hers that I have tried can be found here, here, here, and here (this one we had last night and my parents wanted the recipe) You can either purchase her cookbook, or download it for free.

Movin on Up

2010-01-27T08:58:00.000-08:00

As I went to go get on the computer yesterday morning, all I got was a blank screen on the monitor. The computer would not turn on, no matter what I tried. I tried to trouble shoot it and nothing, Nat got home and tried... still nothing. The darned thing finally died on us. I was a little flusted about it cause I couldn't get some lessons printed out that I had ready for the kids to do, but didn't worry to much about it. So, last night, we went out and bought a new computer (we had been talking about getting a new one for some time). We would and could have waited, but I need one for ~~my sanity~~ school and going to the library everyday to use theirs was not an option (especially since I don't have a vehicle during the day). We are now proud owners of a Gateway computer. I don't have all the specks on it... more to come on that later. Out of Nat and I, Nat has more computer knowledge than I. Now, I have the joy of finding everything once again and saving it to my favorites and figuring out what our new computer has on it that I will love to work with. Fresh new start is not always the thing to do when you have OCD (just call me Monk Jr -- really, I am not that bad, but could be). I knew where everything was on the old computer. I should think of this experience as a clean slate and I get to start all over, but at the same time... I want my old one back (it feels like, well, like when your a child and you have your special blankie). I am glad for change, but at the same time, I want the old too.

It sure is a lot ~~smaller~~ slimmer than our old one

Geneology

2010-01-15T10:27:00.001-08:00

Picture taken from Lancashire Origins

I have gotten the Genealogy bug. It has always been in the back of my mind that I need to do it. So, this last Tuesday while I was at church waiting for Charlie to finish up with Scouts, I went into the Family History Center and started looking up my ancestors. A real big struggle for me is the lack of info on my paternal grandfather's side of the family. Well, just by chance, I typed in his name, and low and behold... someone has done the work of finding some of my ancestors on my Great Grandmother's side of the family! YIIIIPPEEE! Now, the only thing I am stuck on is my Great Grandfathers side (I and the other person have only been able to find back 4 generations). Stories that are going around my family is that my grandfather was a bootlegger, had a run with the mob, yes, I said MOB. Now, the challenge is upon me, time to get down and get dirty. I am up for the challenge. I know I might get frustrated, but I must continue on the quest. I owe it to my family, not only those who are still living, but to those who have passed on as well.

Once I am done (or at a stopping point) on my fathers side of the family, I must get started on my mother's side of the family.

On a good note... because some one has found and did the work on my Great Grandmother's side of the family, I can now add that my ancestors have come from Germany and France. I have known that I am Polish, Scottish, and French. To add German to my heritage is very pleasing to me (as I took German in high school and college). Deutshland has been very close to my heart from early on, now I think I know why.

Service and Love

2010-01-12T12:33:00.000-08:00

Just when I think he wasn't listening...

Two times within the last few days my dear sweet husband has done me a great service, surprise and shown his love towards me. I had mentioned what I would like to have in my kitchen, like some spice racks that hang on the wall (thank you Ashley for the idea), and some more counter space. Well, I came home from my knitting group on Thursday night and totally missed this (this is where the fridge is supposed to be, but ours won't fit here)... but hey, it was late and I was tired. But when I woke up and started my day on Friday, I did see it and was pleasantly surprised. Then, on Saturday, while I was out grocery shopping, he showed his love for me once again. I came home and found that he had been a carpenter once again. Now he just needs to make a few more so I can have more of my spices within reach. Along with my long awaited Kitchen Aid

Fish Hatchery Fun

2010-01-11T10:08:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, as we ventured out of the house for some fun, we found ourselves at the Nimbus Fish Hatchery in Rancho Cordova. Unfortunately due to budget cuts, the visitors center wasn't open (it is run by volunteers). But none the less, we had fun looking at all the Steelheads and the Rainbow Trout that were swimming up-stream in the troughs. There were thousands of fish in the troughs, some where even jumping and putting a show on for us, but due to overcast, the camera didn't get a good view of them all. The kids had fun climbing all over the fish that was bigger than them. It was a neat adventure out.

Can you see the trout?

I just love this fountain

The New Partridge Family?

2010-01-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

Nat got these pics of the kids as they were each playing their new instruments. Let me tell you, it was very loud in the house when they were all going crazy and having fun. As Nat's dad said, "What have you guys gotten into?"

But it is all good. I am glad to see that they are enjoying the joys of music. I can't wait to actually start lessons with each and everyone of them. I have to sound of music in my house, something that I have never really had before. Nat was even super nice and made our very own microphone stand (but it was made after these shots were taken) so the kids don't have to hold it while they sing and play their instruments.

Blue Moon

2010-01-01T18:08:00.000-08:00

What a spectacular sight in the sky last night! I was to young to remember the last time we had a Blue Moon. Here are some picture that Nat took last night. I think the cloud cover makes it even look better. Don't mind the date... these were actually taken 12-31-09 around 11:00 pm

Happy Birthday!

2009-12-30T10:13:00.000-08:00

Today just happens to be my baby's birthday. Well, Jimmy isn't a baby anymore... today, he turns 7 years old. It is hard to believe that he is 7 already. It seem like just yesterday I gave birth to him. Jim has blessed our lives in ways that we could never imagined. Jim is the actor of the family and loves to be tickled. His laugh is very contagious. Jim has a sweet spirit, is loving and kind, and is eager to learn.

Family Reunion

2009-12-30T09:24:00.001-08:00

Last night, I hosted a mini-family reunion with some of my family. My Uncle James had 3 girls and we have been in and out of touch with them over the last decade. Well, As I said before, Facebook has been a blessing for me because I have been able to find a lot of my 'long lost' cousins. My cousins Karlin, Ellen and LuVerna came with their families. It was a real treat for me to see LuVerna (as I haven't seen her in 15 years). My parents were able to come over and visit with everyone. Although we had a blast, we weren't complete, as my sister was unable to make it, but we will be having another family reunion this summer to where she will be able to be here as well. We all had fun going down memory lane, laughing and catching up.

We had fun just sitting around the table and looking at old pictures of our grandfather and just looking through the family heritage book. Now, after seeing us all together, Nat now understands where I get my personality from... Yes, I am very much and proud to say that I am of Scottish decent, and that is just from my grandmother... we have yet to find out where grandfather has come from (I am doing geneology for him, but we have hit a brick wall).

My kids were in heaven because they have lots and lots of teenage cousins. My kids pulled out their Nurf guns and all 10 of their teenage cousins, and 1 toddler cousin enjoyed shooting at each other. Who knew there would be a toy that can unite all 14 kids into having fun together aging from 3-19 years old.

My dear sweet husband had made the offer of picking up Lulu (whome he had never met) to bring her to our home so I can see her once again. Who could ask for anything more? It brings tears to my eyes as I think of all the time that has passed since we last saw each other, and that Nat knew it would mean a lot to me for her to be here.

Here are a just a few pictures of the family get together...

Do-Over, Starting Over

2009-12-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

Ok, I think that it is time to start this blog over. I am sorry that I have been MIA for quite awhile. That is going to change. I am back to writing and updating so ya'll can keep up with my ever busy family. Let see, what have we been up to. Christmas was a blast. Nat's folks came in for a few days and visited with us. Nic's folks were able to come over and spend Christmas day with us. It is good to have them living close by. Santa was very good to our family this year, we all got something that we have wanted for a long time. Nic has been able to find long lost cousins and hang out with them. Nat is glad that he is finally able to put faces to names and meet more of Nic's family. Nic is busily getting ready for a mini family reunion at our house this week and also going to jump in head first to start planning a HUGE shaa-bang of a Davis' family reunion early next year. Nat is looking forward to meet more of the Davis' clan that is just as wild and sarcastic as Nic is.

Nic can thank Facebook for the help of finding family members that she has lost contact with over the years. It feels good to be surrounded by the Davis family, they accept us for who we are.

Nat is working in Rancho Cordova still with Hertz. We have been looking for a home to buy, but have had our hearts broken. But the hunt is not over... we are determined to find a house that we can finally call our own and our home.

2009-12-15T19:13:00.000-08:00

Today a Savior has been born to you, he is Christ the Lord Luke 2:11

Dear Family and Friends,

Wow! Time flies when we are having fun. It has been quite a few years since we sent out a family letter. We hope that our letter finds you all in good health. Not only do we hope that you will remember Jesus Christ at this time, but also the members of our Armed Forces.

Charlie here ~ I am now 10 years old. I am in the 4th grade this year. My mom swears that she is going to put a brick on my head to keep me from growing. I love to build things with my Lego’s and blocks. Give me a car and I am happy too. I am enjoying Weblos, but am anxious to become an 11 year old scout.

Mari here ~ I am now 8 years old and in the 3rd grade. I was able to be baptized by my Papa back in June. I love to dress up and wear make

-up (but I can only wear it here at home). I am also a great big tomboy. Give me a pile of mud, and I will make you some mud pies. I am enjoying Activity Days. I wish I could go every week. I am wanting to be in Girls Scouts too. Hopefully Mama can find a troop for me.

Jimmy here ~ Guess what! My birthday is coming up… 5 days after Christmas to be exact and I can hardly wait. I will be 7 years old. Oh, yeah, I am also in the 1st grade and love it. Give me some music and I will start pounding away on my drums (pretend of course) or playing my air guitar. I love to act things out… as long as no one is watching me. Every morning, Mama has to ask me what kind of animal I am. Sometimes she is a good guesser, sometimes not.

Nic here ~ I am still homeschooling the kids, we are currently in our 4th year. This is the first year that we are not with a Charter school and I love it. I am keeping busy with being a wife, mother, teacher, sister, and friend just to name a few. I do manage to get out and have some time by myself. I belong to a wonderful group of women and a few good men who get together on a weekly basis to knit, crochet and laugh together.

Nat here ~ Hello, things are good here, I have been very busy with work (in Rancho and W. Sac). Working on the van has kept me busy, since I totaled it. It is still drivable just some body damage. Next I get to replace the thermostat (could be interesting its in a weird location). Other then work and the van I try to spend as much time as I can enjoying my kids grow up, and the rest with my wonderful wife Nicole.

Nat and Nic are still on the Activity Committee in our ward and are loving it. We have gone from a 2 car family to a 1 car family, which we love. Nic has recently been reunited with some of her cousins that she hasn’t seen in 15 or so years. She couldn’t be happier to know that they are close by so we can visit with them frequently. Nat is glad too, since he was and is able to get to know them better. We are in the process of looking for a house to buy that we can call our own. We are looking to move to Rancho Cordova to be closer to where Nat was re

located for work.

Merry Christmas,

The Stamps Family

Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington

2009-11-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

Check out this latest photograph from the Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. I don't know whether the National Anthem is being played, or the Flag is going buy, or what, but everyone in the picture is saluting or has his hand over the heart.... all except one. GUESS who that may be? Really, what does that tell you?

Land of the FREE and Home of the Brave

2009-10-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

All I can say is WOW! I know, I know, I am still not posting, but we are alive and all is well. Just getting into the grove of the new school year.

I am dating myself

2009-07-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

I promise, I will post soon. We have so much going on right now... but, let me take you back in time for a little bit.

Animal Schoooling

2009-06-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

Check out this link/video. It is very inspiring and soo true. I have recieved it from an email group that I belong too

http://www.raisingsmallsouls.com/animal-school-movie/

Say YES

2009-06-25T15:06:00.000-07:00

Thank you Laurie for sharing this...

Swine Flu Video

2009-05-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a video I got from a friend. http://www.brainpop.com/health/diseasesinjuriesandconditions/swineflu/

A Love Story

2009-05-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of reading my friend & fellow blogger's story about how she met her husband (part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4). This got me in the mood to write about how Nat & I met, and the trials that I/we go through to be excepted by one another's family (believe me, I am still going through this trial, but Nat has finished it and is basking in the sun). I was working @ TJ Maxx, and going to the local community college (mind you, I was only 18)... I had my eye on someone else that I was working with, so when Nat started working there, I didn't really notice him. When closing the store, Nat & I would talk about everything and nothing while cleaning up the same zone. I found him easy to talk to and friendly. We became quick friends. As the next few months went on, nothing was growing, except our friendship, which was fine with me. Then, one day, I was thinking... (I know, a very bad thing for me to do). I can talk to this person very easily... hey, he's cute, nice, well mannered, and not like any other boy/young man I've ever met before... Now, I was not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at that time. Although, I was looking for a church to where I belong, to fit in. (a little history on me) My maternal grandmother was LDS, and my paternal grandmother was Methodist. My parents weren't/aren't very religious at all (hey, don't knock them, that is their choice, please think of them in a good manner, don't look down on them, this was their choice). Growing up, I had attended church w/my paternal grandma, but never felt comfortable. I never attended w/my maternal grandma (to this day I don't know why she never took us). Jumping forward to my high school years... I would attend church & Family Home Evening every once in a while with a friend down the street... can you guess what church her and her family belonged to? (fast forward to the present)-- well, now, technically the past, but the present of the story As Nat & I continue talking and getting to know one another as friends, I ask him out on a date. He politely turns me down, saying he has a girlfriend. I am ok with that... A few days later, he's not scheduled to work, but I had to close. After finishing, we (my co-workers & I) were all waiting by the door to be let out, when one of my co-workers finds a note on the ground addressed to me, hands it to me, and I read it. It is from Nat, asking if we can get together & talk sometime (he was waiting outside as I got off of work). We talked in the parking lot for about a half hour. We found out that we were both taking classes @ the same time, and made plans to 'meet' once our class was done... Tune in for the next part, oh yeah, grab some popcorn too...

Worm Composting

2009-04-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

We are trying to be more earth friendly as well as more self reliant. We have started some container vegetable gardening. It all started last week after visiting Whole Foods for a field trip here in town. Since Earth Day was Wednesday, Whole Foods celebrated it on Saturday for the whole community. The kids wanted to go, so we went...

One of the tabled was Red Worm Composting. Of course the kids just had to have one, so we got one and had to set it up once home, to give the worms their proper home. Well, we couldn't really have a compost bin without a garden to put it in, right? Oh, did I tell you... the compost bin is here in the house, can't you see my skin just crawling? So, we planted ourselves a garden. We have some herbs, veggies, fruit and even some flowers to go it it. We don't have a lot of space, so we are doing container gardening (this way, when we buy our house - our first house, we can take our garden with us). We will be adding to our garden some fun things like, windmills, bird houses, and some bird feeders. We are getting and using the ideas from the book "Green Thumb".

There has been a lot of talk about bloggers taking other bloggers thoughts and storied & coping them and posting as their own blog. That is rude. This post may seem like you read it before over @ Adventurous Instruction... that's ok, I did plagiarize, but hey, that is my homeschooling blog, so, I am aloud to do it.

The Miracle of the Holy Bible

2009-04-26T20:03:00.000-07:00

Elder M. Russell Ballard testifies that as Church members we believe, follow, and teach the Bible’s message inviting all to worship Jesus Christ. Go down to the bottom right and pause my music so you can hear this wonderful message.

I am embarking on...

2009-04-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

starting my own business. I want to help Nat out w/the family income, but how? I could go out & get a job @ night, but that is not an option (I can't guarantee when he will be home). I thought about Creative Memories, Avon, Mary Kay, but those are out of the question! I have finally figured out how I am going to help with the income.... I am going to start my own Etsy shop. I will be making knitted, crocheted, cross stitched items, and anything else handmade. I just need help with a name. Everything that is sold on Etsy, has to be handmade. I need a name that is catchy, has spunk, and will keep 'em coming. So, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE help me come up w/a catchy name. Once I set up shop, I will let ya'll know so you can see what I have to offer. I will be taking special orders as well. These tips on Name Picking are from Etsy:

Things to consider when choosing a shop name:

Choose a name that is easy to remember and spell. You want potential buyers to be able to recognize, remember, and be able to find you again, even if they have briefly visited your shop.
Try to limit your shop name to one or two words that flow well together. For example, “JessicasDesigns” works a thousand times better than something like “beaddesignsbyjessica.” Make sense?
Take inspiration from others. Sit down with a piece of paper and writing utensil and ask yourself: “What sellers do I know the name of on Etsy?” It doesn’t have to be your favorite seller or any reason other than the fact you remembered their name. This is key. After you have your list of remembered names, take a look at them. Why are they so memorable? After asking yourself these questions, take inspiration from what these sellers have done to create your own memorable name.
Think about legalities. Some words and names are trademarked, so do your homework first to avoid a possible conflict later. Consider consulting an attorney if you need specialized advice in this area.
Once you have decided on a name for your shop, take advantage of capital letters to make the appearance of your shop name more cohesive. If you have two words in your shop name, create a visual separation by making the first letters of each word capital letters instead of lowercase. For example, “BoyfriendLetters” reads so much better than “boyfriendletters.” Plus, capitalization doesn’t make a difference when people type your shop name in their browser, it won’t be harder for them to find you.
If you are selling a very specific product or certain type of supply, it wouldn’t hurt to actually put the basic name of what you are selling in your shop name; this way your shop will show up in most relevant search engines whenever someone does a basic search for “X item” that you are selling. But be careful: if you're thinking about branching out to other types of items, you may not want to follow this tip.
Last but not least, your shop name should reflect your style in one way or another. If you choose a really elegant name, it would make sense to have elegant items in your shop. If you choose a quirky or clever name, it would make sense that your products reflect that style.

Fort Ross Pics Jan. 26-27, 2009

2009-04-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Finally, here are some of the pics from Fort Ross. Sorry they are so small. This took me a couple of hours to do (there were over 2500 pictures to go through)

Arrival @ Fort Ross

Kids trekking to the fort

My boys, the hunters

Mareal in the Artisan's group

The cooks & I

Hunting for seals and fish

Seals basking in the sun

I'm actually stepping into the fire pit, stirring the Russian Borsch

The Artisans are making lanterns

What a beautiful sunset

Walking to the chapel for skit & story time

Making breakfast & trying to get warn by fire

Preparing for cannon fire

Just after cannon fire

Group photo

Family photo (@ the end of our 24 hours)

If you ever have a chance to do an Enviroment Living (history)Program, DO IT! It is sooo worth EVERY penny. Some balk @ us for spending the $$ to do them, but, you know what? A trip to Disneyland or anywhere else would cost a lot more than this does. The kids will remember this better and have the memories to go with them. What a better way to learn history?

Thou Shalt Not Judge

2009-04-17T12:18:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness. Oh my goodnes. Oh my goodness. She has been in the headlines and the talk of everyone's conversations. I am giving a standing ovation to Susan Boyle of Scotland (I am proud to be of Scottish decent myself). I say "You go Girl! You rock on!" Please don't judge others by just meeting them for the first time, you don't even have a real chance to get to know that person. Give people a chance, we need to be friendlier and more loving towards one another. I am the black sheep in my family, and I am SOOOOOO fine w/that. I will not apologize for things I say on my blog. This is my blog and I have a right to speak my mind. I try my hardest not to offend, but it's not my fault if you choose to be offended. So, please, from the bottom of my heart, DO NOT JUDGE OTHERS.