The Life of 3 Crazy Girls

We love our Super Granny & Super Daddy

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

We drove over to Front Royal, Va from my parents to see my grandparents. The girls had a blast at their house. They had some friends who had moved back to Virginia from Vegas come play at the house one afternoon. We went for ice cream, the park, and went swimming up at Uncle Speed's house. They had a blast playing with Cousin Amy and the girls loved their dogs. Zoey tried to spend the night at Uncle Speed's but then decided she wasn't quite ready.

Summer Vacation 2009

2009-06-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

The girls and I made our annual trip to my parents this year. We went out before the 4th of July and were meeting friends in DC for the 4th. Below is a picture of the girls at the airport before we flew out. They were very good for me on the plane. We ate at California Pizza Kitchen before we left. This was just a day after Micheal Jackson died so I we heard throughout the airport was Micheal Jackson music.

The girls were so excited to leave that they were dressed and sitting downstairs with their backpacks on at 9 a.m. Our flight didn't leave till 1: 40 p.m. so I took them to the park to get rid of some energy before we left.

While at my parents we went to their church festival. It was really hot that day but the girls had a blast. Both wore the new outfits that Gran got them. They also did face painting or in Zoey's case arm painting.

They had a blast playing the carnival games. They won a prize everytime. They even let Gran do their hair. Check out Zoey's piggy tails.

Abbys Dance Recital

2009-06-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

We had Abby's Dance Recital today! She did a great job and we are so proud. She is the bunny in the video that loses her ears and doesn't want to leave the stage. Our friend who took our family pictures took some pictures of the girls before the recital. Her daughter Chloe is in Abby's Dance class. Enjoy the video and just think... you can say that you knew her when:)

Also I apologize for the video quality. It was done with my new camera and well... we were not suppose to shoot video during the performance but I don't want to pay $40 for the full recital when Abby was in it for 3 minutes.

Enjoy!

New Bikes

2009-06-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

For their birthdays the girls received new bikes. Thank you Grandpa Kass. We ride them every night out front in our circle. They are working hard on steering and braking. So far we have had no major wipeouts. We have made one trip to the park. It takes awhile to get there because Abby is very nervous on hills and walks her bike most of the way! Zoey also got a scooter for her birthday which she is working on too!

Zoey Turns 5

2009-06-08T13:08:00.000-07:00

June 8th 2004 was one of the happiest days of our lives. Zoey Katherine Kass was born. She was 8lbs 14 oz and was born on her date at 12:31 a.m. She is curious, smart, helpful, active, and just a lot of fun to be around. She is a great BIG sister to Abby and has become quite the little helper around the house. She chooses baseball of Barbies, Cars over Princess stuff. She is more of a gal then a girlie girl. Recently she has discovered the Jonas Brothers. And sadly next year is Kindergarten. Zoey, We love you and are so proud of you each and every day.

10 days old

2 years old

3 years old

4 years old

5 years old!

Memorial Weekend Fun

2009-05-25T06:35:00.000-07:00

We have had a FANTASTIC Memorial Day weekend so far. Kevin asked me on Thursday what our plans were to make sure we stayed busy. I think I have kept us busy enough so far.

On Friday night we went to the Red Rock Casino with friends for dinner and drinks. We checked the kiddos into Kids Quest and they had a blast.

On Saturday Kevin went out to the dessert to shoot with his friend Paul. That afternoon we went to another friends house for a BBQ. The kids went swimming and then after dinner we watched the fight.

On Sunday, we went to Zoey's baseball coaches house so the kids go play on the huge waterslide. After that we went to another friends house for a BBQ. They smoked a beef brisket and it was FANTASTIC. Below are some pictures from the waterslide fun!

Zoey's Preschool Graduation

2009-05-20T05:55:00.000-07:00

We hit a huge milestone with Zoey this week. She graduated from preschool! I thought I would be ok and not get teary eyed. Well... I was wrong. The kids were so darn cute and then they played a slide show of all the kids from the entire year! Zoey is so excited for kindergarten next year. Here is some pictures from graduation.

Zoey on her first day of preschool.

Zoey walking in to graduation

Getting her diploma

Her best buddy Taner

Family picture. Yep Abby is eating a cookie!

Zoey with Miss Christina and Miss Amy

The girls in their dresses made by Gran

Zoey's Last Day of School BBQ

2009-05-15T05:51:00.000-07:00

On Zoey's last day of preschool her class had a BBQ. She was so excited. The kids got to wear their swimsuits and play in the water park area behind the school. Then they got to have a picnic on their towels and have lunch. Abby was invited to join and the kiddos had a blast.

Here is Zoey hanging out on the edge of the water area.

Abby my sunbather warming up on a towel. Yep she asked if she could sunbathe.

Zoey getting ready to enjoy her favorite treat Cheetohs.

Zoey's best buddy Taner and his mom Shannon!

A quick picture of the entire class chilling out!

Zoey's Early Birthday Celebration

2009-05-13T06:15:00.000-07:00

Since Zoey's birthday is not until June her preschool teacher let us celebrate it early with her friends. We brought cupcakes and she got a crown. All her friends sang happy birthday to her. She was loving it. Abby got to join in the fun too.

Zoey and Abby with Miss Amy

Zoey and Abby waiting for their cupcakes and juice.

Isn't her classroom adorable. She had a great teacher this year. Abby is actually going to participate in the 3's program next year. She learned a lot and made tons of friends!

Our Trip to California

2009-05-11T05:32:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day Weekend we drove up to Northern Cal for our niece's Bat Mitzvah. It was a great trip and the kiddos had a blast. Sarah did an awesome job and we are so proud of her. The party theme was a Luau and the girls had a blast. My sister in law and her friend Dee did a fantastic job on the party and the decorations. I totally think they should go into business together.

We were able to see our good friends from Sacramento on Friday night. We met them when we were pregnant with Zoey and in lamaze class. The girls are about 8 days apart and they still remember each other. It was great to see them and meet there little boy Tyler. He is adorable. Here are a few pictures of our fun trip.

Zoey and her friend Hannah.

Grandpa learning how to dance! Go Grandpa Go!

Abby and Matthew dancing the night away!

Zoey and Abby all dressed up for the party!

Our niece Sarah and I. Isn't she beautiful!

The girls chillin in the Hummer on the way home. Yep Kevin pulled an electric blue hummer off the Carmax lot and that is what we took on our trip.

Sneak Peak at family Pictures

2009-04-19T06:59:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine named Jamie took our pictures today at Calico Basin. Here is a sneak peek at one of the pictures! Check out her blog to see other fantastic pictures she has taken here.

Catch Up!

2009-04-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!
It has been awhile since I posted. We have been busy just with everyday life here in Vegas.

Zoey is starting tball again. It is her third season and she is still loving it. Her team is the Sharks and she has the same coach. Kevin is the assistant coach and I am the team mom. She is enjoying preschool and getting ready for her graduation in May. She is so excited about kindergarten in the fall. I can't believe she is going to be 5 in June.

Abby is still enjoying her dance class. She has her first recital in June. I will try to figure out how to do a video post of that when the time comes. She has been taking a Story & Art class on Fridays during Zoey's preschool she really enjoys it. She and Zoey will be able to take some classes together this summer. It will give them a break from the heat I hope.

Kevin is loving Carmax still. His store and team are doing really well. We are still hoping for a transfer to Ohio but have to wait. The store is built we are just waiting for the economy to improve so they will open the store!

I am busy just running the girls around from school to dance to tball to MOMS Club activities. We have a lot of fun with all our friends we have made in Vegas. I am busy teaching my coupon classes so that is my little outlet.

We are looking forward to going to California for Sarah's Bat Mitzvah. Then in June/July we are going to Ohio to see my parents and driving over to Virginia to see my grandparents and go into DC for the 4th. I will start taking more pictures for ya and start posting more fun Kass Family adventures.

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-01T07:56:00.000-07:00

We were invited by one of Abby's friends in her dance class to an Easter Egg hunt that they have in their neighborhood. The girls had a blast hunting for eggs. They had the Easter bunny come visit, a balloon artist come do balloon shapes, and music entertainment for the kids. Both kids were asleep before we left the neighborhood. The little girl with the piggy tails is Beatrice. She is another girl in the class.

Grand Canyon & Spring Training

2009-03-24T23:20:00.000-07:00

We had a great long weekend. Headed to Phoenix for Spring Training with Steve and Laurie. The kids did great. Got some cowboy boots and hats. Then we picked up Steve at the airport in Phoenix and headed to the Grand Canyon. We stayed at a lodge in the Grand Canyon park. It was a little rustic but we still had fun.

Abby's 3rd Birthday!

2009-03-08T20:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Abby! I can't believe you were born 3 years ago today! You had a fantastic day with all your friends at My Gym. I hoped you liked your Princess Castle Cake that I made you. Here are some highlights from your day!

It's a Poopy Party

2009-01-19T20:25:00.001-08:00

It is a big week at our house! Abby is potty trained! She finally pooped in the potty so daddy brought her a Princess cake home from the grocery store. Zoey helped her eat it of course! WOW Abby you are such a big girl now! WE LOVE YOU AND ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!

Fat Burnin' Friday (yes I know today is Tuesday)

2009-01-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

So in keeping up with my resolutions for 2009 I decided to join Andrea at Mommy Snacks on her Fat Burnin' Fridays. You should definitely check her site out. Not only does she offer real inspiration she also shows us how to save money (another one of my goals).

Just a recap my Goals for 2009 are:

Take Care of Me (Go to the gym, weekly Weight Watchers meetings, quilting & scrapbooking)
Cut expenses (continue to cut our expenses by shopping smart. check out my other blog at www.zabbysmomsaves.blogspot.com)
Abby (get her potty trained and back to sleeping through the night)
Zoey (get her out of pull ups at night & get her ready for kindergarten)
Make church a priority in our lives.
Find time for Kevin and I on a daily basis.
Stay (get) organized around the house and in our lives.

So far my progress has been good.

I have joined WW and in my first week I have lost 3.2 lbs. only 13.8 to get to my 10% goal then I get to figure out where I want to go from there. I am headed back to the gym tomorrow. It helps that I have great friends who belong to the gym and the kids have a great play area there.

I do enjoy Weight Watchers and their new program (even though sometimes I feel like I have joined cult). It really does work and helps hold me accountable. I am getting better about writting everything down and measuring the portions. The water has been easy so far too because I have my Camelbak. I will keep you all posted on this crazy journey of mine!

New Years Resolution (Goals)

2009-01-01T12:10:00.000-08:00

So I have decided that this year is going to be a selfish year! I am rearranging my priorities to take care of me first. I figure if I take care of me then I can better take care of my family right?

Here are my resolutions. Yes it is plural... I am thinking of it as an action plan more than just a standard New Years Resolution.

Take Care of Me (Go to the gym, weekly Weight Watchers meetings, quilting & scrapbooking)
Cut expenses (continue to cut our expenses by shopping smart. check out my other blog at www.zabbysmomsaves.blogspot.com)
Abby (get her potty trained and back to sleeping through the night)
Zoey (get her out of pull ups at night & get her ready for kindergarten)
Make church a priority in our lives.
Find time for Kevin and I on a daily basis.
Stay (get) organized around the house and in our lives.

Seems quite ambitious now that it is all written out! We shall see how it goes!

2008 Review

2008-12-29T23:17:00.000-08:00

WOW! We have been in Vegas for a year now... I guess the 3-6 month plan is shot. We have had lots of fun here and made tons of friends.

The girls and I have adjusted to me staying at home. We joined MOMS Club in January and have made wonderful friends that helped us adjust to our new life here.
We have discovered there are many things to do in Vegas besides the slot machines. Even though Zoey would love to play them in the grocery store.
We took a family vacation to Santa Barbara and drove up the California Coast to Kevin's sister. We enjoyed Big Sur & Monterey along the way.
Our niece cam to visit us for a week this summer. It was so hot but we had a blast with her here and the girls loved the extra attention.
The girls and I took a vacation to my parents in July. We drove to Escanaba to see my dad's parents, stopped in Milwaukee to see my brother. Mom and Dad purchased them American Girl dolls. My moms parents drove out to see us with my cousin. I am very blessed to have all my grandparents still in my life and to have my girls know them.
Kevin and I celebrated 5 years of marriage. WOW have things changed since we got married.
Zoey started preschool and is loving it.
Abby is our ballerina taking dance classes weekly and preparing for a dance recital in June.
Zoey has played 2 seasons of t-ball and is now starting soccer.
I took the girls to Disneyland for the day in Decemer while Kevin was working. His Aunt Ronnie came with me and we had a blast. The girls were exhausted when we left. We then drove up to Northern Cal to see the rest of Kevins family.
My parents came out for Christmas and we had a wonderful visit with them.

As for 2009 our hopes are high. Zoey will be starting Kindergarten. Abby will be potty trained. And hopefully we will be moving closer to family. Happy New Year everyone!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-28T17:29:00.000-08:00

We had a great visit with Gran & Grandpa. The girls enjoyed having their grandparents here for Christmas and were sad to see them leave. Here are some pictures from our week together

Cuddle time w/ Gran & Grandpa

Gingerbread House making

Ethel M's Cactus Garden

Looks like Santa was here!

Looks like Rudolph left his nose behind!

Happy Holidays

2008-12-22T22:36:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note to let you know I am off enjoying some family time with my parents in town. I will post some pictures etc. from our fun times on Sat or Sun after they leave. Merry Christmas!

Snow Day

2008-12-15T20:01:00.001-08:00

We had a snow day today! I am not sure how often it snows here but I know this is the first time Abby has played in the snow. They had fun and thought it was fun to try to catch snowflakes on their tongues.

Bellagio

2008-12-15T19:57:00.001-08:00

I took the girls to Bellagio today for lunch with my cousin Jackie who is in town! The girls were a little shy at first until Jackie gave them M&M's from M&M world!

Disneyland 2008

2008-12-09T17:30:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday I took the girls to visit Disneyland while Kevin was in meetings in LA. Kevin's Aunt Ronnie went with us and as you can see we had a great day!

Is this my daughter?

2008-11-29T11:21:00.000-08:00

Is this my daughter? It can't be. I asked her what veggie she wanted with dinner. She said peas so I cooked them. I was not thrilled about it because I don't like peas. Then when it was time to eat she cleared her plate and asked for more. Kevin gave her the bowl and she started eating them by the serving spoon full! She even ate them cold the next day as a snack. We are still amazed.

Abby's Daddy Day

2008-11-14T21:49:00.000-08:00

Today was Abby's daddy day. As you can see by the smile on her face it was a hit. When she walked up to me when she got home she told me that she was sorry that she ate all the M&M's. Apparently they also had a treat.

What was Abby's day? She and daddy went and got her a BIG Girl bed. As you can see below she is now officially breaking it in. Of course it had to be a Hello Kitty bed as well. Now the question is what to do with the empty crib?

Menu Plan 10/31 - 11/7

2008-11-02T18:48:00.001-08:00

This should hopefully get us through the pay period.

Chicken Parmesan, veggies
Rosemary Chicken, potatoes, veggies
Homemade Chilli
Beef & Been Enchiladas
Lasagna ( will post recipe later

Will also be cooking an extra meal for a MOMS Club member who just had a baby. Cooking Spinach & Cheese Manicotti (Yummy)

Lunch: Turkey dogs, chicken nuggets, soup, sandwiches

Snacks: Yogurt, apples, grapes, popcorn

Breakfast: Cereal, Oatmeal, Yogurt, Pancakes, waffles.

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2008-11-02T14:32:00.001-08:00

For Kevin's birthday I made the big cupcake from Wilton! It is so cute. I am planning on making these for our Breast Cancer Tea at MOMS Club. It takes almost 2 boxes of mix. So I used the extra batter and made mini cakes with the tins from the girls kitchen. That way I got to decorate a cake and they did too. As you can see we had a lot of fun.

The Great Pumpkin

2008-11-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

He came!!! Zoey was not happy Halloween night about leaving her candy. However when she woke up at 6:30 (we had an early baseball game) and saw what he left her she was very happy. In fact they have not asked for candy since!!

Trick or Treat!

2008-11-02T14:19:00.001-08:00

We had a fun Trick or Treat night. We went with some friends. The girls had a blast. Zoey was a fire-girl and Abby was a Ladybug (Thank you Mom for making the costume!). They went with 2 of their friends Bailee and Noah who were dressed as Barbie Mariposa and a Dragon. After trick or treat we came back chatted and then put the candy out for the Great Pumpkin.

Who is the Great Pumpkin? The girls leave their candy on the front porch (after picking out 5 pcs to keep) and he comes and takes the extra candy away to kids who were not able to go trick or treating. In exchange he leaves the kids a present. Not a bad deal. Zoey was not to sure of it Halloween night.

Zoey's School Carnival

2008-11-02T14:14:00.000-08:00

The fun continued on Thursday with a carnival at Zoey's school. The kids had fun! Daddy joined us and Abby went in the haunted house! We had a late dinner but the girls went right to bed because they were so excited about going to Tanner's Halloween party in the morning.

Halloween Cookie Decorating

2008-11-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

The fun continued on Thursday with Halloween cookie decorating at our house. The girls helped me cut them out and bake them and then we had about 10 little kiddo's over to decorate. Luckily it was beautiful outside so the kids decorated on the back porch! Thanks to all the mommies that came and helped clean up afterwards!

Zoey's Halloween School Party

2008-11-01T13:49:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday Zoey's school had a party and a parade. So Abby and I went to the parade and then if you look closely at the class picture Abby has snuck into the picture! The kids were very cute and VERY well behaved. The got lots of goodies and had a blast!

MOMS Club Halloween Party!

2008-11-01T13:37:00.001-07:00

We have such an awesome group of moms in our MOMS Club. One of the moms hosted a fantastic Halloween party on Monday and the kids had a blast. They painted pumpkins, tossed baby pumpkins into the plastic pumpkin buckets, and just had fun playing at the park.

Grocery Smarts

2008-10-31T23:05:00.000-07:00

This is a company that started in Utah and now we have a representative right here in Las Vegas. They teach you how to maximize your savings by combining weekly sales at the grocery store with coupons from the paper. The savings are astounding!! I've contacted the Las Vegas rep and she is going to put on a class for all of us who are interested. There is no fee to use their program, hardly any effort, but you do have to get a Sunday paper and they get special deals that they can pass on to us. I will be sending e-invites soon. So save the date for Thursday, November 6th, 1:00pm at my house. Here is the link to the blog of the Las Vegas rep's so you can get more info now!

20-Minute Chicken Parmesan

2008-10-30T22:32:00.001-07:00

This is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Hubby loves it, kids eat the chicken and dip it in the sauce.

4 skinless chicken breasts
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter or margarine, melted
1 3/4 cup spaghetti sauce
1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp grated parmesan

Place chicken between 2 sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap; flatten to 1/4 inch thickness, using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Dip chicken in egg and dredge in breadcrumbs. Cook chicken in butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned on both sides. Spoon spaghetti sauce over chicken; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heats, and simmer 10 minutes. Sprinkle w/ cheeses and parsley; cover and simmer 5 minutes or until cheese melt.

5 a.m. Wake Up Call

2008-10-27T06:33:00.001-07:00

How can I be grouchy with these faces waking me up!

Busy Week Ahead!

2008-10-26T21:18:00.000-07:00

We are going to be very busy this week. Here is just a sneak peak. Hopefully I will be able to post some pictures throughout the week!

Monday: Z has school, A is taking dance class because of Z's Halloween party on Wed. We have a Halloween party for MOMS Club at the park, and I have my training meeting for teaching water classes. Oh and I need to get to the gym.
Tuesday: Gym in the morning, return library books, Z has playgroup, need to make sugar cookies for MOMS Club event we are hosting on Thursday.
Wednesday: Gym, Z has school, staying close so we can see their Halloween parade. Clean up for the cookie party on Thursday, Tball practice (moved to Wed because of Halloween), make colored frosting for cookie party.
Thursday: Gym, Cookie Party, Cleaning up after a bunch of little kids decorate Halloween sugar cookies, run to Costco and get snacks for Saturday's game, Grey's Anatomy :)
Friday: Gym, Z has a Halloween party, make Daddy's birthday cake, Trick or Treat, then pull kids off ceiling from candy high! Get snacks ready for game tomorrow.
Saturday: HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!, 9 a.m. baseball game (I am snack mom), birthday lunch for Daddy w/ cake, hopefully go out to eat just mommy & daddy.

I have not weighed in lately. I did weigh in today at 170.8. I have been going up and down lately but I have a new program at the gym in addition to my water workouts so I feel like I am moving forward! I will keep you posted.

New Blog

2008-10-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

I have created a new blog. This one has become very scatter-brained with all my new obsessions so I have decided to create one devoted to my new coupon habit. The link is http://zabbysmomsaves.blogspot.com. So please come visit and check out all my savings.

Busy Week

2008-10-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

We have had lots of fun so far this week and it is on Wednesday morning! We have hit the gym 4 days in a row now. I have meet with a trainer so i have a program to follow as well as my water classes. I did my Aqua-fit on Monday then took the girls to a pumpkin carving party. Where I did most of the carving and the girls ate a TON of treats. We then came home and I cleaned the entire downstairs (dust, vac, mop, declutter). Then I finished dinner. I am following my menu-plan from monday. So we had the Brown sugar chicken. I cooked it a little to long because it was a little dry. Then I head back to the gym for my class to learn how to teach water classes.

Yesterday we went to the gym I did my arms and abs. I also watched a water aerobics class to figure out what I need to use for a 45 minute class that I will be teaching in 2 weeks (YIKES). After the gym we went to the library. The girls found all sorts of books and had a great time. Came home for lunch and then they had a friend come over. They played outside while I caught up on all my MOMS Club stuff for the newsletter in November and my descriptions for the activities I am hosting in November. It is going to be another awesome busy month! Then we went to Zoey's playgroup at the park. The girls were so dirty from the park (it has a ton of sand) that I put them in the bathtub as soon as we got home and then we had dinner. It actually made for a great evening with them.

Well, gotta run we are off to the gym, dance class, home to clean and work on dinner, and then back to the park this afternoon!

Meal Plan 10/18 - 10/24

2008-10-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

This is my first Menu Plan Monday Post. Hopefully it will get better as I get used to doing it more!

Weekend:

Breakfast: Pancakes, Oatmeal, Yogurt, Cereal
Lunch: Chicken Nuggets (kiddos), tomato soup, & left over pulled pork BBQ (yummy)
Dinner: Pizza Braid: Click here for the recipe. It looked so good I had to try it!

Weeknight Meals:

Turkey Meatballs & Pasta Sauce (2 nights)
Stuffed Pork Chops (from Winder Farms) w/ rice & Veggie (1 night)
Grilled Chicken w/ baked potato & Veggies (1 night)
Brown Sugar Chicken in Crockpot (Click here for a great blog about using your crockpot and this recipe. 365 days of using a crockpot! LOVE IT

The interesting part of this is to see if I actually stick to this plan. I am going to have to break my plan from Saturday's post and actually go to the store. I really have no veggies in the house so I need to get some. Plus we are almost out of yogurt.

Its almost baking season!

2008-10-16T14:22:00.001-07:00

We were suppose to make cookies on Sunday with Grandma but with Abby sick we postponed. I went to do them Monday afternoon because Z missed school but we were then out of eggs because the hubby made hard boiled eggs. So Tuesday we got back from the airport after dropping off grandma and we made Halloween M&M cookies. The girls were very helpful. Very few M&M's were sacrificed or injured and we now have almost 4 dozen cookies in the freezer. We keep a dozen ( which are gone), and gave a dozen or so away to a friend that was suppose to come over on Sunday and help us bake.

By looking at these pictures I am getting very ambitious (or crazy) about Christmas baking.

Spinach & Cheese Manicotti!

2008-10-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite and easiest recipes! Enjoy!

Spinach & Cheese Manicotti:
1 10 oz. pkg frozen chopped spinach
1 32 oz. jar spaghetti sauce
1 c. water
1 egg
1 16 oz carton ricotta cheese
16 ozs. mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 8 oz. pkg. manicotti shells

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 13" x 19" pan. Cook spinach according to package instructions; drain well and squeeze dry. (I throw in micro for 3 minutes in the cardboard box. Dump into a clean dishtowel and squeeze it in the dishtowel. Comes out dry and unfrozen.) Place one cup spaghetti sauce in bottom of pan. Mix in water. In a bowl, beat egg with ricotta cheese, two cups of the mozzarella, spinach, salt and pepper. Stuff uncooked manicotti shells with mixture. Place in pan. Pour remaining spaghetti sauce over shells. Cover with foil and bake for 1 & 1/4 hours. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and bake three to five minutes longer.

Weekend? What Weekend?

2008-10-13T16:05:00.000-07:00

Where did it go? It is already Monday afternoon. Saturday we went to Z's baseball game! IT WAS COLD!!! Grandma watched 1/2 and waited in the car. On our way home we stopped at the movie store so the kids could pick out some movies. It was rainy and cold all day. Went to the grocery store to get some stuff for dinner. Spinach & Cheese Manicotti (will post recipe separate).
Woke up Saturday night with A. She was coughing and wheezing all night long. Took her to an urgent care in the morning. It did nothing for her. Here fever got up to 103. She and I took a 3 hour nap to make up for being up all night on Saturday. Woke up and cooked chili again. It was another cold day here in Vegas. Little A slept in our room Sunday night so we could listen for her breathing. She did ok. Woke up once and had some more Motrin.
Monday took her to the real doctor. She is now on antibiotic, steroid, and breathing treatments. She is feeling a little better this afternoon I have to take her back to the doctor on Wednesday. Z missed school today cuz I was at the doctors from 8-11 then went to target to get all her medicine.
Tonight I am not sure what we are doing for dinner. Hopefully we can talk daddy into bringing home some Chinese for us! Will let you know.

Grandma is Here!

2008-10-10T06:13:00.000-07:00

We picked up a Grandma at the airport today. Good thing she belonged to us. I would hate to steal someone's Grandma! We went to the gym this morning where I did 1 1/2 water classes. First was water aerobics which I don't normally take and then 1/2 of my aqua fit. Then it was off to the airport for grandma. Can you believe they charge 0.25 for 10 min of parking! Seriously the first 20 minutes of parking should be free.

After we picked up Grandma I had to stop and check on a friends cat who is out of town. Then went to Disneyland! How fun is that. The kitty was very happy to see us. Even let Z hold her and pet her for a few minutes. Then we came home for lunch and I check on my pot roast. Nothing better then walking in the house and you can smell dinner already. We chilled out and then it was off to the park.

We had a board meeting at 3:30, then park day at 4:00 followed by baseball practice at 5:00. Poor Z fell asleep on the way to the park. Then half way threw practice she was tired. She did have 3 big hits and a few good throws. Came home and had yummy pot roast. Girls chose not to eat so no desert. (Hate that cuz I really wanted Yogels!)

Daddy did baths and I snuck off to the library. Had to return a whole bunch of stuff and pick up some holds that I had. Came home and we watched Kath & Kim. I really wanted to like the sow but well I don't think it is going to be as good as I had hoped. Watched Gray's then the SNL update. I just love SNL during an election! Tried to watch the show Life on Mars but I could not keep my eyes open. So for the first time this week I was in bed before 10:30.

Pot Roast Recipe:
Not too complicated.
1/2 -1 cup of water
1 med onion
1 beef bouillon cube
roast.

Throw in crock-pot and cook. About and 2-3 hours before dinner throw in your potatoes & carrots. It should just fall apart when you take it out of the crock pot!

Today's food Journal:
Breakfast: yogurt & Fiber One cereal
Snack: Non fat Iced Chai tea venti, pumpkin cream cheese muffin
Lunch 1/2 turkey & Cheese pita sandwich w/ lettuce
Snack: Fiber One bar
Dinner: Pot roast w/ carrots, spinach salad (w/strawberries & oranges)
Desert: WW Ice cream bar.

Whew what a day!

2008-10-08T22:50:00.000-07:00

It has been just a non stop day at our house! Up again in the middle of the night. For some reason our room is becoming a slumber party around 2 a.m. Everyone was up at 6:30. and we were off to the gym for Pilate's at 9:15. Dropped Z of at school at 10:30, A to dance class at 11 then back to pick up Z at 12:30. Oh and don't forget I have given up coffee! (What the heck was I thinking!). Came home put A in bed for her nap. Did 4 loads of laundry (still have to put most of it away). Cleaned kitchen, living room, guest bathroom. Mopped floor, vacuumed downstairs, dusted tables. Helped the kiddo's do make "card" for Grandma (who arrives tomorrow). Oh and made yummy chicken Parmesan for dinner. It was FANTASTIC. Then we ran to the grocery store for water and stuff for diner tomorrow night. We are having pot roast from the crock pot! I love fall cooking.

Tomorrow's agenda:
9 a.m. gym
11:40 pick up gma
3:30 MOMS Club board mtg
4 park play day
5 baseball practice
9 Grey's Anatomy

Still working hard on the eating plan. Need to get better about journaling.

Breakfast: Yoplait light yogurt mixed with 1/2 c Fiber One Cereal
Snack: Fiber One Bar
Lunch: Apple, Yoplait yogurt
Dinner: Chicken Parmesan w/ spaghetti noodles
Desert: WW Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Bar

Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought there was a pumpkin patch in Las Vegas. I took the girls with MOMS Club to a pumpkin patch. We miss going every year with our friends in Sacramento. The girls had a blast. Plus one huge melt down by my very tired 4 year old. We got 2 little pumpkins and 1 gal of apple cider!

Playhouse Disney Live

2008-10-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

We surprised the girls on Saturday and took them to see Playhouse Disney Live! They had a blast. They got to see all their favorite shows. They were so good we even took them out for dinner afterwards.

First Ball Game

2008-10-07T12:39:00.001-07:00

Well we survived our first game this past Saturday. It was at 8 a.m. The kids did fantastic. Z was able to play first base for the first time! She did great. All the kids had fun including Mom & Dad! GO TRANSFORMERS!!! (Yep that is our name:)

Monday Monday!

2008-10-07T07:16:00.000-07:00

Here comes another busy week. Went to the gym for my Hydro-fit class. Dropped Z off at school. I came home and decided to clear out the playroom. I dumped ALL the toys out of the bin, moved some furniture around and began the slow and painful process of sorting. I then picked up Z and we had a picnic at her school with one of her little classmates. We came home and I spent the rest of the day re-organizing the playroom. I should have had the girls help but it was so bad it was easier to do it myself. I finished the playroom around 4. Then I had to pick up downstairs and get ready for dinner. After dinner I went to the gym for my first class training for water fitness instruction. Came home watched Boston Legal (one of my new favs) and then tried to go to bed.

The girls were asleep when I got home from the gym. When I was downstairs I heard Z get up. I found her in our room so she got in our bed. I went to get her blanket and then woke up A. Then for 30+ minutes tried to get A back to sleep. Ended up falling asleep on the floor while I rubbed her back with the lights on! So I slept in Z's bed cuz I didn't want to wake up A again. Now we are off to the orchard today with the kiddos to pick some apples and maybe get a small pumpkin to make cookies out of!

Food Journal

Breakfast: Yoplait light yogurt mixed with fiber one cereal (3 pts)
Snack: Venti non fat chai latte w/ 1/2 pumpkin muffin (need to look up points)
Lunch: baby orange, grapes, slice of turkey
Snack: Yopliat yougurt
Dinner: Homemade chili (1 cup), salad (romaine lettuce, tomatoes, celery, carrots, basalmac vinigrette dressing)
Desert: Ice cream w/choc syrup

Water: 48 oz
Excercise: 55 min Hydro fit

Pilates!

2008-10-01T23:22:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I always thought I was coordinated enough for just about anything. That was until I tried Pilates. It was fun and I enjoyed it. I think I need to relax a little more. I am more of a jump in and do it type a person not a breathe in and breathe out and stretch kind of person! Thanks to Bernadette for putting my stuff away so I could get Z to school on time. Then I took A to her dance class. I am going to have to get some pictures next week to post. Then we picked up Z and had a quick picnic and stopped at the grocery store. Then home for A's nap and I cleaned downstairs since we are having make your own pizza at our house tomorrow.

I also spent time (probably too much) on trying to figure out the coupon thing. Including using CVS. You are suppose to be able to save a ton of $$$ by using CVS so I am going to try this and see if I can do it. It is hard though because we don't eat alot of processed foods and that seems to be what a lot the coupons are for.

Private Practice started tonight. It was good. So was Lipstick Jungle. I am a terrible TV junkie this time of year.

Breakfast: Oatmeal
Snack: Fiber One Bar
Lunch: Frozen personal pizza
Dinner: Carrots, BBQ sandwich, iced tea

Water 42 oz
Exercise: Pilates

Fall Ball is Here

2008-10-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

Z started tball a few weeks ago. Below are some pics from last weeks practice. She loves it. She has 3 friends from MOMS Club and 1 friend from preschool on her team. She is one of three retrning players and has definately improved over last year. Now I just need to get her to let me put her hair up out of her face!

Z is baseball ready with her hat & chomping on her chewing gum!

Coach Daddy is baseball ready too!

Thank God for WASHABLE Markers

2008-10-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

So when we moved here we rented. We are very thankful that we have rented and tucked the money from the sale of our house in California away till we move out east. However with 2 little girls you sometimes cringe when the do things because well..... it is not our house. I was eating my lunch yesterday when Z was upstairs. She was playing quietly not annoying her sister so I thought great! I had already gotten the bathrooms cleaned upstairs and our room dusted & vac. Washed all the towels as well as the sheets on our bed! I went upstairs to dust the girls room and I discovered why Z had been so quiet. She had scribbled a rainbow on her wall with all her washable markers. I asked her to come upstairs and tell me why she did this. Because she wanted color on her walls. So I got my magic eraser out and it smeared all the colors. So then I got a towel and wiped and erased, wiped and erased. I sent her to bed (she no longer naps). Took her pencil box away and then put A down for a nap. Yep I was that lucky that they both napped at the same time. I wish I could say I had been productive or something but no! I fell asleep with A waiting for her to nap.

We then went to a friends house for an Apple Tasting. It was equally exciting. The girls had fun playing with al of their little friends. Then we came home and had homemade pulled pork sandwiches from the slow cooker. Then the girls did bath, story and bed. When hubby and I went to bed Z was in our bed. I had told hubby that I heard someone getting up out of bed and opening and closing the door. Oh well it was a sweet surprise. Everyone sleep through the night though so that was nice!

Breakfast: Oatmeal
Lunch: Spinach Salad w/ dried cherries, blueberries, & Brown sugar
Dinner: Pulled pork sandwich on whole wheat bun, iced tea
Snack: Hot chocolate, cookies

Exercise: 0 (unless cleaning counts)
Water: 48 oz

New Week!

2008-09-29T22:39:00.000-07:00

Whew Monday went by fast. We were up at 6:30. All of us. DH had to be at work by 7 for a call and said goodbye to the girls while they were still asleep. We went to the gym. I took my hydro-fit class. We went into the deep pool today and I definitely feel a difference. I am going to learn how to teach the water classes I think. I am a touch nervous about this but it should be a lot of fun! Plus I think we will get our gym membership free. Took Z to school. She was a few minutes late because I was at the gym. She only missed about 5 min of toy time. While she was in school A and I went to Mervyn's. The one by us is going out of business so I got Z some winter clothes and DH some pants for work. Then I picked her up and we came home for lunch. No one napped. I put their room back together. For some reason last week Z took all her clothes out of the closet and kept them in a laundry basket. So I had to go through and hang up the new and the old. She helped and then she tried on her new clothes. She is starting to look like such a BIG girl. Then we went to the park for a MOMS Club activity. It was our birthday celebration. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our President Stacey! We had yummy cupcakes and cookies. I had one little cookie. Came home and had dinner bath and bed. The girls (knock on wood) are doing such a good job lately of going to be after their story with no fuss! LOVE IT!

Oh I did weigh myself. It is still at 171. So I need to kick up the exercise and watch the food a little better. At least I didn't gain though.

Breakfast: Oatmeal
Snack: Apple
Lunch: Ham, Provolone sandwich on Wheat Pita
Snack: Cookie at park
Dinner; turkey burger on wheat bun, steamed broccoli. ice tea
Desert: 2 cookies

Water: 48oz
Exercise: 55 min Hydro fit

Sunday Night Is Back!

2008-09-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

Ok we go from having nothing on TV to having to flip back and forth! I know I am terrible but I can't help it... this is my relaxation time! We had a LONG day with Miss A. She screamed off and on till about 4 p.m. till she finally pooped. So I am going to call the doctor tomorrow just to make sure there isn't something more we can do. It seems to be happening more and more and I have a feeling it is because she is scared to go on the potty. She pees on the potty but won't poop. I went to Whole Foods today to get some ingredients for Mahi Mahi Tacos. It is a recipe from the Clean Eating magazine. It was a little spicy for me but the girls at the fish without the extra stuff. We told them it was chicken! After we went to Yogels. Ice Cream for a family of four under $6... doesn't get much better. Now I am flipping between True Blood (HBO), Desperate Housewives, Brothers & Sisters, & Army Wives. I wish we still had TiVo but we got too addicted to EVERYTHING! So now I just catch what I miss online! Had a good eating day. We will have to see what the weigh in reveals tomorrow.

Breakfast: oatmeal w/ usual fixins
Lunch: Turkey, munster cheese, herbed lettuce, whole wheat pita.
Snack: Cookie from Whole Foods
Dinner: Mahi Mahi Tacos
Desert: Yogels frozen yogurt w/ caramel.

Water: 48 oz.

Friday & Saturday

2008-09-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a busy couple of days. Friday I hit the gym for my Hydro-fit class. It is a suspended water fitness class. It works your core. Then I took Miss A. to her first playgroup meeting. I started it through MOMS Club and it is nice for her to have some friends her age instead of her sisters. It meets during the time Z is in preschool so for the most part it will truly be her playgroup. We came home and chilled out. I had a terrible headache. It was hot today and we were at the park for 2 hours so I think that had something to do with it. We had a nice family dinner and then one of my friends watched the girls and the hubby and I went to see Road to Rodanthe with Diane Lane & Richard Gere. I really liked it. I need to re-read the book however but it was still really good. We also got our first delivery from Winder Farms today. We got 1 gallon of milk. It is so good. It is guaranted to be 32 hours from the actual cow. The produce box which is 6 lbs. of organic produce for $19.99, some decaf green ice tea, a free chicken dinner, 2 lbs of organic chicken, sliced turkey, and provolone cheese. All items are organic or all natural without pesticides etc.

Saturday hubby worked so the girls and I went to the gym for my Aquafit class. Then I took them to the library. The each got their own library cards and thought they were very cool. Then we came home and had some lunch. Since we got home until this morning little Miss A has been having trouble going poop. We have tried everything and she won't go. I finally had to give her some Tylenol because she hurt. She and I fell asleep on the floor of the living room. We have tried applesauce, prune juice, Mirolax (pharmacist recommended it), whatever fresh fruit or veggie she wants (red pepper, apple, baby oranges, carrots). Nothing she won't let it happen. So not sure what to do next. Here is my food journal for Friday and Saturday:

Friday:
Breakfast: Oatmeal (same as always)
Lunch: Baby Oranges, Turkey sandwich w/ herbed lettuce, and muenster cheese on a whole wheat pita.
Snack: Orange
Dinner: Grilled Chicken on a herbed lettuce salad w/ tomatoes, red peppers, carrots.
Snack: Shared small popcorn (no butter), Ben & Jerry's Strawberry Cheesecake ice cream on a sugar cone.

Exercise: 55 min of Hydro fit
Water: 72 oz

Saturday:
Breakfast: Oatmeal
Snack: Non-fat chai latte, Cinnamon swirl coffee cake (Starbucks)
Lunch: Spinach Salad w/ strawberries, baby oranges, & almonds
Dinner: Grilled Chicken on a herbed lettuce salad w/ tomatoes, red peppers, carrots.
Snack: Hot chocolate.

Thursday!

2008-09-26T07:45:00.000-07:00

Whew! Well I didn't hit the gym today. I figured it was OK since I have been everyday this week and twice on Tuesday. We went to Ethel M's today to see the candy and walk in the cactus garden. It is so pretty there but also a little hot today. The girls got some M&M's and we went home. They had fun playing with their little friends from MOMS Club. We came home and chilled out before baseball practice. Baseball paractice was great. Z is really getting it this year! She has 3 little friends from MOMS Club on her team and a little boy from preschool too. I took some pictures because they were all so stinkin cute. I will post them later. We had a nice family dinner and then it was bath and bed and mommy watched Greys Anatomy! I am so glad it was back! I think it is going to be a very interesting season we shall see!

Breakfast: Oatmeal & hot chocolate
Lunch: Spinach Salad with Strawberries & Almonds
Snack: Chocolate & Carmal Iced drink from Ethel M's (only drank 1/2 it was way too rich for me).
Dinner: Turkey burger on whole wheat bun, steamed brocoli, sweet potato fries.
Desert: Hot cholocolate, small chocolate bar from Ethel M's.

Excercise: no gym but walked a lot through the cactus garden

Water: 72 oz

Hump Day!!

2008-09-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

What were you thinking I meant? Wednesday is called hump day. Anyway it was just another busy day here. We went to the gym first. I did cardio and abs. Then it was preschool drop off, dance class, preschool pick up. While Abby took a nap I cleaned out my craft shelves. Whew do I have a lot of stuff. I founds some items to donate to the preschool and made room to incorporate quilting with scrapbooking. Then we went to the park for 2 hours, dinner and then everyone in bed by 8. Oh and I washed sheets, towels, and gym clothes too. I am doing this early because I am so excited about Lipstick Jungle tonight and also I can catch last nights episode of 90210. Yep I am one of those adults who was addicted to the old show that is now watching the new one! Until tomorrow!

Breakfast: Hot Chocolate, Oatmeal (same as always)
Snack: nonfat chai latte, cinnamon roll from Starbucks (oops there goes the gym)
Lunch: Rye bread, turkey, Monterrey jack cheese, dijonaise
Snack: Apple
Dinner: Grilled Chicken, steamed broccoli
Desert: vanilla ice cream with organic chocolate sauce

Gym: Cardio - 25 min, Abs - 15 mins

Water: 72 oz

Tuesday's Happenings

2008-09-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

Just another busy day here! Dropped Grandpa off with his friends so they could start their drive no Northern Cal. The girls and went to the gym. I did my Aquafit class. It was great. One of my friends from MOMS Club joined me. Then I took the girls to the Cheese for our Activities Meeting for the November calender! I took a sneak peek at our October calender. OMG is it packed we have several days that are double booked. We've got pony farms and pumpkin patches, cookie decorating and park days. It is going to be a fantastic month! Then we cam home and actually both girls took a nap. I just relaxed because well Z never naps and I was wiped out from having company all weekend. Then I helped Z do her homework for preschool tomorrow. She had to cut out pictures of items that start with the letter A. So we did apples & alligators. Then hubby came home and I went back to the gym (yep that is twice today) for my Aquasculpt class. it is only 45 minutes but fantastic. Now I am chilling watching Dancing with the Stars! Oh and here is my recap for the day!

Breakfast: Oatmeal (same as always)
Lunch: 2 slices peperoni pizza
Snack: Slice of pound cake (I have thrown the rest of it out!)
Dinner: Cut veggies, dip,
Snack: Hot Chocolate

Water: 48 oz

Exercise: 60 Aquafit, 45 Aquasculpt

Is it Monday already?

2008-09-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

Whew the weekend went by fast. With Grandpa in town it just flew by. Today we went to the gym to try a new class. It was a lot of fun so I can't wait to see how it goes once it gets harder. Z went to preschool today. Can you believe it she knows the Pledge of Allegiance. She had a little picnic after school with one of her classmates. Of course it was a little boy and they had a blast. While A took her nap this afternoon Z and I played with the paper dolls she recieved from Grandpa's friends. After diner we went for one last ice cream with Grandpa. Then it was bath and bed. Daddy and Grandpa are doing story time while mommy catches dancing with the stars. Z did have an accident last night so I am going to try waking her up at 10, 12, 2 and then have K wake her up at 4:30 when he gets up for the gym. Hopefully this helps her! Until tomorrow...

Breakfast: Yoplait light yogurt mixed with Fiber One Cereal

Snack: Fiber One oats & strawberry bar

Lunch: Spinach Salad w/ strawberries & oranges. carrot sticks & snap peas (My new favorite yummy!).

Snack: Pound Cake (gotta get it out of the house!!)

Dinner: Spinach manicotti, garlic bread

Desert: vanilla yogurt w/ caramel

Exersize: Hydrofit class 60 min

Water: 48 oz (gotta do better tomorrow)

A Visit From Grandpa

2008-09-22T17:17:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics of our visit with Grandpa! As you can see the girls have him right where they want him..... WRAPPED AROUND THEIR LITTLE FINGERS!!

Storytime w/ Grandpa and Bubba!

Abby showing Grandpa who is boss!

Grandpa and his Girls!

Abby loving her ice cream face!

Monday Weigh In.

2008-09-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I was a little nervous about today (just like I was back in my WW days). However I was pleasantly surprised. I weighed in las weak at 172.8 today I weighed in at 171.2. So WOO HOO I lost 1.6 lbs. So I am very excited. I went to the gym this morning before preschool to try out a new water class called Hydro-fit. It was interesting. We wear these ankle boots that are bouyant so you have to use your core to hold them down. Today was just learning how to use them safely but I can feel my core a little (nothing too bad).

Sunday September 21st

2008-09-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

Just another busy day here at our house! Grandpa's friends were coming over for dinner today so we had a lot to do. I went to the grocery store early to get everything else I needed. Then grandpa & daddy took the girls to the park so I could clean the house. I vacuumed & dusted and put everything away. We then had lunch outside (didn't want to get my kitchen dirty). Then I got ready and put together the Spinach & Cheese Manicotti. It was YUMMY!!! I also served the polish pound cake for desert. We had a nice visit with grandpa's friends and the girls were treated to wonderful presents from his friends. They girls went down easy and I relaxed. I did have to wake up Z at 10 and 12 to take her potty but she still had an accident so I am going to have to wake her up at probably 2. I think she had an allergic reaction to some new pull-ups so we are trying to get her used to waking up in the middle of the night! She was so cute when I was waking her up! She was taking in her sleep. Last night she was saying she was a good daughter and that she didn't want any hair. Silly stuff but very cute!

Breakfast: Oatmeal (same old stuff)

Lunch: Turkey Sandwich w/ Monterey Jack, Lettuce & Rye bread). Strawberry Lemonade from Winder farms.

Dinner: Spinach & Cheese manicotti, garlic bread, caesar salad, polish pound cake, & homemade ice tea.

Snack: Glass of Milk and a sliver of pound cake!

Water = 72 oz

Gym = 0

Whew I am Tired!

2008-09-20T20:18:00.001-07:00

Hubby took the day off to spend with his kids and his daddy. They took the kids toy shopping and to see some of grandpa's friends. While they were gone I went to the gym. I took two 55 min classes. One was my normal Aqua-fit class the other was Aqua-aerobics. Man was I tired but it felt so good. I came home and made a polish pound cake (yes Laurie the 5 pound cake). Then I cleaned up cuz grandpa's friends came to visit for a little this afternoon as well. We had a nice visit with Grandpa's friends (they might take the kitty home) and then grandpa went out for the evening with them. We had dinner and then at 8:30 story time and bed for the girls!!! Here is the today's menu.

Breakfast: Oatmeal (same old same old)

Lunch: Turkey sandwich (Monterrey jack, dijonaise) on rye bread)

Snack: Pita chips, carrots, snap peas, some ranch dip. (We had a veggie tray and chips for gpa's friends).

Dinner: Same as last night only about half as much, glass as wine, and salad.

Exercise: 55 min aqua-fit, 55 min aqua-aerobics.

TGIF

2008-09-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

Whew we had a busy week. I felt like I have been running everywhere. Today was no exception. This morning I vacuumed the house before grandpa arrived and dusted the upstairs. Then we took Zoey to school. While she was at school Abby and I went to the Sunflower Market. It was great. It was very similar to Whole Foods or Trader Joes but much more open and airy. Not all crowded. Then we had to run to one more grocery store to get some manicotti noodles for Sunday. We picked up Zoey and home we went. Abby fell asleep on the way home so she took a great nap before grandpa arrived and Zoey just chilled out with me. Once grandpa was here they were velcro with him. We had Chicken for dinner and then went for ice cream.

Breakfast: Oatmeal (same as always)

Lunch: Huge Spinach salad (same as always)

Dinner: Chicken Catcitore, Spinach Salad, Glass of Wine

Desert: Frozen yogurt from Yogels with some caramel and crushed butterfinger (yep I know I was bad.

Water: 72 oz

No excercise today

Thursday Happenings

2008-09-19T07:26:00.000-07:00

Another busy day here for us! Laundry & Cleaning bathrooms before the gym since we are getting company this weekend. We went to the gym for my Aquafit class where we did a great arm workout. The girls and I came home I cleaned some more and then we were off to baseball practice. Nothing more cute then watching a bunch of 3&4 yr olds playing t-ball. After that it was MOMS Night Out! We went to Hash House A Go Go (click on the name to see the restaurant & menu). The food was fantastic, crazy, and HUGE. We had great conversation and just a fantastic time. Then it was home to bed. Here is the run down for yesterday!

Breakfast: Oatmeal (same as always)

Snack: Fiber One bar (Oats & Strawberries)

Lunch: Spinach salad w/ strawberries & madarin oranges, some clementine oranges.

Snack: Fiber One bar (carmel)

Dinner: Glass of wine, 1/3 of the portion of Chicken & Bisquits, a honey bisquit, some carrots, and yummy mashed potatoes.

Water = 72 oz.

Where did the day go?

2008-09-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

Busy day that started at 4:50 a.m. Yep that is correct! In addition I survived without coffee. Took Z to preschool then A to dance class. Then we went back to pick up Z. We had lunch relaxed. Nobody would take a nap:(. SO we went to the park around 3 for a few hours where they ran around like crazy with their friends from MOMS Club! Came home had some dinner then baths & now it is 8:30 and they are tucked in bed. Got the dishes done downstairs vacuumed, hubby helps start the laundry and we both helped the girls get their toys cleaned up!

One funny note Z received another coupon for remembering another rule at preschool. What was the rule you ask? It was listening. You think she could remember that rule at home too! Oh well someday right!

Yes as you noticed I didn't make it to the gym today. My water classes are not held on Wednesday and with school and dance the girls are just exhausted. So I am headed their tomorrow. Here's the rest of my daily info:

Breakfast: Oatmeal (same as the last two days), hot chocolate (thought it would make up for no coffee)

Snack: Almonds, Fiber One bar (Carmel), clementine orange.

Lunch: Tuna Fish with broccoli slaw mixed in on a whole wheat pita.

Dinner: Chicken & Artichoke Sausage, snap peas, and spinach salad w/ strawberries & clementine oranges.

Desert: Hubby made me a small yoplait smoothie(mix sold at Costco) with a banana mixed in.

I feel like I am doing better. I was complemented by one of the other moms that my legs look toner and my hubby says he notices too. Until tomorrow!

NO MORE COFFEE???

2008-09-17T05:19:00.000-07:00

What in the world was I thinking? Last night I agreed to give up coffee and then when I was washing the coffee pot to put it away I realized the glass was cracked. So this was obviously a sign right? Well Here I am up at 4:50 a.m. with little Miss A and I have no stinking coffee! Hopefully some sugar free hot cocoa will help me a little. Sorry crazy girls if mommy is a little off her rocker today!!!

Food Journal 9/16

2008-09-16T07:49:00.000-07:00

It was another early morning today. Little Miss A had me up at 5:30. I should probably try to be more productive with this time but it is nice to cuddle with her on the couch while we watch Madagascar for the 1000th time. I did iron some shorts for my hubby for work and sewed a few blocks together for my Americana quilt that I am making for our living room (see pics to the right). I am still waiting for some fabric from the Fabric Shack but I am going to work on some other portions in the mean time. I made it to the morning Aquafit class today. I was sore this morning but after running around the house I loosened up. After the gym the girls and I headed to the mall for the hubby and then the learning store as Z received a coupon yesterday in preschool for remembering a rule. So she redeemed it for a prize from the treasure box! We came home for a nap for A then we were off again to the park for a board meeting for MOMS Club and playtime and then to Costco! Gosh food is expensive!!! Now we are home and the girls are in the bath I am suppose to be cleaning the kitchen (oops!) have a great evening everyone!

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/flax seed meal, wheat germ, dried blueberries & cherries

Snack: Fiber One Bar (Oats & Strawberries), baby carrots, and some pretzel sticks

Lunch: Huge Spinach Salad with strawberries, mandarin oranges and almond slices

Snack: Fiber One Bar (Carmel (VERY YUMMY)

Dinner: Baked Ziti from last night w/ spinach salad (same as above only smaller

Water = 72 oz

Exercise = 60 of Aquafit class (man did she kick my booty too!!)

Today's Food Jounal 9/15

2008-09-15T13:41:00.000-07:00

Well we had a busy day today! Took Z to preschool then A to the park. Picked Z up at preschool and we had a picnic after school. Took the girls home and I cleaned the downstairs (vac & mop & dust!). We then left again to go to another park to do a craft for MOMS Club. One of my friends then took my girls home with her and I head to the gym for my Aquafit class (LOVE IT!). I did laps for about 10-15 minutes before and then a 60 minute Aquafit class. Then came home at some yummy dinner and am hoping to be able to catch One Tree Hill tonight!

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/ flax seed, wheat germ, dried cherries & blueberries & brown sugar. Coffee (2 cups little miss abby had me up at 5 a.m.!)

Lunch: Spinach Salad w/ strawberries, mandarin oranges & sliced almonds. lean turkey meat.

Snack: Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwich (Yummo!)

Dinner: Baked Ziti (ground turkey, w/ carrots, whole wheat pasta) recipe from Eat Clean book.

Evening Snack: Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwich (Yep I am having 2 today:)

Water = 72oz.

My New Goal!

2008-09-15T09:52:00.000-07:00

OK... So here is the deal. We (Kevin & I) are trying to eat healthier (clean eating & switching to organic), lose weight (he has lost 20 pounds), and become a more active family (bowling, park days, baseball). He is doing an awesome job. Up every morning at 5 goes to the gym comes home goes to work. He has lost 20+ pounds and looks FANTASTIC!!! (I am a very lucky lady). Me on the other hand need some more motivation. So this is what I have decided. I am going to keep an online journal of what I eat (isn't everyone thrilled!) and what I do as far as exercise. I am even going to give myself a weekly weigh in and post it (YIKES!!). I figure this is probably the best way for me to stay motivated. So I am starting right now! My beginning weight is 172. How awful I know. My goal today is to stick to my healthy eating habits and go to the gym tonight at 5:30 for my aquafit class and stay after for 30 minutes and do some laps. I will post at the end of the day my food journal and what I actually did. Wish me luck!!!

Weekly Recap!

2008-09-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

OK! So I know I am a little behind in the posting. We have been busy this week. Zoey started preschool. She loves it. We had our new member coffee for MOMS Club this week and it went well with 4 out of 6 new members coming. I actually made it to the gym a couple times this week too. And the biggest news of the week is I got Zoey's quilt back from the quilter and finished the binding tonight. It is my second quilt so I have a lot of learning to do still when it comes to putting on a binding but I am getting there. Zoey is currently sound asleep under her new quilt. I will take a picture tomorrow and post. Zoey is sick with a sinus infection and nasty cough. Of course Abby is now showing signs of this as well as Kevin so I am sure to have fun next week! I did get my entire upstairs clean today! Have a good one!

Great Moments

2008-09-03T15:32:00.001-07:00

These are the moments that you catch unexpectedly. I am so lucky to be able to stay home with these two crazy little girls. This is them when they are suppose to be resting! Of course it is now 3:30 and they have not taken a nap today! Oh well... maybe tomorrow!

A Visit by the Dentist

2008-09-03T15:28:00.001-07:00

For our September business meeting at MOMS Club we had a local dentist come speak to us! It was a hit. The kids had a great time and the moms had some great questions!

Happy Birthday Ryan

2008-09-03T15:18:00.001-07:00

For Labor Day weekend Kevin's sisters family came up to see us. It was our nephew Ryan's 15th birthday. Also, it was our 5th wedding anniversary. We celebrated Ryan's birthday with cake on Friday after dinner. Then the parents went to the Red Rock for some beverages!! It was great the kiddo's had such a blast with their cousins in charge!

Zoey getting ready to help Ryan blow out his candles!

Auntie Laurie and Abby enjoying cake with the party hats that the girls picked out for Ryan. Did I tell you they got him a Diego card because Zoey just new that Diego was Ryan's favorite!!

We had a great weekend. We went to sushi with laurie and Steve for our anniversary. Tried to get re-married by Elvis but it was not going to be as funny @ $200 a couple. Then Sunday we took the kids bowling. Oh and Laurie and I did go to a quilt shop and she helped me pick out some fabric for my next project. It was a great weekend and thanks for coming to see us!!!

Clifford the Big Red Dog

2008-09-03T15:12:00.000-07:00

Clifford was at the bookstore a few weeks ago. Kevin was working so off we went. Zoey was a little nervous so I had to take a picture with her. (That is why I don't have one of her). Abby on the other hand was very happy to see Clifford. Even gave him a hug goodbye.

Proud Mama!

2008-08-21T22:00:00.000-07:00

DH decided to take the day off today so he tagged along to the dentist. This was Abby's first official check up and Zoey's first cleaning. We have been reading a Dora story called "A Visit to the Dentist" since Zoey's last check up 6 months ago. So Zoey knew what everything was, knew about the x-ray and to hold still and really wanted her teeth clean. Well she got it! She was PERFECT for her x-rays (NO CAVITIES!!) as well as fantastic for her teeth cleaning (she loved the water sprayer thingy). Abigail had a great time too! She didn't want to sit in my lap she wanted to sit in the big purple chair like Zoey. She got her teeth counted, a new sticker, and a tooth brush.

We then went to Target because Kevin promised Zoey school supplies. Keep in mind she is going to go to preschool. We got pencil boxes, colored pencils, erasers, rulers, pencil sharpeners, and lunch boxes. So now Zoey has all her school stuff in her backpack and is carrying it with her everywhere! She does homework all the time. It is too cute. I can't wait to remind her of this when she is a teenager!

Off to chill out with remote and enjoy the quiet before bedtime!

Happy Monday

2008-08-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Is it Monday already? I don't even remember what we did this weekend.!! Last night I saw Mamma Mia with some girlfriends from MOMS Club! It was great! I know my DH is so glad that I did not drag him to see it! When I got home my 4 yr old was still up. She was worried about me while I was gone. Well off to the gym and then Chucky Cheese (doesn't that make sense!). Have a great week!

Introducing Captain Kitty!

2008-08-16T12:01:00.001-07:00

Well many of you have heard that last week when we went to get the mail we found a "strange" little kitty by the mailbox. (This is what Zoey told her daddy). We put up signs and no one has called. We are calling her Captain and I think maybe we are keeping her. The girls keep saying we are babysitting her till her real parents come to get her! We will let you know the outcome!

Next Project - Zoey's Quilt

2008-08-16T11:54:00.001-07:00

Well it appears I am off and running. Here is the top for Zoey's quilt. It is a Turning Twenty pattern. I found most of the material in Escanaba and Cincy when I was on vacation. The backing fabric below I got here in town. Now I just need to get my machine working and quilt it together. Maybe I will wait till my wonderful sister-in-law is here and we can do it over Margarita's!!!!!! HINT! HINT!

Finished Quilt!!!!

2008-08-16T11:43:00.001-07:00

WOW! I have finished my first quilt! As you can see Abby is in love with it! Special thanks to Stacey & Piper for watching the kiddo's for me so I could go to class. Also thanks to the hubby for having some days off so I could go to class. Thanks to my sister in law for inspiring me and my mommy for helping me "quilt it together" in Ohio!! Next up is Zoey's quilt

Back From Vacation

2008-08-08T07:37:00.000-07:00

We just got back (the girls and I) from going to see Gran and Grandpa in Ohio. They were so good on the flight and the ran right up to my parents when they saw them. Totally worth the 4 hour flight! As you can see below Abigail has her Grandpa right where she wants him:)

We did a lot of fun stuff with the girls. We drove to see my dad's parents and to my brothers. We also took the girls to The American Girl Store (more for mommy and Gran than the girls). Then my mom's parents came to visit. The girls were able to see ALL their Great Grandparents. Yes I am that lucky to have ALL my grandparents still with me!

Below: Here is the dog house that Zoey and Grandpa made. As you can see Kate is not really to thrilled with the idea but the girls had fun playing in it!!

Below: The girls wadding in Little Bay De Noc (Lake Michigan). They loved Escanaba! Especially Aunt Margaret and Uncle Dan's house!

Below: Abby picking flowers for Great Grandpa Saint!!!

Below: Zoey and her Uncle Dan!

Sarah Visit Day Four

2008-07-03T21:52:00.000-07:00

The girls (Zoey) wanted to play baseball after naps and spending 3 hours at the pool. So while I got dinner ready the girls practiced baseball. They seemed to have a really good time in the 110 heat!!

Sarah helping Abby swing the ball!

Zoey trying to be baseball ready.

I took the girls for frozen yogurt after dinner. I am not sure if Zoey ate hers or just wore it! Afterwards it was 8:15 so we figured at 98 it was cool enough to play at the park for awhile!

The girls swinging and Sarah pushing! I think (Hope) everyone is very tired.

Sarah's Visit Day Three

2008-07-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

We had a great day three!! Very Very Busy! We started off by going to a park that has a water feature. All of the kids had a great time. Of course it was over 100 by 11:30 so we did not stay very long!

Sarah Taking a break from chasing after Abby!

As you can see Zoey gets red after just 5 minutes outside. She sure had fun on this part of the park though! She and all her friends were riding it together!

Abby wants to be a big girl! She is riding the same thing Zoey was but holding on for dear life as she squeals in delight!

Our two little chefs. Zoey and Sarah decided to make choc. chip cookies while Abby was napping upstairs in the pillow bed Sarah made for her.

Abby in her pillow bed. Doesn't she still look like a baby? Hard to believe she is almost 2 1/2 yrs. old!

Our little artist next took up painting! Needless to say we had a very busy but fun day!!!

We will keep you posted!

Sarah's Visit Day Two!

2008-06-29T20:02:00.000-07:00

Filling up water balloons!

Who needs water balloons when you have a water hose!

Everyone is having a blast. We went to the pool for 3 hours today. Came home had leftover Pick Up Stix for lunch!! (YUMMO!!!). The girls took a nap while Kevin and Sarah went to Target. Sarah got some new sunglasses and they brought home some water balloons! See pictures!!

To Make Us Laugh

2008-06-29T17:33:00.000-07:00

I found this today on a blog and had to steal it! If I only I was brave enough to do this!!!

A man came home from work and found his three children outside, still in their pajamas, playing in the mud. Empty boxes and food wrappers were strewn all around the front yard. The door to his wife's car was open, as was the front door to the house, and there was no sign of the dog. Proceeding into the entry, he found a lamp knocked over and the throw rug wadded against one wall. In the front room, the TV was loudly blaring a cartoon channel and the family room was piled with toys and clothes. In the kitchen, dirty dishes filled the sink, food was spilled on the counter, the fridge door was open wide, dog food was spilled all over the floor, a broken glass lay under the table, and a small pile of sand was spread by the back door. He quickly headed up the stairs, stepping over toys and more piles of clothes, looking for his wife. He was worried she might be ill, or that something serious had happened. He was met with a small trickle of water as it made its way out of the bathroom door. As he peered inside he found wet towels, miles of toilet paper in a heap, and toothpaste smeared over the mirror and walls. As he rushed to the bedroom, he found his wife still curled up in the bed in her pajamas, reading a novel. She looked up at him, smiled, and asked how his day went. He looked at her bewildered and asked, "What happened here today?" She again smiled and answered, "You know every day when you come home from work and you ask me what in the world I do all day?" "Yes," was his incredulous reply. She answered, "Well, today I didn't do it."

Sarah's Arrival

2008-06-28T18:35:00.001-07:00

Today is the day the girls have been waiting for! Cousin Sarah is arriving. We were able to go all the way to the gate to meet her. The girls had me make signs so EVERYONE would know they were there to pick up Sarah!

The girls practicing holding up their signs.

Look! It's Sarah's airplane!

One quick photo op and we are on our way! Just so you know... Abby picked out her own shoes for her outfit. It is going to be a great 11 days! The 3 girls are all upstairs playing and having fun! Of course on the way home we had to stop at Starbuck's! As you know my car is on autopilot for that! More tomorrow!!!

Swimming Lessons

2008-06-24T08:57:00.001-07:00

We took swimming lessons this June. As you can see we are developing some water bugs. Abby is practicing her chugga chugga choo choo on the edge of the pool here.

After screaming bloody murder for the first week Zoey is now practicing floating. She loves to get the rings off the bottom of the pool and kick!!!

Don't they look sweet and innocent! This is right before swim lessons. They are now into posing for pictures together! Finally!!! It has only taken 2 yrs to get them to stand close to eachother in a picture!!!!

First Quilt Row

2008-06-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Inspired by my mom and my sister-in-law's ability to sew anything I am taking a quilting class. Above is a picture of my first row!!! I am having a blast however I have realized that I need to get some glasses. Those rulers are hard to read!!!!

Black Eye

2008-06-24T08:37:00.001-07:00

Well, we had an eventful night last night! As you can see we have our first black eye. The girls were playing in the playroom by pushing eachother into the pillows. Abby went to get up and Zoey pushed a chair and well you get a black eye! Zoey felt so bad she slept on the floor of her sisters room last night. All is better today! We are off to the gym! Love to all!!!

My Little Pirate

2008-06-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here is a pic of Zoey's pirate cake! She loved it and it tasted awesome! All the kids wanted to eat the hat! Not sure how much the parents liked the kiddos' with black tongues! OH WELL!!
Daddy brought home a convertible for Zoey to ride in over the weekend. Or as she calls it a car with no roof on it. We drove to see Kung Fu Panda and the girls had a blast.
Well we had a birthday party over the weekend! Zoey is into pirates now and she is holding her sister hostage:) We had 8 kiddos at the party and LOTS of fun. Gotta run to the Zoo and then my first quilting class today!!! Will post more!

County Fair 2008

2008-04-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

What a day we had!! We went to the County Fair today. The girls had a blast! The got corn dogs, lemonade. Daddy won them each a stuffed dog. Granted it cost him $20 to win them:):) The girls got to ride some rides and see a lot of animals. Abby was afraid the cows were going to eat her mimi. Mommy was hoping she would feed it to them and then they would be gone. Zoey was so tired she fell asleep in the wagon on the way out to the car. We did discover on the way home the importance of going to the bathroom before you leave. In the desert there is no where to stop for a potty break and little girls do not have very good aim!!!!

SICK KIDS

2008-04-11T08:50:00.001-07:00

OMG! There is nothing worse than having a little one who is tummy sick in the middle of the night!! She seems to be feeling better today but mommy is exhausted after running a load of laundry in the middle of the night, giving my little ballerina a shower and getting her to lay down with a movie! Luckily the husband is staying home today too so hopefully we can take turns with naps:) Good luck to all the mommys out there with sick kids today!!!

Hello

2008-04-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

Hello, This is my first entry to my new blog. My sister-in-law sent me a link to hers and I thought what a wonderful idea so I stole it from her:) We are going to use this to keep in touch with friends and family since we live far away from everyone. I am now a stay at home mommy to my 2 little girls. We are on our way to dance class this morning but thought I would share this.
My oldest needed a band-aid on her toe because a waffle fell on it from the freezer and it was cold. Gotta love the early morning drama!