tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44917330123804161992023-12-19T14:02:59.521-06:00Melissa's RamblingsAn urban homesteading blog based in ICT. A family of 7 tackles how to incorporate more homesteading and less consumerism into their lives.Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-41115200093647865122011-10-31T11:37:00.000-05:002011-10-31T11:37:33.317-05:00Been a long time, friendsWow - how many cliches could I insert here!<br />
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I've deciding to rekindle the old blog - and to start things off, how about a little catching up, shall we?!<br />
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(By the way, if you're in my blog feeder, I've been lurking.) <br />
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Last we spoke, I was starting seeds from scratch. That turned out well. Very well! We actually were up to our eyeballs in tiny plants. I couldn't give them away fast enough.<br />
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But since then, lot's has changed. Here's a quick run down:<br />
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My marriage has ended. No need to elaborate. It was a long time coming and something that had to be done. For me and my sanity. For my kids. If you were to encounter us together, we get along fairly well. Dare I say we make better friends than spouses? Yes, yes we do.<br />
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I have had another baby - mmm hmmm. Mom of 6 now. Delaney is almost 6 months old. <br />
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The kids and I had to move. It was quite traumatic for all of us, yet we had no choice in the matter. 7 months into the "new" house and we've settled in quite well. Sometime soon I'll be writing about the new house and why it's such a blessing. The chickens moved along with us... the labradors didn't. They are happily running on 13 acres - lucky dogs! We do have a new dog, a pug named, Pug. Or Buddy. Or Bugsy. He has many names and responds to them all.<br />
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I coupon, a lot. I photograph, a lot. I love on my kiddos, a lot. <br />
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Looking forward to getting back to blogging and chatting again.Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-69706296156377059732010-03-01T13:02:00.005-06:002010-03-01T13:33:37.622-06:00Seed Starting BasicsIt's nearly spring and everybody I know has Spring Fever. We ALL want to get outside and dig in the dirt. Lucky for us, we've had a lot of moisture, but digging in mud isn't good for the garden or the gardener.<br /><br />How about starting a few plants from seed this year? It's really not as hard as you might think. Let me share a few tips that I've learned over the past few years.<br /><br />Step 1: Choose your seeds. I realize this could be an entire blog post and I may write up something. What you need to know is: your growing zone and what you want to grow. I prefer growing Heirloom seeds (i.e. not genetically modified) because I can save seeds from this year's crop and grow them again next year, and eventually, it will be a zero-cost garden.<br /><br />Most seed packages will tell you if you should direct sow or start indoors. Finding the last frost date for your area is a simple check of google. Count backwards the # of weeks indicated and then you'll know when to start your seeds indoors. Suffice to say, don't wait until May to decide to grow tomatoes from seed - there's just not enough warm season left to do this (well, it CAN be done, but it takes more work!)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK0r2MEiQSXXk2x1hg_7J8Zv7MDJMA92LCIPR0RSP0zoQ-ndWBwV29AQw6Ck81uBFua7J8JFV0ZS7oxAt-W_8v50vig1pGwoU6vLRBYVIk8NY8FpwlHovHDtHIgfpT3MF8xCBG7FnRF-M/s1600-h/Peat+%26+Vermiculite.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443744086024708690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK0r2MEiQSXXk2x1hg_7J8Zv7MDJMA92LCIPR0RSP0zoQ-ndWBwV29AQw6Ck81uBFua7J8JFV0ZS7oxAt-W_8v50vig1pGwoU6vLRBYVIk8NY8FpwlHovHDtHIgfpT3MF8xCBG7FnRF-M/s400/Peat+%26+Vermiculite.jpg" /></a> Step 2: Now that you've gotten your seed, what do you grow it in? A few years ago, I stopped at the seed store and picked up several flats: sealed bottom, perforated bottom, divided and clear dome lids. Now, you don't need to go to this expense. Prior to that, I started seeds in leftover plastic containers (think salad bar to go boxes) and plastic wrap. ANYTHING that will hold soil will be fine to grow seeds in. I just upgraded so I'd have the uniform flats to re-use. All I need to do is wash them with a bleach/water solution prior to using. For growing medium, I use a mixture of Peat Moss and Vermiculite. You can see that I buy the X-LARGE bags of each. I use a lot of growing medium as we start over 600 plants each year. You may be fine to get the smaller bags, but for savings, get big bags and share w/ other gardeners. I mix at a 50/50 ratio in a large <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">rubbermaid</span> tote and wet it down as I go. TIP: mix outdoors! It's a very dusty!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiECPbvf_CjDzhDftiy0lmcniNtyQXMOEuwoM2sdPYEMEFl_Ig7XJrsuFtz1P9OunNA1u-QHXVC5-xH3IyCNbJm7hof0k_qewii6obp2erSQ8A9rVnxyfZAAzNIhYe7JoYCJMfREQ0_wVI/s1600-h/Clear+Lids.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443743975348262994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiECPbvf_CjDzhDftiy0lmcniNtyQXMOEuwoM2sdPYEMEFl_Ig7XJrsuFtz1P9OunNA1u-QHXVC5-xH3IyCNbJm7hof0k_qewii6obp2erSQ8A9rVnxyfZAAzNIhYe7JoYCJMfREQ0_wVI/s400/Clear+Lids.jpg" /></a> Depending on the seed, I will use different inserts. For tomatoes and peppers, I prefer the 9-holes. For onions, I prefer an undivided tray. My son prefers the peat pots (we also were intrigued by the cow manure pots - but that's for another year.) After you fill your pot/flat with the peat/vermiculite mix, tuck the seeds in. Spray until the surface is dampened and cover it. I do not use heat mats of any kind as we have a large picture window that is south facing. It heats up quite nicely and I've not needed heat mats.</div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9FTkhSqxC1ZTO-Xwh0W4Dns3JwgjMFPDml13NjLrG8Ra6nb4gRGUsOKOKJGK4GXSXv7FvROMgGd4I_nytyy3rA3g40l_5rH3xXsGJeY3y3x7HQvQLRKwUf2rg1f4yRj-LM3d9kJgvyY/s1600-h/Hole+in+Middle.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443743971682779394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9FTkhSqxC1ZTO-Xwh0W4Dns3JwgjMFPDml13NjLrG8Ra6nb4gRGUsOKOKJGK4GXSXv7FvROMgGd4I_nytyy3rA3g40l_5rH3xXsGJeY3y3x7HQvQLRKwUf2rg1f4yRj-LM3d9kJgvyY/s400/Hole+in+Middle.jpg" /></a><br />TIP: Leave one spot open in the middle - it'll be very helpful for watering later on. You can also leave a corner spot open. It's just easier to water this way vs. lifting the edge of the tray. (The growing tray is inserted into a sealed bottom tray to contain the water overflow.)<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzEr5AhbIXR-ZfKcWh3ieDaANeqM3Ra_cFSf_BJstTJj6hQPX62ikQ9OylY4lfNoPqdz3bC9Jz4Ahx5JuBei82_1-em6Eg7C28IBhyphenhyphenVRIln36PeObfYn1Cw_AAv9Xsh_Ne-o_GOwa0XE/s1600-h/Tray.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443743957631053906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzEr5AhbIXR-ZfKcWh3ieDaANeqM3Ra_cFSf_BJstTJj6hQPX62ikQ9OylY4lfNoPqdz3bC9Jz4Ahx5JuBei82_1-em6Eg7C28IBhyphenhyphenVRIln36PeObfYn1Cw_AAv9Xsh_Ne-o_GOwa0XE/s400/Tray.jpg" /></a><br />TIP: Use old mini-blinds for plant markers. Just cut to fit inside the lids and mark with a sharpie.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyJE0YDgAhBGDUBWjTxNYXPbuqKpoP3JTips2H1RFciNw17eVPoh63VWzibXl8Wwv8tzwsRcCIyiYEVGao6n0fzBnNAD7ogfPF5m22VODYJ2jenhMAD_JCEcVdTMi4Pmd-ew_zjOqftQ/s1600-h/Damping+Off.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443743832150410418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyJE0YDgAhBGDUBWjTxNYXPbuqKpoP3JTips2H1RFciNw17eVPoh63VWzibXl8Wwv8tzwsRcCIyiYEVGao6n0fzBnNAD7ogfPF5m22VODYJ2jenhMAD_JCEcVdTMi4Pmd-ew_zjOqftQ/s400/Damping+Off.jpg" /></a><br />Step 3: As soon as the seeds sprout, REMOVE THE LID and water from the bottom only! Let the surface dry out. If you don't, damping off can occur. See above plant - the roots are literally growing above the soil line. There isn't much hope of saving plants when this has occurred. It's best to chuck them and start a new batch of seeds. Watering from the bottom will encourage plant roots to grow down. A lot of seed growers use oscillating fans to help keep the surface dry. Fans also strengthen the plant as it gets blown around (similar to outdoor conditions.)<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0oYCExE1CvPAmtHQCGArXRd_5Wsro5oWCIqhPhWsg-0fpHZhlBoW4xg2QmgTNnm_0a6VKyOeYpM9EG3m3_O5jBKMn8RK1fawx2t_7L6fksYs3k-Nn15TZ2soUiYEs3Yiq-F5XsSBY90/s1600-h/Seeds.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443743825541049730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0oYCExE1CvPAmtHQCGArXRd_5Wsro5oWCIqhPhWsg-0fpHZhlBoW4xg2QmgTNnm_0a6VKyOeYpM9EG3m3_O5jBKMn8RK1fawx2t_7L6fksYs3k-Nn15TZ2soUiYEs3Yiq-F5XsSBY90/s400/Seeds.jpg" /></a><br />Step 4: Once the plant has it's leaves formed, it's time to get them under a grow light. You CAN grow in window light, but you'll have more spindly plants and you'll want to turn the trays daily to avoid the hard lean that develops.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccpbyGe4rF222ytEg9zNKqe3KiOCm_mZgMdi_FyuGcyDZ6KIJNvswIiomloyuaPu_6BurlGOtSizc5lVo2ATBwFBxwMW4-R3gBd7MhN97fveuEWgmyFb6MwJn30BIfwm-PveKgvadQCI/s1600-h/Shelf+with+lights.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443743723259675666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccpbyGe4rF222ytEg9zNKqe3KiOCm_mZgMdi_FyuGcyDZ6KIJNvswIiomloyuaPu_6BurlGOtSizc5lVo2ATBwFBxwMW4-R3gBd7MhN97fveuEWgmyFb6MwJn30BIfwm-PveKgvadQCI/s400/Shelf+with+lights.jpg" /></a><br />TIP: You can make your own grow station. I have this wire rack shelf I got from Target for around $35. It hold 6 flats on the 3 shelves with lights hooked to underneath shelf above via S-hooks and tiny chains. I can raise/lower the lights as needed. I set my lights to about 2" above the plants and move them up as needed. I purchased the lights from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Walmart</span> and have grow bulbs in them - not florescent bulbs.</div><div> </div><div>In a few weeks, I'll share updated photos as this is not the only grow station we'll have. Our living room gets so stuffed with plants that by April, I'm stir crazy to get them outside. I do have a mini-greenhouse plus a cold frame where they all hang out until it's time to plant.</div><div> </div><div>Happy Growing!!</div></div></div></div></div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-36467990028204819552010-01-25T18:35:00.016-06:002010-01-25T19:59:37.452-06:00Happiness Project: Aprons<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430856335218701378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UD_N4-uNeppJaG60O80oZZad6niaPpob7H9ze3f2Wb_ge9kn0_0L7goSeP9BDj4elChBiui3K4wYU7VVF5lK_57qIXYK91z4riszZe7PAMgiH6v2zh5_yKdOqfBM7gMJClPO4nxvADs/s400/P1250099.JPG" /><span style="font-size:78%;"> Miss Aubrey modeling my fave apron.<br /></span><br /><div align="left">When I cook, I make a mess. I don't mean to, but I work in a very small kitchen, usually with a few helpers & various pets wandering about. It's inevitable that I flip around too fast and knock something over. LOL<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430856327844024498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Kr6ufYO8mmalmslUEy1Wv761gCLXEpIwhNjdj5ZS5QJ-dt00ZHLC_tv6guvJ22AtqfbIidgHULps7LD1rzmSYMqn3DT-902aKrGcrYPK_lvovmPV-pxYs7Xm4_rbVOHUSiOWYXb2by8/s400/P1250101.JPG" /></div><br /><br /><div align="left">That's why I started wearing aprons. I have a few I've bought at estate sales (and a few of them have been swiped by the girls). But, my favorite is a cherry red apron with the cutest crocheted cherries on it. Problem is, it's just a half-apron. (What is the correct term?) What I need is a full apron, one that covers my shirt too.</div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 212px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430857035514973874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy15QHhQHTPqqcielhdNWnBN37Zcv-o-lP4TLG1ofSqnL3KjIYdrwe4nYE8mTwixzbNpgTDDbtFnsxU_xmQRXlrRXVwRYHMtdJ6JmaEa0h1aVB8Hqz38OPTHYyEsZKX2w6iL8pnXW7TBo/s400/Sassy-red-front-no-bow.jpg" /> Apron courtesy <a href="http://www.flirtyaprons.com/">Flirty Aprons<br /></a><br />So, when I saw this contest over at <a href="http://thesuburbanjungle.blogspot.com/2010/01/flirty-aprons-review-giveaway.html">The Suburban Jungle</a>, I knew I had to enter and share my love of aprons with you. My choice, if I were to win, would be the Sassy Red apron, because, I LOVE red and *ahem* have been known to be sassy. :D<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flirtyaprons.com/">Which one</a> would you choose?<br /><br /></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-70382680694419701192010-01-21T19:19:00.007-06:002010-01-21T19:42:21.779-06:00Happiness Project: PhotosIt's already 2/3 way thru January. I had intended to post more often *ahem*. Well, let's just move forward, shall we?! <div><br /></div><div></div><div>Sticking with "things that make me happy", you may have deduced that I enjoy taking photos... of my kids and pets. What I really love, is taking photos of things people usually don't see.<br /></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429368236750368754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1Q6rPA91p3yTJthyphenhyphen3wk24DSBD_xpcGttYUcFgAgxagIhPmrEQfCH3D3dsTkGAUdvA1BViPLHT9oEqsZusXLPnCeCcWDJiCqnLS0ys7gbTOUGO8t0f4QyfJ-ylxYehFws5yoMEpxPzbo/s400/Picture+177.jpg" border="0" /></p><p align="center"><em><span style="font-size:78%;">Radish Flower</span></em></p><p>As we missed pulling a few radishes, we decided to let them grow, just to see what would happen. These delicate blossoms were the result. They grew on very long stems and waved gently in the breeze. So pretty!</p><p>I really LOVE photographing buildings and their details, especially windows & doors. Here's an old warehouse. I always wonder what was manufactured in them. Who worked there? When was the last day of business? What does the inside look like? Who painted the awesome antique themed mural on it's north side? If the building could talk, what would it say?</p><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429371133056612226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHiva51dibbnynFmSgSVwefNVyImD-IaAJvygKIrHDqeRvRQpsN7KiqBY2XeX7RFh3pYmynkDc1L85Zqa2rH7N-2tiqVLZkoRbv4uVU9HdJvi6guou-jBPVf9Ol87-5e39A_wF11zMHXs/s400/Picture+224.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p></p><p></p><p>This is a photo from one of my favorite buildings here in town... it's an old train station. When I was a little girl, our family traveled via train to go to our home state. Plus, my grandpa was a train conductor, so I am still enamored by all things train related. :D<br /></p><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429371151416254834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbx4Irh633uEa4-yYTL6TctnefojQ3-_DuZ5xrw0scQiKK0Py5yH5Vfu9NievBHQD-GxAlmWoX31P4SgxJKsTc1bsZA_9Ui3L4HVVXT0HNVWYLtmvwdbVB9_o0mnGGVftKk6yPr1jgfhI/s400/Picture+223.jpg" border="0" /> <div>If you've ever traveled via train, you might recognize the platform. This place amazed me with all the people bustling on and off trains, the smoke, the smells and most of all, the anticipation of the trip. Even though we no longer have a train station in Wichita, the platform is still there. :D I think I may have to have this one blown up and hung in my office. Looking at it always makes me smile.</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429371140481241026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgFKTZ16_3D4qJ-XR_2Qo9n0Gy6PWErNxnkn_Uk7HNdPBX5Bv2HEyaUeOVYFB1de_iGWhVeaxdqUzuvb32g3nZNlgUNWYwPS8km_CAU2cG5-UIvp0iNF67YUIEUjD2IKTdRupYhjkZWU/s400/Picture+212.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-91655730328358682342010-01-02T11:47:00.005-06:002010-01-02T12:05:17.755-06:002010: The Year of HAPPY<span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>2008 was the Year of Loss</strong></span><br /><br />The year I lost my idyllic mom-life. The year I lost my business. The year I lost dear friends. The year I lost my trust in the system. The year I lost so much.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(In way way, it was the year of gain: I gained 35 pounds by not dealing with the loss.)<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>2009 was the Year of Grief</strong></span><br /><br />When I suffered one loss after another, instead of dealing with the emotions that surrounded the events, I stuffed it down, way, way down. Buried deeply so I could just motor on, moving thru life, dealing with the day to day stuff that consumed me.<br /><br />But when you stuff, eventually, it has to come back out. And it did. Hard, fast and overwhelming. Over and over, the grief came out. It made me physically ill. It brought my life to a grinding halt for months. It was the most painful year of my life. One that I vow I will never repeat.<br /><br />But in the grief, I did find joy. I found many things to celebrate and I found my self. My true self. The one who deserves so much more.<br /><br />I no longer will be a people pleaser. I will no longer go with the flow, not questioning what my gut is screaming about. I will no longer suffer silently. I will no longer give to others at my expense. I will re-frame my life and my dreams. I will rebuild what was lost. I will reclaim what is mine. I will rise above and soar.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQfOIZP8O8ns5opNXW1GamnLONydOKqy_7eEmt9TvnaqPqouR3oKa2-mmm87JWcGj7qMgCQaw9Xj233G8GXTIwm-AU44N5-dBB3ZlrsxQetUtuo-x23G_fwVIj73FOtEnxHLKbk0o44xM/s1600-h/happyness.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422203181364606194" style="WIDTH: 146px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQfOIZP8O8ns5opNXW1GamnLONydOKqy_7eEmt9TvnaqPqouR3oKa2-mmm87JWcGj7qMgCQaw9Xj233G8GXTIwm-AU44N5-dBB3ZlrsxQetUtuo-x23G_fwVIj73FOtEnxHLKbk0o44xM/s200/happyness.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />On New Year's Eve, I declared <strong><span style="font-size:130%;">2010, the Year of Happy<br /></span></strong>I will only do things that make me happy.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImusUFedLu9tkpr3zHijKQzZuRSGkzhmjAGTTcv2HLiEPcFMKWQXC974rvKS-W9vwFD9_EesidlPgkH_R7TRPS0ucqEsjfIURAbkGvWtx8dSy_381sAjZPqXmUdjILmJUj6LZ5GXTSp8/s1600-h/Picture+008.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422202485832298130" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImusUFedLu9tkpr3zHijKQzZuRSGkzhmjAGTTcv2HLiEPcFMKWQXC974rvKS-W9vwFD9_EesidlPgkH_R7TRPS0ucqEsjfIURAbkGvWtx8dSy_381sAjZPqXmUdjILmJUj6LZ5GXTSp8/s200/Picture+008.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HiHvWpwC8sL8ULiuZjzvJHGoi5y3MQ7gvu6OyRnpS-thZSGbVks2GP4gTu1ot1aSOZMVqbNp1WA_NivjmmRffAqEOm74j3-DwWHZqtUmW9Uzo0FaSz9eDW1VlmTiWI9PJdxwR__F51k/s1600-h/20091130_0292.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422202480490322754" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 134px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HiHvWpwC8sL8ULiuZjzvJHGoi5y3MQ7gvu6OyRnpS-thZSGbVks2GP4gTu1ot1aSOZMVqbNp1WA_NivjmmRffAqEOm74j3-DwWHZqtUmW9Uzo0FaSz9eDW1VlmTiWI9PJdxwR__F51k/s200/20091130_0292.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"> Before </span> <span style="font-size:85%;"> After</span><br /><br /> As a tribute to my resolution, here are a few things that made me happy in recent days:<br /><br />I re-did my laundry room. No more ugly yellow wallpaper, in stages of removal. No more reminders of the project I abandoned 5 years ago. I chose a gorgeous shade of purple plum, despite what others commented on, because it makes me happy.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422201938637990674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6x3fZGkscMEB0W3t_52dfVcZJL3NTyN-qih6ZumbACZSSDdoqf1mHWl-5EtvsQ38wyaf7oGUPVp5KTpmbhMsD3nkWqhmpNS1vHmY-udEkP3pxdlJc0AOctK2SXZRBlfZxFx-XDOb6u4/s320/Picture+170.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><br />I grew loofa. </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422201941743210626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXaeqHHTAQeejJTJu0mFSzMk4PKJMKxA2TLhMNPLVTpAqUN8x5JBl551N3b1LMwpv3878FiYucg5r7gufcKmuiizOxYmB65m8i_uQfCWg9HUo1vo8FDN00mlR4zL-jJp8ioqveCFZJ3pY/s320/IMG_1829.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br />I took photos.<br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcPAyjzfbBa5n_JJp973kWGK2aA-yEndapzZrKMNxa3s8GvL3l4WJHBx6cDQyyVM9drG-nFbW4yhKtR9_8NW65QoGfMQe7zqRJbQ3Flt0YMJFQN1pPmFbd6wkbFN4ebXqv0Zg9TMnX98/s1600-h/IMG_1737.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422201960159595330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcPAyjzfbBa5n_JJp973kWGK2aA-yEndapzZrKMNxa3s8GvL3l4WJHBx6cDQyyVM9drG-nFbW4yhKtR9_8NW65QoGfMQe7zqRJbQ3Flt0YMJFQN1pPmFbd6wkbFN4ebXqv0Zg9TMnX98/s320/IMG_1737.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I raised puppies.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBURDhV77OxGDzXMM6-AQuok3aTceUryVTUFY_nnRTL6Ey9fmTxKBhEymIgCOkQGLJzIN4WW9vCLuxa8zuajLRWJeHS8F7cRXhQoXHQZG98TrOxQ6hBptbTMsLzapOne1nKubzJDy2Hs0/s1600-h/IMG_1738.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422201954804858738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBURDhV77OxGDzXMM6-AQuok3aTceUryVTUFY_nnRTL6Ey9fmTxKBhEymIgCOkQGLJzIN4WW9vCLuxa8zuajLRWJeHS8F7cRXhQoXHQZG98TrOxQ6hBptbTMsLzapOne1nKubzJDy2Hs0/s320/IMG_1738.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">In the upcoming year, I will share other things that make me happy. Stay tuned.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div><br /></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-16284809907762994802009-11-03T14:27:00.006-06:002009-11-04T11:12:01.716-06:00Photo OpWe have an <a href="http://www.wichita.gov/CityOffices/Park/Parks/PawneePrairie.htm">incredible nature park </a>just a few miles from our house. It's my go-to place for peace and quiet. Stick to the paved path if you need civilization (i.e. other people/dog walkers). Or, do what I do and follow random paths.... randomly. You never know when you might come across a horseback rider or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">raccoon</span>. It's also an excellent place to go for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">geo</span> caching.<br /><br />I took Emma and my camera (that I am still trying to master) and snapped a few pix.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399978914616124290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO5Sr_-EufY62HxxBgyU__VroZ-43wDgJlfJ2r9ELPynp9q6_HS3O0v75aQi-P0GmUbC-c4ItcAuGZ6RP-cNBOhInCrsWt9vZc4-ue0NJzZkRo965YZE1okae9cjbH-Ykd-diHQx74ayA/s400/Picture+053.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">We rested for a bit at the picnic <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">pavilion</span>, couldn't resist this shot.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399978917226029698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLVTffrOAxIb-2a6Xx-2Vfd7zv1d5g_w7QATYIQ8GFZGxR4qD8klIzIkwOHG-bymALnaobH1M7KDZT1gxvD7Kz4yyB50U-YrXGT_MmlPHRHtQLtUF-K3lR1KXUlKHx2CVGOCNn5DSlyY/s400/Picture+220.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">Here's my sweet Miss Em</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399978929273359234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlmduOjnmWmXdKlhnywodjp2cKsSl4xuLpiv61zhWT4_BcaraYHY69RMeWZkqm2imTNzZ2nZeHHHOOPu1cM3JIkb85BmSo9OH6ZwdbXOnzTtw68Rfpoci-98ByoAfrAzJemss6UehxoM/s400/Picture+228.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Ahhh</span>, the roads these toes have traveled so far...<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399978931540870802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1P97gz7LiBsuk5X_-HXCKmK3qmWeMqBXWD_38A1pOEvEdk_M93Z3HZE9YY_yLwGHN0I_mP8dGSwW6TTMpuLy1hFI2eVxJs6bulPhG71xsiYSFHlvLP4aqhzszrtWTfUDN2GTW74lVLM/s400/Picture+247.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">This one is one of my favorites... total fluke how it happened though...</p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399978939130981762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOC9SA34b61WqVZt7qRe1d5fZp1CJPG7EKN8W6H1ZdKkYb1werJA8g7CisiZLxZTfYheVC_FY9uxbhC1TyaDXA_PAmXYZCfzYACkeDfO9xIFFo73jWlCqT6n8hugDEZ2wLMyFCJZOg5A/s400/Picture+253.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />As we were walking back, I heard a distinct crackling to my left and caught this doe by surprise.<br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399980113815028882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGQ4ntIbeGixtjjC128FtaUJpDUIQCxXSfTHf9Q9V2C2jSA9bgSWlKMU8T6aLDJYJmPtjNa61gpypHaOIN4lTDX75hwuV35Yb0fvfyLbjyPcs1iE3d4xtY9pT-NSoaVZ06b1HbOxEIys/s400/Picture+133.jpg" border="0" />Emma kept chattering away and calling to her even though I was shushing her as loudly as I dared. I was hoping to see a baby, no luck. Just this guy:<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399980116615880098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbizpRF5t3Z4mUXxaRxvyAGDNh13a62QgzZOXaO7G-dtp0EQit6l4DizlImd68vlpuljcH_60LIFnJYxqWS3s9SfLwXmewAzywCLWe8tYWTasV8hf9kWIFMHEDmFHDvUkbIl1X4IHqtQw/s400/Picture+140.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p align="center">Yeah, I KNOW!! What do you think? 6 or 8 points? (I'm not sure how to tell.) Then, I totally missed the next shot, an even <span style="font-size:130%;">bigger </span>buck!! I love seeing wild life up close like this. </p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399980128160734178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJiNEL3ta5pjSfXRYduueU8RidgrYnTmNI7vLvOII-dZkdTJ4Vh2VptYbOdwD5Z0Wyfk4-rX8_S72yuwE8voc8264WIP5AdD-BWOg1gOFHcZAL83rmMTzF1OnxNJ4JjFk-KnRAliQntrg/s400/Picture+147.jpg" border="0" /></p>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-5336831651027151502009-10-31T19:26:00.006-05:002009-10-31T19:45:31.222-05:00What I see Out My Window<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNDwYTltsXdX751slRqgP8diKITcMWBeaO0PR__Kie6422_mX8QJ1IEnVBmNUycVhVCstSpyXqxvH35jRoa3SfM9H-amfbw6WN5aszqtEvewyU8TZJJI-QOx_cDJcmZkoS55HrTcbfl4s/s1600-h/Picture+159.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398926503437738610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNDwYTltsXdX751slRqgP8diKITcMWBeaO0PR__Kie6422_mX8QJ1IEnVBmNUycVhVCstSpyXqxvH35jRoa3SfM9H-amfbw6WN5aszqtEvewyU8TZJJI-QOx_cDJcmZkoS55HrTcbfl4s/s320/Picture+159.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div align="center">Ah, Fall... such a gorgeous season!!</div><div align="center"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398928790745719026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZW0QLSDtn2sCjB40-flP3Bz9Dc0TlLSa9rjp7QntW2G-GiSZnAgnINA6rn-LEwsjzWsvv7vDakN-MZnwQ-Tomia81yXpP9gMG85SJhueKa6S5PuWSQmjBaxmF3wTzXv77aKPb-skM6as/s320/Picture+028.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div align="center">This is the view out my front window (ahem, it WAS the view, until the wind/rain dropped all the leaves.)</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398928785802347890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJJFePyJhgnpHP1aYv4B3plm1YA2V1ZPPx-0vWkxUtyEnIFK_t77T5vkaDfXQAN_EzMME4IqCfsj-sWOwDoJ5ieNOzqFAmpZUu_DyGQqJxYoybOu9AaciZRSZ8dYfvijrIeevCQDylq8/s320/Picture+166.jpg" border="0" />I absolutely LOVE red leaves! We planted a Red Maple and a Red Oak the first month we moved here. 5 years later, the color is fabulous! About the time the Maple looses all it's leaves, the Oak turns. Ah, fall. :D<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398928776621811762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 333px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIWfAR6mrgf9J4h5YUKR9AV2Wek_um3OXXDWp754GGtpJ99TjemLS77H8Z-kJGrtxRyBpLPRXEBUU0MZkSXpf3doKbvgPZNzGWqypEE2HiHykQti2MTIH1NPjxEUU7tMYTHtu8c6pT3k/s320/Picture+162.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-84141361543499482052009-10-30T14:04:00.004-05:002009-10-30T14:10:37.937-05:00Public Service Announcement<div><div>When the house gets too quiet, all moms know to check on the little ones. This is why:<br /></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398471335821237586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho094QTTX1DPNj_NfRm0NlxSWEaIgxmAzYrLrDrx-CMDssev-SxAd292PXSZmDSI1Zqw3vrx-ZahyT6-vnmoJa6NkOKLnKZrFIHCMuEg9vlU9lJ3EJIGOPFAqUXGq-IwwlSFCgaG8C4I8/s400/Picture+031.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398471684945621186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwNwFe4gtVXgWf1XC9X5ZgsXs7atOGC0f2CS0fX1K8ZwM21y2yE2i-h-tWaIbVHoVv_qFB3ob73S1OXONXbzd4eZK2fSONBaQa6Tq6CXo-_8u-tH3k4ZKC5n4JIRmEnDGp3DFZ-smkls/s400/Picture+032.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p><br /></p>Here's the "artist" providing today's makeover to the lovely Honey. (It only took 4 days for the blue to wear off.)<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398471693579329938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Bex590hYiNUwgAciTUZ5IliCDcGqfMPVbq15pgDAt9XGXnTvzm2L9N22RHJ70TKAF_Bf_bc3U24vFzgXPbmRvExmIFOTj83LIaYqn9aLkmTKR0SAMGU5U8QaUyaEiXsQhwJgIl0Ebyo/s400/Picture+036.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><br /><p> </p><p><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>I'd like to thank everyone for their kind emails and comments. I'm doing much better and hope to be back to my regular self very soon. It's been a tough road, but what doesn't kill me, makes me stronger. (All props to Kanye for the quote, which has been my song of inspiration lately. :D)</em></span></p>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-59628908823515939652009-06-19T20:00:00.001-05:002009-06-19T20:03:22.748-05:00Still here, I promise<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPx9W97SWnDRIJYi9iXqHmTAOpBU2CJbvqnzyMvv7hmkIptnm4BoocosdXdYdVrE0UFCt9xjvif_PGnwLXiqCrC4w-FtDMuGx7OEj8SWPTEVoBvBWjMHgBJ3v7h6hFJzzj5qyaB7OgtsU/s1600-h/Picture+217.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349208553663340066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPx9W97SWnDRIJYi9iXqHmTAOpBU2CJbvqnzyMvv7hmkIptnm4BoocosdXdYdVrE0UFCt9xjvif_PGnwLXiqCrC4w-FtDMuGx7OEj8SWPTEVoBvBWjMHgBJ3v7h6hFJzzj5qyaB7OgtsU/s320/Picture+217.jpg" border="0" /></a> Hi~~ This is me, waving at you!<br /><br />I've not fallen into a crack in the road - just hit a speed bump that slowed me down a little. :D</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349208558308195586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkexOKTEuFnHZ2SP8pG1QDn8glPDecXNCX9-wl_bV-TQ4j0se_7G18qyx7sWkIGnK5JYcU3sImC06JJiu_qwjQryZUvHxxLur_Heez0Z08pVi-wCkTO13lFHUeEjdGLK29y0QtYifrR3A/s320/Picture+216.jpg" border="0" /><br />Remember when I posted about the volunteer potatoes ~ the ones that came up from last year? Well, I needed to mulch the garden and also plant things that needed to go in, so I dug up the volunteers. 12 pounds of potatoes - all because during last year's harvest, some potatoes got left behind. That's frugal gardening, I do believe!!<br /></div><div><div>I'll be back posting soon ~ thanks for checking in</div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-56545021490194968292009-06-01T08:04:00.007-05:002009-06-01T09:06:58.737-05:00Independence Day Challenge Week 5<div><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jnFHLVWP40s0AVC6-Ts6D-pIoxi5OD-n9uzJyB1XXsEVRdwE7oRTlj58fLWBwawfqtm6DMJ6TIf5vZMa9RkwTPggat15JFla8nt1H1PU_eQFcOymonPv226RNDZ3jIUjQuSqqo2LX4E/s1600-h/Picture+213.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342345417884871378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jnFHLVWP40s0AVC6-Ts6D-pIoxi5OD-n9uzJyB1XXsEVRdwE7oRTlj58fLWBwawfqtm6DMJ6TIf5vZMa9RkwTPggat15JFla8nt1H1PU_eQFcOymonPv226RNDZ3jIUjQuSqqo2LX4E/s320/Picture+213.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> Raspberries blooming.<br /></span><br /><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">1) Plant something:</span></div><div align="left">Okay, I had to re-plant the yellow & butternut squash and the loofa. The ones I started indoors didn't survive the transplant, even though they were hardened off. The ones coming up from seed look 1000% stronger anyway! I also had to re-plant 2 tomatoes that didn't survive. I'm still not done planting tomatoes or peppers because this new garden spot is just not cooperating. Also, another row of radishes (what's the secret to getting them to form a bulb?), lettuce, spinach and my 3rd and final attempt at peas. Plus, sunflowers, watermelon and cantaloupe.</div><br /><div align="left"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342350412356077554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpC0GIMU4B5v4sbh7kLD_1vXGt3JqV346te4x7EWptMMPCcNySGyHGaHB3YdbbrSvR192aYO23GiIgFA0UH1HrfBQTs_0_TXd6FR4eNDmV3k2jhQLbgPyGQ_B7g6qS_j1v4koJFf7z0I/s320/Picture+208.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">Someday, I'll have a camera that takes amazing shots. Until then, please admire this blurry jar of jam :D</span></div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">2) Harvest something:</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Just a few handfuls of lettuce and all the rhubarb (about 1.5 pounds).</span> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">OH! And, the meat birds!! 55 pounds of chicken. Jerry, his dad and the boys processed the 10 birds in about 2 hours. Boys said it was gross, nasty and smelly. Jerry said it wasn't too bad. His dad didn't say much, other than my MIL said he better NOT bring home a chicken. Ok, more for us! I refrained from showing you a before and after. I LOVE before & after photos, but I know that not everyone is fond of home grown meat. Seriously though, it looks just like supermarket chicken. </span></div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342345396789011170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBaniDiy6-dxNAvlSefV770xq1N1Ef3P-6oqyeenDndE7VuzasY6tMADTsqz0ctyTuXqs22r2nzdX6qnWJgskMXSmKGbuhfm6vr5QtcZasdA1KZmuP_UdPUecLCULE8m5Dj-pso6QjVCs/s320/Picture+205.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">3) Preserve Something<br /></span><div align="left">I went to the Farmer's Market in search of strawberries, and I found the last of the harvest. $4 a quart. I really wanted to make jam this year, so I forked over $8, happily. They were so good!! I stopped by Dillon's on the way home and found the above strawberries on clearance for $.79 a pound. I bought 14 pounds. They ended up in a <a href="http://www.5dollardinners.com/2009/05/strawberry-rhubarb-mania.html">strawberry rhubarb crumble</a>, strawberry rhubarb pie and JAM, glorious, ruby red jam. My children have already tackled the first jar and declare it's the best jam ever. I know it wasn't local (strawberries were grown in the U.S.) but I saw the bargain and had to have it.<br /></div><div align="left"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342345415668848994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dHuYG4Akv0psw29jrkxythXn7SBHwO9n_Jxej6Pi5x6z90mLUrUnSy5vLh7AHCd9Y05gIfTV_BvoVW48MDzyRDKCLHC1mS-JJ1GgpsMilbIdt-h672R6GeXCzoprauMHcg8i5I1sH_k/s320/Picture+212.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">4) Prep Something<br /></span><div align="left">Remember that giant, 5' x 5' compost bin I had? In the middle of the garden? Well, I was soooo tired of looking at it smack in the middle of the garden. It was too big and hard to reach in and turn the compost. Jerry was convinced that it could be cut down and repurposed. He spent an afternoon chopping thru the free pallets and re-making them into this wonderful, 2 holer!! WHOOT!! I'm so excited!! I've now got hinged doors!! That makes it so easy to pop open, and flip the compost from one bin to another. We still have the old, black composter, sans lid to hold the excess. It's now hidden behind the shed. In it's old place, I planted watermelon. Hope it's not too fertile there. We shall see. :D<br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342345405772860114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLp8CgULd_D_3cTNKmFGHs46Uby_4QdtJkothVIoFTf4i6UoMW1uLYdCA3Ci2fX7n1CsvAYJBUynFaa2Q34bd9BQLyWjaWHweZUpH9L6O4aFmUs3CzyVv9jYEbh73Fae1FesmD5Z6S0bs/s320/Picture+206.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">5) Cook Something:</span></div><div>Making jam was new to me. First year to harvest and cook the rhubarb. Surprisingly, it was so simple. Why was I worried? The jam set up nicely too! And the crumble? It didn't last long. It was SO GOOD! We are having the pie tonight. It may be all we eat, but that's how we roll. :D</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">6) Manage Reserves:</span></div>Still washing jars in anticipation of more canning sessions. Added more toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant & razors to the stockpile. Stockpiling is so new to me... it feels weird to have excess stuff. But, I'm learning that combining coupons with sales really DOES save a lot of money.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342345410670679586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwmygdPVbdQzuUTYXRQKuHGynLwrsex0YstxVssFcIB8Sm15KK5Uk-cfWCb6QjTpm8lqhYreZeCtgNqNYtMjosoLc-JXfb-QNjkbwIZfkNsrZ2cx5_aNjifKtXoTX0FmGwy4L-nXD5Rc/s320/Picture+209.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-size:85%;"> Knee-high by the 4th of July? Yep, I think it will be!</span><br /></div><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">7) Work on Local Food Systems:<br /></span>Planted extra <a href="http://www.sedgwick.ksu.edu/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=598">Row for the Hungry</a>. Donated some tomato plants to community garden.<br /><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342345538493897618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCwieGNoEzec9h3M8qlUzdyB0ZYXemYOpqtCb_PRGgpYfjjdvI01yEhPLA6W21_L0MZNySqV48xhHF6dJrYsE34HamVdmi_wZN2MHHiQrNfoRXX-yH88Un0vhyphenhypheniC4RC47FJ0ZDuj3Fjg/s320/Picture+210.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div align="center">Chooks in the garden, eating bugs, earning their keep. In a few weeks, I hope to have the garden fenced in so that the free rangers will stop eating the good stuff that I'm trying to grow. Seriously, we've gotten ONE strawberry ~ they've devoured the rest. They'll have 1/2 acre to roam and I do have 2 raised beds full of greens for them that they haven't discovered yet. </div><div align="left"></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-76300250954460390382009-06-01T07:51:00.001-05:002009-06-01T07:55:50.732-05:00Etched In StoneYesterday, in my fine town, a man walked in to a church and shot another man, in the forehead. He killed a husband, a father of 4 and a grandfather of 10. He killed Dr. George Tiller. An abortion doctor.<br /><br />No matter which side of the issue you are, this post isn't open to debate.<br /><br />It is, however, my story. A deeply personal one.<br /><br />Have you ever heard the theory that we are all born with a chalkboard? Everytime something is said to you, good or bad, it gets recorded. Sometimes, the writing fades over time if you don't hear it enough. Other times, what's said over and over eventually gets etched in, deeper and deeper until it makes you who you are.<br /><br />I believe this. I've struggled for years to erase things on my slate that others thought about me and said to me, things I know to be untrue. But, there are some things that are etched so deeply, there isn't enough spackle to fill in the fissures.<br /><br />On an ordinary summer day, when I was nine, my mother turned to me and casually said,<br /><br />"Did you know that you were supposed to be aborted?"<br /><br />My earth stopped and I was in some kind of a vacuum. What? What did she say?<br /><br />"Yes," she went on, "your dad only wanted one child, so when he found out I was pregnant with you, he wanted to have you aborted, but I said no."<br /><br />She went on to say that there was a doctor who was in agreement. Supposedly there was a sonogram showing me as having no arms or legs - just a torso and head. This was used to try to convince her that an abortion was a good idea.<br /><br />Knowing the narcissist that is my mother, I wonder if she said it for shock factor (probably) or to get me to hate my birth father (probably), to garner sympathy (of course) or to hurt me.<br /><br />I didn't know how to respond. I mean, I was 9 and I just heard that I was unwanted and should have been dead. What do you say to that?!?!<br /><br />Over the years, she has said it a few more times, each time, forgetting that she'd already told me. Everytime I heard it, it etched deeper, and deeper. She even said it to me during my pregnancies.<br /><br />Had I been aborted, I would not be here. My five wonderful, delightful, blessings from God would not be here.<br /><br />When I hear the word Abortion, it etches this even deeper into my soul.<br /><br />I wasn't wanted. I wasn't supposed to be alive. The pregnancy was to have been terminated. I was to have been terminated. Eliminated.<br /><br />Choices.<br /><br />I believe that every human is on earth for a reason. It's up to each person to make their own choices and discover what they need to. I'm not here to judge. What you choose is your business.<br /><br />I just wonder, who was eliminated, <em>by choice</em>? What futures will never be?<br /><br />I don't wish to open this up to discussion or debate. Yesterday, my world was a firestorm of personal opinions and debates and I sat by, quietly watching, listening and praying.<br /><br />All I ask, is if you have people in your life that you care about, look deep into their eyes and see what has been written on their slate. See what's been etched and what you can help to erase. It's never too late to change the slate.Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-56222441464432319052009-05-26T12:43:00.003-05:002009-05-26T12:47:28.608-05:00ChangesJerry changed his work schedule last week and we're just not settling into a routine... at all. His hours are shifted as are his days off. Consequently, all my routines have been thrown into a swirling pot. The kids are out of school for summer. And, for the first time in 8 years, I'm working from home.<br /><br />It all adds up to upheaval. Not that's it's bad.... I LOVE having him home, even if he is asleep when we're awake. I just can't get a grip on a new schedule. <br /><br />I'll be back when things aren't so upside down.Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-8859672587824210672009-05-19T10:20:00.006-05:002009-05-19T11:15:08.054-05:00Rain followed by Sun<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn1xIekQVI4ToskRO83gvE07CMHxXmiPe80mCs9EEQ8RTeT2AvthXI9werQIZVLiDyxYf4fhvMZQHbTkvnFRQd5LNmvrW1gDMUnOaZYaB-q6sbdum6zxednUFsGhy-01ZKFFICxsAaUhs/s1600-h/Picture+125.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337556633091188338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn1xIekQVI4ToskRO83gvE07CMHxXmiPe80mCs9EEQ8RTeT2AvthXI9werQIZVLiDyxYf4fhvMZQHbTkvnFRQd5LNmvrW1gDMUnOaZYaB-q6sbdum6zxednUFsGhy-01ZKFFICxsAaUhs/s320/Picture+125.jpg" border="0" /></a> Less than 2 weeks ago, the potato patch was spotty, at best.</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oZB1FY7RXDfeyWYaYqABN3jApJOW9oJ-vqP-3w1ToTPLBJUkf1Gr4JzsYns6dg0NjU61SRSPCefbBzrTqj6j_oryOZsOFdmU56vr4-1BOw1WqmTZNBl6tJ8-rCkpheVTX8sm04vFCME/s1600-h/Picture+191.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337556190145245394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6oZB1FY7RXDfeyWYaYqABN3jApJOW9oJ-vqP-3w1ToTPLBJUkf1Gr4JzsYns6dg0NjU61SRSPCefbBzrTqj6j_oryOZsOFdmU56vr4-1BOw1WqmTZNBl6tJ8-rCkpheVTX8sm04vFCME/s320/Picture+191.jpg" border="0" /></a> Then it rained and rained. Finally, the sun shone. And, now you can practically watch it grow. Sadly, the weeds are growing just as fast.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpw1uynKfVvTdnJqnCHl3NBZLMG3uufMRLRJtdhR3vLWVnv_ILyIIziO83EWbDKb5Ij4R2G0nZrAL3bqkvhaOOcCcpmPulLKqfQGH_7BEOIW16u-_F5X4jhcEEwx-3QlF0uxpE6nmt2E/s1600-h/Picture+176.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337556183779974114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpw1uynKfVvTdnJqnCHl3NBZLMG3uufMRLRJtdhR3vLWVnv_ILyIIziO83EWbDKb5Ij4R2G0nZrAL3bqkvhaOOcCcpmPulLKqfQGH_7BEOIW16u-_F5X4jhcEEwx-3QlF0uxpE6nmt2E/s320/Picture+176.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Emma turned 3. She has discovered Barney so Gma got her 2 Barney videos. She also noticed, for the first time, that we have a Barney beach towel (was Dalton's ~ 12 years ago!). It's hers now. She's the most singy of all the kiddos, so we belt out the ole "I love you, You love me" song at the top of our lungs, and we don't care how much eye rolling occurs ~ secretly, we know they are singing too. :D<br /><br /><br /><div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qrYH0cpE2bCB8uTPzxIfFyFVI80g-FdjjxRiAPQlaIlWvcN10wEUBmTUbm_okTgjgkLaxHeGvSffqikox-UfCPX7Dc86_nh4PgW2vkzKuTouzUiruk6VxdBVN_gzuf3Wq8U_QOmcymQ/s1600-h/Picture+187.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337556178802429682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qrYH0cpE2bCB8uTPzxIfFyFVI80g-FdjjxRiAPQlaIlWvcN10wEUBmTUbm_okTgjgkLaxHeGvSffqikox-UfCPX7Dc86_nh4PgW2vkzKuTouzUiruk6VxdBVN_gzuf3Wq8U_QOmcymQ/s320/Picture+187.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://apaetoday.blogspot.com/2009/03/answer-to-tomato-question.html">Inspired by Paul</a>, I <strike>begged, pleaded,</strike> asked to have one so Jerry built this trellis system for the yellow squash, butternut squash and loofah. He used scrap lumber and also t-posts for anchors. I've got to tie the string on, and it's good to go. I have to decide if I'm going to want more for the cucumbers and tomatoes. How does one stake 75 tomato plants while on a limited budget?! Suggestions, please!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOYatnDqjmgNw_3zmZH3gB-8WIQaWK_pgInXmuxGcO5ySoTkmdQGvI4r1SdAY8zId0taAahr4cwjLpxJaXMTQ8j_9RJknZEg3oxF7np0M5QTp2Ov4Yq9-oiGsPhERQYhU3DzRj_I4T3VM/s1600-h/Picture+199.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337556168156129730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOYatnDqjmgNw_3zmZH3gB-8WIQaWK_pgInXmuxGcO5ySoTkmdQGvI4r1SdAY8zId0taAahr4cwjLpxJaXMTQ8j_9RJknZEg3oxF7np0M5QTp2Ov4Yq9-oiGsPhERQYhU3DzRj_I4T3VM/s320/Picture+199.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I can not stop taking pictures of the chix. They make it easy by hurtling towards me where ever I am. LOL That never gets old!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir-A_E277PRs5xj7ZTaqUdlY1O_Wp9FPX4iUdtX4fbxGIEb_NndM04scwAV__t7yCdXSXepgOX6m-RzLU5I94ATXNSSy0QQnvMulx5LGKZx7DUVQ82gcHn7auFyLn7MBHTmqeowW-UUjM/s1600-h/Picture+202.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337556167828231426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir-A_E277PRs5xj7ZTaqUdlY1O_Wp9FPX4iUdtX4fbxGIEb_NndM04scwAV__t7yCdXSXepgOX6m-RzLU5I94ATXNSSy0QQnvMulx5LGKZx7DUVQ82gcHn7auFyLn7MBHTmqeowW-UUjM/s320/Picture+202.jpg" border="0" /></a>Speaking of chicks, I have been letting the meat birds free range outside in the afternoons. What does this shot look like to you?! A daisy? Yeah, me too. One week to go til butcher date. </div><br /><div align="left">I should do updates to the challenges, but I don't feel like it. LOL So much is going on right now in the garden - doubling it has been a bit of a pain. Grass turf is a bugger to get thru. The ground underneath hasn't seen the light of day for 35+ years (back when it was farmland/tilled fields.) So, we are transplanting the turf, double digging, adding compost to holes, mulching between plants and looking forward to this fall when we can plow it all under. </div><div align="left"></div><br /><ul><li><div align="left">Blackberry and blueberry bushes arrived, yet to be planted. </div></li><li><div align="left">Lettuce is slow coming up, so are radishes. </div></li><li><div align="left">Peas are a total loss thanks to the chickens for scratching them up, twice. </div></li><li><div align="left">Rhubarb should be harvested. </div></li><li><div align="left">We got asparagus in small spurts, never enough all at once, but I planted 10 more. </div></li><li><div align="left">Planted another peach tree ~ Elberta. </div></li><li><div align="left">Jerry & I shared the first strawberry of the season.<br /></div></li></ul><div align="left"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337566212971498754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGG4UmnAqOSTfk9Y3UvA6yv5QX-yMoh5-usnSAPrItNWl8cLWX5kfPOxWYYu1gR0xKXjBw5Gh4tB2IA772rTqybkhjDa3s-nHi7zN0LMxJ6MqreBSkDSJhr-3-Lt6pW2qUj2mZMRUtk_s/s320/Boys+fishing+trip.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Cole, Braden & Dalton</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></em> </div><div align="left">The boys had a Father/Son fishing trip this past weekend. While they were gone, the girls painted nails, went shopping for coloring books & stickers and had a sleep over in mom's bed. <br /><br />We have an entire week of balmy, breezy spring-time-in-Kansas weather forecasted (which translates to highs of 80, lows of 60, winds 10-25 mph and low humidity.) Paradise on the prairie! </div><br /><div></div><br /></div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-14782293832593882492009-05-15T13:08:00.004-05:002009-05-15T13:37:08.485-05:00Adopt a Soldier<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifM5jCf-4myH_Vun-G4HUcoJrLfPKHWjoMklD9J65bUSdwnMo7Uje8bk5nYBegn_JWBeJzeq0HRzgSC4Xg0c-tHvdqTYWaaK6qUhKjnIkcGJKT5YiZwY-pRMi5Q60Tf2fo58snbcsN1qE/s1600-h/Picture+295.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336118250486893522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifM5jCf-4myH_Vun-G4HUcoJrLfPKHWjoMklD9J65bUSdwnMo7Uje8bk5nYBegn_JWBeJzeq0HRzgSC4Xg0c-tHvdqTYWaaK6qUhKjnIkcGJKT5YiZwY-pRMi5Q60Tf2fo58snbcsN1qE/s320/Picture+295.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Do you remember the movie <a href="http://payitforward.warnerbros.com/Pay_It_Forward/">Pay It Forward</a>? The premise was to do a good deed for someone and they will pay it forward, creating a ripple effect and the good deeds would just keep on being done.</div><div></div><br /><div>I love that idea. I'm always on the lookout for a way to 'pay it forward'. </div><div></div><br /><div>A website was sent to me recently that has a daily good deed report. <a href="http://www.hope-heals.org/">Check it out.</a> Every month, they tackle a new project. <br /></div><div>Reading their site led me to <a href="http://www.wishuponahero.com/">Wish Upon a Hero. </a>Of course, it's been televised several times, but *ahem* I don't watch much tv so I missed it. Anyway, the premise there is you can be a wish grantor or wishee. So many of the wishes are for card showers ~ for a great grandma celebrating a milestone birthday or a recent graduate who has no family or for a child that needs a pick me up. Yes, this I can do! I signed up and have been having a blast sending out cards. (Although the website is painfully slow ~ not complaining, just saying.)</div><div></div><br /><div>Of course, that website led to me the best one yet <a href="http://adoptaussoldier.org/">Adopt A Soldier.</a> I signed up a few days ago and today I got an email with my soldier's info. That was FAST!! </div><div></div><br /><div>My soldier is a 39 year old gal from California. Now, when I think of Soldier, I think of my nephew - young, 20-something, single guy. I don't think of someone who is my age!! I didn't get much info so I don't know if she's a wife or a mom. All her request said is that she'd like some personal care items. She misses being in familiar places (home!) and whatever she gets (cards, letters or packages) she will share with the other soldiers there.</div><div></div><br /><div>That made me tear up. She's a gal after my own heart!!!</div><div></div><br /><div>I know that with summer upon us, this will be a fun project for our family to work on together. Gathering little items and making cards, letters and pictures to send to Colette. </div><div></div><br /><div>So, won't you take a minute and go be a hero?! Let's pay this one forward!!</div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-60407196214024135092009-05-13T08:13:00.004-05:002009-05-13T08:32:38.773-05:0072 Eggs, Scrambled<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45341Hc_3Wkv4VIVkIBogdx6NxzAffK2ZOTVR92f8jrYXKoUhmgx8adW0z0_01rBmYY4wohAD5N1bd1CCCaOUrqzRSARpZjILhy7EwP70ie6LZ9eXs686QLr6vy2lg563OJRDwt_c9gA/s1600-h/Picture+122.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335296307175188210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45341Hc_3Wkv4VIVkIBogdx6NxzAffK2ZOTVR92f8jrYXKoUhmgx8adW0z0_01rBmYY4wohAD5N1bd1CCCaOUrqzRSARpZjILhy7EwP70ie6LZ9eXs686QLr6vy2lg563OJRDwt_c9gA/s320/Picture+122.jpg" border="0" /></a> What do you do when your hens are producing 10 eggs a day? You find recipes that use up lots of eggs! We decided to make breakfast burritos.<br /><br />Recipe:<br /><br />6 dozen eggs, scrambled<br />3 pounds sausage, browned<br />Onions<br />Green Peppers<br />Cheese (we used 1/2 slice of American cheese but shredded works too.)<br />Tortillas<br />Aluminum Foil<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTt5QsnBhlX0o6pypWBm6AUL4T7VZ5mQo8rJy1FYPirr2V_q_XN3q813szKqGowXBfTCipqkBxFjX9WQJV4hh1pjHin75us-HKupL9qMIJ80Z6oQH4upRr-s2t7L1j0nBgpkOCrw7l-U/s1600-h/Picture+123.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335296305943454850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTt5QsnBhlX0o6pypWBm6AUL4T7VZ5mQo8rJy1FYPirr2V_q_XN3q813szKqGowXBfTCipqkBxFjX9WQJV4hh1pjHin75us-HKupL9qMIJ80Z6oQH4upRr-s2t7L1j0nBgpkOCrw7l-U/s320/Picture+123.jpg" border="0" /></a> Next time, I'll know to not try to cook all the sausage and eggs all at once. Or, I need to find commercial sized pans and stove to cook on! </div><div> </div><div>The kids can easily pop 1 in the microwave for a minute ~ 2 for 1.5 minutes. We like ours with salsa and sour cream. Our recipe made 80+ burritos. Had we had more tortillas, we'd have come close to 100 burritos. But, we decided to make breakfast bowls out of the leftovers. Delish! Next time, we may add shredded potatoes or more veggies. </div><div> </div><div>Next up, Egg Noodles (frozen & dehydrated) & Batches of French Toast for the Freezer </div><div> </div><div>If you find yourself with a lot of eggs, try <a href="http://www.the-coop.org/cgi-bin/UBB/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=9;t=000209">some </a>of these <a href="http://www.cheap-and-easy-recipes.com/egg-recipes.htm">links</a> to <a href="http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080715141945AA1T5q1">recipes</a> using a lot of eggs.<br /></div><div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-48968768220653643612009-05-12T10:54:00.003-05:002009-05-12T11:19:15.429-05:00Indeterminate or Determinate?<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29Z7XWz1Y9zGLQSdos8nOIkh1Y3RArHce_jWGChw30vDLBi19d7p0P9i8w8txtrjymkk1JzT0XzmkJRm-kFlgl3Spz29T769QUUe4hNc5KU0MjGBOmNuY_OE_1vFtoBSiZeUaaDXS3YY/s1600-h/Picture+076.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334967157196040402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29Z7XWz1Y9zGLQSdos8nOIkh1Y3RArHce_jWGChw30vDLBi19d7p0P9i8w8txtrjymkk1JzT0XzmkJRm-kFlgl3Spz29T769QUUe4hNc5KU0MjGBOmNuY_OE_1vFtoBSiZeUaaDXS3YY/s320/Picture+076.jpg" border="0" /></a><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Can't wait to pick something!</span></em> </div><br /><br />I am so impatient to plant the rest of my garden that I decided to toss 10 tomato plants in the ground last night. If they don't make it due to this chilly, wet weather, well, I've got hundreds more. At least I feel a little more productive right now. <br /><br />When I started them from seed, I just wrote the name of tomato on each stake and failed to include any info. It's important to me to have determinate & indeterminate tomatoes planted in specific places in the garden, more for the difference in staking than anything.<br /><br />What's the difference? Well, Determinate will set fruit all at once and then they're done. So you can pull the plants out and do something else in that spot. Indeterminate will continue fruiting as long as there is favorable conditions (not too hot, not too cold.)<br /><br />Rather than have to dig thru the seed packets, I turned to Wikipedia and found <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tomato_cultivars">this table of Tomato Cultivars. </a> It came in pretty handy.<br /><br />On a side note, I'm glad I didn't plant last Thursday when all my neighbors did. We got hit with penny to nickel sized hail and they've all lost their tomatoes. I haven't had much luck with having tomatoes bounce back after being destroyed by hail. Other plants/vines come back, but not the tomatoes. Now, they're all in a scramble trying to find more. I have plenty to share of certain varieties, thankfully.<br /><br />When I plant my tomatoes, I put about 1 tablespoon of Epson Salts in the bottom of the hole (our soil test shows we're on the low side for Magnesium). Add a little compost, then set the plant. I actual bury my tomatoes up to their uppermost leaves. A past neighbor of ours actually laid his in the ground horizontal and gently bent the leave up above ground. Either way, it seems to help the plant set out additional roots. More roots = more stability in these winds.<br /><br />I am listening to the thunder as I type this, thankful that my collector hubby has a large supply of milk crates. All the maters have their milk crate armor on ~ hopefully this will ward off any hail/dogs/chickens/kids. LOL What we gardeners go thru, huh?!Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-80932054891521306052009-05-11T11:02:00.005-05:002009-05-11T11:34:40.803-05:00Someone Special<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Gt8r1HfxVoodg9qaEto5yo2jlxq7ODitcr0Q5qtfk_mPA6ovL_G4w-lVwV7GZjmi3ejqXBXvxM0q_nn28ffEYd9Czdgfyt6yjWNch22UgwctAPFsnxn6397BZEqeQRnsUTtboiLRRsw/s1600-h/Picture+169.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334597892925773394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Gt8r1HfxVoodg9qaEto5yo2jlxq7ODitcr0Q5qtfk_mPA6ovL_G4w-lVwV7GZjmi3ejqXBXvxM0q_nn28ffEYd9Czdgfyt6yjWNch22UgwctAPFsnxn6397BZEqeQRnsUTtboiLRRsw/s320/Picture+169.jpg" border="0" /></a> I hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day! I did. Above is a lovely card made by Cole. Inside, he shared several sweet sentiments and the back was so cute too.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtpAiih_-SaLMYPpA6OHrMjKBSBrsb0kTYwRVMG1CPAhwSkPKi32PuySa7DEFKLbBHNxDRu7sPJAaAbMClyx7krrdNyYZv_P5QW9RV95-4PssFh4bTpk8Wn46Flbc8CrkPXrk4wA8VGs/s1600-h/Picture+168.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334597712501058898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtpAiih_-SaLMYPpA6OHrMjKBSBrsb0kTYwRVMG1CPAhwSkPKi32PuySa7DEFKLbBHNxDRu7sPJAaAbMClyx7krrdNyYZv_P5QW9RV95-4PssFh4bTpk8Wn46Flbc8CrkPXrk4wA8VGs/s320/Picture+168.jpg" border="0" /></a> It shows a chicken eating a worm and it's from his line of "Hungry Chicken" cards. LOL<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzoiPZIGTR5SJrR1EdgUzHhVwN6-C65mGCSSISGbuqTXEjWixiDM8pyDVEg9YdTWqBvL8hPDG_wc-cWVOXuh3bA61eia_M9KZRjirzqjWgppcK5PW1GN4d5fBzViynksYgr1AZhMUCY0g/s1600-h/Picture+165.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334597710350451026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzoiPZIGTR5SJrR1EdgUzHhVwN6-C65mGCSSISGbuqTXEjWixiDM8pyDVEg9YdTWqBvL8hPDG_wc-cWVOXuh3bA61eia_M9KZRjirzqjWgppcK5PW1GN4d5fBzViynksYgr1AZhMUCY0g/s320/Picture+165.jpg" border="0" /></a> Every Mother's Day (and Christmas too) someone very special has helped in choosing my gifts. She is a creative, kind and compassionate lady. My children enjoy spending time with her and talk about her almost as if she's a dear auntie. But, she isn't a relative. She's the art teacher at school. Mrs. H has a knack for leading the kids in art that allows them to be creative but the art is useful. I mean, who else could have the kids make a ceramic bird feeder (complete with drainage holes!) for Mom's Day?! Every year, I look forward to receiving more goodies that she had a hand in. My dear hubby isn't much of a shopper and really, doesn't do gift giving. That's a whole 'nother post, but suffice to say, it's taken me a lot of years to be okay with not getting gifts from him. Yes, I know gifts don't equate love, but that's not how I was raised and it took a lot for me to overcome the disappointment of not getting store-bought gifts. The artsy, homemade gifts that I LOVE and CHERISH come about thanks to Mrs. H. So, Mrs. H, when I'm 85 and still admiring these lovely gifts, I will be thinking of you and praising your goodness!!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhyEx5EDcpjJGU-hzyD1AjKFVjoVkroI11tqwFyvKLNRxh54UdrWxq2MLAj8CRynGeJWatz-8fjtQ3pjIaHIk-1Ips17p1uMSakpbvpjSpc_KHlvVHuR_RKbkSLz7zgSDNhX_z5kpr4k/s1600-h/Picture+167.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334597704083556770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhyEx5EDcpjJGU-hzyD1AjKFVjoVkroI11tqwFyvKLNRxh54UdrWxq2MLAj8CRynGeJWatz-8fjtQ3pjIaHIk-1Ips17p1uMSakpbvpjSpc_KHlvVHuR_RKbkSLz7zgSDNhX_z5kpr4k/s320/Picture+167.jpg" border="0" /></a> Aubrey and I attended our first ever Mother ~ Daughter Tea. It was so nice! Muffins with Mom Day complete with songs by the Kindergartners. She painted the darling heart shaped dishes (thanks again Mrs. H). They remind me of friendship charms - one for me and one for her and when we look at our hearts, we think of each other. I have some fun little things planned to use these. Oh, and the tea pot has a poem that slides out and a tea bag ~ so we're going to have a tea party the next boy-free weekend we get. (Thanks to Boy Scouts!)<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElobWR12LlpWCHeceawI74DBikn1vcS7nopdnMNHDEDQ11SffcAwYLnDSdoqbSGbXaSKfbsHhGIfyE_oQD7pR7_7AkbVzqlrlVum5hMfdB4LtPgzPnpg_hcI5vIRv9udyaXbUTKmtCtQ/s1600-h/Picture+166.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334597706138173106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElobWR12LlpWCHeceawI74DBikn1vcS7nopdnMNHDEDQ11SffcAwYLnDSdoqbSGbXaSKfbsHhGIfyE_oQD7pR7_7AkbVzqlrlVum5hMfdB4LtPgzPnpg_hcI5vIRv9udyaXbUTKmtCtQ/s320/Picture+166.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The gifts just keep coming! Someone else at school had the great idea to sell these little plants in coffee mugs for $1. And, Jerry got me the pink flowers. Plus, he made me a wonderful french toast w/ sausage breakfast to eat in BED with a newspaper and birds chirping outside my window. Who could ask for anything more?! </div><div> </div><div>The afternoon was spent with <a href="http://a-homesteading-neophyte.blogspot.com/2009/05/im-late-im-late.html">Phelan and family</a>. Cole got to ride solo and the girls got to ride with Phelan. And hold tiny kittens. And eat delicious, fresh-from-the-oven bread. And play with the not-so-tiny goats. And see Courage up close (she is a beauty!). And talk about plans for beef cows. And hang out with friends. And so much more. A very nice afternoon in deed. Even with the cold, windy day. The bonfire was excellent. I don't think I've ever had a bonfire on Mother's Day before. Seeing my kids so happy is truly a fabulous gift. Spending time with people I admire and appreciate is just the icing on the cake.</div><div> </div><div>On the way home, I saw several Cardinals. They remind me of my Texas Grandma. Whenever I see them, I know it's her way of sending me love. I love you too, Grandma.<br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-tT9oGu9zTnp95rdpPIyaqzqyXyMQaxNBCHdpO1yHIjNunF7T4VoXgjGn3Rp2CGN3R-svfXkmYar5cwggI5gh5uqmd7XyFMrgqnPa1iwQ3Vrdb8QZRK4NzOJsj17Ia3PUi5ks0itHOwE/s1600-h/Picture+158.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334597700499242722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-tT9oGu9zTnp95rdpPIyaqzqyXyMQaxNBCHdpO1yHIjNunF7T4VoXgjGn3Rp2CGN3R-svfXkmYar5cwggI5gh5uqmd7XyFMrgqnPa1iwQ3Vrdb8QZRK4NzOJsj17Ia3PUi5ks0itHOwE/s320/Picture+158.jpg" border="0" /></a> Oldest son and about 90 kids from his school, spent Friday night sleeping in boxes & Saturday raising money for a homeless shelter here in town. They got a surprise donation of a $200 check from one gentleman. I have no idea who it was, but Sir, you ROCK! You were the talk of the day! The kids had a good time, learned about a very real need in our community and discovered that 40% of the homeless are under 18. It's events like these that get them to see the world <em><strong>out there</strong></em> is really in their own backyard. </div><div> </div><div>We had a great weekend ~ hope you did too. </div></div></div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-17725536319362629092009-05-05T12:43:00.005-05:002009-05-05T13:22:52.951-05:00Cinco De Mayo<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEVPZaGVqRjtIYFx5FDGsGtyxwjeZaJTNWfGBLoNkqDYxUHNhvxYGSQX3UT3Z5CwjQLdyrPPXhp9IcNjY6srBFPBUZQq83x1jikuqKrxF_VV-tNZ57g8d1XY6jB8n_rrEAnjomAhEe0U/s1600-h/Picture+147.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332399880720499698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEVPZaGVqRjtIYFx5FDGsGtyxwjeZaJTNWfGBLoNkqDYxUHNhvxYGSQX3UT3Z5CwjQLdyrPPXhp9IcNjY6srBFPBUZQq83x1jikuqKrxF_VV-tNZ57g8d1XY6jB8n_rrEAnjomAhEe0U/s320/Picture+147.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;"><em><strong>T</strong></em>hanks</span> to my web friends for providing recipes for tonight's feast. We are not Mexican ~ although I was an exchange student to Mexico City in high school ~ and after touring that beautiful country, I often times wish I still lived there. Let's not debate that remark - just know that there are some incredibly beautiful places, free of signs, telephone poles, wires & consumerism etc that I fell in love with. Plus, it's warm & sunny. Unlike here, where it's chilly and cloudy and I'd swear it was October. </div><div></div><br /><div>Anyway, on with the link love:</div><div></div><br /><div>My frugal resolve caused me to buy a large bag of pinto beans for $1.59 instead of the can of fat free beans for $.65. I used a fabulous recipe from <a href="http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/08/crockpot-refried-beans-recipe.html">a Year of Crock Potting</a> and next time, I'll definitely double it so we can have beans in the freezer.</div><div></div><br /><div>J&J have a really good <a href="http://pathtosustainability.blogspot.com/2009/02/tortillas.html">tortilla recipe</a> and <a href="http://pathtosustainability.blogspot.com/2009/04/tortilla-chips.html">tortilla chips</a> too!</div><div></div><br /><div>Plus I made some <a href="http://www.justpeace.org/mixes.htm#Taco%20Seasoning">taco seasoned </a>** hamburger and we are cracking open the very last jar of salsa made with last summer's produce. *SOB* It seems like fresh tomatoes are so far off in the distance.</div><div></div><br /><div>We'll pull out the fabulous blanket (pictured above) that I brought back from Mexico and have a little carpet picnic. Ole!</div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">**I do think that he meant to put 1/2 tsp on the cumin - as much as I love it, 12 tsps would've been a bit much. LOL</span></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-20430606450244575772009-05-04T08:40:00.002-05:002009-05-04T08:52:06.878-05:00Mending A Sheet<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgys2Djl8CQ_5856Wx4rnvylvzf85JuR6nSzQKAknoNvOx4muHAAem_4PEt4s9y7XIwak7Pwgv5Z2IJ7ldcmELRRq8uUgqPPIdyGimrQmVRqvuAxCetoUUQUUVDFjVqYsa-qFA0m01tKdc/s1600-h/Picture+138.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331963377132231682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgys2Djl8CQ_5856Wx4rnvylvzf85JuR6nSzQKAknoNvOx4muHAAem_4PEt4s9y7XIwak7Pwgv5Z2IJ7ldcmELRRq8uUgqPPIdyGimrQmVRqvuAxCetoUUQUUVDFjVqYsa-qFA0m01tKdc/s320/Picture+138.jpg" border="0" /></a> Last summer, our fitted sheet ripped - from top to bottom. Normally, I'd run out and buy a new set of sheets and I did ~ flannel sheets. They came in sooo handy during the Freeze Yer Buns Challenge and $15 for a set of king-size flannels seemed to be a good bargain. Now that spring is here, flannel sheets are getting a little too toasty. So, what to do with the ripped sheet?<br /><br />I could go out and buy a new set ~ but that would invalidate my No Buying New rule. (I did look at the few garage sales I visited last week, but no one had king size sheets.) I didn't want to waste the gas to run to thrift stores and I haven't noticed sheets in them before anyway.<br /><br />Instead, I opted to mend the sheet. Problem is, I wasn't sure how! I looked at a few sewing options ~ most suggestions were to zig zag stitch it several times. This would be a great if my zig zag stitch was working. <br /><br />I looked into no-sew options and found that I could use fusible interfacing to cover the rip on both sides. I didn't have any in my meager sewing stash and I asked around my circle of friends - but no one had any either. I had to break down and spend $1.06 for half a yard. It was plenty.<br /><br />I cut the interfacing into strips. I ironed the sheet, put the interfacing down and ironed it. I did both sides.<br /><br />Funny, but now it looks like we have the "stripe down the middle" ~ you know ~ like kids that share bedrooms do so each person has to stay on their side of the room. <br /><br />I got the bed made and also decided to switch out the down comforter to the lighter, summer weight one. Guess what I found?! Yeah, the old set of sheets. The ones I replaced 2 years ago because we'd had them for 5 years and I was tired of the pattern. Sigh. Sometimes my "organization" makes me crazy. If the iron on patch doesn't hold, I now have a free back up plan.Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-78579839317684783602009-05-02T16:32:00.007-05:002009-05-02T17:11:12.812-05:00Potato AdmirationI was reading <a href="http://urbanself-sufficientist.blogspot.com/2009/05/blog-post.html">ATW's post </a>about how he and his wife are having an herb contest and I can so relate! My husband and I disagree on just about everything (when they say opposties attract, we took it to the EXTREME). Usually with us, the person with more experience gets his/her way... not so with the garden.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-9Nq88NUGiGBj-2SgMYhKO5zVeHg4FmR57kPtEBVi1TlQITt_HHLchbci4ysxTM0TEAKHrfUU4NmIGPMuRqvsWCVdISnAdGltiphou_iq9PAEs3E5cBkCGOVfqvjykk7W93tFm6nCfA/s1600-h/Picture+124.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331342946085912514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-9Nq88NUGiGBj-2SgMYhKO5zVeHg4FmR57kPtEBVi1TlQITt_HHLchbci4ysxTM0TEAKHrfUU4NmIGPMuRqvsWCVdISnAdGltiphou_iq9PAEs3E5cBkCGOVfqvjykk7W93tFm6nCfA/s320/Picture+124.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Take the above photo. It is of my good neighbor's potato patch. See how close the rows are? See how close the plants are? SIGH. THAT's how I wanted MY potatoes to be planted. Why? Well, it works for my neighbor and it's space saving.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331342954806683042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSY-CGi6zmaMkne3Liab4TESmxJA0wZVOwJfWDgE2DNg5p5waQOiGW7Q9Q-xQpRgYhc69nkL4kQpIVNdwWMJ0JLcx_A__OUrukUfeRUYNohdEHBoeTVJVBLenZIiFml2YKQVd3LW2mfa4/s320/Picture+125.jpg" border="0" />This photo is of 1/2 of our potato area. See all the missing holes? Complete missing rows ~ okay you don't know what's missing, but I do! I told my husband that we should plant like good neighbor, but noooooooo... we have to do it well spaced out. So, now? Now we get to double the size of our garden because we're out of room. (And, if you're wondering why I didn't plant the potatoes myself, well, we were working "together" that day and I let him have his way.)<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331344613818748498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggzXT8IZCbC3lVkRe46aQKEVWWl32tFe60tGlG0anse2TkpPG402NzB-8YR64lj_1zU0em8rKuHB1wpu8TvJ2ZFlBP6KG-Qy4WInDGf5zbrndB3-XpNIN15FVT7oWeTjMmoVKZStX9mk/s320/Picture+129.jpg" border="0" />It's somewhat hard to see, but Jerry is scalping the lawn about 15 feet out from the current garden. This will give us roughly 35' x 75' plus several raised beds that are in another part of the yard. I had wanted to enlarge it last fall, but it didn't happen - we were debating the merits of enlarging it... suffice to say, he came to my conclusion. *ahem*<br /><br /><br /><br />Since you're here touring, let me show you what's growing...<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331345770783865394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNAf1C5IDaVMMA_80HNJ9IsYUxOPn-bPUFUQrbMnnkSU4tRZ0JB-XU-QJSEHLnKidS6GwjxxY9hrHM1gUxe9P3nJcM98g1HsU3kNe2rTp465bLVYUc26BMgcS-n_IEaNXNrY71qU-e5Cs/s320/Picture+133.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />See all the greenery in the rows between the raised beds? Can you guess what they are? If you said potatoes, you are the <span style="font-size:130%;">Winner! Winner! Chicken Dinner!</span> (what does that mean, anyway? lol) When you don't harvest 100%, the ones left in the ground will grow the next spring. So, we have about 25 bonus plants growing in all kinds of odd places. If they survive the traffic patterns, we'll harvest them too.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331346086054831170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDHlNZ1SVQ3Ac971zYY0zOALLCtBbOQRTcMBH9sdaiEyg6IRo1VzFTskKVsogTs31MqqWQL4UOg__PdQlE3kin5B4L6ULMU9RRbPSpH6A-fmOOMJzL_9Jw85Fe8s_eRMIVgeY97xMCABo/s320/Picture+137.jpg" border="0" />Raspberry bushes are looking quite flush. Only 1 failed to sprout so back it goes for an exchange.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331346082895094930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0YOvuxPDUTY7InSjTkm4ZlXdYPnoxKR8kcL5q4WMPuMXxMaNBIG_kwN7jLJFZ5Wn_X8pRRx0vvCzoSyB2XaEin6uY90s50d3WPvGCs-MKs4N4LKMd0KGOK-raanCWFSMsD0Yb-3p9NIU/s320/Picture+136.jpg" border="0" />Broiler chickens are huddled together in the revised chicken tractor. It's chilly and drizzly today, but they are fully feathered so should be okay. At night, their tractor is covered and stays very warm. I only wish we knew how old they were - we bought them from Atwoods & all they could tell us was they were between 1 - 4 weeks old. So, they are now somewhere between 5 -8 weeks. We plan to butcher around Memorial Day weekend.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331345763399535330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAqpjdmeZNDJ8NCKK_K7GT4QWONxkSsb5gesiOQBMwmtrCgL6OKh0LtiI3fipRy9k_NsSRiKmxrGb_x75Tn-_40RTeoMuiCZqfc3xEflhy8xLjlQnbeUabygYKMOHBMTIAQGBOYLUN30g/s320/Picture+131.jpg" border="0" />Strawberry beds are not as assalted with the poultry netting on, but the Chickens still get in and create havoc. We'll be ordering the <a href="http://www.premier1supplies.com/fencing.php?mode=detail&fence_id=96">electric poultry fencing</a>. We'll either put it around the garden to keep the girls out or create a run to keep them in. It's being debated. :D<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331346078734688610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTG6q6fxy1JL5JrGszU_jUp3xSPp1hP1H0h5vxdEh-F1aWstJgQbokR9caHe_Q2rxqPxRyq_RcZ0qD-7xBmbO62iQeRe6BHvht1zEdnSdy6JH35dLAEV9x8LzRhWd9Pym-KfHuAL-1RM/s320/Picture+135.jpg" border="0" />Speaking of keeping things out, I don't know if I shared a photo of the rhubarb rescue Jerry built. It has worked great at keeping the horses from eating the stalks to the ground. They keep trying, but they can't quite reach the edge to pull it over. Ha ha ha ~ foiled you!<br /><br /><div></div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-7043782626367792602009-04-28T09:23:00.003-05:002009-04-28T09:58:02.296-05:00There She Blows<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI_gnjhPXunDILhs6DADfe1LkbA6TpBOoBckv3Vg_QKOeiXDp2Wf546mtUoO977qtwmui_kAxm1-wx37fuMsDxGfnmwS72prNQDQYf_f7zHZy61U-BbbmOihLpGR4PapFJjH1bJ-43yMk/s1600-h/Picture.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329747977151135890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI_gnjhPXunDILhs6DADfe1LkbA6TpBOoBckv3Vg_QKOeiXDp2Wf546mtUoO977qtwmui_kAxm1-wx37fuMsDxGfnmwS72prNQDQYf_f7zHZy61U-BbbmOihLpGR4PapFJjH1bJ-43yMk/s320/Picture.jpg" border="0" /></a> Thanks to the winds, the mini-greenhouse got blown over, spilling dozens of plants. I was able to salvage most of them, but I did lose about 2 dozen tomatoes. Not to worry ~ I have hundreds more growing. But, what a mess! It happened during the rain that dumped 5 inches on us. <br /><br />Question: What would a reasonable budget for food be, for a family of 7?<br /><br />My Answer: $400 a month.<br /><br />Let me explain. We are in the process of eliminating debt using <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/">Dave Ramsey's</a> <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/home/">proven method</a>. We have a long ways to go, but we're dedicated to the mission. We decided to see a financial counselor to get a check up, so to speak. She went over our budget and suggested we cut the food budget in half. Um, WHAT?! <em><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">7 people should eat 100% of their meals on $200 a month</span>?</strong></em> I have a pantry, but it's not THAT well stocked right now.<br /><br />We didn't guesstimate correctly last fall when we were canning. It was the first year we decided to actually can enough to last us until this year's harvest. We under estimated on everything. So, I'm shopping more than I thought I would.<br /><br />Also included in that budget are seeds & plants that will produce (raspberries & blueberries to name a few.)<br /><br />I'm a very careful shopper and have a price book plus I'm now couponing in hopes that I can save money every place I can. (I used to just buy the store brand or at Aldi's but I'm discovering that I can often get better deals on the name brands by using coupons during a sale.) Also included are the products I use to make my own laundry soap, shampoo, conditioner and cleaners. <br /><br />What isn't included in that budget is the cost of feed for the chickens, cats, dogs, and other pets. She insinuated that we might want to get rid of all the pets in order to apply that money to the debt. Again, I see her angle, but the pets (and chickens) add to our quality of life and we won't be getting rid of them. Plus, my chickens feed me. :D<br /><br />I don't know why this is still rubbing me the wrong way (we met with her in Feb.) but it is. I guess I'd just really like to know how a family of 7 can eat 84 meals on $200 a month. I do buy 25 pounds of rice at the Chinese market and I am growing beans, so heck, we could do the beans-n-rice meals that Dave always spouts about, but I'm sure that we'd be sick of them by day 3. <br /><br />We eat a ton of veggies. In the summer, we eat stir fry nearly every night. If it's not stir fry, it's grilled veggies. We love them. In the winter/early spring, we don't eat as many because it's not in the budget (have you SEEN the prices at the stores lately?) <br /><br />The other thing we do to help offset the budget is barter. I have swapped eggs for Elderberry plants & baked goods. One of our sons helps a neighbor in his garden in exchange for veggies. Bartering is a great way to get more food without paying for it.<br /><br />What do you think? Is my $400 a month too much?Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-3249183732528519122009-04-25T10:03:00.005-05:002009-04-25T10:22:12.495-05:00Party of Seven<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSUJHBvw-QQfULuqOTw2XvHivDvqtswSNdqU72zrSDbsE3csi_x6eyAeaQI36merS8DX3FwhgdU-EY3o4SajjLxGu077FG1whCKYUVHxIVIIja54HVNv3yhyphenhyphenNukSBFT9JmDLBQKuFyEs/s1600-h/Picture+115.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328645022380184066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSUJHBvw-QQfULuqOTw2XvHivDvqtswSNdqU72zrSDbsE3csi_x6eyAeaQI36merS8DX3FwhgdU-EY3o4SajjLxGu077FG1whCKYUVHxIVIIja54HVNv3yhyphenhyphenNukSBFT9JmDLBQKuFyEs/s320/Picture+115.jpg" border="0" /></a> When Jerry & I were engaged, we went shopping for a table and chair set. This was the nicest one we could afford. At the time, with just the two of us, it seemed like such a HUGE table. It has a leaf that folds inside, but the photo above shows the leaf IN, so this is the table we use everyday to seat 7. Yeah, it's a squeeze. 2 people sit on folding chairs and Emma still uses her high chair, just without the tray on it.<br /><br />We've had a lot of laughs at this table. I grew up in a family that rarely joked around or enjoyed meals together. Not so in MY house. We all laugh, joke, snort and share good times. We are silly and loving and US. I've wanted a bigger table for so long, but it's not in the budget and really, not a huge priority. We've talked a little about getting a bench for one side but we just haven't gotten around to it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-Y-8POXRl_gW3fQgGsJuh0mbfk-yFK3VIHUg9sQ6dnU2Ld-XfDqoS_66lGGmJoKJbA11h3DVq0ChzO8muB19NHDuurE4ANYJfu3Rdpy2HNHwgxvP0iElk5xZonM7gbt4yjFqzC34WY0/s1600-h/Picture+121.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328645024245581714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-Y-8POXRl_gW3fQgGsJuh0mbfk-yFK3VIHUg9sQ6dnU2Ld-XfDqoS_66lGGmJoKJbA11h3DVq0ChzO8muB19NHDuurE4ANYJfu3Rdpy2HNHwgxvP0iElk5xZonM7gbt4yjFqzC34WY0/s320/Picture+121.jpg" border="0" /></a> Let me present to you the new-to-us incredible blessing that we've received this week!! This table is amazing! First off, with it fully extended, it can seat 12, TWELVE. That's five more than we need! OH, and it comes with SIX matching chairs, so still using the high chair, we have seating for us all. Divine! Truly divine! It also stores the extra (2) leaves inside, but we opted to have 1 in and 1 stored. It's so much wider than our old table. It's weird to not be able to reach A L L the way across the table anymore. LOL<br /><br />My dear friend K is moving to a smaller home and this table wouldn't fit. She offered it to us... free. I'm still in shock and just feeling incredibly grateful for her generosity. She could've sold it and made some cash, but instead, she chose to give it to us.<br /><br />We got it home last night and I just marvel at it's size. There's room enough for all of us plus the meal too. Our old table didn't hold much, so we often prepared the plates in the kitchen and just ate at the table. Now we get to truly know what a family does - Pass the potatoes! Pass the salt and pepper! Oh, the fun times we're going to have at this beauty. I can't wait. <em><span style="font-size:180%;">Thanks again</span></em> <span style="font-size:180%;"><em>K</em> </span>~ you know we love you and appreciate all you do for us!! Come join us for dinner, we've got room.Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-36344160362846407072009-04-22T05:37:00.004-05:002009-04-22T10:42:08.051-05:00Make your Own Bags<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsi8kzCr5Tt7Hac7z8mLwqUTHJBP36k6YjyatzzfwlEr5l7oB3HF2TBTtsgiFl8EhIo_k9gSddFCKkcB_wn3ih5M6-JqH5nlEbdOuqEv9FhrF7ente7QLyd2pi7EMfVi5X5RyCJctMYOk/s1600-h/Picture+112.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327540357007542226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsi8kzCr5Tt7Hac7z8mLwqUTHJBP36k6YjyatzzfwlEr5l7oB3HF2TBTtsgiFl8EhIo_k9gSddFCKkcB_wn3ih5M6-JqH5nlEbdOuqEv9FhrF7ente7QLyd2pi7EMfVi5X5RyCJctMYOk/s400/Picture+112.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I've been hunting for reusable bags to use for veggies at the Farmer's Market. I found a few on Etsy but what I wanted to find was a pattern to make some. Alas, I'm not a great seamstress and the thought of trying to sew with a "holey" (netting) fabric made me cringe.<br /><br />Well, here's the Eureka moment! Thanks to <a href="http://thefrugalcountrymom.blogspot.com/2009/04/reusable-produce-bags.html">The Frugal Country Mom </a>I no longer have to contemplate this and I already HAVE some of these bags including my old dip bag (for dishes) from Girl Scouts. {smacks forhead for NOT thinking of this already}. LOL<br /><br />But, if you'd like to make some bags, check out this site <a href="http://www.greenbaglady.blogspot.com/">GreenBagLady.</a> Now I can sew straight lines, so I'm going to whip up a few bags today using her patterns. What a cool site!<br /><br />All of this started with a comment by Marianne on <a href="http://down---to---earth.blogspot.com/2009/04/beauty-of-simple-bag.html">Down To Earth.</a> So, thanks again for the awesome bunny trail to follow. Another thing crossed off my to do list (find bag pattern.)<br /><br />As soon as I whip a bag up, I'll post a photo of it. :)</div><div> </div><div>UPDATED: Ok, now you see the bag I made! It was pretty simple even for someone who hasn't sewn in ages. I do have an issue with my sewing machine - it won't "keep" a zig zag stitch. It'll go for a few inches, then drop back to straight stitch then go back into zigzag mode. </div><div> </div><div>I inherited the Singer from my husband's grandmother. She sewed all her families clothes on it! The first thing I made was a Log Cabin quilt for my husband as a wedding gift. Honestly, had I known what I was getting myself into, I doubt I would've tackled that as my first real project! LOL But, it turned out great as did all the other quilts I made on it. I may try to find someone that has a serger to do the handles for me - that's my only concern that the zigzag will frey and the handles will come apart.</div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-5428841929028095662009-04-20T11:18:00.004-05:002009-04-20T11:54:55.287-05:00Money Savings<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVl4U8eQ7plFMvIrQqNwCUIVIvz8_rVsSh5yUP4q-jhEF3p5850LHLPObIzGH2j-MunzQuSY5AdU28ZPGjhN1bAKhwMMwh3FDfd7fXr2l2s_MlB3Ba5wFuojZCaECyH_wvpX4mNjge-o/s1600-h/HPIM0125.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326815842138245618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVl4U8eQ7plFMvIrQqNwCUIVIvz8_rVsSh5yUP4q-jhEF3p5850LHLPObIzGH2j-MunzQuSY5AdU28ZPGjhN1bAKhwMMwh3FDfd7fXr2l2s_MlB3Ba5wFuojZCaECyH_wvpX4mNjge-o/s320/HPIM0125.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Years ago when I was a newlywed, I clipped coupons and used them. Not like <a href="http://jillcataldo.com/">some people</a> (click on her Past Deals tabs - it's AMAZING!), but I did use them. We always eat out with coupons (well, on the rare occasions that we actually eat out, lol). Recently, I've been reading blogs about money savings using coupons, store rewards (cash back receipts), double/triple couponing and other strategies.</div><div></div><br /><div>I've never gotten into it as a way to save mega bucks because I shop at Aldi's, the bread store, <a href="http://urbanhomesteadingintheict.blogspot.com/2008/12/food-co-ops.html">food co-ops</a> and of course, the other favorites (Farmer's markets, Farmers, gleaning, craigslist, freecycle etc.) I tend to buy the store brands when they're on sale, and store brands usually don't have coupons.</div><div></div><br /><div>Well, this past weekend, I was surfing around and came across a few blogs that boasted of buying $100 of grocerries for a mere $10. Right, I said, like <strong><em>everybody</em></strong> can do that. But, as I continued to read, I found out that a lot of people are really scooping up some good deals out there.</div><div></div><br /><div>Just to see if I could do it too, I flipped thru the coupon section from Sunday's paper. I clipped a $.75 off Colgate coupon and headed to Walgreen's. They have these deals where if you buy certain products, you'll get the same amount of money back to use on your next purchase (store credit receipts) and of course, they have stuff on sale. So, I bought a shaving cream for my husband and the colgate. I used the coupon. Here's how it worked:</div><div></div><ul><li>I bought shaving cream which was marked down to $2.99 ~ got a $3 store credit</li><li>Colgate was on sale for $.99 ~ had a $.75 off coupon ~ paid just $.24 for it</li></ul><div align="center"></div><div align="center">So I spent out of pocket $3.48 (includes tax) but I have a $3 coupon to use on the next trip.</div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="left">I've put the word out that I'd love to have other people's coupon papers if they're not using them. It'll be interesting to see what all I can purchase for a reduced amount. I've set a goal of spending less than $200 a month for our family of 7. Between the sale shopping and the garden, I'm sure I can do it!</div><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">As a side note, at Aldi's, the green beans which were $.29 a can are now $.49 a can! Brown sugar which was $.79 in December is now $1.19. So, even at the low cost stores, prices are rising at a very fast pace!</div><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">Also, if you are into coupons and weren't aware, K-Mart is doubling coupons up to $2 in my area and even more in other areas. Our local circular didn't show this!!! I went online and still didn't believe it so I called the store and she said, yes, they are doing it too. When I got there, I snagged a coupon booklet at the front door (under the circular rack) and it has some good stuff in it.</div><br /><div align="left"></div><div align="left">When I used to travel for my job, I always hit the CVS as they have stellar deals. I'm not prepared to drive 2 hours just to get a good deal but if you have one near you, check it out!</div><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">Here's a few sites I found that got me started in my path to savings <a href="http://frugalchallenge2009.blogspot.com/">this one</a>, <a href="http://creatingcute.blogspot.com/">this one </a>, <a href="http://www.moneysavingmadness.com/">this one </a>and <a href="http://jamieisamoneymagnet.blogspot.com/">this one. </a></div><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">If you are into couponing, how do you stay organized?! I knew what I wanted to buy so I didn't take all the coupons with me, but at Walgreen's they have unannounced in-store sales that I could've taken advantage of had I had the coupons with me. </div><br /><div align="left"></div><div align="left">I did see a few people who have taken this to an extreme and seem to be hoarding a ton of stuff. I still can't imagine getting things I won't use (like the lady who has cases of cat food, but no cat!) I guess you can donate it? Or swap with someone for stuff you do use?</div>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491733012380416199.post-77971847815032960252009-04-14T14:19:00.007-05:002009-04-14T15:02:07.957-05:00Tiptoe in my Tulips<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOPXMNiR0Z29R4MgrU8BSFW8PH8J9ZyfRLAGViU5Lezr7dSuQAgCXL2CIT_ZxMPZIRaGEmZIDdIrCwkISf6Ao8FUMoZf6uG-a9ddV3bEqLGuIli8-njzMMqcTjh8twgUQVmjlv29c_Jw/s1600-h/Picture+086.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324637871420802866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOPXMNiR0Z29R4MgrU8BSFW8PH8J9ZyfRLAGViU5Lezr7dSuQAgCXL2CIT_ZxMPZIRaGEmZIDdIrCwkISf6Ao8FUMoZf6uG-a9ddV3bEqLGuIli8-njzMMqcTjh8twgUQVmjlv29c_Jw/s320/Picture+086.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">Red Tulips now, Red Geraniums to come<br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhL5BlFHryDA8755S_YzzRqFHG620xSkWha-VfG-VNz_jHLMUlHuEzzd5pIR7a2wMmSgVsmdMpVCgh195lyyXANOWzUUBSh260RuFofG1eTMLtsN6blK9P2e4BqsRZNcYSzzdtFcgBkJs/s1600-h/Picture+088.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324629596299562690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhL5BlFHryDA8755S_YzzRqFHG620xSkWha-VfG-VNz_jHLMUlHuEzzd5pIR7a2wMmSgVsmdMpVCgh195lyyXANOWzUUBSh260RuFofG1eTMLtsN6blK9P2e4BqsRZNcYSzzdtFcgBkJs/s320/Picture+088.jpg" border="0" /></a>My front porch has been converted into a seeding station. I found the mini-greenhouse at Lowe's and it works GREAT! Not all of these flats actually fit in there, some stay indoors at night. Even with yesterday's 50 degree, cloudy day, inside the greenhouse, it was a balmy 62. I do have to keep a close eye on the temp though and unzip it and roll up the one side just about the time the sun starts hitting it - it heats up quick! </div><div align="center"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIoPrilZZOpZvhkE3rK20v5vp5F2iRI1nRZ2hc93k7Q-3KyUOvSd4gaCLzZMxZW-soROfqi4ECYM-u1JyObHodl1KPaGV4qhhvo4wcrs4JEnpXeQ-xpsRXLaAExAihe60oJjLi_imPdM/s1600-h/Picture+089.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324629591759035682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIoPrilZZOpZvhkE3rK20v5vp5F2iRI1nRZ2hc93k7Q-3KyUOvSd4gaCLzZMxZW-soROfqi4ECYM-u1JyObHodl1KPaGV4qhhvo4wcrs4JEnpXeQ-xpsRXLaAExAihe60oJjLi_imPdM/s320/Picture+089.jpg" border="0" /></a>Future red raspberry plants hanging out until the ground dries out enough to be planted. Buds are already appearing on them. Oddly, the nursery didn't send the blackberry plants at the same time, but the blueberries have shipped.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNUBi6h0F8HD7zRaeHJlTsT85QPrLpEJHEZFmyBGsSQWiBNMYvZJ3tC3GMP4snow2JxkzlLTVZYlhCRKexuBUTiaWe8O23B98r0Sykxvn-Im8GHs2zICup1Y6GoDOUP3uyEGaMmyJhMxc/s1600-h/Picture+093.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324629589276629010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNUBi6h0F8HD7zRaeHJlTsT85QPrLpEJHEZFmyBGsSQWiBNMYvZJ3tC3GMP4snow2JxkzlLTVZYlhCRKexuBUTiaWe8O23B98r0Sykxvn-Im8GHs2zICup1Y6GoDOUP3uyEGaMmyJhMxc/s320/Picture+093.jpg" border="0" /></a>Last Friday, Emma and I went to the feed store to check for seed potatoes - we couldn't resist looking at the ducks and chickens. And, wouldn't you know, 10 Cornish Rocks ended up in our shopping cart. These are the trial run birds -the big order shows up next month. Trial run as in: we-don't-know-how-to-butcher-but-heck-we're-gonna-give-it-a-whirl. </div><div>I'm not grooving on their disposition - if you've ever seen the movie Wall-E, they remind me of those humans - completely uninterested in moving around on their own. They lay by the feed trough and eat, LAYING DOWN. This isn't okay with me! (their bellies are featherless and dirty, ugh!) I'm used to free-ranging, independent beauties that spend all their time foraging, dust bathing and dashing all around the yard. These birds? L A Z Y. I did read <a href="http://www.backyardpoultrymag.com/issues/4/4-2/alternatives_to_the_cornish_cross.html">a good article </a>about an alternative to Cornish Cross for meat birds. After the next batch comes and goes into the freezer, I think we'll give an alternative a try. Meanwhile, I put the birds in the chicken tractor on nice sunny days in hopes they move around a bit more. </div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Besides, sunshine is a great boost for whatever ails you, right?!</span><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGo0onVH6oExPmYgJ4_JA3I2Qy5unkatKuDlAxlUpmR2EEOsdthm4CQfMKKvb1A8E07DzRaAl0fVDyWBYwuRqQtWav0czO-Jrc7cruzBPneLOu3B9a9f5RfNSNJddmIkNWCjezk3L_lJo/s1600-h/Picture+097.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324629586417710866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGo0onVH6oExPmYgJ4_JA3I2Qy5unkatKuDlAxlUpmR2EEOsdthm4CQfMKKvb1A8E07DzRaAl0fVDyWBYwuRqQtWav0czO-Jrc7cruzBPneLOu3B9a9f5RfNSNJddmIkNWCjezk3L_lJo/s320/Picture+097.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The free rangers chose one strawberry bed as their own personal dig zone. They ignored the fencing and my hollering and chasing. They waited until my back was turned, and IN they'd go. Now, I know the bed has juicy worms and other yummy bugs, but I'm trying to grow enough berries to actual put some up this year as in jam and P I E. So, I took a great tip from Amy over at <a href="http://twelveacres.blogspot.com/2009/04/peeps-tv-episode-2.html">Twelve Acres</a> and I put poultry netting out. HaHaHa - foiled the birds. I let my netting float on the main part of the bed and just have it pinned on the corners. I ended up having to do this on all the beds - too tempting for the chooks. As much as I love them and their free ranging ways, I have to have food this year too. They decimated the broccoli and cabbage beds before I got the netting on. Sigh. As an aside, do they make a netting to keep kids out of strawberries?</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324637674277120050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1w8frGtaDbuRikZFEoeqQsdcFF6F8OP8V6kdQnfFDXrqy2wSEmKLIZmQqsZpXl7bq1QZwVPldun3GkedKlKHpjbl2mq1hKsHUEuSPA8yzB53_ve9srjuqDmfVgNQPkdrXKIIzerfelk8/s320/Picture+101.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><br /></div></div><p align="center">Here are some of the lovely Ladies in action. Yes, I know they look innocent, but those feet can dig like you wouldn't believe! In the background, you can see the absolute BARE earth that is their run - they took it from luscious grass to bare earth in a mere 3 days. This bit in front of their run is on the thin side, but it's a good fescue blend and should bounce back with enough sunshine and rain. </p>Melissa ~ Mom to 6http://www.blogger.com/profile/02298290484388042867noreply@blogger.com5