The Crazy Days of Our Lives

Tasty Tuesday {Crockpot Oatmeal}

2011-12-20T22:20:00.001-06:00

Are you cold yet? It is especially cold here today after a system came in that included over an inch of rain (yay!) yesterday morning, followed by freezing temperatures, high winds and blowing snow. The wind blew all night, and the high today is 28 degrees -- everything is frozen!

One of my favorite things to make for a cold morning is Crockpot Oatmeal. It is a great start for school mornings, since you prepare everything the night before, and it is ready when you wake up!

My family has never been a big fan of oatmeal, until I introduced this recipe. The consistency is a bit different from instant oatmeal or stovetop oatmeal -- very creamy -- and when I add toasted pecans, everyone gobbles it up!

I apologize in advance for the photo quality. The photos look fine in my library and when I select them to upload, but when I upload them to blogger, there are lines and color distortions - not sure why, but I re-uploaded several of the photos more than once, and they would look different -- and wrong -- almost every time! I didn't have time to re-upload every picture until each was right.

Here's what you need:

Steel cut oats (very important), water, milk, cinnamon sugar, brown sugar, butter and vanilla.

Place 1 c. steel cut oats in a bowl that will hold 4 1/2-5 cups of of liquid. The bowl should also easily fit in your crockpot with the lid in place.

Add the other dry ingredients: 1/4 c. brown sugar, 2 T. cinnamon sugar, and 1 T. butter (cut into small pieces). Stir gently to combine.

Add the liquid -- 4 c. water and 1/2 c. milk; stir to combine. Stir in 1 t. vanilla.

Now, the fun part! First, put about 1" of water in the crock pot. Carefully place the bowl of oatmeal mixture inside the crock pot. Gently pour additional water down the side of the crock pot, so that the water level is at about the same level as the oatmeal mixture. This creates a water bath that will gently cook the oatmeal.

Put the lid on the crock pot and set it on "LOW" - cook for 6-8 hours.

When you wake up in the morning this is what it will look like:

I usually toast some pecans in the oven while everyone is getting ready, and crumble them on top. Additional milk is optional. Nothing like a piping hot bowl of oatmeal to start the day -- yum!

You could add fruit to the mixture before cooking, but we're not really fruit people. You are what you eat, after all, and I guess we'd rather be nuts!

Here's the recipe:

Crockpot Oatmeal

1 c. steel cut oats

1/4 c. brown sugar

2 T. cinnamon sugar

1 T. butter cut into pieces

4 c. water

1/2 c. milk

1 t. vanilla

Mix dry ingredients, including butter in a bowl that will hold at least 4-5 c. liquid. The bowl should also be able to easily fit in crock pot with the lid in place. Add water and milk; stir. Stir in vanilla. Put about 1" of water in crock pot; gently place bowl of oatmeal mixture in crockpot. Pour additional water into crockpot to the same level as oatmeal. Put lid on crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

"My mom is your biggest fan" - {Meeting The Pioneer Woman}

2011-12-19T22:43:00.001-06:00

A couple months ago, The Pioneer Woman, my favorite blogger/cookbook author, announced her Amarillo booksigning on Facebook. Needless to say, I was floored, and immediately called my husband.

Me: "Guess who's coming to Amarillo?!"

Dennis: "Matthew McConnoughey?" (see this post)

Me: "No....guess again!"

Dennis: "Selena Gomez?" (not sure where that came from...)

Me: "No...whose blog do I read EVERY day, and whose recipes do you love?"

- PAUSE-

Dennis: "Get OUT!"

Me: "That's right, The Pioneer Woman!"

Dennis: "Please don't do anything weird, okay?"

That afternoon, when the kids got in the car, I asked the same question..."Guess who's coming to Amarillo?"
Their first guess was Selena Gomez. Again, not sure where that came from!

Rewind a few months back - February, I think it was. I sent an email to Ree Drummond -- The Pioneer Woman -- telling her she should do a booksigning in Amarillo, since I knew she had a great fan base around here. I suggested things they could do while they were here, etc. Now I know it wasn't my email, but was still so very excited that she decided to do a booksigning while in town for the World Championship Ranch Rodeo.

Anyhow, November 13 could not come soon enough. My sister, Judith, agreed to come with me, and we met some new friends while we were there. We figured there would be a long line, so we decided to try to be there around 9 a.m. -- two hours before the signing. Judith thought I was crazy, but when it was all said and done, we were both glad we arrived early. Jack, Rachael and Avery also came along. Jack had a basketball tournament that afternoon, and I was afraid I wouldn't have enough time to drive back to Hereford to get him to the tournament, so he had to tag along. Rachael and Avery were excited to meet The Pioneer Woman. Sam stayed with our sitter, and I know he was much happier at home than waiting in line!

We were near the front of the line, and once the signing began, it wasn't long before it was our turn.

Rachael walked right up to Mrs. Drummond and said, point blank,

"My Mom is your biggest fan!"

"I bet someone told you to say that," was Mrs. Drummond's response.

She signed the many books I brought, conversing as she signed each book. She complimented the girls' outfits (thank you, Hannah Andersson!), and when she signed a "Charlie" book for my niece, Quincy, she said she would have to add that name to her list of names she liked for babies. So sweet!

Of course, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to meet Marlboro Man, and he was very nice -- and tall, too!

Thank goodness Judith brought her camera, because I could not find mine! Thank you, dear sister, for the photos!

This was such a fun morning, and I have to say that I am an even bigger fan of The Pioneer Woman. She is so nice and down-to-earth, as is her husband. Great people!

I hope to be in more of a blogging mood over the holidays. We've had a whirlwind fall, with so many activities and detours along the way. I hope to fill you in soon.

Book Recommendation {One Thousand Gifts}

2011-08-30T10:52:00.001-05:00

It's been a little over three months since my last post. I took a little vacation from blogging, since my brood was home for the summer, and it seemed summer was busier than the school year. We had a fun, fun summer! I am sorry this post doesn't fall within my "Days" format....this is not a "Tasty Tuesday" post. I will tell you more about our summer over the next few posts, hopefully in my blog format, but for now, I must give you a book recommendation.

My sister, Johnna, gave me a wonderful (40th!) birthday gift -- a book called One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. I typically do not find time to read, and especially, finish books; by the time there is time, I am, sadly, sitting in a chair dozing off in front of Top Chef, or the like.

I really wanted to read this book, so I decided to get up one hour earlier, read a chapter each day while I savored my coffee, and actually FINISH A BOOK!

The first chapter in, I knew this would not be hard to do.

Voskamp is a poetic, intellectual writer who focuses on the eucharist (THANKSGIVING!) as the theme of this particular writing. She has a tragic past that centers around the loss of her toddler sister. The first two chapters, for me, were tearfully read.

We're talking buckets.

One of my favorite excerpts from the book really struck a chord with me:

"With memories of gravestones, of combing fingers through tangled hair, I wonder too...if the rent in the canvas of our life backdrop, the losses that puncture our world, our own emptiness, might actually become places to see.

To see through to God.

That that which tears open our souls, those holes that splatter our sight, may actually become the thin, open places to see through the mess of this place to the heart-aching beauty beyond. To Him."

-- One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp, p. 22.

As I read each day, my attitude toward God, life and my family changed completely. It is easy to go through life being casually thankful. This book teaches one how to make thanksgiving a central, genuine habit in your life. And it will change your life for the better.

Get it. Read it. Live it! (And if you can't find it in the Amarillo area, it's because I have bought the local book stores out twice -- for copies to give to friends. I have extras in my car and am happy to give you one -- just ask!)

So glad to be "back." Here's to our blessings!

Wild Card Wednesday {Science Fair Fun}

2011-05-25T10:10:00.000-05:00

I know...I know...just trying to keep it together in all of this end-of-school stuff! Although I didn't post Meal Plan Monday on Monday, I did plan our meals this week. Here's a quick review of what we are having:
Monday: Hamburger Helper Cheesy Mac, Steamed Green Beans, Whole Wheat Bread
Tuesday: Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken, Stuffing (Whole Wheat Stove Top!), Green Salad.
Wednesday: Lasagna (carried over from a few weeks ago...didn't get to make it), Steamed Broccoli, Garlic Bread
Thursday: Pizza - Marketside from Wal-Mart (moved to tonight...haircuts and recital are leaving us with limited time to cook and eat!)
Friday: Grilled Sausage (Slovacek's - our favorite!), Smashed Potatoes, Green Salad
Saturday: Tilapia with Herbs, Steamed Carrots with Brown Sugar, Green Salad, Whole Wheat Bread

And now we continue with our regular programming...

In April, Jack and Rachael participated in the school science fair. I have been fascinated with this event since Jack started school at Saint Anthony's over five years ago (has it been THAT long?). Growing up in the 70's and 80's, this was not an activity that the schools I attended offered. In fact, the first time I had exposure to something even remotely similar to this was when I was in....should I admit this?.....GRADUATE school! Yikes!

Interestingly enough, my experience preparing my one and only poster for an abstract presented at an international science meeting, inspired Jack and Rachael's first school project display in 2008. Here's a picture of it:

Needless to say, the poster was a bit stark compared to other entries; the kids and I learned a lot from that first science fair, and with each fair, improved in their choice of experiment, presentation and backdrop. Here's a little walk down memory lane since then:

2009 (disclaimer: I was 8 months pregnant when these posters were prepared!)

2010

This year, Rachael selected a project to observe the life cycle of a butterfly. We purchased a kit from Hobby Lobby that included a habitat and certificate with a code to order the larva online. The project went flawlessly, and all 5 larvae hatched into butterflies. It was a fun project for the whole family as we observed the transformation of the small bug-looking larva into fuzzier caterpillars, migration to the top of the larvae habitat to form chrysalis (or cocoon) and finally the emergence of the painted lady butterflies. Rachael won first place with her project as well as a certificate for the appearance of her exhibit. I knew my scrapbooking supplies would come in handy -- yet again!

Jack selected a water filtering project -- again, a kit purchased from Hobby Lobby was a great help! He mixed "dirty" water using oil and dirt, and tested the effectiveness of gravel, sand and carbon filters. It was amazing how the filthy, muddy water filtered through all of the filters to become fairly clean, clear water. Jack got sick the week of the science fair, but got out of bed for his presentation, and he, too won first place (a tie!). We had lots of fun with his title, considering he attends a Catholic school! He also received a certificate for his display.

This was the first year that either child won first place, and the first year for them to receive display awards. I am so glad that they continue to gain this experience in planning, executing and presenting their experiments.

On a completely different subject, please pray for all those affected by the recent tornadoes, floods, and fires. Each morning as a I turn on the news my heart is saddened by the strife being experienced by those affected by these natural disasters. I know that God is good, and I pray that He will continue to hold all those affected in His loving arms of comfort and peace.

Fun Friday {Mickey Mouse Pancakes}

2011-05-20T11:04:00.003-05:00

Wow -- another crazy busy week. I did no meal planning mostly due to the inability to plan because I wasn't sure if we would have hot water for a big part of the week. In the process of putting in a sprinkler system, we learned that there were issues with our gas line that resulted in the decision to convert to electric for both hot water and heat in our home. We finally got everything converted (additional electrical work had to be done) and I am back in business! Meals were limited to what could be cooked with minimal dishes and we ate with paper goods all week. And this all happened at the beginning of our "end of school madness" -- rehearsals, recitals, etc.

What do you cook when you are in a pinch and need some good comfort food? In our house it is "breakfast for dinner!" The kids love this meal, especially when I make their favorite Mickey Mouse pancakes. There is no recipe for this...but I wanted to share how I make them and what they look like. The kids like to help in their preparation, and I almost always have the ingredients on hand.

I start with a basic pancake mix, like Pioneer, or as of late, I have found a wonderful chocolate pancake mix at Wal-Mart. The jury's still out on the chocolate mix (shown in this post), but the whole family likes a basic pancake mix, like Pioneer. I mix it according to the package directions and add about 1/2 t. vanilla. After ladling the batter onto the griddle, I sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly across each pancake. You could add the chips to the batter before ladling, but I find that they often sink to the bottom of the batter bowl and result in unevenly distributed chocolate chips, and we can't have that!

To make Mickey Mouse pancakes, I ladle enough batter to make a 4-5" diameter pancake (for the face) and two 1 1/2" diameter pancakes (for the ears), for each serving. Once the pancakes are done, I arrange them on a plate like this and work in an assembly line:

Now it's time to create a frame for Mickey's face. I use canned whipped light cream and "pipe" two dots for the eyes, one dot for the nose, and a curved line for a smile.

Next, add regular size chocolate chips for the eyes and smile. Don't worry, the nose will come soon!

Now the finishing touch: a marachino cherry for the nose:

Four Mickeys in a row:

Now if you want to have a little more fun with this (and we always do!), once the plates are delivered to the table, we serve scrambled eggs and bacon family style. Here is Mickey with some scrambled egg "hair":

And here he is with a bacon "bowtie":

Yum! Mickey isn't looking so good at this point, so I think it is time to eat!

Plates: French Countryside by Mikasa, Flatware: Butler's Pantry by Lenox; Placemats: Pimpernel.

At Christmas time, I like to improvise and make Santa pancakes like this:

This is a photo from my camera phone, so please excuse the poor quality!

Have a lovely Friday, and go make some Mickey Mouse pancakes -- they are sure to bring a smile!

Speaking of smiles, hop on over to Allison's blog and comment -- she's donating $1 to Operation Smile AND Smile Train for every comment to any of her posts between now and June 24. You can read more here.

Meal Plan Monday {Week of May 9}

2011-05-09T13:48:00.000-05:00

Meal Plan Monday is BACK - out of great necessity. My life is so much easier when I know what I'm making for dinner and the grocery shopping is done at the beginning of the week. I have been in a bit of a meal idea slump for a while, but I'm hoping planning this week will help. We did manage to grill three times last week -- steak, fajitas, and chicken breasts -- the last few days have been nice with little wind. Here's what's for dinner this week:

Monday - Baked Chicken, Steamed English Peas, Angel Hair with Olive Oil and Lemon Pepper
Tuesday - Breakfast Bake (this is an old stand-by that I make often -- I use low fat crescent rolls, skim milk and 2% cheeses to lighten it up), Fruit
Wednesday - Homemade Pioneer Woman's Pizza Crust recipe (for ours: Tomato Basil Pizza, Cheese Pizza and Canadian Bacon/Pepperoni)
Thursday - Baked Tilapia, Steamed Carrots with Brown Sugar,
Friday - Green Enchiladas*, Green Salad, Black Beans
Saturday - Lasagna*, Steamed Broccoli, Garlic Bread

* Green Enchilada Casserole

1 lb. lean ground beef
1/2 chopped onion
1/2 t. salt
1 t. oregano
1 t. garlic powder
1 can cream of celery soup
1 c. chopped green chiles
12 flour tortillas, cut into small pieces
1 c. grated cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large saute pan, brown meat with onion and spices. Add soup and chiles and mix well. Cover the bottom of a greased 9x13 dish with a layer of tortilla pieces. Spread about 1/3 of meat mixture over tortilla pieces. Cover with another layer of tortilla slices, then meat mixture. Repeat, ending with meat mixture. Sprinkle cheese evenly over meat mixture. Bake for 30 minutes. (NOTE: I plan to "lighten" this recipe by using low fat/whole wheat tortillas, 2% cheese, and, if I can find it, low fat soup. The cream of celery soup is important to the flavor -- and I haven't tried finding it in a low fat version)

* Here's how I make my Lasagna....

1/2 # lean ground beef
1/2 # Italian sausage
1 jar favorite spaghetti sauce
1 can Italian style diced tomatoes (usually diced tomatoes with garlic, basil and oregano)
1-16 oz. container ricotta cheese
3/4 c. grated parmesan cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 t. dried parsley
3 c. shredded mozarella cheese
9-12 no cook lasagna noodles

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large saute pan, brown ground beef and Italian sausage; drain. Add spaghetti sauce and diced tomatoes and heat through. In a bowl, combine egg, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and parsley. Place 3-4 lasagna noodles in bottom of a greased 9x13 dish; do not overlap. Spread one-third of sauce mixture over noodles. Spoon about one third of ricotta cheese mixture over sauce mixture. Sprinkle 1 c. mozarella cheese. Layer (in same order) 3-4 more lasagna noodles, sauce mixture, cheese mixture and cheese. Repeat, ending with mozarella cheese. Cover with foil (make sure there is a gap between the foil and the cheese so that the foil does not touch the cheese) and bake 1 hour. Remove foil and bake additional 15 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Sane Saturday {Catching Up!)

2011-05-07T15:10:00.001-05:00

Still here!

Super busy!

I started this post as a "Fun Friday" post, but you can see where that ended up...so here I am on Saturday. In an effort to "keep my sanity," as I work at our business today while the laundry breeds exponentially at home, I have decided to finish this post today!

We celebrated Rachael's First Communion last weekend.

Following Mass, the local family gathered at our home for a dinner. We even brought the good china out! Here is Rachael with her cake -- do you recognize the cake?

In the past few weeks, we have also gotten to help Uncle Chris and Aunt Judith work baby lambs. My years of helping Dad sort cattle came in handy when it came time to separate the mamas from the babies, though these babies are very nimble and can jump right through your arms. The kids really enjoyed holding the baby lambs, and we were covered from head to toe in dirt when we were done.

Jack was Uncle Chris's assistant. I am sure you can guess what procedure is happening here. Just think "lamb nuts."

Sam even got in on the action. He was constantly trying to catch a lamb. Poor baby lamb (and see Mama to the right...she was very concerned!).

In the past couple of weeks, we've also

1. Gotten braces and head gear (Jack)
2. Gotten glasses (Rachael)
3. Had a warehouse sale (Dennis and Co.)
4. Completed teaching the third in a series of donated cake decorating lessons (Moi)
5. Been babysitting the washer because the knob is broken...I have to turn it when it stops up to 5 times per load to keep the cycle going. We will soon remedy the situation, and I can't wait to tell you about it! (Moi, again)
5. Done absolutely no meal planning -- sorry about that....has affected my sanity, for sure! (Yours truly, again!)

I'll be back soon with more regular posting. In the meantime, Happy Mother's Day!

Super Sunday {Happy Easter}

2011-04-24T20:22:00.001-05:00

Happy Easter! This day is one of my favorite days of the year. As a Christian, it is THE defining holiday of what our faith is all about. It is the celebration of the Risen Lord, who died for OUR sins!

This year, we attended the Vigil Mass on Saturday night. It was a beautiful mass -- lovely music, bells ringing, candles lit, incense and the celebration of baptisms and confirmations of new members. It began at 8:30 p.m. -- bedtime for some of our little people. Avery handled it like a pro. Sam was asleep on Dennis's shoulder by 9:15, and awoke at the end of mass, almost 2 hours from the beginning.

I really wanted a picture of the kids in their Easter outfits, but try getting a 2 year old to smile two hours into his normal sleeptime:

I think the picture says it all! This one is a little better:

Our attempt at a family photo:

The beautifully decorated altar -- so many pretty flowers!

We have enjoyed time together today -- prayer time and breakfast from McDonald's, playing games, and making some treats for a celebration later in the afternoon.

Avery, Rachael and I made Easter Candy Bark from this blog post. We decided to use Peeps, jelly beans, M&M's, Robin Eggs, and sprinkles.

As I was chopping up the Peeps, Avery said, "It's like we're slaughtering them." Spoken like the true daughter of a meat scientist!

Ours didn't turn out quite as pretty as the one in the blog post, but we had fun making it....and I'm sure, later today, eating it!

Have a blessed Easter!

Meal Plan Monday {Week of April 18}

2011-04-18T10:06:00.000-05:00

What a week we had last week. With plenty of illness intermingled (strep throat, colds, sinus infection) we managed to participate in the science fair, district livestock judging contest, a field trip, orthodontist/dentist/two doctors appointments, a ladies' luncheon, the usual weekly ballet/piano/4-H stuff and a second birthday celebration for Sam so that he could have cake on his birthday (Wal-Mart cake though it was!).

Somehow enough laundry got done to get us through the week, but the meal plan did not go as planned.

I was so wiped out on Wednesday, that I ordered pizza from Pizza Hut. On Thursday, I was really not feeling well, so following the science fair awards ceremony, we picked up McDonald's. My sweet husband somehow read my mind on Friday, and after simply mentioning "tilapia" he took the bull by the horns and cooked the entire meal while I rested, then he did the dishes! Saturday....still not feeling well, though I worked for part of the day, but I felt well enough to throw the meatball bake together...so no grilling.

I am looking forward to a slightly less hectic, more healthy week. We have moved our pizza night to Thursday. Pizza is not a favorite of Dennis's, and since he has prior dinner plans on Thursday, and I have somewhere I need to be at 7 (ie., I need something simple to serve), we moved it to that night. Here's our plan for this week:

Monday - Chicken Scallopine (from The Pioneer Woman -- the whole family enjoys this dish), steamed broccoli
Tuesday - Baked salmon, steamed green beans, rice pilaf
Wednesday - Pot roast with carrots, celery and red potatoes, green salad, wheat rolls
Thursday - Pizza -- Marketside from Wal-Mart -- due to evening plans
Friday - Fish sticks, macaroni and cheese, English peas (this, at Rachael's request)
Saturday - Red Lobster (finally! Jack's choice for report card reward meal)

Also, Rachael and I are excited to make Hot Cross Buns on Good Friday. Have a blessed Holy Week!

Wild Card Wednesday {Lunchtime Comedy}

2011-04-13T00:12:00.001-05:00

For the past week, our home has been riddled with fever, barking coughs and at least one case of strep throat. On Tuesday, the latest victim, Jack, stayed home from school.

At lunchtime, I searched the cupboards for something "not hard" -- as Jack requested -- and located a can of Progresso Beef Light Pot Roast Soup. I split the can with him and found some delicious rosemary crispbreads that complimented the soup perfectly.

As Avery, while waiting for her veggie corndog to bake, watched Jack eating his soup, she noticed the wafer thin crisps Jack was dipping in his soup.

"Do they taste like Christ?" she asked.

"A little," Jack replied. "And this soup is GOOD! It tastes like beef jerkey in a bowl!"

Tasty Tuesday {A Pretty Birthday Cake}

2011-04-12T08:35:00.001-05:00

We celebrated two birthdays this weekend, since Avery and Sam's birthdays are four days apart. Avery had been asking for a cake with Belle (from Beauty and the Beast) on it, and although I had a concept in my head, I knew that it would take alot of patience and trial and error to get it right. We had decided on yellow and pink decorations and paper goods, and then I stumbled on this lovely cake via The Pioneer Woman. I couldn't wait to try my hand at it!

The cake in itself is beautiful, and the rosettes were easy to create. I really liked the idea of the interior of the cake having vertical stripes, but again, could see alot of time and patience involved in the method suggested in the tutorial, so I used a checkerboard cake pan and poured the batter in the same compartments for each layer to create the same look simply by pouring and baking (no slicing, constructing and freezing!). Please keep in mind that this was my first try -- but Avery -- and everyone else LOVED it! I will make this for lots of girly birthdays in the future. Rachael has already requested this cake for her party. And I must add that the spray food coloring is an ingenius invention!

Here is the cake in all white -- very pretty as is:

I painted it yellow next.

Then I added touches of pink; here it is complete.

And the birthday girl with her cake. Happy Birthday, sweet Avery. I can't believe you're five years old!

The cut cake; not perfect, but everyone thought it was fun! I just added paste food coloring to a white cake batter.

Sam's birthday is Thursday, but since we had the family together, we wanted to sing to him, too. He got Blue's Clues Cupcakes. My big boy will be two years old!

Meal Plan Monday {Week of April 11}

2011-04-11T09:49:00.000-05:00

I'm a bit late in my planning this week after a busy weekend of 4-H and church activities, work and birthday parties with a strep throat diagnosis! We are worn out, but if I don't get my week planned, we will be in trouble. This week probably won't be super elaborate -- or experimental for that matter....we're lookin' at basic fare and recipes that I've made many times!

Monday - Breakfast for Dinner: Mickey Mouse Pancakes*, scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit
Tuesday - Spaghetti with meat sauce, steamed broccoli, garlic bread
Wednesday - Homemade pizza with Pioneer Woman's pizza crust recipe; this week: Cheese Pizza and Pepperoni/Canadian Bacon
Thursday - Layered Meatball Bake (I make this with turkey meatballs), Green Salad
Friday - Baked Tilapia, Steamed Carrots, Rice Pilaf
Saturday - Grilled Chicken Paillard (I use less red pepper...to keep it from being too spicy), Black Beans, Green Salad, Corn Bread

* There is no "recipe" for Mickey Mouse Pancakes -- I will do a post on these soon -- I use a basic pancake mix and we "dress them up" to look like a mouse (or at Christmas, like Santa!). The kids love them and they are a special treat!

Have a lovely week -- birthday post (with cake!) coming soon.

Meal Plan Monday {Week of April 4}

2011-04-04T07:45:00.000-05:00

This week's menu includes:

Monday - Taco Soup*, white corn tortillas, fruit salad

Tuesday - Hot dogs, baby carrots, baked chips. Note: this isn't the healthiest meal in the world...but Rachael requested it and today/tonight are busy; we use whole wheat buns and Oscar Meyer "natural" beef franks (no nitrates or nitrites). I really wish they would develop a low fat natural beef frank, but haven't seen one on the market yet.

Wednesday - Pizza. This week's pizza: Marketside Five Cheese Pizza and Marketside Pepperoni Pizza from Wal-Mart

Thursday - Three Cheese Penne Pasta Bake, Garlic Bread. I am trying this pasta dish for the first time -- I like that it has whole wheat pasta, chicken breast, low fat cheeses and enough veggies in it so that I do not have to make another side dish.

Friday - Broiled Salmon, wild rice pilaf, green salad, wheat rolls.

Saturday - Beef with Red Wine Sauce, egg noodles, green salad. The beef dish is a slow cooker recipe -- another one I will be making for the first time. We will be busy all day, so I wanted to make something that would be ready at the end of the day.

*Taco Soup

1 pound lean ground beef
1 large onion chopped
3 cans (16 oz) mexican-style chili beans, undrained (NOTE: when making this for my family, I use canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained instead, as some do not like the seasoning in chili beans)
1 can (16 oz.) whole kernel corn, undrained (I sub frozen corn)
1 can (16 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
1 1/2 c. water
1 can (4.5 oz.) green chiles
1 package taco seasoning mix
1 envelope Ranch Salad Dressing mix

Cook beef and onion in large dutch oven until meat is brown, stirring until it crumbles, then drain and return to pot. Combine remaining ingredients with beef and onion, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Makes 3 1/2 quartes. Freezes well. For Weight Watchers (old plan): 1 c. serving = 3 points. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, if desired.

Have a great week!

Super Sundae {Toasted Coconut Caramel Sundae}

2011-04-03T18:27:00.001-05:00

After a busy week -- and Saturday -- no matter how much laundry there is to do on Sunday, it is ALWAYS a fun day for our family. The day always includes Mass, a big meal, and a treat (nap, movie, decadent snack). Today was no different, and we enjoyed this yummy sundae. Here's what you need:

Toasted coconut (more detailed instructions follow)
Bottled caramel sauce
Ice cream (we used chocolate and vanilla -- Blue Bell's The Great Divide!).
Canned whipped cream
Spanish redskin peanuts
Marachino cherries

As you can see, there is a mix of brand and store names; if the store brand is as good as the brand name and costs substantially less, I buy it.

To toast the coconut, place the desired amount of sweetened, shredded coconut on a baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees. After 5 minutes, stir the coconut and return to the oven. After 5 more minutes, stir the coconut again and return to the oven. The coconut will be close to being toasted around 15 minutes; watch it closely at this point. You may need to stir it one more time at 15 minutes and return it to the oven for a few more minutes. When the coconut is toasted to desired color, remove from the oven and cool. I like to pour it on paper towels to cool. Once it is cool, it is ready to use as a garnish.

Everything is better with toasted coconut -- and butter....and bacon....someday I will find a way to include all three in a dish!

Give the peanuts a rough chop -- they do not need to be finely chopped. If you are unable to find Spanish nuts, regular salted cocktail peanuts work just as well.

For the sundaes, place about a tablespoon of caramel sauce in the bottom of the dish.

Now place a scoop of ice cream on top of the caramel sauce.

Add more caramel sauce, followed by toasted coconut and a sprinkling of peanuts. Be generous!

One more scoop of ice cream, followed by more caramel sauce, toasted coconut and peanuts and a nice dollop of whipped cream.

It wouldn't be a sundae without a cherry on top would it?

This one was pretty messy, so I put it on a salad plate to catch the drips. The sundae dish is actually a martini glass from Crate and Barrel. Really, any dish will do -- even a small cereal bowl is great. The plate is French Countryside by Mikasa.

Here's the chocolate version. Yum! Happy ~~Sundae~~ Sunday!

Postnote: I was researching a spelling as I was finishing this post, and noticed the Google logo today included a picture of a sundae. Turns out, today is the 119th anniversary of the first documented ice cream sundae! How weird is that?

Fun Friday {Is it true?}

2011-04-01T11:22:00.001-05:00

Imagine my excitement when I saw this column in today's Amarillo Globe News confirming the rumor that Matthew McConaughey is moving himself and his family to Amarillo. I hadn't even heard the rumor!

I excitedly called my sister, then Monica at our store to tell them. As I was reading the article to Monica, I thought out loud that this might just be an April Fool's Day Joke. Then I said, "No, they wouldn't print that in the paper."

Monica suggested we read the comments, and sure enough, we learned it was all a joke.

After I got off the phone, I decided to Google the rumor, and found this write up about Amarillo.

Our family loves this area of Texas, and we enjoy the attractions as a family, including Palo Duro Canyon, the American Quarterhorse Museum, The Donut Stop, Cadillac Ranch, and of course the beautiful sunsets. And I've written about the wonderful Nutcracker performance that the Lone Star Ballet puts on every year, as well as the beautiful Globe News Center for the Performing Arts where the girls' ballet recitals are held each year.

April Fool's Day jokes aside, it really is a neat area to raise a family. I say "area" because we live down the road in Hereford, and we love it here -- especially the people (maybe not so much the everchanging aromas!)

Wild Card Wednesday - {He's growing up!}

2011-03-30T10:21:00.000-05:00

Our little Sam is growing up quickly! This evidenced by:

Him taking to the initiative to oversee the lamb exercising activities. Go Sam (and Gig 'em Ags!)

His ability to carry on an intelligent conversation....

...with his father (actually, I think they are watching the History Channel).

His new found love for Ranch Dressing with Double Dave's Peproni Rolls....

...and horses -- like mother, like son!

And his willingness to collaborate with his siblings in making BIG messes quickly!

And, though there is no picture, Sam is now drinking from a cup! That's right, no bottle, no sippy cup, no nursing -- a straight up cup. I am so proud of him, though we are still having rough nights since weaning. Hard to believe that two years ago, we had just gone through a huge snow storm and were getting ready for Sam's arrival. Time flies when you are having fun!

Meal Plan Monday - Week of March 28

2011-03-28T10:04:00.002-05:00

Here goes...our first "Meal Plan Monday"! To get started, I thought I'd share how our family's weekly meal plan is formulated. Every Sunday afternoon, I solicit dinner ideas from everyone in the family. I do not have lists of meals that I rotate because I like to experiment with new recipes. I also try to do my grocery shopping for the week on this day.

I do my best to serve a variety of proteins, and, as of late, we have been eating leaner meats and fish. Because I am not a short order cook, everyone in the family is expected to eat what is served, and I do not cook separate things to satisfy the palate of picky eaters. In the long run, I believe that everyone will thank me -- at least I keep telling myself this -- as they will have a greater appreciation for a wide variety of flavors and foods!

One meal we have EVERY week is pizza -- usually on Wednesday night. Most of the time we select some type of frozen or fresh ready-to-bake pizza; occasionally we will order from a local pizza joint. I have recently discovered a pizza crust recipe that the family loves, and we will be making more homemade pizza. I have found that homemade pizza or store-bought pizza is so much more budget friendly -- carry-out pizza is usually twice the cost!

All of our cooked vegetables are typically microwave steamed -- with no butter/oil or seasoning unless otherwise indicated.

Our meal plans cover dinner only, as this is the one meal that we are all together as a family, and it requires the most planning and time to prepare. Leftovers and sandwiches are reserved for lunch. Here is what we're eating this week -- with links to recipes, if available.

Monday - Spaghetti a la Carbonara*, Steamed English Peas
Tuesday - Swedish Chicken*, Green Salad, Steamed Baby Carrots with Brown Sugar, French Bread
Wednesday - Pioneer Woman's Pizza (this week: Tomato Basil and Canadian Bacon)
Thursday - Baked Chicken with Zucchini, Squash and Onions and Stuffing (Stove Top for us!)
Friday - Tilapia with Herbs (note, the Tilapia is a Schwan's product that comes with an herb seasoning packet), Steamed Broccoli, Wheat Toast
Saturday - Weight Watchers Meatloaf*, Smashed Red Potatoes*, Steamed Green Beans

* From my personal recipe file; recipe follows.

Spaghetti a la Carbonara
A Detten family favorite! Great comfort food after a busy day.

1 pkg., 14.5 oz., thin spaghetti (I use Barilla Plus since it is enriched and has extra protein)
4 whole cloves garlic, crushed and peeled
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pound bacon, cut into bite size pieces (I use lean bacon -- center cut if available); you can also use pancetta, if available
2 T olive oil
4 eggs, lightly beaten
1 c. parmesan cheese, shredded, plus more for garnish
Parsley, for garnish

In a large skillet, heat the oil at medium to medium high heat. Add the bacon and crushed garlic cloves and cook just until bacon is done; in last few minutes of cooking add minced garlic and cook just until soft -- do not overcook minced garlic as it will be bitter. Drain grease and set aside. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain but do not rinse. Immediately toss the spaghetti with the beaten eggs and parmesan cheese; the heat of the spaghetti will cook the egg and melt the cheese. Toss this mixture with the bacon and garlic. Garnish with parsley and additional parmesan cheese. 8-10 servings.

Swedish Chicken
(not sure why this is called Swedish Chicken; it is also a family favorite and great to put together ahead of time, refrigerate and bake in the late afternoon)

1 10 3/4 oz.can cream of mushroom soup
1 10 3/4 oz. can cream of chicken soup
8 oz sour cream
6 chicken breasts
6 slices dried beef, rinsed (available from the canned meat section of your grocery)
6 slices bacon

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Spray a 9x13 baking pan with cooking spray. Combine soups and sour cream; stir until blended; set aside. Place a slice of dried beef on the bottom side of a chicken breast. Wrap one slice of bacon around chicken breast, so as to secure dried beef. Place bacon wrapped chicken breast in baking pan, dried beef side down. Repeat with remaining chicken breasts. Pour soup mixture over chicken breasts and spread to cover. Cover pan with aluminum foil and back at 325 for 2 hours. Remove foil and increase oven tempurature to 375. Cook for 10 more minutes. Remove from oven and cool 10 minutes before serving.

Weight Watchers Meatloaf
(I have tried MANY meatloaf recipes, and this is our favorite; on the old WW system, it was 3 points per serving)

3/4 c. ketchup
1/4 c. minced onion
2 T chopped parsley
1 T brown sugar
1/4 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1 1/2 pounds ground round
1 egg, beaten
1/2 c. quick oats

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix 1/2 c. ketchup and next five ingredients. Incorporate meat, egg and oats; use your hands. Do not overmix. Form into an 8"x4" loaf and place on a broiler pan sprayed with cooking spray. Top with remaining ketchup. Bake for 1 hour. 6 servings.

Smashed Potatoes

6 medium red potatoes, cut into wedges
1/2 t. salt
2 T butter
1/4 c. sour cream
1/2 t. dried dill
Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Place potatoes in a heavy pot and cover with cold water. Add salt. Boil at medium high heat just until fork tender. Drain. Add butter, sour cream, dill, salt and pepper. Stir gently until blended and slightly smashed. Serve. 6 servings.

Have a great week!

New Blog Direction: The Crazy Days of Our Lives

2011-03-24T11:37:00.001-05:00

I have been wanting to change the direction of this blog for a long time. I really enjoy "hosting" a blog, small and unread though it may seem. It is a bit of a hobby -- a creative release, if you will, for me. In my younger years, I had even considered being a writer by trade. Somehow, I ended up with science degrees, owning a retail business and being a work at home mom, with detours in higher education, the meat processing business and the federal government.

There are family members that stop by from time to time to read our news, and though most do not leave comments, there is daily traffic. That being said, I have decided to take a more structured approach to this blog, with (hopefully) more universal appeal. There will be occasional family news, but for the most part, posts will focus on daily activities and tips that will help any busy mother and family, intermingled with insights on faith, life and FUN. Though I won't post daily, I will try to post 2-3 times per week. I hope to do an occasional giveaway -- probably monthly -- so I hope you will comment to let me know how I am doing and if you like my posts!

Here's a little rundown of what this new direction will entail. Each day of the week will have a theme/subject:

Super Sunday (or Souper Sunday...or Super Sundae!): Sundays are fun days for our family, and we try to keep things simple -- but special. Lots of Sundays, we rent a movie, or go to the movie theater. Some Sundays are catch up days, and lots of laundry and yardwork gets done. Other Sundays we spend with extended family, eating a large meal together and visiting. Whatever the case, we enjoy our time together and it is always a great day, that usually involves a nap. So on these days, I will post a movie review, a favorite soup recipe that we enjoy, a favorite ice cream/sundae recipe, or a homekeeping post.

Meal Plan Monday: This will almost always be a weekly post. I will share our meal plans for the week, along with recipes, if available. I have found that planning out my week in meals and doing the grocery shopping before the week starts makes a huge difference in keeping our family on schedule and things running smoothly.

Tasty Tuesday: Tuesday's posts will feature either a favorite recipe or a new recipe that I have tried.

Wild Card Wednesday: For us, Wednesdays are our "hump day" -- from there it's all downhill. We look forward to Wednesdays because it signals a peak of the week's "busy-ness." We have pizza for dinner on the living room floor, and we look forward to a slower Thursday and Friday. These posts could cover any subject matter -- from an inspirational theme -- to a funny story. Look forward to being surprised.

Thrifty Thursday: The general theme of this day's posts will be money saving. It may be a practice our family uses or it may be something I have heard or read about.

Fun Friday: Think "child friendly" -- this post will cover fun things for the family -- it may be a travel oriented post, fun family activities, family dining suggestions -- anything that is family based.

Sane Saturday: I don't think we ever have a week that is not crazy. Work, school, after-school activities and everything in our busy lives can take a toll. This post will focus on ways to keep the sanity amidst all of the craziness.

All posts will be organized under labels - or tags - and eventually I hope to implement a new layout that has tabs so that they are easy to access.

Thank you so much for keeping up with the Dettens thus far! See you next week!

The Wisdom of Dr. Seuss

2011-03-04T10:52:00.003-06:00

Wednesday, March 2, was the late Dr. Seuss' birthday. The kids have enjoyed reading his books this week and celebrating at school with green eggs and ham.

We have many of Dr. Seuss's books:

Hop on Pop, given to us by my parents (we call my dad "Pop")

Green Eggs and Ham (where do you think Sam's name came from?)

Just kidding on the previous comment. Sam's name didn't come from the book! Actually, it was a toss-up between Sam and George (and Isabella, if he turned out to be a girl) and we thought he looked like a Sam. Here's the Green Eggs and Ham onesie I found when he was a few months old.

Oh, The Places You'll Go (purchased by me when expecting our first child, Jack).

And who could forget The Grinch Who Stole Christmas? Call me crazy, but I love the new movie version starring Jim Carrey.

Actually, we have a huge library of Dr. Seuss books -- this is just a sampling.

Notice the binding on Green Eggs and Ham and The Eye Book. Jack chewed the binding on books when he was teething. I had to lock all of our books up for a while! That was NINE years ago! Wow!

The rhyming format is a great tool for teaching reading -- all of my children have learned to read with The Eye Book, The Foot Book, The Ear Book and Hop on Pop.

One thing I've noticed about Dr. Seuss books is that they all seem to have a lesson, but it is hidden in his zany style of writing -- like a subliminal message.

Green Eggs and Ham: Try something new -- you might like it. And for parents, continue to offer that broccoli meal after meal. Eventually they will try it, and eventually they will like it!

Horton Hears a Who: Treat your fellow man and the Earth on which you live, with respect.

The Grinch Who Stole Christmas: Making fun of someone based on their outward appearance (and other bullying and taunting) scars a person and creates bitterness. Treat others as you would want to be treated.

The Cat in the Hat: Think about the consequences of your actions -- would you tell your mother what you did? The last page of the book leaves the reader with that very question.

Oh, The Places You Will Go!: Life isn't always easy, but you will get through those bumps and turns in the road and be stronger. You have great potential!

If you need a little encouragement and have had a rough day, pick up a Dr. Seuss book. My recommendation? Oh, The Places You Will Go! It makes a great graduation gift!

A parting thought from One fish two fish red fish blue fish:

"Today is gone. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one. Every day, from here to there, funny things are everywhere."

Have a great weekend! Next week, I will be revealing a new direction for this blog. I can't wait!

Life is a series...

2011-02-24T09:24:00.000-06:00

...of goodbyes -- and hellos. We started 2011, like most -- gathering with family, enjoying each others company and celebrating. We said hello to a new year of promise and hope. Our family will cherish those days as we reflect on the events that unfolded in the weeks ahead.

In the first days of the first week of this promising new year, Dennis's father Ralph, took a fall from a ladder as he stored Christmas decorations. He suffered severe trauma to his brain, and left this earthly life on January 11, 2011.

This post has been a long time in coming as I contemplated what to say -- and who would read it. The words came to me this past weekend, as we drove home from San Angelo, where Jack exhibited his lambs, and said goodbye to them. He was sad to see them go, and as he walked away from taking the last lamb to the truck, he said to Dennis, "I guess life is a series of goodbyes" -- this, his reflection of the sadness he has felt -- and we all have experienced -- this year. Dennis responded, "It's a series of hellos, too."

I have told Dennis many times that Ralph was one of my all-time favorite people. Even before we married, I commented that I thought Ralph was about as close to Jesus as one could get. He was a gentleman's gentleman, and was loved by so many. We miss him so, but we know that he said 'hello' to eternal life and is now singing in God's choir.

The days, weeks, months and even years ahead will not be easy, as we continue to mourn our "Poppy." I am thankful for the Christian faith born in me when I was baptized as an infant, confirmed as a teenager and still in the process of developing as an adult.

Helen Keller once said, "Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light."

I know that we, as believers, have the hope of eternal life, just as Ralph is now experiencing. And as we say hello to every new day, that hope remains.

"This is the day which the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Top 10 - Autumn 2010

2010-12-18T16:59:00.002-06:00

I know....it has been a LONG time since my last post. I hope I haven't lost my readership (haha!). I figure it's about time to do a Top 10, anyway, so here goes. We've been SUPER busy! And in no particular order...

1. Playing basketball -- Jack's school has a wonderful basketball program at his school, so this year he decided to give it a try. He is learning alot, improving all the time, and really enjoys the comradery. His coaches are volunteers and are really great with the kids. He is one of three 4th grade boys, so they play as part of the 5th grade team. They have played a scrimmage and three tournaments so far and haven't lost a single game. There is one more tournament left right after the new year, so we plan to spend alot of time shooting hoops over the holiday to improve his game.

2. Showing sheep. Okay, if you saw the previous post, you probably already knew this. We've only been to one show, but we're getting ready for the county show in January, followed by major shows later on. We have alot of work to do over the holidays, since Jack and the lambs are out of practice, but we are excited and getting geared up for the stock show season! Here is our photo from the Tri State Fair.

3. Painting pumpkins. Again this year at halloween, the kids painted pumpkins of their favorite book characters. Jack painted the main character from Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Rachael painted the unicorn from Goldilicious, and Avery painted the cat from If You Give a Cat Cupcake.

4. Trick-or-Treating. On Halloween we all went to Dennis's parents house for a meal, then went trick-or-treating. The adults wore costumes, too! We had alot of fun and laughs.

5. Riding parade floats. Our store staff did a wonderful job designing and building a float for Hereford's lighted Christmas parade. Our theme: The Island of Misfit Toys. Turns out, most young people know what the Island of Misfit Toys is (you know, from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer?), but our parents' generation does not. We had so much fun on the float -- it was not near as cold this year as last year -- and our float tied for "Most Original."

6. Getting into the Christmas spirit. In addition to the lighted parade, we've had lots of other holiday activities, including a couple of open houses at our store (lots of baking!), going to The Nutcracker (our annual girls' day out), Christmas recitals and programs, and parties and decorating. I have almost all of the gift shopping done, and will even get the Christmas cards in the mail this year! Notice I didn't mention anything about wrapping gifts; I have many to wrap and will begin tonight!

7. Baking, baking, and more baking. This fall I have done alot of baking for many events. It all started with the idea of adding a Cupcake Boutique for our school's carnival. Several other mothers and I made cupcakes and sold them as a fundraiser. We learned alot, raised alot of money, and look forward to an improved booth next year. I made 12 dozen cupcakes for the event, plus a few more dozen special order, including some minis for a cute mini food themed baby shower. I've also done alot of baking for family gatherings and store events, including our holiday open house -- a major undertaking since our usual caterer was unavailable. Rachael was such a big help -- stirring 5 batches of fudge on the stove and rolling cookie dough into balls, which freed me up to keep up with the dishes we were generating. She really enjoys helping in the kitchen, and I love this time with her.

8. Lots of family time. During the week we have been super busy -- between our regular schedule of work, school, ballet or piano lessons, basketball, errands, chores and all of the additional activities and events -- by the end of the week, we are in need of some serious downtime. We have been trying to make sure we do something fun as a family at least once a week. Lately, it has been a movie night, complete with popcorn.

9. Painting and redecorating. We replaced the flooring in the kids' bathroom, and I decided the walls could use a fresh coat of paint. Our store carries Lenox, and one of their newer popular designs is called Chirp. I decided to use the Chirp bathroom accessories as inspiration, and we painted the bathroom turquoise blue. I love the results and will share a blog post soon!

10. Counting our blessings. No explanation needed.....we are very blessed!

Based on my recent history, it is unlikely I will post again before the new year, so Merry Christmas! See you in 2011!

The Dettens go to the fair

2010-10-14T14:15:00.001-05:00

The days are finally getting cooler and shorter. We have had beautiful weather lately -- cool mornings and pretty, sunny days. Another sure sign that fall is on the way around here is the fair. This year we took the whole family to the Tri-State Fair in Amarillo. We had a great time going through the exhibits and experiencing some of the fair food.

The kids really enjoyed the John Deere display....

This mural was a fun activity that the kids enjoyed. They had Crayola markers set up and each child selected a color and went to coloring the huge mural.

Here's Rachael adding her mark.

I think Sam colored more on himself than he did on the mural.

The real reason we went to the fair? The lamb show!

In August, Jack purchased two lambs from his Uncle Chris. He named his Hampshire cross "Moses" and his Southdown "Isaiah", two good Biblical names.

Over the past two months, he has worked diligently to halter break them and practice showing them. He really enjoys working them, and on one particular day, I was especially tired and told Jack we would take the day off. He would have none of that! He went out by himself, but because catching the sheep is a two man job, I had to get out there, too.

Though my lamb show knowledge is limited, I did my best to help Jack work with them each day. In fact, the first time Jack had ever even watched a lamb show was the day of his first show at the Tri-State Fair. He did really well, especially considering he had never even been to a lamb show!

"Moses" was pretty thin and green and did not place -- though we think he has alot of potential. "Isaiah" was the star of the show -- he won Reserve Champion Southdown! Jack was so excited! Here he is with his twin cousins, Josef and Johan. We took a picture of Jack and his lamb, along with Rachael, Avery and Sam with the show backdrop, but I am waiting on a disk from the photographer. It will be included in a future blog post.

We have learned alot about sheep, and are enjoying this new family activity. All of the Dettens had a great time at the fair!

We're Not in Vegas Anymore

2010-10-08T11:13:00.000-05:00

As much fun as our family had in Las Vegas, I was so glad to return home. "Relieved" might be a better word. I was nervous about such a long drive and being in such a large, crowded city with four small children.

We had many discussions with the kids about being safe, what to do if they got lost, and following our rules/obeying orders (since the reason for those rules/orders was to ensure their safety). The first day was the most difficult as the kids had to focus on staying and following close, and get used to the hotter climate and large crowds. They did great! I utilized a safety harness to keep Avery from straying too far away, and she didn't mind it. It really worked great, and after the first day, we didn't need it. The kids were instructed to keep their hands on the stroller (that either Sam or Avery rode in, depending on the time of day) and stay close!

When we returned to Hereford, for many trips to Wal Mart, they were in such a habit of having their hands on the stroller, that they would keep their hands on the cart. More than once, I have caught myself saying, "We're not in Vegas anymore!"

.....This also evidenced by school starting along with the daily grind of pickups, drop offs, lessons, meetings, homework, practices and everything that comes along with the school year! It has been a great school year, so far.

Up next: The Detten's go to the Fair!

Vegas Tour, Part 2

2010-09-15T15:10:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday morning, Dennis took Jack and Rachael to the pool so that they could enjoy the wave pool and the lazy river. Unfortunately, their wave pool jaunt was cut short when the lifeguard saw Rachael running into the waves, blew his whistle and made her stand next to the ruler guide to make sure she was tall enough (48"). She was 1" too short! So the three of them went to the lazy river instead. Avery, Sam and I took a TRAM ride over to the Excalibur to pick up some Krispy Kreme donuts. Once everyone was back in the room, I headed over to market while Dennis took the kids out and about.

Their afternoon began with the Shark Reef Aquarium at our hotel. I think I need to give lessons on the camera. The only picture that came out was one of an octopus.

Everyone liked the In-N-Out Burger so much, that Dennis took them to lunch there again. Then it was off to the Mirage to the Siegfried and Roy Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat. The kids loved seeing the different animals, including two white tigers. There was a ticket price involved, so I think Dennis was expecting some type of show, but instead the handlers fed the dolphins and provided information on dolphins and their habitat.

Next they headed over to the Bellagio to see the botanical gardens, and Dennis's favorite attraction, the Fountains at Bellagio. While in the hotel, the girls had to go to the bathroom. Resourceful Dennis found a nice, grandmotherly lady to help them to the ladies' room. I met up with everyone at the fountains to find a very unhappy Avery.

Do you notice something missing? Avery got so excited watching the fountains that she somehow kicked her flip flop into the fountain.

These were her favorite shoes. Yellow OPI flip flops from Wal-Mart. No longer in stock.

Do you see her shoe out there?

It's there....floating off in the sunset...

Here's a couple of other shots in front of the fountain.

After losing her shoe, Avery just was not interested in smiling for the camera. We finished the day with a dinner at P.F. Chang's and went by the ARIA (so oppulent!) on our way home. Here's Dennis and the kids in front of the huge contemporary waterfall at the ARIA. I held a sleeping Sam while snapping the picture.

One more night in the hotel, and we were off to drive the 14 hour trip home.

And this, my friends, proves that what happens in Vegas does not always stay in Vegas. (We have other proof of that....different trip, different story!).

The Detten Vegas Tour - Part 1

2010-08-30T11:41:00.001-05:00

I take my four children with me to Wal Mart ALL.THE.TIME. I often get comments on how brave I am. In my eyes, I figure that is the best way to teach children how to act in public. This often results in a few more gray hairs for me, but I know in the long run, we will all be better for it.

But when we considered going to Las Vegas, I questioned my ability to take four small children (age 1 year to 9 years). And I especially questioned Dennis's ability to be out and about alone with them. If he goes to Wal-Mart, it's usually by himself. I knew it would take a massive amount of courage on both of our parts (and our children, too!).

Not that I don't have confidence in my children's behavior. They generally mind their manners, but stick them on a busy sidewalk in 105 degree weather -- or in a crowded M&M store -- things can change. That, compounded with my concern for their safety with so many people with unknown intentions, made me nervous. Moreover, Dennis and I were playing "tag-team" during the day -- on separate days we each went to the World Market Center at Las Vegas for the furniture and accessories market while the other took the kids on daily adventures.

That being said, we did really well -- saw many sights -- and had so much fun as a family.

We stayed at the Mandalay Bay. This is a great hotel for a family. Okay, except for the "Love Box" that was in the weight sensitive mini bar. Rachael asked me what this was!

The pool was wonderful, and our room was well appointed and comfortable.

Dennis attended market on Monday and Tuesday, while I took the kids around to see a bit of Vegas. On the first day, we went to the MGM Grand. Avery was VERY concerned about the live lions that are on display. Actually, she was afraid of any dangerous live animal..."Can the sharks get in our room?" There were so many people around the live lions that I could not get a good picture. Here is a picture of us in front of the beautiful gold statue in the entrance:

This is where we ate at the Rainforest Cafe. Again, a great place for families!

From there we went to the M&M's store. The kids had been looking forward to this place for a LONG time. Three stories of M&M's themed merchandise. Kids in a candy store. Enough said.

Our next stop was next door at the Coca Cola store. This place was really neat, too! After a picture with the cute Cola bear we went straight up to the 2nd floor cafe where they had ice cold drinks including yummy Coca Cola slurpees that we enjoyed. The bear was really cute and could open and close his eyes and mouth. Bet he was hot in that 105 degree heat!

Since New York, New York was right across the street, I snapped a quick picture of the kids in front of the "skyline." At this point, Sam and Avery were needing a "change of scenery," hence Avery in the stroller (and Sam strapped to me!).

We were pretty tired, so we went to the hotel to rest until Dennis got back in the early evening. That evening I went to the "Alfresco" event at the World Market Center (post coming soon!) while he stayed in with the kids and ate delivered pizza.

On Tuesday, we started with pool time at the hotel. There are several pools, a lazy river and a wave pool with a "beach front." We walked to find the least populated pool and enjoyed the morning listening to great music and swimming and splashing. The dry heat of the desert, with no wind, made the pool area very comfortable. Because there were height requirements (48") and only Jack met them, we were unable to enjoy the wave pool.

After cleaning up, we drove to The Venetian for lunch, followed by time in the shopping area. The kids loved watching the gondolas and looking at all of the beautiful murals. Here they are with a live "statue" and with an accordian player.

The murals inside The Venetian are gorgeous. I was amazed at how even the overhang in the front drive outside was painted. I couldn't help but get a picture of this Last Supper on the ceiling.

Caesar's Palace was our next stop. We were only able to catch one of the moving statue shows, but we did see all of the fountains and statues. We met up with Dennis and ate dinner at a foodcourt, complete with $1 hotdogs on a stick, followed by the pirate show at Treasure Island.

More to come....

How to get rid of a telemarketer

2010-08-24T07:25:00.004-05:00

We take a break in our regular programming (Vegas trip reports) for a tip on handling telemarketers.

This morning Dennis told me that yesterday he received a telemarketing call at our business. The caller, from a company called "Sale in a Box," asked for me. Sale in a Box sells balloons, banners and other marketing items to bring attention to your business.

Dennis explained that I worked from home and was unavailable.

He paused in his story to explain to me that he usually he takes the opportunity to encourage telemarketers (yes, we get ALOT of these calls at our business) to "eat beef" -- since we live in the beef capital of the world.

Most of the time, the person on the other end of the line says they are beef eaters and will enjoy a steak or hamburger that night.

This is how the conversation progressed:

Caller: "Well....I'm a vegetarian; I can't really eat something that has a mother."

Dennis: "Oh, then you must be one of those PETA people."

Caller: "What's wrong with PETA? I'm a supporter."

Dennis: "PETA is the enemy......(long pause)....I guess that makes US enemies."

Caller: "We still have good balloons!"

They both had a good laugh, and Dennis did not buy anything. Dennis admitted that he held his tongue, since the conversation was seguing into a political debate that was quickly headed toward Obama and the liberal agenda.

If you ever want to get rid of a telemarketer, just get them off the subject....Dennis always makes friends (or enemies, in this case) -- and doesn't end up buying a thing!

Hoover Dam

2010-08-17T17:08:00.000-05:00

One of the highlights of our recent vacation was the drive to -- and from Las Vegas.

Actually, the first leg of the trip was long, and much of it was in the rain. We left in the afternoon and had a room reserved in Flagstaff, Arizona through hotels.com. Because we got "such a low rate," it was non-refundable.

By the time we got to Albuquerque at 8 p.m., I was ready to find a room there, but Dennis was not about to let that $69 go down the drain, and he drove through the night to arrive in Flagstaff around 2 a.m.

Fortunately, we gained 2 hours, and were able to get some sleep. We went to a wonderful Mass at St. Pius X. Awesome music.

Our original plans were to see the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam and drive on in to Las Vegas that day. We decided we had bitten off more than we could chew and chose instead to catch the Grand Canyon on another trip when we could spend more time there.

We really enjoyed seeing Hoover Dam, and it was a great break for the whole family. We parked and walked, and snapped some pictures.

I'm pretty sure the bridge we are driving under here as we are entering Hoover Dam is the bypass that is currently under construction

A man was kind enough to offer to take a picture of the whole family.

Another shot of the bypass bridge. Yikes!

That's one big dam!

Stay tuned for more posts about our trip!

Yum in Vegas!

2010-08-11T20:32:00.000-05:00

Vegas is known for fine dining and celebrity chefs. Unfortunately, many of these fine restaurants are not family friendly (ie., do not have high chairs, and would not tolerate the occasional shreak from our sweet little Sam). We did however, find wonderful fare for our family while in Vegas.

On the night we arrived, I suggested the IN-N-OUT Burger. Dennis said, "What's that?"

Yes, it is true, Dennis had never heard of this burger joint confined to only Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah.

This was a new experience for our whole family.

We loved the simplicity of the menu (burger, cheeseburger, fries, drinks and shakes - that's it!) and the fast paced atmosphere. The clerk took my order and rattled it back in no time. The food was delicious: fresh, never frozen beef patties, toasted buns, a wonderful Thousand Island sauce, light crispy fries and creamy, delicious shakes.

Yum.

And we fed the whole family for $24! Dennis took the kids back another day while I was at market.

On our first full day in Vegas, Dennis went to market while the kids and I saw the sights. We started at MGM Grand, where they saw the live lions, then went to Rainforest Cafe.

I was expecting basic chain restaurant food. I ordered the China Island Chicken Salad, which was delicious. The kids enjoyed their food, too. The atmosphere was great for kids -- just like a rainforest complete with robotic elephants, monkeys, cheetahs, snakes, crocodiles and lots of other animals. Every so often you would hear the sound of thunder, rain, and different animals. My only complaint? At $9.99 a pop, kids meals were expensive! We visited the shop adjacent to the restaurant, where we took a quick snapshot in front of this elephant.

That evening Dennis ordered pizza in for the kids while I attended the World Market Center Alfresco event (this deserves its own post!).

On Tuesday, we headed over to the Venetian. The kids loved watching the gondolas in the canal and looking at the overhead murals. For lunch, we ate at the Grand Lux Cafe , which my parents frequent when they come to Vegas.

My bacon cheeseburger and fries were one of the best I've ever had, and the kids shared an order of pasta carbonara, which they scarfed down. Here they are enjoying their spaghetti.

Sam liked it, too!

One of our kids' favorite restaurants in Amarillo is Pei Wei. We told them that P.F. Chang's was like the "mother ship" of Pei Wei, so on our last evening we dined at P.F. Chang's in Planet Hollywood. The food was, as always, delicious.

I was still hungry for dessert, so Dennis suggested we pick up a "to go" dessert from one of those finer restaurants.

I wasn't about to argue with him, so I went into Fleur de Lys, since I had become a fan of Chef Hubert Keller on Top Chef Masters.

The staff could not have been more gracious, but informed me that the desserts do not travel well. I insisted, since I was only taking them up to my room in the same hotel. I ordered my Chocolate Fondant Cake (basically a molten chocolate cake) and Nutella Creme Brulee and eagerly waited.

It never occurred to me that such a nice restaurant would not have plastic/to go flatware.

When I got to our room, I realized we would be eating these delicacies with our fingers. We did.

What a mess. And YUM!

Vegas Vacation

2010-08-07T00:34:00.001-05:00

This is the first of several posts covering our recent ~~Griswold~~ Detten Family Vacation.

We took the longest "vacation" we have ever taken as a family, driving to Las Vegas and back. This was a working vacation as we attended the Las Vegas furniture and accessories market.

One of my favorite pictures taken on the trip was this one of the three older kids at Hoover Dam.

Sam was being ornery, so he didn't make it in the picture.

I told Avery that she and Rachael should be Breck Girls. Of course, Avery didn't know what a Breck girl was.

Do you?

That bridge in the background will be a bypass for the Hoover Dam. Wait till you see the close up shot. The next time we pass through, if the bridge is finished, I think I will wait in line at Hoover Dam...that bridge is WAY up there; too high for me to want to cross!

"No offense...

2010-07-26T17:41:00.008-05:00

but your flowers have never looked like this."

This, from my 9 year old son after I commented on how pretty my flowers were. I am a self admitted black thumb. This year, my mother-in-law helped me out in the late spring by weeding my back flower bed and planting zinnia seeds for me. They sprouted and the girls and I made sure to water them daily. And then we were blessed with lots of rain and mild weather.

Last summer, I planted a cone flower bush. It never bloomed and I had lost hope. I was so excited to see it come back this year and then bloom! Aren't they pretty?

We were able to enjoy the fruits of our labor recently with some pretty flowers on our dinner table, complete with matching pink placemats. Now I need to get to work on those front flower beds!

Cracks in the Water

2010-07-16T18:49:00.005-05:00

(Disclaimer: Some language/context may be offensive to the reader. Please keep in mind the words that come from a child's mouth may be the direct teaching of their father)

We just finished a grueling three weeks of swimming lessons. Rachael and Jack spent 1-2 weeks refining their skills; Avery, on the other hand, HAD to learn the basics. She attempted lessons last summer, when she was 3 years old. On the second day, when I went to pick her up, the lifeguard dumped a soaking wet, crying Avery in my arms and said, "Sorry, she's not ready."

So after being kicked out of lessons last year, we waited and tried again this year. After a week of little progress and little cooperation with the lifeguards, Avery had to repeat the lessons -- with me staying to watch. She did well since she knew I was watching. On the fourth day I had to be at the store since we were very shorthanded; when I went to pick her up, the lifeguards told me the following story:

It was time to go down the little slide, and Avery's head went underwater. She did not like this. When she came up, she cried, "Great! Now I have bacteria in my eyes because everyone's crack is in the water." ("crack" of course, was referring to a portion of the human anatomy). She also informed the lifeguards -- and me -- that she was "not a fan of swimming."

You should know that in the past, Dennis has warned the kids not to drink pool water because of the "crack" issue. Thank you, honey.

Needless to say, there are no pictures to go with this post.

Another Year Older

2010-07-15T11:30:00.012-05:00

This summer has been super busy, and so far two of the highlights have been celebrating Jack and Rachael's birthdays! Jack turned 9 years old in June. We celebrated with his favorite "very" chocolate cake (Hershey's Perfectly Chocolate Cake and Frosting, if you are wondering!).
We had two celebrations for Rachael's 7th birthday so that Dennis's side of the family could sing "Happy Birthday" to her before they left town. For her actual birthday cake, which we had a couple of days after her birthday to accomodate my work schedule and the rain, I made Pioneer Woman's Red Velvet Cake from the cookbook. I came home and baked the cake over my lunch hour, then iced it that evening.

Instead of the cream cheese icing from the PW cookbook, I used my standard buttercream (since Rachael "hates cream cheese"). The flavor of the cake was delicious and it looked really pretty. The cake was a tad dry, and I am not sure if that was a function of the cake sitting out all afternoon waiting to be iced or if I was a little off in my measurements when mixing up the cake. I will definitely make it again.
That gouge in the icing on the front side of the cake is the work of a certain unnamed toddler cousin. I think they like icing! Here's what the inside of the cake looked like....the recipe calls for 1-2 oz. of red food coloring. I used 1 oz. which resulted in a bright red color.
Rachael and I also enjoyed a fun girls day of shopping with my sister Judith to celebrate both Rachael and Judith's birthday. We have had a busy, fun, productive summer full of swimming lessons, vacation bible school, birthdays and work, and we are looking forward to upcoming vacation time. Stay tuned....

End of School Wrap Up

2010-06-08T08:22:00.008-05:00

The last two weeks before school were VERY busy. Along with our usual schedule of school and work, we were occupied with rehearsals, recitals, spelling bees, and awards ceremonies. Jack was involved in two competitive events, receiving a Division I rating (Excellent) on his piano piece, and placing 4th in the school spelling bee.

Rachael and Avery finished out their year in dance with their Academy Unleashed! performance at the Globe News Center for Performing Arts. Watching their performance in this beautiful theatre was a treat!

Rachael was instructed to keep a smile on her face during the performance; what a difference it makes....she looked like she was having so much fun! Her ballet dance was a performance of "Cheery Days" which almost had a holiday feel to it. It was a delight to watch.

Avery hit the stage twice and did a wonderful job in her first recital. She danced to a ballet routine of "I Feel Pretty," followed by a tap dance of "Shake Your Tail Feathers" complete with a feather trimmed pill hat. Very cute!

Rachael began piano lessons in January, and she had her first piano recital the last week of school. She did a great job and we look forward to her progressing through summer lessons.
We rounded out the week with a successful garage sale and a fun day out to the movies for just me and two of my sisters.

Sam is keeping us busy with lots of climbing and getting into things since he can open cabinets AND the refrigerator! He is also taking his first steps, and as always, keeps us smiling. Here he is after eating one of his favorite foods - blueberries!

We are looking forward to a fun and hopefully productive summer!

Pioneer Woman and Bakerella ROCK!

2010-05-22T09:49:00.006-05:00

Disclaimer: I have many blogs that I check frequently -- those of friends and family to stay caught up with what is going on in their lives, and they are all favorites. Please do not take offense if yours is not mentioned here (I know you won't!).

These are blogs of people that I don't know but that I also frequent. As a busy, tired mom I have found myself in a rut when it comes to meals. In the past few weeks of reading their posts, I have developed a renewed interest in cooking and baking. My family is enjoying this -- Hamburger Helper and mac and cheese out of the box get really old after a while. If you don't know about these blogs, check them out.

First, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the Pioneer Woman! Why did I not find her sooner? If you have been living under a rock like I have, and don't know who the Pioneer Woman is, she is Ree Drummond, a city girl turned ranch wife and mom living in Oklahoma.

Her blog features "confessions," cooking, photography, home and garden, and homeschooling posts. She has tutorials on tweaking digital photos, wonderful recipes with step by step photos, and she is a great storyteller. Her cookbook came out last fall (HINT: this would be a great birthday gift!).

She is a very entertaining writer, and I find her posts about her children/breastfeeding especially funny and totally relatable; see this one and this one, as examples. There's a great story about how she kissed James Garner on the elevator once. Her stories about the ranch really make me miss my upbringing and bring back memories of working calves back home.

I've tried two of her recipes so far: Cinnamon Toast (had no idea there was a "right" way to do it and had been doing the "wrong" way for years!). I've made it several times now, and the kids love it. Ranch Style Chicken was a real family pleaser and the marinade makes it.

Another great reason to visit this blog? The Giveaways! This girl is connected -- she has given away, among other things, Candy Apple Red Kitchenaid Mixers (be still my beating heart!) and Le Creuset French Ovens. Of course, it's hard to win -- there were over 30,000 entries in her last contest -- but what can you lose by posting?

My other favorite blog is Bakerella. As the name implies, this girl bakes...and bakes...and bakes! She has lots of great recipes and has even been to visit the Pioneer Woman. I just love when people get along!

I've made a couple of Bakerella recipes. The Congo Bars are awesome. I used to make Nestle Toll House Bars, but with 1 pound of brown sugar, the Congo Bars pretty much left the Toll House Bars in the dust! I love that you can customize with chips and nuts but I have to say the semisweet chips/pecan combination is the best. I tried peanut butter and milk chocolate chips with pecans and they were good, but I like the others better. The bars taste best the day after you make them.

I've also made the Cupcake Pops (a Bakerella signature recipe) -- they are yummy AND cute. Here's Rachael with the first batch I made:

The coolest post Bakerella did was a proposal. This was ALMOST as inventive as my husband's proposal during a live Steel Magnolias production. Love it!

So there you go. Pioneer Woman and Bakerella -- YOU ROCK!

The Garden is In!

2010-05-14T17:25:00.005-05:00

I am not sure why I am writing this post. In fact, it bewilders me. If you know me well, you know I have a (very) black thumb. I have two plants in my house, and though the ivy looks fine, the peace lily is suffering. This is a perpetual problem. Just ask my sister and mother-in-law who are always saving my flower beds.

A couple of months ago, Dennis came home chatting away excitedly about his "idea." Imagine my fear when the idea was, of all things, a garden. A project for the kids, he said. Sell the stuff in the local Farmers Market. For their college funds. The last phrase intrigued me. We started making plans for our garden.

Fast forward to today, and after lots of work and advice from friends and family there are seeds and seedlings in the ground, and it is raining. And the "idea" has grown. Wanna know what we planted (and will hopefully be harvesting in a few months)? Here's the list:

Cucumbers, Bell Peppers, Jalopeno Peppers, Sweet Corn, Black Eyed Peas, Squash, Zucchini, Beets and Okra.

Given my history with anything green, I have decided to add my own contribution with the girls' help. We will be selling baked goods each week. We haven't firmed anything up yet, but our focus will be gourmet cupcakes and cookies, with the flavors changing weekly. I may be a black thumb, but baking I can handle!

And now I remember why I am updating the blog (though the title has nothing to do with this!). We have had lots of baking practice lately, with Avery and Sam's birthdays just a few days apart in April. Avery celebrated her fourth birthday with a cupcake shaped cake.

And we had the traditional first birthday carrot cake at Sam's birthday. He did NOT care for the smash cake and kept trying to push the cake off of his high chair tray.

I cannot believe my "babies" are four and one. Time flies when you're having fun!

On a side note...I have been kicking around the idea for a new (additional) blog with a different angle. Stay tuned...

Happy Easter!

2010-04-06T14:21:00.003-05:00

Wow! We had a wonderful Easter this year, preceded by a most meaningful Lent. Dennis and I are realizing more and more the importance of focusing on the reason behind each season as we raise our children in the Catholic and Christian faith. This year, we spent extra time in prayer and reflection as a family, and when Holy Week arrived, made the events of the week a priority. After the busy week of church, school and work activities, it was time to catch up on housework and laundry on Saturday -- which I was able to do with the kids' help. We were ready for Easter Sunday!

(Once, while on a college judging team, we visited a hog operation where the owners kept everything neat and tidy, just in case the Lord came to visit. That was our mindset on Saturday, because, as you can imagine, I have a hard time working at home with small children and having everything neat and tidy all of the time. But Sunday morning, the house looked really nice -- you know, just in case Jesus dropped by!)

I got up early and ran into town to get an Easter message on our store chalkboard, then thought McDonald's sounded great for our Easter breakfast! Everyone loved it, since we seldom eat out, especially for breakfast, and it saved time since we were going to the 9 a.m. Mass. We got ready and headed into town, running slightly late. Wouldn't you know that a policeman happened to be patroling the area as we were driving through, and Dennis was pulled over. The policeman was kind enough to let us get to church without a ticket, and the Mass was wonderful! Did you know that according to the Church, Easter is an 8 day event? A priest friend of ours mentioned this in a card he sent us. So I am waiting to take my decorations down, and we will be singing and saying Alleluia all week! He is Risen!

Another Top Ten

2010-03-23T14:09:00.013-05:00

Yet again, I have let the blog slip. We have been so busy between work, school and the holidays that I have failed to post in a LONG time! So in good old David Letterman fashion (not that I like him, but I DO like his top 10 segment), here is what we have been doing, in no particular order:

1. Been to a wedding and most of us were in the wedding -- Dennis's sister, Diana's wedding to Taylor. Beautiful wedding, gorgeous bride! Jack handed out programs (he said he had the most customers!), Rachael and Avery were flower girls and Dennis lectored. There's Jack putting on the "hard sell."

Poor baby Sam was sick the whole time with what we later learned was strep throat. I held him for a big part of the weekend just trying to keep him comfortable.

2. Turned 45! There's Dennis with his cake made by yours truly just before Christmas.

3. Had lots of fun in all of the snow! We have gotten ALOT of snow this year and the kids are now actually tired of it. We are ready for spring. But our yard should look great!

4. Gotten 2 new puppies! Our first (see above) joined our family in January. "Lucky" (as in "lucky to be alive") is a Border Collie that my sister Judith and her husband gave us. We have had lots of fun with him. "Sparkle," another Border Collie, joined us over spring break. Jack is in charge of Lucky and Rachael is in charge of Sparkle.

5. Had a really great Christmas! We enjoyed Christmas with all of our families. This year I made a conscious effort not to get too stressed out and sleep deprived. This meant less baking, using gift bags instead of wrapping, etc. It also meant that I was in a much better mood and we all had a happier holiday time. Unfortunately, my Christmas cards ended up at the bottom of the list, too. I ordered them and had them the week before Christmas, but somehow, never got them sent out. I hoped to have them out by Valentine's Day. That didn't happen, so I'm shooting for Easter. When is it too late?

6. Been working, working, working. There's Sam. He thinks he's doing me a service by helping me file (read: unfile).

7. Crawling, crawling, crawling. Sam is all over the place! He crawls throughout the house, and his favorite spot is in the bathroom. He really likes the toilet, so all lids are down now!

8. Been to Market (to Market, to buy a fat pig!). Dennis has been to Dallas flooring market, I went to Dallas accessories market (Sam came along for the ride!) and Dennis spent a few days at Vegas market. We are watching our stocking with the economy, but it was great to get out and look and get a game plan for when consumer spending really picks up. Dennis also went to Indiana for a VIP tour of one of our favorite vendors, Best Chairs. He was really impressed with their craftsmanship and quality when he saw it first hand.

9. Participated in the Science Fair. This was our third year and the kids did great. We learn a little bit more each year, and next year it's for a grade for Jack. Jack's project was on the corrosiveness of soft drinks -- and how hard they are on your teeth. He placed 2nd in his category. Rachael did a taste panel on regular fat foods versus low fat and fat free foods. She placed 3rd with her project.

10. Once again, we've been blessed beyond measure. There are times, in our business, that we get so discouraged for one reason or another. It worries us, because it is our livelihood and also supports the families of our employees. Small miracles and the kind words of our customers validate what we do, and we know God is totally in control. I used to consider myself lucky; now I know it's not luck, it's the grace of God that provides the many blessings afforded me and my family.

Q is for Quincy

2009-12-03T12:50:00.004-06:00

*Yay*! We have another baby in our family! My sister, Johnna and her husband, Sutton, had a baby daughter, Quincy Margaret, on Tuesday, December 1. She was 8 lbs. 13 oz. and 21 inches long. We are so excited to have another cousin and niece. I stole a picture off of my sister's Facebook, and here is sweet baby Quincy. Isn't she pretty? I see some Oman cheeks and her eyes, lips and even the tip of her nose looks a little Oman! She reminds me alot of all 4 of mine when they were newborns.

Playing ketchup (catch up!)

2009-11-14T09:30:00.016-06:00

It's been over two months since my last blog post, and three months since any real news. What have we been doing, you ask, that we have been too busy to post some news? Well, here's a run down -- this is long, but hopefully good! And in no particular order....our top ten...

1. Had two official cases of the H1:N1 flu (Sam and Rachael). And what we think were two unofficial cases (Jack and Avery) -- not diagnosed at the doctor. All, thankfully, mild.

2. Met the Chick-Fil-A cow. We LOVE Chick-Fil-A!

3. Went trick-or-treating -- some of us for the first time!

4. Organized and attended a 20th High School Reunion; that would be Yours Truly -- I can't believe it's been 20 years!

5. Invaded the salon -- when there's four kids to have their haircut, it's the Detten's Salon Takeover -- some of us got our hair cut for the first time!

6. Started school....some of us for the first time! We just finished our second six weeks with flying colors!

7. Gotten 7 (that's right, SEVEN!) teeth in! Ouch! Lots of drooling and fussing!

8. My father, John Bill Oman, was diagnosed and is now free of bladder cancer. We thank you all for your prayers for his health and recovery. Keep them coming!

9. Helped with two school fundraisers -- gift/mix sale and Karnival Krazy. So glad they're over! Our PTO officers did a great job!

10. Been blessed beyond measure! Lots of happy times on ordinary days.

We are also awaiting the birth of the eleventh child among all of us Oman girls. Baby Q should be here any day now!!! Please keep Johnna and Sutton in your prayers. We are excited for a new niece and cousin!

Amidst all of this, there have been many loads of laundry and dishes done, lots of diapers changed and tears and noses wiped. We have also been super busy with our business. We've learned more how to be creative, spread our resources and appreciate the smallest of blessings. These times have tested us -- just when things get tough, a miracle happens, and we realize God wants us to keep going. We've seen the power of prayer so very strong in our lives, and we know that God is good -- all the time.

Birthday Catch Up

2009-09-06T15:16:00.006-05:00

We celebrated Rachael's sixth birthday on July 5. She was very excited about her big day and picked out her pink dress and crown to wear. We just had family over (that equals LOTS of cousins!). Rachael wanted pink strawberry cake, so I made it, but it did not go over as well as my usual white cake does. Isn't she pretty? I can't believe she's six years old!

For her birthday gift from her MiMi and Poppy (Dennis's parents), Rachael got to do the quintessential girl thing...go shopping. She insisted on dressing up, and Judy took her out to eat and then to Dillard's to buy some cute outfits. Several weeks later we went in to Dillard's and the sales lady remembered her. She said that Rachael said the funniest things when trying clothes on like "that's too grown upish for me." That day, they also went to Chico's where Rachael has befriended the sales staff (when she's gone in with me) just to say 'hello' to them. Rachael has a strong interest in fashion, and wants to someday be a fashion designer (after, of course, working in Chico's, she says!).

She is a great shopping companion, because she will be completely honest with you when you are trying on clothes. She gives me the thumbs up or thumbs down and tips on how I can improve the look. Once I tried on a dress that looked great on the hanger, but not so much on me. She informed me that "the dress would probably look better on me if I would just grow my hair out!" It's so nice to have my own personal stylist on staff and free of charge!

Girls' Night Out

2009-08-23T17:41:00.007-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, Jack and Dennis went on their annual Detten guys' weekend trip. They went to Colorado and spent a few days in the mountains. Sam, the girls and I stayed here to hold the fort down. We worked at the store every day, and tried to do something fun at the end of each day.

One day, the girls stayed with their Uncle Chris and cousins while Judith, Sam and I went to see Julie and Julia. It was great fun -- the movie was right up our alley! Uncle Chris handled 4 kids like a pro, and the girls had fun playing with their cousins.

Another day, the girls and I had our nails done (actually, I had my toes done). Sam was such a trooper to hang with us girls! It was a full hour in the nail salon, and he took it like a man! After our little pampering, we ate at Pizza Hut.

The boys had a great weekend -- sorry no pictures...there were no mothers along to document the trip! They saw the same black bear on two different occasions, and they went fishing, hiking and four wheeling. Jack came home smelling like fish and I sent him straight to the shower while I threw their stinky clothes in the wash....such a difference between what girls think is fun and what boys think is fun!

Waiting at the salon...it was a long wait!

Avery having her nails done...dark pink with yellow polka dots.

Rachael having her nails done...pink with light pink polka dots

The finished look; mine are the zebra toes!

Sam waiting patiently; he was awake the whole time we were at the salon! I held him while my feet soaked.

Waiting at Pizza Hut.

Green Eggs and Ham for Sam

2009-08-08T20:09:00.004-05:00

Earlier this week, the kids and I went to visit my parents for a couple of days. Jack got to watch Pop work cattle (Pop even let him help brand a calf!), we ate at Double Dave's with an old friend of mine and we went to the Abilene Zoo with Mor Mor. We had lots of fun, but I forgot my camera!

On our way back home, I stopped at a little boutique in Plainview called Kristy's. Dennis's mom used to own an awesome children's clothing store here in Hereford. She always had really cute, unique clothes, especially Sunday dresses, and it was my first place to shop! She decided to retire a couple of years ago, so I've had a hard time finding nice clothes. Kristy's was having a great sale on summer clothes; I often buy a year ahead hoping things will fit, and I've had great luck so far. I found some really cute dresses and school for the girls.

As I was leaving I saw a cute onesie for a baby girl that was Dr. Seuss inspired. Turns out, they had cute ones for baby boys too! We are big Dr. Seuss fans! We read the classics on a regular basis -- our favorites are Hop on Pop, The Ear Book, The Eye Book, Green Eggs and Ham, and Oh, the Places You'll Go. I was so excited to find a Green Eggs and Ham onesie for Sam ("I do not like green eggs and ham. I do not like them, Sam I am!").

Here is Sam in his Green Eggs and Ham onesie. It won't fit for long, but he'll wear it alot in the meantime!

Birthday and Baptism

2009-06-28T15:09:00.006-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, Jack turned 8 years old. I can't believe he's 8! I actually made his cake this year and we had a small family gathering. He requested chocolate, and didn't even notice that the cake was a bit lopsided....I was in a hurry and didn't level it. I added mini chocolate chips to the side when he said he wanted it "really chocolately." We are still hoping to have a couple of his good friends over to go see a movie or swim, but it's been hard to schedule.
Here's Poppy (Dennis's dad, Ralph) with Sam at Jack's birthday gathering.

I often think about the kind of kid I was when I was his age, because I have fairly vivid memories from age 7 on. I really remember my 8th birthday. It was a few months after Mama June passed away, and my new mother-to-be made my cake for me which was a very special thing for her to do. I had asked for a camera, and when I saw the wrapped box, I burst into tears because the box size did not match a camera size. It never occurred to me that the box should be bigger than the camera. I was such a pill! It turned out to be a camera, and boy, did I feel bad! Dad must have been very tolerant, because I don't remember being punished for my awful behavior.

Today we also had a special day because we baptized Sam. It was a beautiful Mass with great music (Dennis's parents both sang in the choir) and Father John, our priest gave a wonderful sermon on what our purpose in life is. Dennis's sister Diana and my sister Ingrid and her husband Jacob were Sam's godparents. We can't believe we had enough kids for all of our siblings to be godparents! Sam was wide awake during the ceremony, but didn't make a peep. He wore a gown that all of our children have worn, and I hope will be an heirloom that their children can wear, if they so choose. I have had the slip underneath embroidered with each of their names and baptismal dates, and will do the same for Sam.

Rachael has been talking about Sam's baptism for weeks. She has learned alot about baptism and other Catholic practices during religion at her school and was very interested in everything leading up to the actual ceremony. She seems to have a very special bond with Sam -- he lights up when she speaks or sings to him -- and I expect they will be great friends some day (I expect this for Avery, too, but for now, I think Sam just tolerates her!).

After Mass, we had brunch at our house with lots of family. Pop (my Dad, John Bill) held Sam, who fell asleep during Pop and Poppy's long conversation. We really enjoyed our time with our family, and this will be a day I will never forgot.

On a side note, when I was picking up the hams that we had for the brunch, there was a wonderful quotation painted on the wall of the ham place. Dennis and I have been having many conversations about the economy, the future of our business and family, and these tough times. I called him immediately when I saw the quotation, because it was so timely for us, personally. It said:

"Write your worries in the sand. Carve your blessings in stone."

How very blessed we are!

After my own heart...

2009-06-12T14:09:00.006-05:00

You probably know about my guilty pleasure (one of them, anyway)...reading celebrity mags, mostly for the pictures. I limit it to People and US Weekly, because, really, US Weekly is just borderline trashy and gossipy (but there are much worse!). I've been pretty good lately, but last night I was at Wal Mart and gave in to temptation. Today, during quiet time, I found Rachael "reading" my latest purchase. Honestly, I really think she looks at it for the fashion, in which she has a high interest. Notice the headline, "Mommy, you are mean!" !!?!! This morning I also caught her looking at my Parents magazine. We have tons of kids books, but I guess she needs "more elevated" reading!

On another note, here is a picture I caught of Sam yesterday...he had just woken from his morning nap and was in the best mood. He has a tuft of hair near the back of his head that perpetually sticks up. Most days, it's like this, but there are some days when it will actually lay down. I thought this picture was so funny! I'm not sure who Sam looks more like -- Einstein or Alfalfa...or maybe a cross of the two?!

Who's Crabby?

2009-06-10T18:10:00.002-05:00

Not Sam! Okay, at least not when this picture was taken earlier today! He was full of smiles this morning, and is most mornings.

He wasn't so cheery yesterday when I heard him fussing after I briefly left the room and returned to find him decked out in an array of dress up items. The hat was actually over his face! Now that Rachael is home for the summer, I have to ask "who did this?" I always hear both Rachael and Avery say, "Not me!" Avery has quickly learned that someone other than her could be implicated if she plays the game right. Usually Avery's the one that did it...I am afraid poor Sam will have to put up with this accessorizing until he can defend himself (remember the lip gloss incident?).

Sam the Man

2009-06-06T15:13:00.007-05:00

My computer has been giving me fits the past few days, so I'm finally getting some new pictures uploaded. The first two photos are pretty old -- when Sam was 2-3 weeks old. The girls really love on Sam. Rachael is very protective and reminds me not to drop him. She has even "tattled" on Dennis when she thought he was handling Sam to rough! For someone who says she's doesn't want to be a mother "because it's too much work," she really has the mothering instinct. Today she sang to him for a good 15 minutes while he cooed at her...it was so cute!

Avery, on the other hand, just likes to touch Sam. This results in him being constantly woken during his naps. After observing this behavior, my sister, Jennifer, says that's why he sleeps so good at night -- since he can't hardly sleep during the day.

Jack, who is such a big Star Wars fan, was excited when we found this onesie from GAP; I think Dennis liked it, too...it says "My Dad Rules the Galaxy."

Sam is mastering lots of cute facial expressions -- look at this scowl...you can't see his forehead that well, but Jack did this and Dennis still does!

And of course, Sam's smiles are really coming now. We love trying to make him smile and being rewarded with big grins.

A Rainbow at Wal-Mart

2009-06-05T10:57:00.003-05:00

That's all this post is -- a rainbow at Wal Mart. I snapped the pics a couple of weeks ago when I was leaving Wal Mart and saw a full rainbow. The colors were really vivid on one end, too. We seldom see full rainbows, with such bright colors around here, so I took a picture. The girls love rainbows and we couldn't see it from our house when I got home, so lucky I had it on my camera. I wish I had something a bit more poetic to say, but that's all this is...a rainbow at Wal Mart!

Look Who's Smiling...

2009-05-25T19:53:00.002-05:00

More to come...!

Fairies and Raindrops (oh my!)

2009-05-16T15:59:00.013-05:00

Today marks the end of a CRAZY week. We have been complete bums today, including Dennis, and have stayed home, watched t.v. and snacked around for our much needed break. The week started with the usual ballet and piano lessons. On Wednesday, Rachael, Sam and I went to Amarillo for what turned out to be a marathon dress rehearsal for her dance recital. We finally made it home at 11 p.m. On Thursday, her class went back to Amarillo for a field trip to a children's museum and some play time. Friday, both Jack and Rachael went to a track meet...Rachael asked to leave early. She's not much into athletic events; I think she MAY be a bit of a diva! Dennis had to pick her up because I had to make the first of two trips to Amarillo to get a mailing for the store out. Finally, the culmination of 9 months of work and a busy week, came Friday night with Rachael's dance recital.

The event, put on by the Lone Star Dance Academy, was held at the Globe News Performing Arts Center in Amarillo. This is a beautiful new theater, complete with cattle trailer panels on the ceiling in the foyer! We were honored to be there and that Rachael performed on that stage. There were 53 performances from the Amarillo and Hereford Academies. I did not take pictures...I had Sam with me (in case he got hungry!) and shuttling Rachael back and forth between her three dance numbers and costume changes. Dennis, Jack and Avery enjoyed the show from the balcony, which Dennis thinks were the best seats in the house.

Of course, the younger performers (3-5 years) have less skill and talent, but what they lack in those areas they totally make up for in cuteness! Each time Rachael's groups would walk out on stage, there was a collective "AAAAWWWWW..." from the audience. Here are some pictures I took of Rachael in her costume at home (flash photography was not allowed during the recital).

Rachael's first number was a ballet dance called "Fairy March;" here she is in her best fairy pose:

Her second dance was called "April Showers." It's hard to see here, but the sequins looked like little raindrops on her purple costume. It was a cute number that fit the song well, and seeing the performance really made the costume make sense. Her last number, her tap dance, was "Hello Dolly" -- the Louie Armstrong version. Rachael just almost looks like a Vegas showgirl, don't you think?

Avery thoroughly enjoyed the recital. Dennis said she was entertainment alone! She sat on the edge of her seat and mimicked the dancers' moves, applauded and even "woo hooed" a few times. She has been wanting to be in dance all year, but was too young. Now that she is three years old, she will begin lessons in September. When I was taking pictures of Rachael, Avery begged to be a part of the action, so Rachael let her borrow her fairy costume...here she is in all her glory!

Jack's First Communion and Mother's Day

2009-05-11T11:51:00.005-05:00

This past weekend was a busy but special weekend. Jack celebrated his First Communion on Saturday after 9 months of preparation. I cannot believe he is old enough to partake in the Eucharist -- it seems like just yesterday he was Sam's age! Many family members were there, and his cousin Chloe also had her First Communion. Afterwards, we celebrated this and Mother's Day at Dennis's parents' house with a big dinner and cake for the occasion.

On Sunday, we celebrated Mother's Day with a nice brunch with my sister, Judith, and her family. There are no pictures because we wanted it to be casual. When I say casual, I mean no make-up and jeans and a t-shirt that says "Wild Woman" (thanks, Johnna!!!). We had a great morning, complete with mimosas.

In the afternoon, I took Rachael and Avery to see the Hannah Montana movie (Sam tagged along, too) and we really enjoyed the movie. I even downloaded some of the music -- The Climb is really a great song, along with a few others. When we got home, Dennis had the yard mowed, and we grilled steaks for dinner. Dennis and the kids gave me a Pandora bracelet, which I am so excited to add to over time. It was a wonderful weekend!

Sam's New Look

2009-04-30T20:12:00.005-05:00

Today was a crazy day for Sam and me because we had all kinds of follow up doctor's appointments in Amarillo (three before noon)! Avery stayed with a friend to make things a little easier for me. When we arrived back in Hereford I was installing Avery's carseat back in the van, and did not notice the mischief Avery was into. I strapped her in and we went to pick up Jack and Rachael from school. They always greet Sam as they are entering the van and Rachael said, "What's that pink on Sam's face?" I was thinking maybe he was a little pink or red like newborns are, but I checked just to be sure, and found this:

Avery had her princess pink lip gloss and decided Sam needed a little touch up....

Easter posts coming soon!

The View From My Bed

2009-04-16T07:29:00.002-05:00

Isn't it THE BEST?

Here HE is!!!

2009-04-14T21:30:00.006-05:00

Yes, for those of you who commented on my last post, I was blogging while in labor -- and without an epidural if you can believe that! It was actually a good distraction, because I didn't really NEED the epidural until they insisted on it since I was being induced and they wanted to increase the pitocin dosage. I was 6 cm when they put in the epidural (and I still didn't feel like I needed it) so blogging must be great pain relief. I still have a post or two from Easter that I will add in the next few days that will not be in chronological order, but this is important news! On to the good stuff...

Our son Sam William Detten was born today, April 14, 2009 at 4:05 p.m. He is 8 lbs. 1 oz. and 20 1/2" long, and looks ALOT like his brother Jack when he was born. He is nursing really well, and laying in his bassinet right next to me as I type this. The kids are so excited that they have a brother now, and they will get to meet him tomorrow.

We were a bit surprised at his weight....I usually deliver within a day or two of my due date, and the others have been 7 lbs. 2 oz, 6 lbs. 13 oz., and 6 lbs. 5 oz. (in that order). Sam was born 6 days early! Here are the two best pictures Dennis could get....without showing our new sweetie completely in the buff!

Thank you everyone for your prayers for us. WE ARE BLESSED!

Happy Birthday, Avery!

2009-04-14T12:43:00.008-05:00

We celebrated Avery's third birthday on her birthday, Friday, April 10. She was so excited and told everyone all week that she was having two birthdays...Dennis's mom hosted a party for the three of the April birthdays in his family the prior week, including Avery's. Friday we went simple with pizza and cupcakes with an Easter theme. I think Avery's favorite part was the balloons. We had alot of my family there, which was so nice -- hardly ever happens! Before the party, Avery got to test the icing that I put on the cupcakes...she really liked it! Judith and Chris's twin boys had a fun time. Josef may be our next Mozart -- doesn't he look like a little man at the piano? Johan really liked the Peeps. He climbed on the kid table and helped himself!

On a side note, my doctor offered to induce me on this day (Avery's birthday). As tempting as it was to no longer be pregnant, I declined only because I hated to "schedule" Avery's siblings birth on her birthday. I wanted it to be her day if God meant for it to be. And so, it was!

New Addition

2009-04-14T11:47:00.007-05:00

Nope, no baby yet. But last week we did adopt a chocolate lab puppy! Dennis has a soft spot for labs. When we married he had two labs, a male (Duke) and a female (Duchess). They were great dogs and both lived long lives but both have since passed. We heard about a chocolate lab puppy that was scheduled to be euthanized the week before last. I went to the shelter to see him and thought he would be a great addition to our family! He is only 7 or 8 weeks old. Dennis built a run for him and he is doing well -- no whining or crying. He is very well behaved, but playful, too and the kids are really enjoying him. Here are some pictures of Jack with "Wally."

"Put vegetables on it"

2009-04-01T22:37:00.003-05:00

How many times do you hear that from a 2 year old? I know, practically never! Well, around here, we hear it more than occasionally, but probably not in the context you are thinking. We tend not to keep ice of any kind in our freezer. Weird, but our well water is nice and cold out of the faucet, and we seldom drink soft drinks. So if someone gets a boo boo, we just put a bag of frozen peas (or whatever frozen vegetable is available) on the ouchy to serve as an ice pack. Avery first observed this when Rachael ran into the door facing and bumped her head. She saw the extra attention Rachael received -- and the bag of frozen corn applied to Rachael's goose egg. The next day, she had a boo boo and asked me to put corn on it. I wasn't sure what she was talking about, then I remembered. This has happened several times since, including today when she stumped her toe. "Put vegetables on it, mommy!" she cried. A zip lock of frozen peas later, she was happy as a lark!

The Blizzard of '09

2009-03-30T21:09:00.003-05:00

That was the headline on Friday around here. I think it must have been worse in Amarillo and north. We did have alot of high wind and blowing snow, but I think the accumulation was only 5 or 6 inches. We've had worse. There was a time in my life when I thought that blizzards did not occur in Texas. Until I married Dennis and the first winter we had a huge blizzard in December that caused us to lose power for 4 days. We had cattle then, and all of the hot wires were down so we spent Sunday afternoon rounding cattle up all over the place. I think we went to church on the tractor since we didn't have 4 wheel drive vehicles! Since then, we've had 2 or 3 blizzards.

The kids had their first snow day since they've been going to school (3 years) and we all stayed in and ate popcorn and hot chocolate. I didn't get pictures during the blizzard, but the wind was bad enough to knock our satellite tv out for a day and a half and we had no internet for a few hours. Here are a few pictures of the snow drifts.

And then there's a picture of what I discovered that afternoon after Avery had been playing with her dolls. I have the baby stuff all ready to go now...swing, bassinet, bouncy seat, etc. Avery was very excited about the swing and asked if the baby would get to swing high in it....this scares me! She put her baby in and turned the swing on, music and all; she has to bring the bathroom stepstool to reach the controls. The swing is now officially off limits!

Chopsticks and Coffee

2009-03-17T10:11:00.015-05:00

This past weekend was the start of our spring break, and we unexpectedly left town on Friday evening. We knew we would be going to Lubbock on Saturday for the Pastorale Festival, a music rating competition that Jack was in, but we originally planned to just go for the day. We were concerned the roads would be icy Saturday morning so we left on Friday and stayed in a hotel. It turned out the roads were fine, but the hotel was a BIG treat for the kids! They liked everything from the elevator ride to sleeping on the sofa bed!

Jack did great on Saturday -- he received Superior ratings for his piano solos and hymns, and we haven't heard, but we think also on his Duets. He and his friend Jacob played two duets together and Jacob received Superior on the Duets, but for some reason, Jack's rating was not posted for this event. Anyhow, Dennis kept the girls occupied walking the stairs and hallways of the Music Building on the Texas Tech campus, while I went with Jack to practice and wait for his events. Jack and Jacob have become fast friends, and watching them practice their duet was quite entertaining!

After Jack finished we went to Pei Wei for the kids' report card reward meal. They LOVE Pei Wei! They usually get special things to attach to their chopsticks to make them easier to eat with, but this time they didn't have them so they had to wing it with just the chopsticks (though I gave them forks, just in case!). Avery was a real trooper and ate her entire meal with just her chopsticks. The kids not only love the food, but look forward to the fortune cookie at the end of the meal. We go around the table and let those who can read their fortune, do so out loud. We picked up Krispy Kreme donuts on the way out of town for a second dessert...yum!

We had a great time in Lubbock and it was a nice mini vacation, since I am basically "grounded" until the baby comes!

Sunday was a nice leisurely morning. We slept in and Rachael and Avery helped me make chocolate chip muffins and bacon for breakfast, as we listened to some of my favorite music on the IPOD -- Cat Stevens, Michael Buble', etc. The girls have developed a taste for coffee (with flavored creamer, of course!) so they got their own little demitasse cup and saucer. Aren't they cute sipping their coffee? Those are curlers in Avery's hair -- she wanted it curly for church!

We are looking forward to a fun spring break with something special planned for almost every day, including a special girls' day out where Rachael wants to get her ears pierced!

Science Fair is O-V-E-R

2009-03-15T16:12:00.009-05:00

Thank goodness! This was just not the year for me to be helping with an optional school project! But Jack and Rachael really wanted to participate in the School Science Fair -- and I'm so proud that they took the initiative! When Jack is in 3rd grade it will be required and he will be graded, so this was good practice. We didn't start as far in advance as we needed to, but they both learned alot and enjoyed the experience. Rachael' project was making crystal ornaments with sugar and water. She was even asked what a molecule was during her presentation. Thank goodness we prepared for that question! She got Honorable Mention. Jack's project was how probes get into space -- basically a force/thrust experiment he did with a homemade balloon rocket. He really enjoyed his project, and learned about Newton's Third Law of Motion (every action has an equal and opposite reaction). He did not win a prize, but was 1st in my book for his enthusiasm! I took pictures of the kids with their backboards; Avery insisted on having her picture taken with Rachael's backboard -- I think mostly because it was yellow, which is Avery's favorite color...can you tell?

Dennis and his Shadow

2009-03-05T19:56:00.006-06:00

Finally, I have rounded up what I needed for this post, which were pictures from the past. Not long after Dennis and I married, I got a kitten from a friend at my work. She was such a pretty kitten, but Dennis, who has always been a "dog person" only tolerated her. Her name was "Shadow" (she came with the name). The funny thing is, that when Dennis wasn't looking, she became his shadow! He would often fall asleep while I was doing my good wifely duties of folding clothes, ironing or decorating the Christmas tree in the evenings after work. I was able to snap these pictures on four different occasions of Dennis with "his" Shadow...he is asleep (his eyes aren't just closed) in all of these pictures. I'm not sure how he could have been comfortable in a couple of them -- he must of have been really tired!

And this makes sense because...

2009-03-05T08:42:00.010-06:00

Jack is feeling better every day, but after missing two days of school, we are playing major catch up on school work at home. Yesterday, he completed one of his math assignments, and I looked it over to make sure he finished it. I got really tickled when I read his answer to the last question. Keep in mind that he is in 2nd grade; the curriculum at his school is a bit more advanced than what is offered in most, and it is a known fact that our St. Anthony's kids are leaps ahead of their peers when they enter junior high. They are doing lots of word math problems and this particular assignment was a series of questions leading up to the final question,

" How many dogs do not finish the class? Explain how you know your answer makes sense."

I've scanned in his answer, but in case you can't read it, it is as follows:

"11 dogs; First I wrote it on a paper. Th(e)n, I solved it out on this paper."

Nuff said. I didn't make him "rethink" this one...I figure his teacher could use a laugh, too.

Ok, while I was scanning things in, I scanned a picture that Rachael drew Jack to cheer him up since he had strep throat. As of a couple of weeks ago, Hereford has a Kaleidoscoops! This is big news in Hereford, home of pretty much nothing except alot of feedlots, a few major fast food restaurants and, (I'll admit this is big, too) a Super Wal Mart.

If you are not familiar with Kaleidoscoops, it is the cooperative that was formed by several former Baskin Robbins (BR) franchisees when BR refused to renew their franchise contracts so that BR could focus on larger markets. So sad....I loved their Chocolate Peanut Butter, Pistachio Almond, Daquiri Ice, German Chocolate Cake and Jamoca Almond Fudge ice creams! Kaleidoscoops has just about matched BR with their quality and selection, but I normally have to go to Amarillo to get it. The new Hereford location is actually a portable trailer, and they only have 20 flavors, and unfortunately, my all time fav, Chocolate Peanut Butter is not on the list. But the kids love it, it's a great treat, and with the 80 degree weather we've been having, we've really enjoyed having them here! Hopefully they stay!

Rachael says the vehicle to the left of the trailer is our van...pretty cool, huh? Looks like it's straight from the 80's! And notice the Kaleidoscoops logo in the top right hand area of the picture (it looks kind of like a spider). I think we'll be going to Kaleidoscoops today...I'm craving the Rocky Road ice cream in a homemade waffle cone.

A Typical Sunday...or Not

2009-03-02T18:09:00.003-06:00

After a crazy Saturday, we slept in this past Sunday and went to 11:15 Mass (we do this alot unless one of us is lector at the earlier Mass). By the end of Mass, Jack wasn't feeling so well. We took a look at his throat and it was bright red and his tonsils were huge. He was supposed to go to his sacramental preparation class for First Communion, but couldn't since it looked like he was coming down with tonsillitis. So we stayed home and rested all afternoon, which was really nice! We had a late lunch, including leftover birthday cake from a cousin's birthday (see Avery enjoying hers...), Rachael and Avery colored all afternoon (or watched t.v.) and Jack had to stay secluded, playing Legoes in his room. Since we haven't had any special occasions, I decided to snap some pictures of the kids in their element.

Today I took Jack to the pediatrician, and it turns out he has a bad case of strep throat. His tonsils and glands were so swollen his voice was muffled, but when the doctor asked him if his throat hurt he said "Not really." I told the doctor I was pretty sure Jack didn't want a shot, and when she promised no shots, he admitted that yes, his throat did hurt and yes, he didn't feel so good! We ended up with antibiotics; I have been to Amarillo every week for the past 7 weeks for either my doctor's appointments or to take a sick child...Avery first with strep throat, Rachael with a sinus infection and now Jack. So we have had someone on antibiotics for a whole month (with a few days in between) since everyone has been prescribed a 10 day course.

We are looking forward to this weekend when hopefully everyone is healthy, Jack is on the mend, and we can celebrate some very good report cards with a lunch in Amarillo at the kids' favorite place, Pei Wei! And now I will be spending the next several days in bed, catching up on work!!!! And maybe resting a little, too. These excursions to Amarillo are wearing me out!

This is a test....

2009-02-21T10:12:00.005-06:00

Dennis and I have finally made it out of the stone age: we bought a laptop last summer and just in the past few weeks have added a wireless router so we could access the internet from any place in the house (or other locations for that matter!). I have been able to work from my bed this week and have gotten alot more done since I can sit here longer than I can at our desk. I have been very lucky that I have been able to work from home -- I am actually able to access my desktop at the store and can print reports and invoices on the printer at the store (but from here!). This would have been nice a couple of years ago when I was spending late nights (and many "all nights") and early mornings at the store by myself, not feeling safe, and always, it seemed, way behind! We save on child care, and I have full access to our business information around the clock. I paid our sales tax at 10 p.m. last night in my pajamas! Now we just need to invest in an adjustable Tempur-Pedic bed...but that will have to wait!

Today I put Photoshop on the laptop and uploaded a couple of pictures that I took of Avery yesterday just to see how everything works. If this works, and we have internet access at the hospital, we'll be able to update the blog onsite after the baby is born! I just love technology, but it always takes me a while to learn it and embrace it. I'm also trying out a new camera, and considering I could not get Avery to be still for even a second, the pictures turned out ok. She is in one of her many dress up outfits that she wears every day. Some other variations include swimsuits with blinged out high heels, and (the worst) bunny ears with her undies. We're not sure where she gets the idea for the last outfit...no, we don't watch The Girls Next Door!

How many are there?

2009-02-19T17:02:00.003-06:00

Lately, I have been feeling like my belly looks like this -- sans the stretch marks; there are eight in her belly, and I've been reassured that there is only one in mine. For some reason, I am carrying this baby straight out in front (unlike my last two babies -- Rachael and Avery). For that reason, I am convinced this one is a boy, so we will just have to wait and see. In the meantime, I will spare you a picture of my belly!

Last night the kids had a great time watching my tummy move as the baby rolled around. They have all gotten to feel it kick, and I hope they remember this about their baby sister/brother as they grow up. Dennis has also felt it move; with the others, as soon as someone would put their hand on my stomach, the baby would stop moving.

Faith and Hope

2009-02-11T20:49:00.004-06:00

I've been thinking alot this week, and especially today, about the title of this post, faith and hope. It started with a moving sermon our priest gave on Sunday. Rachael had a fever, so Dennis and I had to play tag team and go to different masses. We are fortunate to have two wonderful priests in our parish, and turns out, the other priest gave just as profound a sermon that morning. The priests used the first reading from Job 7:1-4 and 6-7. If you get a chance, go look up this verse; I have not read the Book of Job, but always hear the expression "the faith of Job." Apparently at this point in his life, he has no hope and the last verse says "I shall not see happiness again." Now I intend to read the entire Book of Job.

The sermon I was fortunate enough to hear focused on the fact that God is here; we are here; others are here for us. Many of us are in what may seem like hopeless situations, but we are still here (at Mass) and God is with us -- and we are here for each other -- praying for each other, helping one another, doing what we can, in Christ. The sermon Dennis heard included a true story about a young boy who lost his sight. When he would take communion, he would touch his eyes with the host. He knew one day his sight would return -- he had that much faith. Eventually, he was able to see shadows, and he was so excited, because he could see again, as he put it. Faith and hope!

Dennis and I are now seeing the effects of the economy on our business (our livelihood). We have been fortunate to be sheltered up to a certain point, but it seems after the new year, people are really having to tighten their belts. Who can blame them? Sales have been dismal. But then I read today about a family who lost their 11 month old baby girl to cancer just a few days ago. Their only child. That really puts things into perspective. And then I am reminded of a young lady here in my home town who is facing her second bout with cancer. Please pray for both of these families as one deals with such great loss and the other braves the battle of her lifetime. My family and I have absolutely no problems. We must have hope and faith.

On a much lighter note...I hope to have a fun post up soon...I lack one necessary photo to make it complete!

Random Things

2009-02-04T13:49:00.004-06:00

I recently did a neat activity on Facebook called "25 Random Things About Me." It was lots of fun to do mine and then to read other people's lists. It's amazing what you learn about them. I thought it would be fun to list some random things about Jack, Rachael and Avery, so I've done a short version of that here. Here goes:

Random Things about Jack, Age 7

1. We think Jack has a photographic memory -- he was reading proficiently early in his Kindergarten year. He is the youngest boy in his class -- born in June.

2. Jack loves Star Wars and will be very excited if his new baby sibling is a boy -- he likes the idea of naming him Luke.

3. Jack is highly allergic to cats -- we're talking, wheezing, swelling, etc. but he loves animals, so we keep the Benadryl and breathing treatments on hand all the time.

4. Jack could identify the entire alphabet before he was 2 years old (ie., look at the letter and say what it was), but could not speak in two word sentences until he was 2 and a half. He learned the alphabet by bringing the magnetic letters off the refrigerator to me and I would tell him what they were.

5. Jack goes with Dennis to breakfast with the guys every Saturday morning, and then works a half day at the store.

Random Things about Rachael, Age 5

1. I went into labor with Rachael on the second day of moving. She could not wait. Dennis's family finished moving while I was in the hospital. Her first night "home" was spent at her grandparents since our house was not quite ready to live in yet.

2. Rachael loves art -- any kind. Her latest passion is jewelry. She is making beaded necklaces for her friends.

3. Rachael also likes to sing and will belt out songs in the shopping cart at Wal-Mart.

4. Rachael has a tiny nose. We're not sure where she got it from.

5. Rachael can be very moody but she has a really big heart and is the first to ask someone who is sick how they are feeling.

Random Things about Avery, Age 2 years, 9 months

1. Avery was my smallest baby, but is now the tallest of all three of my kids when they were this age -- and very tall for her age, at that.

2. Avery's middle name, Lora, is after my late paternal grandmother, Lora Oman Olson. She appears to have her same vivacious personality.

3. Avery is very agreeable for a child her age. If she wants something (candy, horseback ride etc.), I will tell her "After Lunch" or "Later" and she will say "O.k" and walk away.

4. Avery loves to play dress up and will make several costume changes in one day. My one concern is her choice of clothing -- she likes swimsuits with decked out high heels, ballet costumes with cowboy boots.

5. Avery is the only person in our family who has ever had strep throat; she's had it twice.

Watch for my next post soon -- a series of hilarious pictures of a snoozing Dennis and his nemesis, a former pet of ours.

They like me, they really like me!

2009-01-26T21:40:00.011-06:00

I am so excited to accept my very first blog award, the You're Blog is Fabulous Award. To receive it I have to provide some information for you, namely, five current addictions of mine. Normally, if you ask a pregnant woman her addictions you will probably get a list of food cravings. This is not so in my case, because nothing tastes good (except one thing that tastes marginally good that you will see in my list).

I really had to think about this list, because addictions should make you "feel good," right? This is the whole problem with me because I haven't felt good in 6 months. O.k., enough of the pity party....and thank you, my dear, sweet sister Johnna, who gave me this award. It is a high compliment since you DO actually have a fabulous blog! And I would like to thank my all be it small but devoted following, as well. Current addictions are as follows:

1. Dark Chocolate Dove Promises

2. Sleeping on my Tempur-Pedic

3. Sex & the City re-runs and the current season of Top Chef

4. A House that Smells Clean (think bleach and furniture polish)

5. Belly Laughs from Jack, Rachael and Avery (I will never get enough of those!)

I pass this award on to two who have Fabulous Blogs, Tessa and Courtney (Ingrid is already a recipient!).

Rachael's "Love Affair" with Mexico

2009-01-23T19:12:00.005-06:00

Last fall I ordered some really cute dresses at sale price from my favorite children's clothing place, Hanna Andersson. Their clothes are very high quality, many with a Scandinavian style. If I can get them on sale, I buy for the next year, and usually sizing works out. These particular dresses (for Rachael and Avery) were sweater dresses from their "Knitter's Cottage" line. The colors are more vibrant than the picture, but are very unique and cute. And I usually hit a homerun with Rachael as long as there's some pink on the garment somewhere. When they arrived on my front porch, I was excited to show her the new dress and get her opinion. The first words out of her mouth, with a bit of a disgusted look on her face: "It looks like Mexico."

Needless to say, she'll still be wearing the dress come fall, because I just think it's way too cute! There's more to the story, though. A few days ago, Dennis and I were driving home from church and for some reason, Mexico came up in our conversation. Rachael chimed in from the back seat, "Well, I don't like their food, but I sure like their hats!".....????

New Blog Layout and Third Trimester -- Finally!

2009-01-22T21:58:00.009-06:00

I have been fighting the urge for months to change my blog layout. I know...it was so boring! So tonight I decided to spend a little time and figure out how to do it and I can't believe how easy it really is. I'll probably be playing around with it more, but here is my first attempt at a cute layout.

Unfortunately, my digital camera is on the blitz, and we haven't had any real picture taking opportunities, so I have no pics of the kids to post today. Our biggest news as of late is that poor little Avery was diagnosed with strep throat today. She is doing much better after the cumulative effect of two days of alternating Motrin and Tylenol and I'm sure will be almost normal once her antibiotic kicks in. Neither Dennis nor I have ever had strep throat and Jack and Rachael have managed to escape it up to this point as well, but this is Avery's second bout with it in a year in a half. The only thing we can guess is one (or all) of us is an immune carrier (if that's possible)...Avery has had little to no contact with anyone outside our family in the past week. We have all been fighting a mild cold, but it seems everyone is on the mend.

I am officially in my third trimester of this pregnancy and it could not have come sooner. I have never been a very good pregnant person, but this particular pregnancy has been especially trying. I am not sure if it's because I have three kids to chase after, the additional stress of keeping books for our businesses, or my age, but I have been tired and miserable the entire time. Add to that either nausea or heartburn -- one or the other and sometimes both -- and I am just no fun to be around at all. I have resigned myself to the fact that I will be this way until the baby comes. I have been lucky in the past that I bounce back fairly quickly and always feel so much better the week after delivery (when I'm operating on little to no sleep with a newborn) than the weeks/months before delivery. Hopefully this one will be the same.

At this point I have not even the slightest hunch if this baby is a boy or girl, but I will share with you that the kids all think it's a girl. In fact, at a recent family gathering with Dennis' family, the adults were sitting around the table discussing what they feared about the incoming Presidential administration. Somehow Jack got involved but was not aware of the primary subject of the conversation, and when it came his time to speak, he said, "I fear it's going to be another girl!"

Tagged!

2009-01-09T17:37:00.005-06:00

So a friend, Tessa, tagged me by inviting me to share a picture.
Here are the instructions she gave me:

1. Go to your photo folders and open the 4th folder.

2. Choose the 4th photo.

3. Explain the photo.

4. Tag 4 other people!

This picture is from Christmas 2007 and is of my sister, Johnna's husband, Sutton. He was reading a story to all of the 2nd cousins at the annual Swenson Christmas Eve gathering. I am not sure what book it was -- maybe The Night Before Christmas? Jack is sitting next to him on the right on the bench and Rachael is on the bottom right with the red bow in her hair. They all listened very intently.

Now I'll tag Johnna, Ingrid and Courtney....

Christmas Wrap Up

2009-01-06T12:57:00.006-06:00

Christmas is over....I am reminded because as of today (Jan. 6) my Christmas lights are down, school is back in session and I am trying to get my indoor decorations packed away. Avery was very upset today when she saw that our stockings were no longer out..."Get them back out, Mom!" (she's only 2 1/2 and she's my bossy one!). We had a nice Christmas, though I have no photos to show for it. I did video their reaction to Santa's gifts. I will have to defer to my sister, Johnna's blog, The Web Pages, to see the Oman Christmas photos.

The week before Christmas, Avery and I went to Amarillo just to get her picture with Santa. She was a bit trepadacious (even said, "I scared, Mom"). When she found out that if she told Santa what she wanted, he just might bring it, she was more willing. Santa was perfect -- and so kind!

That night, the kids had their annual school Christmas program. It was filled with lots of music and reflection. They did not sing your typical Christmas carols -- instead a collection of religious hymns to remind us of the coming of Christ. During the program, Dennis got a call for a massive water restoration, so immediately after went to work on it with three of our employees. They worked until 3:30 a.m., during which time Rachael woke up throwing up (and did so every 20-30 mins. until 5:00 a.m.!). I was hoping our family would escape the stomach bug this year, but alas, that did not happen. She was better within a day or so, and I disinfected everything (and went through lots of exam gloves and bleach!). Unfortunately, she missed her class Christmas party and Dennis and I missed a party that night that my sister, Judith and her husband hosted.

After all was well, I did lots of Christmas baking, and we went to my parents' on Christmas Eve. Probably the thing I will remember most about this Christmas was a gift we gave my parents. Johnna arranged to have all of our old home movies (starting around 1970) copied to DVD. We watched the DVD that evening, and there was one segment of my Mom flocking our Christmas tree in the yard. That was her last Christmas (1978). I vividly remember her with the can of spray snow in the backyard, and on the same day, after the tree was decorated, we took the picture on this blog. In case you are wondering, pictured left to right, seated, are Jennifer, me, Johnna and Judith.

We returned to Hereford on Christmas Day to spend the afternoon with the Dettens, then came home to see what Santa brought. Jack was thrilled with his Wii -- actually, we are all enjoying it, and I am hoping to pick up the American Idol game and Dancing with the Stars. In the meantime, he is creaming both Dennis and me at all of the sports games! Rachael loves her Sleeping Beauty Vanity, though Avery is getting some mileage out of it, too (where did I get such girly girls????). Avery had been pining away for Biscuit, the life size dog that barks, etc. and when Santa found it at Wal Mart for half the price Toys R Us was wanting, her wish came true! Everyone got new socks and jammies, I got a nice All Clad roasting pan, and Dennis got a stocking full of black licorice (haha!).

I look forward to next Christmas when we will have another child to share it with and I won't be so nauseous. At 6 months pregnant, I still feel icky, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Unfortunately, the last few weeks have been a bit sad for Jack as his dog, Trixie came up missing in mid December. We are still looking for her and hoping she will turn up soon. She was a sweet, sweet dog and really pretty, so we hope she is in someone's good care in the meantime.

Happy New Year to everyone! May it bring hope, happiness and peace to you and your family!

The New Nutcracker

2008-12-15T14:53:00.012-06:00

We had a busy weekend! Jack had his first Reconciliation (or Confession) on Saturday, with "practice" on Friday night. Sunday, he sang at early Mass with his Singing Saints school choir, and then sang for the Franciscan Sisters in Amarillo followed by an evening at Mr. Gatti's. Rachael and I went to see the New Nutcracker in Amarillo Sunday afternoon, an event we had planned for a very long time!

If you are not familiar with the New Nutcracker put on by the Lone Star Ballet, you are missing out! It was actually featured in the Texas section of the November '08 issue of Southern Living.

Rachael was on the edge her seat the entire time. It was well performed, the feature performers were outstanding, the music (performed live by the Amarillo Symphony) was perfect, and there was plenty of acrobatics to enhance the performance. Rachael had her picture with a life size nutcracker and with one of the performers (who actually attends St. Anthony's School!)

Rachael is enjoying twice a week lessons through Lone Star Ballet, and who knows, maybe she'll try out for a future season of the Nutcracker!

Unfortunately, because of such a busy weekend and the distance, we were not able to attend our niece and cousin Georgia's christening in Reagan. But we were praying for her and all of our family who traveled to be there for her special day.

Pumpkin Parade

2008-12-15T14:36:00.008-06:00

This post is a little late in coming only because I keep forgetting to take and upload pictures of Jack and Rachael's creations. We are very fortunate that we have a wonderful library and reading program at St. Anthony's School. Jack is a voracious reader and Rachael loves being read to. At Halloween, the school had a Pumpkin Parade where the kids decorated pumpkins as a favorite book character. This activity was optional but many participated. Of course, Jack and Rachael always jump at the chance to do anything that involves pumpkins AND paint!

Rachael created a pumpkin based on a book called If You Give a Pig a Party. This is a wonderful series of books that all of my kids have enjoyed through the years. She made the party hat (with a little direction from me), and there were balloons attached, but they fizzled long ago. She also did all of the painting after I drew the face on.

Jack's pumpkin was Indiana Jones from the Indiana Jones book series. He did the face, and we were lucky enought to find a pirate hat at Wal Mart during the Halloween season that we tweaked to look like Indiana Jones' hat.

I am finally able to get rid of the pumpkins as they've been sitting in my utility room all this time waiting to have their pictures taken with Jack and Rachael!

First trip to the dentist

2008-11-30T16:35:00.002-06:00

On Tuesday before Thanksgiving, the kids went to the dentist for the regular 6 month cleaning. This was Avery's first -- at 2 1/2 years old -- and she did great. She opened wide when she was supposed to and allowed the hygenist to clean every single tooth! No tears were shed, and she was especially happy to get a Diego sticker as a reward.

2008-11-30T16:33:00.003-06:00

And now....for the official 2008 Christmas Card Picture (converted to black and white)...

Picture taking time!

2008-11-30T16:26:00.004-06:00

After a super busy week, travelling for Thanksgiving and decorating for Christmas in between, we decided to take our annual Christmas card picture today after Mass when everyone was dressed up. We send a card out to a group of customers from our store, and then a different card for our personal family and friends. This year I am doing the personal card a little bit different, so there is no "preview" on this blog. As usual Avery is always the "wild card" when it comes to pictures -- you just never know what you're going to get! Here's a sample of the variation -- and a source of frustration for me (ha, ha!) -- we get when we're trying to get pictures of her.

It's a......

2008-11-14T09:37:00.005-06:00

GOTCHA! Nope -- we didn't find out if #4 is a boy or a girl at our ultrasound yesterday. We did find out that everything looks good at this point, which we are so thankful for. The baby is measuring about a week ahead of my due date, and I've never had this happen before. Jack and Avery measured within a day or two of the due date, and Rachael was a week behind the due date. We may have a baby on or around Avery's 3rd birthday! I had a dream that this baby was a girl, so that's what I'm betting on, since that particular dream (and I've had it with each of my pregnancies) has always been accurate. Plus, I'm still feeling not so great, and by this point in time with Jack I felt much better. We'll see! This baby was very active during the ultrasound, hopping all over the place. It's amazing what they can see with today's technology. We were able to see it swallow (and even see it's tongue!). This one has very muscular legs, much like Avery did at her first ultrasound. After the ultrasound yesterday, Dennis and I starting talking about names, and it looks like it will be a long road to a final decision! We went to Chili's since I was wanting a hamburger, and I was so disappointed when NOTHING -- not the lemonade, not the burger, not the fries -- tasted good. Thank you, pregnancy hormones! Just 22 more weeks to decent tasting food -- I'm already planning my first meal after the baby's born!

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-01T08:55:00.004-05:00

We had a great Halloween and we hope you did, too! In fact, Rachael said it was the "best Halloween ever!" The kids wore uniforms to school since they had their usual Friday Mass, then changed into costumes before their parties. Avery and I made it there just in time to get Rachael's makeup on and enjoy the festivities, but not before Avery and I had a disagreement over what costume she was going to wear. Although I had planned on her being a pink poodle, she really wanted to be a ballerina, so I let her. We recycled Rachael's recital outfit, which fit well, and she loved being a ballerina! Jack, of course, was Darth Vader, and Rachael was "Barbie Diamond Princess." Poor Rachael, as we were trick or treating in the beautiful weather, she realized that heels are not that comfortable! She ended up with blisters on both feet, and is now initiatied into the girlhood of style before comfort....

Blessing of the Pets and More

2008-10-24T09:01:00.006-05:00

In early October, we celebrated the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. Every year the school children get together at the end of the school day and their parents bring their pets for the pet blessing. St. Francis was known for his love of animals. When it was time to go to the school, Avery and I gathered up the cats in the pet carrier, but unfortunately, Trixie was nowhere to be found (which is not unusual for her!). Trixie missed the pet blessing. Here are a couple of pictures from the day; notice Rachael's need to help Avery pose....Rachael always has the eye for detail and sees the need to keep everyone else straightened out!

Baby Update: I am starting to feel a little better, though I'm still constantly nauseated and have that weird metallic taste in my mouth. I'm not sleeping well, which I'm sure is not helping. I'll be 15 weeks on Monday, and I do see a light at the end of the tunnel. Hopefully in a couple of weeks I'll feel more normal. I went to the doctor last week and heard a good strong heartbeat, and we will have an ultrasound in two weeks, which we're excited about. Much to everyone else's dismay, as with our other pregnancies we won't be finding out if it's a boy or girl. We love the element of surprise, though this time it would be nice to know since I have absolutely none of the other kids' newborn clothes (we donated or gave them all away when we thought we were done!!!).

Jack and Rachael are doing great at school. Jack made the A Honor Roll the first six weeks and is the top A/R reader in his class right now. Rachael loves school -- especially the social aspect! She is doing well on her math and phonics papers, but is a bit of a free lancer on her handwriting, so we're having to work on that! It has been nice to be home with Avery. I do a few hours of bookwork most days, but really try to spend time cuddling, reading and playing with her. She is really funny; she says the funniest things, which is pretty common for a 2 year old, but some of the big words that come out of her mouth with such a Minnie Mouse voice keep me in stitches. She's a tornado too -- she really likes to make messes -- and she loves to dress up. Lately, she's been wearing swimsuits with fancy shoes around the house. I 'm wondering if she has beauty pageants (or something else?) in her future.

Welcome, Georgia Pauline!

2008-09-23T12:35:00.002-05:00

We are excited to announce the addition of our niece and cousin, Georgia Pauline. Ingrid and Jacob are over the moon! Here's a link to their blog with pictures and all of the details!

As for us we are chugging along. The kids are busy with school and piano and ballet lessons, and Avery keeps me entertained at home. I am between 10 and 11 weeks pregnant, and still ill all of the time but hope to see that improve soon.

Big News!

2008-09-16T19:04:00.001-05:00

Our biggest news from the past several weeks is that we are expecting another brother or sister for Jack, Rachael and Avery! This was very unexpected -- we thought we would have three kids and that was it, but I guess God has something else planned. I am due on April 20 and as with my past pregnancies have been extremely sick. Nothing tastes good, I am depressed and I am tired of nausea and vomiting, and Dennis and the kids are tired of me not being myself. This too shall pass....

On another note, my sister Ingrid and her husband Jacob should be calling us with news any minute now (literally!) that their baby girl has arrived. I will keep you posted!

A visit to MorMor and Pop's

2008-09-16T18:59:00.002-05:00

The weekend after school started the kids and I went to my parents' for the weekend. They enjoyed playing outside and inside and even got to ride Pop's horse. Here are some fun pictures.

First Day of School

2008-09-16T18:54:00.003-05:00

It's hard to believe that school is already starting. Jack and Rachael's first day of school was August 21. They were very excited and have done well so far. Jack is in 2nd grade and Rachael is in Kindergarten (there are 15 girls and 4 boys in her class!). Avery thought she was going to school, too and insisted on carrying a backpack with Barbie clothes in it.

Hail (or Hell?) Storm!

2008-09-16T18:35:00.005-05:00

The past month has been quite eventful, starting with a massive hail storm in mid August. I made the mistake of leaving my car out of the garage and going to bed. Dennis was working in Hereford (where only rain fell!) and I called him in a frenzy around midnight when golf to softball size hail was crashing through our windows! The kids and I got in the pantry not knowing if there was a tornado on the way. When all was said and done, all but one of our north windows (5 of 6) were broken, with glass and water everywhere. My car took a beating, the mailbox looked as if someone had taken a bat to it, and our roof was the worst the insurance adjustor had seen. Several residences in Hereford flooded including one just up the road, so Dennis was busy all weekend working water restorations. Thankfully, our bedrooms are all on the south side of the house, so noone was hurt. Our windows have since been replaced and the roof will be replaced soon. Here are some pictures showing some of the damage.

Cake and More...

2008-08-06T09:10:00.005-05:00

I have to say that as much fun as the Rod Stewart concert was, I was so glad to be home. I really missed the kids, and Vegas was a bit too much for me... We are getting ready for school to start now -- on August 21 -- and so I'm enjoying these last few weeks before our schedules change. This past weekend was my mother-in-law's birthday (Judy), and since I am the designated cake baker I made the cake for the party. Her favorite color is yellow, so I did this cake with inspiration from Pottery Barn Kids. Since I only do cakes for family, I can take a risk and do something different, because even if it doesn't turn out, nobody will complain about free cake!

Rod Stewart rocks!

2008-08-05T21:49:00.006-05:00

The highlight of our Vegas trip was definitely the private Rod Stewart concert the World Market Center put on for the buyers. In real life, Rod Stewart sounds just like he does on his recordings. He put on a great show, complete with three costume (ie., shirt) changes. Midway through the first song after each change he would untuck one side of his shirt because it was so hot. He sang all of his classics, but I would have liked to have heard "Infatuation." I was able to get Jack's favorite song "Forever Young" on video, so I will attempt to upload it. Rod's musicians and backup singers were exceptional all putting on a little show/solo of their own at one point or another. There were about 12,000 of us buyers there, and it was in a huge pavilion, so we couldn't get that close, but the screens were sufficient. I am even more of a fan of Rod Stewart now than ever! Check out this link from the World Market Center with some great photos from the show.

Vegas, baby!

2008-08-05T21:32:00.005-05:00

We've been back from Vegas for a week now, and we had a great time! Dennis and I had not taken a trip alone without the kids -- ever (except of course before the kids came along)! We ate at a couple of great restaurants -- Bobby Flay's Mesa and Emeril's New Orleans Fish House, and enjoyed the Vegas scene on Sunday. It was sweltering hot -- not really my cup of tea. On Monday, we worked the Furniture Market, which I really enjoyed. It is more condensed than High Point, easier to navigate and you can get more done in much less time. They really do it right in Vegas...at the end of the day they had a ribbon cutting for Building C, followed by a reception (featuring dancing girls?!) and of course the much anticipated Rod Stewart Show. I will do a separate post about the Rod Stewart concert because it was that great!!!

Jack and Trixie - One Year Later

2008-08-05T21:06:00.009-05:00

Thought you all might enjoy this picture of Jack and Trixie one year after their first meeting to see how they've grown. Trixie was a gift to Jack for his 6th birthday from his Aunt Ingrid and Uncle Jacob. She was the cutest puppy and has become a beautiful dog with a great personality. As for Jack, he has several new permanent teeth now, and is growing taller every day. He and Dennis are looking forward to a boys camping trip this weekend with all the male members of Dennis's family. I took the new picture a little over a week ago.

Summer Fun

2008-07-23T11:27:00.011-05:00

We have had a great summer so far, with lots of birthday celebrations and seeing friends and family. We just got back from our annual Oman Family Vacation at Lake LBJ. The kids had a great time swimming and spending time with their family. And now that everyone's a little older and Dennis could come with us this year, I was able to play a few dominoes and drink a little beer! Since my camera was on the blink (okay, the batteries were dead!), my sister Johnna took some great pictures and put them on her blog, so check them out here.

In June, Jack enjoyed a fun 7th birthday with a pool party with all of his school friends and a Darth Vader cake (he loves Star Wars!). Borrowing an idea from a successful furniture store downstate, we had our first ever owner's birthday sale in conjunction with my birthday later in the month. We even had a fun Girls' Night Out with cupcakes, Winearitas and Birthday Martinis and a jewelry trunk show. We had so much fun, and we plan to have more Girl's Nights Out in the future.

July rolled around and Avery caught tonsillitis, so stayed home with me while everyone else went to Amarillo for ribs and fireworks at Dennis's Aunt and Uncle Zinsers. Avery and I did see some nice fireworks from home; I would point to them and say "Look, Avery" and she would point to them and look down at the kitty and say "Wook, kitty!" Rachael turned 5 on July 5 and we had a small family celebration and a sleepover with a friend later in in the month.

Now we are looking forward to a quick trip to Las Vegas for furniture market next week. This will be my first time away from Avery overnight (I'll be gone two nights), so I'm a bit nervous. But I am looking forward to Vegas and a free Rod Stewart concert for market goers and....my first trip ever to Vegas!!! Isn't that crazy? I've been to Washington, DC, like 15 times, but never to Vegas.

We're back!

2008-06-12T20:21:00.007-05:00

My sister warned me that if I quit posting to our family blog we would lose our "readership." I am not sure how much of a readership I have, but I decided that it was high time to post some new pictures and updates on our family. We are all doing well, and have had some ups and downs since our last post. At the end of March we traveled to Yoakum for Easter with the Omans. Along the way, we stopped in Salado to celebrate my oldest sister, Jennifer's 40th birthday.

April brought Avery's 2nd birthday (no picture for this.....I didn't have a good one), and the month ended sadly with the passing of my maternal grandmother, Mary Swenson. Soon after, Jack and Rachael were gift bearers together for the first time at their Friday school Mass.

May was busy with end of school activites like field trips and the primary spelling bee which Jack qualified for. He spelled "answer" correctly first rattle out of the box -- not bad for a first grader! But three words later, "because" tripped him up. Rachael performed in her first ballet recital through Lone Star Ballet -- it was a long three days with rehearsals and two performances. She is pictured on the left with her friend Alyssa in the mirror. Also in May, we joined Jack and his class on a field trip to the Discovery Center, which was lots of fun. Here they are with their teacher, Mrs. Crawford.

May ended with K-4 graduation for Rachael. She is mopey this summer, missing her teacher Mrs. Brownlow and her ballet teacher, Miss Carla and just doesn't know what she'll do without them!
We are enjoying being home this summer; I am working from home and the kids are enjoying playtime, the library reading program, piano lessons and swimming lessons. With all the numbers and computer entry I deal with every day, I feel I've lost my wit in writing (or was it ever there?). Someday I will find it, and you'll have more than pictures to entertain you! In the meantime.....enjoy the pictures! I am sure I'll have something fun to report next time as we are in our second week of potty training Avery, which has been partially successful thus far!

2008-03-01T12:04:00.000-06:00

Here's the funniest picture I've taken of the girls in a long time. I'm not sure what style Avery is trying to convey here, but she carries it off well don't you think? She came into my room wearing just a diaper (she's in the stage where she refuses to remain clothed), pink sunglasses and a plastic blue rosary that Jack gave me. When I got the camera out, she automatically said "cheese." Of course, Rachael heard the commotion and insisted on being in the picture in her jammies.

Rachael and I created a decorated heart for her class Valentine's Day, so I took a picture of it before it was taken down. Hers is the heart that says "love" just above her head. Our next project is decorating a paper easter egg, which we'll do this weekend.

A few weekends ago we all went to Ericksdahl to my former church's Swedish Smorgasbord. I caught the kids knealing on the "old alter," used in the original white church before the existing structure was built. At the Smorgasbord, they serve a traditional Swedish buffet complete with pickled herring, Swedish meatballs, and Spritz butter cookies. We had a great time, and the kids enjoyed must of the food (though refused to try the fish pudding). The Smorgasbord is held at Bethel Lutheran Church every other year as a fundraiser. My grandfathers helped build the church and it is a special part of my Swedish and religious heritage; see pictures of the church here.

Welcome!

2008-02-05T16:54:00.000-06:00

Thanks for stopping by our personal web page! I often send pictures out to our friends and family, so thought this might be a better way to send out pictures and update everyone on our family. This is all very new to me, but seems so much easier than setting up a real website like our business website, http://www.dettens.com/!

Now, just a little bit about our family...Dennis and I met in 1997 on a blind date set up by my sister, Judith and her husband, Chris. We married in 1999 and Jack came along in 2001. Two years later, Rachael arrived, followed by little miss Avery in 2006. Jack and Rachael attend St. Anthony's School in Hereford, Texas, and Avery often goes to work with me or stays with a friend who she calls "NaNa." Our business keeps us from doing very much traveling, but the kids love the beach and they love to see all of their grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Our interests are varied -- Dennis is a politician by heart and is the Deaf Smith County Republican Chair; we do our best not to allow family conversations to drift to politics because Jessica is a true Independent and this has been the source of many a minor conflict around election time! Dennis also loves history and business. Jessica's interests focus on homemaking and family issues, ranging from baking to breastfeeding awareness. Jack is a Star Wars fanatic, but he also loves his dog, Trixie and he's currently taking piano lessons. Rachael likes Barbies, fashion and anything that will annoy Avery. Likewise, Avery's sole purpose in life, it seems, is to pick on Rachael; she also really likes shoes, clothes and Diego (cousin of Dora the Explorer).

Thank you for being part of our lives by visiting our blog!

Jessica Detten