First game of the season

Madeline played the first game of the season away at Plymouth Tuesday night. They won with a score of 51-26. It was a long night for her. She was tired, but very excited about the game. She made one of her long passes again, but this time it was full court. She got all her rebounds, and scored three baskets. Her next game is Saturday morning away at Crestview (I could have the wrong name). The season opener at home will be next Tuesday.

I'm Ready To Talk About It

This is a photo of me on my wedding day September 21, 1996 edited to a black/white version. I had one vibrant loving stepdaughter, one beautiful creative redhead daughter, and I had just found out I was expecting another child. I was getting married with the smallest of ceremonies in the home I grew up in. My life was full, and I was happy. We decided that this was going to be our last child. For some reason though I always thought I'd have another one. Years quickly started flying by, and I knew I was done having children. The kids were growing up, and I really didn't want to start over with the diapers, etc. So lately as you all know I've been slowing working on some self improvement that included having some check up's etc. After seeing the gyno and running into some problems so to say I am having a procedure done to remove my uterus lining. This means my childbearing days are over. It also means all the problems that I'm experiencing will be over, that's a huge plus. However, I have been struggling with the finality of childbearing being done. I'm okay with it now after much praying and soul searching. I realize for me that chapter in my life is done. My kids that I've been blessed with are growing up and need me in different ways. Maddie will be a freshman in less than two years. Brandon will be in junior high in less than two years. Heather will be a new mom in less than one year. I am expecting a new grandchild soon, and who knows what I can teach this one. I am lucky to be an active part in my nieces and nephew's lives. It's a new chapter for me, not a sorrowful time. I was young when I started having kids, and I'm still one of the young moms. (I wouldn't recommend this path, but it was the path I traveled) And for that matter I will be the youngest grandmother of all my friends as well. I would like to thank the friends and family in my life that help me see everything to be thankful for in my life.

Handbags & Hats

Okay one of the last posts comment section has questions and questions being asked. Before I get to that I thought I'd post some cute handbag and hat photographs.

Wendy has taught her daughters all about accessories with an outfit. Sienna will always sport a purse if she gets a chance. Sierra loves a good pair of shoes, matching hat and gloves are a plus with her.

As for my girls Maddie knows the value of a good hat anytime. Heather has always been more of a belt and jewelry accessory kinda girl (when she was younger). In the last picture of Sienna she did have a pink purse to accompany her Easter dress (of course).

Now on to the focus and point of this post. As you all know in my shopping post I let you know I was not the kind of girl who was up to date on the latest fall line. That being said I think I may have missed some shopping education along the way in the area of handbags. Emily had made a comment regarding her "Coach" handbag. CONFESSION: I thought she had named her bag Coach seeing how she is a coach etc. I was quickly schooled by my sister tonight that it was a brand name. I had no idea. I honestly didn't know there was brand names on purses. I don't know why it never dawned on me that of course there would be. Nonetheless, I had no clue. If you had purses on a line up and asked me to tell you which one was a name brand I wouldn't know at all. I am very curious to see what one looks like. I know my sister has one, and I will actually take a better look at it. I feel out of the loop in the handbag world.

Santa Clause

The kids and I was watching the movie Santa Clause tonight with Tim Allen. The movie goes off and the kids are talking, the question arises if one of our family members was Santa who would it be? Maddie named off some names, Brandon gave his reasons why they couldn't be Santa. And then Bub turns to Maddie and says Santa would be Aunt Poohie. Maddie says how come? With all the sincerity in the world Brandon says....because she has the heart of Santa Clause. How does one have the heart of Santa? and why would he pick his Aunt over his own mom? I know Pooh is currently working on her 'Mother of the Year' speech, but she may be wanting to hold off on that till she flies around the world to grant all the children their wishes this year.

Shopping facts for the everyday chubby girl

When you are a kid shopping is different. This was one of my favorite bathing suits of all times. Why you may ask? Bottom line I felt pretty in it. I loved the little zippers at the side, and I loved the fact that my cousin had one to match mine. (By the way the picture was given to me this way I did NOT cut the adults out in the background) I didn't care if it was in style, and I didn't care if anyone else liked it.

My fashion sense today is somewhat similar. I never dress with the current fall line, or for that matter I don't wear anything in style. I will admit I don't own one piece of clothing that really makes me feel "pretty" besides my toe ring that I only wear at bedtime when I take my shoes off. So when I went out to get jeans the other day I told myself I wasn't going to buy a pair that I was going to cut into shorts in two weeks, if I didn't feel somewhat "pretty" in them I wasn't going to buy them. I bought a pair that I really liked, and believe it or not my butt looks smaller in them. You know if I'm saying that those jeans are well worth their money. You may be asking 'where can I get those butt is smaller looking jeans'? Well let me tell you it isn't at any of the finest plus size stores. It's at your local walmart. They are a Rider/Lee brand. Before you snarl your nose up hear me out. The product line is "Instantly Slims You". Giggle all you want, but these jeans work for me. You know that bottom belly that pouches ever so slightly after you have kids....it disappears in these jeans. I'm not lieing. Try a pair on if you don't believe me.

Now for some important shopping facts:

1. Just because you are one size at the more well known plus size shops doesn't really mean you are that big. Try different sizes on with different brand names, and at different stores.

2. Try on different colors even if you hate that color in the crayon box it may look good on you in fabric.

3. Shop with a buddy, particularly a honest one.

4. If clothes shopping is depressing you feel free to step over to the shoes section.

5. If you are a seasonal shopper that buys a purse to match every season please feel free to send some of your old handbags my way.

I am sorry this post got a little lengthy, it wasn't what I originally intended it to be.

Chubby Girl Moments

ATTENTION:There is a large woman in my check out line!!!

I'm not kidding sometimes this is exactly what the cashier should announce. I was trying to buy a pair of jeans yesterday. This process is hard enough on a chubby girl, but it gets better. I'm checking out...the new cashier couldn't find a price. She spreads my rather large jeans completely out, and is asking another cashier for help. Now I know you don't need me to tell you that the cashier was this itty bitty little thing. When she held my jeans up for the world to see...she disappeared. I kid you not. I of course was somewhat amused.

New chubby girl thought. Always make sure the chubby girl clothes you are purchasing has a price tag.

(Picture is clip art of Lucy the Peanuts character. Don't forget to take some time to watch The Charlie Brown Christmas special, it truly is a classic.)

Vacation Time

No it's not what most of you are thinking. I am considering vacation time as my everyday life. The kids, and husband all resume school and work today. I can not be more excited. Usually I am the maid, the cook, the finder of lost things, the referee, the plumber, the handyman, and the computer repairman. But....when the family is home for a little holiday vacation I am all these things doubled PLUS the fairy godmother waving her magic wand. After 5 days my magic wand is broke, and I'm going on strike. This is just ridiculous. I am only one person. One great person, but none the less one person.

Sin vs. The Greater Good

Okay okay I can't take it anymore. I need to confess. I love all these kind words about me these last couple days, but I need to tell you how I've really been. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday especially this year. Yes of course it was because of being with all my family, but it was also because of one very selfish reason....food. This diet the last month has made me so hungry, and thinking of getting to eat whatever I wanted made me truly happy. There I confessed about my patience good attitude on Thanksgiving. Now on to today's happiness. I really enjoy Black Friday. I don't know why I just do. I have went to Black Friday's before with only $30. It's not the incredible saving as much as just being out there. Ten years ago I wouldn't have went, but now it doesn't matter what people think of me I go to have fun regardless of the insanity. I was happy today because one I got food yesterday, and I had my teeth in, my bra on, gloves, and a coat on. (I have forgotten each of these items on past Black Fridays before.) Now moving on to the title of this post 'Sin vs. The Greater Good'. This is a nasty little secret that I probably should keep to myself, but feeling the need to confess hear goes.

I was standing in a super long line at Kohl's. I was very upbeat I knew I would have to start high on positive thinking to make it through this line. A couple of women back began yelling at these people cutting in the line. Those cutting people yelled back that there was two lines. (There really wasn't) There came a point in the "two" lines that they merged. In my original line we had a choice to make merge, or create our own line . We choose to create our own line. The previous cutting in line people now began to yell. Keeping with my positive attitude I lied to these people at told them that a worker had told us to move into these two line, and they would have to voice their concerns with the staff. (This of course did not happen) The crowd instantly settled down and the yelling stopped. I have somehow justified this sin as helping the greater good. It was wrong of me this I know. I just couldn't help myself. So there it is the ugly truths of the good attitude, positive thinker, and hero. I had to confess you all realize that about me.

Thanksgiving 2007

Thanksgiving 2007 was indeed a good time. My gang, Pooh's gang, Mom, and Heather & Casey were all here to celebrate Thanksgiving. Our Thanksgiving I think is somewhat different than what Martha Stewart's Thanksgiving would be. Dress attire is your nicer pair of jeans. Maddie decided to wear a skirt, she did look lovely. (She can pick dressing up as her rebellious out cry any day) We do have a kids' table, as they are getting older they kinda sit on the couch behind that table. The boys had their tv trays with the football game on, and the rest of us find room amongst the food at the table. It really works out for everyone this way. The men are happy, the kids are happy, and the women are happy. It is a very casual family gathering. I was very very happy with how everything went yesterday. Now to explain some of the photos. Instead of helping with the last minute preparations. Little Miss sneaky pants Pooh Bear decided to embrace that childhood memory with her child and sneak some food ahead of time. It was too cute, of course catching her made me steal a deviled egg, which mom added a new dimension to the eggs by adding bacon bits and chives. Everyone helped do something this year I do mean everyone. Sierra, Maddie and Bub helped clean the night before. Brian stacked and sorted all pop. Pooh, Mom, and Heather made something for dinner. Sienna provided dancing after dinner. And then there was Levi, what could the baby do? He decided himself to be in charge of Lola. It was too cute watching him very gently walk around with Lola on the leash.

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!! Blogger isn't allowing me to post pictures this morning so I will just move right along with the post. (Time is an issue for me today) Okay here are the things I'm thankful for:

1. I am thankful for God. God gives me patience to carry on the tasks at hand. He also gives me peace about life when things get jumbled in my head. He gives me love to share with others beyond what some may have.

2. I am thankful for my family. God has blessed me with a hard working husband, a fiery redhead with a heart of gold, a high energy soft hearted son, a kind and patient stepdaughter, a new grandchild on the way.

3. I am thankful of my family. God put me in the family I was meant to have. My mom, I can not say enough good things about her she leads the pack. My sister, my lifeline from the everyday crazies. My dad, he makes a moment in time able to last in your mind for a lifetime. My nieces Sierra, Sienna, and my nephew Levi bring a smile for everyone to have. My grandparents, they've showed me how to endure.

4. I am thankful for my best friend Emily Jade. What can I say....she knows me all to well. She has stood the test of time with me. All the miles, all the life changes, all the years she's still here. She loves me for who I am good and bad.

5. I am grateful for a home to raise my family in and provide them a place of safety, love, understanding, refuge. A place where we can all be together.

The view from the floor

Well tonight was her first scrimmage. They won their half court game, and their full court game. They didn't expect so many parents to attend the scrimmage tonight so they didn't have the bleachers out. It was lovely getting to sit on the floor right next to the out of bounds line. There was a few times I really wish I wasn't so close to the game. Now moving on to the video. First let me mention I am sitting on the floor trying to capture this video. Madeline is number 50, and has the black goggles on. She is the one with the rebound (you will only notice her arms). She then launches the ball down the court for the point guard to retrieve. Yes they scored. When the crowd seen her launch the ball they were all impressed, even the other team. They acted like it was amazing that she could do this, parents kept asking me after the game if I knew she could do this. Yes I knew she could. She launches things all the time across the house like this. Madeline is not a golden player, but the talents that she does have she uses well.

And so it begins

Tonight is the first scrimmage of the 7th grade girls basketball season. They are playing Huron at home at 5:00. I mention the time for a very important reason. Maddie has to be there no later than 4:15. I think it's silly to go back home. (yes it is) She says well mom I guess you can wait in the car till 5. (The mind of the youth) I let her know I will wait in the gym. Please....this is the perfect time to actually see and hear your child in their prime. If I'm good enough to wash and locate all your uniform parts then I'm good enough to wait in the gym.

On another note of interest she has finally hit the age where we have to pay to watch her play. I get the reasoning behind this, however, I think it's absurd to have to pay to watch your child do anything. Even the professional sports players moms don't have to pay to watch their children play. they usually get complimentary tickets. Sigh...there is no such thing for middle school sports.

The Gang is Together Again

There was no super fabulous fun at Aunt Shell's sleepover this week. It was more of have some fun, and do whatcha like kind of sleepover. I gave the kids no bedtimes, just fall asleep when you want. Sienna finally came to me and said "Aunt Shell I'm tired". She fell asleep with potato chip in hand.

Bub is smiling here because he made it up later than anyone. Usually Bub is one of the first ones down. Sierra is showing Aunt Shell another exercise that I can try on the Gazelle. (how cute is she)

Even the village partied hard. If you look closely you will see Santa on the shrubs. Sienna loved the village.

Menu

Thanksgiving Menu

Turkey Blueberry Pie (pooh)
Mashed Potatoes Pumpkin Pie (pooh)
Gravy (Pooh) Chocolate Pie
Deviled Eggs (Pooh) Carrot Cake
Green Bean Caserole Pop /Juice/Milk/Water
Cranberry Sauce (Pooh) Coffee
Corn
Peas
Mom's Special Salad (mom)
Yams
Pooh's Special Carrots (pooh)
Stuffing

**Now for those of you who would like to bring something or add to your list feel free to bring more beverages, or more dessert. Also if you see anything I have forgotten please let me know.
** Also in case the spacing doesn't take again this time I have color coordinated the desserts in blue, and beverages in purple.

Turkey Day

This is my idea of turkey day..... I'm always a hand short. (LOL, LOL) I'm too funny sometimes. Anyhow, everyone has volunteered to bring something. Pooh says I have till tomorrow morning to have the dinner menu ready. (of course I should be working on that, or my classwork, but hear I am blogging) Sorry my mind is all over the place tonight. Dinner is at 1:00 pm. If any of you out of towners will be in town please feel free to stop by for dessert, coffee, and good conservation any time throughout the day if you like. I will post up the menu tomorrow, and Madeline's basketball schedule for those interested in making a game.

Granny Shell

Yes yes you heard right a new phase of my adventure is upon me. Heather & Casey are expecting their first child. I did check with her first before posting the news. Emotions are all over the map right now, but you know what she is excited more than scared, and that is a good thing. I am truly happy for her. She will be a great mom. Yes she is young, so was I. I spent much of my first pregnancy trying to keep it quiet. Everyone was disappointed about me being pregnant and not finishing school, not being married, not having my life together. All of that may have been very true. Was my life harder than it should have been? Of course it was. But the sad thing was, the thing I miss the most.... was being excited about bringing a life into this world. I should have been able to scream it off the roof tops tell everyone I know. Unfortunately that's not how it was. I dreaded telling anyone I was pregnant, for the reasons already stated. I don't want Heather to go through that. She knows the rough side, and I want to be able to be happy with her. And for that matter I will be happy for her, and proud of her. Congratulations sweetie, this baby will change your life forever, and it isn't all bad!! The one thing about having babies when your young is.... your young. Speaking of young I am still young, most would say too young to be a grandmother. Heather is my stepdaughter, and she has been in my life since she was 4 years old. She has always played an active role with her sister and brother. She shares the same blood as them. I taught her how to drive. I was there when her hair was done for prom where she truly resembled a princess, I watched her go through braces, laugh, love, cry, pain. I have always loved her as my own, and the same will go for this baby. If the baby calls me Shell that's just fine. If the baby calls me Granny Shell who lets me paint, play playdoh, get veggies from the garden, play until I get dirty Granny Shell I'm okay with that too. Congratulations Heather & Casey, and again I say I'm always proud of you, and I love you!!

Roller Skating....Here I Come

Rollerskating.... I can't say enough about how I love to rollerskate. Yes, even now. We went last year with the church. It was to celebrate the Awana's program. It was one of my all time favorite memories. I know I had more fun than the kids hands down. This winter season I want to go at least once a month. Brandon is game, but Madeline not so much. She got a horrible bruise all the way up her arm last year, and says that should be one of the chubby girl rules... Chubby girls should never be on wheels or anything that can make a chubby girl fall and roll. (I of course laughed hysterically at her understanding of the chubby girl rules) Anyhow if any of you would like to join me please let me know. It really is a good time.

This is how my baby girl likes to go rollerskating with me. Just drinking a slush, and teasing her mother.

Happy Birthday Mom

Happy Birthday Mom!! My mom is truly one of a kind. She is a classy lady who can smile no matter what. She gives of herself from the heart. She loves spending time with her family no matter how nuts we drive her. Our family keeps growing, and mom cherishes us all. I can not express enough how much you mean to me mom. Love you!

First Born

Now for those of you who haven't read my sister's post on first borns you may want to read it before reading mine. You will notice the same picture is used that is not because of laziness, it's because it's the only one of us three together. Besides I've spent some time working on the lighting effect of this current photo. Let me tell you about these three fine people. They are the first borns!!! We have strength like an ox, we will fight for what is ours, but we have one of the most laid back personalities there is. Growing up I always knew I was stronger than my sister, a hereditary thing. I always figured why run after pop or something for mom, because she would probably decide to move the furniture later that evening, and who would she ask... that's right, me. I still move furniture to this day, and my first born is the one that helps. Sierra spends some time with me and she will carry full laundry baskets upstairs for me. When I ask Bub to, he will ask Sierra or Maddie for help. There's the strength part. The fighting for ours thing, I think is a natural first born thing. And the laid back personality is just that. It's not laziness, it's a laid back kinda thing. We take a lot before we speak our mind. We stand back in line not move straight for the front. We will be friends with the underdog, and will give pieces of ourselves to help others. I will say though that it is emotionally draining thus the reason we may not look as busy as others. As children we were well behaved why....because of our laid back personalities.

What makes a good coat to a kid?

This is NOT Brandon's coat this winter season. He loves loves this coat, because grandfather Payne bought it for him. As you can see though the coat is too small. The coat has been wore and wore. It was time for the coat to retire, but Brandon didn't want to budge. Dad traded Bub a nice winter coat that Bub liked for this one. He was very leery about giving up his coat, but in the end agreed. I couldn't be happier.
As a mother a good coat for my children is warmth, reasonable price, and a durable zipper. My children, however, have an entirely different answer to that question. Madeline's perfect coat this season came by surprise, and couldn't be better. Her coat for the 2007-2008 winter season is shown in the picture. This coat happen to be the coat that Pooh sent with Sierra on the 4 wheel ride weekend. Sierra didn't like it. Madeline fell in love with it. Pooh parted with the coat that was once our Aunt Brenda's and gave it to Madeline. Madeline feels like a million bucks in this coat. She liked everything about it, and the fact that it had so much sentimental value and Aunt Poohie gave it to her made her feel so special. This is the first coat that she's took exceptional good care of.

So to answer that question in the title I guess it depends on the kid. The best thing as parents we can do with the coat situation is to compromise. I would like to thank all parties involved in the coat situations this winter season. My children are quite happy, and warm. Thank you.

Updates

Here are some updates on previous posts.

1. Madeline's school pictures turned out fine. The one year I don't order a lot, and she plans on handing them out. (of course)
2. Madeline basketball is going decent. I find it somewhat amusing that her coach's last name is Moyer. It is such a small world.
3. Brandon's football season is officially over with the conclusion of the banquet, and returning the gear this weekend.
4. My self improvement is never ending. The blood pressure seems to be just fine. My follow up visits are at the end of the month. I have learnt more about natural remedies, healthy eating (not the same for everyone), value of daily exercise than I ever thought I would.
5. My bargain of the weekend had to be our strawberry purchase. Brian was able to get a flat of strawberry's for $4.00. The strawberry's have already been washed and froze.
6. And the update on my voice being heard-I've still been praying about exactly how I want to present my voice. Something keeps pulling me that it's not time yet. I know to all of you it seems like I am backing down. I'm not. I am a firm believer in the right time. My letter has already been wrote with my bulleted concerns. The bottom line is I want the best for my children's education. I will present it when I feel the time is best.

Here Is My Voice....What Do I Do With It?

Last night was conference night. It went well, the kids are doing great. Brandon is very social (translation he talks a lot). Madeline is well balanced (translation she can be partnered with anyone as a lab partner).

I did have concerns though with the presentation of conferences. Don't hesitate to tell me I'm being to picky. Two out of the three teachers were caught off guard with my questions. Part of Maddie's school fees was a scientific calculator, which she doesn't have yet. The teacher said that higher up said they wouldn't be here till the end of November, even though she is teaching the kids now how to use the calculators. I asked her what math curriculum was being used....she hesitated for the longest time and then gave me the name of the book. PROBLEM 2 The children are supposed to complete these AR books for points to see where the child's reading level is. The quick points are easy reader books, not chapter books. They post scores up of the points though. My question for the teacher is how are these points showing us where my child's reading level is? The teacher paused....and said Brandon is a great reader, he's doing fine. And then let me know that the computers in the classroom are not even working and hasn't all year, and Brandon is trying to take these AR tests in other classrooms that have computers. He said that these tests are no big deal, and he isn't even going to post the points because all the kids are not able to get to the computers. Am I being over critical? If I ask the administration why school fee items are not being handed out in a timely manner, and why my child has no working computers in the classroom am I rocking the boat? And furthermore the state achievement tests is not even close to giving me an accurate reading as a parent at how much my kid has learned through school. Example: Have you ever remembered a phone number long enough to dial it, but ten minutes after that couldn't say what the number is? That is how I feel about the state tests. There is a lot of gray area with these tests, and I don't want either one of my children floating through this gray.

After conferences last night here is my outlook. The school is teaching the subject overview material that kids are suppose to know. The parents need to teach the children the material at home. The school is a battlefield of social highs and lows. The child's home is the mission control center to equip our children with the armour and knowledge of how to handle the battlefield. I will no longer challenge those who home school their children. Who am I to say that home schooling doesn't work? Religion is all but banned from schools today, yet it is only God that is protecting my babies at school. Schools are teaching our children to be individuals, but wanting them to conform to their way of teaching so quickly. I welcome your opinions on today's post.

And All Is Erased

This week has been rough. Mood swings, nobody likes me, cursing issues, balls being brought into the house, boycotting chores, you don't understand me...this was just some of the kid issues. My issues were lack of getting to talk to Pooh, no help, heavy classwork, getting a cavity filled, and getting a 65 on my Anatomy 2 midterm. Now I aired all my business to tell you this. A mommy and children meeting was called to order to let the children know where I stand on some of the developing issues, I clearly let them know yet again what was acceptable behavior, and what was not. Eventually the children said okay they understood. I felt they did because Bub actually picked up his shoes and put them away, and in a rational voice Maddie said I have something to show you. She took out her report card and handed it to me. She made the honor roll. I almost cried. Brandon made the honor roll with a 4.0 and Maddie, my child that struggles made the honor roll. In that moment the whole week of ugh was erased, and all was okay. I didn't dwell on all the mistakes I had made, and didn't question myself on weather I was being a good or bad mom. It was all okay.

Couldn't Let It Go

Sorry I just couldn't let the comment go about me being lazy about the Halloween photos. I picked out some of my favorites to put up (even if it is a little late)

The Kids

Brandon has been a tad bit hyper lately (the Halloween candy). Me and him started off with a rocky weekend, but with some much needed rest and relaxation for both of us we were able to get it together. He is getting at that age where he wants to watch more grow up shows (the PG 13 stuff), and I will not let him. He is so frustrated with me about this. I'm getting the well all the other kids are watching it. I've tried calmly to tell him that the other shows just have way too much stuff that I don't approve of for him. I had to also explain to him that as he gets older he would understand the shows more, and we could actually discuss them. Right now he's just not enough. Say what you want I think there is a huge difference between 10 and 13. It's a maturity, puberty kind of thing.

Now Madeline spent the weekend trying to finish the project she said would only take her 5 minutes to do, and rearranging her room. She took down and boxed up most of her porcelain dolls (that was sad for me). She moved her tv to the spare bedroom. She said she doesn't watch it anyway, which she doesn't. (She's almost 13, and I let her watch PG 13 shows and she doesn't want to, doesn't have time, doesn't have interest.) She said she wanted a more grown-up room, so that's what she did.

She has been thinking of her birthday party a lot lately, and here is what she wants. She wants a few friends over play some video games, air hockey, watch movies, and order a couple pizzas. Now this was not the kind of 13 birthday party I had in mind. Now keep in mind the few friends is all boys (she says guys I say boys). She wanted them to spend the night I said flat out no it's not even up for discussion. What is your take on the birthday party thing? Give me some ideas, some opinions, some advice on how to make it a good party, and give her what she wants?

The Village is Gone

Photo was drawn by Maddie years ago on the drawing program on the computer.

Now on to the post. The village is gone. Bringing down the Christmas items included my village scenery. According to Madeline the bottom of the box dropped out and there went the glass village down the stairs. I can not express how I felt about hearing the village crash down the stairs. She managed to save the plastic bag of plastic trees though. Last year I bought the village (I have always wanted one). I felt my kids were finally old enough that I could have a village up. Sienna even loved the village she never broke anything she would like to rearrange the people in the village, but was always so very careful with them. Now we have a general store left, some people, a fire hydrant, and plastic trees. I will still put up the remaining items to the village, and slowly rebuild the village over the years.

Chubby Girls

Today we will be going over a few chubby girl points. Topic 1 Chubby girls trying to get a good photograph:

1. If you have a double chin stay away from the side view pictures.

2. Chubby girls should not constantly ask for a redo. One redo is enough.

3. Chubby girls don't be afraid to put a child in front of you if you are not wearing a complimentary outfit.

4. Love yourself, photos are meant to be cherished not hated and picked apart by yourself.

Topic 2 Chubby girls and dieting.....

1. If you have to ask the children to hide the Halloween candy from you, you are doing a great job on your diet. If you don't bribe them to get you a piece this diet is working for you.

2. Chubby girls no matter how much weight you loose you know you are going to want new jeans, so go ahead and let go of your skinny girl jeans from high school.

3. Chubby girls should stop going to the bakery for your family if you are dieting.....come on stop playing the marter role.

4. Chubby girls will only help their chubby friends diet if it's a matter of life and death not for body image. (You know I'm telling the truth)

Final topic. Topic 3 Chubby girls and exercise.

1. Chubby girls should not start off trying to run with your non chubby husband. This will not work for anyone involved.

2. No matter how bad your floors are, vacuuming is not considered exercise. (according to skinny people)

3. No matter how well a chubby girl is doing with her daily exercise plan DO NOT I repeat DO NOT exercise in front of your husband and children. This will be the one time they get along, and it will only be at your expense.

4. Don't be afraid to exercise with a friend even if they are skinny. This is for a precautionary measure. (In case you pass out from over doing it, they can at least make sure you are not still attached to the exercise equipment.)

Planning Ahead

The photo is from last Christmas. Now on to the post. For all of those who know me well it should come to no surprise to you that I'm already talking about Christmas.

I am one of the first ones to send out Christmas cards (except for last year). The smell of cinnamon and pine stays throughout my house from the day after Thanksgiving.

Christmas is the about the birth of our Savior. It also brings out traditions we want our kids to have. It brings out togetherness. We rarely have a lot of money to spend on gifts, and such, but we give of ourselves every way we can. The traditions that have come to our family over the years are traditions that stay in my heart and in my soul. Wendy or I make a birthday cake for Jesus every year to help the children remember this day is about Jesus. Mom always prepares something from her heart for each of us girls, and the grandkids. It's one of those things you cherish and put in the hope chest. Brian always takes the kids to the reindeer farm where the sleigh rides and reindeer bring joy and magic no matter what there ages are. The kids always make a glitter project to put on the tree, even as they get older they will make one at home for me. As we put the tree up there is a story with every ornament, it's memories more for me than anyone. And almost like a beacon my children, and every child I know is drawn to the Nativity scene at any house we go to. These are just some of the traditions I enjoy.

As most of you know I have less than 60 days to complete my classes. Should be easy with me staying at home instead of working full time. It isn't that easy. With the self improvement I have had repeated doctor's visits to attend, daily laundry, house keeping, meals, taxi service, etc. to contend with along with Anatomy 2 (it's a hard subject for me). The holidays are quickly approaching. Thanksgiving is like 2 weeks away, Brian's 40th birthday, Madeline's big 13th birthday, and Christmas. The way I figure it is I have a full plate ahead of me. So please don't think I've lost my mind, but I will be taking the weekends to start on holiday traditions. I will be decorating a little early this year. Baking and freezing holidays goodies the day after Thanksgiving. I will also be mailing out Christmas cards Thanksgiving weekend. For those of you who "don't do Christmas cards" I will still be sending you one anyway. It's just what I do. Christmas cards are my way of saying how special you are to me, how much you have meant to me in my life.

The point of this post is just to let everyone know I'm not crazy, I'm just mass planning.