We are happy to report...

That after receiving a card in the mail from our family doctor today...
We received the news that Evan's scoliosis has not progressed at all in six months!
PRAISE THE LORD!
With the age he is now and where he's at in his stage of growth...we are scheduled to go back for a recheck/x-ray in one year.
We are thanking all of our family and friends who prayed for him!
We are so thrilled that there was no progression and he didn't need to see a specialist for any treatment.
We will continue to trust God that it will not worsen or cause him any problems in the future.
Thank-you all!
And thank-you Jesus!!!

Pico de Gallo & Guacamole

Over the past year, we have found several Mexican dip recipes that we love. Several friends have asked me to share these recipes. So...here they are!
Pico de Gallo

4 c. seeded/chopped tomatoes
3/4 c. finely chopped white onion, rinsed & drained
2 Knorr Garlic Mini Cubes, crumbled
2 tbsp. lime juice
1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro
1 to 2 serrano chilies, seeded & finely chopped

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate about 2 hours to allow flavors to blend. Garnish w/ cilantro sprigs and serve w/ tortilla chips.

Guacamole Dip

3 to 4 avacados (ripe), diced
1 small onion, diced
1 to 2 medium tomatoes, diced
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
1 tbsp. lemon juice
cayenne pepper to taste

Mix lightly and refrigerate. Serve w/ corn chips.

Bronze Medal of Achievement

Last night in Royal Rangers, Evan received his Bronze Medal of Achievement. He was so excited. As were we. We are so thrilled that both of the boys are able to be part of such a wonderful christian boys program at our church. We are blessed to have such wonderful, dedicated leaders. Here he is with his medal and certificate.

These are his letters of congratulations from the State of Michigan Commander and the National Royal Rangers Commander.

A close-up of his certificate and his medal...

And here are his letters of congratulations, his medal, bar pin, and merit patch.

Congratulations Ev...we are so proud of all your hard work! Hugs!!!

My two Meijer trips...

I neglected to share my savings last week (1/18) during my Meijer run.

I did pretty good though.

Some of my goodies were:

Hunts Tomato Sauce...regular 66 cents...on sale for 50 cents...used a $1.00 on 4 MM coupon...and paid only...25 cents a can.

Aunt Jemima Pancake Mix...regular $2.68...on sale for $1.49...used a $1.00 off 2 MM coupon...and a $1.00 man. coupon...making them only 49 cents each.

Aunt Jemima Syrup...regular $3.48...on sale for $1.99...used a $1.00 off 2 MM coupon...and a $1.00 off 2 man. coupon...making them 99 cents.

Chix Fries...regular $5.49...on sale for $2.99...used a $1.00 man. coupon...got them for $1.99.

DanActive...regular $2.50...on sale for $2.00...used a $1.00 man. coupon...paid $1.00.

Progresso Soup...regular $1.88...on sale for $1.25...used a 55 cent coupon...making them 70 cents.

StarKist Tuna Pouch...regular $1.96...on sale for $1.79...used a 75 cent MM coupon...and a $1.00 man. coupon...paying only 4 cents each!

Final tally:

Spent: $64.98

Saved: $50.27

Then...

This week...(1/25)

Marvel Super Hero Vitamins...regular $5.67...on sale BOGO...used a $2.00 man. coupon...paying right around $1.83 each!

StarKist Tuna Pouch...regular $1.82...used a MM coupon for 75 cents off on each...used a $1.00 off 2 man. coupon...and a Buy 2 Get 1 Free coupon...got three at only 38 cents a piece.

Then Meijer had their great Buy 10 Get the 11th item FREE sale going on...

Between CheeseBalls, Onion Ring Snacks, Non-Stick Cooking Spray, Zipper Freezer Bags, Brown Paper Bags, Sandwich Bags, Toaster Pastries...

I spent $10.00.

I saved $8.95.

My grand total for this week's groceries was:

I spent: $47.03

I saved: $35.03

Not bad...not my best...but not bad. :)

Purpose

I am not sure what is going on.

But I am so restless right now.

I am not settled.

And it's more than just being frustrated in my job.

It's not that.

I have an uncertainty going on.

It's been going on for some time.

Not sure when it started.

It started with job frustrations.

But now...

It has lead to a real sense of restlessness.

I am looking for purpose.

I am looking for fulfillment.

I am longing for something.

I am trying to figure out what it is.

I need something different.

And if it's not completely changing my line of work...I need something to "complete" me.

Everyone says, "What do you enjoy?"

"What is your passion?"

I don't know.

I'm not really good at any one thing.

I can do alot of things.

But I'm not truely GOOD at any one thing.

It's like I attempt all these things...

But I'm not truely passionate or good at any one thing.

I thought working with children was "my thing".

But now I realize that most people don't have the same vision that I do.

I visualized my job as early childhood education and got my CDA Credential.

Clients see my job as a cheaper alternative to a "real" daycare center.

So I moved on...

I entered the dental assisting program and graduated from that thinking that might be an answer.

Of course...

Upon graduation...

There are now no jobs in that field.

So...

Here I am.

I really don't think early childhood education or the dental field are my "calling".

I don't feel a real "passion" for either.

Although the dental program WAS very interesting and I think if I had the opportunity, I might enjoy that work.

But...

Is it a "passion"?

I don't think so.

I am looking for purpose.

My passion.

Jamie has encouraged me to go back to school if I want.

But I will be 38 years old next month.

None of my college credits are valid anymore...it's been too long.

I'd have to start at square one.

And when would I have time to study?

Working 55 hours a week.

I have a husband and two children.

I mean seriously.

So I wonder...

Maybe it's not giving up my current job that I need to do.

Maybe it's finding something else to do along with it.

Something that can be done in my own time that just gives me a sense of fulfillment.

I've always wanted to take violin lessons.

But...

Violins are very expensive.

But...

People tell me they're hard to learn.

Maybe it's just fear.

Excuses.

Lately, I have been considering writing.

I'm sure I have no real talent for it.

But I guess you don't know unless you try.

People have written books, columns, blogs, and more...and never dreamed they'd end up getting PAID to do it.

I don't know.

I don't know what my passion is.

I don't know what I'm good at.

You see people all the time open up these clever, unique businesses that end up prospering.

Maybe I just need SOMEONE ELSE to tell me what I'm good at.

Anyone?

God?

This week's treasures...

And for this week's deals at Walgreens...
Here was the best of the best:

Walgreens paper plates...regular $1.79...w/ W coupon...99 cents...grabbed 3.

StayFree...regular $3.99...on sale for $1.99...used 2 BOGO coupons...making them right around 99 cents each (getting 4).

CareFree...regular $3.99...on sale for $1.99...used two $1.00 off 2 coupons...and also a $1.00 off 1...making them $1.24 a pack (got 4).

Reach Floss...regular $1.79...w/ W coupon...99 cents...also paired a man. coupon for $1.00 off...making it FREE...got two of those.

Reach Toothbrushes...regular $1.59 each...w/ W coupon...99 cents...used a BOGO coupon making them right around 49 cents each.

Children's Dimetapp...regular $6.49...on sale 2 for $10.00...plus you get $3.00 Register Rewards when you spend $10.00 on these products...bringing it down to 2 for $7.00...then I used a $2.00 off coupon on each one...by the time you knock off the RR and coupons...you pay $1.50 per bottle!

My final tally was:
Spent: $18.99
Saved: $43.47

(not so)Pretty Pancakes...

No...homemade pancakes (at least mine) never seem to be very "pretty". They never turn out perfectly round like those at restaurants. But, on the flip side...I love the taste of homemade pancakes FAR BETTER than any restaurant. Restaurants never seems to make them the way I like them. They're always too soft...which in turn makes them far too mushy when you pour the syrup on them. I like my pancakes a bit crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside...a tiny slather of (real) butter, and just a HINT of syrup. Nothing worse than a plate full of mush. Bleck.

So on Saturday, we slept in and made a huge brunch.

Jamie loves sausage gravy and biscuits, as do the boys.

They're ok...but I'm not that big of a fan.

So he made that.

I made pancakes and bacon.

And since (my) homemade pancakes never turn out perfectly round anyway (hey, it gives them character)...I decided to make them fun (just like geeg).

I made both of the boys a Mickey Mouse head...complete w/ chocolate chip eyes, nose, and mouth! Teehee!

It was a hit. They enjoyed them.

And I enjoyed my not so perfect, but very yummy crispy, fluffy pancakes.

Another funny...

So we bring home some Taco Bell tonight...and Nate is on an anti-vegetable kick right now.
Well, what he ordered happened to have pico de gallo on it.
Jamie is telling him, "It's just pico de gallo Nate."
Nate says, "Well I don't like PINKO de gallo!"
LOL!

"My tummy feels funny..."

So...the next day...
After Nate had puked twice...
He seemed to be totally fine.
We had pretty much ruled out any kind of stomach virus and drawn the conclusion that it was from all the drainage he had from his cough/cold/allergies.
(He has a very strong gag reflex.)
You must first know...
That Nate NEVER makes it to the bathroom when he gets sick.
Yes...lucky me.
Jamie and I have cleaned our share of bedding, walls, and carpets in the past nine years.
So anyway...
(You must also know that Nate is a very dramatic child and loves attention.)
He comes up to me...
Nate: "I think my tummy feels funny."
Me: "What do you mean "FUNNY"?"
Nate: "Just funny. Would you rather when I puke, that I puke in my bed or on the floor?"
Me: "Nate! I'd rather you puke in the toilet or in the emergency bowl. But if you're sick again, just know that you will be spending all day in bed tomorrow."
Nate: "I think I feel totally healthy now."

Oh brother.
That child.
He loves drama.
But if it means any interuption in "his plans"...everything is fine...normal.
LOL...gotta love him.

How To Be Gracious

(This came from my dear friend Cathy)


HOW TO BE GRACIOUS

Jennifer's wedding day was fast approaching. Nothing could dampen her excitement - not even her parent's nasty divorce.

Her mother had found the PERFECT dress to wear, and would be the best-dressed mother-of-the-bride ever!

A week later, Jennifer was horrified to learn that her father's new, young wife had bought the exact same dress as her mother!

Jennifer asked her father's new young wife to exchange it, but she refused.. ''Absolutely not! I look like a million bucks in this dress, and I'm wearing it,'' she replied.

Jennifer told her mother who graciously said, ''Never mind sweetheart. I'll get another dress. After all, it's your special day.''

A few days later, they went shopping, and did find another gorgeous dress for her mother.

When they stopped for lunch, Jennifer asked her mother, ''Aren't you going to return the other dress? You really don't have another occasion where you could wear it."

Her mother just smiled and replied, ''Of course I do, dear.....I'm wearing it to the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding.''

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(NOW I ASK YOU - IS THERE A WOMAN OUT THERE, ANYWHERE, WHO WOULDN'T ENJOY THIS STORY?)
__________________________________
Women are like phones: They like to be held, talked to, and touched often.
But push the wrong button and your booty is disconnected!

I know I'm not the brightest bulb in the box...but seriously...

Ok...I guess it's a well known fact in our house that I don't "do" math.

It's not my best subject.

Never has been...never will be.

I don't like it.

Period.

Jamie usually helps both of the boys with their math homework.

And though I "could" help Nate with his...and do sometimes...dad still usually does.

So today...

Nate comes home and I tell him he needs to do his homework.

Told him he could work on it while I'm cooking dinner and I'd answer any questions he had.

Well, I guess he doesn't have alot of faith in me.

First words out of his mouth were...

"Um well, mom...do you know how to round?"

Ok...

I don't like Algebra and Geometry, but I made it through both.

And beyond that, I took Business Math and Accounting in high school to avoid the more difficult classes.

But please Nate...

I think I can ROUND!

LOL!

"MOMMY!"

I always have to remind Nate to stay calm when he's playing video games.
He gets so worked up...especially if anyone bugs him while he's playing.
And being typical brothers...Evan loves to bug him while he's playing.

Today Evan starts in bugging him.
Nate yells, "EVAN!!!"

I say, "Nathan..." in a very calm voice getting his attention and letting him know I hear his impatience at his brother.

Patiently and calmly Nate settles down and says back to me, "Mommy..."

"Self-control"...I say in a calm manner.

And very peacefully Nate says back to me, "I hate it when you say that."
LOL!

I am ashamed...

I am ashamed of myself.
I am ashamed at my lack of faith.
Evan goes for his follow-up x-rays this Friday for his scoliosis in his back.
And I have been praying and believing that God will touch him so that he doesn't need to have any treatment.
What I am afraid of, uncertain of, and almost ashamed of...is...
The fact that I really don't know what I should be asking God for.
I believe with all of my heart that God does miracles.
I have read about all of the miracles in the Bible.
I have heard countless stories from pastors, evangelists, and missionaries.
I have read stories.
I believe it with my whole heart.
What I am uncertain of though...
Is...
What should I be asking God for.
Do I ask Him that the curve has not gotten any worse...therefore Evan won't require any treatment. (That's what they told us last time...as long as it doesn't progress, he won't need treatment.)
Or...
Do I have the faith to ask God to totally heal him?
I've been wrestling with this ever since we found out that he had scoliosis.
If I ask God to not let it progress, does that mean I lack the faith to ask for a miracle and believe that God is capable of healing my son completely?
I know we always pray, "Your will be done..."
But sometimes, I almost feel like that's a cop-out...like I don't have the faith to believe God is capable of bigger and better things...so if I just say, "Your will be done..." I know I've covered the whole spectrum of things and have to just accept whatever happens as His will.
I feel so confused.
I do know too...that sometimes God uses doctors and the medical field to help us through situations.
I'm just sitting here though, the human side of me, thinking I don't want Evan to go through any of the medical interventions I did (or anyone else) for his condition.
I am really letting it all out in the open right now.
This is just how I feel.
Because Evan is my baby.
I always try to appear to have it all together.
Like I know what I'm doing.
Give the best advice I can to others.
Listen to them.
Encourage them.
Pray for them.
But right now...I'm letting it all hang out.
I just really feel vulnerable, uncertain, and almost ashamed of myself for not knowing how to pray for my son.
Right now...all I'm going to do is GIVE IT TO GOD.
Lord...I am giving you my baby. Take care of him. Protect him. Touch him. Give us both peace.
And give me wisdom...and growth from this.
In your name...
Amen.

Yes...even the cat is in coupon/money-saving mode!

So...little Mr. Spoiled (a.k.a. Oreo Flower) has long forgotten the days at the shelter when he had to eat whatever was put in front of him (a.k.a. survival). Now, he lives "The Good Life"...literally. That's the only food he wants. "The Good Life". Well...it's not like it's the super expensive food the vet sells...but it IS more expensive (a little) than what Pouncie used to eat (Cat Chow). And "The Good Life" seldom puts out coupons...it's pretty rare. Sooooo...

What I've been doing...is...purchasing the less expensive food (Cat Chow) which always puts out coupons...and always goes on sale...meaning I can get it super cheap. And...I mix. Oreo gets half a scoop of Cat Chow and half a scoop of The Good Life. We tried just giving him Cat Chow. He turned his nose up at it. But...as long as he's got half a scoop of his "Good Life"...he's a happy kitty. He comes trotting over when I bring the two bags out...I put half a scoop of Cat Chow in...he pauses...I put in half a scoop of The Good Life...mix it...he gobbles it right up. LOL! What a crazy cat. And as for me...I get to make the more expensive food last twice as long! Thanks Oreo...we all have to give and take a little in this economy!

"Next time we go to the Bahamas..."

Nate pulls out a book that Geeg and Papa bought him the last time they went garage saling.

"Hey! Look what I found! I got money from another country!" he says.

Sure enough...slid between two of the pages was a "dollar" from another country.

I look at it and told him it looks like it's from the Bahamas.

"Oh great! We can use it to go shopping next time we're in the Bahamas!" he tells me.

Yeah...sure..."next time"...LOL..."next time" will be the "first time"...and I really don't think there's going to be a "first time"..."next time"...any time soon...LOL!

Just a few bargains this week...

There weren't too many things I was interested in this week at Walgreens...and I stuck to my promise of only getting what was really good deals and what I knew we use on a very regular basis to add to our stockpile.

I got:

Lindsay Olives...regular $2.00 a piece...on sale for 99 cents a jar...used a Save $1.00 on two coupon...making them 49 cents a jar.

Bayer Aspirin...regular $2.99...used a Walgreens coupon making it $1.50...added a man. coupon for $1.00 off...making the final price 50 cents! But here's the best part...it was a DOUBLE PACK (one packaged for free)...so in essence I got them for 25 cents a piece! WOW!

Wet Ones...on sale for $2.00...used a Save $1.50 on two coupon...plus got a Register Reward for $1.00...in essence making them 75 cents each.

Kraft Mac & Cheese...regular $1.49 (outrageous)...on sale for 59 cents a box...used a Buy 3 Get 1 FREE coupon making them 44 cents a piece.

My final tally was:

Spent: $5.08
Saved: $14.18

My "new" hat...today's project!

So I kept saying, "I need a new winter hat, I need a new winter hat."

Well...I also kept wanting to get back into my knitting bag and tackle a project.

I also figured there's no reason to go out and buy a hat, when I can simply knit a new one.

Well, I sat down today...and whipped one out in nothing flat.

That's one thing...when I pull out my Knifty Knitters and start a project...I have a really hard time putting it down, LOL!

I just did a simple black hat w/ a basic black and gray cuff/brim.

It turned out pretty cute if I do say so myself.

I look totally ridiculous in hats...I don't have the face for hats (or the right haircut)...but hey...we live in Michigan...and I guess eventually we have to sacrifice vanity to stay warm, LOL!

Next project...

I'm thinking some kind of purse or beach bag...saw a pretty cute pattern in my book.

Also gonna whip out some new dishcloths as well.

Knifty Knitters are so much fun!

It's been a great week in the world of coupons!

After reading my money-saving blogs this week and going through the sale ad and my coupons, I was just ITCHING to go to Meijer and do my shopping.
Here were some of the highlights for this week:

One of the boys' favorite deals, was the coupon I had for a FREE half gallon of chocolate milk with the purchase of two gallons of white milk. Pre-made chocolate milk is a treat in our house. I sometimes buy chocolate syrup or the powders to make our own (which I like because we can control how much chocolate goes in). But the boys (and dad) are in hog-heaven when I occasionally get the pre-made kind, LOL!

They had the Buy 10 for $1.00 each and get the 11th item FREE special going on this week.
Some of the goodies I found with that were...

Bar S Franks...used a 25 cent coupon and got them down to 75 cents.

Green Giant Frozen Veggies...used 25 cent coupon and got those down to 75 cents.

Del Monte Fruit Cups...used a $1.00 off three coupon and got them down to roughly 67 cents a piece.

Dole Salad Bags...used a $1.00 MM coupon and got it for FREE.

Betty Crocker Frosting...used a 50 cent coupon and got it down to 50 cents.

Quaker Rice Cakes...used a 75 cent coupon and got it down to 25 cents.

Ranzoni pasta...used a 60 cent coupon and got it down to 40 cents.

Lance Snack Crackers...used a $1.00 coupon and got it for FREE.

Some of my other deals were...

Toaster Streudels...used a $1.00 coupon and paid 99 cents.

Jimmy Dean Fully Cooked Sausage Patties...used a $1.00 coupon and got them down to 99 cents.

These were some of the best of the best...you should have seen the pile of coupons I went in with!

My finally tally at Meijer was:

Spent: $61.57
Saved: $66.11

Meijer paid me to shop there this week! :)

Walgreens...I did two separate transactions so I could use and still get another Register Reward. They are always so friendly and helpful there. I really enjoy a good cashier.

Bic Soleil Razors...Two for $10.00...I used a Walgreens coupon for $3.00 off making them Two for $7.00...then I added a Buy One Get One FREE coupon...taking my final tally down to $1.75 a piece!

I picked up a few other things...and my tally was:

Spent: $13.36

Saved: $27.13

LOVE saving more than I spend!

Oh what a feeling! My cup runneth over!

I had a REALLY great trip to Walgreens today. Even amazed the kid who rang me up, LOL!
Here was the best of the best...


Kleenex...regular $1.29...Walgreens coupon making them 79 cents...used a man. coupon for 50 cents off three...so I only paid right around 67 cents a box.

Halls Cough Drops...regular $2.59...Walgreens coupon making them 99 cents...used a 50 cent man. coupon...paid 49 cents.

Kotex...regular $3.79...on sale for $3.00...used a man. coupon for $2.00 off two...and $1.50 off two...(bought 4 boxes)...bringing it down to $8.50 total...but also got a $4.00 Register Reward...so in reality is was like paying right around $1.12 a piece.

Colgate Max Fresh White...$2.99...coupon for $1.00 off...making it $1.99...plus a $2.00 Register Reward...I MADE A PENNY, LOL!

Rembrant Toothpaste...on sale for $4.99...used a $3.00 man. coupon...got a $1.00 Register Reward...was like paying 99 cents.

Suavitel Fabric Softener...$2.79...on sale for BOGO free...like paying less than $1.40 a piece.

All Detergent...regular $6.99...on sale for $4.00...used a $2.00 man. coupon...paid $2.00.

Preference Hair Color...regular $9.79...on sale for $6.79...used a Walgreens coupon for $3.00 off and a man. coupon for $2.00 off...paid $1.79.

My final tally was:

I got $98.18 worth of merchandise.

Spent: $45.67

Saved. $52.51

LOVE getting paid to shop!

RUSH!

Weekend bargains...

So today, we ran a few errands and I picked up a couple bargains at WalMart and Meijer. First off...WalMart...
The best of the best...

Johnson's Baby Q-Tips...regular $1.38...used a $1.00 coupon...paid 38 cents...grabbed two boxes at this price.

Wet Ones...regular $2.14...used a $1.50 coupon...paid 64 cents.

Schick Razor...regular $3.98...used a $2.00 coupon...paid $1.98.

Kikkomon Soy Sauce...regular $1.42...used a BOGO Free coupon...paid 71 cents a piece.

Final tally...

Spent: $4.87

Saved: $7.92

Woohoo!

I didn't realize I did as good as I did at Meijer till I actually looked at my receipt later! The best of the best...

Aunt Millies Whole Grain Light Bread...regular $3.19...on sale for $1.50...grabbed two of those.

Finish Dish Detergent...regular $4.26...on sale for $3.49...used a $2.50 coupon...paid 99 cents...grabbed two of those.

Thomas Light English Muffins...regular $3.99...on sale for $2.50...great price for these.

My tally was...

Spent: $13.68

Saved: $12.79

LOVE LOVE LOVE it when those two numbers are THAT close!

Natural Advantage Skin Care System...

Ok, so I'll admit it...

I'm a sucker for tv infomercials.

They suck me in hook, line, and sinker!

I mean honestly, I'll try anything ONCE.

I mean why not?

What have you got to lose?

So...

Jane Seymour's Natural Advantage Skin Care System comes on a couple weeks ago.

I am extremely conscientious about my skin.

As I've gotten older, the very thought of fine lines, wrinkles, laugh lines, crows feet, frown lines...well...

IT TERRIFIES ME!

I love seeing older women with beautiful skin.

Now I'm not naive enough to think there is any miracle cure-all out there.

But I do know, if you're willing to spend a little extra money, you can get better products.

I'm not saying break the bank...I know there are creams out there for $300-$500 and that is something I would NEVER consider doing.

But...

Instead of spending $5.99 at WalMart on my Olay (or rather Equate store brand) cleanser, I'm willing to bump up the cost a tad...I'm willing to do it if it gives me good results.

I believe in taking care of my skin.

I have always used my Olay (Equate) Cream Cleanser to cleanse my face.

And to moisturize and fight wrinkles, I've used the Anew line from Avon.

I never really noticed any dramatic visible changes in my skin over the years since I've been using the Anew wrinkle creams.

So...

Here comes the Natural Advantage infomercial, with all these amazing testimonies and Jane Seymour swearing she's never had "work" done...

So I thought...

Why not give it a try.

And honestly...

It's not that expensive!

I received my starter kit for $29.95 and it lasts for 30 days.

So broken down...we're talking less than a dollar a day for a complete skincare system. I don't think that's too bad.

BECAUSE...

When I thought about my "old" ways...

I'd spend $5.99 on my Olay cleanser and depending on the sale I could find on Anew products...those puppies are anywhere from $38-$45!!!

So already...that could possibly tally more than $50.00!!!

The Natural Advantage kit came with a cleanser, daily moisturizer, night time repair cream, neck firming cream, and a peel to start you off.

If you want to continue the product...you can sign on for their auto-delivery and they will send you a supply for three months each time.

I have decided to try it out this month and see how it goes.

I have to tell ya...I was totally cheesey and took before pictures without my make-up on so I could see if I got results. I'm still not sure if those will be posted...they're pretty scarey! LOL!

Day 1...Night time "peel". I've never done a peel before. It was a small moistened pad that you rub over your entire face and neck. A couple of the products warn that you could experience mild tingling or redness if you have sensitive skin. I didn't experience this at all with the peel.

Day 2...A.M. Cleanse and Daily Moisturizer...all went well. P.M. Cleanse and Night-Time Repair Cream and also bonus gift Neck Firming Cream...all went well again...although I noticed my neck was a tad bit red from the neck firming cream...which they say is totally normal. I guess it's the Retinol that can cause a bit of irritation in the beginning stages they say.

Day 3...A.M. Cleanse and Daily Moisturizer. That's as far as I am.

I'm going to try to give updates, because I have several friends wanting to know if it really works as well as it says it does.

They say you should START to see results in a few as 14 days...but have NOTICIBLE results in 8 weeks.

I do have to say...my neck and under my chin...they are SO soft and smooth! So until we find out more on the fine lines/wrinkles, uneven skin tone, etc...at least we know it DOES give you REALLY smooth skin! My neck used to get quite dry and almost bumpy. Now, it truely is soft and smooth like it's never been before. So I'll give it that for now!

Something I'm really hoping to get from it is even skin tone. My cheeks have gotten so blotchy over the years. I would love to have "pretty" skin.

Until next time!

They said it would happen...

So, I've jumped back on the scrapbooking bandwagon.

I'm going to town.

I'm not a fancy scrapper.

I keep it simple and sweet.

My main goal is to get my photos preserved safely and to journal so I don't forget who, what, or when.

Well...

They said it would happen.

They told me I would have waaaaay more photos of my firstborn and there would be significantly less of each additional child.

"NEVER" I declared!

Well, alas...

It's true.

I am already up to age five in Nate's album.

I am STILL only at age ONE in Evan's!

And Evan's is dramatically thicker!

Oh dear.

What have I done?

Slighted my baby Nate?

Nah.

I'm still a pathalogical picture taker.

I take photos of every birthday, holiday, milestone, event, activity, and day to day life.

But...

Now...

We are a complete family.

I find more of the pictures incorporate BOTH of the boys, kitty, us...the entire family.

We still have loads of photos.

I just don't have as many "single" photos of Natee.

He has a lot...don't get me wrong.

He has "alone" shots of all his birthdays, milestones, events in his life, etc.

But we are a family now...and our "family" album is growing quickly!

So...

I love you Natee!

More than you will ever know.

You may have a slightly smaller album, but you are loved and adored by all precious boy!!!

It's a wonder...

As I was buzzing about the house tonight...

Doing what I do...

I had a thought.

It started with the dishes. I had to put away the clean ones first. I had five cupboard doors open at once, the dishwasher door open, two drawers open...

Then I turned around...

And I saw it...

Evan's gym bag...

Reminding me...

That I needed to pack him clean clothes...

But before that, I needed to throw in a load of dirties in the washer.

As the dishwasher door lay open and all the cupboards still still not closed...

I start the water running and add detergent in the washing machine and walk away...

I put clean clothes into his bag.

Throw a few clothes into the washer...

Remembering I left everything undone in the kitchen...

So...

I walk back and toss everything into it's proper cabinets and drawers.

Walk back to the washer and finish loading...

Upon seeing Nate's backpack...

Realizing...

He needs a snack packed.

Cookies packed.

What's that...

Down the hall...

Oreo's bowl is empty.

As I walk into the laundry room to get the kitty food...

I see there are still dry clothes in the dryer.

If I want my clean clothes dried...

I must fold and put away these dry clothes.

Reaching for the dryer door...

I see that I have still forgotten to feed kitty.

Feed kitty...check.

Oh dear...

What's that I see?

The door is still open to the dishwasher...

It's empty.

But the sink is full.

I fill it with dirties.

This is my life...

Not unlike anyone else's.

But I had a thought tonight...

I think it's the way I go about doing things.

My husband always says I always have a million "half done" projects going on at once. He wonders why I can't finish one thing and then move to the next.

I can't.

It drives me crazy.

I see something...

I have to at least "start" it.

And usually that means I walk away and start something new at the same time.

I never have just one thing going.

I usually have at least five or six things going at once.

And here was my thought tonight...

Honestly...

It's a wonder...

I haven't flooded the house, burnt it down, or killed myself! LOL!

I have...however...

Overflowed the bath-tub, burnt cookies, shrunk clothing, and gotten many bruises. LOL!

But...

This is me.

It's who I am.

My family loves me...quirky...crazy...and all!

Out of the mouths of babes...

So yesterday I was on facebook and using the "send hearts" app, to send "hearts" to my friends.

Nate was standing next to me and said, "Whatcha doin' mom?"

I said, "I'm sending hearts to my friends. Which one would you like?"

He said, "I only want YOUR heart mom!"

Awwww!

He started giggling...and acting all silly.

But it was so darn cute!

Just love that boy!

New thoughts on money-saving/couponing...

So, I did my grocery shopping at Meijer yesterday and I got some really good deals.
But...
I have been thinking over the past couple months...I don't feel like I'm seeing as many of the 50-80% savings tallies like I used to.
But then...
I had a realization.
Back when I first started Savings Angel and jumped on the couponing bandwagon, I was buying alot of things that I didn't necessarily always use. I was buying them because they were great deals. And although I did eventually use them, where is the "savings" if you're buying things you REALLY don't need...even if it's a great deal.
Then...
Yesterday, I looked at my tally on my grocery receipt at Meijer.
Spent $41.21
Saved $28.69
At first I was discouraged, thinking...I only saved $28.69...that is no where NEAR my 50% mark or higher that I used to have.
But...
I only bought what was on sale.
I only bought what I had coupons for.
And most importantly...
I only bought what we needed and would use on a steady basis.
And I thought about it in another way too...
$41.21 for a weeks worth of groceries?!?!
That's amazing!!!
No...I didn't match or surpass my spending w/ my saving.
But, I only spent $41.21!!!
And everything I bought were things we really need and use all the time.
Not things that are non-necessities.
I continued to pad my stockpile.
So, $41.21 for a week's worth of groceries???
Yeah...I'll take that in a heartbeat!
When most of my friends are spending $200.00 a week for a family of 3 or 4...and I am feeding my family of 4 PLUS 10 daycare children!!!
Yep...I feel pretty darn good about my $41.21!!!

Who says Walgreens is expensive?

Ok, I'll admit it...I did.

I always thought Walgreens was expensive and over-priced and I NEVER shopped there.

Well...let's face it...they ARE over-priced if you just walk in off the street and pick up any old thing and pay full price.

They're ridiculously expensive.

But...

Last year, I discovered their sale ads, store coupons, and Register Rewards!!!

Now...

I am a HUGE fan of Walgreens!

In fact, I practically MAKE money off them every time I go in there.

For example...
This week...

Visine...on sale for $3.99...$1.00 RR...$2.00 man. coupon...paid 99 cents.

Sensodyne/Pronamel Children's Toothpaste...regular $3.49...used a store coupon for $2.00 off...man. coupon for $1.00 off...paid 49 cents!

Ritz snack packs...regular $1.99...on sale for 99 cents...used a $1.00 off two man. coupon...and got them for 49 cents each.

Glade Frangrance Collection candles...on sale for $2.50...used a $3.00 off two man. coupon and paid just $1.00 each.

Those were my top picks.

My tally was...

Spent: $7.88

Saved: $19.38

HOW INCREDIBLY COOL IS THAT?!?!

Random silliness with the cat...

So today, Oreo was all frisky and being a stinker...and of course he goes right to Jamie when that's the case. He knows he can always get some good playtime in with "daddy".

Well Jamie was busy and trying to get some things done in the kitchen and says to Oreo, "Oh, feeling naughty? Why don't you go play in the Christmas tree...OH!...there IS NO Christmas tree! Hahahaha!"

LOLOLOLOL!

Guess ya had to be there...it was just one of those moments...it just struck me funny. And of course Oreo was all miffed that he didn't get his attention and playtime right when HE wanted it, LOL!

Realizations in life...

With age...

I have come to realize...

That I will never be the size I was when I was twenty one and got married. Though some days when I look at my wedding pictures and remember purchasing that size seven dress...and it was TOO BIG...and had to be taken in, in multiple places...I see it...and want to cry because I am no longer that size...I also realize that nearly seventeen years later, two babies later...I've only gone up one size...I don't look half as bad as I could. And though I'm terribly hard on myself for every pound I've gained over these past seventeen years, I have realized that REAL women have curves...and I'm grateful I have a husband who knows and appreciates that too.

I have also realized...

That is takes a L-O-N-G time for some of us to develop our self-esteem and confidence. It is just now, that I am learning to accept a compliment from someone and know that they truly do mean it and it's ok for me to feel good about that.

I have also realized...

Age brings wisdom and knowlege...in many ways. I am learning simple (and maybe superficial things to some people) like how to look better as I age (taking care of my skin, hair color, "trying" to limit junk, "trying" to exercise). Finding the right clothing for my body (not what looks good on a teenage girl who's never carried a child). How to play up what you've got (no, we'll never look like a model, but finding our best asset and playing it up goes a long way!).

I've also realized...

Accepting what I've got is key...I am blessed beyond measure. My home, car, family, friends, job...truely blessed.

I just need to remind myself of these things...when I get depressed...because...in reality...life is good!

No...life is great!!!