Friday, December 14, 2012

Crock Pot Turkey Chili



One of the greatest things I've learned in the kitchen is having confidence.  Confidence in my cooking, in my flavor pallet, confidence in stepping out of the lines... (this is my most rewarding feat, I'm such a rule follower by nature) and adapting the recipe to my family needs or what's in my cupboards and fridge.

This Chili Recipe is a bit basic and our of the cookbook that came with my Crock Pot (my first one I think).  It calls for red meat, (but we are watching our intake these days and usually have more ground turkey then beef) and it didn't call for corn, but in my opinion chili always looks better with corn.

The beauty of cooking is really making it work for you and your family.  From supplies to flavor favorites..... Its what you choose to make it.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Homemade Split Pea Soup #3




The great thing about having a meal plan is that you know what your having for dinner and you don't have to think about it.  One less decision to make in the world of decisions.  It some how makes the other decisions easier to make.

One of my mom's favorite says is... "Life happens after we've made plans".  I know she is quoting someone (I probably should look up who it is) but either way its a very true statement.  What it always reminds me is that we have to be flexible with life, meal plans included.

On Thursday, (yes, life happened and I'm late on this) my mom came into town to bring a bed Jackson is getting for Christmas (yes, my big boy is now sleeping in a twin! Exciting) and also brought a yummy bowl of Homemade Split Pea Soup.

So dinner plans changed!!

All I had to do was reheat and make a few grilled cheese sandwiches.... Dinner is Served!

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Turkey Burgers (Leftover Night) #2


Tonight was "leftover" night in our home.  A few nights ago we had Turkey Burgers, but we didn't use all of the ground turkey, so tonight it was time to pull it back out.

So I had the base... but what else..... We had a few mushrooms and some asparagus, so those came out too.  I did a light EVOO saute on the mushroom and asparagus and once the turkey was cooked added it to the veggies.

Even though we have veggies in the tacos I wanted a bit more green on our plates.  So I happened to have some frozen broccoli so after a bit of "doctoring" dinner was ready.

The great part of this meal...
Quick, Easy and you can use whatever you have....

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Shredded BBQ Chicken Sliders #1





Sunday's during the Fall and Winter always feel like Crock Pot Meal Days.  There's something amazing about being home and smelling yummy food cooking all day.  The way the aroma fills the house...

Then you add Football on the TV... its all about comfort food on Sunday's.

So this Sunday I made BBQ Chicken in the Crock Pot.
I let it cook a good chunk of the day, then shredded it and let it continue to simmer in the yummy BBQ sauce.
Sliced up a few mushrooms and sauteed them in a little olive oil for on top of the shredded chicken and added a small square of Pepper Jack Cheese.

To make dinner a bit more "Jackson Friendly" we added some tots and then some fresh fruit for us all to enjoy.




December Monthly Meals



Okay, so the weirdest thing happened.....

I've ALWAYS enjoyed cooking and being in kitchen, but my love for it got stronger when Matthew and I started cooking together.  Drop the iphone in the dock, turn on Pandora and start collaborating.  This partnership has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, try new things and give new flare to old favorites.

Last month, in hopes to lower our month grocery bill, I decided that I would sit down and make a Monthly Meal Plan.  Throughout the month I took pictures of random meals and posted them on Facebook and Instagram.  I was surprised by the feedback.

Today, I sat down once again to make my Monthly Meal Plan (last month was so successful, so why not) and grocery list.  I took my picture and like last month the feedback was strong, stronger this time.

So, now Im going to start a new venture....

I'm going to blog and give you all an insight on our meals.

My approach is simple....

Easy, Yummy and Cost Effective Meals.  Using fresh ingredients and those every day items we already have.  This is a financial tough time we are living in and making the dollar and the meal stretch is important.  So from Crock Pot, to Casseroles to every day favorites, you will find them all here.....

Enjoy!

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Living with Boys

Life is so crazy these days! How did it happen that my (now) oldest is 2 (I still need to work on that blog) and my youngest is almost 6 months!
People aren't kidding when they say it goes by quickly! And truthfully I think when you add another into the mix it seems to move even more quickly.

Well, I'm sorry faithful followers, I've dropped the ball. Hopefully I can catch you all up and maybe share some laughs.

Benjamin is officially a "chunky monkey"! We started him on cereal back on September 22. He ended up not doing well on the rice so we give him oatmeal and he can't get enough. As of today he has tried and enjoyed... Sweet Potatoes, Pears, Peas, Prunes, Mangos and Avacado. He's a funny little eater and watches everyone with a very close eye at meal times.

Also, as of today, he is on his third night in a row of sleeping thru and not needing a bottle! I have a feeling he will be transferring into "the boys" room before we know it! This bit brings Matthew and I great excitement! And if I'm being truly honest (which I always aim for through these blogs) the idea if Benjamin moving to "the boys" room makes me just a tad misty. He's our last, so the idea of how fast he's growing.... It makes me sad! But oh so happy.... You all know what I mean.

Now as for Jackson! He's in love with his "baby bean"! And the more active Benjamin gets the more thrilled bear gets. Bean has been rolling and getting up in all fours these last few days and bear can't help but push for more. I have a feeling these two are going to be pushing each other, cheering each other on for many years to come.

Boys are both starting to wake so I better move.... But hopefully this has given a small insight into their growth. Enjoy the pics and I promise November will be better!
Mickey Time
Little Brothers Make Great Pillows
Loves to Eat
Our new Favorite... This Pic says so Much.... lol
Our Handsome Boys

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Benjamin is 4 Months Old





Happy 4 Months
Can't believe our sweet Benjamin Cash is already 4 months old!

Seems like just yesterday we were a family of three preparing for Benjamin's arrival. And now here I sit with Jackson (who will be 2 next month) upstairs napping and Benjamin beside me playing.

I think after four months I finally feel like I'm getting the real hang if this momma of two down, at least that's what I tell myself, lol.
Brothers












Benjamin is an amazing little boy! He's rolling around, squawking like crazy and is fascinated by his older brother.











He is such a wonderful addition to this family and I couldn't be happier to be his momma!
So big, holding is own bottle

Monday, July 16, 2012

Welcoming Benjamin Cash

I'd like to apologize for taking SO long to get this out to you all!!  I started this when we came home from the hospital, but days and nights began to run into each other and before I knew it, it was time to get ready and move.  So now that we are settled I promise to start pushing more of these blogs out!

Thank you for your patience, I know you've been waiting!
xoxo




Monday, April 30th


This day has been waited for and anticipated for so many months, weeks and days.  Not only is this the day we welcome our second beautiful little blessing but also Matthew's 33rd Birthday.  But truth be told I might be getting the BEST gift EVER.....  Due to the stress that we faced with the birth of Jackson and the need for a c-section, we knew going into the pregnancy of Benjamin that we would be having a scheduled c-section.

So as the pregnancy came to an end, the date chosen (Daddy's Birthday), I got more and more excited about the birth of our second blessing..... Benjamin Cash!

Matthew and I woke early Monday morning (330 am) got dressed, confirmed we had everything we needed and headed out.  We had to be at Kaiser by 430 am and of course I didn't want to be late.  With nerves and excitement fluttering through my body, we checked in!



We were showed to our room (sounds more like a hotel stay then a hospital stay) and introduced to my second favorite nurse of ALL time, Leslie.  By 6 am I was in bed, getting my IV set up when Grammy walked in.  Once all set up we had a bit of time to relax and wait for Auntie Dani and Grammie Smeck to get there.

Leslie!  Awesome!!

We had a collection of doctors and nurses walk in and introduce themselves as we got prepped for Benjamin's arrival.  By 7 am, it was time to go.  Matthew was all dressed and I was walking myself into surgery (once again... such a difference experience).

All ready to go have this boy


Once down on the table they let Matthew in and the process started.  Matthew unlike last time, was able to participate and see a lot more of the birth, which he found extremely exciting.  I like last time, was awake but still pretty much out of it.

By 738 am I heard the first (of many) cries and I knew my beautiful Benjamin was here.  My heart grew, tears flew down my face and I felt an overwhelming sense of peace.  The nurse in charge of taking care of my blessing, brought him down to me and let me place a kiss on his sweet face!  I will never forget the moment I saw him for the first time.  Talk about love at first sight!!

First kisses from Momma

Matthew stayed with Benjamin as they took him to get cleaned up and I got finished in the OR.  A little after 8 am all three of us were together in the recovery room.  Once they had me all organized they sent for Grammy, Grammie Smeck and Auntie Dani.  The recovery room was empty so they let us all hang out together for almost an hour.  We took tons of pics and discussed who he looked more like, lol!

Benjamin Cash Holmes
Born at 738am
6 lbs 11oz and 19 inches


By 10 am I was wheeled into my new room, which scary enough was the exact same room I was in with Jackson, 207!  Weird!!

Within moments of arrival the troops started coming in.  Uncle Omar, Auntie Dani and Lucas came to check out "B$" (As Uncle O calls him), and of course both Grammy and Grammie Smeck.  By afternoon Papa Holmes was able to come for a visit too of his newest grandson.  Grammie Smeck stayed for the day and allowed Matthew to go home and see Jackson.  By that evening both Matthew and my dad, Poppa Bubs were there to enjoy some evening snuggles with the newest arrival.

Papa with Benjamin


On a personal note.... I decided that I couldn't be kept down, so I insisted on getting out of bed and walking around.  I went to bed with out any tubes or IVs.  I need to get strong... I now have two little men that need mommy in full capacity!

Tuesday, May 1st.

After a night of little sleep and every two hour feeds... we welcomed our second day of life with Benjamin.  Matthew was wonderful and went and got me REAL coffee and a yummy breakfast... hospital food still leaves much to the imagination.

My mom and dad came back for a bit more of a visit and then dad had to leave.... Must get in
snuggles!!

Grammie Smeck meeting Benjamin
Poppa Bubs meeting Benjamin




Around 11am Grammie and Papa Holmes brought "Big Brother" Jackson for a visit.  This was going to be our first moment as a family of four.... My heart was filled with excitement and a bit of anticipation.
Our family of four


After a wonderful visit with Jackson, Daddy took him back home for some one on one time.  It was our first, of many to come, of dividing and conquering with the boys!

Wednesday, May 2nd

Today is the day we get to take our newest bundle home.  To say that we haven't had any issues would be a small fib.  Benjamin did have a small case of jaundice so we had to make sure his levels were high enough to allow us to take him home.  Thankfully the doctor on duty felt comfortable with him leaving, however we will have to get his heals pricked until his levels rise.

Unlike our departure with Jackson, Matthew and I felt much more at ease leaving with our baby.  We dressed Benjamin in his "going home" outfit, once again in family tradition, Matthew picked it out and surprised me with it.


All ready to head home
Once all bundled we headed home to experience in real life, being the parents of two beautiful boys!

At home we were greeted not only by Jackson, but by Auntie Dani, his cousins and of course Grammy and Papa!
So excited!!
Grammy and Papa Holmes and their 5 grandsons!!
Life is SO good!


Here's a sneak peek at some beautiful shots my talented and beautiful sister in law took of Benjamin and I.....

One Day Old
Love

My beautiful Benjamin



Sunday, April 29, 2012

52.14 Motherhood is..... Learning

Life is full of learning.  Hopefully we as adults strive to learn something new everyday.  I know I do, and that helps to not only fill up my knowledge tank but makes me feel alive.  I'm constantly teasing Matthew that he is full of useless knowledge.... but I will say, every time he opens his mouth I learn something new.

I think Motherhood is very similar.  I learn something new EVERY day!!  This comes in all sorts of ways... Sometimes its as easy as Jackson opening his mouth or doing something, perhaps this new bit of knowledge comes from another mom sharing wisdom, or some times its as easy as a bit of self reflecting.

With the birth of Benjamin coming tomorrow, I have been looking back on my last 19 months of being a momma and reflecting on my journey of learning!  I can honestly say that I have learned not only a ton about being a mom, but about myself, the kind of mom I strive to be and my son.  I can desire and teach certain things for Jackson all day long, but he is his own person and sometimes you just have to let go and see what he figures out.

I have tried harder these last few weeks and if I'm to be totally honest more these last few days, to really let Jackson be the intelligent, independent young man he's growing into.  Its been a battle.... with only a short period of time left, I've wanted to hold on more.  Smother him with more love, kisses and hugs.  Make him feel my love... LOL!!  Even typing that I know how emotional that sounds.  But its the truth and I am okay with allowing my silly ideas to hit the screen.

I know as parents our "job", or "goal" or even "mission" in life is to teach our children, but I think there is another side to this... We are to sit and learn as well.  Our children are innocent little beings with no life experience outside of us, so this makes them more adventurous, more trusting and more at ease.  I think I can take my son's advice and see life through his eyes a bit more.

I have LOVED being just Jackson's mommy these last 19 months and I know that he has taught me as much as I have taught him.  We have been a fun team of 3... But I also know that we are going to be an even better team of 4!!

I am proud of the mommy I have become and the lessons I have learned.  I have many, many people to thank for those lessons.  But I also know that I am about to start a new chapter in life and learn more... being a mommy of 2 boys should be interesting.

Today, I thank Jackson for teaching me about being a mommy and for rolling with the punches!  You are amazing son and I love you more than words.

Exploring his surroundings

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

52.13- Motherhood is..... Sharing

Teaching your children to share can be tricky! Jackson, like most children his age hasn't yet grasped the idea of sharing. He's in the "mine" phase..... From his shoes, to my phone, everything is "his" (lol).

Like most mommy's I'm doing my best to teach him through words and actions, the meaning of sharing.
But I think the best example comes from kids close to his age.

The other day we began to notice that Jackson seemed frustrated with his toy selection. I reached out to my sister in law in hopes that perhaps she might have some toys that my nephews have out grown. The feedback was wonderful! My (now) six year old nephew, Lucas was on a mission!!
Within a few days we had a box of some of Lucas' favorite toys, that he had outgrown. He sat down with Jackson and showed him how they worked and any tricks he may know.

Watching them I saw the true example of sharing! Now, in part due to my hard work but probably more of Lucas' example, Jackson asks me to sit with him and we play together!

It really is amazing the things our children learn from each other!


Thursday, April 5, 2012

52.12- Motherhood is.... Praying for Grace

The other day I saw a mommy post on Facebook that she needed patience, (don't we all) and one of the comments from a dear friend of mine, made the suggestion that she pray for grace instead!

At the time I thought what an amazing idea but didn't think much past that moment!

Today, in the middle of many emotional meltdowns (and yes, at times it was both Jackson and I crying) I remember the suggestion of praying for grace!

Grace- elegance or beauty of form, manner, motion, or action.

So today, I prayed for Grace as a mommy! I prayed that my actions showed love, even though I had to be firm. I prayed that the manner in which I handled his tantrums was delivered in a way of strength and not frustration. And finally I prayed that through this entire day of trying moment after trying moment, I showed God's love and grace to my amazing boy!!

I'd like to say that our day got easier as it went on, but that would be a fib! But we did have some wonderful cuddles (while crying... I called it the hug hold), some giggles and silly moments, and at the end of the day those are the moments I need to hold close!!

By Grace I will be the best momma I can be and pray that my boys only remember the silly, loving moments that accompany our rough days!

So today I too will remember the silly moments and instead of posting a picture of Jackson melting down (yes, i actually took one. I know, awful mommy, but it caught me off guard), I'm going to share my favorite silly moment of our day.....

Doing daddy's silly face!

Friday, March 30, 2012

52.11- Motherhood is.... Remembering to Take Time for Yourself

Being a mother is a full time job! And being a stay at home mom, is even more full time then one can imagine!

Some days seem never ending.  At times going to the potty is the only few moments you get alone, except for the pounding on the door, lol!  You notice that its noon and you are just getting your shower, or perhaps you have a few extra minutes and you can jump in and run around real quickly before then, but not without once again the pounding on the door, lol.

The shower, the potty and of course of morning cup of coffee, use to be my quiet moments.  Moments that I more than likely took advantage of.  I never realized how special those bits of quiet were or how much they helped my sanity.

But now as a mommy of almost two young boys and I understand the need for making time for myself.  I know that in a few short months even Jackson's nap times are going to be busy with taking care of Benjamin, so I must take the time now to enjoy the quiet moments I have left.

My morning cup of coffee, my evening book and of course any other few moments of quiet I can get will be taken with a new found appreciation.  Because without those moments, I can't be the best mom or wife I can be.

Monday, March 26, 2012

52.10- Motherhood is.... Building a Foundation

As a parent there is so much we try to teach our children. We want them to be confident, outgoing, kind, loving, understanding, we want them to respect boundaries and stand on their own.
Lately, I've been really focused on how blessed I am! Maybe it's the time of year and celebrating my anniversary or perhaps it has to do with the distance Matthew and I are experiencing with him working in San Jose. Either way you slice it, I've never felt so blessed!
My blog last week I talked about my amazing husband and sharing this journey with me. My mother-in-law made a beautiful comment that has really stuck with me!
She said... "Beautifully said. Someone once shared with me that the secret to a happy family was to ensure that first and foremost your focus should be your marriage, with God at the center. Your children would feel loved and secure inside that incredible bond, and also learn to have healthy relationships as they grew. Your lovely words personify this message. Jack and Ben are lucky boys."
These words have spoken so strongly to be and I can't help but feel that through the commitment of marriage, Matthew and I really are building the foundation for our boys to have all the hopes and dreams we wish and pray for them!
Living by example and showing our boys the gift of love, faith, commitment and respect.... Those are the stones of foundation we hope to instill in them.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

52.9- Motherhood is..... Being Thankful For Your Partner

So, I've been struggling with this current blog, which is why it's Tuesday and Im just getting it out. I originally had one I was working on, but when I went to finish it this morning it was gone. Ugggh!!!
I'm taking that as a sign along with today being my 2 year Wedding Anniversary to change my topic and write about my amazing partner, who shares this journey of Parenthood with me!
I have to say that God really knew what He was doing when He put Matthew in my path!! He knew exactly the kind of man I need in order to balance my life! There are SO many things we share and are alike in, but there are almost as many way that we are different. He brings a sense of calm into my world, builds me up when I'm in doubt and always has my back, even if he doesn't see things the same way! We have an amazing marriage built on mutual love, respect, understanding and communication!
But above all of these amazing characteristics I get to add that he is an unbelievable daddy!! To watch him with our son is the greatest gift! I always knew he was going to be an amazing father but to watch him.... Beyond my wildest dreams!
He gives our son things that I'm not strong in and adds balance to his life!
He is the perfect partner and daddy for our family and we all benefit from his love and dedication to our us!
Love you baby!! Happy Anniversary and thank you for being exactly who you are and bringing this family the perfect combination!!
Xoxo

Friday, March 9, 2012

52.8- Motherhood is..... AWESOME

It's true, I admit it, being a mommy really is awesome!! I always knew I wanted this "job" when "I grew up" but I never really thought I would really be blessed to stay home with my boy(s).
Jackson has been in an extra lovey mood these past few weeks! He runs up to me and snuggles his face into my legs. He looks at me with adoring eyes and says my name. He's even started holding my face for kisses!!.... Awww my heart just melts and I know I'm doing exactly what I was meant to do!!
There are challenges that every mommy faces. Whether you stay at home or leave everyday to go to a job. Being a mommy is exhausting at times, but no heart can resist that first smile of the day or the grin they give when they do something they shouldn't!!
Parenthood is AWESOME!! And I'm thrilled to be with my boy(s) everyday, discovering new adventures, challenges and tickle spots!! There's no place I'd rather be!!

Monday, March 5, 2012

Project 52.7- Motherhood is.... Having Two Boys!

As Benjamin's arrival gets closer I'm reminded everyday that I'm going to be the momma of two beautiful boys! This reminder had had its overwhelming moments.... Twice the independence, twice the bumps, scratches and bruises BUT I'm also reminded that I'll have twice the amount of love!
Having Jackson has taught me so much about boys!! They are such a different creature than girls... They are rough, the tumble harder, they love to rough-house, they get crazy dirty and they don't even notice!
I'm truly looking forward to Benjamin's arrival... Twice the amount of kisses, love and cuddles!! Nothing beats the look when your son sees you, runs to you or just wants to be held!
So to my boys.....
Your momma is blessed to have you both! There are going to be some crazy, hectic, messy days in our future BUT I promise, my arms will always be open, my lap always ready and I will always have time for kisses, hugs, loves, stories and YOU!!
Xoxoxo
My 2 boys

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Project 52.6- Motherhood is.... Watching the Bond of Father and Son

The bond between Matthew and Jackson was instant! I remember when we first brought Jackson home, Matthew would sing and rock him when he was fussy. Daddy could always make him laugh with his silly face or funny voices. Daddy was and continues to be his hero!
The distance we are facing as a family has become a bit more obvious for Jackson. In the last few weeks he has become aware that after we put him down on Sunday nights, daddy leaves. Oh the sadness he feels!
However, every Friday afternoon when daddy walks through the front door it's like no time has passed! He runs for his daddy saying, "da-da" as loud as he can! The joy that crosses both of their faces warms the heart of this mommy!! For two days he is in daddy heaven, waking up looking for him and enjoying every ounce of love and attention daddy showers him with!
He is daddy's "little buddy" and anywhere daddy goes you are sure to find him. Looking up with total love and admiration!!
There is nothing like the father son bond!! I'm so blessed to watch this relationship unfold!!
Daddy and Jackson looking at Trains

Friday, February 17, 2012

Project 52.5- Motherhood is...... Picking your Battles

Im beginning to truly understand Jackson's need, drive, God-given DNA (all of the above) to be independent!! He so wants to do his own thing, his own way. And as you all know, the control-freak, perfectionist in me, struggles with this. "I know better"I want to scream, "listen to me".
However, my strong-willed, independent little boy doesn't listen and he keeps on his merry way!
The other day, while the rain came down, I was feeling a bit like the weather and not much like myself! It was a perfect day for Jackson to strut his own agenda and for me to decide which battles to pick! To say he won is an understatement!! We both did that day! I gave in a bit and he rewarded me with more love, hugs, kisses and cuddles!
By picking my battles with him I realized less stress and more fun! Funny how my (almost) 17 month old continues to teach me about being a mommy!!
Must do it ALL by himself

Friday, February 10, 2012

Project 52.4- Motherhood is... Letting Go

For me, the essential control freak, letting Jackson be a kid can be frustrating. I know that he needs to explore his surroundings, test his own limits and fall, but it's difficult for me!! I want to wrap him up in my arms and keep him safe from everything.....

Luckily for me and in truth Jackson, we are blessed to have Matthew!! He pushes Jackson, encourages Jackson and gives him the confidence to excel!!

It still doesn't make the falls any less painful to watch..... But at least we do it with a smile!!
Newest Bump

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Project 52.3- Motherhood is..... Love

To love and receive love is the greatest gift of all!!
Being a mommy is hard work! One of the toughest jobs Ive ever had. I don't have a specific start or end time.... I'm on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (unless of course Grammy and Papa have him for the night). But yet it's the most rewarding gift I've ever been given!
I get paid in kisses, hugs, cuddle time and smiles! No amount of money or quiet time could EVER fill my soul the same!
The love I feel for my boy(s) is so overwhelming, a love that I never thought possible! For that alone I am blessed!
Motherhood is NOT what I thought it would be.... It's SO much more!
Benjamin 
Cheesy Boy

Friday, January 27, 2012

Project 52.2 Motherhod is..... Getting your child to eat!

In the beginning of Jackson's life feeding him was easy. I nursed. So, every two hours he gave me a little cry and off we went. He ate until he was full and I knew he was getting everything he needed through me. But as he got older we started introducing new things based on books, our doctor and of course other parents. He took to most things well, but then again they all had the same texture, so who wouldn't.
Now, at 16 months I find he can be rather picky. Not what I had in mind for my kids!! (lol)
So a few weeks ago I really started to stress about his food. Was he getting enough of everything he needed?? Was there enough variety?? Some may think I'm crazy and I would have to agree.... I was driving myself crazy with these thoughts !
After speaking to other mothers that I respect, I took a hard look at his food. I realized that he liked a bunch of great, healthy foods and his development wasn't lacking. But I also realized we needed to try new things or old things again.
This is when I realized getting your child to eat, you sometimes need to be creative! Like instead of just a grilled cheese sandwich make it a grilled turkey with an avacado spread! Instead of corn bread how about grating zucchini into the mix! And when he's
enjoying his frozen fruit toss in a few green peas.
There are still a few things I can't seem to get him to eat, but I know they will come in time! But I also know its my job as his mommy to keep introducing and being creative!!
Yummy Breakfast

Monday, January 16, 2012

Project 52.1- Motherhood is.... Finding the Humor

I have heard myself say lately, that I think God has a sense of humor, giving me two boys to raise!!  How crazy, me of all people, two boys?

But I'm beginning to realize that having a boy(s) is probably the greatest gift and lesson God has ever given me.  I've always tried to follow the rules, be prepared, stay clean, do what is expected and I've noticed this can make me really stuck in my "box"!!  I think boys give the sense of stepping outside that box and as a mom you really have no choice but to follow.

So I guess the joke is on me.... Have a sense of humor and life will keep moving, even if you don't follow all the rules.

Jackson is perfect example of stepping outside that box!!  He is at a phase in his life, I think its a phase, lol, of really testing his mommy.  He is doing whatever he can to express his independence.....

Today after hearing him walk into his Grammy and Papa's room, I expected to find him into something or other, but the dog crate??  Never!!  He was sitting with the door shut and had his ball.  He was NOT happy when I took him out!

Too funny!!  Thanks for the giggle son!!

All he needs is a ball and a cage! LOL

Welcome Back- Project 52

For those family members and friends that have been following me.... I am so sorry that I haven't made the time to keep you put to date on all the comings and goings of Jackson.  I know some of you look forward to this blog in order to keep up to date... I promise to make it better.

My New Year's Resolution, if you will and notice I'm a few weeks late already, LOL, is to do more blogging.  Find more time to sit and reflect on my boys!!  Benjamin will be joining our family soon and I want to make sure I don't get anymore behind than I already am.

So at the advice and possible nudge (lol) of my sister-in-law Dani, I am joining the forces of bloggers and doing Project 52.  My goal is to blog once a week on something that caught my attention as a momma and of course pics will follow.  I can't promise in length but will do my best to keep you all inform of life!

Thank you for not giving up on me and for being faithful!

Love you all!!