Brinker Buzz

Friends and Food

2012-01-20T14:08:00.000-08:00

My friend Julie Luse from Bedhead and Brainfarts has a fabulous blog that everyone should check out. She is an amazing cook and has started Foodie Friday. She has always amazed me with her go gettem' spirit. She started the magazine Delight Gluten Free after finding out her husband and son had an intolerance. I wouldn't even know where to start with getting a magazine published so I have always been in awe. Her blog is no exception. Click the link below to check her out.

Now I am sure that I won't have great food to blog about each week but I have been cooking more lately so I thought that I would share some of the recipes that I have been making.

I have been getting most of my recipes from Pinterest. It is my new addiction.

Crockpot Chicken Taco Chili

from Skinnytaste.com

Servings: 10

1 onion, chopped

1 16-oz can black beans

1 16-oz can red beans

1 8-oz can tomato sauce 10 oz package frozen corn kernels

2 14.5-oz cans diced tomatoes
1 8-oz can chopped green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
24 0z. (3) boneless skinless chicken breasts

Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Place chicken on top and cover. Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 6 hours. Half hour before serving, remove chicken and shred. Return chicken to slow cooker and stir in. I topped it with low fat cheese but you could also add sour cream, cilantro, or Fritos.

Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

Also from Skinnytaste.com

Green Beans

2 tsp. Olive Oil

1 tsp. Garlic Powder

Salt and Pepper to taste

Parmesan Cheese

Place green beans on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and mix to coat. Sprinkle with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes and then take them out and stir them( well not stir but toss) and put them back in for another 5 minutes. Remove from oven and top with Parmesan cheese. I put mine back in the oven for a second and let the cheese melt. Delicious.

Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken

(I would give credit to the person I got this recipe from but I couldn't get her site to work. It kept telling me it no longer exist so SORRY!! I tried)

2-3 Chicken Breasts

1 can Pineapple Chunks

1 bottle of Sweet and Spicey BBQ Sauce

Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Place chicken on top and cover. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Half hour before serving, remove chicken and chop into chunks. Return chicken to slow cooker and stir in. I served this over rice and it was a huge hit with the family. When my kids like something you know that it's good.

First Craft of the New Year

2012-01-19T15:24:00.000-08:00

You may be looking at my pics asking "what is that". Well that is my solution to not washing 100 different cups every day. I bought tiles that each kid could personalize and put there cup on when they are done getting a drink. When they come back to get a drink later instead of getting a new cup they can just get their cup off of their tile and use it again. At the end of the day I wash all of the cups and we start new the next day. I get so tired of my counter tops being cluttered with cups because no one knows whose cup is whose. I went to the local hardware store and picked up 6 ceramic tiles off of a clearance end cap for only .26 cents.(WooHoo Bargain) I then bought a paint pen and little felt dots for the back so they wouldn't scratch anything. I let each one of my kids and my hubby decorate their own tile. I think they turned out really cute and so far it is working to help minimize the cup problem. A little fingernail posish remover will remove the paint if you make a mistake or just decide to redo them:-)

I have them lined up along the counter by the sink. They take up a little counter space but not enough to matter. I wish I would have thought of this a long time ago.

Happy New Year

2012-01-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

It's a new year!! WooHoo!! I always feel like it is your new chance for a do-over. You can start fresh with all of the adventures that you always plan to do. That could be spiritual, health, family, financial, etc. Today is the day that my holidays are officially over and the day to start my new year. We had an extended holiday so the 10th is our new year.

Today Brandon and I are going to the mall to get weighed in to start the Pound Plunge. I am hoping that having to weigh in each week will be the motivation that I need to keep up the healthy eating and exercising. Having had a baby 2 months ago is also a great motivation. I want to have my body back.

For added motivation I ordered a new pair of shoes. Athletic shoes of course. I am always excited to have new shoes to add a spring to my step.

Brandon and I also want to start a budget. We have been very frustrated with our spending habits for a long time. It is easy to talk about a financial change but it is a whole other thing to take action. Working together we hope to take a big chunk out of our debt this year. If we can do that when I'm not working imagine what we can do when I get a job again. EXCITING!!

I have also been looking for motivation to start reading again. I really do enjoy it when do it. I need some suggestions for books so if you have any leave me a message and let me know.

These are a few of my big projects for the new year. I am not going to beat myself up if I don't fulfill all of my goals but any bit of progress I will consider a success. They will hopefully be motivation to blog about as well.

2011-12-30T13:41:00.000-08:00

I saw this on Pinterest today and had to repost it on here. So true. I hate going to WalMart but don't have alot of other options in big ole North Platte. (Sorry, it's hard to read)

2011-12-24T15:46:00.000-08:00

One of Those Weeks

2011-12-20T06:42:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, It has been one of those weeks....

1. We get invited to a party that I was less than thrilled about going to because it was with a bunch of people that just seem to make me feel very inadequate. I know that it is my issue and that it has nothing to really do with them. They are nice people. Just a group that you feel always does things better than you. I get ready for the party and we venture off. I am breastfeeding and have never to that day leaked. Oh yes, it happened at the party. How many people noticed before I did? I was very embarrassed and wanted to crawl under a rock. Thankfully I was wearing a scarf so after stuffing a little toilet paper in my bra(it's all I could find) and rearranging my scarf I was back at the party. After getting back home I go to get ready for bed only to realize that I had my sweater on backwards the whole time. Of all days for that to happen. I must have looked like the biggest idiot.

2. I volunteered to make almond bark pretzels for my Mother-In-Law to give away at a party here in town. I am tired of making pretzels because they are my go to party snack for Christmas time and have already made a ton of them. I was very tired the other night as I was preparing them and went to put them in the refrigerator to set up and dropped them all over the bottom of the refrigerator. As soon as the almond bark hits the shelf it sets up. I tried to clean it up as quickly as I could but it wasn't soon enough. I wanted to cry. I still have almond bark stuck to my crisping drawers. GRRR!

3. I have my post-pardum check at the doctors office yesterday. My doctor is never quick getting into the room once you are taken back so I didn't figure I needed to hurry. They tell me to take my pants off and get on the table with the little paper cover they give you. I take my pants off and am removing my underwear when the doctor walks in. All I could do was yell "WOOOOH". He says "Oh I'm sorry" and walks back out. I shouldn't be embarrassed but it is something about the security of the little paper blanket makes you feel better. After getting a second to get ready he comes back again. I am red in the face and again looking for the rock to crawl under but he handled it real well. I know that it wasn't like he hadn't seen it all before after having delivered all of my babies but something about standing pantsless in front of another guy that is just a little awkward.

Hopefully all of my most embarrassing moments of the week can lighten up your holiday season.

Merry Christmas!!

Quick Family Pics

2011-12-18T14:54:00.000-08:00

I realized as I was looking through pictures that we only had 1 family picture that included Nicola. She is leaving on January 4th so I thought it was time to get that done. After taking several pictures I decided that maybe the good old funny face pose would work best for our family because Tate was crying, Zach kept posing anyway, the sun was in our eyes, and it just wasn't going well.

We will miss Nicola. Especially the girls because they have grown so close over the last year. Hopefully one of these days we will be able to take a trip to Australia to visit her.

4 am

2011-12-08T06:44:00.001-08:00

I do love this little man but the 4am wake up call is getting a bit old. It would be one thing if he would eat and go back to sleep but he always decides that it is play time. Why can't play time be at 4pm? It is super sweet to watch him checking things out. Knowing that he is experiencing things for the first time in his life. I thank God that I get to watch him learn and grow. Those things keep me sane. This time is so precious but, oh my, this mama is tired.

It's Beginning To Look Alot Like Christmas!

2011-12-01T12:13:00.001-08:00

It is beginning to look like Christmas at our house and I must admit that it isn't because of me. I usually love it but am being kind of a scrooge this year probably has more to do with a little post-partum depression and lack of money than anything else. Good thing I have Brandon. My husband has always loved Christmas and the feeling that comes along with the holiday. He dragged everything down out of storage and decorated the outside of the house while I put up the tree. I wouldn't even have the tree up if he hadn't got me motivated.

Even Zach has been excited for Christmas and he made Tate his name out of Lego's to give him as a gift. Zach was disappointed with me last night because I couldn't find any tape to wrap it. He really can't wait for Tate to be able to play with him. It is cute how much he loves him.

Let's hope that soon a little of Brandon's Christmas spirit will rub off on me and the celebration can begin. Even though he keeps reminding me that "Christmas is coming whether I want it to or not so you better just embrace it".

2011-11-25T11:53:00.001-08:00

Oh yes, I did participated in the chaos.

The Kiddos

2011-11-15T06:33:00.001-08:00

I finally got the kids to sit together long enough to get a picture of them. Trying to get all 4 of them to stay home long enough to pose is a very difficult task these days. We tried to do the whole back drop thing but as you can see it was a fail. I had to take what I could get.

They are all adjusting to having a new sibling. They could do without the crying. They are all very good at helping out where they can. I am a very blessed mommy.

Zach can't wait till Tate is old enough to actually play with him.

My precious baby boy!!

OUCH...It Hurts

2011-11-08T12:23:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness!! I do love this little man and I am trying my very best to breastfeed him but boy what a painful 1st week. I haven't had any luck with my other 3 children mainly because I felt that I didn't have much support and wasn't sure where to turn. Bottle feeding, for me, was much easier but I know the benefits of breastfeeding are much better. I had a couple of friends recommend Newman's Nipple Cream to me and so I had to share. It has been a lifesaver. I had to get a prescription for it but it was worth it. I was using Lanolin, which was helping, but Newman's Nipple Cream was 100 times better. I just thought I would share in case it might help any other mom out there who is struggling with soreness.

He's Here

2011-11-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

Tate Landry Brinker

arrived October 29th at 4:24am. He weighed 7lbs 13.5ozs and was 20 inches long. He is the sweetest little thing. It was a long hard labor that ended in a c-section but worth every minute of it. It is quite an adjustment for your family to go through since my last baby is now 9yrs old. I have great helpers in my other kids and my husband has been over the top wonderful in taking care of everything that needs done while I am heeling. I am hoping to post more pics soon. He really is beautiful(just like my other kids)!!

1 More Week

2011-10-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

Yep, 7 more days until my due date. The doctor says that if I don't go into labor this week that we will induce on Thursday or Friday of next week. Next time I blog I will be a mom to 4 kids. Wow!!

Pumpkin Carving Fun

2011-10-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

I must say that I love fall. The leaves are changing, temps are cooling off, football is in full swing, the kids are back in school, soup is on, and even the idea of carving pumpkins. Yeah, I only like the idea of carving pumpkins. I hate the smell of them and I won't touch the guts. Brandon and my kids know that I am only the picture taker on these days and the rest is up to them.

I was so thankful this year when our friends invited our home group over to have a day of pumpkin carving because this meant that I would not be finding pumpkin guts all over my house for the next couple of months. It never fails. No matter how much I try to get the kids to be careful with the guts I always find them all over the house.

It was a beautiful day in the country and the perfect setting for our fall pumpkin carving fun.

My pics are not coming up in the order that I would like and I am having trouble rearranging them so we are starting with the finished products.

Zach did a Great Job on his pumpkin this year and did most of it by himself.

Our friend Jeff having fun with the guts:)

Sidney, looking cute as always, carving away:)

This was Nicola's first time carving pumpkins. I think she enjoyed the experience but not the guts under her fingernails.
Getting a little help from Dad so that the top doesn't fall in when it's done.

It was such a beautiful day that we were able to kick the older kids outside to carve their pumpkins. They all think they are too cool to have the parents around anyways.

Fall

2011-10-08T16:46:00.000-07:00

My husband and I went on a fall walk down by the South Platte river the other day. I was really hoping to get some great fall pics but the last 2 days we were blessed with 60 mph winds and they aren't good for the fall foliage. It was a great day for a walk and I got a couple pics but can't help but think that a few days before there might have been prettier pictures to be had. I must say that fall in Nebraska is not near as picturesque as fall in the rocky mountains of Colorado.

Surprise!!

2011-10-02T19:18:00.001-07:00

I don't know if I titled this Surprise because Surprise I am blogging again or to tell you about the wonderful surprise baby shower that was thrown for me. Probably it's a little of both. I am now 37 weeks along. I am done with work. WooHoo!! I am going to be a stay at home mama for a while. I have been feeling pretty good but can't wait to meet our little man. To top it all off I have finally figured out what is wrong with my camera/computer communication problem so I can post pictures again. I am excited to start taking pics again.

37 Weeks

My mother-in-law, 2 daughters, and who know who else have been planning a surprise baby shower for me for quite some time now. I wasn't planning on having one because it is my 4th child but people kept telling me(reminding me) that it has been 9 years since I have had a baby. I did get rid of everything so I was more than thankful for it.

What made this all the more surprising was that they had it at MY house and I still didn't have any idea. I have some wonderful girlfriends that got me out of the house for a pedicure(they didn't have to try to hard) and the rest of the team went to town cleaning and decorating for the big surprise. I was blown away when I walked in and saw everyone and everything. I was truly blessed by the event.

My mother-in-law went all out with the decorations. She is an extremely talented lady. She should have her own party planning business. I wish I had some more pictures to show everyone all of the things she did. If I get more I will post them later.

Invisible Children

2011-04-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

Today my girls are having a day of silence to make people more aware of the Invisible Children in Africa. Kids that are kidnapped and forced into military at a young age sometimes being forced to kill their own family members. You can go to the website to learn more about the project. It is a sad story that people don't know enough about.I know that I had no idea it was going on. I am proud that my girls are working for this cause and I hope that many others will get involved as well.

Monster Eggs

2011-04-23T07:01:00.000-07:00

The kids had fun decorating Easter eggs again this year. It was Nicola's first time ever decorating eggs. I think they had fun because we got the monster kit and they were able to give them monster faces and hair after they were dyed.

Earth Day

2011-04-22T09:50:00.000-07:00

I know that it is Earth day but my kids keep walking around the house shutting lights off on me. I get it but I am not cleaning my house in the dark. I will find them something earth friendly to do if they don't back off and I'm will make sure they don't like it.

BIG News In A Little Package

2011-04-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

Oh yes! Surprise, Surprise, Surprise! Baby #4 is due at the end of October. The 27th to be exact. My little bean is 12 weeks in this pic, 2'' long, and about the size of a small lime(so my phone ap tells me). We don't know the sex yet. I don't want to know because I feel like I wouldn't spend as much money on stuff for the baby if I didn't know what I was having. My husband, kids, and Mother-in-law act as if not finding out would be equal to the world ending so we will find out at the next ultrasound appt if baby is cooperative. (I think it would be funny if it kept its legs crossed) Being old and pregnant is way different that being young and pregnant like I was before. This old body just isn't taking things as well. I would stay in my bed and sleep all day if I could(with cereal breaks of course). My youngest is going to be 9 years old when the new one comes along and my other two will be 13 and 12. This will definitely be a change for us all. Brooklyn will be graduating when the new one starts kindergarten. Don't get me wrong, I am excited but I can't help but think about how much life will change for us. This baby is coming for a reason it will just take time to find out what that is. All babies are a gift from God. Once I start feeling better I am sure that things will look up.

An Aussie in the House

2011-01-09T20:20:00.000-08:00

We went to the airport and picked up Nicola on Saturday. She is such a joy! She really clicks with our family. I was kind of worried because sometimes I think that we are a little bit loud and weird some times but so far so good. It is really fun to learn about the differences in our cultures. She has never seen snow so this week she is definitely going to get enough snow to last her for a while. School has even been canceled tomorrow because of the white stuff. I think a day of scooping and snowball fights is in order.

We Are Having A Girl!!

2010-12-11T19:49:00.000-08:00

It has been a whirlwind of a week. We were asked on Tuesday if we would be interested in hosting an exchange student, filled out the paperwork that night, and were pre-approved on Wednesday. We have found out that we will be adding to the family next month when we have a foreign exchange student come stay with us for a year. Nicola is from Australia and she will be coming to America to experience our culture. I wonder what she will think about our little rural town. It will be a great opportunity for her and for us. The girls are very excited to have her. Zach isn't so happy. He wanted it to be a boy since he already has 2 sisters but I'm sure he will get over it. Brandon and I will have to quickly learn how to handle a teenager. Are we ready for this? I don't know. We will take it one day at a time.

Heaven is for Real

2010-12-05T15:16:00.000-08:00

Just finished reading the book Heaven is For Real. It is written by Todd Burpo about his sons brush with death and his time in Heaven. It is a true story that takes place here in Nebraska. The story is amazing and the way a child can be so matter-of-fact makes you think about Heaven all over again. I don't seem to ever think about heaven is just is. I always think of it as beyond comprehension so why even try. This little boy just tells it like he saw it. Thank you Colton for the little glimpse.

It was a quick read. It only took me a few hours but worth it. I have a tendency to drowned myself in a book that I find interesting. I need some new books to read so leave me a comment and let me know of any good books that you have read lately.

GOOO BIIIIG REEED!!!

2010-12-03T09:18:00.000-08:00

He is off. Brandon is heading down to Texas for the Big 12 Championship game. A bunch of men (no women at all) in a couple of RV's, tailgating, stadium food, and football is going to equal.....trouble, alot of gas, no sleep, and a bunch of good fun memories. That is my husband's Christmas present so he had better enjoy it.

Merry Christmas to Them

2010-12-01T17:58:00.000-08:00

My friend came to my house tonight and told me that they won over $50,000 in the Nebraska lottery today. WOW!!! Merry Christmas to them! I am sooo happy for them. She was beyond excited which I would have been too.

Funny thing...Brandon and I have talked many times about what we are going to do when we win the lottery. What makes that funny you ask.....we don't ever buy lottery tickets. We keep hoping that out parents will win and just give us some:) It is ever so fun to dream though.

What's The Code

2010-11-28T20:15:00.001-08:00

My kids can't wait for me to get the presents under the tree. They can't wait to figure out the code. Each year, to keep the kids from messing with the gifts too much, in stead of putting there names on the gifts I use a code so that they aren't sure who gets which present. They have so much fun with this. As the kids get older we have to get more tricky. In years past we have used these codes....
3 different colored wrapping papers
different ribbons
numbers (one child had 1, 11, 31, 13, etc. another 2, 24, 42, etc. and 5, 56, 65, etc.)
numbers divisible by other numbers
This year we are using animals. I can't let you know the code in case my kids read the blog but I will after Christmas. It really gets there brains thinking and keeps them from messing with the presents because they aren't sure if it is there gift or not.

Where Has The Time Gone?

2010-11-26T15:46:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that it has been almost 1 year since I posted. Where has the time gone? Maybe I need to go shopping at 3 am more often to get the motivation. That probably won't be happening because I did that this morning and it was not fun at all :( That made me kind of sad because I always look forward to it. I don't know if it was because some stores changed up their hours or what but the crowds were ridiculous. I didn't even come home with anything exciting because it was all to overwhelming.

Oh Well!! I have gotten a lot of Christmas shopping done. The lights are up outside and I am ready for some holiday fun. Hopefully the tree will go up tomorrow. Pics to come (if it looks good).

So True

2010-02-01T06:31:00.000-08:00

******************

I am positive

that very few things

in my life

are as soothing

as vacuum lines

in my carpet.

*******************

Good Reads

2010-01-20T06:38:00.000-08:00

I have been doing some great reading in the last couple of months. I go in spurts where I don't read for a long time then I go crazy and read everything that I can get my hands on. Right now I'm in the hands on mode. All of these books are great especially the Donald Miller book and Crazy Love. I got so much wonderful ideas from those books. I highly recommend them. My Lobotomy is a different sort of book but I got it from a co-worker and decided to give it a try. It is very interesting book about a man who got a lobotomy when he was 12. Not quite in the same category as the other two but sometimes you need something different.
I am almost done with my last book and so I will need to find another to read quickly so I don't loose my mojo. I like reading so I don't want to stop again. If you have any suggestions let me know.

Electronics Free Day

2010-01-19T16:38:00.001-08:00

Do you ever look around at your family and get totally disgusted because someone is on the computer, playing the Wii, playing on the DS, Playing on their IPod, and the TV is on? No one is talking to each other or even acknowledging any ones presence. I am one of those people. I am not blaming anyone because I am usually the one on the computer but I had enough. After talking with Brandon we decided that Sunday would be NO ELECTRONICS DAY at the Brinker house. No TV, No Computer, No DS, No Wii, No Playstation, No IPod, and so on. You would have thought that it was the end of the world for the kids(especially Zach). We have now had 2 Sundays electronic free and it has been kind of fun. We have played games, read books, went on adventures at the lake, and just spend some good old quality time together. I think that it is going to be a good thing for our family. It is too easy to get sucked into the STUFF we have around and forget about the really important things around us. I am afraid that I am going to wake up one day and wonder way all the time went. I want my kids to have fun memories and great life stories. You can't make a great life story staring at the TV. So we are working on a better life story for our family.

Proud Mom Moment

2010-01-18T18:23:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have one of those moments where you are just soooo proud of your kids that you have to share the story? I am having that moment today. Brooklyn has been saving, for almost a year, for an ipod touch. She is about $60 shy of having enough. Her and a friend from church have been talking and decided that they want to start a girls bible study. Brooklyn has a friend that she takes to youth group but isn't sure about her salvation and she wants her to be part of the study. She has talked to this girl and talked her into joining the study but that isn't even the great part. Today she took a good chunk of her money that she has been saving and went to the bible supply store and bought her friend a teen girls study bible with her name on it. I couldn't be more proud but more importantly I know that God is so very proud of her. I am just beaming today because she is turning into such a wonderful little lady with a heart of gold.

2009-12-31T09:54:00.001-08:00

Time To Take Down The Tree

2009-12-31T09:51:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T06:51:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all! We hope that you have a wonderful holiday with your families and take the time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. NO, it's not the presents.

Luke 2:9-12 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

Sad but True

2009-12-19T14:11:00.001-08:00

Are You Ready?

2009-12-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas Countdowns at WiddlyTinks.com

That Time Of Year

2009-11-29T17:36:00.001-08:00

It is that time of year. I was up at 4:30 Friday morning to hit the sales and Santa must have been up a while too.

Catching Up

2009-11-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

The last blog was May Day and so here is a quick catch up of events...

My brother got married. I know I can't believe it either. Rachel is a sweetheart and has a daughter Kyra. I am so happy for them and wish them the best.

Zachary graduated from Kindergarten. We are so proud. He only got sent to the Principles office 1 time.

Brooklyn graduated from the 5th grade and is now in Jr. High. Where has the time gone?

Went to Vegas with my mom and my sister. I would post more picks but you know what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

Zachary turned 7 in July. We had a party for him at Cody Park in North Platte.

First day of school in North Platte. We moved back to Nebraska in August. Brooklyn is in 6th grade. Sidney is in 5th grade and Zach is in 1st grade. I am so glad that they enjoy school.

Sidney turned 10 in August. We had a Luau party in the sunroom of our new house.

October greeted us with a huge snow storm. We didn't get a fall.

Halloween was fun this year. Brook wanted to be a Smurf, Zach Darth Vader, and Sid was a remote control. Everyone kept calling her a cell phone but she was a remote. Carli was a hippy. For those of you that don't know, Carli is our fourth child(unofficially). She is Brooklyn's best friend and they are joined at the hip.

That about wraps it up. I know alot more has happened but that is what I have pictures of. It is all kind of a blur since a big move was stuck in the middle. We are settled now and hopefully everything can get back to normal. Whatever that is!

Is facebook going to take over?

2009-11-20T02:49:00.000-08:00

It looks like it has. What makes facebook so darned addictive? It isn't that I care about who is having coffee or just finished vacuuming. What is even stupider is that I have a fish tank on FB that I take care of every day. My laundry isn't done in real life but my fake fish are fed. It really doesn't get any more stupid than that. I think that I am coming back to the good old blogging life. It's like scrapbooking with less craftiness involved. My kids can look back and enjoy or in some cases be mortified at my posts.

2009-05-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

May your day be filled with baskets of popcorn blown over on your front porch because you aren't home. You are out delivering your baskets to their house.

Dear God,

2009-04-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

A Sunny Day At Miller Farm

2009-04-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

Zach had a field trip to Miller Farm. The weather was beautiful and the kids had a blast. This is a working farm and they teach you about planting. They have a big green house and all kinds of flowers and vegetables. In the fall they have a pumpkin patch but I think the kids enjoyed the play area the best. They are very creative and have all kinds of things to enjoy.

Zach and Connor were best buds on the trip. They were my little group to keep track of.

They had all kinds of things for the kids to do. Zach loved the pedal tractors the best.

If you want to see a giant rooster, big shoe, extra large bug and an old plane go to Miller Farm.

The best were the Cars characters. I thought Mator was done the best.

We all had a great time and would highly recommend a trip out there.
I was really blessed to get to share that time with Zachy.

The DAM Post

2009-04-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn and I were talking one day about field trips. She wanted to know if I went on any fun field trips when I was in school. I told her we didn't do fun trips like she does but we did go on the DAM FIELD TRIP. We went to the Red Willow Dam when I was in 3rd grade. I told her how as 3rd graders we loved saying that we went on the DAM field trip. She was rolling. Later that week we went to Nana and Papa's for the weekend when we arrived I noticed that they had a DAM CALENDAR on the counter. I picked it up and showed Brooklyn the DAM calendar knowing that she would get a kick out of it. She ran around the house showing everyone the DAM calendar and saying "DAM calendar" as much as she could. It began to get very annoying to everyone especially Zach because he needed some help so he yells "Can anyone help me find my DAMN LEGOS?" We all began laughing hysterically at the same time explaining to him how inappropriate it was. Oh the good times!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

I hope that you all have a wonderful Easter. Please take time to remember the sacrifice that God gave us. He sent his only Son to die and the cross for OUR sins so that we might have eternal life with Him in Heaven if we choose to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Have you done that yet? Have you asked for forgiveness? We all need it.

Delight Gluten Free Magazine

2009-02-07T10:45:00.001-08:00

WooHoo! My friend Julie has published her first copy of her magazine. It is a magazine for people that are gluten intolerant. She has first hand experience since her husband and son both have Celiac Disease. You should check it out because whether you are gluten intolerant or not it has great recipes and stories. I am so proud of her accomplishments. She also has her website up and running at http://www.delightgfmagazine.com/. Check it out. Oh and by the way if you subscribe to the magazine the first copy is free but hurry that is only for the first 200 subscribers.

Funny Friday!

2009-01-30T08:54:00.001-08:00

Will it take over?

2009-01-28T13:52:00.000-08:00

Will what take over? Facebook, of course. It is my new addiction. Brandon thinks that I get on there to look for a new boyfriend but that is the last thing I want. I can't keep up with the man, kids, and jobs that I have. I have already found people that I haven't talked to in a very long time. It is kind of fun to see where everyone is at and get to know them again. Wally is against facebook so I tried for a long time not to get sucked in but it happened. Like a big vacuum it sucked me in and now I worry, will it take over my blog? Will it become more important to me? GASP! Surely not! Only time will tell.

Webkinz Wedding

2009-01-23T08:02:00.000-08:00

During our Christmas visit to Nana and Papa's house we made time for a Webkinz wedding. Nana always goes way over the top. She made the lovely stage, bought the outfits, made a bouquet and corsages for the wedding party, and even made a wedding cake for the occasion. Autumn's frog and Sidney's frog were joined together in holy matrimony. Brandon was the pastor and we all got to be the on lookers. It was a hoot.

It's The End Of The World As We Know It!

2009-01-20T14:43:00.001-08:00

Run For Your Life!!!!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-18T13:25:00.000-08:00

I know that I am only 3 weeks late in telling you that. Work has just made it impossible for me to keep up with my blog. I know that you are tired of seeing the HEAD so I have posted some pics of what has happened in the month since I blogged last. Here it goes.......

This is the Christmas picture that I used in our card. I ran out of cards so I apologize to all of my friends in Colorado who didn't get one. I even got them to pose for some individual shots. I take what I can get.

Our next big happening was that Zach lost his first tooth. WooHoo the tooth fairy came too and left him $5. They don't get that for every tooth just the first one.

Brooklyn had her first band concert right before Christmas. She did a great job! She even played a couple Christmas songs for us at house church.

Our newest and most beloved addition to the house is GUITAR HERO! I must admit I find it quite fun. Jeff K. enjoys playing but only if he can wear the Hannah Montana wig while he does it. The little boys also get into it. They are the coolest showing off there buff bods.

I know that I always say this but I hope to be better about blogging. A new year could bring many new things to share about. Happy New Year!

Forth Photo

2008-12-19T20:18:00.000-08:00

I have to go along with all of the 4th photos that I am finding on every ones blogs. I wasn't sure what to expect because we just had to erase everything on the computer and I wasn't sure how many pictures I would even have. I didn't know if there would be a 4th folder but there was and ttttaaaadddaaaa....

What comes up but a picture of my husbands big noggin and it's not even a good picture. Zach needed some close ups for a school project one night. So that is why we have that lovely pic. I bet that you all are jealous of my picture folders right now:)

Everyone should play along with the picture in...picture file

4th folder

4th picture.

Let's see if you can all come up with something better than the BIG HEAD!

Bird is the Word!

2008-11-28T17:37:00.000-08:00

We had a very quiet, well not very quiet because we do have 3 kids, Thanksgiving. We stayed home this year and enjoyed a dinner of our own. Brandon cooked the bird because I was not about to stick my hand in the turkey's butt and pull out who knows what. We fixed the sides together and had way more food than we needed. It turned out better than I expected because I had kind of been depressed that week because I am used to big holidays with lots of family. It wasn't so bad spending time at home this Thanksgiving.

The Bird! So plump and juicy!

Turkey, rolls, potatoes, corn, gravy, green bean casserole, stuffing, jello, and pie

We are very blessed in deed!

Where Do Crescent Rolls Come From?

2008-11-27T10:14:00.000-08:00

2008-11-26T20:39:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

2008-11-26T20:15:00.001-08:00

The most wonderful time of year for me is the annual Yada shopping trip. I love the time that I get to spend with these ladies. They are the best of friends. We laugh ALOT, sometimes cry, and everything in between. It is great to know that you can go months without seeing them and get together and it seems like we were never apart. We shopped our butts off. I think we spend almost 20 hours shopping on our trip. This was a mile stone year for us as well because there was no one breast feeding on the trip. I didn't see any ones boobs this year. Next year won't be the same since Kristi is going to have another baby. We will have to see her boob I'm sure. I was so thankful for the time we had together and can't hardly wait till next year.

After 16 hours of shopping, this is our load. We take it back to the room for show and tell.

The greatest group of ladies!

One of these ladies went home with a hot pair of men's chili pepper thong underwear that I couldn't resist putting in our exchange gift. They were hilarious! What Fun!

What a Weekend!

2008-11-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

We had one busy weekend considering that it was our first weekend without soccer and I thought that we would get to relax. We did not relax. Friday we drove to Longmont and went to a Go Fish concert. I thought that it was more fun than Brandon did. They are a Christian kids band. They are better than the Wiggles. The kids really enjoyed it.

On Saturday we got ticket to the CU vs. OSU football game in Boulder. Not exactly my cup of tea but I took one for the family and sucked it up. The temperatures could have been worse. God must have known how miserable I would have been if I was cold. We sat by some good friends and had a fun time. We even took the shuttle bus to the game for an added experience.

At one point I caught Brooklyn cheering for the Buffs. GASP!

Now I need a day off to recover from our days off. It was a great weekend filled with wonderful family time. We need to cherish those times.

Character Counts

2008-11-07T07:46:00.000-08:00

I got a call from Zach's teacher yesterday at work saying that they chose him to receive the character counts award for this month at school. He won the reward for being responsible. They said that they can always count on him to be working on what he is suppose to be doing. He is always following instructions and staying on task. Who's kid is this anyway and why doesn't he do this at home! We are very proud of him and I'm glad that he listens to somebody. Way to go Zach!

Don't Forget To Vote

2008-11-03T19:26:00.001-08:00

Tuesday is the big day! Don't forget to...

What do Star Wars, Hannah, and a Trash Can have in common?

2008-10-31T18:42:00.000-07:00

You guessed it! It was all costumes that my kids wore for Halloween. It was a beautiful evening. The temps were in the 60's. You didn't have to wear a big bulky coat over your costume like in so many Halloweens past. Zach did his usual 10 houses and was done with it all. It works out good for me because them Zach and I just get to sit at home and pass out candy. Brandon takes the girls out a little farther and they all end up with way more candy than they would ever need. I hope that you all had a good evening too!

The Loot!

A dental bill waiting to happen!

Trick or Treat!

2008-10-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Trick or Treat Day!

Bingo!

2008-10-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

Should I vote for Obama or McCain?

Your Issue Profile: 52% Obama, 48% McCain

Truth be told, you're not really satisfied with either of the candidates.

You could vote for either of them. You are the typical coveted swing voter.

You may want to narrow yourself down to a particular set of issues in order to pick your president.

Or start looking at third party candidates. One of them might suit you better.

Should You Vote for Obama or McCain?

They hit the nail on the head with this quiz. Is it to late to pick 2 different candidates. I'm not impressed with either one.

Get A Kick Out Of This!

2008-10-20T17:51:00.000-07:00

Jaime, one of the moms from Brook's soccer team snapped this picture. It shows how much determination Brooklyn plays with. She loves the game. I hope she keeps it up.

I've made myself reappear

2008-10-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I have blogged. A lot has happened in that time. I must first give a shout out to my husband of 11years. Today is our anniversary. The time has gone by so fast and I love him more today than ever. He puts up with a bunch of stuff(mainly me) and he hasn't left yet.

I love you honey!

Now back to la vida loca. The kids started back to school in August. It was so strange to not look down and still have one standing by my leg. All 3 are going to the same school and they are doing great. We had our first parent/teacher conference in October. I was very worried about the report I would get with Zach. He is by far my most stubborn child but they teachers said that he is the hardest working kid in the class. I told them they must have the wrong child "my sons name is Zach". She assured me that she was talking about Zach and was glad that he was in the class. What a relief for me. Sidney got the same report, good student but easily distracted. Brooklyn got the people pleaser award and everything was great. I will take those reports any day.

Right after the kids started school I started a new job. I am now employed at Orlando Chiropractic. I am a chiropractic assistant. That job entails all of the front office duties and helping to take care of patients as well. It is a much more rewarding job than Target.

Sidney turned 9 in the midst of all of this. She had a girl pampering party. I had my friends come over and one did the girls' hair, one painted toe nails, and I gave them a manicure. After they were beautified we all went out to dinner at Chile's. Good times were had by all.
Soccer is in full swing. Both of the girls are playing on traveling teams again. This year we are getting the true meaning of travel. They have been playing up and down the front range. Most Saturdays we have to split up to get the girls to their games. Brandon is the assistant coach for Sid's team. He loves coaching. Brooklyn had a tournament a couple weeks ago. She got second place. They played extra tough and exceeded our expectations.Soccer, school, work, and church pretty much take up our time. I hope that I will find the time to get back to blogging regularly so I can keep everyone updated. Have a great Saturday!

Looking For A Job

2008-08-07T12:08:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I have been looking for a job, off and on, for some time now. I think the reason I hate looking for a job is the stupid process you have to go through to get the job. The dumb questions they ask you on a resume and in the interviews. I came across this application that was filled out for a job at McDonald's and it cracked me up. I so want to have the nerve to do this someday.

McDonald's APPLICATION
This is an actual job application a 17-year-old boy submitted at a McDonald’s fast-food establishment in Florida – and they hired him because he was so honest and funny!

NAME: John Smith
SEX: Not yet. Still waiting for the right person.
DESIRED POSITION: Company’s President or Vice President. But seriously, whatever’s available. If I were in a position to be picky, I wouldn’t be applying here in the first place.
DESIRED SALARY: $185,000 a year plus stock options and a Michael Ovitz style severance package. If that’s not possible, make an offer and we can haggle.
EDUCATION: Yes.
LAST POSITION HELD: Target for middle management hostility.
SALARY: Less than I’m worth.
MOST NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENT: My incredible collection of stolen pens and post-it notes.
REASON FOR LEAVING: It sucked.
HOURS AVAILABLE TO WORK: Any.PREFERRED HOURS: 1:30-3:30 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.
DO YOU HAVE ANY SPECIAL SKILLS?Yes, but they’re better suited to a more intimate environment.
MAY WE CONTACT YOUR CURRENT EMPLOYER? If I had one, would I be here?
DO YOU HAVE ANY PHYSICAL CONDITIONS THAT WOULD PROHIBIT YOU FROM LIFTING UP TO 50 LBS? Of what?
DO YOU HAVE A CAR?I think the more appropriate question here would be “Do you have a car that runs?”
HAVE YOU RECEIVED ANY SPECIAL AWARDS OR RECOGNITION?I may already be a winner of the Publishers Clearing house Sweepstakes.
DO YOU SMOKE?On the job no, on my breaks yes.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS?Living in the Bahamas with a fabulously wealthy dumb sexy blond super model who thinks I’m the greatest thing since sliced bread. Actually, I’d like to be doing that now.
DO YOU CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE IS TRUE AND COMPLETE TO THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE?Yes – Absolutely.
SIGN HERE: Aries.

I'm A Wally Fan

2008-08-04T10:53:00.000-07:00

You may be asking Wally who? Wally is my favorite DJ. Brandon thinks that I have a crush on Wally. He is just a hilarious DJ who hosts a funny evening show on Way FM 89.7. If you ever get a chance to listen to him and need a good laugh he is on from 6 to 10pm Monday thru Friday. I know that this is the cheesiest plug but I even laughed when I went to his website and found his todo list. I had to post it because he made me laugh again. I went to the website to begin with because I have been listening to Wally for a while and began to get really curious about what he looked like. Radio personalities never really look like what you expect them to look like. I was shocked to see Wally. I had him pictured as wwwaaayyy cooler but it won't stop me from listening to him. You can check him out at totalaxxess.com.

Another Face Lift

2008-08-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

I thought it was time for a new face lift. The yellow was about to make me puke sunshine so I went with stripes and I LOVE IT! Sorry I haven't blogged in a while we had a Trojan (which I guess is a virus) and oh did we ever have computer problems. Leo came and fixed our computer for us now we are almost good as new but we can't figure out how to get our e-mail now. If you are reading this and need to get a hold of us don't e-mail just call. Hopefully we get that figured out soon because it is driving me crazy. Anyhoo, I hope to post something more exciting than this soon so stay tuned.

To The Moon

2008-07-28T11:28:00.000-07:00

Who Knew?

Beautiful Colors of Summer

2008-07-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

Another one of my favorite things about going back home is that Nana, and my parents are both great gardeners. Their yards are full of beautiful flowers so I took pictures of some of them. They brighten up your days when the humidity is 100% and it's 100 degrees and the mosquitoes are eating you alive.

Good Food and Good Fun

2008-07-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

Nebraska was full of good food and good fun. We ate and played hard. We roasted marshmallows and made smores one evening before a big game of kickball. The kids always keep us busy especially my nephew Clayton. That boy loves sports so we played many games of kickball, wiffle ball, and cowboy golf (I think that is what it is called). There wasn't much down time.
Nothing more jun than roasting marshmallows!

Can you believe that this is only the 2nd smore that my mom has ever had. The first one was at my house last year. What a sheltered life she must have led.
Zach and my nephew Colton are the bestest buds. They pick up where they left off after months apart. They always make sure that they talk about butts as much as they can. Not appropriate but it sure is good for a laugh.

Pretty intense game I tell you!

Redneck Tank Top

2008-07-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

True Redneck Tank Top! This was taken in front of the Gardendale, Alabama , Walmart while she was going to the Flea market. This is hysterical! Look at it closely.

Now I ask you... Who sits and looks at a pair of men's briefs and says hmmmm...I can make a nice summer top from these!! On the other hand...$6 for a three pack is a good price!!

The Journey Continues

2008-07-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

Zach had his first experience with a BB gun at grandma and grandpa's house. It was love at first shot. He thought that was pretty cool. He prefered shooting at cans and bottles because the birds were too fast. Notice that they are shooting in town. You can only get away with that in little towns like Indianola, NE.

Thanks Grandpa!

4th of July Weekend

2008-07-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th of July weekend. We headed to North Platte and were able to take our good friends Leo, Jolie, and Parker back to see where we came from and meet the family. We showed them all of the things in North Platte....Cody Park, the many firework stands, Maranatha camp, and oh so much more that Nebraska has to offer(haha!). I think that they enjoyed their time and I know I did because I had been missing home like you wouldn't believe.

We started off by taking them to the UP train display at the park. The trains are huge and you get to walk through them and see all they have to offer for comfort which isn't much.

Next we headed to Cody Park to enjoy some rides, ice cream, and animal fun.

You can't beat the big ice cream cones at the snack shack which cost next to nothing.

Guess which one dropped theirs first!

Parker did with Zach coming in a close 2nd and actually dropping his twice.

Even Leo enjoyed feeding the animals.

Brooks best friend Carli got to join us for the 4th of July display.

The nights were completed by great fire displays by Brandon and the boys. They enjoy playing with fire.

Back Home

2008-07-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

I am home at last. We had a great but LLLOOONNNGGG time in Nebraska. So much stuff happened that I want to blog about but I will take it one thing at a time and I guess the most important thing that happened was my baby turned 6. Can you believe that my baby (literally) is 6? I can't. I so need to have another one don't you think? Brandon and I do make some pretty good looking kids! He is still as ornery as ever but lovable at the same time. We got to have birthday parties at both grandparents houses since we were in the state. That doesn't happen very often. Both grandmas made each party special for the little guy.

I hope to get some more posts up soon so I can share the fun that we had. If you get a chance you should just over to Leo's blog, Running With Ice Cream, and read his post about his trip to North Platte. He is just an amazing writer and the post makes Nebraska sound like Heaven.

Where Have I Been?

2008-07-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering where I have been or have you not even noticed that I was gone? Well I am spending some hot and humid time here in Nebraska. We are having fun with friends and family. I will be back in Colorado on the 18th with many pics from our trip. Enjoy your summer!

It's Not Worth Much

2008-07-01T14:29:00.001-07:00

My blog is worth $1,693.62.
How much is your blog worth?

I'm not sure how they put a $ amount on a blog. I didn't pay anything for it and no one pays me for it. I don't put in a ton of time working on it. Not that many people read it. What does make it have value? Where can I cash in on that value?

Get Smart

2008-06-30T13:00:00.001-07:00

Brandon and I had the opportunity to go on a hot Saturday afternoon date. Hot as in the temp outside was pretty hot. We went to see the movie Get Smart and I was disappointed. I love Steve Carell. I think that he is so funny but this movie was not as funny as I thought it could have been. It was no Even Almighty. The day wasn't completely uneventful though because I got into an argument with a lady in the bathroom who thought she needed to use two stalls. I couldn't believe that she wouldn't let it go. I think that I could have taken her but I am glad I didn't have to try although I have always wondered if I could win a fight. Anyway, I would pay Redbox prices to see this but not box office prices.

I Love Flip Flops!

2008-06-30T09:18:00.001-07:00

You live to have fun, and your sense of humor is downright goofy.
You are a big kid on the inside, and you have a very open heart.
You try to make every day feel like a vacation, even if you have other responsibilities.
Each day, you make a little bit of time to play and let loose.
Your ideal warm weather place: Disney World

What Your Flip Flops Say About You

The Flip Flop Test

Hot Fun in the Summer Time

2008-06-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

The kids have been working all summer doing chores and they are receiving an allowance. There allowance is equal to half of their age. The money is beginning to burn a hole in their pockets and they came up with the idea of all going in together to purchase a slip-n-slide. They didn't realize that it would only cost them a little under $3.00 a piece to purchase it. They thought that it would be alot more expensive and they could have paid alot more for a fancy one if they wanted to. They are all getting their $3 worth but they are also learning a lesson because they are realizing that you get what you pay for. It definitely isn't the best put together contraption. They are having fun even if you have to stop and fix it after each person has a turn.

Diet Questions Answered by A "Real" Doctor (I'm Sure)

2008-06-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

Q.I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life; is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.

Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.

Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!

Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain... Good!

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! .... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.

Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!

Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.

Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!

Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets. And remember:
'Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming 'WOO HOO, What a Ride'

AND.....For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.
1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wineand suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
CONCLUSION Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you!

A Burnt Offering

2008-06-11T11:01:00.001-07:00

Hey Batter, Batter, Swing!

2008-06-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

The Splendor of the King

2008-06-04T09:27:00.000-07:00

God amazed us the other night with the amazing clouds to the East of us. We walked outside and the clouds were building so boldly and rapidly. The sun was setting and reflecting on the clouds and you couldn't help but to see the splendor of our King. Nobody on earth could create something that amazing. I know the pictures don't do it justice but I wanted to share them.

A Memorial Soccer Weekend

2008-06-02T07:46:00.000-07:00

We had quite the soccer weekend when the Dishman's blessed us with their visit. Both Bret and Brooklyn played in a soccer tournament and then we got to spend Saturday evening at a Rapids game. Brooklyn has been wanting to go for quite a while so it worked out great for us.

You will notice that Zach isn't in the picture because the thought of spending a whole day at soccer was a little to much for him to handle. Sidney took this great picture of one of the Rapids mascots.
Waiting for the game to start. They were both excited and exhausted.The Rapids lost but we still had fun.

This video is of Brooklyn scoring a goal in the tourney. It is kind of hard to see you just have to take my word for it. The team ended up getting 3rd place.

Sharefest 2008

2008-06-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

We spent this last weekend doing volunteer work with 35 other churches and approximately 3500 volunteers. It was quite the time. We stained some fence, built some benches, reroofed a shed, and did yard work for a house is Boulder that helps teenage boys. It was a great feeling to work side by side with them to get work done that may not have otherwise been done.

Brook and the rest of us were covered with stain by the end of the day.

Taking a break to chow down.

Sidney painting a bench

Brandon helping with the shed

Leo getting ready to chop into some lumber

Friends and Wedgies

2008-05-31T06:19:00.001-07:00

I am so glad that I haven gotten to pick so many good friends. Thanks to all of you out there.

Graduation Day!

2008-05-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hick-At-Heart

2008-05-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

You grew up in rural Nebraska if…

1. You know how to polka, but never tried it sober.
2. You know what knee-high by the Fourth of July means.
3. You know it is traditional for the bride and groom to go bar hopping between the reception and wedding dance.
4. You know the difference between 'Green' and 'Red' farm machinery, and would fight with your friends over which was better!
5. You buy Christmas presents at Tractor Supply.
6. You spent more on beer & liquor than you did on food at your wedding.
7. You or someone you know was a 'Dairy Princess' at the county fair.
8. You know that 'combine' is a noun.
9. You let your older siblings talk you into putting your tongue on a steelpost in the middle of winter.
10. You think Lutheran and Catholic are THE major religions.
11. You know that 'creek' rhymes with 'pick'.
12. A Friday night date is getting a six-pack and taking your girlfriend shiningfor deer.
13. There was at least one kid in your class who had to help milkcows in the morning... phew!
14. Every wedding dance you have ever been to has the hokey pokey and the chickendance.
15. Your definition of a small town is one that only has one bar.
16. The local gas station sells live bait.
17. At least twice a year some part of your home doubles as a meat processing plant.
18. You think that the start of deer season is a national holiday.
19. Pop is the only name for soda.
20. Football schedules, hunting season and harvest are all taken into consideration before wedding dates are set.

All of these are so true that I had to print it. It does make us sound like a bunch of hicks. I will always be a hick-at-heart.

Celebrity Morph by MyHeritage

2008-05-22T07:04:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celeb

I've Been Tagged

2008-05-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

My friend, Natalie, tagged me and I guess that means that I have to answer some questions about my oh so exciting life in hopes that the people I tag will fill me in more on there exciting lives so that I can live vicariously through them. Anyways, here it goes....

What was I doing 10 years ago
I was trying to adjust to life with my first child.

Five things on my to do list today
1. Get motivated to go to the Body Pump class at the rec center
2. Laundry
3. Get started on going through boxes in the basement
4. Mow the lawn
5. Take a nap

Things that I would do if I were a Billionaire
Give, Give, Give, Give because I would still have enough left over to have a comfortable life and I can't even really wrap my mind around a billion dollars so I definitely don't need that much money.
Travel, travel, travel, because I have just gotten to enjoy the traveling life in the last couple of years and LOVE it.

Three bad habits
1. I'm a procrastinator
2. I belch like no woman you have ever heard before (but I don't know if that's a bad habit or a talent)
3. I pick at and bite my fingernails constantly

Five places that I have lived
1. Fort Hood, Texas (I was born there)
2. Germany
3. Indianola, NE
4. North Platte, NE
5. Lafayette, CO

Five jobs that I have had
1. I sold donuts at Sehnert's Dutch Oven Bakery
2. I was a grocery clerk at Blume's Supermarket
3. Paraprofessional at Madison Middle School
4. Evening manager at Sixth Street Food Stores
5. Dental Assistant

Five People that I want to know more about so I am tagging
1. Brandi Ginn
2. Robyn Huffman (this means you have to blog)
3. Jan Tighe
I can only think of three because alot of my friends have already been tagged or need to GET A BLOG. How sad is that.

Balloon Festival

2008-05-18T11:06:00.000-07:00

Once again we had the chance to wake up extra early and enjoy the hot air balloon launch not far from our neighborhood. It was the most beautiful morning. I didn't even need my jacket. We were blessed with many friends to attend with us. We followed it up with a yummy breakfast at Gunther Toody's Diner. YUMMY!

This cowboy balloon was airbrushed on. It took them over 2000 hours to complete it.

Brooklyn, Kate, Parker, Allison, Sidney, Tara, Josiah, Christopher, and Logan all tried to squeeze on the little blanket.

Garden Planting Time

2008-05-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

Brandon and the kids were busy Sunday planting the salsa garden. Brandon really missed not having a garden last year. He enjoys all of the aspects of gardening. I think that he gets it from his mom. The kids really wanted to help so Brandon, being the good dad he is, let them jump in and help. I just sat back and drank my coffee since it was mother's day and playing in the dirt really isn't my thing.

This is the bleeding heart plant that I have in my flower garden.

I just love the flowers.

Our Honeymoon

2008-05-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

We got back from Cozumel on Friday night. It was worth waiting 10 years for a honeymoon. We had the most wonderful time. The weather was beautiful, the water was warm, the people were friendly, the hotel was great. No complaints will come from me. We are already planning our next trip. It may take us a couple of years to save for but it will be worth it. We stayed at an all-inclusive resort called the Melia Cozumel. I would give it 2 thumbs up for sure. I even won a bottle of Tequila after one of the shows. WooHoo! Brandon also got groped by the Village People. Just ask him! I am sure that he will love to tell you all about it.

Our hotel was right on the beach. That's where we spent most of our time. It was the most soft, white, beautiful sand.

There were several iguanas wondering around the resort. They are kind of big and a little intimidating.

This is my favorite picture. It is the view coming out of the restaurants.

We went down town to do a little shopping and these guys were more than happy to pose for a picture.

This sunset was beautiful. I don't think that the picture does it much justice.

Brandon and I did one touristy thing we took a boat trip on the Fury. It took us to a couple of reefs and to a private beach for dinner and more beach fun.

Brandon discovered his new favorite hobby. He loved snorkeling. He was amazed that he could float. He has never been able to before. If he hadn't fried his back after his first time I am sure he would have snorkeled even more.

We discovered that the best snorkeling was at the resort next to ours. There were so many fish. People would feed them bread and they would come from all over. It was pretty amazing.

I will put a plug in for the resort. I would stay there again.

Just For Fun

2008-05-02T19:37:00.001-07:00

Thought that I would give my blog a new do and a new name. We are a bunch of busy bees here at the Brinker house so I thought that it fit well. Brandon and I do get to relax this weekend as we head off to Mexico. I can't wait. I will be thinking about you when I am soaking up the sun on the beach.

Japanese Speak Spanish? Who Knew!

2008-04-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Here is another little conversation that I had with Zach. He is just at the cutest age and I don't know where he comes up with this stuff.

Zach says to me "oh my gosh" and I reply "That doesn't sound very good. Let's not say that." After thinking a bit he says "You know mom other Americans say that and the Japanese too. No wait! The Japanese speak Spanish."

A Weirdo

2008-04-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

I have always been told that I should write down the cute things that my kids say so that I can look back and remember so I will start today. I know that my kids are getting older but they still say the cutest things.
I was teasing Zach when he got home from school the other day about how he was more than welcome to come into our house and stay awhile. I gave him a tour of the house and he kept saying "Mom I live here" but I just ignored him and continued on the tour. Towards the end of our tour he turns to me and says "Mom, Jesus sure did make you a weirdo!". That was the end of the tour because I broke down in laughter. I love those times.

Destination Imagination

2008-04-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn has been working for a few months with an after school club called Destination Imagination. They meet together twice a week and brainstorm. Their team name is Myth Busters and they busted a myth that you can make wings out of wax and feathers that will fly or something like that. They have been working hard and on Saturday they had the regional competition and they placed 2nd. WooHoo! Now they get to go on to the state tournament later this month.

Mrs. Mowry put in a lot of time with these kids. She was wonderful.

They are a Great group of kids!
Brooklyn was so excited to get her medal. She can't wait for the next competition.

Easter Sunday

2008-03-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

Easter Is On Its Way

2008-03-21T13:04:00.000-07:00

A Fine Day At The Zoo

2008-03-20T08:41:00.000-07:00

Zach and I were invited to the zoo with out wonderful neighbors Jolie and Parker. The girls were in school so we took advantage of the outing. If was a beautiful day to be at the zoo and the animals were putting on quite a show. I think that the animals are ready for summer too.