Sunday, December 28, 2008
Taking a Break
I am taking a break from blogging for a bit. My sweet hubby has some time off and since we don't get to be together as a family that often, I am taking some time to spend it with my boys. I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and I'll be back at the first of the year.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Merry Christmas From Our Family to Yours
An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you: he is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:9-11
Merry Christmas from The Waters Family
Merry Christmas from The Waters Family
Monday, December 22, 2008
What's The Scoop
Product #1
Indulgence Cookie Cutter 100-Piece Set
Just because I think everyone should own this set of cookie cutters. Its a 100 piece set with several cookie cutter shapes for every holiday as well as the complete alphabet, and miscellaneous shapes like dinosaurs, teddy bears, moons, etc. I have used this set for everything from Christmas dough ornaments, to Halloween and Easter cookies, to using the alphabet cutters to spell out my youngest's name on top of his birthday cake. I've also used them to cut my kiddos sandwiches for their lunches. Its a neat surprise for them when they get to school and open their lunch box to find a dinosaur sandwich or one in the shape of an American flag.
My friend Lori bought this set for me for Christmas one year (if my memory is correct). I'm not sure where she bought it but you can purchase one at Bed, Bath and Beyond for $9.99.
Product #2
Hyper Dash
Saundra got my boys this game for Christmas and they absolutely love it!! Its fun and a great way for them to run off some energy indoors or out. You set out the colored cups- my boys usually set one in each room of the house. The handheld battery operated control tells you what color to find, you run to it as fast as you can and smash the controller on to that color cup, it then tells you your next color and so on. You can have races to see who can finish in the least amount of time. We have played this game with kiddos from 2 years to 8 years old and they all have loved it. There are several different types of games you can play as well. I like that it requires your child to run around. I'm all about burning off some energy!
You can buy it at most of the retail stores and it sells for around $20.
Indulgence Cookie Cutter 100-Piece Set
Just because I think everyone should own this set of cookie cutters. Its a 100 piece set with several cookie cutter shapes for every holiday as well as the complete alphabet, and miscellaneous shapes like dinosaurs, teddy bears, moons, etc. I have used this set for everything from Christmas dough ornaments, to Halloween and Easter cookies, to using the alphabet cutters to spell out my youngest's name on top of his birthday cake. I've also used them to cut my kiddos sandwiches for their lunches. Its a neat surprise for them when they get to school and open their lunch box to find a dinosaur sandwich or one in the shape of an American flag.
My friend Lori bought this set for me for Christmas one year (if my memory is correct). I'm not sure where she bought it but you can purchase one at Bed, Bath and Beyond for $9.99.
Product #2
Hyper Dash
Saundra got my boys this game for Christmas and they absolutely love it!! Its fun and a great way for them to run off some energy indoors or out. You set out the colored cups- my boys usually set one in each room of the house. The handheld battery operated control tells you what color to find, you run to it as fast as you can and smash the controller on to that color cup, it then tells you your next color and so on. You can have races to see who can finish in the least amount of time. We have played this game with kiddos from 2 years to 8 years old and they all have loved it. There are several different types of games you can play as well. I like that it requires your child to run around. I'm all about burning off some energy!You can buy it at most of the retail stores and it sells for around $20.
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Best Advice
What's the best piece of advice you've ever received and who gave it to you?
I've received some great advice in my life. If I had to narrow it down to the best, I'd have two selections.
1. Its easy to get your feelings hurt when everything is about you.
My past Sunday school teacher Mike Morris said this in one of his lessons and boy did that smack me right in the face. Ouch! But so very true and to this day if I am in a situation where I'm feeling targeted or hurt, I repeat that statement to myself.
2. The Lord wants us to love everyone but some people you have to love from afar.
Can I get an Amen?! I used to be the Queen of toxic relationships. The Lord does want us to love one another but when the people you interact with daily are negatively influencing your life, especially when it comes to your walk with the Lord, you got to love them from afar.
I've received some great advice in my life. If I had to narrow it down to the best, I'd have two selections.
1. Its easy to get your feelings hurt when everything is about you.
My past Sunday school teacher Mike Morris said this in one of his lessons and boy did that smack me right in the face. Ouch! But so very true and to this day if I am in a situation where I'm feeling targeted or hurt, I repeat that statement to myself.
2. The Lord wants us to love everyone but some people you have to love from afar.
Can I get an Amen?! I used to be the Queen of toxic relationships. The Lord does want us to love one another but when the people you interact with daily are negatively influencing your life, especially when it comes to your walk with the Lord, you got to love them from afar.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Difficult Times
It is no secret that our country is going through difficult times. Its most noticeable for most in financial aspects. Its more noticeable for Christians in religious ones. Sadly, I see our country turning away from the very principals and beliefs that this nation was founded on. Its a scary time for our nation. Sometimes I'm overcome with worry about what the future holds for my children but then I'm reminded that it doesn't matter what the future holds because The Lord holds their future and that's all that really matters.
Its sad that during what is supposed to be such a joyous season, there are people who are going through the darkest, most uncertain times in their lives. So many friends and neighbors have lost their jobs and some even their homes. Here in the state of Tennessee, our governor has asked all state departments to cut their budgets by 15%. My husband works for the State and as I was talking to him on the phone this morning I realized that he could lose his job. He talked about being hopeful that only currently unstaffed open positions would be cut but he just wasn't certain. I worried about him having to let some of his staff go and what that would mean for their families as well.
I think what saddens me the most is that our government, the auto industry, the oil industry, you name it- they all have spent carelessly and lived frivolously in extravagance without any care or concern for those people who even made their gluttony possible- the working men and women of this country. So we have the big CEOs who make millions of dollars a year asking for bailouts for their companies. Big CEOs who make more in a month than most of us will make in a year or years, asking that Congress bail their company out because they have gone over their budget. Playing on sympathies, stating that if they do not receive bail out funds, many men and women will lose their jobs and their pensions.
So here we are paying the price. I'm not saying that we are totally blameless. Many of us have done the same things only on a smaller scale. Many of us have purchased homes knowing that we really couldn't afford them. Bought a better car or a bigger tv just because we wanted it even though we really couldn't afford it. In many ways its become the norm in our country to live way above one's means. When will we realize that "stuff" will not make us happy, that "stuff" does not make us better than others, and that "stuff" will not get us where we need to be in the end?
When did we lose sight of taking responsibility for our actions? Why can't that millionaire CEO be forced to put money back in his company to pay his workers, keep their pensions, and ensure his company stays afloat. Why can't we as citizens take responsibility for our actions. If we have a house we can't afford, we need to sell it and get in to one we can. If we own a car where the payment is crushing us, sell it. Let's let go of our pride and take responsibility.
I promise you I'm not preaching because I'll be the first to admit I've made some not so sound financial decisions in the past and I've spent years paying for them. But I did pay for them. Never once did it cross my mind to ask for a bailout. I didn't realize that was an option. I made those decisions and I took the consequences. Its what made me learn a better way.
So, how will big business ever learn a better way or even care about a better way if they never experience the consequences?
I would just ask you to join me in praying for our country. Pray for those that have lost their jobs or their homes. Pray for a better awareness of financial stability both in the individual citizen and in big industry. Pray that our country would get back to the principles it was founded on. Pray because prayer is strong and we pray to a mighty God who hears us.
Its sad that during what is supposed to be such a joyous season, there are people who are going through the darkest, most uncertain times in their lives. So many friends and neighbors have lost their jobs and some even their homes. Here in the state of Tennessee, our governor has asked all state departments to cut their budgets by 15%. My husband works for the State and as I was talking to him on the phone this morning I realized that he could lose his job. He talked about being hopeful that only currently unstaffed open positions would be cut but he just wasn't certain. I worried about him having to let some of his staff go and what that would mean for their families as well.
I think what saddens me the most is that our government, the auto industry, the oil industry, you name it- they all have spent carelessly and lived frivolously in extravagance without any care or concern for those people who even made their gluttony possible- the working men and women of this country. So we have the big CEOs who make millions of dollars a year asking for bailouts for their companies. Big CEOs who make more in a month than most of us will make in a year or years, asking that Congress bail their company out because they have gone over their budget. Playing on sympathies, stating that if they do not receive bail out funds, many men and women will lose their jobs and their pensions.
So here we are paying the price. I'm not saying that we are totally blameless. Many of us have done the same things only on a smaller scale. Many of us have purchased homes knowing that we really couldn't afford them. Bought a better car or a bigger tv just because we wanted it even though we really couldn't afford it. In many ways its become the norm in our country to live way above one's means. When will we realize that "stuff" will not make us happy, that "stuff" does not make us better than others, and that "stuff" will not get us where we need to be in the end?
When did we lose sight of taking responsibility for our actions? Why can't that millionaire CEO be forced to put money back in his company to pay his workers, keep their pensions, and ensure his company stays afloat. Why can't we as citizens take responsibility for our actions. If we have a house we can't afford, we need to sell it and get in to one we can. If we own a car where the payment is crushing us, sell it. Let's let go of our pride and take responsibility.
I promise you I'm not preaching because I'll be the first to admit I've made some not so sound financial decisions in the past and I've spent years paying for them. But I did pay for them. Never once did it cross my mind to ask for a bailout. I didn't realize that was an option. I made those decisions and I took the consequences. Its what made me learn a better way.
So, how will big business ever learn a better way or even care about a better way if they never experience the consequences?
I would just ask you to join me in praying for our country. Pray for those that have lost their jobs or their homes. Pray for a better awareness of financial stability both in the individual citizen and in big industry. Pray that our country would get back to the principles it was founded on. Pray because prayer is strong and we pray to a mighty God who hears us.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
What's The Scoop?
A day late and a dollar short- story of my life lately. :) I know that this post is supposed to happen on Mondays but with the freaky "no snow" snow days our county has been getting (at least one a week for the past three weeks), I haven't had time to get typical things done much less post on the blog. What can I say, I live in Tennessee where even the minute threat of snow or ice is apparently paralyzing. :)
Product #1
The Wii Fit
Because its a long story, I won't get in to how I received my Christmas present from my hubby early. I'm so glad I did. My family and I have had the best time with the Wii Fit. It calculates your weight, BMI and your Wii fit age. I can't say I was happy about some of that but it was a good motivator to kick working out in to a higher gear.
So, its fun if you do it by yourself and can really give you a good workout. There's yoga, balance, aerobics, and strength training. And the stuff you do is fun! Yes, I said it- exercising is fun (with the Wii Fit). The best part is that my boys love it. They love it and they don't even realize they are exercising.
One of my favorites is the aerobic hula hooping. I hear you laughing. :) You try hula hooping for 2 minutes straight- it can kick your booty! I also love this one because it is hilarious to watch people on the Wii Fit board hula hooping! My four year old just cannot get the motion but its funny to watch him try. Its really fun to watch Jim (I may have to video him!). I'm certain I'm quite funny to see also.
If you have a Wii and are thinking of purchasing a game for it, get the Wii Fit. Here in Middle Tennessee they have been difficult to find but if you find one, you won't regret it.
My last part of What's the Scoop is not a product. My boys decided to run the one mile Jingle Bell jog at our local Y this past Saturday. Our neighbor and friend, Ms Ashley was running the 5K before the jog. The boys were super excited to get there and cheer her on from the sidelines. It was freezing! The boys put jingle bells on their shoes and took off for the one mile run. Avery ran the entire mile and LOVED it. He's asked to start running so he can run the 5K next year. Aidan had fun too! He didn't quite make it the entire mile but he ran his little heart out. They received "medals" at the end. Check out their pictures here and here. You may have to scroll down to find the boys. It was a lot of fun and at the end, we got to watch the Frostbite Freeze where adults and kids alike took a plunge into the outside Y pool. The temp of the water was a chilly 37 degrees!!
Product #1
The Wii Fit
Because its a long story, I won't get in to how I received my Christmas present from my hubby early. I'm so glad I did. My family and I have had the best time with the Wii Fit. It calculates your weight, BMI and your Wii fit age. I can't say I was happy about some of that but it was a good motivator to kick working out in to a higher gear.
So, its fun if you do it by yourself and can really give you a good workout. There's yoga, balance, aerobics, and strength training. And the stuff you do is fun! Yes, I said it- exercising is fun (with the Wii Fit). The best part is that my boys love it. They love it and they don't even realize they are exercising.
One of my favorites is the aerobic hula hooping. I hear you laughing. :) You try hula hooping for 2 minutes straight- it can kick your booty! I also love this one because it is hilarious to watch people on the Wii Fit board hula hooping! My four year old just cannot get the motion but its funny to watch him try. Its really fun to watch Jim (I may have to video him!). I'm certain I'm quite funny to see also.
If you have a Wii and are thinking of purchasing a game for it, get the Wii Fit. Here in Middle Tennessee they have been difficult to find but if you find one, you won't regret it.
My last part of What's the Scoop is not a product. My boys decided to run the one mile Jingle Bell jog at our local Y this past Saturday. Our neighbor and friend, Ms Ashley was running the 5K before the jog. The boys were super excited to get there and cheer her on from the sidelines. It was freezing! The boys put jingle bells on their shoes and took off for the one mile run. Avery ran the entire mile and LOVED it. He's asked to start running so he can run the 5K next year. Aidan had fun too! He didn't quite make it the entire mile but he ran his little heart out. They received "medals" at the end. Check out their pictures here and here. You may have to scroll down to find the boys. It was a lot of fun and at the end, we got to watch the Frostbite Freeze where adults and kids alike took a plunge into the outside Y pool. The temp of the water was a chilly 37 degrees!!
Friday, December 12, 2008
Let Go My Legos!
It never fails. Every year one or both of my children ask for a certain toy for Christmas that is super hard to find. And its not like you know months before when the stores have plenty of them that that particular item is going to be the toy or toys that will be so popular. A couple of months ago my youngest asked for a Batman lego set. A couple of months ago every single retail store and toy store had many of this set in stock. It's the Lego Batman Harley Quinn Hammer Truck lego set. For you die hard lego fans, I don't have the set number.
Anyway, why, you ask, didn't I purchase said set months ago? Because its a Batman lego set. I really didn't think it would be that hard to come by for Christmas. Apparently, I thought wrong. I simply cannot find it anywhere. And I have looked just about everywhere online and in store. The only ones I can find are on ebay for $80 to $100. The set retails for $29.99. Why must the sellers on ebay snatch up every single set of something and then price gouge?? I'm all for making a little money and I'd be willing to give you $35 or $40 for the set- maybe even $45. The seller would still make money. But NO, here in the land of greed and money lust, they want more than three times what its worth.
So, no my youngest will not get what he's asked for unless one of the retail stores gets it back in stock. I love him and want him to be happy but I don't think missing out on the Harley Quinn Hammer Truck will scar him for life. Paying $100 for it would; however, scar me and our Christmas budget.
Before I leave you, I have to share what I DID find while I was searching for Batman legos. Just in case anyone is interested, you can purchase a life size lego Batman (yes, I said life size- when put together it stands over 78" tall), at FAO Schwartz for a mere $27,000. But, they're SOLD OUT!!
Anyway, why, you ask, didn't I purchase said set months ago? Because its a Batman lego set. I really didn't think it would be that hard to come by for Christmas. Apparently, I thought wrong. I simply cannot find it anywhere. And I have looked just about everywhere online and in store. The only ones I can find are on ebay for $80 to $100. The set retails for $29.99. Why must the sellers on ebay snatch up every single set of something and then price gouge?? I'm all for making a little money and I'd be willing to give you $35 or $40 for the set- maybe even $45. The seller would still make money. But NO, here in the land of greed and money lust, they want more than three times what its worth.So, no my youngest will not get what he's asked for unless one of the retail stores gets it back in stock. I love him and want him to be happy but I don't think missing out on the Harley Quinn Hammer Truck will scar him for life. Paying $100 for it would; however, scar me and our Christmas budget.
Before I leave you, I have to share what I DID find while I was searching for Batman legos. Just in case anyone is interested, you can purchase a life size lego Batman (yes, I said life size- when put together it stands over 78" tall), at FAO Schwartz for a mere $27,000. But, they're SOLD OUT!!
Monday, December 8, 2008
Hair's The Question...
I am in desperate need of a haircut and a different hairstyle. So help me out. I have never been afraid to try just about anything with my hair so I'm not afraid of very short. Above is the best picture I could find that was close up of me. Be honest. I'm mid to edging in to the late thirties (sigh). Its important to know that my hair is very fine but I have a lot of it. I would say my face is an oval shape. Look at the pictures below and leave me a comment telling me...A. Which style you like best.
B. Which one you think would look best on me.
C. Do you think I should go blonde?
I really like this one but my major concern is that I'm too old. (I can't even believe I have to worry about that but I do!!) The thing I like about it is how easy would it be??!!! :)
This one is probably my least favorite although its similar to the one above. I think maybe I don't like the longer hair in the back
Its been a long time since I've had bangs but then maybe that's what I'm searching for to change it up a bit.
Ok, this girl needs a bigger shirt but I do like the hairstyle. This may be my favorite at this point.
I like this one too. This girl's hair color is closer to mine than the others.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
MASH
M A S H
Did you ever play this game when you were younger? I remember my girlfriends and I playing this all the time. I was reminded of it because I saw a piece of flair on Facebook. Its hilarious to think back on some of the things I chose to write down for the categories. I'm sure that at least one of the "three boys I liked" was the latest pop/rock guy or the newest teen heart throb. I'm certain I probably had the likes of Ralph Macchio (sp?) and Kirk Cameron on there somewhere. What can I say. I grew up in the 80's. :)
My cars were always outrageous. I remember always putting porsche and lamborghini(I can't even spell them!) and then just for fun, throwing in some normal car. My "places to live" were always some place tropical.
And for those of you who have never played MASH, the M stands for mansion, A for apartment, S for shack, and H for house. The numbers at the bottom- 0,1,2,3,4 were the number of kids you would have. Now, I'm getting old so my memory is not what it used to be but I think you picked a number from 1 through 5. Let's say you picked the number 5. You started at the M and counted each letter and then went through each column. Every time you got to five, you would mark that off the list. You continued to do that until you only had one thing left in each category.
So, it was possible to live in a Shack, be married to Ralph Macchio, drive a porsche, live in the Bahamas, and have 4 children!! :)
So come on girls- did you ever play this when you were younger?
1. List 3 boys you'd marry
1. List 3 cars you want
1. List 3 places you want to live
0, 1, 2, 3, 4
1. List 3 cars you want
1. List 3 places you want to live
0, 1, 2, 3, 4
Did you ever play this game when you were younger? I remember my girlfriends and I playing this all the time. I was reminded of it because I saw a piece of flair on Facebook. Its hilarious to think back on some of the things I chose to write down for the categories. I'm sure that at least one of the "three boys I liked" was the latest pop/rock guy or the newest teen heart throb. I'm certain I probably had the likes of Ralph Macchio (sp?) and Kirk Cameron on there somewhere. What can I say. I grew up in the 80's. :)
My cars were always outrageous. I remember always putting porsche and lamborghini(I can't even spell them!) and then just for fun, throwing in some normal car. My "places to live" were always some place tropical.
And for those of you who have never played MASH, the M stands for mansion, A for apartment, S for shack, and H for house. The numbers at the bottom- 0,1,2,3,4 were the number of kids you would have. Now, I'm getting old so my memory is not what it used to be but I think you picked a number from 1 through 5. Let's say you picked the number 5. You started at the M and counted each letter and then went through each column. Every time you got to five, you would mark that off the list. You continued to do that until you only had one thing left in each category.
So, it was possible to live in a Shack, be married to Ralph Macchio, drive a porsche, live in the Bahamas, and have 4 children!! :)
So come on girls- did you ever play this when you were younger?
Monday, December 1, 2008
What's The Scoop?
Product #1
Uppercase Living
Have you heard of this or seen their products. I had heard about their stuff and a couple of months ago my friend Sarah invited me to a party she was hosting. I didn't get to attend but she did drop off a catalog. I seriously wanted to buy everything in it. Check it out at UppercaseLiving. What really sold us is that we got a fairly large piece that has the Bible verse, "As for me and my house we will serve the Lord." The cost was some where around $34. When compared to the price of buying a good size, nice framed picture for a wall which can be in the hundreds of dollars, the uppercase living looked even better. And now that we have it on the wall, we are very pleased. If you do decide to order, I'm certain Sarah would pass on her consultant's name.
Product #2
Shutterfly
I just ordered our photo Christmas cards from Shutterfly last night. I have to say that I've used Snapfish and Ofoto and really only tried Shutterfly because a friend told me about a free deal they were having just for signing up. I love Shutterfly and at least in my experience, their pictures have been better quality.
They are having a deal on photo Christmas cards. Once you've designed your card and are ready to order, add 75 to your basket. It will charge you for the first 50 and the next 25 are free. Be sure to use the free shipping code when you check out on orders $25 or more- code SHIP25. You can also receive a free 12 month calendar if you spend over $50 using the code SECRET02.
Uppercase Living
Have you heard of this or seen their products. I had heard about their stuff and a couple of months ago my friend Sarah invited me to a party she was hosting. I didn't get to attend but she did drop off a catalog. I seriously wanted to buy everything in it. Check it out at UppercaseLiving. What really sold us is that we got a fairly large piece that has the Bible verse, "As for me and my house we will serve the Lord." The cost was some where around $34. When compared to the price of buying a good size, nice framed picture for a wall which can be in the hundreds of dollars, the uppercase living looked even better. And now that we have it on the wall, we are very pleased. If you do decide to order, I'm certain Sarah would pass on her consultant's name.
Product #2
Shutterfly
I just ordered our photo Christmas cards from Shutterfly last night. I have to say that I've used Snapfish and Ofoto and really only tried Shutterfly because a friend told me about a free deal they were having just for signing up. I love Shutterfly and at least in my experience, their pictures have been better quality.
They are having a deal on photo Christmas cards. Once you've designed your card and are ready to order, add 75 to your basket. It will charge you for the first 50 and the next 25 are free. Be sure to use the free shipping code when you check out on orders $25 or more- code SHIP25. You can also receive a free 12 month calendar if you spend over $50 using the code SECRET02.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thankful- Out of the Mouth of Babes
I am thankful for many things. First, I am thankful for my family because thay love me. I am also thankful for my toys because I can play. I am also thankful for God because he made the world. I am thankful for my frinds (friends) because thay are nice. And I am thankful for Jesus because he died on the cross.
Avery Waters
November 2008
2nd grade
Avery Waters
November 2008
2nd grade
Couldn't have said it better myself. :) Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
Monday, November 24, 2008
What's The Scoop
Product #1
Mary Kay Mineral Make Up
I'm a less is more kind of girl when it comes to makeup. Although I have found as I get older, I require more where makeup is concerned. I had tried the mineral powder last year and liked it but for whatever reason I just wasn't hooked. A few months ago, a sweet lady at church who happens to be a Mary Kay consultant talked to me about their new line of mineral makeup. She encouraged me to try it again and I did. And I'm hooked.
You can get the Mineral Powder Foundation for $18 and you have to make a one time brush applicator purchase (it can be cleaned with your mild facial cleanser and used for a long time) of $10. The thing I love the most about the mineral powder is how light it is and feels when you are applying it. You never get that "caked" on look. Its very natural looking.
I use the facial highlighting pen ($18) which acts similar to concealer but also adds dimensions of light in those areas that need them. For example, I have some laugh lines around my mouth that I added the highlighter too and they were not visible after that.
The mineral eye makeup is $6.50 and the cheek color is $10.
If you're in the market for a new line of makeup, I highly recommend giving this a try.
Product #2
I did a post last week on the gift of giving. We decided this year to help provide Christmas for a family who has a member with ALS. Over the weekend we received our family's information in the mail. They are local to us. The father is a man in his early fifties and the mother is in her forties. They have two daughters, ages 9 and 11. Her husband was diagnosed two years ago and is now at the stage where he is confined to a wheelchair. He can still eat, breathe and speak normally which is a huge blessing.
They own a farm and have had to sell part of it off over the past few years.
If you are reading this and feel led to give, please contact me. If you don't know how to get in touch with me, leave me a comment on how to touch base with you. The mother asked for gift cards to restaurants. The father is interested in books on CD or DVDs with his interests being in history, native Americans, and World War I and II. The girls love crafts and to read.
My family and I are planning to shop for them soon and would be happy to add to what we give them if you would like to help.
Mary Kay Mineral Make Up
I'm a less is more kind of girl when it comes to makeup. Although I have found as I get older, I require more where makeup is concerned. I had tried the mineral powder last year and liked it but for whatever reason I just wasn't hooked. A few months ago, a sweet lady at church who happens to be a Mary Kay consultant talked to me about their new line of mineral makeup. She encouraged me to try it again and I did. And I'm hooked.You can get the Mineral Powder Foundation for $18 and you have to make a one time brush applicator purchase (it can be cleaned with your mild facial cleanser and used for a long time) of $10. The thing I love the most about the mineral powder is how light it is and feels when you are applying it. You never get that "caked" on look. Its very natural looking.
I use the facial highlighting pen ($18) which acts similar to concealer but also adds dimensions of light in those areas that need them. For example, I have some laugh lines around my mouth that I added the highlighter too and they were not visible after that.
The mineral eye makeup is $6.50 and the cheek color is $10.
If you're in the market for a new line of makeup, I highly recommend giving this a try.
Product #2
I did a post last week on the gift of giving. We decided this year to help provide Christmas for a family who has a member with ALS. Over the weekend we received our family's information in the mail. They are local to us. The father is a man in his early fifties and the mother is in her forties. They have two daughters, ages 9 and 11. Her husband was diagnosed two years ago and is now at the stage where he is confined to a wheelchair. He can still eat, breathe and speak normally which is a huge blessing.
They own a farm and have had to sell part of it off over the past few years.
If you are reading this and feel led to give, please contact me. If you don't know how to get in touch with me, leave me a comment on how to touch base with you. The mother asked for gift cards to restaurants. The father is interested in books on CD or DVDs with his interests being in history, native Americans, and World War I and II. The girls love crafts and to read.
My family and I are planning to shop for them soon and would be happy to add to what we give them if you would like to help.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
The Miser Brothers
We have a lot of Christmas traditions. Some are serious and some are silly. We like to watch all of the Christmas shows during the season but there is one that is a Waters family favorite. If you're around my age you'll remember it and probably even be able to sing along. If you haven't seen it, try to catch it this holiday season. Cut it some slack where the animation is concerned, it was made all the way back in 1974! :) Look for it in your tv guide. Its called The Year Without a Santa Claus.
And now for your viewing pleasure...
And now for your viewing pleasure...
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Gift of Giving
I know that's a corny title but it really is so true. There are so many great organizations that we can donate to throughout the year. Agencies that are in the thick of it out there in the day to day helping those who may not have even the most basic of human needs. Whether domestic or international, I would just encourage you to research a cause that you are passionate about and find a way to give. This year has been tight for most financially but money or material things are not the only way we can help. Donating your time is just as helpful.
Let's be the hands and feet of Christ.
Below are just a couple of links to some agencies that are near and dear to me. You can adopt an "angel" from the Salvation Army angel tree . Families of patients with ALS suffer huge financial burdens relative to the nature of the illness. You can adopt a family and help make their Christmas a little brighter. And an agency that meets people at their basic needs is the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Let's be the hands and feet of Christ.
Below are just a couple of links to some agencies that are near and dear to me. You can adopt an "angel" from the Salvation Army angel tree . Families of patients with ALS suffer huge financial burdens relative to the nature of the illness. You can adopt a family and help make their Christmas a little brighter. And an agency that meets people at their basic needs is the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
What's The Scoop?
This week's What's The Scoop is a little different. I'd like for you to give me the scoop. My boys have asked for a trampoline for Christmas. We've checked around and found some with the safety enclosure feature included at pretty decent prices. We have several friends who have trampolines and the boys have a ball when they go play on them.
Every time I look at one, I run the pros and cons in my head. My biggest pro is that it will be something for them to do to blow off some energy. My boys NEED things to do that help them expend the endless amount of energy in their little bodies.
My biggest con is the fear of injury. My boys are rough and tumble and although we haven't been in a while (let me knock on some wood), we are no strangers to the emergency room. Boys are gonna be boys and I've learned to let them be. I just think the trampoline adds in a whole new dimension of possible injuries. That and the fact that when Avery broke his hand, the orthopedic doc said that the two things they see the most injuries with kids from are skateboards and trampolines.
So, what do you think?
Friday, November 14, 2008
From the Perspective of an Adopted Child
Bob and Joyce Childers adopted me when I was two months old. I've known from a very early age that I was adopted. My parents were very open about it and from the time I could sit and listen until I could fully understand, my parents would tell me. What did that mean for me growing up? Truthfully, not much. I didn't look like either of my parents or my brother but then there are lots of kids who don't look like their biological families. I couldn't tell you what hospital I was born in or the time of my birth but then little kids don't really care about that kind of thing anyway. I remember that for whatever reason (most likely he didn't read my chart before entering the exam room) that my pediatrician could never remember that I was adopted and would always ask my parents about history of diseases in their families- duh. :)
Other than that, I had two parents who really loved me and an amazing grandfather and grandmother. They never treated me like anything other than a part of the family. My mom's side of the family was very good to me. My dad's side of the family was not the same; however, I feel like I should insert here that his family didn't treat their biological parts any better. Long story short, you know God does amazing things in people's lives because I'm always amazed that my daddy turned out to be such a good man coming from his background.
I never had a big desire to find out about the woman who gave birth to me. I never harbored any ill feelings toward this woman. Actually, I was always thankful to her. I was thankful that she had chosen life for me even if that meant it was not a life with her.
I got married when I was twenty four. A few years after that, there was a petition filed that opened up adoptive records. Jim and I were thinking about having a baby and I told him I wanted my records to see if there was anything genetically I needed to worry about. Right after that, the files were closed again. It wasn't until I was nine months pregnant with my first son that I received a call to come and view my adoptive file. I was nervous walking in to the Department of Children's Services office. Jim went with me but I remember they would not allow him to go back and view the file. I walked back with a social worker. She began by telling me that many biological mothers would call back in from time to time just to update the file, especially with medical information. Mine had not. In fact, the social worker told me that my file was one of the smallest she had seen. Not a great start.
Before I was allowed to open the file, I had to sign an affidavit stating that I would not attempt to contact my biological family except through the Department. And with that signature, I opened the file.
There was my mother's name, Kay Marie Soper Teal. Soper was her maiden name. How funny that my middle name is Marie. My adoption was a closed adoption through the State so my parents could not have known that was my biological mother's middle name also. My mother was married previously and had a little boy from that marriage named Robert. She worked for the State in a secretarial position and because there was no such thing as maternity leave back then had to quit her job to have me. When she divorced her first husband, she and her son Robert moved in with her parents. She felt that she could not care for another child financially and apparently her parents were not excited with the idea of there being another "mouth to feed."
My name was Katherine Teal for the first two months of my life. My mother held me once and when I was cleared to leave the hospital I was placed in a foster home.
My father was just drifting through town. I have his name but I won't type it here. He knew about the pregnancy but chose to move on.
There was a little background on my maternal grandparents, the social worker's home visit notes, a crazy amount of court documents, and a hand typed letter made by my foster mother of my feeding and nap schedule. Bits and pieces of the home visit papers as well as a few other pieces of information validated a lot for me.
So the Department gave me two weeks to decide if I wanted them to pursue contacting her. I was nine months pregnant, very emotional, and so I decided that I just couldn't pursue that at that point. Logically I felt it would be understandable if she were contacted and didn't wish to see me. My heart just didn't feel that way and I just wanted to focus on having my baby and maybe look at that again later on down the line.
Here I am seven and a half years later, two precious boys, a wonderful husband, and an even deeper knowledge now of the sacrifice my mother made for me. When I held my oldest son Avery in my arms that very first time, I could not fathom the pain that my mother must have gone through at that moment. To hold me, to look into my eyes and then to hand me over knowing that she would never see me again. She would not see my first step, could not comfort me when I got hurt, would never hear me call her mother. How do you get passed that? Do you? At that moment I realized that one day I would try to find her and that whether or not she wished to see me, whatever her answer, that would be ok. That would be ok because I know for me, in order to hand my child over for someone else to raise I would have to cut myself off completely. I would. Otherwise, I would wonder every single minute of every day was my baby being loved, was my baby being cared for, was my baby better off for the decision I made.
So thank you Kay Marie Soper Teal. Thank you. I WAS loved, I WAS cared for, and I believe I WAS better off for the decision, for the sacrifice you made.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Christmas Quiz
I love these kinds of things so I thought I'd come up with a few questions regarding the holidays. I look forward to reading the answers! I'll post mine in the comment section.
1. Your favorite Christmas Carol/song...
2. Your favorite holiday dessert...
3. When do you open Christmas presents- Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
4. A holiday tradition you have...
5. Lamest Christmas present (oh come on! We've all received a few and maybe even given a few.)
6. Egg Nog or Boiled Custard?
7. Least favorite holiday food...
1. Your favorite Christmas Carol/song...
2. Your favorite holiday dessert...
3. When do you open Christmas presents- Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
4. A holiday tradition you have...
5. Lamest Christmas present (oh come on! We've all received a few and maybe even given a few.)
6. Egg Nog or Boiled Custard?
7. Least favorite holiday food...
Monday, November 10, 2008
Burn Baby, Burn
I chose this title because this is what the kids were singing as we sat around the bonfire- Disco Inferno. Yeah- they only knew the "Burn baby burn" part. :) A few weeks ago, we had a bonfire cookout with the Whites. Ralph cleared us a spot and got a great fire going so we could roast hot dogs and marshmallows. The kids decided to dress in their Halloween costumes so they could play. Drake and Avery played Star Wars and Kinsey and Aidan played something that included the hundreds of dogs little Kinsey has. She loves her dogs!
The kids actually played so the adults were able to talk a while. When it started getting dark, we took turns telling scary stories around the fire. It was hilarious to hear the stories that the kids came up with. Actually, my scary story came true thanks in part to Ralph! We still love you Uncle Ralph. :)
A good time was had by all and we decided that it was the beginning of the annual White-Waters Weenie Roast.
The kids actually played so the adults were able to talk a while. When it started getting dark, we took turns telling scary stories around the fire. It was hilarious to hear the stories that the kids came up with. Actually, my scary story came true thanks in part to Ralph! We still love you Uncle Ralph. :)
A good time was had by all and we decided that it was the beginning of the annual White-Waters Weenie Roast.
What's the Scoop
Product #1
Star Wars Action Figures
If your boys are like mine, anything Star Wars just sends them in to a frenzy. They especially love playing with the little Star Wars action figures. The cheapest I've seen them is at Target and Walmart where they are between $6 and $7. I rarely shop at K-mart but was there today and they currently through the end of the week are having a sale on all their Star Wars action figures, $4.99. If you're looking for them, I'd hurry because they were going fast.
Product #2
The Millenium Falcon
I told you we are Star Wars crazy in our house. The Millenium Falcon I'm referring to is the huge over 2 feet one. We compared prices at several stores today and here's what we found. Target currently has the best price at $127. Its on sale so that will only last through the end of the week. Toys R Us has it for $159.99. Its a big ticket item and some people may think we are crazy for even considering purchasing it. The thing is we know our boys will get many, many, many hours of play out of it and its a gift for both of them that they will have to share.
Star Wars Action Figures
If your boys are like mine, anything Star Wars just sends them in to a frenzy. They especially love playing with the little Star Wars action figures. The cheapest I've seen them is at Target and Walmart where they are between $6 and $7. I rarely shop at K-mart but was there today and they currently through the end of the week are having a sale on all their Star Wars action figures, $4.99. If you're looking for them, I'd hurry because they were going fast.
Product #2
The Millenium Falcon
I told you we are Star Wars crazy in our house. The Millenium Falcon I'm referring to is the huge over 2 feet one. We compared prices at several stores today and here's what we found. Target currently has the best price at $127. Its on sale so that will only last through the end of the week. Toys R Us has it for $159.99. Its a big ticket item and some people may think we are crazy for even considering purchasing it. The thing is we know our boys will get many, many, many hours of play out of it and its a gift for both of them that they will have to share.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year
I am usually an early shopper when it comes to Christmas. Typically I am almost finished by this time. I'm not sure what's happened to me this year. I have bought a few little things here and there but am no where near being done. In the past I've done most of my shopping online. It was just easier to browse online at Aidan's naptime than to drag him to a store and try to look for specific things. And I think you can find some great deals online.
But here it is the first week of November and not only do I have a minimal amount of my shopping done but I also have no idea what we're getting the boys or what I'm getting Jim.
So help me out...
Are you an online shopper?
What are you getting your kiddos for Christmas this year? (My boys have asked for a trampoline- YIKES!)
Do you like to get out in the madness that is the day after Thanksgiving? If so, what's the best deal you've ever found? And what's the earliest you've ever been out on the Friday after Thanksgiving?
What are you getting your hubby?
Monday, November 3, 2008
The Force is Strong with Us... It Is
We had a very fun Halloween night. Our friends came over and we trick or treated with our neighbors. Both boys are so in to Star Wars so Avery was Anakin Skywalker and Aidan was Captain Rex of the Clone Troopers. One of the highlights of their night was seeing a man in our neighborhood dressed as a Storm Trooper. Even Jason and Jim had to get their pictures made with him. Our neighbor Ms. Gege dresses up every year. She is dressed as pumpkin, passing out candy on her front porch to our crew.
Afterwards, we came back and the kids sorted their stash and even made some trades. And I'm off to the Y this morning to try and work off the 80 miniature candy bars I've eaten since Friday night. :)
Afterwards, we came back and the kids sorted their stash and even made some trades. And I'm off to the Y this morning to try and work off the 80 miniature candy bars I've eaten since Friday night. :)
Friday, October 31, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
The Month of October in Picture Review
The month of October has been a busy month.
We had dinner at Maggianos for the first time last weekend. Oh my goodness!! We did the family style dinner with our neighbors and friends. We were celebrating the husband's birthday. Above is a picture of Mom's lasagna from Maggianos. YUM!
And this is the Chocolate Zuccotto (I know I spelled that incorrectly) cake. Its a seven layer chocolate cake and its wonderful!! I couldn't even begin to calculate my weight watchers points for this!
Aidan had Farm Day at his school. It rained so we had to move it inside. The kids got to go around to all kinds of fun centers. Above Aidan is searching for chicken eggs (not really- they are plastic Easter eggs). I volunteered and got to work the pumpkin vine limbo!
Farm Day wouldn't be complete without the Chik Fil A Cow. This is Aidan's class and his teacher Mrs. Harris.
We carved pumpkins, although Aidan decided he would use the Mr Potato Head pumpkin pieces kit to make a "witchy" pumpkin.
Jim went to Avery's school and spoke to the 2nd grade about maps.
Aidan finally figured out how to put the plastic vampire teeth in his mouth without choking himself. :)
Our neighbors came over one evening to decorate Halloween cookies. We LOVE our neighbors!
My boys love the Smith girls! Avery is playing beauty shop with Selah. She's drying his hair.
Aidan and Adeline are playing beauty shop too.
Avery did carve his pumpkin. He used a template and made Anakin Skywalker with a little help from dad.
Avery's elementary school had their Fall Carnival. Here's Avery with some friends from 2nd grade.
The Carnival had games in each classroom. This is the first time Avery has ever played twister.
Digging for Dinosaur eggs
Pumpkin Ring Toss
Add in a trip to Chattanooga for Fall Break, dinner with friends at LaRivierres (sp?) on the Gallatin Square- also a first, 2 trunk or treats, a birthday party at Honeysuckle Hill Farm, a visit to the flea market, and the ALS Walk and that's our October.
We're wrapping up the month with trick or treating with friends on Halloween night and starting our November with a bonfire at the White House (with Meredith and Ralph, not George.) We are so thankful for good friends and good times together.
We had dinner at Maggianos for the first time last weekend. Oh my goodness!! We did the family style dinner with our neighbors and friends. We were celebrating the husband's birthday. Above is a picture of Mom's lasagna from Maggianos. YUM!
And this is the Chocolate Zuccotto (I know I spelled that incorrectly) cake. Its a seven layer chocolate cake and its wonderful!! I couldn't even begin to calculate my weight watchers points for this!
Aidan had Farm Day at his school. It rained so we had to move it inside. The kids got to go around to all kinds of fun centers. Above Aidan is searching for chicken eggs (not really- they are plastic Easter eggs). I volunteered and got to work the pumpkin vine limbo!
Farm Day wouldn't be complete without the Chik Fil A Cow. This is Aidan's class and his teacher Mrs. Harris.
We carved pumpkins, although Aidan decided he would use the Mr Potato Head pumpkin pieces kit to make a "witchy" pumpkin.
Jim went to Avery's school and spoke to the 2nd grade about maps.
Aidan finally figured out how to put the plastic vampire teeth in his mouth without choking himself. :)
Our neighbors came over one evening to decorate Halloween cookies. We LOVE our neighbors!
My boys love the Smith girls! Avery is playing beauty shop with Selah. She's drying his hair.
Aidan and Adeline are playing beauty shop too.
Avery did carve his pumpkin. He used a template and made Anakin Skywalker with a little help from dad.
Avery's elementary school had their Fall Carnival. Here's Avery with some friends from 2nd grade.
The Carnival had games in each classroom. This is the first time Avery has ever played twister.
Digging for Dinosaur eggs
Pumpkin Ring TossAdd in a trip to Chattanooga for Fall Break, dinner with friends at LaRivierres (sp?) on the Gallatin Square- also a first, 2 trunk or treats, a birthday party at Honeysuckle Hill Farm, a visit to the flea market, and the ALS Walk and that's our October.
We're wrapping up the month with trick or treating with friends on Halloween night and starting our November with a bonfire at the White House (with Meredith and Ralph, not George.) We are so thankful for good friends and good times together.
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