2009 June — We are THAT Family

Living in the Mundane

1:00 pm Bykristen

Congratulations to the following CD winners: BeckyJoMama, Stonefox and reader (no blog) TallyMichelle!

My life is mundane.

It’s full of dirty laundry and stinky feet. Stains and spills. Unexpected bills and quarreling kids. (I’m asking about sibling rivalry here. Please, tell me how you handle it!)

There are no celebrity’s here. We’re just regular people with normal problems.

Average.

Except for the occasional lice check, family nasal experiment, or paranoid freak-out session in a an MRI machine.

(I’m still processing my doctor’s appointment today concerning my neck and back. I have some choices to make. I’ll tell you all about it soon).

I’ve always disliked the mundane. I still remember the girl who used to be me that was going to change the world. I grew up and now I only change the cat litter.

I want you to meet someone who has challenged me to invite the glorious into the mundane.

Because it’s those monotonous moments that make up a day, a week, a life.

And I want to capture them, rather than wish them away.

Christy Nockels is an up and coming Christian singer who’s album Light Life Up debuted on June 2. She accompanied Chris Tomlin in vocals in his recent tour.

She’s also a Mom. Just like us. And she struggles with the mundane too.

Would you listen to this and let it challenge you?

http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=5271209&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1

Being A Mom {Part 1} from christy nockels on Vimeo.

After you listen, please let me know how you feel about being a Mom, mundane moments and all. Three commenters will win Christy’s new CD Light Life Up.

You can download her song here for free.

This giveaway will end on Friday.

*UPDATED* Here is Part 2.

http://farm.sproutbuilder.com/load/nwCWTmr_FlDBYnQd.swf

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And This is Where I Give Away Some Chicken

8:30 pm Bykristen

*UPDATE* Well, all you wild chicken fans, we have some winners! Congrats to Christi of In His Step, Christie O of Baby Tea Leaves and reader (no blog) Kate at kdmyzell@yahoo.com.

So, when I was contacted about interviewing Food Network’s Robin Miller about her new cookbook Robin Rescues Dinner and her Tyson partnership, I asked this burning question, “Does it include free chicken?”

Because I’m all about the yard bird.

Hiding from my kids in my backyard at 7:15 AM in my pajamas to interview a TV star, well, that was just a bonus.

I’m not much of a foodie blogger, but I was really intrigued by this new cookbook because Robin has filled it with nearly 400 recipes (52 weeks) that focus on healthy, easy family-friendly recipes. She also uses a lot of the Tyson Frozen Chicken and Beef Strips in her recipes in an effort to not heat up her oven in the summer.

And if you haven’t heard by now, it is hot in Texas. Our church actually prayed for rain on Sunday. And a rain dance my be next on the agenda.

Robin Rescues Dinner by Robin Miller: Book Cover

So, here’s what I asked Robin:

1. How did you go from the Mom cooking at home to the Mom cooking on TV?

“I didn’t pursue it. I was on TV working for Family Circle magazine. I went from cranberry sauce, that I’d never made before on Tuesday, to making cookies with Al Roker on Sunday on The Today Show. Cooking came first and then my boys, who are 5 and 7 came next. So, my cooking style has changed. I used to carmelize and deglaze and spend hours in the kitchen. Now I try to get the same flavors in a shorter amount of time and that’s why I write the way I do.”

2. Do you have a lot of no cook, oven-free recipes?

“Yes. I have full meals including desserts that don’t require heating up the kitchen. There are so many ways to keep it cool in the kitchen and still have a healthy meal. I also like to use the early morning hours to boil rice and heat up the stove when it’s still cool.”

3. Do you have any healthy fun snack ideas for toddlers?

“I try to think outside the box. I like to make sure my kids get a lot of protein throughout the day because my little boys are active. Why can’t you have whole grain cereal as a snack after school or breakfast for dinner? If my kids are starving at 4:30 pm, I give them dinner and a snack at 7:00 pm. I love using Tyson’s fully cooked chicken dipped in salsa or honey mustard. This is a great healthy snack. I like to make every snack count and not just feed them.”

And because I couldn’t resist:

4. Have you had any THAT family moments in the kitchen?

“We are always THAT family. In WalMart or the Supermarket, my kids are the ones running around. We drop eggs on the floor, too. Kitchen disasters happen once a week. It’s usually a spill or a mess. I like bringing my kids into the kitchen to cook with me. It’s a bonding moment and they like to cook with me. I like to turn those THAT family moments into I’m proud to be THAT family moments. There’s no shame.”

Today, I’m giving away 3 of her brand new cookbooks. They are fabulous. Each winner will also got 3 coupons for bags of Tyson chicken or beef strips! (These coupons retail at $9.99 each). Today’s total giveaway value: $150

That’s a lot of chicken.

Just leave a comment and tell me how you keep your kitchen cool in the summer to be entered!

This giveaway will end on Thursday.

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WFMW: Themed Edition Reminder

2:30 pm Bykristen

Don’t forget that this Wednesday is a themed edition of Works For Me Wednesday: Best Summer Recipes!

I’ve been trying out recipes with chocolate. Lots of chocolate.

It’s been terribly hard.

But it’s the least I can do.

(You can link up a current or older post. Please remember that this is just a suggestion. If you have a non-themed tip you want to share, please feel free!)

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a spoon to lick.

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The Magnetic Field

7:00 am Bykristen

My son woke up the other day bright and early.

He had one thing on his mind and it consumed his thoughts the entire day: a magnetic field.

I have no idea why.

But for some unknown reason, he thought I would be a great source of information.

You can stop laughing now.

We were heading to the library for our weekly trip, so I encouraged him to find a book on the subject.

“Unless you like hearing me say, ‘I don’t know,’” over and over again.

Later during room time, he devised a plan. His goal: to create his own magnetic field.

By the afternoon, he had talked his big sister into joining his scientific research.

They spent two hours sitting side-by-side on his bed with a notebook. I could hear them brainstorming, debating and planning while I cooked dinner.

It was music to my ears.

They presented me with a shopping list:

lots and lots of tiny, super powerful magnets
zip lock baggies
tin foil
a toilet paper roll
rubber bands
candy (not for the experiment, but we will need a snack)

The team resumed their research after dinner.

After I tucked my toddler in bed, I peeked in my son’s room to check on them.

“Mom, we’re glad you’re here,” he said.

“Yes, Mom, we need to ask you an important question,” my daughter added.

I sat down on the edge of the bed and tried really hard to keep a straight face.

“We are going to make history. We are going to create the world’s first man-made super duper magnetic field out of everyday stuff,” they proclaimed proudly.

“And we need your help. It will take us years and years and you’ll be very old when we are done. We need you to test it out since you’ll have led a full life….ya know, in case something goes wrong.”

I bit my lip.

“But don’t worry Mom, when we’re famous, we’ll give you a little bit of credit.”

“Sign me up,” I said.

It was an offer I couldn’t refuse.

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Summer Daycation: Balloon Yo-Yo’s

1:04 pm Bykristen

Water Balloon Yo-Yo’s

Supplies needed:

small balloon

water

rubber band

Fill the balloon with about 3/4 cup of water. You want it to be the size of a baseball so you might need to add a little air. Tie it and then tie off the rubber band on the knot.

Bounce away!

My kids loved playing with these. It occupied them for an hour! Once the rubber bands broke, they wrapped up their balloons in a blanket and played baby.

And then they smashed the balloons on the ground (but only after they were thru playing house with them!)

I’ve heard that these can be dangerous with the rubber bands popping kids or being tied around things. Please make sure you supervise your kids and then dispose of these homemade toys when they are done.

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THAT Family Tree Society-Issue 46

10:25 pm Bykristen

Picture of the Week:

The Week in Review: My hubby and I enjoyed a couple of days away while my kids played. We had a great time, but I’m so happy for all of us to be together again. And I’ve decided that I’m terribly in love with these two guys.

Introduction into The Society: Help me welcome From the Desk of a Princess to the family tree!

1. Tell us a little about your blog (name/reason why you blog):

My blog is “From The Desk of a Princess”…and no, I don’t have a strong penchant for Disney princesses (except for my Cinderella nightgown…). I am a Daughter of the King, royalty of the Highest Order; I serve a King! The original purpose of my blog was to journal my faith walk, and to write devotions with the hopes of reaching anyone who would stumble upon my blog so I could share the joy of a relationship with Christ. It has become much more personal over this first year, but He remains the central focus.

2. How long have you blogging?

I’m coming up on my one year anniversary and can’t imagine not blogging! I’ve met so many wonderful Christian ladies along the way. Kim of Thoughts by Kim probably being my closest connection…hopefully I will get to meet her this side of heaven!

3. How would you define THAT family?

They have a way of taking life, good, bad and in between, and making a memory out of it. THAT family has lots of laughter in their home. And it seems like the wackiest shenanigans happen to them! THAT family is pretty much The Brady Bunch..I mean, helloooo! Marcia getting her nose busted by a renegade football…the Hawaiian idol that causes Greg to have a surfing accident…Peter’s volcano that spews all over the snobby girls from Marcia’s high school! What family hasn’t experienced this?!?

4. When did you discover you were a part of THAT family?

Ya know, I think I only became part of THAT family when I got married last year! My husband’s parents are so much fun! There is constant laughter when we’re together and they are just a spirited group of people! My husband has brought out the “Dorky Dorkenstein” in me (and I the “Nerdy Nerdikens” in him) which usually leads to some pretty memorable and fun moments! We enjoy our life, taking the good with the bad, laughing all the way, even if it’s laughter between tears…

5. Where can we find your blog?

You can find me at http://paperphan.wordpress.com.

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Watching Grass Grow

2:28 pm Bykristen

Her shoulders are sun-kissed from the blazing sun.

Her nose bares tiny new freckles.

The sparkle in her eyes speaks of stories I’ll never hear.

The new confidence in her stride declares a change.

I spent 84.5 hours away from my oldest child. The longest separation for both of us.

I wasn’t there to help her fix her hair. I wasn’t there to monitor her decisions. I wasn’t there.

But she didn’t need me to control every choice. She didn’t need me to parent every moment.

She grew in my absence.

And this is just the beginning.

Parenting is a lot like gardening. We prepare the soil purposefully. We tend the plants carefully. We watch prudently. We protect from weeds actively.

But we don’t see the daily growth.

Until we step away.

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DIY Disasters & A Magnetic Wall

7:00 am Bykristen

For every good do-it-yourself project I share with you, there is at least one untold disaster.

I’m a Mom, not a renovator/artist. I have three kids (one that is 2, so that raises the total even more). I have a limited budget and I’m messy.

So, disaster, is but a paint spill away.

I don’t want you guys to think that my weekly projects always go as planned. Because they don’t. I just don’t usually talk about the laminate bookshelf I spray painted three different times because the paint wouldn’t adhere to the laminate.

But it did adhere to my skin. For 3 days. I was blue, just like a Smurf.

Or remember my fancy pantry door? What I didn’t tell you is that I spray painted the door inside my garage. My hubby rigged up something so it could hang and I could get even coats. What I wasn’t counting on was the paint grabbing onto every dust particle in the air and covering everything in the garage with a fine red dust. It took weeks to clean it up.

Another example is the wall in my toddler’s room. I found a can of Magnetic Spray Paint on the clearance aisle at WalMart. This stuff is not cheap, except I found it for just a couple of dollars. My big idea: paint part of a wall and let my daughter use it to hold magnets.

Brilliant, right?

Um, no. Because it was spray paint. But I didn’t want to waste money, so I did it anyway. She couldn’t sleep in her room for two days due to fumes. The overspray was horrible and the bonus? It wasn’t magnetic (I would have been much better off with the roll on magnetic paint). Of course, I didn’t learn this until after I painted the yellow Latex room paint over the gray magnetic paint.

A disaster.

But rather than give up, I decided to be creative and flexible. Here’s how I fixed it:

Rather than buy roll-on magnetic paint that runs about $20, I found two magnetic dry erase boards for less than $20 for both. I adhered those over the non-magnetic mess I’d created. I used some bright pink paint to create a border to cover up the overspray.

The magnetic boards didn’t cover the entire area, so I used some leftover rub-on alphabet letters.

Not exactly what I had planned, but still good, and most importantly, useful.

When your DIY turns DISASTER:

Don’t panic.
Rethink your plan and lay out all your options.
Google-this is a great resource for stain removal ideas.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help,
Buy used items to redo from garage/thrift sales so if it does get ruined, you haven’t invested a lot.
Learn from your mistakes.
Give yourself a break. Most DIY-selfer’s are trying to save money. It takes a lot of courage to paint your kitchen cabinets or rip out carpet. So, don’t be too hard on yourself. Not everything always goes according to plan.
Be realistic. If you expect perfection on every project, you will be disappointed.

Go ahead, share one of your DIY disasters. There’s comfort in numbers.

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I May Have Created a Monster

9:37 pm Bykristen

Well. Who knew that a getaway was exactly what we needed?

Okay, me.

I cannot believe how much my hubby and I crammed into our 2.75 days alone.

First off, my kids survived and thrived. We are picking up my oldest from camp first thing Thursday morning before heading back to Texas. I know she will be smitten with her own getaway, even though the camp nurse called to tell me she lost her mouth appliance.

Good thing I missed her so much.

My mother-in-law survived the toddler and called her a delight.

Whew.

(Because this is the key to another getaway….) Although, I will be the first to admit that it didn’t take our 2 year old 10 minutes to throw a humdinger of a fit. It makes me feel proud that she welcomed us home so vocally.

And my son didn’t even know we were gone. He filled his days with boy cousins and dirt.

Our getaway highlights:

My hubby and I watched THREE movies at a real-live movie theatre. We ate at very kid-unfriendly places. We shopped during nap time. I fell in love (like the rest of the world) with a bunch of vampires (I’m on book 3) and didn’t mind at all that my hubby drove around Tulsa in circles without asking for directions, while I read. Oh, and my hubby had his first pedicure with me.

(I’m pretty sure I’ve created a monster on that last one. He wants to know when we can go again!)

Oh, and we reignited the spark for at least another 15 years.

My suggestion for you: If a getaway is completely out of the question for you and your spouse, plan an entire day to getaway. From 9 am to 9 pm on the first day, we discovered something we’d lost along the way: each other. Our kids demand so much of our attention and we could feel the stress melt away…Make it happen. You’ll be glad you did!

P.S. There’s a little contest going on over in my forum. Just introduce yourself and you’ll be entered to win a $25 Target gift card. Reply to others and you’ll be entered multiple times!

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WFMW: Tips for Traveling with Kids

7:00 am Bykristen

(I published this post last year, but since I’m on a road trip this week and had to refer to this list, I thought it would be helpful for your summer trips too).

I started to call this list “The Ultimate Stress-Free Traveling (With Kids) Guide.”

But, I’m a mom of three and the words ‘stress-free and kids’, don’t exactly go together. Especially when you’re traveling.

Know what I mean?

We have a couple of small trips planned and so I created this list out of necessity. Because frankly, driving 250 miles to Family Camp, isn’t exactly relaxing with a screaming toddler.

Here’s a list of some ideas for your next road trip. Maybe one of these or 23 of them will help!

Most of these are items to be taken on a road trip, although many will work for flying too.

Audio books (my library checks them out) or you can download them here
Ice chest w/drinks
DVD player, preferably with movies that haven’t been seen
We’ve been driving our smaller less gas-consuming car that doesn’t have a built-in TV. So, we strap our laptop on an ice chest with a bungee, so the kids can watch a movie. (Yeah, we are THAT family).
Bag or backpack with coloring books and small toys for each child.
This site says pack a plastic box for kids personal things and then use the lid as a tray to eat on.
Lap Desk for writing and drawing
Headphones for MP3 players and/or DVD player
Kid’s camera
Sketch pad/pencil
Extra change of clothes, separate from luggage. Because if it can happen, it probably will.
If you’re traveling with a toddler, leave when they are tired. If you leave first thing in the morning, this is their active time and they don’t make the best travelers
A package of pipe cleaners (to bend, twist and create)
Pack paper towels, wipes, and a couple of blankets. Remember, we’re talking kids.
Buy $5 Tape Recorder and ‘Read’ stories to your kids in your own voice
Put a trash box in the back seat
Travel Journal
Sing silly road trip songs
Travel games from the store (Target has some great ones in the stationary section that are cheap and magnetic!)
Travel freebies-links to free stuff for traveling
Play the I spy game with license plates
Wipe-off white board/marker
Magnetic sets (paper dolls, fire trucks, found in book sections)
Snack bag filled with pre-portioned zip-lock bags of non-messy foods
Kid’s music
Tin foil for creations
Play Go Fish
Make string figures
Check out these awesome games (like Noah’s Ark, Build a Story and Fooler, Fooler) to play in the car!
Kids pillow and blanket
Treasure Jar
Rest Stop Box-stock with jump rope, frisbee, inflatable beach ball and Nerf ball, according to July’s issue of Parents Magazine.
They also encourage travelers to ‘crank up the radio, open the doors and have an outdoor dance-a-thon).
Printable Car Trip Check List
Child-safety scissors and paper (it worked on a long flight w/my preschooler)
Invisible markers/Magic paper
Chalk Cloth Oil Mat
Moon sand on a tray
Post It Notes-draw on them, then decorate the car (Women’s Day, July Issue)
Spill-proof Bubbles (yes, in the car. My toddler loves this).
Printable Car Bingo
Stickers
Band-aids (again a toddler-pleaser)
Leapster, DS Lite or hand-held game
Magna Doodle
Cookie sheet with magnetic alphabet letters
The following incredible ideas came from MomsMinivan: travel tickets, surprise packages, and more (Actually EVERY idea on this site is amazing!)
Printable Boredom Busters
I spy bags/jars
Ear plugs for when the “how much longer questions begin”

Have a Works-For-Me Wednesday tip you’d like to share? I’d love for you to join us! Please note that the links will close at 8 pm CST tonight, in order to keep away the spammers!

Please mark your calendar for next week’s themed edition: “Best Summer Recipes!”

Links have now closed. Please join us again next week.

Works for Me Wednesday Participants

1. Susan @ Practicing Thrift (custom picture frame)
2. Raising Olives (magnetic wall)
3. Cents to Get Debt Free (A Secret!)
4. exhale. return to center. (creating breathing space)
5. Amy @ Finer Things (Avoid the Sugar High)
6. Musings of a Housewife (roasting veggies)
7. Southern Fried Mama(Staying In Touch)
8. The Shabby Chic Cottage (decorating freebie)
9. Heather @ Just Doing My Best (messy bath towel solution)
10. ilovemy5kids (Beach/Sand tip)
11. It Feels Like Chaos (parenting help)
12. FishMama @ LifeasMOM (time with a friend)
13. Jolanthe {Emergency Binder: Household Information}
14. Garibay Soup (Fun Summer Learnin’!!)
15. Laura @ Heavenly Homemakers (Strawberry Bread!)
16. GROCERY CART CHALLENGE (Easiest Weeding Tip)
17. Aunt Mommy (off da hook swimgear)
18. Donna @ WayMoreHomemade (Bread Machine Focaccia)
19. Muthering Heights
20. Tina in Thailand (learning new hymns)
21. Homemaker Barbi (Clean 1 Room)
22. Hoosier Homemade(New Coupon Organizer)
23. Homemaker Barbi (Bathroom Cleaning)
24. Many Little Blessings {Inexpensive Create Your Own Craft Kit Gift Idea}
25. The Diaper Diaries (Sleepsacks GIVEAWAY!!)
26. HomemadeMom (cell phone reminders)
27. Holly@Homebody (fun easy project w/ kids)
28. Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers (Blog Tips)
29. Kirsty@Momedy: FUN and Injury free running. Maybe a marathon?
30. ElizabethG (More energy savings)
31. Home School Dad (The Runaround Place)
32. Smockity Frocks (High Chair Helper)
33. Julie From Inmates (iPhone)
34. The Happy Housewife ~ Kids Make Their Own Beds
35. Kate @ Stolen Moments (basic pesto)
36. A Simple Walk (roadside motel)
37. Susana @ My Family My Forever
38. Saving and Giving (Leave Your Calendar Home!)
39. Diane (cleaning with friends and challenge)
40. Jo Ann @ Just As I Am (movie reviews)
41. Kat @ New England Saving (Switching Grocery Shopping Strategies)
42. Christine @ becomingp31 (No bake treats for summer)
43. Sara @ Learning the Frugal Life(First Attempt at Clothesline)
44. Summer @ Wired For Noise (teaching telling time)
45. Green Baby Guide (Beat the Heat)
46. Lisa @ Moore Minutes (Hanky Panky *for WOMEN only*)
47. Chicagoland homeschool (Discount to Legoland Schaumburg)
48. Jenny @ Another Jennifer Speaks
49. Teach and Tickle (Fighting “I’m bored”)
50. Jordan @ MamaBlogga (blog w/o breaking the law)
51. Kristin -The Goat (Swiffer wet/dry on the cheap)
52. FamilyMakesCents (Meatloaf.. fast!)
53. My Frugal Adventures: Recycle baby wipes tubs
54. Good (& Cheap) Eats (kitchen trick)
55. Michelle-WhiteTrashMom
56. Laptoproadtrip.com (Groceries)
57. Effortless Savings (Frugal Air Travel)
58. Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolates (Versatile Black Dress)
59. cool mum (Really cheap “curtains”)
60. Melissa (Baby Food Storage)
61. Kitchen Stewardship (Healthy Eating Tips for Working Moms)
62. se7en (Getting Things Done with Se7en)
63. Julia @ The Frugal Find “Stay”cation
64. Amy (Second-fiddle Holiday)
65. Summer Travel Idea
66. the Animators Wife (easy summer dinner)
67. Alea @ Premeditated Leftovers (preusing juice boxes as ice blocks)
68. A Heart for Home (Safe Teething Toys & GIVEAWAY)
69. The Messy Mom (shopping at ice cream stores)
70. mamaK(beginning sew project)
71. Amber (Blogging in Comfort)
72. Angie (using up almost empty shampoo/conditioner bottles)
73. Amy Lynne
74. Tristan (Scripture Scouts CDs)
75. Beautiful Calling (Dangerous Waters)
76. Lee @ foodie plus 4 (keeping produce fresh)
77. Lori @ The Book Lady (reusable sandwich bags)
78. Girls in White Dresses (Fishful Thinking)
79. Melissa @ Frugal Creativity (blueberries)
80. Tracey @ Girls to Grow (Grocery List)
81. MC (Dealing with Anger)
82. Steady Mom (Accept Your Children & Yourself)
83. Becky (easy summertime snack)
84. chili pepper (the dot system)
85. Christine (no more tattling)
86. The Rambling Ewe – letting children help
87. Newlyweds (New Camera)
88. rachel from springpad (great smelling hair)
89. Janel @ Becoming Janel (Pressure Cookers)
90. MollyGreen(little summer treat)
91. Jackie @ Blessings Overflowing (No-Sew Cloth Diaper Liners)
92. Health Begins With Mom (5 Minutes to a Clean Shower)
93. everydayMOM (grocery shopping)
94. Bailey’s Leaf (Pampered Chef Small Scoop)
95. pennypinchinmomma(save $200)
96. Cardamoms Pod (In Touch With Daddy)
97. Mother Hen (Little Helpers)
98. Stephanie (Family Devotion Idea: A Pocketful Of Proberbs!)
99. Stephanie (Family Devotion Idea: A Pocketful Of Proverbs!)
100. The Cozy Country Home (Farm Stands)
101. Homeschool Creations {School’s Out Challenge}
102. Chic Critique (relief from foot blisters)
103. Greta (free coloring news”paper”)
104. Bake at 350 (a FREE food lover’s podcast)
105. Monica@DailyDwelling (photo editing)
106. Brilliant Moms (Microfiber Mops)
107. Suzanne @ Adventures in Teething (Potty Training Tip for Parents)
108. Tutu (make a
volcano)

109. Tara @ Feels like home (another free game for kids)
110. Llama Momma (summer survival cooking)
111. songberries (sewing organization)
112. Amy @ Living Locurto (my favorite tips)
113. Cara (bulk onions)
114. Sandra @ A Lot of Savings (Waking Up Early)
115. The Nifty Newlywed (Fresher Freezer Meat)
116. Superchikk (Prevent Laundry Detergent Goop)
117. Suddenly Stay @ Home (PreCooking)
118. Carolina Mama (Little Debbie Cakes & Giveaway)
119. Pillaging With Buffie (Starbucks Cards)
120. April-Protesting Home Tax Appraisal
121. Lori (garden tip)
122. Sarah Eliza @ devastateboredom (Site to simplify nutrition)
123. Shannon (turnip greens quiche)
124. Michelle (measuring on the wall)
125. Moving Forward (keeping counters clean)
126. Joyful Johnsons (The Van Can)
127. Steph @ My Country Haven (Using Up Leftovers)
128. Sherry @ Lamp Unto My Feet (Want Great Pics?)
129. Kelly @ Fruit of the Womb(planning vacation meals)
130. Sandy @Jesus & Dark Chocolate (ice cream treat!)
131. Muses of Megret (Summer Door Dots)
132. Becky@ Living Out Loud (pets and hot weather)
133. Holly @ A Mommy’s Blessings (zoo pass)
134. Camian Academy (Buying Meat in Bulk)
135. Beth (Homeschooling in the Summer)
136. Joys of Homeschooling(Menu Chalkboard)
137. Grannyann-Pour a can of coke
138. Mary – discipline chart and blessing chart
139. Amy @ CouponPsycho -Frugal Date Nights!
140. Paula @ Organizing Tips (Organizing for Husbands & Wives)
141. Kristi_runwatch (sign language with kids)
142. Joanna @ Grace In The Home (Soap Scum Remover)
143. The Nifty Newlywed (Fresher Freezer Meat)
144. Overwhelmed Working Mom (Quick ‘n Easy Dinner)
145. Susan (kids’ toilet seat covers)
146. Cassandra-HomeMade IceCream
147. Jennie (list making, chicken marinade)
148. Miche@CoordinatedChaos-Kid Fun for 4th of July
149. Amanda (simple healthy toddler recipe)
150. Missy @ Simply Red(frozen banana pops)
151. Milehimama (Crusty Tricks)
152. Penny Raine
153. missy @ missysthrifty (childrens chores)
154. Jen @ What’s Shakin’? {Grilled Banana Boats}
155. Steadfast At Home {Wiping Little Faces}
156. Michelle @ SAH {Wiping Little Faces}
157. Aubrey (healthy frosting)
158. Frugal Carol – Rained out pool party….
159. Angie (Creating A Mii Avator)
160. Kristen (homemade maple bars )
161. April(repair instead of replace)
162. Simply Swee
t Home (patriotic cupcakes)
163. angelina(thanks and a cool tip)
164. Michelle @ Saving Some Green (Discover where you live!)
165. All Things Cherished (clean porcelain sink)
166. The Gaines Gang( Pickle Jar Cuteness)
167. Amanda (free photo editing software)
168. Mama Said (cut stair climbing)
169. Sharinskishe (Bacon Grease)
170. Tips for getting cake out of the pan
171. Sherean
172. Liza’s Eyeview
173. Liza’s Eyeview (Prayer Cures Anxiety)
174. Sherean (Organic produce cheat sheet)
175. Niki @ Free 2 Be Frugal (50 books challenge)
176. Maria @ Very Blessed Mommy(Preschool bags & workbox actvities)
177. Better is Little {leaving house w/ children}
178. Amyswandering (Grocerywiz Customized List)
179. Kelli @ writing the waves (Secret Weapon for road trips!)
180. blue striped shirt (garage sales)
181. FabuLESSly Frugal (Cut Your Grocery Buget-FREEZER MEALS)
182. Maria @ Thrifty Ways and Ideas (Thrifty Tip for Flower Gardens)
183. Kristin@Fill My Cup (less kitchen mess in the summer)
184. Farrah from Wife and Mom of 3 (Lists)
185. Kirstin: homeschool testing
186. Liz @ Frugally Blonde (Easy Way to Save on Baby Food)
187. Aunt LoLo (Keep bread fresh!)
188. ‘Becca (colored socks)
189. Kristen ~ Pajama Mama (turn a skirt into a camera strap/purse))
190. Staci @ teaching money to kids (If you give a mouse a cookie)
191. Heather – digital reader 4 kids
192. Saving Money Ideas (organic pb)
193. Declutter Blog (Timers)
194. Rhonda in OK – Pantry Storage Jars
195. JenT (Kool-Aid dyed scarves)
196. Eden (Smoothies)
197. Peggy @ rainberryblue (bug bite relief)
198. Iowa Expat (linguini with clam sauce recipe)
199. Pam at BeyondJustMom (Mother/Daughter journaling)
200. Intentionally Katie (Quick Cleaning Tips)
201. Judy @ Frugal at Home (earning Amazon gift cards)
202. Diana @ Holes in My Shiny Veneer
203. Diana @ Holes in My Shiny Veneer (reusable produce bags)
204. Meghan @ Married to the Cows (stain removal/detergent)
205. Rhen @yestheyareallmine
206. Wani (1200 Free Photo Prints!)
207. Be Home Happy (cheap movies)
208. Mama Manifesto (easy bottle warming)
209. Prairie Cottage Rose (Spreadable Butter)
210. Fly Away Family (12 Frugal Gardening Tips)
211. Andrea@Hopefulhousewife (Easy fan cleaning!)
212. Grateful for Grace (FREE short Bible study)
213. SWAP SAVERS (FREE Summer Activities for Kids and Families)
214. Everything Moms (Helping kids when loved ones are away)
215. April @ ElCloud Homeschool (CUTE clothes pin bag)

Po
wered by… Mister Linky’s Magical Widgets.

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Vintage Pearl {Giveaway}

7:00 am Bykristen

*UPDATE* We have a winner, people. Mr. Random chose a man (my hubby will be proud)! Congrats to Dave HomeSchool Dad!

While I’m bonding with my hubby this week, I thought y’all might enjoy a giveaway from one of my favorite Etsy stores!

Y’all know I love my hubby (even when he takes pictures of me sleeping with my mouth open).

How could I not? Especially when he comes up with stuff like this:

He contacted The Vintage Pearl and had her create this necklace for me:

You’re what works for me

(as in WFMW)

I’m glad I work for him. And I’m assuming he’s not referring to the laundry.

Erin did a fabulous job. I absolutely love her hand-stamped jewelry!

Today, she’s offering a reader a custom piece. Winner’s choice ($50 value)!

Visit her shop, tell me what you’d put on a custom piece, or even better, what your hubby would engrave on a necklace!!

This giveaway will end on Friday.

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You Might Want to Read This First

7:00 am Bykristen

My oldest child (who thinks she is much older than I think), has been begging to attend our 4-day out-of-state church camp for years.

But I am a weenie when it comes to being away from my kids.

She thinks she’s getting her way without realizing that I’m maintaining a little of the control.

Since the camp is only an hour and half from my in-laws farm, we dropped her off yesterday. Her clothes neatly labeled and sorted in zip-lock bags.

Yes, I am THAT Mom.

We left our son and toddler with the grandparents and are staying for three WHOLE days at a Bed ‘n Breakfast, less than an hour from all of our kids.

I need to say that again, BY OURSELVES.

This is our 15th year of marriage, so obviously, we are celebrating it.

I mean, I’m celebrating in-between sudden urges to grab a child’s hand, wipe a nose and lick my finger to clean a sticky mouth.

My 2.5 year old is the youngest child on my hubby’s side. The next youngest is my 7 year old son. I totally trust my mother-in-law, but only thought it was fair to offer her step-by-step instructions for handling a toddler. Because some assembly is required:

How-To Assemble:

Clothing must be pink in nature. Subject tends to move quickly, so a firm hold is necessary. Subject will remove assembly every time you blink. Don’t blink. (see figure a)

How-To Extend Battery Life:

Subject loves food, but does not enjoy the same thing twice. It is not uncommon to prepare a complete meal and it remain untouched. Subject will always consume M&M;’s, or food on a necklace (see figure b)

How-To Replace Batteries:

Subject will run low on battery power after noon and evening feedings. The best way to recharge said batteries is unplugging subject. Read instructions to subject in sing-song voice, cover with favorite filthy blanket, shut door and run.

How-To Clean:

Cleaning is a top priority in the long term satisfaction of your new subject. Bubbles are a key ingredient. Adult supervision is required. Goggles and plenty of towels are suggested. Repeat as needed, as subject likes to break open ink pens with her mouth. (see figure c).

How-To Miscellaneous:

Subject is prone to loud, frequent outbursts. This is completely normal and expected. If subject thrashes on the floor, carefully step over them and resume normal activity. This may last for several minutes and is not covered under warranty.

Most of all, handle with care.

Love your daughter in-law,

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When Words Fail

12:01 am Bykristen

For the first time, words fail me.

I cannot express my love for you with a few measly adjectives.

I cannot explain my deep respect for you with several crafted sentences.

I cannot exclaim my joy in having you share my life by just putting some letters together.

I cannot exaggerate my praise for you as a father to my children in a poem.

I cannot eloquently describe my heart that beats in rhythm with yours with a pen and paper.

Words fail me.

You do not.

Happy Father’s Day, honey.

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DIYP-Father’s Day Edition

12:17 pm Bykristen

Do you have a link or an idea for a fun, last-minute Father’s Day craft? Would you share it here in my forum? I know there will be some frantic searching this weekend for some last-minute gift ideas!

Our Dad Rocks

My kids and I saw this idea in the summer Family Fun magazine.

We borrowed three round, flat rocks from our neighbor (who happens to be Mr. Rocky).

I set up plates with paint and each of my kids claimed a rock. They painted the rocks a solid color (even my 2 year old painted!)

It didn’t take long for them to apply a few coats or to get overheated outside. While they took an unplanned swim break in our plastic pool (with their clothes on-still trying to say yes), I used Sharpie markers to add some detail:

When you put the rocks together, the resemblance is uncanny!

Father’s Day Shirt Cake

Isn’t that a cute Father’s Day cake?

Here’s the how-to video

Or you can just wing it, like we did. My kids were in charge and they were really pleased with the results (this pineapple upside down cake was delicious):

We celebrated early with my parents. They loved the cake! My mom chewed and thoughtfully said, “What exactly are the round decorations on the tie?”

My son said proudly, “That’s my leftover Easter candy.”

My Mom found her napkin quickly.

Nothing says happy Father’s Day like old Easter candy.

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DIYP-Mini Makeover & Giveaway!

7:00 am Bykristen

*Update* Congrats to winner Mindy Waters!

I’ve always had a secret love for modern things.

I love the sleek lines, the sharp edges, the funky colors.

It makes this traditional girl want to grow up into a modern girl!

Recently, All Modern Baby, contacted me about reviewing a product or two. I informed them that I was fresh out of babies. They pointed me towards their Mom and Dad product line. (But just in case a baby is ever dropped on my front step, I’d get this and this and this! And if I needed a high chair, I think this Stokke Tripp Trapp is groovy!)

I’m so glad they pointed me to their grownup stuff.

My family room is black and white without a speck of color.

We live in that room. Our indoor/outdoor rug used to be a creamy off white. It has been gray for a long time. I’ve always wanted to add a modern touch to the room.

I’m thinking green.

Funky green throw pillow

Lime. Green. Rug.

Click to enlarge if you really want to see my nasty rug

What do you think? I think the pop of green on the floor and the sofa will make the room more fun, less formal. My 9 year is concerned because black, white and green don’t match.

I may have handicapped her future in modern home decor.

Go look around this amazing store! I spent entirely too much time browsing! Tell me what you like and you’ll be entered to win a $50 gift certificate for anything in the store (baby or not)!

This giveaway ends on Saturday, so get those comments in!

(Stay tuned for my DIYP: Father’s Day Edition)

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Yes

7:00 am Bykristen

I say no more than I say yes.

I didn’t realize it until I became conscious of it. My real life friend Jennifer issued a personal challenge for herself: to say yes as often as she could this summer.

She encouraged me to do the same.

I learned something the first day I tried it: I say no all the time.

Naturally, I choose no more than yes.

I don’t like this about me.

Oh, I can offer dozens of excuses for why I say no. Safety is obviously a priority. Cleanliness is way up there too. But I like structure, organization. I like control. And I can maintain control if I say no.

Often times, saying yes requires more work for me. I say no because I’m selfish.

Yuck.

So, I’m baby-stepping, I’m trying to say yes more.

Yes, you can do sidewalk chalk in your pajamas. Yes, you can pull all the cushions off the couch for family movie night.

(Try not to look at what was under the couch cushions)

It’s not easy for me to say yes.

And I’m not good at it.

Lisa (the genius blogger behind the retired Domestic Accident) sent me this link.

I encourage you to watch the video or listen to the tract. It’s from a Mom, who is dying. She writes about how Death is Not Dying. She talks about saying yes and about capturing each moment and about finding true happiness at the Cross.

I was moved deeply by it.

Moved to say yes.

Yes, you can have a silly string fight on the trampoline.

Yes, you can build a fort on the landing and leave it up for two days. Yes, you can eat lunch in it. Yes, you can introduce your sister to Sleeping Beauty on my laptop in the fort….

Yes, yes, yes.

It’s getting easier.

Is it hard for you to say yes or are you a natural?

Food for the Soul:

You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11

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WFMW-It’s All in the Bag

7:00 am Bykristen

I have a quick and easy tip for you guys this week!

Summer is in full swing and we are spending a lot of time at the pool. We’ve got more wet towels and swimsuits than people in our house.

I keep our swim bag in the laundry room and when I pull clean beach towels and swim gear out of the dryer or from hanging out to dry, I fold them and put them directly in the pool bag.

My kids are usually so excited about the thought of going swimming, they aren’t very helpful in the gathering and packing.

So, we always have a bag ready to go for the pool, so we can take a dip at a moment’s notice.

Which would be now!

{Thank you for joining me for WFMW! You can read the guidelines here.}

Have a Works-For-Me Wednesday tip you’d like to share? I’d love for you to join us! Please note that the links will close at 8 pm CST tonight, in order to keep away the spammers!

Please mark your calendars TWO WEEKS from today for our themed edition: “Best Summer Recipes!”

Was your link deleted? Click here.

Links have now closed, please join us again next week!

Works for Me Wednesday Participants

1. Kirsty@Momedy:NO NAG! Chores/Routine/Allowance System
2. Katrina @ Callapidder Days (Kids’ Task Cards)
3. Erin @ Closing Time (yummy recipes)
4. It Feels Like Chaos (father’s day fun)
5. Smockity Frocks (Photo Bookmark for Father’s Day)
6. Frugal Girls! {4th of July Fruit Kabobs!}
7. RaisingOlives (chalkboard wall)
8. Muthering Heights
9. Heather @ Just Doing My Best (Save time unloading dishwasher)
10. Cents to Get Debt Free (Garden Books and The Shred)
11. The Meanest Momma (Tips for Yard Sale Success)
12. Hoosier Homemade(Kernel Cutter Gadget)
13. ilovemy5kids (Smelling good recipe)
14. Lisa (Let Us Break Bread Together)
15. Erin (keeping weeds off the patio)
16. Meagan (easy homemade bread)
17. Frugal Girls! {Free Entry to National Parks this Summer!}
18. Tara @ Feels like home (getting rid of fears)
19. TidyMom (quick dslr lens change)
20. Be
tter is Little (Picnic treat)
21. Amy @ Momstoolbox (Seeking Road Trip Tips)
22. Christy Klein {Cool Summertime Drinks}
23. Robin Dance ~ PENSIEVE (Swimsuit Shopping help for moms)
24. exhale. return to center. (my pantry makeover)
25. Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers (NoteTab Light)
26. Joy @ Five J’s (Saving $ on Camping Gear)
27. Sunnymama (homemade caterpillar cake)
28. Lauren @ Team Giles {Front Yard Decor}}
29. Steady Mom (get offline now!)
30. The Happy Housewife ~ Fast Food
31. Storing Freezer Foods
32. SouthernFriedMama (No Wrinkles!!!)
33. Summer @ Wired For Noise (fruit salsa)
34. Kate @ A Simple Walk (Party Pails)
35. Amy @ Finer Things (softball treats)
36. Home School Dad (The End of Blogging)
37. Milehimama (cheap organizing)
38. ElizabethG (Green & Frugal Laundry)
39. Susana (Scheduling Posts Timesaver)
40. Common Cents Mom (I Need Help)
41. Julie From Inmates (Free Banners)
42. This Side of Eternity (Gardening)
43. Green Baby Guide (Dishsoap Giveaway!)
44. Jo@Mylestones (Focus!)
45. WHAT’S WRONG WITH THE FOOD PYRAMID? – Kelly the Kitchen Kop
46. Laura @ Heavenly Homemakers (Make a Mystery Message Card!)
47. Innkeeper Seely (keeping English Muffins fresh)
48. Lisa @ Moore Minutes (Cupcake Pan Creations)
49. tammy@living graciously(keeping the kids clean)
50. Teri Lynne @ Pleasing to You (prayer calendars)
51. Lisa-Be a Yummy Mummy!
52. Mom’s Magic (EASY scratch baking)
53. Many Little Blessings {Monthly Menu Planning}
54. Jenny@AJS
55. April(Johnson’s buddies reusing)
56. Harper-The Grocery Game
57. Mama Jenn (Gardening: Saving H20 & Money)
58. GROCERY CART CHALLENGE (homemade OXYCLEAN)
59. Live life to the full (disposable cameras)
60. Mothering4Money (teenager’s curfew)
61. Molly Green (marshmallow cake decor)
62. PJ’s All Day (headboard shelf)
63. Homemaker Barbi (Early Pregnancy Symptoms)
64. spaghettipie (FRUIT!)
65. Tara@Not So Perfect(Make $$ Blogging))
66. Diann @ The Thrifty Groove (to-go containers)
67. momsfrugal (homemade shortcakes!)
68. Alea @ Premeditated Leftovers (using an oil dispenser to save on dish soap)
69. Mrs. Querido:: Frugal Dishwasher Detergent
70. Andrea @ Hatch (cooking substitutions)
71. Jackie (Food Processor Tips)
72. Zoe in England (Supermarket Loyalty cards)
73. Stretch Mark Mama (10 Easy Ways To Meet The Neighbors)
74. Mandi (cleaning stainless steel appliances)
75. All Things Heart and Home (Aging Gracefully)
76. Jolanthe {Printable To-Do List!!}
77. Jennifer, Snapshot (Kids’ Thank You Notes)
78. foodie plus 4 (easy pasta)
79. BusyMom (Cherries)
80. TuTu (Portrait Pacifier)
81. Tristan (beet cake)
82. Cardamoms Pod (More Than Potatoes)
83. Beautiful Calling (30 Fun Summer Ideas)
84. Kim (Organizing family schedules)
85. Jen @Cage Free Monkeys (homeschooling interview)
86. Melissa @ Frugal Creativity (SwagBucks/bonus code for new members)
87. Newlyweds (Bay Trip)
88. Tracey @ Girls to Grow (End Arguments)
89. Musings of a Housewife (Diet Changes)
90. ET @ Titus2:3-5 (reading the WHOLE Bible)
91. Fairion – Learning and Literature
92. Melissa @ Frugal Creativity (cleaner dishes from old dishwasher)
93. Lisa (Cleaned out Pantry)
94. Frugal Carol – Patio Garden….
95. Becky (simple baby gift)
96. Liz @ Frugally Blonde (Packing for Summer Trips)
97. MC (Crock Pot Ribs)
98. Jamie (Free Cycle Envelopes)
99. The Shabby Chic Cottage
100. Erin (Many Uses of Pot Scrapers)
101. Sarah (GenMom) PB Paisley Brownies
102. Health Begins With Mom (Healthy Salad Dressings)
103. Aunt LoLo (Stink Be Gone)
104. Camian Academy (Vidalia Chop Wizard)
105. se7en (A Mother’s Almanac – Crafty Collectives)
106. Bake at 350 (HOMEMADE pancake mix)
107. chili pepper (hanging towels)
108. Songberries (Uses for conditioner)
109. Muses of Megret (Tomato Soup)
110. Suzanne @ Adventures in Teething (Furniture Repurposing)
111. Moving Forward (dryer sheets)
112. Sarah Mae (A Husband’s Covering)
113. Ami@CupRunnethOver
114. back40life (get rid of fruit flies)
115. Sandra @ A Lot of Savings (Veggie Wash)
116. The Rambling Ewe – best summer breakfast
117. Cara (Maker’s Diet)

118. Green Bean (wedge skirts, fabric shopping)
119. Jackie @ Blessings Overflowing (Homemade Sand Table)
120. alana from springpad (organizing your purse)
121. April (Unplugging for a Weekend)
122. Sharon @ Because I Must (use it up!)
123. The Nifty Newlywed
124. The Nifty Newlywed (Priorities/To Do List)
125. songbirdtiff (just string and nails?)
126. Donielle @ Raising Peanuts (natural cures for mastitis)
127. Lynn’s Kit Adv (easy and good breakfast)
128. Paula @ Organizing Tips for Moms (Don’t Compare)
129. Amy @ CouponPsycho (Homemade wipes!)
130.
Brilliant Moms (Our “Upstairs Box”)
131. Laryssa @Heaven In The Home (Lots of art giveaways and an art coupon code!)
132. Edi (Hulu old TV programs)
133. Sherry @ Lamp Unto My Feet (Easier Baking)
134. Superchikk (Coupons The Easy Way)
135. ADOBO LIFE (Invest, Plan, Save)
136. Veggiemomof2(cheap meds)
137. QAMom – Work Day Breakfasts
138. Elena@My Domestic Church(tips for teaching reading)
139. Girls in White Dresses (summertime chore chart)
140. Fly Away Family (Travel Tips: Jet Lag)
141. cassandra (Bass Pro Shop)
142. Melissa: Toy Organization
143. Free 2 Be Frugal (Replacing a…)
144. Grannyann-Buy Christmas now
145. Mary @ Giving Up on Perfect
146. Beth (Apple Cider Vinegar)
147. Heather (teaching little ones to focus)
148. Melissa (toy organization
149. Kristen (make your own ground beef)
150. FishMama @ LifeasMOM (meal planning from sales)
151. FamilyMakesCents (at home weight loss)
152. Kitchen Stewardship (How to Read a Bread Bag)
153. All Things Cherished (60 uses for salt)
154. Amanda (chore chart for moms)
155. Michelle @ Saving Some Green (creative uses for toothpaste)
156. Jen-After the Alter (weekly meal plans)
157. Nikki & Danny (stuffed potatoes)
158. Christine @ becomingp31 (Scheduling your week – saving time, money and sanity!)
159. Amy (co-sleeping)
160. Hopeful Housewife (Uses for USED dryer sheets!)
161. Sandwiched (Easy, healthy summer kid snack)
162. Life on 7th Avenue (conveniencing family favs)
163. Tanya (Scripture memorization)
164. Carolina Mama (Dad’s Remodeling & Giveaway)
165. The Savings Ninja (Homemade Dog Treats)
166. Farrah from Wife and Mom of 3 (Love Dare)
167. Heather Faith family fun
168. staci @ teaching money to kids (Pigs will be Pigs)
169. Hannah@WisdomsPupil (forgiveness)
170. Colleen – Mommy Always Wins (sticky boys)
171. Amy Platon (kid art organizing)
172. Simply Sweet Home (wedding cookies)
173. Sarah Eliza @ devastateboredom (Brutal organization…)
174. Moneywise Moms (Mini Muffin Tin = Fancy Food)
175. missy @ missysthrifty (laundry pre-treater recipe)
176. Shannon @ Seeking to Glorify (Count Calories Using iPhone’s LoseIt!)
177. 3 boys lotsa crazy (lying to your kids)
178. Kirstin: summer library programs
179. Steph @ My Country Haven (Family Command Center)
180. Overwhelmed Working Mom (Best window cleaner, EVER!)
181. Becky@ Living Out Loud (easiest meal planning)
182. Naturally Crystal Clear (Organizing Bills)
183. Michelle-WTMom (Car Storage)
184. Nichole @ A Call to Higher Places (My Blue Overfloweth!)
185. Jill @ MoneySavinDiva (when buying in bulk is worth it…)
186. Tons of Sons ~ selecting good whoelsome dvd’s
187. Simply Catholic (back up batteries)
188. Carrie (baking)
189. Wanda @ queenies (book giveaway)
190. Shannon (mexican salmon cakes w/ garlic-herb creme fraiche)
191. Jerri @ Jerri’s Journey (Bounce those Bugs!)
192. Lori (The Peterson Family)
193. Teri @ The Infertility Chronicles (Father’s Day Craft!)
194. Joanna @ OneKrustyMama (Get your kids to eat their lunch the easy way!)
195. pennypinchinmomma (stockpile)
196. Donna @ Another New Season (help for the helpless homemaker)
197. Bloom Where You’re Planted (popcorn and olive oil)
198. Susan @ Practicing Thrift (new TARGET diapers)
199. Adventures with Alison (Organizing Art Work)
200. Heather (Routine: up and running)
201. SWAP SAVERS (Free for Father’s Day)
202. Beulah (Good Advice)
203. Perfectly Provident (Organizing Coupons)
204. Katie (Birthday Party Tips)
205. 4 Sweet Sisters – Re-organizing the school/office/whatever room
206. aunt mommy (PBJ Sticks: Didn’t work for me wednesday)
207. everydayMOM (streamlining laundry)
208. Katie (Felt Flower Clips)
209. Corrected Link! (Felt Flower Clips)
210. MOMMA BIRD (Cleaning Schedule)
211. Be Home Happy (sale shopping)
212. Katie @ Clean and Classic Interiors (Vacation Memory Postcards)
213. Jodi (Day Camping)
214. ‘Becca (financial secret)
215. Samantha (Udderly Smooth Lotion)
216. Cheerios Underfoot (Stop sweating the small stuff around the house)
217. Pam at BeyondJustMom (the 27 Thing Fling)
218. Holly @ A Mommy’s Blessings (once a month shopping)
219. Judy @ Frugal at Home (getting Amazon items for free)
220. Hip Mama’s Faves
221. ORGANIIC AND THRIFTY (Postpartum weight loss tips)
222. Stockpile Recipe(s) Cool Whip
223. Diane (natural cleaner and challenge)
224. Valencia @ Buildeth Her House (Father’s day ideas)
225. Shanna : Frugal Laundry Soap
226. Grateful for Grace (teach doctrine: easy & fun!)
227. Penny Raine
228. Amber (going with the flow – laundry)
229. Judy (Recipe Binder)
230. christa
231. Mother Hen (cookies for my kids)
232. Michelle@naturallycurlieNaturally fabulous
233. Jordan @ MamaBlogga (get blog followers)

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Don’t Do Crack Winners

6:59 am Bykristen

Well. The name this photo contest was just plain old fun.

Y’all are hilarious.

I laughed so hard at your funny captions!

It was not easy picking a favorite, but I’m choosing:

“Hanes HER Way” by Kimberly I hope you enjoy your post-it set! I’m also throwing in a brand new copy of The White Trash Mom Handbook by Michelle Lamar!

Here are some other favorites I decided to honorably mention:

“Does my butt look big….out of these jeans?” by ShEiLa

“The stair master isn’t all it’s cracked up to be” by Suzanne

“The future TLC’s “What Not To Wear” star by Christine

“Put your big girl panties on and deal with it!” by Kelly

“So I understand the plumbing problem is upstairs m’am?” by Marcy

“Bring up the rear” by Bree

“Now we know who really wears the pants in the family” by Gary Porter

“Over the shoulder boulder holder” by Bonnie

In an effort to de-lurk my blog, I offered a special bonus prize to the last comment before I shut down the contest. You’ll also be receiving a copy of Michelle’s book! Because if Mom’s Christmas panties as toddler t-shirt, doesn’t scream WHITE TRASH, I don’t know what does!

Last comment prize goes to: Katie, Kevin & Kids, who said:

Dropping in from Lurkerville

How about…

“She is THAT toddler!”

See? It pays to de-lurk!

And just so y’all know I play fair, I’m also tossing in a small consolation prize to comment number one, Mandy C!

Stay tuned, you might just see another one of these contests! I’ll wait until I really need a good laugh!

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Name This Photo Contest

7:00 am Bykristen

Okay, y’all. I’m trying something new!

Submit a caption for this picture:

(She may or may not be wearing a pair of my underwear around her neck.

I’ll never admit to it.)

I will choose the best caption and the winner will WIN A SET of four post-it pads (from Pretty Bitter) that say: I Will Do One Thing Today.

My note will say, “Put a lock on my undergarment drawer.”

P.S. I’m trying to draw out the people who don’t comment!! I’ll throw in a bonus prize ~~to the 321st commenter on this post!~~ (who am I kidding?) to the last comment before I close this post down!

Come on lurkers, don’t let me down!

Winner will be announced whenever I get around to it.

Comments are now closed. I’ll announce the winners soon!

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I Laugh Every Day

7:00 am Bykristen

I’m not the giggly sort.

I don’t guffaw, rarely cackle and snorting is unheard of.

But. I laugh. Every. Day.

How could I not?

I live with hilarious people. Oh, they aren’t stand up comics. They don’t even tell good jokes (I’m being honest here). They don’t try to make me laugh.

They just live every day to the fullest, they aren’t afraid to ask any question, they explore and make exciting! discoveries!

And, oh my word, they are funny.

My daughter decided that she is going to be a fashion designer when she grows up.

Fashion for mice is the newest fad:

I laughed until I cried the other day when my hubby and son were wrestling and my son gasped LOUDLY, stood up and grabbed his boyhood and said, “Dad, that wrestling move nearly got me in the TENDERS!”

The tenders. {hehe}

Or when my 3rd grade daughter told me about the boy in her class who visits the nurse at school every day (every! day!) He makes his scabs bleed (so! gross!) so he can get out of class. “And, Mom, he gets bitten (on! purpose!) by mosquitoes, just so he can have something to scratch!”

Ha!

Or the two year old. Her latest trick? Hiding. She loves to hide. “Come fine, me Momma!!”

{Huge grin}

I laugh every day.

And sometimes because it just feels better than crying.

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Scrap Wood + Imagination = Sandbox

1:00 pm Bykristen

While my hubby worked on my patio table makeover, my kids begged for the scrap wood. They borrowed a hammer and he let the older two have a few nails, since he was right there with them.

I laughed when they told me they were building their little sister a sandbox.

But they worked diligently and together for several hours to create something useful! I drug the bag of leftover sand from the garage and a few toys from our beach bag:

And their little sister loved it!

She even let them play in it, too.

Supplies needed:

Scrap wood and a few nails

Sand

An imagination!

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THAT Family Tree Society-Issue 45

12:01 am Bykristen

Picture of the Week:

The Week in Review: Our first week of summer went well! We had lazy days, went swimming and I only had to visit this list twice. My baking neighbor sent her son over with this very important and confidential bag. It contained one of her cookie mistakes. Her mistakes are delicious.

Introduction into The Society: Help me welcome Steady Mom! She has some great ideas!

1. What is the name of your blog?

My blog is s teadymom.com. My tagline is “Join me on the journey toward intentional, professional motherhood.” It chronicles my attempts, successes, and failures as I walk life’s road with my three preschoolers. I try to approach my mothering with the same sense of purpose and vision I had in my life and career before becoming a mother.

2. How long have been blogging?

I started my blog in December 2008. I’m still finding my blog groove and discovering new parts of myself as I write out my issues.

3. How would you define THAT family?

THAT family knows who they are. They live in freedom – free to be themselves, free to follow their passions, free to make a difference in radical ways. They make no apologies for living as though each day might be their last.

4. When did you discover you were a member of THAT family?

I knew it the first time I visited our local library’s storytime. The other children calmly sat in their mothers’ laps, listening to the monotone story being read by the librarian. But my two 2-year-old boys (no, not twins) scrambled, scuttled, and tumbled wildly across the room. At first I felt embarrassed but upon further reflection I thought, “Good for you, boys. That was dull.” We return often to check out books and they love the library, but storytime is no longer on our itinerary.

5. Where can we find your blog?

I’d love to have you visit at www.steadymom.com Thanks so much.

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Who Do You Love to Read?

4:00 pm Bykristen

I’m always on the lookout for great blogs to add to the already huge list of fabulous blogs I read.

Because really? Is laundry that important?

I know there are hundreds I don’t even know about.

Who are your favorites?

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DIYP-ReCreating a Patio Table

7:00 am Bykristen

We love being in our backyard.

I use it like an extra room in our house, nearly year round. It’s like a giant playroom.

Only it has more ants.

I bought our patio table and chairs at WalMart several years ago when they marked down the leftovers. I got a fantastic deal on the set (75%) off, even though a glass table wasn’t my preference, it has served us well.

Unfortunately, the metal edging has rusted. Our budget mocked me when I hinted at a new table.

I asked my hubby if we could just replace the glass with wood. He had an even easier/better/cheaper idea!

Before

After

He built a wooden table top to put over the glass!

It was pretty easy and only cost $50!

He even cut a hole for my clearance umbrella!

I like the way it looked unfinished, but knew the weather wouldn’t be kind to it.

I used the leftover black enamel paint from this project and this one! (I really got my money’s worth on those two gallons!)

The table is actually bigger and better than I expected it to be!

Now, I’m ready for a garden party! Check out Thrifty Decor Chick to see more!

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The Best Idea I’ve Ever Had

11:00 am Bykristen

We declared a day this week BUBBLEMANIA.

I found a recipe for homemade bubbles and cut the centers out of fly swatters, collected our hula hoops from the garage and pulled out the plastic pool.

The bubbles were so good, we didn’t even need a wand!

Giant Bubble Recipe:

A bottle of Joy (or whatever dish soap you have)

Corn Syrup

Water

Mix.

I make bubbles like I cook, so for those who need precise measurements, I don’t have them.

I filled up the plastic swimming pool about a 1/3 of the way full and emptied these bottles (If in doubt, start with less water) I just kept adding and trying the bubbles out:

After a couple of hours, my big kids turned wrinkly and wanted to take showers.

My 2 year old was just getting started:

Did you really think she’d keep her swimsuit on?

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A Pain in the Neck

8:00 pm Bykristen

I’ve had neck and back pain for nearly as long as I can remember.

It might be from The Great Log Ride Incident when I was 12. I decided to hide in the front of the log, so I would stay dry. It would have worked great, except that the rest of the log riders slid forward and crunched my spine.

My ‘fro didn’t get wet though.

Or maybe the chronic pain originates from my senior year of high school. Two weeks before prom, my date dumped me. It was a rainy day and I was crying, driving home from school when I ran a stop sign, hit another car and ended up with whiplash.

I made sure my ex-date got a good long look at me in my sexy CHRISTIAN prom dress (and the friend from my church youth group who I passed off as my new beau).

Through the years, I’ve tried a lot of different things to manage the pain. It’s worked.

Until a few weeks ago. I couldn’t lift my arms and legs one night. What started out as an achy feeling, turned into a scary episode of numbness and blinding pain.

On Monday, I visited a doctor who specializes in neck and back pain.

He ordered a slew of x-rays and an MRI to see if something was bulging, herniated or pinched.

I made the appointment for the first available.

My appointment was at 2:00 PM today.

I was excited.

I was excited because I’d obviously never had an MRI.

While my Mom watched my kids, I spent entirely too long trying to figure out how to wear the huge backless hospital gown the technician handed me.

I was having a good time, until he suggested I go to the bathroom first, “Since you are going to be in the tube for an hour.”

Excuse me. Did he just say ONE HOUR? He explained I was actually getting three MRI’s of my neck and back.

Even then, I pushed down the fear. And when he handed me ear plugs and started explaining that I couldn’t swallow or take deep breaths or MOVE during the loud test, I shoved the negative thoughts away.

I can do this. I can do this. I can do this.

“What if I can’t do this?” I croaked.

I answered myself, taking a deep breath “Let me try.”

I squeezed my eyes shut as the tube closed in over me and around me. I tried to lay very still and not swallow and not take deep breaths. I tried not to listen to the THUMP THUMP of the machine. I tried.

After an eternity passed, I heard the technician through the intercom, “Okay, that was the first 6 minutes. Swallow quickly, let’s go again.”

You’ve. got. to. be. kidding. me.

I tried to find my happy place again, but I think I lost it the second I realized I had 54 minutes to go in the noisy coffin as the technician barked orders, “Don’t move, Don’t swallow, You’re breathing too deeply.”

I tried to pray, to hum, to convince myself that I was safe and that I wasn’t trapped.

The humming began again and just when I thought I could make myself endure it, he said, “I’m going to have to do that last one over again. You moved.”

Add 3 more minutes.

And that’s when I opened my eyes. White plastic surrounded me, inches above me and around me and I felt like I was in my Grandma’s closet again. My cousins had pushed me in, locked the door and told the rest of the family, I was outside playing.

I was stuck in the back of the house, in the back of the closet for close to an hour. Maybe 54 minutes.

I squeezed the black button in my hand, signaling my defeat.

I can’t do this. I can’t do this. I can’t do this.

The technician helped me out. I apologized. He was understanding. I asked for drugs. He wasn’t that understanding. He sent me down for regular x-rays.

At the least, my doctor will prescribe a sedative for the next time I try. I’m hoping for an alternative.

I’ve always avoided tight, small places due to claustrophobia. But I had no idea an MRI would be so hard.

I can’t believe I panicked.

And even as I type this, I am scared to go back.

Turns out the pain isn’t just in my neck, I guess.

What are you afraid of?

I keep quoting “He has not given us a spirit of Fear, but a sound mind!”

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WFMW-Room Time

7:00 am Bykristen

We’re in the full swing of summer. We just finished a glorious week of doing absolutely nothing and our summer vacation is coming up.

And you will be happy to know my farmer’s tan is in full swing.

Because I am not a party planner or a cruise director, I cannot make every summer day a Willy Wonka moment for my children. There are lulls in our schedule. And lazy days. And stay-in-your-pajamas-until-you-stink days.

But with all the freedom and less structure, my kids wear on each other’s nerves. And mine. Can I say that? There are those moments when I want to find a summer school program, immediately.

Last summer, I discovered two Magic Words for times like these. When my kids hear these words, their grumbling stops, their perspective changes and they find something to do.

Oh yeah, we’re talking powerful and 100 % legal.

Room. Time.

Room Time is time in your room. Stay with me. If my kids complain of boredom, fight with their siblings, or just need a time out. I announce Room Time.

It lasts one hour. They are not allowed to come down, ask questions, get food, step-a-toe, outside their bedroom, until Room Time is over. They can read, rest, write in their summer journal, they are forced to entertain themselves, alone.

This is the best attitude adjustment e-ver. Many times, I’ll sneak up there and they’ve fallen asleep. (This is denied if it’s mentioned though. They were just resting their eyes).

When my kids come downstairs, they can’t wait to play together again.

It works like a charm. And sometimes, I send myself to Room Time. Because I need a nap.

And an attitude adjustment.

{Thank you for joining me for WFMW! You can read the guidelines here.}

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Works for Me Wednesday Participants

1. ilovemy5kids (Easy RECIPE)
2. Erin @ Closing Time (game night)
3. The Diaper Diaries (Easy Way to Give Back)
4. It Feels Like Chaos (less mess)
5. Homemaker Barbi (Compost Guide)
6. Smockity Frocks (Free Stuff at Amazon!)
7. Cents to Get Debt Free (Home Canning)
8. exhale. return to center. (growing sprouts)
9. Kate @ “Which Proverbs 14:1 Woman?”: Keep a Child Amused for $1.84
10. Hoosier Homemade(Baseball Uniform)
11. This Side of Eternity(Couponing 101)
12. Lisa@BlessedwithGrace(Faith Based Toddler books)
13. Bake at 350 (freezing buttermilk)
14. Lauren @ Team Giles {Ima Vegetarian}
15. 5intow (h
omeschool report cards)
16. Real Life (Fresh Squeezed Lemonade)
17. Chicagoland homeschool (SpellQuizzer)
18. Heather @ Just Doing My Best (yummy review and freebie)
19. ElizabethG (Lowering Electric Bills)
20. Cooking Up A Family- Energy Green Smoothies
21. Raise Them Up (Trashing the Neighborhood)
22. Joy @ Five J’s (Forwarded Emails)
23. Muthering Heights
24. the Animators Wife (gift card holders)
25. Southern Fried Mama(Smooth Hands)
26. Sandra @ A Lot of Savings (Keeping a Planner/Weekly Calendar Book)
27. Steady Mom (tv tips w/ kids)
28. Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers (dryer steam setting)
29. The Happy Housewife ~ Leaving my Kids
30. Hannah
31. Karen (tidy tips)
32. Bytes Of Memory (Dispensing Pain Medicine)
33. Green Baby Guide (Save Batteries)
34. Tina in Thailand (summer cake)
35. Lynn’s Kit Adv (free Country Bob’s sauce)
36. Saving and Giving – The Frugal-Free Edition
37. Kate @ A Simple Walk (tag-team grocery shopping)
38. Sunnymama (rosewater)
39. Our Nifty Notebook (Picnik)
40. Cooking During Stolen Moments (manly kitchen help)
41. Amy @ Finer Things (ebook giveaway!)
42. Donna @ Way More Homemade (Marshmallow Fondant)
43. Kristen (First Aid Supplies)
44. Angie @ Many Little Blessings {Inexpensive Way to Promote Your Blog}
45. Monica@DailyDwelling (room time)
46. Julie From Inmates
47. Beach House Dreamer (Say it with Signal Flags)
48. Sarah Mae (Blessings or Burdens? Dealing With Disobedience In Your Kiddos)
49. Gourmetmomma (the treasure box)
50. Colleen – Mommy Always Wins
51. Tara @ Feels like home (summer reading)
52. My Frugal Adventures:: Lesson in couponing
53. Frugal Girls! {Unique Uses for Baby Wipes}
54. Teri Lynne @ Pleasing to You (daily Bible study)
55. Angie (managing bedtime routines)
56. Keeping the Castle (time saver)
57. Susana (Chore Packs)
58. Sara @ Learning the Frugal Life($.99 Bag of Bananas)
59. Kitchen Stewardship (Healthy Summer Foods)
60. TrentTribe (My Rug Epiphany)
61. Better is Little (EZ simple quick meal)
62. ]Robin(Blogging works for me!)
63. What’s Cooking (easy healthy wrap)
64. What’s Cooking (corn dog muffins)
65. Colleen (behavior modification with ditalini)
66. Why I Don’t Buy Generic
67. Amy – Greasy Stain Remover
68. Tara@Not So Perfect(protein powder)
69. Alea @ Premeditated Leftovers (finding time to clip coupons)
70. Janis @ SneakPeek (easy organizing)
71. Small Town Mamma (tub gardening)
72. Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolates (Marinated Vegetable Salad)
73. Jackie-(Cleaning Your Micro)
74. ParentWonder – How to Create Positive Body Image in Children
75. Jenny @ Another Jennifer Speaks
76. EveryChapter (schedule organization)
77. momsfrugal (summer reading program)
78. Elizabeth @ That’s {FAM}tastic!
79. Kayren @ Everything’s Coming Up Daisies (Soap Scum from Glass Shower)
80. Lynne (Magic Jack)
81. Harper (Trial and Error Home Ec): Old Recipe Books
82. Lisa @ Stop Eating All The Chocolates (Healthy Starbucks Tips)
83. Simply Sweet Home (easy chicken pockets)
84. A Beach Cottage – Budget Deck Makeover
85. mub (homemade vanilla extract)
86. Mandi (organizing summer gear)
87. Dana (afternoon snack)
88. Cardamoms Pod (Loopy Laundry Idea)
89. The Shabby Chic Cottage (Thrift Store Shopping Tips)
90. Stephanie (Tips For Getting Dinner On The Table)
91. Homeschool Creations {How to Add Email Link to Blog}
92. Jolanthe {FREE Music Downloads}
93. Inside The White Picket Fence ( A Twist on Twitter)
94. DarcyLee (Sharing Photos Online)
95. Beautiful Calling (Sun Safety GIVEAWAY)
96. Girls in White Dresses (paper doll of your child)
97. Iowa Expat (popsicle recipe)
98. BusyMom (visiting a theme park)
99. Tanna (scanning photos giveaway)
100. Edi (summer couch protector)
101. Tracey @ Girls to Grow (Produce Progress)
102. Gloriana (Lunchables!)
103. Susan @ Practicing Thrift (where NOT to cut groceries)
104. Newlyweds (Cuddles)
105. Musings of a Housewife (The 30-Day Shred)
106. Brilliant Moms (Our Summer School Outline)
107. Emily @ everydayMOM (how to make chore charts)
108. Lori @ The Book Lady (free gift cards)
109. Liz @ Frugally Blonde (Keeping Couponing Under Control)
110. Shannon (sorrel and a spring chicken and greens soup recipe)
111. Bonnie (3/50 Project)
112. Jackie @ Blessings Overflowing (Baking Soda in the Dishwasher)
113. Erin (Summer Schedule)
114. HealthBeginsWithMom (Insect Stings)
115. Scheduling and Planning Blog Posts
116. Lisa How to explain Mommy Blogging
117. Bailey’s Leaf (Suckering Tomato Plants)
118. Trixie @ FarmHomeLife (Hot Claritin Coupon)
119. Fly Away Family (Expanding my recipe repetoire)
120. Sharon @ Because I Must (hurricane prep)

121. Lisa (New Coupon Holder)
122. Carrie (Making Bananas Last Longer)
123. f="http://pennypinchinmomma.blogspot.com/2009/06/set-date.html" target="_blank">pennypinchinmomma ( set a date)
124. Mom’s Magic (happy to do chores)
125. LANA- Works For Me!
126. se7en (Se7en of the Best Kids Bakes
127. Mommay’s Mayhem (no more smelly towels)
128. Grannyann-reheating tips
129. Brenda (Dusting)
130. Effortless Savings (homemade jewlery cleaner)
131. Amy @ CouponPsycho (Crockpotting)
132. Superchikk (Portable First Aid)
133. Easy Way to Freeze Produce
134. Three Boys and Counting (lingerie bag for baby socks, oldie but goodie)
135. Bloom Where You’re Planted! (coffee facts)
136. Camian Academy (Printing Digital Scrapbook Pages)
137. Jen-After the Alter (Chore Chart)
138. Kristi_runwatch (early bedtimes away from home)
139. Elena@My Domestic Church reading fluency for kids
140. Simply Practical (keeping a razor sharp)
141. Mandy @ From the Trenches Of Motherhood
142. Michelle (large family snacks)
143. calina (Justice clothes – 1st post)
144. Valencia@Buildeth Her House
145. three boys and counting(baby socks)
146. Paula @ Organizing Tips for Moms (Tips to Beat the Mail Monster)
147. Pam at BeyondJustMom (Stop the Nagging!)
148. Missy (Shopping with kids)
149. Molly Green(cheap and lazy landscaping)
150. Traci @ Traveling the Tightrope (Proactive Review)
151. Meredith (Moving Strategies)
152. Amy @ Cheeky Cocoa Beans (my awesome swimsuit)
153. Mary Ann(cleaning stinky hands)
154. Penny Raine
155. Zoe in England (Save on hair cuts)
156. Cara (Ear Aches)
157. Overwhelmed Working Mom (Easy Brownies From Scratch)
158. Abbi (decorating with what I have)
159. Jennifer L. (Tasty Water)
160. Muses of Megret (a few of my favorite things!)
161. Tiffany-tips for a day at Disney
162. Angelina(me and a friend)
163. Angie (Project Management)
164. BerryMorins Bits and Tips – adopting from the pound
165. Beverly (accepting free things and Recipe)
166. Cheerios Underfoot (Save money and room on your bookshelves)
167. sarah-fresh baked bread in 5 min. a day
168. Veggiemomof2 (vinegar in d/w)
169. Beth (Square Pancakes)
170. Lori (The Peterson Family)
171. Niki @ Free 2 Be Frugal (Summer Fun Wish List)
172. Katie (keep less paint cans)
173. songbirdtiff (why replace when I can repaint)
174. TidyMom (Easy Window Cleaning tip_
175. Parenting the Tiniest of Miracles (How to Have a Comfortable 3rd Trimester)
176. Indiana Shannon (summer reading programs)
177. ET @ Titus2:3-5 (morning
time with God)
178. The Messy Mom (having friends over)
179. WhiteTrashMom (The Command)
180. Mary @ Giving Up on Perfect (photos in natural light)
181. Amy Quinn Summer Project
182. The Gaines Gang (Clean Piggies…Clean House…)
183. Unfinished Mom (Teach Address to Preschooler)
184. Katie @ Clean and Classic Interiors(ribbon holders)
185. Grateful for Grace (keeping clutter in check)
186. Melissa @ Frugal Creativity (sturdy whipped cream frosting recipe)
187. LZ @ My Messy Paradise
188. Caroline (cheap cute doll clothes)
189. FamilyMakesCents (support a good cause – free)
190. Lisa @ Moore Minutes (Celebration Banner Boards)
191. afamiliarpath-car rides
192. Kendra *Just One Store Card*
193. PJ’s All Day (shoe solution)
194. Merrie
195. SWAP SAVERS (Our Free Day at the Beach)
196. Nikki and Danny (running in sprinkler)
197. BabyChubChub(Free Ads 4 Custom Disney Mamas)
198. Nichole @ A Call to Higher Places (Challah Bread Remake!)
199. Carrie (quick toddler breakfast)
200. Mama Jenn (Protecting Your Blog)
201. Common Cents Mom (Frugal Family Ideas)
202. Moving Forward (creative routine)
203. lynn @ queenofthecastlerecipes (CUTE crazy quilt jar lids)
204. From the Desk of a Princess (Scripture Memory)
205. Ginger (Summer Bronzers and That Other Stuff)
206. Mother Hen (My New Glasses)
207. ‘Becca (hand towels for a crowd)
208. How to Cut a Pineapple Video
209. Sonshine(repurposing items)
210. The Prudent Homemaker (How to cook Swiss Chard)
211. Hip Mama (“Quality Time” with your Man)
212. Be Home Happy (summer lists)
213. FishMama @ LifeasMOM (Snacky Lunch)
214. Becky (half-birthdays)
215. Erica Burgan (Oil Cleansing Method for Your Face)
216. Everything Moms (I’m bored drawer)
217. Jamie
218. Songberries(making wrinkle release spray)
219. Marcia@Frugalhomekeeping(Keep Kids Busy Making Summer Memories)
220. Staci @ teaching money to kids (the Best Nest)
221. Kisses of Sunshine: Easy Charcoal Grilling (w/ recipe)
222. Carolina Mama (Paula Deen’s Y’all Come Inn House!)
223. Christine (how I stopped YELLING AT MY KIDS!!)
224. Carolina Mama (Crunch-Off and Giveaway)
225. Shannon @ Seeking to Glorify (VHS tapes)
226. Jen @ Our Heartland Home
227. Laura @ Heavenly Homemakers (Italian Roast Wraps)
228. Judy @ Frugal at Home (labeling kids’ clothes)
229. Cathy @ The Stylish House (How to make an easy Door Wreath)
230. stephanie (finding time to read the bible)
231. Perfectly Provident (Tips for New Bloggers)
232. Andrea
233. Angie @ Annies Home (quick tip slice tiny tomatoes)
234. The Rambling Ewe – fast easy meal
235. Lauren @ SuperMom Central – saving money on summer activities
236. Jodi (Family Hobby)
237. Stephanie (Free Ribbon Organization)
238. Amy @ Tiny Blessings (copycat Arby’s roast beef)
239. All Things Cherished (uses for plastic bags)

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Limited Edition Summer Totes {Giveaway}

7:00 am Bykristen

*Update* Congrats to Bashtree and Jaden Paige! You girls just won exclusive summer totes!!

Today’s giveaway is a first for me!

It’s my first international giveaway and I’m feeling very worldly just typing the word international.

See the Woods is a funky, fun online store and the creator lives in Ireland. She makes gorgeous bags and totes and was kind enough to design a very limited edition bag for today’s contest.

This bag defines summer to me:

I love the vibrant colors and the shape of the bag. See the Woods is giving away TWO of these summer totes today. They retail for 20 pounds (see, I’m having that international feeling again) which is about $33.00.

Visit her shop and tell me what else you like.