....We sold our house!!!!!!!!!
I am so excited!
We are going to look for our new house this week, probably tomorrow. (just got a call, definitely tomorrow)
God is SO good to us!
I will post a long description of how He has blessed us and worked so many miracles so far!!! It is thrilling to be able to testify to God's greatness in a concrete way in my life right now!
But right now I am cruising through the MLS listings our agent has sent us so that we can be up there tomorrow (Tuesday) to look for homes.
I would be so incredibly grateful if you would pray for us during this, that:
1. Our house would stay in escrow (in California it can fall out of escrow in the first 17 days with no fault).
2. That we would find a house big enough for our family now and in the future.
3. That the house would be in our price range.
4. That we would not settle for a house that is not the perfect one God has for us, and that He would make His choice for us clear.
5. That my MIL and Miss Pear would do just fine together while we are gone all day tomorrow (we will be back in time for supper).
6. That the lady buying our house would be blessed by it, and all the prayer, praise and Bible reading that has happened here! We really have prayed that whoever buys it would love it like we have.
Thank you so much for praying for me and being so understanding when I have whined about all this - you guys are so good to me!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Secret part 2
I am so sorry, I thought I would have all my answers today to post what my secret is, but there is one thing I cannot do until tomorrow morning to confirm. Believe me when I say that I honestly thought I would be telling you everything today or I would not have teased you yesterday! (And today too apparently!)
I am praying like crazy that the Lord would smooth a path before us!
Mr Pear got back from his trip safely.
News tomorrow -- I promise!
I am praying like crazy that the Lord would smooth a path before us!
Mr Pear got back from his trip safely.
News tomorrow -- I promise!
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Secret
It has been a crazy day, and I almost have news, I just need to nail down a couple more things before I tell you but...
.....I have a secret.....
....I will give you one hint - it does NOT involve babies.
.....I have a secret.....
....I will give you one hint - it does NOT involve babies.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Checking in...
...I just wanted to check in and see what was new around here. I cruised through the bloglines and was going to shut down and read, but my mind started tripping over itself - too many thoughts roaming around, so I thought I would blog to get it all out...
Mr. Pear left at 4AM Wednesday morning, and the shuttle was here early. He got to the airport at 4:15 only to find out that United does not open their check in until 5 (so why did they say be there that early???) and then his flight was late, and they knew it would be late because they cannot take off before 6:30 AM due to a noise ordinance, but still scheduled a 6 AM flight. Yeah, we were confused too.
Wednesday saw me driving the troops to the outlet stores, with a short stop to drop stuff off at a friends. My MIL did great shopping knocking out birthday gifts, baby gifts (Mr. Pear's brother and his wife are expecting June2, but baby will be early), lots of stuff for Miss Pear. My good find for the day was a Gap sweat shirt for Miss Pear in purple - regular $15 on for $5.50 and then got the worst service ever in two stores so we left and came home, just in time for Burger King lunch.
Our front door handle is broken apparently. While were out an agent was to show our home, but she could not open the door. So I had to schedule the repair guy, but he cannot come until next Wednesday. We can all get the door to work, but it is sticky, so we would have to repair it out of the physical inspection one day (Please Lord, make it soon!), so now is as good a time as any!
This morning we did the Babies R Us, Target and Toys R Us run because my sister-in-law needed baby stuff, and what she wants she gets! She is in her third trimester, and far be it from me to deny her anything! We got everything on her list! Mine too, but my list is not as important!
We were going to do Costco tomorrow morning, but our real estate agent needs to pop in during the morning, so we did that this afternoon.
After all those errands we are tired!
So tomorrow we are taking it easy. We are going to catch up on house stuff that got put off while we were running errands on days we had the car! We are going to wash a small mountain of laundry, and bake cookies...yum!
Mr. Pear's sales conference is going well, and is apparently a lot of fun. They booked out the entire Hard Rock Cafe for the night, so I am jealous! I am glad it is going well, it makes it so much easier for all of us!
And of course, now for the Miss Pear story. My MIL was playing with Miss Pear this morning, and here is what I heard:
MP: two!
MIL:...4...6...8...
MP: ten!
Ummm, she is 23 months, and usually stops counting after 3. We have never counted in twos with her.....
Yup, I was shocked too! But in that delighted mom way!
Mr. Pear left at 4AM Wednesday morning, and the shuttle was here early. He got to the airport at 4:15 only to find out that United does not open their check in until 5 (so why did they say be there that early???) and then his flight was late, and they knew it would be late because they cannot take off before 6:30 AM due to a noise ordinance, but still scheduled a 6 AM flight. Yeah, we were confused too.
Wednesday saw me driving the troops to the outlet stores, with a short stop to drop stuff off at a friends. My MIL did great shopping knocking out birthday gifts, baby gifts (Mr. Pear's brother and his wife are expecting June2, but baby will be early), lots of stuff for Miss Pear. My good find for the day was a Gap sweat shirt for Miss Pear in purple - regular $15 on for $5.50 and then got the worst service ever in two stores so we left and came home, just in time for Burger King lunch.
Our front door handle is broken apparently. While were out an agent was to show our home, but she could not open the door. So I had to schedule the repair guy, but he cannot come until next Wednesday. We can all get the door to work, but it is sticky, so we would have to repair it out of the physical inspection one day (Please Lord, make it soon!), so now is as good a time as any!
This morning we did the Babies R Us, Target and Toys R Us run because my sister-in-law needed baby stuff, and what she wants she gets! She is in her third trimester, and far be it from me to deny her anything! We got everything on her list! Mine too, but my list is not as important!
We were going to do Costco tomorrow morning, but our real estate agent needs to pop in during the morning, so we did that this afternoon.
After all those errands we are tired!
So tomorrow we are taking it easy. We are going to catch up on house stuff that got put off while we were running errands on days we had the car! We are going to wash a small mountain of laundry, and bake cookies...yum!
Mr. Pear's sales conference is going well, and is apparently a lot of fun. They booked out the entire Hard Rock Cafe for the night, so I am jealous! I am glad it is going well, it makes it so much easier for all of us!
And of course, now for the Miss Pear story. My MIL was playing with Miss Pear this morning, and here is what I heard:
MP: two!
MIL:...4...6...8...
MP: ten!
Ummm, she is 23 months, and usually stops counting after 3. We have never counted in twos with her.....
Yup, I was shocked too! But in that delighted mom way!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Book Review: We Have Seen the Lord!
This year for Lent Mr. Pear and I decided to read
to each other each evening. We have loved William Barclay for a very long time, frequently turning to his
to explain complicated passages of the New Testament.
The format for each day is a scripture reading (included in the book) and then exposition of the passage.
We knew that We Have Seen the Lord would be good, but we did not anticipate how good it would actually be. Reading this leading up to and after Easter (we fell behind but did not want to quit!) illuminated many things for us, and helped us to understand the gospel accounts much better. God used this book to make us think, to teach us, and to speak to our hearts. We already know that this will be our regular read each Lent now.
What I really appreciated was his ability to bring a new light to passages I knew well.
For example, looking at Luke 22:31-38, 54-62, he has one quote I simply have to share from page 112
Barclay always slows me down and makes me look at each piece of scripture, and for that I am always blessed.
I think when our next read aloud will come from his commentary series that I already mentioned because the format is the same - a passage of scripture and then exposition, and each volume is so wonderful!
Definitely 5 pears!
5 Pears - Fabulous! Too good for words! What do you mean you haven't read this one yet! Go, immediately, and get a copy! This book must be in your library! I would lend you mind, but I cannot part with it! Besides, I think I will start rereading it tonight!
4 Pears - Excellent - I loved this book, definitely worth picking up or borrowing from a friend or getting from a library - a must read!
3 Pears - Good - I liked it, it would be a good book to get from your library or to borrow from a friend, probably not one to invest precious book money in though.
2 Pears - Not bad - it would be okay if I were stranded in an airport or on a deserted island and this was all I could find to read.
1 Pear - Awful! Do not waste your time or money on this one! How did this get published?
We Have Seen the Lord! The Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ
to each other each evening. We have loved William Barclay for a very long time, frequently turning to his
The New Daily Study Bible, 17 Volumes: New Testament
to explain complicated passages of the New Testament.
The format for each day is a scripture reading (included in the book) and then exposition of the passage.
We knew that We Have Seen the Lord would be good, but we did not anticipate how good it would actually be. Reading this leading up to and after Easter (we fell behind but did not want to quit!) illuminated many things for us, and helped us to understand the gospel accounts much better. God used this book to make us think, to teach us, and to speak to our hearts. We already know that this will be our regular read each Lent now.
What I really appreciated was his ability to bring a new light to passages I knew well.
For example, looking at Luke 22:31-38, 54-62, he has one quote I simply have to share from page 112
Jesus did not speak to Peter in anger but looked at him in sorrow. Peter could have stood it if Jesus had turned and reviled him; but that voiceless, grief-laden look went to his heart like a sword and opened a fountain of tears....The penalty of sin is to face, not the anger of Jesus, but the heartbreak in His eyes.
Barclay always slows me down and makes me look at each piece of scripture, and for that I am always blessed.
I think when our next read aloud will come from his commentary series that I already mentioned because the format is the same - a passage of scripture and then exposition, and each volume is so wonderful!
Definitely 5 pears!
5 Pears - Fabulous! Too good for words! What do you mean you haven't read this one yet! Go, immediately, and get a copy! This book must be in your library! I would lend you mind, but I cannot part with it! Besides, I think I will start rereading it tonight!
4 Pears - Excellent - I loved this book, definitely worth picking up or borrowing from a friend or getting from a library - a must read!
3 Pears - Good - I liked it, it would be a good book to get from your library or to borrow from a friend, probably not one to invest precious book money in though.
2 Pears - Not bad - it would be okay if I were stranded in an airport or on a deserted island and this was all I could find to read.
1 Pear - Awful! Do not waste your time or money on this one! How did this get published?
WFMW - Carpet Cleaning Cheat
I would like to tell you that my carpets never get stained, and look as pristine as they day they were laid down. But you would know I was not being completely honest because I am a mom-mom of a 22 month old. So we get little stains on our carpet.I prefer not to use the harsh chemicals if I do not have to, and don't want to wash our carpets for just one little stain.
So I cheat.
Here is how:
Get a wet, white-ish rag.
Put a small dollop of clear or white hand soap (like soft soap) and work into the rag a little bit so that it lathers just a little bit.
Scrub stain with corner of rag that has soap.
Once it appears that the stain is gone, rub with a non-soapy part of the rag.
Let dry.
If stain persists, repeat.
If stain appears to be gone, vacuum over the spot so that it does no look like you scrubbed.
And you are done!
The stains may return over time, so just repeat as needed.
Head on over to Shannon's for really great tips in Works for me Wednesday!
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Fun
We are having a great visit. Miss Pear has her Maymay wrapped around her little finger, it is kind of funny. She says out, and out they go. She says book and books are read. I was a bit worried about her being shy seeing as they have not seen each other since December, but everything is great.
And I am getting annoying little projects done that I cannot do with Miss Pear - like cleaning out under the sinks, so this is good!
Well, I must dash, while Miss Pear is sleeping, my MIL and I are going to drink tea and cross stitch!
And I am getting annoying little projects done that I cannot do with Miss Pear - like cleaning out under the sinks, so this is good!
Well, I must dash, while Miss Pear is sleeping, my MIL and I are going to drink tea and cross stitch!
A Lady's Education
The Walled Garden has a post about ladies continuing our education, part 2, and part 3 about not stopping the learning process because now we are staying home as wives and possibly moms as well.
I found this article very interesting, even though I highly value formal education at the university level which I think I disagree with the author about, but before I comment on it, let me say one clarifying thing, and then share a little bit about myself with you that I have not until now.
Clarifying thing: It is clearly God's will for my life for me to stay home with Miss Pear, so I am writing from that perspective. In no way would I presume to dictate what the Lord is doing in someone else's life. This tends to be a touchy issue, and I don't want anyone to think I am saying this is the way all women should do it because I am not. The only thing I think all women (and men too for that matter) should do is seek the Lord and His will, and follow Him obediently and faithfully.
Now, on to the point of this!
I grew up in the family business of a rural hotel. My chores around the "house" were actually hotel work because our living quarters were attached to the hotel. By the time I graduated from high school there was not a job in the hotel I could not do. Plan out the work schedules??? No problem. Place the supply orders and argue with the meat supplier about the steaks??? Piece of cake. Manage the staff???? Easy peasy!
I went to university and earned an honors business degree. My degree specializes in Operations Research and Operations Management, which is a fancy way to say I am trained to manage supply chain operations and a manufacturing floor and be continually seeking to improve. I am a planner by training and by God's design.
While I can understand that college is not for everyone, it certainly was God's plan for me, as was seminary, but I will get to that....
I finished my formal education and managed my family business for a year, preparing it to be run by managers. Then trained the managers. Once that was complete I began my career as a production planner where I scheduled the work for 11 different work stations.
Then I got engaged, and planned a wedding to take place in 7 weeks and 6 days so that we have 3 weeks to the day between our wedding and an international move from central Canada to Southern California. Not so hard considering that Mr. Pear is a planner too - both by training and by God's design.
Once here, I began a career in the High Tech industry first as a production planner, and then as a material planner, and finally as the liaison between materials and operations.
And then I quit. I hated my job and I was miserable. Mr. Pear's father had died, my first father who made it clear I would never meet his standard and I was a continual disappointment died, my grandfather (who was also perpetually disappointed with me) was diagnosed with inoperable cancer and my aunt was diagnosed with bone cancer. One Friday I sat at my desk and felt my brain fragment. I could not do it. I talked with my husband all weekend about it, and on Monday I gave two week's notice. All I left behind, or "gave up" were ferocious tension headaches, stress, frustration, and irritation.
That was three blissful years ago.
In the mean time, I spent my time thusly:
First I had started working on seminary classes before I quit my job, so I finished my graduate certificate in Christian ministry, even taking Greek. Although taking Greek in my last trimester of pregnancy was probably not my best idea. This was something God clearly called me to do, and blessed me tremendously because of it! I did not grow up in a strong Christian family, there were large gaps in my knowledge that the Lord is graciously filling. This experience both educated me and equipped me to continue my education on my own.
Second, I gave birth to Miss Pear! The highlight! And learned how to be a mom! And of course my education as a mom is ongoing!
I learned lots about babies, and am now learning about toddlers - my teacher is Miss Pear.
I have been working at furthering my quilting skills - something I learned after I was married.
I have continued to work on polishing up my sewing and cross stitching skills - crafts I have been working on since I was 9.
I have continued my cooking and baking experimenting, perfecting pie crusts - finally! And foraying into using the freezer for more than raw ingredients and left overs! Having meals ready to go in the freezer has been a tremendous blessing. And I love to cook and bake!
I have learned to knit.
I have used the time to read extensively.
I have used the time to study my Bible with the tools seminary and BSF blessed me with.
I have begun to teach Miss Pear.
I have been teaching myself to coupon clip and shop the sales better to save money.
I have been satisfying my curiosity by reading about whatever I am curious about.
It has become clear to me that while my formal education has blessed me tremendously, it is my informal education that has the biggest impact on me.
Learning is lifelong. It does not end because formal education ends. Formal education helps us learn to learn, and we keep on!
My formal education honed my planning skills, and I now use that to bless my family. Anyone who has seen me plan my menu and shopping trips will attest to this! But it is my informal education that is taking my planning skills and helping me to use them to bear fruit for my family.
And yes, I do use spreadsheets to track things and organize holidays....
Oh, and just an aside in reference to the article in walled garden - I have read all of Jane Austen's books - for an Honors literature class, and then again for my own enjoyment!
We are never done learning, and I would encourage you to pick at least one thing to learn more about. If you have an interest, study it! If there is a book of the Bible that baffles you (Revelation? Prophets??), or a book you love and would like to know better ask your pastor for commentary recommendations and dig in! If there is something you always wanted to know how to do head to the library, or ask amongst your friends for someone who knows how to do this thing who might help you learn!
Women do not check our brains at the door when we return home from a career to be a stay at home wife and mother, we use all our intelligence and resources to bless our family, constantly learning more so we can grow and do better!
I love that my intelligence, my gifts, and my hard work bless my family.
I found this article very interesting, even though I highly value formal education at the university level which I think I disagree with the author about, but before I comment on it, let me say one clarifying thing, and then share a little bit about myself with you that I have not until now.
Clarifying thing: It is clearly God's will for my life for me to stay home with Miss Pear, so I am writing from that perspective. In no way would I presume to dictate what the Lord is doing in someone else's life. This tends to be a touchy issue, and I don't want anyone to think I am saying this is the way all women should do it because I am not. The only thing I think all women (and men too for that matter) should do is seek the Lord and His will, and follow Him obediently and faithfully.
Now, on to the point of this!
I grew up in the family business of a rural hotel. My chores around the "house" were actually hotel work because our living quarters were attached to the hotel. By the time I graduated from high school there was not a job in the hotel I could not do. Plan out the work schedules??? No problem. Place the supply orders and argue with the meat supplier about the steaks??? Piece of cake. Manage the staff???? Easy peasy!
I went to university and earned an honors business degree. My degree specializes in Operations Research and Operations Management, which is a fancy way to say I am trained to manage supply chain operations and a manufacturing floor and be continually seeking to improve. I am a planner by training and by God's design.
While I can understand that college is not for everyone, it certainly was God's plan for me, as was seminary, but I will get to that....
I finished my formal education and managed my family business for a year, preparing it to be run by managers. Then trained the managers. Once that was complete I began my career as a production planner where I scheduled the work for 11 different work stations.
Then I got engaged, and planned a wedding to take place in 7 weeks and 6 days so that we have 3 weeks to the day between our wedding and an international move from central Canada to Southern California. Not so hard considering that Mr. Pear is a planner too - both by training and by God's design.
Once here, I began a career in the High Tech industry first as a production planner, and then as a material planner, and finally as the liaison between materials and operations.
And then I quit. I hated my job and I was miserable. Mr. Pear's father had died, my first father who made it clear I would never meet his standard and I was a continual disappointment died, my grandfather (who was also perpetually disappointed with me) was diagnosed with inoperable cancer and my aunt was diagnosed with bone cancer. One Friday I sat at my desk and felt my brain fragment. I could not do it. I talked with my husband all weekend about it, and on Monday I gave two week's notice. All I left behind, or "gave up" were ferocious tension headaches, stress, frustration, and irritation.
That was three blissful years ago.
In the mean time, I spent my time thusly:
First I had started working on seminary classes before I quit my job, so I finished my graduate certificate in Christian ministry, even taking Greek. Although taking Greek in my last trimester of pregnancy was probably not my best idea. This was something God clearly called me to do, and blessed me tremendously because of it! I did not grow up in a strong Christian family, there were large gaps in my knowledge that the Lord is graciously filling. This experience both educated me and equipped me to continue my education on my own.
Second, I gave birth to Miss Pear! The highlight! And learned how to be a mom! And of course my education as a mom is ongoing!
I learned lots about babies, and am now learning about toddlers - my teacher is Miss Pear.
I have been working at furthering my quilting skills - something I learned after I was married.
I have continued to work on polishing up my sewing and cross stitching skills - crafts I have been working on since I was 9.
I have continued my cooking and baking experimenting, perfecting pie crusts - finally! And foraying into using the freezer for more than raw ingredients and left overs! Having meals ready to go in the freezer has been a tremendous blessing. And I love to cook and bake!
I have learned to knit.
I have used the time to read extensively.
I have used the time to study my Bible with the tools seminary and BSF blessed me with.
I have begun to teach Miss Pear.
I have been teaching myself to coupon clip and shop the sales better to save money.
I have been satisfying my curiosity by reading about whatever I am curious about.
It has become clear to me that while my formal education has blessed me tremendously, it is my informal education that has the biggest impact on me.
Learning is lifelong. It does not end because formal education ends. Formal education helps us learn to learn, and we keep on!
My formal education honed my planning skills, and I now use that to bless my family. Anyone who has seen me plan my menu and shopping trips will attest to this! But it is my informal education that is taking my planning skills and helping me to use them to bear fruit for my family.
And yes, I do use spreadsheets to track things and organize holidays....
Oh, and just an aside in reference to the article in walled garden - I have read all of Jane Austen's books - for an Honors literature class, and then again for my own enjoyment!
We are never done learning, and I would encourage you to pick at least one thing to learn more about. If you have an interest, study it! If there is a book of the Bible that baffles you (Revelation? Prophets??), or a book you love and would like to know better ask your pastor for commentary recommendations and dig in! If there is something you always wanted to know how to do head to the library, or ask amongst your friends for someone who knows how to do this thing who might help you learn!
Women do not check our brains at the door when we return home from a career to be a stay at home wife and mother, we use all our intelligence and resources to bless our family, constantly learning more so we can grow and do better!
I love that my intelligence, my gifts, and my hard work bless my family.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Menu Plan Monday - April 21-28
Mr. Pear's mom arrived on the 21, and Mr. Pear leaves on Wednesday morning for business, not returning until Sunday, so a menu plan this week is probably just a formality, more of a list of suggestions than anything else!
So without further ado, here is my menu plan, Saturday to Saturday as that is grocery shopping day!![[untitled.bmp]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZ5qwewt9yDUUOUCPzSrK_2iEzruoELkqV_m1QlkGH5YpD6xiWWhi3-8pHpzN3-kii4wAv7EBcLZ75SNR_S2hhNVjyn5nf8Q-uZeI6x9wCJVOoIk2qsrKg5eNheGw7AskbG88EdQ65iha/s1600/untitled.bmp)
Saturday
Breakfast - Bagels and fruit
Lunch - Salami Sandwiches
Supper - BBQ Chicken Pizza and Salad
Sunday
Breakfast - Cereal, toast, fruit
Lunch - Salami Sandwiches
Supper - Taco Pie
Monday
Breakfast** - Bagels and Fruit
Lunch - Tuna Sandwiches
Supper - Roast Chicken, Carrots, and Quick Cheese Sweet Potatoes
Tuesday
Breakfast - Pancakes
Lunch - Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Supper - BBQ Chicken buns and salad
Wednesday
Breakfast - toast and fruit
Lunch - Burger King (we are out all morning)
Supper - Spaghetti
Thursday
Breakfast - Pancakes
Lunch - Pepper Steak Rice
Supper - Pasta and Salad
Friday
Breakfast - Toast and Cereal
Lunch - Turkey rollups
Supper - Bird's Nest Pie and Salad
Saturday
Breakfast - cereal and toast
Lunch - BLT Wraps
Supper - Macaroni Bake
Breads
Oatmeal Bread~
Sourdough Bread -- third time using this starter
3 Four Bread~
Cookies
Spicy Dad's
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal
Loaves and Muffins
Apple Loaf ~
Banana Streusal Muffins
Orange Loaf ~
Other
Lemon Pie
Granola
Fruit Leather
~ from the More with Less Cookbook (can be found on my sidebar if you want to check it out).
* Indicates a new recipe, a review will be posted after I have made it.
** During the week it is just Miss Pear and I for lunch
Book Giveaway at Overwhelmed with Joy
Overwhelmed with Joy is having a book giveaway for two books:
Randy Alcorn's Wait Until Then and Heaven for Kids.
We explain to Miss Pear that her grandfather is with God when we look at pictures and point people out (our family lives over 2000 miles away, so we do this so she knows people), and I anticipate that eventually she is going to have questions, so I would like to have answers - these books look like a great start.
If you are interested, head on over and sign Mr. Linky and then post on your blog too!
I am off to have coffee with the girls - Miss Pear (who will be drinking milk) and my MIL. We are having so much fun!
Randy Alcorn's Wait Until Then and Heaven for Kids.
We explain to Miss Pear that her grandfather is with God when we look at pictures and point people out (our family lives over 2000 miles away, so we do this so she knows people), and I anticipate that eventually she is going to have questions, so I would like to have answers - these books look like a great start.
If you are interested, head on over and sign Mr. Linky and then post on your blog too!
I am off to have coffee with the girls - Miss Pear (who will be drinking milk) and my MIL. We are having so much fun!
Friday, April 20, 2007
Happy Friday
Happy Friday my sweet bloggy friends!
I am spending the day getting ready for Mr. Pear's mom to arrive tomorrow for two weeks.
So I will still be around, but probably not as much. Although I have a few posts prepared to post while we are out having fun, and I probably will not be able to resist popping in to say hi.
In real life I am actually very shy until I get to know you, and then I can pretty much talk your ear off. But for some reason, in bloggyville I am just a chatter from the the start. Who knew!
I think it helps that people actually showed up, and then returned. I am really in shock about that. I figured I would blog for about a month and have a total of 5 visitors if I was lucky, so I am really thrilled that you actually stop in to visit me! (By the way, the day I realized I had subscribers I was so shocked I almost had to post and ask who you were to make sure I had not been found out by my mom - and as far as I know, only Mr. Pear knows that I blog). Any how, all my readers are very special to me.
So for the next two weeks I am preparing some book reviews to post, I have my WFMWs all ready to go, and a post regarding an article I read that made me think. I hope to prepare a few more things before our company arrives. Just for the record, I often prepare something, and let it sit in the drafts for a while before I publish it because often I just need to sleep on it, or think about it one more time before I hit the publish button.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
I am spending the day getting ready for Mr. Pear's mom to arrive tomorrow for two weeks.
So I will still be around, but probably not as much. Although I have a few posts prepared to post while we are out having fun, and I probably will not be able to resist popping in to say hi.
In real life I am actually very shy until I get to know you, and then I can pretty much talk your ear off. But for some reason, in bloggyville I am just a chatter from the the start. Who knew!
I think it helps that people actually showed up, and then returned. I am really in shock about that. I figured I would blog for about a month and have a total of 5 visitors if I was lucky, so I am really thrilled that you actually stop in to visit me! (By the way, the day I realized I had subscribers I was so shocked I almost had to post and ask who you were to make sure I had not been found out by my mom - and as far as I know, only Mr. Pear knows that I blog). Any how, all my readers are very special to me.
So for the next two weeks I am preparing some book reviews to post, I have my WFMWs all ready to go, and a post regarding an article I read that made me think. I hope to prepare a few more things before our company arrives. Just for the record, I often prepare something, and let it sit in the drafts for a while before I publish it because often I just need to sleep on it, or think about it one more time before I hit the publish button.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
Mexican Stuffed Shells
I had typed this up a couple weeks ago for Freeze it Friday, but that feature was only available two out of the last five weeks, so I guess they are not doing it anymore, which is too bad because I was looking forward to what it could become and to great recipe swapping that made great freezer meals.
Oh well.
Nonetheless I decided to go ahead and post this today as we love this quick meal!
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This is a recipe that is really more like a series of suggestions, but it is always good!
This quantity makes approximately 1 9x13 pan or two 9x9 pans.
Mexican Stuffed Shells
1 x 12oz package of jumbo shells
1 and 1/3 lb package of ground turkey (could use ground beef)
1 green pepper, diced (or other sweet pepper of your choice)
1 onion chopped
1 envelope taco seasoning
2-4 cups shredded cheese - depending on how cheesy you like it. I have used cheddar, Mexican blends, Mozzarella and Monterey jack blend - whatever is in your freezer or on sale....
Cook shells as directed.
Cook turkey, onions, and pepper until cooked (try to not have any larger clumps of meat, the smaller the pieces, the easier the next steps are. (if using beef, drain off fat here). Add taco seasoning, mix well. Simmer off excess liquid.
Allow turkey mixture to cool slightly.
Allow shells to cool slightly. (run water over them occasionally if needed so that they do not stick).
Stuff shells with meat mixture and place in pan. If you have extra meat, either stuff shells fuller, or just spread it over top. If you do not have enough meat, steal from the other shells.
Sprinkle cheese over top.
If freezing cover with plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw completely before cooking.
Cooking instructions:
30-45 minutes covered at 350F (until hot all the way through).
10-15 minutes to slightly golden cheese.
Great with a side salad or veggies!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
So funny! And adorable!
Miss Pear is so sweet. For a very long time she has been saying "ge na" for good night. But how she loves saying "bye-bye" and has started saying that at night.
So when I am putting her down in her crib she will wave to me and say "bye-bye!"
In the last week this has been extended to, "Bye-bye, see you soon!"
Accompanied by waves!
Too sweet!
So when I am putting her down in her crib she will wave to me and say "bye-bye!"
In the last week this has been extended to, "Bye-bye, see you soon!"
Accompanied by waves!
Too sweet!
Not quite the same
Last week we received three different fliers for the same grocery store. I kid you not. Two in the mail on different days, and one in the paper.
And they all had the same cover.
And they all had the same back.
And they were all completely different on the inside.
Because of Miss Pear...ummm...carefully reviewing the sales???? Okay, I will be honest, she was imitating me studying the fliers, except she was flat on her tummy on the floor reading it out loud in her little toddler words that only she understands. It was SO cute.
It was because of Miss Pear that I found out about some great deals I would not have otherwise as I would have just kept one flier.
So I am not sure if the moral of the story is to let your toddler review your fliers for you, or to just check them all, even if they look the same.
Either one works for me, so I will continue to include Miss Pear in my grocery shopping preparations....
For real Frugal Friday tips from the experts, head on over to Crystal's.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
For Heather...wow
So today was the official day to show lots of love to Heather and her family to help them with the expense of going to the Mayo clinic, in addition to all of our prayers.
Boomama organized this shindig, and I happily put the button on my sidebar.
I have to be honest, I did not expect much. Maybe because I have been very discouraged with everything lately (as you can tell if you have been reading much around here - we are going to get back to cheery, I PROMISE!), and maybe because I have been thinking that as a Church we are getting really good about reaching out, but not about reaching within. I have been feeling alone in our journey, and I thought that was becoming universal within the body.
Thank you for proving me wrong.
Thank you for showing me that we in the Church can indeed reach out to those within and that we do care.
Thank you for showing me that the body of Jesus is indeed still loving and nurturing.
Thank you for showing me in a fresh way the love of Jesus.
Even though it does not benefit me in any way directly, even though I am just an observer/small participant, I want to thank everyone who participated for restoring some slipping faith I have had in my fellow believers, and for showing me that the bloggy community is rich in love, and that I am blessed to be part of it.
Thank you.
If you are wondering what prompted this little post, click here.
Thank you for doing this Boomama, you have a very big heart, the love you intended for Heather flowed far beyond her and caught me too. Thank you so much for reflecting our Savior's love so vibrantly and brightly.
Because my heart was already in my shoes...
...this email from our real estate agent crushed me today:
My biggest fear in all this is having to put Miss Pear in day care and return to work. That we will have to sell our town home at such a loss that there will not be another alternative.
The thought of this breaks my heart.
Even as I type these words the tears are starting.
Lord, please help us. We need You so much right now.
Both agents said their clients wereIt is nothing we can fix.
impressed with the inside and especially how well it showed.
Unfortunately, neither client was impressed with the complex nor
neighborhood. Jason's people are more "white stucco-red tile roof"
clients and Nicole's are "all over the place". I have gotten that
before - how drab the complex looks. Perhaps now that spring is here a
"pot or 2 of color" at the front door might keep the eye from the
blue/gray upon blue/gray...just a thought.
My biggest fear in all this is having to put Miss Pear in day care and return to work. That we will have to sell our town home at such a loss that there will not be another alternative.
The thought of this breaks my heart.
Even as I type these words the tears are starting.
Lord, please help us. We need You so much right now.
WFMW - Managing a sick family
Last week we were all sick. The worst day of all was Easter Sunday. I kid you not.We all had horrible colds, and no energy.
As I was talking to a friend of mine I realized that many women (including her) would simply either be martyrs about all this, or let the house fall apart. So I thought I would share what we did to get through this.
When we are all sick, we all pitch in to do what we can. This means that Mr. Pear helped me with dishes and the stuff that could not be left, I was not on my own to do it all. I am very blessed to have a husband who is happy to help me around the house.
The first big thing we did was to regularly change pillow cases so that we were not sleeping on the same germy pillow cases. For Miss Pear we changed her crib sheet. We had really bad colds with really runny noses, so this was very important.
The second big thing we did was to air out our bedrooms each morning so that our rooms at least smelled fresh rather than that kind of sick smell. I would like to think this also helps disperse the germs too, but who knows. I do know that it made me feel better!
Other helpful things:
1. Make a big pot of Veggie Soup - this way all that produce you bought for the week will not spoil! I start with 2 cups of stock, 3-4 cups of water and a 56 oz can of petite diced tomatoes, and put over heat. As I am waiting for it to come to a boil I add whatever veggies I need (and want to use up) and barley. Let simmer for at least 45 minutes for nice fluffy barley. Add pasta for the last 10 minutes. This provided 3 meals for us!
2. Toast is an acceptable lunch.
3. Break into your stash of freezer meals - now is that time when you need help!
4. Run the dishwasher. I don't usually put my pots and mixing bowls in the dishwasher, but when I am sick I put everything possible in - this means less work for us, and it sterilizes everything. (Plus our water is paid for in our HOA fees, so it does not run up a bill).
5. If your dishwasher is running and you have dishes, run a sink of hot soapy water and drop dirty dishes in - cleaner and the germs are not just laying around.
6. Tidy the kitchen - it will be easier to make meals, get juice and water, and whatever else you need if you are not walking into a mess. It is hard to make myself do this but I feel better with the kitchen clean - kind of like one less thing needing to be done. And it motivates me to keep putting everything in the dishwasher because there is nothing on the counters or in the sink!
7. Change your shirts every day - with Miss Pear rubbing her runny nose on us this was a must! But even without that, a fresh shirt after laying around all day just feels better.
8. Get dressed - even if it is just sweat pants and a shirt - you will feel so much better.
9. Make the bed. This is kind of like the kitchen thing. Even if you are going to just lay on top of it, making the bed will make you feel better. I make the bed, put all the nice fluffy pillows on top, get a throw quilt and get comfortable.
10. Pray for the Lord's healing. Okay, so maybe this one should be first....it is the most important one!
11. Get lots of rest and don't worry too much about your children having more television than you would like, it is just a day or two. This is a great time to break out the video stash.
12. Read good books, and go to bed early. (And napping while Miss Pear naps is great, it allows us all to make it to bed time!)
P.S. This is gross, but if your family is sick with colds, occasionally check mucus color (just ask for color unless it is little ones, then look) because if it is yellow or green this is a sign of sinus infection and it is time to see the doctor. Thankfully we were spared it this time around, but we tend to get it more than is usual around here.
Head on over to Mrs. Dryer's for more Works For Me Wednesday tips
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Unprepared
There were a number of things I was unprepared for when we lost our baby at 10 weeks gestation to miscarriage. (Feb 28, this baby was to be our second child, and is our second child, just not with us).
I was unprepared for the doctor's words, the onslaught of emotions, for the deep grieving, for the feelings of inadequacy, for feeling like this was somehow my fault, for people who I expected to be compassionate acting like nothing happened, for crying at the drop of a hat hysterically, for how I felt each time I saw blood.
But we have been doing better, as time passes it gets easier.
Until a last thing happened that I was unprepared for.
The overwhelming emotion that comes with the insurance paperwork saying how much of my hospital procedure is our responsibility. It arrived on Saturday, and it has been a horrible feeling. It seems wrong to be paying medical bills for a pregnancy that will not allow me to hold my baby this side of heaven. It feels like a cruel joke.
But God is pouring the soothing salve of His love on this open wound, because He loves us and is so overwhelmingly good to us.
It still hurts, but I know our child is with God, and will never experience the pain of a fallen world, of human shortcomings, of sin. Our child will only know the perfection of God.
I was unprepared for the doctor's words, the onslaught of emotions, for the deep grieving, for the feelings of inadequacy, for feeling like this was somehow my fault, for people who I expected to be compassionate acting like nothing happened, for crying at the drop of a hat hysterically, for how I felt each time I saw blood.
But we have been doing better, as time passes it gets easier.
Until a last thing happened that I was unprepared for.
The overwhelming emotion that comes with the insurance paperwork saying how much of my hospital procedure is our responsibility. It arrived on Saturday, and it has been a horrible feeling. It seems wrong to be paying medical bills for a pregnancy that will not allow me to hold my baby this side of heaven. It feels like a cruel joke.
But God is pouring the soothing salve of His love on this open wound, because He loves us and is so overwhelmingly good to us.
It still hurts, but I know our child is with God, and will never experience the pain of a fallen world, of human shortcomings, of sin. Our child will only know the perfection of God.
Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry's!
Today, April 17, between 12 and 8 PM is Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry's Scoop Shops!
Oh the bliss!
If you go here you can find a shop near you!
Oh the bliss!
If you go here you can find a shop near you!
Delicious!
Monday is my catch-up and planning day for the week. I say catch up because I pretty much take the weekends off, except for cooking and the cleaning that cannot be left until Monday.
As part of my weekly planning I was considering my menu for this week, and determined that it is worth it to be $6.47 over budget this month rather than $1.48 over budget.
The $4.99 difference is the half flat of strawberries I bought this week. 6 delicious little green baskets of happiness that have yielded;
1. Friday afternoon snacks.
2. Breakfast accompaniment Saturday, Sunday, and Monday
3. 1 strawberry streusel pie
4. A very happy Mr. Pear and Miss Pear
Yup, definitely worth it.
As part of my weekly planning I was considering my menu for this week, and determined that it is worth it to be $6.47 over budget this month rather than $1.48 over budget.
The $4.99 difference is the half flat of strawberries I bought this week. 6 delicious little green baskets of happiness that have yielded;
1. Friday afternoon snacks.
2. Breakfast accompaniment Saturday, Sunday, and Monday
3. 1 strawberry streusel pie
4. A very happy Mr. Pear and Miss Pear
Yup, definitely worth it.
Monday, April 16, 2007
For Heather
Every once in a while you come across a blog that touches you. That was the case with Especially Heather who I found through the bloggy-famous Boomama! What struck me about Heather was all the things she has done to make her corner of bloggyville more precious and filled with God's love and grace.
She is married, and is the mom of three children and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. All the heart-wrenching details are on her web site. Pack your Kleenex when you click on over and of course be sure to leave your encouraging and loving comments!
Boomama is organizing a day and way to show love to Heather and her family in a tangible way, you can read all about it by clicking on the button:
in addition to praying for this sweet family.
Wednesday is officially the Day of Love for Heather!
She is married, and is the mom of three children and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. All the heart-wrenching details are on her web site. Pack your Kleenex when you click on over and of course be sure to leave your encouraging and loving comments!
Boomama is organizing a day and way to show love to Heather and her family in a tangible way, you can read all about it by clicking on the button:
in addition to praying for this sweet family.
Wednesday is officially the Day of Love for Heather!
Umm....congratulations???
Sometimes friends are not that sensitive. They get all wrapped up in themselves and forget about others.
Next time I do this, please stop me! Forcefully if necessary!
A dear friend called last week who I had not talked to in a while (and it has taken me this long to post about it. You just know this is probably not going to be good).
They live in the same county we do, and are trying to move to the same county we are. She called because they had sold their home, were doing great staying at her in-laws so there was no commuting, their new church was great and they had all kinds of new friends, their two daughters were adjusting well, and they were closing on their new home in a couple weeks, it has 4 bedrooms. And kept talking about her two children. And how are we doing?
Well, how do you say just fine when your friend just said that God had blessed them with all the big things you had been praying for God to bless your family with? I said all the right things, and then hung up the phone and had a good cry.
We are still waiting on God....and waiting and waiting.
But He has a plan, and it is a good one. And I am trusting in Him!
Next time I do this, please stop me! Forcefully if necessary!
A dear friend called last week who I had not talked to in a while (and it has taken me this long to post about it. You just know this is probably not going to be good).
They live in the same county we do, and are trying to move to the same county we are. She called because they had sold their home, were doing great staying at her in-laws so there was no commuting, their new church was great and they had all kinds of new friends, their two daughters were adjusting well, and they were closing on their new home in a couple weeks, it has 4 bedrooms. And kept talking about her two children. And how are we doing?
Well, how do you say just fine when your friend just said that God had blessed them with all the big things you had been praying for God to bless your family with? I said all the right things, and then hung up the phone and had a good cry.
We are still waiting on God....and waiting and waiting.
But He has a plan, and it is a good one. And I am trusting in Him!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Menu Plan Monday - April14-21
We are finally on the mend here in the Pear house, and even though there are still drippy noses, we did manage to venture out to church today - something we are careful about when we are sick due to a large senior population!
So without further ado, here is my menu plan, Saturday to Saturday as that is grocery shopping day!
Saturday
Breakfast - Banana Bread and Strawberries
Lunch - Leftover Pizza
Supper - Out for supper - someone was coming to see our house between 5 and 7...at least they showed up!
Sunday
Breakfast - Banana Bread and Strawberries
Lunch - Taco Chili
Supper - BBQ Steak, sweet potatoes, carrots and rolls
Monday
Breakfast** - Bagels and Fruit
Lunch - Chicken Packets*
Supper - Bird's Nest Pie* and Salad
Tuesday
Breakfast - Pancakes
Lunch - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and fruit
Supper - Calzones* and Salad
Wednesday
Breakfast - toast and fruit
Lunch - Chicken Packets
Supper - Turkey Burgers and Coleslaw
Thursday
Breakfast - Pancakes
Lunch - Macaroni Bake (freezer)
Supper - Spaghetti (slow cooker)
Friday (Mr Pear telecommutes)
Breakfast - Cinnamon Buns (make on Thursday)
Lunch - Meatball Soup
Supper - Burgers, yam fries, coleslaw
Saturday
Breakfast - cereal and toast
Lunch - not sure - Mr. Pear's mom arrives
Supper - BBQ chicken pizza and salad
Breads
Sourdough Bread -- third time using this starter
3 Four Bread~
Cookies
Spicy Dad's
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal
Loaves and Muffins
Apple Loaf ~
Banana Streusal Muffins
Orange Loaf ~
Other
Lemon Pie
Granola
Fruit Leather
~ from the More with Less Cookbook (can be found on my sidebar if you want to check it out).
* Indicates a new recipe, a review will be posted after I have made it.
** During the week it is just Miss Pear and I for lunch
Friday, April 13, 2007
Baby Budget Steps Month 1 Week 2
Last week in Frugal Friday's post I talked about the baby steps I was taking to save money in our budget - namely to combine our household spending and grocery spending under our grocery money. Last week, I ended up having to run to Home Depot for BBQ pans and Windex Outdoor that put me $14.22 over my weekly budget (monthly budget divided by weeks I will shop - this month has 4 of them).
I was fairly confident that I could make this up over the month.
Then we all got sick, and Miss Pear needed decongestant as we ran out.
Then Mr. Pear ran out of conditioner, which is the expensive kind because we all have funny hair in our family. He buys the big bottle, which will last more than a year, and just as we were heading to the checkout at CVS he put it in the cart...No problem. But we left CVS having spent $20 more than I had planned.
So then I am about $34 over. Yikes.
When I looked at our menu I realized that I could move many meals from this past week to next week because we did not eat them - we were too sick. So we did not need as much as I had thought. (Although we ate lots of veggies as I had made a very hearty veggie soup for us).
So after going to Vons (where I saved 53% on my bill this week! Yay!) and Henry's for organic milk for Miss Pear and fruits and veggies, I discovered something very nice.
For the month to date I am over budget $6.47 -- so I am making up ground!
Also, I have not touched any of my Costco money yet, so that is good too.
I was fairly confident that I could make this up over the month.
Then we all got sick, and Miss Pear needed decongestant as we ran out.
Then Mr. Pear ran out of conditioner, which is the expensive kind because we all have funny hair in our family. He buys the big bottle, which will last more than a year, and just as we were heading to the checkout at CVS he put it in the cart...No problem. But we left CVS having spent $20 more than I had planned.
So then I am about $34 over. Yikes.
When I looked at our menu I realized that I could move many meals from this past week to next week because we did not eat them - we were too sick. So we did not need as much as I had thought. (Although we ate lots of veggies as I had made a very hearty veggie soup for us).
So after going to Vons (where I saved 53% on my bill this week! Yay!) and Henry's for organic milk for Miss Pear and fruits and veggies, I discovered something very nice.
For the month to date I am over budget $6.47 -- so I am making up ground!
Also, I have not touched any of my Costco money yet, so that is good too.
Frugal Friday - Bread Labels
A friend asked me how I manage to buy bread and other baked goods with Miss Pear's allergies seeing as many breads contain nuts or potato, or are made in the same facility making cross contamination a risk. The answer is that I don't ... that is I don't buy baked goods. A loaf of "safe" bread is about $4 - not exactly reasonable when I am working to save on our grocery bill! I an fairly confident that this week I baked Oatmeal bread and cookies for less than $4!
The good news is that I love to bake!
So most days find me baking one thing as if I bake one thing a day, by the end of the week I can have bread, cookies, muffins, a loaf and something else baked! And Miss Pear loves to help. Plus it is good for counting practice too!
I love to have a couple extra loaves of bread, and packages of 6 rolls in the freezer. This gives us some variety rather than having to eat two of the same loaves in a row, and allows for crazy weeks or illness. But the loaves can tend to look alike in the freezer! And bread bags are hard to label in such a way that you can re-use the bags, which, of course, I do.
So I take the twist tie labels from when I buy bulk items (you know, the ones that have a wide end so you can write the bulk bin number!), and write on the other side what kind of bread or rolls are in the bag with a Sharpie marker so it is easy to read, and I reuse the ties until they break or get lost or get destroyed or generally become unusable.
I can easily identify my bread, and I am not just throwing stuff away - like bread bags and ties! And it basically costs me nothing!
Organized, cost effective, and good for my family -- you really cannot beat that!
Click on over to Crystal's for more great money saving ideas!
P.S. I posted an update on how my new goal of saving on our grocery budget is going...
Standing against discouragement
Since we listed our home there have been many times that we have found we have been feeling discouraged and frustrated by this whole thing. Not just trying to sell our home, but the commute, the severe cut in our family time during the week, the fatigue that plagues us (particularly Mr. Pear), the illnesses that have been cropping up, our miscarriage, un-budgeted expenses (like a new tire when there was a spike in the sidewall of an older one found just as we were buying the two new tires we needed, so this was a third), and the change in our family routine.
When we are discouraged, there are a couple of steps we always take:
When we are discouraged, there are a couple of steps we always take:
- Word of God - read it, think about it, let it soak into you, read it out loud (Bible on CD)! I cannot spend a lot if time in the Word first thing in the morning, so I leave a Bible open on the counter, and read what I can, sometimes just a verse or two, and it helps. I have a longer quiet time either when Miss Pear naps, or in the evening while Mr. Pear finishes his work day by logging in from home (this lets him come home an hour earlier and allows for supper as a family!) I have also found it very helpful to read out loud, I don't know if it is both seeing and hearing the words or if it is just something about me, but reading aloud to Miss Pear always helps me tremendously! As much as possible, saturate yourself in the Word!
- As you study the Word, write down what you learn about God, what jumps off the page at you. As you look back over your notes you will be surprised as you glean truth about God and what He is doing in your life (it may take a week or more to have notes that reveal something to you, it is sometimes like pieces of a puzzle, you are just waiting for that one piece to make the whole thing come together.)
- Praise music - We have a CD player that holds 5 CDs. I load it up and hit play and let it go all day. Miss Pear got a great CD for Easter:
Seeds of Courage, Compact Disc [CD]
It is all scripture, and it is fabulous! We have been playing it lots and it is surprising how having the scripture sung changes the whole feeling of our home and us! - Speak truth to yourself when you know you are thinking lies. I think this is something I need to be better at - identifying my wrong thinking and then telling myself that this is wrong thinking because of what the scriptures say, and then read myself the appropriate scriptures! Then write out verses on stickies and place them where I see them - bathroom mirror, kitchen sink, change table, etc. to serve as reminders!
- Pray - this is such a big one when I am discouraged, I ask God to help me, to give me a right perspective on things, His perspective! I also pray for the specific situation.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Miss Pear's Patience Rewarded
Miss Pear's diligence in checking her seeds from every angle, up close, and talking sweetly to them has obviously paid off. While not all the seeds sprouted, we did get more than we expected (we had used some older basil seeds and were not sure what would happen with those, but one sprouted in one pot, and two in the other).
As suspected, our carrot rows are more like carrot waves..... It is uniquely us!
And the tomato pots with basil in the middle are going to be beautiful!
So Miss Pear's first gardening work appears to be very successful.
As suspected, our carrot rows are more like carrot waves..... It is uniquely us!
And the tomato pots with basil in the middle are going to be beautiful!
So Miss Pear's first gardening work appears to be very successful.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Miss Pear - extraordinarily good girl
Good Morning!
Everyone is on the mend here, but Mr. Pear and I are still sub-par. Fortunately he can telecommute today because we have to meet with our real estate agent (don't get excited, no good news pending as far as I can tell....) And we are showing our home tonight, so I am grateful to have him home today...actually, I am always grateful to have him home! We would really appreciate prayer in this area, we know this is all about what God is doing and His plan for us.
So because Mr. Pear had a teleconference, Miss Pear and I came upstairs, and while she was playing, I laid down on our bed. She runs back and forth between our rooms, and has fun.
All of a sudden, she comes into our room waving three diapers. She can now reach and open her diaper drawer, so I took her diapers to put them back. And the drawer looked different....
...Miss Pear had taken the half bag of diapers from her closet, put them in the drawer (on the correct side too), then stuffed the empty bag in the diaper pail (it is a flip close one, and she knows she cannot flip it), just the way I always do!
I usually do this with her with me, but I never expected her to fill her own diaper drawer and throw out the bag......
My wonderfully good girl!
Everyone is on the mend here, but Mr. Pear and I are still sub-par. Fortunately he can telecommute today because we have to meet with our real estate agent (don't get excited, no good news pending as far as I can tell....) And we are showing our home tonight, so I am grateful to have him home today...actually, I am always grateful to have him home! We would really appreciate prayer in this area, we know this is all about what God is doing and His plan for us.
So because Mr. Pear had a teleconference, Miss Pear and I came upstairs, and while she was playing, I laid down on our bed. She runs back and forth between our rooms, and has fun.
All of a sudden, she comes into our room waving three diapers. She can now reach and open her diaper drawer, so I took her diapers to put them back. And the drawer looked different....
...Miss Pear had taken the half bag of diapers from her closet, put them in the drawer (on the correct side too), then stuffed the empty bag in the diaper pail (it is a flip close one, and she knows she cannot flip it), just the way I always do!
I usually do this with her with me, but I never expected her to fill her own diaper drawer and throw out the bag......
My wonderfully good girl!
WFMW - Stubborn Tomato Sauce Stains
We Pears love our pasta, particularly with tomato based sauces.However, like most 22 month olds, Miss Pear is not always the neatest eater, and occasionally reaches across her plate for something which results in her sleeve dipping into her sauce.
While we are getting much better at this, I thought I would share our wonderful stain fighting tip for tomato sauce:
Ivory Dish Soap - must be clear, or white and preferably ultra.
Just drip a little on the stain, rub it in, let it sit for a minute or two and wash.
Sometimes I still have to wash twice to get the stain out, but it is the most successful method I have found - and also one of the cheapest! I just keep my bottle of Ivory with my laundry supplies, and it is always there when I need it!
This also works great for greasy stains too!
Head over to Mrs. Dryer's for other great Works for me Wednesday tips!
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
My kitchen sink doth protest too much!
When we first moved in, I thought the ceramic sink in our kitchen was beautiful, but then I discovered the task of keeping it clean! Actually, clean is not a problem, shiny and stain-free is.
Soft Scrub Commercial (available at Home Depot, I cannot find it anywhere else) usually served me very well! But there I was, cleaning my sink with people scheduled to see my house, and the Soft Scrub Commercial let me down! How rude!
Mrs. B over at Cherish the Home had just recently posted about cleaning her sink with the Fly Lady's method, so I went to the FlyLady's to get the information, and got as far as bleaching my sink with one cup of bleach and hot water - I even dumped in a kettle of boiling water to give it some extra oomph! (Why yes, that is the official Mrs. Pear housekeeping scientific term!) And you know what? An hour later I had a gleaming white sink. I was thrilled. So I just polished it up and was done!
Now, the shocking thing is that once I started the process I remembered that I knew this trick, I just never used it because I always managed to get bleach on me. But I have a new rule in the house. If ever I am using bleach or a bleach based product I wear an old apron and old t-shirt as I can always miss the apron and get my sleeve - I am very talented that way! (By the way, by doing this I seem to ensure that I don't have any bleach accidents...strange, I know!)
I think I will be sticking to the bleach and water trick when little stains appear - unless of course I need a quick fix because someone is coming to see our house!
Nothing like showing the sink who the queen of the house really is!
Soft Scrub Commercial (available at Home Depot, I cannot find it anywhere else) usually served me very well! But there I was, cleaning my sink with people scheduled to see my house, and the Soft Scrub Commercial let me down! How rude!
Mrs. B over at Cherish the Home had just recently posted about cleaning her sink with the Fly Lady's method, so I went to the FlyLady's to get the information, and got as far as bleaching my sink with one cup of bleach and hot water - I even dumped in a kettle of boiling water to give it some extra oomph! (Why yes, that is the official Mrs. Pear housekeeping scientific term!) And you know what? An hour later I had a gleaming white sink. I was thrilled. So I just polished it up and was done!
Now, the shocking thing is that once I started the process I remembered that I knew this trick, I just never used it because I always managed to get bleach on me. But I have a new rule in the house. If ever I am using bleach or a bleach based product I wear an old apron and old t-shirt as I can always miss the apron and get my sleeve - I am very talented that way! (By the way, by doing this I seem to ensure that I don't have any bleach accidents...strange, I know!)
I think I will be sticking to the bleach and water trick when little stains appear - unless of course I need a quick fix because someone is coming to see our house!
Nothing like showing the sink who the queen of the house really is!
Monday, April 9, 2007
Bible Reading with Miss Pear
When we were preparing for Miss Pear's arrival two years ago, we knew we wanted to be able to read her Bible stories, but could not find a children's Bible story book that met the standard we had. We did not just want pictures, we wanted God's Word! The more we talked about it, the more we realized that we wanted Miss Pear to have a Bible of her own, right from the start. We did not want to have to explain the difference between Bible story books and the Bible. So we got the
and we are thrilled. It was waiting for Miss Pear when she came home from the hospital, and Mr. Pear wrote "welcome to the world" inside it.
We started reading to Miss Pear while she was nursing, just a section or two. Then as she began feeding herself solid food we began reading to her in her high chair - both to take advantage of a captive audience who could not reach the book, and to pass the time! I am not much of a breakfast eater, so we still read Miss Pear's Bible to her at breakfast. Right now we are just working our way through the Gospels, again. We like reading to her about Jesus! As she grows we will read further, but for now we just keep working our way through the Gospels.
Miss Pear likes this time, she knows that we pray before we read, so as soon as she sees us opening her Bible she goes into her prayer posture (head bowed, hands about an inch from her cheeks, peaking up at us) and waits for us to pray.
We just read a section or two once or sometimes twice a day, so we are not breaking land speed records, but Miss Pear is nourished with the Word, and I pray that the seeds we are planting now will grow into a mighty harvest.
NIrV - The Adventure Bible for Young Readers, Hardcover
and we are thrilled. It was waiting for Miss Pear when she came home from the hospital, and Mr. Pear wrote "welcome to the world" inside it.
We started reading to Miss Pear while she was nursing, just a section or two. Then as she began feeding herself solid food we began reading to her in her high chair - both to take advantage of a captive audience who could not reach the book, and to pass the time! I am not much of a breakfast eater, so we still read Miss Pear's Bible to her at breakfast. Right now we are just working our way through the Gospels, again. We like reading to her about Jesus! As she grows we will read further, but for now we just keep working our way through the Gospels.
Miss Pear likes this time, she knows that we pray before we read, so as soon as she sees us opening her Bible she goes into her prayer posture (head bowed, hands about an inch from her cheeks, peaking up at us) and waits for us to pray.
We just read a section or two once or sometimes twice a day, so we are not breaking land speed records, but Miss Pear is nourished with the Word, and I pray that the seeds we are planting now will grow into a mighty harvest.
Menu Plan Monday - April 7-14
My menu plan was all carefully made, and shopped for, and then Miss Pear got sick, and then she shared with us.... So who knows how this menu plan will work out, but it is nice to have a plan, and ideas to steal from. Also, because I try to plan the bulk of my meals from my freezer and pantry, and then stock said freezer and pantry using sales. This not only saves us money, it is great when we get sick unexpectedly because our pantry includes a stock pile of pharmacy like type purchases. (see how I am doing this while saving money here.)
Our meals for the weekends are constantly being bumped because of people coming to see our place as we are trying to sell, and are therefore trying to keep it neat (somehow I don't think anyone wants to see our dirty dishes). Or they are arriving just as I would have to be starting supper. This is so frustrating! If you have any ideas on this, please let me know. We are tired of sandwiches and of leaving just as we were going to start lunch. We have a 22 month old too.....
So without further ado, here is my menu plan, Saturday to Saturday as that is grocery shopping day!
Saturday
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns
Lunch - Pizza Rolls
Supper - Veggie Lasagna from the freezer
Sunday
Breakfast - Overnight Blueberry French Toast
Lunch - Left Over Lasagna
Supper - BBQ Steak, sweet potatoes, carrots and rolls
Monday
Breakfast** - Yogurt and Fruit
Lunch - Macaroni Bake (freezer)
Supper - Chili (freezer)
Tuesday
Breakfast - French Toast
Lunch - Tuna Sandwiches
Supper - Meatballs with Pineapple sauce, rice, veggies
Wednesday
Breakfast - Yogurt and fruit
Lunch - Pasta
Supper - Chicken Cacciatore and Rice
Thursday
Breakfast - Raisin Bagel and fruit
Lunch - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Supper - Spaghetti and veggies
Friday (Mr Pear telecommutes)
Breakfast - Cinnamon Buns (make on Thursday)
Lunch - Turkey Burgers and baby carrots
Supper - Pizza and Salad (I have found that if I put pineapple on it, Miss Pear eats it happily)
Saturday
Breakfast - Pancakes
Lunch - Pepper Steak Rice (freezer)
Supper - Creamy Chicken with Wild Rice* (Slow cooker)
Breads
Oatmeal Bread~
Sourdough Bread -- third time using this starter
3 Four Bread~
Cookies
Spicy Dad's
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal
Loaves and Muffins
Soy Banana Loaf~
Apple Loaf ~
Banana Oatmeal Muffins
Orange Loaf ~
Other
Lemon Pie
Blueberry Pie
Granola Bars
Granola
Fruit Leather
~ from the More with Less Cookbook (can be found on my sidebar if you want to check it out).
* Indicates a new recipe, a review will be posted after I have made it.
** During the week it is just Miss Pear and I for lunch
Our meals for the weekends are constantly being bumped because of people coming to see our place as we are trying to sell, and are therefore trying to keep it neat (somehow I don't think anyone wants to see our dirty dishes). Or they are arriving just as I would have to be starting supper. This is so frustrating! If you have any ideas on this, please let me know. We are tired of sandwiches and of leaving just as we were going to start lunch. We have a 22 month old too.....
So without further ado, here is my menu plan, Saturday to Saturday as that is grocery shopping day!
Saturday
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns
Lunch - Pizza Rolls
Supper - Veggie Lasagna from the freezer
Sunday
Breakfast - Overnight Blueberry French Toast
Lunch - Left Over Lasagna
Supper - BBQ Steak, sweet potatoes, carrots and rolls
Monday
Breakfast** - Yogurt and Fruit
Lunch - Macaroni Bake (freezer)
Supper - Chili (freezer)
Tuesday
Breakfast - French Toast
Lunch - Tuna Sandwiches
Supper - Meatballs with Pineapple sauce, rice, veggies
Wednesday
Breakfast - Yogurt and fruit
Lunch - Pasta
Supper - Chicken Cacciatore and Rice
Thursday
Breakfast - Raisin Bagel and fruit
Lunch - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Supper - Spaghetti and veggies
Friday (Mr Pear telecommutes)
Breakfast - Cinnamon Buns (make on Thursday)
Lunch - Turkey Burgers and baby carrots
Supper - Pizza and Salad (I have found that if I put pineapple on it, Miss Pear eats it happily)
Saturday
Breakfast - Pancakes
Lunch - Pepper Steak Rice (freezer)
Supper - Creamy Chicken with Wild Rice* (Slow cooker)
Breads
Oatmeal Bread~
Sourdough Bread -- third time using this starter
3 Four Bread~
Cookies
Spicy Dad's
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal
Loaves and Muffins
Soy Banana Loaf~
Apple Loaf ~
Banana Oatmeal Muffins
Orange Loaf ~
Other
Lemon Pie
Blueberry Pie
Granola Bars
Granola
Fruit Leather
~ from the More with Less Cookbook (can be found on my sidebar if you want to check it out).
* Indicates a new recipe, a review will be posted after I have made it.
** During the week it is just Miss Pear and I for lunch
Friday, April 6, 2007
Someone Else's Home
As I mentioned earlier this week, we are very discouraged with trying to sell our home, and really have had quite enough of this! A lovely agent called Monday or Tuesday night to show our home, and after I hung up from arranging an appointment, I wanted to call back and cancel. I don't want to show our home any more. I am done.
I am done because this whole time we have been on the market (since September! There have been governments who have lasted less time than we have been on the market!) I have felt like I am living in someone else's home.
I am afraid to start any real projects - like really organizing that guest room closet - because I am convinced I will get everything out and someone will knock on our door!
I am loath to start major baking projects or multiple baking projects because as soon as the kitchen is at its worst, someone will knock on our door!
I am constantly cleaning up Miss Pear's things because I don't want to be so far behind that I cannot tidy up in 15 minutes or less!
I stick to my housekeeping schedule out of paranoia rather than a sincere desire to bless my family. Even Tuesday, on three hours sleep I stripped our bed (including mattress and pillow covers, after all, it is the first week of the month), washed it all, and remade it, changed our towels, changed Miss Pear's crib and bathroom towels, dusted both rooms, cleaned both bathrooms and swept the kitchen floor....all after hosting a play date! I think I am slowly losing it here!
I pulled out material to cut in order to make napkins. Miss Pear woke up, and one of the first things I did, after greeting her, changing her, etc, was to put the fabric away!
My sweet mother-in-law gave me Christmas money, some of which I used to buy the Edwardian apron pattern and material, and I have gotten as far as cutting the pattern, nothing else! After all, there is the mess of cutting the material, then I have to open up my sewing machine, and what if someone calls! Then there is the material for the new place mats, napkins and apron, all matching, that I have been meaning to make since September - still in the bag. Then there is the material to line Miss Pear's toy basket, also still in the bag.
I think I am living on hold...not good.
But I really can only describe how I am feeling about all this by saying that I feel like I am living in someone else's home and they are expected home any moment!
But yet, I know that God has a plan in play - a good one! One I am going to look back on and go, "Wow, guess it was all worth it!" I know this, and am very confident it is true. And so I pray for the fulfillment of His plan, and for faith and confidence in Him to get through this. Did I mention that my most frequent prayer right now is, "Please help me Lord, I cannot do this!" Knowing full well that He can.
My mother-in-law is coming down for two weeks the end of this month, and by golly we are going to get some of these projects done!
We can do it, because if someone calls there are two of us to do the mad dash tidy......
Although in the mean time, we are again fighting discouragement. Our agent wants us to cut our price...again. And the other two town homes for sale in our complex are going to sell as they have offers pending against them. We are definitely in need of a miracle.
Miss Pear is very sick with a cold today, and someone wants to see our home at 3:00....so here we go again....
I am done because this whole time we have been on the market (since September! There have been governments who have lasted less time than we have been on the market!) I have felt like I am living in someone else's home.
I am afraid to start any real projects - like really organizing that guest room closet - because I am convinced I will get everything out and someone will knock on our door!
I am loath to start major baking projects or multiple baking projects because as soon as the kitchen is at its worst, someone will knock on our door!
I am constantly cleaning up Miss Pear's things because I don't want to be so far behind that I cannot tidy up in 15 minutes or less!
I stick to my housekeeping schedule out of paranoia rather than a sincere desire to bless my family. Even Tuesday, on three hours sleep I stripped our bed (including mattress and pillow covers, after all, it is the first week of the month), washed it all, and remade it, changed our towels, changed Miss Pear's crib and bathroom towels, dusted both rooms, cleaned both bathrooms and swept the kitchen floor....all after hosting a play date! I think I am slowly losing it here!
I pulled out material to cut in order to make napkins. Miss Pear woke up, and one of the first things I did, after greeting her, changing her, etc, was to put the fabric away!
My sweet mother-in-law gave me Christmas money, some of which I used to buy the Edwardian apron pattern and material, and I have gotten as far as cutting the pattern, nothing else! After all, there is the mess of cutting the material, then I have to open up my sewing machine, and what if someone calls! Then there is the material for the new place mats, napkins and apron, all matching, that I have been meaning to make since September - still in the bag. Then there is the material to line Miss Pear's toy basket, also still in the bag.
I think I am living on hold...not good.
But I really can only describe how I am feeling about all this by saying that I feel like I am living in someone else's home and they are expected home any moment!
But yet, I know that God has a plan in play - a good one! One I am going to look back on and go, "Wow, guess it was all worth it!" I know this, and am very confident it is true. And so I pray for the fulfillment of His plan, and for faith and confidence in Him to get through this. Did I mention that my most frequent prayer right now is, "Please help me Lord, I cannot do this!" Knowing full well that He can.
My mother-in-law is coming down for two weeks the end of this month, and by golly we are going to get some of these projects done!
We can do it, because if someone calls there are two of us to do the mad dash tidy......
Although in the mean time, we are again fighting discouragement. Our agent wants us to cut our price...again. And the other two town homes for sale in our complex are going to sell as they have offers pending against them. We are definitely in need of a miracle.
Miss Pear is very sick with a cold today, and someone wants to see our home at 3:00....so here we go again....
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Money Saving Baby Steps
So as you may know from reading around here that I am trying to be more frugal.
Basically, we live in a very expensive area - Southern California AKA Shake and Bake - although we are more bake than shake in our particular neck of the woods. The bad news is that we are trying to move to a more expensive area so that my husband will not have to commute 80 miles each way. (Our monthly gas budget is currently too scary to mention.)
So to help, I am taking baby steps to cut budget lines now so when we move it is not a case of desperation! We also have specific savings goals I want to help us reach in any way I can! Mostly I am trusting God to provide, as always, but I am also trying to use wisely what He is blessing us with!
Baby step number 1: Use what we have more thoroughly!
Baby step number 2: Combine the grocery and household goods budget lines under the grocery amount.
This second item is tricky. It is technically two line items on our budget. So rather than divide my focus, I have a new goal.
To shop with savvy and intelligence so that each month I can purchase both our household goods and groceries with the money budgeted for groceries. (Baby step number 3 will be to cut the $ amount).
I started making steps towards this last month, but this is the month where I start keeping serious track.
Here is how I did on this week's shopping:
CVS - Spent about $8 for $40 worth of items, and discovered that ECB's now print out on the same receipt - no more waiting for the next shopping trip to get them! I should do better and CVS going forward now as I think established with the ECB's.
Vons - great sales, and with sales and double coupons I saved 51% on my bill. A first for me! I have been working hard to save more than I spend without buying stuff we don't need for a long time and I finally accomplished it!
Henry's - $16 for milk and produce -- local store with great produce that is also cheaper, and where we can get organic milk.
I ended the week about $2 over budget to my combining goal, but I did a big shop this week because of great sales, also, looking at my pantry, I may just need milk, fruits and veggies next week! (I filled some very big gaps in it this week). Also, it is a monthly budget, I just break it up weekly to help me.
Unfortunately we ran out of something I had to go to Home Depot for, and spent $12.93, but have a $3 rebate. So that stinks, but I now have BBQ pans for the summer, and finally have Windex outdoor to clean our second story windows! Technically I should include this in my budget, but my husband is not sure about that. He is thinking I should cut myself some slack. I am tracking grocery items and household items separately so that can still see each, but really am trying to meet the goal I set for myself.
One thing I am doing to reach Baby Step number 2 goal is to not look through my cookbooks to see what looks good, and then buying all I need to make it. I have a list of recipes I would like to try, and when I make my menu I consult that to see if I have most things in my pantry. If I do, I put it on the list, if not I keep watching for sales. I am basically trying cook and bake from my pantry and freezer and replenishing those with sales and a few other items I need that week. That helps a lot!
Of course I am also clipping coupons, and getting a friend who does not coupon to bless me with hers! (In return I give her daughter all my Bed Bath and Beyond coupons! They just bought a house, so they need them!) Ideally I am buying sale items and combining with coupons (and the Vons near our place is having great sales recently and is doing double coupons).
I also am using the CVS ExtraCare program to earn ExtraBucks, and I think I am at the point now that if I shop carefully I will be spending very little each week there, so that helps a lot too.
Things that make this hard:
Miss Pear is allergic to potatoes, eggs, and severely allergic to nuts.
Heart disease and high cholesterol run in both our families so we are careful in the meat we eat and try to eat a healthy lower fat diet.
But I am certain that we can do this!
It is a lot of work at first, but my husband is pleased with the savings so far, and I really feel like this is something God wants me to do, so that settles it!
Note:
Crystal had a great series on supermarket savings (that she turned into an ebook). The blog series helped me tremendously, and I have it printed out to help me!
Rachel had a post about how to get started with CVS ExtraBucks and that helped me a lot too!
Stamping with Miss Pear
So we decided it would be fun to try stamping with Miss Pear.
We rounded up all the supplies (including washable, non-toxic ink pads), broke out the paper, cover the kitchen table in newspaper and began!
I used the scientific starting method of covering the table with paper, laying out all the supplies, explaining, demonstrating, and then letting Miss Pear have at it! We had so much fun.
It was great fun! The smaller stamps that I thought might be awkward for Miss Pear were actually the perfect size!
So far, we are focusing on putting the stamp down squarely in the ink, then squarely on the paper, and not dipping our fingers in the ink pad and then touching things that are not covered in paper.
We had a blast! We are not up to stamping our own Easter cards this year, but we had a great time!
I highly recommend the washable ink pads, they do wash off, unless you have as much ink on our fingers as Miss Pear did, then it takes a day or so to wear off, but a good hand washing eliminated the little stamped fingerprints everywhere, at least in our case!
We rounded up all the supplies (including washable, non-toxic ink pads), broke out the paper, cover the kitchen table in newspaper and began!
I used the scientific starting method of covering the table with paper, laying out all the supplies, explaining, demonstrating, and then letting Miss Pear have at it! We had so much fun.
It was great fun! The smaller stamps that I thought might be awkward for Miss Pear were actually the perfect size!
So far, we are focusing on putting the stamp down squarely in the ink, then squarely on the paper, and not dipping our fingers in the ink pad and then touching things that are not covered in paper.
We had a blast! We are not up to stamping our own Easter cards this year, but we had a great time!
I highly recommend the washable ink pads, they do wash off, unless you have as much ink on our fingers as Miss Pear did, then it takes a day or so to wear off, but a good hand washing eliminated the little stamped fingerprints everywhere, at least in our case!
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Just a mom
A good friend of mine recently emailed this to me. It has been making the rounds for a while, but I wanted to share it nonetheless. My friend said that she thought it sounded like something I would do....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JUST A MOM?
A woman, renewing her driver's license at the County
Clerk 's office
Was asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation.
She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself.
"What I mean is," explained the recorder,
"do you have a job or are you just a......?"
"Of course I have a job," snapped the woman.
"I'm a Mom."
"We don't list 'Mom' as an occupation, 'housewife'
covers it,"
Said the recorder emphatically.
I forgot all about her story until one day I found
myself in the
Same situation, this time at our own Town Hall.
The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised,
Efficient and possessed of a high sounding title like,
"Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar."
"What is your occupation?" she probed.
What made me say it?
I do not know.
The words simply popped out.
"I'm a Research Associate in the field of
Child Development and Human Relations."
The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair and
Looked up as though she had not heard right.
I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most
significant words.
Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was
written,
In bold, black ink on the official questionnaire.
"Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest,
"just what you do in your field?"
Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice,
I heard myself reply,
"I have a continuing program of research,
[what mother doesn't)
In the laboratory and in the field,
(normally I would have said indoors and out).
I'm working for my Masters, (first the Lord and then the
whole family)
And a lready have four credits (all daughters).
Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the
humanities,
(any mother care to disagree?)
And I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it).
But the job is more challenging than most
run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are
More of a satisfaction rather than just money."
There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's
voice as she
Completed the form, stood up and personally ushered me
to the door.
As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous
new career,
I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3.
Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model,
(a 6 month old baby) in the child development program,
Testing out a new vocal pattern.
I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy!
And I had gone on the official records as someone more
distinguished and indispensable to mankind than
"just another Mom." Motherhood!
What a glorious career!
Especially when there's a title on the door.
Does this make grandmothers
"Senior Research associates in the field of
Child Development and Human Relations"
And great grandmothers
"Executive Senior Research Associates"?
I think so!!!
I also think it makes Aunts
"Associate Research Assistants".
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JUST A MOM?
A woman, renewing her driver's license at the County
Clerk 's office
Was asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation.
She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself.
"What I mean is," explained the recorder,
"do you have a job or are you just a......?"
"Of course I have a job," snapped the woman.
"I'm a Mom."
"We don't list 'Mom' as an occupation, 'housewife'
covers it,"
Said the recorder emphatically.
I forgot all about her story until one day I found
myself in the
Same situation, this time at our own Town Hall.
The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised,
Efficient and possessed of a high sounding title like,
"Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar."
"What is your occupation?" she probed.
What made me say it?
I do not know.
The words simply popped out.
"I'm a Research Associate in the field of
Child Development and Human Relations."
The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair and
Looked up as though she had not heard right.
I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most
significant words.
Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was
written,
In bold, black ink on the official questionnaire.
"Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest,
"just what you do in your field?"
Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice,
I heard myself reply,
"I have a continuing program of research,
[what mother doesn't)
In the laboratory and in the field,
(normally I would have said indoors and out).
I'm working for my Masters, (first the Lord and then the
whole family)
And a lready have four credits (all daughters).
Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the
humanities,
(any mother care to disagree?)
And I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it).
But the job is more challenging than most
run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are
More of a satisfaction rather than just money."
There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's
voice as she
Completed the form, stood up and personally ushered me
to the door.
As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous
new career,
I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3.
Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model,
(a 6 month old baby) in the child development program,
Testing out a new vocal pattern.
I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy!
And I had gone on the official records as someone more
distinguished and indispensable to mankind than
"just another Mom." Motherhood!
What a glorious career!
Especially when there's a title on the door.
Does this make grandmothers
"Senior Research associates in the field of
Child Development and Human Relations"
And great grandmothers
"Executive Senior Research Associates"?
I think so!!!
I also think it makes Aunts
"Associate Research Assistants".
Encouraging!
As a stay at home wife and mother living in California who prays I will be blessed to home school our children, I found this article encouraging.....
The Crucifixion from a Medical Perspective
Mrs. B over at Cherish the Home has an excellent article posted that looks at the crucifixion of Jesus from a medical perspective. It is honest and graphic, but worth the read.
Sometimes in our churches we kind of gloss over the physical pain that Jesus experienced on our behalf. We use the phrases like flogging and crucified, but don't explain those terms. And the Roman empire had this process down to a brutal and merciless form of torturous death.
As hard as the article is to read, it is well written, and does not seek the shock value, it seeks honesty. I highly recommend it for reading in preparation for Good Friday.
Sometimes in our churches we kind of gloss over the physical pain that Jesus experienced on our behalf. We use the phrases like flogging and crucified, but don't explain those terms. And the Roman empire had this process down to a brutal and merciless form of torturous death.
As hard as the article is to read, it is well written, and does not seek the shock value, it seeks honesty. I highly recommend it for reading in preparation for Good Friday.
WFMW - Car Edition - Air Conditioning gear
When Miss Pear was about 6-8 weeks old I was required to appear at an USCIS Office (formerly the INS) for both the processing of my application for permanent residency (green card) and to have my fingerprints taken for the 3rd time because they had expired, again...I will pause while you ponder that last statement...and while you get all the jokes out of your system....this could take a while.....So because I was nursing, Miss Pear refused to take a bottle, and we expected this to take all morning, Miss Pear came with us, even though we had a perfectly good
The appointment went well, but the office was FREEZING! They had the air conditioning CRANKED!
And we did not have a warm blanket to wrap Miss Pear up in - just a receiving blanket. After all, it was a beautiful June day!
So in addition to emergency items we keep car blankets in the car - one for picnicking or the beach, and something to keep little ones warm. We also keep a little poncho now that Miss Pear is getting bigger.
Being prepared with warm clothing -- not for cold weather, we live in Southern California, we need warm clothing in the car for the unexpected cranked air-conditioning!
Today is works for me Wednesday, the car edition, so for more great ideas, head on over to Mrs. Dryer's - there are some great tips!
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Book Review: The Way of Perfection
I recently finished which was an unusual book in the fact that Theresa of Avila had written it to the nuns in her order, not to a woman some 600 years later! The result is an unusually conversational style for that time period which is delightful.
I did find this book to be a bit hard to read as she would sometimes get caught up in bunny trails, or repeat herself by saying it in a completely different way to emphasize points to her nuns. But this is well worth overcoming to gleam the nuggets in this book.
One important thing she discussed is praying with our whole focus being on the Lord, and even taking time to focus our thoughts and heart before we begin! Oh, this was a reminder and lesson I sorely needed! So often I just launch in, and to be honest, I wonder how God could get a word in edgewise! Prayer is a conversation, and so often when I launch in, it becomes a monologue.
She also has great discussions about getting along with others in the order, which could very well be retitled getting along with others in the Church, and she makes points in such a way that you wonder why you have fallen into that bad behavior! Or at least I did!
But there was one point that struck me, that I still think about, and still wonder about. I was reading this book when we discovered that we were going to lose our baby, and miscarried, and when I read this quote on page 99, it stuck in my head, "...the King does not allow himself to be taken except by the one who surrenders wholly to Him." So often I find that I want so much to submit to the Lord, but part of me rebells! In this case I found myself submitting because I had finally collapsed under the weight of it all. I remember asking our pastor if it was really submission, if it really counted if I did not consciously decide to commit be just collapsed under it all. He assured me that it was, and I find myself reviewing this statement from the book again in light of this. It is true, I want as much of the Lord in my life as possible, and that only comes through obedience and submission.
This was not the easiest to read book, but it was worth it! So often we write off, or ignore the saints in the protestant church, but in doing so we miss some great opportunities to learn from those who have gone before us. And I must say that I learned a great deal from this book!
However, I do recommend reading her biography first, particularly:
On the Mrs. Pear rating system (below) I give this book 4 pears!
5 Pears - Fabulous! Too good for words! What do you mean you haven't read this one yet! Go, immediately, and get a copy! This book must be in your library! I would lend you mind, but I cannot part with it! Besides, I think I will start rereading it tonight!
4 Pears - Excellent - I loved this book, definitely worth picking up or borrowing from a friend or getting from a library - a must read!
3 Pears - Good - I liked it, it would be a good book to get from your library or to borrow from a friend, probably not one to invest precious book money in though.
2 Pears - Not bad - it would be okay if I were stranded in an airport or on a deserted island and this was all I could find to read.
1 Pear - Awful! Do not waste your time or money on this one! How did this get published?
I did find this book to be a bit hard to read as she would sometimes get caught up in bunny trails, or repeat herself by saying it in a completely different way to emphasize points to her nuns. But this is well worth overcoming to gleam the nuggets in this book.
One important thing she discussed is praying with our whole focus being on the Lord, and even taking time to focus our thoughts and heart before we begin! Oh, this was a reminder and lesson I sorely needed! So often I just launch in, and to be honest, I wonder how God could get a word in edgewise! Prayer is a conversation, and so often when I launch in, it becomes a monologue.
She also has great discussions about getting along with others in the order, which could very well be retitled getting along with others in the Church, and she makes points in such a way that you wonder why you have fallen into that bad behavior! Or at least I did!
But there was one point that struck me, that I still think about, and still wonder about. I was reading this book when we discovered that we were going to lose our baby, and miscarried, and when I read this quote on page 99, it stuck in my head, "...the King does not allow himself to be taken except by the one who surrenders wholly to Him." So often I find that I want so much to submit to the Lord, but part of me rebells! In this case I found myself submitting because I had finally collapsed under the weight of it all. I remember asking our pastor if it was really submission, if it really counted if I did not consciously decide to commit be just collapsed under it all. He assured me that it was, and I find myself reviewing this statement from the book again in light of this. It is true, I want as much of the Lord in my life as possible, and that only comes through obedience and submission.
This was not the easiest to read book, but it was worth it! So often we write off, or ignore the saints in the protestant church, but in doing so we miss some great opportunities to learn from those who have gone before us. And I must say that I learned a great deal from this book!
However, I do recommend reading her biography first, particularly:
On the Mrs. Pear rating system (below) I give this book 4 pears!
5 Pears - Fabulous! Too good for words! What do you mean you haven't read this one yet! Go, immediately, and get a copy! This book must be in your library! I would lend you mind, but I cannot part with it! Besides, I think I will start rereading it tonight!
4 Pears - Excellent - I loved this book, definitely worth picking up or borrowing from a friend or getting from a library - a must read!
3 Pears - Good - I liked it, it would be a good book to get from your library or to borrow from a friend, probably not one to invest precious book money in though.
2 Pears - Not bad - it would be okay if I were stranded in an airport or on a deserted island and this was all I could find to read.
1 Pear - Awful! Do not waste your time or money on this one! How did this get published?
Is crying aloud in real estate?
I am SO discouraged.
Our house has been on the market since September and has not sold.
A house in our town home complex listed a month and a half ago, and just got an offer that will lead to them selling. We found out last night. I ended up getting about 3 hours of sleep.
It is very discouraging. We are priced right, have great hickory hardwood floors, oak shutters on the living room windows, a front balcony, back yard, three bedrooms, all new carpet and fresh paint.
Every one raves about it, and no one makes a reasonable offer. (No word on the 4 people who were here on Sunday, so not looking good).
I love our home, we have worked very hard on decorating it, and I work hard to keep it up, and no one wants it.
I know God has a big plan in play that I cannot see, and I am trusting in Him to get us through this, but I am feeling discouraged today.
Our house has been on the market since September and has not sold.
A house in our town home complex listed a month and a half ago, and just got an offer that will lead to them selling. We found out last night. I ended up getting about 3 hours of sleep.
It is very discouraging. We are priced right, have great hickory hardwood floors, oak shutters on the living room windows, a front balcony, back yard, three bedrooms, all new carpet and fresh paint.
Every one raves about it, and no one makes a reasonable offer. (No word on the 4 people who were here on Sunday, so not looking good).
I love our home, we have worked very hard on decorating it, and I work hard to keep it up, and no one wants it.
I know God has a big plan in play that I cannot see, and I am trusting in Him to get us through this, but I am feeling discouraged today.
Monday, April 2, 2007
Miss Pear, the impatient gardener
So Miss Pear likes to examine her pots that have seeds planted in them to see if anything is growing yet. She likes the up close examination - she gets her nose about two inches from the soil and studies it carefully, then looks from other angles, just to be certain, all the while talking in a sweet little voice to her seeds.
So far only one speck of green, but Miss Pear checks each pot each day with great care, from different angles, and then repeats.
So far only one speck of green, but Miss Pear checks each pot each day with great care, from different angles, and then repeats.
Remebering...
Mrs. Dryer has a great post up about remembering her lost baby that resonated with me!
It has been one month, and we feel better than we did, even though there are still days that it hurts, a lot. Part of us will always be attached to that little baby we did not get to hold. But we prayed for him, talked to him, and made lots of plans for him. And we will see him one day. Until then, there is no way we will forget that child we had inside me for a couple short weeks.
It has been one month, and we feel better than we did, even though there are still days that it hurts, a lot. Part of us will always be attached to that little baby we did not get to hold. But we prayed for him, talked to him, and made lots of plans for him. And we will see him one day. Until then, there is no way we will forget that child we had inside me for a couple short weeks.
Menu Plan Monday - March 31 - April 7
Hi,
My focus this week is getting ready for Easter weekend, and getting a new stash of lunches in the freezer for Mr. Pear. (Hot Cross buns are already in the freezer!)
The Pepperoni Rolls that I finally made last week were delicious - the only changes I made were that I used my home made pizza sauce, and put it in the rolls instead of saving it for dipping. I think I would add pineapple next time just for Miss Pear!
Our meals for the weekends are constantly being bumped because of people coming to see our place as we are trying to sell, and are therefore trying to keep it neat (somehow I don't think anyone wants to see our dirty dishes). If you have any ideas on this, please let me know. We are tired of sandwiches and of leaving just as we were going to start lunch. We have a 22 month old too.....
So without further ado, here is my menu plan, Saturday to Saturday as that is grocery shopping day!
Saturday
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns
Lunch - Out for lunch - someone was coming to see our place and we were hungry!
Supper - Pizza
Sunday
Breakfast - Cereal and fruit
Lunch - BBQ Hamburgers
Supper - Chicken Enchiladas (from the freezer), Tomato and Sweet Pepper Rice, and Veggies
Monday
Breakfast** - Yogurt and Fruit
Lunch - Tuna Sandwiches and tomatoes
Supper - Spaghetti and salad (make sauce in slow cooker)
Tuesday
Breakfast - Raisin Bagel and fruit
Lunch - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Supper - BBQ Chicken and Veggies
Wednesday
Breakfast - Yogurt and fruit
Lunch - Macaroni Bake Leftovers
Supper - Taco Stuffed Jumbo Shells (make a tray for the freezer)
Thursday(day Mr. Pear telecommutes, we think)
Breakfast - Raisin Bagel and fruit
Lunch - Turkey Burgers
Supper - Meatloaf, Sweet Potato Fries, beans
Friday (Mr Pear is off)
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns
Lunch - Veggie Soup and Rolls
Supper - Veggie Lasagna and Bread
Saturday
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns and Fruit
Lunch - Leftover Lasagna
Supper - Southwest Skillet
Breads
Oatmeal Bread~
Sourdough Bread -- third time using this starter
3 Four Bread~
Cookies
Spicy Dad's
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal
Loaves and Muffins
Soy Banana Loaf~
Apple Loaf ~
Banana Oatmeal Muffins
Orange Loaf ~
Other
Bunny Cake (Three dimensional, Devil's food flavor using this pan)
Butter Tart Square
Blueberry Pie
Granola Bars
Granola
Fruit Leather
~ from the More with Less Cookbook (can be found on my sidebar if you want to check it out).
* Indicates a new recipe, a review will be posted after I have made it.
** During the week it is just Miss Pear and I for lunch
My focus this week is getting ready for Easter weekend, and getting a new stash of lunches in the freezer for Mr. Pear. (Hot Cross buns are already in the freezer!)
The Pepperoni Rolls that I finally made last week were delicious - the only changes I made were that I used my home made pizza sauce, and put it in the rolls instead of saving it for dipping. I think I would add pineapple next time just for Miss Pear!
Our meals for the weekends are constantly being bumped because of people coming to see our place as we are trying to sell, and are therefore trying to keep it neat (somehow I don't think anyone wants to see our dirty dishes). If you have any ideas on this, please let me know. We are tired of sandwiches and of leaving just as we were going to start lunch. We have a 22 month old too.....
So without further ado, here is my menu plan, Saturday to Saturday as that is grocery shopping day!
Saturday
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns
Lunch - Out for lunch - someone was coming to see our place and we were hungry!
Supper - Pizza
Sunday
Breakfast - Cereal and fruit
Lunch - BBQ Hamburgers
Supper - Chicken Enchiladas (from the freezer), Tomato and Sweet Pepper Rice, and Veggies
Monday
Breakfast** - Yogurt and Fruit
Lunch - Tuna Sandwiches and tomatoes
Supper - Spaghetti and salad (make sauce in slow cooker)
Tuesday
Breakfast - Raisin Bagel and fruit
Lunch - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Supper - BBQ Chicken and Veggies
Wednesday
Breakfast - Yogurt and fruit
Lunch - Macaroni Bake Leftovers
Supper - Taco Stuffed Jumbo Shells (make a tray for the freezer)
Thursday(day Mr. Pear telecommutes, we think)
Breakfast - Raisin Bagel and fruit
Lunch - Turkey Burgers
Supper - Meatloaf, Sweet Potato Fries, beans
Friday (Mr Pear is off)
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns
Lunch - Veggie Soup and Rolls
Supper - Veggie Lasagna and Bread
Saturday
Breakfast - Hot Cross Buns and Fruit
Lunch - Leftover Lasagna
Supper - Southwest Skillet
Breads
Oatmeal Bread~
Sourdough Bread -- third time using this starter
3 Four Bread~
Cookies
Spicy Dad's
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal
Loaves and Muffins
Soy Banana Loaf~
Apple Loaf ~
Banana Oatmeal Muffins
Orange Loaf ~
Other
Bunny Cake (Three dimensional, Devil's food flavor using this pan)
Butter Tart Square
Blueberry Pie
Granola Bars
Granola
Fruit Leather
~ from the More with Less Cookbook (can be found on my sidebar if you want to check it out).
* Indicates a new recipe, a review will be posted after I have made it.
** During the week it is just Miss Pear and I for lunch
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Umm, yes, I will get back to you on that
My dear Internets (to quote Boomama)
I am feeling the ick today (nothing serious, just ick), and thought this would be a great day to rest with my laptop on my knees and post witty posts and intelligent book reviews, and regale you with humorous stories from this past week.
Yet, I cannot.
I am much too busy trying to manage this parade of real estate agents and their clients through our home and being gracious to them, and refraining from sinking to one particular agent's level of rudeness.
I must say that my experience of running my parent's hotel and my professional training as a planner (nope, not kidding) are coming in very handy!
Happy Sunday, I must dash to prepare for yet another agent.
May the Lord bless you abundantly this precious Lord's Day.
I am feeling the ick today (nothing serious, just ick), and thought this would be a great day to rest with my laptop on my knees and post witty posts and intelligent book reviews, and regale you with humorous stories from this past week.
Yet, I cannot.
I am much too busy trying to manage this parade of real estate agents and their clients through our home and being gracious to them, and refraining from sinking to one particular agent's level of rudeness.
I must say that my experience of running my parent's hotel and my professional training as a planner (nope, not kidding) are coming in very handy!
Happy Sunday, I must dash to prepare for yet another agent.
May the Lord bless you abundantly this precious Lord's Day.
The Mrs. Pear Book Review Rating System
You may have picked up on the fact that I LOVE to read. And I love to talk about what I read. So I would like to do some book reviews on my little blog! However, it occurs to me that a rating system would be helpful, so I designed my own little version of it:
5 Pears - Fabulous! Too good for words! What do you mean you haven't read this one yet! Go, immediately, and get a copy! This book must be in your library! I would lend you mind, but I cannot part with it! Besides, I think I will start rereading it tonight!
4 Pears - Excellent - I loved this book, definitely worth picking up or borrowing from a friend or getting from a library - a must read!
3 Pears - Good - I liked it, it would be a good book to get from your library or to borrow from a friend, probably not one to invest precious book money in though.
2 Pears - Not bad - it would be okay if I were stranded in an airport or on a deserted island and this was all I could find to read.
1 Pear - Awful! Do not waste your time or money on this one! How did this get published?
2 book reviews posting shortly...I hope.
5 Pears - Fabulous! Too good for words! What do you mean you haven't read this one yet! Go, immediately, and get a copy! This book must be in your library! I would lend you mind, but I cannot part with it! Besides, I think I will start rereading it tonight!
4 Pears - Excellent - I loved this book, definitely worth picking up or borrowing from a friend or getting from a library - a must read!
3 Pears - Good - I liked it, it would be a good book to get from your library or to borrow from a friend, probably not one to invest precious book money in though.
2 Pears - Not bad - it would be okay if I were stranded in an airport or on a deserted island and this was all I could find to read.
1 Pear - Awful! Do not waste your time or money on this one! How did this get published?
2 book reviews posting shortly...I hope.
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