THE NEW YEAR

I want to wish everyone a healthy, happy and blessed new year!
My prayer for you is that the lord will work miracles in your lives and he will reveal himself to you in ways that light up your life for him.
God is so awesome and powerful.
May we all go into this new year with an open heart and mind.
Thank you all for a wonderful first few weeks blogging and may his love shine through to you all!

Have a Blessed New Year!!!

2008 New Year Resolutions

UPDATE: 21. I want to finish my cookbook I started while I was expecting the twins.

I have several things that I want to accomplish in the New Year.

1. Have a closer walk with my Lord. Be a better child of the King!
2. Loose the last 25 pounds and reach my goal weight.
3. Improve my Mommy skills.
4. Im prove my Wife skills. Make more time for hubby. Be a better helpmeet.
5. Be better to myself. Not sell myself short. Make more time for me.
6. Oragnize my house from top to bottom again.
7. Clean and really deep clean the house. Every crook and cranny.
8. Finally landscape the outside. After 5 years, I think it's high time.
9. Read one book a month.
10. Read through my Bible this new year.
11. Organize all of our photos. There are thousands of them, no exaggeration.
12. Be a better steward of God's money and stick to a monthly budget. Save more money.
13. Pay off the last of our debt. Get an emergency fund im order again.
14. Do all of the home improvement projects on my to-do list.
15. Start earlier and stay more organized for Chrsitmas 2008.
16. Find better storage solutions for Chrsitmas decor and for childhood memorbila of ours.
17. Organize, clean out and build shelves in outside building.
18. Start my card ministry up again.
19. Organize my coupons better and find a better solution for storing them.
20. Be a better daughter, cook more and do more for my wonderful parents.

Well, my hope and prayer is that God will see us through another year and I can stick with these Resolutions. I want to make myself proud, ya know?!

Have a great '08! Blessings!

Digusting! Please NO More Poop or Puke!

WARNING!!!!!! Okay, some of you may want to stop now. This is digusting!

The boys have had runny diapers on and off since Christmas night. This past Saturday am I awoke to the smell of YUCK! I got to the nursery and my Little Tiger had taken off his runny and full diaper and throw it along with his pajama bottoms on the carpeted floor. There were piles of poop everywhere in the crib and they had been trampled in. It was caked on his feet, on the wall, the crib, etc. You get the picture. I cleaned and washed and threw out the sheet. I cloroxed and lysoled and YUCK!

As of yesterday (Sunday) at lunch time they had been runny diaper free for 24 hours. Hubby and I thought it would be okay to give them milk. they only drink milk and water. Trying to get them to drink Pedialyte is like trying to give a dog tomato juice. It's a no go. Anyhow, they had a cup of milk each with their lunch. Just a few hours later was the explosions. Yes, I said EXPLOSIONS!! monkey had 7 in 2 hours and Tiger 6 in the same amount of time.

So the sitters came and we took my parents to the church for the viewing of my Daddy's uncle. We came back through town and stopped at our favorite Chinese place. We ate and it was yummy. At least for 3 of us. Hubby was driving and we were maybe 5 minutes from home. Then he said, "I think I'm going to be sick!" He was all in my Durango. He threw up and threw up before he could safely get off the road. It was on my windshield, the floor, the mats, the radio, console, seat, stirring wheel, dash, the running boards, EVERYWHERE!!! He was pitiful. He was covered. The road was covered and it was plain DISGUSTING! Boy did I have a mess to clean up when i got home. Thankfully the sitters stayed while hubby got a shower and I started the clean-up process. His dress pants look like they were bleached, after I laundered them.

So after one runny diaper from Tiger this am I have put a call into the peds office. Hubby is at work and feeling fine, other than sore. And I am still completely grossed out.

Wish me the rest of the week vomit and diarrhea free, please!!! On a side note, it is so hard to see your little children so very sick. They act fine other than the diapers but It is hard to see them go through that.

Hope you all are well!

It's Monday!

Here's my day:

1. Call ped. eye dr.


2. Call ped. denist


3. Call ped.


4. Exercise


5. Laundry


6. Make tea (sweet iced tea is a staple at or house)


7. clean out desk drawer


8. get ready


9. kiddos to my parents


10. go to cell phone place


11. P.O.


12. CVS


13. Aldi


14. Wal-Mart


15. Cracker Barrel? (please!!!)

Plans have changed since the weekend. Hubby will be getting off early today and my mother's helper will be back on Wednesday. Bulldog and I will get to enjoy a little time to ourselves (buying groceries and the like)! Yippee!

Happy Monday!

Sunday's To-Do

Well I am at home from church today with the boys. They are still cranky!!! It is cold and rainy out too.
I need to get the house in order and a couple of loads of laundry done. I also need to think about supper and get our clothes ready for the funeral home tonight.
My great uncle passed away Friday night and will be out for viewing tonight. We have a sitter coming for a couple of hours for that.
I also need to get to work on my new 2008 budget, to - do lists, cleaning schedules, ect. My Christmas stuff is still scattered around decorating my home and oh so badly needs to find it's home again in the closet. The house also needs a good deep cleaning. I also need to get my menu planner done. Taking stock of our freezer and pantry inventory should help in that area.
Well, lots to do so I had better get busy. Have a blessed Sunday!

One more time and other ramblings!

We have one more Christmas gathering tonight. I am zapped. This one is Bulldog's family. It is at 6pm, 30 minutes away. I made a blueberry pie, Santa Fe soup and a veggie tray with dill dip. My mother's helper was here again today thank goodness.



Chunky Monkey had 3 runny diapers and Little Tiger 2. They are ill and have not eaten well or napped well. I will be so glad when all of these teeth come through.



My cell phone is on the brink as well. We also had 2 funnel clouds within 8 miles of us today. all is well and no touchdowns. Praise Jesus!



I did 11 loads of laundry yesterday and 4 today. The boys got lots of new clothes for Christmas, especially much needed pajamas! I am so grateful for that.



We went to the hospital last night to see my mil. She is about the same. The pain is really bad, she cannot stand for anyone barely to touch her. She was released last night. I think the doctor thought about the fact that we are suppose to have Christmas tonight and everyone is finally home. Please continue to pray for her.



Our tree and decorations are still up and will be until Tuesday. I am hitting CVS tomorrow as well as Wal-Mart. Tomorrow we are going to the zoo for their light display and to ride the train. I hope we eat at The Cracker Barrrel.



Sunday is church. The last service there. I am so sad but so happy to start worshipping with at a new place with wonderful Christians. It will be a change of pace though. Going from 40 in attendance to 350 or so. Please pray that the boys have an easy transition.



Monday I am going out of town to do some shopping. The Mother's Helper and the boys are going too. We will hit Target, Bath and Body Works, Walgreens (thank you for the giftcard dear friend!) among some other places. I also need to go to Sam's and Aldi. We'll see how the boys are by then.



Well, I should hurry along and tidy up. I need to finish things up before Bullldog gets home, so we can leave asap. Have a great weekend!



Blessings!!!

I'm Under All of The Paper and Boxes!

Okay, so I'm fine. Just wanted to check in and let you know that things have been quite hectic and I'm trying to RECLAIM my house. My boys are teething again and after 57 hours (no exaggeration) of runny diapers, fever and fussiness to no end it's been chaotic.

Also, please keep my mil in your prayers. Her cancer has spread all over her body in less than 4 weeks again. We are waiting on more tests. She is in unbearable pain. There is nothing they can do short of a miraculous healing from God. Please say a prayer her name is Marilyn.

I will be back soon and hopefully learn how to post pictures in the meantime! Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and lots of fun while remembering the real meaning. Blessings to you all! I also promise to catch up on your blogs soon. I miss you ladies!

Christmas Blessings!

Merry Christmas To All And To All A Good Night!

Today

I have a long list and am thankful........just to be able to do it (or at least try).

1. Get ready
2. make bed
3. unload/reload dw
4. finish wrapping
5. make breakfast menu for in the am
6. Wal-Mart
7. bank
8. P.O.
9. Aunt C's
10. Comp. shop
11. take gifts to my parents
12. Blockbuster
13. make jerky
14. clean kitchen, sweep, wipe counters and mop?
15. laundry (whatever I can get finished is fine)
16. charge cameras
17. make Jesus a b'day cake and leave Santa a piece tonight
18. put together blocks and toys for Santa gifts
19. Put away gifts from the weekend
20. put away wrapping stuff and clean out master bedroom

I thank that is all for now. Have a blessed day! And a Merry Christmas!

No Compliants Here Other Than Tiredness!

Over the weekend it was a busy, chaotic and quite hectic. The twins turned 21 moths old and we traveled a lot.
We had a get together Friday pm, 2 on Saturday and 3 yesterday after church. .
I have cooked, baked, shopped, wrapped, chopped and frozen until my heart is MORE than content.
All of my mix orders are out. MY business is finished at least for Christmas.
I am BLESSED. Yes, Christmas is tomorrow and I REFUSE to be stressed (although I told hubby last night next year I will start in August!).

Over the weekend things were set in perspective for me. My husband is a wonderful driver (praise God). He's driven an 18 wheeler since he was 21 (so, 10 years on that side). He is a hazardous waste driver and has NEVER had an accident. Anyhow, on Saturday night we had been to some friend's house (an hour and a half away) and we were cut off by a car that actually stopped in the middle of the 4 lane interstate after the cut-off. Thankfully there was another open lane for us to get into. Thank you Jesus!

However, we made a quick stop in Trussville at Aldi (they close at 8) and then went to the other part of T'ville to Target. in order to go home we have to come back by Aldi. When we came up on the intersection that we had just been in 30 minutes earlier it was awful. There was a 4 car accident. Blood, glass, people trapped in vehicles. One mini-van upside down. There was a lady in a SUV. There was no one in the pick-up. Another mini-van on a rollback. It was smashed to nothing. There was a car seat hanging out of the back glass and I saw 2 covered by blankets on the ground. The coroner was there and it was so sad. I cry as I type this. This is not to make any one's Christmas sad but merely a reminder. We are all so blessed. We all have our problems. Unless the Lord intervens this will be my mil's last Christmas. Her cancer is inoperable and incurable inside of what the medical professionals can do. This time last year we were told one of our twins would not see his next. He is here and NORMAL! God is so good! Please remember the reason for the season. I had lost sight of it earlier but things were put in perspective as I saw that accident seen and then I looked in the back of our SUV and saw my little blessings safely strapped in their seats sleeping away. Thank you Jesus! I do have much to accomplish today but i am thankful. My loved ones are here and safe. I can enjoy this season and be thankful. Now, off the soapbox.

Have a Blessed and Safe Christmas Season!

Good Morning!

Today seems better. My Oreo ice cream probably helped! My Mom came over yesterday after I near fainted. I have never felt quite this overwhelmed by it all. She took care of the boys for 2 hours and I slept. She left when it was time for their nap and I slept for another hour. Then Little Tiger awoke and I put him in the bed with me and we slept for another 45 minutes. Bulldog brought home takeout (again). Then I went to bed by 9 last night.



I did not get much accomplished at all yesterday and I can honestly say that I found out I am not Marva the Marvelous Wonder. God is my strength. However, he did not kill yourself doing "it all". Those of you that do not have twins imagine 2 of your children the same age, doing the same as the other one, wanting the same things, needing the EXACT same things. Yes, they have different personalities but they are more alike than you could ever know. Isn't that right, Mimi?!



Just take their latest habit.

Little Tiger likes to take off his diaper and pants ANY time he is put in the crib and he has it down to a mere 30 seconds. Now brother is doing the same. I promise you they watch each other and say, "Let's see how insane we can make Mommy today?" Okay, a bit extreme but just the same. After a couple poop on the wall and under fingernails episodes, Little Tiger proudly displays a silver belted diaper (loosely of course). Duct tape is a wonderful thing! If you have other ideas feel free to share them with me. I'm open to suggestions at this time.



Now, Last night Bulldog and I had put the boys down for the night. Chunky Monkey has not been (the key word been) following brother's lead at the end of the day, so much as naptimes so he had not (had not key phrase) been wearing a belted diaper. They had talked and giggled then all was finally quiet. About 8:20 pm Bulldog was headed to the kitchen for his nightly iced tea and I asked hime to look in on the boys. I tell you I do not know what that man was looking at (nor does he evidently). He said they were fine. At 8:50 pm I checked on them before I laid down and what I saw was a site! Little Tiger fast asleep, diaper and clothing in place. Chunky money laying spread eagle for all to see. Diaper, pants and socks in floor. I went and retreived Bulldog from the ballgame on tv. The monkey was wet and sticky, the carpet, sheet, blanket, his lovie and wall were also WET!!! I laughed it off. Mainly because the hubby cleaned up the child and then helped me with the other. Let's just say Monkey went to sleepytown with a nice silver belt on his diaper as well and I think Bulldog will pay a little closer attention next time.



What do you think? Do the men ever learn? Nah, that's why the helpmeet. Just kidding!

Deliveries, Haircuts and Oil Change

Well today promises to be a busy one......again!

I have been so sluggish lately. I called the Dr. and she told me to take an extra vitamin through the holidays, get extra sleep (that one made me laugh) and to try to relax (that was even funnier). Next, she asked if I might be pregnant? Huh!?! This is our take on pregnancy and future children.
We prayed for a baby for 7 years. God gave us not 1 but 2. I told God that if he would bless us with one child I would never ask for ANYTHING again. He gave us 2. I felt this was a sign of sorts. Did I mention that when I said asked him, I was already pregnant? We will not tempt fate and with all of the problems I had, the boys had, my anemia and my heart condition, well a family of four sounds perfect to us! ;) Try carrying twins after open heart surgery. The ways the wires were forced around and well it was quite uncomfortable.
Now, just let me say, we would be honored if God chose us to be parents again (ever how many times he saw fit), however we are trying to conceive purposefully.

Now, on to today's news..........busy day.

I need to wrap breads, finish coffee mixes and deliver to all on my list.
While at the P.O. I need to check the mail.
We are out of a few things, so a trip to Wal-Mart is in order.
I also need to get the oil changed, bathe the twins and they need haircuts.
When hubby gets in form work this afternoon I need to have diaper bag ready, supper on table and have I and the boys ready to travel. We will be going to visit my mil. She is cancer and it is all over the body. She had back surgery to insert balloon type devices to keep disks off of the spinal nerves. She and my fil live about 30 minutes away.
I also have some calls to make and my Durango needs to be unloaded before I can go anywhere.
So without further ado, I leave you for now to get my day started.

Happy Friday and Merry Christmas!

Brown Sugar Orange Ham Glaze

I love a spiral ham. They are so yummy. We were so blessed to be given a 9# spiral ham for part of our Christmas from my parents. Thank you Mother and Daddy, you two are the best!!!

Here is the recipe:
7# spiral ham

1. Heat oven to 325 degrees. Place ham on rack in shallow roasting pan. Bake uncovered about 1 1/2 hours.
2. While ham is baking, make galze. Brush over ham during last 45 minutes of baking.
3. Remove ham from oven, cover with a tent of foil and let stand for 15 minutes .

Glaze:

1/2 c. brown sugar, packed, 2 tablespoons orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard

Mix all ingredients.

ENJOY!!!;)

Crock-pot Bean Dip

This is one of those quick snacks to let cook while you shop. Ready when you get home. This is one of our favorites for Christmas Eve.

2 - 16 oz. cand refried beans (I use Old El Paso, fat free)
2 - 15 oz. cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 - 10.5 oz. can Ro-tel
1 - 1.25 oz. pkg. taco seasoning
2 -1# loaves Mexican Velvetta Cheese, cut into cubes
1 c. finely shredded mexican cheese blend
In 4 qt. crock-pot, mix all ingredients, EXCEPT shredded cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 3 1/2 hours. Stir after 2 hours.
Scrape down sides of crock-pot with spatula to help prevent edges from scorching.
Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Serve with tortilla chips.

ENJOY!!! ;)

Quote for the Day

"The best Christmas gift is an act of kindness."
Unknown

Sleepy Me!

Oh me! The last couple of days have been doozies. I am so sleepy.....

Yesterday I baked 19 loaves of pumpkin (yes, from scratch) and cranberry orange (also from scratch) breads. I also made 5 pounds of chex vanilla chunks and 7 pounds of peanut brittle. I also mailed 2 more packages yesterday. We got several lovely Christmas cards as well. My aunt and uncle came over for a nice visit last night. My aunt made chocolate oatmeal cookies,, fruitcake cookies and chocolate chip cookies. She brought us a quart of home canned cream of tomato soup (my favorite). I got her recipe last year and made it for the first time. So yummy!

Today I went to CVS, Wal-Mart, P.O.and the local pharmacy. The twins' speech therapist came this am and it went quite well. The housekeeper came and finished the floors (shampooing) and then we had some friends over from church at 5:30. I was so tired and hubby as well. He brought home takeout. This is a treat for us (as I cook almost all of the time). He had a bbq pork plate and I had a Memphis special (bbq pork sandwich covered in slaw).

It is getting late and the boys are not resting well the last couple of nights for some reason, so I will be turning in. I'll have a couple of posts for tomorrow.

Good night and sweet dreams! Merry Christmas to all!

Blessings All Around! Thank you Lord!

God is so good, all of the time. In the last couple of weeks, he has been abundantly good. How grateful we are.





These are the blessings we have received.

1. New carhartt coat for Bulldog (free, thanks to his employer).



2. $500 Christmas bonus



3. Saved and stockpiled pantry staples. Saved $259.00, paid $41.00



4. Had venison given to us twice. almost 25 # total



5. Had 5# of quail given to us



6. Bulldog got 2 $50 Wal-Mart gift cards for accident free driving



7. Bulldog got quarterly saftey bonus ($250)



8. My parents kept our boys Saturday night and gave us $50 to eat on.



9. One of my mother's helper gave me a early Christmas presents, a free day!



10. This one may be a little confusing, I had almost $350 left over in mixes and gift sets from orders and my open house. As of yesterday am I had planned to "peddle" them as I made deliveries this am. I really despise doing this. Last night before bedtime I got a phone call from a previous customer saying that she needed some last minute gifts. I met her this am and she bought $261!!!!! Then another lady asked me to bring a few things for her to look at and she bought $45. So, I did not have to waste gas and do what I despise most! I have a few things left to give to friends and relatives. God is so good.

Lastly, we recieved a $75 gift basket from my Uncle in the mail. Thank you Uncle D! It looks like this http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=373453.

We are so blessed. There is too much to list, but these are some of the most recent.

Sending prayers and blessings your way! Merry Christmas!

Christmas Traditions

We all have them. Some of us are trying to make new ones. Some of us , well are just trying!





This is what we are doing and going to incorporate in the next couple of years (as the boys will begin to understand more).





WARNING: We are Christians. Not to offend anyone. These are our personal beliefs and are not being pushed on anyone. Please skip this post if you are offended by Christian values.





Now, on to the good stuff!

1. Adopt a family from the angel tree.



2. Send cards



3. Have family and kiddos pictures made.



4. Make a gingerbread house



5. Select a new ornament for each child and one for us as a married couple each year.



6. Advent calendar- Talk about how many more days until Jesus' birthday and not how many more days until Santa comes.



7. Decorations are focused on nativities, angels, ect. We do have a couple of Santa things though. Most are focued from a Biblical aspect.



8. The boys have their own Little People Nativity, that they pretend with.



9. Jesus is "born" to all of our nativites on Christmas morning.



10. We bake a birthday cake for Jesus and sing "Happy Birthday" to him.



11. We see Santa only once and do a picture.



12. Santa brings each child 3 gifts. This is a way for the 3 gifts that the Wisemen brought to Jesus to be honored and remembered.

13. We drive around and look at Christmas lights.


14. We go to our Annual Christmas parade.


15. And last but not least, we set an amount (of money) for presents from Mommy and Daddy.



Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Weekly Menu Planner 12/16-12/22

Sunday- Venison roast, green beans and mac and cheese

Monday- Venison Stew

Tuesday-Candied Pork Chops w/ apples, green beans, rice and sweet potato casserole

Wednesday- Enchilada casserole, refried beans and tossed salad

Thursday- Leftovers

Friday- Venison Chili

Saturday- Finger foods with company (I'll post menu later)



Desserts: Whatever you can find! Lol!



Happy eating!

Look out Christmas.......

here I come! This is one busy week. In no particular order this is what this week involves.

Make:
Chex Vanilla Chunks
Eggnog bread
Rice Krsipy treats
whole wheat molasses bread
Honey Apple Cake loaves
Pumpkin bread
Cranberry Orange bread
Peanut Brittle
AND
Homemade Jerky

Errands:
Deliveries for mix business
CVS
Wal-Mart
local pharmacy
Post office
Bank
Aldi
Belk
Victoria's Secret
Deliver goody plates, trays and baskets

Company here:

Wed. - Speech therapist for twins
AND our dear friend Belinda and my Mother's helper Kimberly

Thurs.- my nephews to make gingerbread house

Sat.- Our friends K & L w/ their b/g twins who were born the night before the boys at the same hospital. Finger foods will be served (no menu yet)

Sun. - Family get together w/ a cousin at my parents house (Supper is on the agenda but no menu yet).

Yet to do:
Mail 2 packages
Finish baking and cooking (need menus first!)
Finish trays, plates, baskets and boxes of misc.
Finish wrapping (just a couple)
Pics printed for photo calendars

I think that is all.........at least for now!

So do you have it all done? Tell me about it!

So much fun!

Hubby and I had the best time last night. We got most everything done, enjoyed time and conversation together and enjoyed a fabulous meal!

I had the fried crab claws and fried butterflied gulf shrimp. I got a baked poatao to go with it. We ordered fried dill picles as an appetizer. They also serve slaw, cornbread and pickled onions with your meal. Hubby had the shrimp (like mine) and fried catfish.

We got to sit right over the water and it was absolutely perfect.

Later on I had a Caramel MooLatte from the Dairy Queen. It was delish as well.

We finally got home at midnight but oh what fun we had!;)

Thanks for the well wishes! The boys gave their Paw-Paw and Granny a run for their money but they are ready to keep them again anytime. Watch out mom here we come!

Yippee Yay Today!

Well today has already been a busy one.
I picked up Angel Food this am and thta was a 2 1/2 hour event. I only got one of the 2 orders placed. I am still awaiting mine. It should be here anytime........I hope.
Bulldog is working this am and my Little Tiger and Chunky Monkey have been quite the handfull!
I have laundry to finish and a few things to get straightened up.
The housekeeper (my best friend) usually comes once very 2 weeks (this is my treat to myself) to deep clean. She has not been able to come in 3 1/2. She is coming for a while today.
The boys have to have bathes and overnight bags packed. YES, I said overnight bags.
They have never stay away from Mommy and Daddy before tonight due to all fo their illnesses and breathing problems. They are spending the night with my parents.
We all 6 are very excited!!! Bulldog and I have not had a date night out of the home in almost 2 months!

We are going to eat at Top O' The River, go to CVS, the hospital (to see his Mom), Belk, Kohl's, Target, Victoria's Secret, Aldi and Sam's. Yes, we consider this a date (no kids)!
I have got to work on my toenails (they need a speedy repainting). I want to take a long hot bath before we leave. Oh how I need to unwind a bit. Oh and I have to find something for us to wear (it'll need ironing, I'm behind).

I have a few more gifts to get and some groceries.

I love The Top O' The River. I am having their shrimp. They bring you a mini iron skillet of mexican cornbread, fresh, ice cold slaw and pickled onions to beginf with. they have the best iced sweet tea ever. Bulldog always has to have the fried dill pickles (and i help myself to them too). The seafood is to die for. There's always leftovers for the trip home. Yummy to say the least!

I cannot wait for some uninterupted, adult conversation! And I get to leave the word "NO" at home. I would be rich if I had a penny for everytime I told the boys no, stop or wait! You other Moms know what I am talking about!:)

Have a great weekend and enjoy your loved ones!

Our Farm Life

I thought I would post about what we grow, where we live and what it is that I do.



We grow peaches, apples, pears, plums, nectarines, blueberries, blackberries, figs, muscadines, scuppernongs and have honey bees.



We also row crop with all types of vegetables, melons, pumpkins and small ornamentals. We raise beef cattle as well.



My Daddy has been growing fruit (and other crops) since 1952. We all (my brother and his family, my parents and my family) live on one of my parents' farms. The one we live on is about 50 acres or a little more. The big farm (or the lower farm as we refer to it as) is over 150 acres. We have a couple more small farms as well.



My brother is almost 13 years older than I and we get along great. He and his beautiful wife have 2 boys as well. They are 15 and 9 years of age.



Our parents are wonderful. They have taught us everything we know and how to work hard for what we get. Lots of love, blood , sweat and tears have went into this business.



We have an indoor road side market. It is open from June until Thanksgiving. We also have contracts with several grocery stores for our peaches and then we go to a half dozen or farmer type markets. We grow more peaches than any thing.



It is a family operation through and through. My Daddy has a couple of sisters and a brother-in-law that works for us. My sil is off work most of the summer and she helps. Her parents help too. My brother drives a school bus, but does most of the picking. My hubby is a harzardous waste hauler, but helps as often as he can. We all just pitch in and do whatever needs to be done. We have a couple of part time hands that hae been with us for several years.



We are so blessed to get to work together and live her together.



If you ever need to know how to plant a pumpkin patch, change the oil in a tractor or "pull" a calf, feel free to ask!;)

Working, Debt and the Home

I think when you work inside the home, there is more to do than if you work outside the home. Now, let me clarify myself. When I get up my wheels are turning, when I go to bed my wheels are turning. Perhaps (and No I absolutely do not want to) if I worked outside of it I would not see every little thing that needs to be done and think of a million others as well. I would think about getting up and going to work and probably not so much inside the home.

No matter how stressed, busy or whatever I am, I would not ever change my life. I LOVE it! I have a wonderful hubby that works his hands to the bone everyday to make sure that our boys and I have what we need and doesn't want me to have to work.

We are 32 and 31 and we own our home (it is 5 years old) outright. I drive a 2006 Dodge Durango and he has a 1999 Chevy pick-up. They are paid for as well. We owe less than $6000 to debtors (mainly from our twins' births). We have paid $28,000 out of pocket. That is NOT a lot compared to the total of $1.25 million. Yes, praise God insurance paid for the rest. Okay, now back to the subject at hand.........

We do NOT use credit at all. We did not pay for our home and Durango all by ourselves (thank you Mother and Daddy!) however, we work hard and it pays off. We are quite blessed. We are working hard to finish paying off our debts.

I will go back to work this summer on the farm (where we live) fulltime. The boys and my Mother's helper with me though. It is only seasonal. Then my mix business starts up in the fall. I do this out of my home. I get to be with my boys all of the time and would not change it!

I also make contributions by shopping smart. That is for another post.

Enough for now. I'll save the rest for another. Have a blessed Friday!

Name Game

My hubby: Bulldog
Twin Boy A: Little Tiger
Twin Boys B: Chunky Monkey

Now, you will know who I am referring to.;)

Christmas Cards

Almost all of the cards are out. All 200!!!!! My dear hubby (whom I will affectionately call Bulldog) and I have large families. My father has 9 brothers and sisters. He was older when I was born, 43 to be exact. I am the youngest grandchild on that side (of 36). I am 31, the oldest is 60. That's just one side of 4. So, that's where most all the cards come in. I have a couple more to get addresses for.

How many cards do you send out?

We send out more religious type cards. Jesus is the reason for the season!

I normally have all the cards out the day after Thanksgiving, but to be frank we had to delegate the expense of postage over time this year.

I buy all of our cards the day after Chrsitmas for the next year. I love a good buy! Speaking of which, I also buy paper, bags, wrap, bows, gift sets, ect. then.

I am going to grab me a hot cup of coffee and I'll see you soon!

Enchilada Casserole Supreme

A friend shared this recipe with me several years ago. Thank you Carla! This has become a favorite at our home. I serve this with tossed salad, refried beans and spanish rice.

1 # ground beef, browned and drained
1 med. onion chopped
1- 4.5oz. can of chili peppers, drained
Salt, pepper and cumin to taste
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 soup can of milk
1 pkg. tortillas
2 c. Mexican blend shredded cheese
1 can Ro-Tel (I use mild)
Gucamole. chopped black olives and sour cream

Add peppers, seasoning and onions to ground beef. Cover and simmer. Add milk and soup. Bring to a boil. In a casserole dish, make a layer of tortillas, layer of cheese, then soup mixture. Repeat until all of soup mixture is used. Sprinkle with cheese. Place dush on large cookie sheet (to catch any overflow). Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Garnish with guacamole, Ro-Tel, sour cream and olives.

ENJOY;)

Thoughts

I have been thinking a lot lately. That is a scary think to some of you I know. Anyhow, I have lots of posts that I want to write. I have just been making a list of them. I will do them as time permits.

This wonderful season we are in keeps me busy. Not so much with shopping and buying but with my children. We don't really go anywhere and do things outside the home in the daytime. We go see lights and different inexpensive things when Daddy is home(so we might enjoy it as a family).

We do read alot and talk about Jesus. We talk about his birthday and when it could have been. We are excited that we are going to make Jesus a birthday cake this year (and they are going to help). We talk about what he gave that we are saved (those of us that have made that choice). We talk about Santa and why he bringd each child 3 gifts (to represent the wise men). I want my boys to know and experience the TRUE meaning of Christmas. I am so blessed that God entrusted me with these angels and to guide them and teach them his Love. Thank you Jesus! Praise you!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Christmas Pepper Jelly

I love pepper jelly. It is so good on Ritz (generic of course) with whipped cream cheese.
It makes a great appetizer or snack. I give out several jars in goodie baskets during Christmas.
This is my recipe.

1 1/2 c. chopped bell peppers
1/2 c. chopped (fresh) jalapeno peppers
1 1/2 c. white vinegar
6 oz. Certo (liquid)
6 c. sugar
4 drops green food coloring

NOTE*********** before you start. Never handle jalapenos barehanded!!! Use rubber gloves!

Blend both types of peppers and vinegar until mushy. Put mush and sugar into large cooking pot and bring to a boil, stirring often. Remove from heat and add food coloring; let stand for 10 minutes. Stir in Certo and spoon into hot sterilized jars immediately. Water bath can following. I do 6 half pints for 10 minutes.

This makes about 6 half pints.

ENJOY!!! :)

Whew!

I am one tired puppy today. I had a mother's helper here for about 6 hours today. It's a good thing too. Here's what I got accomplished:

4 more loads of laundry
Canned 26 jars of pepper jelly
Went to P.O. and ran errands
Finshed my need to buy for Christmas list
Wrapped about 30 presents
Made bed
changed both crib linens
Balanced checkbook
Did email stuff and printed several sheets of labels for mix business
Cleaned out suv
Called Amazon (getting some toys ready to return - broken in shipping)
Made breakfast and lunch.

That's all for now.

I have got to get supper cooked, boys bathed, do my CVS/groc. list & compile coupons, do the same for Saturday's Christmas shopping trip, unload and reload dw, call B.J., check dh's paystub, call B.H., fill out the last of the Christmas cards and post some recipes. (Spend time w/ hubby).


Wishing you a great Wednesday!

Christmas Morning Pecan Waffles

1 3/4 c. flour
1 T. sugar
1 t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
2 c. buttermilk
1/3 c. veg. oil
2 lg. eggs
3/4 c. chopped pecans

1. Preheat waffle iron.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and soda. Add buttermilk, oil and eggs. Beat until smooth. Stir in the pecans.

Pour the batter into the center of the waffle iron until it spreads to 1 inch from the edges. About 1 cup pf batter per batch. Cook according to wafflemaker's instructions.

Serve with your favorite syrup. (And fruit)

ENJOY!

Grape Salad

2 # green seedless grapes
2 # red seedless grapes
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
8 oz. sour cream
1/2 c. sugar
1 t. vanilla

TOPPING:
1 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1 c. crushed pecans

Wash and stem grapes; set aside. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, white sugar and vanilla until blended. Stir grapes into mixture. Pour into larger bowl. Combine brown sugar and pecans. Sprinkle over grape mixture. Cover and chill overnight.

ENJOY!!!

Today

Today is once again quite busy. These are the things I am working on.

1. Call Dr. H and Dr. K CHECK
2. Call tech support (I cannot check my email)CHECK
3. Change all linens (both cribs and 2 beds) PARTIAL CHECK (NOT CRIBS)
4. Unload/reload dw CHECK
5. P.O. ship orders (Ebay and Mixes), check mail and mail out cards and coupons CHECK
6. Deliver mixes to PW CHECK
7. Call BJ and set up a time for delivery TOMORROW?
8. Make tea CHECK
9. Laundry (Mt. Everest):) CHECK-5LOADS
10. Work on photo calendars for grandparents CHECK
11. Frame pics for Christmas gifts CHECK
12. start going through and wrapping presents TOMORROW?
13. Cook Supper CHECK
14. Clean and straighten (it looks like a hurricane has come through) CHECK
15. Post some favorite recipes here CHECK

Another busy one! Let's hope I hold out to get it all done.

Have a great Tuesday!

Thank you Amazon!

Here's a little taste of the way I like to save.

Amazon has a little program where if you buy something from them and they reduce the price within 30 days of the purchase then they refund the difference. It does not matter how many times they reduce it within the 30 days.

So, I got the Playskool Bounce N Go Inch-Along ride on worms for the boys for Christmas from Amazon. I was so excited becuase I got them for $24.49 each (cheaper than Wal-Mart) and free shipping.

Then I see on the 30th of November they are down to $21.99. I email them and they refund the $5.00 on both. Then last night I happen to see that they are marked to $12.99. I email again last night and this morning before 5am they have refunded the additional $18.00. How cool is that?

That means I paid $25.98 for both of them! Total savings including shipping $44.96! So excited!

Thank you AMAZON!

HOMEMADE EGGNOG

My hubby loves eggnog. Here's a little lighter version. Hope you enjoy!

3 lg. eggs
3 lg. egg whites
5 1/2 c. low-fat milk
1/2 c. sugar
2 T. cornstarch
2 T. vanilla
1/2 t. ground nutmeg
1/4 t. salt

1. in a bowl, whisk eggs and egg whites until blended; set aside. In a heavy 4 qt. saucepan, mix 4 cups of milk with sugar, cornstarch and salt. cook on med. high until mixture boils anf thickens slightly, stirring constantly. Boil exactly one minute. Remove saucepan from heat.
2. Gradually whisk 1/2 cup of simmering mixture into egg mixture; pour this mixture back into saucepan, whisking constantly. Let cool. Pour into large pitcher. Stir in remaining milk, vanilla and nutmeg. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled. I chill mine overnight. Makes 6 1/2 cups.

To serve: sprinkle with nutmeg.

ENJOY!:)

Stocking Stuffers

Here's a few stocking stuffers we are doing for our (soon to be 21 month old) twin boys.

Playdough
Washable crayons
Stuffed Animal
Soft toy cars
Books
New ornament
M &M's
Socks

Here's what's going in mine:
Nail polish
Pecan Log
Stress ball
Homemade sugar scrub
Car freshener
Pocket Calendar
Clip on book light
Socks

Hubby is getting:
Homemade peanut butter fudge
Socks
Calculator
Chapstick
Alarm Clock
Homemade Jerky
Shaving cream
Comb

Some more ideas would be:
Batteries
Flashlight
Disposable Camera
Books
Walmart samples
Diary/Journal
Favorite soap/body wash w/ loofah
Flower or vegetable seeds
Night light
Harmonica
Pedometer
Travel sz. sewing kit
Candles
Eyeglass repair kit
trail mix
Hard candy
citrus
apples
travel games
toy dolls
deodarant
razor
lotion/handcream
note pads/ pens/ stationary
key chains
hair accessories
Toothbrush/toothpaste/Floss
Gloves/Hat/Scarf/Underwear
Watch/Earrings
dvd

Keep it somple and cheap. Freebies and the Dollar Tree are my best friends.

Merry Christmas!

UUHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!! GGRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!

What is with the weather? It's 75 here today! Yes, I know I live in Alabama, thank you very much!:)

I have the air running and the Chrsitmas tree is sitting dark, it's too hot to turn the 1200 lights on. No, I do not intend on burning the house down, it's pre-lit.

Anyone else feeling the heat today?

If it is going to be this hot, it could at least rain.

Truly though. No compliants here. Where else could my precious angels enjoy riding the tractor with Paw-Paw, feed the cows and have us chasing them around the pond.

God is awesome in all he does and does NOT make mistakes. Thank you Jesus for the beautiful day!

Busy and Tired!

Today has been one of those days. You know what I'm talking about. IT's already well after noon and not much accomplished.

No laundry
No fresh linens
No clean floors
No labels made
Boys are still in their pajamas

I have:
clipped coupons
sorted coupons
been online way too much!
unloaded dw and reloaded (and ran)
Made 12 containers of mixes to be delivered tomorrow
balanced checkbook

Maybe tomorrow will be more sucessful! One can only hope!

HAPPY MONDAY!

Weekly Menu Planner

Monday- Chili, fresh bread and hoop cheese
Tuesday-Oven fried tilipia, rice and homecanned green beans
Wednesday-BBQ chicken, potato salad and baked beans
Thursday- fried venison cubed steak, green beans, homemade mashed potatoes, biscuits, gravy and homecanned apple butter
Friday-raid the fridge -LEFTOVERS
Saturday-OUT!!!

Desserts-Fried Apple Pies, Chocolate Chip cookies and Coconut brownies

Busy Day!

Today was a doozie!
I worked on what's left of a budget for this year.
Did all of the regular household and babies' things.
I helped my Mom for an hour early this am (pricing things).
Made calls and checked emails.
Listed more things on Ebay.
Made grocery and CVS lists.
I got my Chrsitmas goodie and baking list complied today.
Now one is twins is wide awake and not so happy. Thankfully Daddy insisted on taking care of him. He is such an awesome Father (I have the monitor on).

Wishing all a peaceful night's rest!

Today's To-Do

Well today is one busy day! Here's what's on my list for today!

1. Get orders together
2. P.O., My parents, CVS, Hometown Pharmacy, Bank, Consignment Shop
3. 3 loads of clothes
4. Unload and Reload dw
5. Supper
6. Parade (tonight w/ family)
7. Clean a leather coat
8. Make bed
9. Vaccum
10. General straightening up

I hope to get it all done and have the boys ready to go to the parade when their Daddy gets home from work.

Supper will be homemade rolls, homemade chili and slices of hoop cheese. Apple dump cake for dessert!

What are you cooking up for tonight?

CVS Savings

CVS is one of my favorite stores. I had a coupon for a $25 gift card with a new prescription. So I got that filled and got the card! Yippee!

This is what I got:

5 - 30 ct. packs of CVS cough drops
5 - 12 pk. Mtn. Dew
2 - con. chopped onion
cont. italian seasoning
cont. parsley
cont. beef powder
cont. chicken powder
Fusion Phantom power razor
Charmin 4 roll toilet paper
2 - 26 ct. Pampers Crusiers
Oasis Mouthwash 16 oz.

After manufactuer's coupons, CVS coupons and CVS Extra Care Bucks I paid $15.03. I still have $9.97 left on my gift card and I got $$30.44 back in ECB to use next time! How awesome is that?!

Total savings was $69.54.

Welcome To My Blog!

Welcome to all (of my tens) that might visit. I am excited to finally have my very own. First actual post in the works. I hope to get this up and going soon. Blessings to you!