Thursday, October 30, 2008

What Your Taste in Art Says About You

Your result for What Your Taste in Art Says About You Test...

Balanced, Secure, and Realistic.


Impressionism is a movement in French painting, sometimes called optical realism because of its almost scientific interest in the actual visual experience and effect of light and movement on appearance of objects. Impressionist paintings are balanced, use colored shadows, use pure color, broken brushstrokes, thick paint, and scenes from everyday life or nature.


People that like Impressionist paintings may not alway be what is deemed socially acceptable. They tend to move on their own path without always worrying that it may be offensive to others. They value friendships but because they also value honesty tend to have a few really good friends. They do not, however, like people that are rude and do not appreciate the ideas of others. They are secure enough in themselves that they can listen to the ideas of other people without it affecting their own final decisions. The world for them is not black and white but more in shades of grey and muted colors. They like things to be aestically pleasing, not stark and sharp. There are many ways to view things, and the impresssionist personality views the world from many different aspects. They enjoy life and try to keep a realistic viewpoint of things, but are not very open to new experiences. If they are content in their live they will be more than likely pleased to keep things just the way they are.

Take What Your Taste in Art Says About You Test at HelloQuizzy




I found this fun test over at Angelas blog Finding our way


Clumsy?? Why yes I am...

Do you ever feel that way? As a Christian, when I stumble... I tend to be my own worst enemy. I remembered a song Chris Rice made some time ago,its called Clumsy. I had the sweet pleasure of seeing him live at a local church about... I dunno 3 years ago?? Gosh its sad I cant remember... but.. I remembered this song today... I love it...

I don't care for the pictures to much... they are not inappropriate, but its not him live, although the song is... and its great. Listen, its a good one and wont take much time.






Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Wordless Wednesday... yes she is spoiled




My little Betty Crocker...

So here's how it went down... we 3 ( girls and myself) snuggled on the couch and began some reading assignments we are doing together. Foxes book of Martyrs ( we have not read this yet), Washington State History and then Logic.

I always go over the the lesson first and then we watch the dvd. He (logic dude)doesn't give the same examples in the dvd that are in the book.. the book is different... so we go over it first... then pop in the dvd. Today was no different...

snort.. well I found myself remembering 7th or was it 8th grade English and my eyes were getting heavy and my neck was getting weak as I sat... my head doing the bob and weave thing... you know... just close the eyes for a second right?? uh no... cause the next thing I know... 30 minutes go by... I hear the mixer going off in the kitchen and banging around... after my girls watched the rest of the logic dvd ( I hoped at the time), they went on their own... lovingly letting me nap... uh ya ...snort....

but, time was not wasted because Rylee my little Betty Crocker made these little sugary bits of goodness!



ok... low fat? give me a break... once the sugar overload to the poor pancreas and it hard at work form sugar overload....... I don't see how these baby's are truly "low fat"



But.. they are ohhh soooo goood *Ü* Don't they look good?? They are...



Oh and uh... the girls did finish their logic, just after the cookies. *Ü*

BBQ Chicken Salad... a big hit! Keeper!!

Sad thing though... I didn't think to take a picture... I was way to hungry to mess around w/ a camera.... BBQ Chicken salad can be found here in bold.

I made it ala Lisa though... no cilantro... the girls would not have liked that... and I used frozen peas and carrots warmed and then cooled. I used frozen corn, warmed then cooled. I forgot the celery... but no one noticed or complained... I sliced tomato's in wedges and then chopped up (diced) green bell pepper and cauliflower and added it raw.

I used my George Foreman grill for the chicken. I added sweet baby rays BBQ sauce to the chicken, brushed it on ever so lightly. Then mixed ranch and BBQ sauce to taste for dressing. Oh and after the chicken breasts were done I sliced them and then cut it down the middle...

We had 3 thumbs up out of 4. RyLee detests spinach and the green part was a mix of spinach and red leaf lettuce... so she did like it,but....

I was a bit worried my husband would complain that this is all we had... no bread or anything "extra" but he "loved" it! We are all satisfied...

It was good eats I tell ya...

Monday, October 27, 2008

Award......

Im speachless too! It seems all I blog about now adays is food! LOL Whats up with that? I really do have more to share than that... honest...

The awards were given to me by 2 dear ladies I met from the Well Trained mind forums and also through blogging. They are delightful woman, so when you can... go visit their blogs.

Tonia over at The Sunny Patch where every buggy is welcome. Isnt that cute? *Ü*

and

Angie from Cuppa Dangie.I also know her as running girl from TWTM forums. *Ü*

The award you ask! Oh ya... here it is...



Thank you ladies for making me feel special! You are tops!!

The award came with this explanation of why we were one to receive it:


“This blog invests and believes, in ‘proximity’ [meaning, that blogging makes us 'close' - being close through proxy] "They are all charming blogs, and the majority of them aim to show the marvels of friendship; there are persons who are not interested when we give them a prize, and then they help to cut these bows; do we want that they are cut, or that they propagate?" Then let’s try to give more attention to them! So with this prize we must deliver it to eight bloggers that in turn must make the same thing and put this text.”




Thank you ladies!

Its all about perspective... isnt it?



Sunday, October 26, 2008

Menu Monday


Last week was so easy! Remember we had a lot of left overs... and.. Wednesday we went to a friends house (woohoo) so it was EASY... *Ü*

This week, I am trying a few "new" recipes... Here is to hoping they are good!

Monday: Tomato soup and grilled cheese. this is a regualr for busy nights.

Tuesday: BBQ Chicken Salad This is a new one! Click it to get the recipe.

Wednesday: Cold sandwiches again, baby carrots and some white corn chips.


Thursday:
Comfort food night! Shepherds pie This is a new one for us... we have tried Shep pie, but not this recipe. Click the bold type to get the recipe. I will use ground lamb.

Friday: Maui Chicken made in a slow cooker form fix it and forget it slow cooker magic. We will see if it is magic cause this is a new recipe too! I'm just full of them this week hu??

Saturday: Italian meatball subs also from fix it and forget it cook book. I will be gone all day, so I will get this all together in the pot and leave instructions for when to take out of the fridge to let it come to room temp and then how long to place timer for slow cooker. This is also new *Ü*

Sunday: Lentil soup ala slow cooker... recipe from fix it and forget it slow cooker magic. Served w/ warm whole wheat rolls. Might make it a pot luck and have some folks come break bread with us. *Ü*

Well its another busy week! Hope every one succeeds in all they want to accomplish and leave room for flexibility in case life happens......

Don't forget to go check out I'm an organizing junkie website today! Lots of good recipes and tips!



Sunday, October 19, 2008

Menu Monday






Last week was pretty much a success! The only thing we didn't make and accomplish is Sundays meal. WE have left overs form the abundance on Thursday and Saturdays meals. The chicken dish Thursday made up an entire 9X13 pan plus another 8X8 pan. That was put in the freezer for another time. The homemade sloppy Joe's make a lot too, and since Christian was at homecoming and Shawn was at work, it went very far! So we are having left overs tonight (Sunday) and Monday and Tuesday. *Ü* Gotta like that! This is such an easy week...its light... and easy on the budget this way. I like that even more!


Monday:
Left over

Tuesday: Left over

Wednesday: Cold Sandwich's and carrot sticks on the go.

Thursday: Homemade chili and cornbread. I just use the simply organic packet and follow the recipe... I do add more Cheyenne pepper though... Its pretty tasty! We normally have salad w/ this too... it depends on the mood.

Friday: Clam Chowder and Turkey dogs

Saturday: Bob red Mills 13 bean soup mix soup. Add beef, beef broth, onions, carrots and let slow cook the entire day.... yum!!!

Sunday: Grilled Salmon (cooked w/ sprite and lemon) wild rice and mixed vegetables.


Don't forget to go check out I'm an organizing junkies website today! Lots of good recipes and tips!




Friday, October 17, 2008

So... Hows it? *Ü*


So how is this new school year going for you? Hows life??

For us school has been a slow go, but we are moving ahead! We began school mid September. We have been winging it pretty much. This week I finally broke down and wrote a lesson plan. I still have the rest of the year to do, but I have been doing this a while... we can get it done..

Christian and I both work from 10-2 on Monday and Wednesday and I also work another hour and a half at another job each Wednesday. I also secured a new job on Friday evenings while Ry is at youth group so that one works out perfect!

My mom has been a HUGE help.She has been homeschooling RyLee while I'm gone on those 2 days. A huge blessing for me and a HUGE transition for us all.
I love my mom!

Love you mom!!

I decided that co-op was not going to work for us this year,that was a hard thing to decide.....but the obvious answer.... so Christian is not taking the world view class I was hoping for. But come January, together we will go through Thinking Like a Christian. It is also by Summit ministries. It is a 12 week study and I own it, so that works out perfect! *Ü*

So far, RyLee has begun Latin Tuesday began week 6?? and chapter 4 will be completed by next Tuesday.

Both girls are in a Spanish class on Fridays for 1 hour. Its a pretty far drive, but we need the accountability and its a class, not a co-op setting where I have to be around. It fits great right now. If I have to do something work related, my mom or even Shawn can take them.

Its also better than splitting them up into different classes... I even contemplated a class at the local Jr and Sr. High... that lasted about 2 seconds... this is perfect... they are in the same book and have been talking to each other... I love it!

RyLee is quickly reviewing La Clasa Devertida level 1 and then she will move onto level 2.

Both girls are doing well in math, and we began Washington State History and art this week(artistic pursuits). They are getting grammar done and we added dictation and spelling from dictation as well. We are doing this as suggested by Catherine Levison. (the spelling coming from dictation examples)

I lamented not continuing this w/ my kids. I realized while typing this we stopped after we stopped using Sonlight.... I remembered it was actually one of the things that drew me into SL (back in the day), that and the literature approach. I'm so glad we went to Catherine Levinsons workshop last month.... I was totally re-inspired...

For dictation the last 2 weeks we have used The Harp and Laurel Wreath: Poetry and Dictation for the Classical Curriculum.

For memorization this week we are memorizing The Amendments and the 5 freedoms from a book that is used in TOG redesign. Its called Our Living Constitution. What a great book! The timing couldn't be better, as we are also learning about the election process.

Gosh, lets see... what else have we been doing?? Oh! Nature study! Yes, we have been doing this, but have not posted on our Sticks and Stones blog for a while. ( come see!) We have pulled over and taken pictures from driving more than we have been out walking.... but we are observing and taking in Gods creation, and its the girls who spot this stuff!

Ya know, I feel like I'm forgetting something but I just cant think of it.... Logic! gracious me... We begin logic on Thursday... Introductory Logic ...


Life:

Dan and I have begun Sunday school with the K-2nd grade crowd again.... we just love those little people!! Lots of things have been going on in the home front, and we almost backed out...but we will continue on.

Our church had a walk through the bible Sunday in September, so we are going through the old testament right now and its been pretty cool...This age is so fun! They know far more than we expect, and they are so honest and sweet! Too fun!

This inspired me to pull out my Walk through the bible daily devotional bible (NLT). I have had it for years.... but never used it much. I have been reading it myself since September, but Christian sat with me one morning and asked her she could read with me? We prayed and then I read to her what the few chapters that day were about, and a practical application that went with what we were reading... I read a chapter, she read a chapter and I finished.... she liked it so much, we are now doing this every morning! It is so beautiful! We talk, we have cried,... I love this precious wee early morning hours spent with just her and I... My girl is growing up and maturing into a beautiful young lady. Ugh... I know they are supposed to grow up... but.. I'm sure you know what I mean....




RyLee started Jr High youth group! I don't know where time has gone, but its tickin! Do not blink... it does go by that fast... 13+ years ago I was beginning Kindergarten w/ Shawn...now I'm in a 6 year stretch and we are done folks.... oh, I need to stop thinking about that! It kinda makes me sad...

One thing I am doing for myself this year is I am going to a bible study again. Thursday mornings. I just decided I want it, I need it. I wanted to go back to BSF, but Mondays are no good, so I am going to a precepts class. The study is on Hebrews. I missed the first half... precepts breaks Hebrew into 2 studies. So I am playing catch up with an overview and jumping right into chapter 6... Icurumba!! That's a controversial chapter to start in!!

It has been crazy busy here at our casa... we have had some major stress's and changes over the last few months. Its one reason I'm not on much these days... I lost my groove so to speak........ I miss visiting all the peeps I have met on here,you are all such and encouragement...... so I have decided its time to carve out time and just do it... does that sound like a Niki commercial?? *Ü*

Oh!! One last thing before I go....my blog recently had a daily quote that just spoke to me! I want to share it w/ you...

The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent." Exodus 14:14


I LOVE this verse! It was easy to memorize.... So... as you move through this year... you can remember it too if you need it...

Love to you all~


Tuesday, October 14, 2008

From my inbox~ Wordless not so much Wednesday~

Have you ever seen a panda grow?









This is a favorite!








Oh ok, this one too!







Now you have! *Ü*

The last picture of the panda he is 120 days old. My MIL sent this to me.... just to cute not to share....



Homeschool Blog Awards!! Its time!!

Join Us at the HSBA!



Its that time of year again... and nominating has begun!! Go to the link and nominate your favorite blogs! They have 24 categories this year!

1. Best Home school Mom Blog

2. Best Home school Dad Blog

3. Best Blog Design

4. Best Artistic Content Blog

5. Best Crafts, Plans & Projects Blog

6. Best Family or Group Blog

7. Best Encourager

8. ‘Live-What-You-Believe’ Home school Blog

9. Best Unschooling or Eclectic Homeschooling Blog

10. Best Geographical Blog

11. Best Current Events, Opinions or Politics Blog

12. Best Homemaking or Recipes Blog

13, 14, 15. Best Teen Girl Blog, Teen Guy Blog, Teen Group Blog

16. Funniest Home school Blog

17. Best Cyber-Buddy Blogger

18. Best Curriculum or Business Blog

19. Best Variety

20. Best Thrifty Homeschooler

21. Best SUPER-HOMESCHOOLER

22. Best Nitty-Gritty Home school Blog

23. Best NEW Home school Blog

24. *new!* Best Homeschooling Methods Blog


Ok... there you have it! All 24! Now put on those thinking caps and go nominate!!! Nominations began yesterday but we have till October 24th!! Hurry! Get those blogs nominated!

Click the graphic above to get their! *Ü* Have fun...

Monday, October 13, 2008

Menu Monday


Last week went pretty good.... 2 nights were grilled cheese and soup.... *Ü* instead of what was originally on the menu... we had some late nights and it was fast and easier.... I need that! lol

This week will be pretty easy... and we have guests coming for dinner on Thursday night! Cant wait! They are a sweat young couple who are becoming missionaries in Basque Country! I look forward to breaking bread and hearing what God is doing in their lives.

Monday:(Tonight) Christian made Pizza! Love that girl...

Tuesday: Breakfast! French Toast, sausage and fruit.

Wednesday: Homemade Burritos on the go! I work and also its a youth group night.

Thursday: Chicken Florentine warm rolls and a veggie salad and after dinner: Pumpkin Torte

Friday: Left over night and youth group again!

Saturday: Birthday Dinner for Dan the man!! He has a hankerin for homemade Sloppy Joe's, corn on the cob, and wavy lays potato chips.... *Ü* How old is he? LOL It is tradition that the birthday person gets to choose the meal.... I just make it.... although... I just realized.... no one makes my dinner!! Whats up w/ that?? *Ü* Day in the life of a mom I guess....

Sunday: Roast, mashed taters with mixed veggies!!


Don't forget... you can go visit orgjunkie.com and get a ton of meal ideas!

Update~ If you head on over to orgjunkie.com she posted her Thanksgiving meal! It was Thanksgiving Monday in Canada. *Ü* Happy Day after Thanksgiving!!

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Menu Monday





Last week was so crazy busy! I worked everyday but Tuesday.... I'm glad to be back to a regular week... Last weeks menu was light, and not even posted! LOL I didn't have time and the time I did have was spent with my peeps.... we had a lot of soup and sandwich's.... ever do that?? Its fast and easy... and cheaper than eating out....

This week I am better prepared... mentally prepared too...last week through me for a loop I tell ya... the weather is grey and cold... even lost power Saturday from about 1-6... whats up w/ that??

Here is to a new week!!

1 Chronicles 28:20
"Be strong and courageous, and act; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God, my God, is with you He will not fail you nor forsake you until all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished.


Monday: Spanish Meat loaf in the slow cooker. I work on Mondays, so this is made by 9 am and done by 5/6 o'clock. It will be served w/ veggies.

Tuesday: Chicken Florentine this is a great recipe! Make double and freeze half for another meal! Its great served w/ a nice salad and some warm bread or rolls. Nummy!

Wednesday: I work on Wednesdays so this is another easy night. Left over from the previous nights so far. We always have them... left over I mean...

Thursday: Emily's Tortilla soup

Friday: Pizza!! BBQ Chicken and Cheese! The faves...

Saturday: Grilled Turkey burgers, sweet potato fries and mixed vegetables.

Sunday: Crock pot Garlic Chicken


I'm making to loves of banana bread. 1 for the family, 1 for my meeting on Monday night. Breakfasts will be yogurt, fruit, eggs, Morning Star sausage patties ( these are pretty good!!) smoothies and oatmeal... and not in one sitting *Ü*

Hope your week is productive... Dont forget to visit other who play menu plan Monday! www.orgjunkie.com