Who Are You Supporting?

Please turn off my playlist before viewing video. It is well worth the 13 minutes it plays.

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.


1. Are you cooking Christmas dinner? How many will be round your table this year? What are we having?

No, but I am cooking Christmas Eve dinner. My mother-in-law will be coming over since my father-in-law is in rehab at the nursing home. We are having Prime Rib, Whipped Potatoes, Mashed Carrots and Green Beans.


2. What is one must-have Christmas cookie in your house?

Wedding Cakes. I have heard them also called Swedish Dreams and Russian Tea Cakes. Basically it is confectioner's sugar, butter, flour and vanilla dough rolled into one inch strips, baked and then rolled in confectioner's sugar.


3. Santa likes a glass of milk with his cookies. Do you? What kind of milk is on tap at your house-skim? almond? soy? full fat (Gasp!)

Oh yes! Low fat, organic milk is my choice.


4. Time magazine recently named their 'Person of the Year' for 2011. This is the person the editors believe had the greatest impact, for better or worse, in the past year. This year they chose 'The Protester'. Your thoughts? Who would you name Person of the Year for 2011?

Ugh, not my favorite topic. I would have to say Ron Paul is my person of the year.


5. December 21st is National Flashlight Day... when was the last time you needed a flashlight and did you know right where to find one?

This past summer we lost power and I needed a flashlight. My son always has one so I usually ask him ;)

6. candy canes...yum or yuck?

Yum and yuck. Yum because they taste yummy, yuck because all the ones I have found are made in Mexico.


7. What Christmas carol lyric means the most to you?

Really there are so many. I am thinking of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing"- "Glory to the newborn King; Peace on Earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled".


8. Insert your own random thought here.

Merry Christmas!

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... the sun is going down. It finally feels like winter here. Well at least it did yesterday when we left for church. It was around 27. Last night I decided it was time to start wearing a coat instead of just a down vest.

I am thinking... I really should bake another double batch of chocolate chip cookies and be done with my baking.

I am thankful for... the Christmas season.

From the learning rooms... baking and wrapping gifts today :)

From the kitchen... cookies, cookies and more cookies. I have no idea what's for dinner yet.

I am wearing... gray yoga pants and a red t-shirt.

I am going... to rest for a few minutes. I have been baking and doing laundry all day and just need to sit.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... the fridge humming, the ceiling fan going, and The Flinstones.

One of my favorite things... driving around the neighborhood to see all the Christmas lights.

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.


1. Do you put Christmas decorations in every room of your house? If not every room, what rooms do you decorate?

No. I decorate the kitchen, living room and bathroom.


2. If you could visit one of the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) which one would you choose and why?

Sweden...to see if I could get a good deal on a Volvo :)


3. What does the word faith mean to you?

Knowing that I will one day be face to face with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and live forever worshipping Him.


4. You can go back to your childhood for one day...what day and age would you choose?

I can't pick one. I guess it would be a holiday with family when everyone was happy.

5. When did you last have 'punch'? If it's not too much trouble share your favorite punch recipe.

I don't remember the last time I had punch although I am sure it was at a shower. I like the recipe that is made with sherbert and ginger ale although I don't have a recipe.

6. Do you fill stockings at your house? Are stockings opened before or after the bigger gifts?

Yes. After the gifts. And sometimes we forget until way later.


7. What takes your breath away?

I think my breath was really taken away when my husband proposed to me.


8. Insert your own random thought here.

I don't think I had any real exciting answers this week ;) Can't wait to read some of the other hodgepodges.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is dark. The weather was sunny and crisp today- a beautiful winter day.

I am thinking... these Russell Stover chocolates I am eating are delicious! It was my grab bag gift at the Christmas party. I am glad they are almost gone. And yes I did share :)

I am thankful for... my father-in-law getting transferred from the hospital to the rehab unit at a nursing home today. He is in the place that was our first choice and was able to get a private room :)

From the learning rooms... handwriting, spelling, math and reading.

From the kitchen... leftovers- breaded chicken legs, acorn squash and homemade whole wheat rolls.

I am wearing... gray pants and a navy top.

I am going... to my mom's to help her decorate for Christmas and hopefully to get our tree this week.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... the weather channel.

One of my favorite things... Dunkin Donuts coffee. My husband made me a pot last night and he can't stand the smell of coffee. Isn't that sweet? I had some left and put it in a thermos in the fridge. Now I can have iced coffee tonight :)

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.

1. Will you be hosting any house guests between now and the end of December? Does that thought make you happy or crazy? Do you do anything special for your guests to make them feel at home? How long should a house guest stay?

No, but I hope one day I will have a house where I can be a host. I have lots of ideas of what I would do to make them feel at home. I don't think there is a set time as to how long a guest should stay.


2. Walter Elias Disney was born this week (December 5) back in 1905 ...what's your all time favorite Disney movie? Here's a list in case you're struggling...and yes, you have to pick one.

A Bug's Life. That is such a great movie. I love watching it with my kids.


3. What was the last thing you purchased that you realized was a mistake after the fact?

A Big Mac at McDonald's. I thought about how many calories it was and it wasn't worth it. They are so much smaller than I remember too!


4. What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done online?

80%. I love online shopping. There are some things that we usually take one day to go out and actually get in the store. My husband loves Christmas shopping in the crowded stores, but not me.


5. Amaryllis-snowdrop-poinsettia...your favorite winter blossom?

Poinsettia. Honestly it is the only one that I know what it looks like.


6. What is one thing on your personal Christmas wish list? I think we all want peace on earth so let's make this answer an actual item.

I haven't made my wish list yet, but a few new nail polishes are always a treat. I try to pick small gifts since the kids like to see me with a lot of presents ;)


7. If you could only use one word today what would it be?

Marathon. It feels like such a long day.


8. Insert your own random thought here.

Tonight I watched Home Alone 2: Lost in NY. It just reminds me of how beatiful NYC is at Christmastime. Really is there anywhere more beautiful?!

Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Lattes

Slow cooker Surprise: Pumpkin Spice Latte from Good Morning America Food and Recipes

Servings: 2
Ingredients
1/2 cup brewed espresso or 3/4 cup strong coffee
2 cups milk (preferably 1 percent)
2 tablespoons canned pureed pumpkin
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
tiny pinch of ground ginger
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
whipped cream (optional)

Directions
Use a 2-quart slow cooker.
Add coffee/espresso and milk to the stoneware.
Whisk in pumpkin, spices, sugar, and vanilla.
Cover and cook on high for 2 hours.
Whisk again. Ladle into mugs, and garnish with whipped cream and additional cinnamon. Add a cinnamon stick for a fanciful effect.

I usually quadruple the recipe and use the remaining pumpkin from the can I opened to make pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. Enjoy :)

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is gray and damp. It rained a bit earlier this morning.

I am thinking... I do not want to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season.

I am thankful for... the true meaning of Christmas.

From the learning rooms... lots of science and history today along with the basics.

From the kitchen... roast chicken, bread stuffing and veggies for dinner.

I am wearing... blue lounge pants with white stars and a blue top. I am going to be changing to my workout clothes shortly.

I am going... to the dentist tomorrow, a Christmas party on Saturday.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... my computer humming.

One of my favorite things... pumpkin lattes. I am going to dig out my recipe to make them in the crockpot.

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.

1. Do you send Christmas cards? If so about how many will you send this year? How do you display the cards you receive? Or don't you? (gasp!)

Yes. Since having kids I send out photo ones. I probably send out about 60-70 although I think my list is getting smaller. I display the cards I receive by stranding them through ribbon and hanging them around the doorways in my living room.


2. When do kids become adults?

At 18, when they can vote, right?


3. Does your 'beauty regimen' change with the seasons?

No. I have a pretty basic routine. In the summer I may put some separate sunscreen on my face if I am going to be out in the sun for long. Other than that, I can't think of anything different.


4. What's something you like to eat that might cause another person to turn up their nose?

I can't believe I am going to write this! Pork neckbones. My mom has been making them in tomato sauce since I was a kid. She learned it from my grandmother. I haven't had them in years since I won't make it, but I wouldn't turn it down if my mom or sister made some ;)

5. Gloves or mittens?

Gloves. I received a nice pair of mittens a couple of years ago, but I don't really like the way they feel with your fingers not separated.


6. What's the longest queue you've ever been in? Was it worth it? Queue=line but doesn't queue sound nicer?

This is a tough question. I hate waiting in line and usually will refuse to. I have to wait in line on buffet lines at church but that I don't mind because I am usually talking to someone and the food is really good.


7. Besides Christmas, what is one thing you are looking forward to in the month of December?

Driving out east on the North Fork with my family. We cut down our Christmas tree and stop for hot chocolate. It is so beautiful and peaceful there.


8. Insert your own random thought here.

Am I the only one with fall decorations still up? I guess I will start taking them down today, but I refuse to start decorating for Christmas until December 1st :)

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... the sun is shining and there is a nice breeze. It is in the mid 60s.

I am thinking... time to start thinking about Christmas presents.

I am thankful for... wonderful family and friends.

From the learning rooms... back to school today. We took off a few days last week for Thanksgiving and today we are back to the books.

From the kitchen... I don't know what I am making for dinner yet. I had leftover turkey pot pie for lunch. It was really good.

I am wearing... jeans, a brown t-shirt and brown lined Crocs.

I am going... to get my teeth cleaned tomorrow :)

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... the kids playing (recess) and my husband talking on the phone downstairs.

One of my favorite things... cool breezes (I am usually hot when everyone else is cold ;)

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Our Anniversary and Thanksgiving

Not only are we celebrating Thanksgiving today, we are also celebrating our 10th Wedding Anniversary. I am so thankful to God for giving me a godly husband who loves the Lord and his family.

With Thanksgiving becoming more like an opportunity for people to get great deals on their Christmas shopping, I think this helps to remember what Thanksgiving is truly about:

"Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to "recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness. Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be."
—George Washington

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.

1. Let's start with something controversial...dressing or stuffing? What's it called at your house and what's included in your recipe...cornbread? oysters? sausage? chestnuts?

Stuffing. My recipe is a simple bread stuffing made with white bread, butter, onions, black pepper, nutmeg, thyme and eggs.


2. Who do you sometimes compare yourself to?

The Proverbs 31 woman :)


3. When were you last inside an airport?

The last time I flew was 1995- (gasp). I have picked someone up or dropped someone off probably six years ago. I have no desire to go to one, especially with the security and patdowns or walking through machines that scan your body.


4. What is one side dish that absolutely must be included in a turkey dinner?

Stuffing! And mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cranberry.


5. What Christmas song do you dread hearing?

Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer.


6. If someone approaches you and asks for money do you give it to them? Do you drop money 'in a tin cup' that belongs to a person on the street? Do you have a specific charity you support during the holiday season and/or year round?

No, but I will buy them something to eat if they are hungry. I have dropped money into the tin cup or in NYC a hat. I love the Salvation Army workers that ring the bell during the holiday season.


7. Share a favorite Thanksgiving memory. If you live in a country that doesn't celebrate Thanksgiving share a favorite memory associated with food.

Ten years ago on Thanksgiving, it was two days before our wedding. All of my husband's siblings and family were here in NY for the wedding. We all gathered at his parent's house for Thanksgiving dinner. It was an extra long table to fit everyone and that was the largest group I've been with for Thanksgiving. I loved seeing how happy his mother was to have all five of her kids and their families together for Thanksgiving since it had been many years.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Have you heard that some stores are opening at 10 p.m. on Thanksgiving. Really? Can't we let the store employees enjoy their Thanksgiving too?! I just can't think of anything that can't be bought the next day.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is dark out. Today was a beautiful day- sunny and around 60 degrees.

I am thinking... I have a lot to do this week.

I am thankful for... so much! Today at church we had our annual Thanksgiving service. I was wiping tears as I listened to people share God's blessings in their lives and thanking God for mine.

From the learning rooms... first quarter paperwork is due this week. I will also be writing their report cards.

From the kitchen... turkey, bread stuffing, and coconut custard pie.

I am wearing... my PJs- periwinkle lounge pants and a navy top.

I am going... to be hosting my first Thanksgiving dinner this week.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... the dishwasher.

One of my favorite things... the sound of crunching leaves as you walk.

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is dark out. Today was cloudy and in the high 50s. It is finally starting to look like fall here.

I am thinking... I need to get on my Gazelle still for today.

I am thankful for... a great day worshipping and fellowshipping with my church family yesterday.

From the learning rooms... we covered all the basic subjects today. A lot was completed.

From the kitchen... saucy beef and penne with cauliflower.

I am wearing... my workout clothes- navy shorts and a blue t-shirt.

I am going... to acupuncture this week :)

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... Franklin on the TV.

One of my favorite things... a comfy pair of jeans and now is the perfect season.

A picture for sharing... photo credit
Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.


1. Of all the tools and gadgets you own which do you most enjoy using?

My Kitchen Aid mixer, hands down. I love my dough hook and using it to make pizza dough. It makes baking so much easier as well. I would love to get the real big one for when I bake Christmas cookies. That way I could triple my batches while mixing.


2. When (if ever) is impatience a virtue?

The only thing I could think of is emergency medical situations. I mean who would mind someone going ahead of you in the doctor's office who was in a life or death situation?!

3. What temperature do you keep your thermostat set to in winter? Do you have another way to heat your house besides a furnace of some type?

During the day 68, at night 62. We have a couple of electric space heaters that we use in the morning if it hasn't warmed up enough yet.


4. Do/did you have a close relationship with any of your grandparents?

All of my grandparents have passed on. I have great memories of special times spent with all of them.


5. When did you last have a family portrait taken?

Um...we have never had a family portrait taken professionally. We do have a family member snap a shot each Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter though.


6. What does the word patriotism mean to you?

It means feeling a sense of pride in your country. Sometimes that means getting a lump in your throat and teary eyed when singing The National Anthem. Other times it means fighting for what our forefathers founded our country upon.


7. Do you like to play cards and if so, what's your favorite card game?

Yes. My favorite game is 500 Rumy.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Is anyone having real fall like weather yet. It has been so mild here. I actually had the windows open today (ok, we did get some snowflakes last week) :)

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is sunny and looking like fall. The temperatures are mild today- the high 50's.

I am thinking... I am so thankful that my laptop is up and running again. I missed reading all of my blogging friends' posts.

I am thankful for... autumn. I love this season. It is such a beautiful display of God's creation.

From the learning rooms... Astronomy for science, Ancient Greece for history and all the basics.

From the kitchen... pork roast is in the oven. I cut up some garlic cloves and put them into slits cut into the meat, seasoned with salt and pepper and then poured orange juice mixed with brown sugar over it. I am roasting some butternut squash and have a green salad to go with it.

I am wearing... the most comfortable gray Lands End pants and a lavender polo.

I am going... to the last soccer game of the season on Saturday.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... my son playing, my computer humming and my daughter shuffling papers.

One of my favorite things... the beach. We went last Monday and the kids built sand castles while wearing their coats. It was a great day.

A picture for sharing...



Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.


1.Have you ever been 'asked' to report for jury duty? Were you chosen to serve? If not, were you happy or disappointed?

Yes, I have been called for jury duty. I was questioned for a jury but thankfully they didn't pick me. I was so happy because I didn't want to miss any more of my new teaching job.


2. On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being very), how mechanically inclined are you? Give an example to back up your answer.

I guess a 3. My husband is trained as a mechanical engineer so anything that needs to be put together around here goes to him. I am able to use a screwdriver and change batteries though :)


3. Beets-cabbage-cauliflower-butternut squash....of the four, which is your favorite fall vegetable?

Butternut squash is my favorite. I love it baked and then topped with butter.


4. What do you recommend to overcome self-pity?

Stop thinking of yourself and serve others. When you are busy seeing how you can meet another's needs, you don't have time to feel sorry for yourself.


5. Do you enjoy classical music?

Yes. It has a very relaxing effect on me. I need to put it on more often ;)


6. October is National Book Month...what's on your reading list this month?

I just started reading "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands" by Paul David Tripp. It will take me at least this month to finish.


7. What is your idea of 'cute'?

Easy question...my kids of course!


8. Insert your own random thought here.

What is your favorite last minute dinner to prepare? Maybe I'll get some ideas for dinner tonight :)

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is dark out. It was hot today. The past few days have been in the 80's. What a diffence a week can make. I am looking forward to the cooler weather returning later in the week.

I am thinking... time to get the kids to bed.

I am thankful for... friends who tell you the truth even if it may not be what you want to hear.

From the learning rooms... the kids did their schoolwork today even though the schools here were closed for Columbus Day.

From the kitchen... I baked banana chocolate chip muffins for breakfast. They were half whole wheat flour and didn't have a lot of sugar- perfect with milk for breakfast. We had baked ziti for dinner which my husband made with my directions. I was relaxing on the couch since I didn't feel well.

I am wearing... brown capris with a brown floral patterned shirt.

I am going... to the dentist on Wednesday. Ugh! I have been putting it off but need to get some serious work done.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion", "Instruments in The Redeemer's Hands"

I am hearing... the A/C! Do you believe it?

One of my favorite things... apple picking and The North Fork of Long Island. We went on Saturday and it was a great day.

A picture for sharing... sorry, but I don't have any this week. I took a few at the apple orchard but then my memory card was full.

Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.

1. What's your favorite meal to serve on a chilly autumn evening?

Pot roast with gravy, mashed potatoes and veggies. I cook the meat in the crockpot and it makes the whole house smell delicious.


2. Are you a creature of habit? Explain.

Um, yes I think so. Can't wait to read other's responses to this one!


3. What food product (no longer readily available) do you remember and miss from days gone by?

Soda made with real sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup. I see every once in a while they sell "Pepsi Throwback" but it is very hard to find.

4. What's something you've lost that you've never been able to find? Any theories as to what happened?

One of the side diamonds in my engagement ring. I noticed it was gone while loading groceries into my car about eight years ago. I went through the parking lot trying to look, but there was so much gravel, sand and little pebbles I would never find it! I eventually gave up and told my husband. I thought he would be upset, but he wasn't and had it replaced. I think the setting was loose from the car accident I had before that. One of the prongs on the center stone was bent so I guess it loosened the side ones as well.



5. Zoo~circus~ carnival...your favorite?

Carnival. It was a toss up between the zoo and the carnival, but then I thought of Zeppoles and made my choice easy. For those of you who don't know what Zeppoles are...they are fried pieces of dough covered in powdered sugar. And no, they are not like funnel cakes. There really is nothing else like them. You buy them by the bag full. Then you shake the bag to get the powdered sugar all over the hot Zeppoles. You eat them while walking through the carnival, trying not to make too much of a mess and hoping you don't have powdered sugar all over your face!


6. What song makes you feel instantly happy? (Please pause the music on my playlist before listening. You can find it in my right sidebar just above this section.)




7. To what extent are you an argumentative person?

I usually continue until I get my point across and then realize that I am not going to change certain people's minds- LOL!


8. Insert your own random thought here.

Was your favorite David Cassidy or Shaun Cassidy? Shaun Cassidy was more of the rage when I was a kid!

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is dark and there is a cool breeze coming through my living room window :) Today felt like fall for sure. It was in the 50s. It is so nice to shut the A/C off and open the windows.

I am thinking... my thyroid levels are still elevated. I spoke to my doctor today and she is mailing out my lab results to me. I hope they came down at least a bit.

I am thankful for... friends. I spoke to one of my friends that moved away a few months ago this morning. Another one of my friends is moving away this week. I am thankful for emails and the phone to keep in touch.

From the learning rooms... my daughter was not feeling well today. We had some computer time and TV. Tomorrow will be double work.

From the kitchen... the meat didn't defrost for dinner so we had tortilla chips, salsa and cheese for dinner. Not the best but everyone seems satisfied.

I am wearing... pink pj's and a towel on my head (I exercised so needed to take a shower).

I am going... to the chiropractor, acupuncturist, soccer and church this week.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion".

I am hearing... "Prince and the Pauper" on the TV.

One of my favorite things... the crisp air of autumn.

A picture for sharing... this was taken two years ago when we went apple picking. I am still trying to go this season :)



Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

ABC List

I saw this over at The Chatty Mommy's Blog and thought I'd play along.


A. Age: I am still in my 30s :)

B. Bed size: Queen

C. Chore that you hate: Scrubbing the bathroom tub

D. Dogs: My husband is not a pet person, so no. I did have one growing up though.

E. Essential start to your day: Reading my bible and Quiet Time.

F. Favorite color: Green, if I had to pick one.

G. Gold or Silver: Silver

H. Height: 5'7"

I. Instruments you play: I don't play any. Wish I played the piano though.

J. Job title: Mom, teacher.

K. Kids: 2

L. Live: Long Island, NY

M. Mother’s name: Mom

N. Nicknames: Tee

O. Overnight hospital stays: Just when my children were born.

P. Pet peeves: Unreliable people.

Q. Quote from a movie: Jerry McGuire- "You had me at hello" is the one I thought of.

R. Right or left handed: Right

S. Siblings: Two older sisters

T. Time you wake up: 7:30 on average

U. Underwear: Yes, always!

V. Vegetable you hate: Dark greens (mustard, kale, etc)

W. What makes you run late: only one bathroom in our home

X. X-Rays you’ve had: teeth

Y. Yummy food that you make: pot roast with gravy and whipped potatoes

Z. Zoo animal: Giraffe, althought last time we went to The Bronx Zoo the giraffes
were inside and it stunk!

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.


1. It is officially fall here in North America...I realize not everyone who participates in the Hodgepodge lives in North America but if you do, what's your favorite memory of Summer 2011? If you're not in North America, what's your favorite memory of the season just ending on your side of the world?

My favorite summer memory is celebrating my birthday with my husband and kids. We ordered take out and ate it at the beach overlooking The Long Island Sound. After we went down to the beach and the kids played while I relaxed in my chair on the sand. We went home, showered, put on our PJs and had cake :)


2. Your favorite nut? You know I mean the edible kind, right?

Walnuts. I love them on ice cream, in maple syrup, plain and cracking them out of the shell. Growing up we always had them on our living room table during the holidays. I loved cracking them and digging out the pieces.

3. What activity puts your sense of balance to the test?

Well, probably all activities since I came down with dizziness about four years ago. It is better but still I have to be careful and avoid certain triggers. If I had to pick one activity I would say the Wii game where you walk along a tightrobe.


4. How would you describe your sense of humor?

I would say I have a good sense of humor although I can be sarcastic. I love to laugh.



5. September 28th is National Ask a Stupid Question Day...what's your stupid question?

Why has a day been set apart for asking stupid questions? Don't people don't that everyday?!


6. Roller skates~hula hoop~jump rope...which activity would you most enjoy? Yes, you have to choose.

Roller Skates! I haven't roller skated in years but used to love roller skating at the rink and on my parents' basement floor!

7. What's your most sentimental possession?

My engagement ring. I love having it as a reminder of the dreams we shared before we were married.


8. Insert your own random thought here.

Yesterday I went to Rite-Aid and had the kids with me. There were gross Halloween decorations everywhere. I had to tell them to look straight ahead to avoid the goblins and such. I don't celebrate Halloween anymore and hate having to see those decorations everywhere. I used to have to avoid the stores the week before but now it seems like the decorations start more than a month before. Really...can't we just enjoy the beginning of autumn?!

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... we have had several gray days in a row. Today it was nice to see the sun peaking through. It is very humid for late September.

I am thinking... I am glad to have a quiet day after a real busy weekend.

I am thankful for... a nice birthday celebration at home for my husband last Friday. I wanted to throw a big party but he just wanted me to make eggplant parm. so that is what he got!

From the learning rooms... the basic subjects today to get back into the school week.

From the kitchen... I am not sure what I am making for dinner tonight. If I have yeast I think I will make pizza.

I am wearing... denim capris and a teal t-shirt.

I am going... no special plans this week.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion".

I am hearing... "The Baby Story". I love that show!

One of my favorite things...

A picture for sharing... this is the strawberry shortcake I made for my husband's birthday on Friday. I found the recipe on The Pioneer Woman. It wasn't supposed to have a hole in the middle. For some reason the center didn't seem to cook all the way through, so I cut those pieces out. It tasted delicious anyway.




Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

I am linking up today for Wednesday Hodgepodge hosted by Joyce.


1. Do you like chili? Red or white? Beans or no beans? Spice or no spice? Toppings?

I am not much of a chili girl. It isn't something that we ate growing up. My husband loves it and I think I have only made it once or twice. When we were dating I went to Texas for a friend's wedding and brought back some chili packet to make for him. He still says it was the best chili he ever had. If anyone has a good chili recipe for the crock pot I would love to give it a try.

2. Red~Orange~Gold...your favorite fall color?

Really, I have to choose one?! I love all of the fall colors but if I had to pick one I would have to say orange.


3. Who did you idolize when you were growing up?

Hum, can't really remember anyone. Maybe Kelly from Charlie's Angels- LOL. I guess as I got older there were a couple of teachers in high school.


4. When was the last time you did something 'arts and craftsy'? Share please.

I covered a coffee can with construction paper to store our pencils in. Does that count? I also put an already made flower wreath around a candle. I guess you could say I keep it simple.


5. What's a place that makes you really nervous?

Anything closed in, like an MRI or a tunnel. I don't like being confined ;)



6. Horse back riding...yay or nay (neigh?)

I love the idea. I have gone a few times when I was a kid but can't say I have done it as an adult. Not sure if I am brave enough anymore :(


7. What is your favorite cliche?

"Many hands make light work."


8. Insert your own random thought here.

Did anyone else google examples of cliches for help on #7? Please tell me I am not the only one ;)

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... it is getting dark. The crickets are chirping. It was in the
60s today. A great day for opening all the windows.

I am thinking... I am so glad the temperatures have dropped and it is starting to feel like fall.

I am thankful for... kindred spirits.

From the learning rooms... we covered all the basics today.

From the kitchen... homemade hot dog rolls, Sabrett hot dogs, homemade macaroni and cheese and sliced cucumbers.

I am wearing... light khaki shorts and a light turquoise shirt. Oh my! I am wearing the same exact outfit as last Monday.

I am going... to acupuncture on Wednesday, soccer on Saturday and church on Sunday.

I am reading... the Bible, "Womanly Dominion".

I am hearing... the crickets, my son and husband talking, my computer humming.

One of my favorite things... hot tea with milk. Now that the weather is cooling off it is the perfect excuse for a break ;)

A picture for sharing... this one is from last year. I will have to make some soon. I am not sure why I took the picture before the cream cheese frosting?!




Click here to visit Peggy and The Simple Women's Daybook