Cocomama

THNAKYOU PINTEREST

2012-02-05T12:28:00.000-06:00

I am addicted to Pinterest projects. I have found so many things I love, want to make, feel good inspiration, etc.
My latest find comes from the blog Decor to Adore. She has a lovely blog and is creative. She took this lamp from Anthropolgie and made it herself.

I fell in love with it and told her I had to steal her idea.

Saturday my sister and I went south to Fort Smith to shop at some new flea markets. I found this lamp at a market in Alma. I even got it for $3.50! Can't beat a deal like that.

Here is the after

I bought a plain shade at Walmart. Found the felt flowers already cut at Hobby Lobby. The flowers are yellow, orange and turquoise. I used yellow thread to make a little stitch in the middle of each one. I cut the leaves free hand and bought a brownish greenish yarn for the stem.

I painted the base a aqua blue that I already had.

I love it.

Now to clean off a table to put it on

THANK YOU DECORE TO ADORE AND PINTEREST!!!

PHOTO DUMP OF THE WEEK

2012-01-21T20:08:00.000-06:00

Warning photo loaded post ahead.

I haven't uploaded photos in awhile.

Perfect time to do a photo dump. I wanted to call it Friday Photo Dump but it is Saturday and it just didn't sound the same. ha

My sister's tree at Christmas. Her home was beautiful and she should have done a post on her blog. hint hint

Girl Scout Christmas party gift exchange. The girls did a homemade gift and we played White Elephant . Lots of fun and creativity

Coco kept asking to open a gift so I let her open her "gag gift". Her job is dishes

and she was not impressed with her dish washing gift. ha ha

Somebody will learn not to play with the camera!!!

Coco and I had a impromtu Girl Scout meeting at IHOP recently. I had eggs benedict and she had the strawberry pancakes and couldn't help herself with the whipped cream!!

Today we attended a birthday party for our neighbor Joann. She was a young 77 today.

Pretty girl in purple

Couldn't help myself. This Lady Liberty was on the street today with a sign for some income tax company.

Coco strives to get a job dressing up in costumes and waving at cars for Halloween Express so she loved this !!!

We were going through a box of photos tonight and I really want to know where this girl went because I want her back!!!!

Scott is on his way home with Chili's and I am in trouble because I forgot to call it in. When he got there he had to order and then wait for it!!!

So glad I have such a patient man! The Good Lord knew what I needed

Blessings,

Pam

INSERT CATCHY TITLE HERE

2012-01-17T21:31:00.000-06:00

I really have nothing to blog about. I have been working late everyday, going into the office on the weekends or bringing it home with me. Which leaves very little time for anything else.

Thank God I have the most amazing husband who picks up the slack and doesn't complain. He has taken over the dinner making and helping keep up the housework. I am hoping it is starting to level out so that I don't have to put in so many hours.

We are in the throes of Girl Scout Cookie sales, Thinking Day activities and this is the 100th year birthday of Girl Scouts. Lots of projects to plan and do. I have spent tonight researching the country of Denmark for Thinking Day. We will have a booth about Denmark for Thinking Day. Our service unit has joined with another city to have the event together. We will have 37 countries represented and expect to have an estimated 400 girls that evening. Each troop that signs up for a country has a booth with info on Girl Scouts from that country, a craft or food to hand out to all 400 girls plus a Girl Scout Swap to give. I have contacted a few bloggers I found from Denmark to help us get information. I found a recipe for a cookie that sounds really good called Pepper nuts that I hope to make a batch of this weekend to see if it will be cost effective to make 400 of. I will be having the girls do this the week before the event. I have also been trying to find 400 Lego pieces to make the SWAPS since Lego's originated from Denmark.
If you have any you want to get rid of I will gladly take them. If you have any information about Denmark please share!!

I did get to spend Saturday with my sister, Mom and Aunt. We met at my Aunt Donna's and I wish I had taken photos. She just bought a new home and it was my first time to see it. It was gorgeous. She made us a delicious lunch of chicken salad, fruit and Poppy seed dressing. The dressing was just as good as our local tea room. She even sent us home with some.... Love to drizzle it on the tropical mix canned fruit.

I am headed to bed to try to catch up on some rest. I was up and down all night last night, spent today exhausted and yawning .

GOALS FOR 2012

2012-01-02T22:44:00.000-06:00

Twenty twelve. I like the sound of that, it rolls off the tongue easily.
I am not one to make resolutions (because I don't keep them). I do love this time of year when I reflect on the past months and dream of the ones to come. We have been talking this weekend about where we would like to go on vacation this year. Plans I like to make, I think it is has something to do with the beginning anew. The cleaning up after Christmas when your house seems less cluttered and everything is in its place. I think that is some of what makes us want to set goals and make plans.

So that is what I have been doing the past few days. Lots of thoughts on what I want 2012 to look like for us. Here are a few plans I have. I am sure I will be adding and subtracting as the year comes and goes.

1. Simplify
2. Organize
3. Finish Coco's furniture (Look into painting in the colder months)
4. New blinds and curtains for living room and dining room
5. Eat healthier and exercise
6. Drink more water I should say DRINK WATER!!!
7. Become more involved in our church
8. Do a bible study or 2 this year (miss those Beth Moore studies)
9. Revive some friendships that have been put on the back burner
10. Date my husband more
11. Crochet scarves for everyone for Christmas (bought my first yarn today)
12. Live like no one else now so I can live like no one else later
13. Paint the house - long overdue
14. Buy new living room furniture
15. Learn something new

Those are my plans and goals so far! Do you have plans for 2012?

2011 IN REVIEW

2011-12-31T09:21:00.000-06:00

It seems like 2011 went by in a whirl. These are a few things I want to remember about our year.

Coco has had lots of fun on her trampoline.

We finally finished our bathroom remodel in early 2011

Blizzard of 2011. Arkansas received record snow. Lots of snow days spent at home

Fun Girl Scout trips to Camp Noark

Our precious Mammie went home to be with Jesus

Celebrating a great year of Girl Scout cookie sales

Along with snow we also had record tornados and thunderstorms

Spring was filled with nights at the softball field where Coco played for the Diamond Hawks.

She moved to the Dirt Hawgs in the fall of 2011 a traveling team

Coco finished 5th grade with straight A's

Spent the 4th of July at Nana and Papa's

1st day of 6th grade. Our baby girl is growing up too fast

We went to Oklahoma to see Ms Willie. Scott's favorite teacher.

Spent a Sunday afternoon in Eureka Springs, Ar playing tourists

Mimi got her first computer. Love connecting with her on the world wide web

Scott started power lifting. He is dead lifting 540lbs and benching 350lbs

Girl Scout troop bridged to Cadettes

Spur of the moment photo shoot with Coco

Halloween dance at the middle school. Ashlyn spent the night and went with Coco to the dance

I started a new job with Wells Fargo. Spent a couple of weeks traveling for training.

I am loving the new job

Coco and I visited the Daisy BB Gun museum in Rogers, AR

We added Abbi Lane to our family. She was intended to be Coco's Christmas present but has turned out to be a family gift. We are all in LOVE with her. She has a great and fun personality. Brings us so much joy.

Coco all dressed up for her first formal dance at school

My sister and her family came to visit. Love these kids Jake, Kaylee and Ethan

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art opened on 11-11-11 in Bentonville. We went in December to see it. I can't wait to go back and Scott has no desire to ever go back.

Family Christmas photo using the timer on my camera.

Kbugg broke her elbow the first week of winter break. She had to go to Children's hospital in Little Rock the same day for surgery. She is healing well and has been a little trooper through it all. Their family is in New Orleans as I type awaiting to board a cruise ship for a 7 day vacation. I am so jealous!!!

Christmas morning 2011

The Family 2011

Looking forward to 2012 and making lots of memories!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-24T23:24:00.001-06:00

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

The stockings are hung, LUKE 2 has been read, the cookies and milk are out!

I guess it is time to go to bed so that Santa can come!

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

Love,

Scott, Pam, Coco and Abbi Lane

A FEW OF MY FAVORITES

2011-12-20T19:32:00.000-06:00

I could be a ornament hoarder!!! I love them and my likes are continously evolving. I didn't get all our ornaments out this year, I didn't have room on the 4 trees we put up. HA

These are a few of my favorites that I put up.

From 2001 I love this truck we got at Silver Dollar City. Makes me think of those long ago Christmases.

Love this Nativity. The candle was a gift this year. It it like a lava lamp. Not my usual taste but it is pretty to look at as it changes colors. A happy lamp I will call it.

I LOVE LOVE Santa's and this one with it's red and lime colors make me smile!

My Santa hats I made last year. I still need to make another, maybe I will get to that over the long weekend.

I got this one from work this year. The old Wells Fargo Stagecoach, so happy to have it in my collection now.

A Christmas Story ornament makes me happy too

I used several of these pillows I found on after Christmas clearance as fillers in the tree.

Noah's Ark from The Sights and Sounds Theatre in Branson from 2010.

These are just a few, we would be here all day if I were to show them all. I am sad that I don't have any ornament exchanges this year. That was one of my favorite things at Christmas time. Maybe next year I will have more time to host one.

I am off to finally put ribbons on my packages,, they look really sad wrapped with no bows. I woke up with a killer migraine this morning and have spent most of the day in bed with my eye mask on. Grateful that I can see light and not cower like someone that has never seen light. That is the worst part of a migraine for me is the sensitivity to light and sound. Makes it impossible to function. Praying for a better day tomorrow.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FRIENDS

OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS

2011-12-18T08:12:00.000-06:00

I finally put out my sled this year.

Pinterest inspiration. I had a difficult time finding plain wreaths this year.

I would like to have them smaller so that it is more of a gradual size but I love this one anyway.

Our best Christmas present of the year Abbi Lane

She is still ruling the house

I can't believe it is only 7 days til Christmas. I have managed to buy most of the presents, still have a few to get this week. Working 50 hours plus drive time leaves me very little extra time for shopping.

Couple of parties today, I love seeing friends and family but would sure like to have a lazy day at home.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

MY CHRISTMAS PLANNER

2011-12-06T22:12:00.000-06:00

This is a Christmas planner that I made after Thanksgiving dinner with my Mom and Sister.
It is made from a school pocket folder (no brads).

Sorry I didn't take photos from the beginning, but you can find lots of videos on You Tube.

We started with a black pocket folder and added scrapbooking supplies to dress it up.

These are the first 2 pockets.

Pocket 1 has calendar pages with space to make to do lists.

Pocket 2 has menu pages for all your dinners and lunches for the holiday season.

Pocket 3 has gift list pages.

Pocket 4 is for coupons and receipts.

It fits perfect in my purse. I usually carry a bigger bag so it fits nicely for me.

I have to give kudos to my sister Tammy Lou. She found the idea and brought us the folders. Some people make them out of file folders but I like this better and it was much easier.
I have really been using it too as you can see from my lists and coupons showing.

Weekend Review

2011-12-05T00:04:00.000-06:00

Trying to get bokeh

One of my favorite ornaments

Abbi Lane the best Christmas present ever!!

December Daily

Will tell you more about this later

My Christmas Planner

More to come

ITS BEGINNING TO LOOK ALOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

2011-11-29T20:26:00.000-06:00

Here are a few of my pictures of the Christmas decor.

Tree #1 in the dining room. It has all our photo frames and collected family ornaments.

Tree #2 Living Room

This one I did in red and lime green.

Love it

Shelf #1 Living room

I used my nutcrackers and santa's here

Shelf #2

Pinterest inspiration

I am waiting on a certain someone to get me sticks for arms

Isn't he the cutest thing on the front door

Our precious, bossy, rambunctious Abbi Lane

She is keeping us on our toes!

WEEKEND REVIEW

2011-11-27T19:40:00.000-06:00

This weekend was a busy one. I had to work on Friday and didn't leave the office until 6pm. I did make it to PetSmart and Old Navy before work on Friday. That was the extent of my Black Friday shopping.

Our plans were to decorate on Friday night but we needed to rearrange furniture so we didn't start until Saturday morning. I decorated 4 trees in the house and little bits all over the house. I still have some fluffing to do but so far I love what I have done. I made a snowman for the front door that I found on Pinterest. SO SO Cute, I can't wait to show you.

Scott and Coco were a big help too. Scott didn't complain once which was a blessing since he usually is not into all the packing of tubs from the storage to the house and back. He didn't even gripe about my 15 tubs of decorations.

I need inspiration for the dining room center piece so I will be perusing Pinterest later tonight.

I was going to take pictures to post but the camera died and I can't find the charger :(

We are having so much fun with Abbi Lane the new puppy. She has a precious personality and loves to play. She is afraid to jump off the couch or chair so if we walk out the room she barks til we come let her down. She might just end up as the boss if we aren't careful.

We have also been enjoying the Christmas shows on TV!

Now to rest up for a busy work week.

ABBI LANE

2011-11-21T19:40:00.000-06:00

Coco received a early Christmas present today

Her name is Abbi Lane

She is 5 months old

Sweet as can be

Very hard to get a photo of her she is so bouncy

See that little bow in her hair so adorable

Already looking at her mama with adoration!!

Can't believe I am giving in. I was not raised with animals in the house so it is totally new for me but I know I must make some sacrifices.

Coco is over the moon to have her!!!

HOTEL LIGHTING

2011-11-10T20:26:00.000-06:00

The Sheraton in St Louis had the prettiest lighting.

Love this with all the deer. Looks Christmasy to me.

GORGEOUS

These were just outside the elevators. I loved all 4 of them together.

I could use these!

Not a light but I could use just 1 of these in the corner of the bedroom.

HOTEL ROOM

2011-11-06T10:08:00.000-06:00

I went to St. Louis Missouri for another week of training for work.

I stayed at the Sheraton Westport

I had a great room this time. Last week I stayed at another hotel that wasn't near as nice.

King size bed, couch with foot stool. Very nice for relaxing after a long day of training.

I loved these bed side tables.

Cool corner light.

The room service and food was excellent.

This hotel had some gorgeous lighting.

I will show you some of them later in the week.

Glad this part of the training is over. Now I will have 2 weeks of in office training. This has all been tiring and inconvienent but I am impressed that the company is investing so much to make our jobs a success. They also feed us very well. We had breakfast every morning snacks throughout the day and a big lunch each day.

I have gained 5 lbs over the last 2 weeks. Will have to work that off !

Did you feel the earthquake last night just before 11pm? We actually thought at first it was the washer being unlevel, but even the windows shook. First time experience for me. Can't imagine being in a place that has these often. We didn't have any damage that we know of.

Have a great day

Pam

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2011-10-31T16:00:00.001-05:00

Juliette Gordon Low was born on October 31, 1860.

The founder of Girl Scouts

She was known as "Daisy" by friends and family

She started the first troop here in the states in 1912

She was very athletic

Girl Scouts touches the lives of many girls each and every year.

In honor of her birthday

"DO A GOOD TURN TODAY"

WEEK IN REVIEW

2011-10-30T22:35:00.001-05:00

I spent last week in St Louis for training in my new position.

Unfortunately I DID NOT get to go to the World Series but I did watch every minute of games 6 & 7.

Wow game 6 was full of DRAMA. I have not really been a watcher of baseball on tv but now I am hooked and disappointed that it is the end of the season. I have already told Scott that we have to go up to a Cardinals game next year.

While there I had the most amazing dinner ever. We went to Wild Horse Grill and I ordered Butternut Squash Ravioli in a ricotta brown sugar nutmeg sauce. I am still dreaming about it. I have never eaten Butternut squash especially in a ravioli. It was the BOMB! I have looked for a recipe but haven't found on with the same ingredients for the sauce. When I get time I am going to play with it til I get it right.

I love sky photos and I took this one for Coco. She wasn't a bit interested.

On the drive home from the Tulsa airport Friday afternoon the first thing I noticed was the trees had really turned colors over the week. I took these going 80 mph, shame on me but they turned out pretty good. I was even using my small point and shoot.

I think this was in Siloam Springs. The pictures don't capture the abundance of color that was on display.

I LOVE FALL

I made it home early enough to take Coco and A to their first dance. It was a Halloween dance and they were so excited and nervous. It was adorable. Coco couldn't decide on what costume to wear so she wore the snow princess from last year.

We also had softball tournament beginning at 8:30am on Saturday. She played at 9am, 5pm and 11am on Sunday. We were so busy that the weekend has flown by. I am ready for things to slow down a bit. I don't see that happening just yet. The new job is going to keep me busy busy for several more weeks.

Everyone have a fabulous week!

Pam

PHOTO SHOOT

2011-10-25T16:00:00.001-05:00

On the way home on Sunday I pulled the car into this field and told Coco we were having a photo shoot.

She was totally not prepared but I love the ones we shot.

She was worried that we were trespassing, I told it wasn't marked and we

didn't do anything to this field.

Giggles got ahold of her

This one was we gotta go now because I gotta go MOM!!!

Love my girl

GOING TO THE CHAPEL

2011-10-23T12:28:00.000-05:00

Today marks 12 years of marriage for Scott and I. The first best day of my life. Scott is loving, compassionate, dependable, and handsome to boot.

I couldn't ask for a better mate. The past 12 years have flown by and I look forward to many more years with my honey.

We look so young and SKINNY.

One of my favorite photos of the day

JUST MARRIED

Big smiles and excited to begin our life together as Man and wife.

A wonderous day for sure!

I loved my wedding day. I wish it didn't happen so fast that day. I didn't have time to stop and really enjoy all the moments. I wish I could have worn my dress longer. There were people I didn't get to spend time with. Looking back it seemed so rushed. Scott probably wouldn't agree, he was ready to get on with the honeymoon in Cancun. Ha

Thats the thing about weddings, you learn so much from the day but it can't be reproduced. I will make sure Coco's day is unhurried and it might be a long day but she will get to take time to enjoy every person and every moment.

Girl Scout Halloween Party

2011-10-22T21:30:00.000-05:00

I have survived the GS Halloween party. I was starting to get a migraine earlier today, thank goodness my medicine worked.

We had 2 robin hoods, 80's girl, Cyndi Lauper, a Nerd, cheerleader, sorceror, and a dead person.

They did great with their costumes.

Group Shot

I tried to do a few gross foods.
Pumpkin puking the dip

Cockroaches around the food.

Those grapes look weird, I think it was the condensation on them

after I washed them.

Cool bunch of girlies

Cyndi doing Just Dance "Girls just wanna have fun"

They kept score and I am proud to say that I came in 4th on this song

Yeah Pam

I had cobwebs everywhere with little spiders

Joe's mustache lasts forevah!!!

Deep into the dance

I got this cool window cling at Walmart.

It really looked cool from outside

They had a great time and didn't want to leave when their parents came.

That is always a good sign that they were enjoying themselves

Now to take down all the webs and ghoulish decor.

Tomorrow is packing up for a week of work travel.

I haven't flown since 2001 and will be flying for the next 2 weeks.

Pray that it all goes smoothly for me.

BUCKET LIST

2011-10-21T08:43:00.000-05:00

1 Visit all 50 states
2 Learn to speak a foreign language
3 Go to New England in the fall
4 Run a marathon
5 Write a book
6 Renew our vows
7 Become debt free
8 Spend a week on a dude ranch
9 Play a musical instrument (well)
10 Have a pixie hair cut
11 Act in a play
12 Take Coco to New York for graduation trip
13 Own a RV and travel in retirement
14 Visit the Juliette Gordon Low Girl Scout home in Savanna Georgia
15 Vacation in Paris

Thank ful for the prompt from Today's Mama and Just Ask for the inspiration to get me thinking about what I truly want to do in the future. I will continue to add to my list of things to experience.

This is my entry in the Just Ask Bucket List Getaway Giveaway. Just Ask offers a breast and ovarian cancer screening and is encouraging people to share 15 things that I want to enjoy in my lifetime as a reminder to be aware of my health. Want to enter? Head over to TodaysMama.com to get the details.

Have a great day
Pam

A LIST

2011-10-19T22:08:00.002-05:00

1. I started a new job on Monday

2. I rode 4 gillion miles in a car today

3. I am currently 10 minutes from Illinois

4. I live in Arkansas

5. I actually got in the car to go 4 gillion miles with 3 people I DO NOT KNOW

6. I should have given Scott their names and phone numbers

7. I should get their phone numbers

8. I had my first taste of Foie Gras and Pate today

9. I had my last taste of Foie Gras and Pate today

10. I have my choice of 2 beds to sleep in tonight

11. I am sleeping smack dab in the middle of one of them tonight

12. I might jump up and down on the other one

13. I have to ride 4 gillion miles back home tomorrow

14. I get to sleep in tomorrow til 7:30 if I want to

15. We are planning on eating at Lamberts tomorrow on the way home

16. I have to travel for the next 2 weeks

17. I will travel 4 gillion miles by plane though

18. Thank the good LORD

19. Some people are strange

20. Maybe it is me

21. I really miss Scott and my girl

22. I will be married 12 years on Sunday

23. My groom will be in the deer woods on Sunday

24. I won't see him for a week

25. :(

26. I don't know how to work this tv in the hotel room

27. It was 49 degrees where I am today

28. I think the Cardinals just beat the Rangers

29. I miss Scott and my girl, did I already say that?

30. My mama sent me a message on FB so cool GO MOM

31. I forgot my fan and I always sleep with a fan

32. I need to go take my melatonin to help me sleep

33. I am trying to make it to 35 on my list

34. Coco made 5 A's and 1 B for first semester, I am so proud of her!!!

35. Going to pick out my bed now! Goodnight

Wow I didn't know I could make such a long list.
Fodder for my Smash book
Wonder what I can find in this hotel room for my smash book
I forgot my camera
not a good move

Have a great Thursday and pray for safe travels for us.
Pam

CAMI SECRET

2011-10-18T20:03:00.000-05:00

HAVE YOU TRIED THESE?

I found a package of them at the new Ross store.

They are perfect.

Complete coverage

Comfortable

Easy to attach to your bra

Now I just need every color

They are not paying me to tell you this.

I just love to share when I find something that really works.

I would highly recommend these.

GIRL SCOUT SILVER CEREMONY

2011-10-16T19:12:00.000-05:00

Warning photo overload.

We held our awards ceremony for Girl Scouts today.

We bridged from Juniors to Cadettes

Our local Price Cutter made this cake for us.

It turned out so cute

For their badges and patches I hot glued them onto a piece of ribbon. Some of the girls do not get the vest or sash and this way they can hang it in their room or whatever

We started with the Pledge, Promise and Law

They all know them by heart. It has only taken a few years

Girl Scout Promise and Law

I chose the Silver Ceremony where they each lite a candle and read a statement about key to new challenges, character, leadership, etc. They then crossed the bridge to get their key and pins.

This is Coco reading her statement

New Cadette Troop (missing 4 girls)

My co-leaders Erica and Tia

I made them each a bag with a few goodies and a bouquet of flowers.

I couldn't do it without them

I planned some games after the cake portion.

Egg on a spoon was way to easy, the eggs weren't even breaking on the grass

Egg toss

This was fun and luckily only 1 girl broke it in her hand and they were really far apart

This one they were trying to pass a orange to each other under the chin.
maggie kept getting to tickled to make it work.

They kinda thought this one was to weird. They weren't comfortable getting so close.

Girls being girls

We now begin learning as Cadettes and the many opportunities available.

Lots of fun adventures to be had.

I love being a Girl Scout Leader

MOVIES

2011-10-16T00:33:00.000-05:00

I am so disappointed in the movies I've seen recently

So I thought I would do a review of a few

It has been awhile since I saw Bridesmaids. Scott and I went to the movies and he saw another movie while I saw this one. If I had the keys to the truck I would have left the theatre. It was so nasty! I should have left earlier than I did to sit in the lobby. From the previews I thought it would be so funny. I was severely disappointed!

I saw Footloose yesterday. I was disappointed in the language. I thought it had more bad language than the original and more sexual inuendos. Last nite I rented the original and it had lots of bad language too, I just didn't remember it that way. Overall I liked the new version better.

Horrible bosses I rented on demand the other day thinking it would be a comedy. I guess it is a comedy but I think the first word spoken in the film was a bad word.Then every other word was a 4 letter word. I couldn't watch it, it was so bad. Wasted my 4.99.

There was another one that Scott and I rented that was the same way. I can't remember the name of it but we turned it off within 15 minutes.

I know that a lot of people don't think a thing about this and I should watch the ratings before going. All the bad language and inappropriate scenes could be left out and it would still be a good movie. Several years ago I did a fast from what I call trashy novels and soap operas. I started reading only christian fiction. Guess what, I didn't miss the trash. I was a avid reader of Danielle Steel and All my Children. I recorded All my Children for probably 10 years. I would watch it every night after work. I haven't ever went back to the soaps but I do read Steel everynow and then.

We live in a broken world I know but I sure wish things were different.

Like when we were kids and we could watch tv without our parents worrying about every channel. We can barely watch the local news without having to censor what Coco sees and hears.

The other night the new show Suborgatory came on. Scott was on the computer and I was working on some paperwork so we weren't really paying attention. It didn't take us long to realize we needed to change the channel. This was what 8pm on a week night. It shocks me what is on ABC, NBC, and CBS. What happened to family tv in the evenings? That is what MTV and VH1 is for or so I thought.

I will get off my soap box. We have talked about disconnecting our cable several times. Maybe it is time!!

How do you deal with this issue or do you?

Would love to hear your thoughts.

Pam

FREEZER MEALS

2011-10-13T08:16:00.000-05:00

I am addicted to Pinterest. Are you?

I have like 26 boards, so many things to love and things to try.

I have wanted to do some freezer cooking for EVER!

After pinning a zillion pins about freezer cooking I finally took the leap.

Yesterday afternoon I ran into the store and bought beef and chicken.

I came home browned the ground beef into 1 italian for spaghetti and 2 taco meats.

I boiled a bag of skinless / boneless chicken breasts with onions and green peppers.

We had tacos for dinner and then I froze all the rest.

I now have 4 meats ready to go in the freezer and 3 cups of chicken stock to add to soups or stews.

This was done in a very short time. It will really help in the next few weeks when I start my new job.

Next on my list is to actually make up some full meals to freeze.

I am thinking if I can do 3-4 each weekend I can stock up our freezer for the winter.

The fall craft fairs are in town so I am off to do a little crafting today.

Have a wonderful day!!

YUMMINESS

2011-10-10T17:29:00.000-05:00

Do you shop at Williams-Sonoma?

I usually don't because I can't afford anything in there.

But Coco and I were wondering around the Mall recently and decided to browse.

They had samples of this pumpkin bread and pumpkin butter

They were so good we just had to have some.

I haven't made the bread yet but the butter is so good on toast or even just on a slice of bread

I have some time off this week.

I am starting a new job next week with a large bank

and I am so excited

RETAIL THERAPY

2011-10-08T20:51:00.001-05:00

Updated

I forgot this cute Halloween pillow that I got at Ross's too

I did a little shopping today.

We FINALLY got a Ross store in our town.

It opened yesterday

Even though alot of the shelves were empty I found some awesome treasures

I got all this for $56

The pillow in the back is part of my inspiration piece for the living room.

Loved this and it fit in with my color scheme

This photo does not show the colors correctly. It has mustardy yellow, turquiose, red and green on a linen background.

Loved this bird house too and for $9.99 I couldn't pass it up

I have wanted to try this purse organizer to so at 4.99 i thought if I don't like it I won't have lost much.

We were needing more silverware and they were a steal too.

I usually only get to go to Ross when we are in Destin so I am over the moon that we have one right here!!

Scott is not so happy !! ha ha ha

CRAFTING INTO FALL

2011-09-30T19:37:00.000-05:00

A random Friday vacation day from work.

I wasted most of it sleeping in and cruising the web!!

I did get a couple of crafts completed

I started with this black frame I already had.

Painted it white

Picked up this box of plastic pumpkins from Walmart last night

DRUMROLL PLEASE

LOVE IT

My inspiration came from here Becky Higgins

Once I went back to link this I saw that she used a green background.

I glued mine right to the glass because my glass would not come

out of the frame. I will probably go back and put some green paper in the frame.

My other project

Started with all these items

A little door dressing

Inspiration found here

I hope to work on more of Coco's bedroom furniture this weekend.

It is supposed to be in the low 70's here in Arkansas. Which might mean a new adventure instead of working at home.

Of course we'll be rooting for our HOGS to beat Texas!!!

COCKADOODLE DOO

2011-09-28T20:04:00.000-05:00

Look what I found at Freds

Isn't he the cutest little thing!!!

I never go to Freds but I was looking for a eye mask for Scott and I didn't want to go to Walmart. Dollar General didn't have them so we decided to try Fred's.

He was the first thing I saw in the store and I just had to have him.

I will be rearranging the top of my fridge so that he has a happy place to be.

My new favorite rooster in the house!!!

WEEKEND REVIEW

2011-09-25T16:46:00.002-05:00

I have had a productive weekend.

This is my top drawer of my nightstand.

I should be ashamed

There was all kinds of things in there that did not belong.

I decided to organize.

Now much better

I FINALLY started refinishing the furniture I bought for Coco's room.

The before

The after

I have to go to Hobby Lobby to check out the glass/crystal knobs.

For now I put back on the old ones.

Coco and I love the High Gloss White

Now 478 more pieces to do.

I need a bigger painting space.

I am freezing today and I am never cold. More like a sweating mess.

Not today I am covered up like a eskimo might have to turn on the heater!!!

More to come on our Sunday adventures family addition!!!

CHRISTMAS IN SEPTEMBER

2011-09-14T20:31:00.000-05:00

Coco and I were in Hobby Lobby recently.

I think it was actually in August.

This is called rushing the season

BUT

We found some things we loved

For the shoe lover these will look SOOOO cute on a tree

Oh my UGGS

Crocs

Love this one

SO TRUE

And one for Daddy

I think I might have to get another tree just so I can fill it with shoes.

Maybe I will change my name to IMELDA!!!!

SUNDAY FUN DAY

2011-09-11T21:50:00.000-05:00

We went for a Sunday drive to go to some flea markets.

End up in Eureka Springs

at the Cresent Hotel

It is a beautiful property

The first room we went into was the ladies room.

I thought is was neat to see the doorknob in the middle of the door.

The Lobby, notice the kitty in the chair

Upstairs, wish we could have seen inside this room

We went up to the top floor to the lookout.

We had no change and there was a sweet lady that gave Coco a quarter

so she could use the look out thingy.

One of the hallways. I don't see any ghosts

The view from the top

After finding our way out we went looking for a place to eat.

We found Casa Colina

The weather was wonderful and we were seated outside.

The food was so yummy
I ordered Chicken Enchiladas

It was not like any enchilada I have ever eaten.

We had another great family day!!

I am loving this time together doing new things

We also enjoyed us some HOG ball on Saturday

We are 2-0

Go Hogs

Pig Soieee

2011-09-10T20:46:00.000-05:00

WE WILL NOT FORGET

SUNDAY FUN DAY

2011-09-04T21:52:00.000-05:00

We were throwing out ideas for something to do this afternoon. I wanted a road trip or Hobbs Estate which is now a National park in our area.

We all agreed to visit Hobbs and then take a short hike.

This is the museum visitors center. Beautiful building

This gentleman had all these hides out and he took his time introducing Coco to each one. Do you see the skunk? It was really soft and so was the possum. Strange!!

One of the exhibits is on the caves and bats. I at first glance thought this was a pig. ha

A replica of a Arkansas cave. No those are not real bats, PTL

This is the short hike we chose. Coco really just likes walking under the highway through the tunnel.

Tunnel going under hwy 12

Lots of butterflys today

The Vanwinkle's home place. This area was a hub of life for the community. They had a mill and blacksmith. I think it said there were over 10,000 acres.

This was the cold storage that was built in the creek or all that is left of it

It was a GORGEOUS day

temps in the 80's

Look right under the bluff. Do you see that little curve of brown? A snake sunning on the bluff but took off when my flash went up. I took off after this no more creek for me and I watched my footing the rest of the hike.

Natures beauty pretty purple flowers

This was a road used in the Civil war times

This was a Antebellem flower garden built for Mrs. Vanwinkle

Creek bed running through the property

This was the living quarters of the freed slaves that worked for the Vanwinkles

We went some other places today that I will share later.

All in all it was a wonderful day

GAME TIME

2011-08-30T17:43:00.000-05:00

It is that time of year again.

FOOTBALL SEASON

We love our Razorback Hogs

We will be getting together with friends to watch this weekends first game of the season.

These will be one of things I make to take with us.

http://www.pauladeen.com/recipes/recipe_view/hogs_in_a_sleeping_bag/

Paula Deen posted these on a recent FB post.

A perfect fit for our first HOG game of the year!

WHOOOO PIG SOIEEEEE

There are lots of posts this week for tailgating recipes. I will be looking some good dips to make too!

What is your favorite tailgate recipe?

IT'S GONNA KILL ME

2011-08-16T19:20:00.001-05:00

I found this on Pinterest

I did 1 time.

About killed me

My breathing is still not normal

I AM SO OUT OF SHAPE

FIRST DAY OF 6TH GRADE

2011-08-15T21:47:00.000-05:00

Coco's first words to me this morning were "Do I have to go today?"

LOL

She was super nervous this morning.

I did a few photos before I drove her to school

She was overcome with excitement

I almost got to walk in with her. We got there and she said she wanted me to come in with her because she wasn't sure where to go. We got half way to the door and she saw a friend pulling up with her Dad. She says to me its ok Mom I will wait for Ashlyn.

Come on Mom REALLY

Isn't her outfit cute

pretty girl

Peace out

After school photo

She had a great day

Here Mom I could be a perfume model

I wondered about her all day. She had a great time. The only hiccup was she had to sit with 7th graders at lunch. Those 7th graders must be scary.

I am also saving these photos for a Week in the Life project I started today. I will be documenting our week in notes and photos.

I will try to share here on the blog.

Hope all your kiddos had a great first day of school too!

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE 6TH GRADE

2011-08-14T22:42:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow morning my baby girl will walk into a new school.

A new set of classes

A new set of teachers

Not a play ground in site.

She will be a middle schooler

with al a carte lunches

and study halls.

She is prepared as much as possible

she has been very nervous this year

her Daddy couldn't understand why

she was in such a tizzy tonight.

She cut her leg shaving

she brushed and flossed and lotioned

so many changes getting ready for this year

we shopped at

aeropostle

charlotte russe

american eagle

the buckle

we bought toms instead of nikes

we got feathers in her hair

we had her nails done

she is carrying a purse this year

she needs some where to keep

her phone and all those things

girls need

I probably won't get a photo of her in class

she made sure everything fit in her backpack

so Mama doesn't need to walk her in

she's to big to have her Mama walk her in to class

Mama doesn't feel like she is big enough to

go into school by herself

but I will let her do it on her own

as I watch through the car window

proud that I have helped prepare her

for days like these

days she needs to be confident and brave

days where she will come home

to tell me all about her day

the friends she reconnected with

new friends she made

which classes she liked

and those she didn't

she will tell me with excitement

about the new lunch options

she has never had before

it will be a long day for me

as I watch the clock

anxious to get home

to hear all about her day

in this new place

called

middle school

GRATEFUL SUNDAY

2011-07-31T16:24:00.000-05:00

* My wonderful Husband for taking up the slack for me everyday.
* I know Fall will be here soon
* Fishermen that brought in the scrumptious crab legs I ate this week
* Birthdays 43 of them to be exact
* Dreams

SMALL WORLD

2011-07-24T10:56:00.000-05:00

We have been thinking about getting Coco a new bedroom suite. Something more girly than what she has. Yesterday I was looking through Craigslist and found this set.

As a little girl I always wanted a french provincial set just like this one. The price was a great deal for all 4 pieces so I emailed the seller to see if it was still available.

A few hours later I checked my email. The seller responded. This is what she said " Hi Pam, it's cousin Nancy. We would love for you and (Coco) to have the set. Call me.

I got Scott and Coco to read the email and we cracked up. It really is a small world. That was so funny to me. We talked to her and we will go pick up the set tonight or tomorrow.

We are very excited to get it. It will be some work to paint it all but it will be beautiful in a creamy white with new hardware.

I will be sure to post pics of our progress.

I GOT SO EXCITED

2011-07-19T21:03:00.000-05:00

I like my soda's in a bottle more than in a can.

Tonight at Walmart I went to get some Sprite zero to keep at the office. I was prepared to buy the cans because they don't have Sprite zero in the 12 oz bottles.

As we were walking down the isle, what do I spy with my little eye?

SPRITE ZERO IN 12 OZ BOTTLES

I got so excited I threw my arms up and did a little jig right there in Walmart.

Embarrased Coco terribly.

Doesn't take much to make me a happy girl.

I will enjoy my Sprite in the bottle.

Thanks Coco Cola Bottling Company

MY NEW FAVORITE RESTAURANT

2011-07-07T20:00:00.000-05:00

Today a sales rep took our office out to lunch to discuss a new mortgage product. We chose PF Chang's in Rogers.

This my new favorite place. I have been talking about it the rest of the day. My favorite part was the service!!! I am a customer service hound!! If you don't have good service I will boycott you. It is the first thing I notice about any business or service I use.

Anyhoo the food was AMAZING

My coworker and I shared the orange peel chicken and crispy honey shrimp. I couldn't decide which one I liked better. I also got to try the lettuce wraps AGAIN delicious.

I had to get back to my office for a conference call so they brought me a chocolate dessert shot with rasberry sauce, chocolate frosting, chocolate cake and chocolate chips. OH MY I was wishing I could lick the container clean. It was so good.

Can't wait till I get to go again. Wish I would have tried it sooner.

Thanks PF Chang for a wonderful experience.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

2011-07-04T23:00:00.000-05:00

Our holiday weekend began with Coco's birthday party. The rest of the weekend was pretty low key. I didn't feel well Sat or Sunday so that was a bummer. Today I cleaned out our closet (had to since the rod broke in half early one morning last week). I got 3 tubs of smaller sizes and 3 bags for a garage sale. Tonight we had dinner with Scott's parents and the kids shot fireworks. We are early birds so we shot them all off prior to dark. Warning lots of photos to follow.

PARTY TIME

2011-07-01T23:30:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Coco's 11th birthday today.

She picked pink and gray for her colors.

I am loving the pom poms made from tissue paper. There are super easy to make.

I have seen these banners all over blogland so I wanted to try my hand at making her one.

I love how it turned out. It is hard to see but the 1st layer of paper is really cute with black chandeliers.

I ordered her cake from Walmart. It was supposed to be pink and grey. As you can see it was NOT.

Coco was happy with it, she thought it looked tie dyed. As long as she was happy but it drove me crazy. If we had more than 2 hours before her guest arrived I would have done something else.

I picked up Eureka pizza on the way home to so that we could make a 6:35pm movie time. Coco, A and C having pizza before we left.

I took them to see Monte Carlo. I expected the theatre to be crowded since the movie just came out today but it was only 1/2 full. Must have been due to the holiday weekend. It was a cute movie.

Once we got home they played on the trampoline with the sprinkler. Daddy helped them shoot some fireworks off. She has had a great birthday.

Looking forward to the 3 day weekend.

Everyone be safe and have a great holiday.

Pam

SOMEBODY'S HAVING A BIRTHDAY

2011-06-21T22:04:00.000-05:00

Coco will have a birthday next week.

I asked her tonight to make us a wish list.

This is what she brought me.

1. Cell phone

2. DSI 3D

3. Good (new) camera

4. Bulletin Board

5. New purse

6. Paris Perfume

7. Lots of stickers

8. Notebook w/ pens

9. Reba seasons 1 & 2

10. Lemonheads

11. 2 sim cards

12. Allowed to wear makeup to school :)

She will be turning 11. I can see in her list the changes from a little girl to becoming a young lady. Each year will be harder on her Mama

Daddy and Mama have already said NO to number 12!!!!

We will be preparing and planning for a small affair to celebrate her 11 years next week.

NEW RECIPE

2011-06-13T20:00:00.001-05:00

I found this recipe in one of those little cook books you can get at the checkout counter at Walmart.

Pork Chops over Apples and Stuffing

Not the best photo but it was really good.

4-6 pork chops

1 can apple pie filling

1 box cornbread stuffing

1-2 tbls oil

1-3 tbls brown sugar

Brown the pork chops in the oil over med heat. I used creole seasoning, salt and pepper on the chops while browning

Prepare stuffing as directed

Oil 13x9 pan, spread apple filling in bottom of pan. Sprinkle brown sugar over the apples.

Place chops on top of apples and spoon stuffing on top of chops.

Cover and bake for 35 minutes at 350 degrees.

Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes.

Let rest for few minutes prior to serving.

SCHOOLS OUT FOR THE SUMMER

2011-06-12T20:23:00.000-05:00

Another year down! My baby is now a middle schooler :(

This is the 1st day of 5th grade

The last day of 5th grade.

She was a straight A student this year. Participated in SEEK, played basketball and softball, earned the Gold in math. She will leave the building she has known for the past 6 years and move to another world. She is excited and nervous at the same time. Lots of changes coming for our girl. Changes her Mama is not ready for. My hope is that these next few years will be a happy fun experience for her.

We have lots of summer plans as our list in the previous post shows. Lots of memories to make and new experiences for us as a family.

OUR SUMMER TIME LIST

2011-06-05T15:54:00.000-05:00

I have to begin with the apology. I found this idea on a blog and now I can't find it in my bookmarks. I should use pinterest, huh?

Anyhoo, on to our list. Last year we made a list on paper and put it on the fridge. We did a little better this year.

We started with a Hobby Lobby Frame 1/2 off.

Coco chose green gingham scrapbook paper for the background. I had the other green paper and pink letter stickers.

She made her list with a dry erase marker. It was a family affair making the list. Dad and I got to include a few things we want to do.

Some things on our list:

Help in Joplin

Swim at the lake

Bass Pro (dad)

Harbor Village Grove, OK (me)

Naturals baseball game

Camping

Cookout with friends

Loving our list. This might just stay up all year to make lists for each season. Good reminder of taking the time to have fun as a family.

Thanks to the talented blogger that made this first!!!!

HONORED

2011-05-31T21:22:00.000-05:00

Coco received this invitation in the mail today. I was so proud of her.

She was nominated by one of her teachers.

The above photo is of the invitation, it says

IN HONOR OF YOUR ACADEMIC ACHEIVEMENT

AND LEADERSHIP ABILITY

THE CONGRESSIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO PARTICIPATE

IN THE

JUNIOR NATIONAL YOUNG LEADERS CONFERENCE

In Washington DC this fall.

WOW

We were so excited, we called our parents to boast. We talked about ways to make it happen. The cost is over $2k. Then I googled it. It is not from the US Congress. It is a for profit company named Envision that host these leadership conferences. I am still very proud of her and honored that her teacher chose her, but I am skeptical that this company sends out feelers to our teachers and then the company sends out this invitation. The sample schedules show that she would get to go to all the monuments, the White House, the Library of Congress, etc etc. Keep in mind this is for 5th and 6th graders to go to DC and stay at the National 4H Center for 6 days. The parents can travel with them but we can't attend any of the events.

Have any of you ever heard of these conferences?

Could it make a difference in her life?

I would love to see DC and this might be our perfect opportunity.

I will keep investigating and see what happens.

JUST WHAT I NEEDED

2011-05-30T20:26:00.000-05:00

I have had a wonderful 3 day weekend. It is amazing what 1 extra day off can do for you. My Lupus has kicked my booty for the past few weekends. To the point that by Sunday rolled around, I just wanted to stay in bed and that is what I did for about 3 weeks.

Scott and Coco went to a campout with his best friends family on Saturday and Sunday. I just hung out at home on Saturday. Sunday my sister and I went to flea markets for the afternoon. I did not buy 1 thing, but had a great time just hanging out with her. She is on a special diet and is doing so well. SO PROUD OF HER!!!

My family got home at 11pm last night and I was ready for them to get here. I missed them even though I enjoyed the time alone.

Today I got up and went to work cleaning the house. I finally used my Shark steamer that I won at a Christmas party. Crazy that I let it sit in the box for so long. I loved it. It came with a little bottle steamer that I used to clean the tub and shower surround. WOW that little thing is amazing. Should have used it sooner. Well now I know!

Coco and I went to do a little shopping.

My baby girl is not so much my baby girl anymore.

She will be 11 next month. Where has all the time gone. I just want to cry thinking it was just yesterday that I was rocking her to sleep everynight. Giving her a bath and now she is shaving her legs, wanting to wear makeup (NOT).

This photo we took in the car shocks me that I have a TWEEN!!

Believe me the attitudes remind me often!!

A great weekend and now I am counting down to the next one. Which I will have a 6 day break at the end of June. Wooo Hooo

Have a great week my friends

Pam

THANK YOU

2011-05-30T10:27:00.000-05:00

Thank you to our service men and women on this Memorial Day.

Thank you to the Mothers, Fathers, Wives, Husbands and Children that make the sacrifice for our FREEDOM

(all images via Flickr)

May God Bless You and keep you safe!

WAITING

2011-05-24T22:50:00.000-05:00

We are expecting tornado type weather tonight. Actually we just came in from the cellar because our storm sirens went off about 9:30pm. Thankfully it has went around us but more is moving in from Oklahoma. I might be another long night.

Thankful that we do have one of these.

I wish it had these.

After seeing what happened in Joplin which is just a hour or so away from us. I am being very cautious. I came home and packed up a couple of tubs with food, medicines, toiletries and put them down in the cellar. I also packed a bag with a extra set of clothes for each of us. I even put a paint bucket with a lid just in case we needed to go potty. We would have to go really bad but I would rather be safe than sorry.

I am going to try to get some sleep.

Stay safe my friends.

TORNADO WARNINGS

2011-05-22T23:29:00.000-05:00

Our Sunday night has been wrought with tornado warnings. Joplin Missouri was hit with tornado earlier today. We are about an hour south of them. Seeing the damage there is nearly impossible to comprehend.

We spent an hour in our cellar earlier and more warnings coming in now at 11:30pm.

It is going to be a very long night.

Keep the Midwest in your prayers tonight.

THE DUGGAR'S

2011-05-15T15:31:00.000-05:00

Coco and I had the pleasure of going to a Princess Brunch at our church Immanuel Baptist on Saturday. Our special speaker was Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.

Ms Peggy and the ladies at church have a heart for God's Princesses and they know how to do it up right.

The tables were all decorated so pretty.

They served juices french toast, breakfast casserole, biscuits and the most wonderful apple butter ever.

At each place setting there was a photo of the Duggars and a book mark.

Sorry the photos are blurry, I had to take them without flash and couldn't get it steady enough. Michelle had planned to bring the girls to sing and play for us but they had a rough time getting to Saturday. Jim Bob and Michelle were on their way home on Friday from D.C. and all their flights were delayed. They were in Atlanta at 11pm on Friday night and Josie had to be taken to the ER for respirtory problems. They were at the hospital until 3am and our event was at 10am on Saturday. Grateful that they were able to make it. They decided on the plane that Jim Bob would come with her and they would share their testimony. I remember Michelle going to school with my sister and she was always the sweetest girl back then. She hasn't changed a bit. They were very transparent in their sharing about how they came to know the Lord. I left encouraged and uplifted. She was very sweet to Coco when Coco asked her to sign her card. Michelle just hugged her and asked about her.

We won their new book that is coming out soon.

I love how they sign their name with their favorite verse.

WHATS GOING ON?

2011-05-11T19:54:00.000-05:00

Nothing!!

I shouldn't say nothing because we seem to be running and doing all the time.

Coco is keeping us busy with softball and girl scouts.

Coco and I do get to do some fun things this weekend. We are going to a brunch at church where Michelle Duggar will be the special speaker. I love that about our church. They have lots of stuff going on for the whole family.

We also have a fun Girl Scout Troop event happening this weekend and that will be fun. I guess we won't get to see alot of Scott though. I am sure he will find some "guy" thing to do. He's resourceful like that.

I am watching the storm blow over as I sit here and look at the window. Thankful we haven't had a ton of rain like we did last week.

Gotta go finish the laundry so the little girl has her uniform for tomorrow.

Have a great week
Pam

MOTHERS DAY GIFT IDEA

2011-05-04T21:05:00.000-05:00

Turn this

Into this

I took a $1 dictionary covered it with scrapbook paper.

Made a label on the computer

I used double sided tape for both.

Then go through the book with a highlighter and mark all the words that describe your Mother.

TIP: use a bible highlighter they don't bleed through as bad.

I was looking for a gift for a friend that was turning "50" and my sister told me to make her a dictionary like I did for Tammy when she turned 40. I was like What are you talking about?

Apparently I made my sister a book like this 3 years ago but I can't remember it.

I got the gist of it and went home that night and made it for my friend and titled it 50 Things That Make You Fabulous.

She loved it.
She sent me a text today telling me that she took it to work to show it off and her coworkers were going to make them for Mothers Day.

The one above is actually for a Girl Scout Mom. We made them in a troop meeting to give out at our Mother/Daughter Dinner on Friday.

I can't wait to see what words Coco chose for me.

Happy Crafting

PLAY BALL

2011-05-02T19:18:00.000-05:00

We've been busy

Doin ALOT of this

Isn't she so cute in her uniform

Forgot where the strike zone is

Bring it on

In case you can't see that score board

it SAYS 17-2

OUR FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON

These girls really needed it for their morale

They had lots of spirit in our Friday and Saturday games

IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS

2011-04-28T17:41:00.000-05:00

I have no words for the devastation across teh south.

All those people have been heavy on my heart today.

The pictures and stories so shocking.

Please keep all those that have been in this stormy path in your prayers.

STORMY WEATHER

2011-04-26T19:21:00.000-05:00

I told you in last post I was tired of the rain. I am REALLY tired of the rain now. Yesterday we had serious flooding issues in Arkansas. I didn't have my camera yesterday so this morning I grabbed it to make sure I could take some photos of the flooding. All the water had receded by this morning and we had a pretty day until about 5pm. It started clouding up and sprinkling on my way home.

I took these photos of the sky on the drive home. We are under severe t-storm warnings and some areas have tornado warnings.

Scary looking huh?

Pray for our state tonight. There were several deaths last night from tornados in central Arkansas.

EASTER SUNDAY

2011-04-24T21:32:00.000-05:00

A glorious Resurrection Sunday.

The recent and continued rains put a damper on our Easter plans but we rejoiced in our Savior anyway!

I did not even get a picture of us or even Coco in her Easter dress. I might have to have her dress up for a photoshoot.

This was Coco's Easter basket this year. She is at the age that she didn't want to do the coloring of eggs or hunting. Made this Mama kind of sad.

She received clothes and a couple of tween devotional books and candy.

We celebrated with Scott's parents after church. She had the table decorated so cute.

Nana might be a spoiler! This stuffed Target bag was Coco's Easter treats. She got her lots of cake decorating supplies, candy, jewelry, jewelry box and cash! She says next year she will be better. Yea right! She only has 2 grandchildren so she goes a little overboard.

Saturday night we went to see "The Messiah" at a friends church. I love this production and for a small church they do it up big! I was happy that my Mama and sister both got to come enjoy it with us. Our church service was good this morning. We got there late and had to sit in the very back and we sat behind a family that interacted with each other all through the service and I kept getting distracted so I feel like I missed most of it. We came home and all took a nap. Love those naps.

I do not love this rain. It has rained since Friday evening. We spent an hour in the cellar on Friday while the tornado sirens were going off. Luckily we didn't have any touch down. It has rained, thundered and lighting all weekend. The forcast shows the rain lasting thur Wednesday. I might be paddling to work tomorrow instead of driving.

Hope all had a Blessed day.

A GOOD GOOD DAY

2011-04-16T21:38:00.000-05:00

Our Saturday morning started out way to early and way to cold. Coco had a softball game at 8:30am and the temps were in the 30's with very strong North winds. I felt so bad for those girls but they were troopers and played through the pain of freezing hands and little noses. The Mama's didnt fair so well. Several of us gave up and watched from the comfort of our cars with the heaters running.

After the game we went to Old Navy for the grand reopening of their recent move to a new area of town. We got some cute t-shirts and a couple of cardi's on a good sale. I am not sure I like the new store. It was totally different with lots of different styles. I will have to wait and see after the new wears off.

We had lunch at my favorite restaurant Chick Fil A. I love the way they always say My Pleasure when you say thank you. It is worth the extra cost for good service. The chicken is so yummy too.

We ended the afternoon at the movies. We saw Soul Surfer, it was a wonderful movie. Bethany Hamilton's faith was and is so strong. To overcome the tragedy of losing her arm to a shark attack and still become a pro surfer is just amazing. Her parents I am sure are so proud of her and the qualities they have instilled in her. The surfing in the movie was amazing too. I have never seen anyone surf in real life and now I really want to . It was kind of like when you watch a dancing movie, you immediately want to go dance around the room. I left wanting to learn to surf. To bad we are so far from waves that the desire will be gone by the time I get near a beach!

Coco and I enjoyed a Mommy / Daughter day. We need to do this more often!

TO MUCH TECHNOLOGY

2011-04-10T21:18:00.000-05:00

You are probably wondering what in the world these 3 photos have to do with anything!

I do have a point to make.

Tonight we were invited to a Girl Scout Cookie Celebration Dinner.

One of things we did was play Pictionary. It was the Mom's against the Girls.

My daughter got the object answering machine as her word to draw.

She tried drawing the 8 ball toy that you ask questions and roll it and it shows an answer in a little window.

I laughed so hard because she didn't know what a actual answering machine is. Of course it is not her fault because we don't have one anymore since it comes on the telephone now. (I wish we still had the machine, it was much easier to push a button instead of dialing our number and putting in a code).

I was just shocked at what the girls knew and didn't know playing this game. Technology is a wonderful thing but so many things I enjoyed as a child are no longer used. one of my favorite memories is singing into a curling iron. My sister and I actually used this garden stake that my Daddy had made for staking tomatoes. We bent that thing like it was a real microphone and sang our hearts out.

Now they have every instrument known available for every gaming system known. There is no reason to use their imaginations anymore.

Makes me kind of sad.

WEEKEND RECAP

2011-04-03T20:38:00.000-05:00

This weekend has been just wonderful. We started it out with Coco having a sleepover with 3 other girls. I laughed so hard Friday afternoon when I called home to check on them. Scott was home when they got off the school bus and he was a little antsy with all the giggling and squealing going on.

The played and played and played on the trampoline, ate pizza, watched Tangled and made paper cell phones. Only 1 of the girls actually has a cell phone. The convinced me to take them to Sonic for a Blast about 9pm. I think we had some sugar overload but Scott and I didn't hear a thing after about 11pm.

PTL

Saturday we had to be up early for softball practice and then Coco and I came home to just hang out the rest of the day. Scott and I watched the Fighter. It was a good movie just tooooooo many bad words.

Sunday morning we had a great service on Worship. A quick lunch at Taco Bueno. Walmart run to pick out a birthday gift for our nephew Jack who turned 6 today. I didn't pick up my camera until this afternoon.

Coco tried to get me to let her play in the sprinkler yesterday and I kept telling her it was to early in the season.

Sunday I gave in. This is what she did with it.

She had a blast and never complained about being cold. It has been really windy today so I thought she would be back inside quickly but I WAS WRONG. She stayed out there for quite a long time. I had to let go of my Mommy worry and just let her be. I do remember being a kid and the water was NEVER to cold...

When I went to upload the photos I found a BUNCH of these. Someone had a fashion show recently.

Love weekends like this. Full of memories and fun.

GIRL SCOUT CAMP PART 1

2011-03-26T09:07:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I took the troop to Girl Scout Camp.

We had so much fun. The girls thought they had to work to much. They are treated so BAD :(

They had to gather the wood, help cook, and clean up after themselves.

Just horrible!

We had a picnic lunch when we arrived.

Go on a nature hike

Getting the whistle blowing out of their systems. The whistle's are for emergency only.

Too cool for school!

In this photo, Hipper, Skipper, Snoopy, Fred, Bubbles, May May and George.

We all chose camp names. I was named Preacher. Fitting since it always seems I am preaching to the choir when with these girls.

Learning the GS dishwashing technique.

I was so proud of our first fire! I talked to Scott and was bragging that I made my first fire and he made fun of me by asking if we had to rub 2 sticks together. No we used a firestarter (piece of taper candle wrapped in wax paper). The girls were whining the smoke was to much for them. Our little troop might be more accepting of hotels and fireplaces.

Dunk bags with our eating utensils. We learned knots so we could hang our clothesline.

I was exhausted on Sunday but we had a really fun trip and the girls learned lots of outdoor skills.

There is still more to share so I will do another post soon.

REST IN PEACE

2011-03-21T22:59:00.000-05:00

Our Mammie went home to Jesus on Sunday night. We will grieve and miss her like crazy.

She is whole.

She can see.

She can hear.

We are grateful that she is no longer in pain.

At my wedding in 1999

Coco's kindergarten graduation.

She and Coco napping on the couch when Coco used to stay with them every Monday until she went to school. Thankful that Coco had those years with her.

Mammie and her sisters at my bridal shower.

I thought the world of her. She was a very special lady.

CAMP

2011-03-20T14:14:00.000-05:00

Just home from a Girl Scout camping trip.

That should tell you how I am feeling this beautiful Sunday afternoon.

I will put it this way.

First thing I did when I got home after putting our clothes in the washer WAS find the

ICY HOT !!!!

More to come.

This Mama needs a nap

Pam aka PREACHER (new camp name)

DAUGHTERS OF THE KING

2011-03-14T20:31:00.000-05:00

This past weekend our church had a Mother / Daughter event for 4th & 5th grade girls. The purpose was to teach them about being God's princesses.

We started Friday night with a mexican meal that was DELISH! Thanks to the church family that made all that for us.
-
We had a couple of devotions from Proverbs.
A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pigs snout. Proverbs 11:22
They gave us a story that we read. It really just said that you can dress a pig in pink, dress it up and it is still a pig.

They gave us time to discuss this with our daughters. I really enjoyed this time with Coco.

We then had a fashion show with each girl wearing a inappropriate out and appropriate outfit that we all discussed. Loved this too.

At the end of the evening. All the mothers presented their daughter with a shiny new Tiara. When I went to put it on Coco she kind of leaned back and said "what are you doing with that thing"! HA

That is my girl! She was not lovin the tiara business! She is SO not that kind of girl. At least that day.

We were supposed to go back on Saturday for a couple of sessions on money and skincare, do our nails and then end up at the Crumpet Tea Room. WELL, Saturday morning was also the FIRST softball practice of the season. Coco was adamant that she did not want to do the PRINCESS thing!

I was disappointed but I have to realize that is just not her thing right now. I am not giving up on her because I love bible studies and womens retreats. As she gets older I will be praying for her to be open to these things so that we can do them together.

For now at this time in our life I will love her just as she is. In her jerseys, jeans and tshirts!

I had a cute photo of her after going to the batting cages today but blogger is not letting me upload.

SUNDAY SUPPER

2011-03-13T19:11:00.000-05:00

Paula Deen's Chicken Florentine

3 chicken breasts boiled and shredded
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 box of frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 block of cream cheese
Handfull of shredded cheese
couple of table spoons of mayo
Dash or 2 of dill weed
Dash salt and pepper
Dash of red pepper flakes
Crushed saltines
Butter

I mixed the first 9 ingredients in a bowl. Poured into a small casserole dish. Spread the crackers over top and put pats of butter over top. Cooked in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes.

Here is the link for the original recipe
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/chicken-florentine-recipe/index.html

It was very good but very rich! I served it with green beans with sliced almonds and cresent rolls.

SHOPPING

2011-03-09T21:17:00.000-06:00

Coco and I planned to go shopping for some dressier clothes for her tonight after work.

I called home about 4pm to see if Scott wanted to meet me in town with her.

She answered the phone and told me she didn't want to go. She wanted me to just pick her out some stuff and she promised to wear it.

What girl doesn't like to go shopping?

MY GIRL

I did get her a few things and she modeled them for us.

She was actually happy with everything I bought.

I will have to do a photo shoot to show her off in her more girly outfits!!

Pray for us that she doesn't wake up in a new world tomorrow and hate it all!!!!!!!

WHAT AM I GOING TO DO WITH THIS GIRL OF MINE

2011-03-08T18:24:00.000-06:00

Coco and I are going to an event at our church this weekend. It is called Daughters of the King for Mama's and 5th grade girls. We will have dinner on Friday night and they have asked the girls to bring an appropriate outfit for the mall and a inappropriate outfit for the mall. They will be doing a fashion show for us and learning about modesty.

Saturday we will go back to the church for more fun and end at a local tea shop for lunch.

I have been talking to her about shopping for some church clothes and just nicer things for events that we go to. She says she just wants to wear her jeans and a hoody. LORD help me with this girl.

She never wants to dress girly.

I was talking to her about going shopping tomorrow and she told me she didn't need anything. HA

I told her she likes when she dresses up and we do her hair. She has in the past just gushed about how pretty her hair is when i curl it and it is all bouncy.

She tells me she is just doing that for me. She said I try to embrace it but it just isn't me!!!

What is a mama to do. There are times when she has to dress in something nicer than looking like a boy!

Do you have a headstrong TOMBOY girl? What do you do?

WEEKEND

2011-03-07T21:26:00.000-06:00

Friday night was uneventful.
Had a big day planned for Saturday.
In bed early.

Saturday up at 5:30am!
ON A SATURDAY
Met 5 little girl scouts with their packed lunches.
Off to the Uof A for Scouting University
OMG so much walking UP HILL
DOWN HILL
BACK UP HILLS
All worth it the girls had a blast!
Earning their Yarn and Fabrics badge
Dinner and ice cream at Braums
Home by 6:30pm
In bed by 10pm

Sunday up at 8:30
WORN SLICK OUT
To lazy to get ready for church
GUILT GUILT
Not good
took a nap
Dinner at the in-laws
Academy Sports
Spent $100 for a pair of running shoes for a 10 year old!!!
TEMPORARY LOSS OF SANITY
Plus new cleats for softball
KIDS ARE EXPENSIVE
Home at 8:30pm
Sleep 2:30AM

MONDAY MORNING EXHAUSTION!!!!

I LOVE EXCLAMATION POINTS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THURSDAYS

2011-03-03T20:40:00.000-06:00

Every other Thursday we have our Girl Scout meetings. We had a great meeting tonight. It was relatively calm. Some meetings are pure chaos with 12 little 10 year olds. We just finished our cookie sales Thank the Good Lord!!! I am very lucky to have a Mom that takes care of all the cookie stuff. I have done it in the past and it is a big job.

The girls have chosen to spend their cookie earnings on a night at a Residence Inn. Our local hotel is smack dab in the middle of lots of restaurants, movie theatre, book store and shopping. We will get to swim, play tennis, go see a movie and eat out for lunch and dinner. The great thing is I don't have to drive for hours to get them there!!! LIKE THAT we will do some pampering while we are there too.

They are all growing up so fast. It seems like just yesterday they were little kindergarten Daisys in their little blue tunics. Now some are as tall as me and love to talk about boys! Hard to imagine that next year we will be starting our 7th year.

Girl Scouting will be 100 years old in 2012. They are looking for GS alumni. If you were ever a girl scout in any capacity and would be willing to send in some information you can send it to me at creech03 at cox dot net! They are asking for name, address, date of birth, what your position or age level you were in. If I get 6 names Coco gets a new patch! I promise not to send it to anyone but the Girl Scout Council!

If you have a neat story or craft idea that you did in scouting I would love to hear about it.

Blessings,
Pam

A VERY FULL WEEKEND

2011-02-27T21:00:00.000-06:00

I should just call it a Girl Scout weekend.
Most of the weekend was spent with my troop.

The sweetest little group of girls

Don't they all look so SWEET! No really for the most part they are all sweethearts.

My wonderful sister let me borrow her van so that I could carry more girls to a event on Saturday that was an hour away. This photo is them all laid back watching a movie on the dvd in the van.

Even with the van I still didn't have enough room for all so on the way back home I had a few different girls. They were so funny. I loved listening to them singing along to the country radio. I was shocked that they knew all the words to these country songs. I told them I couldn't wait until they were all 16 and could drive me around.

Team work!

Sunday afternoon was spent at Walmart selling cookies.
We SOLD OUT!

When I went to trade cars with my sister I got to see my niece cheering for Upwards basketball.

They were so cute in their skorts and little pom poms!

Our church service was great this morning. We didn't get up in time for Sunday school but made it just in time for service. Grateful for sometime in the Word today.

Now I am watching the Oscar's and waiting for some nasty weather that is headed our way.

Say a prayer for Northwest Arkansas tonight we have a good chance for straight line winds and tornados tonight. This morning the weather channel said it was a 6 out of 10 chance for tornados.

Lord I pray that this does not happen. I need to get our things prepared to go to the cellar if the sirens go off. Thankful that we have it in times like this. Growing up we always had a cellar and Momma would take us girls at the first sign of bad weather, while my Dad would stay in the house asleep. We spent many a night sleeping in the cellar. Hoping this is not the case tonight.

Blessings,

Pam

KIDS SAY THE DARNEDEST THINGS

2011-02-19T23:04:00.000-06:00

I got to see my great nephew today. Little E is 5 years old and his home was robbed this past week while they were all gone to work.

I asked him about it today and this is what he told me.

Me: E what happened at your house this week?

E: UMMMMM I was KIDNAPPED and they took my wii, my games, Nicks xbox, Nicks razorback hat.

Me: I had a really hard time keeping a straight face !

He was kidnapped instead of robbed!!! Precious

It is not a laughing matter that they were violated in this way but his little face with the missing front teeth was just to much.

I sure LOVE that boy and all his rough and tumble ways!!!!!

LIVING WITH A CHRONIC ILLNESS

2011-02-16T18:22:00.000-06:00

A new journey in my life. I mentioned in an earlier post that I was recently diagnosed with LUPUS. Since I was told, I have spent some time studying up on the subject. I am amazed at all the symptoms that I have had in the past few years that I thought were because of my age, my weight or the lack of exercise, etc etc.

Today I was asked about the disease by a coworker. This is what I found online.

Lupus is not contagious. You cannot "catch" lupus from someone or "give" lupus to someone.

Lupus is not like or related to cancer. Cancer is a condition of malignant, abnormal tissues that grow rapidly and spread into surrounding tissues.

Lupus is not like or related to HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus) or AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). In HIV or AIDS, the immune system is under-active; in lupus, the immune system is overactive.

You can then talk about what lupus is.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease. In some ways, lupus represents a kind of allergic reaction by the body, in which the immune system sees the body’s own healthy tissues and cells as foreign.

Lupus is a chronic disease. This means that anyone who develops lupus will have lupus for the rest of his or her life. As with other chronic illnesses such as diabetes or asthma, there is no cure for lupus yet. However, there are medications and lifestyle adjustments that help most people live active and productive lives in spite of these illnesses.

Lupus has many different symptoms, and because of that, affects each person differently. Lupus can cause a mild skin rash or achy joints, or can involve the kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, or other internal organs. What most people do not realize, however, is how much effort it may take you to function day-to-day when you have to cope with extreme fatigue, chronic pain, memory loss, medication side effects, and/or visible skin lesions.

Lupus is unpredictable because it is a disease of flares (the symptoms worsen and you feel ill) and remissions (the symptoms improve and you feel better). Knowing that lupus is unpredictable may help other people understand your physical and emotional ups and downs as well as the changes that you may have to make to schedules, plans, and commitments.

One of the things in this information that really hit home was the last sentence. I have canceled so many plans and events in the past couple of years that it became a joke about how I just didn't like certain family members or groups of people. I really want to post this on a t-shirt and wear it around so they know that it was beyond my control.

I am thankful that I finally went to the dermatologist. I have had this rash on my chest that would come and go for the past year at least. He took a biopsy and it was positve. This diagnosis has really been a blessing. Finally a reason for the fatigue (this is a big one for me), the achy knees, the catching every cold or bug that blew by me. Scott, Mom and my sister really thought I was just depressed and I kept telling them I wasn't sad or blue, I was just to darned tired to doing anything. It is now something that can be treated. I was told recently that one way to live a long life is to have a chronic illness because it makes you take better care of yourself. I am waiting now to get in to see a Rheumatologist. This appointment should get me on a regime of living a normal life with this.

Sorry for the rambling, I wanted to share what is going on with me. Please keep me in your prayers as I begin this new journey.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2011-02-14T19:40:00.000-06:00

OR SINGLES AWARENESS DAY ( i saw this on a friends facebook comments) I remember so many Valentines days that I spent as a single girl. Thank goodness it never bothered me. I loved my alone time as a single girl. I lived out on my own for 11 years before Scott and I married so it was a culture SHOCK after we married.

Now I wouldn't have it any other way. This has been a great day.

Let me show you in photos!

My gift from Scott that was waiting on me when I got home. I told him not to do anything and we planned on cooking dinner at home together tonight, just a simple home cooked meal together.

We were both exhausted so I went to get Subway sandwiches.

Coco's Valentines we made for school.

I was so happy with the way they turned out.

She said some kids didn't want the photo. How mean is that?

Parents please teach your kids some manners and how NOT to hurt someones feelings.

See that beautiful Damask? I got my SheyB camera strap in the mail today.

Happy Valentines Day to me!

Hope your day was filled with love!

VALENTINES DAY PHOTO SHOOT

2011-02-12T23:50:00.000-06:00

Today called for a photo shoot with Coco. It has been a LONG time since she wanted me to take pictures.

She's growing up to fast!

This is more like my sweet LITTLE girl...

The REAL reason for the photo shoot.

Valentines

I have seen this done on several blogs so it is not original but I love it and Coco did to.

I will show you the finished product tomorrow after we pick them up and finish them. I didn't think she would be doing Valentines this year. I didn't get any notices from school. Could be because she has been out for 2 weeks due to the snow. She says her home room teacher said they could bring them. So that is what we'll do and treasure it as it will the last year. INSERT sad face here!!!

BLIZZARD OF 2011

2011-02-09T15:44:00.000-06:00

Last night when I went to bed the weather man expected 2-4 inches of snow for our area.

The latest forecast today

We probably have 15 inches at our house. Everything is closed and hopefully no one is out on the roads.

Feels like I went to sleep in Arkansas and woke up in Chicago!

THOUGHTS

2011-02-08T21:14:00.000-06:00

1. I am exhausted.

2. Mamie, Scotts grandmother is not doing well. She is 96 years young and we were told today that we will only have for a few more days. She will be dancing in heaven. As Scott said it should be a joyous day as she has been ready for a few years. She is the most precious little Mamie you could ask for. I have NEVER heard her say a bad word about anyone or really even have a bad day. Wish I was more like her.

3. We are expecting MORE snow in our area tonight. I hate driving in the bad weather so it stresses me out.

4. I just found out that I have subcutaneous Lupus. I am thankful for a diagnosis it explains why I am always tired and sick or sick and tired. Will be going thru some more testing and doctors to find the right treatment for me.

5. My girl seems to be growing up so fast and I am not ready. She was talking about her wedding tonight and she says she wants to get married on a mountain in Oark Arkansas in a camo dress. STOP the car "where is MY daughter". She is such a tomboy. I gently explained that she will be married in our church in a white princess dress with lots of GLAM!! End of discussion

6. I shouldn't have eaten the BBQ from Dink's tonight.

7. Scott has lost 30 lbs and I am really proud of him. I need to get on that bandwagon.

8. I have 165 pizza swaps to make for Girl Scout Thinking Day event on Saturday. My fingers will be glued together by the time I am thru.

9. Did I say I'm EXHAUSTED

10. Time for bed. Maybe I will get to work a few hours tomorrow.

SNOWED IN

2011-02-03T18:56:00.001-06:00

We have been snowed in since Tuesday. We got 7.5 inches which doesn't sound like alot but for Arkansas it quite a bit. It is usually gone the next day but the temps have been dropping to the negatives at night so the snow is hanging on. It didn't help that we got a half inch of ice first.

Coco has been entertaining me while we have been home.

Recorder concerts (we called them flute a phone when I was a girl).

This was on Tuesday when it was snowing and blowing so heavily.

We don't have any hills so Coco was sledding off the front porch.

She and Maggie pulling each other on the sled in the street. Luckily we live in a very quiet neighborhood.

Then she decided to run and do the softball slide. Great practice time for softball season coming up.

She might have a sore heiny tomorrow.

Windmill in our neighborhood.

My beautiful girl

Having fun today

Ride like the wind Coco!!

I have a confession to make. All these photos were taken from my doorway using my long range lens!!!

It was way to cold to be out there long!!!

I am going to try sledding into work tomorrow.

The weather men are calling for more snow all day tomorrow, more on Sunday and again next Wednesday. Like my friend said on facebook, the kids will never get out of 5th grade with so many make up days!

Keep warm and keep sledding!

Pam

BLESSED

2011-01-24T21:40:00.000-06:00

I just got off the phone with the sweetest lady. Her name is Willie and she tutored(sp?) Scott when he was in school and they have always kept in touch.
She is now in her 80's living in Tulsa. She is such a neat lady. She went back to college at 40 to get her teaching degree and then taught for the next 20+ years. She hosted a wedding shower for us and was there at Coco's birth, bringing us meals. I just love her.

We hadn't talked to her in awhile so she got worried when she couldn't reach us so she called Scott's parents to check on us this weekend. She and Scott have played phone tag the past couple of days. She called tonight and told me she was worried that we had been raptured and she was left behind. So FUNNY!

She volunteers alot and she is now volunteering at a Assisted Living Home on Mondays answering the phone. Can you imagine? She had just come from taking her recycling out. She's totally up to date with this Going Green stuff. She stays up until one or two in the morning and then sleeps until 10 or 11. I told her she is like a teenager. She told me she prays for us. She prays A to Z when she goes to bed. Whoever she can think of with each initial she prays for. I told that is why she is staying up so late... LOL

Her call just made my day. Shame on us for not calling her more often!

Feeling very blessed to have her in our lives!

Wish she was still living in our area so we could be with her often. She is a very special lady!!!

WEEKEND RECAP

2011-01-23T22:07:00.000-06:00

Another Saturday at the gym watching Coco play basketball.

A special guest this week. My nephew E got to come watch her play. He asked her at lunch why she didn't get that ball in the goal? Innocence is wonderful.

Our girls will FIGHT for it!

Her own little cheering section. Aunt Tammy, Uncle Michael, Mimi, Nana, Papa, Cousins Jake, Kaylee and E.

Saturday night we were with family celebrating 3 birthdays for my Aunt and 2 uncles. These are my Mothers brothers and sisters. Sadly we have lost 2 of her brothers in recent years. I don't see them often so it was good to see everyone. I got a couple of OMG's when I walked in. Maybe I should come around more often.

My first attempt at making a magazine bowl. The inside looks much better than the outside. I have been working on my Girl Scout calendar for the rest of the year and we will be doing a lot of things regarding recycling and reuseing. I have found some great crafts that we will be trying in our meetings. Lots of fun coming up!

Another great weekend has past.

I wish you all a great week ahead.

Be back soon

Blessings

Pam

COCOISM'S

2011-01-19T19:24:00.001-06:00

UPDATED:

I just got this beauty delivered.

It is a bowl made from a roll of tickets. I fell in love with it when I saw it on a friends facebook page.
Just so fun and unique!

Had to share!

Recently Coco and I were discussing an old friend of mine.
Me: I told her the girl was a little "dingy" as in a funny goofy girl.
Coco: What is "dingy"
Me: Funny goofy
Coco: It is also a small row boat!

She said it so calmly and with such finality that I just looked at her and said "Well yes it is my dear, yes it is!

WEEKEND RECAP

2011-01-16T20:38:00.000-06:00

I have had a wonderful weekend and hate to see it end. We were pretty busy all weekend but it was nice.

When I got home on Friday Scott and Coco wanted to go into town to eat. We thought we were getting a headstart on the crowds but we were wrong. Scott wanted a steak but everywhere we went the wait was like 45 minutes so we ended up at Napolis. This was our first time there and it was very good. For you locals it tasted a lot like tontitown spaghetti/pasta. Very good.

Our Saturdays have been spent here

Basketball games. This week we played Westfork and beat them 14-9. Our first win of the season. They might not be winning every game but they are learning and playing hard. Love to watch my girl!

After the game I had a Girl Scout planning meeting but I had to go here first.

My car was so nasty from the recent snow. I couldn't tell you the last time I went thru the carwash but it had been awhile. I had this planned all week because it was so warm on Saturday. I learned my lesson a few years ago when I washed my car in the winter and the next day I couldn't get in because the doors were frozen shut.

Sunday has been great. We went to church and listened to a great sermon. We got out early today so we did beat the crowds and Scott got to have his steak. Coco and I shared some cheese fries and then we weren't hungry for our meal. (imagine Scott frowning at us). We brought it home and ate it for dinner.
I took a quick nap when we got home.

Coco had basketball pictures at 3pm and then she and Scott went out to sell Girl Scout cookies in the neighborhood.

A great weekend!

Wishing I had tomorrow off for MLK day, but my bank doesn't give all those federal holidays.:(

Glad to have a job though!

Blessings,

Pam

FINALLY

2011-01-11T19:55:00.000-06:00

We went from this to

To this

Our bathroom remodel is finally finished.

I still have to get some decor items for the walls and I am not overly happy with the towels that I bought. Need a few more trips to TJ Maxx!

I love it and now want to redo every room in the house.

We are going to start on the other bathroom soon. At least it will only be bead board (we have enough left over), paint, vanity and mirror.

I HAVE A PROBLEM

2011-01-10T20:00:00.001-06:00

I am addicted!!!

To FOOTBALL

Had to watch our Hogs play in the Sugar bowl!

Favorite NFL team Kansas City Chiefs

Currently watching the Tostito Bowl

Auburn Tigers vs Oregon Ducks

GO WAR EAGLE

I love watching football!!!!

68

2011-01-02T18:51:00.000-06:00

That is the number of books I read in 2010. It was probably more like 71-72 I know that I read a couple that I forgot to add to the list. I didn't set out to read a certain number of books but I sort of had 100 in my head.
I have already started on my list for 2011.

It should be easy peesy to keep up with my list on my new NOOK!

I am loving this thing. I knew that I would and my night stand will thank me. No more books stacked up in the way. No more having to remember to bring a book with me in the car. No more runs to the library or runs to the library because my books are overdue. I am saving trees!

I do kind of miss holding a book in my hands and turning the pages. It took a little bit to get used to holding it to read.
So glad I got it even if I had to buy it for myself!

THANKS DAD

2011-01-01T15:24:00.000-06:00

Coco is very thankful for her Daddy for working out in the freezing cold to put up her Trampoline today. She couldn't wait to get on it.

Wonder if I can still do that?

Better not try.

Last time I tried to show off and do a cartwheel, I was sore for a week.

Having fun on our 1st day of 2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2010-12-31T20:36:00.000-06:00

2010 has been ok

But

I am looking forward to a

AWESOME

2011

Be safe and I will see you next year!

Blessings,

Pam

CHRISTMAS 2010

2010-12-26T20:00:00.000-06:00

Coco and I had the hardest time going to sleep on Christmas Eve. We finally went to sleep about 1am and then she woke up her Daddy before 4am and they tried to get me up. I was having none of that. I woke up at 6:30 and woke her up.

We decided that we would only get her 3 gifts to open in reference to the 3 gifts that Jesus received. Well as a Momma I had the hardest time with that. SO I found a huge stocking for some some small things and clothes.

Her big gift was a trampoline. It was to big and heavy to bring into the house so I cut out a picture from the sale ad and put it into a jewelry box. She was a little confused but over the moon when she realized what it meant.

Daddy opening his most precious gift. A coupon book handmade by Coco with lots of foot rubs and dog feedings.

Us at Mom's for lunch. We had a wonderful time with my side of the family. Lots of good ole traditional Christmas dinner foods.

My nephew Dallas and his children Kaylee and Ethan. My most favorite little people in the world.

Coco opening her blanket of Jacob from Aunt Tammy. This was the biggest hit. She made sure to sleep with it last night.

Mimi was very happy with the tie blanket Coco made for her and Pa.

We will be celebrating Christmas with Scotts family sometime this week. I love it when we get to spread it out so that we can enjoy it a little longer.

Feeling very blessed today.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T13:00:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas to all my blog friends!

LOVE IT

2010-12-23T20:26:00.000-06:00

I found this when I walked into the bathroom tonight.

A childs play. Only a Momma could love!

TRADITION

2010-12-17T22:43:00.000-06:00

Growing up we always spent an evening driving around looking at Christmas lights. I don't remember ever going to the square in Fayetteville for lights, we always just drove thru area neighborhoods.

We have kept up that tradition with Coco.

Tonight was an unplanned drive after we left Walmart.

These are a few of our favorites from Rogers/Bentonville Area.

This home is always AWESOME! Don't you just love the ice skaters and all the trees in the background.

We loved this. Did you notice the shadow up on the house. So cool.

Pretty street with several homes in a row!

Fellow HOG fan!

I wish you could see this. It was a cross on the back of a home. You could see it thru the trees from the street.

Thanks to all the folks that decorate their homes for Christmas. It makes my heart happy to see all the beautiful lights. A magical night.

A FEW OF MY FAVORITES

2010-12-15T19:37:00.000-06:00

Just a few of my favorite ornaments hanging on our tree.

Grease! My all time favorite movie. It even plays music

One of my craft projects

A new one I bought after Christmas last year. Loving the Santa belt

Coco's swingset from several years ago

This rooster was on a gift from my MIL

The most important one of all. This is in remembrance that the season is

all about the birth of Christ!

Loving all the Christmas tours in blogland!

ALMOST THERE

2010-12-12T18:34:00.000-06:00

BEFORE

AFTER

We are almost done with the bathroom remodel.

We still need to do some touch up painting and install the vanity when it is finished. We had to order a custom cabinet to fit our plumbing. It worked out better and we will get a little bit bigger one and a cabinet over the toilet.

I am loving it so far. The new tub is not really bigger than the old one but it seems alot bigger when you are showering!

So grateful to be home again.

Very THANKFUL for wonderful In-laws that put up with us and helped with the work for 3 weeks!

We are very BLESSED

We are working on putting up some Christmas tonight. I am disappointed that I am not putting all our trees and decor up. I don't want to put it all out just to take it down in a couple of weeks. I will be working on making it feel more like Christmas this week.

DAY I DON'T EVEN KNOW ANYMORE

2010-12-08T18:42:00.000-06:00

I really thought I would be back in my bathroom tonight. The tile guy tells us we can't use it until Friday night.

UGGGGGGGGGGGG

This is driving me up the wall.

Rhonda asked if the beadboard was board or wallpaper..

It is actual beadboard with the baseboards and chair rail on top. I love it.

He got it all up today.

Scott will get the toilet and fixtures in on Saturday.

We will still have to wait on the vanity but at least I can take a bath.

I might just get some champagne to celebrate!

I will probably need it after all the clean up I have to do!

Oh Happy Days!
Pam

Cocomama

THNAKYOU PINTEREST

PHOTO DUMP OF THE WEEK

INSERT CATCHY TITLE HERE

GOALS FOR 2012

2011 IN REVIEW

MERRY CHRISTMAS

A FEW OF MY FAVORITES

OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS

MY CHRISTMAS PLANNER

Weekend Review

ITS BEGINNING TO LOOK ALOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

WEEKEND REVIEW

ABBI LANE

HOTEL LIGHTING

HOTEL ROOM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

WEEK IN REVIEW

PHOTO SHOOT

GOING TO THE CHAPEL

Girl Scout Halloween Party

BUCKET LIST

A LIST

CAMI SECRET

GIRL SCOUT SILVER CEREMONY

MOVIES

FREEZER MEALS

YUMMINESS

RETAIL THERAPY

CRAFTING INTO FALL

COCKADOODLE DOO

WEEKEND REVIEW

CHRISTMAS IN SEPTEMBER

RECENTLY VIEWED

SUNDAY FUN DAY

SUNDAY FUN DAY

GAME TIME

IT'S GONNA KILL ME

FIRST DAY OF 6TH GRADE

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE 6TH GRADE

GRATEFUL SUNDAY

SMALL WORLD

I GOT SO EXCITED

MY NEW FAVORITE RESTAURANT

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

PARTY TIME

SOMEBODY'S HAVING A BIRTHDAY

NEW RECIPE

SCHOOLS OUT FOR THE SUMMER

OUR SUMMER TIME LIST

HONORED

JUST WHAT I NEEDED

THANK YOU

WAITING

TORNADO WARNINGS

THE DUGGAR'S

WHATS GOING ON?

MOTHERS DAY GIFT IDEA

PLAY BALL

IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS

STORMY WEATHER

EASTER SUNDAY

A GOOD GOOD DAY

TO MUCH TECHNOLOGY

WEEKEND RECAP

GIRL SCOUT CAMP PART 1

REST IN PEACE

CAMP

DAUGHTERS OF THE KING

SUNDAY SUPPER

SHOPPING

WHAT AM I GOING TO DO WITH THIS GIRL OF MINE

WEEKEND

THURSDAYS

A VERY FULL WEEKEND

KIDS SAY THE DARNEDEST THINGS

LIVING WITH A CHRONIC ILLNESS

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

VALENTINES DAY PHOTO SHOOT

BLIZZARD OF 2011