Life is What You Make it

What do you give up?

2012-02-22T20:22:00.002-08:00

OK friends, I have a question ... Judging from my blog reading lately, you're all as busy as I am. Here's what I'm wondering: what are you letting go by the wayside?

It's the beginning of Lent, but what I'm wondering is what do you wish you had time for, that just isn't happening. Is it exercise, home-cooked meals, pursuing a career, time with friends, reading, working on your house?

I'll be forever grateful to all who comment! :)

move over 'bringing up bebe'

2012-02-22T20:13:00.002-08:00

It's been awhile since I've read a parenting book, but this one might need to find a place on my bookshelf! There is an excerpt in the latest (March) issue of Parents magazine, for your perusal. Good 'ol common sense, and totally my philosophy. Take it from me, an excellent parent myself. : )

Busy 'normaling'

2012-02-19T17:51:00.002-08:00

Two days into vacation and LOVING IT. Have been taking walks, watching House Hunters and Pioneer Woman (I have a rustic side!), visiting with friends, enjoying the sunshine, sneaking minutes to read, puttering in the kitchen and RELAXING. Thank you, universe!

once again, keeping it real

2012-02-16T21:48:00.001-08:00

It's been quite a week! No recipes to share. The house is a mess. I now have a full 30 students in my class. I'm a bit overwhelmed at work, and am asleep most nights by 8:30 (except for Monday night when I worked on Valentine-palooza). The subsequent 'food fest' I think is partly to blame for my inertia this week.

I'd be sacked out now, except that Ed and Miss P decided to do a final homework review right before bedtime. You can see where this is going. Short temper and frustration. And Paige was no better. : ) If she were 15 years older, I'd say she was intoxicated. Laughing, crying, and doing her rockstar imitation. Bizarre! I definitely had shake off my zzz's and step in. I'm still laughing inside in horror at some of the antics. My theory is she spends a lot of time holding it together, being the good, dutiful student and daughter. Time to rebel and meltdown! I did get her to share some legitimate frustrations, which was positive.

The two of us definitely need a short vacation to recharge. Good thing one is coming up next week! Hoping we can reset...

On reading

2012-02-12T18:32:00.000-08:00

If you've been here awhile, you know I'm a huge reader. One of my favorite places to be is puttering in a bookstore - just today I was at the library refreshing Miss P's collection. Anyway, it's mama's turn now. I am still finishing a book, with one 'in the wings' of course, but on Valentine's Day, I'm thinking of treating myself to a couple of these beauties. Actually most aren't quite out yet

This one comes out on Feb 14th. I loved The Undomestic Goddess and Remember Me, can't wait for this one.

Kind of a sequel to 'run like a mother,' this one comes out in March. I'm sure I'll be looking for fresh inspiration.

Nie Nie's book comes out in April, I believe. I love memoirs and I'm sure hers will be beautifully written.

Now, for the classroom....new Mo Willems!

Elephant and Piggie is already out! My class is going to be bonkers when they get their paws on it.

There you have it. Some post the shoes or handbags they are jonesing for, I post my books. Happy Reading!

my daily grind

2012-02-10T20:26:00.000-08:00

Paige in front of "our" school

Tonight I'm linking up at Kelly's Korner on a topic close to my heart - Working Moms.

I've always been a bit carefree and spontaneous. I was recently reading posts from another linky party about SAHM's. I noted that almost all of them had planned (like my best friend) for years to stay home, and took the necessary financial steps pre-baby. I was impressed!

Similarly, I guess, in my 20's I had an itchy feeling that I wouldn't be able (financially) to give up working (not sure how I predicted I'd become AND marry a teacher!) I was mildly concerned before I was even engaged about how I'd balance working and my desire to to be totally present for future kids.

Fast forward a bit to the year 2000 in which I married and quit my job to pursue a teaching career. I knew teaching wasn't an easy way out, and truly felt (feel) like it was my calling. A second big plus, however, was knowing how well it would potentially fit in with family life.

And it does, for the most part. I'm now on my 11th year of teaching kindergarten, and if you live in CA and watch the news, you've seen education have its ups and downs. The job has definitely gotten harder.

My second grader, Miss P, and I are out the door around 7:30ish (see post below, under 'what makes mommy mad') every morning for the 20 minute drive to her school, aka my work. I keep my kindergartners reigned in, while teaching them to 'think while they read,' write detailed facts, and write their numbers with proper formation. Occasionally I do this while walking on my hands or riding my unicycle. The kiddos leave at 2:10,* and I gear up for part two of my day, which includes planning, prepping, and meetings. Miss P does her homework with her bf in my room on Mondays, gets picked up by dad on T/Th, goes to an after school class on Wed, and plays on the playground 'under my watchful eye,' on Fridays (when I sometimes haul a*& to leave early). Most days we leave close to 5:00 for the drive home and phase 3 of the day. Tues and Thurs I often stay late trying to catch on my neverending list.

Pro's: There are many. I have the best of both worlds, in the sense that I am working, yet know Miss P's teacher, her friends, and their parents all very well. If I want/need to, I can usually catch a glimpse of her during the day. I check in with her after school for the requisite hug/kiss/how was your day. And I feel like I'm not missing much in that respect. Then of course there are the school breaks, summer and the ability to leave at 3:10 (not that I ever take advantage of it.)

Side note: I had a glorious three year stint of working part-time, teaching with a job-share. That was the life, and I wouldn't trade my days at home for anything! Alas, all good things come to an end.

Con's: The challenges of working with 30 five year olds and their parents is exhausting. I often come home and just want to curl up with a good book. I shushed (without realizing it initally) my husband the other day. I envy friends who have time to exercise and run errands during the day, but I remind myself that most people have 'paid their dues' one way or another. : )

*or whenever their parents get around to picking them up!

Out of the mouths of babes

2012-02-09T19:35:00.000-08:00

Came across this fun idea on Peas and Thank You. Ask your kid(s) these questions!

1) What is something mommy always says to you?
"We are leaving in five minutes!"

2) What makes mommy happy?
"When we are on time. And doing fun crafts with me."

3) What makes mommy mad?
"When we are late." (Are you sensing a theme??)

4) How does mommy make you laugh?
"Telling me jokes."

5. How old is mommy?
"39"

6. How tall is mommy?
"39T" (This was after she had just measured herself in the young children's clothing area at Target, noting that she was quite a bit taller than 5T!)

7. What is mommy's favorite thing to do?
"exercise with the family." (kid's making me look good.)

8. What does mommy do when you aren't here?
"go out to dinner and to the movies."

9. What is mommy good at?
"teaching and being a mom."

10. What is mommy bad at?
"Knowing where to go. I'm not saying you're bad at directions, you just do better with a map." (she's being generous!)

11. What is mommy's favorite food?
"Chili or Risotto"

12. What makes you proud of mommy?
"That you are a teacher at my school."

13. How are you and mommy the same?"

"We are both good problem solvers."

14. How are you and mommy different?

"We are different ages and have different color hair."

15. How do you know mommy loves you?
"Because we do our 'shake' (intricate hug, handshake and clap routine) at bedtime."

Valentines part deux

2012-02-09T07:12:00.000-08:00

Love the wild animal idea? Check out this link to make it even easier. (Alas, we have already done our cutting and glueing of layered animal print paper and such).

Valentines

2012-02-07T18:55:00.000-08:00

Someone (whose name starts with P) going to be busy! Click here for a tutorial on making these 'animal attraction' valentines. (I have a feeling this someone might be a bit busy too!)

House Hunter Bingo

2012-02-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

My family is so playing House Hunters Bingo . Although, we need to create a modified card which includes the phrases: really want an open floor plan, no granite counter tops !?, we like to entertain, and finally 'it could work.'

Fear the...

2012-02-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

Locals and sports fans......turn your head to the side (sorry) who does this 'Abe Lincoln' look like to you????

Carb Lover's (that's me) Mac and Cheese

2012-02-02T06:59:00.000-08:00

I baked this mac and cheese from my new 'can't miss' cookbook The Carb Lover's Diet. The bread crumbs on top make this dish. I tweaked the recipe, by changing the cheese some and leaving out a few small ingredients (the ones that are italicized). I also don't have the individual oven safe 'ramekins,' (hmmm...valentine's gift? oh, you shouldn't have), so I just put mine all in one 6x9 glass dish. Enjoy!

Ingredients

2 1/2 c low-fat milk (1%)
4 T flour
1/8 t ground or freshly grated nutmeg
3 oz reduced-fat cheddar cheese, grated
2 oz smoked Gouda cheese, grated (I used mozzeralla)
2 oz reduced-fat Gruyere or Swiss cheese, grated

1/4 t cayenne pepper
1/4 t pepper
6 c cooked elbow macaroni
1 c unseasoned bread crumbs
2 T freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 t chopped thyme
2 t chopped parsley
1 t olive oil or butter
1/4 t salt
1/4 t pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400.
Whisk together milk and flour in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce heat, add nutmeg, and cook, stirring until thickened, about 10 minutes.
Add cheddar, Gouda, Gruyere, cayenne, and pepper; whisk until melted, 1 minute.

Add macaroni and stir to combine.
Toss bread crumbs, Parmesan, thyme, parsley, oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Place six individual crocks, ramekins, or ovenproof bowls on a rimmed baking sheet. Spoon 1 cup macaroni mixture into each ramekin and sprinkle with 1/6 cup bread-crumb topping.
Bake until topping is browned and cheese is bubbling, 30-35 minutes. Serve hot.

Bachelor Re-enactment

2012-01-31T21:05:00.000-08:00

Just what I needed today! I was alerted to this hilarious re-enactment of Bachelor Ben and Courtney's late night rendevous, performed by Kelly Ripa and Daniel Radcliffe. Fast forward to 10:29 for the full Bachelor low-down.

super sandwich!

2012-01-31T06:48:00.000-08:00

I'm still chasing my tail, but I'm at least taking breaks to cook meals again. (I have not taken a break to improve photography skills.) 'Sandwiched' between all the craziness, Ed and I had that date a couple of weeks ago which inclued a bike ride to a wine bar. There, I had a delicious panini, which I've recreated with some success above.

Grilled Goat Cheese and Salami sandwich

ingredients:

rye or sourdough bread

goat cheese

salami

butter

steps:

Lightly butter both sides of the bread and toast on a griddle. When lightly toasted, set aside and spread desired amount of goat cheese. Add salami. Assemble sandwhich, put back on griddle, and cook a little longer. Press down a bit on both sides of sandwhich with spatula as you cook.

I find this sandwich goes well with a sliced apple. Enjoy!

Friday Fun

2012-01-26T20:42:00.000-08:00

Oh, it's been a tough week. I'm going to spare you the details. I will say I have not prepared a single meal, that's how bad it is (I won't be getting on the scale anytime soon.) My friend Hilary over at Pulling Curls just tagged me though, and as I'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I thought it'd be fun to do her meme.

The rules:

1. You must post the rules.

2. Post 6 fun facts about yourself in the blog post.

3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post and then create 6 new questions for the people you tagged.

4. Tag 6 people and link them on your post.

5. Let them know you've tagged them.

Here's my answers to her super fun questions:

1. how do you cope with the yucky season where you live (here it's summer, there maybe it's winter)?
Oh Hilary, you know there is no bad weather in San Jose! I do dislike heavy wind. I'd say when it is cold, windy, and rainy I try to embrace it. Make hot chocolate, watch movies, read books and find the *romance* in it.

2. Tell me something you like about me or my blog? (I need a little self esteem boost lately)
I love your sense of humor, dedication to your kids, discipline, and photography skills.

3. Name a movie you can quote several lines from.
Easy. When Harry Met Sally. "I'll have what she's having."

4. Least thing you like about mothering.
Brushing and flossing teeth.

5. Favorite thing about being a wife (keep it G rated, people)
Two things, as I'm feeling generous.
One - always having my best friend around.
Two - those moments when you see your husband after a long day, or perhaps in a different environment, and you are reminded how handsome and charming he is!

6. If you could've majored in anything in college, without thought to what you'd do with it afterwards, what would it have been?
Drama. I had an acting bug. Wouldn't that have been fun?

O.K. now six fun facts:
1. I just started reading Kristin Armstrong's Mile Markers. Maybe this book will get me back 'hooked' on running.
2. Disneyland is a favorite vacation spot.
3. I only own one lipstick.
4. I'm starting to get gray hair. : (
5. Riding my 'beach cruiser' style bike makes me feel like a kid.
6. I'm behind on my goal to write a thank you not a-day for 2012. But, I'm always full of hope!

I tag anyone who has had an insane week. Go ahead and use the same questions. Remember, it's been that kind of week!

weekend update

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Great weekend! Ed and I had an impromptu date when Miss P was invited to a grandma sleepover. We rode our bikes to a wine bar (no one was saying, 'keep pedaling!' 'good job!' or 'a little to the left') and later had dinner out. In between we caught up on a lot of conversation. We are looking forward to our next date night in 2013 and I'm feeling reassured that E and I will have something to do when P leaves us (11 years from now??)

At the end of date weekend we joined four other families for a 49er party. Oh, so close! Heartbreak in overtime. All 9 kids had a blast.

Moms did too!

Cheers!

2012-01-20T16:01:00.000-08:00

Cheers to Fridays, playdates, girlfriends, hot chocolate and snickerdoodles!

Wordless Wednesday - Valentine Mantel

2012-01-18T06:53:00.001-08:00

Mealtime Monday - CarbLovers Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema

2012-01-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

I haven't shared a recipe in a while. This is from one of my new favorite cookbooks - Carb Lovers Diet Cookbook, that I mentioned in one of my last posts. I cheated though lightly fried some flour tortillas - DECADENT! I could only have one.

CarbLovers Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema

Ingredients
1 poundmedium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
8 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed
2 cups shredded lettuce
1/4 cupfinely diced red onion

Preparation
In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with chili powder, cumin, and pepper. In a small bowl, stir together sour cream and 1 tablespoon lime juice. Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat; sauté shrimp 3 minutes, turning once, or until done. Remove from heat; toss with 1 tablespoon lime juice. Fill warmed corn tortillas with shredded lettuce, shrimp mixture and diced red onion; drizzle tacos with lime crema.

Donuts with Dad 2012

2012-01-16T09:10:00.000-08:00

Paige and daddy on a date!These two love reading Shel Silverstein poetry, eating donuts, watching Kung Fu Panda Legends of Awesomeness, and bike riding together.

These three loving laughing, being goofy and using the word 'weird' (especially the two on the left!)

2nd grade at it's finest!

Our Biggest Loser

2012-01-12T17:13:00.000-08:00

Our whole family loves this show! Are we taking it too far?

weight loss winners

2012-01-10T23:45:00.000-08:00

I'm still home riding the recovery wagon. I considered going back today, but Ed and the doc requested at least one more day at home. I've been doing some catch-up work on the computer and feel a little weight off my shoulders. Aahh. Almost ready to catch up with The Bachelor and the Texas Multi-Mamas and maybe even a nap!

First though, a little update on one of my goals - to get fit by 40, and lose those extra pounds! Something is different about me this January. I was hesitant to commit to a weight loss plan, because I didn't know if I was serious enough about it. As I told my mom, I love my food and I don't know if I have the willpower! When you are healthy, and don't look half-bad, it's harder to feel the sense of urgency. (As Dolvett on Biggest Loser would say, 'where's your sense of urgency??') Well, once I did decide to do it, I have been really motivated! I have been counting calories and trying to eat only 1700 a day. (This may sound like a lot, but I really ate whatever I wanted before, probably 2500 a day). I was going to let myself splurge a bit on weekends, as I told Ed, this has to be a regular way of life that I can maintain, but I found myself not wanting to. (I did have a couple glasses of wine, so I guess that counts as my indulgence.) Anway, I lost 2 pounds! I'm pretty happy about that. I expect the pounds will start to come off slower, hopefully I can stay focused.

One thing that has made it so easy was a few tools I discovered. As a (wannabe) cook and healthy person, I tend to shun freezer meals, and always looked at diets that were all made from whole foods. Then, I would get turned off, because there were so many ingredients, little bits of this and that, and things that I didn't like to eat, or were unfamilar with, and suddenly the whole thing lost its appeal.

Now I've found this...

This The CarbLovers Diet Cookbook is a great cookbook! This has partly answered my question: how do I sastisfy my family's appetite and make something appropriate for myself for dinner? And did I mention, I LOVE CARBS!

This book Eat this, not that supermarket guide has also been amazing for me. I've had such fun toodling around my grocery section of Target considering all sorts of different things, and looking them up in my new companion. Remember how before I said I didn't want any pre-prepared foods? Well, turkey sandwiches also get pretty boring for me, so if I didn't have leftovers from dinner, a lot of times I was caving in at the last minute and getting food out for lunch. EVEN WORSE. So I toodled around checking out some new options and found this:

It cooks up in about a minute and is 320 calories. Add some fruit/veggies and you're set with a tasty, decent lunch. I'm still mostly eating whole foods, but I've found a few other pre-packaged goodies that have far fewer calories than my normal fare and are so easy and yummy.

I'll share more soon. I think it's time I checked in with my tv ladies. How are you doing with your resolutions? If one of yours is to get fit, check out this inspring lady - are you kidding me???

a sick day treat!

2012-01-09T13:56:00.000-08:00

I'm home with something today - sinus infection? flu? This is day 2 of being out of commission and it wouldn't be any fun at all if not for reality tv. I have found a new guilty pleasure (!) - Texas Multi Mamas - which is a Real Housewives wanna be, focused on moms of multiples in the Plano texas area. It is on the WE channel. I also dabbled a bit in Dance Moms. Have you seen either of these shows??

last chance workout!

2012-01-06T16:19:00.000-08:00

I've been doing this Jillian Micheals Workout, and let me tell you, it is a killer. It is appealing, as it combines cardio and strength training without any equipment required, and in 16 minutes (although I require a little warm up before launching into the move above!) My body has been sore all week. Out-of-shape, much??

Quick New Year's Recap

2012-01-06T06:57:00.000-08:00

We partied it up at our kids and parents New Year's Eve party at our friend's spacious new house.

The kids really stole the show initially with their dance performance (!!! I deleted those pictures!) but the 'grownups' took over finally after bedtime with a Wii dance marathon of their own (no photos taken). I needed a ponytail and change of clothes!

Latest Read

2012-01-03T22:33:00.000-08:00

Over Christmas vacation I read a bunch, inhaling books and magazines like water. In addition to this book, I read and LOVED When Did I Get Like This? so much that I bought it for a couple of girlfriends. I love memoirs and it is laugh out loud HILARIOUS. I highly recommend it.

A movie that did not get good reviews, but that I am anxious to see on direct TV is 'I Don't Know How She Does it.' I read the book and loved it of course. Even if the movie is a little silly I'm thinking I might get a laugh. While my job isn't in a male-oriented dog-eat-dog (or as Gloria would say 'Doggy dog) world, there is still plenty to relate to. Mom power! : )

New Years Resolutions!

2012-01-02T21:59:00.000-08:00

Hi Y'all! I still am working on some glitches with uploading photos, so while I don't have any (of my subpar) : ) pictures, I do have my resolutions!

I love resolutions, fresh starts, and plans. I drove everyone crazy determining my resolutions for this year - they had to be just right.

1) I will write a thank you note every day, inspired by the book A Simple Act of Gratitude. I have already written four!

2) I will lose 15 pounds by June 1st. (I'm actually hoping to lose 20, although that is probably a stretch.) I struggled with whether I was actually willing to commit to a diet, since I love my food and have little willpower in that area. Plus, I'm able to carefully camouflage myself in clothing so that I look fine. However, I have found a few more flabby spots in the past 6 months (?), and when I visualize my ideal self 10 and 20 years from now, in addition to the touches of gray, I see a leaner me. Why the June 1st deadline? I turn 4-0 that month and how better to curb the pain than to rock a pair of shorts - or a swimsuit??! I will be calorie counting and using a few trusty books as resources, and doing a Jillian Micheals 20 minute ultra-efficient workout 4-5 times a week.

3) Finally, I will do my darndest to get all of my 29 students to exit kindergarten knowing the entire alphabet. Many are already there, but I am going to take it up a few notches to move those students who are not. It might seem crazy that some kids might still not know the alphabet after 9 months in school. With second language learners, little home support, and learning disabilies it does happen.

What are your resolutions??

Christmas

2011-12-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

A new camera+new compuer (RIP to my previous blogging tools) and an insane week leading up to Christmas resulted in minimal posting. Time to remedy. I took hardly any photos but want to recap our fun week.

Out of work Friday afternoon, December 16, and my student teacher presented me with this gingerbread house she made of our school. I keep finding more details! After a nap at home I headed to our staff party, and then topped the night off with a late night visit to Target - the last before the holiday.

The next day was lots of fun - we headed to Livermore for our family hair cut and style outing, shopped for stocking stuffers, lunched at Fuddruckers, and hit the jackpot at Old Navy - I think we made money. Then it was off to my aunt and uncle's party where we celebrated with my dad and other relatives. We stayed with my mom and stepdad and went sledding the next day and then I had the yummiest Pasta Carbonara ever at Wine and Roses.

We hightailed it home with just enough time to unpack before we met up with two of my awesome girlfriends and their kiddos. We took the pack of all boys + Paige to a trampoline place and then over to my gf's house for a yummy potluck (who am I kidding - she did everything.) I do not see these girls enough, so this get-together was a huge treat!

Then Miss P had her girlfriend time. I had promised her a baking playdate with a small group of friends, but with everything going on we compromised on one friend and her little brother. It was such a cozy day, baking cut-out sugar cookies and doing crafts. Paige's bf's mom stayed =ing more girlfriend time for me!

The girlfriend bonding continued with a night out at another bestie's house celebrating friendship, good cheer, and her brand new kitchen! We ended up putting the kids to bed, watching a movie and sleeping over. The girls were so stoked. Here they are (with Paige in her dress from the night before).

In between all of this craziness I made about five ('this is the final') trips to Target, wrapped all of the gifts, readied the guests quarters, and then the 23rd was upon us! We visited with some other longtime friends at an eggnog party and came home in time to welcome my brother/sister in-law and their clan.

Christmas Eve was morning was spent getting the whole family together at Ed's dad's house, then the younger troops moved on to our house. Football, crafts, movie watching and cookie decorating ensued.

After more eating, drinking, gift opening, etc., most of the gang went home, and it was time to prep for the big guy! Paige never went to sleep so fast!

Here she is Christmas morning!

She loves her new leappad, playmobile pool set, and Cookie dog. We had a great Christmas day and bid our last guests adieu in the afternoon.

This week has been all about cleaning up, and catching up. I have even been into work twice to ready Room 2 for 2012. Resolution/goals post upcoming!

Wordless Wednesday - Paige's Pre-Christmas Shopping Efforts

2011-12-28T16:09:00.000-08:00

Paige's favorite Christmas movie

2011-12-22T10:51:00.000-08:00

Never fails to make us laugh!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-21T11:13:00.001-08:00

Husband gift

2011-12-14T20:50:00.000-08:00

Guess I'm doing a bit of a gift theme. Ed's big gift this year was fitting both of our cars in the garage last weekend - 'a Christmas miracle!' This morning Paige and I were brainstorming something else for him - he is sooo hard to buy for. We had the same idea at the same time - Giants tickets! However, her guess was that they would be $6 a piece. Late this afternoon I entered my classroom after meeting briefly with someone to find the little miss on my computer skimming the Giants website! She crowed when she found out that there were some games with ticket prices starting at $8. However we did a little better than that. : ) Club level, baby!

colleague gift

2011-12-14T06:50:00.000-08:00

The last week of school before holiday break, I figured all the staff would be stretched thin like me! So this year I baked muffins for a quick and easy breakfast on the go. No pictures of the actual muffins : ( (use your imagination), but they rose up to perfect cones on top. Tupperware from Target (they have a parking space their for me now.)

bookworms

2011-12-10T19:10:00.000-08:00

On Friday we had an awards assembly at school. Paige earned an award for reading! Here she is with some of her good gal pals and their awards.

She won an award at this exact same time last year for reading also, along with one of the same friends, pictured below. Happy reading, girls!

Fun Little Neighbor Gift

2011-12-08T20:19:00.001-08:00

I love coming up with fun, inexpensive, and useful gifts for colleagues (we do a lot of gift exchanging at school) and neighbors. Recently, I found a to die for treat on Pinterest - chocolate peanut butter pretzels - and I gave them a holiday spin with these red and green M&Ms.

Popped in a festive red take-out food container ($1 at Micheal's) and a little play on words gift tag, and you have yourself a happy holiday gift!

Here's the oh-so-easy recipe. One of the best parts - Kids can help!!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Bites

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter

2 tbsp softened butter

1/2 cup powdered sugar

3/4 cup brown sugar

pretzles

1 bag chocolate chips

red and green M&Ms (you could do blue and white for Hannukah)

Directions:

Combine peanut butter and softened butter in a large bowl. Add the sugars and mix. Next, roll the butter/sugar mixture into little balls and sandwich between two pretzles on a cookie sheet. Stick the tray into the freezer for about half an hour.

Pour the chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl and heat at 30 second intervals, stirring occasionally until completely melted. Remove the pretzel sandwiches from the freezer and quickly dip each halfway into the melted chocolate. When all are dipped, return to freezer to set up completely. Store the sandwiches in the refrigerator until serving time.

Happy Advent

2011-12-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

I have been leading a dual life lately. Hardworking teacher juggling 3-D shapes and reading strategies during the week, and Santa's elf on Saturday and Sunday. My big project last weekend was getting my take on Paige's advent calendar ready.

I had been setting aside cute little holiday things for awile (long sleeved tees from Old Navy, holiday books) and just wrapped them in this red and rustic color scheme I'm liking and added these white numbers.

She loves it!

Is Santa real?

2011-12-03T09:06:00.000-08:00

Paige (age 7) has been asking me the age old question, 'Is Santa real?' I had been replying with variations of 'yes,' 'tell me why you are wondering?', and 'do you think he is real?' Finally, about a week ago, I told her: 'OK, daddy and I are the ones doing the presents. But it is Santa that represents the idea of giving and caring.' We talked about St. Nicholas and how he, Jesus, and God are what inspires the acts of Christmas. I just came across this letter on the site cozi.com from Martha Brockenbrough of Marthabee that does a beautiful job of explaining this in a letter, much more eloquently (than I did on the fly in the car). Martha and her daughter regularly exchange letters - what a great idea! Here it is:

Dear Lucy,
Thank you for your letter. You asked a very good question: “Are you Santa?”
I know you’ve wanted the answer to this question for a long time, and I’ve had to give it careful thought to know just what to say.

The answer is no. I am not Santa. There is no one Santa.
I am the person who fills your stockings with presents, though. I also choose and wrap the presents under the tree, the same way my mom did for me, and the same way her mom did for her. (And yes, Daddy helps, too.)

I imagine you will someday do this for your children, and I know you will love seeing them run down the stairs on Christmas morning. You will love seeing them sit under the tree, their small faces lit with Christmas lights.

This won’t make you Santa, though.

Santa is bigger than any person, and his work has gone on longer than any of us have lived. What he does is simple, but it is powerful. He teaches children how to have belief in something they can’t see or touch.

It’s a big job, and it’s an important one. Throughout your life, you will need this capacity to believe: in yourself, in your friends, in your talents and in your family. You’ll also need to believe in things you can’t measure or even hold in your hand. Here, I am talking about love, that great power that will light your life from the inside out, even during its darkest, coldest moments.

Santa is a teacher, and I have been his student, and now you know the secret of how he gets down all those chimneys on Christmas Eve: he has help from all the people whose hearts he’s filled with joy.

With full hearts, people like Daddy and me take our turns helping Santa do a job that would otherwise be impossible.
So, no. I am not Santa. Santa is love and magic and hope and happiness. I’m on his team, and now you are, too.
I love you and I always will.
Mama

Advent Calendar Love

2011-12-03T08:57:00.000-08:00

The Christmas spirit is alive and well here at the Riley household! Immediately following Thanksgiving I was actually dreading some of the work involved (bah, humbug!) It may have been the ridiculous amout of hours I spent creating our cards, or the inordinate amount of time I mulled over co-worker gifts, (move on, sister.)

Last night I atteneded my first seasonal shindig, with girlfriends no less, and had a ball. I now have a burst of energy and with music playing and BHG as my inspiration, I'm ready to deck the halls. One of my big to-do's this weekend - figuring out an advent calendar/gift display. Here are some of my favorites!

Source: danimariedesigns.blogspot.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Finally! An advent calendar that might work for me! I've been giving Miss P gifts one by one, as I've tried to come up with a homemade display. If I can get it right, I'll post my results.

Books for advent!

Do you know how 'me' this is???

so true, yes?

2011-12-01T20:58:00.001-08:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Bill on Pinterest

Kid-Made Holiday Gift for Parents

2011-11-30T05:00:00.000-08:00

Source: marthastewart.com via Jen on Pinterest

I have THE hardest time each year coming up with a gift for all of my students (28 now) to make for their parents. It needs to fit these requirements:

1) Be cute.

2) Be somewhat useful/functional

3) Not be too Christmas-y as not everyone celebrates the holiday.

4) Be very inexpensive to make. (Remember, I have 28 of these that need to be created, even $5 a piece is too much).

5) Be doable for kinders (with some help) and not overly time consuming!

See what I mean? I'm considering these calendars....

Holiday Programming!

2011-11-29T21:10:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. I had such a restful break, then returned to the classroom to a snowfall of new challenges. Luckily, our Christmas cards got ordered the weekend (after 4 hours of work - what is wrong with me?) However, my pumpkins and scarecrows are still gracing the doorstep! I think I can get away with my Fall decor until December 1st. Hopefully tomorrow afternoon I can 'winterize' a bit.

Another holiday project I took on in my spare time last weekend was organizing my holiday programming. I don't watch a ton of TV usually, but love to indulge in Christmas movies and specials. I have a big fondness for Hallmark movies. Here are some of my favorites - mark your calendars!

Trading Christmas - new movie based on book by Debbie Macomber. Just saw it last weekend, and very cute. Similar to 'The Holiday.' Friday, Dec 2 at 8:00 p.m.

The most wonderful time of the year - another rom com worth watching. Next showing, Dec 2 at 10:00 p.m.

The Christmas card - my favorite! I'm telling you, this one is high quality. December 8th at 7:00 p.m.

Now, here are some HGTV specials!

Sarah's Holiday Party - Could not confirm time on this, however, the episode is available on the site.

HGTV Holiday Block Party - 12/24, it premiered last weekend and I can't believe they aren't going to show it again until Christmas eve!

If you are a fan of Design on a Dime and the Hi-Lo Project, they have special episodes too. Set your Tivo's!

Stationery card

2011-11-26T11:34:00.001-08:00

Classic Initials Christmas Card

Browse Shutterfly's unique Christmas card designs.

View the entire collection of cards.

Happy Thanksgiving Apple Dumplings!

2011-11-23T08:55:00.000-08:00

A few years ago in my days as a fledgeling cook. (Oh who am I kidding, I still am a fledgeling cook.) Anyway, super-fledgeling cook me was paging through Rachael Ray's magazine and decided to give Angela Kinsey's Grandma's Apple Dumplings a try. They looked just easy enough for me.

Once again, they will be my contribution this year. I may know a few more recipes, but sometimes you've got to hold on to tradition! Get your fledgeling (or not) hands ready to try this quick dessert.

Source: beckybakes.net via Jenny on Pinterest

Apple Dumplings

4 servings

Ingredients:

Flour, for dusting

one 8-0z can crescent rolls

1 granny smith apple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 wedges

1 stick (4 0z) butter

3/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinamon

3/4 cup mountain dew

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On a surface dusted with flour, unfold the rolls. Place an apple wedge on the wide edge of each piece of dough and roll up; place the dumplings in an 8-inch square baking dish.

2. In a saucepan, melt the butter with the sugar and cinnamon over medium heat. Stir in the Mountain Dew. Pour the mixture over the dumplings. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remvoe the foil and bake for 15 more minutes.

Source: oneshetwoshe.com via Mary on Pinterest

Source: oneshetwoshe.com via Katie on Pinterest

Farewell, Pirahnas - may you always be 'on the attack!'

2011-11-21T21:30:00.000-08:00

Saturdays just won't be the same
Without a 10 or 2 o'clock soccer game
Families yelling, 'yea, pirahnas,' or 'go pink!'
The season went by in a blink
The girls passed, blocked, and scored
There was never time to be bored
The season ended, it's time to celebrate
The Pink Pirahnas Team, Under 8!

Proud players!

Proud dad!

Baked Pumpkin Risotto

2011-11-18T16:00:00.000-08:00

I have pumpkin fever! I'm guessing we'll be doing pumkin for the next week, right on through Thanksgiving. Tonight it's pumkin ravioli, earlier this week it was pumkin risotto. I love risotto! I combined a couple of different recipes and was pretty happy with the results. Ed liked it too.

Needed - 2 casserole baking dishes, one with a lid

Ingredients:

olive oil
1 3/4 cups arborio rice
4 cups of chicken stock
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 can of pumpkin
1/2 sliced onion
1 chopped garlic clove
salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly coat casserole dish with olive oil. Pour rice into dish and cover with chicken stock. Add some salt, stir, and cover.

Empty a can of pumkin into another baking dish. Add onion, garlic and salt.

Place covered rice dish in oven for 45 minutes or until rice is tender and most of the stock has been absorbed. Pumpkin mixture should cook in the oven for same amount of time on the shelf underneath the risotto.

Five or so minutes before items are finished baking, melt the butter on the stove in a small sauce pan, until it browns. Take out risotto and pumkin, and add the pumpkin into the risotto dish. Top with parmesan cheese, and finally the burnt butter. Voila!

AG Fashion Show

2011-11-15T21:00:00.000-08:00

Last Friday morning, Paige got an unexpected call inviting her to model in an American Girl fashion show! Just like in the movies, someone got sick, and fortunately, we were in the right place at the right time. (And we had a connection, her cousin Caitlyn -- pictured above).

We weren't allowed to take pictures during the show (lest the models be blinded by all the flashing ), so I had to settle for these shots 'out back.' Paige modeled Bitty Baby sleepwear with her new friend above. They bonded over a little potty talk.

The fact that Paige hadn't rehearsed and didn't know what direction to go didn't dampen the cuteness. Nor did the fact that she and her friend ended their runway walk by laying on the floor in a sleeping pose. This appeared not to be part of the planned act and the girls were prompted by the emcees to 'wake up.'

We haven't received any offers to do any catalouge shoots yet. But, the fashion show folks (Palo Alto Auxiliary) did say they'd invite us back next year!

2011-11-14T21:57:00.000-08:00

What is your favorite time of day?
I love the morning, when I can sip my hot cup of coffee and catch up on the news (um, blogs). However, my favorite time of the day lately has been night. (When I can eat chocolate and catch up on blogs.) After a day of teaching, meetings, parenting, commuting, more parenting, cooking, cleaning, playing and bedtiming, I love having an hour or two just to do whatever I want.

Sitting in bed with a stack of magazines is one of my favorite ways to spend this time. Tonight it will be the December issue of BH & G. On Monday nights, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills join me for the event. How do you like to spend your precious hour of downtime?

Crowd Pleaser Fall/Winter Dinner!

2011-11-13T08:05:00.000-08:00

I have this fabulous friend. (OK, I have a lot of fabulous friends.) This friend is so busy working as a teacher and being supermom to her three kids that she doesn't have time to peruse the Internet (gasp!) and last year wasn't even quite sure what a blog was. About a year ago, she was catching up on her overflowing email, and came across a link I had sent her ('send me your blog info, I'd love to check it out,' she had asked. Remember she is a fabulous friend.) Anyway, my latest post had been about having a hot chocolate tasting. My friend had been trying to come up with a festive December breakfast idea for staff at her school. She was sold at hot chocolate! 'Now, I understand the purpose of blogs,' she told me.

I think I've done it again! This time the a-ha is a 'Please Everyone Fall/Winter Dinner.' Last night we had over two families for supper club and I was distracted with P's last soccer game and festivities. It was chilly and rain was threatening. Let's do grilled cheese and tomato soup! Our diners were aged 3 to 4oish, and have a variety of preferences when it comes to food. No problem! I whipped up some tomato soup and had all the fixings on hand for grilled cheese bar.

The kiddos all opted for cheddar on french bread. A few were daring and requested some bacon on their sandwiches. They had apple slices, edaname, and carrots on the side. The grown-up favorite was gruyere cheese with bacon and apple slices on sourdough - yum!

This was just so easy. We had french and sourdough bread, a platter of different cheeses, apple slices, and bacon. You could also do guacoamole, tomatoes, grilled onions, pancetta, the list is endless. Kids can have their sandwiches cut into shapes. Or you can cut all sandwiches into appetizer size triangles and people can try different varieties. The host can make all the sandwiches, or guests can make their own.

Speaking of fabulous friends and grilled cheese, I just remembered that One Fabulous Mom had a similar menu at her Trick or Treat Party. Maybe this idea will inspire another fabulous friend, who knows?

lessons and suprises

2011-11-11T11:43:00.000-08:00

Lessons learned this week...

blogging is fun.

lunch is fun.

blogging about making school lunches....not so fun (or interesting).

muffins are yummy!

Mama Pea's blueberry streusel muffins are extra yummy! (OK, I already knew this.)

You never know when a surprise around the corner is coming.....

surprise #1: Yesterday after sending my kidlings (students) home with their report cards, and reading miss p's, I just felt so done. Ed was at school picking up Paige to take her on a playdate. I looked around the classroom. Everything was ready for Monday. However, there was a pile or two or three that really needed sorting/organizing/putting away. What to do? Nose to the grindstone? Or spontaneous afternoon date?

Well, I threw caution to the wind and after dropping Miss P at her soccer pal's house, Ed and I poked around downtown Sunnyvle and I caffeinated. (Not that it helped - I was asleep at 8:30. Fell asleep during our family viewing of this week's Biggest Loser. Unheard of.) Ed was very excited about the spontaneous date today. The piles will wait, I guess.

Surpise #2 - today as we were lounging around before attending an American Girl Fashion Show including my niece, I got a call from my mil. A model is sick. Can Paige be in the show too? Can she? We are very excited and primping as I speak (type). Ed is too. He can't wait for us to leave for hours.

Do surprises come in #3's? I hope so.

Goin' Someplace Special

2011-11-09T18:48:00.000-08:00

There's a sweet book called Goin' Someplace Special. It is set in a 1950's southern town. A little African American girl is heading to the one place that allows people of all colors -- the public library. Like Tricia Ann, the library is a special place for me too (for clearly different reasons.) It is such a thrill to be able to get an armful of books -- for free!

Paige and I headed over there today. Here's what I got:

Left Neglected - Kind of a deeper version of I don't know how she does it. In this book, our protagonist -Sarah- is an uber busy career woman and mother who ends up in an accident leaving her unaware of anything on her left side. She is forced to rebuild her life.

Double Delicious - by Jessica Seinfeld, sequel to her Deceptively Delicious. I am not a big puree person, but think this book will be fun to try out, even it I leave out that puree part.

Just let me lie down - by Real Simple editor Kristin van Ogtrop. A collection of crazy stories from the working mother. Another book I wouldn't have bought, but am happy to peruse.

Paige got a collection of Nancy Drew Clue Crews.

I'm off to another special place, my couch for the weekly Modern Family viewing!

...and another lunch

2011-11-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

The latest in this week's parade of Paige lunches....PB & Apple Sandwich, raisins, strawberry yogurt, edaname, and graham crackers.

In other news, you know that feeling of satisfaction you get after finishing a marathon project? I'm relishing that now....report cards are done!

hop to lunch!

2011-11-08T20:43:00.000-08:00

Paige's bunny lunch - pasta with marinara sauce, bunny bread, carrots (of course) and grapes.

Let's do Lunch!

2011-11-06T23:00:00.000-08:00

Filled with enthusiasm after Foodbuzz on Saturday, I decided to pose myself a challenge for this week - make some fun lunches for Miss Paige and me!

I've always been a bit envious of my co-worker's lunch. She always has a hot and hearty meal to get her through an afternoon with kindergartners and the ensuing parent pickup, prep, and second shift at home. She once told me her 'secret.' When she plans dinners for the week, she always has lunch in mind. In fact, she said, dinner planning "is all about lunch, and what will make good leftovers.' Interesting way to look at it, I thought.

My lunches are pretty hit and miss. Meaning sometimes they are good, and sometimes I 'miss' them (don't make 'em) and head out to a local eatery for my food fix. Cha-ching. Worse, sometimes I throw together a blah lunch and when noon rolls around, I can't bear to eat it, and my eatie self goes searching for something more tasty. Cha-ching, Cha-ching.

Paige, on the other hand, usually has pretty good lunches, made by chef daddy. Why mess with success? Ed detests making lunch, like our friends over at DALS. I don't mind it. Ed also pretty much makes her the same thing each day, with some small variations. I say, 'lunch is what you make it. Why not make it fun?' And with that, I give you day one's offering above: zoo pasta, animal crackers, sliced carrots and grapes. Nothing fancy yet....but, it beats peanut butter and jelly, right?

right?

mindful muffins

2011-11-06T12:28:00.000-08:00

So. Yesterday, I made a quick stop at Trader Joe's. I'm waiting in line and practicing being mindful of my surroundings (eavesdropping), when I hear a couple of women talking about an item in the store they can't find. Suddenly one woman's face lights up in recognition as she points at an item displayed right next to the check stand. "There it is!" she squealed. She proceeded to tell me (and anyone else paying attention) that this pumpkin bread/muffin mix was like a visit from God. That was enough for me. What a perfect breakfast before Church Sunday morning!

Miss P and whipped them up last night, deciding to add some chocolate chips, (and frosting to some). They were quite yummy, and I like how versatile they are (like most muffins). They can be dressed up for dessert (pictured here) or pared down for a healthier breakfast or snack. I can't wait to try more varieties.

FoodBuzz!

2011-11-06T07:48:00.000-08:00

Coolness alert! I last minute snagged a Foodbuzz ticket!

It would have been quite the thing to stay the whole weekend and really soak in the food and atmosphere. I decided to go to the one snippet I really wanted to see -- my favorite blogger Mama Pea, on the panel - Taking Your Blog to the Next Level.

The advice from the bloggers? Be yourself in your writing, post daily (or often), focus on good pictures, and invest in a quality header/design. Everything Joy the Baker said was hilarious. Sarah (Mama Pea) was adorable, Kath (Kath Eats Real Food) was super nice, Tracy (Shutterbean) was very knowledgeable and impressive, and Jessica from How Sweet it is was so cute with an infectious laugh.
At the end of the round table, I finally got the nerve to introduce myself to Mama Pea and get a photo. I also got some dough balls!

I rode home full of ideas for my blog. The morning was a success!

caprese, pleasey

2011-11-03T22:44:00.000-07:00

What a week! Was Halloween really just a few days ago? There has been a whirlwind of activity on the school front, planning and voting on the dreaded upcoming furlough days (and bracing for the pay cut), and working on report cards. Tomorrow I am headed to a meeting to help plan for 'transitional kindergarten' next year. A whole new grade....because the state is overflowing with money for education. : ) Thank goodness they will have my experience and brainpower in the think tank.

What's a gal to do? This is when I find I really need my favorite comfort foods. A plain old turkey sandwich isn't going to cut it! I love a good caprese salad for a lunch at school. So easy. I try to go heavy on the cherry tomatoes and light on the mozzarella balls (which I quarter). Drizzle some balsamic vinegar and olive oil, and add in some torn basil leaves if you like. Voila! I like to pair this with a slice or two of plain wheat bread.

I understand that there are going to be a lot of administrators at the meeting tomorrow.....better start slicing!

Happy November!

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

Starbucks holiday cups are here! Ed was talking about Christmas stuff being out in the store, and I said - 'dude, it's less than two months away and getting closer every day! Serious business!'

However, Thanksgiving had this to say -

Are you making your Christmas (planning) lists yet?

Halloween!

2011-11-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun last night! We trick or treated with Paige's best friend and family. Paige is a spy - so chic in black. Her friends are a 'Kellog's box top for education' (isn't that the best??) and a box of raisins.
After a yummy dinner, we trolled the neighborhood for 2 hours meeting up with all different families along the way. The girls wanted to hit every house with a light on.
Here's the crowd waiting in line for our featured event - a trip through the local haunted house. It's actually less about 'haunting' and more about an experience. This year's theme was wax museum. You were 'guests' visiting a wax museum.
This was the British invasion room, with all the wax 'statues.'
Then in each room, the tour guide had to excuse herself to answer the phone, or use the restroom.
And all the statues would come to life, playing music and signing autographs.
Same thing in the Star Wars/Star Trek room. The last room was the haunted room - no pictures! Kids got their candy on their way out at the 'gift shop.'
Afterword - the great candy count and sort!
Such a fun night. I wonder if am going to have some tired students today?

On a very granola Halloween's Eve

2011-10-30T22:25:00.000-07:00

It's been very unlike me, not to have hustled the family to multiple Halloween events by now. Heck, Paige has only worn her costume once. And she only has one costume. (Yes, there have been years when there were two costume options, depending on the weather or mood of wearer. You remember three year olds.) I'm blaming our lack of festive activity on Ed's Sunday football obsession, or Paige's Saturday soccer. Either way, I'm blaming sports.

Today was the day to set things right. I decided we'd check out Full Circle Farm's Harvest Hoedown. Now, I will out myself and tell you that I lean more toward a 'commercial' experience. I love the pretty open spaces and the farm setting. But, give me a snack shack with caramel apples, hot chocolate and a hay ride and I'm really happy. Like here.

Back to the story at the local farm. It was very sweet and Paige had a great time. There was definitely a farm crowd element, with lots of tie dye, dreadlocks, and fanny packs. Paige waited patiently to feed the chickens while some guy talked on and on to the chicken docent about the merits of food scraps versus chick feed.

There's a cute chick(en).

Paige painted a pumpkin. There was no water to clean the brushes between users. (You just picked up whichever stiff, painty brush was available.) That would not be green.

And made a clay (i.e., mud-like ) critter. Yea. There were no baggies to transport still moist critters. (They take about two hours to dry in the sun.) That would not be green.

Finally, "we" made a corn husk doll. If you want to make a corn husk doll, see the directions below.

If you would like reports on fish, hamsters, or dogs, especially dogs that are 'cute and easy to take care of,' I can help you out. Paige writes on both sides of the paper. Because she is green.

Paige rated her farm experience as a '10.' I was just happy to be out of the house, together, and in the sunshine. Even without the caramel apple.

Busted!

2011-10-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

So. I've been working on my cooking skills for nearly two years, and thought, why not foray a bit into baking?? Our school's Halloween Happening Carnival, featuring a bake sale, seemed a great opportunity. Hence, I've spent the week with many a baking misadventure.

There were the Mud Monsters - too chocolatey. (Yes, such a thing exists).
The glazed pumpkin cookies - delicious, but not pretty. (Dude, these things are for sale.) Not pictured. : )

And the delicate spiderwebs - oops, won't transport well. (Duh.)

Now, these treats didn't go to waste. We had a big party for our departing school psychologist (wah!) on Tuesday night, and that's where the mud monsters and friends headed. No complaints!

Finally, though, with time running out - I decided to go with a quick and easy mix (that's the busted part) Betty Crocker sugar cookie. Of course, I still had to make it complicated for myself! I think I finally got it right, though, a solid Halloween (transportable) cookie.

(doesn't the shadowy photo add a little spooky ambiance? I totally planned that.)

Voila! The Ghostie.

I'm sure many a sugar cookie would do. For kicks, here's what I did. I took the Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix and followed the directions adding an egg and a stick of softened butter. Then, I added two cups of flour. (The directions specified less, but I found I need those two cups.) I refrigerated the dough for 45 minutes (another must, I found). Then, I rolled out the dough, and used my ghost cookie cutters to cut out these guys. I baked for 8 minutes. I've heard the key is to underbake j-u-s-t slightly. I added prepared white icing. Now, to make the eyes, there are many options. I found Target has little candy eyeballs around Halloween time that work well (see Mud Monsters). If you are not transporting, black gel looks good. Chocolate mini M&M's would work. I used chocolate chips. Not my first choice, as they made rather big-eyed ghosts, but that's what I had available.

I'm happy to report that they seemed to go over pretty well at the bake sale. I called people who bought and ate them 'Ghost Busters.' If you are planning a bake sale, cake pops, donuts, and popcorn are hot items!

All the kids, including mine, had a great time at the event.

And the icing on the cake was, I did too! (Buh duh dum!)

My favorite girl, and maybe my favorite recipe

2011-10-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

I'm not the only writer in the house! This morning, Paige's class held a mini-writing celebration for families. Paige's teacher stayed with her after school on Friday until 4 p.m. perfecting this piece. My girl is a workhorse. (Her teacher isn't too shabby either!) Paige's memoir is of her seventh birthday party. Apparently Build-a-Bear and its accoutrements was worth it!

Afterwords there was cookie and juice for the kids, and I decided to snap a few pics of P's artwork. Above is her depiction of a city. You can't make it out here, but there is a "Jean Paige" (or by its more well-known name, Paige Denim) store on the left hand side - yellow building on end.
This is her original 'Wild Thing,' inspired by Maurice Sendak's classic.
And finally, a traditional pumpkin picture. I'm thinking there must have been an art lesson on scale, balance, space, or something in there somewhere. I like it!

During the events, I snuck over to my classroom and peaked in the window. I noted a couple of cabinet doors open, which told me that my sub was probably tearing the room apart looking for something. I correctly guessed scissors and brought her a couple of extra pairs lickety split.

After that amazing save, I got to read with kids, hang in the classroom, and be a mama for the rest of the morning. (By the way, do you know the book Thank You Mr. Falker ? Even after hearing it, and reading it multiple times, I still bawl. I seriously need help.) I returned to my kinders in the afternoon and then helped my big kid (student teacher) plan her upcoming lessons after school.

Today wrapped up with Shrimp and Shiitake Risotto. I can't believe I haven't shared this recipe (Fitness magazine, January 2011). It may be my favorite!

Ingredients

4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
3 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
1 cup Arborio rice
3/4 cup dry sherry or dry white wine
4 teaspoons olive oil
6 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stemmed, caps sliced (about 2 cups)
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
Pinch salt
3/4 pound medium shrimp, shelled and cleaned (tails removed if desired)
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer; reduce heat to low and keep warm.

2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion; saute until softened, 3 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of the garlic; saute 30 seconds. Stir in the rice, then add 1/2 cup of the sherry; cook until absorbed, stirring frequently, about 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup of the broth, stirring until absorbed, 2 minutes. Add remaining broth 1/2 cup at a time; stir each 1/2 cup until absorbed before adding the next. Cook, stirring frequently, until rice is tender and creamy, 20 to 25 minutes.

3. Heat 2 teaspoons of the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and saute until golden, 5 to 7 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon each of the garlic and thyme and the pinch of salt; saute 1 minute and transfer to a plate. Add remaining oil and the shrimp to empty pan; cook 2 minutes. Add remaining garlic and saute 1 minute more. Add remaining sherry and simmer 1 minute, until shrimp are just barely cooked through; set aside.

4. When the risotto has finished cooking, stir in shrimp and liquid, mushrooms, Parmesan, parsley and remaining thyme. Warm 2 minutes. Spoon into bowls and serve.

Lasagna's Cousin

2011-10-23T20:28:00.000-07:00

So on Sunday's, when I only have 40 things to do instead of 107, I like to cook something a bit more labor intensive for dinner. (It should be noted for context purposes, that it takes me about 60 minutes to make most of Rachel Ray's 30 minute meals. It should also be noted that in the past, I have considered 'healthy nachos' a weeknight dinner. Full disclosure, people.)

Anyway, today I stayed home from Paige's late afternoon soccer 'defensive drill' class to spend some quality time with a new creation I'm calling 'baked veggie spaghetti,' or her preferred name, 'Lasagna's cousin.'

Lasagna's cousin likes veggies. Lasagna's cousin would prefer to be photographed under better lighting. Lasagna's cousin would also prefer my family buy her a drink before so rudely slicing into her.

Ingredients:
box of spaghetti
2 teaspoons canola oil
salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup diced onion
1 cup diced yellow summer squash
1 cup diced Portobello mushrooms
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 jar of tomato sauce
3 cups low-fat ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese

Steps:
Preheat the oven to 350 and grease a 13 x9 baking pan

Cook spaghetti according to package directions, until it is al dente. Be sure to use plenty of (lightly salted) water in the pot, so spaghetti doesn't stick. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a medium size pot and cook ground turkey. Add onion, garlic, squash, mushrooms, basil, and oregano. Cook, stirring, until the meat is browned and the vegetables softened. Drain fat.

Ladle about 1 1/2 cups of tomato sauce into the pan and spread evenly. Layer a third of the spaghetti over the sauce in an even layer, and top with half of the turkey mixture.

Spoon the ricotta into a Ziploc with the corner snipped off and pipe cheese evenly over the sauce. Top with another third of cooked spaghetti. Repeat, layering with sauce, spaghetti and turkey mixture.

Layer final spaghetti on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and shredded Mozzarella.

Bake for 40 minutes.

Eat after a long day parenting, or your soccer sprints.

let's just say...

2011-10-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

Let's just say your husband, someone who's known for coming home from the grocery store with this....

pulls a fast one, and comes home with THIS

Let's just say a moment of craving hit, and you had, I don't know, a couple hand fulls of these and fell asleep on the couch. For instance.

Let's say, the next night you wanted to make something healthier for dinner.

You might make this: (inspired from Peas and Thank You)

Clean and Healthy (for me, I mean, someone) Thai Salad

Ingredients:
1/2 head of cabbage, shredded
2 carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks
4 chopped green onions
1/2 cup wheat berries
1/2 cup roasted, salted peanuts

Instructions:
First put wheat berries in a pot, cover with water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 45 minutes, until chewy. Drain.

Place cabbage in a bowl and add carrots, onions and wheat berries. I cheated and finished off with Annie's Natural Shiitake & Sesame salad dressing (instead of making my own.) Top with peanuts.

Crunchy, fresh and yummy.

spooky walk

2011-10-17T20:05:00.000-07:00

How do you get in the Halloween mood when it is 80 degrees out?
Go for a spooky walk! Paige and I love to walk the gorgeous neighborhood behind our house oohing and ahhing over the festive and sometimes deliciously frightful displays. Evenings hold a special thrill, with the darkness all around. We keep our eyes peeled for orange lights! Paige snapped on her little pedometer and we got a bit of a calorie burn as well.

Oh, and I can't forget that this guy got a little walk.

And then was ultimately carried (his barking startled the other neighborhood dogs). Try your own spooky walk and let me know how it goes!

the family that shops together....

2011-10-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

I was a little hesitant when Ed offered to go grocery shopping...

Usually when he goes, he comes home with this:

I may be a Whole Foods girl, but I'm also a 'no-extras-only-what's-on-the-list girl.' (this does not apply to magazines). Chips and cookies are rarely on the list. Anyway, we decided to do a fun jaunt to the store together.

There was some dividing and conquering initially. Then I discovered the bulk bins during my quest for wheat berries. I've certainly seen the bulk bins before, but it was like a mysterious aisle. Why should I grab a plastic baggie and buy from a bin, instead of what appears to be the same items already packaged a few rows over? I sampled a few cereals (fruit juice sweetened cornflakes and brown rice krispies) along with different varieties of granola. I found some cornflakes that had only four ingredients and 2 grams of sugar. They were delish, and they found their way into my cart. When do you ever get to sample cereal before selecting??

Somehow, these still found there way into our cart...

Baby steps!

all in a Saturday

2011-10-16T23:05:00.000-07:00

From soccer...
to soiree.....
my little girl cleans up good!

Happy Weekend!

2011-10-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

Happies

It's 85 degrees.

I just received my new US magazine.

I also have my new library book Carrots 'n' Cake based on the blog of the same name. It's a good one!

The weekend is stretched out ahead of me.

Miss P has two girlfriends over and they are happily playing dog family.

Concern

Apparently, the dog families need their own bedrooms, and I hear Paige offering up her 'mommy and daddy's room' as an option.

Question

What should Ed and I do for a date for roughly 90 minutes tomorrow (while P attends a birthday party 15ish minutes from home - seems a waste to go back)? Oktoberfest event? Hiking nearby?

pumpkins on the porch

2011-10-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

During the weekend run-around, I dashed into Marshall's looking for a birthday gift. Didn't find one, but I did find this print. $10! I may be clumsy with crafts, but I sure can spot a good bargain.
I decided to mix it up on my Autumn mantle. Not sure if I'm loving it there. Aren't things always a work in progress?
OK, I do take the worst pictures of all time. This was shot with my cheapy point and shoot at about 7:00 p.m. in terrible light. Not sure when I'll get a chance to get a decent one, so, here it is, my fall porch in all its glory. Trust me, it looks cuter in person. Ed loves the hay bale!!!

Happy week!

Weekend plans

2011-10-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

Big weekend on the horizon.

Last night Ed went to a concert - Foo Fighters? I'm not even sure. I hosted a play-date to help out my friends who are moving into their new house. We dined at a little Round Table in Willow Glen, scoring a table by a big screen TV that started to play Shrek the moment we sat down. The kiddos got little plastic toys from the gumball machine. All was good.

This morning I'll be hitting Target as the doors open to buy a birthday gift and I'm sure multiple other things I can't live without. I am jonesing for some new fall nail polish - see above. Then we zip to Paige's soccer game. From there, we make our 45 minute trek to our favorite family hair salon. And not a moment too soon for these roots! I do love leaving the hair salon feeling like a new woman! : ) Meeting mom and stepdad for dinner in hair salon town, and returning home just in time to hang out with brother and sister-in-law who are spending the night (with their 4 year old twins and au pair). (OOh, better ready the office at some point.0

Doesn't end there. Tomorrow at nine is Sunday School time, followed by a birthday party at 11:00. I'll use this time to grocery shop, and then before I know it -- time to get ready for Monday.

I do have the finale of The Real Housewives of NJ to look forward to tomorrow night. Although (I can't believe I'm saying this) I'm actually getting a little tired of them (gasp!) : )

What are you doing this weekend?

Pumpkin Panckes!

2011-10-06T21:03:00.000-07:00

On our annual family camping trip each summer, one of the mainstays is a hot breakfast after a chilly tent-spent night. At least one of those mornings pancakes is on the menu. We do the quick and easy Bisquick variety - we are camping after all!

At home though, I've gotten a little 'fancier,' lately. You know, with an actual kitchen and all. Even with a bed and four walls, I'm still in need of some comfort though. (Those kindergartners don't teach themselves!) And my homemade pancakes now have an Autumn twist.

Pumpkin Pancakes

Ingredients
1 3/4 cups Gold Medal All Purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 1/2 cups organic milk
1 cup Libby's Easy Pumpkin Pie mix

Directions
Whisk flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and cinnamon together in a large bowl. Next add in milk, stirring until batter is combined. Spoon and stir in pumpkin. Do not over mix.

Coat a griddle generously with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Scoop 1/3 cup batter onto griddle. I like to use a perfectly round 1/3 measuring cup for a nice even shape. Cook 3 to 4 minutes until bubbles form and then carefully flip. Cook another 2 to 3 minutes until done. Pancake should be a nice light brown!

Repeat with remaining batter. Top with maple syrup or add your favorite whipped topping.

Welcome October

2011-10-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to welcome the month of October! The next three months kicks off my second favorite time of the year. I did some Fall decorating about a week and a half ago, but am a purist and would not take out my Halloween decorations until October 1st! I have just a little more to go, and would take pictures, but sadly my camera stinks. I will tell you that Target was extra stocked with all kinds of enticements - everything you would need for a Halloween party, I had to put back the bat pinata and the pumpkin bowling set. Anyway.

Here is an 'Autumn Chicken' for your Sunday! (Recipe from Too Many Cooks)

Ingredients:
olive oil
6 chicken cutlets
salt and pepper
a small block of good cheddar cheese, sliced into matchsticks
3 gala apples, peeled and sliced into crescents
toothpicks

Directions:
Rub a baking dish with olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and place the strips of cheese in the center of each cutlet. Add apple slices on top of the cheese. Roll the cutlets from one end to the other and spear with toothpicks. Bake at 350 for about 35 minutes until chicken is cooked.

Paige, girl spy

2011-10-01T07:37:00.001-07:00

I just need pictures of the 'spy lair' under the table!

what I've been up to...

2011-09-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hello Blogging Hiatus.

The past week and half was all about non-stop parent/teacher conferences (after teaching all day, in 90-degree weather, in our non-air-conditioned rooms.) Hello Indian Summer at its finest.

We have found time for a little fun in between. Here are some highlights. Sadly, a lot of them involve TV. Hello, new Fall Season!

My girlfriend Beth hosted a Favorite Things party, where you bring a favorite item, and people yankee swap them. Lots of laughs. I walked away with a Starbucks card. Boo-yah. But seriously, someone brought a garlic press. Is that really your favorite thing? I love garlic, but c'mon. Great theme for a party, though!

My class is AWESOME. (quick, knock on desk.) It has been such a DREAM teaching them. I also have some great parents and have been really feeling the love. It it nice to feel appreciated!!

The only exercise I've done is yoga, which is just what my achy muscles need at the end of the day. Paige, on the other hand, has been very inspired by our favorite show The Biggest Loser, which we just watched on Thursday (tivo'd from Tuesday.) Yes, Paige cross trains while we zip through commercials. I'm talking jumping jacks and skipping back and forth across the room as her 'cardio.' For her 'strength' she does a very odd push that looks like a downward dog in motion, along with some kind of sit-up.

Last night, we treated ourselves to a showing of Dolfin Tale in 3D. Paige proclaims it, 'the best movie we ever saw.' At $41 for the three of us, it better be.

Throw in some hysterical laughing at Up All Night and Modern Family and you have my week!

After school snack - banana bread

2011-09-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

I do a thing with my kindergartners that just cracks them up. Whenever one of them solves a challenging math equation or completes some other amazing feat (like sitting perfectly quiet), I faint. The kids go crazy.

On Friday afternoon, after school, I literally collapsed.

Into bed that is. I was suffering from a migraine and 'female issues.' I slept for two hours!

But not before I hosted a play-date and baked Banana Chocolate Chip bread with Miss P and her sweet little friend. Recipe adapted from The Family Kitchen by Debra Ponzek.

Ingredients
1/2 cup canola oil
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips
3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350. Grease a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan with butter.

Whisk together oil and sugar in large bowl. Add bananas and eggs and mix well with spoon.

In another large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk well, and then add banana mixture. Stir in milk and vanilla. Fold in chocolate chips.

Pour batter into greased loaf pans. Bake about 65 minutes, or until inserted toothpick comes out clean. Enjoy!

Girls Night!

2011-09-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

Relaxing, venting, and 'pouring' my heart out with college besties at our 'quarterly' get-together at Underdog Wine Bar in Livermore.

First Soccer Game, or "the one where I need therapy"

2011-09-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

Meet the Pink Piranhas!

These little girls won 4-2 yesterday. It was an awesome victory, as we practiced all summer, and were given tons of help from another experienced team and their generous coach. Ed has teased that alongside that team we have been a bit like the bumbling Bad News Bears. Not yesterday though, when our girls dominated. It was a little bittersweet for me, as I felt all the girls but Paige really did their personal best. (She kicked the ball once.)

Paige has made good strides in her dribbling and passing. Yet she is not a fast runner, and holds on to a fear of getting hurt. (This is a big trend in her bike riding, as it took forever for her to ride WITH training wheels, now we are working slowly on weaning her off of them.) The other day at practice, there was a drill where a parent would lob a ball out, and two girls would chase it down. Whomever got it first would turn it around toward the goal and try to score. The other girl would automatically be on defense and would have to book it back toward the goal. Every time in this drill Paige was second to the ball and had to zip back to defend. This time, she was trying her best, but she thinks too much which slows her down. My heart broke a tiny bit as she really pushed and fell over the other girls' feet as she went for the ball, hitting the ground. Ed and I insisted she 'pop' back up and keep going. And after some brief sweaty tears she did. We were really proud. She got over it and did well the rest of the practice.

I'm always the positive, relaxed mom (I think?). But such a tiger has appeared and taken my place with soccer. Both Ed and I have had to work on giving limited 'pointers,' and focusing on what she has done right.

Anyway, Paige is still enjoying soccer and I think it is character-building for her to fall down and get back up again. (Literally and figuratively.) Apparently, it is also character building for me. The blessing in all of this, is that Ed could care less, and said he was on the bench a ton during his sports career, and it is what it is. We sure are a balance!

Here's to the next game, and me chilling out!

the gals are back!

2011-09-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

Which story do you want to hear tonight?

1) How my ridiculous co-worker tried to snare new student paperwork out of my mailbox (because I am getting an apparently coveted new girl)?

2) How I successfully navigated my 27 kinders through their first full day, including lunch, with only one bloody nose?

3) My fabulous karaoke performance at 6:45 tonight at the school social?

4) Paige's karaoke wonder performance at letsgetthelloutofhere o'clock?

5) The early demise of another goldfish, (upon arriving home full of ice cream) and ensuing meltdown? (Paige was sad too.)

I don't want to hear about those either. I do want to hear from these ladies though. Can you blame me from wanting to turn my brain off a little?

I'm even going to watch Kate plus 8!

Mealtime Monday - Happy Labor Day! Pancakes

2011-09-05T10:32:00.000-07:00

I love breakfast. Especially on the weekend, when I want to sip, my coffee, read and indulge. However, I can sometimes be lazy when it comes to preparing it (read: Starbucks run, anyone?) When Paige wakes me up looking for 'breakfast and a show,' I've often made the sleepy trip down the street to my neighborhood 'bucks for coffee and scones while she happily watches 'yard crashers' on HGTV on the couch. Today I've reformed myself with Peas and Thank You's Apple Cinnamon Pancakes. Here's the recipe, which for me, made 8 medium sized pancakes.

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/4 cup organic sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tbsp baking powder
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cups organic milk
1 medium organic apple, peeled and roughly chopped (about 1 to 1 1/2 cups)

Directions:

Whisk together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and cinnamon.

Slowly add in milk, whisking just until batter is combined. Gently fold in chopped apples.

Coat a large skillet or griddle with cooking spray and heat on medium. Scoop 1/4 cup batter into pan and cook 3 to 4 minutes until pancake edges start to brown. I like to use a perfectly round 1/4 measuring cup for nice even pouring. Flip and cook 2 to 3 minutes more.

Repeat with remaining batter. If desired, put pancakes in the oven set at 200 degrees on baking sheet to keep warm. Heat maple syrup on stove. Serve with syrup and butter if desired.

Sunday Night Chef

2011-08-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

Remember how you used to be up cramming for classes? I've been doing the mom version of all nighters -- Sunday night meal prep. The last two Sundays I've spent between 5 and 11:00 p.m. doing the following (with breaks for childcare).

1) cooking dinner
2) cleaning kitchen
3) making lunches (by the way, it takes Ed more than 30 minutes to make two lunches when it is his turn. How? Why?)

And then...

1) Roasting a chicken, shredding, and tupperwaring it. (Like my new verb?)
2) Cooking up a pound of pasta. Tupperwaring.
3) Baking muffins for breakfast. Saran Wrapping.

The pasta gets doled out for lunch and dinner servings as needed. The chicken is added to salad, tacos, etc. Tonight we enjoyed what Ed has dubbed: Mama's Big Tacos. I do make a good taco.

Rachel Ray has a feature in her magazine this month involving making 20 dinners in two big sessions. Little much for my fridge. Do you meal prep??

gadget free fun - pop beads!

2011-08-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've posted one of my famous gadget-free fun ideas....but these pop beads are inspired. Miss P's cousin turned us on to them and they provide endless entertainment. You can make jewelry, people, critters (they have some separate kits that also specialize in making different things). You do need a little fine motor coordination and this is perfect for practicing that. Great birthday gift for ages 4 to 9!

Happy (belated) Birthday Miss Paige

2011-08-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

Paige turned 7 on August 25th!

Miss P, watching you grow and evolve has been the most amazing experience of my life. Over the summer, at 6 3/4, your social calendar was intense, with multiple playdates and activities every week with your girlfriends. You have just learned to swim independently and loved being in the pool all summer. You are spreading your wings, learning to play soccer and showing interest in gymnastics. And you are reading whenever you can! Rainbow fairy chapter books, Ramona books, and American Girl stories are your favorites. You are so done with princesses. You love collecting things, and playing with small toys, like Littlest Pet Shops, Zoobles and Squinkies. You are really developing a sense of humor, and are always trying to come up with jokes. Most of them make no sense, but lately you are really learning to play with words. Like, 'that desert table is deserted!' You still love Doggie to pieces. Literally. And even as you are changing and growing, you are still so loving and affectionate. I'm so lucky I get to participate in your life!

newest Riley...

2011-08-23T20:54:00.000-07:00

We were excited to meet our newest niece, Devon last weekend.

Paige is a fan!

One week down

2011-08-19T15:56:00.000-07:00

Made it through the first week of school! There have been tears, vomit, and pee (apologies to my more delicate readers), HOWEVER, it has been one of the best first weeks in my 10 year teaching history. I'm not sure how much is due to a few small tweaks I've made to routines, how much is luck, and how much is due to just my general fabulousity! : ) Kids are 'getting it', responding well, following directions, and are laughing and happy. Let's hope this continues!

Miss P had a great first week also. Although, there have already been two occurrences of 2nd grade girl meaness. One friend, "H," asked Paige to help her avoid another friend, "N." The parent of a classmate of Paige's told me after school today that another girl had told her daughter, 'you aren't allowed to talk to Paige.' Her daughter was therefore afraid to talk to P or the other girls in their circle. Sheesh!

Lots of family visits and birthday parties on tap for the weekend. I am also reminded of something I read recently -- Food first. Last weekend we were uber busy before school started and I never grocery shopped. All this week we were slapping meals together. I missed breakfast. I have been a lot more motivated to be active lately, which is awesome, and a little more motivated in the food dept., but now it is time to put it in action.

In between family and food prep this weekend, I'm hoping to have some time to relax with a magazine, drink a starbucks, and play. It's still summer!

First Day of Second Grade!

2011-08-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

With her swinging ponytail and jack 'o lantern smile, my Miss Paige happily started 2nd grade!

How can I forget?

2011-08-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

Eddie greeted me last night (after an intense prep week in the classroom) with the following (in this order):

1) glass of red wine
2) US magazine
3) roast beef dinner with strawberry, gorgonzola, and walnut salad
4) coffee ice cream for dessert
5) tivo'd movie (which sadly I had to pass on - bed at 10 p.m.)

Oh, and he cleaned up dinner and put Miss P to bed. Guess I'm doing the same Farewell to Summer Routine next Friday for him! (High School starts the 22nd)

Classroom ready!

2011-08-13T08:13:00.001-07:00

School starts Monday! My classroom is ready.
My student teacher is great. The usual behind-the-scenes dramas have played out.
All I need to do now is raid Paige's crayons for some final first day supplies!

Wordless Wednesday - Paige's Build-A-Bear Birthday Bash

2011-08-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Get Fit for 40 update

2011-08-09T22:15:00.000-07:00

I never shared my get fit by 40 plan. I'm sure everyone has been waiting breathlessly. I'm a little tired to post it all now, but the first month entails:

runs 3x a week
yoga or strength training 2x a week
healthy, balanced, low-fat, non-processed breakfast every morning
vitamins

Next month I will keep up these plans and add the next phase, etc.

Here's a little food for thought (for me):

Push yourself. Pledge to do one thing that's uncomfortable each day, whether its knocking off five push-ups or replacing the fries you love with the green veggies you don't. This 'constructive discomfort,' is an investment to get what you really want. It's like building mental muscle -- it's called self-discipline.

It is so hard for me to break out of comfortable habits! I am back at work this week, up and at 'em early. Late this afternoon, I had a craving and broke into a box of junior mints. I felt so guilty afterward! I'm hoping I make a better choice next time. I did get a decent run in tonight. Babysteps!

Stinson Beach and SF Giants!

2011-08-07T08:57:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing time on our Stinson Beach getaway! I am such a water girl. There is nothing like sitting and staring at the ocean. Unfortunately in Northern California, you have to drive over some kind of curvy hill or mountain to get to any beach. This was definitely the longest and windiest, but it was worth it! White sand, clear water, and our days were WARM!
I think all of us needed some to do nothing except walk along the beach..
play in the sand...
and build sand castles. (Cannot take credit for this one though!)
We had some amazing dining experiences. We lunched at Surfers Grill right on the beach, and had dinner at the Sand Dollar. Good food, live music, eavesdrop-worthy conversation and interesting people all around. Our server was very friendly and called us the 'Stripes Family.'
Breakfast was at this cute place called Breakers, conveniently located next to the darling Stinson Beach Bookstore. Ed had to drag Paige and I out of there so we could head down to SF and the Giants game!
The Giants have such an awesome location and stadium. It is a party!
The team is barely holding onto first place, and has had a lot of bumps and losses this season. This day, they won -- was it 8 to 1, or 9 to 2? I don't remember, but it was a big win, and THE WEATHER - it was 80+ degrees - crazy!
Stinson Beach - we'll be back!

Off to Stinson Beach!

2011-08-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

See you in a few days!

Paige the Pet Owner

2011-07-28T09:26:00.001-07:00

Who'd have thought that winning three fish at a carnival would result in 2 hours of research on tanks and $100 worth of gear? When we teach about goldfish at school - yes, its part of our kinder science curriculum - they arm us with a bunch of fish and a small plastic rectangular container!

Anyway, Miss Paige has a new pet. Three of them actually - Penelope, Olivia and Grace. Their tank is a bit of an eyesore in my lovely kitchen, but Miss P is sure loving them! (And they are quite soothing to watch)

New book - Peas and Thank You!

2011-07-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

Just got new healthy cookbook - Peas and Thank You by blogger Sarah Matheny. Love it! It is a vegan cookbook, and while I'm not vegan, there are lots of yummy looking things I can't wait to make. I was reading through the breakfast section alone last night and it was never-ending. So many reci-peas! : ) What I also loved with this cookbook, is that the author has a cute story/anecdote with most of the entries. She is clearly a blogger, and a witty one at that. If you have kids, and/or are trying to eat healthy, check it out!

Meal-Time Monday - Dessert!

2011-07-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

While watching the Next Food Network Star Cupcake challenge, Paige and I decided we had to have a little dessert. So during the commercial, P put on her own show and made a semi-original creation - Around the House Ice Cream.

Scoop of vanilla
and then your favorite chocolate or crunchy snacks you have 'around'
we used:

Annie's Natural Chocolate Chip Bunny Grahams
Chocolate chips
Cheerios
Dash of Chocolate Sauce

It was delicious!

latest adventures...

2011-07-24T20:35:00.001-07:00

We've had a nice two weeks around here...I promise you I love my job, but the idea of going back to the day in/day out, all-consuming hard work of teaching is enough to make you want to completely ignore the calendar and Target Back to School flyers!

First, a little bit of grown-up fun. Two weeks ago, Ed and I hit his hero Eddie Vedder's concert in Oakland. I am more of a 'pop' girl myself (our last show was Black Eyed Peas!) but the concert was AWESOME! Btw, I am not wearing a white bra, I promise you. I don't know what that is under my shirt. This is one of those days Paige and I raced back from somewhere (the pool?) and I quickly freshened up before taking P to Grandma's b4 'date night.' Everyone there was sporting the 90's grunge look anyway!
Gilroy Gardens! Paige and I got together with our besties for an amusement park day later in the week.
The kids loved going on all the rides without an adult, and sitting at their own table at lunch, etc.

What's this weird rainbow thing, you say? Last week Paige spent a few days at day camp with school friends. Cooking day was fun, Adventure day was 'weird' (she was mortified because it was more of a superhero day, where the kids had to go one at a time through an obstacle course with everyone watching, followed by a rating?) Craft day, however, was a HUGE two thumbs up. Apparently, colored duct tape crafts are all the rage! I didn't take pictures of any of Paige's crafts - I should - she made a purse and a wallet, and then later some accessories for Doggie. You can find all kinds of pictures online of teens who have made prom dresses out of duct tape, people who have made shoes out of it, etc. One of Paige's friends bamboozled her mom into buying a whole bunch of the stuff, and the girls have been making additional pieces whenever they can. I spent as much time as I could at school working on ORGANIZATION, the usual lack of which is what drives me crazy all year!
And finally, we just got back from a weekend in Santa Rosa, visiting sister & brother-in-law and cousins. (Do you like Ed's hand trying to tilt nephew's head toward the camera?) The kids had great fun swimming, practicing soccer skills, visiting this cool park featuring a carousel, bounce house, etc., and just generally being crazy.
During some downtime, I finished reading Friendship Bread, which was nice, and I now have a little reading secret...I am currently wrapped up in a Danielle Steele book. 44 Charles Street. D.S. repeats things over and over, but I do find a book of hers with a plot I like every once in a while. A friend and I were talking the other night about what drives us more to read a book: the amazing writing, or the plot/topic. You ideally want BOTH. If I had to pick one though, I can forgive some writing quirks if the plot/characters or topic is one that I am interested in. What about you?

Speaking of questionable entertainment, I've been crazy for Real Housewives of New Jersey and can't wait to watch tonight's tivo'd episode! I've also recorded the first two episodes of Big Rich Texas, and am planning to check that out. Are you watching? What do you think?

Fit by 40!

2011-07-22T21:53:00.000-07:00

I love this commercial! Have you seen it? This partly inspired my fit by 4o campaign!

Here's the gist....I'll be 40 next June and ever since my birthday one month ago, I've been mentally preparing myself. I think the only way I'll be able to stomach leaving my 30's is to feel like I'm in my best shape ever! What better way to feel better about your age than to defy it by being more energetic and toned than before?

I am also inspired by a girlfriend who turned 40 last Fall and ran 4 10k's to prepare. She feels great and is in amazing shape!

I love to plan, and as I started to 'hatch' this one, I asked myself what it means to be fit. For me, I decided that being fit means spending lots of time being active, eating well, taking care of yourself, and maintaining a healthy body.

Next post - how will I achieve this!

Why I love blogging - KIT

2011-07-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been thinking about all the reasons I love reading blogs. Here's one -

About four years ago, a teacher friend showed me a blog written by a parent at our school. At that time I think I had just started stumbling on blogs and had one I was addicted to. I was so impressed by this woman's photography and the bells and whistles on her blog. I started to read it here and there, and then comment. Finally I was courageous enough to talk to the gal in person!

I eventually started my own blog and Hilary has been a great source of comments. After meeting via blog we started a 'real life' friendship. I could find her most days on the kindergarten playground, aka 'the hangout' after school chatting with the other moms. I'd run over there from my classroom sometimes for a quick catch-up, or laugh with her at a committee meeting or sit next to her at a school event.

A few weeks ago, her family started a new adventure, moving to AZ. I will miss her when school starts (now it feels like we are just all on vacation), but through her faithful blogging, I feel like I can still keep actively in touch.

And that is one reason I love blogging. The stories, photos, and videos that make you feel almost like you are there. Has blogging helped you stay in touch with a friend?

MealTime Monday - Balsamic Steak

2011-07-18T08:29:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've got my recipe on. This steak is quick, easy, and yummy - my three requirements. : )

(This recipe feeds four. The amounts can definitely be tweaked to your liking!)

You need:

4 6-oz beef eye round steaks
kosher salt and pepper
3 teaspoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons of sugar
1 clove garlic sliced
1/3 cup sun dried tomatoes thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

First, heat a large skillet over medium high heat and swirl in some butter. Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and sugar. Sear the steaks in the skillet for about 4 minutes on each side. Transfer to a cutting board and tent with tin foil.

Next, reduce the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds with a teaspoon of sugar. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes and vinegar. Cook for a minute. Then, add the chicken broth and let it cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, letting it all come together.

Finally, add the steaks back on to the skillet with the sun dried tomato mixture. Layer the tomatoes on top of the steaks and let the flavors come together for a minute. Then remove from skillet and thinly slice onto plates, pouring some remaining sauce over each.

Goes well with corn, salad or both!

Birthday Party Planning

2011-07-15T11:24:00.000-07:00

Miss Paige will turn 7 near the end of August. It is always a hectic time as that is when Ed and I are back teaching (she was born on the first day of school 7 years ago!), and she has accumulated many friends and cousins since then. Two of those good friends and cousins have birthdays within days of her. So in between scheduling challenges there are also time, space, and money dilemmas. We have gone the 'throw money at the problem' route and had her party at cool play places, like a cooking gig at Cucina Bambini, and we've had creative home parties, like her Olivia-themed party last year. I am finding it is harder to manage a party that doesn't leave any crucial person out, keeps kids engaged, and isn't super expensive.

This year we were thinking of a pool party at our beloved cabana club, but there is an issue of the guest list getting crazy with possibly lots of parents needing/wanting to stay for safety (which might be a good idea anyway), and the weather being questionable even in August (this week the high has been like 75 degrees! and it has been quite overcast). We also considered a detective party, which would be fun and doable (now that we have finally trimmed the guest list in half - got it down to 10 children including P, which coincidentally is the same number we got it down to last year), however it would require a lot of work from yours truly. I love this kind of creativity, however my house and classroom are also calling for a lot of my attention. I am such a perfectionist with stuff like this, I would spend tons of time on it.

This brings us to option 3: A build a bear party. This was Paige's first choice actually. I kind of nixed it, as I considered this more of a 'shopping' experience, rather than a play with friends 'bonding' experience. However, it is starting to look better. It means no work for us; parents could easily drop off and pick up their kiddos at the mall location. I'm sure the kids would love it, and stuffed animals are her favorite thing. P and I have been watching build-a-bear parties on youtube, etc. for research, and they do look kind of fun, and the site has gotten some good reviews. I'm thinking we could do build-a-bear, then either CPK afterward and/or Coldstone, both of which are next door. It gets pricey, but then again, no money is spent on decorations, no time is spent on cleaning (before and after) or set-up, etc.,etc. I've been looking like crazy for coupons for Build a Bear parties and am coming up short. Anyone been to one of these parties and have any feedback??

what we've been up to...

2011-07-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

I have been a lazy blogger! I've done that thing where I have ideas, inspirations, and intentions to post, but by the time I sit down at the computer, all is lost. (I have also been trying to limit computer time.) I have been keeping up with everyone else's blogs though. THAT is rarely a problem. : )

Anyhwoo, last week Miss P had four, count 'em, four playdates in four days. She was in heaven. Here she is bowling for the first time. Have your kids done bumper bowling? It's kind of a blast. Paige is reuniting with her best friend from preschool here.

Speaking of Paige, I've been enjoying her increased maturity as she quickly approaches 7. One of our projects last week was to attack her messy room, and come up with a system for re-organizing it, and cleaning easily. Here's a before shot.

We spent a big chunk of time last Wednesday working on nooks and crannies of this room, and worked on the closet Friday. Paige loved organizing! She kept saying, 'this is fun!' In the past, she has been overwhelmed and thrown a fit. I guess now she is more developmentally ready for this kind of project. I taught her how to make her bed at the beginning of summer, and now she does it the moment she wakes up without fail. It's kind of funny, because a lot of her friends have systems, and checklists for their responsibilities and they earn prizes. She is dying for one of these charts. I'm thinking, why would I design a reward structure for something you're already doing? I'll do a post of more before and after pictures with our simple systems once we are done. We need to still do 'under the bed,' and some finishing touches. However, the room looks awesome right now!

In other news, we had a fun family weekend going to the beach for breakfast and fun with rocket shooters, a bike ride/picnic, tons of soccer, tons of swimming, and Ed hit a Giants game. We also had Ed's sister and husband over for dinner and game night last week, and I had a big catch up playdate with my college bestie. : )

I also have a fitness project in the works. What's going on with you?

Now at Target....

2011-07-05T18:32:00.000-07:00

Naughty Betty stationary!

(I think school supplies are out now too!) : (