Fall Entry and Mommy guilt confession:

I spent the last two days at home...sleeping in and getting caught up.  It was wonderful (except for the mommy guilt...you can read about it later in the post) and it may never happen again for 20 years, so I tried to make the most of it.  I got caught up on amazingly intellectual and note worthy programs like...Real Housewives of New Jersey (can I just say this...Teresa taking accountability was right out of left field...can you believe it?)...Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Making the Team (I'm soooo not a Cowboys fan but this show sucks me in...Thank you Kelly & Judy for getting rid of Catherine...her laugh/cry was down right annoying!!)...Burn Notice (The series is now over and even though I have watched it forever, somehow I'm not super sad)...Sons of Anarchy (I have a love/hate relationship with this show...they definitely push everything to the limit...its CRAZY).  I did do semi-productive things like bake (tune in later this week) and I also got my house ready for fall...I began with the front entry.

 

I started with a trip to Bloomers to grab a bundle of cornstalks and a couple of mums.  Then it was just a matter of pulling things together from around the house.  Here is the final product...

 

 

I put the larger mum in a galvanized bucket and set it on another bucket that I turned over for some height.  The addition of my "Fall" sign, a sugar pine cone and pumpkin worked well together...

 

 

On the other side of the bench I took a large galvanized vase and filled it with a couple of sugar pine cones.  Another small pumpkin beside it and that was finished...

 

 

On the bench I added the other smaller mum that I wrapped in burlap, along with an assortment of gourds that I put in a small grapevine wreath.  On the bottom shelf I filled a small galvanized bucket with smaller pine cones to keep everything cohesive...

 

 

The cornstalks are just laid against the wall by the old window and "WELCOME" sign...

 

 

So there you have it...my front entry is fall ready!!

   

MOMMY GUILT CONFESSION:  As I got all decorated for Fall this weekend my mommy guilt radar was off the charts!!  Between not sleeping well, my grandmothers funeral last week and my half marathon I have been exhausted.  I try to make it to EVERYTHING but it sounded like a good weekend to forgo my children's sporting events.  It was their dad's weekend, Tater's football game would have included 8 hours (at least) of driving and it was the only weekend that I would not be coaching Tale's volleyball.  It was the perfect time to get caught up on sleep and home duties?.?  As the weekend approached Tale's dad found out that he had to work and couldn't get her to or go her games.  I was determined to stay home...so I called on a friend to take her for the day.  At that point my mommy guilt was in full force.  Then Tater came home from practice on Thursday to announce that he would be dressing down for Varsity for the first time.  He has been working so hard to get there and I was going to miss it!  Seriously??  Stab me in the heart!!  There were parts of me that wanted to make arrangements to go but I was already committed to chaperoning a dance for Tales on Friday night.  So I stayed home and I have to say...I got a whole lot done but it is never as rewarding when you are plagued with guilt...UGGHHHH!  I'm sure some of you mom's out there can relate!

 

Sweet guilt-

Southwest Rice Casserole...

I've admitted it before...I am a sucker for Mexican food.  Chips and Salsa??  Yes, please.  Cheesy Enchilada??  Of course.  Crispy Taco with extra sour cream?  Most definitely.  My kids, however do not share the same love for it.  Which makes me sad...so I make it anyway and they just have to deal.  Honestly eating Mexican food 3-4 times a week would be perfect for me but because I at least try to please my kids...I only make it once...okay, sometimes twice but who is counting.

I love this casserole for a number of reasons...

1) It is low calorie/fat (brown rice, Greek yogurt, & low fat cheese rock).

2) It has black beans and corn in it...one of my favorite combinations.

3) I love to find new and easy side dishes.

4) It only uses two pans and comes together in no time.

5) I love anything Mexican...minus hot and minus cilantro (much to Darby's dismay).

6) I can't forget the most important one...MY KID'S LIKED IT!!!!

 

To make this yummy dish you will need 4 cups of cooked brown rice (I love the Uncle Bens in the bag), 3/4 cup frozen or fresh corn cut off of the cob, 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 cup of plain non-fat Greek yogurt (you could also use sour cream), 3/4 cup of salsa (this is where you can control the heat), 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin and 1 cup of low fat or 2% shredded cheddar cheese and a little cilantro for garnish (because I like my man to be happy).

 

In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients (except cilantro) and mix thoroughly to combine.  Be sure that the Greek yogurt and cheese are distributed throughout the mixture.  Season with salt and pepper to taste and transfer to a greased baking dish.  Top with extra cheese and bake in a preheated 350° oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly...

 

So good...

 

I served it with grilled chicken and it was a yummy, healthy & filling meal.  I love when I can cook with lower fat ingredients and nobody notices.  Enjoy.  Sweet casserole-

My longest run...

I will admit that I wasn't quite sure if I was completely prepared.  My longest run had only been 10 miles the weekend before.  Everyone had said that if I could run 10 then I could run 13...but I wasn't completely convinced.  When my sweet grandmother passed earlier in the week I really didn't know if I wanted to go ahead with it.  I was mentally and emotionally exhausted but I also knew that my grandma would want me to complete my goal...so I went ahead with my plan.

When my sister and Jenn dropped me off at the starting line there was a part of me that felt like I was being thrown to the wolves because I did not know a single person.  It was extremely intimidating to look around and see 700 people warm up & stretch like it was second nature.  I asked myself many times, "should I really be doing this?"  Then I would think...I'm scared!  Followed by...what was I thinking when I signed up all of those months ago? 

As the announcer counted down to the start of the race I was sure to place myself toward the back of the pack because I know that I'm not fast.  I didn't want to hold anyone up!  When the buzzer went off it was pure chaos.  For some reason a lot of the walkers had placed themselves toward the front which made it difficult to pass and find your pace.  There was also a lot of cracks in the asphalt and although they had tried to mark it with spray paint it was hard to see because everyone was so close together.  An older gentleman fell right behind me before mile 1 was completed.  When I turned back there were about 5 people helping him so I kept going.

Luckily about mile 3 I was able to pass most of the walkers and the crowd had thinned out.  There were about 6 stations set up along the route that you could get water, Gatorade and electrolyte replacer or use a bathroom.  As you ran by the volunteers handed you a drink, I would try to get a gulp down, throw my cup and continue. 

At two of the stations my sister and Jenn were there to cheer me on.  To be honest before the run I didn't think that I wanted them to be there but now I am so thankful that they were.  Having people that you love and who love you back cheering you on was an amazing feeling.  It lifted me and kept me going.  Now looking back I can't imagine doing it without them.

At about mile 5 the IT band on my knee started to kill me and it really didn't let up until about an hour after the race.  I've never had this happen before and hope that it isn't any indication of an injury (I guess I will find out tonight when I hit the pavement).  I had to stop a few times to stretch it out but for the most part I just ran through it but it sucked.

As I approached the finish line I tried to pick up my pace.  I could see the end and it was at that point that I realized I was really going to get it done.  When I turned the final corner I could see the time clock and hear so many people cheering everyone on.  I could also see that my sister and Jenn were there for me again.  I can't really explain to you how wonderful that moment in time was.  I had doubted myself so many times through the training.  I had ran through slumps even when it hurt.  I had gotten up early and ran almost every morning for 3 1/2 months even when I was tired.  But as I crossed the finish line I realized it was process and it was worth it.

If my knee hadn't bothered me the race would have been pretty perfect.  The weather was cool, it rained just a bit, the altitude change was in my favor and I had the support of great people.  I really feel like the training/run is a metaphor for my life...It was amazing...there were obstacles that I had to face and deal with...I had the support of friends and family...hard work and determination paid off...goals kept me focused...it was humbling yet rewarding.

There were people from all walks of life that joined me.  Runners of all sizes and shapes who were young and old.  Each of us there for a different reason but with a common goal.  To be honest...it was more than a run for me...it was a way of showing myself that I can do anything if I put my mind to it and work for it.  Sweet run-

Goal Accomplished...

I will admit that sometimes I make a goal and I don't follow through.  I tend to be in the moment a lot and an idea sounds so great until it gets really close and I realize that I am not prepared.  So when I announced a few months ago that I would be training for a half-marathon I was worried that I might be flaky and not complete my goal. 

I'm happy to say that I did it...I followed through...religiously trained for 13 weeks and yesterday I finished my first half-marathon with a time of 2 hours and 30 minutes.  I realize that for some of you it might not sound like a great time but it was 20 minutes faster than I thought I would finish.  I also ran the entire race and only stopped a few times to either stretch or get a drink.

My sister Jamie and bestest friend Jenn dropped me off at the starting line and then went on to two check points (mile 5 & 9) to cheer me on and keep me motivated.  They were also there when I crossed the finish line.  It was so awesome to have such a great support system.

There were definitely a few times during the run that I had to dig deep (especially when my right knee started to kill me at mile 5) but for the most part it was an amazing experience.  I am proud of myself for seeing it through and putting in the work to accomplish my goal.

Today I am a little lot sore and walking like a crazy lady but the feeling of accomplishment is worth the pain.  I can't wait to do it again!!  Sweet half-

Grandma Anna Mae...we love you...

In the last few years I have posted several times about my grandparents, how amazing they are and how lucky we are to have them in our lives.  Sadly, over the weekend our sweet Grandma Anna Mae was called to be with God.  My heart hurts for the loss of the matriarch of our family.  She exemplified everything good in marriage, love, family, community and faith.  When I think of the time I spent with my grandma I am literally full of joy.  She loved each of us unconditionally and saw the good in everyone.  Anyone who knew grandma felt a special connection to her.  She was truly beautiful in every way.  Her presence will be missed each day but she will be remembered in our hearts forever.  

 

 

Sweet grandma-

Thursday Inspiration-A mothers strength...

I realize that this makes two posts in a row that are pretty intense.  I try to keep things pretty light hearted here but sometimes things touch me in a way that is unexplainable.  Today I am sharing with you a story of a mother who's 7 month old son was diagnosed with a terminal illness.  Her strength and faith in God will inspire you and make you want to be a better person.  As a mother I am in awe of how she is choosing to handle such a life shattering situation.  Instead of living out her sons last days/months/years in denial and sadness...she is using them to help others and enjoy every moment.  She and her family are facing one of my biggest fears with an attitude that is beyond admiral.

I invite you to head over to her blog and read about her journey.

  www.lifewithahappyheart.com 

You will cry and your heart will hurt for them but I guarantee that you will learn something from her unending faith and I promise that once you have read her story you will have a new found perspective.  If she can choose happiness during one of life's most difficult battles then I believe we all can.  Sweet inspiration- 

Remembering 9/11...

12 years ago I was going through my normal morning routine.  My 4yr. old and 2 yr. old babies were just finishing breakfast.  I always watched the TODAY show as the kids got up and around...it was then that the fateful events of 9/11 were happening live on my television.  It was such a surreal feeling as I sat there and watched it unfold.  I remember the helplessness that came over me as my thoughts turned to all of those who were in "the eye of the storm."  As the day went on and on and the details emerged that feeling only became more evident.  My heart hurt for every single person involved and for our nation as a whole.

That day will forever be engraved in my mind.  I remember details of that day down to what I was wearing.  I remember feeling guilty because we were safe and so many were not.  I still get choked up when I watch clips of that day.  It was a day that forever changed our country.  A day in which too many innocent people lost their lives and loved ones for no good reason.

It was also a day that heroes emerged.  A day that our nation came together and took a stand against those who so viciously attacked us.  American flags adorned almost every home across the country.  Communities came together to pray.  Schools took a moment of silence.  Charities were formed and supported.  As we went through one of the single most heart breaking moments in American history our country stood strong.

Last night as I was making my rounds and putting the kids to bed, Tales asked me what 9/11 meant.  It never really occurred to me that she didn't know because it was such a life changing moment for me.  I stood there for a moment and thought of how to answer.  I wanted to give her enough details so that she would know but not enough to make her worry.  I kept my explanation short and tried to really concentrate on the heroic people who made it so much less than what it could have been.  How the terrorist set out to destroy America and the opposite happened.

Today I want to take a moment to remember 9/11 and the 3000 + men, women and children who lost their lives on that day.  I want to remember the thousands of volunteers who selflessly put their lives in danger to save a stranger.  Today I want to remember how wonderful it is to be an American.  Sweet remembrance-

 

Tye Dye Cake on the inside...

When I first began making birthday cakes years ago, they would give me cake flavor and theme.  That was it. 

I now find myself  making cakes in which the inside of the cake looks a certain way.  If you remember, in June I made Lanie a "zebra on the inside" cake and now her sister Harley has requested a "tye dye on the inside" cake.  I'm not complaining...I love a challenge and I always tell them I will make whatever they want.  It is just funny to see how things change...even birthday cakes.

Taters and Tales don't even want birthday cakes anymore...they prefer things like brownies and cheesecake.  I guess that when your mom is making a cake or two a week then the desire for it wears off.  Thank goodness I have other sweeties to make cakes for.

 

 

To make it I used one white cake mix and prepared the batter just like is says on the back of the box.  I then divided the batter into 5 bowls...plastic cups would be so much easier.  To each bowl I added food coloring until I got the desired shade.  I used purple, blue, red, yellow and green...

 

 

I used gel colors that I found at my local Safeway in the baking section...

 

 

I lined the bottom of two 8" round cake pans and sprayed them with cooking spray.  Just like the zebra cake I started with one color and put about 1/4 cup of batter into the middle of both pans...

 

 

To the middle of that I used another color...

 

 

And another and another until all 5 colors had been used...

 

 

I then baked it according to the box instructions and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before I removed them from the pans.  Let them cool completely before decorating.

Here is the final product...

 

Happy Birthday Harley!!!

Sweet Harley-

My baby is 16...

16 years ago today I had my first baby.  He was 3 weeks early, suffered from colic and didn't sleep until he was 5...I was exhausted for years.  Now he is my quite boy who is bigger than me (& his dad) and ready to get his drivers license.  It is so CRRRAAAZZZYYY!!  Now I realize that I am constantly saying how fast time flies but good gracious...this is pretty ridiculous.  16 years passing in what seems like the blink of an eye is just too much for this mama.  So in attempt to not completely loose it, I have decided that instead of telling you how very much I love him and million wonderful things he brings to my life...I'm just going to reminisce through photos. 



Taters favorite things in order...Golf...Sage (his Yorkie)...NASCAR...& Mom :)

 



He has a quite sense of humor and likes to be silly (with Grader)...

 



 

First his permit and now in a few days...his license...

 

He has always been a Mama's boy...

 

 

His grandparents have always meant the world to him.  Here he is with his Mamu Albertson...

 

 

When he was about 4 his love of NASCAR began.  He thought he was a race car driver and now wishes he was...

 

 

His first day of school (1st grade) and just yesterday he started his sophomore year...

 

 

Two of a kind...Papa B & Tater...

 



He and Landen have been friends since preschool and share he exact same schedule this year...watch out for these two...

 



 

Watching him play football is one of my all-time joys...

 

Happy Birthday Tater.  Sweet boy-

Weightloss Wednesday...

As you know, I am in my final stages of training for my half marathon on September 22nd and I am TOTALLY freaking out.  My runs lately have been just short of completely terrible!  I'm not quite sure what is making it that way but I am trying to power through.  The fact is...if my runs don't improve dramatically in the next few weeks, I may be walking part of the race & that is not what I set out to do.  It is frustrating to say the least. 

I enjoy running and look forward to it because the feeling that you have after a good run is amazing.  They call it a "runners high" and I can't quite explain it.  It doesn't always happen but if it does it is at the end of a run.  I get filled with emotion and feel like I could run forever.  It is powerful and I sadly it hasn't happened for way to long.

I guess that when I set out 13 weeks ago to train for this race I thought that I would just go out, get my runs in and that would be that.  I didn't realize that there would be some really rough patches.  I didn't realize that there would be slumps.  I definitely didn't realize or think it would be this close to race day. 

I will admit that I am sad that I am having such a hard time but I am not giving up (even though there are parts of me that want to).  I am going to continue running with the hope that each run will get better.  If I can't run the entire race then I guess that is the way it goes.  That just means that I will be training for another one sometime soon because I want to reach my goal of running the entire 13.1 miles.  I'm determined and if it doesn't happen this time...I will try again and again until I do.

When I began running I didn't realize the life lessons that it would teach me.  I thought that I was just taking on a new form of exercise and that was it.  But it has taught me how important mind over matter is.  I really never understood what a mental game running was and how that can help in so many other aspects of life.  Believing you can do something is more important that actually doing it.  Visualizing yourself completing a task and being strong mentally is more powerful than anything physical.  Pushing through a hard run is just like pushing through any battle in life.  There are always difficult people and situations that affect our lives but if you just keep your head down and power through then the rewards can be great.  Running like life is proving to be hard but I will keep pounding the pavement until it gets better.  Sweet training-