Morgan Madness

Coupons...

2012-01-28T10:30:00.000-05:00

So I've been trying to clip coupons and learn to be an extreme coupon queen. I've read lots of stuff on it and realized how quickly the coupons expire, so this is what you do with those:
SEND COUPONS TO THE MILITARY OVERSEAS! (learned from the Krazy Coupon Lady)

Did you know that overseas military members can use expired coupons up to six months past their expiration date? Military families stationed overseas are often living on one income and money can be scarce. Let’s support our military by showing them some coupon love! The readers of TheKrazyCouponLady.com are coming together each month to send our unused and expired coupons overseas. Please join us in sending in your coupons to one of our many adopted bases.

Eligible Coupons:

Send only Manufacturer Coupons; Do NOT send store or restaurant coupons.
Coupons must be Clipped and Sorted into Food and Non-food (explained below).
Do NOT send coupons that are over 30 days expired.

How do I sort the coupons?

Separate your clipped coupons into two categories: Food and Non-Food
Most military bases have 2 stores. One is called the “Commissary” which is a grocery store and the other is the PX or BX which is a department store. We therefore ask you to sort the coupons into “food” and “non-food” bundles so that they can more easily be placed in the correct venue once they arrive at the base.

Label the Bundles
Try to use a baggie to separate your coupons instead of paper clips or rubber bands.

What’s Food & Non-Food?
Here’s the rule of thumb: It’s food if it can be eaten by humans, is usually eaten by humans, and is normally eaten to provide calories. For example, dog & cat food would be “Non-Food,” but Ensure or Slim-Fast would be “Food.” Vitamins would be non-food. Chewing Gum and Mints are food.

Is there a minimum donation?

No! Please send any coupons you may have. We only ask that you mail them only once a month. It will just be easier business this way!

May my family or community organization adopt our own base?

Yes! If you prefer to send your coupons directly to the overseas military base of your choice, you can read all the details on how to do this at OCPnet.org.

If you would like to donate your coupons to one our adopted bases, please send your coupons to our volunteer, Amanda Brumbaugh, currently heading up our donations! Amanda packages many boxes each month for shipment overseas and takes care of the customs forms so you don’t have to!

If you live West of the Mississippi:

KCL Overseas Coupon Program
Amanda Brumbaugh
10960 W Bridgetower Dr
Boise, ID 83709

If you live East of the Mississippi:

KCL Overseas Coupon Program
Brandy McDowell
5615 Husband Rd
Paducah, KY 42003

Spaghetti-Tacos

2012-01-14T20:03:00.001-05:00

I let the kids pick what we are having for dinners this weekend. MJ decided that she wanted spaghetti-tacos. (Cheesy, chicken, Rotel, spaghetti in an over-sized corn taco shell.) Apparently we have let her watch too much iCarly. So that is what we made. Bubba wants waffles tomorrow. That is something normal for us though. No picture needed. Hope you are having an interesting weekend also.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T10:31:00.001-05:00

Tis the Season

2011-12-21T20:50:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone has had a blessed month! We have been busy at the Morgan house. I am not working right now, since I left my underpaid and overstressed job. Roy has been super supportive and this month has been good.

Advent Rings

Roy and Bubba reading the Bible

We made advent rings with 25 verses on every other ring in the shape of a Christmas Tree (well the best MJ could do). We have been reading a verse every night and discussing them. We also have been lighting our Advent Wreath/Candles on the Sundays. It has been good.

Since the wreath my sister made for me decided to die and fall apart after last year's Christmas, I got a bunch of on-sale items at new years to make a new one this Christmas. MJ and I made this at the beginning of the month. It even has twinkle lights, but you can't see them in the picture. The word in the middle is Christmas.

Bubba made this Gingerbread (graham cracker) house at school on Monday, we have been nibbling on the candies since.

MJ wanted to makes some angel wings - she was bored this weekend. So with printed feathers, glitter, duct tape, metal hanger, pantyhose, and tape - TADA!

Angel MJ (I don't know about the Do Rag, it was her style that day.)

The Science Museum was offering $1 entry to see Christmas lights, Santa, hear carolling, and walk through the museum. Roy and Bubba had never been there, so it was an awesome opportunity. The kids decided the Santa wasn't worth standing in line for. The lights were fun (had to video it to get the full effect):

Our Elf on the Shelf came after Thanksgiving and has been causing mischief since. He found MJ's mini-lipsticks and did this to the mirror in the bathroom. He has played games and knocked things off shelves. Candy Cane sure is a handful.
Hope you have had a festive season also. Happy Hanukkah! Merry Christmas! or Happy Holiday!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-06T05:29:00.001-05:00

Stationery card

View the entire collection of cards.

Thanksgiving Time

2011-11-30T13:39:00.000-05:00

My In-Laws from Oklahoma came with Gammie for Thanksgiving. We had a wonderful time!

Kids got new winter hats.

Grandpa Red Angry Bird.

Granpa Sock-Monkey.

We enjoyed our time eating, playing Dominoes, Uno, and a little shopping. Roy really enjoyed the pumpkin roll Gammie made for him. I'm surprised it's not gone. I really liked having a small gathering for the holiday, but I sure missed seeing the family in OK. We usually go there for Thanksgiving.
Thanks for coming down Richard, Debra, & Gammie!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T19:41:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving! Relax, eat well, and be thankful for all of your blessings.

The Winners Are...

2011-11-12T19:35:00.000-05:00

I had a contest for free holiday cards, that ended last night and these are the winners:

Jennifer, Charla, and Jenn are the winners. Congratulations!! I will be e-mailing you soon.
Thanks for participating.

Would you want FREE Holiday Cards?

2011-11-10T18:47:00.001-05:00

Now that Halloween is passed and Thanksgiving is on the way, we can start thinking about gift giving holidays. I have a contest that is going on right now and ends at midnight tomorrow 11/11/11 central time.
Go to my post:
http://morganrnl.blogspot.com/2011/10/christmas-card-give-away.html
Follow directions and you may be a winner.
Have a wonderful upcoming holiday and good luck!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T06:27:00.001-04:00

These are our Jacks:

Bubba's Birthday Bash

2011-10-30T18:36:00.001-04:00

For Bubba's Birthday, we went bowling and to our favorite Mexican restaurant. Bubba wanted his best buddy to go with us, so it was the five of us. We had a lot of fun. We even surprised Bubba:

Yes, that is chocolate on his nose. The waiter did that after singing to him.

Halloween 2011

2011-10-27T08:13:00.000-04:00

We had a costume night for Cub Scouts, so we all dressed up:

Hercules

Hercules' wife

Genie/Jasmin and Weasley from HP

Roy and I had lots of kids come up to us, there weren't as many adults dressed up. I really like Roy's attitude as Hercules, he should get to carry a sword and wear a dress everyday.

Christmas Card Give Away

2011-10-24T05:03:00.008-04:00

Every year I send out Christmas cards, because we are always changing and not all people read my blog (shocker). We need to let the long distance family know that we are among the living and that we still want them to know that we care about them too. So I try to find something unique every year. I have been searching for some card designs past few weeks and found some great offers on Shutterfly. (Yes I know, it's only October. We haven't even got to Halloween yet.) Just have a look at their new Christmas card collection and choose between folded greeting cards, flat stationery and flat photo cards. They also offer cute Christmas gift tags and party invitations. The hardest part is to select the favorite design from their Holiday Cards, because they offer more than 700 different cards.

Here are some of my favorite designs:

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This is last years picture card, we hope to make one just as well.

Now, I just need to get the kids to stand still to get some good pictures of them. I have some creative ones, but we could try to be presentable this year...maybe.

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Would you like 25 FREE holiday cards from Shutterfly too?
All you have to do is tell me the best December Holiday (Christmas, Chanukah, Kawanza, or your preference) gift you ever got.
I will choose randomly 3 winners using Random.org. Make sure you give me a proper e-mail, so that you may receive your prize.Contest ends November 11, 2011.

*This post is sponsored by Shutterfly.

MJ Birthday

2011-10-21T21:12:00.000-04:00

For MJ's birthday, we went to a pottery store to decorate some ceramics. It was a great time!

Roy and I made this Leaf Man.

Bubba made this skull bank.

MJ made this piggy bank.

MJ's friend made this Peace bank.

MJ is such an artist!

2011-10-15T11:32:00.000-04:00


Original

MJ's copy with out tracing.

I think our MJ is an artist! She is awesome! I think some art classes will be in her future - you know to learn shading and technique.

Clark Creek Park: Adventure

2011-10-03T08:07:00.001-04:00

We climbed down this waterfall on our 3 mile hike through Clark Creek Park - all hills and streams. It was a lot of fun.

We were exhausted by the end of the trail.

Clark Creek Park: Nature

2011-10-02T16:08:00.000-04:00

JAX ZOO

2011-08-27T17:43:00.000-04:00

Today we went to the Jackson Zoo. The whole zoo took about two hours to walk through, just enough time to get hot and hungry. Majority of the animals were attentive and active. (Fish Cats were fighting or mating, we couldn't decide which, but it was worse than a stray cat fight you might just happen upon.) No elephants and the red wolf was playing hide-and-seek. It was an interesting trip. These are just some of the animals we got pictures of (starting with MJ and Bubba in the otter house):

Otter's of course.

Giraffes - so majestic and they have crazy tongues.

Name this animal - for the life of us, we can't remember and the Zoo's website doesn't give any clues.

Bubble Head MJ

Bubble Head Bubba

Zany Zebras

Male Ostrich guarding eggs.

Pygmy Hippo - so cute, I wanted to take him home. Awesome swimmer!

Chimp family.

Black Bear chilling after having a popsicle.

Venomous snakes - boy am I glad there was a glass barrier.

RTT: Comics and Puppets

2011-08-09T08:22:00.000-04:00

So, we are a dork family. Just putting it out there, most of you already knew. This past Saturday, we made a trip to the comic book store and spent two hours there. First off, the store is five minutes away. Second, we just wanted to see what it was like. Third, it is not a big store. MJ even was interested in the displays. Muppet's Animal, Kermit, and Gonzo (full size)-to name a few. We only left with light up Green Lantern rings and mini-comics, because Roy and Bubba were too overwhelmed as to which comic to get. They will go again soon.
We found out that we have a Comic Con down here - it is not well publicized. Southern Fried Mississippi Comic Convention - I think the name is genius. We are looking forward to it and are even going to dress up, since it will be in October and the costumes will double for Halloween too.
One of the shop keepers (we don't know if he owns it or just hangs out there all the time) actually works for PBS Mississippi and was part of the crew that worked with the Puppeteers of "Between the Lions". Great show. I had no idea that was taped in MS. They have now moved to NY, since it is more cartoon than puppets.
Speaking of puppets and Muppets - can't wait for the new Muppet Movie! Saw a preview the other day - Fozzie wears fart shoes. LOL!!!
Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog. (Oops, she's on Hiatus.)

You can try Stacy at Stacy Uncorked (she's being a rebel) - click on her picture.

Julie at Momspective

Ane at Life According to Me

Raven at Stuperhero Extraordinaire

Quick Update

2011-07-18T08:40:00.000-04:00

Roy and I have been home alone for a couple weeks - kids are in Oklahoma with Grandparents and visiting with Gammie, Aunts, Uncles, and cousins. They say they are having a great time, we are just missing them.
So Roy and I made something. It's a project I have had in my head for years, yes years. We haven't had a headboard in 12 years. So Roy was up for going to the fabric store and hardware store for the project. Look what we made:

MJ & E at a Koi Pond

2011-07-13T18:49:00.003-04:00

Cliff Jumping with Cousins

2011-07-05T07:48:00.000-04:00

WW: Zoo came to the Library and MJ was brave...

2011-06-22T13:24:00.002-04:00

2011-06-19T12:35:00.000-04:00

Trip to SC

2011-06-15T03:53:00.000-04:00

We took a trip to SC to stay with my sister and to attend my cousin's wedding/Family reunion. My sister Fathead had to work and my niece Monkey was still in school, so my kids entertained themselves on the Zip-line. They even came up with their own game. Zip-line Bowling. One kid put their back to the zip-liner and waits for them to come toward them, if they don't duck in time they get knocked over. It was hilarious to watch and no major injuries occurred.

Zip-lining.

When we had a chance to go out to dinner, who could pass up the fresh seafood off of a dock restaurant? Not I. Crab Boil was delicious and the kids enjoyed the bread the most. Bubba even ate three oysters. Which is three more than I would eat. (Roy was already missing us - he had to work.)

Cousins on the dock at a great seafood restaurant. (I was so nervous they were going to fall off, there wasn't a railing.)

We went to the local Drive-In and enjoyed the double feature. We also enjoyed the funnel cakes with ice cream, chocolate, and caramel. So good!

At the Drive-In before we watched Kung Fu Panda 2 and Thor.

Then the event that spurred the trip - my cousins wedding/Family Reunion. The wedding was beautiful. Not a big group showed up for the reunion though. My kids and Monkey were the only kids, so they kept busy with themselves. Thank goodness there was a playground at the church.

Bubba and Monkey playing Old Maid at the Family Reunion.

The next day we went to my Uncle Paul and Aunt Elizabeth's house for some more family time. This time, it was only my two kids and a bunch of adults. Poppy adores my kids and loves playing with him. (He's in his 80's)

Poppy pushing Bubba on a tree swing.

There were pictures of other instances and family time (Facebook). Strawberry picking, 4-wheeling, Tetherball, and Croquet.

Bubba all tuckered out on the way home from SC.

I will miss my family and am glad we went to see them. But sleeping in my own bed with Roy was the best home-coming.

Hmmmm...?

2011-06-09T06:34:00.001-04:00

How are we going to top last years Father's Day gift? The kids loved making this.

It's a little trampled, but you get the idea. Well used!

**We don't mind if you borrow this idea - it was a cheap and easy gift.

WW: Reading Program at Library

2011-06-08T10:32:00.000-04:00

Australia theme - boomerangs.

Platypus-splat Play

Bubba at Camp

2011-06-02T07:08:00.004-04:00

Red head on left with transformer shirt. He is with his bunk mates and counselors.

Blue shirt with mouth open tugging as hard as he can.

Hand with watch above the nose of Chocco the horse.

Singing on Game Show night.

Dressed for the best on Game Show night, even a banana showed up.

Best Ministers for the job. (They are from our home church.)

WW: Yogi Bear Park (MS)

2011-06-01T05:54:00.000-04:00

RTT: MJ steps up

2011-05-31T05:45:00.000-04:00

MJ was watching a kids movie about werewolves.
Roy say: I know about werewolves, I killed me two.
MJ: You killed the toot?
R: No, I killed me two.
MJ: You killed you?
R: No, I killed me two.
MJ: Oh!
R: Two blond ones. (Then he looked at me and MJ.)

We watch Dual Survival on Friday nights. (spoiler if you watch it) The last one, Cody and Dave found an armadillo and were trying to capture it. Then the commercial came before they could. MJ spouted out some armadillo facts, which surprised both Roy and I. I asked her, "Where did you learn that from?" She replied, while nodding her head, "Dora!" We laughed so hard. Go figure.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog. (Oops, she's on Hiatus.)

You can try Stacy at Stacy Uncorked (she's being a rebel) - click on her picture.

Julie at Momspective

Ane at Life According to Me

Raven at Stuperhero Extraordinaire

Fancy Flops

2011-05-28T18:26:00.000-04:00

Since we got a deal on quite a few pairs of flip-flops at Old Navy's $1 flip-flop sale. I told MJ that we would decorate a couple of the flops. We saw what they were charging for the single medallion flops - $8. So, we visited Michael's (arts and crafts store) and got some pretty beads. Roy had some fishing line and I had a large eyed needle to poke through the flops. MJ made the patterns and designed the flop. I attached the decorations. We are happy with them. I think well worth more than what Old Navy is charging, since MJ and I made it together and they are unique.

AFTER BEFORE

WW: Field Days

2011-05-25T05:17:00.002-04:00

RTT: Pics (I forgot about) & Camp

2011-05-24T05:49:00.000-04:00

I saw Jenn at Sprites Keeper was making Challah and thought it to be a beautiful thing. I thought it to be a better thing to be able to taste it, so I made some and this is how it turned out. Roy said it's the best bread recipe I have ever made. With some leftover bread, I made super yummy bread pudding. I'm drooling just thinking of it. It was gone before I realized it should have been picture worthy. Thank you Jenn!

The Easter Bunny visited our house and responded to a note Bubba had left for him. Since he is a bunny, I imagine he can't write, that is why he left a chocolate hand print on the wall. By the way, chocolate stains walls - for future reference.

My Bubba is going to church camp this week. He is so excited. He is 7 and I am a little nervous sending my baby out into the world for a week of camping. My experiences of church camp were not fun. One year I was threatened and hyperventilated. Another year I sprained my butt bone doing a flip off the bunk and couldn't leave the cabin. Roy on the other hand said he had amazing time, but he was a flirt with all the girls (of course he did). Bubba has been gifted this trip, since we are friends with the minister that is going to be at the camp this week. I hope he has a lot of fun!

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog. (Oops, she's on Hiatus.)

You can try Stacy at Stacy Uncorked (she's being a rebel) - click on her picture.

Julie at Momspective

Ane at Life According to Me

Raven at Stuperhero Extraordinaire

Spin: Reunion

2011-05-22T19:42:00.000-04:00

So many reunions to talk about. Since Jenn conjured the reunion of the devoted spinners, I must join in.Coming in a couple weeks, I have a family reunion to attend. I have been told the funerals and weddings should not be an actual reunion, but it just so happens that my cousin is in fact getting married on the Saturday afternoon of the reunion. Per the e-mail we are to attend the wedding and then continue to the reception for the party/reunion. Then when the happy couple leave, we are to keep partying for the reunion. Then the next day more reunion.
This is just my opinion, but I wouldn't want to share my special day with the another family event. But the upside of doing it this way - they might get a truck-load of gifts. I wasn't in the planning department, so I suppose I don't get a say. Guess I will just enjoy the festivities.
I haven't seen some of these family members in over 15 years. Some though I just met last year through my Poppy at a funeral and became close cousins within a couple hours. Lots of goofing, judging, over-exaggerated fish stories (not always a fish involved). At least 3 ministers will show up, so the food will be blessed and I think so many of us will too. We are such a hugging, kissing, and loving family. I am starting to look forward to it. Just not looking forward to the driving.
As for High School Reunions, never been. This year would be my 15 year reunion (I don't feel that old yet, well at least today I don't) and I really don't have an interest of attending. I figure the people I went to school with probably have already friended me either in e-mail, Facebook, or MySpace (a couple years ago), that I would want to be friendly with. I don't live near any of them, so if they really want to keep up a friendship then it would have to be in a social network environment.
Hope all reunions are happy ones and welcome back to the Spin!
Jenn at Sprite's Keeper gives a topic that you can spin on; this week’s topic is "Reunion". If you want to spin too, just click on the button below and it will take you to Sprite's Keeper.

RTT: Thor & Undies

2011-05-10T09:57:00.000-04:00

Mother's Day started well - Roy made me a breakfast cake (like coffee cake, but I don't drink coffee). We went to church. Then we headed to Mugshots (really good burger joint, not fast food). We were going to watch Thor at the movies across the street, but MJ was feeling queasy. We took her home and she got sick. So I stayed home with her and sent the boys to the movies. (Once a Mom always a Mom.) They said it was awesome. Roy had to explain a lot to Bubba though, with all the "gods". Then we just hung out the rest of the day.

Bubba and Roy were telling me about Thor and Bubba said, "Thor put the hammer on Loki's chest cap." I think he was putting knee cap (Bubba injured his recently, so we've talked about it often - he's fine though.) and chest cavity together. Sometimes I can't decipher his logic.

MJ and Bubba were playing in the bedroom on the bed. I walk in and they say they are playing, "Slipping on the Underwear." I think it is just falling on the bed. I have no clue where they got the name of it though. It was really hard to keep a straight face as I was yelling at them to get off the bed.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog. (Oops, she's on Hiatus.)

You can try Stacy at Stacy Uncorked (she's being a rebel) - click on her picture.

Julie at Momspective

Ane at Life According to Me

Raven at Stuperhero Extraordinaire

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T08:46:00.000-04:00

Hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day - from one mother to another!

Love you Mommy!

WW: More Kidsfest

2011-04-27T05:55:00.001-04:00

RTT: Kidsfest

2011-04-26T11:00:00.000-04:00

Have you noticed we enjoy festivals. This is Kidsfest - we had a lot of fun. This is one of the shows we attended - Backyard Circus. Our kids got to be part of the show four times:

MJ came home and was telling us about her Earth Day project. She said, "For the Water Cycle - Evaporation forms clouds, then into conversation." I guess that would be called thunder.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog. (Oops, she's on Hiatus.)

You can try Stacy at Stacy Uncorked (she's being a rebel) - click on her picture.

Julie at Momspective

Ane at Life According to Me

Raven at Stuperhero Extraordinaire

Happy...

2011-04-22T20:34:00.001-04:00

Some Humorous Egg Pictures:

I saw this at Wal-mart. AA people should know this prayer very well and now can remind their AA friends of what the words are with a hollow chocolate egg. (No offense, just humor here.)

Monster eggs attack our cabbage plant (the kids loved making these).

Waterfest

2011-04-21T05:56:00.001-04:00

Saturday we went to Waterfest at a nearby park.There were over 40 booths to learn about the environment and our eco-system. Water is in everything, so we learned a lot.

Bubba wrangled a snake.

One year old alligator.

Non-venomous snakes local to Mississippi.

Sam E. Soil

National Guard Helicopter

The view from the park - beautiful.

Even though we don't eat much beef anymore, we had to visit the Beef station. Did you know some toothpastes are made from cow (I have no clue what part)? Where's the beef? (Anybody remember that commercial?)

We had a great time. We were sunburned and wind burned by the time we went home, but was a great way to learn about our environment and enjoy the park at the same time.

Bubba's Field Trip to the Air Force Base

2011-04-20T08:56:00.000-04:00

WW: MJ's Fabulous Flower

2011-04-13T08:19:00.000-04:00

A Status Update

2011-04-08T20:29:00.000-04:00

Roy says that I have been the commercial spokesperson for people in our area (on Facebook). I have been seriously bored stuck at home with the chicken pox, I needed something to do. Sorry if I spammed you and you didn't want to read it. I understand if I was ignored. I will pursue to blog again and do interesting things again (well to me anyway). Pictures will come with those interesting things. Going garage sale-ing tomorrow (not picture worthy, the sellers would not appreciate it). First of many outside expeditions, besides Wal-mart.

Oh by the way, I am healed - Woot! My pox are healed, yet left some scarring. I'm not narcissistic, I don't care what it looks like, I'm ready to be out in the world again (not going to post a pic on that either, it's not pretty). Just a patch, the size of my hand, on my back.
HAHA - I just looked up narcissistic to make sure that I was using it properly (yeah, I'm only a little smart). Anyway, it came up with this page: Narcissistic personality disorder
Really? There are people that vain out there? I guess so, if there is a disorder for it. Learn something everyday.
Waterfest is next weekend in our area and I told Roy one year ago, "We will go to Waterfest together next year, because we will be a family again." He was living and working here all alone, since we were still in Indianapolis trying to get to the end of the school year. He needed to do something, so he went to the park and sent us beautiful pictures of this area. I so wanted to be in MS because of them. Now we are together and will fulfill that statement.

AF: XOXOXO

2011-04-01T07:28:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Kailani at An Island Life for starting this fun for Friday. In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you want to know more - click on the flowery picture.

Are you a huggy/kissy family?

I ask this because I am really missing hugging and kissing on my family. Since I have chicken pox, I have been afraid to hug and kiss on them. Every night since the kids were babies, we have had snuggle time right before bed. It's somewhere between twenty minutes and an hour that Roy and I snuggle our kids and watch a family friendly show on TV (usually Food Network). I have been separated on the couch from my family and MJ let me know she misses last night by sitting right in front of me on the floor and putting her head near mine. It was really sweet. I miss holding my babies. I didn't realize how much of a touchy feely person I really was, until I couldn't do it anymore. Please love on your kids for me.

4 Pound Catfish

2011-03-31T11:55:00.000-04:00

Roy caught this big one on Monday. We will probably have fried catfish tacos. I have to think future meals, so that the sad little beady eyes don't remind me that she was living. We thank the Lord for the fish he has provided and appreciate all that he has given us. That is the best we can do. Then we eat yummies.

WW: Yummy Fishies

2011-03-30T08:26:00.000-04:00

RTT: Chicken, Alligators, Zebras, and Fish

2011-03-29T07:28:00.002-04:00

Well, last week I had wonderful ideas of us going camping and fishing at a nearby state park. That didn't happen, because I have chicken pox. Yes, it's crazy and yes, I had them when I was a kid. It has been waiting (dormant) to attack on me, when I was most stressed, not feeling well, or something. Dr's don't really know, they just know I have it now and for the next two to six weeks. BOO! I have quarantined myself to the apartment and already have cabin fever.
The medicine I have to take for it, is giving me some crazy and interesting dreams: I dreamed I was at a barbecue, but the only thing on the menu was giant alligators on spits (imagine "Water Boy"). The next dream, I had a pet zebra and we shared some pizza. I had a couple more, but I seem to not be able to remember them. Roy asked me yesterday if I am taking the pain medicine during the day, since I sounded so loopy on the phone. Just wonderful.
Now time to vent on society. Why in the world would stupid parents want their kids to have chicken pox when they could have the vaccine? It is very itchy, uncomfortable and the actual pox can be painful. I wouldn't want to have my baby feeling like this. (I sure do miss hugging my babies though.) I am sure to get the vaccine as soon as I heal, because the Dr. said this could re-occur. BOO again!
On a better note, Bubba and Roy have been fishing all weekend and caught such yummies! We had some fried fish last night and it was so good. Not fishy smelling or tasting at all. Those frozen fishes from the store must have always been on the verge of expiration, since that is all I have ever had until now. So proud of my boys!
Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared (I promise I won't share my chicken pox)? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog. (Oops, she's on Hiatus.)

You can try Stacy at Stacy Uncorked (she's being a rebel) - click on her picture.

Julie at Momspective

Ane at Life According to Me

Raven at Stuperhero Extraordinaire

Spring Break

2011-03-25T08:02:00.000-04:00

Yoplait

2011-03-22T11:35:00.002-04:00

My family likes yogurt and Yoplait has many tasty flavors. The kids like to eat yogurt for snacks and I eat it for breakfast with some granola.

Please "Like" Yoplait at http://on.fb.me/YPONFBOOK on Facebook. You could win prizes and get coupons.
So, support National Nutrition Month and become a fan of Yoplait on Facebook today to explore delicious and easy ways to infuse more nutrition into your lifestyle.
*Yoplait provided all info..
**I was provided with product information and the opportunity to win a Yoplait prize pack, courtesy of Yoplait through MyBlogSpark.

2011-03-17T02:08:00.000-04:00

WW: Caught a Catfish!

2011-03-15T20:32:00.000-04:00

RTT: Kids Comments

2011-03-01T12:41:00.000-05:00

This past week was filled with interesting comments and questions from our kiddoes:

We bought an atlas, since I can't stand to listen to the GPS monitors and I hate crowding the window I'm trying to see through. Bubba wanted to be navigator for the trip. He told me which way to go, "Mom, follow the red road, then turn on the blue road, so you don't go into the ocean."

Bubba was asking random questions at this point in the drive (14 hours), "Is Pluto a planet still or was it killed?" I think he was thinking of Silver Surfer eating planets.

One morning over breakfast Bubba asked Poppy (great grandfather), "Do you know Captain America?" Poppy was in WWII. He replied, "No but we fought on the same side."

I tried to note to myself on this trip in my phone and this one baffles me, "Monkey. Why buy food when you can wear it." I have no clue, just totally random.

This morning MJ was fretting over a zit on her chin. She complained that her chin was red. When did she become a pre-teen?

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

Highlights of FL Visit

2011-03-01T12:27:00.000-05:00

I decided I am a better picture teller, than a story teller. The bad part is...the camera's battery died half-way through our trip.

Every morning we had school. This is the reason why we send the kids to school. It was torture for all of us. I think teachers are amazing people, because I don't have the patience and the kids saw that.

One morning, Poppy was talking to the kids about his eye. It was shot out in WWII. Poppy has taken it out and showed the kids before, but this particular morning, he was just story telling. All kids, including Poppy, in their PJ's. Priceless.

We spent one afternoon at the Zoo. It was a beautiful day for it.

There were more interesting animals to see at the zoo, but my camera died right after this picture was taken. That deer was so sweet. It kept kissing on their hands even after the food was gone.

Then we went to my Aunt's Lizz and Connie's house near the beach to watch the very last Discovery launch. The kids got to play on the beach and we all got to see a little history in the making. It was such a relaxing day.
Lots of other pics and videos were taken by other family members during the week. I'm just waiting for them to share, so that I may talk about them too.
The week was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and reunion of family. Many hugs were given, tears shed, and laughs all around. We are so glad we made the trip.

In Loving Memory

2011-02-18T06:07:00.000-05:00

Grandma and Poppy in front with their grown kids around.

My Grandma, Ruth Ann Braselton, went to heaven yesterday. She was a preacher's wife, a teacher, and would whoop you if you were in the cookie jar before dinner. She had Parkinson's Disease and really struggled this year. My parents and my grandfather Poppy took care of her. I don't want to remember her as she was last...I want to remember her as I knew her.

Baby MJ taking a joy ride with Grandma.

She loved all her children. She may have given a piece of her mind about it, but it was with love. I want to remember her holding onto my babies and enjoying them, even if it was hard to hold (Bubba was a squirmer).

Grandma and Baby MJ after MJ's Christening.

My sister wrote on Facebook, "Tonight my grandmother is rocking my little girl to sleep in heaven and singing to her the lullabies she always sang to her children and grandchildren." I know that is true and I wish I could be there to see it. Someday.
My Grandma used to play the piano, organ, and accordion. She was only about 4'8" but she could make music out that accordion. We even went Christmas Carolling with it to strangers homes. The first memory I have of her playing the piano/organ was when I was really small and I had to sit on the front row of church and wait for her. As soon as all the playing and singing were finished she came down with me and made me hanky babies to play with.

Grandma and Bubba relaxing.

At a smaller age than that, I remember sitting on her counter in the log cabin Poppy and sons built for them. I was getting into the cookie jar. It smelled of old brown sugar. Such a sweet smell that will always remind me of her.
Some of the favorite foods that we couldn't wait until Christmas or Thanksgiving to have, that only she could make, were chicken noodles and butt or cloverleaf buns. I've tried my hand at both, but they are never quite like Grandma's. Maybe because of that special finger she had (she always said that is why it tasted so good) or the love she put in them.
Rest in Peace doesn't seem to say enough. This is the first close related person that I have lost. I know she is happy and not hurting anymore. The people that she left behind are the ones that I am thinking about. (My words are failing now, since the tears are starting again...) Love you Grandma.

WW: Basketball Bubba

2011-02-16T07:42:00.002-05:00

RTT: Unemployed Stuff

2011-02-15T09:06:00.000-05:00

This is basically what I do...except I'm a woman and a man posted this picture. Roy found this on one of those funny pic sites and I borrowed it. I would also have to add a bunch of kid stuff to it too.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T01:05:00.000-05:00

Hope you are having a wonderful day!

My homework is to write the ABC's of Roy (my hubby).

A - Amazing Dad

B - Best Griller (love that smell, no charcoal please)

C - Cuddles Well (he can be embarrassed, so what!)
D - Does the dishes when he knows I just don't want to do them again.
E - Excellent sports player (when we can - he had to teach me how to throw a Frisbee).
F - Favorite of all my hubbies (he's the only one)
G - Goofy when needed (schucks)
H - Has a good Head of Hair.
I - I love him lots!

J - Journeys to work everyday to pay for all our bills (80+ miles a day)

K - Kisses well (blushing)

L - Loves me and the kids so much.

M - Mustard is one of his favorite condiments.
N - Never cleans the bathroom (I forgive him for that, I'm a stickler for ours.)
O - On time for most things. (I'm usually late.)
P - Protective of his family.
Q - Quick witted.

R - Raves of my baking.

S - Sloppy only if wearing a white shirt. (Tea, BBQ sauce, or Juice never miss those white shirts.)

T - Tough when needs to be.

U - Understanding when I make mistakes.

V - Vertically blessed. (I'm short.)

W - Whistles the Braveheart song (his favorite movie).

X - Xtra (sorry I'm cheating) cute

Y - Young at heart, but older than me.

Z - Z best hubby in the world.

AF: Valentine?

2011-02-11T08:51:00.000-05:00

WW: February Crafty Calendar

2011-02-09T07:19:00.000-05:00

RTT: Job and Zombies

2011-02-08T08:55:00.000-05:00

Bubba asked, "Are Zombies smart, since they eat so many brains?" I was hoping Keeley could answer that one. Anyone else know?

Well, I'm looking for a job right now. The blessing of unemployment insurance is coming to an end. (I have been looking this whole time mind you.) Just now, we are seeing that we need the little extra money for things like groceries and toilet paper. I just recently cut back on driving habits - you know going to places that I don't need to do, even though so want to. Supposed to be saving on gas, since Roy drives 90 miles every day. I applied to a Cupcakes shop recently - which I think would be cool, I might end up hating buttercream and gaining 20 pounds from sampling the flavors though. My career prior to moving back to Mississippi was Drafting (computer drawing), but every place I have called and sent my resume says, "We are just trying to find work for the people we already have." The kids want me to get a job, because they could stay at the after school program - playground, snacks and friends. Which is more appealing than staying home with Mom. So if you know of anything, just send me a comment or e-mail. Thanks!

Sorry, not much funny around this week. Seems when you have the sniffles, it's hard to be comical.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

WW: If Darth Vader Drank Coffee

2011-02-02T08:32:00.002-05:00

RTT: Superman's Nose, Fire Chuck, & Bubba's Basket

2011-02-01T11:10:00.000-05:00

I have been out of the habit of writing for over a week now...better get to it.

Since we were all sick last week we had to visit the Dr.. While there Bubba was checked in his nose, throat and ears. After the Dr. stepped out, he asked, "Do you think Superman gets flies up his nose when he flies?" I had to admit that I had no clue. Keely, do you know? You are part of the Super People.

Still at the Dr.'s...the kids were looking around the room and noticed on the fire alarm that there is a "Chuck" guy on it. (We are big fans of Chuck.) The only difference was the briefcase was not on the fire alarm.

We haven't gotten out much lately, because of bugs we keep getting. Tired of people being sick in my house!

Oh yeah, Bubba made his first basket during a basketball game. He plays for Upward - they don't keep score, just play to have fun and learn the sport. He is really doing well. We are very proud!

I just downloaded Skype, because I realized that it is free if friends and family have it. I'm going to test it with Fathead (my sister) tonight. I don't have a video camera, just headset with a mic. Should be interesting.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

AFK, MIA, & SICK

2011-01-27T06:55:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been AFK (Away From Keyboard) and MIA (Missing in Action). I have been dealing with a head cold since last Thursday. Roy was home sick on Monday and Tuesday. MJ came home with a fever on Monday and still has one. Bubba has a cough, but holding his own (poor guy). I took the kids to the Dr. yesterday. Not bacterial, but apparently contagious, since MJ's fever. MJ woke up this morning and hovered over me until I was startled awake. Then she says, "I don't feel good." Which led to Tylenol, Thermometer, Dry Heaving, Nose Blowing; and her ending on the couch with all the essentials for fighting the fever and nausea. As you can read, we are having fun at the Morgan house. Hope your home is fighting this season of colds and flu. Be back soon...have to tell you about Bubba's Basketball game, but I'm being Momma-ed, so will write soon.

Crafty Calendar

2011-01-20T14:52:00.000-05:00

This is our year round advent calendar. The kids enjoyed opening the cheap chocolate calendar and reading a Bible verse every night. Roy and I decided we should do it year round. This calendar gives the kids incentive to want to read the Bible (yes we are bribing them, but at least we are participating in the learning process). I got a plastic poster frame and 31 cheap cardboard boxes. I hot glued the boxes to the window part of the frame and put wrapping paper in the background. I found the Months at $Tree. The kids and I painted the lids. I'm going to recover them for every month and use different paper/cloth for each background. The kids have gotten excited, because I put little toys in the boxes (not just chocolate). I put party poppers (since it is January), yo-yo's, silly bands, and mini parachute pets - which turned out to be the best little gift they have gotten so far.

Ty Pennington and Chesty

2011-01-19T16:46:00.000-05:00

My sister is the FRO (Family Readiness Officer) for a group of marines and their families in SC. Ty Pennington (Extreme Makeover: Home Edition) was visiting the base my sister works on, because he had just built a house for a family that is from there. The marine is still overseas, but will come home to a brand new home. Anyway...my sister was walking down the hall the same time Ty was and he stopped to look at the USMC mascot - Chesty Pullerton the Bulldog.

Fathead (my sister) mentioned he could probably meet the mascot if he wanted to and had a short conversation with Ty. Ty was interested and Fathead gave all the information he needed, then she went on with her day. That was Fathead's brief visit with fame. That day she left me a message that went like this: "Call me. I want to tell you about Ty Pennington wanting to meet the mascot and I think I might be buying a house." She really wanted to get my attention, I had to listen to it a few times to figure out what she was trying to tell me. I told her it was blog worthy.

RTT: Santa Rapper and Snow Day

2011-01-11T08:40:00.001-05:00

Translation: Santa saw his suits and some were ripped. His new suit is a rapper and he is cool. His shirts are black and his hat is too and his necklace is gold and his pants are blue. Some people liked it.

(Bubba believes in run-ons.) I got this last week. So I know this wasn't a Christmas thing. Must have been because the kids were still talking about Christmas.

Yesterday, we had a snow day. There wasn't any snow on the ground, but you sure could slip all the way down our stairs outside of our apartment. Roy kept putting salt on them, for everyone's safety. Maintenance to the apartments did nothing. I don't even think they came into work and they live here.

I re-made my PB Puglies with chocolate almond bark and they turned out so much better and even taste better. I will stick with almond bark from now on.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

New for the New Year

2011-01-07T00:14:00.000-05:00

PB Puglies

2011-01-07T00:08:00.000-05:00

This is a periwinkle (purple) peanut butter chocolate ball. Think Bakerella's cake balls with peanut butter instead of cream cheese or icing. I made these the other night and said they were too ugly to give to people from leftover cupcakes that we made for MJ's science project - 6 dozen cupcakes. All the pretty ones went to volunteers at our church. We still had about 18 ugly ones left. So I blended up the chocolate cake with natural peanut butter. Made them into balls and dipped them in the purple candy melts. The kids and Roy think they are delicious - rich and sweet, but pretty ugly.

WW: MS Kid's Museum

2011-01-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T03:55:00.002-05:00

Some More Holiday Spirit

2010-12-30T07:15:00.001-05:00

This is Fredyomax the Elf.

This is the letter from Fredyomax. (via MJ)

I love this kind of art work where they put their handprints into it. I can tell Bubba did all the work on this. I think I just might frame it.

"Winner Circle Park"

Christmas...

2010-12-29T19:04:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know I haven't been on much. I don't know why, I've been home more. So have all the rest of the family, so it takes more effort to keep up with them. So I will give you a summarized version of the last week or so and then post pictures a little later.
Christmas Eve: Chilled for most of the day. Then went to our Christmas Eve Church Service. (Or as Bubba calls it still - Turch. We have corrected him many times, he's just in a hurry when he says it.) Looked for Santa on the NoradSanta site (thanks bloggie friend - you know who you are). Then the kids (7pm) decided they needed to get ready for bed. I had to convince them to stay up another hour. Santa arrived on time. Good thing too, because my kids decided 1AM was a good time to see if he had arrived. We sent them back to bed, because they were super excited. Especially after seeing the "Elf on the Shelf" book - no elf.
Christmas Day: Around 7AM, the kids got up again and by their leadership we read the Bible story, Advent lighting, read the "Elf on the Shelf" book (which we found him sitting on the shelf looking down at the presents), then they got to open presents. Bubba said he got everything he really wanted (well that day, he thought of more things the next day). MJ was busying herself with her Barbie house and Bubba with Legoes for about two hours. Everyone played, while I made pancakes and a frittata. We sang "Happy Birthday" to Jesus over pan-"cakes" and enjoyed our breakfast. Half the day was just playing.
That evening we went to some friend's house for a "Jesus Meal". The meal was set up on the floor with a large canvas material blanket. A little Advent Bible reading was discussed, then food was ate by all - no utensils. The food was delicious - (ignore the spelling please) rice, olives, grape leaves, grilled lamb, filaful, date bread, pita bread, Baba Ganush, 3 different hummus', feta cheese, roasted vegetables, salad, pepperdoos(South African peppers/fruit). The kids played well together and then MJ Forever Dance game was brought out. We all made fools of ourselves trying to dance like Michael Jackson. It was fun - I did Thriller. When we went home, all were exhausted and had a great time.
Sunday through today(super summarized): Sun - Got to church late. Then chilled. Mon - Felt like I needed to be doing something. Chilled some more. Tues - Made some chocolate oatmeal cookies and chilled even more. (We should be freezing by now.) Today - We actually went somewhere - we took the kids to a great restaurant (another word Bubba says too fast and incorrectly) Mug Shots - "best burgers in MS". I agree to that award - so good. Then we finally went and saw Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader. Such a good movie - Roy and I both agree that every time we see Aslan, that there is an emotional pull, because he is representing Jesus. Great movie by the way!! Sea serpents were super scary. Bubba liked the dragon. MJ wasn't feeling very good and she looked really flushed. She thinks the batter on the fries that she had made her sick, since they are beer battered fries. (I think it's all in her mind.) A very good day - we haven't been to the movies in a very long time.
Oh yeah, Roy got me a cell phone for Christmas. So, we shut our home phone off, since hardly anyone called us. I need the cell phone, since I'm always afraid a kid is going to be sick or worse and they can't reach me. I have unlimited text, now I need to get in the habit of using it.
Sorry, it turned out longer than expected. Hope you have had a wonderful holiday and Happy New Year to come!

2010-12-24T11:24:00.002-05:00

ww: Real Santa

2010-12-22T17:11:00.000-05:00

RTT: Facial Hair, Injuries, and Vacation

2010-12-21T11:39:00.000-05:00

I was playing with MJ and told her the police were coming after her, because we heard sirens. Then I told her Grandpa used to be Sheriff (work for - she doesn't know the difference) in Oklahoma. She responds with, "Is that why he has a big mustache?" Cracked me up!

I received an e-mail this week:

We posted an article that we thought you and your readers might be interested in having a look at, “8 Holiday-Related Injuries That Are Surprisingly Common” (http://www.mastersinhealthcare.com/blog/2010/8-holiday-related-injuries-that-are-surprisingly-common/). Just thought I'd let you know that you would be interested in featuring or mentioning it in your blog.

Am I that accident prone?

Today is the start of the kids vacation - as of 10AM. Isn't that odd? Then they go back to school Wednesday Jan 5. I don't know of who thought of this vacation plan - it sure wasn't a parent.

We went to a park near us that lights a bunch of trees, reindeer, sleigh, and archways. They have a train that goes around looking at it all and a Santa in the middle. Before we even got up to the Santa, MJ says, "Mom, he's not real." She didn't want anything to do with him. They judge the realness of Santa by his beard. So this week we have to go back to the madhouse mall and see the "real" Santa, since they have 3 or 4 notes to give him and they only want to see the real thing. Pray for me - I may not make it out of there.
Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

WW: So Sweet

2010-12-15T06:32:00.001-05:00

Woops, had to remove the letter, since Bubba is nosey and told me not to open the envelope.

RTT: Oh Deer Me

2010-12-14T08:18:00.001-05:00

Why am I more excited to go see Santa than anyone else in my house? I guess probably because I'm not the one sitting on his lap.

The display I keep seeing at stores is the "You'll shoot your eye out kid!" Red Ryder BB gun. It comes in pink too. (Have you seen that movie yet this season?)

We have had some not feeling good kind of wintery days, so we busted out the board games. We were playing Disney Trivial Pursuit and everyone enjoyed it. There is a kids section and an adult (don't be perv) section that has harder questions. The kids section show the picture of the character and asks questions about them. On MJ's turn, Bubba asked "who am I?" for a small deer. MJ burst out, without thinking it through, "Rudolph!" (It was Bambi.)

Speaking of deer...my Mom called me the other day and was telling me about an incident that happened in the parking lot of the dollar store. She was getting out of her car at the same time as another woman. My Mom yelled out to her, "Hey cousin!" The reason for this is they were both in Christmas clothing and both had reindeer antlers on their heads. The lady came to my Mom and gave her a hug and said, "When two are gathered, they are called a herd." This cracked my Mom up because there is a Bible verse that she is referencing, "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” The funny thing is, my Mom didn't know this woman. She only called out to her because of the antlers. Funny things happen when you step out of your comfort zone, my Mom tries to at least once a week. She is also one that ones a fake plastic butt and wears it (outside her clothes) to large events - Christmas parties, family reunions, etc..

Wouldn't you know it, my Birthday was this past weekend and we weren't able to do anything because of mother nature. She is a mean lady! First it was tornadoes and rain. Then it was Roy sick. Oh well there is this weekend. I'll just claim the whole month if I have to.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

AF: Holiday?

2010-12-10T04:51:00.001-05:00

Poor Lightning

2010-12-06T05:42:00.002-05:00

About a year ago, Bubba picked out a couple goldfish for his birthday present. He named them Thunder and Lightning because of the song Magic Dance from the movie Labyrinth. We really like that movie.

Yes, that was David Bowie.
Anyway, Thunder and Lightning were super strong fishies, because they survived nine months in Indiana, a move to Mississippi, and then living in an apartment. When we went on vacation on Labor day weekend, we got one of those food packets that released food into their bowl. Well, Thunder was a glutton while we were gone and we had to have a toilet bowl funeral for him. (The kids weren't even upset at the funeral, just the fact he wasn't swimming anymore.) Lightning has been sad ever since, I know this because they used to make happy bubbly sounds and instead Lightning just sits at the bottom of the bowl.
Last Thursday night our poor Lightning went swim with the fishies in heaven. She was a good fish. This was Roy's eulogy between the two of us, "She didn't shed or jump on your lap. She stayed in her area and she was clean." We think that the last straw for her was I had moved her bowl near the dining table and she had to watch us eat fish the other night. She is happier now that she has her buddy with her and she will be missed. Rest in Peace and make lots of bubbles Lightning!

AF: Presents

2010-12-03T06:03:00.000-05:00

WW: Readying for Christmas

2010-12-01T08:02:00.000-05:00

RTT: Santa's Helper

2010-11-30T02:29:00.001-05:00

MJ and Bubba are so glad Thanksgiving is over, so that they can officially be excited about Christmas. We put our tree up last week, since they were out of school all week. (Surprised me, I was never out of school for the whole week of Thanksgiving.) They have already been sending us hints as to what they want for Christmas - I keep telling them to put it in a letter to Santa. MJ wrote a small list out last week, I guess so she wouldn't forget. She wanted me to see it, so we googled the items. One was a Barbie Townhouse - 3 story mansion for Barbie. Then I showed her the Barbie vacation home (like an apartment) that can fold up into a carry case, to compare. We discussed it and I threw some logic her way. She has downsized to the vacation home and put that in writing to Santa. (Was that wrong of me? Nah.) Since Bubba didn't want to be left behind, he started his letter too. But MJ started to use my logic on him and I told her that it is a letter to Santa - he chooses how nice they have been and what they deserve. Bubba can write that he wants - an IPOD, Lap Top, or whatever electronic he wants on it.

Oh wait, let me back up, MJ came home today talking about the Elf on the Shelf. We had never heard of it until we moved to Mississippi. It sits on the shelf and watches you. She says it's magic, writes letters, and moves when no one is looking. To me it sounds a lot like a Chucky doll. Her teacher has one in her classroom and it moved when they went to lunch. A bunch of the kids in her class have them at home and have been talking it up. MJ told me that she doesn't want anything from Santa except an Elf, it's that important to her. (Elf became a bad word and wasn't allowed last night.) I guess Santa needs to think about this one. Roy looked up some YouTube videos of them and totally had the kids going. One Elf pushed the camera off the table when the people left. Another, the Elf went flying across the room. MJ is our believer and will for a long time, so I think I need to believe in it too - for her sake.

All this led to me finding a place to send the Santa Mail. If you have a Macy's, they have post boxes in their stores. For all of us in the middle of nowhere kind of places like Mississippi...here is the address to send them to:
Santa Claus
1 Reindeer Lane
North Pole, Alaska 99705
There are some other addresses out there that will send a response if you send a self-addressed envelope and a donation. I figure the response is the gifts themselves, but that's just me. There are also e-mail sights to go to also.
I have about half of my Christmas shopping done, but I know that only a few more weeks are left. Hope everyone did well with Black Friday and Cyber Monday specials. I don't even try those days, I just catch the deals when I can. Happy Shopping and Randomizing!!
Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

PS. Florine Church sent me an e-mail recently about "20 Different Christmas Traditions from Around the World”...take a look, it is quite interesting. I did find it odd that USA is not in that list, but we do have many eclectic traditions here. Since we are the melting pot.

Have a Wonderful Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T08:57:00.001-05:00

WW: Petrified Forest & Fluming

2010-11-24T08:56:00.000-05:00

RTT: Ironic Moment, Terrified Forest, and Rubbing Volcano

2010-11-23T05:25:00.002-05:00

The other night we were catching up on Survivor - we watch it online, since we go to church on Wednesday night. (Why did they change nights?) Anyway, MJ was watching a reward where they got to have a picnic on an active volcano. MJ says, "I hope the volcano won't rubs." Rubs? Then we realized she meant erupt, guess that is a word that is not used often here. Maybe if we lived near Washington state it might, but not in MS.
Speaking of words...Bubba asked us what lame means the other night. I was being silly with Roy and I told him he was so lame in my most valley girl voice. Bubba was so confused and came to Roy's defense after we gave him the definition.
Friday was the last day of school until after Thanksgiving here, so Bubba had a Pilgrim/Indian feast and got to dress up like an Indian; MJ had a field trip to the Petrified Forest. The kids kept calling it the "Terrified Forest", they did scare all the animals away as they trampled down the trail and made so much noise. (Pictures coming soon.) The phrase/question I heard most,"I know, right!?" At least 50 times in one day. Roy sent me this message on FB: Der blaack beers n dem der stix...Id beez turrifried my sulf! (I think I pass it everyday coming to work now that I think about it...seen a few confederate apparitions floating around drinking sweet tea too, so the fear is REAL!!) Yeah, I think Mississippi is rubbing off on Roy. (Love ya hunny!)
Saturday morning, Roy was going into work to get some overtime before the holidays are officially here. Before he actually made it out of the city (he has a 45 minute drive), the check engine light came on. Here are the ironic points to this: our last payment on the car is next month and I just had the oil changed. He called and I told him to come back home, he decided to just stay home, which was good for me since I woke up with a migraine. I took the car back to where I got the oil change and told them, "some thing's not quite right with that." After waiting two hours, they finally took a look at it and they said it was just a loose clamp on the gas tank that has a sensor on it and that they clipped it back on. Free of charge and the car is driving fine.

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Christmas Cards

2010-11-22T18:44:00.001-05:00

Every year I send out Christmas cards, because we are always changing and not all people read my blog (shocker). We have moved yet again and need to let the long distance family that we are among the living and that we still want them to know that we care about them too. So I try to find something unique every year. I have been searching for some card designs past few weeks and found some great offers on Shutterfly. Just have a look at their new Christmas card collection and choose between folded greeting cards, flat stationery and flat photo cards. They also offer cute Christmas gift tags and party invitations. The hardest part is to select the favorite design because they offer more than 700 different cards.

Here are some of my favorite designs:

In the past, I have considered sending Calendars or Mugs for great gift ideas. Shutterfly can also handle those too.
Now, I just need to get the kids to stand still to get some good pictures of them. I have some creative ones, but we could try to be presentable this year...maybe.

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Would you like 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly too? Just visit this page for information.

*This post is sponsored by Shutterfly.

AF: Thanksgiving

2010-11-19T08:35:00.000-05:00

Spin: Thanks!

2010-11-18T08:55:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful for so many things right now: I'm trying not to look at my neighbor's grass (which is kind of hard since we live in an apartment now). But I have been blessed so much since we moved down to Mississippi. Roy and I were physically separated for 6 months (not emotionally, spiritually, or legally) and now we are back together as a family. We were trying to sell our house in Indiana. I don't have a job that pays, but I do receive Unemployment, since I moved from state to state and cannot find a paying job. I have found an outlet for the time that I am not doing anything - I volunteer at the church we go to, to help the Preschool Department with supplies and organization. (I don't actually have the patience for babies any longer, I'm getting old.) The kids are healthy, happy, and have friends. We all have found a church that we enjoy and are getting "plugged in". I am meeting new people every day. There has been food on the table and we can turn the air conditioner or the heater on if needed. We have a roof over our head (even though sometimes the people above stomp a little too hard at 2AM). We have a good life.
Thank you God we have sooooo much! I can say this, because this past week our family put together shoe box gifts. The gifts go to a child in another country that doesn't have much. Bubba wasn't getting the impact it would leave on the child, so I had to show him some videos of some of the kids that would be receiving them. This is the site: Samaritan's Purse. I cried the whole time. There is so much poverty around the world and our country is so spoiled. I'm not going into the government issues, since that will be too much writing. I just wanted my kids to see that they have a closet full of toys they don't even play with and there is a kid in another country whose only toy is the rock he found in the grass. I'm not trying to be that depressing commercial that we try to change the channel on, I'm just sharing.
Finally, I want to thank Jenn for hosting the Spin for so long. I never know what I really want to talk about, since I mainly just do a Mom-blog and talk about my kids. Her topics helped me to open up and get to know people. I had a chance to even meet her in person - her family is wonderful and she is everything and more that she portrays on her blog. Yes, Sprite is the same also, even though she was shy at first. Hope we can meet again and that we stay bloggie friends. Thanks again!
Jenn at Sprite's Keeper gives a topic that you can spin on; this week’s topic is "Giving Thanks". If you want to spin too, just click on the button below and it will take you to Sprite's Keeper.

RTT: Traditions

2010-11-16T08:54:00.000-05:00

Roy and I are part of a group of people that will meet once a month. One of the goals is to experience different traditions related to "religious" holidays with our kids and families that want to learn also. Each religion or denomination celebrates differently. Like the upcoming month of December - Christmas/Advent, Hanukkah, and others. If you could share your traditions with me that would be great!
Just e-mail me at morganrnl97 at gmail dot com.
We are just trying to broaden our minds and asking for help is the easiest way to do it. If you know someone else that might be able to help us, you can e-mail about that info too. Thanks for your help!

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

WW: Cutest Aprons!

2010-11-10T10:31:00.000-05:00

(Their names are embroidered, that's the reason for the blur.)

(He looks like a blacksmith, haha!)

Spin: Perfection?

2010-11-07T19:46:00.000-05:00

Jenn at Sprite's Keeper gives a topic that you can spin on; this week’s topic is "Perfection". If you want to spin too, just click on the button below and it will take you to Sprite's Keeper.

I was Googling "Perfection", since I don't believe there is a man-made item that is perfect. I believe that God made things perfect - earth, sun, plants, even moments when our children are perfect (usually when they are sleeping and not tooting). These are some of the pictures I agree with, that are under the search of "Perfection".

Other pictures I saw, I wouldn't want to share, because they were nudeys, food, electronics, and animals (mostly sheep which is odd).

No one person can be perfect, yet so many try to be. So many people have issues with their bodies, because they are trying to live up to some unrealistic image of perfection. Especially, when most of the images they compare to in magazines, books, TV, and movies - they are all airbrushed to the artists idea of perfection.

I appreciate that Fruit of the Loom actually uses plus size models. Stacy and Clinton on What Not to Wear, try to show the people (yes they have men also, just very few) that they can be beautiful at whatever size or shape they are in.

The question, "Perfection is in the eye of the beholder?" was thrown to the Answers/Yahoo question board. Most of the answers were either arrogant, making fun of themselves or very philosophical. I liked one that said, "if perfection were in the eye of the beholder then your state of perfection would change constantly."

Last statement I read on a Perfect quote site: A real girl isn’t perfect and a perfect girl isn’t real!! I hope you think that I'm real, since I know I'm not perfect.

Have a great day!

WW: School Pics

2010-11-03T10:57:00.002-04:00

RTT: Sick, Driving, & Action Figure

2010-11-02T18:09:00.000-04:00

I'm late posting today because (skip this if you gag easy) MJ was throwing up last night. Then this morning she complained about her head hurting and that she felt like she was going to throw up again. As soon as Bubba got on the bus without her and I came back inside the house, MJ perked up and said, "What are we doing today Mom?" I told her she is doing what I usually do on Tuesdays, but she threw me off a little, since I am just now getting to it. Why do kids do that? Roar!! (I turned into a banshee for a moment.)

One day last week when the kids and I were about to get into the car, MJ announced that she was driving. So I played along and asked if she had her drivers license. Bubba played along too, he said, "She got it at Walgreen's." So, I wanted to see how far she would get (she's 9, I wasn't expecting much). She put the key in the ignition and turned it, but she didn't crank it long enough. She was booted to the back seat very quickly. It was a fail

After the prayer was said for dinner a couple nights ago, MJ and Bubba were talking about Jesus. MJ said that he is all around and in her heart. Bubba said, "He's like a little action figure in my heart." Such a cute visual, but so true to the meaning. Especially, since all Bubba's action figures that he has in is room are super heroes.

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

Spin: Costumes

2010-11-01T08:25:00.000-04:00

It seems we didn't get any straight pics of the kids, since all they wanted to do is bounce, climb and jump. Here is what we did get:

His climb. He was GIJoe (he didn't want to wear the mask).

Her climb. She was Twister Game Girl. She wore the spinner on her head.

She was having a lot of fun!

This is how fast and how much fun he was having.

Earlier this month, the kids had to dress up for school or a party:

Granny MJ - she even wore blue eye shadow like her own Grandma wears (sorry Mom). She is a pretty old lady though.

Bubba the pirate. I made the eye patch out of an old lost sock.

Jenn at Sprite's Keeper gives a topic that you can spin on; this week’s topics are "Halloween Show & Tell". This is an easy one for me since I am always showing and telling. If you want to spin too, just click on the button below and it will take you to Sprite's Keeper.

AF: Costume?

2010-10-29T08:03:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Kailani at An Island Life for starting this fun for Friday. In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you want to know more - click on the flowery picture.

As an adult, do you wear a costume and what is it (besides Mom and Dad)?

I try to. If you look at my past couple weeks of posts, you can see I'm dressed in quite a few Halloweens. One that I was out-of-the-box on was when I was Ayane from the movie DOA. I was impressed by the hair and the fact that she was a strong, smart, and pretty girl. The first pic is of the chick playing Ayane in the movie, the second is me:

This year, I will be Little Red Riding Hood and I'm going to stuff the wolf into my basket.

WW: Hayride and Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-26T22:28:00.000-04:00

RTT: Zebronk, Food, Party, and Cartoon

2010-10-25T23:22:00.001-04:00

My guilty pleasure is eating Reese's Puffs cereal.

I just made beet fries. My hands are purple and I didn't even get to try Willy Wonka's Scrumdiddlyuptious candy. ... Turns out my family is not fans of beets even french fried. I guess I'm the only one in my family that likes the obscure food - artichokes, asparagus, brussel sprouts, even beets on salads. The funny thing is, I don't like common broccoli.

This past weekend was Bubba's Birthday. We went to a Confectioners and they had a soda/treat bar. Bubba, MJ, and two of Bubba's friends got to decorate little cakes and have specialty drinks, plus candy galore. They had a great time and it was a unique experience. I made this pic from one that we took at the shop:

(It's been cartoonized and Bubba's bubble is a zombie sound.)

Can you tell I think of food often. We are trying to cut back on salt, butter, and cheese; to get Roy's cholesterol down. Do you have a favorite recipe that would exclude those? Send me an e-mail. Thanks!

(morganrnl97 at gmail dot com)

Have you ever heard of a Zebronk? Cross between a zebra and donkey. We saw one this past weekend when we went to pick out a pumpkin. Here it is:

Do you have some randomness that needs to be shared? Click on the button and join us at the Un-Mom Keely's Blog.

Recipes

2010-10-22T00:21:00.002-04:00

Since I have been asked by more than one person, I shall now share my recipes of my past food pics.
Spinach Pasta
Adapted from "Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook"
Ingredients

2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup cooked spinach, well drained and finely chopped
1 teaspoon cooking oil or olive oil
Directions
1. In a large bowl stir together 2 cups of the flour and the salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. In a small bowl combine eggs, water, spinach, and oil. Add to flour mixture; mix well. (I use my food processor and it mixes it very well.)
2. Sprinkle a clean kneading surface with the remaining 3/4 cup flour. Turn dough out onto floured surface. Knead dough until smooth and elastic (8 to 10 minutes total). Cover and let dough rest for 10 minutes.
3. Divide dough into four equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a 12-inch square (about 1/16 inch thick). If using a pasta machine, pass each portion through the machine according to the manufacturer's directions until dough is 1/16 inch thick. Let stand, uncovered, about 20 minutes. Cut as desired.
4. To serve pasta immediately, cook about 3 minutes or when the noodles float to the top of the water.
5. To store cut pasta, hang it from a pasta-drying rack or clothes hanger, or spread it on a wire cooling rack. Let pasta dry overnight or until completely dry. Place in an airtight container and chill for up to 3 days. Or dry the pasta for at least 1 hour and place in a freezer bag or freezer container; freeze for up to 8 months.
6. Makes 6 servings (not at my house)
After it is drained I put the noodles back in the pot and add a Cheese Sauce.
For the Cheese Sauce: I don't measure, just throw in what I think it needs. Mozzarella, Parmesan and about a cup of cream or half-n-half. Salt and Pepper to taste.

Buns or Rolls
Adapted from "Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook"
Ingredients
4-1/4 to 4-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 package active dry yeast
1 cup milk
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter, margarine, or shortening
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 beaten eggs
Directions
1. In a large mixing bowl stir together 2 cups of the flour and the yeast. In a medium saucepan heat and stir milk, sugar, butter, and salt just until warm (120 degree F to 130 degree F) and butter almost melts. Add milk mixture to dry mixture along with eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on low to medium speed for 30 seconds, scraping sides of bowl constantly. Beat on high speed 3 minutes. Using a wooden spoon, stir in as much of the remaining flour as you can.
2. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead in enough remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is smooth and elastic (6 to 8 minutes total). Shape the dough into a ball. Place in a lightly greased bowl; turn once. Cover; let rise in a warm place until double (about 1 hour).
3. Punch dough down. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide dough in half. Cover; let rest for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, depending on what shape of roll you wish to make, lightly grease baking sheets or muffin cups.
4. Shape the dough into desired rolls and place on prepared baking sheets or in muffin cups. Cover and let rise in a warm place until nearly double in size (about 30 minutes).
5. Bake in a 375 degree F oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden. Immediately remove rolls from pans. Cool on wire racks. Makes 24 to 36 rolls.
Butterhorns: On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion of the dough into a 12-inch circle. Brush with melted butter or margarine. Cut each circle into 12 wedges using a pizza cutter or sharp knife. To shape, begin at the wide end of a wedge and loosely roll toward the point. Place point side down, 2 to 3 inches apart, on prepared baking sheets.
Rosettes: Divide each dough portion into 16 pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 12-inch-long rope. Tie in a loose knot, leaving 2 long ends. Tuck top end under roll. Bring bottom end up and tuck into center of roll. Place 2 to 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
Parker House Rolls: On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion of dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut dough with a floured 2-1/2-inch-round cutter. Brush with melted butter or margarine. Using the dull edge of a table knife, make an off-center crease in each round. Fold each round along crease with large half on top. Press folded edge firmly. Place rolls 2 to 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
Cloverleaf Rolls: Divide each portion of dough into 36 pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, pulling edges under to make a smooth top. Place 3 balls in each muffin cup, smooth sides up.
Hamburger Buns: Divide each portion of dough to the size of Hamburger bun you would like. Shape each piece into a circle about 3-4in wide, pulling edges under to make a smooth top. Brush with milk and add any toppings to the buns you would like. ie.: sesame seeds, dried onions, poppy seeds, etc.
Make-Ahead Tip: Cover shaped rolls loosely with plastic wrap, leaving room for rolls to rise. Chill 2 to 24 hours. Uncover; let stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Bake.

Now a new one:
Pop Tarts
I looked at two recipes for this one and I am going to send to their sites of where I found them:
Smitten Kitchen
and
Joy the Baker
I have been following these ladies for a while and since I was tired of the same old breakfast and the kids ask if they can have pop tarts every time we are at the store. I decided to try my hand at it. No, I'm not the best cook/baker. I just like to bake. I use my family as guinea pigs. But the sad part is, I now have to find out how to adapt all my recipes so that they may be low-cholesterol. Roy is having issues and I don't want to unintentionally kill him with my food. (I just had the visual of Julia Roberts poisoning her husband in "Something to Talk About".) Or intentionally either - I just wanted to make myself clear there.
So here are the pics and they were gone very quickly - this one was a cinnamon caramel apple:

This one is brown sugar cinnamon.

Spin: Birthday's Back Then

2010-10-20T23:52:00.000-04:00

When MJ was just born, we went to our first fall carnival. We were part of the Pussey Cat Dolls. My sister and friend were the other two kitties. Don't we look great, if I do say so myself? Daddy was overseas fighting in a war (9-11 had just happened).

MJ's first Birthday we had a great cake and party. It turned out she was allergic to the colored icing. So we didn't get many pictures.

She is blowing out the candle, since she was a big 2 year old.

Bubba was born and hung out at the house. MJ went trick-or-treating with Grandma.

* * * *

This is Bubba's First Birthday. So cute!

Same year, Halloween. MJ was Dora.

This one was just too cute and I had to share.

* * * *

Two and four with some chocolate cake - we like chocolate!

We were quite the medieval family when MJ & Bubba turned three and five.

The next year Bubba (4) wanted to be Spiderman and the obsession with Super Heroes began.

MJ (6) was a beautiful butterfly.

I showed the past couple Halloweens in last weeks spin. We have had most of their birthdays as halloween/dress up parties or just as a family. This year has been different. Last week I showed you MJ's Tinked Out Birthday and next week will be Bubba's Candilicious Party. Halloween will be all on their own, of course pictures will posted for that one too. My kiddoes have grown so much and I am so glad I have the pictures to look back on. I am biased and think they are absolutely adorable and growing up too quickly. Especially when baby Bubba joined in the fun of the tongue lashing.
Do you want to go down memory lane and look at the then? Or as Roy and I say, "Back in the day". Then...

Jenn at Sprite's Keeper gives a topic that you can spin on; this week’s topic is "then and now". If you want to spin too, just click on the button below and it will take you to Sprite's Keeper.

WW: White Belt - Woot!

2010-10-20T08:56:00.000-04:00