My lunch today:
Pepper jack cheese, Club crackers and green grapes. YUM.
Today is a bit of a crazy day. We were gone (and on the go!) all weekend, and now we're getting back into the swing of things and the babies are catching up on sleep. Caleb works open to close today, so we're having a pajama day and throwing together whatever we can find for meals! I was pretty happy with what I scrounged up for my lunch!
Happy Monday, everyone!
2.23.2009
2.19.2009
A Short List
The list is short...it's something I've not experienced up to this point. I'm talking about the scant selection of foods my Elly will eat. She's exceedingly picky, something Cameron NEVER was. She would eat anything I shoveled out of a baby food jar a mere two months ago, but now the diva has returned! :)
Here's the synopsis:
bread (at least it's wheat)
mac n' cheese
bananas
cheese
graham crackers
turkey (lunchmeat variety)
tortillas (only when filled with cheese)
baby cereal mixed with juice
peaches (only sometimes)
yogurt
If I would've posted this same type of thing when Cam was starting table foods, the list could've gone on for miles. Now I'm finally experiencing the (probably more typical) toddler liking "white" foods only. Notice, no veggies on that list, only two fruits. I try, she gags.
Ah well, persistence, persistence. She'll have to learn to like more than this, or she won't survive in this house (I am so thankful my parents made me a well-rounded eater, and I pray I'll be able to do the same for my children). Hopefully it's just a jag. Here's the snacking Miss E herself:
Being choosy, yet strangely irresistible at the same time...
Here's the synopsis:
bread (at least it's wheat)
mac n' cheese
bananas
cheese
graham crackers
turkey (lunchmeat variety)
tortillas (only when filled with cheese)
baby cereal mixed with juice
peaches (only sometimes)
yogurt
If I would've posted this same type of thing when Cam was starting table foods, the list could've gone on for miles. Now I'm finally experiencing the (probably more typical) toddler liking "white" foods only. Notice, no veggies on that list, only two fruits. I try, she gags.
Ah well, persistence, persistence. She'll have to learn to like more than this, or she won't survive in this house (I am so thankful my parents made me a well-rounded eater, and I pray I'll be able to do the same for my children). Hopefully it's just a jag. Here's the snacking Miss E herself:
Being choosy, yet strangely irresistible at the same time...2.16.2009
Must-Haves
I am a sucker for TV shows, magazines, websites, etc. when they feature their "Top Ten Must-Haves" or "Best of the Year," or "Our Favorite Things," etc., etc., etc. I'm not sure why, but I just love seeing what other people love! I was thinking this morning what the "must-haves" in our household are.
Here are a few I came up with (these center mostly around our children...):
Huggies diapers: Since my babies tend to be of the tall(ish), skinny variety, I need a diaper that compensates for length and fastens tight. It drives me nuts that Pampers and Huggies have a corner on the diaper market and can charge almost double what the generics cost, but they really are worth it (and sales and coupons help). Cam and Elly both use these for overnight to avoid wet sheets, and I almost always have Pampers/Huggies for them until they're done nursing. All you mamas who've changed a breastfed diaper know why you need them to be as leak-proof as possible! :) Cam uses generic during the day, but only Huggies for us at night!
Texas Toast croutons: I am a crouton lover! It's strange, but since college I simply cannot have a salad without a tasty crouton to top it off. These are the BEST. They come in a variety of flavors, but my favorite is Cheese & Garlic. They're big, crunchy, and soooo flavorful. Try them, you'll love 'em! (Super Target just started carrying these!)
Suavitel fabric softener: Detergent comes and goes (whatever is on sale ends up here), but I get the econo-jug of Suavitel from Sam's Club, because I L-O-V-E the smell. I really enjoy clothes that smell "just washed" for weeks and weeks, and this does the trick. Yum.
Carter's onesies: Again on the tall baby point: until 12 months, my babies wear a lot of onesies. The Carter's brand are cute, durable and nice and long. It seems that some other brands get too short too fast, and others were always too wide for Cameron. I'm pretty sure we have more babies to come, and I know that these onesies are an investment that younger siblings can re-wear.
Vaseline Intensive Rescue lotion: It works for the Sieh 4's skin woes (We've all got very dry skin, mine especially made worse by cold weather and constant diaper changes). We have a bottle in the bathroom and I use it after every wash. Plus, it's unscented as not to offend the men of the house :) Reasonably-priced and great quality.
JIF peanut butter: There's nothing like it. I know, I know I'm going to find some Skippy-lovers and Peter Pan-pushers, but I'm a JIF mom for life. Choosy moms choose JIF. ;)
Pace picante sauce: I'll take a shortcut and buy generic if it's in a recipe...and if I have extra time I'll make homemade...but for setting out with chips, Pace picante sauce is our absolute favorite.
Asics running shoes: With two kiddies around the house, a new pair of running shoes is definitely a luxury, but when I do renew my kicks (and I find that my joints will tell me when it's time), I won't change my tradition. Ever since my freshman year of cross country, I've been an Asics DS Trainer girl. I've had almost every color (white/fill in the blank) you can imagine, as I used to buy two a year. There's something so fun about getting a brand new pair! The good part is, I don't have to fret about the decision, I just ask for my size!
Just a few of my must-haves! As you might have guessed, I'd love to know...what are yours?
Here are a few I came up with (these center mostly around our children...):
Huggies diapers: Since my babies tend to be of the tall(ish), skinny variety, I need a diaper that compensates for length and fastens tight. It drives me nuts that Pampers and Huggies have a corner on the diaper market and can charge almost double what the generics cost, but they really are worth it (and sales and coupons help). Cam and Elly both use these for overnight to avoid wet sheets, and I almost always have Pampers/Huggies for them until they're done nursing. All you mamas who've changed a breastfed diaper know why you need them to be as leak-proof as possible! :) Cam uses generic during the day, but only Huggies for us at night!
Texas Toast croutons: I am a crouton lover! It's strange, but since college I simply cannot have a salad without a tasty crouton to top it off. These are the BEST. They come in a variety of flavors, but my favorite is Cheese & Garlic. They're big, crunchy, and soooo flavorful. Try them, you'll love 'em! (Super Target just started carrying these!)
Suavitel fabric softener: Detergent comes and goes (whatever is on sale ends up here), but I get the econo-jug of Suavitel from Sam's Club, because I L-O-V-E the smell. I really enjoy clothes that smell "just washed" for weeks and weeks, and this does the trick. Yum.
Carter's onesies: Again on the tall baby point: until 12 months, my babies wear a lot of onesies. The Carter's brand are cute, durable and nice and long. It seems that some other brands get too short too fast, and others were always too wide for Cameron. I'm pretty sure we have more babies to come, and I know that these onesies are an investment that younger siblings can re-wear.
Vaseline Intensive Rescue lotion: It works for the Sieh 4's skin woes (We've all got very dry skin, mine especially made worse by cold weather and constant diaper changes). We have a bottle in the bathroom and I use it after every wash. Plus, it's unscented as not to offend the men of the house :) Reasonably-priced and great quality.
JIF peanut butter: There's nothing like it. I know, I know I'm going to find some Skippy-lovers and Peter Pan-pushers, but I'm a JIF mom for life. Choosy moms choose JIF. ;)
Pace picante sauce: I'll take a shortcut and buy generic if it's in a recipe...and if I have extra time I'll make homemade...but for setting out with chips, Pace picante sauce is our absolute favorite.
Asics running shoes: With two kiddies around the house, a new pair of running shoes is definitely a luxury, but when I do renew my kicks (and I find that my joints will tell me when it's time), I won't change my tradition. Ever since my freshman year of cross country, I've been an Asics DS Trainer girl. I've had almost every color (white/fill in the blank) you can imagine, as I used to buy two a year. There's something so fun about getting a brand new pair! The good part is, I don't have to fret about the decision, I just ask for my size!
Just a few of my must-haves! As you might have guessed, I'd love to know...what are yours?
Trying Out Coborn's Delivers
I've never really considered trying a grocery delivery service. I figured, they must find a way to turn a profit...and how could they do that besides over-charging for their products and doubling the gas price it takes them to deliver?
But, there is a first time for everything. I got a $20 off coupon in the mail, plus a free delivery code advertised on KARE 11, so I thought I'd get online and browse. The service I used is the former Simon Delivers, now called Coborn's Delivers. I looked around, and very quickly realized that most prices are indeed inflated to compensate for the convenience factor. However, I found some fantastic sales that were just as good, if not better, than those I would find at local grocery stores. The $ off coupon I had made those sales even sweeter!
Before long, I'd planned meals for the next two weeks, including meat, dairy, dry goods, and fresh fruit and vegetables (and even some "lazy foods" for lunches), and my grand total was $108.34. I used a few manufacturer's coupons, and then used my codes for $20 off and free delivery ($5), bringing my total down to $81.34.
Our grocery budget is fairly tight (we try to keep under $240 per month), so I was quite pleased with what I got for the money. Now, we're only feeding 3 mouths at best (Cam and Elly count as one at a good meal), so we can swing it. I don't mind buying generic, and I'd say almost half of the items I purchased were not name brand. But I will say, on this shopping trip, I got better deals that I could have at the Super Target + Cub + Rainbow trip that I usually navigate, and it came right to my door at 10:30 this morning!
All the fresh food that I bought (meat, vegetables, etc.) has a use-by date of February 22nd, which I thought was very reasonable. Some of the meat was on super-duper sale, so I'll freeze part of it. The delivery man was friendly, and even waited for a minute at the door while I changed Elly's aptly-timed blowout (oh, the pleasures of sweet babies...she's sick, so she gets a break). I had trouble using one of my coupon codes at checkout (on Saturday) and I emailed the "help" option...they emailed me right back and were able to help me complete the order. Overall, I'm very satisfied.
My mixed feelings come only because I know I'd never pay a $5 delivery fee, plus prices that are consistently at least 15% more than regular store prices, just for this service. I know many of you moms are with me on this one - I actually QUITE ENJOY my trips to the store...precious alone time - and the fees involved just don't trump sales, coupons, and the relaxation I get from shopping around. However, they do have very, very good sales on select items. If I got another round of coupons, I'd definitely consider doing this again.
If you're living in the Twin Cities and in the market for a grocery service, I highly recommend this one! You need to be short on time and willing to spend a bit more money than you would at the store, but time is money and as I said, they do have some very, very good sales on everyday grocery basics and even some novelty items (the sales change every few days).
Just thought I'd share my new experience! I felt kind of strange when the big bright truck drove up to the house today...like "why do I deserve such service??!" Haha! Fun.
But, there is a first time for everything. I got a $20 off coupon in the mail, plus a free delivery code advertised on KARE 11, so I thought I'd get online and browse. The service I used is the former Simon Delivers, now called Coborn's Delivers. I looked around, and very quickly realized that most prices are indeed inflated to compensate for the convenience factor. However, I found some fantastic sales that were just as good, if not better, than those I would find at local grocery stores. The $ off coupon I had made those sales even sweeter!
Before long, I'd planned meals for the next two weeks, including meat, dairy, dry goods, and fresh fruit and vegetables (and even some "lazy foods" for lunches), and my grand total was $108.34. I used a few manufacturer's coupons, and then used my codes for $20 off and free delivery ($5), bringing my total down to $81.34.
Our grocery budget is fairly tight (we try to keep under $240 per month), so I was quite pleased with what I got for the money. Now, we're only feeding 3 mouths at best (Cam and Elly count as one at a good meal), so we can swing it. I don't mind buying generic, and I'd say almost half of the items I purchased were not name brand. But I will say, on this shopping trip, I got better deals that I could have at the Super Target + Cub + Rainbow trip that I usually navigate, and it came right to my door at 10:30 this morning!
All the fresh food that I bought (meat, vegetables, etc.) has a use-by date of February 22nd, which I thought was very reasonable. Some of the meat was on super-duper sale, so I'll freeze part of it. The delivery man was friendly, and even waited for a minute at the door while I changed Elly's aptly-timed blowout (oh, the pleasures of sweet babies...she's sick, so she gets a break). I had trouble using one of my coupon codes at checkout (on Saturday) and I emailed the "help" option...they emailed me right back and were able to help me complete the order. Overall, I'm very satisfied.
My mixed feelings come only because I know I'd never pay a $5 delivery fee, plus prices that are consistently at least 15% more than regular store prices, just for this service. I know many of you moms are with me on this one - I actually QUITE ENJOY my trips to the store...precious alone time - and the fees involved just don't trump sales, coupons, and the relaxation I get from shopping around. However, they do have very, very good sales on select items. If I got another round of coupons, I'd definitely consider doing this again.
If you're living in the Twin Cities and in the market for a grocery service, I highly recommend this one! You need to be short on time and willing to spend a bit more money than you would at the store, but time is money and as I said, they do have some very, very good sales on everyday grocery basics and even some novelty items (the sales change every few days).
Just thought I'd share my new experience! I felt kind of strange when the big bright truck drove up to the house today...like "why do I deserve such service??!" Haha! Fun.
2.13.2009
It's Tradition
I made Valentine's frosted cookies today. I've done so every year Caleb and I have been married, always making a large heart for each family member (only Caleb and I for the first two years), and more small, decorated hearts. This year, I made my largest batch of "big hearts" ever, four for our immediate family and one for Uncle Jay. I also made large hearts for Anna's family (see below for Anna update)!
I took a picture of Elly's heart because it was the ONLY one that came out with the text looking even remotely close to the way I wanted it to. My frosting got too warm and started to get really goopy and sloppy. Good thing my audience is a). not picky and b). largely two and under.
Cameron and Elly got frosted cookies for snacks today -- not something that happens very often. They gobbled them up and asked quite nicely for more!
We make these cookies a few times a year: pumpkins for Halloween, a wide variety for Christmas, hearts for Valentine's Day, and shamrocks for St. Patrick's Day. I once made a whole batch of basketballs with names on them for Caleb's basketball team...because I thought "I would love a delicious basketball cookie after a game"...but he promptly told me that young men didn't have quite the same affection for labeled, orange cookies, even if made with lots of TLC. Haven't done that since. :)
I managed to complete this whole project during a 2-hour tandem naptime, so I'd like to thank my cherubs for making it all possible! I'm actually excited for the day when they can help...
Happy Valentine's Day!
I took a picture of Elly's heart because it was the ONLY one that came out with the text looking even remotely close to the way I wanted it to. My frosting got too warm and started to get really goopy and sloppy. Good thing my audience is a). not picky and b). largely two and under.
Cameron and Elly got frosted cookies for snacks today -- not something that happens very often. They gobbled them up and asked quite nicely for more!
We make these cookies a few times a year: pumpkins for Halloween, a wide variety for Christmas, hearts for Valentine's Day, and shamrocks for St. Patrick's Day. I once made a whole batch of basketballs with names on them for Caleb's basketball team...because I thought "I would love a delicious basketball cookie after a game"...but he promptly told me that young men didn't have quite the same affection for labeled, orange cookies, even if made with lots of TLC. Haven't done that since. :)
I managed to complete this whole project during a 2-hour tandem naptime, so I'd like to thank my cherubs for making it all possible! I'm actually excited for the day when they can help...
Happy Valentine's Day!
Anna update: As of this afternoon, Anna was making progress and being weaned off the oxygen mask to regular room air. Thanks for your prayers, please keep praying as she is incredibly weak and still has a long way to go to recover. Praise God for her healing thus far!
2.12.2009
Happy Birthday, Laura!
I have decided that I'm going to blog about each of my immediate family members on their birthday this year. I like to share with everyone why I love them so much! Today is my sister Laura's birthday. She is four years younger than me, living in Kansas City and planning her June wedding to her high school sweetheart. Two summers ago, she came and lived with us while she completed her internship. I missed her before that, but I've missed her even more since.
Here are a few of the very special things about my next-youngest sis:
We are a lot alike. We have the same sense of humor, look alike in many ways, get annoyed at (and a kick out of) the same commercials, etc.
We are also quite different. I'm a push-over, she's stubborn. I'm a wimp, she's really, REALLY tough. I'm a morning person, Laura...not so much! :)
Laura is a fantastic friend. She is one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. To know her is to love her.
She LOVES caramel frappucinos, just like her big sis.
She has a degree in Merchandising, and works at Crate & Barrel. She's incredibly artistically and organizationally talented.
Laura strongly dislikes cooking. Her fiance Brett enjoys it, so I think they'll make it. I am thoroughly convinced she would (will be) a great cook if she tried. However, I know she'll have a fabulous kitchen!!
She endured a lot of bossing around from me in her childhood, and she still loves me. She can take on a lot with lots of grace.
She's a truly amazing aunt to Cameron and Elly. She loves them to bits and pieces.
She's brave. And strong. I admire these traits about her so much.
She's a good driver, and drives a manual car better than most guys can!
Laura, I hope you had a beautiful birthday. Our lives wouldn't be as rich without you in them. You are such a special person and I love you very much!
Sonya, Laura, Michelle. August 2007.
Sonya, Michelle, Laura. August 2008.
Here are a few of the very special things about my next-youngest sis:
We are a lot alike. We have the same sense of humor, look alike in many ways, get annoyed at (and a kick out of) the same commercials, etc.
We are also quite different. I'm a push-over, she's stubborn. I'm a wimp, she's really, REALLY tough. I'm a morning person, Laura...not so much! :)
Laura is a fantastic friend. She is one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. To know her is to love her.
She LOVES caramel frappucinos, just like her big sis.
She has a degree in Merchandising, and works at Crate & Barrel. She's incredibly artistically and organizationally talented.
Laura strongly dislikes cooking. Her fiance Brett enjoys it, so I think they'll make it. I am thoroughly convinced she would (will be) a great cook if she tried. However, I know she'll have a fabulous kitchen!!
She endured a lot of bossing around from me in her childhood, and she still loves me. She can take on a lot with lots of grace.
She's a truly amazing aunt to Cameron and Elly. She loves them to bits and pieces.
She's brave. And strong. I admire these traits about her so much.
She's a good driver, and drives a manual car better than most guys can!
She's trendy and cute. Always!
Laura, I hope you had a beautiful birthday. Our lives wouldn't be as rich without you in them. You are such a special person and I love you very much!
Sonya, Laura, Michelle. August 2007.
Sonya, Michelle, Laura. August 2008.Eating Pillows
I can't help but laugh out loud as I post this...today Cameron came up to me and said, "Mama, eat dittle (little) pillows?"
OK, he has tons of Cameron-isms, most of which I've picked up on (and perhaps, on occasion, even encouraged because they're SO DARN CUTE, anyway)...but for the life of me, I couldn't figure out what he meant. Little pillows? Had he been chewing his way through the night?
Finally, he dragged me over to the pantry and showed me this box:
We both had a good laugh, although he didn't know why he was laughing! He got a few extra bites for being so precious. You've gotta admit...they do look like little pillows! Oh, how I love my sweet boy!!
OK, he has tons of Cameron-isms, most of which I've picked up on (and perhaps, on occasion, even encouraged because they're SO DARN CUTE, anyway)...but for the life of me, I couldn't figure out what he meant. Little pillows? Had he been chewing his way through the night?
Finally, he dragged me over to the pantry and showed me this box:
We both had a good laugh, although he didn't know why he was laughing! He got a few extra bites for being so precious. You've gotta admit...they do look like little pillows! Oh, how I love my sweet boy!!
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