Happenings...Big And Little

  • In my life…
This is an odd collage. This caught our early morning arrival home from mass on the 1st where I think my boys are actually still asleep in spite of having alter served AND my dear dear husband helping to get our little house cleaned up. 

 Which leads to the "in my life" portion of this post... our youngest daughter is getting MARRIED. So after mass my sleepy head boys and morning owl husband pitched in with me to get the house straightened up for the arrival and meeting of our daughter's future in-laws. Crazy!! 

That is them! Erin and Nick. 

  • In our homeschool…
We have been working hard on the basics with a strong dose of baby care thrown in. We have also hired a tutor to help our oldest son with some of his school. 

  • Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share...
In regards to the above, I was at a homeschool conference years ago when a
"veteran homeschool mom of many" told a group of rapt newbie moms, me included, that there is no shame in outsourcing if and when you are able. I often want to do it all myself, but I am thankful that I was open (if somewhat hesitantly) to asking for help. The young man who is coming over twice a week is a blessing! 

  • Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

I took two of my grandbabies shopping at the craft store (that's Uncle James on duty there :)). At first, I was inclined to hurry everyone up (they all wanted to stop at every display to look at the all of the Christmas magic), but I stopped myself! So we savored the moments looking at snowglobes, lights, and other glittery decorations.  



We hung out at the mall with cousins. SANTA was there. 


I think Mark is "getting his nose" NOT punching him!! 

  • My favorite thing this week was…
Among many things: 


Taking a quick moment to work on the new craft kit with my granddaughter before having to leave. 


This little guy's smile when sitting on grandpas lap (I admit it- he likes grandpa best). 

  • My kiddos favorite thing this week was...

Honestly... time hanging out at home. They love their downtime just like mom does!

  • I’m cooking…
I just posted about my butternut squash soup. 

I have also been making this soup and some crockpot "refried" beans.

If you check either of those links- I've made the beans twice recently and they are delicious! The soup is not a crowd pleaser, but it is healthy and I enjoy it. I crumble a healthy cracker in it to add a bit of texture and it really makes a difference. 


These eggs- Check it out- super simple and you can get other things done while they bake. I am working on using less milk and butter. I think about 1/2 the butter and 3/4 the milk will work, but don't hold me to it. I used less milk today, but forgot to do less butter. Also, I double the cooking time. 



  • I’m grateful for…
For living in mostly mild-mannered CA- not so mild-mannered right now. We underdressed Californians are freezing our tushies off. And not in the way I usually mean. It is actually freezing and I don't own a coat! 

  • I’m praying for…
My daughter and her intended. 


  • I rewarded my kids this week by…
Trying to say "yes". Sometimes I just don't want to do one more thing, but I have tried to say yes to the extras when I can because everyone has been working pretty hard around here. 

  • A photo, video, link, or quote to share (silly, serious or both!)…
Just a few photos from the last week or so...






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Comments

  1. PattyDecember 8, 2013 at 4:56 PM

    Congratulations on the engagement of your daughter! I loved this post, Laurie. I know you are so busy with your family. I love "catching up" on this end. Your grandchildren are such a delight. We can see the love overflowing in your family :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. UnknownDecember 9, 2013 at 4:44 AM

    Congratulations to your daughter and her fiancé! Wow! This is an exciting time in your family for sure. And your grandkids are just too cute.

    ReplyDelete
  3. PhyllisDecember 9, 2013 at 7:05 AM

    Wow, what a packed post! Wow, your youngest daughter is getting married. Congratulations! You are at a point that I will be facing in the future. It is interesting to get an idea of what that will be like. I love seeing your beautiful family.

    ReplyDelete
  4. TriciaDecember 10, 2013 at 11:55 AM

    It's so great to see you handling all of these different seasons of life with such grace! PS You look great too!

    ReplyDelete
  5. PhyllisDecember 29, 2013 at 5:33 PM

    Thank you for the kind comment you left for me. I wanted to let you know that I tried those eggs for our Christmas brunch and they were great. Thank you for the tip/recipe.

    ReplyDelete
  6. JenJanuary 17, 2014 at 9:03 PM

    Great post! Trying to catch up :-) will be trying those eggs :-D

    ReplyDelete

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