Parenting...

Article that you should read: 50 parenting ideas you wont regret
This article is a must read and she provides links to other posts about the list.
What a great resource to share.

Reading the bible in a year...

So, if you all remember, Little Man was trying to do this. Here is the post about it.Read old post here!
My heart is swelling because as I sit here almost a year later, he is almost there. He will be there and finished by Dec 31st. Something about this Little Man, all he does is set his mind to something and watch out! It's been amazing to watch and be a part of this.
I can say that this type of bible was perfect and would make a great gift for those kids in your life. There is a less challenging one as well if I am recalling correctly.

He's enjoyed it and I've enjoyed our discussions. So, I asked what he will do when he's done. Read it again of course. :) But, I think he is hoping for a new devotional this year. Be still my heart!

Blessed Be Your Name

A favorite of mine....
Blessed Be Your Name
Little Man loves this song too! :)

Christmas Cards and Activities...

So, I've been sending them out in stages this year. I think that the last of them will go out this week. I had good intentions of them all going out at the same time. However, throw some sickness in there and well, they get put aside while I tend to my sick kid. I am almost done getting them all out and crossed off my list. I have a few that I will still deliver by hand, but other than that, I think the last of them will be out by the end of the week. Yeah! How about all of you?
Speaking of Christmas, I know I usually have activities for you all. So, let's see if I can round up a list of ideas for you.

Cookies/ Sweets for you to try:

Hershey website photo

Hershey Oatmeal Toffee Cookies I have to make these every year now. I admit, they are yummy!
Cake Batter Pudding Cookies- I am so trying these this year!
Brownie Candy Cups- again a YUM.
Hershey Symphony Brownies
Peanut Butter Cheese Ball - Trying this this year.
I'll leave it at that. I remember back in the day when I piped an entire Christmas Tree cake. One time people, one time!
Might be fun to pipe some cookies again--this time with Little Man. hmmm...I'll think on that.

I'll get back to you all with Craft Ideas...But, really just remember to...make time for some good Family memories! :)

Christmas Ideas...

A thought to ponder....


I knew there was something about that Grinch guy that I liked. :)


If you have kids who still believe. Here is an idea for you.
capture-photo-of-santa-in-your-home

Family Activities
Go here to see many activities you can do as a family.

Cute Craft-lights up and you can make it for under $5

Salt Tree Blog has this on it. Seriously cute!

Click here for instructions!

More coming another day!

Secret Santa & RACKs in a BIG way!

Because we can all use GOOD NEWS! :) Click to enjoy: RACKs taken to a BIG level.

Today, started our Christmas RACKs. While they are so small compared to this, I can't even begin to describe how thrilled Little Man was to be the first one to deliver the RACKs yesterday.

We are all excited. Hope your RACKs are filling your hearts with pure joy as well.

Chime in and share your stories, feel free to link to this blog (via your facebook, twitter, etc) for others to join and understand what we are doing here. The more the merrier.

Have a wonderful day!

RACKs....

Ok, so some of you have emailed and it seems this RACKs idea is taking off. I'm glad you all are as excited as we are about this. This has always been a passion of mine. We do this as we feel called throughout the year but, this Christmas we are making a list and a point to do more.
I've heard from some of you that you are worried about the $ it will cost to do this. I decided to get a list together of ideas that would not cost a lot. In fact I think the whole list will cost less than $10 total.

Things to keep in mind as you create your list:

RACKs are not about the money you invest, instead it is about the way you make a person feel.

Here are just a few ideas that are meaningful and cost are not high.
1. Buy a box of Candy canes and attach one of them to the RACK note, leave it on a windshield or a neighbors door. (There are what 12 in a box, you can do this 12 times, just because it is the same to you doesn't mean it is the same to everyone you gave it to.)

2. Make cards and call a local nursing home or retirement home. Find out who doesn't get much mail and send a card from Santa. :)

3. Visit a local nursing home with candy canes in hand.

4. Make Hot Cocoa and deliver it to someone working outside or someone you think could use a pick me up.

5. Donate clothing to those in need.

6. Bake Cookies and then package them to give to someone who could use a treat.

7. Stand outside a busy store that doesn't have automatic doors and open them for others, do this for a period of time.

8. Donate your time to a cause--whatever cause that may be.

9. Write a note to someone who has made an impact on your life and tell them why.

10. Donate gently used books to a school or library.

You can go here for another inspiration!
52 Random Acts of Kindness - One a week for a year!

So, go spread kindess and be a blessing to others.

What do you do when your child tells you they know Santa isn't real?

I've suspected for a number of years that Little Man was on the fence--maybe even just playing along to make us feel good. The kid has an amazing heart, so I wouldn't put it past him.

Well, turns out I was right. He let us know that he knew that Santa was not real. That we were Santa and he was OK with it all. I knew it was coming, in fact my husband and I had a conversation just a few weeks ago wondering when it would all come to a head.

So, was I shocked? No. (Although, I still got tears in my eyes because this was just something else to add to the long list of things that say he is growing up fast.)

Was I prepared? Actually, yes I was. Because I had time to prepare.

You see one day when he was 5, he let us know clear as day that there was no tooth fairy and there was no Easter Bunny. The kid had not even lost a tooth. So, I never got to play the tooth fairy. Sniff, sniff. Although, thankfully he's did a good job allowing friends to still believe.

But, that day, he gave a hint that he was totally on the fence and was not really all into the Santa thing either. I skirted that one, as I was not prepared to have my 5 year old tell me there was no Santa either. But, I knew he was questioning the whole thing and even wanting that conversation. But, what's a Mom to do?

Simple, be prepared with the truth. The simple, honest truth. So, I worked at it and then last year, I came across something so well written that I knew it would help me with my truth letter/talk. So, I began my letter to Little Man and used some of this writing to help me.

Here is the link to what I used for inspiration. I hope this helps you writing your own letters or having your own talk.

 Link: The Simple Truth

Because this did help me, it helped to explain it in such a wonderful way to him.

The outcome: He's thrilled to be on Santa's team and I have to say he's a great addition!

How the Marathon became more than just a race day event (part 2)

The Day of the Marathon....
Of course, I failed to sleep the night before. I was up a lot. I had not been feeling well; I was thinking that was all part of the taper madness that I had been dealing with leading up to the race. (By the way, taper madness is not fun. You can do a google search for more information on that.)

Anyway, I woke up and starting prepping at 4AM.  I got my food in me, made sure I had everything I needed and mentally got my head prepared for what I would face. Then, I got my family up, ready and out the door.

Along the way, I was getting pep talks from my son. I really think he liked being on the other side of things. I am usually the pep talk one, but this time he got to “mother” me. I soaked it in and thought what a great heart he has. I also wondered if that is what I sound like to him before games.

We arrived at 6AM, just as I was supposed to.  Then, we waited around until 6:30AM when the race began. I met a few ladies at the start and took pictures for them so they could remember their morning. It was their first Marathon and they should remember it fondly. As for me, I got a few last minute hugs from my husband and son-just what I needed and I was on my way.  

The course was not well marked, which lead me to follow a map that was not drawn to scale and didn’t have all the streets on it. There must have been at least 3 times I thought I was lost. I wasn’t, but I had to stop to figure this out. Why couldn’t I just follow those in front of me? At first, I could and did follow the few in front of me- we were keeping close in a pack.

However, they decided to take off running around mile 1 ½. Yes, I did say I was the walker division; apparently there are loose rules for that. I was frustrated, but reminded myself that I didn’t train to run this, I trained to walk it. So, that’s what I did.

I had anxiety over the course until it was better marked. I decided that I would keep a pace that I knew I could finish and reach the goal of under 6 hours. But, most importantly I wanted to enjoy this day. When shooting for anything under 6,I  knew I wouldn’t get my reach, reach goal. But, instead just a time that would allow me to take in all there was in this first marathon of mine. Looking back, that was a great decision as; I can now look back with fond memories on that first marathon. I was able to cheer others on, encourage them and hopefully helped a few along the way to achieve the results they wanted that day.

My support crew helped with this being such a wonderful memory. I got emails, text messages, phone calls, care packages all to make sure I was mentally ready for this day. Then, the day of I had 3 amazing friends who each joined me for a few miles and it was wonderful to have the company, it made me feel so loved and cared for. (Girls if you read this, you were awesome and I am so blessed!)  Of course, I had my husband and son out there cheering for me. They met me at miles 6, 7 and 25. My son had notes for me at miles 5, 10, 15, and 20.  What more could a girl need?

The notes were as follows:

Mile 5’s note: Believe in the Lord and you will have succeeded. We are counting on you. C’mon!

Mile 10’s note: Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength they will soar on wings like eagles. Isaiah 40:31. We are counting on you. Try your hardest. Do your best.

Mile 15’s note: I believe in you. Do your best. Try! C’mon try! Go baby! Go Power walk Go! Don’t give up now- go!

Mile 20’s note: Make this count. 6.2 more miles. C’mon Go power walk. Run, do anything except give up!

While out there, I twisted my ankle twice. It kind of hurt, but honestly I couldn’t feel it that much at that point. Plus, I knew I was not stopping! I carried my supply of water and gummies with me. Along with a few other supplies just in case I needed them.

Around mile 22, I didn’t want to give up but between mile 22 and 23 I knew I had to get in it mentally. It became tough; it wasn’t that I didn’t think I could physically do it. It was more that my brain was telling my body to stop and I was fighting with it. It’s hard to put into words, but whatever it was I got through it. I knew my legs were swelling and starting to hurt. But, I knew if I stopped that I would pass out. I could feel that. So, I focused on the fact that I had only a few more miles to go. That way I was able to get myself snapped out of it and get back into the mental mindset that I needed to have to finish. I had a friend with me at this point and I think that truly helped me. 

Mile 25 came and I saw my son and husband there waiting for me. I waved and smiled. (I smiled a lot during this race.) At this point it was so good to see them. Then, my son joined me and took over for the friend that was there for those few miles before. His presence was just what I needed to finish.

After I finished and I got a hug from my husband, I knew that if I stood still any longer that I would indeed pass out. So, I walked around and we grabbed a few pictures thanks to my friend and her family. Yes, I walked around more and I took the stairs down to the car. I got in the car and could hardly believe that it was over. What a day, what an experience. The scripture that stuck in my head all through training was there with me then at the marathon and it is so true. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

What’s next? Well, I have more goals to reach for and I plan on reaching for them, as this is just the beginning.

How the Marathon became more than just a race day event (Part 1 of 2)

Yes, this started out as something on my bucket list. Something, I wanted to accomplish and tackle and cross off that list. But, along the way it became so much more. As I found myself training, I also found myself growing deeper.

You see, I feel (and have talked to others that would agree) that marathon training has a lot of parallels to life, faith and relationships. What you are putting into it, you will also get out of it.

When training for a marathon, it becomes important to focus on what you are putting into your body, your training and your head. Your nutrition will either help or hurt your long mile days. Your training, if you do it diligently will pay off for you at race time. And it’s important to fill your head with ideas, hopes, desires that are pure and positive as those will carry you through the long miles.

The same holds true in everyday life. The food you put into your body affects your health and well being. The way you choose to live your life affects you and everyone around you, and what goes in that head effects how you live your life. It’s one big circle of sorts.

I went on this journey without someone who was going to race with me that day, which seemed silly and foreign to many. I got the “you mean you’re doing this alone? “  Yes, I was- well sort of. At the start, I had my wonderful son to guide me though the long training miles. It was pure joy when he would accompany me on his bike. You see, I love the close relationship that we share and this journey just enhanced that even more. 

My son made me laugh with the things he would say to get me to train harder. His motivational speeches were priceless. I still heard them in my head even when he wasn’t with me on the long sessions anymore. In fact, I can still hear him saying, Mom, just think there is a pack of hungry wolves behind you. Think about them closing in on you and know that all they eat is ladies. Hilarious! Then, there was the time he told me I should sprint the last ½ mile after we had already gone at least 3 miles longer than what I was supposed to go that day—which was out of pure mistake on my part. But, at that point, he saw no reason that I shouldn’t push myself harder. Really, he was right. Makes me smile and laugh every time I think about his motivation. Those days and miles are soaked in my heart forever.

My husband also supported me along this journey with encouraging words and patience as I took some time planning the long training. Even when I had to use a Saturday or two to do a long training session.

I had other family and friends that would not train for such a thing, to them I was nuts, but were a great support for me. I was given motivational pep talks, text messages, phone calls and emails.

Of course, I was never without the LORD. We never are in the things that we do. So, did I have to be the one to lace up my sneakers and hold myself accountable, yes? Was I really alone? No.

After my son was back in school, and I found that my training was no longer filled with our special time together. I missed him and his motivation. But, the training then became my time. My time to focus on my faith, my life and those around me and I found myself looking for ways that I could improve all of those things.  I found that extra time to take care of me rewarding-- even if it was beating my body with 20 miles of pavement.

You see, I am the type of person that strives to always do better; I am not a very complacent type of person. I want to be better, be stronger, and shine brighter. I don’t want to just do that in a race, but I want this in all aspects of my life.  That’s not something I learned through training, it is something that training reinforced.

Honestly marathon training didn’t lead me to any huge revelations. Instead, it allowed me time to clear my head, open my heart, and allow my mind to listen. Listen to what the Lord had in store for me. After all, 20 miles on a given training day, allows a long time of listening.

Another reinforcement that came was a reminder that HIS timing is always right. I truly feel that the marathon hit me at the right time. I had always wanted to do it when I was younger, but I feel that God worked it all out so it could hit my life at just the time I needed it to.

There were tough times in training that reinforced what I learned from labor and delivery—which was that my body was stronger than I give it credit for — that I am stronger than I give myself credit for.

I saw a shirt once that read:

At mile 20- I thought I was dead

At mile 22- I wished I was dead

At mile 24- I knew I was dead

At mile 26.2- I knew I had become too tough to kill.

 At mile 20, I didn’t think I was dead and at no point did I ever wish I was dead. Wishing I was at the finish line already--sure. Dead, no way, I was living a dream and cheering others on for their dream, goal, personal best, etc. It was magical, a painful type of magical.

Everything in life requires some type of dedication on our part. Your faith doesn’t grow deeper without putting the time in, your relationships don’t get better without putting time into them and your body won’t be stronger without taking care of it.  You have to make the choice to commit. Like I had said before there were no new revelations in training, just good reinforcement. Sometimes that is all we need is some good reinforcement.

So, the day of the race, what was it like? One word…Amazing. But, I am saving that story for another day- maybe tomorrow. :) As you've already read too much today and if you made it this far through my rambles, I am impressed!

So, how did it go? and Thanksgiving!

I bet you are all wondering. Ok, by you all, I mean those of you that have been reading about the Marathon and that it was coming up.

Well, it's over and I am still here to talk about it. :) More than that, I will have a post that I am getting ready to share with all of you. But, more of that later, when I get my thoughts together and ready to share with all of you.

I also wanted to share some thanksgiving things with each of you. Since that is fast approaching.

Kids thanksgiving Party idea: GO HERE! But, be prepared to be in awe of everything! Totally cute!

Check out eighteen25 blogspot for ideas by clicking here.

photo from http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/ 

The crafts below are by the tipjunkie. Be sure to click on the link and explore all the ideas!

Go Over to the TipJunkie for more ideas!

Because I got emails on the Random Acts of Kindness blog post...

and you all thought it was a great idea. Well, here you go...add this to your file this Holiday season!
random-acts-of-Christmas-kindness

Random acts of Kindness does not have to be limited to Christmas, but what a perfect time to get started. There is even a print off that you can use. Enjoy and have fun! Be sure to let me know how it went if you do it. Making our family list now. :)

Turkey-onsie homemade...

This could be a no sew project. :)

Found on guess where...pinterest!

FUN!

Random Acts

So, I've discussed this many times. When I was teaching, with family, and most recently with my Youth Group at church.
So, when I came across this, I had to share it with all of you...
Random Acts Birthday

Enjoy!

Thursday Full of Ideas...

These are all ideas gathered from browsing the web or my new favorite place pinterest! I will be back with Holiday ideas--Thanksgiving is up next. I won't skip it like the stores do. :) Although as you can tell from idea number one, I am already thinking Christmas! :)

Found on Pinterest

Take their wedding invitation and cut into strips, place in Christmas Ornament and give to them their first Christmas. Sweet idea!

http://www.bakersroyale.com/cookies/banilla-sandwich-cookies/

Too cute! I love stuff like this. Link

Jello in straws = Worms

DIY Bathtub Crayons....

Anyone else thinking great small stocking stuffer gift?

Photo from kiboomu.com

The instructions can be found here.

Motivation....

I think I just might carry this with me next month. Anyone else have anything else I can carry with me to encourage me when I am ready to fall over. :)

Boys and Matchbox cars...

How cute is this...masking tape and matchbox cars and you can have a new fun track every day! SF get busy D will love you for it!

Found via Pinterest

Just a thought...

Found via my new fav. Pinterest!

Want a fun fall treat?

Check this out...found it on Pinterest.

Look close. Hershey Kiss, Mini Nutter Butter Cookie and a mini Chocolate chip!
FUN! :)

I am so behind....

Ok, so I am so behind the times. You know I am not on facebook. I can't keep up with this blog. I sometimes keep my computer off the entire day. GASP! I know the horror!

Anyway, I heard about Pinterest, but then never looked at it in any more detail. I think it might be time I did.


Check this out. TOO CUTE! I was thinking of you SF! :)

Oh my this is cool. Now if I could only make time to actually paint mine!

This is too cool. I love it. I'd stain it dark chocolate though....

YUM! Enough said.

You can find the classics by going here.

Football, strawberries and chocolate.

I'll keep this in mind next month when I am crawling across the finish line on my hands and knees. :)

Have a AWESOME DAY!

My first 20 mile session....

in training for the marathon this was my first and I have more to go.

Here are the lessons I learned in my first 20 mile session:
20 miles gives you LOTS of time to think. (This can be a good thing.)

Your body is capable of more than you give it credit for.

You learn what you are made of when you know a blister is forming and you finish your 20 miles anyway. Then carefully remove the shoe and sock to discover it's a bit larger than you thought. YIKES!

20 miles let me know that I can and will finish the marathon. (26.2 miles)

It taught me that finishing it will be enough---it's about the journey not the time.

The journey is more than the day of the "race". It's what it takes to get you there, too.

This journey can be so much more than just a way to stay fit, it can give you some enlightenment in other areas of life too---if you'll let it.

People will think you are nuts and there are times during it that you think that as well.

It's important to have supporters--you can't have enough.

Making one call on a 20 mile walk can change your perspective.

Having a friend meet you with smiling kids can lighten the load you are carrying.

Just when you thought your feet were tough, you realize they are not immune to blisters.

Knowing that your husband and child are cheering for you and proud of you--that is priceless and can carry you through the blister forming training.

It feels good.

I've been missing in action from the blog and you know something, it feels good. It feels good not to be blogging every weekday. It feels good to not have the time and not stress over the fact that I don't.
You see I started this blog to be helpful to others, to offer a small spot on the web where people were welcome to come along and learn with me. But, I started to wonder if blogging was taking me away from doing more to be helpful to others. So, I've let blogging slip and picked up the more face to face kind of helping.

TRAINING:
For those of you still wondering, I am still training for the marathon. It's coming up in less than 50 days. Whew. My training is going up right now (meaning longer training sessions). But, it's going to slow down the closer I get to the big day.  I've come back from many training sessions drenched in my own sweat.  Disgusting, I know. But, it feels great! Going out hitting the pavement and having that time to just think or not think. I usually do a lot of thinking and praying while I am out there. Yes, I am doing almost all my training alone. Little Man is in school and he was my coach (on his bike) over the summer. He pushed me. But, he still does when I think about things he would be saying to me.

BLOGGING:
I don't want to make any promises or any quick hits of the buttons to delete this blog. So, I am going to let it sit and when I feel inspired--I'll post. But, I am not planning my posts or anything anymore. You'll hear from me when something is weighing heavy on my heart that I have to share.

Until then, enjoy this crazy, wonderful life we have all been given.

Can you Go Organic without going broke?

Ok, so I got your attention. But, I have been giving a lot of thought lately to moving toward more and more organic foods. I do have some organic foods in our house. Are they all? Nope. Not even close.

Why my deep thinking about this? Perhaps it's all the reading I am doing with training and nutrition. Perhaps, it's my worry over what I am putting into our bodies and what affect that will have on us as we get older. Am I paranoid? Well, not exactly. But am I thinking more? You bet.

So, little by little changes are happening. They have been happening for a while, but I took a break from making any major changes. I will still finish things that are in our pantry. However, I am looking closer at the things I am purchasing from here on out. Of course, some of the stuff will be new to us.  But, really I was posting this hoping that someone out there that has already made the jump to 90% or more Organic can lead me to the deals.

I also want to share with all of you and a few tips that I have come across.

When Switching to Organic...

1. Buy local-Farmers Markets
2. CSA box
3. Grow your own. My pour family wouldn't eat. I DO NOT have a green thumb. :)
4. Buy in bulk
5. Ease into Organic (That's what we are doing!)
6. Find a Co-op
7. Shop sales
8. Freeze items
9. Shop online
10. Rethink your food budget

Now, please share your links and stories with all of us.

You Tube Video you should see...

So, I have not been posting like I should be. Although, I am not certain how much I should be posting. So, that I will leave to posting when I feel there is something to worthy to share. I stumbled across this viral You Tube video. Totally made me smile.
Check it out.
You Tube Video of Elderly Couple They are so sweet and make me laugh, too! I watched it a few times. Although, he gets a little "fresh", so watch who you watch this in front of. :) But, get ready to laugh, smile and have it brighten your day. :) They are simply adorable. I'd love to meet them and sit and have coffee with them.

Wedding on a budget

So, Money Saving Monday today is a wedding on a budget or even a reunion for that matter. Thought it might be helpful to some blog readers. :)

Here are some links to help in your planning:
frugal living - Wedding Ideas
The Frugal Life- Tips on weddings
Being Frugal- Weddings

How does a Farm Wedding Look?
Something like this
Or maybe like
something along these lines
Or maybe even like this

More Farm/Outdoor Country themed ideas:
Unique-Wedding-Favors-for-Farm-Weddings-Receptions
outdoor country wedding ideas
rural wedding
country weddings and reception decor

The possibilities are endless and I think you can do a lot on a small budget if you already have a farm and some friends that are willing to help out. The feel of it, just depends on the time of year you get married. Spring and summer, I think more flowers and light airy feel to it. Fall more pumpkins, hay bails, fall leaves etc.

These links should help you on your way to planning a great Farm wedding or inspire a Farm Family Reunion.

Just remeber the day is more about the promise and your life together than the decorations and favors.

Fall Project and updates

OK, I have many projects on my plate, but one of the home projects is to really try and simplify our lives, house and belongings. Those of you that know me know I like to be organized. But, to me --Project Simplify-- is more than organization. It's about looking at your life and filling it with things that matter. Which means, me evaluating how much time I put into this blog and if it will be worth continuing. I have many other things on my list this fall that I know will allow me to be a difference maker so shouldn't I put more of my efforts into those instead?

Quick update on my last long training:
I started out 3 hours after I wanted to.
I was tired--really tired.
I was rained on for 3 of the first 5 miles--at least it helped to wake me up.
I was given an opportunity to have a ride home while it was raining--I passed. I know you are proud of me. :)
At about mile 4.5 I slipped and twisted my ankle. (Yes, it got sore. But, I kept going for ya know like 10 more miles. I have been paying for it and taking it easy on it since then though.)
My time wasn't what I wanted, but when your first 5 miles start out like that, it was respectable.
I could have used something for fuel at mile 10, as I had eaten 3 hours before I started on my journey.
I was also rained on later, but heck by that time I was already wet and sweaty so who cared. :)
Oh and yes, for those of you asking, I am doing a full marathon. Yep, 26.2 miles and yes all full marathons are 26.2 miles.

Savings for Teachers

How to encourage and yet prepare one for failure...

I struggle with this one. I want to encourage Little Man in everything he does. I want him to pour his heart out into whatever is his passion at the time. I want him to give his best--to be the best that he can be--whatever that is on that day.

Yet, I want to ease the blow of failure. I don't want to take it away. Not ever. I think when we fail at things or do less than what we expect of ourselves, we learn. Yes, I do feel that we learn though failures and hard times. But, as a Mom, it hurts to watch that struggle and the heart break that comes with it. Yet, I know through those times, God is working, too. So, I would not take them away.

Little Man, entered some pictures that he took into a contest. He didn't place. No ribbon was hung by his pictures as we looked at them hanging on the wall. Yet, I told him how proud I was of him for putting himself out there. The fact that he tried and did his best was what counted. My words were heard, perhaps even taken to heart. But, sadness still fell on his little face.

I was worried  and wondered would he feel so defeated that he wouldn't want to try again? If so, how would I handle that? What words of wisdom would I have to offer him that he could grasp on to at that time? I didn't have to worry long though. Instead of total defeat, he proclaimed that he was trying again next year. Not only was he trying that, but he was trying another contest as well. In my head, it was Ahhh, that's my boy! I told him how proud I was of him--my husband and I both did. Then we cheered him up with petting a few animals. Nothing like animals to cheer my kid up. He is in his glory when he is around animals. You can tell he is at total peace and fully happy surrounded by them. Sometimes I joke that we should really be living on a farm with our kid.

Anyway, the lesson out of this? He's determined. He's willing to take the risk again. He'll keep trying his best knowing his best is all he can do. I could not be prouder. That drive and determination will take him further than what one ribbon could have done.

By the way, here are the photos he entered. Minus one of two sisters because I didn't ask their Mom's permission before this post and I don't post pictures of kids without permission. It was pretty--just take my word on that one.

A boy with his camera and his own sense of editing and style. Doesn't always match mine (and it shouldn't), but I do LOVE it. Yes, that's my boy!

Saving Money...

First, before the links to the store deals, let's talk about saving Money on Back to School Clothes.
So, how do you do that?
1. Go through what you have already. You may be surprised to find what you already have that still fits.
2. Decide how much is enough of everything. I have a check off sheet for this, so I know buying ahead as well what I have already stored for the next season.
3. Yes, buy ahead when you can. This took me a while to get used to.
4. Shop discount stores, but look for quality. I prefer to buy better quality and only have a few than cheap quality and buy more. The better stuff holds up and if you really love it, you love to wear it more.
5. Burlington does have the sales they say they do on TV. Just scored some great NFL wear from there for Little Man for cheap. Good quality stuff at a GREAT price.
6. Organize a swap with some friends.

Here is a video from the Today show on decluttering your closet and simplify your life.
Find it here!

In September, I will be getting a blog roll going on the side bar. Links to some of my favorite sites and places that I go for inspiration as well as money saving ideas.

STORE DEALS:BI LO - I think I have a reader that has this store near them. :)
GIANT
WEIS
Don't forget the extra Darrenkamp coupons that are happening right now.
ENJOY!

Thursday Tastes like Cottage Pudding Sauce...

Yum Cottage Pudding Sauce....well, actually it's a bit too sweet for me usually. However, if you are in the mood for something sweet. This fits the bill. The boys at my house can gobble this up no problem. It's a Grammy treat--something that Little Man always asks his Grammy to make when we visit.

I tried making it myself recently and was actually successful!!!  Like I always say, if I can make it you certainly can. :) By the way, this is to be served over warm yellow cake or cupcakes.

Here is how you make that yummy goodness...

Cottage Pudding Sauce

1 cup white granulated sugar
2 eggs
1/4lb margarine or 1 stick (I used butter--when it has this much sugar does it really matter?)
1 tsp vanilla

Oh and I doubled the recipe for lots of warm, yummy goodness.

Combine margarine, sugar, egg yokes and vanilla in bowl and beat. Set aside.
In second bowl, beat egg whites stiff. They look cool don't they?
Fold the egg whites into the first mixture. Should be looking something like this...

Then, you set the bowl into a pan of boiling water to melt. You must stir constantly, until melted. It looks something like this now...

Then you poor the warm, sweet, yummy goodness over the warm yellow cake and forget the word calorie exists! Enjoy!

Taking a stand...

I came across an article on a photographer that took a stand on photographing "ugly" clients. I decided to head on over to her blog to read what it was all about. I always say beauty shines from the inside out. She is sending a message for sure and I agree bullying is NOT cool!
The Blog and Her Post
By the way,  I didn't know of her or her business until this article. But, stop on over and take look at that stunning work!!! It rocks!

Freebie for teachers and other Money Savers!

Amazon image

Organized Teacher Happy Classroom is currently free as a kindle download. Know someone who might enjoy it. Send them this link. :)

Amazon image

This is another free book that could come in handy. Stress Proof Your Life

Perhaps the kids could use this:

The link for this book is found here.

Another book for kids or teachers alike:



Here is your LINK. Think I might get this one for myself. :) So, if you see improvement on this blog, you will know I have been reading! Or at least proof reading my posts. ;)

Free website to help with School Supplies:
There is also website that is free to use and teachers can post needs on there for supplies. Let me tell you, as a teacher, they put out a lot of their own money to get supplies for special projects and those treat jars for the kids. Here they can put their needs out there and we as parents can help them.
I Love Schools is the website. Click here!

More teacher resources in the upcoming weeks! Feel Free to share the blog with others that might find this helpful.

Food Deals this week:
Weis Deals are found here. LINK
Giant Deals are found here. LINK

Summer...

Summer is ending and I am not ready for Little Man to head back to school. I feel like our summer has gone by in a flash. But, signs are all around us that school is just around the corner. There is the back to school sales, teacher assignment letters, fall sports practices starting, etc. Everywhere you look there is a sign that summer is ending. So, how do you all handle this time of year?

On another note, we had our camp. This year it was ART camp. It was a great day for it and I am pretty sure the kids had fun. Might have to post some photos for you all to see in the future.

Speaking of photos Little Man is getting some printed that he has taken to enter in a contest. Excited for him. I love his eye. It's got something magical to it, of course it could be that I am his Mom and just a wee bit proud of him.

Next week, I will be back to posting on a more regular basis. But, don't expect anything too regular until September. (Keeping it real)

Have a great day everyone!

Back after being "away" for over a week!

We were not physically away for over a week. But, we did escape for a magical weekend as a family. It was truly a memorable weekend with a once in a lifetime experience.
I have to admit, it's been great not blogging for a while. I needed the break. I needed to feel like I had a fresh set of ideas to come back with and take time to decide the direction the blog would take in the future.

Do you know what I realized in that break? I realized that the only thing I want to do is share. Share the journey of life with others. I want to offer a place where you can come for tips on things (saving Money, fun things to do with the kids, recipes, inspiration, faith, etc.). But, instead of worrying all the time about what my readers want me to share, I decided that it's best just to share what I feel I am compelled to share. You see the goal of this blog was to help others and to offer a small, tiny space where you could come to feel welcomed as you are and leave feeling a bit inspired or refreshed. So, what's going to be happening? Here is the short of it:

• If you came to find the money saving tips--great. I'll still be doing that because that's part of helping others.
• If you came for inspirational stories, songs, ideas. Awesome, there is more of that to come for sure.
• If you came for the recipes. Great, I will share more of that. I like sharing recipes with others. it's fun. Plus, you get the bonus of knowing if I can cook it you certainly can!
• If you came to read my marathon posts. Yep, I'll kick some of them in here too. Did I mention, I just added another kind of race to my bucket list? So, the fun will continue. What on earth am I thinking?!? 
• If you came for the guest blogger and his photography, that will be coming back soon. Can't wait to share his eye with all of you again.
• If you came for something else perhaps a reason you are unsure of but something keeps drawing you back. Welcome and know you are in good company because I sometimes don't know why I am posting anyway! :)

I don't publicize this blog, yet somehow it has reached many other countries and I am always wondering how. I am not on facebook--I know I am in the stone ages here. So I wonder, how do people find this blog? Care to share? Leave a comment. That's one thing I am always happy to get, comments. A girl needs to know she isn't talking to herself. And if you feel this blog is worth sharing, pass it along.

I will be back again soon with more. But, for now, I wanted to let everyone who is still here and looking for a post know that I am OK and I am ready to start posting again.

Have a super day, everyone!

Hard time of year...

This time of year is hard for many reasons:

• Back to school comes upon us and I hate the thought of losing little man and my extra time with him. I adore our time together. Come fall, I have to share him again. But, I just keep reminding myself that others deserve the blessing of knowing him and having him in their lives, too!
• It's a hard time of year because it's around this time that our second child should have been born and yet I visit a grave instead of planning a birthday party.  Not easy.
• Life just feels extra rushed this time of year--not sure why as we are always rushed.
• This year, it's extra hard as I am watching my Gram suffer and can see the end coming near. My Gram has always been more like a Mom to me, so it's so hard to watch this happen. She's not only been like a Mom--she's been an amazing one at that. I always said to meet her is to love her. She's easy to love and is loved and adored by many--as was my Grandfather.

So while in this blogging world I don't often get too personal, today I let my guard down a bit more. Not something I am totally comfortable with in "blogland" or real life for that matter, but taking the little leap here today. Speaking of leaps, I am going to be deciding the direction of this blog. I feel like it doesn't have one right now...but, maybe that is good. I don't know.

Training and a Laugh...

Earlier this week we (Little Man and I) were out training. I was training; he was "coaching". That day, I was practicing the pace that I want to keep at the marathon. It's not my fastest pace, but I read something about training your body to know the pace so your muscles can remember it. Hope it works!!!

Anyway, we were out and his inspiration that day for me to move faster was this:
Mom, just think there is a pack of hungry wolves behind you. Think about them closing in on you and know that all they eat is ladies.

I am going to try NOT to think about that next time I am out in the dark!

Freezer Meals

So, I have done freezer cooking in the past and once you get past the day of doing it, you will be thankful the rest of the month!

I am planning on doing a freezer meal prep again soon. (Taking it on in a different way this time though. I'll explain that in another post.) I just know when fall hits and we are all super busy (who am I kidding we are busy now) but, when I am off doing 20 miles the last thing I am going to want to do is cook that night. So, since the miles are increasing, I will want to have healthy meals and options on hand that we can use.

I am going to get my lists and such together and even share what I will do as far as the recipes with all of you.  Anyone care to share their freezer success stories with me? Recipes your family loves that work well in the freezer? I have some, but I am always open to new ones. :)

I'll get my labels rolling as well. I've always had my bags with typed labels of what was inside. Again, once I get the plan together, I will share it with all of you. Organization of something like this is fun for me. I know, I have that sick obsession with organization.

Reading and Reading

Sometimes I feel like I've read more than I've train for the Marathon thus far. OK, that's not true, it's just a slight exaggeration! I've been reading about what to eat, how to dress, what to do leading up to it, is it enough miles, too many, pace in training, not pace, the list goes on and on. Seriously, there is more planning than meets the eye to this thing. Everyday I am learning something new. It's good to learn new things and adjust along the way. Sometimes, I have to remember it all depends on the person and what will work for me may not work for someone else. But, I won't know what to do if I don't read up on it. If you all have advice, leave it. I'll read it. :)

I took a friend out with me for an easy walk and enjoyed her company greatly. She got to experience the night time critters! This time it was the smell of a skunk (we never saw one and escaped without being sprayed - thankfully!). She also got to experience how scary a sweet dog can be when you don't know that you will see them. Honestly, when it's that dark out, you just never know what is lurking around the next corner. It was so great to go out for an easy walk that was relaxing and fun. Who would of thought 6 miles could be relaxing and fun.

I am collecting some quotes to get me through the marathon. Just sayings or inspiration from people or friends. I plan to carry some with me that day, so that I can pull them out when I need them. Anyone have any they want to share? Silly, funny, serious, I'll take them all.

Here is one from my list so far and I will look forward to reading yours.

"Don't stop -- people are watching."

Money Saving Monday--Back to School shopping

So, back to school shopping is just around the corner or perhaps you started. I have not started, but will be "starting" soon. My first step in that process is making the list of what Little Man really needs. Then, I check the items that I have already. I've begun buying ahead a little so now is the time, I check the stock of what was bought. By now, I am fairly confident in his growth pattern. Which seems to have settled into a cycle. Maybe it will stay the same, maybe it won't. We will see.

Two links for you to check out:
Here is an article on Kids Clothing advice that you may want to read. LINK
Here is an article on best time to buy kids clothes based on seasons. LINK

What advice do you all have on back to school shopping and clothing shopping in general? Do you consignment shop? Shop off season in sales? Shop in season sales? All of the above?

Food shopping this week and your deals:
Giant
Weis
CVS

Photo Friday

So, for those of you that look forward to my Friday Photo posts when I do them, I am hoping to get back into the tips or sharing of some great photo places around the web on a more regular basis again.

Little Man is working on photos he has been taking this summer, I will share them come fall. I want to keep them under wraps right now as he is planning on entering them in a contest. I love his eye and take on photos. Sometimes I sit back and think, I wouldn't photograph it quite that way. But, then I look and see what he has seen and captured and I go WOW, that is cool.

Those of you that are following along, who has used my tips? How have the pictures turned out? What questions do you have so far? I have an assignment for you. Have fun with it!

Assignment: Go into your garage (yes, I said the garage) and place your little ones just inside with them facing out toward the outside. You will stand on the outside and capture them. In there, the light is constant and gives you a large window of light to work with. It's indirect light and with that you can achieve some pretty cool results. You could also use your front porch if your garage sounds too weird. :) This is a softer light and you will see can create some beautiful results.

Summer Craft Idea for Little girls and toddlers

Flower ideas for the Little girls and Toddlers:
1. Tissue Paper Flowers link
2. Flowers made with paper, glue, green Popsicle sticks and pom poms
3. Flower stickers to cover a notepad
4. Lolly Pop flowers- Dum Dum pops with flower shapes to put on them. Link
5. Flower pen Craft Link
6. CD Flower Craft Link
7. Candy Plant Link
8. Candy Kiss Link

Of course with all of these flower things, you need some bees right? How about a bee snack?

Honey Milk Balls
Materials:
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered milk
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
Mixing bowl
Mixing spoon
Plate
What you do:
Mix honey, peanut butter, powdered milk, and graham cracker crumbs in mixing bowl. Form mixture into 2-inch diameter balls. Chill if desired and then eat.

Enjoy!

Camp Day- Your Very Own

So, HT because you asked for more, everyone gets more.
Planning your Own Camp Day Checklist:
1. Find help. You'll need someone to run or introduce the stations.
2. Pick a theme.
3. Keep things simple. It doesn't have to be complex to be fun!
4. Create a schedule. (Day(s), times, timeline for the day(s), location, stations)
5. Set limits/rules.
6. Schedule down time (this helps everyone)
7. Schedule people based on their talents and what they like best.
8. Have a set list of supplies and everyone brings what they can or have someone purchase them and divide the cost.
9. Set things up ahead of time and try everything before you have an audience.
10. Have fun! Remember why you are doing this--memories and kids! That's all that matters.

That's the short and simple way to start your own camp.

Training in Darkness....

OK, so last week I had gotten even more emails asking that I post on a more regular basis about my training. I'll keep them short and sweet and hopefully, you all will find it entertaining.

One of the evenings last week I had to train at night, as I was unable to be up at my normal early morning hour to train (had little sleep the night before) and there was a conflict anyway. So, the plan was after football camp was over I would head out. It would be dark, but I would train anyway. We decided to go for ice cream after football that night. It was a steamy day here and still steamy at 9PM so, ice cream sounded good. Who am I kidding, ice cream always sounds good to me in the summer. (Soft serve Vanilla that is.)

Here are my lessons from that night of training:

1. Ice cream before training, might not be the best idea. It didn't feel like it was settling all that well on my stomach that evening. But, I moved past that and didn't get sick so it was OK.
2. Late at night is not as comforting as early in the AM. At least in the AM it gets lighter outside, at night it just gets darker. I don't mind if I have someone coming along with me but, alone it can be a bit scary. (Yes, I know that makes me sound like a big baby.)
3. Bunnies and Cats are not as cute in the dark when you can't tell what kind of animal they are. Plus, I think I am more afraid of them at that hour than they are of me.
4. I was on the sidewalk, yet some cars were still slowing down when going past me. Really people? Nothing to see... Keep moving on please.
5. Bonus part, my butt shaking was only visible under the street lights and then only for a bit. I felt good about sparing the neighbors eyes from that sight.
6. I wore the safety reflective strips on my arms. I knew it was dorky, but it was safer. The bonus, those things at night can make you look really tan. :) Not that anyone except cats and bunnies are around to see it.
7. You tend to move faster when sweat is pouring off you in hot humid weather. Of course, I think this could be triggered by knowing that when you are done a cool house, shower and bed are waiting for you! That helped me.
8. Ice cream that doesn't sit well just might give you a boost of energy. (OK, so just looking for an excuse to enjoy that ice cream a bit more. I still plan to stay away from it before another training session. I'll go back to my banana and Peanut butter--my body likes that.)
9. Sidewalks try to trip you in the dark. The good news is nobody can really see that trip and you don't look like a fool except to the cats and bunnies.
10. Apparently, I need to go to a place that is hot, humid, holds the marathon in the dark, surrounded by unknown critters and serves ice cream. Because I broke my goal pace that evening. Since my marathon is in November and it could be snowing, I guess that is not on my side. Bummer!

Money Saving Monday--Save Money by having a plan and eating fresh

I've said it before, but buying only what you need at the grocery store can save you money.
Here is a form to help with your menu plans and that shopping list. Enjoy!
realsimple.com and dinner plan

Next eating what's fresh and in season helps. Need to know what's in season? Here is a link.
Summer Fruits And Veggies

Want to get a heads up on all seasons? Check this link: Fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org

Perhaps, you are willing to do some extra work and freeze those great deals for later in the year when they are not in season. If you are not familiar with how to do this or need a reminder. Here is a link for that How to Freeze Fruits and Veggies

Next week, I was thinking I could post recipes of what to do with some of the in season fruits and veggies. Would that be helpful?

This weeks deals:
Giant
Weis
CVS

Cutting the Clutter

Little by little I want to cut back on what is in our house. Those of you that know me in real life, know I like to be organized. Ok, so I can be a bit obsessive about it.

But, at the same time, I have been looking at our house and the things inside of it and saying, wait let's get things a bit more simpler around here. Do we really need XYZ? Are we using it or is it just sitting there and making me dust it again. (Yes, I am not a dusting fan.) Is it meaningful or I am keeping it because I am just keeping it? I am looking at everything and wondering this. Some things have sentimental value and will be kept, others are just taking up space in my mind.

I find the more I simplify a room the better I like being in it. Clean and free of clutter. Of course, all the reorganization will NOT happen this summer. It will be on a fall to do list. But, I do plan on cleaning out some of the clutter and getting a yard sale together.

I did clean out some clutter this spring, but more has to go. It's a slow letting go of process.

Of course, every season Little Man's closets need a clean out and that will be coming up soon!

I find this in life, too. When you get down to it, sometimes simpler is better. Of course, that is just my humble opinion.

Now here is a man who is living simpler. Just living with what he needs and nothing more.
Tiny House
Anyone else doing this? Ok, not the tiny house, just the simplifying. :) But, if you are doing the tiny house, chime in too. That's cool.

Amazing--inspiration!

This woman who is 61 is preparing to swim 103 miles straight! WOW! You have to watch this video. Be prepared to be inspired.
Swim!

Couponing...

I noticed since we are eating less and less processed foods and more and more whole foods, I am not couponing as much. Well, for food at least.

I am still couponing for cleaners, shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, etc. But, as far as food coupons--there are not many for produce and meat. So, besides whole grain breads, granola, oatmeal, rice, yogurt and protein bars/powder. We are just not using that much. I am just trying to find the best deals on produce and such and get those while sticking to the budget.

Also, has anyone else noticed the coupons and policies are changing? Don't see as many coupons for under $1 anymore. Instead of .50 off 1 they are doing $1 off 2. Well, with the .50 off 1. I could have used 2 coupons if I got 2 items and then it would have been doubled and been $2 off 2. Sigh....

There are still good deals to be had out there though. Share your deal of the week with us and inspire others with your savings.

Top 10 for the training

OK, so a while back I mentioned training for the marathon. (Power Walk/race walking/crawling by the end not running). Anyway, I asked for people to say heck yeah if they wanted to hear about it. I needed 8 heck yeahs to post about it in a regular form. Well, I had one heck yeah. So, I didn't post about it. Then, I got a few emails and phone calls saying they wanted to hear about this. Talk about mixed messages people. :)

Anyway, I'd love to share the journey with all of you, but I do still need to hear yes from my readers to post about this on a regular basis.

However, for those that emailed and called here is a little bit of how things are going a top 10 so to speak.

1. I hate blisters. But, they don't stop me. Yes, I have good shoes and socks for those of you that are wondering and caring about my poor feet. I did try to get a different pair, but find I always go back to the pair I was fitted with by the shoe lady. She really knew what she was talking about. Those shoes have been kind to me for the most part and I really need to get another pair, I just hate the cost of them.

2. Early mornings are better for me or I guess late at night could work too as I won't be seen by too many then either. (see #3 as to why)

3. Race walking requires a bit of butt shaking. I don't like butt shaking. I tend to only race walk when I don't see people or cars around. Think side streets early in the AM. What does race walking look like? I will post a link at the end for all of you. But, think about when you tell a child not to run and they go into this thing that isn't running or walking. Yep, that's it. If you are a teacher you know what I mean. Ask a child to walk in the hall and they slow down a bit, only to continue lgoing ooking like something is stuck up their butt and moving at a faster pace than walking. Yep, that's race walking. :)

4. For those of you on the side streets that I frequent. Ignore the girl you see shaking her butt. She is really sorry that you have to witness it. Just turn your head and remember she really does know how to jog.

5. Which leads me to a fear that I have while race walking. My fear is the cars passing me might feel bad for me thinking I can't jog correctly. I can hear them now or I do every time a car passes, I keep think they are thinking and/or saying. "Oh look at that poor woman, she can't jog correctly." I can, really I can. I’ve toyed with the idea of getting a shirt that says "yes, I can jog I just choose to race walk."

6. I've decided to train with more hills than will be in the race. This way, when I hit a hill in the race it won't be as bad, right? Just say yes to make me feel better.

7. I told friends my goal was to finish the race. They laughed and asked why my real goal was. I think they know me too well. But, really my goal is to finish. Of course, then there is the reach goal and dream goals that I have set for myself. See, I told you they know me too well.

8. At this point, I am keeping a journal to make a marathon book for myself. A little scrapbook of sorts--this scrapbook will serve one of two purposes. 1) To look back on the marathon and serve as a reminder that I did complete that item on my list. 2) To look back on my first marathon and see how far I came when I am on multiple marathons. Did I really even say that #2 was an option? Must have been an easy day of training today.

9. Approaching storms can make you move faster. Well, at least they make me move faster. At that point, I am so worried about the storm I block out the fact that my butt is shaking for the world to see.

10. I enjoy and it totally makes me laugh when I take little man on his bike out training with me. The first time I did this, I was in for a shock. Have you ever watched the Biggest Loser and seen Jillian yelling to inspire her people to work harder? Well, little man took a note from her book and did his own form of encouraging for me. It was too cute! Not only did he do that but, we were only supposed to go 6 miles that day. He had me do 10 before I knew it. Then, at mile 9.5 he told me he thought I should sprint the rest. Saying very loudly to me…"you want to win this thing don’t you?!" He’s lucky he’s cute that’s all I have to say!

So, I promised a video for race walking. Here is one. I am still working to improve my form.

race walk video (Adding: Don't click thinking you are seeing me here! No way do I want that on video!) Here is another one...Race walking by the pros 

Also, I am gathering up some inspiration quotes for race day. Here is one that I found.

"That's not sweat, it's your fat cells crying" More quotes/inspiration another day.

Money Saving Monday- July 18, 2011

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions. I had some to make about blogging. I decided on Mondays I still want to do Money Saving Mondays. But, that I am going to link you up to the other blogs for your Giant, Weis and store deals. I will highlight some of the good deals every so often, but that since others do this so well, why recreate the work here? Part of my time management. I want the time I take to blog be effective and I want to look at streamlining things.

So, until I get my blog roll going on the side of the blog for you, the links will be in Monday posts. But, I also plan on offering other Money Saving ideas that you can implement or use. Since I won't have to worry about posting all the deals, I can focus on giving you other gold nuggets of information on ways to help you keep a budget, set a budget, tips on finding the deals or even posting some other great online deals or tips. In doing this, I hope to be offering more not less on the money saving Mondays.

So, this week:
Giant Deals are found here
Weis Deals are found here
CVS Deals are found here

I came across this article and wanted to share it with all of you.
 "Why you're overpaying at the dollar store."
If you click on the link, you can read the article. So many times I have head people say they were going to the dollar store for this or that. I do go there for things, but only when I know they are the best price for what I will be getting. There really are things that you can get with coupons and a sale at CVS that would be better than going to the dollar store. It's all about watching your prices. But, more importantly it's about watching your budget.

Young ones, Very Hungry Caterpillar and Party!

Here you have it another party idea. Don't worry more photo stuff coming up!
Ok, so I love this book for little kids.

Get yours over at amazon.com

Here is a cute party planned with this theme. However, if you are like me, you can adapt this to a class party. Ok, I can't anymore as I know for certain Little Man's class will not think this is cool. But, preschool and K. You are so good to go on this one!

I can see you reading the book, making some Tshirts with the caterpillar on them (my friend K knows just how to do that) and then having some very nice caterpillar treats!

To view all the treats and such check this out:
Hostess blog and The Very Hungry Caterpillar Birthday Party