The Hopple Family

Oreo Peanut Butter Cup Cupcakes

2012-02-13T10:23:00.002-05:00

I'm not kidding. The icing on these is the best icing I have ever tasted in my entire life. It is an Oreo Peanut Butter Buttercream. Holy goodness.
Anyway.... The recipe came from Pinterest of course. You need, like, have to, have to check out www.melssweetlife.wordpress.com

Her pictures are much more beautiful than mine and I didn't have enough peanut butter cups to put on the top, but the heart was cute since I made them for a Date Night Challenge event at our church. And her p.b. cup didn't sink onto the oreo like mine did. Well, they were good anyway, but you need to go check hers out, too!

Confession

2012-02-13T09:22:00.002-05:00

Remember how I ridiculed The Situation's Workout?

Well, I've been doing it anyway.

He is awful.

It is awful.

But the exercises really work, people.

My glutes are on fire right now as I type this.

It is a wonderful feeling.

The exercises are basic, but it feels good to have someone tell me what to do.

And it is easy enough that I can actually stick with it and finish the entire workout.

There. I said it.

Don't hate.

FYI

2012-02-10T09:25:00.000-05:00

Target Markdown Schedule:

Monday: Kids Clothing, Stationary, Electronics.

Tuesday: Womens Clothing & Domestics.

Wednesday: Mens Clothing, Toys, Health & Beauty.

Thursday: Lingerie, Shoes, Housewares.

Friday: Cosmetics

Print it out and stick it on your calendar or fridge. This is important information people!

This boy

2012-02-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

Micah: (yelling) Mom! I can't find the toothepaste!
Me: (digging it out of the drawer and handing it to him) Here.
Micah: That's not where we keep it. We keep it on the counter. Why would I look in the drawer for it?
Me: Well, that is where it belongs.
Micah: (quietly mumbling) That's not where we keep it...

Vera's First Real Trip to the Park

2012-02-09T10:14:00.003-05:00

She's been there before, but now she can walk and climb and enjoy it! We had a gorgeous couple of days last week, so we played at the playground while we waited for Grace to finish up at Daisy's. Vera loved it! She loved the mulch the most...

Little Mama

2012-02-09T09:57:00.001-05:00

I love that Gracie always wants to help in the kitchen.
She may get the peels all over the floor, but she's gotta learn somehow!

She's such a sweetie! I'm thrilled that she wants to learn how to do all the womanly duties in our home. She folds laundry, dusts, washes dishes, feeds the baby.
She also really loves to organize.
She will pull all the kitchen towels and pot holders out of my drawer so she can "sort" them just so. She sorts her shoes in her closet. She sorts her toys.
I'm telling you. This girl is amazing!

Pinterest PinTuesday

2012-02-07T14:23:00.001-05:00

I'll be making these for dinner tonite. I had to post the picture instead of the actual "pin" since it didn't link back to a recipe! I had to do a little searching to find it... Anyway... I LOVE brussel sprouts. LOVE them. They might be my favorite vegetable. During one of my pregnancies all I wanted was buttered brussel sprouts. These should be much tastier!!!

www.wholeliving.com

Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Grapes with Walnuts.

Ingredients

24 ounces brussels sprouts (about 8 cups), halved or quartered if large
24 ounces grapes
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons fresh thyme
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped

Directions

Heat oven to 450 degrees. On two rimmed baking sheets, toss brussels sprouts and grapes with oil and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Roast, until caramelized and tender, about 20 minutes.
Drizzle each tray with 1 teaspoon vinegar and scrape up any caramelized bits with a wooden spoon. Toss in walnuts.

It's Super Bowl Sunday

2012-02-05T15:59:00.002-05:00

Not that I care.
Or will watch the game.
But it is fun to eat lots of treats and look for funny commercials.
My brother in law said that it is just a "Bowl" game.
There is nothing "Super" about it.
So, we are going to my parents for a "Bowl Party" tonite.
I'm taking those Dark Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes, cause I'm kind of a one hit wonder. Plus, they're easy and I always have the ingredients on hand.
I am also taking jalapeno pepper jam over top of a block of cream cheese with crackers.
Yum!
Pepper jam over cream cheese is the bomb diggity.
We had pizza and a movie lunch today after church. We watched Disney Channel's PROM. It was cute. Yea, I said it was cute.

Grace and I snuggled together on the couch. And then everyone played with my camera. It was ~~nerve wracking~~ fun.

This boy really likes me.

This is me saying "Okay, that's enough. Give me back the camera."

Awww.

Happy Bowl Day everybody!

Pinterest PinTuesday

2012-01-31T10:20:00.003-05:00

I love how on Pinterest I find all these amazing motivational pictures, quotes, exercise ideas, etc. And then right after I pin something super motivational, I seem to find a fantastic recipe for something totally decadent and sinful. Here are two examples...

Source: hitchfit.com via Julie on Pinterest

Source: smittenkitchen.com via Julie on Pinterest

See what I mean???

Confession

2012-01-30T10:25:00.002-05:00

I hold it against my husband when he falls asleep on the couch as soon as the kids are in bed.
I just do.
I hate it.
Is my company not reason enough to stay awake?

Does he realize that I have been with children all day and would love to have a real, grown up conversation?

Does he know that I want him to let me lay my legs across his lap while we talk?
Does he know that I crave his attention?

Probably not.
Because I turn the TV on. We just got rid of our satellite TV, so now we get nothing but Netflix. There really isn't anything that I have to watch (especially since I finished all the episodes of Sister Wives that they have), so now there really is no reason not to talk and spend time together, except that he's asleep.
So, Jeff, if you are reading this, tonite, I want us to spend some quality time together before we go to bed.
I want to talk and laugh and be best friends again, instead of room mates who happen to raise children together and share a bed.
Okay?

The Situation Workout

2012-01-27T15:41:00.002-05:00

Hahahaha! Okay, I shouldn't laugh. I just did this workout. Netflix is now streaming fitness videos (basically a lot of yoga and then a couple random exercise ones). It is really as bad as you would expect. He mentions "proper form" but never tells you what it is. He does maybe two of each exercise and then inappropriatley "spots" the hot chick behind him. I'm not a fan of Jersey Shore, so I don't know much about this kid, but I was thinking it would be a little more upbeat and fun. And I was disappointed by the fact that he doesn't explain things well ( and says "Okay." all the time and looks like he is waiting for direction from someone on the camera's left.). Won't teens, who have maybe never worked out before, and who want to look like The Situation, try this video? Won't they need some technique tips and pointers? They won't get it here. I was really looking for something fresh and fun. Bummer.

Styles that I love for the men

2012-01-25T12:31:00.002-05:00

source: www.alifeofbeautyandgrace.tumblr.com

Love the layered look. Lucky for me, so does Jeff. I could see him in this.

source: www.jacksonspeeks.com

I love the look of a shirt and tie dressed down with jeans. Not totally in love with the boots, but still a great look. Especially with that hat, watch and bag!

And the vest. Oh. The. Vest. I love the vest.

source: www.urbanoutfitters.com

source: www.rugby.com

Lucky for me my husband is gorgeous enough to be a J Crew model, so I know he'd look great in these looks! If you could dress your man, what would you choose?

Dang it!

2012-01-25T12:07:00.002-05:00

I missed my Pinterest post yesterday! I am making up for it today by posting two fantastic pins!

I made these last night and they were a huge success! I always worry about making a vegetarian meal for my "meat and potatoes" husband. But he really liked them! And my kids love quinoa. I'll make these again!

Source: eatingwelllivingthin.wordpress.com via Julie on Pinterest

I made this right before Christmas. It really works. However, I would recommend applying only to the nose and whatever area you have blackheads. This WILL rip out every little tiny hair on your skin. And I was stupid enough to get it on the really soft, thin skin under the eyes and I was pretty much crying while I pulled it off! Use with caution! But definitely give it a try!

Source: petitelefant.com via Julie on Pinterest

Misunderstood Miscarriage

2012-01-23T14:41:00.004-05:00

I was listening to this radio show the other day. I only caught a few minutes of it. But, they were talking about a book. I'm not even sure what radio show it was, what book they were discussing or the name of the author. But the part that I heard had me in tears.

It was about a little boy. Three years old, I think. He was sick and ended up with a ruptured appendix, but they didn't know until 5 or 7 days later, so he was really sick at that point and had to have surgery.

He died.

He came back to life.

He was talking about heaven. He said to his mom that he met his older sister. Here was this three year old who had never even known that his mother had a miscarriage before him, (I mean how or why would you tell a three year old about a miscarriage?) and he was telling her that he knew about it and met her baby in heaven. Only she wasn't a baby anymore... She was old enough that he knew she was his OLDER sister.

He tells of other things that he could only have known from experience, but I didn't get to hear them all. And I think this is the part I needed to hear. You know, every time I lost a baby people would say "You'll meet this baby someday." or "You'll hold them in Heaven." but I never was sure I believed them.

I always hoped, but never really thought about it beyond that. But here was this little boy saying that he met his big sister in heaven.

A child that his mother did not carry for very long.

A child much like the ones I had lost.

This gave me a new hope.

When I get to heaven, I will have at least 3 children waiting for me.

They won't be babies.

In fact, one of them is almost 11 years old now.

This fills me with so much comfort and happiness.

Knowing that they are perfect in heaven.

So, now whenever Jeff says something about having more babies,

I can remind him that there are at least 3 waiting for us in Heaven.

We have 3 more kids!

(I say three because I'm not 100% sure if the molar pregnancy was the result of one of these miscarriages, or a new baby all together.)

Dark Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes

2012-01-21T17:06:00.001-05:00

Remember this recipe that I posted for the Best Chocolate Cake EVER???
Well, I adapted it to give it a nice mocha flavor. You can get the cake recipe from that post, but instead of one cup of boiling water I added one cup of strongly brewed hot coffee. I use an ice cream scoop to fill my muffin tins, lined with paper cups, about 3/4 full. It makes about 30 cupcakes. Bake at 350 for 22-25 minutes.
For the frosting...
Melt one stick of butter. Add 2/3c of cocoa. Stir until combined. Add 2 Tbsp of instant coffee crystals and stir until they melt in. Gradually add 3c of confectioners sugar while alternating with 1/3c of milk.
Frost the cool cupcakes. Enjoy! Mmmmm... They're so good...

The Rock

2012-01-20T12:27:00.001-05:00

Do you remember me talking about The Rock? It is a facility in Kensington Philadelphia where they reach out through boxing clinics, kick boxing classes and lots of opportunities for children. You can check out their website here. Jeff took some of the Youth Group kids for a day of ministering there and we took our own children and served Thanksgiving dinner. It is such a great outreach and in such a needy area. It has really been on our minds and hearts since Jeff's very first day there. Please pray for this ministry as they expand to another property, still only 35 feet from the busiest drug corner in the city. Here's what they had to say about it in the latest email update...

New Properties

As Rock Ministries begins its 8th year at 2700 Kensington Avenue, we can look back and see God's hand on every part of this journey. Situated 35 feet south from the number one drug corner in the city, this building, once ready for demolition, is now a safe haven for the thousands of kids that have come through the doors.

It seems that the Lord is now stretching out His hand as we have taken possession of 2 more properties, 35 feet north of that same notorious drug corner, just down the street from the Rock. We believe that our Lord would have us literally branch out into this forsaken community.

Our prayer and our plan is to approach the renovation of both these properties in the same way as the ministry, "one room at a time". Our plans at present are to use both buildings as a needed resource to reach girls caught up in sex trafficking and for a 24/7 presence to help drug addicts. If the Lord is indeed opening these doors for us, no man will be able to close them.

Please pray that God will show us His favor with these properties in supplying the needed materials and laborers to complete this task.

I Want This House

2012-01-20T09:09:00.000-05:00

I know it needs major amounts of work. I think that is why I love it. I can see through all the mess and find the potential. I was walking with Micah when I took these pictures and he was nervous because of the "Private Property" signs on the house. If he had been more daring I would have peered in the windows, but he was begging me not to do it. It looks like there's a for sale sign, but I can't find any info on it and I'm not even sure it is for this house...
I'd put a porch on the front that wraps around the left side (when you're facing the house) to the side door. I'd have to move the basement stairs to do it, though. I'd obviously tear down all the trees, bushes and vines in the front. I think I'd put in more windows, too. (That's an easy job, right Jeff? It's only 18 inches worth of stone to go through...) I'd also put in central air, a slate patio and I bet under that stucco I'd find gorgeous stone worth exposing. That back addition would need new siding. I'd even think about replacing that window back there with a bigger one. I'd have to see what the room looks like.
Like how I said "I'd do this and I'd do that..."?
Really Jeff would do most of it.
I'd help, though.
Ohhhh the possibilities...

Lemon Roasted Chicken

2012-01-18T12:58:00.001-05:00

I'm always looking for something new to do with chicken. This is a great recipe.
Easy to make.
One pan.
Delicious.

Lemon Roasted Chicken Pieces
Preheat oven to 450. From one lemon grate peel and squeeze juice into a cup. Add 2 TBSP olive oil; 1 clove garlic, pressed and 1/2 tsp thyme, salt and pepper. Place 8 boneless skinless thighs (or tenders, or breasts cut into chunks), 1 (16oz) bag of baby carrots and 1 lb. of red potatoes, quartered, in a jelly roll pan lined with foil. Toss with lemon juice mixture. Roast 30-35 minutes stirring 1/2 way through cooking until juice runs clear when thickest part of thigh is pierced. Remove chicken and veggies to platter. Add 1/3c water to the pan. Stir gently to loosen brown bits. Pour juices over the chicken and veggies. Dinner is served!

Pinterest PinTuesday On Wednesday

2012-01-18T09:24:00.002-05:00

This is just a really simple project idea. Anyone can do it! I'm going to try and get it done this weekend!
You can do any date. Your anniversary. Your kids birthdates, etc.

Source: theartfulabode.wordpress.com via Julie on Pinterest

I didn't have the heart...

2012-01-17T15:10:00.002-05:00

...to ice this little cupcake. I mean, how could I cover that little masterpiece?

Jeffrey and I made these the other night.
I'm not a fan of store bought or box mixes when it comes to cakes. But, my grandmom gave us two boxes, so we had to make them. Oh. My. Goodness. I highly recommend these!!! I made some homemade icing to frost the tops, and they were so delicious. The cream is like marshmallow sort of. And it was so good.
So even though Betty Crocker isn't paying me to post this review, and they don't even know that I am promoting their product, you should still try them. They are easy and yummy. And you may end up with a beautiful cupcake that is a reminder of what love can come out of time spent with one of your children!

Low Moments

2012-01-13T09:59:00.001-05:00

I don't know what's wrong with me this week. I've just been having some low moments. Thinking things that I know are ridiculous. Having dreams that wake me up crying. Just weirdness.
I am going to get honest up in here. I'm always honest. That's just how I am. I can't lie. I suck at lying. And this is my blog and I can say whatever I want to on here. So there.

Okay, you all know that I LOVE being a stay at home mom, right? I do. I love it. There is no other place in the world that I would rather have as my workplace. I've worked outside of the home. I don't ever want to do it again.
So... Why am I feeling like I am "less" of a woman than other ladies I know? Why do I feel like I'm not "enough"?
I have been listening to a study of Nehemiah by Woodrow Kroll. It is on the radio when I pick up Grace. I get to hear the whole show. In the past I have said that I sort of relate to Nehemiah. He felt a calling on his life and followed God's lead. It lead him to a place where he was being ridiculed and distracted from his task at hand. He returned home to Jerusalem to rebuild the city's wall. There were enemies trying to stall this project. A few times he had to respond with this reply, "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down" (6:3)

I am being distracted by the thought that what I am is not enough. I have two sisters. One is a nurse and she is always furthering her education. I can't even keep up with what degree she has right now. And the other one is going to start classes this month to become a dietitian or nutritionist, while pregnant with her second child, mind you. I never went to college. I went to beauty school. I never wanted to be anything more than a hairdresser and then a mom. Lately I feel like maybe I should have gotten some kind of degree. I remember recently telling someone that my sister was going back to school and they were just gushing about how great that was. "Good for her!" "That is so great!" It was lovely. They were so proud of her. It is great. Really! She used to have Crohn's disease and has learned a lot about nutrition and wants to be able to help others.
But, I got home and felt like a terd. No one ever says "Good for you!" "It's so great that you value your family and are following God's call on your life." (Just let me whine for a minute, okay???) I don't want to sound like I need people affirming my choice to stay home, but I guess I needed my own affirmation. And studying Nehemiah made me realize that even though there are times I feel discouraged and distracted, I need to stay focused. God has given me a very important job to do and I can't look to others to keep me motivated and encouraged. I have to look to Him.

Pinterest PinTuesday

2012-01-10T13:26:00.000-05:00

Source: zemyaphotography.com via Julie on Pinterest

This is amazing! It shows you how each of these photo centers will process your picture. You can choose the one you think looks best. I did notice that Target always looks really orangy... And look how different her shirt looks in these pics. None of them got it right! I think I would go with Mpix or Ritz...

Chicken Enchiladas

2012-01-06T12:59:00.002-05:00

(Child sized serving. This is half a tortilla.)

I used to be afraid of recipes that required assembly. Not anymore! They are super easy to make and super delicious! These can also be made ahead of time, which is awesome! I usually make them early in the day and then have everything cleaned up before I even have to think about setting the table. That makes dinner time much more pleasant. No dishes in the sink from dinner prep. I love that!

Here goes...
Chicken Enchiladas
1 can (10-3/4 oz) low sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
12 oz of salsa (whatever kind you like)
3/4 c. chopped cilantro (I usually just sprinkle a handful of the dry cilantro in)
2 c. shredded chicken (can use beef, turkey, pork, whatever)
1 1/2 c. shredded Mexican style cheese
1 regular sized can of corn or about 1 1/4 c thawed frozen corn
1 can (4 oz) chopped green chiles
12 pack corn tortillas warmed according to package directions (I used flour tortillas)

Coat a 9x13 pan with nonstick spray. Whisk soup and 1/2 soup can of water in a bowl. Add salsa and cilantro. Stir until smooth.
In another bowl combine chicken, corn, 3/4 c. cheese, chiles and sauce, saving about 3/4 c. sauce for the end.
Working with one tortilla at a time, spoon about 1/3 c. chicken mixture down the center. Roll up and place seam side down in pan. Pour remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cover dish with nonstick foil. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20 minutes longer until sauce bubbles around edges and cheese has melted.
I serve them over lettuce, avacado and tomato. With a little sour cream on the side. Enjoy!
(These are great as leftovers, too! If there are any leftover!)

My biggest fear

2012-01-06T09:14:00.001-05:00

Well, one of them, anyway, is lice. I am terrified that my kids will end up with it. We know two families dealing with it right now.
At school the kids share "cubbies" (a locker without a lock, basically) with other kids. That scares me. I make the kids roll their coats up and shove them in their backpacks so there is no hood contact with someone elses coat. But, I can imagine Grace at a table, head to head, giggling and whispering with other little girls. Ahhhh! That scares me, too. Or sharing a hairbow or headband...
I thought about regularly shampooing the kids with the lice shampoo, but I think that is just too harsh. So, instead I have been checking their heads. If I catch it early we can keep it from becoming something huge, right??? Notice how I am talking like I am SURE my kids will get it? Ugh. I was checking them before school this morning and Micah goes "Wouldn't it make more sense to check us after school?" Yea, it would. I'll do that, too. And anytime I see you touch your head.
And, now my head is itchy. Did I ever tell you all that I am certain I have lice about 6 times a year? I make Jeff check me and it's never anything, but if I even think about "lice", I am positive I have it. So, yea, it's a huge paranoia of mine. Anyhoo, I figure if I make a big deal out of it, it won't happen to us, right?????

The Year of Music

2012-01-04T09:46:00.001-05:00

Music speaks to me so deeply.
I'm not a musician.
I don't sing. (Except in the car, shower and kitchen.)
But music is so important to me. Recently we were in the car and a song came on the radio. Jeff said "I hate this song." I listened closely to the lyrics and was so moved by the song. I thought he was being ridiculous, but that's not unusual. Anyway...
I am interested in expanding my horizons this year. I really only know the popular worship songs that are on the local Christian radio station. I just started using Spotify so that I can learn about new artists and songs. Here's a new song. Well, new to me. It's actually from 2009. But, I love it! Enjoy.

Our Christmas

2012-01-04T09:10:00.000-05:00

I don't know why, but I have put off this post. I don't really even feel like sharing about our Christmas. Isn't that weird? I guess I will though because I want to be able to look back and reminisce about it next Christmas or in years to come.

Vera turned one!

We hosted Christmas Eve dinner with my family. That is my "Why do you have my camera? Please put it down. I'm trying to be nice. Don't make it get ugly up in here." face.

"Wait, are you taking my picture?" Jeff's great with a camera...

We'll need 4 extra seats at the table for next years dinner. The babies will be 2 years old by then. Plus Joy will have a 6 month old. Our family is growing like crazy and I love it!

I think we need a bigger house.

Boys be reading.
My boys love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books.

My dad and my girls! <3 Grace told him she's been wanting that Barbie for years. Years. He told her "Well, Oma tried to pick out an ugly Barbie, but I told her to get that one because I knew you'd been waiting for it for years!" And Vera thinks that little cell phone is edible. Yum!

Seriously. Boys be reading. Well, that boy anyway.

Christmas morning. Vera loved her new sippy cups.

A candle in her pancake. She tried to grab the flame. Awesome. (I love this picture!)

There really is a pancake on that tray...

Jeffrey got a science kit. It's awesome. As long as I don't need to help.
He did the electricity one all by himself. That boy is a freakin genius. Seriously.

Pinspiration PinTuesday

2012-01-03T14:06:00.001-05:00

It is Tuesday, right? The holidays have me all messed up!

Anyway, I found this at Country Livings website and pinned it right away.

I love the pops of yellow. And the black cabinets with the white carrera marble. I have white carrera in my bathroom and it is kind of high maintenance, so I'm not sure I'd really like it in the kitchen, but I just love the way it looks! Does the New Year have you feeling like it is time to freshen things up?? It does for me. I have an idea for my bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and living room... Jeff's going to strangle me.

Guest Post by Ebeneezer Scrooge

2012-01-02T19:40:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if it qualifies as a guest post, after all it is the "Hopple family blog", and as a member of the Hopple family, I need to vent. That's right. This is Jeff writing this. So with out going too much further, Ba-humbug!! If you are expecting a nice "we had a great Christmas" post (which we did)... you got the wrong writer.

Let me ask this question of you, where did it go? Most of you are probably asking where did what go? I'm talking about decency, and modesty, and conservative attire.

Let me give you a little background for my beef. I enjoy clothes shopping for my wife. I always try to get her clothes for the present giving days (b-day, Christmas, valentines day, just because days, etc.). I know she will seldom buy nice stuff for herself, so I do it for her. This Christmas was no exception. I had in my mind what I wanted to get her. The outfit was all planned out in my head. She looked beautiful and she hadn't even worn it yet. So I began my search. I trekked my way to the usual place, The Loft... Nothing. At least not what I was looking for this time. So I continued to search. I went in every store. Even the ones I vowed that I would never go in! As I continued looking, I came to the realization that what I was looking for was going to be hard to come by. (Don't worry, I eventually found something similar to what I wanted. We'll get back to that later.) I realized I should have been born 60 years before I was. That is the period of time I belong in. You see, I don't want my wife looking like a harlot and I don't want my daughters looking like street walkers. Why have we given up decency for this so called fashion? I can't take it any more!!! Who said less is more? They lied! LESS IS LESS, especially when it comes to clothes. Put some clothes on, females!! Girls shouldn't be walking around with their shoulders, necks,(wait, I can't show my neck??) and cleavage hanging out. Girls shouldn't be walking around with huge rips in their jeans that expose more leg than oven ready chicken! Girls, your pants should not be showing the top of your cheeks, just like your shorts and skirts shouldn't be showing the bottoms of your cheeks. Why is that all that you can find these days? Where has modesty gone?!? When did it become okay to wear pajamas outside? When did it become okay for slippers to be appropriate foot attire? It didn't girls! It didn't! It is still not okay to wear your bedtime best out in public. Have some self respect. Do you want to know why men treat you the way they do? Look in the mirror. Go ahead and look. Do you look respectable? If the answer is not yes....GO CHANGE! Husbands, fathers, boyfriends, men (I'll get to your fashion next time)...why would you let some one you care about leave the house looking like that?....Hmmmm?.... You shouldn't.

I heard on the radio the other day, and I wish I had heard all of it so I could look it up and order the whole message, but the part I did hear, said something to the effect that when a woman is pretty and beautiful, it is an attribute that men desire to protect. When a woman dresses like a Kardashian, she isn't trying to be a lady, she's trying to be a piece of meat. Ponder that for a minute. Girls, women, moms, daughters, all females in general, ask yourselves this question, how do I want to be viewed by the opposite sex? If you want to be viewed as expendable, continue on as you have been. Buy into the lies that this society is feeding you. If you want to be viewed as valuable, and I mean valued beyond all kinds of wealth, start by dressing as though you are worth something.

So, now that I feel better, I did eventually find a dress that I felt was fitting for my wife to wear. It's stylish, trendy and modest. Truth be told, I think she looks hot in it too. Maybe she'll post a picture of it. ( No, I won't) That is more than I am capable of doing.

Now that you all think Jeff makes me wear clothes from little house on the prairie ( I'm okay with that too), I want you to know, that he has a great sense of style and always picks out clothes that I would never dare to try on! And I always feel great -even sexy- in them!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T09:45:00.000-05:00

I'm sure I won't be blogging again until after Christmas, so I just wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas! I hope you get to enjoy special time with your loved ones and I pray that we all reflect on the Savior who was born so that we could be born in Him!
And I leave you with a picture of our first Christmas as The Hopple Family.

Man. I was cute! What happened???

Pinterest PinTuesday {Holiday Edition}

2011-12-20T10:43:00.002-05:00

The Martha always inspires! I found her recipe for cinnamon applesauce ornaments on Pinterest! Yummo!
Click the pic for the link! Enjoy!

To gift or not to gift?

2011-12-16T14:59:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was trash day. Our trash guys always leave a card for us during the holiday season. I assume it is so that we leave them a gift. We have two trash guys and then two different recycling guys. Do we tip them? I mean we're looking at $40 if we do. I sort of have a problem with this. It's not like I personally chose these specific men to empty my bins. It's their job to do it for everyone in our neighborhood. I'm pretty sure they make an hourly rate. So, whether I chose them or not, they get paid. They don't come to my door with packages like the mailman. I will tip the mailman. He knocks on the door and is polite enough to always wear sweats and a flannel so that I never feel too underdressed to open the door for him. Plus, he takes good care of all the correspondence I put in or take out of the mailbox. The trash guys just throw the bins back and leave.
And where do we draw the line??? Should I go out and tip the road dept. guys who drive the sweeper truck by? Do I tip the guys who go out and trim the trees that are too close to the power lines? I mean Iwas a hairdresser. I like tips. But, the customers I serviced chose to come to me because they liked the way I did their hair. {hopefully} It's not like I was the hairdresser that was assigned to them because of an area that they lived in.
I think I'm going to skip the gift for the trash guys. If that makes me a Grinch, sorry. I just feel like I need to draw a line somewhere. I've got 3 teachers, 3 Sunday School teachers, a bus driver, 2 Cub scout leaders and 2 Daisy scout leaders that all personally interact with us on a daily, weekly, monthly basis.
I'd love to be able to tip or give gifts to every person I encounter from now until the New Year. But, I can't. So, you see, John, Salvatore, Stephen and I-forget-the-other-guys-name, if Jeff was leaving for work at the time you came, every week, and said "Hello" and interacted with you, I'd consider giving you a gift. But, as it stands, I do not feel that you are gift-worthy. There. I said it. Sorry.
Do you all think I am a Scrooge???

Pinterest PinTuesday

2011-12-13T14:56:00.002-05:00

This is just silly! The baby can only be consoled by Notorious B.I.G. Funny.
Click on the picture to go to the pin.

Source: squidoo.com via Lisa on Pinterest

Yes please!

2011-12-09T14:07:00.001-05:00

I just read Teresa's post over at The Meadowbrook Farm. Do you all read her??? If not, I highly recommend it! Not only is she an amazing photographer, but her farm is one of the most gorgeous places in the country. I can tell. Just by her pictures.
Teresa and her girlfriends are having what they call a "blob" weekend. They wear sweats, don't do their hair, maybe don't even shower, and never leave her house. They eat and watch chick flicks and just marinade in each other's company. I so need to do something like this. I have 4 kids here, so it would be impossible to do at my house, but if anyone wants to invite me to their kid-free home for some "blobbing" I will gladly accept and even bring along food and movies! Please??? Anyone???

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-07T08:49:00.001-05:00

How lovely are your branches... If my kids don't touch you.
Oh that's not how the song goes???
I put my tree up last night. It's the one that the kids don't touch. Grace was begging to help with all the glittery snowflakes, mostly because they were pink. So, I let her help put a couple up. I only smacked her hands away a couple of times. Just joking. It was hard, but I made it through. Until she went to bed and I could rearrange them.
Anyway, I had this Mother Teresa book. It has quotes from her and some stories and what not. I cut it apart (because it was pretty much just collecting dust) and made some lovely ornaments for my tree. Check em out! I love my tree this year!

Pinterest PinTuesday

2011-12-06T10:32:00.001-05:00

Found this pin yesterday. It is kind of cool. You punch in your height, weight, pant size and shirt size to see real, live women who are the exact same size as you. This gives you a more accurate body image. I thought this was amazing! Of course there were some cute girls in my category. There was also one in a bikini. Ummm, probably not the best image, but then again I don't plan on wearing a bathing suit for about 7 more months, so I think I'll be okay.
This is the actual pin. But click this link to get to the site.

Micah

2011-12-05T13:48:00.001-05:00

My baby boy turned 8 today. It feels like it was just yesterday. {sigh} Anyway, Micah is an amazing kid. He can be challenging at times, but for the most part is is loving and helpful and kind. Yesterday at church his Sunday School teacher pulled me aside and said that he is always so kind to the other children. She said she notices him being kind a lot. Not just once in a while. It made my heart happy. I just pray that he continues to grow in his compassion and kindness. It is completely by the grace of God that we have great kids.

Why does time go by faster and faster every year? I feel like 2012 will be my year to just slow down and enjoy things. Can I do that? Can I claim a year for some quiet time with my family? Can I say "no" to people without worrying? Can I beg my kids and husband to say "no" to things? We shall see.

Turbo Jam

2011-12-02T13:55:00.001-05:00

I am SOOOOOOO loving this workout right now!!! If you are at all interested in some kind of workout videos, I highly recommend these. You can check them our here. I'm not even kidding. Chalene the instructor is amazing. When I feel like I can't go on she'll say "I know your arms are shaking right now." And I'm all like "Holy Cow! She can see me??" And then she's like "Just a few more seconds. You can do it!" and I feel like "Aw, if Shay Shay thinks I can do this, then I know I can make it!" And it is fun! It is something I actually look forward to doing! It's kind of like having a dance party with my TV! And then I find myself shaking it during the day, chuckling about Shay Shay's singing, or "housing it like they do in Hawaii." She's my girl. We're tight. There's even some fun blooper kind of footage of her being silly. I think I kind of have a little girl crush on her. Oh come on! You know what I mean. Like if I lived near her, I'd totally ~~stalk her~~ be her friend. We'd workout together and then go drink protein shakes together by her pool.
Anyhoo... Check out this video. I'm telling you. I am working out muscles in my back. Goodbye back fat. Seriously. What other video gets rid of your backfat? And you don't even realize it's happening???
Mkay. I'm done now.

We been busy up in here!

2011-12-02T10:06:00.001-05:00

That is mostly sauerkraut! There are 12 jars of apple pie filling (on the right), but the rest are sauerkraut. Yes, even the red ones. Jeff used red cabbage to make those. He's all about homemade sauerkraut, in case this isn't proof enough. We still have 6 more gallons fermenting in the bathroom. Yes, he is keeping them in the bathroom. Last year I had buckets all over my countertop and this year I said "Boy, if you are gonna kraut it up, you gotta keep it somewhere else! It cannot be on my counters!" So it is on top of the cabinets in my bathroom. Works for me. Mmmm.... It is so yummy. If you have never eaten homemade kraut before, I suggest you stop over for a sampling. It will change the way you view the world. (Okay, that might be a slight exagerration.)

The Best Chocolate Cake Recipe. EVER.

2011-12-01T15:33:00.001-05:00

I wanted to make a chocolate cake for Jeff's birthday yesterday, but I only had one square of bakers chocolate left. So I was going to do the cocoa/shortening substitution when I noticed this "Hershey's Perfectly Chocolate Cake" recipe on the back of the cocoa container. I'm going to share it with you incase it's not on the back of yours. It is such a moist and delicious cake! I was thrilled with the results!

2 c. sugar
1-3/4c flour
3/4 c. cocoa
1-1/2 tsp. baking powder
1-1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
1 c. milk
1/2 c. vegetable oil
2 tsp. vanilla
1 c. boiling water

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9 inch cake pans. Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour into pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks. Cool completely before frosting.
I frosted with a cream cheese icing, but a traditional vanilla would be good, or you could be really decadent and use chocolate!

Grace and I will never be professional cake decorators!

Pinterest PinTuesday on Wednesday

2011-11-30T10:51:00.001-05:00

Take an unopened can of sweetened condensed milk. Put it in a crock pot and cover it with water. Put the crock pot on low and cook for 8 hours. Make sure it stays covered in the water. Let it cool in the fridge. Caramel. Yum.

34

2011-11-30T09:48:00.001-05:00

That's how old my wonderful husband is turning today. This is the 17th birthday I have celebrated with him. We are high school sweethearts. I still remember the shirt I gave him when he turned 17. I think the card said something witty about country music.
He was so cute.
He still is so cute.
Stunningly gorgeous actually.
Everytime I get a J Crew catalogue I think "Jeff could totally be a J Crew model."
He's just so stinkin adorable!
I know every year on this day I get all sappy about what a great guy he is and how thankful I am to have him in my life, but I can't help it.
He truly is perfection to me.
Happy Birthday Jeff Hopple!

Great.

2011-11-29T10:39:00.001-05:00

A blog I was reading this morning asked what was the best gift I have ever given. Well, last year I gave our family a new baby girl. I guess I never thought about it before, but I will never be able to out give that gift! That is the best that Jeff will ever get from me. And I am okay with that, but what am I going to give him this year that will even come close to bringing him the joy of a new baby??? He really was grinning from ear to ear last year. I think he was hoping for a Christmas baby the whole pregnancy! Sorry Jeff. It's all down hill from here.

{{{Wook at how wittle she was. Wittle tiny baby...}}}

Thankful

2011-11-25T08:21:00.001-05:00

I am so thankful that God is at work in our lives. Watch this video of short, Cardboard Testimonials. It is so moving. We only need a sentence a two to explain the greatness of our Lord and Savior!

Amen!!!!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 23

2011-11-23T15:47:00.001-05:00

Thankful for evenings without any plans. Tonite is the first night in a while that we are home. Just the six of us. No one coming. No one going. Just us. We are having soup and bread for dinner and snuggling in for some books and Wheel of Fortune before bed. {I can kick some serious WOF butt. Just sayin. I bought the Wii game for the kids for Christmas, just so I can ~~beat them~~ play with them!}

Am I behind again???

2011-11-22T12:09:00.001-05:00

Day 21 & 22...
For day 21 I am thankful for the school that my kids go to! I had parent/teacher conferences last night and was so impressed with my children and their teachers! They are thriving! I was so worried when they started this year after being homeschooled, but they have adapted to the classroom setting so well!! I came home very proud of them last night! Thank you God for giving me bright, helpful, responsible kids!

For day 22 I am thankful that my church started a daytime ladies Bible study! Previously they only offered an evening study that was on the same night as a Cub Scout meeting. This has been such a blessing to me. I am thrilled that I get to fellowship with these women and enjoy the study we are doing as well!

Day 19 & 20

2011-11-20T21:42:00.001-05:00

I had such a busy weekend. The good kind of busy. With lots of food, friends, and family. I am thankful for that. Thankful for friends and family and fellowship and great food!

I just want to paint my nails!!!

2011-11-18T10:15:00.001-05:00

And I can't get the stinking bottle open! I've tried everything. Running it under warm water, soaking under the lid with remover, and my teeth. The lid is round and smooth, so my teeth just slide around it! Dang it. I'm gonna have to pick a new color!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day18

2011-11-18T09:49:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for my beautiful best friend. Not only is she gorgeous on the outside, but she is the most beautiful person on the inside as well. I honestly have never heard her say anything negative about another person, even when they deserve it! She is such an encouragement and example to me. I love her as mush as I love my own sisters! She is a sister to me!
That little cutie in the picture is her daughter Karis. Karis is buddies with Gracie. We love seeing them play together. It's just like a little Julie and Jen playing! We have been BFFs since kindergarten, so it is awesome to see our little girls together! Jen's other 4 kids are just as cute and my kids love playing with them! And they finally moved back to the area (well 40 minutes away) after being far away for the past 14 years! Yay!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day17

2011-11-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

I am taking inspiration from Edie today. Her post yesterday was amazing and just a great reminder and encouragement. It was all about how God works and gives us gifts in our everyday mundane tasks. He is at work all the time. And He is good all the time. That is what I am thankful for today! God uses every little thing. Even in my life as a stay at home mom.

30 Days of Thankfulness Day16

2011-11-15T16:08:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for friends in far off places! Our friend Monica lives in American Somoa. She agreed to do a Flat Stanley project for Micah. He sent her his "Flat Micah" and she took some amazing pictures. She teaches at a high school and her students were excited to get their pictures taken with him!

I want to go to there.

Pinterest PinTuesday

2011-11-15T16:01:00.001-05:00

The No Tree Christmas Tree

Here is the link to her directions. I'm wondering how pretty it would be with clear or white balls and colored ribbon rather than fishing line... I'd love to have this hanging in my front window! I'll be checking the dollar stores and Five Below for cheap ball ornaments!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 15

2011-11-15T10:11:00.001-05:00

Wow. We are halfway through the month of November. How did that happen???

All the grandkids.

Mommom and Poppop with one of their 10 greats.

My mom's mom with one of her 10 greats!

Anyway, today I am thankful for my grandparents. I still have three living grandparents. My mom's mother and both of my dad's parents. What a blessing it is for my kids to know their great grandparents! And how cool is it that my grandparents have almost 10 great grandchildren just from one of their children? My dad is one of 6 and he is the only grandparent. Can you imagine how many great grandchildren my Mommom and Poppop could have some day? And my mom was an only child. She had 4 kids and now my Mommom has almost 10 great grandbabies just from her one child!!! I think that is pretty awesome! And my parents are barely 50 and have almost 10 grandbabies! Unreal!!!
Also, while thinking of grandparents, I cannot forget Jeff's Grandma and my other Poppop. Jeff's Grandma was such a great woman and I am thankful that I knew her for at least 10 years before she passed away in 2008.
My Poppop passed away in 2006. He was such a godly man. I remember his Bible on the end table next to his chair. He made me a cassette tape of himself singing hymns. It is one of my most treasured gifts! I am thankful that I know I will see him again one day!
I must stop now. I am getting sappy and emotional. {sigh}

30 Days of Thankfulness Day14

2011-11-14T12:49:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for 70 degree days in November. It has been such a gorgeous day today! I'm also thankful that Grace got to try out dance class for the first time today! She loved it, of course...

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

2011-11-14T08:56:00.001-05:00

I only had six entries, so you all had a great chance at winning! The winner of the digital scrapbook package is comment #2!
AnnaNov 11, 2011 10:03 AM

What a cool idea, I haven't ever seen this before! One more thing to get addicted to :) I like so many of them, but the Heart Equal Z Home is adorable...it has to be the owl! :) Congrats to you for your very first giveaway!

Look for an email from me soon so I can get you in touch with Liz from My Memories! And don't forget to go here for a code to get some great deals at www.mymemories.com!

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:2Powered by RANDOM.ORG

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 13

2011-11-13T21:26:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for a tiny bit of cooperation during an impromptu photo shoot! My older kids are great at getting their pics taken. It's the baby who is still learning how to be a good subject! : )

But she is so stinking cute!!!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 12

2011-11-12T15:27:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for opportunities to minister. Whether they are my opportunities or others.
Jeff and the youth group are in Philadelphia today serving at a place called The Rock. It is a boxing ministry in the Kensington area of the city. It is a really bad neighborhood. But the gang members and drug dealers actually have a sort of respect for the people associated and working with The Rock. You know you're going to a rough neighborhood when they tell you that the building is locked at all times unless they have a community event and you do not go outside alone.
The Rock has recently acquired three new buildings (this links to pics of one of them), so the youth group is spending the early part of the day working on these buildings and then cleaning up and serving dinner in a soup kitchen. I so would love to be a part of this time with them. I have been praying for them all day and I guess that means I am a part of this time with them, but I wish I could be there to see these kids experience it!

Here is a really outdated picture of our youth group. Jeff is the one laying across the kids and I'm the one on the floor in the worst position ever. Did I really think crossing the ankles would be enough to hide that rear end???

30 Days of Thankfulness Day11

2011-11-11T09:39:00.001-05:00

For obvious reasons, I am thankful for our veterans today. To anyone who has served, is serving or has paid the ultimate price, I thank you!

Digital Scrapbooking??? And a GIVEAWAY!!!

2011-11-10T10:20:00.000-05:00

Have you ever done it before? I've never done any type of scrapbooking before. And since all my pictures are on the computer (shame on me for not printing them.) digital scrapbooking is easy! It is addicting, too! Seriously. I found out this morning just how fun it can be! Liz from www.mymemories.com contacted me to see if I would review their software and then offer you all the chance to win a digital scrapbooking download! It is the My Memories Suite Scrapbook Software. How generous! This is a $40 value, ya'll!!! Anyway, I love the software! It downloaded without any problems. (Thank goodness, cause I am not tech savvy.) And I have been spending way too much time on it because it is so enjoyable! I love putting music to my pictures and organizing them on pretty pages. The program has a huge selection of background paper, layouts, embellishments, text options, etc. Plus they have a store so you can order all the little extras if you need them! It is so fun!!! Here is the album I started. It's still a work in progress, but I am loving it!

I'll figure out a way to get it here as a slideshow with music when I have completed it! And the music can come right from your own iTunes library! I love that!
Anyway, enough about how excited I am... You all have the chance to win this fantastic package! All you need to do is go to http://www.mymemories.com/digital_scrapbooking_software Come back here and tell me your favorite digital paper package or layout. That's it! And they were sweet enough to give us our very own coupon code! My readers can use the code STMMMS12395 This code provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value! Share it with your friends and family as well! And wouldn't it be great to make a digital scrapbook for the upcoming holidays???

For additional entries you can -like My Memories on Facebook
-follow the blog There are some great ideas on there!!!
-follow on Twitter
I will be choosing a winner on Monday 11/14 at 9am Eastern time! Get scrappin' ya'll!!!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 10

2011-11-10T09:49:00.001-05:00

I am thankful that I have a husband who is handy! We had a leaky pipe last night and he is home today fixing it. He is really good at stuff like that! What a blessing!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 9

2011-11-09T10:33:00.000-05:00

I am thankful that I found a book laying around that has been a joy to read! I am only three chapters in, but it is so uplifting! It is Life More Abundant by Charles L. Allen. I have never heard of him before. It was sitting on a shelf in Jeff's bedside table, so I decided to blow the dust off and read it! Here is my favorite quote from it so far:

Amen and Amen.

Catching Up {Pinterest PinTuesday}

2011-11-09T10:15:00.000-05:00

Still playing catch up!!! But this is a sign that I love, so I wanted to make sure I got in my pin for this week!!!

How sweet is that??? It is not for sale anymore, but you can go to the BarnOwlPrimitives store on Etsy to see more just like it! Wouldn't this be fantastic in a nursery???

Catching up Day 8

2011-11-09T10:07:00.000-05:00

I've fallen behind with the 30 Days of Thankfulness! Surprise Surprise! Okay for day 8 I am thankful to live in a democracy. I am thankful that I have a say in the electoral process! I always take the kids along so that they know what voting is about and how important it is as responsible citizens! I pray that they will grow up feeling pride in that duty. And that they will make educated choices, whether they are the same as mine or not!

Day 6 & 7

2011-11-07T09:11:00.000-05:00

I knew I'd miss a day at some point! But, I was at an amazing ladies retreat over the weekend, so I missed yesterday. Oops. But, for day 6 I was thankful that I was able to go on the retreat and thankful for all the women involved and thankful that God works in our lives in so many ways, so many times, and even when we can't see it.

I'm in the front with the big green bag.

The retreat was powerful and moving and just a really great time!

Day 7

I'm not sure if I'm allowed to be thankful for this in a public announcement kind of way, but I'm going to risk it anyway! Today, I am thankful that I am going to have a new niece or nephew in the summer!!! My sister is 11 weeks pregnant with baby #2. I was so excited when she told me last night. I think I actually weeped. (Give me a break. I had a powerful weekend and didn't get a ton of sleep. I'm weepy when I'm tired.) But, she made it sound like they might never have a second baby and if they did, it wouldn't be for a very long time. So I was shocked. But, in a great way!!! Gillington will be a big brother!!! And it is amazing to see my sisters as mommies! They are both awesome moms! I could just go on and on...

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 5

2011-11-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

Today I am at a Ladies Retreat with the women from my church. Today I am thankful for a break. I am thankful for a chance to let myself linger in the Word, share my testimony, fellowship with sisters in Christ and even go out to dinner without any kids! Plus somewhere in there I think I get 3 hours of free time. 3 hours!!! 3 hours that I get to choose how to spend!!! (I'm thinking shopping. Christmas is 50ish days away, you know.)

30 Days of Thankfulness Day4

2011-11-04T09:42:00.000-04:00

Not a very flattering picture. I don't actually have three chins. But, it was the only one of me with most of my kids!!

I am thankful that I get to be a stay-at-home-mom and wife. I love my "job". I honestly could not imagine not being here for my kids 24/7. I mean, there are times that I wish I wasn't here for my kids 24/7, but that feeling only lasts until they are sleeping peacefully in their beds. I know that this time with them right now is a treasure and I'd never want to miss out on a second of it!

I love being a stay at home wife as well. I love having dinner on the table for Jeff when he gets home. I love making sure that our home is a haven to him when he has had a rough day. Yes, the kids may be running wild and there might even be dirty laundry in the hallway, but I am here. I can meet his needs. He doesn't have to run to daycare to pick kids up, or get home to a babysitter and then worry about meals and homework. I take care of that stuff for him.

I know that this is what I was called to do with my life. This is my mission field. This is my ministry. There are times when I get weary. Times when I feel discouraged or overwhelmed, but I imagine that would happen in any ministry! Through it all, I am just really thankful that I get to do it everyday! And my husband appreciates it and values my position in the home. He is avidly against me ever going back to work. And I am okay with that!!!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 3

2011-11-03T09:28:00.001-04:00

I am so on the ball! Three days in a row! What What!!!

Today, I am thankful for my children. They are such a blessing! They truly are a gift from God and I try every single day to tell them and show them how much I love them.

Psalm 127:3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. 4As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. 5Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Is it sad that I didn't even attempt to put her in a costume this year? I did make one for her, identical to Grace's. The thought of her in it exhausted me, so I didn't even bother. Not even for pictures. I know. I've scarred her for life now.

At the costume contest. They all won awards!

My little scarecrow in the cabin we stayed in over the weekend.

Jeffrey the hockey player

Micah the Bum. I'm sorry if you find this offensive or politically incorrect. But, he got a lot of laughs from this costume!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 2

2011-11-02T10:35:00.000-04:00

Today, I am thankful for the most incredible husband ever. God must have created Jeff with me in mind. He is pretty much my perfect couterpart. I found this definition of the word counterpart: One of two parts that fit and complete each other. Yup. He was definitely created with me in mind. He is my missing piece and I am his. We complete each other.
I'm not sure if I've ever blogged about this, but, did you know that Jeff knew he was going to marry me the instant we met? True story. It took me a little longer. And when I thought we were "on again/off again" in our relationship, he was "on" the whole time. I am so thankful he put up with my shenanigans! I can't imagine a life without him!

I love you Jeff!

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 1

2011-11-01T16:19:00.000-04:00

Golly, I hope I can keep up with this! I need you all to hold me accountable! If I miss a day you best leave me a comment kickin my booty into gear!

And, I feel like I need to do them in order of importance. At least start it off with the big stuff, right??? And I have so much to be thankful for!!! Lucky for me there are thirty days in the November!

I am most thankful for my Heavenly Father. Without my foundation in Him, I'd have nothing to be thankful for. He is the foundation of my marriage, my mothering, my friendships, my life. He knows me by name. He has written my story. He is the Author of Life. My life.

Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

John 10:3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

Pinterest PinTuesday

2011-11-01T13:11:00.000-04:00

Okay, so today, I am not posting an actual pin, but something I found on Pinterest that I thought was interesting and helpful.

How many times do you go out for "date night" and only talk about the kids and work? These 50 questions can end that discussion and make you really focus on each other!!!

Go here to find them! A lot of the questions can be answered in a more intimate setting. Maybe not in a restaurant, but a candlelit dinner at home after the kids go to bed. I can't wait to discuss a lot of these with Jeff.

Over-acheiver

2011-10-31T15:09:00.000-04:00

Scene: In bed, last night, talking to Jeff.

Jeff: You need to stop overthinking everything.

Me: thinking... What does he mean, overthinking? What other things do I overthink? Why would he say that? I'm not overthinking. I just need answers to the questions I have. There have to be answers. Okay, maybe he's right. I think I am overthinking this.

Don't tell him I said so, but I think he was right.

Pinterest PinTuesday {on Wednesday}

2011-10-26T09:30:00.000-04:00

Garage Storage. Genius.

If you've never been to http://www.familyhandyman.com/ I suggest that you check it out. There are some incredible ideas on that site. And the how-to's to guide you through it.

Wedding

2011-10-25T22:32:00.000-04:00

So we went to our friends wedding on Saturday. It was amazing! The venue was incredible. The decor was gorgeous. The bride was stunning. The food was good. The dancing was superb. And I was with the most handsome man in the room (tent, actually).

They passed a polaroid camera around the tables to let you take pics of everyone.

I kinda, maybe stole this picture. It was the only picture taken of the two of us. And it was good. So I pocketed it.

And here is one of me and my good friend Beth. You can see my dress a little better in this shot. Brad is her brother. I've known this family for 17 years. I missed Beth's wedding because Jeff and I left for Hawaii that morning.

Beth and I tore up the dance floor. Our husbands were a riot! They were dancing machines! I loved every second of it!!! I wish we could do it every weekend. Okay, well, at least once a month.

Accessories first, outfit later.

2011-10-20T16:32:00.000-04:00

I have a wedding on Saturday. I still have no idea what I'll be wearing. Well, except for the shoes!

I got me some black platform high heels ya'll. And I mean high!!!

I was pretty sure I'd be taller than Jeff. But, I'm not. So, now I am dressing around those heels. And I'll need long sleeves, because it is in the forest and it will only be 60 degrees on Saturday. And have you ever heard of Solemates? Smartest idea ever! And you guessed it. I still have to run out and pick up some of those. I didn't know about them until this week, so I can't order them online in time. I wonder if Victoria Secret carries them with all their double sided tape and other little secret things we women need to know about. Tomorrow is shopping day! Nothing like waiting til the last minute!

Pinterest PinTuesday

2011-10-18T05:33:00.000-04:00

Some positive {Pin}spiration for you this week!

Romans 8:35-39
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

36As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

So yea...

2011-10-17T09:48:00.000-04:00

...I did my first 5k yesterday. It was pretty much the hardest 37 minutes of my life. I thought I was a decent runner. I was so discouraged when I crossed the finish line. I felt a little like I was going to vomit. I ran with these two skinny girls. My sister and her friend. (I'm the big girl in the white. Dang it! Why do I always look so big when I feel so small???) They run ALOT. They have done 10ks and half marathons. And I've only been running since what, April-ish?? I was relieved that they were taking it slow. Then I realized that I still couldn't keep up with them. But I was only maybe 15 seconds behind them when we finished. And my sister said it was one of the hardest runs she's ever done. It was wooded and had a lot of hills. I felt good knowing that I made it through a hard trail. When a 5k is on a paved road, the winner ususally finishes at 15 minutes, give or take. The winner of this one finished at 20 minutes. It was tough! I might do another 5k again in the future. Not this one, on this trail. But another one. Maybe.

It came and went

2011-10-13T09:48:00.000-04:00

And I am another year older. My bday was on Monday . It was a stunningly beautiful day. The kids and I went for a long walk in our neighborhood that afternoon. Here are some pics.

The kids were so good that day! Grace brought me breakfast in bed. Toaster Tarts, in a bowl, that I had to share with Vera. There were crumbs in the bed. But, it was super sweet. Micah made me a card and gave me a little dog, zippered pouch, keychain thingy that I had bought for him at Michael's last year. And Jeffrey gave me coupons. Very specific coupons. With the days of the week that they are redeemable and what hours they will apply during. Mostly from 4-6pm. Very sweet, though.

I made a yummy dinner of chicken enchiladas. That may be one of my favorite meals. It's easy and so good! I'll post the recipe later! I know you'll all love it! Jeff got me new editing software that I have been dying for, so that was cool. I have been spending hours (well, it feels like hours) trying to learn it and figure it out! And I have this visa gift card that I was trying to use on etsy, but for some reason Paypal keeps declining it. What the heck??? Anyone have any tips for that???

Pinterest PinTuesday

2011-10-11T09:47:00.000-04:00

Another of my favorite pins. I am often wondering if I look awkward when I run. This made me laugh!

My Birfday.

2011-10-08T08:38:00.000-04:00

It's Monday. I already warned Jeff that I will be PMSing.
I was planning on celebrating over the course of the weekend. Because he works on Monday and the kids have off school, so I will be doing my mommy thing all day and have ZERO time to myself.
He chose to work today. Off to a good start? Ummm.... No.
Dang him for wanting to provide for this family! : p {that's the little emoticon with a tongue sticking out. It never looks right when I do it.}

image source

PS. This was all written sort of tongue in cheek. Kay? I'm not as selfish and self absorbed as I sound... Okay, maybe a little. ~~But it's my birfday~~.

I Said That.

2011-10-04T15:12:00.000-04:00

To all of those who "diet"- STOP. Just stop. It is, indeed, a fact that you will go off that

diet and gain it all back. Plus some. Diets do not work. Moderation does.

There. I said it.

That is all.

Oh, and you can bet I'ma pin this.

Pinterest Pintuesday

2011-10-04T10:49:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite pins going around Pinterest right now.
Proverbs 25:24
It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

I'm {not} Being Followed

2011-09-29T10:24:00.000-04:00

Maybe I am just conceited, or maybe I am just paranoid. But, I am pretty sure a guy was following me at the mall the other day. I ran in to return a belt for Jeff. He needed a different (*ahem-bigger-ahem*) size. And Grace and I got lunch. While I was holding the baby I noticed my side felt wet. Yea, she had a major blowout, completely silent, mind you, on my hip. So I had to run out to the car (because I assumed she'd stay clean for the 20 minutes we were in there and left the diaper bag) and change her. And this guy followed me out of the mall into the parking lot. No biggie. EXCEPT that he followed me back in. Okay, still maybe just a coincidence. So, I took V to get her ears pierced (that'll teach her to poop on me!) and we left. Again, this same guy followed me out of the mall. Now that I think about it, he probably would have been a little less obvious if he really had been following me, but anyway... I drove away and headed towards the grocery store and he was following me. But he was staying back so I thought he was trying to be inconspicuous. Then, he turned and was gone. I guess he wasn't following me after all. Huh. Whatdya know. Paranoia? I think so.

Just because I didn't want to post without a picture! She liked her spaghetti. And now she has pierced ears!!!

Caramel Pear Pudding

2011-09-26T09:50:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I posted a recipe! So, I thought I'd post a simple, fall, warm dessert recipe! Plus, I had a lot of pears to get rid of from our pear and apple picking excursion! And it has been rainy, cloudy and overcast pretty much everyday of September, so I apologize for the yellow-ish pictures...

Caramel Pear Pudding

I doubled the recipe, so this picture has twice the ingredients listed below.

1 C flour
2/3 C sugar
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
pinch of ground cloves
1/2 C milk
4 pears peeled and cut into 1/2" cubes
1/2 C chopped pecans (optional)
3/4 C packed brown sugar
1/4 C butter
3/4 C boiling water
Vanilla ice cream, Cool Whip or Whipped Cream (optional, but I highly recommend the ice cream, of course.)

In mixing bowl, combine the first six ingredients,

beat in the milk unitl smooth.

Stir in pears and pecans.

Spoon into an ungreased 2 qt. baking dish.

In another bowl combine brown sugar, butter and boiling water.

Stir until butter is melted and pour over batter.

Bake at 375 degrees for 45-50 minutes. Serve warm.

Printer friendly version:

Caramel Pear Pudding

Serves 8

1 C flour

2/3 C sugar
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
pinch of ground cloves
1/2 C milk
4 pears peeled and cut into 1/2" cubes
1/2 C chopped pecans (optional)
3/4 C packed brown sugar
1/4 C butter
3/4 C boiling water
Vanilla ice cream, Cool Whip or Whipped Cream (optional, but I highly recommend the ice cream, of course.)

In a mixing bowl combine first six ingredients.
Beat in milk until smooth.
Stir in pears and pecans.
Spoon into ungreased 2 qt. baking dish.
In another bowl, combine brown sugar, butter and boiling water. Stir until the butter is melted.
Pour over the batter.
Bake at 375 degrees for 45-50 minutes. Serve warm.

For My Birfday

2011-09-22T10:27:00.000-04:00

My bday is just weeks away and I've been thinking bout my wish list...

I really want hot rollers. I'd probably need two sets because I have so much stinkin hair!

I NEED skinny jeans. Mostly because Jeff bought me fantastic boots for Christmas last year
and I'd like to be able to show them off. Plus, I relly just need new jeans.

Black pumps. I don't have a pair of closed toe black pumps!!! These are a wardrobe staple. I must have them!

An ipod. Yea, I still don't have one. I use Jeff's, but I want my own.
And then, I need to download some fantastic running music onto it!

So, just incase anyone was wondering what to get me for my birfday, there ya go!

An Email To My Mother In Law

2011-09-19T13:56:00.000-04:00

Yup. I'm so clever and amuse myself so thoroughly, that I thought I'd share an original email I wrote to my MIL.
(No salutations. I'm all business.)

I have a recipe for this caramel pear pudding and it is so good, so I'll just keep making that! I'll have to post it on the blog. It's super easy, too!

A picnic on Sunday would be nice. But, the bees are really bad right now. Not that that would stop us from coming. Just saying. At Gill's party, they were all over the place. Jeff got stung, my mom got stung...

Took Vera to the Dr today. She had a fever of 102.3 this morning (but has had it since Friday night) and smelled like her eardrums were going to rupture. (Yes, I can smell it. I can also smell when people's sinuses have been draining down their throats. That's why God blessed me with such huge nostrils. So I could use them. It's a gift, really. Like those dogs that can sniff out drugs...) Ooo, that's good. I'm going to use that on my blog... Her eardrums were indeed bulging with pus. So she is on an antibiotic and will probably need tubes before she's two! Lovely. But, it was kinda nice to just have her when I went to the Dr and pharmacy. That's new for me! But she's so lethargic and pathetic. I've been holding her since Friday night, non stop. My arm is going to fall off.

Happy Talk-Like-a-Pirate-Day!!!

~Julie

I know. I'm always thinking of good blog material. And now, a picture of my sick baby, pre-sickness.

144 months

2011-09-18T05:00:00.001-04:00

Four thousand, three hunded and eighty days.
One hundred and forty four months.
Twelve years.

That's how long I have been married to my best friend. To the man who was created for me. To the man I was created for.

Three houses.

Nine cars.
Eight pregnancies.
Four births.

There is no other man on the face of this earth that I would rather do life with. Thank you, Jeff, for making my dreams come true. You are perfect for me!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-09-14T15:12:00.000-04:00

No, not because the kids are in school. Because it is Pick Your Own season! I love apple picking and pumpkin picking and pear picking! We haven't done pumpkins yet because they will rot before Fall really arrives. But, we love doing that when the time comes!

Yea, he was lifting the bigger kids up to pick, even while holding the baby in the Bjorn. He's a rock star dad!

Love the Little Legs! Are they stinkin cute or what???

I also love coming home and having lots of canning and baking to get done! I have used all but 4 of our apples! And we picked about 30 lbs of apples and 10 lbs of pears. I canned 7 jars of apple pie filling, 5 jars of applesauce and made an apple pie. The pears are harder to use up. I made Pear Butter. It's okay. I'd rather have Apple Butter. But now I still have pears left and I am not making anymore pear butter. Ideas anyone?

Dress shopping

2011-09-12T10:21:00.000-04:00

I'm in the market for a new "going to a wedding" dress. I've been working pretty hard at getting myself half-decent looking, so I'm just about ready for a purchase. It's always easiest for me to shop online. But sizing is a nightmare. I found a cute dress on http://www.edressme.com/. I just loved the shape and color. So, when I clicked on it there was a warning in all caps: "THIS DRESS RUNS SMALL." Nice. Every girl wants to order the bigger size, right? Why don't they just resize it?? Anyway, I looked closely at the pic.

This skinny little thing, who I'm sure has also been airbrushed, has some serious armpit/boob overhang!!! If they missed that during the airbrushing session, imagine what they did get rid of???

I can't wear this dress.

Gabby

2011-09-12T08:40:00.000-04:00

My heart is breaking today. A 5 year old little girl died last night at 8:15. This is what was posted on the Get Well Gabby Facebook page last night: Tonight at 8:15 Gabby lost her fight with the tumors in her brain. She put up a very good fight and has been so brave throughout this Journey. Gabriella Martha Vogel 10-9-05 to 9-11-11. We will always love you and carry you in our hearts.

This sweet little girl fought cancer for 4 or 5 months and the Lord took her home. At 7:30 last night I was praying with the kids. We talked about Gabby. She had recently come home from the hospital to be with her friends and family. I told the kids that we had to pray for a miracle, and, pray that if the Lord chose to take her, her family would feel peace and comfort. We prayed for both. Grace, who is the same age as Gabby (Gabby's mom actually passed some of her maternity clothes on to me since I was getting big with Grace shortly after Gabby was born), prayed in her usual manner. She thanked God that Gabby was home and thanked God that Gabby would get better. She was right. 45 minutes after we prayed, God ended Gabby's pain and suffering. She was made whole again. In the words of my sweet five year old ...
Thank you that Gabby would get better.

My Girls

2011-09-04T21:39:00.002-04:00

Took this today of my little girls. It is one of my all time faves! I can't stop looking at it!

My Workout Routines

2011-09-02T09:19:00.000-04:00

So, yesterday I posted a little about my workout routine and what not. And some of you were interested in it. I am not an expert about exercise! I just know what works for me and what I don't hate!
So, running. I have never been a runner. I used to sort of jog/walk a mile in 18 minutes. I never pushed myself to run harder. Then I did the Couch to 5K program. Best program ever! I highly recommend it if you are thinking about starting to run. It was unbelievable to me that I would be able to run three miles in 9 weeks. So, that's what got me into running. So, I run some mornings. Now that I am training for a 5k on a challenging, wooded trail, I will be running the fields in my (very hilly) neighborhood, so that I am prepared for trail running.
I also do a squat routine with handweights. Embarrassing disclosure: this workout came from McDonalds back in 2004 or 2005. Yea. The fast food joint. I ordered a salad and this was like my Happy Meal toy. It is a Yourself Fitness DVD. Yourself Fitness is a company that makes video game workout systems. With your own virtual trainer. So you can find these from 2004/05 for xbox, PS2 etc. I don't think they do DVDs. This must have just been something special through Mickydees. It is such a great workout, though! You have options. Such as, if you want an easy program or, more challenging. And if you want to use hand weights or not. When I was on vacay, I took my handweights and was able to do this routine without the DVD. It is pretty simple. And I notice results. This, ladies and gentlemen, is why I squat.

Source: Pinterest
Hello, beautiful tushie and legs.
No, that's not me. Just gorgeous motivation.

For my lower abs, I do this routine. It is from Real Simple magazine. I didn't break a sweat the first time I did it! But the next day my abs were so sore!!!
This is the Cardio Hip Hop routine I do. I got it from Target. It has a step guide, so you can learn the steps before you start the dance routine. And it came with a free year of Fitness magazine! That has been a great resource too! It has all kinds of workouts in it and it is supermotivating!
And yesterday I talked about the 100 Workout. I think I will stick with this one for a little while. I love the fact that you do not need anything other than a little bit of space to do these exercises. And hello jumping jacks! I am feeling muscles today from this workout and I know it's from those stinkin jumping jacks! Who'da thought?

So, that's about it. I do some random workouts from Fitness magazine as well. You'll find what you like and what works for you and then it is easy to fall in love with it! Especially when you start seeing results!

Oops I did it again...

2011-09-01T09:28:00.000-04:00

I love that song title. That song will be famous forever just because of it's title! But, seriously. I did it again. I. Cut. My. Own. Hair. Uh oh. Jeff is sweating it right now. Kelly might be, too! Kelly is a friend I've had for a long time. We worked together at the salon. She has been doing my hair for ages. If she doesn't fix my hair, my sister, who also happens to be a hairdresser will do it for me. But, nobody needs to worry! I did a great job! I am happy with it. I just threw in some long layers because I was feeling very rectangular. Now I don't need to get that adorable Katie Holmes cut. Yet. See????

Yea, I'm not wearing makeup. And it is really hard for me to take my own picture. I had a few shots with my mouth open wide, my head tilted very far, my mirror in focus, but myself blurry. It was quite a challenge. So anyway, there I am and it's a great shot because I cut my side off and look super skinny! (Although, I am feeling rather skinny today in my size 8 pants, just sayin. It's still early.) Oooo, and speaking of skinny... I've been running regularly. I also do a strength training workout with hand weights and squats, so I am working on legs and arms, chest and shoulders at once. I am also doing a cardio hip hop routine

(that would be quite a riot for you all to see) and a lower ab workout.

BUT, today I tried that 100 Workout that I'm sure you've all seen one hundred times on Pinterest.

I tried to post it on here, but Blogger is not letting me upload any pics. So, it's 100 jumping jacks, 90 crunches, 80 squats, 70 leg lifts, 60 jumping jacks, 50 crunches, 40 squats, 30 leg lifts, 20 jumping jacks and running for 10 minutes. Sounds super easy, right? HELLO??!?!? When was the last time you did jumping jacks??? For me it was maybe elementary school. Those suckers were serious! I got to 68 and had to take a break. My hips were burning. I took a 30 second break and then finshed, but Holy Cow. The 80 squats were nothing. I could've kept going. But, Holy Cow, I will never underestimate jumping jacks again.

Basil out the wazoo???

2011-08-31T17:14:00.000-04:00

Did you know that you can freeze it?? It is simple, too! And you'll have little blocks to throw in sauces, stews, marinades, etc. If your plants are very productive and you are feeling basil-ed out, this is such a great option! Here's what ya do:

Pick a bunch. When you pick a stem, two more grow back in it's place. So, anyway, pick it. Rinse it, spin it dry. Get out your food processor and fill the bowl to the top. Don't pack it full. It should be loosely filled.

Now you are going to need the lid with the drizzler hole. {I know. I am uber technical with my terms.}

While pulsing, add about 1 or 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will keep the basil from turning black-ish. You aren't going to process this to a pesto consistency. Keep it a little chunky. I mean, I guess you can, but I don't. Once it's the consistency you want, package it in containers or baggies that you can freeze.

That's all there is to it! Now your wazoo can be clear of basil for a little while!

Earthquake, Hurricane and Silence

2011-08-30T10:11:00.000-04:00

I think the world may be coming to an end!!! Just kidding. We did have some minor damage from Irene. The prettiest tree in our yard split and half of it fell. I'm pretty sure the whole thing will have to come down now. Oh well. More firewood, I guess.

The kids are in their second day of school at our local elementary! Here they are at the bus stop on the first day. It is so weird having them gone. The baby has been taking a two hour nap in the morning, so I have two hours of complete silence in our house. Silence from voices and kids stuff anyway. The dog still barks, the washer/dryer are running, but I can deal with those sounds. Well, maybe not the dog, but whatever.

So parents, tell me this... Do you ever have to fight about what your kids wear to school? For instance, should I ban Micah from wearing his Tony Hawk skater sneakers that I hate? With black socks? Or do I say "Whatever!" ? And do I let a little girl in a pretty little dress wear her gym sneakers? Her Twinkle Toes are cute in this pic, though! But her gym sneakers would have been hideous! I can't tell if I am babying them, by picking out their clothes. Oh well. For the most part, no one's really complaining!

Long or short???

2011-08-24T11:16:00.000-04:00

I am so tempted to get my haircut!!! I have been growing it out, but today I HATE it! I think it should be cut! Like this:

How cute is that???

But then I start to think about long, side ponies and braids and long curls. I don't know what to do!

I wish I could wake up tomorrow and have long hair!

What?

2011-08-23T14:44:00.000-04:00

That sums up my day today.
Grace is upstairs screaming "Moooooooommmmmmmmmm! Mom? Mommy? Mmmmooooommmmeeeeeeee?" The boys are playing LEGO Rockband so loud that she can't hear me shouting "What?" "Whhhhaaaaat?" "Grace. I'm down here!" "What???"
I was hanging the wash out and my neighbor comes into my yard and asks if I felt my house shake.
My response? "What??" No, I didn't feel my house shake, but I hear voices coming from other yards saying "Did you feel that? What was that?" I'm thinking, "What??? How did I miss this?" I am the alarmist, drama - loving neighbor! How could I have missed an earthquake? Was it an earthquake? I THINK WE JUST HAD AN EARTHQUAKE!!!!!! Just kidding. I have no idea what happened. I missed the whole stinkin' thing.
The baby fusses. I look at her and say "What?". Then my voice reaches this really cutesy, baby-talk decibel and I am saying "What, baby girl?" Whatcha want?". And I think about the fact that I'd rather be home, living this life, saying "What?" all day long, than anywhere else in the world!

What I learned this summer

2011-08-15T14:51:00.000-04:00

I learned that I will never get a good family picture again.

I learned that I am a whiney, spoiled brat. Here's that story:
On Thursday we were at a creek. The kids were playing in the water and having fun. We decided it was time to go and we headed to our car. A kid who had been mowing the grass came up to us and said "Excuse me, are you Mr. Hopple?" Jeff said yes and the kid told us that there had been an "incident" with our car's rear window. I automatically go into freak out mode. "Are you serious?" "What????" Jeff takes my hand and says "Jul, relax. It's fine." We walk up to the car and the window above Vera's car seat is totally missing and in shards on the ground and her seat. The park ranger came over to us and explained that while the crew was mowing a rock flew up and crashed through our window. Okay. In my defense, I was freaking out thinking that someone had purposefully broken our window and robbed us. So, the park ranger takes Jeff to the office. They vacuum out the car and do all the paperwork. Everyone was wonderfully pleasant and we left. The car window was repaired the next morning. Jeff brought it home and we all climbed in to set off on another day trip. As soon as I saw that window I said "Oh, no, no no. You take this car back there right now and get this straightened out!" I'm sitting in the front seat slapping my knee saying "No. No. No. We already have one hoopty in this driveway! I will not let this car be one as well!" The window they put in was not tinted to match the rest of the windows! I was completely freaking out over this repaired, safe window. I heard myself. I knew how ridiculous I sounded. But, I couldn't stop. The window is fixed now. It matches the rest. I should have been much calmer about the situation. Someday I'll be less high strung. Someday.

I learned that the KJV Bible is, indeed, the most accurate Bible version. Jeff has been studying this for months and I have been rolling my eyes all that time. But, alas, he is correct. There are some pretty big discrepancies in other versions. As Jeff has been saying all along, "Things that are different are not the same." I have a very wise husband!

I learned that a short, surprise visit with my best friend is balm to the soul. I am so thankful that she has moved to a nearby town!

I learend that cantalope and vanilla ice cream is a delicious treat. You should try it!

I learned other things, too. But, I can't list it all! It's been a great summer!

Have ya'll missed me???

2011-08-14T21:39:00.000-04:00

Did you even know I was gone??? (crickets chirping...)
Anyway, after a week at the beach and a vacation after our vacation, we are now back to our regular routine. Jeff goes back to work tomorrow. Grace starts Kinder-camp and we prepare everyone for the back to school sleep schedule. Gone are the late nights of fire fly catching, Wipe-Out watching and playing with friends.
It has been a great summer.
I have learned some things, the kids have learned some things and the baby learned how to grow up really fast {boo hoo}!

Grace making friends with a little Amish girl. She is great at making friends!

Vera in the pool. She is pulling herself up and cruising along the furniture.

My big boys. Checking out the waves. Prepping for some boogie boardin'!

Life's a beach!

2011-08-01T10:14:00.000-04:00

Well, it is for me! I'm at the beach! Loving the relaxation! The kids are having a great time! But, we're missing Jeff. He had to work. : ( We are with his mom, sisters and nieces and nephews. The kids are being awesome, which makes it easy. They are watching Nanny McPhee Returns right now. Such a fantastic movie! Seriously. One of my faves! If you and your kids haven't seen it, I highly recommend it!!! Okay, back to life at the beach!

An edible princess castle

2011-08-01T10:08:00.000-04:00

Grace saw this idea in a book and had to try it. I bought the pop tarts, but everything else I had on hand! You'll need:
1 box of pop tarts
a couple ice cream cones
icing
sprinkles
candy
Use the box to make your castle base. Place it on a cookie sheet. Put a glob of icing on the back of the pop tarts and stick them around the box. Pipe icing in all the cracks and decorate. Spread circles of icing on top of the box to stand your cones in. Decorate however you like! We still have candy canes, so we used those. We made doors out of graham crackers. It was a fun project to do with her. She had a blast!

This is why I stopped doing WIWW

2011-07-27T13:00:00.001-04:00

Seriously.

The Hopple Family

Oreo Peanut Butter Cup Cupcakes

Confession

FYI

This boy

Vera's First Real Trip to the Park

Little Mama

Pinterest PinTuesday

Ingredients

Directions

It's Super Bowl Sunday

Pinterest PinTuesday

Confession

The Situation Workout

Styles that I love for the men

Dang it!

Misunderstood Miscarriage

Dark Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes

The Rock

I Want This House

Lemon Roasted Chicken

Pinterest PinTuesday On Wednesday

I didn't have the heart...

Low Moments

Pinterest PinTuesday

Chicken Enchiladas

My biggest fear

The Year of Music

Our Christmas

Pinspiration PinTuesday

Guest Post by Ebeneezer Scrooge

Merry Christmas!

Pinterest PinTuesday {Holiday Edition}

To gift or not to gift?

Pinterest PinTuesday

Yes please!

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

Pinterest PinTuesday

Micah

Turbo Jam

We been busy up in here!

The Best Chocolate Cake Recipe. EVER.

Pinterest PinTuesday on Wednesday

34

Great.

Thankful

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 23*

Am I behind again???

*Day 19 & 20*

I just want to paint my nails!!!

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day18*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day17*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day16*

Pinterest PinTuesday

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 15*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day14*

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 13*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 12*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day11*

Digital Scrapbooking??? And a GIVEAWAY!!!

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 10*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 9*

Catching Up {Pinterest PinTuesday}

Catching up *Day 8*

Day 6 & 7

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 5*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day4*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 3*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 2*

30 Days of Thankfulness *Day 1*

Pinterest PinTuesday

Over-acheiver

Pinterest PinTuesday {on Wednesday}

Wedding

Accessories first, outfit later.

Pinterest PinTuesday

So yea...

It came and went

Pinterest PinTuesday

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 23

Day 19 & 20

30 Days of Thankfulness Day18

30 Days of Thankfulness Day17

30 Days of Thankfulness Day16

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 15

30 Days of Thankfulness Day14

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 13

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 12

30 Days of Thankfulness Day11

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 10

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 9

Catching up Day 8

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 5

30 Days of Thankfulness Day4

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 3

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 2

30 Days of Thankfulness Day 1