The Happy Moms Club

Been Sooooo Sick! But I'm back!

2011-03-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Time to take a night off! I got to have dinner with some friends the other night, and let me tell you; it was much needed! A night with no cooking or kids whining cannot be beat! If you don't have the funds to eat out right not (which I totally get!) Then just go to a friend's for a visit some night--- minus the kiddos!

Happy Kid Goal

It's St. Patty's Day! Our family always has a little fun on this day. Here are a few ideas for you!

1. Make green Jell-O for dinner. Or make green Jell-O Jigglers cut into shamrocks for a snack.

2. Decorate cupcakes with foil-wrapped coins and rainbow sprinkles.

3. Put white carnations with freshly-cut stems in a vase with water mixed with green food coloring. Pretty soon, you'll have green flowers.

4. Put green streaks in everyone's hair with hair mascara or temporary hair spray.

5. Make braids in your girls' hair using a green ribbon as one of the strands.

6. Paint a small shamrock on your kids' cheek with face paint or a green eye pencil.

7. Make quick green bracelets by cutting thin strips of craft foam, wrapping them around your wrist and securing the ends with a brad.

8. Add some green food coloring to pancake batter, milk, mashed potatoes, or whatever else you think you can stomach green.

9. Go to the library and read aloud some St. Patrick's Day-themed picture books.

10. Make green paper chains to decorate around the house. Cut out shamrocks from green paper and tape them on the walls.

11. Cut a bunch of shamrocks out of green paper and hide them around the house. Send your kids on a hunt to find them. Reward them with candy coins.

12. If the weather allows, go to the park and search for four-leaf clovers.

13. Pick up some Irish soda bread at the bakery and serve it with your dinner. Serve corned beef, too (although this is more American than Irish).

14. Make small greeting cards for elderly neighbors wishing them the luck of the Irish, or bring them a treat.

15. Wear green and be sure to pinch (gently) people who don't!

Happy Husband Goal

Lots of kisses this week! "I may not be Irish, but you can kiss me anyway!"

Happy House Goal

It's time to start the spring cleaning! After an entire winter of kids playing in their rooms and play areas all the time, it's bound to be a bit cluttered. Take some time (when your kids aren't looking!) and go through all the little things they don't play with anymore. You know, junk from birthday party goody bags, broken projects from school, etc; Get it all in the trash and make sure there's nothing lurking in corners or under beds!

Dinner TonightAs mentioned before, it's fun to have a "Green Dinner" on St. Patrick's Day. It's something my mom always did, and my kids love it! This year's menu for our little family is:

Cheese Tortellini in green alfredo sauce (colored with a few drops of food coloring)
Green jell-o (I love it with sliced bananas in it!)
Peas
Green Kool-aid
Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream for dessert!

Easy enough! You can do this with almost anything-- as long as you can handle the look of it! I try to use as many food items as I can that are already naturally green. It goes down easier! Get creative, Moms!

Dinner Tonight

2011-03-02T13:48:00.000-08:00

Easy Honey Mozzarella Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1/2 cup prepared mustard
4 slices bacon, cut in half
3/4 cup honey
lemon pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Place the chicken breast halves in a baking dish and drizzle evenly with honey and mustard. Sprinkle with lemon pepper. Bake chicken 25 minutes in the preheated oven. Top each breast half with 2 bacon slices halves, and sprinkle evenly with cheese. Continue baking 10 minutes or until chicken juices run clear, bacon is crisp, and cheese is bubbly.

I'm Baaa-aaack!

2011-03-01T15:24:00.000-08:00

Happy Mom Goal

Join a book club and schedule time to actually read the book. Joining a club will force you to have the book finished by a deadline and the book club meeting will get you out of the house to socialize!

Happy Kid Goal

Write stories together! It's so much fun to help expand your child's imagination... or have them help you expand yours! Ask them to tell you a story, write it down for them, and then have them draw illustrations. If they're older, have them write it or type it up and then print it and put it in a binder for them. Get them out occasionally and read them as a family. So fun!

Happy Husband Goal

Lately, my husband and I have gotten into a thrilling TV series. After the kids go to bed each night, we sit together on the couch, cuddle up, and watch an episode or two of our show. LOST is our current favorite, so we're watching all the seasons available on NetFlix. What a great invention!

Happy House Goal

Pick a closet, any closet. Man, is it just me, or is winter time the absolute messiest season of them all? Everything just gets shoved or stashed into closets (even I do it!) Take an hour or so sometime this week to stack your board games, sort through coats and gloves, go through long-forgotten boxes, or organize your craft supplies. If you stick to it for a bit, it won't take long and it's so refreshing after it's done.

Dinner Tonight

This is my favorite thing to serve with a country-type dinner. It's not really a secret, but I get an awful lot of compliments on it any time I serve it!

Easy Sweet Cornbread

1 small box cornbread mix (I use Jiffy)
1 yellow cake mix (Duncan Hines is the yummiest)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix boxes together according to directions on back of each box. Pour batter into a greased 9 x 13 inch pan.

Bake approximately 25-35 minutes, or until done.

Serve with honey butter!

Pep Talk!

Well, it's been an awfully long time since I've done this! Perhaps no one will even read this blog anymore, but I decided that it is definitely time for me to be a Happy Mom again. I've been having my own personal struggles; financial, physical, emotional, spiritual... and of course kid struggles! That's just part of the life of a mom. I need to regain my inner strength, and while I strive to do that, I may as well blog about it. My oldest child is a beautiful, intelligent, and fun-loving little girl. So much fun most of the time. But man, oh man! Sometimes that strong-willed side of her creeps to the surface and I am in a constant struggle for power in my own home. She's had a tough life. She's been through divorce, relocation several times, and many other things few adults have even been through. I know that all plays a part in it, but her greatest influence is me. I have to remember that daily. If I forget to be a good example to her and show nothing but love all the time, things get out of hand. I feel very alone sometimes and like I'm failing in my duties as a mother. But I'm not. There are millions of mommies out there who have felt the same thing I'm feeling. We've all been there. And the greatest thing we need to remember is that we are the greatest influence on our children. And what can we do to help them the best. Love them. Wholly and completely. Every second of every day. And let them see just how much we do. That is what will raise them to be the best they can be. And that is how we get ourselves through each day

Seriously simple, yet so delicious!

2010-04-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

Dinner Tonight

Mac n' Cheese with a Facelift!
(got this idea from a friend and will never go back to plain ol' Kraft!)

1 box Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup Hidden Valley Ranch dressing
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzerella cheese
1-2 chicken breasts cooked as desired and cubed

Directions:
Make boxed mac n' cheese according to directions on box. After stirring in the milk, butter, and powdered cheese, stir in parmesan, mozzerella, and ranch dressing over low heat until cheeses are fully incorporated. Serve with chicken on top. So good!

Dinner Tonight!

2010-04-15T20:48:00.000-07:00

Oven Fried Chicken

2 1/2 lbs chicken parts (thighs and drumsticks)
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp shortening

Mix flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper. Put chicken pieces into bag with mixture and shake to coat. Heat oil and shortening in a 9x13 inch pan in 425 degree oven until melted.

Place coated chicken in pan, cook uncovered for 30 minutes, then turn chicken over and cook for another 30 minutes.

Serve with mashed potatoes and country gravy, and a side of sweet cornbread. Yum!

Dinner Tonight

2010-04-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

Meatloaf, Baby!

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
garlic powder to taste
6 slices white bread, cut into cubes
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
3 tablespoons yellow mustard, divided
1/2 cup ketchup, divided
3 tablespoons brown sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix ground beef, onion, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Mix in bread, milk, egg, 2 tablespoons mustard and 1/4 cup ketchup.
Press the meat mixture into a 9x5 inch loaf pan. In a small bowl, stir together remaining mustard, ketchup and brown sugar; pour on top of the meat loaf.
Bake in preheated oven for 2 hours.

New Goals!!! Can you believe it?!?!

2010-04-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

This past winter has been a long one full of lots of illness and stress. But with new spring comes new hope, and a new season of goals!

Happy Mom Goal

This week, find a friend or sister with kids around the same age as yours. Have all their kids over to your house for a playdate one afternoon, and then send your kids to them for another afternoon. You both get a whole afternoon of kid-free relax time! It's beautiful!

Happy Kid Goal

This one works in conjunction with Dinner Tonight. This super fun, super easy dinner is an excellent way to lighten up the mood in your home if the family has been bored and whiney. Ever had a Barbarian Dinner?
Here's how it works.
Tell family members that you are planning a very special evening meal. Give them a specific hour and tell them you would like them to be on time. As they arrive, hand out old shirts or aprons to put on over their clothes.
At the table, they will find nothing but a disposable tablecloth (you can find vinyl ones at the dollar store) and mugs for drinks--no silverware, plates, or napkins. Once everyone is seated, begin to bring out the food. For the most fun, try using this menu: Spaghetti in sauce, green salad with dressing, french bread, spinach or corn, and chocolate ice cream for dessert.

Begin serving each family member by walking around the table behind them, stopping to plop down a heap of spaghetti on the table in front of them. Continue by serving each item on the menu, dropping it on the table in front of them. They must eat their meal barbarian style, using only their fingers--no forks or spoons allowed! Now the fun begins! Don't forget to break out the chocolate ice cream....and the camera for some memorable photos!

Happy Husband Goal

This week, find some time to just sit and talk to your husband. Take a nice evening walk, or go for a drive. Focus on him. Try your hardest to not vent to him about the kids, the laundry, the house, etc; Let him talk about work, school, whatever. And ask him if he needs anything from you as a wife and a support to him. Just knowing that you are there for them in every way they need you to be lifts a huge burden off their shoulders - and that makes for a much happier man!

Happy House Goal

Okay, this one snuck up on me, and I just had to do a post about it. Have you ever had the heart-warming experience of opening up the dryer door and finding bright red, blue, or green crayon melted all over every article of clothing in the laundry? Well, just such a thing happened to me a couple weeks ago. Apparently one of my little dearies had left a blue crayon in their jeans pocket when they put them into their laundry hamper. Now, this particular load of laundry had a bunch of our favorites in it; some super cute (expensive) clothes the kids had gotten from my mother in law, the baby's brand new hoodie from the GAP, and of course, my favorite shirt that I wear all the time. Yep. Blue crayon EVERYWHERE. I was so mad! That doesn't even begin to describe it, actually. But instead of taking my anger out on my kiddos (though I admit I was tempted to) I jumped on the web and started researching ways to get melted-on crayon O.U.T!
After an hour of searching, here's the recipe suggestion that I decided to try:

2 max amounts (line 3) of concentrated Tide (any good laundry detergent will work)

1 cup Oxiclean

1/2 cup 20 mule team Borax

1 cup Shout liquid

1 cup white vinegar

I went with HOT water (but warm may work and be best for fabrics. Let this agitate for a minute, then add clothes, agitate for another minute to work through, and soak for about an hour and run on a regular, long cycle with extra rinse.

I repeated this two times just to be safe, and voila!- crayon gone! There are only a couple tiny light blue stains left on a few of the lighter colored clothes. I decided to share this in case any of you happen upon this same unfortunate experience. It'll save you from all the research, but get you the same awesome results!

Dinner Tonight

Spaghetti, salad, and bread! *see happy kid goal =)

Where do I Turn?

2010-01-17T00:12:00.000-08:00

You're a small child.
You wake up from a nightmare in the middle of the night.
It's dark.
It's silent.
Where do you go for comfort?

You're a small child.
Your chest is aching.
Your throat is sore.
Your head throbs.
Who do you turn to for comfort?

Someone pulls you into their warm arms.
They lay your head in their lap.
They stroke your face and hair.
They whisper that everything will be alright.
They softly hum and sing to you.
You are comforted.

Now, you are a mother.
Your children cry for you.
You comfort them.
They are hungry.
You make them a meal.
They are sick.
You nurse them back to health.
They are afraid.
You rock them.
You hold them.
You kiss them.
You love them.
You are their comfort.

You are a mother.
You wake in the night.
You are afraid.
You are alone.
You are sick.
Where are you to turn for comfort?

The lord is there.

As the mother now, He is all I have.

I miss having a mother. I mean, I still have mine; She is very much alive and well. But when I feel afraid, alone or uncomfortable, I sometimes wish I could still just crawl up into someone's lap. That someone could hold me and comfort me in the way only a mother could. As a mom, there are just days when I feel that I've given so much of myself and not gotten anything in return. I feel so drained and alone. Like no one even notices that I have needs too. No one asks me what I want for dinner. No one asks me if I'm alright. If I'm unhappy, no one sees it and gives all they can to comfort me and make it all better. Is it so much to ask for? I'm grateful that I have the Lord there to talk to. That he is there to hear, answer, and comfort me. Like he takes me into his arms, strokes my hair, and whispers that it will all be okay.

Dinner Tonight

2010-01-15T17:26:00.000-08:00

Is it cheating so tell you to order pizza? That's what I'm doing tonight...

Cache Valley Unit:

2010-01-14T14:37:00.001-08:00

Who's ready for some Happy Hours and a Guilty Pleasure or two??

Any fun ideas??

Comment!

Loves =)

For the next week or so...

2010-01-14T07:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Mom

Re-organize a space. Pick a room in your home that maybe doesn't get as much attention. I find that I am constantly cleaning and arranging my kitchen and living room because that is what everyone sees, while upstairs the black hole of a bedroom I sleep in every night is in MAJOR need of some help. I am happy to report that this post is something I have actually accomplished!

Start by straitening the room you want to change, it makes it easier to start with a clean room. Try moving furniture to a new spot, or if your space is limited and you cant make big changes try moving a lamp, or even the pictures on your wall. Rearranging elements of your home is one of the fastest ways to get a little face-lift. It doesn't take to much time (like painting) and is inexpensive because you are using things you already own. You can also try moving things from room to room, to mix it up a little.

Happy Husband

Give your hubby a little extra attention tonight by giving him a foot rub. Men enjoy this just as much as we gals do! If you happen to have some baby oil, or non-scented massage oil use a little to sweeten the deal. If you are like me, and are a little frightened of what is lurking under the socks at the end of the night, sweetly suggest a shower before you spring your surprise! (wow look at that alliteration, I wasn't even trying!)

Happy Kids

Ok, really this is the cop-out event of parenthood, but the kids never know that. Take to McDonald's and let em run free. We all need a little time when our kids are free to run and jump and climb without worrying that they are doing so on your cousins lamp, or your newly repaired bed....

If you don't want to spring for a whole meal get cookies at 3/$1 or an ice cream cone for $.79, your kids will enjoy the treat and you will enjoy some stress free playtime! Also check out other places in your area that offer cheap or free playtime. For instance, at our mall there is a lillte play area with large foamy type things they can climb on and run around. My kids LOVE to play there, and it is warm inside, and completely free. There is also another business that has a large soft play area and costs only $3.

Dinner Tonight

Chicken and Rice Casserole – 4-6 servings

I added the changes i would make to this recipe in ( )

2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil
1 medium onion, peeled and diced
3 cups diced, cooked chicken
2 (14 ½-ounce) cans green beans (or frozen peas), drained and rinsed
1 (8-ounce) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
1 (4-ounce) jar pimentos (not even sure what this is?)
1 (10 ¾-ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup (or cream of chicken)
1 cup mayonnaise
1 (6-ounce) box long-grain wild rice, cooked according to package
directions
1 cup grated sharp Cheddar
Pinch salt

1. Preheat oven to 350. Heat butter or oil in a small skillet over
medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl.
2. Add all remaining ingredients to bowl and mix together until
thoroughly combined.
3. Pour into a greased 3-quart casserole dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes
or until bubbly. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Another Dinner Recipe from Chelsea!

2009-11-10T21:58:00.000-08:00

The Best BBQ Chicken EVER!

This is my favorite BBQ sauce:
1/2 Onion, finely chopped
2TBS vinegar
2 TBS brown sugar
4 TBS lemon juice
1 cup ketchup
3 TBS Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. prepared mustard

Mix everything together in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Use boneless chicken breasts, cut into smaller pieces, or bone-in legs,thighs, etc. Baste the chicken with the sauce and place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 for about 20 minutes (longer for bone in meat)
Always check before you eat to make sure its done inside. You can turn and baste the meat throughout baking. You can also cook on the BBQ, unless of course its covered with snow!

Dinner Tonight

2009-11-10T12:10:00.000-08:00

Veggie Lasagna

I love the veggie lasagna from Stouffer's but it is kind of expensive and makes a ton, we usually eat it for two or three days after. so here is a recipe that seems very similar, I will add some notes of ways to make it easier!

Ingredients:
12 lasagna noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 heads fresh broccoli, chopped
2 carrots, thinly sliced
2 small zucchini, sliced
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
3 cloves garlic, minced(or go by a bag of mixed veggies from the freezer section)

Sauce:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper(or buy a can of your favorite alfredo)

1 (8 ounce) container small curd cottage cheese
24 ounces ricotta cheese
2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided(this actually sounds like it might be an adequate amount of cheese! but hey, throw in some extra just for fun)

Directions:

These are for making your own sauce and cooking the fresh veggies, you can probably just use the frozen ones without cooking them first, also if you by sauce skip the sauce instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish.
(I have never boiled lasagna noodles prior to baking in my life. I realize some people do this but it seems silly when you can just add some extra water to the sauce and add the dry noodles. they cook up just fine in the oven this way! and it saves you a half hour of cooking time!) Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.

Heat oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. When oil is hot add broccoli, carrots, zucchini and garlic. Saute for 7 minutes; set aside.
Place flour in a medium saucepan and gradually whisk in milk until well blended. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook 5 minutes, or until thick, stirring constantly. Stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in spinach. Reserve 1/2 cup spinach mixture. In a small bowl combine cottage and ricotta cheeses; stir well.

Spread about 1/2 cup of spinach mixture in the bottom of the prepared pan. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, vegetables, spinach mixture and 2 cups mozzarella cheese, ending with noodles. Top with reserved spinach mixture, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup parmesan cheese.
Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until lightly browned on top. Cool for approximately 10 minutes before serving. (if you want to make it with dry noodles, build the lasagna like normal then pour about a 1-1 1/2 cups water over the entire thing! you can make this in the morning and leave it in the ridge till your ready to cook as well!)

Mother of the Week!

2009-11-08T14:21:00.001-08:00

I'm excited to present to you our very first Mother of the Week!

Meet Chelsea K, a busy mother of two boys ages 2 and 4. On top of wrangling these energetic little guys, she runs her own business doing digital scrapbooking and making crafts to sell. She loves to plan and host parties and would like to one day own a party-planning business. She is the branch president of the Happy Moms Club in Cache Valley, Utah and has coordinated and hosted several Happy Hours and Guilty Pleasure Days. Her ideas for Happy Moms Club are fresh, new and awesome!

Happy Mom Goal

A Moment of Silence. The other day I was sitting in the living room, I was on my laptop Face-booking my husband who was downstairs on the computer, my kids were watching TV and my cell phone was ringing. It was loud. We are moving into the holiday Season which means that soon there wont be much chance of slowing down... we get so busy with all that we do and there is so much noise! My challenge for you is this: Plan a day this week to turn everything off. Shut the computer down, send the cell phone to voice-mail, unplug the tv. Do it on a day when you can all be together. Spend time with your family outside (if its still warm enough) or go for a drive (leave the radio off) and sing silly songs with your kids. Sit on the front porch. Enjoy the quiet. It will amaze you how relaxing it is to take a break from technology.

Happy Kid Goal

Cold Weather Fun. As we head into the winter season, I find myself dreading the days when I can't send my kids out of doors without spending hours bundling them up. With the help of your kids, put together and "Indoor Kit" filled with fun things to do inside. This could include construction paper, scissors and craft supplies, fun music you can dance to (they still need to get some exercise) bean bag games, puzzles, etc. Make the items appropriate for your child's age. You can use a box or a plastic tote, spend an afternoon decorating the box, the package is half the excitement later when they are bored and need something to do!

Happy Husband Goal

Ok I am going to take some inspiration from my own Husby, he has been so funny lately. I don't know if he feels like we're losing the spark or what, but the last few weeks he has been working really hard to make his appearance like it was when we first met. Lol! He finally shaved his scruffy beard back to a neat goatee, he got his hair cut, and frosted...etc. So the goal for this week, think back to the time you were dating or were a newlywed and pick out something you used to do that you have forgotten about, and throw it back into your relationship. For instance, i used to wear feathers in my hair...just randomly, but Dave always tells me how i never do crazy things like that anymore. So bust out the marti gras beads, put on an old cd you used to listen too, or go on one of those dates where you had crazy fun without spending any money because you were so poor!

Happy House Goal

Sort and store clothing! Go through clothes for your kids as well as you and your hubby, pack away anything that still fits but is out of season, and pack up the things that have been outgrown and pass them on to a friend or family with smaller children, or take them to good will! I am a huge believer in Pay it Forward, I have been on the receiving end and I love to pass it on. Another awesome way to pass on, especially this time of year is freecycle.com. This is a free website where you can post and recycle any usable items! You can post for things you need and things you have. I know there are a lot of people who are struggling this year with all that has happened with the economy, and im sure we can all use some good karma!

Dinner Tonight

Homemade Mac and Cheese

Not only will your kids love it, but you will too!

Ok, so if you read the last recipes i submitted, you know i don't actually adhere to recipes very well. If this is really hard for you, im sure you can look one up online to find some proportions...sorry!

Ingredients:

Elbow Macaroni

Sharp or Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Milk

Flour

Salt and Pepper

Directions:

Boil the Macaroni till its just underdone- it finishes cooking when you bake it. I use a whole bag to make a 9x12 pan of mac n cheese.

Drain the noodles and spray with cold water (this stops the starches from sticking together). Spray a pan with cooking spray and make a layer of noodles on the bottom (about half the noodles)

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the noodles (a light dusting), salt and pepper, then cheese. (If you're me, you use lots of cheese!)

Then repeat the process, noodles, flour, salt pepper, cheese. Then you pour the milk over the whole thing. (You pour enough so you can start to see it through the noodles.)

Bake at 350 for 15 minute, then stir. It should start to thicken. Bake another 10-15 minutes till its crusty on top. yum. Don't eat it all at once. Share with the kids. If you want to get a little crazy you can use a combination of different cheeses....Parmesan, assiago, Gruyere, whatever strikes your fancy.

2009-11-06T23:10:00.000-08:00

Have a great weekend!!

Dinner Tonight

2009-11-05T22:32:00.000-08:00

Okay, this recipe sounds a little unusual, but trust me... it's incredible!! Chelsea and I recently served it at a big dinner party and it was a huge hit!

Cheddar Soup with Granny Smith Apples

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 onion, diced
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons dry mustard
4 cups chicken broth
2 granny smith apples
1 cup apple cider or apple juice
10 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 3 cups)
Hot pepper sauce (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and saute until tender and aromatic, 5-7 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flur and dry mustard over onion and stir to evenly coat. Continue cooking, stirring often, for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add broth, stirring until well blended.
4. Peel, quarter and core 1 of the apples and finely chop it. Add apple to the soup, cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until the soup is thickened and the apple is tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in cider and grated cheese and cook a few minutes longer, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted.
6. Puree the soup in a blender. Stir in a few drops of hot pepper sauce and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Quarter and core the remaining apple and cut in 1/2-inch dice. Ladle the soupe into warmed bowls, sprinkle with diced apple and serve immediately. Makes 4-6 servings. Serve with warm bread or rolls.

Dinner Tonight

2009-11-04T20:59:00.000-08:00

Meatloaf... Southwest Style!

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
2 eggs
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs
1/2 cup salsa
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup barbeque sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon celery salt

Directions
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Mix the ground beef, eggs, onion, bread crumbs, salsa, ketchup, barbeque sauce, salt, pepper, and celery salt together in a bowl; transfer to a loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown on top, about 1 hour.

Dinner Tonight

2009-11-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

Grilled Chicken in Coconut sauce

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 can unsweetened coconut milk

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup shredded coconut, toasted

cornstarch

pineapple tidbits

chicken baste

chicken broth

salt

pepper

Mix together a bit of chicken broth, salt, and pepper and bullion to make a paste. Baste chicken and grill until cooked through. Meanwhile, in a small sauce pan, heat coconut milk and sugar until boiling. Slowly add cornstarch 1 teaspoon at a time until the sauce reaches desired consistency. Add toasted coconut to sauce. Remove from heat.
Spoon coconut sauce over chicken. Top with pineapple.

Serve with rice cooked in water, lime juice and sugar.

Rice:

2 cups minute rice

2 cups water

2 tablespoons lime juice

1/4 cup sugar

Chelsea and I kind of made this recipe up last night. I made it for dinner for my family, and it was soooooo good!

This Week's Goals

2009-11-01T15:06:00.000-08:00

Happy Mom Goal

The first big holiday of the season is over...time for a breather! Go treat yourself to a mani or pedicure, maybe even a facial or a massage. Not in your budget?? Buy some inexpense massage oil and ask your husband to give your tense muscles a rub down when he has some time this week.

Happy Kid Goal

November is another great month of fall. You're likely to have a bunch of fallen leaves in your yard (or at least somewhere near your home) and a leftover pumpkin or two.

Here's a cute idea: (I did mine a bit differenlty than the above pic.)

Have your kids walk around the yard and gather some fallen leaves that they like. Using basic school paste, let them brush some on a medium-small pumkin (pie pumpkins work well) and glue each leaf to your pumpkin making a sort of collage. After the glue has dried, try taking gold glitter glue and outlining the leaves with it. It's a fun spin on pumpkins after Halloween is over and done!

Happy Husband Goal

Break out a funboard game sometime this week after the kids have gone to bed. The one above is mine and my husband's favorite! Board games lighten the mood and give you some time to goof off while you're together. Throw in some ice cream as well if you'd like!

Happy House Goal

Do you have a storage freezer in your house? We just recently got one, and really love having it. But, is it just me, or do they get cluttered ridiculously fast? Here are some great ideas for freezer organization that you should try this week:

A. Collect each food category in its own basket. This way, you can take a basket out to look through it without freezing to death and wasting energy.

B.Label baskets using plastic luggage tags that are easy to read and easy to change.

C. Label your food containers and freezer drawers and shelves so things are put back where they belong.

D. Straigt sided, stackable bins make the most out of door space. Their artight, locking lids help prevent freezer burn.

E. Get a tiered shelf meant for dishes and use it in your freezer store frozen pizzas, casseroles and desserts without them being crushed.

F. Freeze soups flat in plasic bags on a baking sheet, then "file" them in a bin. They take up less space and thaw faster, too.

G. Keep a list of what's in the freezer right on the door. When you take something out, erase that item. Keeps pens and labels handy in a magnetic box.

Voila! A wonderfully organized and efficient freezer!

Dinner Tonight

Taquito Enchiladas

(kids love it!)

12-14 Chicken Taquitos

1 19-ounce can green or red enchilada sauce

2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1 2&1/4-ounce can sliced black olives, drained

Sour cream

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F

2. Arrange taquitos in a shallow casserole dish in a single layer.

3. Cover with enchilada sauce.

4. Sprinkle with cheese and olives.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Serve with sour cream. Makes 4 servings.

This Week's Pep Talk

Whew! I don't know about you, but halloween is one of those holidays that, as fun as it is, totally wipes me out. All the planning and prep work, decorating, baking, throwing parties....not to mention the completely wound up children on a sugar high! It's enough to put any mom out of commission for at least 3 weeks! Unfortunately, there's no such thing as a mom being out of commission, so it's back to work for all of us. But, with more holidays coming up fast, make sure you give yourself a little down time. It's really okay. Moms are the glue that hold everything together, so without you, there's no fun. You are amazing and I'm sure your kids really do appreciate the work and money you spent on their costume and makeup, the candy and decorations you bought, and putting up with their ornery-ness afterwards! Haha!

YOU GO MOMMIES!!

Sunday Dinner

2009-11-01T00:17:00.000-07:00

On the menu tonight:

Lemon Rosemary Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons no-salt seasoning
2 lemons, thinly sliced
8 sprigs fresh rosemary, plus more for garnish
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup white wine (substitute with cooking wine.)
1/2 pre-crushed garlic

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2.Trim any excess fat from chicken and rinse under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3.Use pastry brush to brush both sides of chicken breasts with olive oil and season with no-salt seasoning. Set aside.
4.In a baking dish, lay 2-3 slices of lemon and a sprig of rosemary for each breast. Place chicken breasts smooth-side up on lemon and rosemary. Top each chicken breast with another sprig of rosemary and 2-3 slices of lemon.
5.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6.Remove chicken to a platter and tent with foil. Place half of the rosemary from the baking dish in a small saucepan and scrape in any browned bits. Add chicken broth, wine and garlic. Bring to a boil over meduim-high heat and cook until reduced by half. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer.
7.Serve chicken hot with sauce, garnished with a fresh slice of lemon and a rosemary sprig. Serves 4.

~Have a wonderful Sunday!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

2009-10-31T01:20:00.000-07:00

Dinner Tonight:

DINNER IN A PUMPKIN!
1 lg. pumpkin

1 1/2 lbs. hamburger

1 med. onion, chopped

1/4 c. soy sauce

2 tbsp. brown sugar

1 (4 oz.) can mushrooms

1 can cream of chicken soup

2 c. cooked rice
Clean strings and seed from pumpkin. Brown burger and onions. Add soy sauce, sugar, mushrooms, and soup; simmer 10 minutes. Mix in rice, then put entire mixture into pumpkin. Place on cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/2 to 2 hours (until pumpkin is soft enough to scoop some out with each serving).

*
*
*
*

....And a cute dessert too!

Ingredients:

1 pkg. devil's food cake mix

1 container prepared vanilla frosting

12 Nestle Crunch Fun-Size Candy Bars

white decorator icing

1 Nestle Butterfinger Crisp Candy Bar

1 pkg. Sweetarts Gummy Bugs

Directions:

Prepare cake mix according to package directions using one 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Cool completely in pan. Invert cake onto serving platter. Frost cake, using a little more frosting than usual on top ("tombstones" will be pushed into frosting). Write spooky words such as"BOO" on Crunch bars using tube icing. Press Crunch bars into cake to create "tombstones". Sprinkle chopped Butterfinger Crisp bar next to tombstones to create "dirt". Creatively place gummy bugs over top of cake! Super easy, and way cool.

~The fence is made out of sharpened popcicle sticks painted black.

Dinner Tonight

2009-10-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

Pistachio and White Bean Chili

4 tbsp (1/2 stick) butter

1 tbsp minced garlic

3/4 cup diced onions

1 1/2 cups chopped green chiles (fresh or canned)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, finely chopped

4 cups chicken stock

1/2 tbsp ground cumin

1 tbsp dried oregano

1-2 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 tsp ground white pepper

Pinch of red pepper flakes

2 tsp sugar

1/2 bunch cilantro leaves, chopped

1 15-ounce can white/navy beans, drained

6 ounces shelled pistachios

Sour Cream

Cilantro sprigs for garnish

1. Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic, onions and chiles and saute for 5 minutes.

2. Add chicken, chicken stock, cumin, oregano, black pepper, white pepper, red pepper flakes, sugar and cilantro. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 30 mins.

3. Stir in beans and pistachios. Cook for 20 more minutes.

4. Top each serving with a scoop of sour cream and a cilantro sprig.

Makes 6 servings. Serve with cornbread, if desired.

Goals for the week of Oct. 26th

2009-10-26T13:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Sit in a cozy place in your house and curl up with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate or cider. I love this time of year!

Happy Kid Goal

Find out some local events in your area for the Fall/Halloween season that would be fun for your kids to participate in. There are usually lots of fun things going on: haunted houses, corn mazes, pumkin festivals, etc; Tonight, I'm taking my kids to a local "Pumkin Walk." It's free, and it's something for you and your kids to enjoy together while getting into the holiday spirit!

Happy Husband Goal

Make some time to ask your husband about how his week is going at work and/or school. Allow him to go into details and get it all off his chest. It's good for them to know that you are interested in what they spend most of their time doing. This week, I also plan to take a trip into my husband's office with a few plates of goodies for he and all his co-workers. It's actually really fun to get involved a little bit.

Happy House Goal

This week, take some time to go through your Halloween decorations. We all have a few things we never put out on display anymore, things that need to be fixed up a bit, or some things that just need to be thrown out. Organize your halloween decor and clean it up. Sew up the things that have popped seams or glue back on some buttons. There's no better time than right before the holiday!

Dinner Tonight:

Boneless Pork Chops with Apple Cream Sauce

4 boneless pork chops

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp granulated garlic

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Sauce:

4 tbsp butter

1 cup packed light brown sugar

2 medium Granny Smith apples, cored and cut into 16 slices each

1 pint heavy whipping cream

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1. Prepare charcoal fire or gas grill

2. To prepare the sauce, melt butter and brown sugar in a medium saute pan over medium heat until the mixture starts to caramelize.

3. Add apples and turn frequently until the whole mixture is caramelized.

4. Stir in cream and cinnamon

5.Cover and remove from the heat, stirring occasionally.

6. Rub pork chops with olive oil. Sprinkle chops with salt, pepper, garlic and red pepper flakes.

7. Grill chips over a medium-hot fire for 7 minutes per side, or until cooked to taste.

8. Serve the chops with cream sauce. Makes 4 servings.

This Week's Pep Talk

Well, it's here ladies....that wonderful holiday that our kids dream about for months. You've no doubt spent the last month or two arguing with your kids over their costume choice, searching for or sewing the perfect costume, decorating your house, buying candy and hiding it from your kids till the big night, planning parties, talking to school teachers about how you can help in the classroom this week, making cookies and caramel apples, talking with other parents to make trick-or-treating group arrangements, and trying to stay sane through out it all!

It's almost over! And after Saturday night, you'll get another year before it starts all over again. You're all awesome. Moms are part of what make this holiday so magical to kids! Keep it up, but don't over-do it. Make sure your kids stay safe this weekend!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Ready to be "Mother of the Week?"

2009-10-18T22:54:00.000-07:00

I'm working on some changes for the Happy Moms Club blog. Although I really enjoy sharing my ideas and recipes with everyone, I'm running low on them! I'm looking for moms who want to share their ideas with other women through weekly goals.

I need your ideas on the following:
1.Ways to pamper and spoil yourself as a mom
2.Fun activities and other things to do with/for your children(any age)
3.Ideas of how to make your husband/boyfriend feel loved and appreciated
4.Ways to clean your house; tips, tricks or advice
5.Dinner recipes and ideas
6.Mother to mother words of encouragement

If you are willing to be a featured "Mother of the Week" on the Happy Moms Club blog, email me one idea for each of the above areas and include your first name and last initial only! (I don't want to share any of your personal information publicly on the web.) If you would like to include a picture of yourself, you are welcome to do that as well.

Email this to:thehappymomsclub@yahoo.com

I will notify you when you have been chosen to be featured on the blog so you can tell all your friends to check out your own personal ideas!
I'm looking forward to hearing all your great advice and recipes!

~Karyn

Don't forget to vote on the poll at the top right of this page!

I've returned from the dead!

2009-10-12T19:46:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies!

I've missed you all. I feel I owe you all an apology and a serious explanation. I finally got my family moved to our final destination, my house unpacked and decorated, my kids in school, my husband to his new job, and settled into life as I now know it.

During the first few weeks here I kinda got a tiny taste of how life was for women just a few decades ago. Sometimes I think we forget how spoiled we all really are.

I recently moved into an old house that was built in the 1860's. It's been added on to and updated throughout the years, but when we first moved in things were a bit "old school."

I didn't have a dishwasher, so all dishes for every meal were done completely by hand for about 3 weeks. The clothes dryer wasn't working, so I hung all my laundry out to dry on the fence in the yard. High speed internet isn't offered where we live because it's a rural area, so I had to wait a while to get my computer going (the main reason for my long absence.) We didn't have the time to get cable or dish set up at first and decided during that time that we don't mind not having TV... it's actually freed up a lot of our time! Then our refrigerator broke and we had no way to keep our food cold for about 2 weeks. Luckily everything is back to normal now, but I'll admit it- I wasn't very excited to be a housewife during that time. After a few days though, it really wasn't that bad - it's just how things were and I got along just fine.

We live in a time where half the work of being a wife, mother, and homemaker is done for us with machines and help with any problem is just a mouse click away. We are extremely spoiled and I think we need to take a moment to acknowledge that.

I'm grateful to be in this day and age....

it makes me a Happy Mom!!!

I'm going to pick back up where we left off with the posts and I'll still post four goals, a dinner idea and a pep talk. This will start at the beginning of next week, Oct. 26th, so make sure to start checking back in!

Also, make sure you vote on the poll at the top right of this page!

Thanks ladies!!

P.S. Logan Branch is having an activity. Details are on Facebook.

Wednesday Goals

2009-08-26T11:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Have a friend or sister do your makeup for you today. It's fun to have a change, even if it's just for an afternoon.

Happy Kid Goal

Watch your child's favorite tv show with them today. Ask them questions about it, and be genuinely interested. It helps to make them feel important.

Happy Husband Goal

When your husband gets home tonight, let the evening be completely up to him. Whether he chooses long boarding down the canyon, or simply going to bed early.

Happy House Goal

Use some liquid plumber or another pipe maintanance substance on your sinks and/or toilets today. It's always good to keep up on that!

Dinner Tonight

Mini Meatloaves

1 egg
3/4 cup milk
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup quick cooking oats
1 teaspoon salt
1 pound ground beef
2/3 cup ketchup
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons prepared mustard

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the egg, milk, cheese, oats and salt. Add the ground beef, mixing well, and form this mixture into eight miniature meatloaves. Place these in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a separate small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar and mustard. Stir thoroughly and spread over each meatloaf.
Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes.

Last Guilty Pleasure Day

2009-08-09T20:37:00.000-07:00

What a success! We all met up a local lounge called Spark, had drinks and laughed a lot. It was so fun. It's taken me way too long to get this posted, but there you go!

Thanks for all the fun, ladies!

I'm back...for the moment!

2009-08-09T18:21:00.000-07:00

Hey there ladies!

So sorry I've been away for so long. I'm in the process of moving; first to my in-law's for a month until our house is finished, and then we'll actually move in.....so it's basically a double move. Needless to say, I've been a bit stressed and extremely overwhelmed. I feel the need to share with you a little personal information...if you don't care, that's fine. You don't have to read it =) I am a sufferer of manic depression as well as obsessive compulsive disorder. Things wear on me in a very powerful way, and the HMC is my way of dealing with the stress of motherhood. I've had a rough few months (hence my absence of blogging) and I feel that it's time for me to get back on the band wagon and get back into my routine. Sorry to leave you all hangin for well over a month. I just needed some time to get a grip on my life. One thing I did do during my break was realize (again) the importance of taking care of ourselves. Today, my goals will focus on celebrating women - particularly mothers - and making sure that we are all taking a few moments every day to focus on ourselves.

Happy Mom Goal

*If you've ever noticed, I put this goal first on every post. This is because I truly believe that it's probably the most important goal. We must first take care of ourselves so that we can take care of our other duties!

Today, I want you to list all the qualities that you have that make you wonderful. It's not cocky...it's true! It will help you to remember just how amazing you are, and give you the strength that you need to be the great mom that you are. Take your list out frequently to review and add to it. Keep it in a safe place so that you will always know where to find it.

Happy Kid Goal

Today, spend some time just enjoying your child(ren). Play with them, read to them, sing with them... whatever you want to do that will help you and your kids grow closer together.

Happy Husband Goal

Write your husband a letter. Tell him all your thoughts and feelings about him, your hopes and dreams for your future together, and what your relationship means to you. This letter can be given to him now, or you can put it somewhere for him to come across some time in the future (like his closet.)

Happy House Goal

Sort through your old photographs. Pull out some that bring back happy or fun memories of your family (particularly photos that haven't been seen for a while.) Put them in some frames or even just up on your fridge. These will add something new to your decor, as well as bring more smiles and happiness as everyone looks at these and remembers.

Dinner Tonight

Delicious Hot Chicken Salad

*SO good!!

4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
4 hard-cooked eggs, sliced
2 cups chopped celery
3/4 cup creamy salad dressing, e.g. Miracle Whip ™
2 tablespoons orange juice
3/4 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon onion salt
1 (4 ounce) jar diced pimento peppers, drained
1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups crushed potato chips

DIRECTIONS
Boil chicken in lightly salted boiling water for 40 minutes. Drain, cool and cut into medium size pieces.
In a large bowl combine chicken, celery, eggs, salad dressing, orange juice, soup, seasoning, onion salt and pimentos. Mix well and spread mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with almonds, cheese and potato chips. Refrigerate overnight.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Bake casserole in preheated oven for 45 minutes.

Well, there you go. That's today. That's how I'm going to take it - day by day. Isn't that how we all need to do it? I can't promise that I'll be back every day, especially during this crazy move. But I'm planning on it! Love you all, thanks for your awesome support!

MIA

2009-07-21T13:53:00.000-07:00

Hi there, ladies. I'm sorry I haven't been posting, but things are a bit crazy right now. Let's just say that I'm trying to take care of myself for a little while, and hopefully I can resume blogging in a couple of weeks. Thanks for your support and emails!
~Karyn

Cache Valley Movie Night Recap!

2009-07-20T19:32:00.000-07:00

To tell you how much fun we had, let me say that many of us agreed we needed Guilty Pleasures day at least twice a month!

The movie was so funny I cried. Plus it helped to be with a bunch of great friends! I could not find whatever website it is that will give you a short rundown of the film, but you can find the trailers online if you haven't seen them. I even think the men in the audience enjoyed it!

After the show we headed to Casper's for some great ice cream, much more laughing, some crazy stories, and a spectacular view of a full moon (you know who you are)! We tried to take some pictures but we were all laughing so hard we couldn't get any good ones. Seriously, it's like ghost faces...lol.

Ok, well so much fun! Go see the movie!

Just For Laughs

2009-07-11T19:01:00.000-07:00

How is a busy mom of 3 little ones able to get so much blogging so done??

Confessions Page

It's the weekend!!

2009-07-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

Have a great weekend, everyone!! Enjoy your kids!

Friday

2009-07-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

Yay! It's almost the weekend!

Happy Mom Goal

Head off to a cheap close-out store, like Ross or TJmax, and pick out something cute for your house. Could be a flower pot, a vase, or even a new cooking pan! It's simple, but you'll get a little bit of the wonderful "high" that comes from spending money on something fun. Plus, your hubby can't complain when you're new item costs less than $20!

(The pitcher is my new find from Ross...$9.99)

Happy Kid Goal

Draw a chalk racetrack on the sidewalk or driveway so your speed racer can zip around it on her trike or other ride-on.
OR
Create a backyard obstacle course for a toy lawn mower or set one up in the living room for a play vacuum cleaner.
My girls love both!

Happy Husband Goal

Okay, I lifted this idea from Cher over on Love, Actually. But it's a super cute idea!

"I was just thinking back to the days when my husband and I were dating in college. We both had apartments full of rommmates and none of them were dating. We didn't think they'd appreciate our lovey-dovey-ness, so the park became our place. Often, after dark, we would pack up the laptop, a DVD, a blanket, and a few snacks and head to the park. This is us...except, we were in a park, not a meadow.And we didn't have a logo in front of our faces. :) Oh, and my husband is WAY better looking!
Okay, let's be honest here...movies in the park could be translated into makeout in the park. Perhaps you can relate? Now, I'm sitting here wondering,"WHAT HAPPENED to those days? Did we grow out of that? Are we too old now?"It's not like it's hard to do or expensive...nor does it require much planning. (Okay, if you have kids, your babysitter might think it a little weird that they're being paid while you two go to the park, of all places. And your kids might hate you for going to the park without them....but, someday they'll understand.)"

Happy House Goal

I don't know about you, but my magazine piles certainly know how to stack up fast! Some of them I save (like my church magazines) but most of them - like clothing catalogues - I'm eventually going to throw away. Seriously, magazines seem to put themselves into piles all over my house: the office desk, the living room end table, the rocking chair side pocket, even my kitchen counter. Today, go through and organize your magazines and store catalogues. Throw out the ones you don't need and put all the others "away-away" in a spot out of sight. (Keeping household surfaces clear of clutter is the number one way to have a tidy house!)

Dinner Tonight

Steak in a "Mole" Rub

This is a recipe for a totally bold flavor for your meat!

Mix together equal parts:
chili powder
grated orange peel
chocolate shavings (you heard me; chocolate!)
Apply rub evenly over surface of meat, cover and refrigerate for 30 miuntes. Grill steak to desired done-ness.

Today's Pep Talk

Whew! We made it through another week! I just wanted to remind you that if you are a mother, you are amazing. I truly cannot say it enough, but I honestly believe that it is the hardest, most demanding job in the world. My husband, who is the oldest of 9 children, agrees with me - having helped his own mother raise kids for nearly 27 years. It takes so much out of us each day, even if we don't let anyone in on it! Yet, we still continue to do it every day - we HAVE to! But the best part is, we all love it. And that ladies, is what makes us SO AMAZING!

Scroll down for Thursday's goals!

2009-07-09T11:51:00.000-07:00

So Sorry ~ it won't happen again!

2009-07-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've been a terrible slacker on the recipe page! It's been a good month and a half since I caught up the Dinner Recipes. But you'll be happy to know that I just spent nearly 2 hours (including my kids' nap time!) updating the recipe page! You better all go use it now! Lol!

HMC RECIPE PAGE

I'm Back Again! Thursday Goals

2009-07-08T12:03:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a fun 4th of July! I sure did!

Happy Mom Goal:

Watch your favorite movie this afternoon when the kids are down for a nap. Enjoy your favorite snack along with it!

Happy Kid Goal:

Teach your kids a new game or song today. Something you did as a kid!

Happy Husband Goal:

I threw this together the other night when my husband was on his way home from work. When he walked in, there was a candle-light picnic on the living room floor and a fun movie ready to play. I made italian food and we watched "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," a great one for both husbands and wives!

Happy House Goal:

Pick a bed to clean under. Throw away as much as you can!

Dinner Tonight:

Broiled Parmesan Tilapia

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup butter, softened
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon celery salt
2 pounds tilapia fillets

Preheat your oven's broiler. Grease a broiling pan or line pan with aluminum foil.
In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, butter, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Season with dried basil, pepper, onion powder and celery salt. Mix well and set aside.
Arrange fillets in a single layer on the prepared pan. Broil a few inches from the heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the fillets over and broil for a couple more minutes. Remove the fillets from the oven and cover them with the Parmesan cheese mixture on the top side. Broil for 2 more minutes or until the topping is browned and fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to over cook the fish.

Orem Unit Guilty Pleasure Day

2009-07-06T17:36:00.001-07:00

This one is going to be SO much fun!

Don't miss it....you'll regret it!

Head over to the Orem Blog for details.

Cache Valley Unit Guilty Pleasure Day

2009-07-06T17:15:00.003-07:00

{Click to Enlarge}This sounds like so much fun!

Make sure you RSVP to Chelsea as soon as possible.

I just might make a little trip and come up and join in the fun with you guys =)

See you next week!!

2009-07-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

I'm taking off on a family vacation! Posts will resume sometime next week! Until then, browse through some old posts and re-visit some fun goals! Love you all =)

~Karyn

Thursday

2009-07-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Sit down with your favorite drink today, and sip it while chatting on the phone with a friend. It's nice to have a little break from reality once in a while!

Happy Kid Goal

I did this yesterday, and I forgot how cold the sprinkler can be! But if it's warm enough where you live, run through the sprinklers with your kids today. Don't just watch them do it....YOU do it too! Once you get over the initial shock of the temperature, it's really quite fun, hahahaha! And your kids will think you're the "funnest mom in the world!" (that's a direct quote from the mouth of my 3 year old!)

Happy Husband Goal

Make your husband a special drink tonight. I did a shirley temple (grenadine syrup, sprite, and a cherry garnish) but you can do whatever you want! Maybe add a fun snack too. (Spinach - artichoke dip is a fun one to do along side the drinks!)

Happy House Goal

Organize one closet today. Just one. It can even be a small one! Throw away as much as you can, keeping in mind the rule of thum: if you haven't used it in the last 6 months, throw it out!

Dinner Tonight

Sweet and Sour Chicken

This was a complete experiement, but I made this last night, and my family loved it!

2 large chicken breasts - cut into 2-3" pieces

1 bottle favorite sweet and sour sauce

batter for chicken:

1/2 cup flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 egg

2/3 cup ice water

Yellow food coloring (optional)

Oil for deep frying

Sift together the dry ingredients.
Beat egg slightly and mix with the water and a few drops of the food coloring, if desired.
Add the dry ingredients. Stir only until mixed; mixture will be slightly lumpy.
Dip cut chicken into the batter and deep fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Heat sweet and sour sauce in the microwave and pour over chicken. Garnish with chunks of pineapple.

Serve with chicken fried rice (lipton has a quick and easy one that's pretty yummy!)

Wednesday already?

2009-06-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

This week is flying by for me! Happy Hump Day, mommies!

Happy Mom Goal

Pamper your feet today! Let them soak in a warm bath with sea salts, clip and file your toe nails and follow with a cute coat of nail color. Then give them a nice rub down with some yummy smelling lotion (or have your husband or kids do it!) Ahhhhhhhh! Feels great!

Happy Kid Goal

Make some crafts for the 4th of July with your kids today! Even if it's just drawing a picture of the flag. Display your projects on the refrigerator or somewhere else in your house where they will be noticed. There are some great ideas on THIS SITE.

Happy Husband Goal

Get out a deck of cards or another game tonight and just play. It's nice to have fun with your husband after the kids are asleep and you can just be together.

Happy House Goal

I'm working on my bathroom right now, so I'm gonna drag you all down with me! Not just the basic weekly stuff like scrubbing the toilets... I mean the whole sha-bang: cleaning out and organizing all the drawers and cupboards, washing the walls and baseboards, replacing the shower curtain with a new one, etc; It will feel great after we're done!

Dinner Tonight

Asian Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple

2 (3/4 pound) pork tenderloins

Marinade
1 (6 ounce) can pineapple juice
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt (kosher)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups peeled and cubed fresh pineapple (1-inch pieces)
8 wooden or metal skewers

Place pork tenderloins in resealable plastic bag; set aside. In small bowl, combine marinade ingredients; pour over pork. Seal bag; refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate, or up to 24 hours to enhance flavor.

Preheat grill to medium-hot. When ready to grill, remove pork from marinade and place on grill. Cook, covered, for about 10 minutes per side or until the internal temperature of pork is 160 degrees F. Meanwhile, place the pineapple chunks on the skewer; place on grill during the last 6 minutes of grilling time, turning after 3 minutes. To serve, slice pork into 1/2-inch slices (medallions) and serve with grilled pineapple.

New Details for Happy Hour!

2009-06-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

OREM LADIES...

Head over to the OREM BLOG for a few new developments in this week's Happy Hour.

Also to find the "Bring List" for what you are asked to provide this week.

Don't forget to RSVP to Karyn by phone, text, or blog comment!

Thanks!

Tuesday

2009-06-30T00:06:00.001-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Sit out in the sunshine today! Even if it's just for a few minutes....or an hour! It's always nice to get out enjoy the summer. And a little color on your skin never hurts either, right?

Happy Kid Goal

Bubbles! What child doesn't love these amazing things? I know we've posted this before, but I also know my kids never tire of blowing bubbles! If you want to change it up a bit, try making huge soap bubbles with a wire hanger! You can find a great recipe HERE.

Happy Husband Goal

Write a cute little note on your husband's napkin for dinner tonight. Even just a heart that says "I'll love you forever" or something sweet like that. It'll get a smile out of him. (Make sure you don't use silver pen....my hubby didn't even notice his note yesterday. I'll have to re-do it tonight!)

Happy House Goal

Organize your book shelf. If it's already lookin' great, dust off your books instead. They collect dust so fast!

Dinner Tonight

Chicken Pasta Salad

2 ounces rotini pasta
1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into strips
1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
4 roma (plum) tomato, diced
1/4 cup Italian-style salad dressing (or a ceasar type dressing)

In a large pot with boiling salted water cook pasta until al dente. Drain.
Meanwhile, season chicken strips with lemon pepper and garlic powder. Broil in oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until juices run clear. Cool chicken. Cut into bite size pieces.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, chicken, quartered tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Serve with Italian dressing poured over top of pasta.

Today's Pep Talk

Last night I was talking with a friend of mine, and the subject turned to how we as moms just need to learn to let things go. I always feel like I'm so uptight and worried. I know I've addressed this issue before, but I feel that it is a huge deal. How often do we worry about the messes our kids make and how our house looks instead of how much time we are spending with our kids? Those moms that you know who seems to have it all together - house always clean, kids dressed to perfection, gourmet dinner in the oven, and looking like a cover model - are making those things their priority...which is totally fine! That's their style. But if you're like me, those things are not always a reality. For me, spending time with my family is probably the most important thing in my life. I need to learn to chill and not spend so much time concerned about everything else! Anyone else feel this way??

Orem Unit Announcement

2009-06-28T23:35:00.000-07:00

{{Click to Enlage}}

Remember that any mother is invited to attend!

Just let us know so we can make sure there is enough of everything to go around!

RSVP by Wednesday afternoon please!

Thanks!

Monday

2009-06-28T22:37:00.000-07:00

Good morning, ladies! It's the start of a new week! (A week with a Holiday...my favorite!)

Happy Mom Goal

Wear something that makes you feel a little sexy today! Maybe do your hair or makeup different, or wear that outfit that you KNOW you look great in!

Happy Kid Goal

In light of Independence day, spend some time with your child teaching them a little bit of US history. Just simple little facts about the wonderful country that we live in. If your kids are too young for this, maybe just teach them a new song like "You're A Grand Old Flag!"

Happy Husband Goal

Send a cute text message to your hubby's phone while he's a work today (email works too, if you don't have text messaging.) Find a cute quote or poem to send. Something like:

Some love one, some love two.

I love one, and that is you!

Happy House Goal

Go through your pantry or kitchen cupboards and throw out anything that is past the expiration date or that you never use. It will create more space than you think!

Dinner Tonight

Creamy Chicken 'n Veggies

2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
2 cups frozen broccoli cuts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 (16 ounce) jar roasted garlic Parmesan Alfredo sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Hot cooked rice

In a large skillet, saute the mixed vegetables and broccoli in oil until tender. Stir in the chicken, Alfredo sauce, salt and pepper; heat through. Serve with rice.

Today's Pep Talk

I always feel like I need one of these on Mondays. This pep talk is kind of an experiment, though. I usually fill this paragraph with words of encouragement or advice, but I'm really not sure how many people actually read it. I think it's more for me than anyone else! For the last little while, I've kinda been slackin' on the Pep Talks. I haven't really posted many because I've mostly just wondered if it's even worth it...does anyone even read it?? So, if you do read Pep Talk (and enjoy it) let me know if you want me to keep it up. Otherwise I'll probably just do them every so often. Leave a comment and let me know what you think! As always, you're all awesome =) Happy Monday!

~Karyn

Orem Unit "Happy Hour"

2009-06-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Hey Orem Ladies!

Head over to the Orem Blog to let me know whether or not you'll be attending Happy Hour this week. I need a head count so I can make sure there's enough "Happiness" to go around!

Thanks!

~Karyn

Yay! It's the Weekend!!!

2009-06-26T20:05:00.000-07:00

Have a Happy Weekend!! Spend some extra quality time with your family, and do your best to bring them closer together. You're all AMAZING!!!

See you on Monday!

~Karyn

Friday!

2009-06-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome to all our new Happy Moms! Enjoy!

Happy Mom Goal

Take short breaks during your day whether you are a stay at home mom, work at home mom or work outside of the home, try doing something for yourself periodically throughout the day. You can close your eyes and daydream, browse through the paper or simply have a short friendly chat with a friend.

Happy Kid Goal

Watching his feathered friends eating from a homemade feeder will likely fill your little ornithologist with fascination -- and swell his heart with pride. Best of all, theis seedy classic is a cinch to make. Be sure to hang it near a sturdy branch so your guests have a place to land while dining.Help your child spread peanut butter on a piece of toast. Cut the toast into a fun shape with a large cookie cutter, then poke a hole in the top with a skewer or straw. Let your child press the peanut-butter side into a plate full of seeds. Thread a ribbon through the hole, knot the ends, and hang. (The feeder should last for at least a week, or until a downpour!)

Happy Husband Goal

Write a "fairy tale" about your own love story with your hubby. Make him the "hero" of the story, and you are the "Damsel-in-distress." Use cardstock and scrapbook paper to turn it into a little book with drawings ~ don't worry, just stick figures! This time, instead of leaving it on his pillow or somewhere for him to find, just tell him that you have a bedtime story for him, and read it aloud! *Even if your meeting each other was nothing out of the ordinary (like meeting him in school and going to dinner and a movie) you can still make it cute and super romantic. Just dress it up a bit!

Happy House Goal

Time to work on your food storage! Whether it's buying a few more cans to add to your collection today, or just organizing and taking inventory of what you have and what you still need. In today's world, you never know when you're going to need some extra food stored away. A few months ago my husbad was out of a job due to the bad economy. We relied on our food storage for several weeks.

Dinner Tonight

Homemade Barbecue Chicken
(submitted by Brittany M.)
Mix together:
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup water
1 cup ketchup
1 Tbsp chili powder
1/4 worchestershire sacue
Stir together in bowl.
Coat 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts in sauce, and place on greased cookie sheet. Bake 30 mins @ 350 degrees.Serve with mashed potatoes and broccoli.

Today's Pep Talk

Today I'd just like to emphasize once again how important it is to pay attention to our own well-being. If you read my emergency post yesterday, it showed just how critical it is that we as mothers be relaxed and in a good state of mind. I think that most of us tend to not worry about ourselves very often and when we do, we feel guilty about it. That's not the way it should be. YOU ARE IMPORTANT! You need time for yourself every day to breathe, unwind, and meditate. This will help you feel less stress and be a truly happier mother. Isn't what this job is all about ~ being the best mom you can be while enjoying the journey at the same time! Make sure that you are in a good place. Take care of yourself. Maybe even pamper yourself a little. And FEEL NO GUILT! This is a must! Love you =)
~Karyn

EMERGENY POST! Overwhelmed Moms

2009-06-25T15:42:00.001-07:00

Hello there, ladies.

Okay, I'm sure most of you mommies are avid Oprah followers, but if you didn't happen to catch today's episode about overwhelmed moms, it was HEART-WRENCHING.

Take a look HERE.

This poor mother was so busy and life was so hectic that she forgot that her two year old little girl, Cecilia was in the hot car. She left her there for 8 hours in 102 degree weather where she later died. There were also many other stories of overwhelmed mothers who are about to have a break down. This, mommies, is where the "Happy Mom Goals" come into play. They even talked about taking time for yourself so you don't become so stressed and get to a dangerous or even deadly level of frustration. This should be a wake-up call to all moms everywhere!

Also on the Oprah show today,

Norman Fischer, a well-known Zen teacher, says there is an epidemic of overwhelmed people. Because we now have more possibilities, Norman says our expectations have been raised to unattainable heights.Norman says busy moms should stop trying to reach perfection and focus more on their happiness, attitude and state of mind. "I think that the first thing we've got to do is recognize that especially as mothers, but all of us, our state of mind and our attitude is our most precious gift that we give to each other," he says. "Every day, we ought to wake up and we ought to say: 'How is my state of mind today? Am I losing ground?' If I am, I better address that first because the rest of the stuff I do won't be worth anything if I'm harried and hassled and in a bad mood."

-Once again, Happy Mom Goals will help with this. I know most of you only accomplish one or two goals each day, and I'm sure they're usually Husband Goals or Kid Goals. But I urge you to work on your Happy Mom Goals a little more! Like I've said in the past, it's vital to the the well being of our families, and of ourselves!

{{If you missed this episode, check your local listings to see if today's Oprah airs again where you live. In Utah, it comes on again tonight at 12:37am on CBS.}}

Thursday Goals

2009-06-24T23:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Take a walk. Take some time by yourself and walk around your neighborhood. Literally take some time and smell the flowers. I mean it, bend over and smell something, even if it's a dandelion! I love to be outside and sometimes, I just breathe. I love fresh air and sometimes i just go outside to smell things.

Happy Kid Goal

Safety scissors ~ kids love to cut things... probably because they are so often taught to NEVER touch scissors. Save some of your scrap paper, or get some cheap construction paper, give your kids some safety scissors and let them cut cut cut! They don't need any help with shapes or instructions on what to do, just let them cut. It's not important if they actually create anything with the cuttings. If you are ambitious and your kids are a little older, get out some glue and have them make a mosaic out of the little pieces. Cutting with scissors is fun, it lets them do something they're not usually allowed to do, and it actually improves their fine motor skills!

Happy Husband Goal

If your man is anything like mine, he loves your physical attention. I don't know what it is about my husband, but it's like the rest of his mind and body shuts down if I start scratching his head and playing with his hair....he LOVES it! Spend some time tonight doing just that. Or, if he's not a 'head' guy, just give him a 10 minute back scratch! Guys need this kind of attention from us so they know we love and are attracted to them.

Happy House Goal

Okay, I'm kind of a germaphobic, so I do this every week or so....but it's time to disinfect your house. I don't mean clean the entire house top to bottom - just the germiest places in your house (i.e. light switches, door knobs, appliance handles) The things that get touched the most in your house are the worst places! Grab some clorox wipes or a disinfecting spray & rag, and wipe down EVERY door knob in the house ~ especially the front door and the bathroom door!

Dinner Tonight
German Burgers - This is an old family favorite!

(submitted by Chelsea K.)

Frozen dinner rolls (about 2/person)

Cooked hamburger

Cheddar Cheese - grated

Thaw the rolls according to package directions, you don't actually have to let them raise entirely, but they need to be all the way thawed. Spread out a roll till it's about the size of your palm, hold in one hand and add a spoonful of cooked hamburger and some cheese. fold edges of the roll in and pinch together. place on greased cookie sheet. Baste with butter on top and sprinkle some garlic salt. Bake at 350 for about 15 minutes, till golden brown. Eat with ketchup.

Wednesday Goals

2009-06-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Go shopping! Even if it's just "window shopping" where you just look but don't buy... it's still fun!

Happy Kid Goal

A simple classic ~ just a day at the park! Over done? Probably. But your kids won't think so!

Happy Husband Goal

We did this as part of Father's Day, but it can be great for any day. Put a sign on your front door that says "We Love Our Daddy! Why....?"

Then leave little "why" notes all over the house with reasons why you and your kids love him! Use the exact wording that your kids use; it's funny. For example, my 3 year old said "I love you, Daddy. I like it when you tickle me. I be so happy when you let me climb on your back. I like that Daddy! He's nice to me!"

Place the notes in creative places he's bound to find them. We left them on the stairs going up, on the tv center, on his dresser where he puts his wallet and watch, on the microwave, inside the refrigerator, etc;

Happy House Goal

Time to clean out the fridge again! Don't just get rid of the old leftovers, though. Grab some rags and cleaner and scrub down those shelves! That's the best way to avoid odors and mold!

Dinner Tonight

Dave's (my husband) Stroganoff

(submitted by Chelsea K.)

***Great recipe for some of that hamburger you portioned and froze!***

1 lb hamburger

8 oz cream cheese

family size cream of mushroom soup

1 packet onion soup mix

milk

egg noodles or rice

Cook and drain the hamburger (you could also use meatballs if you have them)

Add the cream cheese, half a can of milk and mushroom soup, heat until cheese is melted and mixed together. Add onion soup. let simmer for a few minutes. (Add or use less milk depending on how thick you like it) Serve over noodles or rice.

Orem Ladies....

2009-06-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Hour is Back....

Visit the Orem Blog for details!

Tuesday

2009-06-22T22:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

LOL....Watch Nanny 911! I do this every now and then to remind myself that my children really aren't the worst children in the world and that it's really not so bad... now the day i am writing in to be on the show, that will be a sad day...

Happy Kid Goal

Color Wonder by Crayola~ I'm sure you have seen the commercials for these awesome products that only work on certain papers, well it's true and it's awesome! The markers, paint, etc; only work on special Crayola paper, which creates a worry free environment for your child's creativity. We got some paper and markers, and paint for our kids for Christmas last year and it's so nice to not have to worry about marker all over the table, walls, clothes, body.... you know what I mean? It's a great investment!

Happy Husband Goal

While cleaning my bedroom today, I found an object that inspired today's husband goal and I can't wait to give it a try. I found my and my husband's wedding DVD with a compilation of pictures from our childhood and of dating one another. If you have one, use that ~ if not, you can burn a cd of "your song" or just a bunch of songs that remind you of each other. Have it playing on a tv (or cd player) when your husband comes in to go to bed. Wear some sexy lingere and have a couple candles burning. Watching (or listening to) that will bring back some old memories and feelings! The rest of the night is up to you!

Happy House Goal

As a mom you know it's the absolute truth when I say that.... finger prints are EVERYWHERE!!! They just never end. Today, grab a rag and your favorite multi-purpose cleaner (making sure it's paint safe!) and rid your house of the nasty little buggers! Get the ones on the tv, the fridge, the oven door, and all the walls (sometimes we don't notice the ones on our own walls, but they are there ~ and everyone else notices them!)

Dinner Tonight

Baked Potato Bar

Large Potatoes

Butter

Sour Cream

Grated Cheese

Chives

Bacon Bits

Ranch dressing

Anything else you like!

Wash potatoes. If you like a softer, thinner skin, wrap in foil. If you like a thicker crispier skin scrub well and rub with cooking oil. Do not wrap, place directly in oven. Most potatoes take about an hour to cook @ 400. You can check by sticking a fork in, if it comes out easy they're done.

Split potatoes and top with favorite toppings!

*hint* if you don't want to wait a whole hour for your potatoes to cook, sometimes I do mine in the microwave. Just scrub your potatoes, stab a few holes in them with a fork, place in a microwave-safe bowl with a lid (or plate) on top, and microwave on high for about 5 minutes.

Today's Pep Talk

I just love moms! I think it's the hardest job in the world, and if you're a mom, I admire you! I love talking to other women who go through the same things I go through each day...it gives me hope for myself! You're all so awesome!! Love you ! (.....even if I don't really know you!)

~Karyn

Monday Goals

2009-06-21T18:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal

Listen to your favorite music! Do you remember the days when you were in the car by yourself and you cranked the radio up and sang along? Now you listen to your husbands favorite station and if you have to hear the wheels on the bus one more time you might rip your hair out! Any time you might be lucky and are in the car by yourself, or when you are at home cleaning, put in your favorite cd and crank it up! It feels so good to listen to music you love and belt it out, whether or not anyone else can hear you. If you really want a thrill, roll your windows down and sing along at the top yof your lungs, and pretend you don't notice the weird looks you are getting from other cars!

Happy Kid Goal

Pudding finger paint - Mix up a few different flavors of pudding (you could make a few different colors out of vanilla and food coloring) spread some parchment paper out, take off any clothes you don't want messy, and let em go! They will have so much fun creating, and eating!

Happy Husband Goal

Let your main man have a day to do whatever he wants to do. I'm letting my hubby have a whole day playing golf....but just let him spend his day doing his favorite thing(s) to do!

Happy House Goal

Dust all the large electronic appliances in your home today. Walk through and clean all the TVs, computers, DVD players, etc;

Dinner Tonight

Easy Pizza Pockets

(submitted by Chelsea K.)

Large Tortillas

Pizza sauce

Mozzarella cheese

Favorite pizza toppings

Lay your tortilla flat, spread some sauce in the middle, about 2 inches in form any edge. Add cheese and toppings, fold in two ends, then the other two. Cook on a foreman grill (this holds it together really well) or stick a toothpick in and bake (I've never tried it this way, but probably 350 for about 15 minutes. Till it's hot)

Today's Pep Talk

Hey ladies! Don't let the Monday get you down. You can do anything. Be positive and have a great week. Something I plan on trying this week is to not get overly upset over little things. Instead of getting all worked up about my 2 year old spilling a glass of milk all over the entire freshly mopped kitchen, I'll just try to say in a nice tone "Okay, Ashlin - let's get a towel and wipe it up! Come help me!"

I'm hoping that if I stay nicer during these kinds of things, then my kids will be happier and nicer to me!

Orem Unit's ~Sneek Peek!~

2009-06-21T18:42:00.000-07:00

I'm already excited!

Head over to the Orem blog to give your input on the best evening for July's GPD.....

It feels good to be guilty!

2009-06-20T14:01:00.001-07:00

If this isn't motivation for you to start your own HMC unit, I don't know what would be!

Our first Guilty Pleasure Day was SO fun!

We all got together and made fun crafts for the 4th of July, ate yummy food, and just exchanged some girl talk! I can't wait for next month! It's almost like getting a "Super Saturday" once a month! Ha ha! I truly believe that having these type of get-togethers are healthy for us, and help us to be better and happier moms!

I'm Back!!

2009-06-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Sorry ladies....my long, family weekend kind of turned into a long, family week! I got to have a blast hanging out in the sunshine with my and my husband's amazing family members.

But I'm back now!

Remember, Sunday (in my book) is all about spending some quality time with those you love most! Do something fun together and enjoy one another's company.

(P.S. I'll start back up with goals tomorrow!)

Dinner Tonight

Sunday Roast

3 to 4 pound rump roast

1 pund bag baby carrots

1 cup chopped onion OR 1/2 cup dried minced onion

8 to 10 red potatoes, quartered

1 envelope dry onion soup mix

Place carrots, onion and potatoes in bottom of greased slow cooker. Place meat on top of vegetables. Sprinkle soup mix evenly over meat. Cover and cook on low heat 8 to 10 hours. If using a frozen roast, cook on low heat for an additional 2-4 hours.

Serve with green bean-and mushroom medley.

Taking the weekend off!

2009-06-11T23:25:00.000-07:00

Hey ladies!

Due to a long weekend full of family things, I will be taking this weekend off from posting goals. Feel free to scroll through the archive and use some previously posted goals, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

~Karyn

Thursday - by Chelsea

2009-06-10T21:15:00.000-07:00

{{Today's goals came from the wonderful Chelsea K. again! I love love LOVE her fun ideas! Keep 'em coming!}}

Happy Mom Goal:

Write a journal entry. Take a few minutes and write down how you are felling today, something funny your kids did, or something that made you angry. It is really therapeutic to let out your feelings sometimes. Just let them out and not receive anybody else's opinion.

Happy Kid Goal:

Spend ten minutes doing whatever your child wants to do. Set the timer (I'm serious) and let them be the boss. Don't just let them do whatever they want, do it with them. You may spend ten minutes coloring, or one minute doing ten different things. It is a great outlet for your kids to be able to make some choices, even if its only for a little while!

Happy Husband Goal:

Just let your husband talk tonight. He may vent for an hour about things you don't even understand from his work, but it's okay....he NEEDS that listening ear. Or, if he's not a talker, promt him with some questions about his day and what's going on at his job. Let him get it out, and be that wonderful support that he needs.

Happy House Goal:

Heat ducts. Yuck! These things get so nasty! But pick one room today in which to pull out all the toys that may have been shoved down there, pennies that rolled down long ago, and the always inevitable cheerio or goldfish that lies in the dust. Then vacuum it out! It makes the house SO much cleaner!

Dinner Tonight:

Spaghetti Pizza

The next time you make spaghetti double the noodles you usually make. Refrigerate the leftovers, or cook some up to make it the same day.

What you need:

Cooked Spaghetti noddles (about how much you normally make for spaghetti)

1-2 eggsPizza Sauce (or spaghetti sauce)

mozzarella cheese

Favorite pizza toppings

Ok, so if your noodles will fit in a 8x8 pan use one egg, if 9x13 use two.

Spray the pan really well with cooking srpay. This is a vital step to getting the stuff back out of the pan!

Put the noddles in the pan (you want the 'crust' about an inch thick) and mix the egg in, get all the noodles coated.

Bake this crust at 350 for about 15 minutes, to get the egg mostly cooked.

Take out and spread sauce over noodles.

Add cheese and favorite pizza toppings and bake for another 20-25 minutes till cheese is melty and toppings are sufficiently hot. Eat it up!

Q: What's little, blonde, and absolutely CRAZY???

2009-06-10T01:16:00.000-07:00

{{A: a totally obsessive compulsive mom!}}

Wednesday

2009-06-09T21:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Invite a friend or two over today for a bit. You don't have to do anything special, just some chit-chat time will be nice to have!

Happy Kid Goal:

Act out your child's favorite story with them. Allow them to be the hero of the story and you be the "bad guy." It's really so fun!

Happy Husband Goal:

Make a yummy finger-food dessert that your husband loves. Put several in a container and send it to work with him. It's nice for them to have a snack that came from home!

Happy House Goal:

Dust off your light fixtures today. Especially those ceiling fans....yuck!

Dinner Tonight:

Oriental Mandarin Chicken Salad

{{This is my mom's recipe. I LoVe it!}}

2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced

1 pkg. cole slaw mix -or chopped cabbage

1-2 cans mandarin oranges - drained

1 pkg. (4 ounces) slivered almonds

2 pkgs Raman noodles - crushed

chopped onion, if desired.

*save oranges and noodles till last

Combine ingredients together in a large bowl.

Dressing:

3/4 cup salad oil

3 Tbsp sugar - more to taste

dash of salt

pepper

3 Tbsp rice vinegar

2 seasoning packets from Ramen noodles

*Stir till dissolved. Best if made ahead of time.

Stir dressing into salad. Mix well. Chill, and enjoy!!

Guilty Pleasure Day!

2009-06-08T23:54:00.001-07:00

(Scroll down to view Tuesday Goals.)

{Click image to enlarge}

Tuesday Goals

2009-06-08T22:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Spend some time today making yourself feel beautiful. Take a long shower with extra emphasis on your beauty routine, paint your fingernails, give yourself a facial, put together an especially cute outfit....whatever you like to do that makes you feel stunning!

Happy Kid Goal:

Show your kids pictures of themselves as a baby and younger child. Tell them the story of their birth and how they came to be a part of your family. Maybe include some cute or funny things they said or did when they were younger. Kids love to hear these things about themselves!

Happy Husband Goal:

Get all the dirty clothes in the whole house that your husband owns. Wash them, fold them, and put it all away so that when he comes home tonight, there's not a single dirty article of clothing left!

Happy House Goal:

We did this a while back, but it's time to re-visit this one. Choose one room to vacuum and wipe down the baseboards in (a different one than the last time.) These things get so dirty and gross, and you usually don't notice it in your own house...but everyone else does!

Dinner Tonight:

Neat Sloppy Joes

No green pepper in this recipe, so it's a hit with kids. The mixture is thick, so they are 'neat' rather than sloppy. This freezes and reheats well.

2 pounds lean ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
8 hamburger buns

Place ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until evenly browned, stirring to crumble. I like to use a potato masher to even out the lumps. Add onion and celery, cover the pan, and cook until tender and transparent, about 5 minutes. Drain off any grease.
Stir the tomato soup (undiluted), ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce into the beef mixture. Season with salt and garlic powder. Heat to a simmer over low heat, and cook until thoroughly heated, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning on the bottom.
Spoon the hot beef mixture onto buns, which may be toasted first, and serve.

Monday Goals

2009-06-08T00:30:00.000-07:00

I like today's goals. I think I just might accomplish all 4!
~Karyn

Happy Mom Goal:

Watch an extra half hour of TV today. Not a TV person? Read a magazine or spend some extra time blogging. It's your turn to have some time to yourself!

Happy Kid Goal:

Make a special treat with your kids today. Cookies are always fun! Or maybe make something new together for the first time and see how you like it!

Happy Husband Goal:

Write down a list of reasons why you love your husband, and what makes him so wonderful. Then leave it lying around somewhere that you know he'll "just happen to find it."

Happy House Goal:

Go through your bathroom drawers and cabinets, and maybe any linen closets you may have. Get rid of any bottles and other items you don't use. Things like: old hotel soaps and shampoos, lotions and bodywashes you never use, toothbrushes your kids used 3 years ago, dried out nail polish bottles, old makeup that has long since crumbled up. It feels great to rid your house of all those old things that just cause clutter!

Dinner Tonight:

Easy Lasagna
8 ounces lasagna noodles
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
8 ounces mushrooms, optional
1 jar (about 16 ounces) spaghetti sauce, your favorite
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried leaf oregano, crumbled
1/2 teaspoon dried leaf basil, crumbled
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook
lasagna noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside. In a large skillet, brown beef, onion, and mushrooms; drain well. Stir in spaghetti sauce, garlic powder, salt, oregano, and basil. In a 2-quart buttered baking dish (about 11x7x2-inches), layer 1/3 of the lasagna noodles, 1/3 of the sauce and 1/3 of the ricotta cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat layers twice. Bake lasagna at 350° for 30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and bubbly. Let stand for 8 to 10 minutes before cutting and serving. Serves 6 to 8.

Sunday

2009-06-06T15:01:00.001-07:00

Family Time! See you tomorrow!

Saturday

2009-06-05T23:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Paint your toes today! Since it's summer, why not try a bold, bright color. Try orange!

Happy Kid Goal:

Spend extra time playing with your kids today. Whether they're the type who are interested in playing sports, or would rather do indoor things, do whatever interests them....and get into it!

Happy Husband Goal:

Spend some time doing something you used to do together when you first met. Go dancing, hang out at a drive in movie. Just take a visit to way-back-when!

Happy House Goal:

Organize all the shoes in the house today. Throw out old ones, line up frequently used ones, get rid of the ones your kids are hanging on to for no particular reason. It'll make a lot more space!

Dessert Tonight:
(couldn't help myself!)

Easy Death-By-Chocolate Cake
3/4 cup sour cream
4 eggs
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup oil
1 chocolate cake mix
1 small box instant chocolate pudding
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
powdered sugar

Preheat ove to 350 degrees.
Beat sour cream, eggs, water, and oil together in a large bowl until thoroughly mixed. Add cake mix and pudding mix. Stir in chocolate chips. Place batter in a greased and foured bundt pan.
Bake 45-55 minutes, or until a fork inserted into cake comes out clean.
While still hot, invert cake onto serving platter. When cool, sift powdered sugar over top of cake.

Today's Pep Talk

Enjoy your day today! Just try your absolute hardest to be cheerful and have a positive attitude. It makes things so much more enjoyable! Just know that you are amazing! YOU ARE SUPER-MOM!!

To The Person Who Hates This Blog.....

2009-06-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I have something that I need to address. I was trying to ignore it like a dignified person probably would, but I just can't. I'm posting this to get your opinion on the subject. If you feel the same way as this so called "anonymous" person does, please tell me. I promise to not be offended and hate you forever. A friend of mine had a similar situation a couple of months ago on her blog, and I think it's crazy that people are stabbing at each other this way. It's disgusting.

Now, to get to the point.

I received a comment on this blog that was a little bit......mean (?) - I guess that's the best word for it.

Anonymous said...
" i think it is funny that you do this "club" ive known alot of moms in my life and you are nowhere near the perfect mom that you act like you are. ive seen you yell at your kids and get mad over little things. i wouldn't want you telling me how to be a happy mom. i'm fine just the way i am. maybe you should work on your own mothering skills befor you you tell anyone else how to do it and stop trying to make everyone think your some amazing person"

All I can say is, Woah. That's a pretty bold thing to say. And I guess it's good that this person is being honest. However, maybe some things are better left unsaid.
Now, I don't feel the need to defend myself against this comment because I'm fine with how this person feels. But I would like to take a minute to clarify; to this person and to whoever else needs clarification.

First of all, I have never, nor will I EVER claim to be a "perfect mom." In fact, I'll fully admit to being one of the least perfect moms that I know. (which you would know if you read my "confessions" page.) I have a hard time on an almost daily basis. A few months ago, I found myself in a slump of motherhood. I was always tired, my kids were giving me a hard time, I felt like I wasn't accomplishing anything, and I was just not motivated to do anything because everything that needed to be done was so overwhelming. Then I thought to myself "what are the main expectations of a wife and mother? Kids, husband, house, dinner." I realized that if I just focused on one thing for each of those categories ever day, I would have at least accomplished that much and probably feel a bit better about myself. I organized these things onto a blog for myself and thought, "why not share this with other moms?"
That's all. It's for myself. If other people happen to like it and get something positive out of it, great. More power to them.

Secondly, if you don't want me to tell you how to be a happy mom, why are you even here and reading this? No one is forcing you to read or participate in it. You have your full right to ignore my blog as if it doesn't exist. Feel free to excercise that right.
I have never said that I am ALWAYS a happy mom. Quite the contrary. But since doing my goals each day, I AM happier than I was.

Thirdly, I do plan to work on my own mothering skills. Actually, that's what I'm doing with this blog. I'm trying to improve myself in all the categories that I can. I'm not trying to tell anyone how to be a mom. No one can tell you how to raise your children. Only you can decide. But I CAN share my ideas. And if people like my ideas, they can certainly use them. Or not. It's their choice. I'm glad that this person is "fine just the way they are." That's great. I'm happy for them.

Last, I am not an amazing person, and I'm not trying to make people thing of me that way. I'm just me. A mom. I stay at home every day with three kids. I love them, I play with them, I bathe and dress them, I feed them, and yes, I fight with them. If you always get along with your kids and are never upset, stressed, or discouraged, please share your secret with us. Start a blog.

I'm pretty sure I know who this person is. Obviously this someone knows me, and may even call me a "friend." I'm saddened that I have people in my life who feel this way about me, but even more saddened at the fact that they can't just tell me to my face what they think.

Do any of you have comments? I'd love to hear them all....even negative ones. Tell me what you think. But, if you would please, don't leave it "anonymously!" Sheesh!

~Karyn

Thursday Goals

2009-06-03T21:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Today when you have a little bit of time, lay down in a comfortable place and take a 15 minute nap. You deserve an extra break today!

Happy Kid Goal:

Take your camera and your kids out for a walk today. Let your kids take pictures of the interesting things they see. When you can, get them printed and put your child's pictures up in his room, on your fridge, or in frames. Tell the people who ask about the pictures that your child did it and that you're so proud!

Happy Husband Goal:

Snuggle time! When your husband sits down on the couch or a chair this evening, go and sit next to him. You don't have to talk or anything, just spend some quality, quiet time together.

Happy House Goal:

Most of us hate it, but it's got to be done. Go outside and get some front-yard-weeding done today. Especially focus on the places that are most noticeable to visitors.

Dinner Tonight:

Slow Cooker Thursday!

Creamy Chicken Soft Tacos

4 frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 jar (16 ounces) salsa - any of your favorite brands is fine!

1 cup sour cream

6-8 flour tortillas

Place chicken in greased slow cooker. Pour salsa over the top. Cover and cook on high heat 6-8 hours or on low heat 10 -12 hours. Shred chicken by pulling apart with two forks. During the last hour of cooking, stir in sour cream.

Fold chicken mix inside warm flour tortillas with lettuce and grated cheddar cheese, if desired.

Wednesday

2009-06-02T21:12:00.001-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Write down a list of positive things about yourself today. Things you do well, things you've accomplished in your life, things you like about yourself, etc; You'll be amazed at how long your list can get! Keep it somewhere special, and whenever you need a little encouragement, take it out and look it over!

Happy Kid Goal:

Teach your kids something new today. A new song, a poem you know, maybe even a little dance or hand clapping game. It's so fun to interact with them in that way!

Happy Husband Goal:

Today when your husband isn't looking, go out and clean out his car. Remove any trash, vacuum up the crumbs, wipe down the dash, and leave a new air freshener in it. It might be kinda hard to do this without him noticing, but do it if you can. He'll love it!

Happy House Goal:

How often do you move furniture and vacuum underneath it? If you're like me, it's not as often as it should be. If you can, slide a few pieces of furniture away from the wall and really get that carpet clean. Sure, it won't really show, but you'll feel great!

Dinner Tonight:

Broccoli Chicken Casserole

(submitted by Kira P.)

mix:

3/4 cup mayo

1 large can cream of chicken soup, or 2 small cans

1/4 cup lemon juice

4-5 chicken breasts - cooked and cubed

2 cups shredded cheese

Steam and add as much broccoli as you want and add to mixture.

Melt one stick of butter and mix one sleeve of crumbled saltine crackers. Pour over casserole.

Bake @ 375 degrees for 25-30 mins.

Today's Pep Talk

Be yourself! I know we've all been hearing this our whole lives, but it's so important and it certainly applies to motherhood! How will your children ever be able to find themselves if they don't even know their own mother? If you're goofy, be a goofy mom! Be who you are as you rear your children, and it will show through in them. And you'll have a lot more fun through the years to come!

Tuesdays Goals

2009-06-01T22:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Take a few minutes- maybe when the kids are down for a nap and pull out your wedding album. I always find my outlook on life is better and I am happier after I look at pictures of that wonderful day. I feel more beautiful and I find my love for my husband rekindled!

Happy Kids Goal:

Put all the kids in swim suits and send them outside with their own 80 cent bottle of bubbles and let them waste that whole bottle! They will love doing it on their own and when its outside and their in swimsuits who cares if they make a mess!

Happy Husband Goal:

Take an interest in his work. Ask him what his day consists of. You will be surprised at how much more is involved in their job than you thought. I remember going to a meeting with my husband and his boss one time and his boss telling me that I was the only wife he knew of in the company who knew that much about what went on day to day. It opens up conversations and you can ask specifics about their day and you'll find you have more to talk about! They will feel more loved when you take an interest in their lives outside of the home.

Happy Home Goal:

Get a dust rag and stick it to the end of your broom and get all those cobwebs from your ceilings that dont get cleaned much since its not in your line of sight! When they are all cleaned it feels nice and I can pretend like spiders dont exist in my house cause there is no evidence of them ever being there!!!

Dinner:

Honey Burgers

2lbs of ground beef

1/2 cup honey

1/4 tsp cinnamon, paprika, curry

1/8 tsp ginger, nutmeg

1/4 cup soy sauce

Mix all together in a bowl and form patties- then grill them up!

Serve with tomatos, avacados and red onions, pinapple, cheese

Another Monday

2009-05-31T21:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

When you're doing your housework today, turn up your favorite music and sing and dance. It's fun, and it makes the work go by a lot more quickly!

Happy Kid Goal:

I did this last week with my kids and it was super fun! Find a place nearby that has some ducks, geese, or even just some birds and take your kids to feed them. We just used some old bread from our house, but you could get fancy and go buy some birdseed or whatever else you can find. My kids had a blast.

Happy Husband Goal:

Spontaneously call your husband at work today and tell him he can have whatever he wants for dinner tonight. Let him choose the main course, side dishes, and even the drink he wants. Go to the store and get everything. Cook up his meal, and have it ready and waiting when he gets home from work tonight!

Happy House Goal:

De-cluttering time! Go through one or two rooms today and throw away AT LEAST 10 items from each room. I promise there is a bunch of junk in there that you don't need!

Dinner Tonight:

Whatever your man wants!!

Today's Pep Talk:

I'm feeling down and I don't have many words of encouragement today. What can I say - No mom is happy all the time! All I can say is that I don't know where I'd be without my wonderful husband who saves my life on a daily basis, and that my close friends and family are a huge support to me as well. If you ever are feeling the way I am today, turn to those you love. They are the ones who can get you back up on your feet again.

Sunday

2009-05-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

Today is Sunday and as always, I encourage you to spend time with those you love and bring your family closer together. Play a game together, cook dinner together, go on a walk..........whatever you choose to do, have fun and enjoy those amazing people!

Summery Saturday!

2009-05-29T23:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, I don't know about you, but in our family school's out and the kids are ready to party! Today's goals are all kinda mashed into one big goal.... Bring Summer in with a bang today! Head to the dollar store and get water balloons, bubbles, and outdoor toys. Have a family summertime party......it'll make the whole fam happy! Do whatever your family does for fun, and finish with a barbecue or trip to a local pizza joint. It's so worth it!

Friday Goals

2009-05-28T12:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Splurge! Today, buy something you don't really need, but would love to have. It doesn't have to be huge, just something you don't normally get. It could be anything from a new ipod, down to a cheap smoothie from your favorite restaurant (as will be my case.) Just spoil yourself a little bit extra today!

Happy Kid Goal:

Today's a great day for the park! So simple, yet so much fun for your kids. Don't just hang out on the park bench and watch..... this time let's all get involved! Go play with your kids on the equipment. Push them on the swings, slide down the slide a few times, or play a game of tag. That attention from you is priceless.

Happy Husband Goal:

In today's world, email is one of the best ways to communicate. We're all so busy that email is just the quickest and easiest way to get in touch with people. But when was the last time you got an email that made you smile and feel loved? Maybe it was recently for you, but not for me! And I doubt your man gets very many like that. Today, write up a quick email for your man about how much you love him and that you're thinking of him. It will be pretty unexpected, but it'll definitely put a smile on his face!

Happy House Goal:

Clutter-quick-blitz! I do this several times a day at my house. Start with the main room in your house. Find the most cluttered area in that room and clear it off. Find a place for everything and put it "away-away." Then move to the next cluttered spot and then the next. Do this through all the living space in your home and do it as fast as you can. In no time at all, your house will be clutter free!

Dinner Tonight:

Spinach Salad

(submitted by Chelsea K.)

Combine in a large bowl:

1 bag baby spinach

1/2 pkg bacon cooked and crumbled

1 c grated swiss cheese

4-6 boiled eggs (depends on ow much you like, we like lots)

small red onion sliced or chopped

Dressing:

3/4 c red wine vinegar

3/4 c sugar

1 1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 TBS poppy seeds

3/4 tsp dry mustard

1 1/2 c olive oil (light)

Combine all ingredients together but seeds and emulsify for several minutes (mix really well with and electric mixer), add seed and mix in. If serving to a crowd, prepare the salad and add the dressing just five minutes before serving, it makes the spinach wilt slightly, which is good but not for too long.

Today's Pep Talk

"God could not be everywhere, therefore, he created mothers."

~Hebrew Proverb

This is so true. You bless the lives of so many, and as a mother you are the ones who care for not only your own family, but for human kind in general. Mothers are the staple who hold this world together. Remember that today when you need a little encouragement.

I'm Back!! Thrusday Goals

2009-05-27T16:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Chelsea K. for the awesome ideas!!

Happy Mom Goal:

I love to do at-home-facials, usually after the kids are in bed, or any other time i have a half hour to myself. It forces me to sit still for a minute and relax. If you use any specific brand of makeup or cleansing system, they probably have some kind of mask you can use, or go get something cheap from a local drug store. Wash your face, do the mask, sit and relax for twenty minutes with it on your face, read or watch your favorite show. Wash and moisturize your face. If im really lucky and have enough time i will also try to regain control of my eyebrows, as i rarely have time for that in my day to day routine.

Happy Kid Goal:

Flubber!!

In a large container combine:

1 1/2 cups warm water

2 cups white glue

Food coloring

In second, smaller container, combine:

1 1/3 cups warm water

3 tsp. Borax (a laundry agent, can find with laundry soap at the store)

* Mix ingredients in each container thoroughly.

* Pour contents of smaller container in to large container.

* Gently lift and turn mixture until only about a tablespoon of liquid is left.

FLUBBER will be sticky for a moment or two. Let excess liquid drip off, then FLUBBER will be ready!STRETCH IT! BOUNCE IT! ROLL IT!Store in an airtight container for about three weeks of use!

I have not actually made this with my kids yet, but i made it all the time when i worked at the Boys and Girls club, the kids LOVE it!!!

Happy Husband Goal:

Socks. My hubby loves new socks. In fact, he even loves old socks that are clean. Socks seem to get lost fairly easy and they are so annoying to mate. So today, find all the socks you can, launder them and fill up your man's sock drawer. In the event you cannot find any socks, as is the case sometimes, (I am firm in the belief that there is some abyss in the washer that eats them) go buy a new package. Trust me, he'll thank you.

Happy House Goal:

Your desktop; both the virtual and the physical.

Take a minute to go through the desktop on your computer and get rid of old downloads, consolidate things that need to be saved into easy to manage folders, etc. My virtual desktop is a constant battle, but it always makes me happy to clear away the clutter. As for the Physical desktop, here's my favorite quote: "A clean desk is the sign of a sick mind." LOL, I think the desk is the never ending dumping ground, and at least in our home, is one of the most used surfaces. It's easy to stack things and leave old papers and bills. Get a few stackable trays for mail and bills, put the new stuff on top and move them down a slot when they have been opened or paid. I throw stuff away after a month, when i get the new bills, but if you want to keep things loger make a home for filed papers somewhere other than your desk top. Keep a tub of clorox wipes near your desk and once a week while you are on the phone, downloading, or chatting wipe down the surfaces on your desk- top of the monitor, printor, etc. Make sure you only use products that will not damage your monitor screen when cleaning.

Dinner Tonight (and the next, and the next!)

Ground Beef

I'm not all that organized when it comes to preparing meals for my family, but one thing i am good at is hamburger. I will buy the biggest package of ground beef at the store, and then at home I separate it something like this:

*two quart-sized freezer bags with plain meat (about 1 lb each bag, or a serving for your fam)

to make ground meat for tacos etc.

*put the rest in a large bowl

add about 1 egg for every two pounds of meat, oatmeal- about 1/2 cup per lb, garlic salt and pepper (i estimate all these additives, i never measure anything).

I make this into hamburger patties.

*Just portion out how much meat for each, flatten into patties, put in a gallon size freezer bag (i like to do four to one layer, use wax paper in between layers if your making a lot. Put enough for one meal in each bag. Make a couple bags at a time if you want)

* add crackers or crushed croutons to the meat thats left, usually some more seasoning, and make either meatballs or a meatloaf.

For Meatballs:

*Add italian seasoning, more garlic powder, and onion salt

*Then portion the meat, roll into balls and place in a freezer bag, whatever size will be enough for your fam.

For Meatloaf:

*Add garlic powder and onion salt

*Put right into a pan that can go from the freezer to the oven.

Use plastic wrap and press it right onto the meat, then cover with foil. (Don't forget to remove the plastic before baking!)

So now I have meat servings for several meals ready to pull out of the freezer and cook. All of these things can be cooked from frozen, it may take a little more time, but i rarely thaw (mostly because I forget) anything.

Today's Pep Talk

{{Advice.}}

What does that word bring to your mind? Appreciation? Relief? Annoyance? Maybe even anger?

No matter what walk of life you are in, as a mother it's almost a guarantee that you'll get lots of advice from others on a regular basis. This comes from friends you love, church members who are just trying to help, moms who think they know more than you do, and (the always popular) mother-in-law who KNOWS her way is best!

Now, in all honesty I seek advice quite often. Usually from my own mother who is happy to give her advice or opinion on anything she knows. There are however, some things she simply won't tell me because she thinks I need to figure it out on my own (however good or annoying that may be!)

I usually seek advice when I'm stressed out, about to have a melt down, or simply CANNOT figure out what to do. I think this is a perfectly good thing to do. Moms have been around since the beginning of time and the fact of the matter is: there are women out there who have already been through it and know what works for them. If I can't get my child to eat her veggies, I ask a mother who had the same problem and got through it.

Then, of course, there is the advice that comes when you have things under control and aren't looking for anyone else's thoughts or ideas. This is enough to get any mom's nerves going at any time.

So here's my idea for today:

If you are at a loss for what to do or say on a certain subject, ASK FOR ADVICE. There is absolutely no shame in it! Find another mom who's opinions you trust and respect, and ask them what they would do. It's really alright to ask for help!

On the other hand, when you get advice that isn't good for you, simply DISREGARD IT. Remember, YOU are the mom. You get to do things how you want in your family, and there's no need to let others' opinions bother you. Come up with some good one-liners that you can use when you get un-wanted advice, such as

"That's an interesting idea. I'll have to think about that one."

"Hmm, I never thought of it that way. Thanks for your input."

And then just don't let it get to you. If they press you further, just state that you will do things the way you feel is best for you and your family. You are the matriarch of your family, and YOU KNOW BEST!

Cache Valley Day at the Park

2009-05-27T13:55:00.001-07:00

We had a really fun day today in Logan! We had 8 moms, and about 14 kids, lots of sun and lots of fun! We traded some fantastic recipes, watch for them under "Dinner Tonight!" Sorry I didn't keep track of who submitted what! Anyway, thanks to all who came, if you couldn't make it today we missed you and hopefully we'll see you next time!

Recipes!!

2009-05-25T21:50:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone!

Thanks to those of you who have emailed me some delicious recipes for "Dinner Tonight!"

I have posted most of the ideas that have been sent, I need more!

Send me your favorite recipes for main dishes and/or side dishes, and I can almost gaurantee that they'll be posted on the blog.

I know it's easy to find recipes online, but I want the things I post to be simple, kid friendly, and most of all genuinely from moms all around the country.

Send any recipes, advice, suggestions, or goal ideas to thehappymomsclub@yahoo.com.

Thank you, also, to all of you who have left your cute comments and emails to me. I really enjoy reading them!

~Karyn

Taking the weekend off!

2009-05-23T23:49:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Just a reminder that I'm spending time with my husband and family this weekend, so I won't be posting goals. I hope everyone has a fabulous Memorial Day weekend, and I'll chat with you in a few days!!

~Karyn

Orem Unit:

2009-05-22T20:29:00.001-07:00

Ideas for Guilty Pleasure Day have been posted on the Orem blog. Check it out and leave a comment about what you think!

{{Click Here}}

Saturday, and a long weekend!

2009-05-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

This one has already been a mom goal, but it's one of my personal favorites! Pull out your current favorite reading material and lose yourself in it for a while today. To change it up a bit, maybe go outside in the sunshine or lay on the shady grass and read while your kids play!

Happy Kid Goal:

Do a movie night with your kids! We head over to a local Red Box and grab a fun movie for $1. Then we set up little chairs in the TV room, pop some microwave popcorn, and hang out with the kids! It's a blast! (And the best part is sometimes it puts the kids to sleep!)

Happy Husband Goal:

Lay out on a blanket under the stars for little while with your man tonight! I plan to do it late, after the kids have gone to sleep, and maybe take a bottle of something bubbly out with us. So fun, and it's nice to chat about something other than the kids!

Happy House Goal:

Go through a toy box of your kids' today, and pull out at least 10 things that you KNOW they don't ever play with. Take them to a donation center or a shelter where they can be put to good use. Hint: I would recommend not letting your kids see you do this. They most likely won't ever even realize it happened, and you'll get a slightly less cluttered house!

Dinner Tonight:

Make-Your-Own Mini Pizzas

(this was a favorite of mine and my brother's when we were growing up...kids LOVE it!)

12 Rhode's Frozen Dinner Rolls - thawed, but NOT risen (more if you have a larger family)

1 can pizza sauce, or make your own with tomato sauce, garlic powder, and italian seasoning

grated mozzerella cheese

desired toppings (pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, pineapple, peppers, sausage, etc;)

This is a family dinner-making event that everyone will have lots of fun with!

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Put all your toppings into little bowls (pepperoni in one bowl, olives in another, etc;)

Give everyone 2 or 3 thawed dinner rolls. At a clean and floured table or counter, have everyone mash their rolls together and then roll their dough out flat and circular to make their own personal pizza. Spoon some sauce on each pizza for them to spread around. Give everyone some cheese to sprinkle onto their pizza. Allow each person to put their own toppings on their pizza. Let them pick what to put on and how much! (They may even want to make faces or designs on their pizzas with the toppings!)

Place all pizzas on a baking tray and bake @ 350 for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, watching closely. Pizzas are done when crust is a light, golden brown.

Today's Pep Talk

This weekend is a holiday, and to me holidays mean family time! I love spending time with my family, and I encourage you to spend some with yours. You, as mothers, are the best ones to bring your families closer to one another... You are the glue that holds the family together! You're all so amazing, and I hope you have a fabulous holiday weekend. For me, my husband gets some time off and some family is coming into town. Because of this, I'm going to take a little break from this blog just for a few days and spend some extra time with the people I love the most! So, if you're wondering where I've disappeared to, that's the explanation. I'll see you all after the Memorial Day weekend!

Have fun!!

Cache Valley Unit!!!

2009-05-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

Ooooh, this sounds fun! I hope you guys have a blast!

Happy Hour Was.....

2009-05-21T20:48:00.001-07:00

AWESOME!!!

We started out with our pina coladas which turned out to be SO delish! We also snacked on some chips and dips that Kira and I had made.

Leslie brought some marriage topics to the table for us to discuss, which was actually really neat to do. It was really cool to hear what everyone's thought and opinions were on the different issues.Then we headed inside for a fun Mary Kay makeup class and got facials that felt GREAT! If anyone needs a MK consultant, contact me and I'll get you this cute gal's phone number!

Then we just hung out and talked about when and what we're planning for Guilty Pleasure Day. I'm excited to get together and make a fun 4th of July craft for my house!

For those of you who haven't started your own unit of Happy Moms, you really should do it! It's such a blast and doesn't have to cost much or anything at all! Even if it's just one or two ladies, it's certainly and outlet for a busy mom! Do it! (And then let me know! I love to hear about it! Ha!)

Friday!

2009-05-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Excercise! Today's a great day to get your body pumped up with some aerobics, jogging, or yoga. It's good for the body, and the soul!

Happy Kid Goal:

Dance with your kids. I love doing this! Partly because I was a dance teacher for years, but mostly because I love the delighted looks on my kids' faces. They get such a kick out of it, and you get a good work out!

Happy Husband Goal:

{No picture, for fear of what I might see while searching for an appropriate image.}

I hate to be cliche, and I've been trying hard not be so on this blog. But I have to say it... Lingere. Men are such visual people, and it really is a treat for them. If you don't own any or just aren't that type, don't worry. Try wearing something during the day that you know your husband loves...even if it's just the cheap jewelry he got for you when you were first married!

Happy House Goal:

I hate this one, but it has to be done at my house so I might as well drag you all along with me! Clean your refrigerator today. Not just the kind where you throw away all the too-old leftovers..... pull everything out and do a real, deep clean with Clorox wipes or your favorite spray cleaner. Get all the sticky, old jelly off the shelves and the spills from drinks out of the door shelves. Also, check the expiration dates on all your condiments and other things you don't use regularly. I saw that I have some ranch dressing in mine that expired a couple months ago and I hadn't even realized it!

Dinner Tonight:

(Slow Cooker Night! I love these ones because I get them done early in the day and don't spend the rest of the day anticipating having to cook....it's already done!)

Barbecue Pork Sandwiches

{This is one of my favorite summertime meals!}

2 to 3 pounds boneless pork roast

3/4 cup minced onion

1 bottle favorite barbecue sauce

1/4 cup honey

sandwich rolls - I like harder ones because they don't get soggy as fast.

Place roast in greased slow cooker. Combine onion, barbecue sauce, and honey. Pour mixture over meat. Cover and cook on low heat 6-8 hours. When roast is done, use two forks to shred meat.

Serve with watermelon and corn on the cob. Yummmmm.

Today's Pep Talk

Oh, I just love you all! Even those of you who I've never met personally, and of course those of you who are my close friends and relatives. Just knowing that there are other mommies out there just like me who definitely aren't perfect, but have a constant desire to work to improve themselves and be better mothers and wives, it just inspires me and keeps me going! I admire other mothers and look at many women who I don't even know and strive to do as well as they do. So, thank you to all of you....

You help me get through each day!

Thursday

2009-05-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Try a new lipstick or lip gloss today. You can even just pick up a cheap one from the local drug store. But it's always fun to try a new color!

Happy Kid Goal:

Your little one may not be wild about bathing. Or about veggies. But put them together and you've got a magically mesmerizing activity--with the bonus that everything from that head of lettuce to your child's own hands will be washed and ready for dinner (including the kitchen sink).
DIRECTIONS
1. Set out some towels; dress your child (and yourself) in clothes you don't mind getting wet.

2. Pull a sturdy stepstool over to a sink filled with water.

3. Put any veggies you'll be serving for dinner on one side of the sink and a colander on the other. Now hand your small fry a vegetable scrubbing brush and encourage him to wash the produce and then drop it in the colander to drain. If you like, bring out some extras for him to play with too: a funnel, plastic cups, a sieve, and sponges. (Keep an eye on him at all times.)
Even older kids like to help around in the kitchen, and you might try teaching a new cooking skill to one of your pre-teens if you have them!

Happy Husband Goal:

This was actually my own husband's idea for a Happy Husband Goal. Leave a "coupon" on your man's pillow tonight. Something like "Good for one night without the kids," "Good for dinner and a movie on me," or "good for one guy's night out." (I thought about doing a whole coupon book with lots of different things in it, but I think I'd rather leave them sparatically, one at a time, and on random days.

Happy House Goal:

Organize your coat closet. These places always collect the most random junk at my house! I opened mine today and found not just coats and my vaccuum, but other clothes and shoes my kids had dumped there, our cam-corder, and even an old porcelain doll from my childhood (don't ask me why!) Get rid of any junk or things you don't need anymore....the more you can stand to get rid of, the better! Then get everything organized in a way that things are easy to find and to reach!

Dinner Tonight:

Fried Rice - can be used as a side dish OR a main course. Whatever you want to do!

(submitted by Stephanie S.)
4-5 cups cooked rice (more of less depending on how many people you are feeding)

2 peppers cut (red, green or orange mix it up)

1 onion chopped

1 clove garlic minced

1/2 lb bacon or as much as you like

1/2 lb ham cubed

6-9 eggs (more or less depending on what you like)

peas

carrots

or any other veggie you have around
Directions:
cook rice-while rice is cooking cut up bacon and ham and fry in pan medium heat-chop onion, peppers and garlic add to meat continue to fry -add any veggies you want to the mixture and cook through-cook and scramble eggs in separate frying pan
-when rice is done throw it all together in a large mixing bowl and add soy sauce to taste

Today's Pep Talk

So, I've been having kind of a rough few days with my 3 year old. Man, I really wish she wasn't so much like me! Anyway, with stress and emotions running high, I've had a few moments where I felt like giving up. I thought to myself as I was writing a club post the other day,"how can I be so hypocritical as to sit here and write this? I'm certainly not a 'Happy Mom'!" I was so upset that my wonderful husband had to hold me tight and physically calm me down telling me that I am incredible and that everyone goes through this. I've been feeling so down and depressed about everything. Yesterday, two wonderful ladies from my church came to my house to visit me and see how I was doing. They didn't know anything about my current troubles, but they came and asked how I was handling being a mom of 3 and letting me know that they are here to help. After they left, it didn't take long before I realized how much better I felt. I was so much happier and dealing with my stress better. Having people who are there for you makes such a big impact on our lives. Think about those who are there for you, and don't be afraid to ask for help, or even just call them to talk. It helps so so much!

Wednesday

2009-05-19T21:03:00.001-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Sometimes we need to practice our motherly instincts and love on people other than our own families. We women are just born with the need to love and help others, and I think that's a wonderful thing. What would the world be like without us!? So today, volunteer at a local shelter or charity organization. Not that ambitious? Just make an extra dinner tonight when you're making your own, and take it to a family in need. Maybe a single mother you know, or someone who's recently had surgery done. This will make you feel just plain good inside.

Happy Kid Goal:

(submitted by Chelsea K.)

This one's awesome, I remember my mom doing it with me as a kid! Get a box of graham crackers and make (or buy) your favorite frosting. Get all the kids up to the kitchen counter and make frosting filled graham cookies! Let the kids spread (or help you spread) the frosting the way they want to. It's so simple, but kids of most ages purely delight in this!

Happy Husband Goal:

Leave your hubby's favorite drink (like a 16 oz Coke, etc;) and a little "I love you" note in his car before he goes to work. (You may have to do this later tonight or tomorrow morning if you're reading this after he already left for work.)

Happy House Goal:

Organize your kid's dresser drawers today. I seriously have to do this like twice a week to keep everything in nice, neat piles, but I love the way it looks and feels afterwards! (all the underwear and pj's in the top drawer, shirts and socks in the middle drawer, pants in the bottom drawer, etc;)

Dinner Tonight:

Buffalo Chicken Poppers

(submitted by BethAnna S.)

1 pkg Crescent rolls or wanton wraps

canned chicken (or cooked boneless skinless breasts, shredded)

Franks Buffalo Sauce

Melted butter

Fresh Blue Cheese

Blue Cheese Dressing or Ranch Dressing

Mix Franks sauce & chicken together in a bowl to desired saucy-ness reserving some of the sauce. Flatten out crescent rolls on a pan and cut in halves. (If using Wanton wraps no need to flatten or cut in half) Brush with melted butter then franks sauce. Add a small amount of crumbled blue cheese to center then chicken mixture. Seal off fried wanton style brush with more melted butter (beaten egg mixture works best to seal if using wantons). Bake 350 Degrees until rolls are golden brown. (about 8-10 min) Serve with favorite dipping sauce (If using wantons a pampered chef type baking stone or just deep frying works best)

Today's Pep Talk

I'd just like to post a cool quote today:

"You are an amazing mom. When we take time to note the good in ourselves, we feel better about ourselves, so we can better see and respond to the positive in our children." ~Debra S Woods

Orem branch announcement

2009-05-18T23:42:00.000-07:00

(scroll down for Tuesday Goals)

ATTENTION OREM LADIES!
Happy Hour is this week!
Check the Orem Branch blog for more details!
If you cannot access this blog, check your email, there's an invite there for you!
{{{Orem Branch Blog}}}

Tuesday Goals

2009-05-18T22:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Go to a makeup counter at a local department store and get a free makeover! Even if you don't normally wear makeup, it's usually free and you'll feel fantastic when you're done. Or, try it on another day when you have a "date" planned. Your man will be wowed, and you'll feel terrific!

Happy Kid Goal:

Choose a soft, no-slip spot such as a grassy lawn and bring out a spray bottle or the garden hose. Try to squirt your child's feet with the water while he performs his wildest barefoot dance to steer clear of it. When you do make contact? He has to freeze. Spritz him again to release him. (For an added twist, challenge him to freeze without screaming.) If you're feeling brave, give your child a chance to aim for your feet with the water too.

Happy Husband Goal:

He just got home from work, and you've slaved the day away cleaning and cooking and preparing everything. Right about now, he doesn't care what you do, as long as he's getting your attention. After all, if he didn't want your attention, he wouldn't be coming home to you. Tell him you've been thinking of him all day. It's an ego-boost and it makes him feel special.

Happy House Goal:

See if you can get all the bedsheets in your whole house washed today. I don't do this as often as I should, and I'm sure you're all better at it than me. But how nice would it be for your entire family to be able to sleep on soft, clean sheets tonight? Ahhhh........

Dinner Tonight

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

( as seen on the back of cream of chicken soup cans)

submitted by Kira P.

1 can (26 oz) cream of chicken soup

2 cups water

1 1/2 cup uncooked white rice

3 cups fresh or frozen mixed veggies

1 tsp. onion powder

6 skinless boneless chicken breast halves

1/2 cup shredded cheese

1. stir soup, water,rice, veggies and onion powder in 13 x 9 shallow baking dish

2. top with chicken. season chicken as desired. cover

3. bake at 375 for 1 hour top with cheese..

works best if chicken isnt frozen

same instructions, but here is the recipe for the smaller can of soup so serves a smaller family:

1 can (10 3/4 oz ) cream of chicken soup

1 1/3 cup water

3/4 cup uncooked rice

2 cups veggies

1/2 tsp onion powder

4 chicken breasts

1/2 cup cheese

Today's Pep Talk

Let's take a moment today and enjoy our children. Not for the "Happy Kid Goal," but just for ourselves. We are raising amazing little lives, and they can teach us so much. In all the years that I attended school, I never learned as much as I have since becoming a mother. They teach me something new every day, and I've grown so much, as I'm sure you have. When you're feeling down, discouraged, or frustrated today just think about how wonderful your kids really are, and how much they mean to you. It can really brighten your day. Just leave whatever needs to be done alone, and take care of what's most important.....

Precious moments with your children.

OREM LADIES!!

2009-05-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

ATTENTION OREM LADIES!

Happy Hour is this week!

Check the Orem Branch blog for more details!

If you cannot access this blog, check your email, there's an invite there for you!

{{{Orem Branch Blog}}}

Monday's Goals

2009-05-17T22:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Get out that bubble bath and the radio. Draw a bath, of course with extra bubbles. Put on your favorite relaxing CD or ipod playlist, light some candles or incense, and just relax! Don't worry about the cleaning, just soak your troubles away. Then wash your body with a refreshing-smelling body soap. Ahhhhhhh!

Happy Kid Goal:

Nature Scavenger Hunt - Make a list of things to find in nature such as a pine cone, bug, leaf etc. Once your child has collected all of the items, do something fun with each thing (example: make a birdfeeder out of the pine cone, do crayon rubbings of the leaf, ect;)

Happy Husband Goal:

Massage time! There's nothing wrong with the traditional body parts we may focus our attention on. But if there's one thing that couples crave more and more as the relationship grows, it's non-sexual touch - touching that's sensual without a touch of sexual.
Give your partner regular foot massages (without being prompted), and my bet is that other kinds of touching will increase. Dramatically.

Happy House Goal:

It's about time to clean out that oven of yours! I'm sure most of you have the "self cleaning" ones, but we all know it's not entirely true. You'll have to endure a smelly house for a bit, and do a little scrubbing, but the result will make you happy. Here's a tip for the future though: To clean up spills in your oven, sprinkle the spills immediately with salt. When the oven has cooled, brush away the burnt-on food with a damp sponge. It will sweep off much easier!

Dinner Tonight:

Steak Fajitas

(I make these with left over steak meat!)

1 lb of flank steak or skirt steak
1 large yellow onion, peeled and sliced with the grain, not against the grain as one would normally slice an onion. Slice first in half, and then slice off sections a half inch wide at widest point.
2 large bell peppers (I usually use one red and one green,) stemmed, seeded, de-ribbed, sliced lengthwise into half-inch wide strips
Marinade:
Juice of 1 lime2
Tablespoons of olive oil
2 cloves garlic, peeled, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
optional: 1/2 fresh Jalapeño pepper, seeded, ribs removed, finely chopped (be careful not to touch your eyes or anywhere near your eyes after handling a Jalapeño pepper!)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, including stems

Mix all marinade ingredients.

Set the steak in the marinade and let it sit at least an hour, the longer the better.

Heat to high heat a large cast iron pan or griddle. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to the pan. Add the steak, frying on each side for 3 minutes, or to desired doneness. 3 minutes per side will yield approximately medium rare doneness for an average cut of flank steak. If pan starts to smoke too much, reduce the heat to medium high. We want the steak browned, not burned. Remove from pan and let sit for 5 minutes.Reduce the pan heat to medium high. Add a little more oil to the pan if necessary. Add the onions, bell peppers. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes, until the onions are slightly translucent.Slice the meat against the grain into thin slices. If you slice the meat at a slanted angle, you will be able to get your slices pretty thin. Flank steak is flavorful but can be a little tough, so thin slices will really help make it easier to eat.
Serve immediately with shredded cheese, salsa. shredded iceberg lettuce, sour cream, guacamole and warm flour tortillas. (Hint for warming tortillas - put in microwave over a paper towel for 20 seconds on high heat.)

Today's Pep Talk

A few days ago, I got overwhelmed. There was so much to do. My house was a disaster, my kids were rowdy, my baby was crying, I had 8 or 9 loads of laundry to do, dinner to make......AAAAAAAUGH! I admit it, I almost lost it. I wanted to sit down on the floor in the kitchen and just cry. In fact, I pretty much did just that. Then, out of nowhere, a little voice in the back of my head said "It's okay, Karyn; just take it one step at a time."

One step at a time. That's all we have to do. Don't look at the whole, huge, messy picture and get discouraged. I sat there for a minute longer, thinking. And then, I decided that this smart voice in my head (I swear it couldn't have been me!) was right. All I had to do was take it slowly.

So this is what I did:

I started with my kids first. I got them under control, fed the baby (with my eyes closed so I wouldn't see and worry about the mess) and sent the kids outside to play.

Then I just started at the back of my house and worked forward, piece by piece. Within an hour or so, I had my whole house pretty much clean, had several loads of laundry done, and I knew what I was going to do for dinner. I know I still need to work on this, but I thought I'd share it as a reminder to us all.....

Just take it one little baby step at a time!

Sunday

2009-05-16T22:55:00.001-07:00

Today's goal, like every Sunday, is to bring your family together in some way. Maybe you have a very close family who share everything with one another. Maybe you have a more formal family who need a little encouragement to let loose around each other. Whatever the case may be, you know your family, and as a mother, you will just know how to bring that sense of closeness into the day. It's your choice whether to do this with your own husband and children, or with an extended family including grandparents, etc;

When you look at your life, the greatest happinesses are family happinesses. ~Joyce Brothers

Dinner Tonight

Yummy Panini

(Perfect for hot, sunny evenings!)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 1/2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

sliced mozerella cheese

sliced tomatoes

fresh basil

fresh artisan bread, anything with a good crust

Whisk olive oil, vinegar and garlic in a small bowl, salt & pepper to taste. Slice bread into sandwich slices and brush outside of bread with olive oil. Layer mozerella, tomato, and basil on top of the bread. Drizzle lightly with the dressing (oil, vinegar, garlic) and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Put other bread slice on top. Place sandwich in a hot panini press (I use my sandwich maker griddle) and grill until bread is toasted and cheese is melted.

*Also good with a piece of pre-grilled chicken layered on sandwich.

Saturday Goals

2009-05-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Small indulgences can be a great way to take care of ourselves. Some low-cost things I have learned to appreciate are buying a soothing eye or foot gel at the Body Shop (under $10) and buying the occasional lunch (cheaper than supper!). Another idea is going to a fancy cafe or restaurant for the ambiance, but only ordering the cheapest thing on the menu (flavored coffee, iced tea, a soup, etc.)

Happy Kid Goal:

Can your child rescue the beanbag frog without stepping on any of the alligators? This first obstacle course lets her rise--or hop--to the occasion. Set up the game by giving her a bucket of socks or fabric scraps to toss around the room; these are the alligators. Now throw a beanbag into the middle and see if she can get to it, pick it up, and wend her way back, all without disturbing one of the pretend reptiles. For a more advanced challenge, ask her to hop there and back on one foot. When you're done playing, make a game of the clean-up too: challenge her to gather all of the socks before you count to 10.
Variation: Leaping Lily Pads On a carpeted floor, have your toddler hop from one sock to the next, like a frog, to snatch up the beanbag dragonfly.

Happy Husband Goal:

Hate basketball and your main squeeze is addicted to it? Get tickets to a game. Despise musicals? Surprise your sweetie with tickets to a show. Go against the grain, and endure with grace and cheer.

Happy House Goal:

Rescue Your Valances! Drapes are simple enough to take to the dry cleaner (and if they're silk, polished cotton, wool, or lined, that's your only option), but valances and swags mounted on boards are dust magnets — and a pain to clean. While it may be tempting to send them out or have someone come in to freshen them, that's a pricey choice. Instead, try this at-home alternative: a handheld vacuum and a step stool. Climb on up and start by sucking dust from the flat, top surface of the board. (Material catching in the vac? Cover the nozzle with a knee-high.) Next, holding the fabric taut with one hand, get into the folds and pleats. If the fabric still looks drab, revive it with a handheld garment steamer or with a blast of steam from an iron held a few inches away.

Dinner Tonight:

Chicken Roll Ups

submitted by BethAnna Shock

2 pkgs crescent rolls

1-2 pkgs cream cheese softened to room temp

1-2cans canned chicken

2-3 celery stalks chopped

1-2 Green onions chopped (whites & greens)

Onion Powder (optional)

Garlic Powder (optional)

Melted butter (optional)

Family size can cream of chicken soup

In a bowl combine softened cream cheese, canned chicken (desired amount) chopped celery & green onions in a bowl add a dash of each seasonings (optional) mix well. Set aside.

Flatten out crescent rolls on a pan place a spoonful of cream cheese mixture in the middle of the crescent roll. Fold up like a crescent making sure to seal all edges. Brush melted butter over the top (Optional)

Follow baking temp/time for rolls.

In sauce pan combine cream of chicken soup and 1 pkg cream cheese and heat until cream cheese is completely dissolved into soup.Serve rolls with soup poured over the top.

Variations: Easily made vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu or mushrooms. Use Cream of mushroom soup instead. Also works well with FatFree cream cheese & FF creamed soup. You can leave out the celery & onions for your picky eaters (my children never know whether I make it with or without the veggies) And the soup can be made with milk rather then cream cheese and works just fine- not as rich.

Today's Pep Talk

Would you consider yourself to be a funny-mom? The other day, my good friend was taking pictures of my children in her backyard (she owns a photography business.) It was bright outside, a bit windy, my kids were hungry, tired, and incredibly ornery. We tried and tried to get all three youngsters to look at the camera and smile at the same time, but as most of you could probably predict, it wasn't working out too well. I really wanted these pictures to turn out well since I would be giving them to all the grandmothers for Mother's Day. I was desperate.

Now, I'm about to admit something to you all that you may, or may not find slightly disturbing. But it worked! And in a moment of desperation, I'll do just about anything.

I turned around, bent over, and spanked myself! I squealed as if I didn't know who had done it, and shot a surprised look at my children. Instantly, my kids started laughing, my friend started clicking, and we got some great shots! On the way home, my 3-year-old started laughing in the backseat. I asked what was so funny, to which she responded "Oh my gosh! You are just such a funny mom! I just don't know what to do with you!" Which of course, made me laugh pretty hard myself. In retrospect, I'm glad that's all she thought of it!

Kids say and ask some pretty hilarious things, and I think those things are what keep me going every day. A mom needs a good laugh each day, I think.

This should be no surprise since research studies repeatedly show that laughter is especially good for us - whether is comes from seeing a funny movie, or recalling the funny things our children (or ourselves!) have said or done. I know that being a mom is serious business, but I still think it's important that we mothers don't take ourselves or our circumtances too seriously....

A laugh a day keep the "mean mom" away!

Another Friday!

2009-05-14T23:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Take some time for yourself today. Do whatever you want. Tell your kids it's Mommy Time. We have to do this to be the best mom's we can be. How can we take good care of our families if we aren't taking good care of ourselves. Do something that gives you utter delight and happiness. It's your moment.

Happy Kid Goal:

Gather all the stuffed animals in your house that you can find. Set them up in groups around the room. When your kids come in, surprise them with a game of "zoo-keeper." My girls loved this! It's also a good teaching opportunity to show them how we should treat animals.

Happy Husband Goal:

Date Night again! Come up with something creative. Camp under the stars in your backyard. Go jump on your trampoline and eat some dessert while your out there. Just be kids again; carefree, and happy!

Happy House Goal:

Ever feel like things just aren't running as smoothly as they could be? Today, get a planner, a calendar, even a simple notebook, and organize your life. Write down your schedules, soccer practices, PTA meetings.....everthing! Keep this planner in your purse or car. Never miss anything again!

Dinner Tonight

Crock Pot Friday!

Tortilla Soup

(this is my mother-in-law's amazing recipe that I've revised to make it slow-cooker compatible.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

minced garlic

1 onion, chopped

one small can diced chilis

2 cans (14 oz each) chicken broth

2 cans (14 oz each) crushed italian recipe tomatoes

1 can corn

1 can pinto beans

1 envelope taco seasoning

or corn tortillas, cut into 1/2 inch strips

cheddar cheese, grated

sour cream

Combine all ingredients in greased slow cooker. Cover and cook on high heat 4-6 hours or on low heat 8-10 hours. Serve over tortilla chips, top with sour cream and grated cheese. So SO good!

Today's Pep Talk

It's okay to take a break. We get so caught up in what needs to be done and when it needs to be done by, and we start running all around and forgetting that we're only human. Don't run so fast that your sneakers wear thin! Here's a quote from a book I read: "Becoming a well-rested mom can work wonders on your mood, outlook, and energy level." ~Debra Sansing Woods

Let's think about that for a moment.

First, mood. How ornery am I when I don't get enough sleep the night before? Well, let's just say you definitely don't want to be one of my kids and step a toe out of line! (or my downstairs neighbors for that matter!) On days when I wake up well rested, I'm happy, chipper, and greet my children with smiles and a hug. Isn't it only fair our kids get the best side of us every day?

Secondly, outlook. Now, I for one can sport quite the 'tude if you know what I mean. I had a horrible attitude as a teenager (bless my poor mother's heart) and that part of me can still sometimes surface. This happens, I've noticed, if I'm particularly worn out or have been running around all day. I lose patience over silly little things that shouldn't matter. And honestly, if we don't want our kids to have negative outlooks on life, we probably shouldn't ever be that sort of an example.

Last, energy level. My mother-in-law is one of the funniest women I have ever met in my life. She gets in these moods where she just goes nuts; laughs hysterically at every little thing, gets up and dances like a 17 year old, and says the most hilarious things that you'd think you were talking to a 20-something college girl, not a 40-something grandmother of 4. She has the best energy level in a mom I've ever seen.....and she raised (and is still raising) 9 children! How does she do it? Honestly, I believe she eats healthily, and gets as much rest as she can. She's so chill. She's in bed every night by 10 and takes naps when she needs them. It's okay. We all need to do it. Even a Super-Mom needs to!

So, the next time you feel your mood falling, your outlook sloping, or your energy level crashing, do yourself (and everyone around you!) a favor, and

Take a nap!!

Thursday

2009-05-13T22:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Paint your fingernails! Don't you just feel so much prettier when they're done?

Happy Kid Goal:

Make a collage with your kids today. Pick a theme like "things we're thankful for," and look through old magazines, newspapers, or advertisements and cut out pictures of those items. Glue them onto some cardstock, and hang them in your kid's room! My 3 year old absolutely LOVES it when we do this!

Happy Husband Goal:

Make sure to say at least 3 more "I love you's" to your man than you usually do. The more they hear it, the more they know that it's true!

Happy House Goal:

Organize your computer desk. Mine seems like it's always cluttered with files, bills, coupons, and more things that don't even belong there (currently, one of my favorite fashion bracelets.) Get things cleared off and put away (away-away!) and make that area a little more pleasant to work in.

Dinner Tonight:

Baked Mac and Cheese

submitted by Kira P.

2 1/2 cups un cooked macaroni noodles

1 cube butter, melted

2 cups cheese- i usually use a little bit more

4 cups milk

salt/pepper

coat noodles in 9x13 pan with butter. pour milk over noodles and add cheese. then season.

bake at 325 for 1 hour

YUM!

Today's Pep Talk

Have you ever wished you could teach a young child how to be tactful? You know, make them understand what is and what is not appropriate to say or tell people? I'm pretty sure that having children is a surefire recipe for embarassment. Kids (as adorable as they are) don't quite understand what's wrong with certain thought, words, or phrases, so they just say what's on their minds. It's not their fault! This, obviously, has happened to me on many an occasion. For example:

One evening, while driving home in the car (I thought our kids were asleep in the back,) my husband and I began discussing how much we disliked a certain person. It's not that we're rude or snobbish people, but this particular person was dating one of our family members, and was just not a good match. He was tactless, inappropriate, and downright rude himself, in fact. He had also made a particularly mean comment to me that evening and I was rather upset. My husband and I had this conversation, and then it was over. We didn't really discuss it again. However, a little over a month later, my mother in law cornered me and said "I just thought you ought to know, your sweet little 3 year old girl told [so and so] how much her mommy hates him and wishes she never has to see him again!" Talk about embarassment.And this person may very well become part of our family.Fortunately for me, to spare more embarassment, he was very kind and has never brought the incident up to me. This was not very long ago. Just about 6 months or so. So why am I writing about it here now? Because I find it to be absolutely hilarious. Plus, it taught me a few good lessons! Moral of the story, Mommies?

Learn to laugh: today's embarassment may very well be tomorrow's comedy!

Wednesday!

2009-05-12T22:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Indulge yourself in a favorite hobby today. Crafting, scrapbooking, writing, sewing......whatever it may be, enjoy yourself!

Happy Kid Goal:

Play "pretend" with your child today. Go on a hunt for monsters, search for a missing treasure, or sail on the ocean with pirates. Let your inner-child imagination come to the surface, and teach your children how to use their own!

Happy Husband Goal:

Ask your husband what he'd like to do tonight. Leave it completely up to him. Whether it be going out, or just chillin' together on the sofa. But have some enjoyable time together.

Happy House Goal:

Organize your closet. (This one is fun for me, but I'm kind of an organization freak.) I love putting all my shoes in order, hanging all my handbags on hooks, and color sorting my clothes. Plus, it's a lot easier to find everything!

Dinner Tonight:

Karyn's Pizza Bake (it's not really pizza!)
2 cans of refrigerator biscuits
1 can pizza sauce (I make my own with a can of tomato sauce, garlic powder, and italian season.)
Grated Mozerella cheese
desired pizza toppings (pepperoni, pineapple, peppers, olives, mushrooms, sausage, etc;)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. Remove biscuit dough and cut in quarters. In a bowl, stir the pieces of dough together with the pizza sauce, toppings, and some of the cheese. Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet, and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 1/2 hour, or until the biscuits are golden brown. Check with a toothpick in the center biscuits to make sure it's cooked all the way through.

My husband LOVES this stuff!

Today's Pep Talk
Instead of our usual advice or encouragement, today I decided to post this cool thing my friend Kira sent me. Hope you enjoy it.

The time we spend at home and the atmosphere of the home have a powerful influence on our lives. Here our children form their habits and ideas.
Dorothy Law Nolte wrote:
"If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condem."
"If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight"
"If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy"
"If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty"
"If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient."
"If a child lives with encouragement, he learns to confidence."
"If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate."
"If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice"
"If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith."
"If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself."
" If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns to find love in the world" ("children learn what they live" 1963 John Phillip Co)

Tuesday Goals

2009-05-11T20:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Is it warm where you live? If it is, take a few minutes to bask in the sun. Maybe while your kids are out playing. It feels so nice!

Happy Kid Goal:

Once again, if it's warm, run through the sprinklers with your kiddos today! Cold? Maybe. Fun? Always!

Happy Husband Goal:

Go for a drive together sometime today. Let him drive (obviously) and let him take you wherever he feels like taking you!

Happy House Goal:

Time to attack below the beds! If it's too big of a job at your house, just do one for today. You may have to have your kids help you reach some things for you! Throw away EVERYTHING you don't need! Put everything else "away-away." (My term for all the way, exactly where it goes!)

Dinner Tonight:

Shepherd's Pie

(Submitted by Anna G.)

1 pound Hamburger

1 can of corn & or green beans

1 small can of Cream of Chicken/mushroom soup

Mashed potatos

cheese

First brown the hamburger untill it is cooked throughly. This is when you prepare your mashed potatos as well. (I like to use the betty crocker mashed potatos that are already done, you just have to heat them up:))then in a bowl combine browned hamburger, corn or beans, and soup.Stir. Then top with your mashed potatos and sprinkle cheese on top. Then heat in the microwave for a minute or so.

Today's Pep Talk

(This is a talk about Mother's Day that was given in a church this past Sunday. I thought I'd share it with you.)

A Mother’s Day Talk
By
Madison Waters
I don’t know who came up with the idea of Mother’s Day because near as I can tell, Mother’s don’t seem to like it very much. My Mom doesn’t care for it. My Grandmother doesn’t care for it. My other Grandmother doesn’t care for it. And, if this trend continues, I suppose I won’t care for it.
Over the years I’ve quietly listened to adult conversations (which by the way, some might call it eavesdropping but it totally wasn’t, they were talking within earshot of me and I didn’t have any choice but to listen because that is what ears do). As I’ve listened, I think the reason for the general distaste for the day happens because we all tend to not see the good that we do and that we are. When we look at our own lives we tend to slide past the good stuff and remember the bad stuff really, really well.
Then there are the unfulfilled expectations that we all carry around with us. There are those women who would like to be mothers but can’t. There are those who are mothers but their children have made choices that they wish were different. There are those who would like to be married so they could be mothers but the opportunity hasn’t happened. There are those who made choices early in their lives that can haunt them on Mother’s Day. I know women in most of those categories and I’m sure there are some other categories that I’ve missed.
Let me tell you about one of those categories that has affected our family. Some of you know that my oldest sister got pregnant when she was a teenager. After a lot of soul searching she made the decision to go to LDS Family Services and allow a couple that were unable to have children to adopt her son. This was a beautifully difficult decision and experience.
We met that family and they came to the hospital the day after the baby was born – they were absolutely incredible. The day the adoption took place my Dad and the new adoptive Dad gave that little boy (his name is Jensen) a blessing. There were many tears that day and I know that Mother’s Day can be a difficult time for my sister. However, I have also heard my sister talking about the experience and she has received a sure confirmation that Jensen is exactly where the Lord would have him. She receives regular letters and pictures from the adoptive family that continue to confirm her decision – both the adoptive Mom and my sister’s lives are being blessed. It is amazing to me how the Lord can work a difficult situation into something that is incredible.
What I have learned from this and other experiences is that trust and faith in the Lord are what help us in any and all situations … whether those situations be difficult or wonderful. Faith in Christ is the key to finding meaning and hope in this world – it can even help endure some of the annual challenges of Mother’s Day.
The wonderful part of Mother’s Day for me is the reminder of just how much my Mom does for me and for my family. I’m grateful for her example. And I’m grateful for Christ and his atonement that can, if we open up to Him, heighten the wonderful feelings and uplift the difficult ones.

Products This Mom Can't Live Without......

2009-05-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

I think every mother has several items she considers life savers. Here's a condensed version of mine for you (i have way too many to list them all!)

This is an amazing soap-free laundry detergent that is perfect for newborn's sensitive skin. It's also great if your kids' tend to get dry skin or rashes frequently. (It smells great too~!)

Goldfish crackers. What kid doesn't love these? At my house, we go through them by the boxful! Lately, I've been buying the whole grain version.

Juice boxes! I always throw two of these into my purse or diaper bag anytime I'm leaving the house for a while. They are great for when my toddlers have meltdowns in public! I love the Juicy Juice brand because I feel like it has less sugar and tastes the best.

The picture is kinda small, but these are Baby Bjorn bibs. They are my FAVORITE! They are made of soft plastic with a catcher at the bottom that catch the littlest ctumbs, the stickiest cereal, and every glob of yogurt or drop of milk. Best part: they are dishwasher safe!
Burt's Bees Diaper Ointment. My good friend Kira turned me on to this, and I'm never going back! It's all natural, it smells great, and it works fast! A bit more on the pricey side, but a small tube of this goes a long way.

Clorox Anywhere hard surface cleaner. This is an antibacterial spray that is so gentle you can use it on your child's high chair tray. I disinfect everything with this stuff, and it's not extremely harsh-smelling.

These two products go together. Sassy's disposable diaper sacks and diaper sack dispenser. It's so small it fits right into your diaper bag. The sacks smell like baby powder, and once you drop a dirty dud diaper into one and twist it shut, the smell is GONE. I love these for extremely messy diaper jobs, and for if I'm ever at a friend's house and don't want to drop a smelly diaper in their house. I just pull one out and keep it in my diaper bag till I get to an outdoor garbage can.

I could go on and on forever, but those are my top favorites. Obviously they are mostly for someone with babies and/or toddlers like me. If you have a list of products you want to share on here, email it to me, and I'd be happy to post it! (and even happier to find more things to add to my list!)

Monday

2009-05-10T23:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom Goal:

Sit down with a drink and a snack, and watch a favorite movie today. I plan to do this while my kids are napping, but you can do it whenever you find the time. Just make sure you make some time!

Happy Kid Goal:

Make your child's favorite meal for lunch this afternoon. For most youngsters, it's pretty easy - mac n cheese, spaghettios, etc;

Happy Husband Goal:

Buy your husband's favorite candy bar or other treat today. Have it sitting on his pillow tonight when it's time for bed.

Happy House Goal:

Vacuum your couch cushions today. They can get pretty nasty. You might even find some money (or in my case, Goldfish crackers.)

Dinner Tonight:

Tacos

If you have a favorite way of making these, you can do it that way. Our favorite way (though not the healthiest way) is listed below:

1 pound hamburger

chopped onion

salt & pepper

garlic powder

chili powder

vegetable oil

flour tortillas

grated cheddar cheese

chopped tomatoes

shredded lettuce

taco sauce

Season your hamburger meat with the salt, pepper, garlic, and chili powder. Add the chopped onion. In a frying pan, brown the meat and then set aside.

Pour a few tablespoons of oil into a pan and place a tortilla in to brown. Watch it carefully! Once it's brown, flip over and add a couple spoonfuls of meat and some of the chedder cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and fry till the taco reaches desired crispness. Repeat with all tacos.

Add the other condiments once each taco is cooked.

Today's Pep Talk:

I hope you all enjoyed your Mother's Day! And I hope you all have appreciative families who let your know how much you are loved. Truly, the mother's job is the hardest, dirtiest, most exhausting, yet somehow the most rewarding job I can think of. You are strong. You have seen and dealt with so much. And yet, you're probably taken for granted by all the people you serve every day. Don't worry, you're noticed. And even if you aren't always acknowledged for your amazing efforts and accomplishments, you are appreciated. Just think of what would happen if you weren't there.....their world would simply just stop. Just remember today that you're job is probably the most important in the entire world! You're awesome!

The Happy Moms Club

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Seriously simple, yet so delicious!

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Directions

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Cache Valley Unit:

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This Week's Goals

Sunday Dinner

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

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Goals for the week of Oct. 26th

Ready to be "Mother of the Week?"

I've returned from the dead!

Wednesday Goals

Last Guilty Pleasure Day

I'm back...for the moment!

MIA

Cache Valley Movie Night Recap!

Just For Laughs

It's the weekend!!

Friday

Scroll down for Thursday's goals!

So Sorry ~ it won't happen again!

I'm Back Again! Thursday Goals

Orem Unit *Guilty Pleasure Day*

Cache Valley Unit *Guilty Pleasure Day*

See you next week!!

Thursday

Wednesday already?

New Details for Happy Hour!

Tuesday

Orem Unit Announcement

Monday

Orem Unit "Happy Hour"

Yay! It's the Weekend!!!

Friday!

EMERGENY POST! *Overwhelmed Moms*

Thursday Goals

Wednesday Goals

Orem Ladies....

Tuesday

Monday Goals

Orem Unit's *~Sneek Peek!~*

It feels good to be guilty!

I'm Back!!

Taking the weekend off!

Thursday - by Chelsea

Q: What's little, blonde, and absolutely CRAZY???

Wednesday

Guilty Pleasure Day!

Tuesday Goals

Monday Goals

Sunday

Saturday

To The Person Who Hates This Blog.....

Thursday Goals

Wednesday

Tuesdays Goals

Another Monday

Sunday

Summery Saturday!

Friday Goals

I'm Back!! Thrusday Goals

Cache Valley Day at the Park

Recipes!!

Taking the weekend off!

Orem Unit Guilty Pleasure Day

Cache Valley Unit Guilty Pleasure Day

EMERGENY POST! Overwhelmed Moms

Orem Unit's ~Sneek Peek!~