Here is a notice put out by Terry Kroeger, the publisher of the Omaha World Herald, regarding all the recent criticism they have received over their policy against published same sex marriage announcements:
The “Celebrations” page of the Omaha World-Herald has provided a place to buy space to celebrate weddings, engagements, anniversaries and birthdays. It will continue to be just that. Celebrations announcements regarding legal weddings, engagements for legal weddings or anniversaries of a legal marriage will be welcomed, regardless of the genders of the couple. We will not run announcements regarding commitment ceremonies, partnerships and other non-marriage unions, again regardless of gender.
Some will criticize this action because they would prefer that same-sex announcements not appear in their newspaper. Others will say it doesn't go far enough. Our sense is that this change will provide for a public “celebration” of important milestones in the lives of people who take the significant steps toward legally sanctioned marriage. Iowa and four other states as well as the District of Columbia have legalized same-sex marriages. We will publish Celebrations announcements of marriages from those jurisdictions.
Fair enough, but much of his statement went on to whine about all the "vitriol" that's been spewed at the World Herald over it's perceived inequity toward gays/lesbians. Boo hoo.
He goes on to state:
In recent years, our News Department has given extensive coverage to this matter. That coverage has not been limited to the political debate or legislative and court actions on same-sex marriage. We have featured gay and lesbian couples in our Living sections. We have written editorials that consistently call for civil discourse on this emotionally charged issue. We commissioned a poll and published findings that show a majority of Omahans support either same-sex marriages or civil unions.
So, if the majority of Omahans support either same-sex marriages or civil unions, then why not publish those announcements, too? It seems like good business to sell ads to whoever wants to pay for the space.
Whatever. At least it's better than nothing.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Preschool Update
Now that school has started for the kids, our home preschool has started, as well. Soren isn't as eager to start writing as little Evelyn was. She'd much rather play Boowa and Kwala on the computer. (Thanks for that, Grandma.)
I started with lines. She will be tracing all sorts of lines for the next few weeks: curvy, straight, zig zaggy, etc.
I also bought a few new games and some flashcards to help work on number and letter recognition. Evelyn and Brody both like to use them, as well, so it was surely money well spent. They have even been caught working together. Gasp.
By far Soren's favorite part of the preschool day is when I let her make her own lunch. She loves to make pb & j all by "herslelf." No, that's not a misspelling. It's just cute how she says "myslelf."
I also caught her licking the knife and sticking it back in the peanut butter jar. Note to friends: don't eat peanut butter at our house.
She ate the whole sandwich, as usual. This time she didn't even pull a Brody and tell me that she doesn't "yike this bwead." I swear, if Brody says one more time at a meal that he thinks something is disgusting, he'll be eating liver and onions for a week.
I started with lines. She will be tracing all sorts of lines for the next few weeks: curvy, straight, zig zaggy, etc.
I also bought a few new games and some flashcards to help work on number and letter recognition. Evelyn and Brody both like to use them, as well, so it was surely money well spent. They have even been caught working together. Gasp.
By far Soren's favorite part of the preschool day is when I let her make her own lunch. She loves to make pb & j all by "herslelf." No, that's not a misspelling. It's just cute how she says "myslelf."
I also caught her licking the knife and sticking it back in the peanut butter jar. Note to friends: don't eat peanut butter at our house.
She ate the whole sandwich, as usual. This time she didn't even pull a Brody and tell me that she doesn't "yike this bwead." I swear, if Brody says one more time at a meal that he thinks something is disgusting, he'll be eating liver and onions for a week.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Weekend Review
Friday night was girls' night out again. I generally make it a habit to join a few girlfriends for drinks, ice cream, or Paint Yourself Silly on a weekly basis. It feels good to talk about our problems, and I secretly love to hear all the troubles they are having with their husbands. Not that I want them to have problems, mind you, but I love to be able to brag about my hubby. This Friday was supper, ice cream, and pottery painting with my bowling team buddies. Colby gets a chance to get all the kids ready for bed, and the kids get the chance to see that, yes, life can go on when mommy isn't home.
Saturday brought three hours at the mall with the kids, and I'm pretty sure everyone was suicidal by the end of the trip. Not even candy and the threat of certain death if one did not behave could stop the kids from being absolutely irritating. Colby took them swimming Saturday night while I worked out, and we got a surprise visit from Aunt Carrie and her dog Penn. We babysat Penn while she went out overnight. He didn't even crap on the floor. He crapped on the deck, but not in the house.
Sunday was the Farmland golf tournament. Colby and Dade were gone all day long. They finished dead last because their partners didn't show up, but they came home with some prizes and good memories. I took the other three grocery shopping in the morning because I'm an idiot, a huge f-ing dumbass. I'm sure me, my three kids, and my huge cart full of groceries were great entertainment for shoppers as I yelled, "Am I speaking English here? Sit down. For the love of Ray J, don't touch everything. I know you're bored, and I don't want to be here all day either. Stop eating Brody's popcorn or he's going to have a frickin' miscarriage. Who cares whose Icee it is? You all have the same cooties anyway. There are kids in Africa who don't even have Target." Yes, I said all those things. Sometimes in my frustration I make no sense, especially when the audience is 5 years old.
Weekends will soon become packed with dance classes and birthday parties and trips to the pumpkin patch. For now, I hope the kids can appreciate all the work it takes to survive a weekend of shopping without 10 margaritas and a bowl of weed.
Saturday brought three hours at the mall with the kids, and I'm pretty sure everyone was suicidal by the end of the trip. Not even candy and the threat of certain death if one did not behave could stop the kids from being absolutely irritating. Colby took them swimming Saturday night while I worked out, and we got a surprise visit from Aunt Carrie and her dog Penn. We babysat Penn while she went out overnight. He didn't even crap on the floor. He crapped on the deck, but not in the house.
Sunday was the Farmland golf tournament. Colby and Dade were gone all day long. They finished dead last because their partners didn't show up, but they came home with some prizes and good memories. I took the other three grocery shopping in the morning because I'm an idiot, a huge f-ing dumbass. I'm sure me, my three kids, and my huge cart full of groceries were great entertainment for shoppers as I yelled, "Am I speaking English here? Sit down. For the love of Ray J, don't touch everything. I know you're bored, and I don't want to be here all day either. Stop eating Brody's popcorn or he's going to have a frickin' miscarriage. Who cares whose Icee it is? You all have the same cooties anyway. There are kids in Africa who don't even have Target." Yes, I said all those things. Sometimes in my frustration I make no sense, especially when the audience is 5 years old.
Weekends will soon become packed with dance classes and birthday parties and trips to the pumpkin patch. For now, I hope the kids can appreciate all the work it takes to survive a weekend of shopping without 10 margaritas and a bowl of weed.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Tuscan Meatballs
We're still on our healthier eating quest. I am happy that we have lasted this long, but a few of our old bad habits have returned. I eat too much ice cream. The kids eat too much junk. However, I am never worried about a healthy dinner when I serve these meatballs. They are tasty and incorporate lots of groups from the food pyramid. I make a double batch and have enough meatballs left to freeze for a couple more meals.
First, I must note that I make my own breadcrumbs. I toss all the "butt" ends of the loaf of whole wheat bread that no one in my family will eat into a baggie in the freezer. When I know I'll need breadcrumbs, I pull out 2 or 3 pieces of bread to thaw. I put them in my little food processor with some herbs and stuff, and voila, breadcrumbs. For these meatballs, my breadcrumbs have a vast array of stuff mixed in including fennel, salt, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil and spray it with non stick spray (just in case).
In a large bowl mix together (hands work best):
1 Package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and water squeezed out
1 lb. ground chicken (We don't like ground turkey much, but it'll work. So will beef. Sometimes I mix beef and chicken.)
1 egg
1 c. seasoned breadcrumbs
1 c. grated Parmesan cheese
2 handfulls of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp. garlic salt (I use garlic powder - I'm trying to cut back on salt a bit)
black pepper to taste
The "dough" will look like this:
I use my trusty ice cream /cookie dough/meatball scoop to make the balls. Drop the balls onto the baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes. Baking time will need to be adjusted according to the size of your balls. Sidenote: I just laughed out loud. Men, that means the size of the meatballs, not your actual balls. Just want to clear that up. I tend to overcook my balls because I am a freak about raw meat.
The finished product is scrumptious!
I like to serve them with pasta and homemade lower fat Alfredo sauce. It's made with half and half instead of heavy cream, and uses corn starch and the pasta's cooking water to make a thick and rich sauce. I can surely post the recipe if anyone is interested.
First, I must note that I make my own breadcrumbs. I toss all the "butt" ends of the loaf of whole wheat bread that no one in my family will eat into a baggie in the freezer. When I know I'll need breadcrumbs, I pull out 2 or 3 pieces of bread to thaw. I put them in my little food processor with some herbs and stuff, and voila, breadcrumbs. For these meatballs, my breadcrumbs have a vast array of stuff mixed in including fennel, salt, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil and spray it with non stick spray (just in case).
In a large bowl mix together (hands work best):
1 Package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and water squeezed out
1 lb. ground chicken (We don't like ground turkey much, but it'll work. So will beef. Sometimes I mix beef and chicken.)
1 egg
1 c. seasoned breadcrumbs
1 c. grated Parmesan cheese
2 handfulls of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp. garlic salt (I use garlic powder - I'm trying to cut back on salt a bit)
black pepper to taste
The "dough" will look like this:
I use my trusty ice cream /cookie dough/meatball scoop to make the balls. Drop the balls onto the baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes. Baking time will need to be adjusted according to the size of your balls. Sidenote: I just laughed out loud. Men, that means the size of the meatballs, not your actual balls. Just want to clear that up. I tend to overcook my balls because I am a freak about raw meat.
The finished product is scrumptious!
I like to serve them with pasta and homemade lower fat Alfredo sauce. It's made with half and half instead of heavy cream, and uses corn starch and the pasta's cooking water to make a thick and rich sauce. I can surely post the recipe if anyone is interested.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Classy Journalism
What is news? News is something that is enjoyable to read, impacts our lives or maybe the lives of those in our community (local, national, and global), keeps us updated on the weather, and informs us of political and historical events.
Newspapers have historically been the way we benefit from all "the news" has to offer. Although technology is changing the way we get our news, papers are still popular and enjoyable. We can look through classified ads, read the comics, and get gardening tips. We can read birth, death, and wedding announcements.
Well, if you're reading the Omaha World Herald you may not be able to read some of those wedding announcements. The Omaha World Herald won't publish union announcements for same-sex couples.
I am told that the Lincoln Journal Star will publish them, as will the Columbus Telegram and the Norfolk Daily News.
So what's the hold up, World Herald? Is the newspaper representing Nebraska's largest city really still homophobic? Really?
Join me in a complete boycott of the Omaha World Herald. Call or e-mail them, and ask them to change the policy. If you have a subscription, cancel it. If you were planning on buying one this Sunday, don't. Until this policy changes we need to make sure that the Omaha World Herald feels in its pocketbook what Nebraskans can do.
Newspapers have historically been the way we benefit from all "the news" has to offer. Although technology is changing the way we get our news, papers are still popular and enjoyable. We can look through classified ads, read the comics, and get gardening tips. We can read birth, death, and wedding announcements.
Well, if you're reading the Omaha World Herald you may not be able to read some of those wedding announcements. The Omaha World Herald won't publish union announcements for same-sex couples.
I am told that the Lincoln Journal Star will publish them, as will the Columbus Telegram and the Norfolk Daily News.
So what's the hold up, World Herald? Is the newspaper representing Nebraska's largest city really still homophobic? Really?
Join me in a complete boycott of the Omaha World Herald. Call or e-mail them, and ask them to change the policy. If you have a subscription, cancel it. If you were planning on buying one this Sunday, don't. Until this policy changes we need to make sure that the Omaha World Herald feels in its pocketbook what Nebraskans can do.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Ridin' Solo
Soren has quickly adjusted to life at home alone with Mama. As a matter of fact, I'm worried that three years of this will leave me with a little girl who really won't want to go to school. I guess I'll worry about that later.
In the meantime, we're going to take a hundred trips to the zoo together, and sometimes we'll ride the train.
Today on our train ride we even saw a large dog getting a bike ride from it's owner. What the hell? That dog was big enough to pull the train for god's sake.
We're going to go to story time, play Boowa and Kwala on the computer, and eat edamame and a Dum Dum sucker every day for lunch. We're going to fall asleep on the floor. We're going to call daddy twelve times a day and tell him about all the fun stuff we're doing.
Sounds like good times to me.
In the meantime, we're going to take a hundred trips to the zoo together, and sometimes we'll ride the train.
Today on our train ride we even saw a large dog getting a bike ride from it's owner. What the hell? That dog was big enough to pull the train for god's sake.
We're going to go to story time, play Boowa and Kwala on the computer, and eat edamame and a Dum Dum sucker every day for lunch. We're going to fall asleep on the floor. We're going to call daddy twelve times a day and tell him about all the fun stuff we're doing.
Sounds like good times to me.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
We Are the (Sort Of) Champions
My good friend Amanda, her hubby Heath, and her sister April needed a fourth member for their bowling team. April's ex-husband was the former fourth member of the team, and you can imagine how that was working out. Not well.
Along comes Nichole, needing a break from Mommy life. Even though I'm not a great bowler, handicapping keeps the teams all equal. To make a long story short our team, Spare Me, won more games than any other team. Yay! But since we lost the championship game to the team with the second best record (BOO!) we ended up with second place. Oh well. I still got a kickass trophy, and the kids think I'm f-ing awesome.
I love you, Trophy.
Trophy even got to have a whole wheat bagel for breakfast with me. What's that, Trophy? You won't eat Smuckers jelly either? Good thing the Vescapades house has Polaner all fruit spread.
Oh, Trophy. Hopefully Mommy can give you a sibling after the fall league ends. I'll really have to step up my 97 average if I want to do that.
So, if you're looking for me on Monday nights, I'll be at Madsen's bowling for a sibling for Trophy.
Along comes Nichole, needing a break from Mommy life. Even though I'm not a great bowler, handicapping keeps the teams all equal. To make a long story short our team, Spare Me, won more games than any other team. Yay! But since we lost the championship game to the team with the second best record (BOO!) we ended up with second place. Oh well. I still got a kickass trophy, and the kids think I'm f-ing awesome.
I love you, Trophy.
Trophy even got to have a whole wheat bagel for breakfast with me. What's that, Trophy? You won't eat Smuckers jelly either? Good thing the Vescapades house has Polaner all fruit spread.
Oh, Trophy. Hopefully Mommy can give you a sibling after the fall league ends. I'll really have to step up my 97 average if I want to do that.
So, if you're looking for me on Monday nights, I'll be at Madsen's bowling for a sibling for Trophy.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
At the request of a Facebook/elementary school friend, I must post this recipe for the best cookies ever. I'm positive I have posted it before, but I couldn't find it in the blog history. So, here goes. Make a double batch!!
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat together:
3/4 c. butter (1 1/2 sticks), please don't use margarine - it isn't the same
1 c. brown sugar
1c. white sugar
1/2 c. peanut butter
2 eggs
2 tsp. real vanilla extract
To this mixture add:
2 1/2 c. flour (I use 1 c. whole wheat and 1 1/2 c. all purpose)
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
Mixing the dough will surely give your mixture a workout. My big, strong hubby mixes a double batch by hand with a huge wooden spoon. Impressive, but not for the weak. Stir in 1/2 bag of your favorite chocolate chips.
Drop by teaspoonfulls (ha ha - more like ice cream scoop fulls) onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, just until the bottoms are brown. DO NOT OVERCOOK. The cookies will be kind of gooey. Let them sit on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool.
Enjoy!
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat together:
3/4 c. butter (1 1/2 sticks), please don't use margarine - it isn't the same
1 c. brown sugar
1c. white sugar
1/2 c. peanut butter
2 eggs
2 tsp. real vanilla extract
To this mixture add:
2 1/2 c. flour (I use 1 c. whole wheat and 1 1/2 c. all purpose)
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
Mixing the dough will surely give your mixture a workout. My big, strong hubby mixes a double batch by hand with a huge wooden spoon. Impressive, but not for the weak. Stir in 1/2 bag of your favorite chocolate chips.
Drop by teaspoonfulls (ha ha - more like ice cream scoop fulls) onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, just until the bottoms are brown. DO NOT OVERCOOK. The cookies will be kind of gooey. Let them sit on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool.
Enjoy!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Date Night
We had a very busy week in the Vescapades home. School started. Workouts and shopping were daily occurrences. Aunt Carrie came to visit. Colby and I had date night.
With four kids it can be hard to find a babysitter. Thank goodness Aunt Carrie was up to the task. Colby and I were off to eat, me wearing very impractical heels which caused my feet to blister almost immediately. With a full tummy and bare feet, I headed over to Paint Yourself Silly with my handsome hubby. He painted a pirate skull, and I painted a business card holder. I will post photos as soon as they are fired in the kiln and ready to go. Since PYS is right next door to Ivanna Cone, how could I resist getting a big bowl of creamy goodness: one scoop of cherry streusal and one scoop of butter pecan latte. Divine. Not only is the ice cream good, but the two guys working were the best guys ever. As much ice cream as I buy there, the employees know me well and often ask me about the kids and how things are going. Both guys commented on how nice I looked and loved my new shirt. Colby always says that the gays love Nichole, and I can't say he's wrong. *smiles* After we were thoroughly painted silly, we headed ShopKo to buy me a pair of flip flops for my sore feet. Then we were off to Libations (a martini bar) for a few drinks.
We were home by 10ish. We are crazy party animals, obviously. Thanks to my lovely husband (and the gay guys who work in the Creamery Building) for making me feel so pretty last night. *more smiles*
With four kids it can be hard to find a babysitter. Thank goodness Aunt Carrie was up to the task. Colby and I were off to eat, me wearing very impractical heels which caused my feet to blister almost immediately. With a full tummy and bare feet, I headed over to Paint Yourself Silly with my handsome hubby. He painted a pirate skull, and I painted a business card holder. I will post photos as soon as they are fired in the kiln and ready to go. Since PYS is right next door to Ivanna Cone, how could I resist getting a big bowl of creamy goodness: one scoop of cherry streusal and one scoop of butter pecan latte. Divine. Not only is the ice cream good, but the two guys working were the best guys ever. As much ice cream as I buy there, the employees know me well and often ask me about the kids and how things are going. Both guys commented on how nice I looked and loved my new shirt. Colby always says that the gays love Nichole, and I can't say he's wrong. *smiles* After we were thoroughly painted silly, we headed ShopKo to buy me a pair of flip flops for my sore feet. Then we were off to Libations (a martini bar) for a few drinks.
We were home by 10ish. We are crazy party animals, obviously. Thanks to my lovely husband (and the gay guys who work in the Creamery Building) for making me feel so pretty last night. *more smiles*
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Kindergarten Comida
Well, the first day of kindergarten was a bust. Evelyn hated it. They didn't get snack, and I didn't let her eat hot lunch. Oh the horror. She complained that she wanted to eat hot lunch every day, while I countered with every parent's go-to excuse: it's too expensive.
Determined to make day two better, I told her she could have hot lunch. I also enlisted the help of my friend Dede who is a paraeducator at Evie's elementary school. Dede stopped by to check on her and give her a hug.
After school I was excited to see how school went. Good, she said. How was lunch, I ask. And this is where it gets frickin' beautiful....I wanted to say I TOLD YOU SO soooo bad, but I didn't. Evie said, "Their food sucks! I'm eating cold lunch every day."
Mom prevails again.
Determined to make day two better, I told her she could have hot lunch. I also enlisted the help of my friend Dede who is a paraeducator at Evie's elementary school. Dede stopped by to check on her and give her a hug.
After school I was excited to see how school went. Good, she said. How was lunch, I ask. And this is where it gets frickin' beautiful....I wanted to say I TOLD YOU SO soooo bad, but I didn't. Evie said, "Their food sucks! I'm eating cold lunch every day."
Mom prevails again.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
The First Day of School (And Soren's First day of Being Alone)
All week long Brody and Evelyn have been excited about today, the first day of school. Brody knows that many of his friends are in his class again, and he can't wait to see them. Evelyn is thrilled about going to kindergarten. Dade is understandably less excited for school to start. He's starting 7th grade, which means even more homework and even more social stress.
I woke Dade promptly at 6:15 am, after already having turned on the coffee pot, of course. I made him eggs with runny yolks and toast for breakfast. It's amazing to see him sit at the table eating like the growing boy that he is. I remember walking him to the bus for his first day of kindergarten. He was so excited to ride the bus. Now, riding the bus is nothing more than time to read a book and listen to music on the headphones. That is, unless someone is throwing glue on the bus. Dade had officially entered puberty, and I know that these next few years will be a time of great change and anxiety about fitting in. Luckily for him, he is witty and flexible and generally makes friends easily. He doesn't care if he plays alone or by himself and often prefers solitary activities. I suppose boys have it easier than girls at this stage of life. Still, I hope that his years as a teenager will not be frought with the stress of trying to fit in.
Brody woke up with crazy bedhead, as usual. He is rather particular about his hair, but I convinced him to at least let me water it down for the first day of school. He bought a hat with his allowance and wanted to wear it to school. I told him he'll have to keep it in his bag all day, and he agreed. He agreed without any type of resistence or bitching. YES! Brody is starting second grade.
He wouldn't walk with us on the way up to the school, but he kept looking back to see if I was still there. That's so Brody. He wants to be a big kid, but he still wants Mom around.
This morning was huge for Evelyn. I woke her up so that Daddy could see her before he left for work.
She had a really great morning, got dressed without complaining, got her bookbag and lunch bag, and waited patiently for time to go. I knew I coldn't cry when I dropped her off. She was so excited, and I didn't want to ruin it for her. She wanted to hold Soren's hand while they walked up to school. It made me so proud to see them hand in hand. I hope they never lose that feeling as they grow up, even through all the fights and bickering.
Kindergarten, here comes Evelyn, iCarly backpack in her hands and attitude in her pocket.
Evelyn was all smiles when I took one last photo while she waited in line to go inside.
Soren probably took it the hardest this morning. While Evie wouldn't even kiss me goodbye, Soren was sad as we walked away. "I don't want to be alone by myself," she said. I took her to the YMCA daycare while I worked out. For the first time she was all by herself there. She packed her backpack with snacks for daycare, so I sat her at a table to eat before I left her. She did great and was ready to go swimming when I came to get her after my workout. She's happily watching a tv show that she chose, not one that Evie chose for them. I think she'll discover a new independence now that Ms. Bossy is at school.
I woke Dade promptly at 6:15 am, after already having turned on the coffee pot, of course. I made him eggs with runny yolks and toast for breakfast. It's amazing to see him sit at the table eating like the growing boy that he is. I remember walking him to the bus for his first day of kindergarten. He was so excited to ride the bus. Now, riding the bus is nothing more than time to read a book and listen to music on the headphones. That is, unless someone is throwing glue on the bus. Dade had officially entered puberty, and I know that these next few years will be a time of great change and anxiety about fitting in. Luckily for him, he is witty and flexible and generally makes friends easily. He doesn't care if he plays alone or by himself and often prefers solitary activities. I suppose boys have it easier than girls at this stage of life. Still, I hope that his years as a teenager will not be frought with the stress of trying to fit in.
Brody woke up with crazy bedhead, as usual. He is rather particular about his hair, but I convinced him to at least let me water it down for the first day of school. He bought a hat with his allowance and wanted to wear it to school. I told him he'll have to keep it in his bag all day, and he agreed. He agreed without any type of resistence or bitching. YES! Brody is starting second grade.
He wouldn't walk with us on the way up to the school, but he kept looking back to see if I was still there. That's so Brody. He wants to be a big kid, but he still wants Mom around.
This morning was huge for Evelyn. I woke her up so that Daddy could see her before he left for work.
She had a really great morning, got dressed without complaining, got her bookbag and lunch bag, and waited patiently for time to go. I knew I coldn't cry when I dropped her off. She was so excited, and I didn't want to ruin it for her. She wanted to hold Soren's hand while they walked up to school. It made me so proud to see them hand in hand. I hope they never lose that feeling as they grow up, even through all the fights and bickering.
Kindergarten, here comes Evelyn, iCarly backpack in her hands and attitude in her pocket.
Evelyn was all smiles when I took one last photo while she waited in line to go inside.
Soren probably took it the hardest this morning. While Evie wouldn't even kiss me goodbye, Soren was sad as we walked away. "I don't want to be alone by myself," she said. I took her to the YMCA daycare while I worked out. For the first time she was all by herself there. She packed her backpack with snacks for daycare, so I sat her at a table to eat before I left her. She did great and was ready to go swimming when I came to get her after my workout. She's happily watching a tv show that she chose, not one that Evie chose for them. I think she'll discover a new independence now that Ms. Bossy is at school.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Cookie Dough Truffles
Since school starts tomorrow, I though I'd make the kids a special treat for in their lunches and after school. Cookie dough truffles seemed to fit the bill. I knew making them would be time consuming, but not every kid gets the luxury of having a mom that has time to make homemade goodies.
First, cream 1/2 cup softened butter with 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla. Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour alternating with a 14 ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. To make them at least a little bit nutritious, I used half whole wheat flour and half white flour in the truffles.
The dough will be thick and sticky. Stir in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips. The recipe called for adding 1 cup finely chopped pecans, which while boosting the nutritional value, just aren't one of the the kids' favorite nuts. Plus, I didn't have any. I just left them out.
While continuously dusting your hands with flour, shape the dough into 1 inch balls. Place on a baking sheet and chill in the fridge for about 2 hours.
After two hours, melt 1 1/2 pounds of chocolate bark candy coating in a double boiler. Using two forks, dip cookie balls into candy coating to cover. Place on waxed paper and chill to set. Store in the fridge, especially on these hot August days.
Colby and the kids loved them, and I hope finding them in their lunch boxes will make the first day if school a little brighter for the kids.
First, cream 1/2 cup softened butter with 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla. Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour alternating with a 14 ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. To make them at least a little bit nutritious, I used half whole wheat flour and half white flour in the truffles.
The dough will be thick and sticky. Stir in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips. The recipe called for adding 1 cup finely chopped pecans, which while boosting the nutritional value, just aren't one of the the kids' favorite nuts. Plus, I didn't have any. I just left them out.
While continuously dusting your hands with flour, shape the dough into 1 inch balls. Place on a baking sheet and chill in the fridge for about 2 hours.
After two hours, melt 1 1/2 pounds of chocolate bark candy coating in a double boiler. Using two forks, dip cookie balls into candy coating to cover. Place on waxed paper and chill to set. Store in the fridge, especially on these hot August days.
Colby and the kids loved them, and I hope finding them in their lunch boxes will make the first day if school a little brighter for the kids.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Playdate
After making plans to get the kids together all summer, my friend Keri and I finally did the kids together the week before school started. Better late than never.
Keri's sons are the same age as Brody and Evie. They have lots of cool toys at their house and a swimming pool in the backyard. Plus, they had cheese balls. The kids can't wait to go back.
Although I'm not sure what parents in their right minds buy their children a drum set, Soren really liked it. She played and played while she sang her favorite tune, Yellow Submarine.
The kids all had a great time in the pool.
Soren is actually a really good swimmer, but she's pretty fearless which requires a little extra vigilance. That meant Keri and I couldn't even break out the margaritas even though it was after noon.
Keri's sons are the same age as Brody and Evie. They have lots of cool toys at their house and a swimming pool in the backyard. Plus, they had cheese balls. The kids can't wait to go back.
Although I'm not sure what parents in their right minds buy their children a drum set, Soren really liked it. She played and played while she sang her favorite tune, Yellow Submarine.
The kids all had a great time in the pool.
Soren is actually a really good swimmer, but she's pretty fearless which requires a little extra vigilance. That meant Keri and I couldn't even break out the margaritas even though it was after noon.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Shame on You, Target
I read this morning on the Internet an article about the recent protests of Target stores across the country. Here's a little part of that article:
Target's $150,000 donation to a business-oriented group supporting Republican Tom Emmer, an outspoken opponent of gay marriage, was one of the first big corporate contributions to become known after the U.S. Supreme Court threw out prohibitions on corporate spending in elections earlier this year.
I do about 90% of my grocery and household goods shopping at Target. I also get really pissed when corporations take any stance that could impact how gay Americans are treated. I haven't bought any Smucker's products since they said Johnny Weir was too gay for their Stars on Ice tour. My sons will never be Boy Scouts because gay Scouts aren't allowed.
As much as it pains me, I may actually have to start boycotting Target. Right now, gay rights groups are attempting to convince Target Corp. to donate an equal amount to an organization that supports gay rights causes. If Target can redeem itself, then I can continue to be a loyal customer. If not, then I may not be able to do a full-on boycott, but I can most certainly take my business elsewhere as far as grocery purchases are concerned. For a family like mine, that's an easy $500 a month.
If the Supreme Court now says it's okay for corporations to use their deep pocket books to promote political causes, then we as Americans have a responsibility to fight back. I can't give $150,000 to anyone, but I can take my $500 a month elsewhere. And so can you.
I suppose by the time I stop shopping places that use their wallets to support anti-gay political causes, I won't have anyplace left to go. If I boycotted every business that won't go green, exploits its workers, and promotes social inequality I would be shopping at, um, Goodwill, I guess. Hell, even the CEO of Whole Foods is an idiot, saying shopping at his store is the cure for America's obesity epidemic. Apparently, he's forgotten that Whole Foods sells all natural Cheetos, organic soda, fatty frozen pizzas, and beer.
Perhaps the larger part of this picture is the influence Corporate America has over our political system, and the lack of influence my vote carries. It is a sad day when a dollar is worth more than a vote. And there sure are lots of those days.
Target's $150,000 donation to a business-oriented group supporting Republican Tom Emmer, an outspoken opponent of gay marriage, was one of the first big corporate contributions to become known after the U.S. Supreme Court threw out prohibitions on corporate spending in elections earlier this year.
I do about 90% of my grocery and household goods shopping at Target. I also get really pissed when corporations take any stance that could impact how gay Americans are treated. I haven't bought any Smucker's products since they said Johnny Weir was too gay for their Stars on Ice tour. My sons will never be Boy Scouts because gay Scouts aren't allowed.
As much as it pains me, I may actually have to start boycotting Target. Right now, gay rights groups are attempting to convince Target Corp. to donate an equal amount to an organization that supports gay rights causes. If Target can redeem itself, then I can continue to be a loyal customer. If not, then I may not be able to do a full-on boycott, but I can most certainly take my business elsewhere as far as grocery purchases are concerned. For a family like mine, that's an easy $500 a month.
If the Supreme Court now says it's okay for corporations to use their deep pocket books to promote political causes, then we as Americans have a responsibility to fight back. I can't give $150,000 to anyone, but I can take my $500 a month elsewhere. And so can you.
I suppose by the time I stop shopping places that use their wallets to support anti-gay political causes, I won't have anyplace left to go. If I boycotted every business that won't go green, exploits its workers, and promotes social inequality I would be shopping at, um, Goodwill, I guess. Hell, even the CEO of Whole Foods is an idiot, saying shopping at his store is the cure for America's obesity epidemic. Apparently, he's forgotten that Whole Foods sells all natural Cheetos, organic soda, fatty frozen pizzas, and beer.
Perhaps the larger part of this picture is the influence Corporate America has over our political system, and the lack of influence my vote carries. It is a sad day when a dollar is worth more than a vote. And there sure are lots of those days.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
It's Getting Hot in Here
I'm not going to complain about the heat wave we have been experienced in Southeastern Nebraska. Nope. It's August, so I wouldn't expect much less. I remember living in the dorm at ol' Wayne State College (Neihardt Hall). We had no air conditioning, so we spent the first two weeks of school either a) sweating, b) in the shower washing off sweat, or c) hanging out in the library or cafeteria with their air conditioned chill.
I am a little upset about the current temperature inside the house, however. After installing new windows, blowing insulation in the attic, and adding a solar powered attic venting fan, the air conditioner not only still runs constantly but cannot keep the house cool. By 8 pm it will be at least 80 degrees in here. After last month's electricity bill, I don't even want to open the one that comes this month. I can't sleep at night hearing the air conditioner running and running. I have endless stress about the cost. Absolutely endless stress. We don't invite people to our home in the summer, either. It's too damn hot in here.
The air conditioner specialist said the thing works fine, it's just old and inefficient. I understand that. The older I get, the less efficiently I work, also.
I suppose we will spend much of our tax return on a new furnace/air conditioner. My dream: to be able to have my house be 70 degrees inside when it's 100 degrees outside.
I am a little upset about the current temperature inside the house, however. After installing new windows, blowing insulation in the attic, and adding a solar powered attic venting fan, the air conditioner not only still runs constantly but cannot keep the house cool. By 8 pm it will be at least 80 degrees in here. After last month's electricity bill, I don't even want to open the one that comes this month. I can't sleep at night hearing the air conditioner running and running. I have endless stress about the cost. Absolutely endless stress. We don't invite people to our home in the summer, either. It's too damn hot in here.
The air conditioner specialist said the thing works fine, it's just old and inefficient. I understand that. The older I get, the less efficiently I work, also.
I suppose we will spend much of our tax return on a new furnace/air conditioner. My dream: to be able to have my house be 70 degrees inside when it's 100 degrees outside.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Sun Dill Pickles: the Finale
I have neglected to update everyone about the pickles I made last week. I know you are all just perched at the edges of your seats dying to hear all about my first homemade pickles.
Well, they taste like pickles. I guess that's a good thing.
Well, they taste like pickles. I guess that's a good thing.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Creative Expression
Part of my educational philosophy is that kids can oftentimes learn useful skills while playing. It's how tigers learn to hunt, how little girls learn to take care of babies, how little boys learn to kick each other in the balls: playtime. I like to let the kids spend time practicing useful activities like cutting and gluing while they channel that skill into something that entertains them and sparks their creativity.
Evelyn spent some time cutting photos out of magazines and gluing them onto paper. The magazines she was given are representative of this family's quest for a variety of information: Marie Claire, Cooking Light, Mother Jones, Esquire, and Rolling Stone.
I heard her at the table talking away to herself. She had her little tote bag of bubble baths and body creams beside her. (Side note: she carries that bag seemingly everywhere. The bath salts were dumped on her bedroom floor thanks to an overzealous little sister. Thanks Aunt Amber for the tote, and Evie has gathered quite a collection of items to add to it).
I went to see what she had made, thinking I would see a piece paper packed to the gills with cut outs. Not exactly. She chose two photos of lipstick and one giant mascara. Really??? Sigh. What's a feminist Mama to do? :-)
Evelyn spent some time cutting photos out of magazines and gluing them onto paper. The magazines she was given are representative of this family's quest for a variety of information: Marie Claire, Cooking Light, Mother Jones, Esquire, and Rolling Stone.
I heard her at the table talking away to herself. She had her little tote bag of bubble baths and body creams beside her. (Side note: she carries that bag seemingly everywhere. The bath salts were dumped on her bedroom floor thanks to an overzealous little sister. Thanks Aunt Amber for the tote, and Evie has gathered quite a collection of items to add to it).
I went to see what she had made, thinking I would see a piece paper packed to the gills with cut outs. Not exactly. She chose two photos of lipstick and one giant mascara. Really??? Sigh. What's a feminist Mama to do? :-)
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Sun Dill Pickles - Day 1
Continuing my streak of food related posts, I must speak of my garden's bounty. The cucumber, yellow cherry tomatoes, and jalapenos just won't quit. I dehydrated the jalapenos, but the kids and I are quite tired of eating cucumbers and tomatoes. With a bigger garden in next year's plan, I need to learn how to can.
My good friend Dede mentioned that she makes dill pickles by letting them sit out in the sun in the jar. Okay, I can handle that. Sun dill pickles, here I come.
First of all, I must say that making dill pickles is an experience filled with fantastic smells: from the cucumbers, to the garlic, to the dill, and even the vinegar. There is just something really calming and refreshing about the smell of a cucumber. Add in the fact that Colby had all the kids outside playing golf in the yard, and I had a lovely, quiet time to make pickles.
I started by scrubbing the freshly picked cucumbers. The variety we grew this year is particularly prickly. I cut some into spears and some into round slices, and then I stuffed the jars full of cucumbers. They are such a beautiful green.
The brine is really simple. Combine all the ingredients until the salt is dissolved.
6 c. water
2 c. white vinegar
1/3 c. canning salt
Add dill and a whole clove of garlic to the top of each jar. Now, the recipe calls for fresh dill. My neighborhood market didn't have any, so at Dede's suggestion I used dill seed. I just dumped some in. I hope the amount is acceptable. I guess we will soon find out. Pour the brine into each jar of cucumbers, and put the lids on the jars.
Set the jars out in a sunny spot for three days and three nights, giving them a little sloshing around every day. Of course, it's my luck that today is cloudy, so I'll probably give them an extra day outside.
Unfortunately, I put our pickles in the dogs' favorite deck look-out spot.
After three days, bring the pickles inside to the refrigerator. I have seen other sun dill pickle recipes that add a hot chili pepper to each jar. With all the jalapenos growing in the garden, I may just try pickling them.
I will update you later once we've had the chance to try our first Vescapades pickles.
My good friend Dede mentioned that she makes dill pickles by letting them sit out in the sun in the jar. Okay, I can handle that. Sun dill pickles, here I come.
First of all, I must say that making dill pickles is an experience filled with fantastic smells: from the cucumbers, to the garlic, to the dill, and even the vinegar. There is just something really calming and refreshing about the smell of a cucumber. Add in the fact that Colby had all the kids outside playing golf in the yard, and I had a lovely, quiet time to make pickles.
I started by scrubbing the freshly picked cucumbers. The variety we grew this year is particularly prickly. I cut some into spears and some into round slices, and then I stuffed the jars full of cucumbers. They are such a beautiful green.
The brine is really simple. Combine all the ingredients until the salt is dissolved.
6 c. water
2 c. white vinegar
1/3 c. canning salt
Add dill and a whole clove of garlic to the top of each jar. Now, the recipe calls for fresh dill. My neighborhood market didn't have any, so at Dede's suggestion I used dill seed. I just dumped some in. I hope the amount is acceptable. I guess we will soon find out. Pour the brine into each jar of cucumbers, and put the lids on the jars.
Set the jars out in a sunny spot for three days and three nights, giving them a little sloshing around every day. Of course, it's my luck that today is cloudy, so I'll probably give them an extra day outside.
Unfortunately, I put our pickles in the dogs' favorite deck look-out spot.
After three days, bring the pickles inside to the refrigerator. I have seen other sun dill pickle recipes that add a hot chili pepper to each jar. With all the jalapenos growing in the garden, I may just try pickling them.
I will update you later once we've had the chance to try our first Vescapades pickles.
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