1st day of school

Mommy wasn't quite awake yet and not real eager to start school. This is always the hardest time of the year for me. I hate going back to work after having the summer months off. I was especially emotional since it was Reece's first day of Kindergarten and Raine's first day of preschool. We all had excellent days. Reece said he had an awesome first day and loved it! Raine was also very excited when she got home.

Daddy takes Raine to CCA with him everyday and checks on her regularly.

Reece couldn't wait to start school it was all he could talk about for days!

Raine looks so cute in her school uniform.

"We are ready for school mom."

13.1 in 2:13:06

Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.
― Gail Devers

WOW, I read this quote today and thought how appropriate for my post about my half marathon. I started running in Jan 09. I paid 80 bucks to run in the AZ rock n roll half marathon but never trained for it so I skipped the race. I told myself I would never do that again. My neighbor was training for a full marathon but pulled her IT band so we were a good team. Two runners who had goals but never achieved them. Only I achieved mine this past Sunday in San Diego. My other running friend told me about the AFC, America's Finest City Half Marathon in San Diego. She had run it a few times before and told me it was great. My goal was to run a half before school started this fall. I signed up for the AFC and was scared to death. 8,000 people all running together did not sound that fun. The scenery would do it for me. I would look forward to that. I love San Diego; if I could move there, I would in a heartbeat.

Saturday morning I had the family packed and in the car by 7:45. Mo was very reluctant to come on this trip but did it for me anyway. We needed to touch the ocean so that was his reward for helping me on this journey. We stopped for our usual road trip Starbucks, free thanks to VBS gift card and headed south on the I 15. Our journey was stopped short just outside of Jean, NV because Raine Roo had consumed too much strawberries and cantaloupe. She told me she had something stuck in her throat and then threw up. YAY, what a way to start our trip. It was an easy clean up and we were back on the road. We stopped in Baker so Reece could pee and then headed to In-N-Out for lunch. It sure was a slow moving trip. We ran into the Baldwin at In-N-Out. I was very excited to see them, as were my children, they love Riley and Violet.

Back on the road by 12:30 and on our way to SD to check into the Expo and pick up my race bib and t-shirt. We stopped for gas one more time and then drove along Harbor Blvd three or four times in search of the Sheridan Hotel. No, I didn't map quest the directions, just though I would recognize it. Finally got my race number 5046 and headed to the Hampton Inn to rest for the night. We order some take out from Olive Garden and watched Pinocchio while we ate. I think it was the first time Reece and Raine saw it. They were very excited viewing a new movie. I bathed the kids and got them settled for the night. I got all my gear ready for my 4 am wake up call, took a nice long shower, iced my knees and was asleep by 9pm. Mo was so sweet he slept close to the kids so he could help them if one were to fall off the bed or need us. I slept like a rock until my mind was worried I wouldn't wake for the alarm. I must have checked the clock at 1 am and 3 am. Then Mo had to wake me when the alarm did go off.

I wasn't very awake but I felt nervous. I made a pot of coffee and got dressed. Mo and I planned to wake the kids and put them in the car at 4:45 so he could have me at Balboa park by 5:15. I had to catch a bus that would take the 8,000 runners to Cabrillo National Monument on Point Loma. The starting line was 7 miles from my hotel but I had to back track and ride a bus to the beginning of the course. Weird I know. I made a friend while standing in line for one of the 10 charter buses. Her name was Shawna and this was her first half marathon too. We were both solo runners scared to death. Wish I could say we ran the whole thing together but I lost her after about 10 minutes of running. I still wonder when she finished.

Once the bus made it to Cabrillo National Monument we headed to the line for the port a potties. There were more bathrooms than I have ever seen at a football game or concert combined. It was crazy. We then found our way toward the middle of the pack and waited for the race to begin. I was glad to have someone to share my joy of people watching with. There were some very interesting characters there. Some dude wore his sailor hat and shiny red shorts. His friend had on cute off jeans and a cut off flannel shirt. I told Shawna they were part of the YMCA crew but lost their buddies. Then some freak was wearing baby blue feety jammies with a baby flying out of his stomach. It was bizarre. Shawna pointed out some girls who were writing all kind of stuff on their arms and legs. I told her looking around at some of the people here makes me feel like I really can run this in 2:30 and not be the last one getting picked up by the van telling you the race is over. She laughed and said me too!

Time was ticking and I was growing anxious and bored, let's get going already. Then they sang the National Anthem and we started walking toward the starting line. Then the crowd started running. I looked at Shawna and said I guess were starting-Good Luck! I barley had my Ipod ready to start the timer and get Dave's mix of music ready. I have been running to an awesome Dave Matthew's mix during my long runs. I crossed the starting line and headed down hill. It was so crowed and fast. I couldn't believe I was running a half marathon. I looked down at my timer and 5 mins had already passed. I am used to running 1 min 30 secs then walking 30 seconds. I was so excited about the whole thing I kept running. I was trying to make my way to the right side of the road so I could look out at the ocean. It was hard crossing in front of people, but I did it. Then I was afraid if I was looking to my right I would run into someone, or slow someone else down. It was crazy. I kept running 5 more minutes and felt great. The next time I looked down at my timer is said 32:00:22 I was pleasantly pleased and prayed I could keep this up.

It was encouraging having people on the side of the roads clapping and yelling for runners in general. People would sit on their decks drinking their coffee and yell. Families with kiddos in their pjs would sit at the end of their driveways and ring cowbells for us. I would see people in front of me and use them as my goals to pass. I would also look ahead at some people and try to keep up with them. I loved seeing the mile marker signs and timers on the side of the road. I would see those and think only this much more. I would also be so proud of my time. Adrenaline really helped me run this race. Running is such a mental thing. I knew I could run 13 miles, I did it a couple times before, but I am competitive. I wanted to beat my time; really, I just wanted to finish with knees that would still be able to walk on the beach after. We were finishing up on the side streets of Point Loma when my stomach churned from the most disgusting seafood smell. I knew we had to be near some restaurants because it smelled just like my kitchen when Mo is making crabs and other stinky seafood. I quickly ran passed that stench; luckily it didn't linger and was over fast! Then we came down another hill and I saw the San Diego skyline. It was so pretty with the clouds parting and sun starting to break through.

When I passed the 10k sign I knew I was half way and I could do this. I ate the rest of my cheery caffeine filled Jelly Belly Jelly Beans (which were so so so yummy) and started to push a little harder. We were just rounding Harbor Island Dr and it was so scenic and pretty. The crowd had thinned out some and I could really enjoy running along the ocean. People were already out on their sailboats and playing in the water. I kept hoping Mo would be on the sideline somewhere and surprise me. We had planned for him to meet me at the finish line. It was kinda of fun to running to see the kids and my man.

We passed the 15K mark and were just starting to enter the city streets. I knew that the end was near, but even more importantly that the 6th Ave hill was coming. Who designs a race with a mile long hill at the end? I tried to push it through the first gradual hill on Broadway but was stopped by the trolley. Nothing like that crushing your momentum. Oh well. There was a water station coming up and that's where they were serving mini cheeseburgers from Margaritaville. Weird, who would eat a mini cheeseburger in the middle of a run? It smelled so good though.

The end was near and I could feel the adrenaline kick in. I was so done with this race, where was that finish line? Then I saw the signs for Balboa park, I can do this I thought. I pushed it and ran a bit faster. I was climbing that stupid hill on Sixth Ave and then I saw the tunnel, Yes the park! I caught a glimpse of the finish line and ran my heart out. I saw Mo and my babies on the side cheering me on. I sprinted down the last 500 yards and crossed the blue line. I did it, I ran my first half marathon. What an accomplishment!

Me

ABOUT ME AT THIS TIME IN MY LIFE

Age:35
Occupation:5th grade teacher
Marital Status: Married to an amazingly handsome man
Reside: Las Vegas, NV

i am so very blessed.
i was able to reach my 2009 running goal on 8-16-09 in 2:13:00
i think life is too short to worry about silly things you can't control.
i know that God is there for me and will get me through anything.
i wonder what I'll be when I grow up?
i hope to be a stay at home mom at some point during Reece & Raine's childhood years.
i wish I would procrastinate less.
i save more stuff than should.
i always have more ideas than I can execute.
i can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
i can't only do one thing at a time.
i have the best friends and family.
i believe that its ok to say no but have a hard time sticking to it.
i promise to the see the positive side of sitautions.
i want so badly to be out of debt and out of Vegas.
i love my life.

Time

One minute ago, I was tucking my kids into bed.

One hour ago, I was folding laundry and listening to my kiddos play Hungry Hungry Hippos.

One day ago, I was sitting in LaJolla, on the beach, watching my family play in the Pacfic Ocean after running the AFC half marathon.

One week ago, I was snapping pictures of my family and the Brewers while we all played at Frenchman's Mt.

One month ago, I was wondering what my week would look like and where I would go swimming.

One year ago, I was playing in the sand with my family and the DeRusha family at Ocean Side Beach.

Where has time gone?

School Starts soon :(

Remember when my last post was in July and I had nothing to do but swim and play with my kids. Now it is August and my days are packed with more to do than all summer long. VBS started this week at Cornerstone. I am helping with the Preschool aged kiddos. Boy are they fun! We have the Plumbing Express guys coming all week to repipe our home. I need to keep the kids away from all the mess so I will bring them up to my classroom in the afternoons. I am hoping to get the majority of it ready so I can relax and enjoy my weekend in San Diego. I will also try and run some extra miles this week in preparation for the AFC half marathon. I am very very nervous. The month is already going by so fast and it's only 8-11-09. I am not ready to be a working mom again. I have really enjoyed my summer on the West Coast.

Chasing Summer

I was reading another blog that asked, "How are you chasing summer?"

I have felt so many simple joys of summer this weekend. I was wondering how I should post about them, then I came across her blog. Friday we ate a yummy pasta dinner followed by ice cream sandwiches for dessert. Afterwards we headed over to the butterfly park to play and watch an outdoor movie. The weather was perfect, not to hot and my kiddos were so excited about the "surprise". Mo let them play for a bit while I went to pick out the perfect grassy spot. We were going to enjoy the movie "The Tales of Desperaux" on the hill at the Centennial Amphitheatre. I read the story to Reece during our Christmas break while driving to Park City and Reno; so I was very excited to finally see the movie. I was laying on the blankets waiting for my beautiful family to come join me. Some other families had pizza and sub sandwiches for dinner, others had their kids dressed in pajamas with snacks in hand. We brought our water bottles, baggies of pretzels and glow bracelets. We wished we had brought some pillows! Reece and Raine were so excited but still very patient. I think they were tired and I wondered if they would stay awake for the whole thing. When it finally began Reece was cuddled up next to Mo and Raine snuggled up to me and asked me several times to "tucker her in". It was so wonderful all of us laying there watching the movie. Halfway threw it we gave them their glow sticks and then they wanted to switch seats. Raine didn't last very long with Mo and ended up coming back to lay with me. It was so awesome laying there with my babies resting their lil heads on my belly. It was quite different from when their whole little body used to fit on my chest. We finished the movie like that, while Mo took a little snooze. I thought for sure Reece had fallen asleep but he said, "Nope, I'm still up mom!" We carried the kids to the car and plopped them right into bed when we arrived home. Reece said he loved the surprise and can't wait to go watch another movie in the park. I guess I'll have to see if Aliante is having any...

Motivation

"Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. "
Hebrews 10:24, NLT

This was my daily scripture verse from Air 1 today. I laughed when I read it. I was just thinking how unmotivated I am and how I have so many things to do. I sit here on the couch reading emails, Facebook and stuff. I have a laundry basket of clothes sitting next to me, and bags of hand me down clothes on the floor that I need to sort. It is 4 o'clock and the only thing I can check off my to do list is meet with a friend and swim. No wait, I also called a friend about setting up a play date next week, sent a few emails and researched why my bee sting won't go away. I made lunch for my kids but I guess that is required huh? I really need to get something done before dinner. Maybe I'll make a few more phone calls that I have been wanting to check off my list and find out what time Transformers starts tomorrow night so Mo and I can go on a date. Or maybe I will just blog about my to do list...

Bee Sting

I received my first bee sting yesterday. I was watching Reece & Raine exert some energy on the playground when I felt something biting my forearm. I quickly swatted at the bug and watched it fall to the ground. My arm still hurt and I saw a stinger sticking out, I looked down at the bug on the ground and saw it was a bee. I quickly pulled the stinger out of my arm and threw it on the ground next to the bee. Then I squished the bee with my flop and hoped I wasn't allergic. My brother is allergic and I wondered if I am too since I am allergic to several of other things. It didn't really bother me when it happened, it just felt like a mosquito bite. I went home and didn't do anything about it. Today is a different story altogether. The bite is red, swollen and it itches so bad. I iced it but it still itched and the redness hasn't gone away. I went to Walmart and the pharmacist said I should see a doctor, she had no helpful advice for me and wouldn't even recommend cream or medicine. I bought some Benadryl, but all it seems to do is make me tired. I need to go online and see what it recommends, I bet it will tell me more that than the Walmart pharmacist. Recommendations anyone?

Swimming Lessons

WOW~this has been a tiring week. Mo has been landscaping daily and uses my car to do so, but I offered to teach Ashlyn how to swim. I have to strap the kids in the cougar bike carrier and pedal them to a friend's pool every morning at 9:30. It is quite a trek uphill. Thankfully, the weather is cooperating and it is only 89 degrees. The pool water is actually chilly and then the air isn't much better. It's funny to see blue lips on the kids. Reece is also learning how to swim without his floaties. He is so brave but lacks the skills needed to get him across the pool. Ashlyn is a very cautious young lady, who is a bit timid. After this week though, she has become a daredevil, jumping in and swimming across the pool. It is so great to see how much they learn in just one week. I can't wait to swim with the kids again after we both return from our vacations. I will give a week of refresher lessons and then hopefully swim with them for pleasure the rest of the summer. I live to play in the pool here and love to see little ones enjoy it as much as I do. Thank goodness my kids are fish! ;)

Signs of Summer

I LOVE SUMMER! It is the best time of the year, even if we aren't road tripping back east. I am off for 10 weeks and get to spend all my time with my kids. I have big plans for this summer: read, relax, run, bike, swim, hike, run, camp, organize my home, rid my home of clutter, run, catch up on my movie list, hang with friends, take some short road trips to visit friends and run my first 1/2 marathon!! Yep, I did it I am officially signed up for a race in San Diego on Sunday, August 16th. The family will take one last adventure to Cali before we head back to school. They will support mommy as I finish 13.1 miles at Balboa Park. We will then head to Sea World for the day! I can't wait. Please pray for me often! I have to wake myself up at 4:30am to run in this horrible Las Vegas heat! I also have to start eating like a runner and cut out all the extra crap I allow myself because I run. How bad can it be really?

Pre-K Graduate

On Thursday, June 14th I was able to be a parent volunteer and help out with Reece's preschool graduation. It was quite an event with some songs and even a ceremonial walk up to the stage to receive a diploma. There were 47 graduates and it was priceless watching them perform their songs. Reece was concentrating so hard on his songs that he barely smiled. I was laughing at the faces he would make and how loud he would sing. He told me a few weeks ago that I would be crying at his performance and it was true. After each class performed their songs, they left the stage to go get dressed in their cap and gown. The classes then proceeded up the aisle and back onto the stage. It was so precious. Each child was called down to receive their diploma and were then asked what they wanted to be when they grew up. Can you guess what Reece said? He wants to be a super hero! When Pastor Greg asked him which one, Reece said he wasn't sure. We all thought he'd say Batman since he is obsessed with him. It was so funny. Lots of the boys said they wanted to be race car drivers, super fast race car drivers and the little girls want to be moms. It was so funny listening to their answers. I can't wait to see how it was captured on the DVD. My baby boy is getting to so big. Next fall he will go with me to Bilbray and attend an extended day kindergarten class. I know he will love it but his daddy will sure miss taking him to Cornerstone everyday.

My kids say the funniest things

Today while hanging out in the house, in between the playground and the YMCA pool, I heard the following things:

Raine was sitting on the floor hiding under the table and said, "Oh my gosh, look at my dog mom!"

Reece was using his Lil Einstein drawing book at the kitchen table while I observed and he looked up, saw me and said "What you looking at lady?"

Kids say the funnest things and I wish I would write down more of them. My two lil ones are growing so fast. Raine amazes me daily with her fearless tomboy nature. Reece is a little engineer; pulling things apart and putting them back together. Every time I look at their little faces, I thank the Lord for entrusting them to me. I am so blessed!

Mother's Day Weekend

Wow, what a blessed life I lead. Saturday I woke up and got the kids ready to swim. We were hoping to meet some friends, but that changed so we had the whole pool to ourselves. It was heaven. My kids are fish and love the water. Reece wished he had someone other than is sister to play with but still had a ball. Raine loved jumping in the pool and proceeded to count each and every time, one, two, free, jump. It was so darling. My babies are so big and independent that I was able to sit on the edge of the pool or even lounge on a chair. It was so relaxing and wonderful. At about 11 am Reece complained he was hungry and wanted to go get some food. We head to Walmart to pick up some snacks for lunches this coming week. The kids decided to eat an apple, cheese stick and Sponge Bob Cheez Its while we shopped. Great, no need to make lunch when we get home, just plop the tired toddlers in their beds. And that is exactly what I did. They napped for almost 3 hours; I even snuck in some shut eye. It was so wonderful. We woke up watched a couple cartoons and then made chocolate peanut butter cookies. It was so much fun. I sent the kids outside to play while I made a yummy meatloaf and the day was done. We ate, bathed and climbed into bed. It was by far one of the best Saturdays I spent with my kids in a long, long time. I don't have a single pic to show for it, just these precious words. Too bad daddy had to landscape, he sure missed out!

Sunday was a good day also. Church, lunch at Claim Jumper and shopping at Town Square. It was a bit hectic trying to shop with to very hot toddlers, so we headed home to nap. That didn't work that well either. Raine fell asleep in the car and wouldn't fall back asleep in her bed and Reece refused to nap. Mo had to leave us to go do more landscaping. The witching hours set in and the kids became quite a handful. I plopped them in the tub to play with bubbles and straws and all was well in Hauguel house again. Pizza for dinner and early to bed. The best part of the day was when Mo brought me home Cold Stone ice cream. No just a Like It size but a quart of my favorite Peanut Butter Perfection! My man knows me so well.

Quotes

I absolutely love this quote!

"One should take childrens' philosophy to heart. They do not despise a bubble because it bursts. They immediately set to work to blow another one."

My kids are this way. They find joy in such little things and when things go array they don't dismay, they look for ways to make it better. We have a marriage bible study on Friday nights and I forgot to get a sitter. I called 7 of my great babysitters but everyone was busy. I called Mo and asked for his help. When I called him back to tell him I found one he said that's great, Reece and I prayed for God to help you. Mo later told me that when he told Reece that I found a sitter, Reece simply said, "I know Daddy, we prayed." I wish I had the faith of a child.

Raine has been a gem lately too. She told me the other day, "Mommy, you stay here with me today?" I wanted to cry because we all know how that is my hearts desire. I told her I would pick her up from Deirdre's house and we would go somewhere fun. She replied with, "to get some ice cream?" So we headed to Sonic to get some yummy treats.

4 more weeks until summer, I can't wait to spend everyday with my kidlets :)

Praise the Lord

I need to sing God's praises for a moment. We have been on a very strict budget since Feb 1st and we are seeing soo many rewards for our efforts. We are $5,000 away from paying off a $20,000 credit card bill. Yes, we are that poor. We just sold Mo's great truck for $18,000 which means we pocket $4,000. Almost the exact amount we need to pay off the visa bill. We will be a one car family for the next 4 months until something perfect comes our way. Mo is a little nervous about this but I have faith, and if I have to ride my little bootie to work to contribute to the debt free cause I will. I am by no means trying to brag because this is all GOD, we have tithed more than ever in our life and he just keeps helping us pay off our debt. We have some time share points we must use this year, so we are looking into local west coast vacations. We are not travelling to the east coast and have put that money to debt. It is amazing the relief we feel knowing where every penny is going and that we are being good stewards with what God gives us. Mo also gave in and is attending the Love Dare bible study every Tuesday night with me. We haven't spent too much time on it but he sees the importance in it. All in all GOD is so good and I just want to remind you that no matter how big your problem is, he is our beacon of hope and trust.

Easter

Family Shot~ Smile Pretty

Reece checking out his goodies

Raine finally happy about something

Raine being a crabby pants, nice hair

Reece showing us yet another egg

We had such a lovely day celebrating the resurrection of our savior. Reece and Raine woke up ready to find their baskets and eggs. I distracted the kids while Mo ran out back to hide the eggs. Raine was rather cranky and refused to look for the eggs. Reece loved every minute of the hunt. He kept shouting, I found another one! I hid the baskets high above the TV so that Dublin wouldn't eat the candy. The little ones had a hard time finding them. Finally Reece spotted a basket and Raine came running over to check it out! It was very cute. I proceeded to get ready while they dissected their baskets. My parents and brother were here to celebrate the day with us.

Spring Break Part 1

The first few days of our break was spent relaxing and watching lots of cartoons. I tired of that rather quickly and asked my hubby to take us to go buy some plants for our front flower bed. It was a heep of dirt with one little rose bush. I was so sick of looking at that ugly thing. We ventured to the local nursery to pick out some pretty flowers. The kids were very excited to pick out some plants also. $44.00 later we came home with a slew of gorgeous plants. The kids hurried and found their watering cans and we started getting dirty. Raine was not fond of dirty hands and constantly wanted to wash them off. She tired of the planting rather quickly and played in the back yard instead.

Spring Break Flew By

I had a wonderfully relaxing Spring Break here at home in Las Vegas. Nope, I didn't travel anywhere. I wanted to so badly but I also want to save money and just be in my own clutter and chaos. It was fun filled and when time permits I will, YES I will, come back and recap. We also had a very special Easter with my parents and brother here in town. I am still enjoying my parents visit and so are my kids. It's so fun having company!

The Finale

BufBloPoFo Topic for DAY FOURTEEN:

So are you sad it’s almost done? Are you going to miss all of your fellow participants? Well, your assignment is to give us a farewell speech. I’m continually amazed that anyone decided to play along with the BufBloPoFo. I say you take it easy tomorrow for your last day and just post a quick “so long” to your fellow participants.

Mr. Michael Garvey esquire and creator of BufBloPoFo gave a grand farewell on his blog, one I will not be doing. I have truly enjoyed blogging everyday and will continue to blog as often as I can. I will continue reading my fellow participants blogs when I am bored and need something to do. I enjoy learning about my friends and their families members via Blogger, Typepad and Facebook. It's my reality TV fix.

I use my blog to communicate with my family on the east coast. I am not sure how many of them actually read it but I also use my blog as a diary. It is so much fun to go back and read about my kids and the things they have accomplished in their life so far. Thanks for reading about me and my chaos over the past 14 days and if you have a chance say a prayer for The Hauguel Family in Las Vegas, NV, we need as many as we can get.

Catching up

"J" as in "John Kreuzer" said this about parenting and I LOVE IT!!

Be understanding. Whatever age the child is now, you were that age too, and probably just as annoying (if not more so).

Be patient. When they're driving you up a wall, cut 'em some slack.

Be loving. Look, these young persons are, quite literally, a part of you. How can you not love that? Embrace them for all of the similarities and differences. Show them that you appreciate them for who they are.

Be the parent you would want (and maybe had). Make time for them. Play, talk, share. It's all good.

Be supportive. Even if you don't understand.

I still have to complete the picture of yourself post. So here I am:

Home from my hair appointment, enjoying Private Practice while icing my knees. I am exhausted from a long day and an even longer week. Today was very productive though and one more day until a relaxing weekend and fun date night with my hubby!

Year Ago...

HMM, I will have to look into this one. Well it took me 15 minutes of searching for my post. I am exhausted so I didn't do it the easy way. As for a year ago, I was talking about Spring Break, heading to Utah by myself with the kiddos since Mo was in Mexico. I did that and it was a blast! We had a ball and the kids did awesome on the drive. Our plan was to go somewhere fun this spring break, but we are not. :( We had the option of heading to Reno or camping in Zion, but we are going to stay home and spring clean our home. Mo isn't going to Mexico this year because he wants to clean out his garage and tie up loose ends. I am so ready for Spring Break, even if it means cleaning my house and purging way too much clutter! My parents will be here so that will be fun! Last year I talked about getting out of debt, that didn't happen but it is this year. I should have added that to my bragging list. We did our taxes tonight and we will put that money to our credit card debt. I am very excited about our quest to live debt free even if it stresses me out to no end. In a couple years it will be worth it and just think next year when I look back at this post I will be able to brag about how much more out of debt we are!!

Advice now, photo Thursday

I'm getting a haircut Thursday so I will post a picture then. I know it's supposed to be right now, but too bad.

For now though I will give my parenting advice. Read the book Parenting with Love and Logic by Foster Cline and Jim Fay. I really enjoyed it and it gave some really practical ways to raise your children. I will reread it this summer, when I can really apply it. My children will be so thankful!

Embarrassing Moments

HHhhhmmmm, not so sure how to answer this. I can't pick just one moment, there have been way too many.

1. Weekly, I am embarrassed by the things my children say, what does that say about me as a mom?
2. I have called people the wrong name, a couple of times until they tell me differently.
3. We are in debt and moving back into our first home so we can eventually get back to the east coast or at least out of Vegas!
4. I was supposed to observe a student at another school in the morning and almost showed up in the afternoon. Luckily, it worked out.
5. I got all mixed up in my posting, I think I was supposed to post this one yesterday and the my inspirational list today.
6. I got two traffic tickets in one day, the day before I married my love.
7. I take on too many things and then don't do them well enough.
8. The state of clutter and unnecessary stuff in my home and classroom embarrasses me.
9. My son's horrible haircut. Yes I gave it to him and luckily it will grow back!
10. This list!

Inspirations

I wish I could make a yummy soup, really I just need to try and do it. I am no good in the kitchen, I do try (sometimes) but most of my meals come out of boxes and are easy peasy. If I could take time to do something well, it would be to learn how to cook. Since I have a 2 and 4 yr old and work full time, I will practice cooking this summer when school is out. I will also try to perfect my mediocre baking skills with this recipe! I stole it off my friends blog and can't wait to make it.

Delicious! Chocolate Pie

2 sticks regular butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla
4 eggs
1 baked pie shell

Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then mix in cooled melted chocolate. Add vanilla and mix. Turn the mixer to medium speed, then add in the four eggs, one at a time, mixing for 4 to 6 minutes after the addition of each egg. Scrape sides of bowl once during mixing. Pour into the cooled pie shell and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight. Plop whipped cream on top and serve. Garnish with chocolate curls if you’re feeling sassy.

As for who inspires me, hummmmm my friend Melissa because she is a mean a^& baker.
My friend Shontell because she can stretch a dollar further than anyone I know and pray like no other.
My friend Jessica because she is an artist in all forms and finds time to pursue her dream.
My friend Erin because she is always so giving.
My sister Jaime because she can make any situation into something positive or at least get through it without tears.
My brother Brian because he is amazing at everything he does.
My brother Matthew because he is a survivor.
My mom because she is, well my mom...
My dad because he is such a hard working man.
My children because they are the cutest & sweetest lil blessings.
My best friend and lover Mo because he puts up with me and still loves me!

My list of inspiring people could go on and on so if I left you out I mean no disrespect. I love you all and will continue my list at another time. Good Night and God Bless ;)

New Friend

I have three minutes to write about Lisa, of it's a marshmallow world. I chose Lisa to get an A in Bufblopofo 09, she is married to Mike the creator of this buffalo blogging thing. ;) I would like to meet Lisa because she sounds as busy as me. Two little ones at home, a career and hubby to take care of! Plus she loves peeps, and so do I, but only the yellow ones. I just bought some today!

My question for you Lisa is, what is the first thing you are going to change about your new home and how are you going to do it? Hire people or do it yourself.

Weekend Mayhem

A free post day, we are half way through with our 14 days of posting. Wow, I have been a bit of a slacker not posting very insightful information. I would leave my posting for the last thing to do before bed and then be too tired to think or write. SORRY =(

Weekend Mayhem, is what I want to share.
After work, I had to assist with a wedding rehearsal. Home to eat with the family and play with kids. Bedtime routine. Blogg. Sleep. Tomorrow, I will wake at 5:45, on a Saturday, to run 7 miles; just so my hubby can get an early start on his day of landscaping. After a cup of joe and a nice hot shower I will begin my nonstop running from place to place. Target to purchase 2 birthday presents for 2 parties we will be attending Sat & Sun. Lil Pastry Chef for one of the birthday parties. Home to clean kids and put them down for naps. Church to assist with a wedding. Meet Mo and kids at a friends house where they will hang out while Mo and I go to dinner and the Philharmonic Pops concert. AHHH, I will be exhausted and probably falling asleep during my date night. I remember when date nights were easy. We would plan it all out and go. Now it involves so much work, sometimes I wonder if it is even worth it. What do you all do to make it easier? Not pack so much in your day, so you can actually stay awake and enjoy it?

Sunday is just as busy. Church. Mini Grand Prix birthday party with Reece. Raine and daddy will go home to nap and work in the garage. Back to church for FPU. Dinner. Bedtime routine. Prepare for the week! Spring break can't come soon enough. Pray for me during this oh so hectic weekend. Pray I see the joy in everyone's face around me and that I can actually feel some JOY as well! Then go and enjoy yourself! ;)

Nightmare on Elm St.

My first dorm room/apartment/house is the topic of discussion today.

So my first home away from home was Dodds Hall at Slippery Rock University. The 7th floor in a coed dorm. I shared my room with a junior named Colleen who was never around unless to go to sleep. Our room was right next to the stairwell and since she went to bed at a regular hour and I was a night owl, I would hang out in the stairwell and talk to the other freshman who had no idea your were supposed to go to bed and actually do your work. My friend Holly from the field hockey team moved into the room across the hall and also had an upperclassman as a roommate. We convinced both our roommates to switch rooms. I moved into Holly's room and we had so much fun!

My sophomore year we moved into a house, 417 Elm St with two other field hockey players. The house was a nightmare, so old and in the middle of a half a*& addition/bathroom remodel. Our landlord was horrible and never finished the remodel until a year and a half later. The house and roommate situation must have worked though cuz it was my home during my sophomore and junior year. My mom was a bit worried, but I was fine. I was living off campus with upperclassman and having a blast. I never had to leave my home to go to a party! We'd have field hockey parties and invite other teams to mix with us; baseball and soccer were our favorites at the time. Oh to go back to those carefree days.

Bufbppofo 09 Day 5

Who would play you in a movie? Who would play Mike?

I have no idea about this question. I don't think I had and answer last year either. What do you all think? Mike would definitely be played by Kevin James, ya know King of Queens guy.

Side Note:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA!

She is only 39 today and certainly acts 29, but good for her! I hope your day was blessed while visiting with Jaime. We love you!

Bragging

WOW, I'm a bit humble so I don't like the idea of this post. Just last Friday before heading to work, I broke down and cried because I was feeling so stressed and worthless. Today while at work I was praised and praised and praised some more. I met with my principal for my yearly evaluation and boy does she make me sound good on paper. I spoke with a few parents who were very grateful to me for my no nonsense style of teaching and asked me to continue especially as the weather warms up. My friend reminded me that I am a good friend. And even though I am not supposed to talk about my children or spouse, well my kiddos appreciated me tonight too. We enjoyed a fun game of "Simon Says" at dinner. I can make eating green beans fun. I am a free spirit with an anal side when needed. I choose the outdoors over TV and can climb rocks in the most uncomfortable shoes. I have developed an obsession with running and have increased my speed and distance quite a bit during this past month. I, I, I. I think that is enough bragging for one night!!

Teach Me

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 3: If nothing else, BufBloPoFo is a learning tool. Last year, we learned how to load a dishwasher, how to take a leak, etc. Let’s keep that going this year, but instead of focusing on what people are doing wrong, tell me what you think you do right. Walk me through a process. Give me the step-by-steps. Can you make damn good baba ganoush? Can you tie a bow tie? Can you pour the perfect Guinness??? Teach me how, perfesser.

I can teach you how to read and write! I am a teacher by trade and love all grades. Hee hee, but the people who are learning the most from me are my children. They are learning manners, responsibility and kindness. They learn by watching and once they go to school it will all be part of who they are. If I can not teach my own kiddos now, what kind of teacher am I?

Perfect Meal

If you had the power to put together the most perfect, end-of-the-universe, nothing-better-was-ever-made repast, using whatever ingredients you want, and with whomever you’d like as your co-diners, what would you want? Tell me about one little bit, or all fourteen courses. Tell me about venue, about background music, about which box of wine goes best with which flavor of ramen noodles.

Not sure about this one because as I was getting ready to type this my son came down and said his belly hurt. I sent him back to bed saying he'll be ok, it hurt because he was full from the cereal he ate a few hours ago. He said ok and as he started walking into his room, I heard that dreaded sound, yep, puking. I ran up to help him and he said, "I told you I was sick!" I guess I should have really believed him or got my arse off the computer to at least tuck him back into bed. So, I can't really think about food after cleaning up that mess, oh the smell. You all know it, so I'm sure you understand.

BUFBLOPOFO ‘09

It is on! 14 straight days of blogging! Wow, not sure I need to be adding this to my to do list right now, but I am a team player. I loved this challenge last year and couldn't wait to do it again. So here I am, Joelle Hauguel born and raised in Marilla, NY and now residing in Las Vegas, NV with my hottie hubby Mo and two adorable kiddos, Reece and Raine. Three things happening in my life right now are chaos, chaos and more chaos.

1. Home life is very hectic as the warm weather brings lots of landscaping jobs into our already busy schedule. My husband becomes this stranger of a man who walks in the door, showers and heads to bed. I am unofficially a single mom/teacher. It is a very busy season, but this too will pass and we will have a relaxing summer in just three short months.

2. School is also very hectic as the year comes to a close. 5th graders are getting ready for some seriously fun times with a few field trips, planning for middle school and an out of state three day trip to San Diego, California. I have to put the finishing touches on that as I will be the head chaperon during that excursion. AHHH, June 5th will not come soon enough I tell ya.

3. FPU and Parent's visiting are also on my plate. FPU is Financial Peace University, Mo and I are trying our damnedest to get out of debt and live like no other, so we can truly live like no other. It is going pretty well. We have completed step 1 and are working on paying off a snowball list of debt. We have made huge changes in our budgeting and cut several luxuries that are not really needed. Both sets of parents are coming to visit us during the month of April. My parents will be here for 2 weeks and then within a one day turn around Mo's parents are coming. May will be busy as well, because as soon as we say goodbye to the Hauguel rents, I fly home to Bflo to visit some girlfriends.

LIFE~ I always wanted to grow up so fast and thought it was going to be so great. Now I just want to go back to hanging out by my pool and playing outside like I used to when I was a kid....

March Madness

It's not just a basketball tournament to me, it's one of the most hectic times at our house right now. I am trying to finish grading and complete report cards for 60 students. Laundry is falling out of the dryer and laundry basket. Dishes seem to be growing in my sink and toys are exploding everywhere. Mo keeps asking me to start reading one of Dave Ramsey's books so I can learn all about Financial Peace. I also need to make the final arrangements for a San Diego trip to Sea Camp with 38 5th graders and 14 women! AHHHHH, my only relief is when I hit the pavement to go jogging. So that is just one more thing to do. I look so forward to the weekend and then they go by too fast. Plus, I don't want to do all of that stuff I want to play with my kiddos or nap. In light of all that needs to be accomplished, I know it will all get done. I am just tired of losing sleep about it. I keep trying to give all of my stressers to God, but he doesn't seem to want them cuz they keep lurking in my brain. How am I supposed to find Financial Peace when I can't find emotional peace? I figured out that I need to relax and take time for me. So I did! I ignored the to do list above and played on the computer. I read all about what my friends are up on Facebook and thier blogs. It's a techie type of soap opera for me. How about you? What do you do to get away from it all? Baths don't work for me. I get too cold and am not a big fan of laying in dirty water...

Wordless Wednesday

Free Coffee

Mo and I are on a mission to get out of debt and live debt free. We are looking at every way possible to cut costs. While on the phone with my brother, he gave me a website that encourages frugal lifestyles. It has some interesting ideas, a lot of common sense too. It is becoming a sort of game, how can I cut costs and still live with my simple pleasures. Yesterday, I went to Einstein Bagel and got a free coffee. We are out of creamer at home, so I desperately needed a cup but was not about to pay $4.65 at Starbucks; then I remembered this free coffee coupon that came in the mail. YAY, don’t ya just love getting things for free! My brother also informed me about Redbox promo codes. You can go to their website and sign up for the promo codes to be sent to your email or your cell phone. Yay, free movies!!

Saw this post on the website wisebread today and had to share:

Beware of Pretty Things: 4 Reasons I’m Keeping My Ugly, Old Stuff

So what are your thoughts on old, ugly furniture? Do you love it? Hate it? Live with it because you have to?

The next time you start to get a little impatient with your current décor, remember that function trumps fashion. Some furniture can bring an aesthetic beauty to your home that may well be worth the investment. If it doesn’t meet your needs, however, it was worthless from the moment you bought it and did you really need that nice new piece anyway?

http://www.wisebread.com/beware-of-pretty-things-4-reasons-i’m-keeping-my-ugly-old-stuff

Square Root Day 3.3.09

Mo emailed me today at work to remind it was square root day 3.3.09. He is such a math nerd. I told my students and they too were very excited.

Wordless Wednesday

Snow Much FUN at Frenchmans Mt.

Running

Last night, I started running again. My knee's have been taking some abuse and needed a break so I took a much needed week off. They felt great yesterday and I probably could have run a little more. We ran for 41 minutes and covered 3.51 miles. Not bad, considering I haven't run in a week. Mo annoyed me before I left the house so I probably ran a little faster. ;) I have really enjoyed my three days a week hobby. It feels so good and gives me that quiet time that I never take for myself. I wish I could get up and do it in the morning though. I am a much better runner in the morning. Lately, I have noticed that I am really a morning person. I wake at 6:30 am everyday and get so much accomplished in the hour before I leave for work. I can't wait to go running again tomorrow night.

Life at with a leaky pipe...

On Friday Mo called me and said we have a leak. The pipes that connect directly to our hot water heater are leaking down the kitchen wall, under the tile and into the guest bathroom. AHHHH no wonder I have been stepping in water the past few days. I kept wondering why every time I hung up my coat my foot would be wet. Thankfully, it was a very slow leak and the pipe didn't burst. Plumbing Express made it to our home by 6:30 pm, cut a hole in the dry wall and fixed the leaky fitting. Then some other dude showed up to rip off our baseboards and check for mold. No mold. He then pulled up the carpet and tore out all the musty padding. Lastly, he headed out to his truck and came back in the house with 5 enormous industrial sized fans. He told us to run them 24/7 for the next 3 days. What? My home now sounded like a plane was about to take off. We had a horrible time trying to watch TV and no one could sleep. The next night we turned off those obnoxious fans and all slept like babies.

Tonight the fan man came and collected his noise makers. He said the inside of the house was completely dry but the garage was still very damp. On Saturday he will return to hang the baseboards and some one else will come clean and fix the carpet. As for the hole in our wall and the rest of pipes being refitted, who knows when that will happen. What a pain in the tush, thank goodness we aren't paying for it!!

Wordless Wednesday

FUN IN THE TUB

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

Hope your day was as fun and yummy as ours. The kids and I made these oh so yummy cupcakes. Raine was a pro at adding the pink sprinkles. After every cupcake she decorated she would ask, "Me eat now Mama?". It was so much fun! I tried a new recipe for Rosemary Chicken and Red Potatoes. It wasn't as fantastic as I had hoped. I gave Mo a one of a kind scrapbook Love card and a Love piece of artwork from Chance Gomez. It was a wonderful day for all of us.

Raine the expert sprinkler.

Reece ate more frosting than he put on the cupcake.

Trying for a nice photo, Raine wanted no part of it.

Reece was all for it. Don't ya love the 99 cent t-shirt I found last year.

Raine wanted to show me her new lil Nemo.

Our dinner and yummy dessert!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Saturday Morning

Today, I started my day by making breakfast for the kids, enjoying a cup of coffee and an english muffin and then headed out the door for my 5 mile run in 37 degree weather. AHH it was brisk but sunny. I ran with a friend of mine who is an avid runner and I felt like I was a bit too slow for her. She said it was perfect pace and she'd be back next Saturday. I have been training for a 10K for the past month now, running every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. My neighbor and I do some speed training during the week and then distance training on Saturdays. I should be walking on my off days but it is too dark & cold in the mornings. I can't wait for day light savings and spring weather.
After I got home, Mo asked if I wanted to go for a walk and take the kids to the playground. I was all for it since my hubby never wants to go for a stroll. We piled the kids into the stroller and headed to the "Red Playground" as the kids call it. It was so much fun sitting with my hubby on a bench watching our kids scamper around. He said it best, "This is what life is about babe"! I couldn't agree more. What a great morning!

Wordless Wednesday

So Thankful

Tonight we braved the Fashion Show Mall with two crazy kids to spend some gift cards that we thought only worked down on the strip. When we went to guest services, they informed us that we could us them anywhere in the United States. Huh? We can? So our plan of eating out and splurging on ourselves went right out the window! God, answered our prayers to provide us some grocery money and we need to be obedient. But I didn't want to! Mo wanted to take the cards right out of my hands and drive us home. I told him to loosen up that we came here for a family night out so let's eat!!

I really wanted Maggiano's but he didn't want to spend that much. :( We ended up at Johnny Rockets, which was way overpriced for the burgers and fries they serve there. It was definitely more kid friendly but really? Mo is so obsessed with this Money Makeover stuff that we had to share a $10.99 chicken club sandwich. Which in all honesty, was all in needed since I treated myself to the most delicious 6.99 chocolate shake. Hey I ran 4 miles today, I can drink 650 yummy calories... Reece and Raine had so much fun wearing their little chef hats and coloring. Then the staff cranked up the music and started dancing. I felt like I was in a Broadway show cuz Reece and Raine asked to go dance with the servers. I tried to get a picture with my cell phone but they were all to blurry. My dancing fools had the whole restaurant in stitches. It was too cute. We enjoyed the rest of our meal and headed to Borders to spend another gift card!

I told the kids before we left that we were going to the mall to get ourselves a Valentine present, then when we found out God gave us money for gas and groceries I couldn't buy silly stuff. I am a smart girl though and I grabbed the Borders and Macy's gift cards also. We let Reece and Raine pick out one book each and I was able to sneak in one more book for Reece's Easter basket. The Lord once again provided a little extra for our family. Time to head home it was getting late but then Mo reminded me of Macy's and how I wanted to swing by there. We looked at some bargain items for him and then some kid clothes but nothing was jumping out at us. Then I found 2 of the cutest outfits for a friend's new baby, both half price. Yay, thanks again God!

The kids really needed to use the restroom so we head to the back of the store near the women's undergarments. Mo found the clearance rack and started picking out cute bra's and panties. He said here ya go Happy Valentine's Day! It really was just what I needed, cuz I have purchased new bra's since I was pregnant with Raine. My chest size has shrunk quite a bit since I have been running and eating better so I truly needed a few half price Calvin Klein bras! I tried them on and was very pleased, I wanted to ask my hubby what he thought but I didn't think that would be too wise. I'll surprise him on Saturday! God is so good, he lead my man right to the rack I needed most in the store.

After a few hours of eating, dancing and shopping we headed home. It was a very entertaining night of spending gift cards, ya gotta love that!! As I type this reflection of how amazing God is, Mo just shouted up to me that our Verizon bill came in $25.00 under our budgeted amount!

Isaiah 65:24 proved itself so true for the Hauguel family today. Praise the Lord!

"Before they call, I will answer!" Isaiah 65:24

Isaiah 65:24 was the verse of the day sent to my email by Air1. I really needed to read this today because life has been very trying this week. The enemy has truly been testing my faith in God. When I read this story, I was reminded to have the faith of a child. God will provide!

A Story from a Missionary in Africa(Isaiah 65:24)

One night I had worked hard to help a mother in the labor ward; but in spite of all we could do she died leaving us with a tiny premature baby and a crying two-year-old daughter. We would have difficulty keeping the baby alive, as we had no incubator. (We had no electricity to run an incubator.) We also had no special feeding facilities. Although we lived on the equator, nights were often chilly with treacherous drafts.
One student midwife went for the box we had for such babies and the cotton wool the baby would be wrapped in. Another went to stoke up the fire and fill a hot water bottle. She came back shortly in distress to tell me that in filling the bottle, it had burst. Rubber perishes easily in tropical climates. "And it is our last hot water bottle!" she exclaimed.
As in the West it is no good crying over spilled milk, so in Central Africa it might be considered no good crying over burst water bottles. They do not grow on trees, and there are no drugstores down forest pathways.
"All right," I said, "put the baby as near the fire as you safely can, and sleep between the baby and the door to keep it free from drafts. "Your job is to keep the baby warm."
The following noon , as I did most days, I went to have prayers with any of the orphanage children who chose to gather with me. I gave the youngsters various suggestions of things to pray about and told them about the tiny baby.
I explained our problem about keeping the baby warm enough, mentioning the hot water bottle. The baby could so easily die if it got chills. I also told them of the two-year-old sister, crying because her mother had died.
During the prayer time, one ten -year-old girl, Ruth, prayed with the usual blunt conciseness of our African children. "Please, God," she prayed, "send us a water bottle. It'll be no good tomorrow, God, as the baby will be dead, so please send it this afternoon."
While I gasped inwardly at the audacity of the prayer, she added by way of a corollary, "And while You are about it, would You please send a dolly for the little girl so she'll know You really love her?"
As often with children's prayers, I was put on the spot. Could I honestly say, "Amen?" ! I just did not believe that God could do this. Oh, yes, I know that He can do everything. The Bible says so. But there are limits, aren't there? The only way God could answer would be for a package to arrive from the homeland.
I had been in Africa for almost four years at that time, and I had never, ever received a parcel from home. Anyway, if anyone did send me a parcel, who would put in a hot water bottle? I lived on the equator!
Halfway through the afternoon, while I was teaching in the nurses' training school, a message was sent that there was a car at my front door. By the time I reached home, the car had gone, but there, on the verandah, was a large twenty-two pound parcel. I felt tears pricking my eyes. I could not open the parcel alone, so I sent for the orphanage children. Together we pulled off the string, carefully undoing each knot. We folded the paper, taking care not to tear it unduly. Excitement was mounting.
Some thirty or forty pairs of eyes were focused on the large cardboard box. From the top, I lifted out brightly colored, knitted jerseys. Eyes sparkled as I gave them out. Then there were the knitted bandages for the leprosy patients, and the children looked a little bored.
Then came a box of mixed raisins and sultanas-that would make a batch of buns for the weekend. Then, as I put my hand in again, I felt the.....could it really be? I grasped it and pulled it out-yes, a brand-new, rubber hot water bottle, I cried.
I had not asked God to send it; I had not truly believed that He could. Ruth was in the front row of, the children. She rushed forward, crying out, "If God has sent the bottle, He must have sent the dolly, too!"
Rummaging down to the bottom of the box, she pulled out the small, beautifully dressed dolly. Her eyes shone! She had never doubted. Looking up at me, she asked: "Can I go over with you, Mummy, and give this dolly to that little girl, so she'll know that Jesus really loves her?"
That parcel had been on the way for five whole months. Packed up by my former Sunday school class, whose leader had heard and obeyed God's prompting to send a hot water bottle, even to the equator. And one of the girls had put in a dolly for an African child-five months before-in answer to the believing prayer of a ten-year-old to bring it "that afternoon."
"Before they call, I will answer!" Isaiah 65:24

Wordless Wednesday: Comfort Stone