The Borman5, Plus 1 !!

Mt Rainier in the SUMMER!!!!!

2011-09-06T19:48:00.001-07:00

We've had a fantistic summer in the NW. I can only recall 1 day of rain since the 4th of July weekend!!

This past weekend was Labor Day so we loaded the children up and drove to Mt. Rainier. It is amazing how many trees are under all that snow.

It's also pretty neat much snow has melted since we visited the mountain with my family on the 4th of July.

School has started Annabelle is in 4th grade and Mathew in 3rd. Jacob has a late September birthday so he will start Kindergarden next year.

I am very excited for NFL football to start regular season games. Let's Go Dolphins Let's Go!!!!

The 3 oldest children are playing CYSS soccer this fall. I should have loads of pictures to share in the coming weeks!!!

Have a great week!! We are scheduled for 80's all week!!

Rachel and Family

A's Science Night

2011-04-21T14:32:00.001-07:00

Annabelle's school has a required 3rd grade science night project. She choose to do an experiment about diapers and pull-ups. Annabelle found out whether a diaper or pull-up held the most water without leaking! She was so excited during all her trials and for Science Night yesterday.

Our house has plenty of the main materials on hand!

Thats right folks, the pull-up leaked first. Just after 3 cups of water.

Way to go Annabelle! So proud of you!

The Borman Family!!

Keep your pants on......

2011-04-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

Our Landon just doesn't keep his pants on. Diapers are flying all over our house these days. It is especially bad when he is hanging out in his play-pen. But really it is all over that place. You just can't let him out of your sight. And the diapers aren't always just wet, yuck.........

Who knows maybe he will be potty trained before Jake. He like wearing big boy undies. All smiles!!

Happy Easter!!!!!

The Borman Family

Sledding on Mt.Rainier

2011-03-24T16:41:00.000-07:00

Awhile ago........

We bought snow gear for the kiddos.......

Then awhile after that we took the kiddos to Mt.Rainier for some fun in the snow!!!!

They all had a blast. Sledding down the hill. Sometimes by them selves or with a buddy!

Lance and I even took a turn ,or two, or three....shh.

Next year I will bring my camera on the mountain and get pictures on the sleds!!

Rachel, Lance, and the children

Christmas 2010

2011-01-28T16:56:00.001-08:00

Borman Christmas

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. Both Lance and my mother Liz were here! We had planned on my mother coming weeks before Christmas so the children and I didn't spend it alone. Lance surprised us all and came home just a week before. The children were very surprised and really loved the holidays!!

We all had a great time while mom visited. We were able to visit the capital, Olympia, WA. We were near the Capital Buildings and one of our family favorite places, The Hands On Children's Museum!!

Rachel and Family

Gym Rat, well....

2011-01-26T20:43:00.000-08:00

We have been going to the gym a lot more since Lance has been home. I have been trying to run and do some weight training.

I have started a Couch to 5K type work out. I haven't stayed on schedule, which I need to work on. It would be easier to go everyday if I had a plan. I have been walking 4min. and running 1min. This seems to work for me. Friday will be 1 week. I hope to do the 4 and 1 for 2 weeks and then try a 3min walk 2 min run for 2 weeks.

My hope is to do a 5K before my birthday. May 29th. I keep complaining about my weight yet I don't do anything about it. THIS YEAR IS DIFFERENT. With the 15 lbs weight loss from Sept to Dec of 2010, it has really motivated me to loss another 20 lbs by summer. I have to give myself leeway because I know I could plateau and I don't want to get discouraged.

All of this work is in hopes of a tummy tuck in the next 3 yrs. All the babies I have had sure added skin, floppy skin. Who knows maybe all the working out and eating right might minimize the tummy enough to make me happy in myself to not need the tuck.

Until then. Water and workouts!! I hope to blog about my workouts and progress to keep me accountable and motivated!!

Rachel

Painting Rooms

2011-01-26T20:34:00.000-08:00

We have been painting rooms in the house. The colors are going on well. Lance seems to really enjoy painting. He hated not being here for the move so this kinda makes up for it. He feels like he is doing something with our house

The only room we have decided we do not like but will live with for a while is the Master. We went with Pesto green form Behr Home Depot. Well it is not a "pesto" color it is a much cooler color. We were hoping more for a lighter warmer green.

The first picture is more of the color. I don't mind the 2nd picture if that is really what it looked like.

As you can see too I need to straighten up and get a good sewing spot together. I have great light for it now!!

Rachel and Family

Picture of THE House

2011-01-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

We have been very busy the last few months and I have not had time to post anything.

Here is a picture of the house as promised weeks ago. We are almost finished painting the rooms. The children were very excited to pick their room colors!

I have a lot more to catch you up on so be watching! Day trips, family time, and lots of Basketball.

Have a great night!!

Rachel and Family!

THE House

2010-11-29T12:09:00.001-08:00

Lance and I are so proud of ourselves.

3 br, 2 1/2 bath, Loft, Office, and the basics! We also have a fenced yard, which will come in handy once the weather gets a bit nicer!

Here are a few pictures! All my Facebook friends have probably seen them. I do post way more on FB than I thought I would.

HA, HA, HA

Then as I went to load pictures I remembered we now have a Mac and I have not transferred any pictures. I am also too lazy to get up and grab the external hard drive to retrieve said pictures.

But since I took the time to start this post, I am going to share it with you!

Really I'm laughing inside so hard right now, at how my day has been going.

I have 4 sick kiddos, landscapers making so much noise while I have 4 sick kiddos, and now this picture less post.

Okay back to being a mom. I will have picture of our house another day!!

Rachel

I just don't know....

2010-11-28T21:21:00.000-08:00

I have been sitting at the computer for over 20 mins thinking of and typing in different Titles. And nothing seems to sound right.

I am really just updating as usual. I'm not witty enough for great blog posts.

Lance, the children and I have had some big changes the last few months. We built and moved into our home. We had family visit. Landon started walking. Annabelle and Mathew started Basketball. Jacob is going potty in the toilet, more often. We bought a Mac. Christmas shopping is finished!

I am sure one of these days I'll post pictures. Now that I set-up the Mac today, I get to learn all the features!! So I will have fun with all our pictures!

We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! The children and I were invited or to a friends house and had a wonderful time!

Cupcake Fun

2010-10-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

I'm not much of a baker. I have only ever made Banana bread from scratch, maybe one day I'll try a cake or something. But for now this post is all about cupcakes well the frosting that is.

Check out this site for the "how to"!!

My boxed mix and I will be trying this out over the weekend! Maybe some black and orange for Halloween, or red and blue for the Jayhawks, or orange and teal for the Dolphins. Who knows since it seems so easy!!! Although getting the right shade may be the most difficult part.

I'll let you know how it goes!! With pictures hopefully!!

and P. to the S. Lance is doing well, he had the "close up" surgery yesterday and will return to work soon. Thanks for everyones thoughts and well wishes!!

Rachel and Family

Week 2

2010-10-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

Week 2 down with no Coke in the house!!!! It has been easier than I thought. I have even been drinking water, amazing I know.

Things have been a bit stressful the last week. Lance is doing well, healing good and back to work in a week.

Soccer today. Bowling tomorrow. Cleaning house always. Enjoying the fall weather. And between everything else raising 4 wonderful children!!

Although I wouldn't mind if it slowed down just a bit for a day or 2!

Rachel and Family!

Week 1

2010-09-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

Just an update!!

It has been 1 week with NO Coke in the house!!!!

The children lost their soccer games today. But we made up for it by going on a walk and spending time at the park!!

We are having dinner and a movie tonight in our house, cheap and fun!!!!

Landon is finally calling me MAMA, not Dada!!!

Rachel and Family

Out with the Coke

2010-09-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

Today is day 1 with NO coke in our house.

I have been drinking anywhere from 6-7 cans of coke a day, plus any I would drink if it was a day we would have a meal out.

I am wanting to loss a substantial amount of weight and dropping the soda and adding water is my first step!!

Wish me luck. I'll keep you updated!!

Rachel

Bad Rachel

2010-09-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

2 of the children have been in school for almost 3 weeks now and I haven't done a thing. No extensive cleaning, no purging of our crap, no exercising and no sewing.

Bowling and karate have ended and soccer for 3 has begun. The children are having a blast and so am I as "unofficial" Asst. Coach. I will not commit to something I might not be able to achieve. And I told coach with 4 children, the hubby away, and the fact that it is always raining, there maybe a time where I just don't make it out of the van and up to the field for practice(only so Landon doesn't get wet). The agreement is I will be the team "cheerleader" so when he has to get on someone about where they need to be positioned I am there to tell them they are doing a great job trying! The second part of the deal is I'll clean up the cones and soccer balls and he can do all the running!! I think my end of the deal is pretty great. I just have to remember to cheer on my kiddos too, I tend to be the "hard-ass" kinda mom.

Isn't it funny, all the different face they make!

Maybe next week I will be full of motivation and energy to get something done around here.

Although we've had a big project in the works for a few months now and only a few more weeks to go. I can't tell yet but as soon as it is complete I will defiantly be sharing pictures! For the record though, I AM NOT PREGNANT!!!

Rachel and Family!

First Year!

2010-08-26T19:50:00.000-07:00

I am not consistent enough to have 100 posts. One year ago yesterday I started my blog! And of course I realized it tonight! LOL

Just another day in my life!!

Hugs and well wishes for another great year for all!!

Rachel

Summer Sports

2010-08-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

While the hubby is away, I am using the free sports and S.K.I.E.S programs to our advantage!! Annabelle and Mathew participated in both Karate and Bowling this summer! They both enjoyed both programs, which made the summer a little easier! Unfortunately Jacob was not old enough for either program, which made the evening a little difficult. Sunday there is 2 free games of bowling and free shoe rental. We go on Sundays so Jacob can participate! Once fall soccer is over and we do Karate again for winter Jacob will be old enough to try it out!! He is very excited about karate! All three are doing soccer so my Mon and Wed night will be spent at the soccer field. We were able to get the practice back to back, so we will be at the fields from 515-715.

(karate)

(bowling)

Above are a few pictures from summer sports. And below shows what Jacob and Landon do to keep occupied during Karate!!

Hopefully everyone had a wonderful summer! We have 1 week until school!!!

Rachel and Family

PDZA

2010-08-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

I took the children to the zoo on Sunday morning. We got there as it was opening, on a 60 degree overcast day. It was FANTASTIC!!! No people to give me "don't touch push my 3 yr old out of the way or my don't even think about taking my children and running away" anxiety. Places like the zoo make all of those fears come to surface.

The children had a blast! One of the best parts was that it only cost $12.80. The children participated in the Pierce County summer reading program and upon completion they received a free ticket to the zoo! I only had to pay for myself!!!! But I made up for the free tickets with purchases in the over priced gift shop :(

Hopefully with school starting in 10 days I will be able to get back into sewing mode!!

Rachel and Family

Summer cuts!

2010-08-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

The boys finally got haircuts. And we couldn't leave Annie out. I really didn't want to get her hair cut but she has been better about brushing it and keeping it out of her face. Lance and I had said we wanted to keep the boys hair long until he got home, just to see them both with "Jonas Brother" hair. But the more I realized I was having to wash Mathew's hair to get it clean because he wasn't I realized it wasn't that important. I could wait until his teen years.

Landon now has the longest hair of the boys.

They are all happy with there hair cuts, and mom and dad are too. Lance was able to see them on the computer and agreed the boys looked older and better with the short hair!!

Rachel and Family

Chicken Noodle Soup

2010-08-05T21:22:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to the Olympia Farmers Market! It was small and simple just what I needed for our first trip. Not too much going on to get overwhelmed!!!

We only picked up a few things, I didn't want to go overboard with out a meal menu in place for the week.

Carrots, potatoes, and apples. We also picked up a few organic chocolate chip cookies. They were fantastic! I also figured I could eat a few extra since they were organic, right!!??!!

So I the next night we made soup. After I had the 5 potatoes cleaned, peeled and half chopped I realized I was making chicken noodle not just chicken soup. So our soup had extra carbs noodles and potatoes (I had to use the noodle because I knew the children would at least eat them)!!

I boiled the chicken which was something Lance taught me about a year ago after spending time in "the field" where he was only fed rice and chicken. It worked great for the soup. I had the potatoes, 4 carrots, celery, salt and pepper, and chicken broth in the crock pot while the chicken breast strips boiled for 30 mins. Then I added the chicken to the crock pot for another 2 hours on high (while at karate). It softened the carrots and potatoes just right and allowed the chicken to shred!

Soup was a hit!! Everybody enjoyed it.

1 month down 8 to go!!!

Rachel and Family

Borman Vacation Part II

2010-07-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

The Badlands National Park

Pretty amazing site to see!

We wish I would have gotten a closer picture of these guys.

And maybe not so close one of these! LOL Although Landon is pretty adorable in this picture!

We arrived at Mt. Rushmore in the evening, I had plans to stay for the night show, but that didn't work out. We got to go back in the morning though which was better for everyone!

More tomorrow (Wednesday)!

Rachel and Family

Borman Family Vacation Part I

2010-07-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

I am going to try and stay in order. For some reason my brain forgets I have a camera with me and I miss a lot of family time in KS. Sorry everyone!

The drive was gorgeous! We traveled to Kansas on I-80. I really enjoyed the views. It reminded me a lot of my father's train sets. This photo is not good at all because I had my window up. There were many other opportunities to take better pictures if only I had remembered I had a camera with me!

I learned that these "snow top covered" mountains are the Rockies.

The children (okay me too) really liked the tunnels we drove through, there were at least 3! Fun times fun times!

All of the children did really well with the drive to Kansas. We left WA at about 7 am and made it to Ogden,UT about 9 pm. The next day we made it to Lance's dad's in Sabetha, Ks at 3 am. Not too bad for time either. I am so happy we bought the travel DVD player 2 income taxes ago, it and the Nintendo DS were lifesavers!

Once in Ks we spent time with Grandpa Duane and Grandma Angie. They had just bought a house in town which the children at first were not very happy about. Grandpa and Grandma had sold their farm house and moved just a few days before we arrived. But once the children woke up and realized the house was so open and it had a big back yard they weren't too upset anymore. Although I think each one asked about the farm cats and chickens multiple times! Lance was able to help install a few things, I think it kept his mind preoccupied. Plus, since you can't spruce up post housing he was excited to do some handy work! Lance and the children were also able to visit Uncle Luke a few times I know they all enjoyed the time together.

We had a wonderful time.

Look for Part II tomorrow.

Rachel and Family

Email over load

2010-06-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

Time to clean out my email. With summer coming I need to get on top of things. This is just one folder. It intimidates me everyday. So I am verifying I did not misfile any emails and the WHOLE folder is being deleted without reading a word. If I haven't opened the folder in weeks it isn't important enough to read now!!

DELETE FOLDER

Ahhh much better! Now if I can only get through all the unread inbox emails. I think my unsubscribe list is growing!!!

1 week till we leave for Kansas. I have to find all of our summer clothes.

Have a great weekend!!

Rachel and Family

And Another!

2010-06-08T08:16:00.000-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday Landon!!!

Landon's actual birthday June 4th was a busy day, so we celebrated over the weekend. He wasn't so sure about his cupcake, until Lance put it on his nose!

Hope everyone had a great weekend. We finally got to enjoy some sun!! Little over 1 week till we are in Ks on VACATION!!!

Rachel and Family

Birthday Boy

2010-06-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

Mathew turned 7 last week!

I haven't been very timely in my posts. We have been a busy family!

He really wanted to go to Chuck E. Cheese so we went, and had a blast! Here are a few pictures!! We came home and had Ice Cream cake. It was a fun time!

My birthday was fun too. I got to sleep past 7 am! I'll have another post in a few days with Landon's 1st Birthday tomorrow. CRAZY!

Rachel

Bathrooms

2010-05-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

I HATE CLEANING BATHROOMS.

Really, I only have 1/6 of the germs in the bathroom so why am I the only one that cleans them.

GROSS.

I can't wait till the children can legally use cleaning supplies!!

Back to cleaning.

Rachel

A not so Funny bone

2010-05-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

* I am posting this knowing there could be some repercussions if mentioned person finds out!

So in my last post I mentioned the hubby had a jump. Being an Airborne unit they have to jump so many times during a time period to keep their status and pay. I shared that the jump hadn't gone to well. When Lance got back to base he was sent to the ER where they did some xrays and gave him pain meds. His back spams were bad. He was unable to drive because of the meds and he was in a lot of pain. I mentioned to him maybe they should have done an MRI, he could have a small fracture the xray couldn't read. "No, doc says I just jarred my back and it will be fine" said Lance. He did his Physical therapy, and went on to the training site for the next 2 weeks.

Yesterday I got a text message saying I was right. They had Lance see a doc where they are training and indeed he fractured his tailbone. Poor hubby. So of course I had to come up with some on the fly comment about "really being a pain in the butt"!!

Treatment: Doc says just take it easy, and there is nothing really that can be done for the tailbone.

Hope everyone is having a better time than my hubs! LOL

Rachel and Family

New Room Assignments!

2010-05-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

Our house is too small. We are on the wait list for a 4 bdr. home, and can't wait for our call. And with it being so small I always feel like it is cluttered, so I will not be posting pictures. It is better for me emotionally It will eliminated the added stress it causes!

So for now we moved the upstairs around for a little more space. Mind you the older boys room became a little smaller but they got the TV to make up for floor space! LOL They didn't care once they heard the TV was going from Annabelle's room to theirs.

Originally the room set-up house was. Mom and Dad's king bed, Landon's crib, 3 dressers, 2 end tables, a coffee/end of the bed table, and wall mounted TV. It was a tight fit. Then we had Annabelle's twin bed, a dresser, sofa, and the toys in the 2nd room. And in the third room was, Mathew and Jacob's twin bunk beds, 2 dressers, and a train table. In each room was at least 1 laundry basket and a few toys. So I know you have got to be thinking how in the world, or at least I hope you are!

Now the rooms are as follows. Mom and Dad's king bed, 2 dressers, 2 end tables, wall mounted TV and sofa. The 2nd room has Annabelle's bed, Landon's crib, 1 dresser and under bed storage And in the third room, Mathew and Jacob's bunk beds, 3 dressers, wall mounted TV and the train table.

The older boys room is a little more cramped for now, but there is plenty of floor space and with the 2 beds plenty or room for movie time! This is also the first time in almost 8 yrs our bedroom has no sign of babies!! This might just be my sanctuary now!!

And in other news:

Lance had a jump almost 2 weeks ago and it didn't go well. He jarred his back but nothing was broken. He has been having back spasms and is on heavy meds. He was not able to drive and he couldn't lift the children, so I had to work double time to keep the house and children in order. He is doing better this week, and has started physical therapy. Hopefully by the end of the week he can be off the meds and cleared for training out of state!

My workouts have been short and not as often lately. I was able to get in a small workout yesterday. We have a track a few blocks from the house and Annabelle and I walked to it and then did a mile walk/run. Annabelle of course did better than me with a 12:58 mile, I finished with a 18:36. I'm okay with that time, since I have NEVER been a runner. The more I run the better time I will have and can work myself to more miles!

We are Addicted

2010-04-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

We're addicted to the Pierce County Library System!! We are stationed at JBLM in Pierce Co, Wa. So far I have been unimpressed by my surroundings. I am very much an outdoorsy, hot sun in my face kinda gal!! But no it is rainy and gray most of the time here. The children and I have to find other ways to occupy our time. We decided the library would be a good place to spend some time. Both Annabelle and Mathew are in an Accelerated Reader program at their school. Finding a good range of books is needed to keep them interested and excelling in this program and others.

The libraries on base are okay. They have a limited selection of children's books, and small spaces for them. So my 4 children in a small room with books is not a good combination. They need space both the children and the books! So I decided to look around off base. There is a very cute, quaint town just south of base named Dupont. If we were to rent or buy a house that is where we would do it! I went into the library, a very small but roomy library. My first thought was "Oh great, small, few books, and it's membership will cost $10 a person." I decided I had a few minutes so I asked the Librarian a few questions. Man was I wrong. "Never judge a book by its cover." LOL The Dupont library is only one of 18 libraries in there system. They can get books from other branches and I can return books to any of the other locations!!! And it gets better, I can do everything at home. By requesting books, Cd's and DVDs, audio books, movies, magazines, and TV series be placed on hold once available. I can look through the card catalogs at home and it is easy enough for the children to use! Plus you can have 100 items checked out at a time! And it's FREE!!!!!

The children also love the library. We make trips twice a week. I hope to visit other branches in the next few weeks!!

Happy reading!!

Rachel and Family

Coach Pitch Baseball

2010-04-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung and so has Baseball in the Borman house. Joint Base Lewis-McChord (formally Ft. Lewis Army Base and McChord Air Force Base) had their Opening ceremonies this past weekend. It was a joke, no organization, older players in-front of younger players when teams we "presented" to the parents. They couldn't find The National Anthem on the IPod. The coach can't throw over-hand. BUT IT WASN'T RAINING!
I had to wait till we got back to the house to get pictures it was so crazy at the fields.

Annabelle and Mathew in uniform!

Jake wanting to be in uniform!

We are going to buy Jake a red shirt and black pants so he can "be like" Ann and Matt!

Our first game is Saturday April 17th @1pm. GO ANGELS!!

Rachel and Family

Fruit and Veggie Storing Cheat Sheet

2010-04-07T10:32:00.000-07:00

Growing up I was not used to very many fresh fruits and vegetables. Both my parents worked, so we were accustomed to boxed and frozen foods. In my hopes of becoming skinny and healthy soon I am starting to use more fresh foods. My problem is I don't know how and where to store them so they keep fresh and tasting great the longer.
As always I googled it and this is what I got. It is very simple to read, and I might even cut out the chart to put it in my recipe box for an easy cheat in case I forget!!!

Anyone have extra tips? Do you agree with most of these storing techniques?

I am excited to see if my food keeps longer than it has.

Rachel and Family

Easter Festivities

2010-04-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

Easter was a few days ago, and of course I am just now getting around to writing about it. As my Facebook friends know we went to an Easter Egg Dash 2 weekends ago here on Ft. Lewis, I posted pictures in an album.

Over the last week we have made Sewing Easter Eggs for the grandparents. (If you thought I was bad about posting late, I haven't even mailed the eggs out.) We colored eggs as a family. Had our very first Borman Egg Hunt and made our first Easter Lundin (Lunch/Dinner).

Here are a few photos from our weekend!!

Rachel and Family

The baby is napping...

2010-03-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

I get most of my computer time in when the baby is napping. This week the older children are on spring break so my quiet time has been limited. I'm sure you can just feel the tension in my typing! But as I was getting on the computer to quick check my e-mail ie: facebook. I looked to my left and saw Annabelle, Mathew and Jacob all sitting in the recliner helping Mathew with his DS game. It was great they are helping each other and being quiet, that just doesn't happen in our house.
What I really got on to post about was a funny realization I had about an hour ago. My dad and one of my sisters are coming to visit in a few weeks. My dad told me to do something for myself he mentioned a massage or manicure. I scheduled a dentist appointment. I don't know whether to laugh or cry, I mean really this is what I do with my free time. Hey, if I do it while they are here 1. I actually get to the dentist and 2. I don't have to pay a sitter.

Happy Wednesday!!!

We hope everyone has a wonderful Easter!

Rachel and Family

Sewing Easter Eggs

2010-03-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

The children and I finally completed an art project this past weekend! As seen on Sprout we made our sewing cards. We made eggs with Easter right around the corner. I hope to have them in the mail to grandparents by tomorrow.

(from left to right: Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob)

In other news:

Lance will be home tonight. His school did not work out for him. I know he is disappointed but we love having him home! With the children on spring break and baseball starting up next week the extra hands will be much needed!!

The gym has been going pretty well too. I try and go everyday with Sunday being my rest day. Each day is set to certain areas to work.

Monday-Legs

Tues- Chest & Arms

Wednesday- Cardio

Thursday- Back & Shoulders

Friday- Core

Saturday- a little of everything/ Cardio

Once Lance is back I think the days change, I kinda go with what he does so we are done at the same time. That's the good thing about our gym on post. It has 2 free hours of childcare!!

Rachel and Family

My Sewing Space.....s....

2010-03-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

The Before.....

The after.......

I also cut and iron my fabric on the dining room table! I bought myself one of those small/half ironing boards as a house warming present!

I have a bin with all my fabric. I thought I needed it more accessible, so I bought under the bed storage bins. I didn't measure first so I have to put them under Annabelle's bed for now. Ha!

As I was setting up my space I also realized I have no chair to sit in. Ha! Guess I'll be making a trip to the store.

Hello, Quilting Powers could you make it a little harder for me to get started.

I also googled a few quilt shops near Ft. Lewis. But I have to wait for payday to go check them out! And I should probably have a good idea of what I want to try and make first. Ha!

We also do crafts at the dining room table tomorrow we are doing "sewing cards". Remember the ones you hole punch and then sew with yarn! Thanks Sprout for the idea, my children can't stop talking about them. We may even make them into Easter cards!

Happy National Quilt Day!!!!!

Rachel and Family

Fun Flip Flops

2010-03-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

One of these days I'll post a true to me blog. But while your waiting check out these flip-flops.
Who would have thunk it!!!!!

Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Rachel and Fmaily!

Attention Quilters!

2010-03-16T19:52:00.002-07:00

Here is a link one of the blogs I followed posted about a quilters giveaway! Thought I would share!

Rachel and Family

New Cookbooks!!!!

2010-03-11T16:12:00.004-08:00

Thank you so much to my Aunt Deb for all of these cookbooks and magazines. I look forward to trying new recipes!!!

And I won't have to worry about too many leftovers. The hubs leaves today so I won't have to make much to have left overs.

Rachel and Family

Cabbage and Sausage Soup

2010-03-08T18:23:00.007-08:00

Good Morning all.

We really enjoyed this soup the other night. Only one of my children refused to eat it, in my book that is pretty good. Then again he never tries new things easily.

I am not going to be too specific on amount in this post, the soup consisted of mostly "leftovers and extras" I had around.

4 russet potatoes peeled and chopped

16 oz chicken stock

1 tsp garlic minced

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 head of cabbage (leftovers from this recipe)

4 turkey sausage chunks

Place potatoes, chicken stock, salt and pepper, and garlic in crock pot. Cook for 2 hours on high. Add cabbage and turkey sausage cook on high another 3 hours.

I would have normally used kielbasa but sausage is what I had in the fridge!

We also had a loaf of bread with some butter to finish off the meal. It was great on our chilly Washington night.

Rachel and Family

Trip to Mt. Rainier

2010-03-08T07:32:00.007-08:00

Mt Rainier is magnificent. Lance and I would love to climb it one day. We drove up to Paradise and took a few pictures, the visitors center is also located here. It is full of diagrams, and information about the mountain the the wildlife.

We walked one of the trails to a waterfall you can see from the road. It was gorgeous. The children had a blast!

And my pictures are not spacing correctly, so my post is short so I don't throw something at the computer.

Rachel and Family

Ground Beef Stuffed Cabbage

2010-03-06T14:52:00.008-08:00

GROUND BEEF STUFFED CABBAGE

My father used to make these when I was growing up. I am missing family these days so I thought I would give this a try!

I finally bought ground beef again. I have been buying ground pork and turkey instead to help our weight and health issues. I bought a leaner beef, and it seemed a bit dried out. I found this recipe at Southerfood.about.com and changed it.

1lb ground beef

6 cabbage leaves

2 cups cooked rice

salt & pepper (to taste)

1 egg 1/4 cup milk

1/4 cup chopped onion

I followed the cooking directions.

Combine beef, onion, rice, salt/pepper, egg and milk in a bowl and fold until mixed well. Boil cabbage leaves to soften. Spoon the mix into cabbage leaves and roll. I folded one end up and then side to side finishing with a top fold over. Place in crock pot (I could fit 6). Cover with sauce.

Sauce

8 oz can tomato sauce

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Make sure sauce covers rolls to prevent burning.

I cooked on high 5 hours. Put it in at noon and ate at about 5:20.

It was delicious. The kiddos even ate the cabbage!!

Rachel and Family!

Day at the Park

2010-03-04T10:45:00.005-08:00

Okay so really it was about 35 minutes. The nascar race took longer than expected and then the sun went away sooner than expected so it started to get too chilly for the baby. But there will be more days at the park I'm sure of it!

As you can see the playgound is pretty genric, we hope to find different ones very soon!

This was Landon's first time in the swing. He loved it! And if you look closely you can see Lance smiling!!!! Not too often do we get that on camera! Jake thought it was real cool he was swinging with Landon!

Annabelle, Mathew, and Jacob love to climb. I always have to remind them to be careful when there are other families on the playground.

You even get to see me on the playground, to bad my bum doesn't fit on the kid slide to well anymore HA!

Here's to fun family days!

Rachel and Family

Restaurant Spending

2010-02-23T08:47:00.006-08:00

I NEED TO SAY I AM MORTIFIED BY THIS POST.

I heard somewhere the other day about a "going out to eat" jar. It made me think. There are so many days I say, oh I just don't feel like cooking lets grab dinner, breakfast out. Sometimes we just run up the road and grab a burger or taco those nights run us about $30.00. Other nights we will be out and do a sit down nice dinner, those run us about $60.00. Even these two figures are shocking that's almost $100.00 in 2 dinners. Some mornings I'll feel like bacon eggs and hash browns, so well head out for breakfast, also costing us $40.00.
Last night I finally had the nerve to sit down and look at the bank statements. I looked at the 2 I see online dated from Jan 14th to Feb 22. I added up all the eat out food purchases. And our total was $628.87. I know that is HORRIBLE. To think that is just days over 1 month, we have been eating like that for years, in 1 year we have been spending $7536.00 give or take. I mean that's $3885.00 for the Bahamas and $3761.00 for Disney World. Two extravagant vacations. It is also 9 van payments at $780. each.
We too started our eat out jar, last night. We started with $40.00 now we just have to decided on how much and when to add money.

Does anyone have an "eat-out plan"??

I need to check out Dave Ramsey, I have heard his plans work wonders. If we are spending that much on food out I can only imagine what some of our other spending adds up to.

Rachel and Family

Dresses are for girls!!

2010-02-22T21:46:00.003-08:00

Annabelle loves to wear dresses. As I say this I'm reminded she has 2 dresses and 2 skirts. I am and never have been a dress girl. It is hard for me to buy dresses knowing she will need tights, leggings, or shorts underneath. Makes more sense to just buy pants.
So she is always excited when dresses are bought for her as gifts. This one her Aunt Jessie got her for Christmas. The weather was finally nice enough to wear it the other day. Really she is excited about the dress, not so much getting her picture taken.

In a day or two I'll post about our evening at the park. The kiddos had so much fun. Lance got the camera for a few minutes, so there are some pictures of me (that never happens)!

Rachel and Family

Not such a baby anymore

2010-02-22T08:35:00.002-08:00

As I went to wake Landon up from his nap on Friday afternoon, this is what I found..

Landon can now pull himself up into a standing position in his crib. He can also do it holding on to his walker in the living room. He is pretty good at it. He is fast in his crib up one side, sit down, and up the other side. He is also sitting by him self. He hasn't mastered crawling yet, he might just be a walker like Annabelle was.

Our baby is getting big.

Time for another one I guess.....

Rachel and Family

Ducky Jamas

2010-02-19T10:31:00.005-08:00

I love that fact I have been able to use almost all the clothes from when Mathew was born with Jacob and Landon. The other night we realized that may no longer be the case for the Ducky Jamas.

As you can see we have tootsies poking out. Time for new Jamas! And that means it's time for me to dig out the bins and grab the next size clothes. Now if only I had organized the closet as Lance was putting bins away. Yep, that's two rows of bins.

Here's to a long Saturday morning!

Minestrone Soup???? Stew???

2010-02-18T10:42:00.007-08:00

I never imagined all the ways to make Minestrone Soup. I have never eaten it, so too see so many ideas was a bit overwhelming. I have a total of 3 cookbooks, I hope to grow that collection in the next few years. So, I tend to rely on google for most recipes. I also heard about http://www.foodgawker.com/ from a friend. Thanks Amanda!!! I like to look at that for color, I don't like to make a recipe I can not see, know what I mean?

So the other day I decided to buy some veggies, in hopes I would try to make Minestrone soup. I tend to get scared off easily so I have other ideas so I don't waste the veggies. But this time I stuck with it and made my Minestrone. I'm sure you recall I mentioned in other posts I do not measure ingredients.

I started off with my leftovers from dinner 2 nights ago, a chunk of Roast( maybe 2lbs) and extra beef broth.

1/2 can beef broth

chunk of roast

3 carrots

4 smaller Russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)

2 celery stalks (sliced as you like)

1/3 white onion (chopped)

1/2 bag frozen peas

6 oz can of tomato paste

24 oz water

Place all items in crock pot. I cooked from 10am -5 pm on high temp. I took out my chunk of roast at 1pm so it wouldn't become too soft and shred, but it was long enough for the soup to gain the flavors. Normally you would add pasta when it is time to serve, but of course my plans didn't turn out.....

Here comes my twist. When Lance got home he saw the chunk of roast and asked why it wasn't in the soup. I explained and then he added well it already looks like vegetable soup so why not make it a stew. So stew it was. And when we sat down for dinner that is what it tasted like. Very good flavors, just not what I wanted to make.

Anyone have ideas on how to keep it Minestrone and Stew?!!!

In hopes for better soups!!

Rachel and Family!

The weight issue

2010-02-17T13:55:00.002-08:00

So this post is just me ranting about my weight.

Ok you had far warning! I weigh to darn much. I know 4 kiddos , I should be worrying about other things. But all I am worried about now is , not wanting to get undressed everyday to shower. It disgusts me. Lance says he doesn't care as long as I'm happy. Well that's the problem I'm not happy. All the rolls, and bumps ugggggg. So I weigh in at 187. We have started to go to the gym every night, to get some weight and cardio workouts in. I use the elliptical every morning at home. I hope to start going to a yoga class, that scares me. I just want to be down 50 lbs. I have not set a "by this date" yet. I don't want to fail, but maybe Oct time frame?!

I need to find more healthy recipes, and snacks. Any suggestions?

Ok enough of my whining, back to the kiddo world.

Thanks

Rachel and Family

Dishes, dishes, ok I'll do the dishes

2010-02-11T09:07:00.003-08:00

We have been very lucky over the last few years to be in on-post housing that has been renovated and has a DISHWASHER!!! I HATE washing dishes by hand. It could be because I had to as a child/teen, my parents didn't own a dishwasher till it was my sisters and brother time to start doing the dishes. But oh well life goes on I grow up and have a family and needless to say we EAT! So there are times when the dishwasher is full and I don't want the next load waiting in the sink for me. So I start to scrub away. Well I have tried a lot of sponges. Normal pads, scouring pads, the "fill the handle with soap" brushes, and have never been happy with the results.

We have the non-stick pans so I can't use the scouring pads or it will scratch the pans of course. About a month ago I found THE PAD. It has these little beads that scrub without being harsh, and it has a sponge side too.

I know the little things that make me happy. If it makes my life easier it make me happy!!!!

Here's the pad:

Have a GREAT day!!

Peaches and Sneezes

2010-02-04T10:38:00.002-08:00

Today started like any other day. I woke up, got Annabelle and Mathew out of bed and fed them. Woke up Jacob, fed him. Lance came home between PT and work, so change and stay with the little boys. I took Annabelle and Mathew to school. Came home got Jake dressed. Woke-up Landon was feeding him Peaches, and then he Sneezed. I saw a little twitch in his nose and though nothing of it, till my face was covered in those same darn Peaches! Poor guy didn't know what to do, so he just started playing with the drops that landed on his tray. No worries we are all okay!!!

Have a wonderful Thursday!

California is the place for me!

2010-01-25T09:51:00.008-08:00

On our way across country from North Carolina to Washington, we went through California. We took the southern route as we left Kansas in hopes to not be suck in a snow storm going north. I am so glad we did. The farthest west I had been was Vegas by plane, so I was very excited to see a different part of the country!

We stayed one night in Needles, Ca. We got in late but it ended up to be the cheapest we pd for a hotel the best. It had three beds! Which meant we didn't have to have Jacobs heals in our back the entire night! Then it was off to Oceanside. It was nice but it was in my opinion the ghetto of the area we went to. I would have preferred Newport! Ha, like we could afford Newport!

Lance showed be around his old "stomping ground" just to find out places really do change in 20+ years. Lance was stationed at Camp Pendleton in the 80's. It was surreal for him to try and remember places that were no longer there, and to see that disappointment in his face.

He did show me something that I thought was pretty darn cool!!! As a girl in the 80's I was in love with Top Gun. I even believed I would marry Tom Cruise one day, no matter the age difference! Okay back to reality, remember the part of the movie when Maverick(Tom Cruise) sped away from Charlie(Kelly McGillis) house down the hill on his motorcycle. Well here is the house and the hill. I love my picture of the hill, because the sunset is wonderful!

We stayed 2 nights in Oceanside. The second day Lance took me to LA! I will never live IN LA the traffic was horrible, in case you need to know! He took me down and around Sunset Blvd and Hollywood Blvd (where we got to see Arnold Schwarzenegger give James Cameron his star). I got a far away picture of the HOLLYWOOD sign! We drove around some magnificent neighborhoods. Man did I want to see a Real Housewife!! The Wilshire Hotel (Pretty Woman). And ended the night on the beach, this was in Oceanside. Our only family picture of the trip.

Thank goodness for that flat rock, or we wouldn't have a family picture. I wish we would have gotten to the beach a bit earlier for a better picture, but this is our family and this is how the day went! LOL. Oh how I miss warm sunny California.

Our first trip to Seattle

2010-01-16T21:01:00.008-08:00

Today we made our way up I-5 to Seattle, of course we had to stop at the original REI store where we ended up spending way more than we wanted. We did however buy a kiddo carry backpack or whatever you call it! It is the Deuter Kid Comfort 1. In theory we were going to buy it for Landon, but after a good reading of fliers and about 20 mins with an associate (I wont let Lance buy anything over $100.00 if I don't know lots about it,well when I know about a purchase) we found out Jake can still ride in it. Which is great after his run away escapade in Sam's club the other day, if I just hadn't gone to the bathroom. Done deal, back pack carry a kid thingy was ours. Oh and while we were talking with the associate I checked on the kiddos in a nearby playhouse and someone else's kid kicked/healed me in the face, hard. The kids was climbing on the outside of the plaything and slipped, oh but no worry my face saved the day. If I turn black and blue by morning I'll post pictures.

The only place I wanted to go in Seattle for the day was Pike Place Market, the one you hear about everywhere. I didn't know what I wanted to see or which stores to go in but I wanted to be there. So we went! It was nice, crowded but nice. Of course I'm not a fast shot with the camera so I didn't get shots of the fish in the air as they threw them about. But it was defiantly cool to see. The flowers were beautiful and the produce was gorgeous. I did forget to stop and buy something, after leaving my cloth bags in the car I felt silly buying food to be put in plastic bags. One thing I realized though is it is not a kid friendly place, well not for a mom who thinks everyone is out to steal her kids and do bad things to them. So if anyone wants to fly out to Wa. so Lance and I can go to the market for the day, I'd be glad to bring you back some of the beautiful produce and gorgeous flowers!

The children got chilly after a bit of walking (we haven't quite figured out the weather here) so they got some neat zip-sweatshirts that say Seattle. Which of course cost way to much from a vendor but heck they won't go to Seattle everyday. They thought is was cool. They are already asking to wear them to school Monday. We had lunch at a hot dog place Taxi Hot Dogs, and dessert at Cow Chip Cookies. In all it was a good trip!

And on our way back to we stopped at Ikea, I have never been and I shouldn't go for a long time!! There were lots of things Lance and I agreed would look fabulous in our house! So we decided to come home make a list and go back in a few months. We did get the kiddos a few things like a wood train set for 15.00, a kids cookbook for 5, a step stool for the bathroom sink (and for me to reach my pots that lance hung on our new pot rack, which has to be higher than I need or he hits his head on it).

Here are a few pics from our day. I will remember to take more on our next trip!

Pike Place Market

One of the fish stands

The ship yard(I don't know if that's what they call it or not)

Some of the buildings behind the market

A cop on a horse. The kiddos got a good kick out of that!

And our dessert!

The Space Needle (from a street near REI)

Love,

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

one of those days....

2010-01-11T13:31:00.003-08:00

Well of course today started off late. I don't mind the oh crap I didn't hear the alarm slept till 8 days, I do mind the hit snooze should have gotten out of bed now I have to rush those 10 mins I slept kinda late days. I do it to my self and at the end of the chaos I realize the 10 mins didn't mean shit. I went to bed early, baby was only up once, the others slept through the night too, why in the world did 640 seem better than 630? And for shits and giggles after I rushed rushed rushed to get all 4 kiddos dressed feed and out the door to have the Ann and Matt to school by 750, Lance walks in the door at 740. Meaning I didn't even have to wake the younger boys or do anything with them. The life of a mom!!!! Onto the rest of my day!!! Highlight, I did remember dinner!!!!

Good Luck to all those mommies out there for better than yesterday days!

Made it to Washington

2010-01-08T09:29:00.002-08:00

This is going to be short. I have been away so long, but I have lots to share. I should have at least a full page by Monday! Remember we started in NC and had Christmas, family, and friends along the way! I am very excited to share some of our stories!

Love,
Rachel and Family

Moving on Out

2009-11-29T08:13:00.003-08:00

It has been a good few days since I have done a blog, sorry. We had family here for Lance's graduation which went well. Since grad. is over we are on our way to Ft. Lewis. We will be in Ks Dec 10-15th ish. We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season. I will have a blog, of pictures ans stories from our adventures west once we get settled in.

Love you all.

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Grad Time

2009-11-12T04:04:00.003-08:00

Things have been crazy this week. Family has been coming in which is great. And the children have been in and out of school. Thank you veterans for all you have done. So it is graduation time, Friday is the big ceremony. Congrats to my hubby for all the hard work and dedication over the last year. We are proud of you!!

Well I hope to have another post before next friday!!!

Enjoy the days to come!!

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

School Pictures Ugh

2009-11-04T12:48:00.005-08:00

I'm not even sure why I spend the money. I should just get photos done at good ole wal-mart. Annabelle's picture is great but Mathew's. Some adult dropped the ball on this one. I know someone had to think "I know his parents really want to see the grey sweat shirt in his picture"!!! I wish I could get a proof, then be allowed to pay for a package if I choose. Maybe one day the system will work that way. Well here are the 2009 Ft. Bragg school photos.

Easiest Cookie ever!

2009-10-28T18:35:00.006-07:00

As many of you know I am all about easy! So I have been looking online lately for recipes mainly at http://www.foodgawker.com/ and blogs. But tonight I pulled out one of my very first cookbooks. The Home and Garden Limited Edition Pink Plaid Cookbook. And found this recipe I have had bookmarked for over a year now. I have always been afraid of flour. The mess more than anything, I mean that stuff gets everywhere. I have this fear of a bowl spilling, just thinking about it makes me cringe! Well lately I have been getting better and I tried this recipe tonight.

Scotch Shortbread

1 cup butter softened

2 cups flour

3/4 cup powdered sugar

Combine flour and sugar in a bowl.

Mix butter in a mixing bowl with mixer and gradually add flour mixture. Separate dough into 2 halves. Make into a ball on ungreased cookie sheet. I used 1 cookie sheet and 1 Pampered Chef stoneware (my first time for that too). Slice (I used a pizza cutter).

Bake at 325 for 20-25 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes, then move to cooling rack. Mine made 10 pieces each. I think I had 12 the first day. I'm horrible I know but they are so good! I am going to use cookie cutters the next time too! Enjoy

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Jacob's Pictures!

2009-10-27T09:11:00.005-07:00

Here are Jacob's pictures we got done at Wal-Mart last week. I wish I could get better at taking pictures, but I can't beat 30+ pictures for less than $10.00!! The top one we got the package, and the bottom one is our free 8x10.

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Jacob and his movies

2009-10-26T08:31:00.003-07:00

Jacob is not really a TV kid. He would much rather watch movies. I think it is because he doesn't want to be interrupted by commercials! So this morning he choose Flicka and played with Annabelle's horses at the same time. Now we are watching his second movie Jurassic Park II The Lost World. Please do not be horrified by the fact I let me 3 yr old watch this movie. In fact he has been watching it for months, Lance got them all hooked on the trilogy. All of my children LOVE dinosaurs. So as we were watching the scene came on where the T-Rex invades the camp for the bloody shirt in the tent. As they are all running away one of the men is getting the tranq. gun ready and Jacob says "Monny, that's the bam bam to shoot the raurs, see monny." Then a few scenes later comes the field they are going to run through to get away. Jacob says "Monny, the raurs are there and their going to eat them men, see monny" He has always called me monny not mommy. It had to do with his speech delay which has gotten better, but I kind of like monny so I don't correct him. I know I'm hindering his speech but its just so darn cute!! I can't wait to see what movie he picks next!

Rachel and Family

Annabelle's Dental Gear

2009-10-22T17:27:00.006-07:00

Annabelle has had a growing-up week!!!

She turned 7 in June and has sucked her thumb everyday since about 3 weeks old. That's 361 weeks of thumb sucking. And not just at night either, in the car to in school to during sports practice, her thumb has been practically stuck in her mouth. Last year at one of her dental checkups the dentist said "appliances would not work till she was ready to stop". Well 6 months later he agreed with me and said we need to do something before her teeth grow straight instead of down. So we chatted and agreed on mouth gear. This will remind her when the thumb starts to go in that "oh, I can't do that anymore"! She has been worried about the way it will feel. She was worried about missing the last football game. But after it was in and she realized no pain she was already running and jumping around and having a great time tonight at football practice(for Mathew, her season is over because of the gear).

Here is the timeline and a few pictures.

Sept. 25th 6mo cleaning, agreed on problem and remedy so impressions were made.

Oct. 16th dentist cancelled appt

Oct. 20th spacers put in

Oct. 22nd gear put on

Excited to be at the dentist.

Spacers

Gear

This is Annabelle's bite, see the gap from thumb sucking.

First smile with gear in!

She is doing good with it. I just have to remember it is like braces for all the food limitations!! So this stays on 6 months, which is both for getting the teeth to move around and its a good amount of time to forget the thumb sucking habits!

Rachel and Annabelle

Our Caterpillar

2009-10-20T19:01:00.005-07:00

So today I took the trash out (Lance is still gone). And I thought oh what a cool leaf!

Then I got closer and thank goodness I did not swat it down into the breeze because it was not a leaf it was a caterpillar!! Have a great week everyone!!

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Itchy Itchy Scratchy Scratchy

2009-10-20T18:41:00.000-07:00

Our poor boy Landon. He has had cradle cap since about 5weeks old. At first I was "letting it pass" then it started to get real bad, and clumpy and flaky-gross. We would wash everyday then lather with baby oil. Then we would try to wash every other day and lather in baby oil. So then came google about 1 1/2 weeks ago! I saw a lot of suggestions to use canola oil then wash then lather in baby oil. So I did and its working, I have done canola once and now just bath every other day and later 2-3 times a day with baby oil.

But poor guy it still itches, see the top of his head. I tried to keep it moisturized then he would wake-up with scratches all over his head, so then I tried the beanie and of course it comes off as he sleeps. I have to trim his nails every other day. Then a friend suggested the newborn mittens, and of course I forgot to grab them at wal-mart today. So I was at the dentist office today with Annabelle(look for that post thursday) and one of her classmates father mentioned socks on his hands. Okay, so I should have already thought of that, seeing as I will try to find something in the house before I will purchase something new!! So as I put Landon to bed tonight I remember grab the socks, of course they were all in the wash except for the one pair that doesn't match!! And I have the fan on in the room since he looks as if hes bundled up for a blizzard!

Lance and Rachel, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Gross Farms-Sanford, Nc

2009-10-17T16:51:00.005-07:00

It has been on the chilly side here all week just like about everywhere else. But today after football a friend and I decided to get the kiddos out of the house! This afternoon we ventured out to Gross Farms. It was fun. I mean besides my obvious frustration in my children running wildly in the pumpkin patch throwing the small pumpkins around. I had a few AHHHHH WOULD YOU STOP IT moments today. Sorry Sara, I know I must have looked a little red at times. But in all I think the children enjoyed themselves. Oh and I have to tell you, that I paid for 4 hayrides, and then Jake had a fit and started throwing straw at people so I took him off the hayride. Annabelle and Mathew stayed with Sara and her children, Thanks again for that. So I was out that $10. just extra frustration $10 is a pair of jeans for the kiddos. Ahh like I said it was one of those days....... Tomorrow can only be better!!!

This is how I start most of our outings, it may seem strange but I don't know it seems normal to me. I take a picture of the kiddos before. I do this so I know what they have on in case of an emergency I have a picture to show authorities. There are so many times we go places and I mean to take pictures but I forget, so If I take one before we leave the house I'm set. Oh and Mathew didn't want to go, he didn't think pumpkins were exciting!!

At this moment Jacob didn't want to be there!

This was before Jacob's fit.

Spelling is tough, in 2nd grade!

2009-10-16T18:19:00.004-07:00

I want to start off by saying I love teachers. From my mother, to the ones that home school , to the fact I still want to teach. But I have had a couple of problems with Annabelle's teacher this year. The first it that she has Annabelle put Anna on all her papers (the 2 you see is the seat in class each child has a number for days when there are substitutes) I told Annabelle to write her full name, but yet her teacher has her put Anna. This will be discussed at parent teacher conferences. My other problem is the teacher says Annabelle talking is disruptive at times (which I can understand and Annabelle and I have talked about). So I think while the teacher was grading her spelling test this week Annabelle must have been disrupting her!!!

Number 5 Is supposed to be SHAKE !!! But the smiley face 100% is cute!!

Have a Happy Friday!

Say HELLO to my friends

2009-10-13T17:46:00.004-07:00

My Grays!!!

Hi Grays!!!

I came to terms with these friends. I knew they were coming, I remember the first when I was in high school, and of course I took care of it right away! Than as I got older and met Lance I blamed him. Then I had children and some have come I'm sure because of the them. In fact up until a few months back I thought this is great these friends are the best, now I'll "fit-in" with my husband and his "groups" of friends (love you all). That was until I had Caroline at the salon cut my hair. I was talking about how I liked my Grays and that I thought it made me seem wiser, and even sexy. But no then Caroline had to tell, "that if my husband wanted these friends he wouldn't have went 12 yrs his junior".

So on that note help me figure out what to do. I'm thinking all dark brown because of the fall, then I think frost because its a change, I don't think I want highlights, I'm just not ready for chunky hair. Or leave it the way it is????? Remember that no matter how I part my hair, they are there, or even in the ponytails!!! Hmmmmm what to do what to do.

Rachel

Landon's Rice Story!

2009-10-09T19:25:00.006-07:00

Landon has been growing like crazy. Eating a bottle (6oz) almost every 3 hrs while he is awake. I needed something to help him curb/curve his appetite. I know, I know if a babies hungry feed him. But my goodness. And we have tried to hold out on the feedings by 15-20 mins at a time, and my goodness you can tell. He gets so hysterical poor guy. I mean look at him, he is already throwing punches!!

So I had asked his Dr. the last visit at 2 months when can we start rice(at that time is was just a question) now I'm glad I asked. She said rice could be started anywhere from 4-8 months depending on how the child does. I also looked at the box of cereal and it says "supported sitters". So yeah "Landon you are ready"!!!!

Yesterday he took the first feeding (the video) like a champ! That is also the picture in the orange/picture plaid walker (which he now loves to sit in, plus it helps him hold his head up). But by dinner he had already forgotten what a great experience rice was(the picture in the high chair, which we had forgotten was in the garage)!! This afternoon was better. Unfortunately though I believe it made him a bit constipated, so I think I may hold off and try it once a week to see if he gets more "regular" with it!!

Great Job Landon!!!!

Mom, Dad, Annabelle, Mathew, and Jacob

The scary things in my fridge

2009-10-06T16:23:00.008-07:00

OK so I won't post pictures of the scary things in my fridge. Because they were really gross and they might have been bad enough for cps to be called (all clean now). Oh but the thing that cracked me up the most was that the food was scared to be in there too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob and Landon

Flag Football

2009-10-03T18:12:00.007-07:00

So as time goes by, I get more excited that our life will be filled with sports. From wrestling, soccer, flag football, baseball, to dance and more. Annabelle wrestled in Manhattan, Ks 2yrs ago till we moved. Annabelle played soccer in Leavenworth, Ks one spring. Annabelle and Mathew both placed soccer last spring, here at Ft. Bragg. And now we have Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays full of Flag Football. We practice on Tue. and Thur. sometimes there is a weeknight game thrown in there. This mornings football game was exciting! I am not really sure the final score. They don't get as many points for TD and such as the pros do. But my goodness they all play their little hearts out. The hard thing for most of them to get it the flag part. You can not tackle or you get a flag(penalty) and you can not protect your flag either. I really should goggle Flag Football rules, but then I might pay more attention to the rules then the children.

So here are a few pictures from today's game. I know everyone has been waiting!! Annabelle #28 Mathew #38

They are next to each other, on the end.

They are next to each other on the left side of the field.

Mathew is on the left side of picture, and Annabelle is blocking in the middle.

Lance and Rachel, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

My "southwest" Chicken

2009-10-01T21:27:00.005-07:00

I say "southwest" because I have NO idea what cuisines go where. I just know there are some cowboys in the west. And there is salsa!!! So here it is plain and simple (or not so simple.....).

2 cups salsa

3 ears of corn

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Pour salsa into pot and heat at mid-high. While the salsa is heating place corn in boiling salted water (I'm sure you could used can corn, but I had bought some at the farmers market I wanted to use) boil 5-6 mins. Start grill and grill chicken till "juice runs clear" (I always here that, but I'm never sure, I could use a thermometer, but no I cut the chicken to check it and mine has never dried out), I then "cut the corn off the cob using a steak knife in a downward motion" (I'm sure there is a name for that), add corn to salsa, let heat 3-5 mins. I heated mine in the time it took me to cut the children's chicken.

Oh and I made bread for the first time today, and had a little helper!! I'll post that later!!

Lance and Rachel, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Skillet Stuffed Peppers

2009-09-30T05:16:00.005-07:00

Last night not only did we have football practice but I wanted to try a new recipe. So I did both.

As a child I remember my parents making Stuffed Peppers. I am pretty sure I was "forced" to eat the peppers, and I know as a teen I refused. But oh my I was missing out. The dinner was great. And I of course"forced" my children to eat the peppers. I also told Mathew who was giving a pretty good fight that "it was just like pasta sauce with rice not noodles". So after cutting up the peppers and mixing them with the filling he gobbled dinner down! Annabelle has no problem trying out new things and was very proud that she didn't need her pepper cut up! Jacob is just refusing to eat altogether these days. I think molars can be to blame.....

Here is where I got the idea to do stuffed peppers (4 for a $1), and here is where I got the skillet version. Here is my take on the 25 min belly stuffer.

1lb ground beef browned*

2 peppers

1 can tomato sauce

2 cups cooked rice

onion- I used maybe a 1/4 cup

basil -remembering I do not measure my spices

sugar

salt

Brown beef and add onion, as the beef cooks, boil the water add salt. While water boils cook rice. Place peppers in water for 5-6 minutes. After time, set them on a cutting board. Finish the meat, and drain*. Add 1/2 can of tomato sauce, 1/2 of cooked rice, sugar, and basil to the skillet combining them with the meat. Slice the peppers in half and clean out seeds, place the halves in the skillet and "stuff" in the mix leaving some meat mix for the remaining sauce and rice. Add the remaining rice and sauce, mix well. Saute for 5 mins. Serve.

I served the adults the pepper slice with extra mix. The children shared a pepper slice diced mixed in with the meat mix.

* I have been using turkey to save a little cash lately, and have become accustom to the taste. As I was browning the beef, I could not believe the amount of grease. So the next time I make this I will use ground turkey.

My Yard Sale

2009-09-25T19:40:00.005-07:00

Ok to be honest it is really a 10-12 item sale!! But they are things we really want to get rid of before the move (we still do not know where or when).

So here is my sign, I made 4 to go up on the 2 main streets that surround our cul-de-sac. I didn't feel like doing anything too fancy. Plus it is a Post Wide Sale so I figured I'd leave the dates off, and I can reuse them, to have to spend .38 for another piece of poster board, is just silly!

I do realize all of my readers do not live in NC or near Ft. Bragg. But we have a motor and head board and other odds and ends. I'm sure I'll have more for the next one, but I figured I'd hold off on going through clothes till it gets a bit cooler!

Oh but the real cool plus side of me getting things ready (tonight) for the sale tomorrow, was I found a bin full of boy clothes 3-9 months. Landon is set for the winter!!! I mean I found it at just the right time. He would have gotten new clothes pretty soon. That bin happened before the mass labeling happened! So everything is labeled now (post-it note and scotch tape) and stacked. I would love a label machine! I just don't see that in the card for know. I mean I just got the electric pencil sharpener I would hate to spoil myself for the yr!!! I stacked everything because here in a few weeks Lance will be going off to training for about 30 days and we figure we'll park his Jeep in the garage, to save outside space for the kiddos to get the last of the bike ridding in before they go on a truck, or the side walk chalk, which (if you know me well is asphalt chalk to me) I can't stand on the actual sidewalks.

I also had to make a run to wal-mart tonight to get smaller bills. Because while I was working away at the garage cleaning, stacking, sorting (sale, trash, keep, donate) and throwing away toys lots of broken toys we have keep from move to move, not anymore!! I forgot to go by the bank!! Its a good thing we keep change in the house too!

So I am off to bed to get a good nights sleep before a few long hours of dealing tomorrow, and it might be in the rain too. Darn.

Lance and Rachel, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob and Landon

Zucchini Bolognese

2009-09-23T16:51:00.005-07:00

This recipe is good to use up extra Zucchini. I had some from our grilled zucchini and squash Sunday night.

Here is my take on this recipe.

I did not measure my ingredients (its more fun this way)! No really this one didn't need to be specific. So:

Pasta (I used Thin Spaghetti)

Tomato Sauce

Onions-diced

Zucchini-diced

Squash-diced

Green Peppers-diced

Olive Oil

Red Pepper Flakes

Salt and Pepper to taste

Meat (I used ground Turkey)

Make pasta as usual.(Bolognese takes a bit longer than pasta cook time).

Mix diced veggies in bowl, add oil to skillet, add veggie and saute on mid-high heat, add red pepper flakes.

Add meat, and salt/pepper to taste cook till browned (drain if needed), pour sauce in skillet, mix till wanted temp. Add pasta.

Mine looks thick here because I used the thin sauce for the children's plates, plus all the good meat and veggies they never knew were in there!!! And I made Lance's plate before I remembered to take a picture!

Top with desired goodies. Lances used parmesan cheese and I used shredded cheddar!

Enjoy,

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

The recipes on blogs oh my!!!

2009-09-22T05:37:00.005-07:00

I have never been one to cook let alone bake. But as I look through blog after blog I'm finding it can be much easier than I thought.

This is one of my favorite blogs for recipes Real Mom Kitchen. I had never heard of flour less cookies. I hate to make anymore mess than needed throughout the day and flour is one of those not needed adventures. Here is her flour less cookies recipe!

Or these "made from scratch" OK not really, cake mix cookies, from a different blog! These are the ones I'm trying out today (except I'm doing yellow butter cake mix with chocolate chips!) This is an easy way to use up cake mixes before they expire (because mold can then grow in the mixes, same as expired pancake mixes, FYI)!

And here is something Lance and I did for Sunday dinner. And just to warn you, I do not have picture taking skills, so if the picture is blurry it is not your eyes or the computer, lol!

We had cheeseburgers and then I bought some zucchini and yellow squash to grill. I "marinated" the zucchini and squash in oil, salt and thyme. (next time I will try Italian dressing like Kayln from Kayln's Kitchen suggested, ours didn't have very much flavor.

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Happy Birthday Jacob

2009-09-20T11:45:00.007-07:00

Today Jacob Douglas Borman turned 3 .

He has been very excited all day. He had a birthday breakfast complete with pancakes and eggs! And he got to help Dad make his cake. He also went to the store with me and picked out his own frosting, chocolate (ya, for me)! He has gotten present through out the week from family! So here's to one of our boys.

Happy Birthday Jacob!!!

(last sept)

Love Dad, Mom, Annabelle, Mathew and Landon

Go Panthers Go!

2009-09-17T18:09:00.005-07:00

I know everyone is thinking oh my, what happened. No I am still a DOLPHINS FAN! Flag football starts this Sat! And the Panthers are Annabelle and Mathew's team! I volunteered ( by lack of motivation from others) to do the team banner. Now if everyone remembers correctly I was a football manager every yr in high school and the 1 yr of college. I choose to do a banner that the team could run through (tear) during opening ceremonies. I will then make another one for the last game. There is no place to hang a sign for each week. I'm not sure if all the other parents are on board, but I think the children will really enjoy it! So here is the poster/banner/paper that will just go in the trash sun!!

The names will be added tomorrow, I had to get the official list tonight! Who knows if it tears right down the middle like I hope (I'm going to poke little holes in the middle to make for an easy tear) I might be able to reuse if for the last game!

I promise to have pictures, and maybe a video soon!

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

I go SEW.... crazy when the hubby is away

2009-09-13T19:08:00.013-07:00

So Lance is in the field for a week or so, and I can get the children in bed by 8pm. So then I have many hours of nothing, because I can not go to bed before 11pm. Really I strive off of 6hrs of sleep! So I invited an old friend to come out and play! And this is what happened when we got together!I have made 2 baby blankies (they are pretty small and mainly for chewing, or baby dolls). And a burpie! Although, I need to fix my tension on my machine (which I will have to google since the instruction book is MIA). You would be surprised what is on the internet, it had been so long, I also had to goggle "how to thread a bobbin". I know please don't judge me on my poor memory. Again please do not judge the stitching, I haven't actually used the machine since Annabelle was born, so I am learning old tricks! But I am so excited!. I also finished Annabelle's curtain. She was excited for it, mom made the boys one when she visited and Annabelle has been asking ever since! I really need to get started on my quilting again (once I get the machine fixed)! I am also working on my hand stitching with a christmas table runner!

I also talked to a great friend of mine tonight, some of you may know her. I call her Jana!! I was almost convinced to post the pictures without words, but I was too afraid of that outcome!

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

My Joys!

2009-09-09T06:30:00.004-07:00

I love just about everything in my life. I mean I could do without the pee on the bathroom floor, the hair in the vacuum, and the grime in the garbage disposal. But for the most part I do love everything! Here are so of my joys in no particular order!!

gerber daisies
sports
the smell of my husbands deodorant
Mathew's smile
my 15 mins of quite before I wake the children on school days
HOT summers
sweet tea
Annabelle's hair
reality tv (i know it is just horrible)
Jacob's eyes
reading with my children
the BEACH
cool mornings
Landon's cuddle
the color orange
Wal-Mart (give me everything in one place and i'll take it)
FAMILY and FRIENDS

the smell of fresh laundry (folding and putting away not so much)
camping
falling asleep in my husband arms

Just a few to make me smile today. Lance has left for the field for a few days.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAPA !!!!!!

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

Lifes about a Beach!!!

2009-09-04T12:38:00.013-07:00

Now that we are all feeling a little better, other than Mathew's weird "breakout" rash on the left side of his face after football practice last night. And Annabelle's half day of school because of a slight fever, we are all up to par!!

To help with my healing I think of the BEACH. Living in Kansas for MOST of my life we never got to the BEACH. I think I remember a trip once, on our way back from living in Italy, to a beach somewhere near Pennsylvania or Virgina. Mom you'll have to help my memory on that one.

Last year 2008 we moved to Ft. Bragg, NC! Fun, yes I know! I was EXCITED. I was of course going to miss family and friends but I was ready for the HEAT, less snow and the BEACH!!! But we had to wait a few weeks to get to the beach nonetheless I wouldn't have done it any different. We went to Myrtle Beach, Sc. I thought, "Great this is the beach capitol of the East Coast" (which I know a lot will disagree, but like I said this is the first time I will remember the BEACH!) The best part was that some of my family was able to visit and join us. Papa and Mom, Zach, Jessie and even Austin. We missed you Debbie, Tina and thier families.

(Pop's in the back to the left, you see him, come on I know you see him!)

Look at that water. Jessie hates water (we"fought" with that dollar store inter tube and got her in without a pop!)

And look at the sand ah the sand! Don't look at the guy he's my brother and that would be just WRONG.

Another PLUS was that we camped, that's right folks no hotels for the Light-Borman families. Instead of hundreds on hotels (for 2 nights, 3 hotel rooms would have been $600.) we spent $102 dollars (2 campsights $28 a day each) at Myrtle Beach State Park. Woo Hoo!!!!!

Well I think the Lights might have cheated a bit with the RV!! Just joking... Jacob cheated too since he slept in the RV as well!!

Here is a photo of that RV!!! It was Great to have!!!!!!!!

And then we found Carolina Beach, NC. It is closer to home, less crowed, and just as clean! That is were we venture to on weekends when we want to get out of the city and see the BEACH!

Another day another time I'll share pictures from there.

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob and Landon

The Sick House part II

2009-09-02T13:24:00.002-07:00

Just a quickie on hump day!

So all of the children have over come their colds without the fear of H1N1 breakout in the Borman house! But to our surprise Lance now has a cold, I am still fighting mine too. So lack of sleep with the children during there restless coughs and sniffles in the night, and now on to ours. As soon as 1 of us gets to sleep the other has an "attack" and we are both up again, fun fun! So in a few days I hope to have more exciting news other than snot and mucus!

Lance and Rachel, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

The Sick House

2009-08-31T05:32:00.003-07:00

So we had a house full of sicks this weekend. From Jacob to Me. Lance and Landon were the only ones to luck-out on all the festivities, of nose blowing and fever fighting!!! It all started when Mathew came home from school on Friday, good'ole public school!!! His teacher told him it could be allergies, so that is what he informed me after school "it's just my allergies ma". Well NO, it isn't I said to Lance, of course I know better. And come Saturday morning Jacob had a runny nose, then comes sun and I'm feeling under the weather. And last night as I'm getting everyone bathed and into bed. Annabelle starts getting cranky( yes, i know you are all thinking but that's normal). Here is the last conversation before she passed out.

Annabelle: MOM.

Me: What Annabelle?

Annabelle: The boys are bothering me and I have hard school work in the morning. We are doing real 2nd grade work tomorrow.

Me: OK Ann I'm coming.

And so comes Monday morning, and Annabelle is sneezing away. So I think early to bed tonight for everyone.

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob, and Landon

The Latest

2009-08-28T06:21:00.009-07:00

So Annabelle and Mathew started Flag Football this week, but I keep forgetting to take the camera..... so in the mean time.

Landon turned 3 months old yesterday (if you count the days). Which mean he just recently got shots. I swear he is the only 1 out of the 4 that cried bloody murder. This is after his first dose of Tylenol ever. I really hate giving my kiddos medicine, but he was just so miserable.

Jacob has been great with Annabelle and Mathew also starting school this week (yes, I forgot to take pictures, call the bad parent squad)! He was sad the first day, but ever since he realized how fun it is to be the only "big" kid at home, he has done wonderful!!!!

And he is a great helper with Landon too!

The Climbing Place

2009-08-26T05:33:00.012-07:00

One of the really fun places Lance found in Fayetteville,Nc is the Climbing Place. http://www.theclimbingplace.com/ It is only 15 from base in downtown Fayetteville. The children have a great time climbing the walls with and without Lance on belay. Here are some of our photos:

Great for rainy days too!!

Plus it gets out alot of energy.

The staff is very polite and friendly.

Rachel and Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob and Landon

Hello All !!

2009-08-25T06:26:00.007-07:00

I am very new to this whole Blogging thing! I find it very interesting all the things you can do. A few of my friend have pages for their family and friends. I agree thing is a great place to share all the exciting and some not so exciting things in our life. I hope to post everyday, so we shall see how that plan goes! Please feel free to comment as you like, and I hope to respond to each one!

So here goes:

Here is our first family photo. Lance and I have been married for almost 6 yrs now. Annabelle is 7, Mathew 6, Jacob 3 (in sept), and Landon joined us on June 4th 2009.

So here we are at Ft. Bragg in the days to come I'll share some of the things we have experienced here.

Enjoy,

Rachel, Lance, Annabelle, Mathew, Jacob and Landon