Sunday, April 24, 2011

About Me...

I love trying new things, at least most of the time. That being said, I'm not much of an adventurous chef!

The other day, we discovered that Target has this amazing new fresh produce isle! We happened to have coupons that Target mailed me for all sorts of discounts on foods. This included a $2 coupon off any meat. Their sirloin was on sale and we decided that at that price, it was time to learn how to prepare it. Well, with our schedules and my lack of expertise in that area, the meat sat in the fridge for a week. Don't worry it was still a week away from it's expiration. I decided to try baking it tonight (as we have no grill). I was so thrilled because it turned out great! So, this spring I have already taught myself how to roast turkey breast in the crockpot, prepare amazing pork chops, and now prepare a tasty sirloin. I'm thrilled. I'm expanding my limited cooking knowledge.

On other notes, I just wanted to take a sec to say that I'm so grateful to have today off of work. There was no way I was emotionally ready to go back, let alone getting lesson plans ready. I will be much more ready to take on the students and staff tomorrow (I hope.) I am very much looking forward to summer! Also, I had a great time with family yesterday and we now have a great family shot to show the world! ;-)

Monday, April 18, 2011

Walgreens Success


So, I'm looking for a little shall we say- MOTIVATION for my kids at school.

Today, after refreshing their memories (so much time to forget over a weekend), I let the students loose with 20 minutes in class to complete their assignment. They choose to socialize. Today, I let it go. I recognized and praised the two students that did their work. I reminded everyone to turn in their work tomorrow first thing when they enter the room. But, I did so knowing that only two will have it done. What to do? I'm bringing in the big guns! And, thanks to Walgreens, it only cost me $3.57!!

What is it you say?? A variety of full-sized chocolate bars. Not into Snickers or Dove candy bars? Well, how about Peep's chocolate covered marshmallows? Haven't suited them yet? Well, how about Hershey's Hugs or Hershey's assortment of mini chocolate bars. Guess how they get it tomorrow???

They have to have their homework DONE (when they walk in the door!) Bet they'll think twice next time I give them class time to complete their work!! Also, they totally get to eat it in front of everyone else and are ABSOLUTELY NOT allowed to share with their slacker classmates!

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Sunday Birthday Celebration







Happy Birthday to Michael and Stephanie born just one week (and nearly a year) apart!

Friday, April 15, 2011

Babysitting the Cunningham twins...



I got to play with Troy and "Sam" tonight. Or at least, I'm naming the twin Sam because I really just watched one cute little boy that enjoyed some fabulous mirror time.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Aging


Ben Birthday Boy

Well, my brother went and did it... he made me feel old for the first time. He turned 25 today and I just can't accept it because I am 25 right???

We celebrated at O'Charley's! What a delicious way to ring in the quarter of a century celebration!!


Ben's "sisters" ring in the celebration
Left to Right: Christina, Mara (sister-like figure) Teresa

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Bridal Shower #1 of 4


The Reinhart Family


Bride to be


Beautiful arrangement of cake and punch


Hayden (Lexi's 1 year old) and her great aunt Barb

This year I am in four weddings! Lexi's Wedding is right around the corner... May 21st. Here are some pictures from her shower April 10th 2011. (Exactly two years after my bridal shower)

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Happy Birthday Jim!




Ringing in the birthday with a dinner at Montana Mikes with all the Painter clan! Then, Rose watched the kiddos while we enjoyed some amazing Cold Stone! Thanks Michael!!!