Bucket List Update #1

This past week we finally crossed off one of our bucket list items. Swimming at the pool. The pool at our complex opened quite late this year due to repairs (can we say earthquake anyone?) So we had to make due with other exciting things (running in the park, daily walks, slides and swings) to tide us over until it was ready. And on a hot humid day we were ready to try it out.

To be honest, Duncan really wanted nothing to do with it. He fought us every step of the way getting his swim diaper and suit on, and lord, don't get me started on the shoes. We had to fake it and say we were going on our evening walk--early. What you say? You don't go walking wearing your swim suits and carrying towels, grapes, a new floatie, a waterbottle and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Well, we do.

As we got closer to the pool, you could hear other children playing in the water, and that pipped his interest, especially when he saw the large inflatable beach ball flying through the air (leave it to a ball to get my son jazzed about the pool). He went right for the gate and wanted to go in. A few minutes later after unloading all our stuff, getting shirts off and floaties on, we took our first tentative steps to the pool. Holy moo cow was the water cold, but my son looked around, and jumped into his daddy's waiting arms. From there it was all play time.The hubs and Duncan splashed around and I finally got in and used to the cold water. 

Checking out the turtle on my floatie.

Here I go!!! Jump!

Splash, splash, with daddy.

45 minutes later, both of us could see that Duncan was doing a bit of shivering (yes the water was that cold, which makes me think that our place needs to get a solar heater cover, but that's another time) and we started wrangling the boy to get out. You would have though we were sending him away for ever from all the crying and pleading to stay in. Thank goodness for the peanut butter sandwich and grapes--they made a great distraction. (Yes, I do have my moments of brilliant forethought) And after a quick bite to eat and drying off we headed home promising a warm shower, brushing our teeth--which is one of his favorite things to do-- and Thomas the Tank Engine on the Sprout channel before bed. Overall, it was a great memory and fun time for our first bucket list event. And... I think we might just have a real water baby on our hands.

Crock Pot Mac 'n' Cheese

Here's a easy way to make home made macaroni and cheese that your family will love. I use gluten free noodles but you can easily use any elbow macaroni. I love set it and "forget it" recipes in the crock pot--it makes my life so much easier and I don't have rush home and figure out what to have for dinner.

All Day Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:
8 oz elbow macaroni (I use Tinkyada's gluten free brown rice pasta/macaroni)
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 1/2 cups milk
2 eggs
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper



Directions:
1. In a large pot, cook macaroni til al dente, and drain (approx. 8-10 minutes).
2. In a large bowl or pot (I just transfer the macaroni back to the cooking pot then) mix cooked macaroni, 3 cups of the shredded cheese, evaporated milk, milk, eggs, salt and pepper.

All mixed and ready to cook.

3. Transfer to slow cooker that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray or do what I do and line the cooker with a slow cooker bag.
4. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or until mixture is firm and golden around the edges. Do not remove the cover or stir the mixture until it is done cooking.  Serve warm.

I like to serve it with a big green salad and some fruit (right now it's strawberries). Yummy! Hope you enjoy.

Note: I am sorry I didn't get a finished picture for you all, my husband dug into the meal before I could snap a photo. Ce la vi...

Currently @ the Innes Family-- 6/21/12

Currently I am....

Making...

the Mt. Everest of laundry disappear. I seriously think I could use a cleaning service just to keep up with the laundry at this house. And there are only three of us... could you imagine what it would be like if there were more? I shudder to think!

Listening to...

the sound of silence--Duncan is at day care today, and I am home alone. Actually... I was listening to my relax mix on my cloud player, but it just ended and I've been too lazy to get some new music on. 

Craving...

Rice Krispie treats. I think I'm going to have to make some later. Although I will say the all day mac 'n' cheese I have cooking in the crock pot smells pretty good too (will be blogging about this later)

Writing...

my list of things to-do before we go on vacation. There is just so much I need to get done, and I keep thinking of other little things...so the to list has made a re-appearance in my house. If you know me and my passion for to-do lists, you will know that it's a record 2 weeks without one--I was really trying to go with the flow a bit more this summer and not have everything planned. 

Laughing...

at the pictures of Duncan at the pool. Watching him can't help but make me smile. He is so proud of his new floatie and that he can get "in the water, mama". Will be blogging about this too, since we have finally gotten to one of the events on our bucket list (I know, I know---yes, it's another list).

What are you currently doing? Join up with the currently party link below. The list stays active for the week, so have fun. I'd love to see what you are "currently" doing. 

Kreativ Blogger!! Woo Hoo!

Well I'm Geeked! My friend and fellow mom blogger, Mar, over at Raising Bean nominated me for this award! Thank you, thank you, thank you Mar! So now that I've been nominated, I must continue the tradition and nominate seven others. Read on below....




THE RULES:
1. Thank and link back to the awarding blog.
2. Answer seven questions.
3. Provide 10 random facts about yourself.
4. Hand the award on to 7 deserving others.

1. What is your favorite song? That my dear friends is easy! In Your Eyes, by Peter Gabriel... hands down.

2.What is your favorite dessert? Really? I have to pick one? I guess I'd have to say ice cream.

3. What do you do when you are upset? Ummm.... I'd have to say first reaction is cry. I admit I don't handle emotion really well.

4. Which is your favorite pet? If I had to choose, I'd say my very first pet on my own... Sly. I rescued him (or should I say he rescued me) and he was there when I had so many life changing moments...it was one of the saddest days of my life when I lost him.
 
5. Which do you prefer, white or whole wheat? Whole wheat. It just tasted better to me. But I am starting to acquire (very slowly) a taste for millet (gluten free) bread because my husband is gluten intolerant. 

6. What's your biggest fear? Losing those that I love.

7. What is your attitude mostly? I look to the bright side of things. I teach high school so people think that I am insane but I find working with teenagers keeps me young at heart.

Ten Random Facts About Me
1. I am left handed.

2. I love cooking, but absolutely hate to clean up. And laundry... ugh...don't get me started.

3. I like shopping for others, but have no patience when shopping for myself.

4. I could watch the BBC version of Persuasion over and over and over again. It is my favorite Jane Austin book ever.

5. I love Vera Bradley bags. They are the most girly, patterned things I own.

6. I really love falling asleep to the sound of the rain--SO relaxing.

7. If I could, I would take long showers everyday until the hot water ran out.

8. My child dresses better and has more up-to-date technology than I do.

9. If it weren't so bad for me, I'd eat a cheeseburger with ketchup, mustard and pickles every day.

10. I love it when my child naps... I can take a nap too---ahhh... heaven.

My Nominees

Team Studer -- Tabitha's blog was my inspiration for starting a blog. I've been a fan for almost 2 years now.

Meeting Lauren -- Jackie is mom to Lauren, a beautiful baby girl with downs syndrome, and a rambunctious toddler Ryan. I am blessed to know her and love reading about her family adventures.

Growing Up Geeky -- a fellow teacher and blogger, Melissa has a great blog about family and life.

Meet the Dubiens -- what would I do without this awesome crafty fun blog by Jill? Her weekly "bento" snack boxes have been a life saver and allowed me to try new things (a.k.a. foods) with Dunc.

Funny PostPartum Lady -- I found Funny Post Partum Lady when I was looking for inspiration about being a military wife. All I can say is what a fun blog to read, hands down you should follow this fellow military mommy.

The Nonsensationalist -- Cesca (aka Francesca) is actually a former student of mine from my first years of teaching (we won't say how long ago that was ok?). He has a wonderful family now and I've really enjoyed following the antics of her crew. She is such a great writer.

One Good Thing by Jillee -- I found this blog via Pinterest when Jill posted the XL chocolate chip cookie in a mug. OMG it was heaven. I now follow her for crafty tips and ideas. I big puffy heart her blog! :)

Father's Day Top 10: Why I love you

In honor of Father's Day I have created my very own top 10 as an "ode" to my husband. So here we go--the TOP Ten Reasons Why I love you!

1. I love watching you play with our son. You are such a great role model.

2. Who else could I share my politics obsession with?

3. When I'm sick, you always take care of me--and that say's a lot because I am a terrible patient.

4. It touches my heart when get a "SOS"-y, and show your emotions (and let the cat sleep on your lap).

5. You are the ultimate technology nerd.

6. I love that you have served your country for these last 23 years. I am so proud of you for that.

7. You kill/move/handle all the creepy bugs, spiders, and crawling things so I don't freak out! That is true love right there.

8. Your corny sense of humor never fails to make me smile and laugh.

9. You aren't afraid to try new things, meet new people or have a new experience.

10.  You married me, with all my faults, craziness, and weirdness, you married ME!

 Happy Father's Day my dear husband!

Quick and easy dinner--is there such a thing?

If you are anything like me there are just some nights you're tapped out of ideas for dinner and you have about 30 minutes till all "hades" breaks loose because people are hungry--what to do? Well instead of calling for pizza, or begging your husband to agree to a family dinner at chick-fil-a, consider trying one of my (and my family's) favorite go to meal. My husband probably would eat this every night if I let him, and my son will actually eat the spinach! AND... I can make it in about 25 minutes! So I present to you--

Chicken and Spinach Florentine

The finished product.

Ingredients: 
- 1 TBSP. olive oil (I use EVOO)
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite sized pieces
- 6 cups baby spinach leaves, washed and dried (I just use the ready mix bag spinach and cut the leaves in half)
- 2 cups rice, uncooked. Minute Rice is best for this (I use their brown rice)
- 1 1/2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) chicken broth
- 1 tsp. each of basil and oregano
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup Romano cheese, grated (I like to add the second cheese for a really tasty blend, but it is totally optional).

Directions: 
-  Heat oil in large deep skillet on medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook 10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Stir frequently.
- Add spinach, rice, tomatoes, basil, oregano, and broth; mix well.
- Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer 5 minutes
- Stir in cheese and let stand 5 minutes.


 

Toddler Rules

Note: I must admit, I did not make this up... a friend of mine (thanks Dee) sent it to me. It describes my son and his behavior perfectly--you moms out there with toddlers, you know what I'm talking about. And because it's "about" him, I just had to throw in a picture so you can imagine him doing all this. Enjoy!

The Rules of a Toddler! 

What every parent needs to know.

If it is on, I must turn it off. If it is off, I must turn it on.

If it is folded, I must unfold it.

If it is a liquid, it must be shaken, then spilled.

If it a solid, it must be crumbled, chewed or smeared.

If it is high, it must be reached.

If it is shelved, it must be removed.

If it is pointed, it must be run with at top speed.

If it has leaves, they must be picked.

If it is plugged, it must be unplugged.

If it is not trash, it must be thrown away.If it is in the trash, it must be removed, inspected, and thrown on the floor.

If it is closed, it must be opened. If it does not open, it must be screamed at.

If it has drawers, they must be rifled.

If it is a pencil, it must write on the refrigerator, monitor, or table.

If it is full, it will be more interesting emptied. If it is empty, it will be more interesting full.

If it is a pile of dirt, it must be laid upon.

If it is stroller, it must under no circumstances be ridden in without protest. It must be pushed by me instead.

If it has a flat surface, it must be banged upon.

If Mommy's hands are full, I must be carried. If Mommy is in a hurry and wants to carry me, I must walk alone.

If it is paper, it must be torn.

If it has buttons, they must be pressed.

If the volume is low, it must go high.

If it is toilet paper, it must be unrolled on the floor.

If it is a drawer, it must be pulled upon.

If it is a toothbrush, it must be inserted into my mouth.

If it has a faucet, it must be turned on at full force.

If it is a phone, I must talk to it.

If it is a bug, it must be swallowed.

If it doesn't stay on my spoon, it must be dropped on the floor.

If it is not food, it must be tasted. If it IS food, it must not be tasted.

If it is dry, it must be made wet with drool, milk, or toilet water.

If it is a car seat, it must be protested with arched back.

If it is Mommy, it must be hugged.

Summer Bucket List 2012

It's time for summer!  Too often I make up a list of things I'd like us to do as a family and then {POOF} summer is over and I don't get to even half of them. Last year we were in the midst of a move, starting new jobs, and discovering a new city so our list got thrown to the wind. This year I am much more determined to do enjoy a summer filled with family fun. While scouring the web for ideas of activities near us, I came across the Happy Family Movement's Summer Bucket List Challenge. What an awesome idea and I immediately signed our family up. There are over 1000 families participating--how exciting!!! I'm looking forward to a fun filled summer. So without further ado, I present to you the Innes Family 2012 Summer Bucket List Challenge!

• visit Grandma Tenney
• visit Grandma and Poppa Tyler
• swim at the beach on Lake Michigan
• see the Thomas the Train Experience
• make homemade ice cream
• visit the water park with Felicity and CJ
• go camping
• attend a Friday at Five concert together
• have a picnic at the park
• feed the ducks at the local pond
• plant flowers
• go mini golfing
• go to the National Zoo
• go strawberry picking
• see fireworks together
• swim at the pool
• go to a carnival 
• ride horses
• visit a petting zoo. 

I will most likely update the list with more ideas and I will definitely add links to relevant posts as we cross things off.  Have a  great start to your summer everyone.

It's Graduation Time :)

Every year I look forward to graduation--to watch my senior students walk across the stage and receive their high school diplomas. I see the joy and excitement on their faces as they close one chapter and begin a new one in their lives. It makes me blessed to be part of their journey. So as my current students get ready to cross the stage and my former kiddos who have already done so last week... for you.

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go...”
― Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You'll Go!

  

To the 2012 graduates of Western and my HHS seniors... congratulations! I'm so very proud of you.