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It's Friday! I love Friday because I get a reprieve from having to come up with my own ideas. Usually I participate in The (Un)Experienced Mom's Fill in the Blank Friday, and a couple of times I have done Mama M's Five Question Friday. Since I can't choose one over the other, today I will do both!

The rules for both are pretty much the same. You cut and paste the question into a post of your own, answer them, link back to their respective founders and then link your post up to their blog.

First, The (Un)Experienced Mom's Fill in the Blank Friday. The question this week is:

If I were going to be on a reality television show, I'd be on ________.
I don't think the 10 pounds I have to lose would qualify...but I would totally want to be on The Biggest Loser if I did need to lose that sort of weight. What an amazing experience to be able to absolutely transform your life. I always feel so inspired by what those people accomplish. Plus, I may have mentioned once or twice that I enjoy working out. ;)

Next up is Mama M's Five Question Friday. The questions are:
1. What's your "comfort food"?
2. Do you send Thank You's (handwritten or email)?
3. If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, which show would you choose?
4. What is your favorite online recipe site?
5. If you had to choose: "Friends" or "Seinfeld"?

1. What's your "comfort food"?
Dessert! Almost any type...but I prefer baked treats over ice cream (though I do love ice cream too). If it's done right, Creme Brule is the creme de la creme!
2.Do you send Thank You's(handwritten or email)?
Yes, but sporadically. Well, maybe not so much sporadically as only for specific events. For example, when I had my baby shower, I sent them. For Christmas, I don't. Maybe it's because I get gifts for the same people who get them for me, so it's like an even swap...no note required. At least I'm going with that!
3. If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, which show would you choose?
Rosanne. That way, when I got back to my own reality, I would appreciate it that much more. Plus I think she's a riot.
4. What is your favorite online recipe site?
Food Network. There is a recipe there for anything, and everything...and so many of them are awesome! In my opinion, it trumps all others.
5. If you had to choose "Friends" or "Sienfeld"?
Hmmmm. I really enjoy "Freinds," but Sienfeld is freakin' funny. "THESE PRETZELS ARE MAKING ME THIRSTY!!"

Now, go do your own post and be sure to link up. Then again, if you don't want to, and you'd rather leave me a comment with an answer or two...no need to twist my arm!

Julie at The Peanut Gallery...exit here, who has wiggled her way securely into my heart, has awarded me with the Honest Scrap award. Thank you, friend. Since I began blogging, this was probably the one and only award I hoped to receive but never did...until now, of course. Now that I've got it (and I am really excited to finally have this one), I am hanging up the old "award" hat. I think they are fun, and I love it when others think of me...but at the risk of sounding like a major ingrate, I can't find the time to do the posts for them anymore. All the crazy linking, standing on your head, picking your nose, winking your left eye, and singing the Star Spangled Banner all at the same time is just a bit much for me.

So with this one I have to list 10 honest things about me. Honest? Darn it...there has to be a catch, right? I kid. I'm nothing if not honest. Anyway, here goes:

1. When I was younger I wanted to be a doctor. As I got older, I didn't want to do the school. As I got even older, I regreted not doing the school. Unfortunately, in college I didn't have the foresight which would have enabled me to see beyond my days of bars and boys. Seriously, I wasn't all that bad...pretty mild in comparison to many. In any case, I am quite happy to be where I am today. Can't imagine what my life would be otherwise.

2. I have eaten some really strange things in my life. As a child in particular. Among those things are dog food and fish food. Don't even ask.

3. I once peed in a flower bed in a public place. Again, don't ask.

4. My favorite number is 13, and my favorite colors are blue and yellow. In fact, our wedding colors were blue and yellow! Love, love, love it.

5. The one place in the world to which I want to travel over any other, is Russia. I am hugely fascinated with their culture. I would even like to learn the language. I actually know a few words and phrases. When I was fresh out of college and living in Dever, Co. I met some people from Russia. They became good friends, and thus my desire to learn more about their culture was spawned. Kak Dela?

6. I am currently struggling over whether or not we should change my blog tag line to "eight" little feet. Leaning toward keeping it six.

7. I cry at commercials. I never used to do that. I used to pick on my mom because she does it. Then I had kids, and my hormones went haywire, and never worked themselves back to their original state. Sigh. Now I am as sentimental as they come.

8. The blogs I love reading the most are those that write about "real" things. Things like their struggles in day to day life. The joy over their family, kids, etc. Humor over things to which we can all relate, and those that have great photography.

9. Like Julie said...I love music. I agree with her so much. A song can bring you back to a place in time quicker than anything else. I can instantly feel how I felt then, smell things I smelled then. It's amazing. Led Zepplin is one group in particular that brings back a lot of memories that are near and dear to my heart.

10. With me, what you see is what you get. Sometimes that's great, and sometimes it's not. My husband often accuses me of lacking the "filter" that others have which enables them to say things nicely. He says I can be abrasive. To his credit, he is not the only person who has said this about me. I'm perfectly okay with it. Better, I think, that you know where you stand with me. There is no wondering over what's going on in my head. Well, that last part may not be true. I mean, come on...how can you not wonder what goes on inside the head of someone who eats dog food and pees in public flower beds?

Now, I am going to pass along my last award.

The Empress at Good Day Regular People is, without question, an amazing writer. She has her heart in her blog, and I never feel bad about having spent some time "with her." If you haven't, you should go check her out and be sure to tell her I sent you!

Heide at From 3 to 5 is such a fun person. She's funny. I feel like I "get her." What I like most about her is the feeling that she doesn't put on aires. She is who she is, and is a joy because of it.

Three more...hang with me.

Kate, at Kate's Life. I love her heart. She is just an honest to goodness "real" person. I think she radiates warmth, and I like the way she shows genuine care for others.

Melis at The Zookeeper's Diary. She was one of my first favorites. Still is. When she sits down to "put it out there," she really does. Again, she is full of heart and honest, and has moved me to tears several times.

Finally, last but not least.

Sonora at Twinfinity. Sonora was on the verge of giving up blogging when I found her. I think she actually found me first, but I am so happy she did. And I am even happier she decided to stick with the crazy thing. I enjoy reading her posts which are riddled with funny and endearing stories.

Please, if I passed this to you, don't feel obligated to do anything with it. Chuck it if it pleases you, but I chose you because I honestly think you deserve it.

Th th th th th th, that's all folks!

So Keely has a sister, Kassi. Who knew? Maybe you did, but I didn't, and I suppose that this is what this is all about. Getting to know eachother just a little bit better. These questions were originally posted by Kassi, but then Keely snaked them, turned them into a little blog hop of sorts. Since my well of thoughts is tapped out tonight, I am playing along.

1. How old are you?
I am 33...but recently told someone at the gym that I was 31. I was serious. I wasn't lying. Not intentionally. Then later, when recounting the story to my friend R, she asked why I said I was 31. It was only then that it dawned on me that I totally forgot my own age. Sigh. I suppose it's all downhill from there.

2.Where are you from and where do you live now?
If by from, this means where I was born, then the answer is San Diego. If it means where did I grow up, then the answer is Arizona which is where I am now. I bet you're happy to have that mystery solved!
3. What music have you been diggin lately?
When my car stereo isn't taken over by toddler tunes, I go between classic rock and country. I am lovin' Antebellum's Need You Now.
4. Favorite food(s)?
Is this a joke? Like many others, I love Mexican food. Come on, you can't grow up in Arizona, and not like Mexican food. I also really like sushi. Oh, and pretty much any sort of dessert.

5. Single,married, divorced?
Hitched. 5 years this coming March. Best years of my life so far ;)
6. Kids? If so, how many and how old?
My step-son will be 11 in February. My daughter will turn 3 the same month, and my son will be 2 next August.
7. What are 3 blogs you read daily?
Yours, yours and hers. Really? Come on. No way am I going to list just three. There are some great reads out there. I happen to like quite a few of them.
8. What is your favorite Christmas/Holiday tradition?
I love Christmas. We have mostly always spent it with my Dad's side of the family. We all get together both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In my own home, my husband and I started our tradition of decorating the weekend after Thanksgiving. I love it.
9. Lastly, if you're a blogger, how long have you been blogging and if you don't have one..how long have you been reading blogs?
Funny thing, like Keely, I started out reading MckMama's blog. I had heard of blogging, but never stepped foot into bloggy land until MckMama's. I was captivated with the story of her son. Plus she is just interesting. Then, she would link (more often than I wish were possible) to other blogs of families fighting for a child's life. Finally I had to stop going to check them out. Breaks my heart. So I stuck with reading hers, and thought about doing one of my own. Okay, I am going to share more here than required. Please don't judge how ridiculous this bit of information is...just rack it up as yet one more reason to call me crazy. I was afraid to start my own blog. It seemed that all the blogs I had been reading had some tragedy going on. Either the tragedy was the reason they blogged, or it happened after they started what was to be a normal, run of the mill, talk about anything and everything blog. I was superstitious. I didn't want to be one of those tragedies (By the way, if you are one of those blogs, don't be offended. I am not at all saying blogging isn't a great place to get support. I would want the support it lends. I just had this totally unrealistic fear that I might bring it on myself). I decided to hike up my panties and get the hell over it. Here I've been since October of this year.

What about you? Will you share in a post or here in the comments?

Free day. That is Saturday for me. Not free day like: woo hoo...no kids, it's a free day. No. I am referring to food. I have mentioned before that I am on a quest to lose the last of my unwanted (though I have yet to meet a woman who refers to it any other way) weight. So as part of my quest I eat really well six days out of seven.

Then, on Saturday I allow myself to indulge. Typically this means I have whatever I want for dinner and a dessert. Sometimes, however, it means that I eat pretty badly most of the day and then I still have that dessert. Days like today. Days that have me waking up the next day with a junk food hangover. Days that have me vowing to never do that again. But I digress...a little.

Free day is the day that keeps me on track for the other six. Without it I would indulge here, and there, and here again. Those extra calories would sneak their way in without me realizing it, causing me to veer off course of my goal. My free day makes the other six as easy as...well, pie.

Eating well is really not that difficult, even for a self professed sweet addict, when you have a day to look forward to. For me, it sometimes even serves as a reminder day. A reminder of just how lousy I feel when I eat all that food devoid of any nutrition. It actually has me craving grilled salmon and roasted broccoli.

So I highly recommend this to you if you have a weight loss goal of your own. But...and it's a big but, you have to be diligent for the other six days. If free day was Saturday, then you have to ignore the doughnut that calls out like a siren song on Sunday. Ignore the voice that says "one won't hurt" when doling out snacks to the little ones. Just remember that you will have your day of carnage before long, then soon, you will be stepping into those "skinny" jeans.

Tasty Tuesday is my way of helping other moms (and dads too!) to come up with some new recipes. I feature anything from main dishes to desserts. I love to cook, and love to eat even more...but I also love to share. Sometimes the recipes are an Mamma original, and sometimes they are totally stollen. Today's is ripped off from Paula Deen on the food network. She is not know for waist friendly foods, but they sure are delisious. This one is no exception. Today it's Mexican Wedding Cookies. These are the most buttery, melt in your mouth, little bites of bliss this side of heaven! I made these for Andy's holiday party. Double batch. Nary one cookie left. Yep, they are that good.

Ingredients (for single batch)
1 Cup butter- room temperature
1/2 Cup Powdered sugar (plus some for coating)
1 Tsp Vanilla
1 3/4 Cups Flour (plus more for dusting hands)
1 Cup pecans- finely chopped

Cooking Instructions:
Heat oven to 275
With an electric mixer, cream butter and powdered sugar, on low, until smooth. Beat in vanilla, gradually add flour on low speed and mix until smooth. Mix in pecans with a spatula. Flour hands and shape spoonfulls of the dough into crescents (I just rolled it into balls).

Bake for 40 minutes and remove from oven. When cooled slightly, but still warm, roll in powdered sugar and transfer to a wire rack to cool. That's it!

I am considering making more of these bad boys for our family Christmas Eve get together. Afterall, we are having Mexican food ;)

After my daughter was born, I didn't go out and about a lot. Like I mentioned here, I was a tad concerned about her naps (well sleep in general). So as she became a little older and her naps were reduced in both frequency and duration, I ventured out more and more. Then Colton came, and the whole process started all over again. Though this time it was having two kids to load and uload that helped to create my aversion to the mini excursions.

Well...that is all a thing of the past now. It has been for quite some time. I love to get my kids out of the house! It breaks up the day, and I find, helps to curb unruly behavior. When bored, my daughter tends to find myriad creative ways to frazzle my nerves.

What about out to eats? Hmmm...that's a fun one. I have braved it many times, and do so with relative ease these days. Along the way, I have developed a routine of sorts that helps me wrangle my little maniacs angels in.

Here it is:
1. When out to eat, I never so much as glance at my own menu before deciding what to order for the kids.
2. I always ask the server to bring their food out as soon as it is ready rather than wait for the rest of the order.
3. If the restaurant does not offer bread before the meal, I am prepared with my arsenal of healthy munchies (always stocked in the diaper bag).
4. With my youngest, I hold him before his food gets to the table...then put him in the provided high chair...I have come to realize he only has a limited "shelf life" when it comes to sitting on his own.
5. As far as what/how to order for them...well, I usually select one healthy choice (grilled chicken with veggies) and one fun choice (mac n' cheese or pizza-no fried stuff though), and I split it between them. Oh, and I always have them sub out fresh fruit for fries.
6. Finally...RELAX. Really! Most people have been there before, and even if they haven't, they were young once too and I am sure caused their fair share of disturbances.

So...been putting off that lunch date with friends for fear of your babes reeking havoc? Fear no more. Try it out. I promise you will survive, and so will everyone else.

I have been remiss. It has been at least a couple of weeks since I have participated in Five Question Friday with Mama M. Not very cool of me. Afterall, I would hope that if I ever started a meme that people would play along. Hint hint at (maybe) something to come.

1. Do you sing karaoke? If so, what is your go to song?
I used to love karaoke. This was before my mommy hood days. When I could drink a six pack of beer for courage first. Not so much anymore. However...wanna see me shame myself with some vocal un stylings? Then go see this post.

2. What is your favorite coffee drink?
Actually, I do like a good flavored latte. Like caramel. Usually, though, I just drink flavored coffee at home with a little creamer.

3. If you could choose your own name, what would it be?
I actually find it impossible to come up with anything that just doesn't seem odd. Can't imagine anything other than Shannon.

4. Were you ever bullied?
In sixth grade...yes...by a BOY! The little bastard. That is, until one day I punched him and he cried...all the while complaining that I hurt his sunburn. Pft...yeah right weenie. Never bothered me again.

5. How often do you eat fast food?
Could I have a definition of fast food please? I never eat anything like McDonald's, etc. I do eat Chipoltle on occassion, and have been known to have the odd Subway. So if that counts, then maybe once every other week I guess.

How about you? Would love to see your answers. If you have done your own 5QF post, then let me know so I can come check it out. If not, what's wrong with you? Really, if you just don't want to, then how about some answers right here in the comments.

...by the Lucky Chinese Tag

Erin over at The Mother Load tagged me. I have to now tell you my answers in each of the categories, then tag 8 new people.
8 TV Shows I Watch: (I have to say that if I could, I would watch all of these shows. I don't. I have watched them all, and like them all, but never watch them all)
-Grey's Anantomy
-Private Practice
-The Bachelor
-House
-Law and Order SVU
-Property Virgins
-House Hunters
-Dora the Explorer...defeated sigh

8 Favorite Places to Eat and Drink:
-Sushi Den (Dever, CO).
-Chipotle
-Chuys
-Les Rendezvous
-Binkley's
-Paradise Bakery
-PF Chang's
-Morton's Steakhouse

8 Things I Look Forward To:
-Bed time for the kids
-Going to the bathroom in peace
-Saturdays
-My photography class
-Being able to wear all of my clothes
-Completing P90X
-Having a wildly successful blog
-Someday having a clean and orderly house...again.

8 Things That Happened Yesterday:
-We had Chinese for dinner
-I took the kids to the park (I felt too warm in my long sleeved shirt)
-I wiped butts 6 times (none of which were my own)
-I made protein pancakes for breakfast
-P90X Plyometrics kicked my booty
-I went crazy
-I came back briefly
-Just to be sent straight there again

8 Things I Love About Winter:
-It's not 115 degrees outside
-Jeans
-Warm drinks
-Did I mention it's not so hot?
-Taking the kids to the park and having them not get 3rd degree burns from the slides/swings
-No swimsuits for a while
-Heatwaves are non existent on the roads (sensing a trend here)
-Sleeping comfortably

8 Things on My Wish List:
-A maid
-The ability to eat whatever I want and not gain an ounce
-Winning the lottery
-A new house
-Well behaved children
-More patience
-The Super Nanny
-My trip to Russia

8 Things I'm Passionate About:
-My children
-My husband
-My parents and brother
-Breastfeeding
-Photography
-Reading
-Blogging/writing
-Cooking

8 Words/Phrases I Use Often:
-What the hell's wrong with you?
-Stop hitting him/her
-No!
-Are you kidding me?
-Why don't you listen?
-Please stop it!
-You don't talk that way to Mommy
-Can I get a break?

8 Things I've Learned From the Past:
-You can't change it
-It's made me who I am today
-There are things I regret not doing
-Friends come and go, a few stay forever
-Nothing matters more than the ones you love
-My mother was right, I had one just like me
-It takes time to be comfortable and confident with who you are
-Fish food doesn't taste good...not even a little

8 Things I Currently Want/Need:
-Canon EF 85 mm L series lens
-A massage
-The new Lady Antebellum CD
-More free time
-A date night
-A girls' night
-Vacation
-To meet my newest little nephew

8 People I'd Like to Tag:
Tamara at The (Un)Experienced Mom
Elizabeth at Confessions of a Working Mom
Shandal at My Life in 3D
Michele at Finding Trinity
Cop Mama
Nicole at A New Normal
Heidi at From 3 to 5
Maven at A Fabulously Good Life

First, don't forget to read this post for your chance at a free blog makeover. I mean total makeover. The contest will end January 1st.

Now on to Not Me! Monday. If you don't know by now, this is a teeny huge carnival done by MckMama, where moms come to spill the beans about the things they have not done over the past week.

This week it was certainly not me who whacked my husband in the arm after he scared the ever living crap life out of me while driving. It was also not me who denied that I hit him. I certainly wouldn't have tried to convince him that it was just my startled reaction (which it was actually) and that I just tapped his arm.

It's not me who has a clean set of sheets sitting on the dresser to be put on the bed. Those same sheets have not been sitting there collecting dust for about three weeks now. They absolutely were not sitting in a heap on my couch for a week before that. I never let so much time pass between bedding changes. Especially since Addyson does not sneak food into my bed and she does not ever leave crumbs.

Finally, it was not me who was a raging witch (you know I want to change the first letter of that word) to everyone in the house (except Colton) yesterday. I am not at all stressed out that my husband's holiday party is this Friday, and I am not even a fraction of the way ready. Nope, I am always calm, cool and collected.

There you have it. Now let's have yours. You can leave them here in the comments or do your own post if you dare. If Mckmama gets her act together, we can all go link up ;)

***Don't forget to head here to participate and win some Reefs***

Today, Liz from a Bell a Bean and a Chicago Dog has agreed to share a recipe with us all. Liz is great fun, so if you haven’t met her…go say hello!

Here is her recipe:

I love one-pot dinners. So easy to make and easy to clean up.
I always seem to accumulate partial containers of food in my fridge or freezer, and I like to put them to good use in a meal if I can.
That's exactly what I was able to do with my most recent one-pot meal, which I named Pseudo-Paella.
I knew I had a half lb of frozen shrimp and a 1/4 bag of frozen peas on hand. Craig had bought smoked turkey sausage that he intended use, but never did. And I always have an onion. So I bought a box of Zatarain's Yellow Rice at the store to use in my Pseudo-Paella dish.
I cooked the rice according to directions on the box. Once I poured the rice into the boiling water, I started chopping my onions. Those went in first, followed by the smoked sausage.

I waited until the the last 4 or 5 minutes to add the defrosted shrimp and frozen peas (corn would work, too). Shrimp takes to no time to cook, and the peas will get mushy if cooked too long.
When it was done, it looked yummy and tasted yummy, too. The dish was a hit with the whole family.

Thank you, Liz for sharing such a great recipe! Looks delicious.

Another Tuesday...means another recipe! Sharing my love of food and cooking one recipe at a time. I hope that some of you actually take the time to try some of them out. Click my Tasty Tuesday tab and see what you've missed if you are new here. Heck, even if you aren't new here, and just need a recipe...have a look.
On the menu this week is a recipe created by yours truly. I have mentioned in the past that I am not the best at following recipes (ironic isn't it), but when I create something worth remembering, I turn it into one. This week is Beef Tenderloin in Red Wine Mushroom Sauce. I admit, this one is a tad more involved than some of the previous weeks, but not much.

First thing first...pour yourself a glass of that lovely red wine, and replenish as needed.
Ingredients:
1 lb beef tenderloin scliced into 1/2 inch think medalions(best when fresh from butcher)
1 1/2 cups sliced button mushrooms
1 whole yellow onion diced (or 3 shallots)
1 beef bullion cube (or about 1 1/2 C beef broth)
1 1/2 C water (only if using cubed bullion )
2/3 C red wine (give or take)
1 Tsp cornstarch
1 Tbsp butter
olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

Heat about 1-2 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat in a large non stick frying pan. Add onion (or shallot) and mushrooms and saute until tender. Remove from pan and set aside. Using same pan (wiped clean of juices) add a little more olive oil (approx 1-2 tbsp). Heat over medium-high. Add tenderloin to hot pan in a single layer as pictured above(cook in batches if necessary) and sear on one side until juices from meat begin to run, then turn and sear on the other side. Remove from pan and keep covered.

To the same pan (don't clean it this time) add red wine. Simmer(whisking up bits from bottom)over medium-low heat, and recuce by about 1/2. Add beef broth (or bullion pre-dissolved in water). Continue to simmer over medium-low. Sauce should not be watery...if it is, add cornstarch. Thicken slightly, then finish sauce off with the Tbsp butter. Add onion/mushroom and beef all back to the pan. Coat and heat through. Serve(You might choose to serve it over wide egg noodles, or rice). Great with oven roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus and french bread. It's actually not as much trouble as it seems, and it's so very tasty!

If you have read my blog for more than a week, then you know that on Tuesday I like to post a recipe. I know that coming up with new ideas for the family can frequently cause me grief. So, this is designed to help others who feel the same way. Today I am giving you my favorite Tuna Casserole recipe. This is comfort food if I have ever known it. The recipe comes from my own Mamma ;) I am not a fan of peas in my tuna casserole, so this one doesn't have them. If you like them...then toss them in the mix.

Ingredients:
6oz wide egg noodles uncooked
1 can tuna
1 cup diced celery
1/3 cup onion
salt and pepper to taste
1 can cream of mushroom (or celery) soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup mayo
1 cup cheddar cheese
Crushed __________ for topping. (Here you can get creative and use whatever you have on hand. You can crush plain potato chips, use bread crumbs, ritz crackers, or even corn flakes...totally up to you).

Instructions:
Pre heat oven to 350 degrees.
Cook and drain noodles according to package directions, and put them back in your pot. Add all other ingredients (except cheese) and mix until heated through. Then add cheese and mix until it is melted. Pour mixture into a casserole dish (sprayed with non stick) and add your topping to cover the mixture.
Bake in oven for about 15-20 minutes.

Since this is an all in one meal, we don't usually do a lot on the side with it. Would go well with steamed broccoli or another veggie of your choice. I also often double this one up because everyone likes it so much, and it is always great leftover. As always, I would love to hear what you think if you try this one out. If you like tuna casserole, you will be sure to like this.

Oh, and do you have a recipe you would like to have featured? Let me know! I would be happy to post it for you...giving you all credit and a link back of course.

Since lately it seems I don't have an original thought in my cluttered head, I figured I would jump in with Mama M. and Five Question Friday. It's really fun, and honestly, I don't know why I haven't done it in a while. Just in a lazy blogger mode I think. So, now to answer her questions for the week.

1. Do you collect anything?
I wouldn't consider myself a collecter in the true sense...but I do have a p.j. fetish. Seriously, I can't even go by the p.j. area in Target without feeling a magnetic pull toward them. The absurd thing is that I rarely wear the cute ones I get. Like I'm saving them. For what? What the heck on earth am I saving them for?

2. Name 3 celebrities that you find good looking.
Matthew Mcconaughey, Jake Gyllenhaal (weird one, but whatever), and I don't know on number three.

3. Do you have any scars? If so, what's the story behind it (them)?
I probably have more than I can count. One in particular is like an arrowhead right under my right breast. When I was 5 I was wearing a tank top and went running past our car. The door handle was broken and I got too close. The handle tore a gash into my flesh (maybe I'm being a bit dramatic), and hence the pretty scar that never went away.

4. What is a food that you like to eat, but others might think it's gross or weird?
There are SO many of these for me. One is peanut butter and crackers with mustard. Don't even knock it. If you like all those things separately, you too may like them together. Or not.

Another is escargo. Oh so GOOD!

5. Have you ever seen a tornado in real life?
Everyday. It's name is My Children.

"You Know You’re a Mom When-sDAZE" is a great way for us, as parents, to make light of our trials and tribulations. Our day to day run-ins with the crazy little people in our lives we call children. The very people we simply couldn’t live without. Just share what has you knowing you're a mom (or dad) today, and then come link up. It can be anything...a picture, story, or a bunch of "you know you're a mom whens..."

You know you’re a mom when…

…you can take five stacks of folded laundry to their respective rooms without dropping a single article of clothing.

…you call yourself a genius because in an attempt to get a little more protein into the little people, you mix plain Greek yogurt into their mac n’ cheese and they are none the wiser.

…you consider yourself an accomplished cook, yet consistently manage to burn the food you make for yourself.

Come on over and share what has you knowing you're a mom today!

We're back today from Flagstaff, where we took the kids sledding with my Dad. A good time was had by all. I am more thankful today than I ever have been for Keely's Getting to Know You. Anyone else find it mildly amusing (and SUPER wonderful) that she is doing something so meaningful...like donating to Red Cross for every link or follower today (very grounded and deep), then the questions are so superficial (which I love, big time)! Irony at its best. If you're not familiar with this one, just cut and copy the questions into a post. Answer them, then link up to Keely's blog. Oh, and you probably oughta mention that she is our charming hostess. This week's questions are:

1. Hair color..Au naturale..or not?
Almost. I have highlights, does that count?

2. If somebody has food in their teeth or lipstick on their teeth do you tell them?
If it's my husband yes. Anyone else...depends on just who it is. For example, there was a time when some coworkers and I went out for lunch together with our boss. The boss had a piece of chicken (thread-like in quality) that was firmly imbedded between his teeth and was fluttering in the wind of his breath as he spoke. Totally didn't say anything.

3. Would you rather have a million dollars or your vision of the perfect body?
Well, really...if I had a million dollars, couldn't I just pay someone to train me into the perfect body? So, totally the million dollars.

4. Favorite magazine?
What are those? Seriously, I never get to read magazines anymore...but when I do, I just like nonsense. So, People is my choice.

5. Bra style..lacey or plain?
Gravitate towards plain. I like color, but not a fan of the lace. (didn't you ever read the post Erin at the Motherload did?)

6. If you walked into Victoria's Secret..would you most likely come out with something sexy or comfy?
Comfy. I've said this before (to Erin actually), but really...my sexy is shaving off the fur pants.

7. Do you fake and bake?
Really? Um, no.

8. What's your favorite body part on a man?
Well, I do enjoy looking at a nice little tush...but I have a thing for hands.

Now that I'm done, I want to know what you have to say. If you don't do your own post, leave your answers in the comments!

I have been sitting here staring at this blank screen for fifteen minutes. That may not seem like all that long, but when every minute of alone time is more precious than a whole tub of my most favorite frozen yogurt (which I could really go for right about now), fifteen minutes is an eternity.

On a day like today, one would think I would have plenty to write about. Plenty that would fit the “you know you’re a mom…” mold. On a day when I wake to an empty dog crate next to my bed, only to find the dog had been let out by my stealthy three year old. Oh, and that she had taken it upon herself to feed him. She must have thought he was incredibly hungry. The 10 cups of sodden dog food I found in his dish was evidence that she was wrong. I am sure he was only able to get 2 or 3 cups down…tops…before deciding he had had enough. Mind you, his usual ration is 1 cup.

On a day when this very same dog, who has been doing so well with potty training, takes a huge, you overfed me dump, on my living room carpet. Right in front of me. I’d like to say that I handled it in a calm and collected manner, alas that is just not the case. I muttered some expletives that I care not to repeat, and I put the puppy outside even though he had clearly already taken care of business.

On a day when my husband is out of town, and rather than be a help, the eleven year old sees it fit to try to send me over the edge. Nearly succeeded. Nearly.

On a day like today, when you realize that it’s days like these that let you know you’re alive. When you think “this is my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Of course, I might have edited out the dog poop.

So…you know you’re a mom, when a crazy day is just a day in the life…of being a mom.

Friday in Blogland just couldn't get any better. Mama M. has some really great questions this week, and I couldn't keep away (not that I would try). Something about question and answer that is just so...well, simply fun!

This week's questions are:

1. What is better, growing old with out money or dying young and wealthy?
This is not a difficult question at all. I would absolutely say growing old without money. Money is great, don't get me wrong, and we are doing our best to earn a penny or two, and I'm glad we have it, but it's not what makes my world go 'round. I think about my kids, and how happy they are...seemingly without a care in the world. They would be just as happy if we were all living together in a one room apartment with no toys. All that they need is food in their tummies, a roof over their heads and mommy and daddy to love them. We could all learn a lot from our little ones.

2. Who takes out the garbage at your house?
Either Drew or Andy. On the very rare ocassion, I do. That happens only when no one has done it, the boys are not around, and I can't even cram in one more gum wrapper.

3. Have you ever had the same dream many times?
Yes, unfortunately I wouldn't classify it as a dream. I have recurring nightmares of either sharks, or someone chasing me. The chasing me nightmares are not that big of a deal because I have taken to flying in my dreams, and when someone chases me, I just take off in flight ;) The sharks are a little trickier...haven't quite managed to master them yet.

4. Can you play a musical instrument?
I played the flute for many, many years and still can. I also have had some piano lessons as an adult, and can play at an amateur level. I stopped just before Colton was born, and would love to take it up again.

5. If you owned your own store, what would you sell?
Child muzzles.

Keely has done it again. She's gone and asked us to share even more about ourselves. So if you are not tired of learning more about me. Then read on. This week she has posted quesitons which require only one word, but I can tell you already, my answers will not be so. After all, this is about getting to know me, and in order to really do that, I think you need a little bit more from me than just one little word. That's my modus operandi.
Following are this week's questions:

1. Middle name?
Marie
2. What do you think is your best asset (physical)?
My eyes. I like my feet too. It has always been between them, but I think the eyes win out. I just like that no one can really say what color they are. They are a blue/green, and sometimes look more one than the other.
3. If you could only eat one type of cuisine for a year, what would it be (Mexican, American,Chinese..etc.)?
A whole year?! Wow, I love to eat, but one type for a whole year might make me not like that type much anymore. I guess I would say Mexican. I do love it, and there are a ton of ways to prepare different things, so yes...Mexican it is.
4. Walmart or Target?
Okay, I love the prices at Walmart, but I always go to Target anyway. I just can't stand how Walmart always seems so ghetto. No matter what, I always get a defective cart. The one that not only squeaks loudly, but takes brute force in order to get it to move!
5. Favorite State besides the one you live in?
I absolutely love Massachusettes. Colorado is also great, and I have lived in both places.
6. What side of the bed do you sleep on, left or right?
Left...that is if I am lying in the bed. Looking at it, it would be the right.
7. King or Queen size bed?
King...and even that feels, at times, too small.
8. Beer or wine?
I love wine...but frankly there are times when nothing but an ice cold beer will do. I love oatmeal stouts!
9. Water..ice-cold or room temp?
Ice cold, but no ice. Unless I am in a restaurant, then I want ice...but no nasty lemon (remember this one?)!
10. Christmas..love it or hate it?
Honestly, I have a major issue with those who say they hate it. Come on...so you've had a bad experience, or many bad experiences...I say change your experiences! Start with attitude. Anyway, I LOVE it. Nothing beats spending time with loved ones, eating yummy food, and sharing old stories while making new ones.

That's all folks! (don't you love Porky?) What about you? Care to share? Inquiring minds (mine in particular) want to know. To play along, cut and copy the quesitons to do your own post, then go back and link it up with Keely. Don't have a blog, or don't have the inclination to do a whole post...then answer any or all of the questions right here in my comments.

I have not even crossed the finish line yet. I still have to get one (maybe two) more gift(s), and I have to get stocking stuffers...I tell you, Santa is a slacker! Isn't stuffing the stocking part of his job?

Wrapping is well underway, however, and that has me feeling pretty pleased. I have been wrapping as I go, so I only have a few gifts left that need their festive skins. Our tree already has a fairly hefty bounty below.

We leave tomorrow to travel far and wide about 120 miles to visit family for all the festivities. I have been delegated to make the Spanish rice for our Christmas Eve dinner. Also, I opened my mouth and mentioned salsa...or something or other. So, I now have to do that too.

With all the craziness that is this season going on, I have not taken much time to sit back and enjoy it, or even think about enjoying it. Today's the day. I will get my last items scratched off my list, and will finally sit back (with a glass of wine perhaps) and revel in the completed tasks.

I honestly can't wait to see what Addyson will be like this year. I do think Colton will just be all about tearing the paper, but Addyson may finally "get it." So it should be fun.

In any case, since we are leaving, I probably will be M.I.A. for a little bit. Maybe not though...there is always the chance that some creative surge will occur and I will be able to get some posts done and scheduled. We'll see. Whatever the case...Merry Christmas! Happy every other holiday too for those of you that are not Christmas celebrators (is that a word?). Here's to great food, fantastic family and friends, lots of laughs, and being able to wear your favorite pair of shoes without a swollen foot (that one is just for MODG).

Not Me! Monday time. After you read here, head over to MckMama's blog to read what others are not doing.

My brother works as one of the chefs at Binkley's, one of the most renowned restaurant in Arizona, and quite possibly all of the South West. It is certainly one of the best in the country. For Christmas, my brother treated my husband and I to a meal there. We went Saturday night while my dad stayed with the kids.

While at this 5 star restaraunt, it was not me who giggled like a little school girl every time they brought out a new amuse bouche. My husband did not make faces at the look of about 90% of these, which in turn, did not send me into fits of laughter. We are way too cultured to behave like that at such an establishment.

Keeping with the food theme, over the holiday weekend it was not me who ate so much junk that it sent my stomach into crampy spasms. I am not still suffering from said cramps as I type. **side note-I fear I may be coming down with some sort of stomach bug actually, and I am only hoping that it was all the garbage I ate that has me feeling like this**

That's it for me today. Let's hear from you! What didn't you do this past week? Leave it in the comments, or do a post of your own and link up to MckMama.