tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477685406994064412012-02-03T07:29:44.679-05:00An average family with more than an average number of kidsDenisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.comBlogger5781100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-6832268445269859672012-01-01T17:29:00.000-05:002012-01-01T17:29:27.318-05:00

Twenty Five years ago TODAY, I married my high school sweetheart!  I wanted to post a picture, but I didn't get it scanned.  I've recently found a ton of  old pictures and I'm hoping to start getting them scanned & posted in the near future.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-76227387659414527442011-12-28T17:24:00.001-05:002011-12-28T17:24:34.555-05:00

January….LOTS of snow.  The kids had a great time playing in it. February…We purchased a new to us car for Hubby to commute back & forth to work.  Morgan was in Seussical the Musical. March… Our van died.  Maggie’s cat, Toffee, went missing. April…Morgan turned 13!  More wacky weather, we had a huge hail storm that did major damage to Hubby’s car and moderate damage to the house we lived in.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-38522726252331598712011-12-23T11:47:00.000-05:002011-12-23T11:47:38.290-05:00

I couldn't decide on just one..... Christmas 2006….before Melanie & Lily were born. Christmas 2008

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-8538965132640886002011-12-21T17:48:00.000-05:002011-12-21T17:48:44.813-05:00

Our first year of virtual school is going VERY well.  Last week the kids participated in the K12 Winterland of Gingerbread event in Knoxville.  Many of the virtual classmates from all around the area came to participate too. The day before, we made our houses Marissa made a schoolhouse & Melanie made the witch’s house from Hansel & Gretel.  They were very proud of themselves. Morgan made a

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-72149861013598707012011-12-20T22:22:00.000-05:002011-12-20T22:22:14.765-05:00

It’s been quite a while since I last updated and a lot has been going on.  The biggest thing is that we have MOVED!!!  We are now about 40 miles East of where we formerly lived in a much bigger house.  Virtual school is going very well. 

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-87124215465192772922011-08-28T19:17:00.000-04:002011-08-28T19:17:40.998-04:00

Last Spring, several things happened that pushed me in the direction of schooling my children myself.  Morgan did not have a good year in middle school last year and Maggie had several incidents on the school bus.  We didn't enroll Marissa in kindergarten last year mainly because I just couldn't see sending her to a school that has over 300 kids in kindergarten.  I started doing research about

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-27951544664801841252011-08-26T00:01:00.001-04:002011-08-26T00:06:10.263-04:00

On Saturday our oldest baby will turn 24.  Seems like yesterday he was this small.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-26397954805150553602011-08-24T16:56:00.000-04:002011-08-24T16:56:56.149-04:00

It's been over a year since my last blog post!  I wish I had a GOOD reason, but I really don't.  I got busy and got out of the habit of posting.  I miss blogging and am hoping to find room in my too busy life to get back into it.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-83210868557068651122010-08-11T00:01:00.000-04:002010-08-10T21:17:12.226-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-50797856236005042852010-08-10T17:38:00.001-04:002010-08-10T17:38:32.449-04:00

Last month we were sent some of the new Pop Weaver microwave popcorn.  Pop Weaver has been one of our favorite brands of microwave popcorn for years.  This new version is made with canola oil.  The canola oil makes it lower in fat and calories and also has the added benefit of providing Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids, which help protect against heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-54079900166645659072010-08-09T19:35:00.001-04:002010-08-24T18:31:20.251-04:00

I didn't actually GO anywhere, I just haven't had internet for a while.  I also started working.  For several weeks, I worked in a call center learning to provide internet technical support. Last week I was offered a better job and now I am providing inhome services for the elderly.  I've worked 3 days at the newest job and so far I am really enjoying it.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-14100709497882470692010-07-19T06:40:00.001-04:002010-07-19T18:46:41.142-04:00

  Well, I'm not a Working Man, but as of last Monday, I am once again officially a working Mom. Hubby has been out of work since the end of May and we made the decision for me to go back to work. He found out on Thursday that he will be beginning a new job on July 26th!!! We are very thankful for that, but we've decided that at least for a while we are going to need both of us working to get

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-82283006127343857902010-07-18T23:19:00.001-04:002010-07-18T23:19:40.355-04:00

      Questions:1. What is your favorite sandwich?  Ham & Swiss on Dark Rye2. What is stashed under your bed/mattress?Nothing but dust bunnies3. What is your favorite flower? Pink roses4. What is your favorite magazine? I don’t read any magazines…no time.5. How often do you weigh yourself?Only when I go to the Dr and can’t avoid it.  I have no desire to know my weight

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-64422420217014564562010-07-18T15:37:00.002-04:002010-07-19T18:48:02.414-04:00

Blog awards are a lot of fun!!  The first one I received was from Julie, the owner of Earth Angels Diaper Co.  She blogs at Mom Phenom.  Thank you so much Julie for giving me the Versatile Blogger award!!!  I feel very honored. Here are the rules for receiving the award. 1. Thank and link back to the person who gave you this award. 2. Share seven things about yourself. I ALWAYS wanted to be a

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-82290897047075833522010-07-16T00:04:00.000-04:002010-07-15T22:49:03.958-04:00

This is Melanie asleep in the back of the double stroller, she’s about 3 1/2 months old.  This was her first trip to the zoo.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-89680370425172850402010-07-15T00:01:00.000-04:002010-07-14T23:02:39.283-04:00

 This is week 6 of a 15 week project. The object is to write a story each week about a different period of time from our childhood. I am writing this for my children. The first week was about my birth. The next week was about Kindergarten and the birth of my brother Allan. Next I shared some random memories about First Grade.  My Second Grade memories were mostly about our adventurous move to

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-48133309485802885422010-07-14T00:04:00.000-04:002010-07-13T22:41:51.487-04:00

Last Friday was Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-fil-A.  Everyone who dressed up as a cow got free food.  My 20 year old son Mason and some of his friends took it to extreme.  They painted their bodies to look like cows and went all over town in nothing but their paint and their undies.  Chick-fil-A is also having a photo contest on Facebook.  You can vote by clicking on the photo and then clicking

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-28325902439044599532010-07-13T00:01:00.001-04:002010-07-13T00:01:02.330-04:00

This is Maggie from the Summer of 2001.  She was about 13 months old and very eager to be BIG and go down the slide at the park with the older kids.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-46640528455215867402010-07-12T00:55:00.001-04:002010-07-12T00:55:00.077-04:00

  Dennis DeYoung is one of the original members of Styx.  He is not currently part of Styx, but in my mind he was the heart of that group.  Last week when I was looking at Styx songs on YouTube, I discovered that Dennis DeYoung has had several solo albums over the last couple years.  One Hundred Years From Now is the most recent album.  If you liked Styx of the 70’s and 80’s you will probably

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-39954008844880952762010-07-11T19:30:00.000-04:002010-07-11T19:30:10.251-04:00

Random.Org has picked #9 misnomer said... My kids love Wii Bowling and Wii golf! June 25, 2010 11:58 PM   The winner has been notified and will have 48 hours to get back to me with their shipping info or I will need to select a new winner.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-90564678736350574472010-07-09T00:01:00.002-04:002010-07-09T00:01:00.723-04:00

These pictures are from my Mom's photo album. I scanned them for a project I am working on. This first one is of me in my brownie uniform. The little boy with the brown hair is my Uncle....he is 5 yrs younger than I am. The little boy with the blond hair is my brother.  The picture of the woman in the white cap and gown on the wall behind me is my Mom and the picture farthest to the right in the

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-66842014094665985612010-07-08T00:01:00.003-04:002010-07-08T00:34:39.565-04:00

  This is week 5 of a 15 week project. The object is to write a story each week about a different period of time from our childhood. I am writing this for my children. The first week was about my birth. The next week was about Kindergarten and the birth of my brother Allan. Next I shared some random memories about First Grade.  Last week was mostly about our adventurous move to California.  I’ve

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-21972775724574366012010-07-07T00:04:00.000-04:002010-07-06T23:18:33.019-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-50944972952037353292010-07-06T02:24:00.000-04:002010-07-06T02:24:43.990-04:00

Tuesday Tag Along is a blog hop. Click the button to participate. I've found some great new blogs to follow from this meme.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-24807914787521383482010-07-06T01:14:00.001-04:002010-07-06T01:46:39.456-04:00

This is Maggie on a camping trip to the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. It was the Summer of 2004.  I’ll bet you’ve already guessed that she was 4 years old.  It was our last camping trip before our move to Tennessee. 

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-89922858851973419982010-07-05T00:01:00.002-04:002010-07-05T00:25:36.720-04:00

Yesterday I was in the mood to listen to Styx. They are one of my favorite groups from the 70's and 80's. I also really liked their early 90's album Edge of the Century. I tried to narrow down what I wanted to share, but they have sooooo much good music I couldn't pick just one or two. Most of these songs are on Edge of the Century. They are one of those bands that you really need to listen to

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-74083451401606480702010-07-04T01:15:00.000-04:002010-07-04T01:15:06.260-04:00

Random.org has chosen #4  Janet said... I would give these to my daughters. June 23, 2010 10:32 PM   I still haven't figured out how to do a screen shot.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-80066826189388636982010-07-02T00:01:00.001-04:002010-07-02T00:01:00.602-04:00

This picture of Marissa was taken in 2007, she had just turned 2 and was expressing her displeasure about something.  I LOVE This picture because you can really see her “attitude” in it.  I’m not sure, but I think this was an incident when she got caught getting into chocolate without permission, that is definitely chocolate on her cheeks and jammies.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-58506974914351852112010-07-01T00:01:00.005-04:002010-07-03T23:17:40.028-04:00

  This is week 4 of a 15 week project. The object is to write a story each week about a different period of time from our childhood. I am writing this for my children. The first week was about my birth. The next week was about Kindergarten and the birth of my brother Allan. Last week I shared some random memories about First Grade. Second grade was a very big year for me.  In the Fall, my Daddy

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-54122232265986279842010-06-30T12:12:00.002-04:002010-06-30T12:43:38.239-04:00

Have you ever been to a Twitter party?  I went to one last night and I WON something cool.  I had forgotten how much fun they can be.  Tonight’s party is the Rayovac Powers Your Summer Twitter Party.  Use #rayovac in the search box on Tweetgrid or Tweetdeck to see all the party posts.  Join the FUN from 7-9pm CST to win prizes! Go HERE to see a list of prizes and RSVP for the party

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-58408535965302450972010-06-29T00:04:00.001-04:002010-06-29T14:37:48.875-04:00

Four years ago at this time, we were on vacation at Norris Lake.  Mason was 16 and Marissa was almost 11 months.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-61019523736148521052010-06-28T00:07:00.001-04:002010-06-28T19:00:08.275-04:00

Five for Fighting is one of those bands that I don't listen to all the time, but when I hear one of their songs on the radio I'm reminded how much I LOVE their music. Of course I couldn't pick just one song. What’s moving you today?

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-37345019857431810322010-06-26T23:21:00.000-04:002010-06-26T23:21:47.747-04:00

Today Maggie is 10! We made this cheesecake this morning and drizzled it with melted chocolate This is her birthday cake we made this afternoon with homemade butter cream frosting In the evening, we went out on the deck and played Chubby Bunny!  It is a camp game, the object is to stuff as many marshmallows into your mouth as you can.  After each marshmallow you have to say "Chubby Bunny"

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-32245831195279617912010-06-26T00:01:00.002-04:002010-06-26T00:10:22.348-04:00

 I have had a VERY busy week of finding new blogs!!!  Here are a few of my new favorites: Ma What's 4 Dinner I hear this 100 times a day at least, except my kids call me Mom Never Growing Old I joined the Over 40 Blog Hop yesterday and am really enjoying meeting bloggers my age!! If you haven't yet, you really need to check out Mommy's Piggy Tales.  Janna's story this week had me bawling my eyes

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-90377118814149216892010-06-25T00:01:00.002-04:002010-06-25T09:26:45.399-04:00

Friday seems to be a popular day to find new blogs to follow....this week I am participating in all these events. Click the buttons to sign up. If you are following my blog, leave me a comment with your URL and I will follow you back.  

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-67046055074109080012010-06-25T00:01:00.000-04:002010-06-25T00:01:02.042-04:00

Tomorrow is Maggie's 10th Birthday! I am really struggling with the idea of this milestone birthday. This picture is from her First Birthday. She has always been such a sweet kid. In this picture she is offering to share some birthday cake.  

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-32078609654340062822010-06-24T15:19:00.000-04:002010-06-24T15:19:38.943-04:00

Many years ago, Hubby and I both graduated from High School in Oakdale California. We've been told that there is an Oakdale in just about every continental United State, but we had only ever been to the one in California. Recently we came across this sign while driving on a rural road in Tennessee. We were eager to see what Oakdale Tennessee would look like.  We wondered if there was an Oakdale

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-5001976010828140442010-06-24T07:13:00.001-04:002010-06-24T07:13:00.658-04:00

  This is week 3 of a 15 week project. The object is to write a story each week about a different period of time from our childhood. I am writing this for my children. The first week was about my birth. Last week was about Kindergarten and the birth of my brother Allan. This week I will be sharing some random memories about First Grade.First Grade was a REALLY long time ago, but I remember a few

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-60375804206686631892010-06-24T00:04:00.002-04:002010-07-11T19:09:43.929-04:00

Jumpstart and Knowledge Adventure have always been one of our favorite brands for kids computer games. This week we received the new JumpStart® Get Moving™ Family Fitness Wii game to try. WOW!!! This is a fabulous game!  The active games are my personal favorites for Wii to begin with, but this game is designed to be used by the whole family and surprisingly even in a family with our age range

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-57339222245053267542010-06-23T16:40:00.000-04:002010-06-23T16:40:24.368-04:00

I've been wanting to play around with the new DESIGN tool in Blogger since I first heard about it, but I didn't have the time.  Today, I was feeling brave and took the plunge.  It wasn't as hard as a feared it might be and I didn't lose anything! I've got extra space now for displaying buttons, so if you've got a blog button that you would like me to put up, send me the code and I'll be happy to

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-82346544321040920602010-06-23T00:01:00.001-04:002010-06-23T00:01:04.512-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-27580196190202970982010-06-22T12:00:00.003-04:002010-06-22T17:39:07.332-04:00

This is a new Follow Meme that I came across last week.  The object is to link up and find new blogs to follow.  If you follow me, leave me a comment with your blog address and I will gladly follow you back.  Click the button to go to the Tuesday Tag-Along post and add your blog to the linky. and here are two more following Memes I found today!  Click the button to join the linky.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-90320030866199068062010-06-22T09:38:00.006-04:002010-06-30T11:27:34.613-04:00

Rayovac is having a fantastic promotion this Summer.  Become a fan on Facebook and you can have a daily chance to win fun prizes. Today's prize is a camping kit with tent and batteries. Check out Rayovac's website for all the details www.rayovac.com/PowersYourSummer.  There will also be a Twitter party  on June 30th, featuring more chances to win lots of prizes.  Rayovac Powers Your Vacation

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-50452173729908289032010-06-22T00:01:00.002-04:002010-06-22T00:01:01.988-04:00

On Saturday, Maggie will turn 10!  In this picture she is less than a month old.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-69969657252802215982010-06-21T18:58:00.001-04:002010-07-04T00:49:18.585-04:00

Moonfairies is the 12th trading card series from Bella Sara.  My 10 year old daughter Maggie LOVES the games on their FREE website. The games involve taking care of horses, growing plants to benefit the animals and exploring different areas to perform good deeds for others.  This card series brings together the love of horses and the world of fairies and sprites.  Each pack of trading cards

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-5389559299697965252010-06-21T00:01:00.001-04:002010-06-21T00:01:01.574-04:00

Today is the official first day of Summer and nothing says SUMMER to me like Beach Boys music.  I found some great videos on YouTube. 

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-54345135541780875372010-06-18T00:04:00.000-04:002010-06-17T23:49:30.119-04:00

  I was scanning pictures yesterday and came across these two pictures. The first one is our oldest son when he was about 2 weeks old and the second one is our oldest daughter when she was about 2 weeks old. Everyone is always telling me how much our kids look alike, but looking at these two pictures side by side I really SEE it.  

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-61858959682575491142010-06-18T00:01:00.000-04:002010-06-17T23:44:44.241-04:00

We took a family trip to Frozen Head State Park last Friday. This is about 2 hrs West of Great Smoky Mountain National Park in Tennessee.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-55399591148557739832010-06-17T00:04:00.007-04:002010-06-20T23:48:10.089-04:00

This Meme started last week, it is a 15 week project.  The object is to write a story each week about a different period of time from our childhood.  I am writing this for my children.  Last week I told the story of my birth. This week, I’ll be telling you about the year I started Kindergarten.  It was a very exciting year! When I was a little girl, Gramma and I lived by ourselves in a small

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-50021220853761010322010-06-17T00:01:00.002-04:002010-06-24T15:25:27.170-04:00

Hubby took these pictures on our recent trip to Frozen Head State Park. This bug is a centipede of some kind. The kids were all fascinated with it. I'm not much of a bug person, but I do agree with Hubby that the colors are pretty. This mushroom was HUGE and the color was just stunning.  Doesn’t it remind you of the sort that a little gnome would live under? Through the Lens Thursday is hosted

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-56097495116238814402010-06-16T04:34:00.001-04:002010-06-16T04:34:00.343-04:00

Frozen Head State Park!  This is a Tennessee State park not far from our house.  We have driven past the sign on Interstate 40 more times than I can count, but we had never gone.  Last Friday we felt like going on an adventure.  We thought about going to the Great Smokey Mountain National Park, but we’ve been there quite a few times and wanted to go someplace NEW. I just love these little

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-90454558200072925702010-06-16T00:01:00.000-04:002010-06-15T22:48:24.490-04:00

 

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-63920832640001611092010-06-15T13:40:00.001-04:002010-06-15T13:40:00.051-04:00

Today I am participating in another new Meme. This Meme is a way of getting to know other bloggers. This week we are writing about 2 things we are Thankful for. 1. My wonderful husband of 23.5 years. Times are tough, but I still LOVE him with all my heart. 2. Our 6 wonderful children. I struggle with letting go and letting my adult sons live their own lives. Even though they aren't making the

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-59115660777600479902010-06-15T12:20:00.000-04:002010-06-15T12:20:47.345-04:00

LT, June 13, 2010 2:12 PM Already following you on twitter! Thanks for the extra chance to win, I just got a small MP3 player, and this would be just great! Random.Org picked #16!  CONGRATULATIONS LT!!!   LT will have 48 hours to claim her prize or I will have to pick a new winner.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-81696804892859458982010-06-15T00:01:00.002-04:002010-06-15T00:01:00.321-04:00

Wow, isn't this amazing?  Another picture with ME in it.  Usually I am the one taking the pictures.  This is from September of 2007.  The baby with all the hair is my Granddaughter Lilly.  The bald nursing baby is my youngest daughter Melanie.  They were born exactly 4 months apart.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-48785525384012539452010-06-14T18:18:00.000-04:002010-06-14T18:18:15.344-04:00

My giveaway for a $50 iTunes Gift Card ends tonight at midnight EASTERN time. To enter, follow my blog and leave a comment on the giveaway post. Extra entries are also available for my twitter followers and Networked Blogs (Facebook) followers. Just leave a comment for each way you follow in the giveaway post comments.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-90219501259677613882010-06-14T00:12:00.003-04:002010-06-14T12:52:50.612-04:00

This week I am linking up to a couple of new linky’s  for Music Monday.  I’ve always identified with this song.  Many years ago I made a picture webpage of our family photos and this is the song I used as the theme.  Hubby is currently unemployed and looking for a new job.  I am a stay at home Mom, so we are once again “Living on a Prayer”

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-90592998844302471652010-06-13T13:28:00.000-04:002010-06-13T13:28:34.875-04:00

Tomorrow is the last day to enter to win the $50 iTunes Gift Card giveaway!  All public Followers of my blog are eligible (new and old).  Click the link above and leave a comment on the giveaway post to enter.  If you have already entered and would like an EXTRA entry, follow me on Twitter!  Leave a comment with your twitter name on the giveaway post! I will close entries at midnight Eastern on

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-87279163420640974032010-06-12T00:01:00.003-04:002010-06-12T15:19:29.126-04:00

Over the last 2 weeks I've discovered so many new blogs to read from participating in Saturday Stumble and checking out the links that others post.  Here are just a few....Unexpected Bliss, Multi-tasking Mama (especially her Teen/Tween Thursday), The MOB Society (I'll always be a "boy Mom" at heart), Inspired to Action and Live the Adventure. This week Ginny Marie at Lemon Drop Pie is

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-20645468230307572002010-06-11T01:34:00.000-04:002010-06-11T01:34:21.848-04:00

This is my 6th Grade class picture. I "had" this picture at one time, but I haven't physically seen it in many years. Recently, somebody I don't even remember being in my 6th grade class posted it on facebook and I was tagged. I think picture sharing is one of my favorite aspects of Facebook! I'm tempted to not tell you which one I am, but I'm sure that most people who know me could pick me out

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-89366820745438786122010-06-11T00:01:00.000-04:002010-06-10T20:52:35.536-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-65666807285867084672010-06-10T22:31:00.002-04:002010-06-16T23:47:33.663-04:00

Gramma got married when she was 17.  When she was 19, they found out they were going to have a baby…ME!  Gramma was very excited! One Saturday in October, Gramma started to have some light cramps in her back.  It was still 4 weeks until her baby was due, but she wondered if maybe this was labor.  Granpa worked nights at the time, so he was home.  She woke him up and asked him to come sit in

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-60606202996810822672010-06-10T10:15:00.000-04:002010-06-10T10:15:00.133-04:00

This is a new meme that I came across last week.  Parenting tweens and teens is NOT easy. I haven't found many blogs that talk about the teen years, I'm assuming mainly because much of raising teens is difficult and very rarely CUTE.  Maybe I just haven't found that niche of bloggers yet. Hubby and I survived our first two sons tween and teen years, but now we are fully submerged in the next

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-48860811188289564832010-06-10T06:50:00.001-04:002010-06-10T06:50:00.444-04:00

The kids and I went to the Cove on Tuesday afternoon.  As dusk approached, I went for a walk and happened upon several groupings of ducks.  I don’t often take pictures that aren’t of my kids, I’ve been wanting to branch out and try to capture some of the wildlife that lives in our area….this was the perfect opportunity.   For more Through the Lens Thursday visit Frugal & Focused

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-84592603980491427492010-06-09T00:12:00.002-04:002010-06-09T00:34:15.150-04:00

Vacation Bible school is an activity that my kids look forward to all year. This year the theme is High Seas Adventure. Our church's staff has really outdone themselves with the decoration. Morgan is going into the 7th grade, so he is too OLD for the program, but he is the perfect age to be on the crew.  He is having a great time this week, unfortunately he has gotten to that age where he scowls

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-85369599127837905252010-06-08T06:02:00.001-04:002010-06-08T06:02:00.235-04:00

This picture was taken at Back to School night in 2008. Maggie was just starting 3rd grade. Unfortunately, something got smeared on it and I didn't have the best of luck getting it cleaned without damaging the picture.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-84112053404760885582010-06-07T00:00:00.001-04:002010-06-07T00:00:04.916-04:00

It's been raining here a LOT lately....yesterday it was a bright sunny day,  then suddenly it started raining out of nowhere. This video is from September 2005, I didn't realize he was still doing concerts. John Fogerty is somebody I would LOVE to see live! It's been very HOT and Humid here, even when it's raining. I could definitely use a "Summer Breeze". I'm hoping to spend at least one day

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-83805637364810419422010-06-05T00:04:00.001-04:002010-06-05T01:09:57.498-04:00

  It's been a busy week.  I finally figured out the code to use my laptop wirelessly in our house, so I've had a lot more freedom to read other blogs.  I've added a  few new favorites to my blog roll and I wanted to share some GREAT posts that I read this week. My friend Kirsty at Momedy shared a great story about Mommy Goes to College.  I think this was an innovative idea  and I've got my

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-11431001799983340972010-06-04T05:52:00.001-04:002010-06-04T05:52:00.435-04:00

This first picture is of my hubby when he was a baby.  Wasn't he CUTE? This picture is of his paternal grandmother.  He doesn't think he ever met her.  We don't have a lot of information about most of his family, but from what we've been told, she lived in Sacramento CA when she died sometime in 1966 or maybe 1967.   There is no date on this picture so I'm not sure when or where it was taken.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-11455018701349685332010-06-04T01:14:00.002-04:002010-06-04T02:54:21.910-04:00

This is my first attempt at taking pictures of the night sky. Visit Skywatch Friday to see amazing pictures of the sky from all over the World.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-56842062079920514662010-06-02T09:06:00.002-04:002010-06-02T09:06:00.677-04:00

The Cove! This weeks theme was "your own backyard" but since mine is a MESS and not fun at all, I thought I would share one of our favorite places to go close to home.  The Cove is a local park along the edge of the Tennessee River.  It is less than a 10 minute ride from our house and absolutely gorgeous. There is a swimming area where the kids like to wade in the  warm shallow water.  It does

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-34328956747324003122010-06-02T00:01:00.001-04:002010-06-01T22:35:07.683-04:00

I really enjoy having my kids out of school for the Summer. My oldest two aren't at home anymore, so I only really have to keep the 12 yr old & the 10 yr old busy.  My youngest 2 are always at home so Summer is no different for them.....they do however enjoy having the bigger kids home to play with them. I start thinking about Summer activities as soon as Spring break is over.  Here are just

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-14744255109038751962010-06-01T14:59:00.000-04:002010-06-01T14:59:44.851-04:00

I am a facebook fan of Chick-fil-A and signed up last week to sample their new spicy chicken sandwich.  Today was the day of our reservation.  Hubby and I both really like their classic chicken sandwich and were pleasantly surprised to discover that the Spicy chicken sandwich is even better.  Essentially it is the same sandwich but they have added a spicy pepper blend to the breading.  If you

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-42668073079755149652010-06-01T13:04:00.000-04:002010-06-01T13:04:04.597-04:00

It's hard to believe this was 4 yrs ago. It was a beach theme and the kids had a blast.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-47682176432159130992010-05-31T23:13:00.000-04:002010-05-31T23:13:12.842-04:00

I saw this on MSN and wanted to share it. I'm surprised to see Bob Dylan at #1 and equally surprised to see the Beach Boys in the top 10, but I LOVE them both. Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-9720656442585484712010-05-29T00:01:00.000-04:002010-05-29T00:01:00.723-04:00

I'm still new at this, but here are a few of my favorites from this week. Check out this giveaway on Frugal & Focused THIS made me smile, I can totally relate! Be sure to check out my 500th blog post...I'm giving away a $50 iTunes Gift Card to one of my followers.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-49505106557206699972010-05-28T00:01:00.003-04:002010-05-28T00:01:02.519-04:00

As the temperature gets warmer here in Tennessee, the humidity increases and we frequently get mid afternoon or evening thunder storms. Our temperatures have been reaching the upper 80's which is pretty warm for us...at the hottest point during the summer it almost never gets above the mid 90's. Visit Skywatch Friday to see amazing pictures of the sky from all over the World.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-90277994484064529662010-05-27T20:50:00.001-04:002010-06-14T23:49:43.298-04:00

I started blogging in September of 2008 and THIS is my 500th blog post!!!  In honor of reaching this milestone and in appreciation of my followers I am giving away a $50 iTunes Gift Card. To enter you must be publicly following my blog, leave me a comment letting me know you would like to enter.  I will choose a winner using Random.org on June 14th. Watch my blog for ways to get extra entries.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-2070929426620828232010-05-27T13:18:00.002-04:002010-05-27T14:02:03.768-04:00

Last Saturday the kids and I had a fun day at World's Fair Park....I've already talked about it, but I wanted to share these pictures of the kids too. For more Through the Lens Thursday visit Frugal & Focused

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-21389701641273155472010-05-26T12:00:00.001-04:002010-05-26T12:00:02.618-04:00

Knoxville Tennessee was home to the 1982 World's Fair. Last weekend, I took four of my kids to a Reading Festival at World's Fair Park. It is the first time I've really taken the time to appreciate what a great resource it is for our community. The Sun Sphere (my kids and I affectionately call it the Disco Ball), is visible from most of downtown. This fountain is both beautiful and FUN. 

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-43143596213540431192010-05-26T06:40:00.001-04:002010-05-26T06:40:00.227-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-35506374071317826862010-05-24T00:01:00.002-04:002010-05-24T19:03:49.458-04:00

Yes, I KNOW it is only May, but at my house it is now officially SUMMER! Last Friday was the last day of school until August 17th!!! Here are a few of my favorite SUMMER songs...

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-18793470903702886412010-05-22T19:07:00.000-04:002010-05-22T19:07:46.939-04:00

It's been a really long time since I've participated in Skywatch Friday.  These clouds were amazing.  This is downtown Knoxville before a thunderstorm.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-49544668735353110902010-05-21T23:37:00.001-04:002010-05-28T22:26:26.350-04:00

This is my first time participating in Saturday Stumble....it is a meme  for sharing your favorite posts of the week.  I did sign up for Stumble a while ago, but ever since getting my laptop I haven't really used it. Here are my favorite posts from this week. Ginny Marie over at Lemon Drop Pie has a fun new meme called Where in the World Wednesday Jenni's Witless Wednesday rant on One Thing

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-25703018398840557122010-05-21T07:05:00.002-04:002010-05-21T11:53:24.429-04:00

It's been a long time since I've participated in Friday Photo Flashback, but now that I've got a scanner, I need to get back into the habit! For Morgan's 7th birthday (2005), we took him to see Thomas the Tank Engine in Chattanooga. There was also a petting zoo with bunnies. Morgan and Maggie had never held a bunny before. Mason has always loved trains, so even though he protested about being

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-71884926542044359382010-05-20T07:00:00.001-04:002010-05-27T13:16:57.265-04:00

Morgan took these pictures at the Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. This is the second time he has been to this aquarium on a school field trip. I've never been, but I enjoyed looking at the pictures he came home with this time. Through the Lens Thursday is hosted by my friend Janet at Frugal & Focused.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-56451844842236652652010-05-19T15:32:00.000-04:002010-05-19T15:32:54.590-04:00

Many years ago, when Marvin and Mason were little, one of their favorite shows on PBS was Where in the World is Carmen San Diego?....this new meme has that theme song going round and round in my head. Where in the World is THIS? This is the Ft Loudon Dam in Loudon County Tennessee.  A few weeks ago the kids and I went for a ride just to get out of the house.  We drove over the bridge above

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-80506328486115522232010-05-19T00:01:00.000-04:002010-05-18T23:54:51.906-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-78037901768987170592010-05-18T08:06:00.000-04:002010-05-18T08:06:28.787-04:00

A couple weeks ago, I went to Walmart with the intention of buying ink for my "cheap" Canon printer.  To purchase a black cartridge & a color cartridge the cost would have been $37 before tax.  Instead, I ended up buying a new Canon All in One (printer, copier, scanner) for $40 with the ink cartridges included.  I have been wanting a new scanner and it seemed like a total no brainer to pay $3

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-44133366272186276672010-05-17T00:04:00.000-04:002010-05-17T00:04:00.611-04:00

My girls are all in LOVE with the Chipmunks & this is our last week of school, so I thought this would be a cute song to share.  Personally, I prefer the original Alice Cooper version.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-61386211263443432772010-05-14T20:09:00.000-04:002010-05-14T20:09:00.078-04:00

 

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-33824088811299358982010-05-12T08:00:00.001-04:002010-05-12T08:00:11.587-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-9625867332073571912010-05-11T15:28:00.000-04:002010-05-11T15:28:01.175-04:00

My BABY!  She still makes this face on a regular basis. Guess what I got a few days ago????  A scanner!!!!  In celebration, I just have to share a picture I recently found of our son Morgan.  You may remember that he turned 12 on April 22nd. This picture was taken around the first week of May 1998.  Hubby has Morgan in the sling and I'm on the other side of him.  This is probably the ONLY

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-56920538675693617542010-05-10T10:04:00.000-04:002010-05-10T10:04:37.540-04:00

Raffi has been a favorite in our house since my oldest son was very small.  This Friday, my youngest is turning 3 and this is her current favorite song.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-67154820057324968162010-05-03T08:10:00.001-04:002010-05-03T08:16:04.390-04:00

I've always LOVED this song & this is a cool video...watch closely & you'll see Clint Eastwood.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-61782579178018620952010-04-26T06:00:00.001-04:002010-04-26T06:00:03.978-04:00

The theme this week is Musical Therapy, so I picked a couple songs to share that are usually good for picking up my spirits. OLD Rock is one of my favorite types of music, they just don't make songs or bands like these anymore. You've got to listen to the words to this one.... I'll stop for now, but I could go ON & ON & ON.....when I'm really down, music is the only thing that

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-50860537261346104642010-04-25T23:08:00.000-04:002010-04-25T23:08:34.408-04:00

Thursday was Morgan's 12th birthday.... I swear that everytime I look at him he has grown AGAIN...it won't be long before he is taller than I am. Here he is with his new digital camera/binoculars. I made a chocolate cake for him on Friday and he got to make homemade chocolate ice cream. I'm not sure what is up with the face he is making, but my camera battery died, so this is the only picture

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-68444052391127584112010-04-22T00:18:00.003-04:002010-04-22T07:33:53.867-04:00

To join Through the Lens Thursday, head over to Frugal and Focused.

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-29486260296601806922010-04-21T00:18:00.000-04:002010-04-21T00:18:04.513-04:00

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-447768540699406441.post-50831095263509157252010-04-20T00:01:00.001-04:002010-04-20T00:11:16.799-04:00

This was Spring of 2005....On Thursday, Morgan will turn 12. Where have the years gone?

Denisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16969173185045558595noreply@blogger.com2