AJ loves Eve

AJ loves Eve

Originally uploaded by staciplonsky

Don't mind the mess. *rolls eyes*

After I snapped all these pictures, AJ stood up and I saw that he was diaperless. These are the G-rated pics.

AJ's new reading spot

AJ's new reading spot

Originally uploaded by staciplonsky

I walked around the corner and saw AJ looking at his and Grace's favorite photo album from this summer.

Social Security.

I always get a kick out of my social security statements when they come. If I became disabled right now, I'd be able to pay for all of my yarn and knitting and sewing habits. And possibly groceries and Grace's dance class, too.  If I DIED, Terry would be able to pay for daycare plus extras for the kids.

Of course, we are aware of the intangible benefits of our children having a Stay at home mom. Clearly, that's why we do it--definitely not for the money! (or lack thereof)!!!

And then I think-- I doubt social security will be able to help my generation the way our generation has paid for the previous.  There is so much more money going out than they are taking in. I fear that when terry and I retire, there will be no social security. We'd have been better off taking that 6% and putting it into savings.

Grace's first soccer goal

[googlevideo=http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3520119469144642724&hl=en]

Recipes

I was browsing through some of my cookbooks, and I came across a cookbook that several moms from an internet forum had created back around October 2005. I found some of my favorite recipes that I'd forgotten about, and two that I had lost and could not find (I had submitted them, and I'm sooo glad I did)!

So this week, i'm going to give you a recipe for Lemon Chicken.
6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
2 c. fresh lemon juice
1 c. all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 c. vegetable oil
1/3 c. light brown sugar
1/4 c. chicken broth
6 slices lemon
1/2 c. finely minced fresh parsley

Combine chicken and lemon juice in a large resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out air and seal bag. Refrigerate to marinate overnight, turning once. Remove chicken from marinade, reserving 2 tablespoons marinade and disposing of the remainder. Mix together flour, salt, paprika and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken breasts one at a time, shake to coat evenly. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Fry coated chicken until well browned, about 10-15 minutes. Arrange browned chicken in a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with brown sugar. Mix broth with reserved marinade and pour mixture over chicken. Top each breast with a lemon slice and sprinkle all with parsley. Bake in the preheated oven fvor about 20 to 30 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.

Buon Appetit!

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

Dolly's Imagination Library

We became aware of this program at our library just after we moved to Utah last year. Dolly Parton strongly believes in fostering a love for reading at the preschool age. She started the "Imagination Library" in her hometown in Tennessee and has expanded it across the country. If you live in a participating community, your child will receive a brand new, hardcover, beautiful book every month until your child's 5th birthday (beginning with the classic, The Little Engine That Could). Grace and AJ have loved getting new books in the mail every month. Grace graduated in June, with the book Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten. She has a beautiful collection of books, all age appropriate and wonderful stories.

If your community participates, it's a wonderful gift. And if your community does not, I encourage you to find a way to get your community involved. There is much information at The Imagination Library's How it Works section.

My Bad Manners

Terry and I took the kids to the movies today. I'll post a review of "Fly Me To the Moon" later. AJ and I stood in a loooooong line for popcorn, and he was very clingy. He wanted to be held, and I picked him up because it was either that or have him freak out on the ground!!I get to the front of the line after about 15 minutes of waiting. I set him on the counter and placed my order. After our transaction was completed, I began to walk off with hands full of popcorn, a drink, napkins, and AJ's hand (yes, he agreed to walk at that point). Some woman shouted after me, "NEXT TIME, LEAVE YOUR KID'S BUTT OFF THE COUNTER WHERE OUR FOOD IS SERVED!!!"

I was stunned. I replied, "I am so sorry. I didn't even think about it." And walked away while I heard her continuing to grumble to everyone in line. I was so embarrassed. I started out pleased that AJ hadn't thrown a temper tantrum while we were waiting, becaused there were so many people in line and crowds really freak him out. .. .

Honestly, it NEVER occurred to me that this would be unhygienic. Thinking about it now, it makes sense. But I've been a mother for 5 years and it has not EVER crossed my mind!! OOPS!!



 

Why didn't the woman offer to hold him for me? Or help me with the popcorn and drink? Or quietly mention her concern?? I wasn't rude or mean in line, I spoke softly and pleasantly to AJ, the man behind the counter, and the lady in line who didn't want me to forget our 3-D glasses.

Oh well. You win some, you lose some. It's just sad how one bitter angry person can affect me. :(