We Moved - New Website!!!!!

Oh, the joy of settling in!

 If feels like forever since my last blog post but I'm back and ready to roll! This move has been one heck of an experience. Just a quick recap: We moved from West Virginia the last week of February, found a house but had to wait until July to move-in, lived in two hotels over the course of 4 months and finally, yes FINALLY we've settled into our new home!!!

 The boys are overjoyed and couldn't wait to have their own rooms. Even though we have had extra rooms in our homes in the past, I always made the boys share a room. I had this thing about wanting them to be close so I thought sharing a room would definitely do the trick. Since they are getting older and have completely different interest, I figured why not let them have their own space this time?

As expected, they were super excited until they realized they would be sleeping in their rooms ALONE (cue the violins). The boys cried about sleeping alone but we figure they'd adjust in not time. Operation nightlights in full effect (still trying to find the right ones for the hallway so we just keep the hallway light on until they fall asleep)!!!

 

   One thing's for sure, the boys couldn't wait to cook in the kitchen. We made homemade pizza rolls  for our 1st Friday 'family cook night' and they turned out delicious! Looking forward to cooking more delicious meals in this beautiful kitchen. Definitely beats living in a hotel and eating out everyday.:)

 

                          

 

 

 

 

Orlando chose Spiderman for the theme of his room and Tyson has a thing for Dinosaurs. Different interest for sure.:)

 
 

 
 
 
 

 

Countdown to Moving Day Part 2....

 

 

We're headed into the homestretch of our big move to Wisconsin and I couldn't be more excited. Hotel living has been an experience that I wouldn't wish upon anyone. Yes, you have a maid service, a free indoor pool to use at your leisure, and lets not forget room service...oh yes, room service - my favorite accommodation. Needless to say, those things don't compare to the comforts of a home. I literally haven't cooked, made a bed, or washed linens in 3 months. What a wonderful break from house chores, right?  Yes and no.

I desperately miss home cooked meals but the thought of having to prepare 3 meals a day again terrifies me. I literally almost had an anxiety attack watching a woman walk through the grocery store with her perfectly organized list in her hand searching the aisle for just the right seasoning for what I could only imagine to be a dinner that she will slave over for her four year old son/daughter to pick over and claim to have a sudden food allergy to and explain why a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich would suffice - sigh.....
Hopefully cooking and cleaning is like second nature and I can jump right back into it because before all of this I had a system that was one well-oiled machine and you couldn't tell me a better way to run my household *pats self on the back *.
 Looking back at the months before this new job and move, I realize how much running around I was doing just to keep the house running smoothly. Not saying that I'm not thankful for the break , but 3 months is way more than a girl could ask for. :)  Thank you Lord for the break but I think (key work "think") I'm ready to jump back into the saddle. If anything, we all miss our beds and the boys miss their toys in storage. So, Although I am tired of living out of a suitcase, I will miss the easy dinners at the Whole Foods deli, calling in orders at local restaurants and someone else making our beds but what an experience it has been and to that I am grateful. With that said, let's get this show on the road!!!! 13 days and counting......:)

While I was away...

personality shining through

 

I really haven't been able to blog lately but hopefully my hiatus is coming to an end. Although we found a house, it isn't available until July 1st! The tenant has been really good with trying to get out early so I'm keeping my fingers crossed in hopes that everything works out on her end so that we can move in sooner.

So my days have been filled with trying to referee two kids in a hotel room. Luckily, the weather has been gorgeous in Madison the past few days. A little bit of sun always helps my mood. Since I knew that we would be stuck in a hotel for a few months, I was on a serious hunt to find the boys a school. Finding a school has always been tricky because every state is different with their policy on school age start date. Both of my boys have late birthdays so I always have to find a daycare or private pre-school/pre-k for the boys. That's where cost comes in. I'm all for investing in my child's education but geez, people have to eat. Childcare is more than a mortgage payment! Thankfully I found a Christian school close by with great prices and space for the boys. Praise the Lord, mommy gets a break! Now, I can orchestrate laundry(that's a whole other story), grocery runs, making and returning phone calls and all that jazz. We've moved to a new hotel with larger rooms which is great but the on-site laundry isn't accommodating and there is no real kitchen.

Food has been such a mystery. What do you eat everyday when you're living in a hotel? Eating out becomes costly and unappealing after doing it for a month straight. So my friend suggested I get a griddle. That way I could buy groceries and cook it in the room. Although the room that we're in only has a mini fridge, I managed to grocery shop for two days at a time. That way I can fit what I need in the fridge without becoming overwhelmed with too much food or my food going bad. So far so good. I was able to make eggs and sausage for breakfast and burgers for dinner last night. I guess now I can research griddle food ideas. The griddle that I purchases also has a Panini press and a grill. So I can make almost anything, which is great. 

Anywho, That's a quick update on our move. I plan to post more often. Trying to get back into my rhythm and find a schedule that works. I need to dust off my camera and get out and capture some pictures for you guys. :) Madison is very pretty.

Hope you all have been well and enjoying the little glimpse of spring. I know I am!

 

 

puppet show goodies we found at a local toy store



I finally had time to breathe!! Kids were in school! Can't you see the joy in my cheeks.:)

Found these cuties at  Macy's for 20% off. So comfy. Got them in all black too.

After a scrimmage the boys raced daddy

Wine and a fire...perfect evening with the coaching staff

We are all in love with Coach Andersen's dogs. Orlando resting on Blue.:)

Spring Break Fun

 

 

 

Spring Break 2014 has come and gone. The boys and I got a chance to spend some extra time with daddy. Just one of the perks of working for a University (or any school system). The last two days before he had to head back to work, we took an impromptu trip to Chicago. It looks like this will become a regular thing since it's a hop, skip and a jump away! Because it's still cold out, getting a last minute hotel room in the city was easy. I'm guessing when the summer months roll around this won't be the case. We stayed at the Sheraton Downtown Chicago. I try to stay somewhere in walking distance to Michigan Avenue ( shopping heaven *wink, wink*). As much as I like to score a new pair of shoes or jeans, everyone did a little shopping except for little old me. I think I will wait until summer so I can stroll Michigan Avenue solo...I need to focus! So many beautiful stores! :)  I was glad that Thomas treated himself to a few things. Sometimes I worry that he's working too hard and not enjoying anything. The boys did their shopping at the Lego Store, which I'm regretting now. Too many small pieces. I'm glad that they are constantly building things but the tiny pieces are driving me nuts. I bet if we go to the Lego Store in the near future I will let them get a million pieces all over again. I'm a sucker for a child's imagination.

I think the best part of the trip was The Shedd Aquarium. It's probably one of the best Aquariums that we've been to. The aquatic show was great, as well as the 4D movie. Everything about it was nice. Before we left we made a stop at Homeslice for some pizza. Although it wasn't the famous Chicago deep dish pizza it was delicious. The slices were huge. Of course, Tyson was in heaven. First a visit to the aquarium to see his animal friends, then pizza!! He couldn't have asked for a better day.:)

Overall, we had a great time. It's out of our character to just jump in the car and take a trip but I'm glad we stepped out of our comfort zone and went for it!

I'm hoping to take a trip back in the summer - just in time for Taste of Chicago.:)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!

Yesterday I celebrated my 29th birthday!!! My husband refuses to say that I'm 29, he just reminds me that I'm almost 30! Lol

I don't mind getting older. It seems like life just gets better with time. I received a beautiful flower cake from my husband (who will be 28 in May,so he's right behind me in age). I love that he has accepted the fact that I LOVE flowers. Who needs a cake with all the calories when you can have a beautiful display of flowers.

Just so you know, in our home when one person is celebrating a birthday it's like it's everybody's birthday. The boys light up at the thought of cake and the possibility of fun activities. Orlando even tried to convince me to celebrate my birthday at Chuck E Cheese. My husband wants all the good food and Tyson just wants an excuse to possible make it to the toy store since everyone is in a good mood. Believe me, he doesn't mind gaining a toy or two from someone else's birthday.

We ended up having dinner at the Melting Pot ( a fondue restaurant) on Sunday to kick off my birthday week. I chose fondue because I thought it would be a great experience for the kids, the dessert and cheese dips are excellent, and the kids ate free on Sunday..so this was a no brainer! Of course Orlando enjoyed every last bit of it and Tyson constantly called his entrée (shrimp & chicken) creatures. He didn't touch one creature! Typical Tyson...
Because it was my birthday, I left with some chocolate covered strawberries which were delicious (I didn't share).

Yesterday, on my actual birthday we celebrated by simply having a family day. We explored Madison a little, had lunch at a new steakhouse close by and enjoyed sushi for dinner (I love sushi).

Oh I can't forget, my Gigi's Cupcakes were delicious. The last two years I've been celebrating with cupcakes instead of a cake. This helps with portion control!:) I would definitely eat an entire cake if you let me (remember, I'm a recovering sugar addict).

Overall, it was a good day! I'm just so grateful for my health and my family. Life is good.:)

 

 

 

 

What's Cooking?

Since we're in the hotel, I have to think of recipes that accommodate our situation. Yesterday, I made sweet Italian chicken & turkey sausage with sautéed peppers and mushrooms over brown rice for Thomas and the boys. It was quick, filling & delicious. Sometimes "simple" does the trick. I wonder what other recipes will be created during this "hotel living" phase?

My Pure Barre Experience

So you've heard me complain about my struggle with getting to the gym and finding a fitness routine that will give me the results that I'm looking for (that I'm willing to stick to). Losing weight is great, but I've been off the scale for a while since,for me, it's never really helped. I can tell if a workout is working for me because I quickly lose inches and I just have more energy in general. Sunday afternoon I nervously strolled into the Pure Barre studio located about 10 minutes from the hotel. I've been eyeing this Pure Barre craze for a while. I first learned about it when we moved to Chattanooga almost two years ago but never found the time or courage to try it out. Well...I finally did it and let me tell you, if you ever decide to attend a class you will tone, burn, stretch, and lift body parts you didn't even know existed. I knew that it would be a good workout, but it kicked by butt! My body shook uncontrollably the entire time (they say that's a good thing, it means you're pushing your body to the max).
When the instructor started off, I was sure we would have a warm-up. The second we started I quickly realized that this workout was no joke. I couldn't tell the warm-up from rest of the workout. We jumped right into abs and arms. I wasn't ready! I thought my body was going to give out the first five minutes into the workout and it was too late to make a run for it. I would've had to grab my shoes, keys, and coat from my cubby. Things I just couldn't leave behind. I was stuck!
When I'm struggling in a workout I'm usually motivated by the women much older than me breezing right through it. It gets me every time. If they can do, then shot so can I.
I was so happy when the instructor said we only had five minutes left until I realized that those last five minutes were all abs. Can you say burn baby burn?! Ouch.
 After all that burn I'm happy to report that I purchased a one month pass. Crazy, huh?
 Usually when a workout gives me a burn like this one did I dread going back, but this workout is addictive. After looking at how toned and strong the women who attend Pure Barre regularly are, I feel like I'm missing out. They had toned arms, legs and were killing those ab routines like nobody's business. There is no way you can attend these classes 3-4 times a week and not see results in the first month or two (unless you're eating unreasonably).  I will continue to attend classes and update you on the progress. I go back today! :)

Weekend recap {Hotel Living Part II / Laundry}

 

 

 

 

Just when I thought that I figured this hotel living all out, laundry happened! If your family is anything like mine, then you know that laundry can be a nightmare. It continues to pile up with no end in sight. Thankfully, there is a laundry room on site here at the hotel. Laundry is one of those things that I would pay somebody to do if I could. Not only is it one of my least favorite chores, I'm terrible at folding. Sad but true. Thomas folds ten times better than I do so I'm happy when he's around to do it. I think he actually enjoys it. I cringe at the thought of it, but it has to get done. Although dragging your laundry basket to the laundry room here isn't ideal, I found something that is...three loads of clothes going all at once! Hallelujah!!! No waiting on one load to get done to load another. I can do all three loads at once. You know I had to find the silver lining in the situation.:) If I didn't I would go completely mad. Lol

Our weekend also consisted of us going to another movie (that's three in the past two week, I think we'll stop at that). The boys were counting down the days for the movie Mr. Peabody and Sherman to come out. It was a very cute movie. In my opinion it was one big history review. I'm all for learning and entertainment at the same time so it gets an A+ from me. We also did our usual bed cramming (at Orlando's request) to watch a basketball game.
The weather is also getting a little better. It was in the 30's which felt so good when you're comparing it to the single digits we were experiencing when we first arrived.
Lastly, I found and attended a workout class that could help whip me back into shape for those pool visits the boys are looking forward to. I will post details tomorrow!

How was your weekend?

 

States with the Best & Worst Schools in America

I ran across an interesting article in the Huffington Post about a study recently released on the states with the best  and worst schools in the U.S.  According to 24/7wallst.com, the U.S. received a C- for the third year in a row for our education system (falling behind other developed nations).
Reading this article helped me to further realize how we as parents have to do our very best to give our children the best chance at a fair and decent education. These studies are proof that our education system is at a stand still and little is being done to bring change to a system that is obviously not working. Not all parents can send their kids to get a private education. So what about the rest of us? What can we do as parents to help our kids?
One thing is for sure, education starts at home and whatever time you can devote to teaching your child is better than no time at all. Not only is teaching them reading and math important, but manners and morals are also at the top of the list of importance. If your child can't sit still, pay attention, or isn't respectful that could hurt them more than anything else. Growing up, my mother was a single parent and worked a lot so she didn't spend a lot of time teaching me ABCs and math but I do remember her reading with me at night and teaching me to be respectful. Being the baby of five kids I probably gained more common sense than anything. That probably helped me in more ways than I realized. My point is, as parents we have to be committed to giving our best to our children. So if you see that the school is failing your child, it is up to you to step in and find a solution that will benefit your child. If we as parents don't care, no one else will.

Take a look at the link below to see where your state falls on the list 
Click Here to read the full article

Late weekend post

 The weather was extremely cold but that didn't stop us from getting out for a little bit this past weekend. The boys and I finally got a tour of the UW athletic facility and it was pretty impressive! I absolutely love the view from Thomas' office. The boys really wanted to get out on the field but as you can see the snow prevented us from doing that.
Besides heading to church on Sunday, the cold weather kept us in for the remainder of the weekend.Let's just say,we've had plenty of take-out (finding a gym ASAP, I'll keep you posted)! Although it's been a nice break from cooking, I'm starting to miss my pots and pans.  I can cook simple things in the hotel with the small kitchen but trying not to have so many smells in such a tight space. Soon enough I will be back in my normal routine begging for a break from cooking so I think I will try to enjoy this time.
 On the other hand, games and movies have been a real life-saver. Despicable Me 2 was our spotlight movie of the weekend. I really enjoyed that little bit of family time.
Hope you all are enjoying your week so far. We're just trying to stay warm like the majority of the country.
Really looking forward to spring!...Oh I almost forgot, spring ball starts today! Woohoo! Let's get this show on the road - can you tell that I have totally bought into this lifestyle?!!!

Office View

 

Indoor facility

Doing their best Heisman pose in front of the Heisman trophy case

Yep, it's still cold.

 

Despicable Me 2

Hotel Living, Part 1

What do you do when you're stuck living in a hotel for a month? Play board games, duh!!!!

Hope you guys enjoy your weekend. We're going to attempt to get out and explore the Wisconsin campus. Let's hope our toes don't freeze off. It is definitely cold in Madison. I guess we better bundle up!

 

The boys playing Operation

Tyson in daddy's pants

Orlando wearing daddy's gear

There was lots of noise that came with this face.

Our quick trip to Chicago

Me and my boys

Orlando and Tyson in the hotel lobby

On our drive from West Virginia to Wisconsin the boys and I made a short stop in Chicago. I've been trying to get to Chicago for some time now, so I was really excited to finally get a chance to visit. Although it was a quick visit, I really tried to make the best of it. I was a little apprehensive about exploring the city because once I got off the expressway, driving to the hotel was a bit stressful. I'm from a big city (Atlanta) but Chicago was different...really different. More people walking, more traffic, and more cars. It was a real city!! I felt like cars and people were coming at me from every direction! A nice gentleman even relaxed his hands on his horn to let me know that I was driving too slow !! I thought that was so kind of him (not). It really freaked me out. Luckily, the hotel was close and the valet was nice enough to take my car off my hands for the night(for $60/night...I thought that was ridiculous but I was so frazzled I didn't even care). We stayed at the Wyndham Grand Chicago Riverfront. It was really nice and I would stay there again. When we finally settled in, I decided that the boys and I would lock ourselves in our hotel room to stay away from the "crazy horn people." After calming down and realizing that I only had one day in Chicago I decided to go out and explore with the boys. We grabbed a cab and headed to The Children's Museum of Chicago, and I'm so glad we did. Chicago truly is a beautiful city! The Museum was located at the Navy Pier which was a nice experience. I can only imagine how beautiful the Navy Pier is during the spring/summer months.The boys love going to Museums and they thoroughly enjoyed the one in Chicago. Of course the visit wasn't complete until they scored something from the gift shop (they negotiate well). After leaving the museum we took a stroll down Michigan Avenue and let me tell you, that's a shopper's dream! After drooling over retail we made our way back to our hotel and enjoyed room service while watching cartoons.  The boys had to wear the same shirts two day in a row, but that's a story for another day.
The next morning we headed out but not before grabbing breakfast at the hotel's restaurant downstairs per Orlando's request. I was thinking about picking up breakfast on the road but Orlando wanted to go all out before leaving the "Windy City!"

Since Madison is only 2 1/2 hours from Chicago I'm hoping we can visit again during the summer. I'm sure my little travel buddies wouldn't mind and maybe daddy can make a cameo appearance. He has a lot on his plate these days...a good problem to have.  I'm extremely grateful that he works so hard to provide all these opportunities for the boys and I. I'm so Thankful.

Their first cab ride

Tyson trying to be cool, Orlando always doing the right thing! Lol

My little builders

 

 

Orlando walking through the obstacle course

Water table. They loved this. They also had this one at the Chattanooga Museum

Quick photo. Can you tell that we were tired but trying to pretend not to be?

Navy Pier (frozen)

What would a visit to the Museum be without a photo with T-REX!

View from our hotel room. Beautiful.

 

Room service - Calamari

 

Hotel room view

                          

Room Service (for the boys)

Room Service (crab stuffed Salmon w/risotto)

 

Breakfast with the boys at hotel restaurant

Boys eating good!