International Harvester

Almost ready!!!!!!!

Mushrooms

We took Eagle Eyes and Goggle Eyes mushroom hunting. You guess which one is which? We found about 30, in the rainy, cold weather. We were walking along and had found a few, when Brett found one under a leaf. How she saw it, I will never know! I am ready to find some more. You can't beat fried mushrooms and grilled hamburgers, at least 6 times each spring. Briley helped me flour them... and the entire kitchen. She would have eaten all of them for supper. Should we have stopped her, or let her find out the hard way? We all know what happens when you eat too many! We also found some ticks... dirty little buggers!

Dance like no one is watching!

Last weekend was the dance recital. Wow! What a performance! Thanks to everyone who made it happen, especially Miss Shari! The girls had a ball. They did not complain at all during the 3 night event. Well, Briley did get a little grouchy Friday night, but all was forgotten during the Boogie Shoes dance. Brett forgot the smiles Friday night, but thankfully found them Saturday. I was very proud of both their performances. Now it time to trade in those tap shoes for boots and spurs!

Look Mom...

Look Mom... no training wheels. Briley finally convinced me to take off her training wheels, again. But this time I was shocked, she took off wobbling down the driveway, peddling. All be, she was riding her bike. In most cases, I have to push Brett to do everything. It started way back with her learning to crawl, she didn't. She was content with sitting, why learn to ride a bike, training wheels are fine. After I push and push, she succeeds. But Briley... I never have to push, I might need to start pulling her back. A few months ago, we tried taking off the training wheels, she crashed. Bri tried and tried but couldn't get it. Well this time, she got it... look out Ragbrai!

Happy Camper

And the camper work has begun, Blake power washed it. The girls and I painted it, inside and out! Then, sew, sew, sew... new cushions and curtains. Next step, the fun painting on the outside and loading it to go camping!!! It should be ready by Memorial Day.

Hot Wing Chicken Dip

Well, I tried a new recipe to take to card club Saturday night. They (the men) thought it was a keeper. I am not sure if the dip was that good or if it reminded them (the men) of the Hooters Hot Wings. So now, the dip has a new name, Hooter's Dip. (and I'm not the Hooter) Here is the requested recipe...

1 package (8oz.) cream cheese

Ranch Dressing

Hot Wings Hot Sauce

3-4 cooked chicken breasts

2 cups shredded Monterey Jack Cheese

Spread cream cheese in the bottom on a pie plate. Drizzle with Ranch dressing, drizzle with hot sauce. Cut chicken into small pieces and add on the top. Top with Monterey Jack cheese and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.

I must confess, I truly enjoy our card club. I like to play cards, even though sometimes the cards don't like me. I love the food and I treasure the lasting relationships we build, some new, some old. I am blessed to be a part of the fun.

BOOM BOOM CLAP!

Last weekend the girls and I, with some friends, went to see the new Hannah Montana Movie. I went thinking, oh great... the best of both worlds. But let me tell you, it was good. You know I judge movies by tears, and I almost shed a few. It's a very cute story. Briley loved Hannah Montana's rockin' stage. Brett thought it was good movie and really enjoyed herself with Gus and Callie. Alexis and I wanted to start dancing on stage or tables or where ever! Check out my link and see why... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_aRYNHjFr4 BOOM BOOM CLAP! BOOM DA-CLAP DE-CLAP! Miley rocks the Hoedown Throw down! I would recommend watching the movie if you get a chance... good, clean, fun movie!

Farm Chicks

Last week we got 11 new chicks on the Lough Ranch. They are Americanas, chickens that lay greenish-blue eggs, we think. My egg customers are increasing. Therefore, the demand is higher, so the supply must increase. (yes, I teach a little economics in 4th grade) Hopefully, in 6-9 months we will have some colored eggs. Super Dad took 3 chicks to the preschool Easter Party last week and made one "preschoolers" day.

By the way, the International Harvester (aka 68 camper), daughter of a third generation farmer, is in the restoration stages. The girls and I have been painting away, and the head construction man is ripping out and rebuilding like mad. Progress pictures are coming soon!

Isn't she a beauty?

I found it! Here is the 1968 beauty I found. OK, so she needs a little work... new front window... new curtains... new cushions... new paint... and a big bottle of Clorox! But, we are only a few mouths away from our first "Sister on the Fly" camping experience. I think I might start my own organization, "the NUTS in the trees" because I have nutty friends, nutty co-workers and a nutty family! (No offence, love you all... it takes on to know one) The girls are sitting under the bunk bed... they can't wait. I need you help with something, I would like to know your opinion on the theme of this jewel. I have been brainstorming some idea, let me know what you think.

1. the hen house (chickens, chickens)
2. the minnow bucket (fishing poles and fish)
3. international harvester (tractors and farm animals)
4. happy trail (the old west)

Please leave me a comment with your opinion! Thanks!

Happy Arbor Day

The Missouri Conservation Department gives every fourth grade student a tree for Arbor Day. As a fourth grade teacher in Missouri, I have planted sticks, (very small trees, left over from school) for the past seven years at my house, and I still don't have any shade. This year we were very excited, the trees are Redbuds. Now, we have planted everything from Oaks to Evergreens to Redbuds. (and some I have no idea what they are) The Evergreens must have been from the early years. There are still two alive (miracle) and they are almost 4 feet tall (another miracle). Between the destructive lawn mover and the pets (dogs, cats, and goats), we have managed to keep only a few (very few) alive and growing. So, here's to another attempt to make the Earth a better place. Let's hear it for the Redbuds!