tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60518370330935533582024-03-14T11:13:28.924-07:00My Experimental Lifeliving,loving and learning one day at a timeRochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.comBlogger308125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-78034890066420472042023-11-17T07:43:00.000-08:002023-11-17T07:43:16.978-08:00As 2023 Ends<p> Last year in December, I had an idea to pick up blogging again. I had thought about using this space to help declutter my house. There's a draft from December 2022 that is sitting empty in the files. I think I want to try this again. I have missed writing about the day-to-day life, thoughts, events over the past few years. I can't believe this still is active and that I even remembered the password!! </p><p>My idea was to review my goals and break them down each month. I still have so much that needs to be decluttered, personal goals, family goals and even though I love doing this the last week of December, I feel like now is as good as any time to start. </p><p>The first thing I want to do is to get all my lists, notes, goals together and put them in one journal. I used to carry a small pocket spiral notebook that would hold everything. Maybe if I can find one, I'll show it here. It would get beat up from going everywhere with me. Nowadays I see on YouTube that it would be called a commonplace notebook, but back when I carried them, it was just my lifeline!</p><p>I tend to jot things down on any paper, notebook, planner, etc. that I have handy and miss the days of just having that little notebook to keep track of everything. I still had my planner as well for keeping track of events and would also have daily to do's.</p><p>Here's to moving towards the end of 2023 and revisiting this blog that I loved so much. And here's to trying to keep myself accountable for the goals that I decide to tackle!!</p><p><br /></p><p>xx Rochelle</p>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-19337256371385236262019-11-18T07:12:00.001-08:002019-11-18T07:12:11.722-08:00Time goes by....It's crazy how quickly time goes by. Some days feel like they drag on forever and the work week will never end. But at the same time it seems like life goes by so fast and the years fly by. <br />
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That's how I feel right now. The days never end but yet years have slipped through my hands.This past year has been a whirlwind. I found my biological father, my son turned 18 and my daughter turned 21, and just recently my mother in law passed away unexpectedly.<br />
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Lately I've been struggling to comprehend all that has happened this year. All the joyous and sad events making up 2019. <br />
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I miss writing on this blog. It really helped me to get things out of my head and onto "paper." I think about picking this back up, but then again I let life pull me along without any intention as I'm always thinking " I'll start tomorrow." <br />
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Maybe this time I will stick with it!!<br />
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<br />Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-23097686106368118392018-07-17T08:25:00.001-07:002018-07-17T08:25:46.434-07:00Is this still active??I often think about resurrecting this little corner of the blogging world. It really was a nice way to journal my life and a great timeline of facts. I never inspired to be able to quit my job and sign a book deal, though quitting my job is an option regardless of any blogging success. Haha!<br />
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I love reading blogs. I love writing. I just run out of time or forget or procrastinate. This happens in all areas of my life. So who know, maybe I will get back to this little corner of the internet. We shall see!!Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-55486381590143614572017-01-12T10:41:00.002-08:002017-01-12T10:41:46.352-08:002017 It's been so long since I've posted. I think about blogging again every day when I'm reading my favorite blogs. But I just didn't feel ready to start up again. I think that perhaps I may be ready now. We shall see! 😀Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-4344574586219775572014-02-02T09:04:00.000-08:002014-02-02T09:04:03.723-08:00Happy Ground Hog's Day 2014I can't seem to get Phil's picture to load, will try later, but I hope everyone has a fun day today with Super Bowl parties.<br />
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We aren't doing anything but order wings and pizza. I'm watching Downton Abbey as usual and I guess Jeff and the kids are watching the game.<br />
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I have been very sick with the last two rounds of chemo which really made me mad. But I am done and hopefully today will start feeling better. I am able to do things but get so exhausted. Laundry just about kills me if I have to go up and down the steps. But they've been helping carry baskets and Paige did some loads for me. <br />
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Have a great day and I hope to be back to blogging soon!Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-56925190680738383062013-12-14T07:20:00.000-08:002013-12-14T07:20:09.737-08:00Finding the CourageIt's been so long since I've been on Blogger. So much has happened since my last post and I don't even know where to begin. I'm gonna need many posts to explain it all but the short story is that I have Breast Cancer. I found a lump in June and have been seeing the most wonderful doctors and surgeons! <br />
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Things are going good and I'm happy with my treatments and outlook. It's just so hard to believe! <br />
I sometimes forget but then there are some moments when it is all too real.<br />
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I hope to put together a little story of what has been going on these last several months. Though with Christmas so close, it may not happen.<br />
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If I don't get time in the next few weeks- I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year!<br />
Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-2104812512634021802013-05-12T06:56:00.000-07:002013-05-12T06:56:07.100-07:00Happy Mother's Day!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-80971792621907065642013-03-31T06:02:00.002-07:002013-03-31T06:18:16.104-07:00Happy Easter 2013<div align="center">
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<span style="font-size: large;">May you have a Blessed Easter with family and friends.</span></div>
Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-88238292899915117432013-02-19T18:23:00.003-08:002013-02-19T18:24:13.426-08:002013 Goals<span style="font-size: large;">I know...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's almost the end of February and I'm just now making my goals for this year. Most people have already tried and failed at their goals/resolutions and I'm just starting. It's not that I procrastinated. I actually spent the past month and a half reading blogs and articles about goals. What were other woman/mothers setting as goals for this year? What steps were they trying to take to accomplish their goals? What did I want </span><span style="font-size: large;">to change about myself this year as compared to past years?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I spent a lot of time thinking about this. Probably too much, I tend to over analyze things. I am always trying to improve myself and my family life. I love my life and my family, but I can see so many things about myself and my family that could be better. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I broke my goals down to four groups- home, marriage,family, and personal. Then I wrote a list under each group of the things I want to improve upon. I tried not to make to detailed or long of a list as I knew it would be too overwhelming. I want to make changes that stick. I don't want to burn myself out or make things so difficult that I give up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is what I've come up with:</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> Home:</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -declutter and organize</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -return to meal planning</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -develop a simple and achievable </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> cleaning schedule</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -develop a simple and achievable laundry</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> schedule</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -complete unfinished home projects</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -decorate </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> Marriage:</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -date again</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -create and work on goals together</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -stop expecting him to read my mind</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> Family:</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -spend more time together</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -attend church more consistently</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -eat healthy dinners/snacks</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> Personal:</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -read Bible</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -exercise again</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -eat healthy</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> -work on my patience,attitude, and tone</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It's a lot. I don't expect to work on all these goals at the same time or I think I will definitely fail. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">What I have already done is to pick one or two goals to focus on at a time. For example, in January, I began a Bible reading program. So far I've done very good at keeping on schedule with the plan. It's beginning to become a habit for me to read my Bible right before I go to sleep. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also experimented with a laundry schedule. The school year is especially trying when it comes to laundry as my kids wear uniforms and the winter brings out heavy sweatshirts and sweatpants. I have tons of laundry to do each week. I used to save most of it for the weekend, but really hated spending so much of the day doing laundry. Now, I commit to doing 2 loads a day/evening during the week. It's easy and quick and there are less late night "I need my _________ shirt/pants/etc for tomorrow" surprises.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some goals are more important to me than others and so I will probably work harder on those. I don't expect to change overnight and I am also quite certain I will slip up. It's not a contest. I'm not competing with anyone else. I'm not going to beat myself up over this either. If I decide to spend all day Saturday watching tv or wasting time reading blogs/magazines, so be it. Who cares? Do I want to do that every day? NO. It's not what I want for myself or my family, but sometimes it's ok to take a break. I think that's where I've gone wrong. Thinking that I've failed because I wasn't always working on my goals. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last Wednesday also began the Lenten season. I've always used Lent as a time for personal growth and working on my goals, especially reading the Bible and church, and so it's fitting that I am starting so late this year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I guess this year my overall goal is to have a smoother running household and better family time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've written out my goals and now I've got to work on my game plan. </span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-79636895461827232013-02-14T14:03:00.002-08:002013-02-14T14:03:58.605-08:00Happy Valentine's Day 2013<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Valentine's Day! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope everyone is spending time with those they love. We're just hanging out at home tonight. I'm going to cook dinner. I left the kids cards and mugs full of chocolate treats for them after school. I also put post-it notes in their rooms telling them some of the reasons why I love them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sure they'll love the candy more than the notes!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jeff bought me three 1 lb Hershey bars. Yah, I love chocolate!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And he bought me the perfect Valentine's card. I will have to upload pictures. Describes our family perfectly!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Valentines Day!!</span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-70330322158295932862013-02-02T07:29:00.001-08:002013-02-02T07:29:55.951-08:00Happy Ground Hog Day 2013<span style="font-size: large;">Great job Punxsutawney Phil for predicting an early spring!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just wish it would stop snowing today! It's getting bad out and we have a weather advisory until tomorrow night, so I think I will spend the weekend at home. There are lots of things to do around this house and I can use the time to finalize some goals I've been working on in January.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stay warm everyone!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-88501641749405284802013-01-29T20:08:00.000-08:002013-02-01T15:22:09.150-08:00Budget Planner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are many things I love about my job and many things I can't stand. Guess that's true with everyone, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One of my biggest dislikes is the fact that I get paid bi-weekly. Huh? Isn't that like the most common way to be paid? Yes. But you see my last job paid us bi-monthly. And I loved it. Our salaries were divided equally over 24 weeks. No, we didn't get the extra two paydays a year, but our paychecks were slightly larger because those "extra" pays were accounted for in the 24 paydays. Plus, I knew that on the 16th and 31st (or last day of the month if less than 31 days) I was paid. Same days every month- consistently.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So when I switched jobs and was paid like most everyone else I know, it was so hard for me to keep track of when to pay my bills. Why? I.HAVE.NO.IDEA. But it has been driving me nuts for the past year. Maybe if I explain my old super modern, high tech bill paying routine, it will help you understand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is my check book. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is my old bill tracking spread sheet.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgojkhlzXCCLTGpwIjJ9j2diUujfQn5_eXOofu7eNpZXN4h03WxMcYPSsr9axk5eDX_k_lucLi3sY7Iicn_ay7L906qUnz9W6HmYtVpeuUFV4sg1lfrxyRliMYdh-74lb6O0qbeI0ptgG3a/s1600/034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgojkhlzXCCLTGpwIjJ9j2diUujfQn5_eXOofu7eNpZXN4h03WxMcYPSsr9axk5eDX_k_lucLi3sY7Iicn_ay7L906qUnz9W6HmYtVpeuUFV4sg1lfrxyRliMYdh-74lb6O0qbeI0ptgG3a/s400/034.JPG" width="266" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iO8ITt0ML8Eitn9Qy4HkPkrtGoEJZsKAFy-gDbzGrrvroMEl_fWMVNovEXz9PxR_sji1L9DK5gPuVvGmT7cXSQvT6a4t4bV6Trmws7QmrN_AEeYgFkcw_PzOchac_GKq0_3lAvu9Mo-T/s1600/035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iO8ITt0ML8Eitn9Qy4HkPkrtGoEJZsKAFy-gDbzGrrvroMEl_fWMVNovEXz9PxR_sji1L9DK5gPuVvGmT7cXSQvT6a4t4bV6Trmws7QmrN_AEeYgFkcw_PzOchac_GKq0_3lAvu9Mo-T/s400/035.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know it's difficult to follow along with this super complex system, so I will break it down. The yellow papers are my old bosses post it notes. I turned them sideways to fit in my checkbook so I would always have my bill payment system with me. I would mark the month and make list my bills in two-three columns. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first column were the bills that were paid with my paycheck on the 16th. The second column were bills to be paid on the 31st. The last column were bills that came up sporadically such as car registration or maybe a credit card that I rarely use. Those bills were paid from either paycheck depending on when they were due and which pay day had money left over to cover the bill.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Each post it note could hold 2-3 months of information on them and I would just overlap new ones every so often. Most months I set up all bills to be paid automatically online at one time and only had to worry about those extra bills when they would come by email. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Super easy right? I never missed a payment and it just seemed so convenient. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bi-weekly pay sucks. I can't get a grasp on it. One month I may get a paycheck the first and third week and the next month the second and fourth. I should be able to keep the same system as before right? It's just that some months there are times when the due dates of a couple bills don't line up with the paycheck and I have to make sure I leave "extra" money from the previous paycheck to help cover the bill. Make sense? Does anyone else run into that with being paid bi-weekly or is it just me being stupid?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the past year, I've been struggling to make sure I am getting bills paid on time and not coming up short in my checking account. It stressed me out each month and I was having a hard time coming up with a bill paying system. I searched all my favorite blogs to see what systems were out there, but most seemed too complicated for someone who used to organized her bills on post it notes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What I have been doing is using this box that my sister-in-law used to wrap my daughter's Christmas present. I really love this box. I think she got it at Walmart.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK3Q8V6RxGS9Fs-tkWmC1KPENgW7BxQO13Pg8JrZDfUGtKkb1Vfh5bzls5niJ3SRh2pGILC4bfsXLt-t3Ua62B-NVegbZOLi3DmBlJKlKaNsdvEYf7f_o_EFEX9E7cdE0aZXwZo0QSJpD/s1600/038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK3Q8V6RxGS9Fs-tkWmC1KPENgW7BxQO13Pg8JrZDfUGtKkb1Vfh5bzls5niJ3SRh2pGILC4bfsXLt-t3Ua62B-NVegbZOLi3DmBlJKlKaNsdvEYf7f_o_EFEX9E7cdE0aZXwZo0QSJpD/s400/038.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've been throwing all my odd bills and to do paper work in this box so that I wouldn't lose anything. Ummm, like my husband's registration sticker for the suv. Totally couldn't find it even though I thought I had thoroughly torn apart my office and bedroom. Of course a few days after he paid $5 at AAA to replace it, I found it under a pile of books on my nightstand. Never thought to look there!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I began using this box to hold all papers that needed action. But this also added to my bill paying problem as I had to weed through papers to find those bills that aren't paid online.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_qgta1AYOwpBHM0JwPzD4QLmTuTylBJHqHfEY-dHnfpcB3BFPu-an5s6aO8tncADzJFlK9YGoAtZxOnu9x1T1-nSjad7uib_GNUiOTSNTRcm6HRlCTB9OyBN7HKqp8OFcDGpKtYstMwB/s1600/039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_qgta1AYOwpBHM0JwPzD4QLmTuTylBJHqHfEY-dHnfpcB3BFPu-an5s6aO8tncADzJFlK9YGoAtZxOnu9x1T1-nSjad7uib_GNUiOTSNTRcm6HRlCTB9OyBN7HKqp8OFcDGpKtYstMwB/s400/039.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I figured I would try to come up with my own bill paying planner. It needed to be super simple or else I would never commit to using it. What I did was to deconstruct my coupon binder. I don't use coupons much and it was just collecting a ton of dust and expired coupons anyway. It's not the cutest binder out there, but I only used what I could find around the house. I may do something with the cover, but only if this system works. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmz58jb6ryyb3-aemMGEc7_5JN2pzKyaTv6MJ3vi5J_EqPaovVnyr7H0jUDx6YHkqcS17qgRu1Lpjsx71xxeG0ENX8AQ4em8GI1xpJfGQtwigMgzGVlr9aJt5zpChEjUgLbpGLockca9t8/s1600/037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmz58jb6ryyb3-aemMGEc7_5JN2pzKyaTv6MJ3vi5J_EqPaovVnyr7H0jUDx6YHkqcS17qgRu1Lpjsx71xxeG0ENX8AQ4em8GI1xpJfGQtwigMgzGVlr9aJt5zpChEjUgLbpGLockca9t8/s400/037.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first part of my binder holds my zippered pouch. I removed the scissors and replaced them with a calculator, some highlighters, and my favorite pens. The pouch has two compartments and I'm thinking of keeping my checkbook in there as well. I rarely write checks and it would keep my purse less cluttered as well.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHSF26Om_TEmC7uituRsIwIAEwwp_vUrGcLhmx1XFP-B_rX9jZR9yT1zwYIxu4mul8ui8zzmRNDzfbcz4wCrl2PyMqxk1NZ5zNPrSmsuFfNLJS66aWfaYl1oDZrKZAx58I3iijUVtITgS/s1600/040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHSF26Om_TEmC7uituRsIwIAEwwp_vUrGcLhmx1XFP-B_rX9jZR9yT1zwYIxu4mul8ui8zzmRNDzfbcz4wCrl2PyMqxk1NZ5zNPrSmsuFfNLJS66aWfaYl1oDZrKZAx58I3iijUVtITgS/s640/040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The next item is an old folder from my daughter. You may be able to see the faint writing on the front. She used it for her gifted class and I can still make out her writing on the front. Makes me smile when I see it. :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbcwXtNlTEXUWT3bvnLyNO4cAmuhiZVC8ObQCtQ2v1OvJBdlqDIP6ChUtJb5wKeqS9FPAsYU53VjpVkUmizFWQRVRsJ8jiBjKGrjkKpoyVj2AN2cj_Ci5mh9RGlVKmE9IAAmvPohbFOms/s1600/041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbcwXtNlTEXUWT3bvnLyNO4cAmuhiZVC8ObQCtQ2v1OvJBdlqDIP6ChUtJb5wKeqS9FPAsYU53VjpVkUmizFWQRVRsJ8jiBjKGrjkKpoyVj2AN2cj_Ci5mh9RGlVKmE9IAAmvPohbFOms/s640/041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The left side of the folder holds all the bills that I am unable to pay online, come only once a year by mail, or are papers/rebates that need to be taken care of. The right side of the folder hold items that have been paid or taken care of but may need to be followed up on. I also put charitable items and magazine subscriptions on the right side as I pay those when I have extra money.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6m-PC8Zah9-hqn4AvNlUl7uh4xXouKs0ljYW4WBPY7eO4Yh64M8o7HmhusixWIACKD5clJOnOMYxwPS5lSNVi17M7iB7kalU1xkvBkoVhvHJ6Qp9S__fkTdHssGaWVzR4Zz2wFqkdZfv7/s1600/042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6m-PC8Zah9-hqn4AvNlUl7uh4xXouKs0ljYW4WBPY7eO4Yh64M8o7HmhusixWIACKD5clJOnOMYxwPS5lSNVi17M7iB7kalU1xkvBkoVhvHJ6Qp9S__fkTdHssGaWVzR4Zz2wFqkdZfv7/s640/042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The next section is my calendars. The first calendar is our school year calendar. With a teacher husband, our lives revolve around the school year and I am always having to refer to this calendar.</span><br />
(I accidentally deleted photo and will have to add it when I go on main computer) :(<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Behind the school calendar holds monthly calendars. W</span><span style="font-size: large;">hat I did was print six months of calendars. I placed January on top and February below. That way I can see how my pays fall in two month increments and when bills are due. That way if a bill falls outside of a pay period and I need to keep extra money from a previous paycheck I will see it on the calendar and not get surprised. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Behind January is March and behind February is April. This way I can remove January this Friday and have March and February. Even though March is above February, I can still see how the pays fall month to month. Once February is over, out it comes and April is ready. And this will repeat each month. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTDRmN8XC-RZR2i_C-NCxW2cLgBweHzfQTSf6W2MDEVtIIdOf8yJ9yw755zbnnJhhQX937nN2Ftllnc3yelvNmuVA_HqDbhOryXUPSuG_NmeO5kqfW9WKsnRe8Xse2WsQwsUgz1s7513s/s1600/043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTDRmN8XC-RZR2i_C-NCxW2cLgBweHzfQTSf6W2MDEVtIIdOf8yJ9yw755zbnnJhhQX937nN2Ftllnc3yelvNmuVA_HqDbhOryXUPSuG_NmeO5kqfW9WKsnRe8Xse2WsQwsUgz1s7513s/s640/043.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I listed all my regular bills on their due dates as well as paydays. If an extra bill comes along, I will just add it to calendar when it comes and then put it in the folder. Right now I have my calendars in sheet protectors, but I may change that depending on how annoying it is to take out when I have to add/change bills.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVW8Wz3kYKpxnIdN37pyCDauFyaFt45_G5w5z7kDyxpevMl-GmWDbIwRd4fHEXaXE3IMKLBlKccT4AbYYHfYdIGQUpcvZMsLixc-FCPgwiMAF6dIVT8LKK3WyZphTtKcBTr-Mi3dQBgyY8/s1600/044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVW8Wz3kYKpxnIdN37pyCDauFyaFt45_G5w5z7kDyxpevMl-GmWDbIwRd4fHEXaXE3IMKLBlKccT4AbYYHfYdIGQUpcvZMsLixc-FCPgwiMAF6dIVT8LKK3WyZphTtKcBTr-Mi3dQBgyY8/s640/044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZtKKuWfRlbqWVRiSAXD3uXUxQwC-PThooWsVIPAZ4Ny7OSUKEPOhflX8rJTncAtznZewZtroLUj_Sk3GoZAcFLKQ84j3KIzuFoE_ovWDh5jxR9sPaOiGp30joQZZ84NR1M1Z8luPAZHe/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZtKKuWfRlbqWVRiSAXD3uXUxQwC-PThooWsVIPAZ4Ny7OSUKEPOhflX8rJTncAtznZewZtroLUj_Sk3GoZAcFLKQ84j3KIzuFoE_ovWDh5jxR9sPaOiGp30joQZZ84NR1M1Z8luPAZHe/s640/045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once I list all my bills on the calendar and see which ones will be paid from each paycheck, I then make a list of bills and how much is due on a separate sheet of paper. I add them up and subtract that from my paycheck to see what balance I am left with. This is amount is then used for gas, budgeting extra bills, groceries,etc. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvyal1hyphenhyphenSJDt1IgQcVfo3mRfRj-YBBVSzBl0Yznps9Nd537BvOgVeEDmYrEVL5XTrWwJjfa3hvRWN1Tny6DwUgNJ4kTEu7bDZeknx5RbC1-lVyyudKo9LoqGC0e_oue9mBf5le3t35MvJE/s1600/047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ea="true" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvyal1hyphenhyphenSJDt1IgQcVfo3mRfRj-YBBVSzBl0Yznps9Nd537BvOgVeEDmYrEVL5XTrWwJjfa3hvRWN1Tny6DwUgNJ4kTEu7bDZeknx5RbC1-lVyyudKo9LoqGC0e_oue9mBf5le3t35MvJE/s640/047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm thinking I may rather find a printable calendar that has an area where I can make this list so that it's altogether. Might make it easier for me to see what I'm doing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You may have noticed a couple of things about my planner. For one, it's just my bills. Yes, I know this goes against Damn Ramsey, but after 25 years with my husband, this works for us. We've never combined our money. We have a joint account and my husband uses that primarily. I have access to account with my own debit card though he doesn't have one to mine. We joke about that all the time! My husband also keeps his balance "in his head". He's also bounced checks. Not often, but I just don't think we could exist peacefully if we combined our accounts and paid everything from one account. He doesn't keep receipts but checks his account online every few days to see where he's at. It's just too nerve wracking for me as I like to keep everything in order. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Also, we split household bills. I pay almost all the utilities and he pays mortgage, cable, and groceries. It equals around the same amount of money for each of us so we like it. Because he does a lot of coaching and extra teaching, we use those extra checks to pay insurance, taxes and other large bills. Somehow it works out perfect that he gets paid for those every year right before those bills are due. He also doesn't have any credit card debt, just one student loand. Neither of us have a car payment either.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also don't have many bills. I have the house bills, one credit card with balance and two student loans. I may use a credit card like Victoria Secrets or Home Goods here and there, but usually I pay with my debit card. And other than the one credit card, I pay all others in full if I use them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We've done this ever since we've been together and never had problem. This wouldn't work for everyone and goes against most experts advice. We are in process our debt snowball and have adapted our system to fit that as well. We talk about combining our accounts, but I'm the one whose most hesitant. Maybe after we knock out some more bills, I will be less nervous. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There you have my bill planner. I've only been using it since beginning of January so it may take some time to see if it helps make it easier to do my bills. I sure miss my post it notes!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">This post is linked to <a href="http://www.iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">I Heart Organizing</a> and <a href="http://www.cleanandscentsible.com/" target="_blank">Clean and Scentsible</a></span></div>
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-63638729283657686472013-01-27T17:00:00.002-08:002013-01-27T17:00:22.262-08:002013 in 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">One of my new fave blogs to read is <a href="http://www.slowyourhome.com/" target="_blank">Slow Your Home,Love Your Life.</a></span> <span style="font-size: large;"> Brooke has a great blog. </span> <span style="font-size: large;">I am jealous of her writing style as well as her views on family and life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last year she committed to removing 2012 items from her home. She accomplished this goal and then some! This year she is inviting her readers to join her in getting rid of 2013 items in 2013. She has created a forum and monthly challenges. I'm gonna see how many things in my home can be donated to either Salvation Army, the local pet shelter or taken to consignment shop/sold on Ebay. I've added my own rules also. Obviously, garbage is not to be counted. Neither will be items left at my home by others. Heck, I probably reached that goal this month alone! And since I am always trying to rid my home of clutter, if I don't reach a total of 2013, I won't deem this unsuccessful. I think 2013 averages about 5-6 items a day. It doesn't sound like a lot, but it truly is. And with my busy schedule, I doubt I will be able to do this daily. I would like to declutter items at least 2-3 times a week. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.slowyourhome.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/January-Checklist.pdf" target="_blank">January's list</a> of areas to declutter didn't interest me, so I decided to tackle a couple of spots that have been bothering me. First is this little pile in my bedroom.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6H9FhtgnGenRe-1SPRjIZFZMYKt6zLeVFSIUmpzbu2Ci4My25eXm6IYLAjdTGKEX7XVfprHcAVAsZwd3-17xDRvYZhcQwkDuZkYxX6-JiGVYPKfxL774Nq4xCRgQzivfUTdzkl2ttFLc/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6H9FhtgnGenRe-1SPRjIZFZMYKt6zLeVFSIUmpzbu2Ci4My25eXm6IYLAjdTGKEX7XVfprHcAVAsZwd3-17xDRvYZhcQwkDuZkYxX6-JiGVYPKfxL774Nq4xCRgQzivfUTdzkl2ttFLc/s640/025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This pile has been "growing" for almost a year now. What started out as a couple of Paige's yoga pants that she's outgrown, grew into a pile of everything that I was too lazy to deal with when folding laundry. I threw outgrown clothes, items to be demoted to rags, and slippers I never wore.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cleaning out this pile took less than ten minutes and that is with me going to get my camera to take pictures. As I was moving down the pile, I notice a small item in the corner near my dresser.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2GEtoe1NfT0oLsfBut8-PSfY4PDYaW83e44Tk5mSPzTIfd9nmKT_u9mtQ2ejpjabbrWECzkoFf6GHEe5k2wvNosQzVjCys9cVhKZ_ujAKWLio-bsLASOq5jIrWOIxZ8sNq_Nfxq7J7Yl/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2GEtoe1NfT0oLsfBut8-PSfY4PDYaW83e44Tk5mSPzTIfd9nmKT_u9mtQ2ejpjabbrWECzkoFf6GHEe5k2wvNosQzVjCys9cVhKZ_ujAKWLio-bsLASOq5jIrWOIxZ8sNq_Nfxq7J7Yl/s640/026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you see something peaking out from under the outgrown underwear?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How bout now? </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgksVGDMXcg2NKmjmnYUAQQfV_25JMtqBJKyukM__eNjUDy0s2lnxEbv-iEWhsqZks93bvaLMBj7g2KhuI68HsFrrVJyYj0ClrUahWk_FOED4e0aC2u5bTb-V2mzcoJ03mrKzDtNU-k37r/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgksVGDMXcg2NKmjmnYUAQQfV_25JMtqBJKyukM__eNjUDy0s2lnxEbv-iEWhsqZks93bvaLMBj7g2KhuI68HsFrrVJyYj0ClrUahWk_FOED4e0aC2u5bTb-V2mzcoJ03mrKzDtNU-k37r/s640/027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's a little blurry, I know.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2x-4uDwqsLRSIfNm_8FozW5ifhFteYaD9Khj5wZQvsvey9XFnUB5JoVR8jTFQt3dKjlYvdpQf2HfKsGES63HCaeqMtyZcIEXDtSlnWtCmjxLpoZX9GWLu-zmRvUJISf3ERLbFsGXbweA/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2x-4uDwqsLRSIfNm_8FozW5ifhFteYaD9Khj5wZQvsvey9XFnUB5JoVR8jTFQt3dKjlYvdpQf2HfKsGES63HCaeqMtyZcIEXDtSlnWtCmjxLpoZX9GWLu-zmRvUJISf3ERLbFsGXbweA/s640/028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How's this??</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqisn2Ai4hBCBYzGkLaUO0zsK7cW00OzIKpZghdX7LYaewi2tagr0euiQCiX7yEZ5eUfzYyMzyaDULpVAVaIoetB_Oj72clrwU92q1YhIMo29Dme3ni9q9aMdf01Yw4htb7BEY-9SkgyHc/s1600/029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqisn2Ai4hBCBYzGkLaUO0zsK7cW00OzIKpZghdX7LYaewi2tagr0euiQCiX7yEZ5eUfzYyMzyaDULpVAVaIoetB_Oj72clrwU92q1YhIMo29Dme3ni9q9aMdf01Yw4htb7BEY-9SkgyHc/s640/029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That miniature Whoppers has been there since Halloween as I remember putting it on top of the dresser so my son wouldn't eat it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm pretty sure Whoppers have a long shelf life (or in my case floor life).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ten minutes later, and one happy boy, I finally achieved a clean spot. No longer do I roll my eyes at this little area of my room.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3APMmwPzbXXErRm4GSQBPs0kCafwRTMru0F_2Hp8-g0gS52hW73w2ITPbezru73hApRx5OG-MaUX3RXuMlw9ag6m1xVKIwfqzt0RYPBUTDGZw1zzdqoAVyj7occ-fGE77Vz4Ggp8Xp60c/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3APMmwPzbXXErRm4GSQBPs0kCafwRTMru0F_2Hp8-g0gS52hW73w2ITPbezru73hApRx5OG-MaUX3RXuMlw9ag6m1xVKIwfqzt0RYPBUTDGZw1zzdqoAVyj7occ-fGE77Vz4Ggp8Xp60c/s640/031.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are the first piles of things to leave my house. The Justice bag is from Christmas. It's holding the items that were received by my family as gifts but do not meet our needs. Inside the bag holds 14 items and the clothes from the above cleaning make 15. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The next area I tackled was the container of change on the floor by my husband's side of the bed. This container held the remnants of money he collected when selling candy for his cross country team. I wrapped all the loose change and deposited in the team's account. It totalled $158.38. I can't find the picture of the container I took. I'm also only counting that as one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next items to go were Christmas decorations. I'd like to post that separate as I was so proud of my new ornaments. Not so proud of the tree falling...twice! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The main room to tackle is the ever loving office. I know you can't wait for another post on that room!!</span></div>
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-6091193657979849942013-01-15T16:33:00.001-08:002013-01-30T18:52:14.315-08:00Bonding<span style="font-size: large;">I'm hanging out in bed reading blogs on my laptop and listening to Paige and Jeff.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">They're hanging out in his room playing Call of Duty. Yes, they are playing a violent game trying to kill people, but they are bonding.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">They are laughing at each other getting ambushed and killed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">They are warning each other about possible attacks.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">They are congratulating each other on successful missions.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't like these violent games. I wish they didn't like them so much. But I will take this for I know they will remember hanging out and having fun. I don't feel these games turn kids into killers, though if a child had those types of tendencies them maybe they encourage and feed those dispositions. Not too worried about my guys.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Having a boy and girl can be rough sometimes. They played well together as little kids but as they grow and mature they drifted apart. Now they are entering (have entered) the teenage years. I want them to be close and be there for each other. We try to teach them this, but sometimes talking to them is like asking a tree to move. I think they are getting it even if they don't say it outright. For the past few weeks they have really been hanging out a lot and it couldn't make me and my husband happier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It would be better if they weren't killing and pillaging, but hey, it's a start and I will take what I can get!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-64623252097496085132013-01-12T14:48:00.001-08:002013-01-30T18:52:23.115-08:00Happy Birthday Baby!<span style="font-size: large;">Today is my husband's 41st birthday. Unfortunately, he's away at an indoor track meet at Edinboro University. He left at 7:30am and just texted me at 5:40 pm that they were loading on the bus. So he should be home around 7:30 pm. Nice!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This March will mark 25 yrs together (9 dating and 16 married). I feel like it's always been just him and me. I wouldn't want it any other way. Ours is a crazy loving deep relationship. And it works for us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love you Jeff! Thanks for staying by my side despite all the crazy things I put you through. Ohh...we are still going to Lowes right?</span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-36427793986294016102013-01-07T16:45:00.001-08:002013-01-07T16:45:31.997-08:00As if...<span style="font-size: large;">As if hurting my back trying trying to lift our fallen over Christmas tree last weekend was enough, I fell down my steps. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And no not the ones outside with all the snow and ice all over them. That would be a normal logical event to happen here in Western PA in January. No not I. I fell down the steps leading from my second floor to my half floor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Though I should be glad that I didn't fall down the steps from the half floor to the first floor- all 15 of those. I only fell down the 6 top ones. And injured my back bad. Same side that I hurt just days prior trying to save my hardwood floors from all the water as the tree laid on it's side. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The upside is that my daughter and husband thought it was the most hysterical thing EVER! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I on the other hand have been in pain and limiting my mobility trying to get my back better. BUT, I still went to work! Yes I have been at my job for 13 months and not called off once (our contract gives a monetary bonus for perfect attendence which I am all about!). Though I was tempted to leave early on Friday cause I was just so uncomfortable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am starting to feel better and it's a good thing since there are so many cleaning/organizing challenges starting and I want to dive into them. Of course we all know the one room in my house that is my nemesis....the office. It's fitting that it's the room that most of the cleaning challenges are starting with since it's the THORN.IN.MY.LIFE.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Can't I just blow it up? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I have to download a million pictures and I have so many drafts in Blogger to get published. Since sitting up and typing this post is not making me feel good, I am signing off. And staying horizontal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hmm...my husband may like that last line!</span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-44157114984366431482013-01-01T13:45:00.001-08:002013-01-01T13:45:54.935-08:002013..Let's start again!<span style="font-size: large;">I took another hiatus from blogging as you can clearly see. Shortly after the storm, our community was rocked by the death of a little boy. It is such a tragic story and really caused me to stop and think about my life and my family. I've been taking time to evaluate how I am living and how I'm shaping my family. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to change.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to replace bad habits with better ones.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to replace a disorganized house with an organized home.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to replace negative attitudes with uplifting ones.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to replace existing with truly living.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've spent some time in the last couple months finding books, websites, blogs, etc to motivate me to really change the way I'm living. I've got to get back to exercising and eating better. I've really let myself go since the weather has gotten colder. Poor Peanut has even gained weight! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I haven't really put a plan together </span> <span style="font-size: large;">on how I want to achieve this. That's ok. It's a learning process. I'm sure I'll make mistakes and forget, and go back to old habits. Maybe some things will be easier to replace than others. I may have to try and try until I find what works, just so long as I keep on trying.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's to 2013!!</span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-84054276336193774282012-10-28T16:19:00.002-07:002012-10-28T16:19:23.073-07:00Storm's A Brewing..<span style="font-size: large;">This past week has been crazy busy as my husband's cross country team got ready for the WPIAL meet. This meet is for the varsity runners (boys and girls) to try and earn a place for the state competition in Hershey PA. We have one boy and one girl who are amazing runners and were certain to earn a spot. Unfortunately, the girl earned a spot but our boy lost all that he learned from training to his nerves and didn't place. He's only a sophomore so we have high hopes for the next few years. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We leave on Friday for Saturday's competition and I'm hoping this upcoming storm doesn't cause too much damage to the course. I was shocked to here the storm was actually touching mainland in the Delaware/PA area. I thought it already hit the Carolinas and all the rain we've been having yesterday and today was the storm reaching us. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was shocked when the news advised us of bad weather starting Monday night. We normally only see rain for a couple days after Hurricanes hit mainland and die down as they move up our way. So I spent all day trying to prepare for what could be some crazy rain/wind/snow in the next few days. I hope my basement holds up. It's been raining so much recently that I'm guessing it's gonna get water once the storm hits. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The good thing is that I was able to get all my son's winter clothes out of storage and I have a good idea of what he needs. Paige's clothes have been out for a while and she just needs some jeans and a winter coat (hopefully she'll wear one this year). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">With the storm and getting ready for states, I probably will not post till next week. Hope everyone is safe and warm! It's already dropping below 40! Brrr!</span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-79010903888027876902012-10-21T10:10:00.000-07:002012-10-21T10:14:44.647-07:00Photo Button Display<span style="font-size: large;">My kids are very active in sports. We love it! Though it does make for a very busy life especially since my husband is also a high school cross country and track coach. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With each new season comes team pictures. I buy the smallest package which includes a 5x7 individual photo, a 5x7 team photo, and an individual button. While it's easy to display the photos, the buttons most often get set aside. I use to wear them when the kids were little, but lately I haven't. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had thrown them in a pile in my office (aka the most unorganized room in my home!). Each time I looked at them I thought what a shame because they are so cute. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had tried to display them on my filing basket.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But they never stayed on good and I could only get a few on at a time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I really wanted to display them in a cute way, but for the life of me I couldn't come up with any good solutions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then one day I happened to remember the cork board tiles that I bought with the plans to make a copy of a <a href="http://www.pbteen.com/shop/accessories/bulletin-boards/" target="_blank">Pottery Barn Teen bulletin board</a>. But finding matching tiles of cork, magnetic, etc was proving difficult. So I just opted for the large cork board frame I found at Home Goods. (Hoping to finish by posts on Paige's room soon. Can't believe I started her room last August!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The tiles have been sitting in my office for over 2 years and I figured that they would be perfect to display the buttons. It's not completely finished (see above paragraph as to how long projects have been taking lately!), but I am really liking it so far.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This wall is directly outside of Paige's room. To the right is her bedroom door and to the left is the bathroom. Yes, I have also added repaint the trim to the list of things to do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The top board holds all of her softball pictures from T-ball to Junior High. The bottom tile has her cheer leading buttons (and one lone soccer and volleyball one). Not all of her cheer buttons are on as I can't find 3 years worth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I haven't decided what to do with the window decals yet. I'm not crazy about putting them on our cars and they were too cute to throw away. I was going to put them on the wall above and below the tiles. Or put them on the tiles and rearrange the buttons around them. Jeff and I are also debating on framing the tiles in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also put a cork tile outside of my son's room. I am guessing that the rest of his baseball buttons are with Paige's cheer buttons because we are missing a few years worth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hanging the buttons on the cork was so easy. I just used the old fashioned flat thumb tacks and the fastener on the back of the button as the hook. I can move them around as needed and it really looks cute (despite my horrible photos). Plus I can add more tiles as needed which I probably will with my son as he is now getting into more sports!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's cute to see how much they've changed and it reminds us of some wonderful times shared together! </span></div>
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-20679515835684971892012-10-04T18:41:00.000-07:002012-10-04T18:41:06.640-07:00I Heart Aussies<span style="font-size: large;">Life is really hectic here as my husband is in the middle of his cross country season. I try to help out as much as I can and luckily by the end of this month it will be over. Just in time for the holiday craziness to begin!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But back to what I've been up to. Reading blogs and pinning on Pinterest. Yah, major time wasters I know. But I have found some really great blogs through Pinterest! Totally fell in love with <a href="http://www.slowyourhome.com/">Slow Your Home.</a> Brooke is an amazing writer and utterly honest. Love her.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.theorganisedhousewife.com.au/">The Organised Housewife</a> is another new blog I'm crushing on. Kat has a lot of great organizing challenges and ideas.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Nadia at <a href="http://www.theeverydayblessings-nadia.blogspot.com.au/">The Everyday Blessings</a> keeps things simple and joyful. I like her outlook on homelife.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">They all share some similiarities too. They all live in Australia and blog about cleaning, simplifying, and creating a better home. Their writing styles are different and even though they all write about the same type of issues (cleaning, organizing, etc) I don't find them to be repetitive as they approach it in their own unique way.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Though I do have trouble understanding some things such as recipes as they tend to use metric measurements and temps. I also don't understand some of the references to animals or birds. Sultanas are raisins (I think). And Napisan is a popular cleaning agent. Also it's weird to see a post dated for the next day!! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I really have been spending way too much time on this laptop! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Must.Get.Off.Now......</span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-44016952841351578972012-09-30T14:00:00.002-07:002012-09-30T14:00:49.712-07:00Worst decision I've made so far....<span style="font-size: large;">Was to take my daughter's old laptop. I have been spending so much time <strike>stalking</strike> reading blogs and I've rediscovered my Pinterest account. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I thought this would be a great idea. Paige received a laptop for Christmas 2009 and recently complained that it wasn't working. We decided to get her a new one for her birthday (yesterday) and I figured I could get her old one fixed. Luckily there was nothing wrong with it. She just messed up the internet connection and I fixed it within minutes. No big deal. I really wanted my own laptop anyway and this works out perfect.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Except I have spent way too much time on it. An obscene amount of time. I just can't help it. I thought this would be great especially for blogging, only I have my pictures downloaded on the main computer since we back it with Carbonite. I hate to blog without photos especially when most of my posts wouldn't make sense without photos. Hard to imagine how I cleaned out my office without visuals!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have a slew of posts started in Blogger, but need to finish the posts on my main computer. I've really gotten back to my cleaning and organizing obsessiveness, especially since the holidays are right around the corner. Just have a few more photos to take and download and I should have them posted by midweek.</span><br />
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Only picture download on laptop- not sure who #4 is!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh, and Jeff and I cannot believe Paige turned 14 yesterday. I am so shocked at how fast she's grown. I seriously don't feel like I should be old enough to have a fourteen year old. So sad...</span>Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-87285288026811605932012-09-20T18:08:00.001-07:002012-09-20T18:08:35.021-07:00New Blogger Program<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not sure how to navigate this new Blogger site. Please be patient as I try to figure out where everything went!</span><br />
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-20965636021481169992012-09-18T15:26:00.000-07:002012-09-18T15:26:49.251-07:00Tablescapes and Vignettes<span style="font-size: large;">No. Not in my house. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lately I've noticed a big trend on blogs to feature tablescapes and vignettes. Mantles and dining room tables decked out for each changing season and holiday run rampant among so many blogs that I follow. Yes- most of the blogs that I follow are ones where decorating and organizing are the main theme. But I just don't get it. I could never leave a dining room table fully dressed with plates and cups. For one, they would get dirty from dust and Chester would get curious and jump up to lie (lay?) on them. And besides, where would my family dump all their papers/clothes/binders?? Not in the designated folders/clothes hampers/desks that they have.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I do decorate at Christmas time. But even then, I only put a couple items on the dining room table because of the above. And the mantle isn't all that fancy. It's a money issue for me. I just couldn't afford to deck it all out though I do try to pick up some new things each year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Maybe I'm just jealous and envious. To have the time and money to decorate according changing seasons/holidays is just something I can't do. Heck, I would just like to get my house in order and decorated in general at this point! I could be in a funk also because I did start buying things for my home after I resolved to stop obsessing over debt repayment and now my husband's changed his mind and wants to pay off debt only. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I guess I have to say hats off to all of you ladies out their making your homes beautiful and stylish. I'll still roll my eyes in envy/sarcasm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Who am I kidding....I'm dreaming of my own tablescape!!</span><br />
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-5034826249827336222012-09-16T06:52:00.001-07:002012-09-16T06:59:06.908-07:00Playing Catch upSeems like that is my new mantra....playing catch up! I thought things would get much easier around my home once I started working in town. For the most part it is, but for some reason I also seem to be spinning my wheels. We are a busy family but no busier than before when I worked out of town. Perhaps I got lazy about keeping on track with my home and blogging. Those are the two areas where I have really let go. Especially blogging and cooking. <br />
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Blogging has taken a hit because I was able to do some blogging from my other job. There was so much down time and I could write up a rough draft and then add photos/edit at home. My new job does not allow that freedom, which is ok. My other boss didn't care what we did on the internet- except once when the one girl accidentally typed in wrong word and got porno! We all laughed but were much more careful. I wouldn't dare work on my blog at my new job. It's a weird office situation where everyone is looking for everyone else to do something wrong so they can tell. Lot of these people have been in their positions for DECADES..like 30+ years...and there is a lot of animosity among them. I think they should just retire and let new people run the office like it should and could be. I'm just saying. I love my job and it could really be a great working office and hopefully one day it will. <br />
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My home has really taken back seat to life as well. I have not been cooking very much this summer. Mainly because I have been trying to run daily with my husband and the cross country kids at practices. Because they practice in the evening, it is hard to cook, eat, and then go run. But if we waited till after practice it is late, we're tired, and grabbing food to go is just so easy. I know all excuses, but their mine and I'm sticking with them!!<br />
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So lately I've been reading my favorite blogs again and missing everyone. I thought I would love to make money blogging full time and staying home..blah blah blah...but realized that it's probably not for me. I don't like writing. I don't use flowery words and I jump from thought to thought (quotes from college English professors). But that's the scientist in me. Lab write ups are to be direct, factual, and don't require full sentences. None of my professors liked those excuses. (Again their mine and I won't let go!!) I sometimes fight myself on how to say things. I know what I want to say but it never comes out right. Then I read someone else's blog and they eloquently say exactly what I was trying! And I don't seem to have a large vocabulary either. Despite how much I read, which I heard increases ones vocabulary and ability to write. My daughter writes stories beautifully. She has the gift. I'm amazed at how she can easily express herself. At least I helped create that. Yah. See one who cannot gives it to one who can. Take that Hallmark!<br />
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(On a side note, why doesn't Hallmark have a dysfunctional family greeting card section? I find it so hard to pick out cards for my family cause they don't tend to fall in the "you've always been there for me and guided me" category. I need a "for the bipolar, manic depressive locked yourself in your room for years" card. I'm just saying again. Think it could be a gold mine.)<br />
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Here's where we are a few months since I last posted- a real post that is!<br />
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1. Our house- Roof done! Siding done! Gutters done! But we still need to finish some little things like fixing the dining room window that got broke during the removal of the old siding, fixing the blacktop in our drive way that was parted like the Red Sea when said roof was being hauled away, wires need to be re-attached to house and most importantly the front porch needs painted. Here's quick before and now shot of house:<br />
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I couldn't find pictures of the house before the roof was taken off. I will try later when I have time (insert hysterical laughing!)<br />
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And here we are today...<br />
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As you can see from the front photo, the columns, large picture window, and porch floor (and under floor) need painted. Because of the shape/features of the columns and window, I choose to leave them unsided and will paint. The color of the siding is called Hearthstone and actually has a green undertone to it. I hate the way it looks in the bright sunlight from 1-3pm. Then it really shows the green. I've been told that I am the only one that sees it and the photos were shot in morning light when it does keep the brown color. I do love it when I wear my sunglasses so that's what I do- look at it wearing my shades!!<br />
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Along with the siding, we also have to rip out bushes, shrubs, and redo the landscaping. That will probably happen in Spring 2013.<br />
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2. Paige's room is still the same. Although right before school started, I gave (bribed) her with money to clean out her closet and drawers before we went school shopping. BEST.IDEA.EVER. Girl will do anything for money. (Ummm..maybe that's not a good thing. Will need to work on that SOON). She not only cleaned out her clothe closets and drawers, but every single drawer and cupboard and chests in her room. Best $38 I have spent in a long time. Except she piled all her cast offs in my room for me to deal with, but I've been there before. (Will add link to when we had Ebay sale and she dumped all her stuff on my bed- again more hysterical laughing).<br />
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3. We went to Nags Head for vacation and it was great. So many funny things happened of course. Come on it's me we're talking about. Nothing normal happens in my life! Here are some pictures...<br />
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It was the best vacation I've had in years. We did nothing but hang out at the house, swim in the pool, and head to beach. Total relaxation!<br />
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4. School started couple weeks ago and it's been great. Love that they are on schedule and out of my house all day. It does stay cleaner during the school year, though they can make huge mess from 3-4pm before I get home from work. <br />
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They are getting so big and grown up. Paige wouldn't let me take a picture of her first day. If you look closely in the second picture, you may see her friend laughing in the front seat at me chasing her down the sidewalk. She later apologized and said she was just so nervous and didn't sleep at all the night before. I'm still waiting for the photo she promised we could retake!<br />
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5. Lastly, my husband has decided to jump on the Damn Ramsey bandwagon. WTF! I finally gave up and figured that I will pay off debt as I can and still spend money on things I wanted. And now he wants to pay off debt and only buy with cash. No credit cards or buy now pay later deals. That's why Paige's room and the whole house is at a stand still. Plus I started liking buying things that I never would before cause I was trying to pay off debt. Men! Drives me nuts that for years I wanted to do Damn Ramsey and now that I gave up, he wants to jump in! Ugghhh!<br />
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I have more to say, but this is quite the long post. Plus I need to break down some of the above into posts of their own. I will try to get back to posting. This time I pinkie swear!!<br />
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051837033093553358.post-2619542261028840572012-09-11T06:21:00.000-07:002012-09-11T06:21:21.055-07:00Praying todayJust wanted to send out hugs and prayers to everyone on this day.<br />
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Rochellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824080644939561659noreply@blogger.com1