A (Brief) Hiatus

We are heading out for a week of camping. We are going to a campground that I went to often as a child. I have so many memories of running along the trails singing "Greasy Grimy Gopher Guts" and falling off of my bike a million times and scraping my knees over and over. Oh and the boys...there were always cute boys at the campground. Nothing like hanging out at the dock, catching fish with bits of hotdogs and marshmallows, and staring at the cute boy over on the other side who has no idea you are even there!

It's absolutely beautiful and very rustic. No showers (ever shower in an outdoor tent shower?), outhouses full of spiders and well, other things, and bullfrogs that make plenty of noise all night long. Sam and I call it the bullfrog's pow-wow. We laugh and laugh at it while Rich tries to sleep. Knowing that he's trying to sleep and we are annoying him only makes us laugh louder.

Being that I'm pregnant and already feeling huge and awkward, I'm not sure how mild-mannered I'll stay on this particular camping trip. However, nothing cures crabby moods like a crackling campfire with good people sitting around it sharing their humorous stories, innermost thoughts, and food. Yes, people at camping share their delicious food and that is something that is on my mind 24 hours a day lately. I have a camping menu made up that would make your thighs grow just reading it. I will enjoy every bite of it!

So please don't forget about me while I'm gone, as I will promise to come back soon and attempt to charm you with my wacky humor and stories of food that will have you raiding your pantry. Happy Summer vacation!

Chuck Norris Facts (Amusements from a 12 Year Old Part 3)

We drove Sam to his first-ever summer camp today. He's been gone only a half of a day, but because I know he'll be gone all week, I already miss him. I'm enjoying his personality so much at this age that I never want it to end. We laugh and laugh together and all 3 of us have the same stupid sense of humor. Really, hang with us for a day and you might leave with a look of wonder on your face.

The weird part is that when he gets into the "real world" with situations he's unfamiliar with (like camp), he suddenly turns into a shy introvert. I wish he would show the world the clever, humorous kid we know!

His latest infatuation is Chuck Norris. He reads the "Chuck Norris Facts" constantly. He even bought Rich two Chuck Norris Fact posters for Father's Day! I know these have been around for a few years now, but I have to say that they still make Rich and I do belly laughs and especially when Sam tells them. Oh boy, those 12 year old boys:

Chuck Norris Facts (Sam's favorites):

1. When the boogeyman goes to sleep every night, he checks his closet for Chuck Norris.

2. There is no chin behind Chuck Norris' beard, only another fist.

3. When Chuck Norris was born he didn't cry; the doctor did. You never slap Chuck Norris.

4. Chuck Norris doesn't wear a watch. HE decides what time it is.

5. Chuck Norris beat the sun in a staring contest.

6. Chuck Norris once kicked a horse in the chin. It's descendants today are known as giraffes.

7. Chuck Norris is so fast, he can run around the world and punch himself in the back of the head.

8. When Chuck Norris looks in the mirror nothing appears. There can never be another Chuck Norris.

9. Chuck Norris can blow bubbles with beef jerky.

10. Chuck Norris doesn't bowl strikes. He just knocks down one pin and the other 9 faint.

Now you have to admit, those are FUNNY!!!

Country Summer

countryliving.com

I have to say that there just isn't anything like summer here in the country. I mean we are REAL country here with basically nothing but a McDonalds and a few stoplights. What we do have is abundant wildlife and gorgeous nature surrounding us 24/7. It's not uncommon to see a mother deer and her fawn eating in your backyard or a bear strolling down the middle of the street. I sit out in my backyard and all I hear are birds chirping and the wind blowing. It's awesome and I wouldn't trade it for a mall or a great restaurant or anything of the sort! I feel so blessed to be able to stay home all summer and enjoy it.

I still haven't purchased a new camera, but will be soon. I'm lost without it! I haven't been able to bake much because we have been working on the kitchen. It's really coming along. We have just about all of the cabinets painted and it's really starting to look great. I can't show you pictures yet, but here are a few things we picked out at Ikea for accessories:

Very sleek, modern, and simple pull knobs


drawer pulls



Modern stool

We are going for a very clean look that is modern and bright. Painting the cabinets is hard work, but it is a huge pay-off in the end! I've been shopping online for more accessories and things and will share more when I get that darn camera!


I've been feeling alright, but feel like a house already. I've also been having some shortness of breath issues which lead to panic attacks...not fun! Still, all is worth it for a beautiful and healthy child.