So I have been kind of a debbie downer lately. I think it is a mix of cool new things being so close yet still out of reach. I need some patience and probably some more wine in my life. While I wait for this long-stemmed glass to perform the always faithful magic trick of picking me up, here is a list of things that make me smile recently...
1. Today while in line at the store, Eldon proudly proclaimed to the cashier "I farted!"
2. Race season starts tomorrow. (Technically next weekend.) There is something about the smell of burnt rubber mixed with cheap beer that just feels like summer.
3. I am actually making significant progress with my two charity projects I am working on and was recently inspired to take a leap and start my own foundation. Wish me luck!
4. I just shopped Easter clearance and got the goodie bags filled for Eldon's "upcoming" (July) Birthday Party for next to nothing. Best find? Mini magic 8-balls...a pack of 4 for 50 CENTS! The price is not only exciting because it is two quarters. Every time I get a crazy deal on something, I make Nate guess how much I got it for. Even if it was a new car, he would guess "50 cents" just so I HAD to say "higher." Not this time, sucker!
5. I also got myself a pack of Reese's eggs...and ate two already.
6. Tomorrow is date night...oh the possibilities.
7. May is just a month of goodness for us (me). Mother's Day, my Birthday, and the first camping trip of the year always come around in May. This year is extra special, as May 12 is also Emerson's due date. While we are still and forever will be missing him, I am looking forward to setting his ashes free to rest among one of our favorite places.
8. Watching Nate and Eldon play. Enough said.
9. This wine now.
10. The big goofy hats worn at the royal wedding. Oh jeez I love the hats. Why is that NOT American custom?
11. Cleared clutter and took a carload of old stuff over to Grandma's house for the garage sale. I can almost breathe in this house again!
12. Starbucks double shot on ice with no classic and 2 scoops of vanilla bean.
13. Our new toaster oven. It's totally rockin' my recipe world.
14. Garage Sale season! Farmer's Market! (Including the new one that is going to be at the old drive in movie theatre in Columbia Falls!)
15. A Husband waiting for me to come to bed...Good Night!
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
My House-Where a kid can be a kid.
Welcome to my house. In my bathroom, there is lipstick on the mirror. There are toys in the bathtub and a potty seat on the toilet for my *gasp* almost 3 year old who is just beginning to potty train, regardless of all of the people who feel the need to mention how he has been old enough for a year now. Make-up sits demolished on the counter because it doubles as facepaint when Eldon decides he wants to be a cat. I am steadily tripping over the stool that was strategically purchased so Eldon could "see mine mouth" while he brushed his teeth. This all takes place without a single rule being broken. Yes, we allow it. Fair warning to all guests: I will clean the bathroom before you arrive but there is a child who lives in this house...and we allow him to be a child.
This warning is also issued to all people who may come into contact with us in public. I don't "shhh" my son when he sings loudly in the shopping cart. I ignore the eyeroll of the waitress when when she has to spend an extra 5 seconds at our table so Eldon can order for himself. I let Eldon open the door by himself even when there is an impatient shopper waiting behind us to get in/out of the store. He is 2, I guess I just sorta expect people to understand.
In the era of "Your Baby Can Read," it seems that parents are forgetting what a treasure childhood truly is. The whole idea of pushing your child out of diapers and into adulthood at the earliest possible age is not an idea that I share. The other day at the library, we sat next to a woman who told me that they were also in the potty training process. Her daughter is 1. ONE. Since when do we require our infants to conduct themselves as adults?
I find myself a bit conflicted. Should we make sure that our children are learning to their full potential? How do I separate that from pushing them out of their current stage before they are ready? I was consumed with pride the day Eldon started walking. The day he learned his ABC's. I would have been just as excited and proud to see those first steps, though, if they had taken place a few months later and that's where I think parents lose themselves. It's a race to beat the "average" and an overall effort to make our kids grow up faster when it already goes by so quick. Whatever happened to the appeal of Neverneverland?
As we sprint neck in neck for the smartest, strongest child, we are forgetting that they're children. Children were made to explore and express themselves in ways that we could and should be learning from. Instead I witness parents squashing imagination rather than nurturing it. How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! They hush their kids and expect them to behave in a manner that is usually reserved for the stiff I-own-all-white-furniture-and-wear-big-hats-type-people.
We teach them to ask nicely, yet we yank forbidden toys right from their tiny little fingers. (This SO bugs me.) We teach them not to hit, yet we spank them when they break rules. I understand that children need to be respectful of adults. I also understand, though, that respect is earned and often confused with obedience. Just because a child responds with robot-like obedience to everything a parent says, does not mean that the child respects their parent. Respecting children is just as important. The whole "Children should be seen and not heard" mentality can suck it. Children should be heard, and if you listen, you might actually learn something. I admire Eldon's ability to challenge Nate and I when he thinks we are being unfair. I know that if we can teach him to do so respectfully, it will be one of his strong suits in the future.
I cuddle Eldon every time he drinks one of his two daily sippy cups of milk. I lay in bed with him rubbing his back until he is asleep. I kiss his owies. I bought him a doll. I am not making him a "Mama's Boy." I am not MAKING him anything. He will do that on his own. I am simply responding to the needs he has at this stage in his life, as I will continue to do for many more stages. So far, it seems to be working. I am so proud of the adorable, sweet, and smart little guy I get to call mine. He opens doors, says please and thank you, and asks people if they are O.K. when they appear hurt. Not because it's a rule but because he sees Nate and I do it and just assumes it's what you do.
This is rather long, but the idea was brought up at last week's "Wild Women Wednesday" and I have been thinking about it alot lately. Where to find the balance. I have come to the conclusion that we are just going to continue on our same path and parenting style, although I am now much more aware of whether I am simply encouraging, or pushing too hard in certain situations. I am so grateful for the wonderful women I know and am getting to know who ignited this discussion. Lots of thoughts, probably some rambling. Sorry. Go spoil your babies!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
SPRING(ish) THINGS
We have just not been doing much these last few days. The weather has been so unpredictable that I pack sunscreen on the way to the park and end up needing to bundle Eldon up with a winter coat when we get there. I know, this is nothing new. Welcome to "Spring" in Montana which is really just a half winter/half summer instead of a season all it's own. Eldon has been parading around the house in his new rain boots, which is very convenient for when that small burst of sunshine peeks through and we need to run outside and soak it all up before it's gone again and we die from vitamin D deficiency.
We have been killing the time by going craft-crazy and spring cleaning. Eldon is an art fanatic like his Mama. At least once a day he requests his "art stuff" and I am a sucker for holiday crafts. Call it what you want, I am the person everybody loves to hate that fully participates in every "Hallmark Holiday" as well as contributing to the commercialization of the real ones. I have a cookie cutter in every shape known to man and I actually use them. A lot. This last week we have made cookies shaped like eggs, bunnies, dragonflies, butterflies, and flowers in the hopes that Mother Nature might pick up on a not-so-subtle hint for once. (It didn't work, I am pretty sure that more snow is in the forecast for tonight.)
So if anybody is looking for some projects other than coloring eggs this weekend, here are a few that have both suppressed the boredom and served as adorable Spring decor all over our house. The best part? These are all insanely cheap to make.
1. Painted Pots. I grabbed a few of these pots on sale for $1.00 each this winter. I needed a project that would keep Eldon busy while I was busy building in the garage. I just flipped it over on some newspaper, gave him some paints and a brush and let him go to town. I plan on using them for herbs this summer, but for right now we are sporting the ever so classy dollar-store carnations.
2. Handprint Wreath. We have done this for numerous holidays including Thanksgiving and Christmas. Even though I do most of the work, Eldon proudly points any and all visitors in the direction of the finished product so he can show it off.
Last year, I just had Eldon fingerpaint Easter colors all over a piece of paper and I cut out eggs from that. I just happened to have some extra tissue paper this year so we gave this way a try and I like it way better.
3. Frames. We got this kit from the dollar store. It makes three frames. Pretty self explanatory. Eldon glued all of the pieces together while I watched and helped him decide where to put them. And what kid doesn't LOVE glue?
4. Handprints. Easy and as holiday-adaptable as a sugar cookie. I catch Eldon trying to make handprints on his own while he is painting so it is never a struggle to get him to cooperate. If it is a struggle for your kids, do feet instead.
5. Sugar cookies! I didn't take a picture of our finished project but I use this recipe with success.
That's all, I will try to share crafty ideas more often as I learn about them and/or make them up.
We have been killing the time by going craft-crazy and spring cleaning. Eldon is an art fanatic like his Mama. At least once a day he requests his "art stuff" and I am a sucker for holiday crafts. Call it what you want, I am the person everybody loves to hate that fully participates in every "Hallmark Holiday" as well as contributing to the commercialization of the real ones. I have a cookie cutter in every shape known to man and I actually use them. A lot. This last week we have made cookies shaped like eggs, bunnies, dragonflies, butterflies, and flowers in the hopes that Mother Nature might pick up on a not-so-subtle hint for once. (It didn't work, I am pretty sure that more snow is in the forecast for tonight.)
So if anybody is looking for some projects other than coloring eggs this weekend, here are a few that have both suppressed the boredom and served as adorable Spring decor all over our house. The best part? These are all insanely cheap to make.
1. Painted Pots. I grabbed a few of these pots on sale for $1.00 each this winter. I needed a project that would keep Eldon busy while I was busy building in the garage. I just flipped it over on some newspaper, gave him some paints and a brush and let him go to town. I plan on using them for herbs this summer, but for right now we are sporting the ever so classy dollar-store carnations.
2. Handprint Wreath. We have done this for numerous holidays including Thanksgiving and Christmas. Even though I do most of the work, Eldon proudly points any and all visitors in the direction of the finished product so he can show it off.
Here's how we made it...
1. Trace your child's hand onto a piece of card stock to use as a stencil. Cut it out. Stack some construction paper in your desired colors and cut out roughly 20 hands. This works best if you only use all left hand or all right hand.
2. Glue the hands together alternating the colors however you like. It helps to lay them out first.
3. Embellish with whatever you have on hand. We have used buttons, rhinestones, bells, etc. This year we made little eggs by gluing tissue paper pieces to construction paper and then cutting out the egg shape after it dried. Like this:
You will notice that whether you carefully glue every little piece into place (me) or smash fistfulls onto paper (Eldon) it turns out pretty much the same. One reason this is an all age craft.
Last year, I just had Eldon fingerpaint Easter colors all over a piece of paper and I cut out eggs from that. I just happened to have some extra tissue paper this year so we gave this way a try and I like it way better.
3. Frames. We got this kit from the dollar store. It makes three frames. Pretty self explanatory. Eldon glued all of the pieces together while I watched and helped him decide where to put them. And what kid doesn't LOVE glue?
4. Handprints. Easy and as holiday-adaptable as a sugar cookie. I catch Eldon trying to make handprints on his own while he is painting so it is never a struggle to get him to cooperate. If it is a struggle for your kids, do feet instead.
5. Sugar cookies! I didn't take a picture of our finished project but I use this recipe with success.
That's all, I will try to share crafty ideas more often as I learn about them and/or make them up.
Happy Easter Flathead!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Events & Deals- April 16th
The internet Gods just blessed with me a surprise connection. I spent over an hour on the phone today with our wireless provider's tech support, clicking on ten million things to no avail. They eventually told me that the router we just purchased is a dud and I had plans on taking it in tomorrow morning for a new one.
After putting Eldon to sleep at 7:30, I was bored enough to attempt troubleshooting alone and would you look at that? I am a genius. Who needs tech support?
I figured I better do something productive with this sweet little surprise so here is some cool stuff going on tomorrow as well as some kickass deals. You may want to get your coffee ready (or just stop by Montana Coffee Traders on the way...even better) because there is alot going down tomorrow, starting bright and early. Yes, 9am is bright and early for us on Saturdays.
Kalispell Farmers Market-Yes! Finally! Starts at 9am in the mall parking lot. I better leave there with some bacon.
Child Safety Fair- At the fairgrounds, starts at 9am as well.
Indoor Rummage Sale- to benefit the West Valley Volunteer Fire and Rescue. Starts at 8am at 2399 Whitefish Stage Rd. GREAT CAUSE!
(on a side note, my family is currently collecting donations for a rummage sale to help fund an uncle's kidney transplant. He just lost his insurance coverage and is pretty much next in line. If you have anything to donate, shoot me an email at liveandloveinmt@gmail.com. Thanks!)
Whitefish Gear Swap- at 3rd and Central. Buy or trade gear such as skis, skates, climbing gear, golf clubs, bikes, and much much more! Starts at 9am and I would get there then before all of the good stuff is gone!
Montanas Noxious Weeds Workshop- at Lonepine State Park. 1:00pm. I'm sure the cool folks at LP can make even a talk about noxious weeds fun. It IS free!
Walmart (I loathe Walmart. I will never feature anything from them unless it is absolutely free. We choose not to shop there for ethical reasons and in an effort to support our local businesses) is offering free Easter photos tomorrow and Sunday.
Beauty:
Soucie and Soucie Salon always has something awesome going on. Like them on Facebook to keep up. They often list "one-day" specials that are so worth it.
Right now they have 2 things I totally ADORE:
1. Feather extensions for $8.00 each
2. A "Princess Package." where for only $99.00, you can choose three of the following:
*spa pedicure
*spa manicure
*signature facial
*1 hr. massage
*haircute and style
Sounds amazing, right? I don't have the details for how long that package is being offered.
Home Decor:
The Real Deal Store in Kalispell is offering 15% off of your favorite item and 25% off of all Easter decor. They are only open on Thursdays and Saturdays so you must go in tomorrow to get the deal. If you haven't been there before, tomorrow is a great day to check it out because I heard a rumor they are also serving ice cream. You will fall in love with EVERYTHING in that store.
Food/ Grocery:
Super 1 always seems to be where it's at. I picked the items featured in their ad that I thought were the cheapest compared to the normal dollar amount.
*green or red leaf lettuce- .68 cents each
*pirates booty (Eldon's favorite)- $1.98 each
*yellow or zucchini squash- .98 cents/lb
*organic green onions-.58 cents each
*daffodils by the bunch (10 ct.) $1.98 each. (When I was there the other day they also had tulips, which I bought for myself. So worth the 2 bucks.)
Mountain Valley foods-While I dont have na ad for tese guys in front of me at the moment, I was just in there yesterday and noticed they had some great sales going on.
Albertsons has tillamook yogurt right now for .44 cents each. That's a steal. While you are there, please fill out a request form for certified humane eggs!
That's all I have for now. Like "It's a Flathead Thing" on Facebook. I tend to post last minute deals there when I hear about them.
After putting Eldon to sleep at 7:30, I was bored enough to attempt troubleshooting alone and would you look at that? I am a genius. Who needs tech support?
I figured I better do something productive with this sweet little surprise so here is some cool stuff going on tomorrow as well as some kickass deals. You may want to get your coffee ready (or just stop by Montana Coffee Traders on the way...even better) because there is alot going down tomorrow, starting bright and early. Yes, 9am is bright and early for us on Saturdays.
!Events!
Kalispell Farmers Market-Yes! Finally! Starts at 9am in the mall parking lot. I better leave there with some bacon.
Child Safety Fair- At the fairgrounds, starts at 9am as well.
Indoor Rummage Sale- to benefit the West Valley Volunteer Fire and Rescue. Starts at 8am at 2399 Whitefish Stage Rd. GREAT CAUSE!
(on a side note, my family is currently collecting donations for a rummage sale to help fund an uncle's kidney transplant. He just lost his insurance coverage and is pretty much next in line. If you have anything to donate, shoot me an email at liveandloveinmt@gmail.com. Thanks!)
Whitefish Gear Swap- at 3rd and Central. Buy or trade gear such as skis, skates, climbing gear, golf clubs, bikes, and much much more! Starts at 9am and I would get there then before all of the good stuff is gone!
Montanas Noxious Weeds Workshop- at Lonepine State Park. 1:00pm. I'm sure the cool folks at LP can make even a talk about noxious weeds fun. It IS free!
Walmart (I loathe Walmart. I will never feature anything from them unless it is absolutely free. We choose not to shop there for ethical reasons and in an effort to support our local businesses) is offering free Easter photos tomorrow and Sunday.
!Deals!
Beauty:
Soucie and Soucie Salon always has something awesome going on. Like them on Facebook to keep up. They often list "one-day" specials that are so worth it.
Right now they have 2 things I totally ADORE:
1. Feather extensions for $8.00 each
2. A "Princess Package." where for only $99.00, you can choose three of the following:
*spa pedicure
*spa manicure
*signature facial
*1 hr. massage
*haircute and style
Sounds amazing, right? I don't have the details for how long that package is being offered.
Home Decor:
The Real Deal Store in Kalispell is offering 15% off of your favorite item and 25% off of all Easter decor. They are only open on Thursdays and Saturdays so you must go in tomorrow to get the deal. If you haven't been there before, tomorrow is a great day to check it out because I heard a rumor they are also serving ice cream. You will fall in love with EVERYTHING in that store.
Food/ Grocery:
Super 1 always seems to be where it's at. I picked the items featured in their ad that I thought were the cheapest compared to the normal dollar amount.
*green or red leaf lettuce- .68 cents each
*pirates booty (Eldon's favorite)- $1.98 each
*yellow or zucchini squash- .98 cents/lb
*organic green onions-.58 cents each
*daffodils by the bunch (10 ct.) $1.98 each. (When I was there the other day they also had tulips, which I bought for myself. So worth the 2 bucks.)
Mountain Valley foods-While I dont have na ad for tese guys in front of me at the moment, I was just in there yesterday and noticed they had some great sales going on.
Albertsons has tillamook yogurt right now for .44 cents each. That's a steal. While you are there, please fill out a request form for certified humane eggs!
That's all I have for now. Like "It's a Flathead Thing" on Facebook. I tend to post last minute deals there when I hear about them.
Happy Weekend!
2011 Hunting Season-Part 1
If your household is anything like mine, the term "hunting season" is a crock. That would imply that there was an off-season and most of us Montanans know what a silly idea that would be. Psshhh....off-season.
While Nate and I both grew up in hunting families, I am not nearly the extremist he is. I will never understand his need to hang animal skulls on our already limited (apartment) wall space, or his need for new camo every year. (Oh what? Because that other set that looks just like leaves and branches is sooooo last year?)
I do appreciate the thrill of the hunt, the scenery, the hiking, and most of all the meat. I love to share this hobby (ok....lifestyle) with my Husband. It's amazing how hiking through a dark forest and spending the entire day side by side in almost complete silence can strengthen a marriage. Don't ever repeat that last line in front of your manly mountain man, though. I once noted to Nate, as the sun was coming up and we were high on a ridge of Ashley Lake, how romantic it was. I was answered with a head shake, and a "Shut Up" that would have gotten him in trouble if he hadn't strategically placed a smirk on his face just in time.
Why am I writing about hunting in April? Tis the season for deadlines. Don't miss out on applying for the license/special permit you want. The deadline for Spring Black Bear just passed us up on April 14th. (I know, I should have written this sooner, right? Sorry.) You can try again for Fall on August 31st.
If you are putting in for Bison, Moose, Bighorn Sheep, or Mountain Goats, the deadline is May 2, 2011.
All Supertag deadlines are either in June or July.
For more information and precise dates, CLICK HERE
As luck would have it, I fell "victim" to the new law requiring all persons born after 1985 to complete a Hunter Education course. I was 21 and stuffing my postpartum body into a desk built for the elementary school students who usually occupied the classroom. Lucky for me, I was placed in a class for those 15 and older. (If only sarcasm could be typed.) On our "field day" we were mixed with other classes. It was there that my 8 year old peers and I shot at targets, tracked fake blood, and identified noxious weeds. If you need to sign up for a class, first of all-it sucks to be you. Second of all, you can find the schedules here:
Ok, let's be fair. It is only a few days. I did learn a few things and I am happy to be able to hunt. Kids will enjoy the course and even if your child doesn't plan on hunting this season, they can benefit from the gun safety, wilderness knowledge, and ethics talks.
As the official "season" approaches, I will be writing a little more about hunting, meat processing, etc. Until then, bust out those maps and start scouting. If you haven't hunted before, consider it. Really. Pull out a lb of last season's harvest and make this recipe, taken from the "The Magic that is Montana-an FWP cookbook"
I have no idea how old this cookbook is. I purchased it at a yard sale a few years ago. I have scoured the pages looking for the date that it was published and have been unsuccessful.
Spicy Curry
Ingredients:
4 cups cooked cubed venison
2 large, firm apples
2 medium yellow onions
2 Tbl olive oil
4 cloves minced garlic
2Tbl flour
2 Tbl curry powder
3 cups chicken stock
2 cups plain yogurt
Extra spices to taste (optional): cayenne, cumin, tumeric, and chili powder
Instructions:
Chop the apples and onions coarsely. Saute the onions and garlic in olive oil on medium heat until the onions are translucent. Add the apples and continue to saute for about 5 minutes. Add the flour and curry powder and stir to coat the ingredients. Add the chicken broth and let this mixture cook and thicken as you stir for about 10 minutes. Stir in the cubed meat and optional spices and cook for another 5 minutes. Turn off the heat, and stir in the yogurt until all of the ingredients are blended. Serve over rice with any of the following on top: sliced bananas, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, sunflower seeds, chopped green onions, chopped bacon, raisins or chutney.
Note: Curries come in all varieties and potentcies-from mild to very hot. This is a spicy mixture with a symphony of flavors.
Submitted by Wendy Kamm
Division: Law enforcement
Region 4
I am ALWAYS looking for new and inventive ways to prepare venison and/or elk. If you have a recipe to share, PLEASE send it to me at liveandloveinmt@gmail.com . I would be more than happy to test it and post it on here. If we can generate enough interest, I am hoping for a game meat recipe contest in the future.
While Nate and I both grew up in hunting families, I am not nearly the extremist he is. I will never understand his need to hang animal skulls on our already limited (apartment) wall space, or his need for new camo every year. (Oh what? Because that other set that looks just like leaves and branches is sooooo last year?)
I do appreciate the thrill of the hunt, the scenery, the hiking, and most of all the meat. I love to share this hobby (ok....lifestyle) with my Husband. It's amazing how hiking through a dark forest and spending the entire day side by side in almost complete silence can strengthen a marriage. Don't ever repeat that last line in front of your manly mountain man, though. I once noted to Nate, as the sun was coming up and we were high on a ridge of Ashley Lake, how romantic it was. I was answered with a head shake, and a "Shut Up" that would have gotten him in trouble if he hadn't strategically placed a smirk on his face just in time.
Why am I writing about hunting in April? Tis the season for deadlines. Don't miss out on applying for the license/special permit you want. The deadline for Spring Black Bear just passed us up on April 14th. (I know, I should have written this sooner, right? Sorry.) You can try again for Fall on August 31st.
If you are putting in for Bison, Moose, Bighorn Sheep, or Mountain Goats, the deadline is May 2, 2011.
All Supertag deadlines are either in June or July.
For more information and precise dates, CLICK HERE
As luck would have it, I fell "victim" to the new law requiring all persons born after 1985 to complete a Hunter Education course. I was 21 and stuffing my postpartum body into a desk built for the elementary school students who usually occupied the classroom. Lucky for me, I was placed in a class for those 15 and older. (If only sarcasm could be typed.) On our "field day" we were mixed with other classes. It was there that my 8 year old peers and I shot at targets, tracked fake blood, and identified noxious weeds. If you need to sign up for a class, first of all-it sucks to be you. Second of all, you can find the schedules here:
Ok, let's be fair. It is only a few days. I did learn a few things and I am happy to be able to hunt. Kids will enjoy the course and even if your child doesn't plan on hunting this season, they can benefit from the gun safety, wilderness knowledge, and ethics talks.
As the official "season" approaches, I will be writing a little more about hunting, meat processing, etc. Until then, bust out those maps and start scouting. If you haven't hunted before, consider it. Really. Pull out a lb of last season's harvest and make this recipe, taken from the "The Magic that is Montana-an FWP cookbook"
I have no idea how old this cookbook is. I purchased it at a yard sale a few years ago. I have scoured the pages looking for the date that it was published and have been unsuccessful.
Spicy Curry
Ingredients:
4 cups cooked cubed venison
2 large, firm apples
2 medium yellow onions
2 Tbl olive oil
4 cloves minced garlic
2Tbl flour
2 Tbl curry powder
3 cups chicken stock
2 cups plain yogurt
Extra spices to taste (optional): cayenne, cumin, tumeric, and chili powder
Instructions:
Chop the apples and onions coarsely. Saute the onions and garlic in olive oil on medium heat until the onions are translucent. Add the apples and continue to saute for about 5 minutes. Add the flour and curry powder and stir to coat the ingredients. Add the chicken broth and let this mixture cook and thicken as you stir for about 10 minutes. Stir in the cubed meat and optional spices and cook for another 5 minutes. Turn off the heat, and stir in the yogurt until all of the ingredients are blended. Serve over rice with any of the following on top: sliced bananas, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, sunflower seeds, chopped green onions, chopped bacon, raisins or chutney.
Note: Curries come in all varieties and potentcies-from mild to very hot. This is a spicy mixture with a symphony of flavors.
Submitted by Wendy Kamm
Division: Law enforcement
Region 4
I am ALWAYS looking for new and inventive ways to prepare venison and/or elk. If you have a recipe to share, PLEASE send it to me at liveandloveinmt@gmail.com . I would be more than happy to test it and post it on here. If we can generate enough interest, I am hoping for a game meat recipe contest in the future.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Summer Fun at GNP
Well, I made it about a year. Around this same time last year, our family was looking forward to huge changes when Nate took a job in North Dakota and I quit mine to be a stay at home Mom. Again, we are looking forward to huge changes as I begin working again and Eldon starts daycare for the first time.
I just got my official job offer in the mail yesterday from West Glacier Merc. and signed next to "yes, I accept" with more hesitation than I had anticipated. Did the attached letter really say that I would be starting May 16th?!?!
I worked as a waitress at the West Glacier Cafe the first summer I lived in Montana. I was 18, lived with my Grandparents just minutes away from the park, and had the energy of...well, an 18 year old. That was the summer I met Nate, and let's just say, I am just not the same girl who used to serve him open faced roast beef sandwiches in 2006. Babies, growing up, and life have aged me a bit (I said a BIT) and I am a little nervous to tie on that old blue apron and work harder than I have EVER worked before. If you think I am overestimating the labor, just come in for lunch mid-July. You'll see.
The benefits of the hard work are worth the sore feet though. In terms of fun, I always felt like I was at summer camp for adults. Experiencing Glacier National Park this way is something special. The tourists who come from all over the world, always seemed to leave a piece of their hometown with me when they left. I am looking forward to learning as much as I did the first time.
I am slightly nervous to send Eldon to daycare (mostly because I haven't even found one yet) but more excited that anything. He is going to THRIVE in a daycare. He is a social butterfly like his Mama and craves knowledge. I know he will make lifelong friends due to the fact that this is a small town where people never leave because..why would you?
As kids age, so do their needs. I am thankful for our ability to just roll with it and for the opportunity to stay at home with Eldon when he was young and needed it most. Being able to parent from many perspectives already, has helped shape me as a Mom and a person. I no longer judge. I have been a stay at home Mom, a part time working Mom, and am gearing up for my first full time job since Eldon was born. (I just had to reread that after I typed it, has it really been 3 years since I worked full time?) I no longer think that working is harder than staying at home. I will no longer sit at work wishing that I could stay at home because in all reality, I could. I am choosing to work and I am choosing what works best for us. The fact that I am only committing to a job that ends in September is making this transition a little easier. I may or may not return to work once the summer is over. Eldon will be starting preschool so chances are, I will be working. For those who are afraid to ask, we are in total neutral mode when it comes to when and how more children will be coming into our lives. After losing Emerson, we felt the need to wait until after his due date (which is coming up, on May 12) to discuss further plans for having more kids. We have been approaching the subject of adoption lately for more reasons than one. When that next baby (or child) comes, I will again return to staying at home. We have no idea, as of now, when that will be.
Adventures are totally my style and so is change. If my decisions only affected me, I would just leave it up to the flip of a coin every time. I am not a pros/cons list maker or a person with a 5 year plan, but this decision was fairly deliberate, and mostly for my sake. I made a New Years resolution to be a little more selfish this year. I am learning that in order to do that without feeling guilty, I also need to be a little more independent. I will no longer be the Mom that "let herself go." Let's be real here, I am only 23. I need nights out, I need lunch dates with friends, I need to shop without prior approval and get my hair done more than once a year. I need to get out of the house.
So this new adventure of working my summer away, is both a little selfish and a way to fund my other "selfish" desires. I am beyond excited and confident that my family will reap the benefits as well. Some serious growth is about to take place for all 3 of us. Stay tuned!
I just got my official job offer in the mail yesterday from West Glacier Merc. and signed next to "yes, I accept" with more hesitation than I had anticipated. Did the attached letter really say that I would be starting May 16th?!?!
I worked as a waitress at the West Glacier Cafe the first summer I lived in Montana. I was 18, lived with my Grandparents just minutes away from the park, and had the energy of...well, an 18 year old. That was the summer I met Nate, and let's just say, I am just not the same girl who used to serve him open faced roast beef sandwiches in 2006. Babies, growing up, and life have aged me a bit (I said a BIT) and I am a little nervous to tie on that old blue apron and work harder than I have EVER worked before. If you think I am overestimating the labor, just come in for lunch mid-July. You'll see.
The benefits of the hard work are worth the sore feet though. In terms of fun, I always felt like I was at summer camp for adults. Experiencing Glacier National Park this way is something special. The tourists who come from all over the world, always seemed to leave a piece of their hometown with me when they left. I am looking forward to learning as much as I did the first time.
I am slightly nervous to send Eldon to daycare (mostly because I haven't even found one yet) but more excited that anything. He is going to THRIVE in a daycare. He is a social butterfly like his Mama and craves knowledge. I know he will make lifelong friends due to the fact that this is a small town where people never leave because..why would you?
We both so need this and not because I don't enjoy staying at home. I do. But because although it's sweet to say we are everything we will ever need, that's just not true. Eldon can't provide me with adult interaction and the kind of socializing I need. Although I try, I can't think like a 3 year old and I get tired of blocks. all. the. time. We can plan activities and go places every day but the bottom line is that we are bored. Eldon especially.
As kids age, so do their needs. I am thankful for our ability to just roll with it and for the opportunity to stay at home with Eldon when he was young and needed it most. Being able to parent from many perspectives already, has helped shape me as a Mom and a person. I no longer judge. I have been a stay at home Mom, a part time working Mom, and am gearing up for my first full time job since Eldon was born. (I just had to reread that after I typed it, has it really been 3 years since I worked full time?) I no longer think that working is harder than staying at home. I will no longer sit at work wishing that I could stay at home because in all reality, I could. I am choosing to work and I am choosing what works best for us. The fact that I am only committing to a job that ends in September is making this transition a little easier. I may or may not return to work once the summer is over. Eldon will be starting preschool so chances are, I will be working. For those who are afraid to ask, we are in total neutral mode when it comes to when and how more children will be coming into our lives. After losing Emerson, we felt the need to wait until after his due date (which is coming up, on May 12) to discuss further plans for having more kids. We have been approaching the subject of adoption lately for more reasons than one. When that next baby (or child) comes, I will again return to staying at home. We have no idea, as of now, when that will be.
Adventures are totally my style and so is change. If my decisions only affected me, I would just leave it up to the flip of a coin every time. I am not a pros/cons list maker or a person with a 5 year plan, but this decision was fairly deliberate, and mostly for my sake. I made a New Years resolution to be a little more selfish this year. I am learning that in order to do that without feeling guilty, I also need to be a little more independent. I will no longer be the Mom that "let herself go." Let's be real here, I am only 23. I need nights out, I need lunch dates with friends, I need to shop without prior approval and get my hair done more than once a year. I need to get out of the house.
So this new adventure of working my summer away, is both a little selfish and a way to fund my other "selfish" desires. I am beyond excited and confident that my family will reap the benefits as well. Some serious growth is about to take place for all 3 of us. Stay tuned!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Life as an oil drillers wife
I have grown to love Wednesdays. They usually mean that either:
Nate and I right after he got home in Jan.
For those that don't already know, Nate (along with pretty much every other able-bodied man in our region) works as a floorhand on an oil rig in North Dakota. When he first approached the idea of working in a State 12 hours away, I was pretty serious about telling him no way in hell. I had watched the reality shows that portrayed a job that was comparable in danger to fishing on "Deadliest Catch." After some prompting from Nate (I think begging may be a more suitable verb) I did my own research. While his job is dangerous in comparison to the comfy desk job he held before, he works for a drilling company that holds very high safety standards...for a drilling company at least. I actually worry more about his drive to and from work than the hours he is out in the field.
When I finally started to come around, I had other concerns. He was leaving a secure, good paying job. Most other people we know taking work in North Dakota were unemployed and fleeing a local economy where the "Help Wanted" section of the newspaper often lists a measley 4 or so ads.
I was worried about his time away from Eldon. Ever since Eldon was born, Nate and I worked alternating shifts in an effort to keep from placing him in daycare. We never saw eachother unless we exhausted ourselves by staying up late, but Eldon was used to Dada being his sole caretaker for 4 hours a day and more on the weekends.
Also, I was quitting a job I loved with coworkers who had become my best friends. Slow nights at Starbucks were my escape where I could bitch about chores, money, family, diapers, and more and know that I was in good (the best) company. I knew I would miss that outlet and I do. Alot.
I was reluctant to be alone so much. I have always considered myself independent, but when you get into a routine and are comfortable with having a live in spider killer, lightbulb changer, and high things reacher, it takes awhile to realize that those jobs are now your own. The first night Nate was gone, I put the garbage outside the door like I always did. Up until then, it had been my job to put the garbage outside after dinner. Out of sight, out of mind. Nate took it to the trash cans in the morning on his way to work. Imagine my astonishment then, when I opened the door to run errands the next morning and it was still sitting there. I have learned that our garbage cans are reaaallllllly far away and that taking out the trash is not easy when you are home alone with a toddler. Oh well, we adapt. Single mothers make me look weak.
It seems that every day I am approached by a friend or family member that is interested in the money they could make for the trade off of a 2 week on, 2 week off schedule. I thought that I would write this to answer the questions we hear alot of and offer an honest inside look of what life is really like as a wife whose husband is gone as much as he is home.
The ups? (overall, the arrangement is an "up") The pay, obviously. We also get incredible incentives, bonuses, and benefits. Thanks to the boom, we can count on some job security for the next few years as well. The time off each month opens up opportunities for family trips, outings, and other fun things. We have been on alot of trips lately and are able to stay for longer periods of time. Even the day trips are no longer limited to weekends.
Also, it is true what they say: distance makes the heart grow fonder. This job has been more positive than negative in terms of what it has done for our marriage.
Eldon has adjusted incredibly well. He spends more QUALITY time with both Nate and I than he used to. The result is a secure kid who literally waves us out the door on date nights. I can't describe how great it feels to know that our son is comfortable enough to know that we will be back soon. He loves having his Daddy home but understands when he is gone at work.
The downs...the downs come in moments. It's that moment when I have something to tell Nate and then realize that I can't call him until 3:00 the next day. Or the moment when I realize that due to his schedule combined with other obligations, the only weekend close enough to Eldon's Birthday to throw him a party is also our Anniversary. Nate also missed the last Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. He is set up to miss them all again this year. Again, we adapt.
The evenings are the worst. Eldon is in bed at 7:30 and (we don't have cable) so I am left to my own thoughts and the company of a glass of cabernet sauvignon. I read through books to pass the time and text Nate good night even though he wont get it until he is off work or wakes up. (He works nights one hitch, days the next and so on.)
Even though his particular company takes good care of him, there is still a danger aspect. There is gas, heavy equipment, and mistakes that would be easy to make but with very serious consequences. Random drug tests are crucial as I don't want the crew crackhead swinging beams above my husband's head.
What does Nate think? He loves it. Honestly. He is in the best shape of his life regardless of his claim that the labor part is nowhere near as intense as people make it seem. He thrives on the hands-on work and has told me that he could never return to a desk. His shrinking waistband has left him with incredible energy and inspired me to get into shape as well.
This is where we are at right now. I have decided to return to work this summer and place Eldon in daycare (which he is going to absolutely LOVE.) This will add a whole new aspect to our lives and my thoughts may very well change. But like I said, we adapt.
A. My husband is halfway through his hitch.
-or-
B. My husband is coming home
-or-
B. My husband is coming home
When I finally started to come around, I had other concerns. He was leaving a secure, good paying job. Most other people we know taking work in North Dakota were unemployed and fleeing a local economy where the "Help Wanted" section of the newspaper often lists a measley 4 or so ads.
I was worried about his time away from Eldon. Ever since Eldon was born, Nate and I worked alternating shifts in an effort to keep from placing him in daycare. We never saw eachother unless we exhausted ourselves by staying up late, but Eldon was used to Dada being his sole caretaker for 4 hours a day and more on the weekends.
Also, I was quitting a job I loved with coworkers who had become my best friends. Slow nights at Starbucks were my escape where I could bitch about chores, money, family, diapers, and more and know that I was in good (the best) company. I knew I would miss that outlet and I do. Alot.
I was reluctant to be alone so much. I have always considered myself independent, but when you get into a routine and are comfortable with having a live in spider killer, lightbulb changer, and high things reacher, it takes awhile to realize that those jobs are now your own. The first night Nate was gone, I put the garbage outside the door like I always did. Up until then, it had been my job to put the garbage outside after dinner. Out of sight, out of mind. Nate took it to the trash cans in the morning on his way to work. Imagine my astonishment then, when I opened the door to run errands the next morning and it was still sitting there. I have learned that our garbage cans are reaaallllllly far away and that taking out the trash is not easy when you are home alone with a toddler. Oh well, we adapt. Single mothers make me look weak.
It seems that every day I am approached by a friend or family member that is interested in the money they could make for the trade off of a 2 week on, 2 week off schedule. I thought that I would write this to answer the questions we hear alot of and offer an honest inside look of what life is really like as a wife whose husband is gone as much as he is home.
The ups? (overall, the arrangement is an "up") The pay, obviously. We also get incredible incentives, bonuses, and benefits. Thanks to the boom, we can count on some job security for the next few years as well. The time off each month opens up opportunities for family trips, outings, and other fun things. We have been on alot of trips lately and are able to stay for longer periods of time. Even the day trips are no longer limited to weekends.
Also, it is true what they say: distance makes the heart grow fonder. This job has been more positive than negative in terms of what it has done for our marriage.
Eldon has adjusted incredibly well. He spends more QUALITY time with both Nate and I than he used to. The result is a secure kid who literally waves us out the door on date nights. I can't describe how great it feels to know that our son is comfortable enough to know that we will be back soon. He loves having his Daddy home but understands when he is gone at work.
The downs...the downs come in moments. It's that moment when I have something to tell Nate and then realize that I can't call him until 3:00 the next day. Or the moment when I realize that due to his schedule combined with other obligations, the only weekend close enough to Eldon's Birthday to throw him a party is also our Anniversary. Nate also missed the last Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. He is set up to miss them all again this year. Again, we adapt.
The evenings are the worst. Eldon is in bed at 7:30 and (we don't have cable) so I am left to my own thoughts and the company of a glass of cabernet sauvignon. I read through books to pass the time and text Nate good night even though he wont get it until he is off work or wakes up. (He works nights one hitch, days the next and so on.)
Even though his particular company takes good care of him, there is still a danger aspect. There is gas, heavy equipment, and mistakes that would be easy to make but with very serious consequences. Random drug tests are crucial as I don't want the crew crackhead swinging beams above my husband's head.
What does Nate think? He loves it. Honestly. He is in the best shape of his life regardless of his claim that the labor part is nowhere near as intense as people make it seem. He thrives on the hands-on work and has told me that he could never return to a desk. His shrinking waistband has left him with incredible energy and inspired me to get into shape as well.
This is where we are at right now. I have decided to return to work this summer and place Eldon in daycare (which he is going to absolutely LOVE.) This will add a whole new aspect to our lives and my thoughts may very well change. But like I said, we adapt.
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