Prom 2024 ~ Laken and Nate

I haven't been documenting much lately, but I wanted to make sure to post pictures from Laken and Nate's Jr./Sr. Prom.

This is going to be a good old-fashioned photo dump as I couldn't pick just a few favorites :)

Enjoy!

Special thanks to Natasha, Nate's mom, for the great pictures!

Colletta

Happy Homemaker Monday ~ 3/11/2024

Come join Diary of a SAHM for Happy Homemaker Monday. 

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Hello, and Happy Monday!

Did everyone remember to SPRING FORWARD this weekend?  You didn't walk into Church an hour late, did you?  Don't worry if you did.  There is always at least one :)

The weather outside is:

As I write this post on Sunday evening, there is snow on the ground!  It was quite blustery this afternoon with white-outs.  Is this March coming in like a lion?

On today's to-do list: 

~Not much other than work and picking Laken up from Track practice.  I do want to stop by Planet Fitness and get a new membership.  I want to start walking for at least 30 minutes a day after work and the weather is just too unpredictable this early in the year.  I enjoy walking outside, but for now I think I'll try the gym.

Happening this week:

~My nephew, Andrew, turns 18 years old on Saturday!  My brother and SIL are having a get-together at a local restaurant at lunchtime.  I'm not sure if they are ordering pizza or what we will have to eat, but I'm definitely ready for some cake :)

Currently reading:

I decided to purchase Susan May Warren's latest release.  I have my Kindle packed in my tote bag to take along with me to read when I have time between work, gym and Track practice ending.  I've loved everything I've ever read by SMW so when I read a really great review of "One Last Shot" I knew I wanted it in my collection.  Now to actually read it!

Listening to:

Watching:

The Vow

Farmer Wants a Wife

Tracker

Elsbeth

Youtube videos from a few favorites

On the menu today:

Pork Chops, Mashed Potatoes

In the Craft Basket:

Lots of pretty yarn is in my basket but I haven't touched it hardly at all since starting my new job.

Picture from the Camera

My pretty puppies!

Bible Verse

"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;"  2 Timothy 3:16

Have a great week!

Colletta

Happy Homemaker Tuesday ~ 3/5/2024

Come join Diary of a SAHM for Happy Homemaker Monday. 

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Hello, and Happy Monday...er....Tuesday!

I was so sick yesterday!  Sicker than I've been in years!  I was chilled to the bone with a sore throat and nasty cough.  I was able to get into my PCP and was diagnosed with double ear infection and sinus infection plus some nasty virus to go along with them.  I'm very thankful for modern medicine, especially antibiotics and Dayquil.

The weather outside is:

I'm liking what I'm seeing for the week ahead except for the word "Flurry" on Monday.  I could do without that.  Yesterday was unbelievable beautiful out and I couldn't even enjoy it :(

On today's to-do list: 

~My day was spent recuperating.  When my PCP asked where I work and I told her the hospital, she wanted me to stay home today and I'm so glad she gave me a note because I was as weak as a kitten this morning.  I'm just starting to get my strength back.  I'm hoping with a good night's rest, I'll be good as new tomorrow morning.

Happening this week:

~Laken's Track & Field season started this week.  She has talked Nate into joining the team.  I hope they both have fun and enjoy themselves.

~Don't forget to SPRING FORWARD Saturday night!  I can't wait!

Currently reading:

Another week has gone by with absolutely no reading other than the Bible.  As I mentioned, T&F started so I'll probably be sitting in the car alot waiting for Laken to get done with practice.  Maybe I'll be able to squeeze some reading time in then.

Listening to:

Watching:

Farmer Wants a Wife

Tracker

County Rescue

Youtube videos from a few favorites

On the menu today:

Subway - Nate was working this evening and Laken wanted to stop in to say hello.

In the Craft Basket:

Lots of pretty yarn is in my basket but I haven't touched it hardly at all since starting my new job.

Picture from the Camera

Nothing.  I've got nothing.

Bible Verse

"I cry aloud to the LORD I lift my voice to the LORD for mercy."  Psalm 142:1

Have a great week!

Colletta

Happy Homemaker Monday ~ 2/26/2024

Come join Diary of a SAHM for Happy Homemaker Monday. 

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Hello, and Happy Monday!

I can't believe this week we turn the calendar to March!  I love that it brings nicer weather, a time change and my birthday.  The older I get (I'll be 46) the more I like to celebrate my birthday (for now anyway) and I can't wait to have long, lighter evenings :)

The weather outside is:

The week ahead is looking lovely.  I love seeing "Springlike" and "Beautiful!" on the forecast!  I'm looking forward to eating my lunches outside.  Right now, I make sure to sit in the natural light and, if possible, in the sunshine.

On today's to-do list: 

~Monday starts my third week at my new job.  I'm feeling pretty good about my learning progress.  My coworkers are great and I'm enjoying my work.  I couldn't ask for more than that.

Happening this week:

~It is a pretty calm week schedule-wise this week.  Laken has a dental appointment Tuesday that the hubby will be taking her to.  It is just a cleaning so hopefully it will be uneventful with no cavities.

~My first payday is Friday!  Which reminds me that we still need to get our taxes completed for 2023.

Currently reading:

I think I need a new book to really grab my attention and make me WANT to read more than watch TV.  I'm thinking a good nonfiction book might be what I need.  Something that isn't just fluff.  Any recommendations for either physical books or for my Kindle?

Listening to:

Watching:

Farmer Wants a Wife

Tracker

Hallmark - Jane Austen inspired movies (loving them!)

Youtube videos from a few favorites

On the menu today:

Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

In the Craft Basket:

I didn't accomplish much crafting this week.  I think I'm still trying to get into a routine of work/hobby balance.  I thought I would get some crochet time this weekend and be able to finish the Sunburst Granny Square tote that I started.  However, I found that I just wanted to relax and didn't even pick up my hook.

I was going to be doing a Vendor Show on March 16th but my nephew's 18th birthday is that day and he is having a party at the same time as the show.  I decided that supporting my family on this important day was more important to me.  I told the organizer that I hope to catch the next show.  This also gives me more time to plan things out and get more items made if I decide to go that route. 

Picture from the Camera

Laken sent me this picture of Kona's nose.  It cracked me up when I opened it!

Bible Verse

"Because Your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise You.  So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on Your name"  Psalm 63:3-4 NRSV

Have a great week!

Colletta

Happy Homemaker Monday ~ 2/19/2024

Come join Diary of a SAHM for Happy Homemaker Monday. 

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Hello, and Happy Monday!

My first week back at work went well.  It took a few days to get all my accesses and email set up with IT.  I also had a bunch of training to complete so that took up most of my time.  This week I anticipate getting more into what I will be doing on a daily basis.  Everyone has been very nice and welcoming so that is a plus!  Hopefully it continues to go well...

The weather outside is:

It looks like a fairly decent week ahead with possibly some snow on Friday.  I am so over winter!  Bring on Spring!

On today's to-do list: 

~My work day is 7:30am-4pm which I'm enjoying.  I've been getting up at 5am so that I have plenty of time to wake up, get ready and eat breakfast.  I originally wanted to do my Bible study time in the morning but other than reading a short devotional, I think I'm going to move my main study time to the evening.  I've tried to keep my Monday evenings open so I can ease back into the week.

Happening this week:

~Friday evening is Nate's Eagle Scout Dinner.  I'm really proud of him and look forward to celebrating his accomplishment!

Currently reading:

I still haven't made any progress on "Small Town Shepherd" by Nala Henkel Aislinn.  I'm not giving up on reading yet though.  I'm going to still try to do some reading before bed.  I might switch up books though...

Watching:

Farmer Wants a Wife

Tracker

Hallmark - Jane Austen inspired movies

Youtube videos from a few favorites

On the menu today:

Pork Chops and Mashed Potatoes

In the Craft Basket:

I didn't accomplish much crafting this week.  I did manage to crochet for 10-15 minutes each night.  I'm still working on the Sunburst Granny Square tote.  I have 15 squares completed and am getting ready to assemble the tote.  The colors of the sunbursts are so pretty in the "Flamenco".  I had to downsize the tote because I can't find any more of the "Flamenco" yarn in any of the stores.  It will still be a nice size but I will only need the 15 squares that I currently have instead of 27 squares!  Quite the difference.  I'm going to TRY to get it finished this week.

Picture from the Camera

I woke up Tuesday morning to 5 inches of fresh snow on the ground (and roads!).

Bible Verse

"I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You."  Psalm 119:11

Have a great week!

Colletta

Tea Time ~ 2/17/2024

 

Grab a cup of tea, coffee, hot chocolate or your favorite drink
while I share a few things about my life lately...

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~It has been a long, busy week!  I started my new job in Care Coordination at the hospital on Monday.  It is going well so far.  I had HR orientation all Monday morning and then my Director and my Manager took me to lunch in the cafeteria which was surprisingly good!  It took a few days to get my email/network accesses so there wasn't a lot I could do other than training such as workplace harassment, etc.  I sat in on a lot of meetings to start getting a feel for the workings and the language of the department.  Everyone was very welcoming and I'm getting settled in.  I have high hopes :)

~Did you watch the Super Bowl?  I watched bits and pieces but didn't really pay a lot of attention other than the commercials.  I was multi-tasking until I gave up and went to bed around 9:30pm.

~Before the Super Bowl, Laken and Nate made us food.  We had Buffalo Chicken Sliders, Cheesy Bacon Tator Tots, Chips and Dip, Strawberry Shortcake and Cookie Dough Truffles.  Nate does most of the cooking and Laken does most of the procrastinating  :)  Right, Laken?   :)

~Happy Belated Valentine's Day!  The hubby got me a card, a bouquet of flowers and Reese Cups.  I got him a card, Reeses Pieces and a rose.  We had said that we weren't doing presents for Valentine's Day, so I'm glad I didn't listen!  Hubby also got Valentine's and candy for both of our girls.  I think it is super sweet that he still does that even though they both have their own Valentines now.

~My department at work had a Valentine Card Exchange also.  I didn't have time to get anything ready as I just found out about it Tuesday but a very sweet coworker, Sara, decorated a box for me so that I could participate too!  There are around 30 or more people in the department, so my box was full of Valentines, candy and little fluffies (gifts) by the end of the day.  It was really fun and Laken was so jealous of my Valentines box when I brought it home :)

~We went Prom dress shopping today.  I thought it went well but now Laken is having buyer's remorse!  She is second guessing herself and wondering if there would have been a "better" dress at another shop.  Unfortunately, the shop we bought her dress at has a "no return" policy.  Personally, I think her dress is gorgeous and fits her beautifully.  It will need the hem taken up, of course.  Other than that I don't think it will need altered at all!  I just hope Laken will remember how much she loved the dress when she had it on at the shop.  I want her to be happy and feel good about herself when she wears it.  Other than that, I don't know what to do...

So, what is new with you???

Colletta

Happy Homemaker Monday ~ 2/12/2024

Come join Diary of a SAHM for Happy Homemaker Monday. 

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Hello, and Happy Monday!

I'm writing this post on Sunday evening, as I usually do.  If you are reading this on Monday, I'm at WORK!  The day has finally arrived and I'm nervous AND excited!

My new boss, Karen, called me on Friday to let me know what my Monday will look like.  I have orientation all morning starting at 8am.  At noon, Karen and Debbie (my supervisor) will meet me outside the auditorium and take me to lunch.  I thought this a super nice gesture!  The afternoon will be spent getting all my computer access, etc. situated.  Karen also mentioned a training on infectious disease that I will be taking, so my first day or two will be spent getting all that completed so that I can dive into my regular work duties.

I'm not sure what my blogging schedule is going to look like as my routines change.  I hope to still post on Sunday/Monday and at least my Tea Time post.  I'm not sure what day I'll be posting Tea Time.  I'll have to see how my week goes.  Wish me luck!

Let's get on with the post ;)

The weather outside is:

I don't know why the site that I usually get my forecast from is still showing the 7 day forecast from Friday on.  Oh well, you can see that Friday and Saturday were absolutely beautiful days.  Friday we had sunshine and I think we ended up with a high of 63F.  That is crazy for my area in the middle of February!  Monday night we are looking at weather that is a bit more seasonal although they are currently backing off on the amount of snow they think we'll get.  Personally, I'm fine with not getting ANY more snow this winter.  I don't mind the cold, but I hate driving in nasty weather.

On today's to-do list: 

~My main to-do today is waking up to my alarm and getting out the door on time.  I'm seriously worried that I'm going to sleep through my alarm on my first day at my new job.  That is IF I can even sleep!

Happening this week:

~Thankfully, this week is fairly quiet.  I do have Ladies Bible Study and Potluck on Tuesday evening.  It is always the second Tuesday of the month.

~We don't really have plans for Valentine's Day.  I haven't even gotten the hubby a card or gift yet!  Hopefully I'll get a chance to before Wednesday.

~I've been busy prepping for my vendor show in March.  I hope to continue to craft a bit each evening but I'll write more about that in the crafting prompt.

Currently reading:

I haven't made any progress on "Small Town Shepherd" by Nala Henkel Aislinn.  I've created a daily schedule that does include reading time before bed, but I don't know.  Again, I'll have to see how the day/week goes.

Watching:

Farmer Wants a Wife

Hallmark - Jane Austen inspired movies

Super Bowl

Youtube videos from a few favorites

On the menu today:

Chili and Corn Bread

In the Craft Basket:

I needed something different to work on, so I took some of my miscellaneous granny squares and made some tote bags.  I also found a free pattern on ravelry.com for a Sunburst Granny Square Tote.  Laken picked out a skein of yarn for me to create it with.  The yarn was in my stash and is Red Heart Super Saver Stripes in "Flamenco".  I have the center of the sunbursts made and started working on the border round in "Aran".  I actually got a picture of my progress but it is very dark.  I hope you don't mind the poor lighting!

Picture from the Camera

Don't mind my papers in the foreground!  I need to do some filing...

Bible Verse

"The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my savior, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."  Psalm 18:2

Have a great week!

Colletta

Tea Time ~ 2/7/2024

 

Grab a cup of tea, coffee, hot chocolate or your favorite drink
while I share a few things about my life lately...

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~Laken's gift for her 17th birthday was a day of snowboarding with Nate at The Wisp which is a resort about an hour away from our house.  I think they had fun even if they were very tired and sore by the end of the day!

~While Laken and Nate were snowboarding, the hubby and I went shopping!  The first stop was BassPro where the hubby ended up getting $100 off a pair of Irish Setter hunting boots.  Apparently, Irish Setter's are a really good brand, so he was excited!

~My shopping stops were Hobby Lobby and Michaels.  I got a few skeins of yarn and also a four tiered rolling cart to help me get organized.  I love it!

~On the way home from The Wisp, we stopped at Cracker Barrel for supper.  Laken and Nate both got their Chicken and Dumplings and Laken got Coca Cola Cake which she shared with me.  Delicious!

~This is my last week off of work.  I start my new job on Monday!  I'm excited and nervous all at the same time.  I've been working on getting into a earlier wake-up routine as I've gotten used to sleeping in while being off work.  Wish me well!

So, what is new with you???

Colletta

Happy Homemaker Monday ~ 2/5/2024

Come join Diary of a SAHM for Happy Homemaker Monday. 

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Hello, and Happy Monday!

The weather outside is:

Another gorgeous week ahead!  A little chilly at night but it IS February in Pennsylvania.

On today's to-do list: 

~Only 1 week until I go back to working outside the home.  Yikes!  I'm nervous and excited at the same time.  So this week I'm going to definitely be getting back on a routine.  I know I've been saying that for a few weeks, but this time it is a must.  No more late nights and late mornings.  I'm going to pretend that my schedule is the same as it will be starting next week.  I'm going to try to be in bed by 10pm and awake and out of bed by 5am.  Wish me luck!

Happening this week:

~Prepping for my first ever vendor show!  I think I've made at least 1 or more of each pattern I want to take along.  Now I'll just be making duplicates and different color variations of those patterns.

Currently reading:

Still slowly reading "Small Town Shepherd" by Nala Henkel Aislinn.

Watching:

Percy Jackson

Youtube videos from a few favorites

On the menu today:

Turkey Dinner and sides!

In the Craft Basket:

I'm prepping for the vendor show so that is basically all I have been crafting.  Some items I need to make more of are bees, bunnies, leggy frogs and maybe a few more preemie octos.

Picture from the Camera

Bible Verse

"Who is the man who fears the LORD?  He will instruct him in the way he should choose."  Psalm 25:12

Have a great Monday!

Colletta

Happy 17th Birthday, Laken! ~ 2/2/2024

Happy 17th Birthday to my little Groundhog Baby!

 

May you always remember how excited you were when the clock turned 12am and Dancing Queen played!

Love You Always!

Mom

Giveaway Winner ~ 1/31/2024

As promised, I'm here to announce the winner of my giveaway for a $25 Starbucks Giftcard and a cup cozy in the winner's choice of color!

Without further ado, the winner is:

Faith

Faith commented that she would like a barn red cup cozy as half her kitchen is painted in that color.

To claim your prize, please email me at collettaskitchensink (at) yahoo (dot) com with your mailing information by February 2nd at 12am EST.  Don't forget to include your last name :)

 Many thanks to all that participated in my celebration giveaway!

Colletta

Tea Time ~ 1/31/2024

 

Grab a cup of tea, coffee, hot chocolate or your favorite drink
while I share a few things about my life lately...

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~My sister-in-law Kelly's surgery Tuesday morning went "perfectly" according to the surgeon!  She was truly in the loving hands of the Almighty and I fully believe the surgeon was used by Him.  So many people were praying!  Kelly was sincerely afraid that she wouldn't make it through the surgery and now she is sitting, walking, talking and doing wonderfully!  We are most definitely saying prayers of thanks :)

~I signed up for a vendor/craft show that will be taking place March 16th.  I have roughly 10 days until I start my new job so I'm using my time to market prep!  This will be my first ever market/show and I'm excited!  I've been busy crocheting octos, sea turtles, leggy frogs, hair scrunchies, bunnies and still have more items that I want to work up.  I also have cup cozies, baby blankets, shawls, dish cloths and scrubbies made that I will be adding to my table.  If you can think of anything else I should make, please let me know in the comments :)

~Can you believe today is the last day of January 2024?  I can truthfully say that I'm up-to-date with my Bible-in-a-year plan.  There have been days that I've had to play catch-up but nothing too crazy.  I don't want to get behind too far and then have a hard time catching up.  I'm reading in Exodus (the 10 Plagues), Matthew (Mount of Transfiguration) and Psalms (at chapter 27).  I've never read a plan that is some Old Testament, some New Testament and Psalms/Proverbs each day but I thought I'd give it a try for something different.  So far, so good!  I'm really enjoying my reading time :)

~Laken, my baby, turns 17-years-old on Friday.  She's my little groundhog baby!  She either wants Olive Garden or Texas Roadhouse for her birthday dinner.  Then on Saturday, the 3rd, we are planning on taking her and Nate snowboarding!  They have been wanting to go so badly so we agreed to take them for Laken's birthday present.  I just pray nobody gets hurt!  That is my biggest fear with snowboarding!  Laken has never been snowboarding but Nate has been.  Hopefully he can give her some pointers.  :)

~I need to start adding more pictures to my blog.  I used to take so many pictures to share but not so much anymore.  I really need to get a new camera as my old one bit the dust.  My phone camera stinks (as Laken likes to tell me).  If you have any recommendations for a good but inexpensive camera, please let me know in the comments :)

So, what is new with you???

Colletta