Okay, I had not actually TASTED the snow cone syrup, but since I posted it yesterday I decided to taste it. It was WAAAYYY too sweet! I decided to cut it in half with water (the entire amount!) and it was still plenty sweet. I will probably cut it down even more next time I make a batch. Of course my kids had not complained...but they are kids, what can I say?
So, you may want to water down the syrup a bit or cut back on the sugar to water ratio. Play with it, and no matter what I'm sure the kids won't notice the difference!
Friday, May 23, 2014
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Homemade Snow Cone Syrup
It's that time of year again-summer! It's hot outside and the kids want to cool down with a icy treat. I was delighted last year to figure out that my beloved Blendtec blender crushes ice so well! It makes it perfect for snow cones. Eliminating the need for one of those snow cone machines I almost bought that would probably collect dust most of the year! I love how many things the Blendtec can do!
Anyway, my kids love snow cones like the next kid, but I find the syrup to be a little pricey. It's not like we can all have the same flavor either, because Emilynn wants pink, Carson wants green, Henry doesn't care......
I instead found the perfect solution-homemade syrup! Honestly, it's not healthy at all, but it is a TREAT, to be used as such (only occasionally!).
Homemade Snow Cone Syrup
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1 pkg. kool-aid (I just chose whatever color would make the kids happy)
Bring the sugar and water to a boil and boil 1 minute. Mix in 1 pkg. kool-aid. Cool down and enjoy!
I bought some clear plastic squirt bottles from Walmart to store this in-they are made for ketchup and condiments I think, but work great for all sorts of things and only cost 50 Cents or $1 each.
I am going to store ours in the fridge I think.
Again, not healthy but good for an occasional treat!
If you want a healthier treat- go for a fruit, yogurt smoothie, or a homemade popsicle (the kids love these too but you have to plan ahead for this). I have even started just freezing 100 % juice in the popsicle molds and the kids still scarf them down. I may even try diluting it with 1/2 water, 1/2 juice for an even healthier, less sugary treat.
Enjoy and stay cool! :-)
Anyway, my kids love snow cones like the next kid, but I find the syrup to be a little pricey. It's not like we can all have the same flavor either, because Emilynn wants pink, Carson wants green, Henry doesn't care......
I instead found the perfect solution-homemade syrup! Honestly, it's not healthy at all, but it is a TREAT, to be used as such (only occasionally!).
Homemade Snow Cone Syrup
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1 pkg. kool-aid (I just chose whatever color would make the kids happy)
Bring the sugar and water to a boil and boil 1 minute. Mix in 1 pkg. kool-aid. Cool down and enjoy!
I bought some clear plastic squirt bottles from Walmart to store this in-they are made for ketchup and condiments I think, but work great for all sorts of things and only cost 50 Cents or $1 each.
I am going to store ours in the fridge I think.
Again, not healthy but good for an occasional treat!
If you want a healthier treat- go for a fruit, yogurt smoothie, or a homemade popsicle (the kids love these too but you have to plan ahead for this). I have even started just freezing 100 % juice in the popsicle molds and the kids still scarf them down. I may even try diluting it with 1/2 water, 1/2 juice for an even healthier, less sugary treat.
Enjoy and stay cool! :-)
Monday, May 19, 2014
School
Well, this is a post I will admit I've put off a few times. I am sure everyone has heard me mention the twins going to school in the fall, but I also talk about homeschool a lot too. I figured I needed to clear up all of the confusion. The topic of school is quite controversial, from many angles. Our local paper is constantly having articles about teacher's pay, SOL test scores, etc. etc. When you talk to people in person, there is definitely a divide between those who choose to homeschool, utilize the public school system, or prefer private school.
First and foremost, I must say that my opinions are just that, MY opinions. I respect other people's opinions and choices as well, because you must do what is right for your own family, and really for each child individually within the family.
As a background, I will start by saying that Dustin went to public school for all of his school years. He also went to a special school specifically for lineman. I went to private school for all of my school years. Then I went to a very large public university for my college years. Like 25,000 people large. I wanted to be a number, and I was.
For our children, we began homeschool last fall because they were ready. They needed to start their education. I was very excited and the kids did great with learning and listening to me (I wasn't sure how that would go). It was very rewarding to see how much they learned and how eager they were to learn. I use the past tense because we are no longer homeschooling. After the first "semester" if you will....Dustin and I talked about the next year's schooling. I enjoyed homeschooling and was willing to keep trying it. Dustin really wanted the children in a more traditional school setting with other children. We decided to tour a few schools and make a decision from there. After much prayer and discussion, we have chosen a small, private school for our children. It is not the private school I went to, although we did tour that one. I have to say I wrestled with our decision for months, and now that we have made the decision, I am at peace. I know it is the right decision for our family at this time. Am I saying it won't change in the future? Nope, I'm not. We will take it year by year and I know that things change, seasons change. If we need to make changes, we are open to that as well. I know homeschool worked and that I can do it, so that is always an option. I worry more about Carson at school than Emilynn, so we will see how that goes. As for the homeschool, I stopped at the end of last year because I really wanted the kids to just get to be kids since they would be starting school this fall and have at least 14 years of school ahead, not counting college! Of course, we still do their preschool workbooks when they ask, and we do little craft projects and other science-y stuff like our butterfly experiment. I truly believe education can happen anywhere, and should happen everywhere....so that is our motto around here! The difference has been I have let them kind of lead the process since the beginning of the year. They will ask to do their workbooks, so we do them. Other days they don't ask and just play all day. It works for now.
Now, how do the twins feel about school? They are excited for sure! Carson has even gotten excited, and I am really looking forward to it for them. It will definitely be different, having just Henry home with me during the day. It will also be different getting up early!!! Today, the first child woke up at 9:06. School starts at 8, promptly! Yes, we have some adjustments to make for sure!!!
I have found that the kids' schooling is something I am asked about ALL the time....so here are a few of the most frequently asked questions.
1. Where are the kids going to school?
As I have said, we have chosen a small, private school. It is 15 minutes from the house.
2. Why are they not going to the public school?
Well, this is probably the most controversial part of school discussions. Public versus private. My husband really wanted the kids in private school. I did as well. Mainly, we wanted a religious based school, where Christianity is not only allowed, but taught. I have a real issue with God not being allowed at school. I am not thrilled about sending the kids somewhere he's not allowed. I know some say that the children can be a good influence and show others Christ. I know my 4 year olds are just learning about Christ and are not secure enough to witness to others. They are very easily influenced and so I want them in an environment that supports our beliefs. Dustin and I both feel strongly about this, but again, it is OUR beliefs. I respect everyone's decisions as far as what is right for them.
Also, we really wanted small numbers for our kids. The class they will be in for next year has 8 in it right now. I think it is super-important for my kids' personalities. Emilynn requires a lot of attention and she WILL get it, in a positive or negative way. It's just her make-up. I prefer a small class where she can hopefully get the attention she needs. Carson is quiet and reserved and in large situations he retreats. It is my hope a smaller class will help bring him out a bit and allow him to thrive in a nurturing environment where he feels safe.
3. Are they riding the bus?
Nope, I am taking them. The bus comes through our way super-early...like in the 6 o'clock hour. Too early in our opinion! Also, we are a tad bit funny about others driving our kids. I may or may not have followed my father-in-law to the next town when he drove Carson for the first time. Yep, I have relaxed a bit since then! In fact, my cousin works right near the school, and lives 5 minutes from us. She may end up taking the kids some mornings once we get a routine established which would thrill the kids to no end! They love her.
4. They are just in preschool???!!!???
Yes, they are. They just turned 4 in December. Although they may seem ready for Kindergarten, they do not qualify to go until next year. In fact, we are starting preschool with a 3 day program to get us transitioned into school. I think mostly I need the help with this. I am quite nervous about leaving my babies all day!!!
5. So it's all day?
It is an all day program. 8 am to 2:50 pm. They will have a nap at school as well. The school does not do a half day program. It actually will work better I think because I can come home and get stuff done around the house in the meantime.
6. Isn't that super-expensive?
Yes, private school is expensive, but not unaffordable in my opinion. We are willing to pay for the benefits right now. I say, don't assume you can't afford it until you check into it. The school we have chosen will let you pay monthly, or all at once. Some private schools also offer scholarships to help families pay. I feel like it is all about priorities and where you choose to spend your money. This is something we are choosing to invest in because it's important to us. I don't know what else to say on this except it's a personal choice.
7. Will they be in the same class?
Yes, they will. Especially now with it being their first school experience. In the future, who knows? We may split, we may not. I've heard lots of opinions from both sides from different twin moms. I feel like with a girl and boy they will have different friends within the same class anyway, so it probably won't be as big of an issue but we will certainly take it year by year.
And for the most asked question I've gotten lately......
8. Are you going back to work when the twins start school?
This question baffles me a bit because I'm not sure why the sudden interest in my employment. I'm not sure if people are concerned about our finances, or just nosey...? I honestly think I'm going to start asking, "Why did you need to know?" I mean, maybe they have a job prospect for me or something in mind??? At any rate, the answer for now is no. It is not in the plan for the upcoming year. I can't speak for too far in the future, but I will at least be home until Henry is in school. We feel like he deserves having Momma at home just like Carson and Emilynn have had Momma at home the past 4 years. Also, our plan is for me to go on any field trips that pop up and I will be the one that needs to pick them up if they get sick at school or anything like that. Soooo.....If I ever DO go back to work, it will have to be something extremely flexible that Dustin and I decide will work for our family. Our family and kids will have to come first always.
I think that is all of the questions about school and the twins. If I missed anything, I'm sure someone will ask-ha!
I also forgot to mention that Cousin Morgan will be in preschool at the same school. Emilynn, especially, is VERY excited about this!!!
As for now, we are excited and nervous about the start of school. It will definitely be harder on this Momma than the kids I'm sure. I am excited about having some individual time with Henry though and also getting more done around the house that constantly is neglected with 3 kids underfoot. I also sometimes drive my grandparents to doctor's visits, so there is plenty to keep me busy and keep my mind off the fact that my babies are growing up. :-) It is a new season we are entering that's for sure!
First and foremost, I must say that my opinions are just that, MY opinions. I respect other people's opinions and choices as well, because you must do what is right for your own family, and really for each child individually within the family.
As a background, I will start by saying that Dustin went to public school for all of his school years. He also went to a special school specifically for lineman. I went to private school for all of my school years. Then I went to a very large public university for my college years. Like 25,000 people large. I wanted to be a number, and I was.
For our children, we began homeschool last fall because they were ready. They needed to start their education. I was very excited and the kids did great with learning and listening to me (I wasn't sure how that would go). It was very rewarding to see how much they learned and how eager they were to learn. I use the past tense because we are no longer homeschooling. After the first "semester" if you will....Dustin and I talked about the next year's schooling. I enjoyed homeschooling and was willing to keep trying it. Dustin really wanted the children in a more traditional school setting with other children. We decided to tour a few schools and make a decision from there. After much prayer and discussion, we have chosen a small, private school for our children. It is not the private school I went to, although we did tour that one. I have to say I wrestled with our decision for months, and now that we have made the decision, I am at peace. I know it is the right decision for our family at this time. Am I saying it won't change in the future? Nope, I'm not. We will take it year by year and I know that things change, seasons change. If we need to make changes, we are open to that as well. I know homeschool worked and that I can do it, so that is always an option. I worry more about Carson at school than Emilynn, so we will see how that goes. As for the homeschool, I stopped at the end of last year because I really wanted the kids to just get to be kids since they would be starting school this fall and have at least 14 years of school ahead, not counting college! Of course, we still do their preschool workbooks when they ask, and we do little craft projects and other science-y stuff like our butterfly experiment. I truly believe education can happen anywhere, and should happen everywhere....so that is our motto around here! The difference has been I have let them kind of lead the process since the beginning of the year. They will ask to do their workbooks, so we do them. Other days they don't ask and just play all day. It works for now.
Now, how do the twins feel about school? They are excited for sure! Carson has even gotten excited, and I am really looking forward to it for them. It will definitely be different, having just Henry home with me during the day. It will also be different getting up early!!! Today, the first child woke up at 9:06. School starts at 8, promptly! Yes, we have some adjustments to make for sure!!!
I have found that the kids' schooling is something I am asked about ALL the time....so here are a few of the most frequently asked questions.
1. Where are the kids going to school?
As I have said, we have chosen a small, private school. It is 15 minutes from the house.
2. Why are they not going to the public school?
Well, this is probably the most controversial part of school discussions. Public versus private. My husband really wanted the kids in private school. I did as well. Mainly, we wanted a religious based school, where Christianity is not only allowed, but taught. I have a real issue with God not being allowed at school. I am not thrilled about sending the kids somewhere he's not allowed. I know some say that the children can be a good influence and show others Christ. I know my 4 year olds are just learning about Christ and are not secure enough to witness to others. They are very easily influenced and so I want them in an environment that supports our beliefs. Dustin and I both feel strongly about this, but again, it is OUR beliefs. I respect everyone's decisions as far as what is right for them.
Also, we really wanted small numbers for our kids. The class they will be in for next year has 8 in it right now. I think it is super-important for my kids' personalities. Emilynn requires a lot of attention and she WILL get it, in a positive or negative way. It's just her make-up. I prefer a small class where she can hopefully get the attention she needs. Carson is quiet and reserved and in large situations he retreats. It is my hope a smaller class will help bring him out a bit and allow him to thrive in a nurturing environment where he feels safe.
3. Are they riding the bus?
Nope, I am taking them. The bus comes through our way super-early...like in the 6 o'clock hour. Too early in our opinion! Also, we are a tad bit funny about others driving our kids. I may or may not have followed my father-in-law to the next town when he drove Carson for the first time. Yep, I have relaxed a bit since then! In fact, my cousin works right near the school, and lives 5 minutes from us. She may end up taking the kids some mornings once we get a routine established which would thrill the kids to no end! They love her.
4. They are just in preschool???!!!???
Yes, they are. They just turned 4 in December. Although they may seem ready for Kindergarten, they do not qualify to go until next year. In fact, we are starting preschool with a 3 day program to get us transitioned into school. I think mostly I need the help with this. I am quite nervous about leaving my babies all day!!!
5. So it's all day?
It is an all day program. 8 am to 2:50 pm. They will have a nap at school as well. The school does not do a half day program. It actually will work better I think because I can come home and get stuff done around the house in the meantime.
6. Isn't that super-expensive?
Yes, private school is expensive, but not unaffordable in my opinion. We are willing to pay for the benefits right now. I say, don't assume you can't afford it until you check into it. The school we have chosen will let you pay monthly, or all at once. Some private schools also offer scholarships to help families pay. I feel like it is all about priorities and where you choose to spend your money. This is something we are choosing to invest in because it's important to us. I don't know what else to say on this except it's a personal choice.
7. Will they be in the same class?
Yes, they will. Especially now with it being their first school experience. In the future, who knows? We may split, we may not. I've heard lots of opinions from both sides from different twin moms. I feel like with a girl and boy they will have different friends within the same class anyway, so it probably won't be as big of an issue but we will certainly take it year by year.
And for the most asked question I've gotten lately......
8. Are you going back to work when the twins start school?
This question baffles me a bit because I'm not sure why the sudden interest in my employment. I'm not sure if people are concerned about our finances, or just nosey...? I honestly think I'm going to start asking, "Why did you need to know?" I mean, maybe they have a job prospect for me or something in mind??? At any rate, the answer for now is no. It is not in the plan for the upcoming year. I can't speak for too far in the future, but I will at least be home until Henry is in school. We feel like he deserves having Momma at home just like Carson and Emilynn have had Momma at home the past 4 years. Also, our plan is for me to go on any field trips that pop up and I will be the one that needs to pick them up if they get sick at school or anything like that. Soooo.....If I ever DO go back to work, it will have to be something extremely flexible that Dustin and I decide will work for our family. Our family and kids will have to come first always.
I think that is all of the questions about school and the twins. If I missed anything, I'm sure someone will ask-ha!
I also forgot to mention that Cousin Morgan will be in preschool at the same school. Emilynn, especially, is VERY excited about this!!!
As for now, we are excited and nervous about the start of school. It will definitely be harder on this Momma than the kids I'm sure. I am excited about having some individual time with Henry though and also getting more done around the house that constantly is neglected with 3 kids underfoot. I also sometimes drive my grandparents to doctor's visits, so there is plenty to keep me busy and keep my mind off the fact that my babies are growing up. :-) It is a new season we are entering that's for sure!
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
What's going on in our neck of the woods.....
I finally had a small snippet of time today to update the blog, and wouldn't you know, blogger would not let me sign on for the longest time......so I have a short window of time now to update on two weeks worth of activity. Oh well, such is life!
This is recital week for us, which means a little craziness, but not too bad. It's Emmy's 3rd year in dance, so we know the drill and just go with the flow. Tonight is her run-thru, which means I have to have everyone fed and she and I will need to leave promptly at 4:45 to make it on time. I also need to bathe her because in the summer, sand seems to be the best hair accessory around here. I am not sure why....? Yes, I have lots to do. And you thought stay at home moms ate bon bons all day, right? :-) Haha. Just to keep it more real, I will share that there are 6 loads of clean clothes waiting to be folded on my dining room table, and probably 5 more to wash. In case anyone was feeling bad about being behind on their laundry, dishes, or whatever. It will get done eventually I suppose.
Our butterfly project is wrapping up, we have 3 butterflies that "hatched" or emerged or whatever you wish to call it. I don't know how long we'll keep them before we release them. They only live 2-4 weeks, so I hope we let them go soon. The kids seem to think we will be able to catch them once we release them....so I'm working on explaining how it's going to go down. I've explained it at least 5 times already but I'm not sure they understand the permanence of letting them go. I have been keeping pictures of the process to share.
Strawberry season is in and we are loving it around here. I am embarrassed at how much I end up spending at the strawberry patch each year. They are just so delicious and it's the only time of year we eat them fresh. I need to get more to freeze for smoothies, and decide if we need any jam made. I think I am good from last year, but might make some for gifts. I like receiving homemade gifts, so I like to give homemade gifts. I do not know if anyone else likes it, but no one complains anyway!
I had a nice Mother's Day, and I got a nap in which makes me happy. We celebrated my nephew's 1st birthday that day, so we got to visit almost all of the mothers and grandmothers at once. It was nice.
Yesterday, I ended up watching my nephew for two hours, with my kids at my grandma's house. I figured I could do anything for 2 hours, right? Right! Weeelllll......I don't know! Ha! I loved having extra time with him, but I don't know if my grandma loved it. When she got home Henry had gotten scissors and put a hole in the pack 'n play. Yikes! I was actually changing the baby's diapers and concentrating on that, when I looked over and saw him going at the pack 'n play like he was trimming shrubs. That was the only mishap that I am aware of! Ha! Four kids does seem like a lot more than 3! I did enjoy keeping him though. It was fun.
Well, I'm off to cook spaghetti and get ready for dance. Emilynn loves dancing on the "big stage" and I enjoy the run-thru. I get to see all the classes' dances for the first time, and spend one on one time with my girl. I love spending individual time with the kids, I think it is so important for them and us.
This is recital week for us, which means a little craziness, but not too bad. It's Emmy's 3rd year in dance, so we know the drill and just go with the flow. Tonight is her run-thru, which means I have to have everyone fed and she and I will need to leave promptly at 4:45 to make it on time. I also need to bathe her because in the summer, sand seems to be the best hair accessory around here. I am not sure why....? Yes, I have lots to do. And you thought stay at home moms ate bon bons all day, right? :-) Haha. Just to keep it more real, I will share that there are 6 loads of clean clothes waiting to be folded on my dining room table, and probably 5 more to wash. In case anyone was feeling bad about being behind on their laundry, dishes, or whatever. It will get done eventually I suppose.
Our butterfly project is wrapping up, we have 3 butterflies that "hatched" or emerged or whatever you wish to call it. I don't know how long we'll keep them before we release them. They only live 2-4 weeks, so I hope we let them go soon. The kids seem to think we will be able to catch them once we release them....so I'm working on explaining how it's going to go down. I've explained it at least 5 times already but I'm not sure they understand the permanence of letting them go. I have been keeping pictures of the process to share.
Strawberry season is in and we are loving it around here. I am embarrassed at how much I end up spending at the strawberry patch each year. They are just so delicious and it's the only time of year we eat them fresh. I need to get more to freeze for smoothies, and decide if we need any jam made. I think I am good from last year, but might make some for gifts. I like receiving homemade gifts, so I like to give homemade gifts. I do not know if anyone else likes it, but no one complains anyway!
I had a nice Mother's Day, and I got a nap in which makes me happy. We celebrated my nephew's 1st birthday that day, so we got to visit almost all of the mothers and grandmothers at once. It was nice.
Yesterday, I ended up watching my nephew for two hours, with my kids at my grandma's house. I figured I could do anything for 2 hours, right? Right! Weeelllll......I don't know! Ha! I loved having extra time with him, but I don't know if my grandma loved it. When she got home Henry had gotten scissors and put a hole in the pack 'n play. Yikes! I was actually changing the baby's diapers and concentrating on that, when I looked over and saw him going at the pack 'n play like he was trimming shrubs. That was the only mishap that I am aware of! Ha! Four kids does seem like a lot more than 3! I did enjoy keeping him though. It was fun.
Well, I'm off to cook spaghetti and get ready for dance. Emilynn loves dancing on the "big stage" and I enjoy the run-thru. I get to see all the classes' dances for the first time, and spend one on one time with my girl. I love spending individual time with the kids, I think it is so important for them and us.
Friday, May 2, 2014
Weekly Ramblings....
- Everyday I have thought about getting on the computer, and everyday I haven't felt like it! I just like being unplugged most of the time. Give me a good book and I'm happy! I have read 2 books this week already and am working on a third.
- Speaking of books, storytime is back up and running at the library! Yay! It is on Mondays now at 10:30. We went Monday for the first time, and it was really fun. The kids acted up a little, I think they were breaking in the new lady. Hopefully next week will be better.
- I am tired of the storms we've been having! Thankfully the kids are able to be outside today, which makes things so much easier on me and them. I can get more cleaning done, and they can get energy out.
- I am taking the twins tonight to see Rio 2. They are so excited! They love the theatre! I am not trying to make Henry sit through it, it is hard for him. It would probably be better if there weren't so many previews! It is nice to have an outing with just the "big kids" though. And I think Amanda and cousin Hunter are joining us. Fun!
- Our butterfly kit is so cool! They have finally built their "cocoons" and are now making the transformation to butterflies. I can't wait till they emerge. I have taken pictures, I will try to post the different stages. The kids have done great with not touching and moving the containers.
- I think I have been trying to recover this week from last week. We ran around all week and then worked most of Saturday till the early hours Sunday on our big fundraiser for a gentleman who has cancer in our community. We raised over $8500! It is amazing what a small community can do when it works together!
- My mom and I have been cleaning today, we scrubbed our master bathroom from top to bottom. It definitely needed it. She loves a cleaning project! And I love the help, and need it! Next up is my bedroom-it is a disaster as it was the holding area for all Christmas gifts, and is the dumping grounds for anything we don't want the kids to get into. I really want to re-do it and paint it an aqua color. I have a relaxing space in my mind....we'll see how long the transformation takes....probably 2 years at least! We did take 2 huge trash bags of toys out of the living room, and the kids did not even fuss and haven't missed them. They haven't asked for a single item which has surprised me. I guess I will go through the bags (they are in my dreaded storage shed right now) and yard sale what we don't need. I do like to keep stuff like that to rotate toys. It keeps things interesting for the kids. I think we will definitely cut back on Christmas this year....it is just overwhelming to me and the kids!
- My nephew is turning a year old next week. You know what that means- cake! I have to make a Mickey Mouse birthday cake and a Mickey smash cake. We also have 3 parties next Saturday. It should be a crazy, busy day!
- Dance pictures are tomorrow, one more thing checked off the end of the year to-do list for dance. I have to order tickets for recital (they are online this year-very high tech!), and the DVD. We end up watching the DVD over, and over, and over! We end up spending a lot of money at the end of the dance year! It is definitely an expensive activity at times! Emilynn seems to love it though. We'll see about next year when we add pre-school to the mix!
Well, I have a table full of laundry that needs folding....and there is always something to do around here!
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