tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76709995770685147642012-01-26T04:59:17.456-05:00Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.comBlogger13631100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-13653723202271698942012-01-25T09:12:00.002-05:002012-01-25T09:13:48.699-05:00

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-60484347100052078442012-01-11T08:16:00.000-05:002012-01-11T08:16:00.553-05:00

I had one of the very best grandmas. Ever.Granny B. was a classy lady who lived through some pretty difficult stuff. The one that sticks with me most is that she outlived two husbands - one who died suddenly when her kids were stilllittle and another on Christmas Day many years later when I was in high school.Despite stories I heard to the contrary, my experience remained that she never, ever was

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-90268095325394128852012-01-11T06:04:00.000-05:002012-01-11T06:04:00.399-05:00

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-58748712460197715772012-01-04T06:11:00.000-05:002012-01-04T06:11:00.147-05:00

Some of our neighbors...Chuck, Round, Roast, Filet, and Prime! ;)

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-4467071938272657532011-12-22T11:32:00.006-05:002011-12-22T11:58:48.718-05:00

Wow! How is it another reading challenge is over?!I started with a diverse list of 8 fiction and non-fiction. I made a dent but didn't finish as well as I had hoped. Unfortunately, the siren song of an e-book reader swayed me away from the hard-copy straight and narrow. LOLI completed my fiction choices: Lost Hero and Safe From the Sea. I enjoyed both immensely. I also got a fiction wish list

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-62420839378685135922011-12-19T21:20:00.004-05:002011-12-19T21:37:45.047-05:00

Most Sunday nights or Monday mornings, you would find me at my desk coordinating my week, checking upcoming events, glancing at my Google calendar, the kids' school calendar, (at this time of year) our family Advent calendar, and my housework program.I coordinate all my tasks, to-do's, housework, events, reading, and craftiness onto one page that I follow through the week.Blame my darn ADD but

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-69557674308534431542011-11-17T19:50:00.004-05:002011-11-17T22:43:55.852-05:00

Can't believe it's been a WEEK! Need to improve on that bad habit of letting time get away from me.To see the original 30DOT post, you can go here.79 a perfect fall sunset shillouetting the farm-scape80 lunch dates with DaHubby81 looking into DaHub's eyes without glasses following his LASIK surgery. Falling in love with him all over again.82 a good night's sleep83 sun streaming in my kitchen door

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-33460417550858001362011-11-10T06:48:00.000-05:002011-11-10T06:48:00.152-05:00

Curse you, Kindle! You've distracted me again! LOLThis is another FREE contribution to my reading list thanks to Free Books For Kindle on Facebook. It was not on my original list for the reading challenge but one I'm glad I read.Sin and Scarifice: Daughters of Eve Book #1 is a little bit of everything...thriller, suspense, romance, supernatural all rolled into one. While it refers to Adam, Eve,

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-13469771080660231152011-11-09T06:39:00.000-05:002011-11-09T06:39:01.224-05:00

For more WW, go here.

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-72351348128314496902011-11-08T18:36:00.002-05:002011-11-08T18:46:39.470-05:00

See what 30 Days of Thanksgiving are all about here.68. cozy days reading in bed69. comfort food like mac and cheese70. warm laundry, freshly folded71. a long, lounging, steamy shower72. the wet, windy smell of fall73. leftover birthday cake74. vacuumed couches75. a clean desk76. a clean sink77. clean floors78. an easy to-do list on a lazy day

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-347402950129351272011-11-07T17:26:00.000-05:002011-11-08T18:36:51.383-05:00

See my original 30 Days of Thanksgiving post here.47. Flicka cleaning the house48. My new mud room locker room...49. ...and my handy hubby.50. Spending nearly the whole day alone with DaHubby for his birthday51. Snuggling on the couch52. Before-bed hugs from Flicka53. Backyard campfires54. The smell of onions, garlic, and celery sauting55. Really good batch of potato soup56. Care packages from

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-5710289354981043242011-11-03T21:57:00.006-04:002011-11-03T22:40:32.638-04:00

Read my original post here.40. chocolate chip cookies41. a warm bed while listening to cold rain42. the Vikings' teachers and principal43. a tech-savvy hubby44. moose tracks ice cream45. free coupons to Pizza Hut46. good reports at parent teacher conferences

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-15716337521574658352011-11-02T09:46:00.003-04:002011-11-02T09:46:00.721-04:00

See my original 30 Days of Thanksgiving explanation here.31. bright cold mornings with long warm shadows32. comfort food leftovers33. the ability to read34. Reese's peanut butter cups35. golden orange sunsets36. "cheesy taters" aka scalloped potatoes with ham37. family that loves me NO MATTER WHAT38. little "work angels" that look out for DaHubby for me :)39. tangerines

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-35816286596256552972011-11-02T05:37:00.000-04:002011-11-02T05:37:00.604-04:00

For more WW, go here.

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-33412316398420137972011-11-01T22:10:00.001-04:002011-11-01T22:13:11.272-04:00

As seen on Focus On The Family's Facebook page...

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-33985963632202486012011-10-31T21:53:00.003-04:002011-11-01T08:07:59.465-04:00

See my original explanation for my 30 Days of Thanksgiving here.21. for the children's ministry at our local church 22. for a true day of rest for all four of us on Sunday 23. for music and a message that fits *exactly* with the worries and concerns I've been having 24. for the innocence of my children... 25. ...and the recent encouragement of several fronts to defend that innocence.26. the most

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-57828118506909254532011-10-28T20:20:00.004-04:002011-10-28T20:27:55.731-04:00

My original explanation is here.11. productive quiet time12. time alone with DaHubby while kids are in school13. Pojke's teacher who has been a Godsend this year during his difficult transition from being home all day with me in Michigan to full-day kindergarten without me here in Illinois14. that Pojke was able to go back to bed for another 2 hrs after waking up yet again during the night as has

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-30101824153690148462011-10-28T18:29:00.005-04:002011-10-28T20:20:40.129-04:00

Just like I've mentioned before, I really like the idea of using what you have to recycle or "up-cycle" into something else.A recent problem? We needed curtains for the our bedroom. Not only did we need curtains but DaHubby really needs black-out curtains for the days after he works an overnight shift. But, ones from the store were still more expensive than what we wanted to part with.Plus, we

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-83129133147910687572011-10-27T22:55:00.004-04:002011-10-28T18:29:41.524-04:00

See my original explanation here of how I'm trying to be more thankful daily (using this as my inspiration) for the 30 days before Thanksgiving. My goal is 100 things. What will YOURS be?1.Sun and rain at the same time2.The sound of my kids laughing3. Feeling crafty4.Working in kitchen with DaHubby5.The way DaHubby problem solves6.The smell of bananas7. DaHubby building stuff8.The feel of fleece

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-18496459880137586182011-10-27T06:34:00.000-04:002011-10-27T06:34:00.376-04:00

When I was blogging more often, I got hooked up with with Glass Road Public Relations and their book promotions. Now that life has slowed down (a little), I wanted to get back in the swing of things so I jumped on board for a recent blog tour."God Makes Lemonade" seemed like a book I could really appreciate in this season of life. After all we've been through recently, I thought I'd find

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-64307332888861109502011-10-26T10:14:00.008-04:002011-11-03T06:25:34.515-04:00

In 2007 and 2010, this was the bloggy home of "30 Days of Thanksgiving" (30DOT). I've organized it different ways...it could be the 30 days including the weekends or one year I did it without.I've also participated with my dear bloggy friend, Pam, who hosts her weekly Thursday Thanks Tank. And, I've made it a habit for several years to challenge myself to write down 100 things I'm thankful for

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-70593052196420923142011-10-26T06:42:00.002-04:002011-10-26T09:30:10.429-04:00

Another generation of "gymp"/ laynards dedication! LOLFor more WW, go here.

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-42198905681725510492011-10-25T11:00:00.002-04:002011-10-25T11:00:01.829-04:00

We are renting our new place in IL since we haven't sold our former home in MI yet. And, in the interest of being good and responsible tenants, we are trying to wreck as little havoc on this house while we live here.I've been wanting to put up curtains in the bedrooms (for starters) because it make a room feel cozier than mini-blinds. However, we didn't want to have to drill a bunch of holes and

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-59583287035228345722011-10-25T07:44:00.004-04:002011-10-25T07:47:33.540-04:00

Found on FB at Laugh It Out!

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-54556365933851542582011-10-24T10:47:00.000-04:002011-10-24T10:47:00.264-04:00

More Pinterest-inspired crafty goodness...One for MommaOne for FlickaOne for Pojke

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-11503447877278496702011-10-21T11:47:00.003-04:002011-10-21T11:47:00.528-04:00

I'm still chugging my way through my Fall Into Reading challenge hosted by Katrina at Callapidder Days. If you check out my original book list, there were no Kindle books on there. LOL Unfortunately, my darling hubby tempted me off the straight and narrow path of hard-copy book reading by getting me a new tablet running Android with a Kindle for Android app! LOL And, my new addiction to the

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-85123403898447948952011-10-11T09:26:00.002-04:002011-10-11T09:27:45.598-04:00

as seen on Tully NewsInfo on FB

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-10337451776501424842011-10-05T05:59:00.003-04:002011-10-05T07:48:22.291-04:00

A favorite spot in a new favorite park...For more WW, go here.

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-52671395873800987372011-10-04T20:01:00.002-04:002011-10-04T22:22:28.868-04:00

We were doing all right until recently. My kids were floating through all the changes with relative ease.The kids missed DaHubby during all the hours he put in working full time while schooling full time but they seemed to cope well. They fussed significantly less than expected when DaHubs was laid off and we had to say "no" to SO many splurges, purchases, and events.Flicka leaving her old school

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-28541598992899956762011-10-03T22:17:00.004-04:002011-10-03T22:22:45.692-04:00

I'm starting the Priscilla Shirer study Discerning the Voice of God at my new church. And, when I sat down to do my homework tonight, the word "obedience" kept jumping out at me.We are still working through the first five lessons but belief that God still speaks, that one must expect God will speak, and one must be obedient to hear God speak have been the general theme.So, I sat down and used "

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-19935610469814301842011-10-03T22:12:00.002-04:002011-10-03T22:14:05.132-04:00

source: kushandwizdom.tumblr

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-32378508677225671672011-10-03T14:50:00.004-04:002011-10-03T15:17:55.315-04:00

I love northern Michigan. Most Michiganders do. I love it so much that I married someone from the Upper Peninsula! LOL The fascination and mystique about Lake Superior, Sault Ste Marie, Marquette, Calumet, Thunder Bay, and Duluth is hard to explain. And, the love of Great Lakes freighters is one many people around the Great Lakes can attest to. I'd bet more than half have wondered what it would

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-23399628538123441212011-09-29T07:40:00.003-04:002011-10-03T14:50:26.352-04:00

I can't believe I finished my first book in the first week of Katrina's Fall Into Reading challenge! Woo-hoo! LOL However, this book wasn't even on my list. I hit "publish" last Friday on my FIR post, went to check the mailbox, and there it was from paperbackswap.com! Can I tell you how much I *LOVE* getting books for free!?Anyway, "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers was suggested to me by some

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-33043061379820371382011-09-28T05:34:00.002-04:002011-09-28T06:52:58.861-04:00

For more WW, go here.

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-49204601778719503562011-09-26T17:52:00.003-04:002011-09-26T18:09:56.140-04:00

I recently started a Bible study through the new church we've been attending since school started. Having participated in our former church's women's ministry and its "Just For Joy" Bible studies, including some by Beth Moore and Priscilla Shirer, it seemed familiar to take "Discerning the Voice of God" by Shirer this fall.While there are a lot of REALLY good nuggets (and I'm only two days into

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-7584225005774404332011-09-23T14:58:00.002-04:002011-10-31T11:47:54.209-04:00

Today is the first day of Katrina's Fall Into Reading challenge! This is the first one I've done in this fall season. Usually, I do the spring challenge but, things being as they are around here right now with both kids in school all day and DaHubby working endless hours at his new job, I *finally* have time to do some leisure reading. Woo hoo! As I prepared my list, I picked eight books I'd

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-78127622965454646652011-09-21T05:14:00.001-04:002011-09-21T07:10:03.052-04:00

More WW here.

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-61896194341890450182011-09-20T16:08:00.004-04:002011-09-20T18:13:47.058-04:00

We've been at our new address here in Illinois for about 7 weeks. Lots of unpacking, purging, cleaning, and hanging stuff up going on.Despite the gender stereotypes, I have no talent and no real interest in house decorating. The extent of my need to decorate usually entails covering windows with curtains so I don't feel like I'm living in a fishbowl or, not liking a blank wall and finding

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-78316015035215276252011-09-16T19:28:00.007-04:002011-09-17T09:33:12.709-04:00

I stumbled across a post at Frugal Hacks this week from its "DeputyHeadmistress" and how she solved a home decorating/organization problem without buying a thing! *gasp*Imagine that!She did it with what she already had and re-purposed it.Now, "re-purposing" is either exalted or looked down on depending on which side of the frugalness aisle you're walking these days.But, after the last four years,

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-74148905775154784992011-09-09T07:54:00.007-04:002011-09-09T08:44:03.004-04:00

So, I'm SO tired of packing and unpacking boxes, de-cluttering, sorting, organizing, and cleaning that I needed a crafty "coffee break".I took this idea I found on Pinterest and made the little dry erase board for our bathroom ($1.20):Then, I took this idea from Pinterest and made this fall banner for our front porch ($3):And, finally I took an idea from our house in Michigan and asked DaHubby to

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-6978546924145385652011-09-08T19:13:00.006-04:002011-09-08T19:35:20.551-04:00

It has been another emotionally brutal week at the Viking Hus...no bones about it.At one time or another this week, one or more of us has collapsed under the combined pressure of all the stress we've been under the last couple years...living apart, then new jobs, schools, homes, states, friends, churches, etc.And, it's been hard.Really hard.But, we will praise Him in the storm. So...Thankful for

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-7479851194838931712011-09-01T19:59:00.008-04:002011-09-01T20:36:40.158-04:00

It has been a simple week here at the Viking Hus. Simple in that we are FINALLY in our new home. That we have made a conscious decision to move towards less clutter and only things we love coming into the house while all the mess of moving boxes and such stay out of sight in the garage. Simplify, simplify, simplify has been a type of glue holding everything together through the last 4 weeks of

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-7133353606336120992011-08-31T08:47:00.004-04:002011-08-31T09:30:56.008-04:00

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-73815704380902458972011-07-26T09:09:00.002-04:002011-07-26T10:49:14.580-04:00

Transition time.Those are often words that strike fear into the heart of any mom occasionally. Tranistions are prime and ripe for a battle of wills or temper tantrum.We become experts at trying to get ahead of the curve. We give time warnings: "you have 5 minutes left to play before we have to leave." We make it a game: "it's time to clean up. The first one done gets a prize." We remind: "you

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-65215281123775443902011-07-25T13:24:00.003-04:002011-07-25T23:08:38.940-04:00

I have a real problem with patience.No, seriously.It's probably the one greatest (non-physical) thing I would change about myself. It's the biggest fault that ties all my other foibles together.And, while I know my impatience stains and strains nearly every aspect of my life (my faith, my parenting, my marriage, friendships, self-concept, etc.) I was pulled up short last week by a blog post by

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-44652638324246971042011-07-19T11:24:00.002-04:002011-07-19T11:45:07.248-04:00

Our little idyllic existence kinda crashed over the weekend.Inferno-like temps. Too much whining. Too many short tempers. Too much "new stuff" for the kids. They're on complete overload - shots, new dentist, new church, off to VBS with another new church building and not one person they know.DaHubby's on overload as well. After 6 months of constant 40 hr/week schooling and training (basically

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-23208945133334552792011-07-18T10:44:00.003-04:002011-07-18T11:01:57.583-04:00

Establish my heart, oh Lord...Take meMake meRe-make meInto that which glorifies YouAsking You inAsking You nearKnowing You were there alreadyBut I was afraidPeel awayBurn awayYank awayAll that keep me from You.Strengthen mePurify meValidate mefor Your service.You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. James 5:8

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-21219729380943156152011-07-15T12:50:00.004-04:002011-07-15T13:11:04.274-04:00

As Jen sets the example, so I follow...1. I was invited. I registered. Still don't get it. Pinterest. Anyone wanna explain it to me? LOL2. One of the most beautiful blogs to read, to see, to digest, to learn from: A Holy Experience Go there now!3. Can I tell ya how incredibly, entirely, sublimely THRILLED Pojke is that this place is right down the road from us here in Illinois now? LOL4. If we

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-15796083471190718202011-07-15T10:34:00.003-04:002011-07-15T11:11:41.763-04:00

The "be where you say you will be" rule was broken last night.For the second time.First time? We talked, re-iterated the rule and reasons, and restricted that particular activity for a time.Second time, she was with a friend. And, the friend got "grounded." We haven't used those before but I had an idea. I wanted to see if she was really *getting* it.After explaining again what the rule was and

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-41820982574211490482011-07-14T13:58:00.002-04:002011-07-14T14:12:47.826-04:00

Well, it looks like Pam and I are both jumping back in today with the thankfulness habit...Things filling my tank today:Like an "unspoken prayer" at church and to save everyone from a little TMI, I'm thankful for a resolution in a female health area.I'm thankful for a hubby who recognized I was completely out of energy and completely inundated with boogers and took over dinner clean-up and

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-7114937265956656142011-07-14T08:32:00.003-04:002011-07-14T08:48:09.922-04:00

I'm sure Martha Stewart would be horrified at my housekeeping skills. To be honest, I think my in-laws are as well.I've always liked the "lived in but not cluttered" kind of approach but I've been known to be missing SEVERAL parts of the cleaning genes it seems most housekeepers pick up naturally.With all the recent changes around the Viking Hus, pretty much everything has gotten an overhaul. But

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-26148100659886263872011-07-12T12:29:00.003-04:002011-07-12T13:51:52.679-04:00

I tend to obsess.Big shocker, eh?It feels like my ADD drives me to focus on details - some relevant, some not. I don't "do" change well either. It throws me off my grand master plan to get things accomplished. As a result, I take criticism hard because (one) it means going back over those details and (two) it might mean change.So, when a well-meaning senior citizen who sat with us July Fourth

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-33495289209595377382011-07-10T21:53:00.007-04:002011-07-10T23:02:42.112-04:00

As with most challenges in life, you tell yourself (or someone else tells you) that these troubles are here for a reason and that you'll look back some day and see the bigger reason. Usually, it takes a pretty good chunk of time for that to happen but the older I've gotten the more I realize it is true.Sometimes the meaning sneaks up on you and comes to the surface when you least expect it. Other

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-62159427156200224382011-07-08T10:03:00.004-04:002011-07-10T23:00:55.057-04:00

Been having trouble getting my blogging discipline ramped up again so, as I scanned through 1000+ blog posts waiting for me in Google Reader, I thought I'd jump on board with a meme from one of my favorite bloggers, Jen at Conversion Diary.So, seven random thoughts for today...1. I've shocked myself and many others with my assertion that we are actually very happy (thankyouverymuch) with our

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-8389924671181370412011-07-05T08:25:00.004-04:002011-07-05T09:55:55.615-04:00

So...we've made our initial move to Illinois. And, we are loving it. We are finally living together as a family for the first time in 6 months. We love our little town of 3,000 people. We're loving the area which is a beautiful combination of wooded wonders, a beautiful river, and currently adolescent corn fields. :)And, in the course of enjoying the weekend's festivities, we're starting to meet

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-32115699594284975052011-04-17T16:42:00.004-04:002011-04-17T16:53:45.469-04:00

Very few things have been written in stone for us lately. All of us at the Viking Hus have learned the value of "going with the flow" and "letting go and letting God" in recent years.But, when it comes to coordinating a cross-region/three-state move, at some point you have to (poop) or get off the pot! LOLAfter sitting down with all the respective calendars (his work, Flicka's school, summer

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-69581608010013644272011-04-09T22:02:00.004-04:002011-04-09T22:27:31.716-04:00

We've been through a lot these last few years. Our lessons have been in patience, waiting for God's timing, faith in His promises, and trust in His provision. And, He has kept every last one - just not always as we expected.It's been a refining time. Our belief is stronger; our faith is deeper. But, we've learned that that doesn't happen with simply reading the Word and/or attending church. Or,

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-82181306214090905472011-04-01T21:29:00.003-04:002011-04-01T21:36:13.471-04:00

One of my best friends turned me on to this very simple craft to spiff up plain shirts. It is also good for hiding stains on favorite shirts that the Vikings are not ready to let go of yet. LOLOld shirts + contrasting "scrap" or bargain material + iron-on transfer web = these little beauties!

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-10197998350398220562011-03-31T19:18:00.005-04:002011-03-31T20:52:03.849-04:00

My ADD has been un-medicated for nearly 8 years. I did well with meds when I was teaching full-time but during our infertility struggles, pregnancy losses, subsequent deliveries of Flicka and Pojke, and nursing both until nearly 24 months each, I spent from 2003 - 2008 either pregnant or nursing someone so I was unable to take any stimulants.I'm a big advocate of metacognition and behavior mod -

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-3546089727847410282011-03-29T12:03:00.003-04:002011-03-29T12:18:29.743-04:00

FIVE years? Seriously?Five years ago today I sat down and opened up my first blog at Faithprints. The core group of ladies I met there are still bloggy buddies of mine. They watched and read as I recovered from Pojke's delivery, lost 2 more angels to heaven, lost DaHubby's brother to cancer, and witnessed the miracles of DaHubby's sister surviving leukemia and our church elder walk after break

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-4485306686342454792011-03-28T20:48:00.007-04:002011-03-28T21:30:02.896-04:00

What's your bottom line for your children's education? If I asked you "what are the top three things you want your child(ren) to take away from their initial education" (I'm talking K-12), what would they be? Independence? Free thinker? A good citizen? Excellent grades? A certain religious/ethical outlook? An athlete on scholarship?I've thought a lot about it...particularly since we're struggled

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-55911950361318367462011-03-22T13:32:00.003-04:002011-03-22T13:46:58.133-04:00

How much is "enough"? How much 'til one is happy? Or, how little does one need to be content?As I mentioned yesterday, we've been slowly shedding things and attitudes the last year or so. While it has often lightened our hearts and shown us what's truly important, we are still swimming against the tide of popular beliefs.I've sat in different combinations of moms this last year or so hearing

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-89776378018498365622011-03-21T21:08:00.006-04:002011-03-21T21:47:53.009-04:00

As one has probably noticed, my blogging has become sporadic the last year or so.DaHubby was in school full time while still working full time for nearly two years. We didn't see him much. Then, as DaHubby's hours got cut in 2009, our financial problems became more worrisome. Then, in February 2010, our finances went into "panic mode" when DaHubby was laid off. DaHubby graduated in May of 2010

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-85542021604751059802011-02-03T19:23:00.007-05:002011-02-03T21:36:26.393-05:00

We've tested, tried, and tinkered with homeschooling but never made a fully committed leap to do if full time. Once we found Flicka's current school and exercised our school-of choice option, we've been so happy with the teachers, administrators, and the overall situation that our need to home school faded to a lesser extent.And, my feelings about homeschooling in terms of philosophy have changed

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-40070457287098361872011-01-31T10:26:00.002-05:002011-01-31T22:16:35.172-05:00

I'm looking at a fairly long list of things that have been bumping around in my brain today but can't seem to SETTLE on one and expand on it. LOL I've been completely overwhelmed with life today despite there being relatively little going on in the grand scheme of things.While I wonder sometimes what God had in mind when He wired my brain this way, I am still in the camp that slowly came to

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-44648258454445278652011-01-26T22:24:00.003-05:002011-01-26T23:09:16.437-05:00

I tend to talk...a lot. LOL And, I tend to work things out in my head by talking them through with someone. I've learned this about myself and I am blessed to have a couple trusted friends and family I talk to when coming up on big decisions.Then, due to my ADD, I tend to speak first and think later. LOL And, because of that, I tend to obsess about losing friends due to my ADD due to interrupting

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-38395591658005712472011-01-24T20:13:00.004-05:002011-01-24T20:47:39.353-05:00

The last year has been one of change for the Viking Hus. DaHubby was laid off in February from a place he had worked at for nearly 20 years. I worked outside the home for the first in a long time in March and April. DaHubby graduated in the top 5 of his class in May with a degree in his new field. Flicka began all-day school in September. After many interviews and some traveling, DaHubby finally

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-21527680392731551012011-01-14T10:15:00.003-05:002011-01-14T10:38:06.427-05:00

You never want to say "good luck" to DaHubby. LOL It's a pet peeve of his. His typical short retort is "no such thing as luck" but the longer response will get you an earful about God being all-powerful and, if you truly believe that, He's in control of all things at all times so there is no "luck." Things happen with His guidance and direction.So, I think I've now found my equivalent pet

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-26370994046670127142010-11-15T20:40:00.004-05:002010-11-15T20:59:51.387-05:00

...and where did the time go? The daily chaos at the Viking Hus continued but in a good way...*Lord, thank you for my new job. Even though it's part-time, even though it's temporary through the holidays, and even though the pay is not great, it was Your perfect timing for something to fill our recent "gap" financially.*Thank you for the environment at work. The quiet, the mental challenge, the

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-40406405870722034792010-11-08T20:48:00.002-05:002010-11-08T20:53:55.520-05:00

Many thanks to my in-house uber-geek for whippin' this up today! A blast was had by all!So what are YOU thankful for today?

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-89778386253287818502010-11-07T19:31:00.003-05:002010-11-07T21:23:48.320-05:00

The Viking Hus is tired from our whirlwind road trip Saturday morning 'til tonight. So, I'll keep it short and sweet...Thank you Lord for all the really nice people along the way.Thanks for the traveling mercies and Your hand of protection through icky Chicago traffic. LOLThank you for the restfulness at the hotel. I may not have slept that well but being "off duty" from momma chores and the like

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-64759076329434730202010-11-05T14:45:00.003-04:002010-11-05T15:01:40.513-04:00

I generally write my blog posts after the Vikings go to bed. However, I missed the last few nights as our schedule left me falling asleep on the couch right after the kids went to bed.So, to make up for lax blogging...For Wednesday...thank you, Lord, for the people who work for the state of Michigan within the unemployment/job assistance office as well as the people at the food assistance office

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-3992592706505433942010-11-02T21:21:00.003-04:002010-11-02T21:45:53.695-04:00

I am thankful beyond words that people I know...friends, family, and others...daily defend my right to have walked into my local ice rink and, within 10 minutes, cast my vote in the 2010 elections.Whether "my" choices win or lose, democracy doesn't get much better than this! *big smile*"Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-44338031360726119492010-11-01T20:47:00.004-04:002010-11-01T21:11:28.336-04:00

Despite what many might believe, I actually have a tough time making friends with other women. Being a non-shopping, clothes-hatin', non-wine-drinking, no-men-bashin', low-maintenance, no-make-up-wearing girl doesn't exactly make me the first person new female neighbors flock to. LOLHowever, I have a few girlfriends that God's blessed me with that really "get" me...or find me silly enough to have

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-27450704453451296842010-10-31T20:20:00.002-04:002010-10-31T20:30:13.209-04:00

I'm currently in a Bible study on Wednesday mornings that's reading "The Power of a Positive Mom". One of the suggestions in the first half of the book is to cultivate an "attitude of gratitude" in your kids. I have been meaning to start it with the Vikings back when I read it the first time but we're still finding our groove with first-grade worksheets/reading homework, the Sunday school

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-14137905585297648342010-10-30T10:59:00.003-04:002010-10-30T11:05:25.391-04:00

This is not technically on thankfulness but more about "mindfulness," I suppose. But, powerful nonetheless and a must-see especially for those of us techie, smart phone, Facebook, Twitter devotees...and well worth the 15 minutes spent watching.So, what are YOU thankful for today?

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-35937807374384124982010-10-29T21:40:00.002-04:002010-10-29T21:56:14.708-04:00

It may seem odd but I'm thankful tonight despite my sister-in-law being rushed to a hospital earlier tonight.Peggy has spent the last 33 months in the fight of her life but she came out victorious! She's been cancer/leukemia-free (and technically "male" for the rest of her life thanks to her little brother's stem cell transplant LOL) since August 2008.But, it's been a long road back and life has

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-51384192856231842582010-10-28T21:11:00.003-04:002010-10-29T10:26:34.576-04:00

One of my favorite things about DaHubby, after his musicality, is how darn handy he is. Not only is he crafty-capable but he does beautiful work. DaHubby has, among other things, built houses, built boats, remodeled our old kitchen, re-roofed that home, and re-wired our current home.So, as we face the very-near possibility of selling our house in the next 8 months, it is nice to be having

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-14590736836487750042010-10-27T22:13:00.003-04:002010-10-27T22:26:10.394-04:00

Quick list since I'm snuggled up on the couch with my favorite nuke worker who is on his only night off.Bible study today. Great.Gorgeous weather. Even better.Getting the grocery shopping done in under an hour. Pretty awesome.Family night at home w/ a movie & pizza for all four of us. Priceless.So what are YOU thankful for today??

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-27281150876993495542010-10-26T21:29:00.005-04:002010-10-26T21:49:05.054-04:00

I don't think it's any big news to anyone that this recent economy stinks. And, it's no big shocker that Michigan has gotten hit with more than its fair share of the bad news. Finally, the county I live in has one of the highest unemployment rates in Western Michigan. And, my county's rate has been higher than all but four of the counties in the Upper Peninsula.Nearly every block around my

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-3979708155520159442010-10-25T21:56:00.003-04:002010-10-25T22:34:13.398-04:00

Murphy's been visiting often to the point of moving in the last few years. Murphy as in Murphy's Law. It's been one thing after another for over a year. Fridge breaking down. Car problems. Unexpected ER trips with large deductibles. Home repairs. DaHubby's hours got cut. Then, he got laid off. DaHubby's unemployment got summarily canceled twice by mistake leaving us with no income for 2-4

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-7951636432734970632010-10-24T21:13:00.003-04:002010-10-24T21:24:51.699-04:00

Very appreciative of a few of DaHubby's many good traits today.One of my favorite things about him is his musical ability. It calms him, challenges him, and brings him (and those around him) a lot of joy. Watching him play is almost as fun as listening to what he's playing.Before we met, one of the things high on my future-husband priority list (LOL) was someone that would help fill my future

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-2057957075370425832010-10-23T21:22:00.003-04:002010-10-23T21:40:12.504-04:00

The Vikings and I were out and about today as has been our habit lately while DaHubby works nights and is sleeping through the morning and early afternoon.We spent a couple hours at the local kids' museum, grabbed lunch out, and then headed to our local theater which is running a family friendly film festival with second-tier (like just out on DVD) big name movies which are free for the kids and

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-75586701339265903102010-10-23T00:15:00.003-04:002010-10-23T00:22:18.777-04:00

...I missed my Friday post since it is 12:15am but before I go to bed, I wanted to make sure to write down what I'm thankful for today.I'm thankful for my Bible study and an attempt to re-vamp my attitude. With all that's been swirling around us the last year or so, it's been hard to stay focused on what's important. But, we're reading "The Power of a Positive Mom" for Bible study this session

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-19021895192973559412010-10-21T20:32:00.005-04:002010-10-22T07:27:53.429-04:00

Except for a short period of time in high school when I thought I'd grow up, be all metropolitan, get a job at Metro Detroit's alternative newspaper, and live in some converted loft in downtown Detroit, I've wanted to live near Lake Michigan. For as far back as I can remember.DaHubby and I joke that I only agreed to marry him after I saw he drove a great big, brand-new, beautiful, black Ford F150

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-86508157707112178792010-10-20T19:45:00.003-04:002010-10-20T20:22:47.841-04:00

Our life has been moving like a freight train lately with DaHubby and I hanging onto the railing on the caboose! LOL But, I guess that's better where we're looking right into the oncoming lights.DaHubby and I are seriously time-deprived lately. Like the last two years while he was working full time and schooling full time, I'm basically running everything at home. The difference? DaHubby's now

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-13557671017733286582010-10-19T12:58:00.005-04:002010-10-19T20:17:51.602-04:00

We are truly blessed with the number of "angels in our midst" when it come to those non-family folks that love on our kids. We've been just tickled pink with the adults that have come along side Flicka and Pojke in our recent travels.We couldn't have be happier with Flicka's kindergarten teacher and are completed thrilled with this year's first grade teacher. From the principal to the support

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-90616506887943323102010-10-18T14:08:00.002-04:002010-10-18T14:27:29.391-04:00

It's been an exceptional fall in Southwest Michigan. And, when I say "exceptional" I mean that these last few weeks have been the exception to the Michigan historic fall "rules." We have had particularly wet autumns the last few years. However, the last 30 days have been quite the reverse. According to the Weather Underground site, we've spent 26 of the last 30 days without precipitation!

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-13805204605629174352010-10-17T22:38:00.005-04:002010-10-17T23:17:17.014-04:00

Off and on for the last few years, I've been the home base for the "30 Days of Thanksgiving." I let it slide in 2008 and 2009 but feel I need to do a derivative of it for 2010.Originally, the idea was to create a list of 30 people to send a snail mail, email, text, something to once a day for 30 days to say thank you for the part they played in your life. Instead, I'm going to attempt to blog

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-62474574603704643012010-05-06T22:05:00.002-04:002010-05-06T22:25:18.674-04:00

Well, as of yesterday, I have been on my new housework organizer one month from motivatedmoms.com. And, I think I can easily say EVERYONE around the Viking Hus is really enjoying the fruits of our labors. The dishes are being kept up with; the laundry is done regularly, too. The kitchen floor has been mopped more often in the last 30 days than ever before. The bathroom is cleaner than any time

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-34770530866101736952010-05-05T05:58:00.002-04:002010-05-05T05:58:00.117-04:00

Three thousand, two hundred, and eighty-seven days.That's how long DaHubby and I have been married today. In some ways, it's seems like yesterday. And, in others, my single life seems like EONS ago. LOLBut, as I considered what to write in praise of my wonderful partner-in-crime this week, my attention fell more than once this week to a little wall plaque in my kitchen. This wooden heart hung on

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-37267525471040672572010-05-04T06:19:00.002-04:002010-05-04T06:19:00.247-04:00

This is a quick and easy tip that keeps my purse (somewhat) cleaner...In the interest of child and parent sanity, I've carried crayons in my purse for those unexpected down times mommas often find themselves with as long as I can remember. But, I hated the way they left "goobers" all over the bottom of my purse. Even when I kept them in a Ziplock-style bag, it wasn't a perfect solution.I don't

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-9728631955703961682010-04-29T19:11:00.004-04:002010-04-29T19:44:02.132-04:00

It's a hard week to remember to be thankful. Life keeps coming at us with both barrels.Boogers and sore throats have plagued the house this week.When I went to pay 1/4 of this month's bills this week, I had a whopping $49 dollars to work with.Then, we woke up this morning to the minivan having a flat. Not something that could be patched or plugged but in the sidewall so the only choice is to

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-70467741240678495812010-04-28T09:27:00.003-04:002010-04-28T09:47:44.879-04:00

I've been doing research for a gift for Flicka's kindergarten teacher this week because Teacher Appreciation week starts next Monday. I've always been jealous how elementary teachers seem to benefit more from this than us poor, neglected secondary teachers. LOL But, I also remember vividly how much work teaching is and I want Mrs. S to know how much Flicka and her parents appreciate all the work

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-25125976970221672282010-04-28T09:13:00.002-04:002010-04-28T09:14:47.255-04:00

Miss Flicka at cherub choir at last Saturday night's church service.She's the blond on the left end. LOL

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-37853414226417331762010-04-27T06:49:00.006-04:002010-04-27T07:21:32.823-04:00

So, do your kids have chores? Daily tasks? Family contribution tasks? For money or expected?I think chores are often one of those parent conundrums we all deal with at some point. At the Viking Hus, it was determined early that the Vikings would be responsible for their general upkeep. LOL But, how does a mom do this with preschoolers, kindergarteners, and/or young children?The trick was I wanted

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-25790898003862160182010-04-25T11:16:00.002-04:002010-04-25T11:30:42.278-04:00

Had a random thought during Pastor D's sermon last night...I've heard people say before "I don't believe in a God that would damn anyone to hell" "God is love," and things of the like. And, as tempting and warm & fuzzy that is, it's always bothered me. Partially because it seemed like a cop-out. First of all, how good is a parent that is all-mercy with no discipline? What do they end up with?

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-14266617099500462702010-04-22T12:29:00.003-04:002010-04-22T12:43:35.234-04:00

"Turn that frown upside down!"In an effort to stay on the thankful side of things, I'm taking the list of gripes I've had in my head today and choosing to put a positive spin on them.I've got a sore throat and I think I'm getting sick:Well, having a cold is WAY better than being hospitalized, having cancer, having something broken, or a chronic illness. There are many in the world that wish they

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-26242309331349507472010-04-20T20:56:00.004-04:002010-04-20T21:50:47.979-04:00

DaHubby and I married in 2001. We were 32. So, after the whirlwind courtship, the 11 months of wedding planning, and then the ceremony, we deemed it appropriate to jump right in with the whole makin' babies thing. (Don't worry - this is a family-friendly blog. That's as far as that chain of thought is gonna go. LOL)However, as 2001 ended, we were completely obsessed with temperature taking,

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7670999577068514764.post-67742883617803003072010-04-13T20:49:00.005-04:002010-04-13T21:26:36.245-04:00

I've been pondering a question posed to me yesterday and just couldn't come up with a good answer.While at the park with the kids, another mom I know was there. As we exchanged pleasantries, she asked how things were going. I gave her my usual update: 20-some days 'til DaHubby's graduation, 9 weeks since his layoff but by God's grace we were hanging in there, paddling against the tide, keeping

Beth/Mom2TwoVikingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093286971978819404noreply@blogger.com3