Life at the Zoo

One God, Two and a half Days!

2010-11-16T15:52:00.002-05:00

This past weekend I was able to get away from my busy schedule and the life of being a mom and a wife and escape to Hershey, PA for a women's retreat with some of my favorite women in my life. These are the things I learned about this past weekend.

1. I never heard of Kim Walker,but apparently I should. I love her worship leading. I felt so close to heaven and I am in love with the songs "How He loves" and "Happy Day".

2. I learned that not all of the chocolate in Hershey is made in Hershey, PA but in Mexico. Not really fair in my book.

3. I have seen Liz Curtis Higgs books in the bookstore and have thought about purchasing many of her books but never did. Now that I have heard her speak and she is one funny lady, I am going to being her books.

4. I also realized that it is okay to not be a deep person all the time. I find life fun and love to make people laugh and I learned this past weekend that it is okay to find the humor in things.

5. I love the women that I went with and I am blessed beyond measures to have these women in my life. We stayed up till wee hours of the night talking and laughing.

6. And finally, I learned that Jesus loves me just the way I am. He accepts me just the way I am. And it is good to know because I don't need to find love in other people I have it in HIM!

Trick or Treat!

2010-11-02T08:20:00.004-04:00

This year was a little different in the fact that Sam was able to walk around for himself and get his own candy. Megan insisted once again on being a super hero. So she went as Wonder Women and not just any Wonder Women, a pink Wonder Women. And Sam went as the cutest little Superman I have ever seen.

We stopped at my Nana's house and Uncle Bobo's. Then we headed over to my brother in law's and girlfriends house for dinner and then a walk around there street. It was a cold halloween but we had a blast.

I am also homeroom mom for Megan's class this year. I got to plan her first party. It was a lot of fun being a part of her class and seeing her in that setting.

Sam turned 2

2010-10-25T20:55:00.004-04:00

I can't believe that my little man is 2. It sometimes feels like yesterday when I was pacing back and forth waiting for him to stop crying,lol! He has grown so much. He is loves cars, trucks and motorcycles, just like his daddy, but he is however much of a mamma's boy. Maybe we are mean parents but we did not do anything huge this year for Sam. We figured he would not know who was at his party or not, so we did just immediate family (brother's and sister's). I will admit I forgot my camera for my side of the family.

We reused the cake from the night before. Waste not want not!

He clapped his hands when we were done singing!

He loves Branden, they are working his remote control car!

I love this boy

He was afraid at first!

First time for everything!

2010-09-21T07:50:00.003-04:00

Everyone knows the saying "there's a first time for everything", well Megan had her first day of school two weeks ago. She was so excited to ride the bus and start her first day of kindergarten. It was a happy day for her and a very sad day for me. I didn't think it would be hard to see her go off on that bus that day but it was. As I walked back to the house all these thoughts went through my head. Am I doing the right thing, will she be okay and I really miss my baby girl. When she got home all she talked about was the playground. And to this day all she really talks about is the playground. She loves school and is doing really well. And now that it is two weeks in, I will be honest and admitt I miss her but I also enjoy a little alone time.

A Phillies Birthday Celebration!

2010-08-25T08:55:00.005-04:00

Last night was a night to never forget. We (my mother in law,myself and my daughter Megan) went to the Phillies game. At first it was not a very exciting game, but in the top of the 9th Jimmy Rollins hit a home run tying the game 2 to 2. We staying only till the 11th inning but it went to 16 innings, the Phillies did not win but it was a great game.

My mother in law signed Megan up for the birthday package and in the 2nd inning they came down to her and made her stand on her chair and everyone in the crowd around us sang happy birthday to her and they sprinkled confetti all over her. She loved every moment of it. She asked my mother in law how they knew it was her birthday and she told her the Philly Phanatic knows everything. My Megan sweetly said oh okay, so the Philly Phanatic is like Jesus, he knows everything? It does not get any sweeter then that. Here are some pictures from the night.

2010-08-22T14:46:00.005-04:00

This summer was filled with lot's of sun, fun and sweat! This summer was a hot one. we spent a lot of days either in the pool or in our house with the air conditioner at full blast. But we did get to go to the beach for the week. We rented my grandmother's house in Ocean City, NJ. It was a lot of fun and I got to pass on a lot of traditions that I did as a kid to my children.

We went down with my husband's family. It was my mother in law, brother in law and his fiance and my brother in law's girlfriends son. We spent every day on the beach and most nights on the boardwalk. We had great weather and had a blast.

Megan and Sam did not want to leave the beach. The weather was great and the water was warm. Megan learned to body surf and made a friend to play with everyday we were there.

We also had a great time on the boardwalk. We ate lot's of junk food, and shopped our hearts out and we also had a fun time playing mini golf and riding the ride.

It was a great week of relaxation, fun and lot's of sun. We had a great time spending it with family and I had a lot of fun passing on family traditions.

All Cracked Up!

2010-06-14T10:10:00.002-04:00

Need I say more?

My Easter bunnies!

2010-04-13T08:09:00.003-04:00

Here are some adorable Easter pictures of my little ones. It was hard to get one of Sam staying still.

She is beautiful, I put her hair in rollers the night before.

Here is the whole Conolly gang except for Pop Pop, he was taking the picture

Gotta Love him!

I should of put her in modeling!

He looks so much like his father to me.

The Greatest Show on Earth

2010-03-08T15:08:00.003-05:00

Two Saturdays ago, my brother in law, his fiance, my mother in law and myself took Megan to the Circus. We had a great time and Megan loved every minute of it. I think her favorite part was the tigers and elephants. It was a great spending time with family and the entertainment was great.

The elephants were amazing
Megan and her Uncle Darrel

I can't remember what she was looking at but I love this face.

The whole event is worth seeing again.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-27T09:20:00.003-05:00

They truely do love each other.

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Broken Hallelujah

2010-01-14T13:22:00.002-05:00

The title of this post is a song from Mandisa's new CD. It has become a song that I can't get enough of these days. I play it over and over again in the car, in my home and even when I am on the computer. The words have spoken to me so deeply.

Our church is doing a 21 day corporate fast and at first I thought to myself I don't want to be told to fast and why should I do this. But the Lord convicted me that there are things in my life that the Lord wants to break in my life. So I have been spending a lot of time on my knees before Him asking Him what He wants to reveal in my life that needs to be removed in order to Praise Him more.

I am learning that even in the midst of feeling lonely, tired, sad, and nothing left inside of you, He wants you to praise Him. Sometimes I feel like I don't have anything in me to even lift my hands to Him, and praise Him, I feel just like this song, like all I have is a broken hallelujah or a shattered praise. He accepts that and gives you the strength to make it through just about anything. When all that I can sing Is a broken hallelujah . Here is the chorus to her song and I think it says it all.(When my only offering Is shattered praise Still a song of adoration Will rise up from these ruins I will worship You and give You thanks Even when my only praise Is a broken hallelujah)

I don't really know what else to say but here is the song so you can listen to it for yourself and remember even if it is a Broken Hallelujah, He loves you and will help you through whatever you are going through and He will be the one to lift you out of it.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-13T09:05:00.003-05:00

Big sister puts little brother to sleep on New Year's Day!

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Christmas 2009

2010-01-05T10:15:00.004-05:00

The Conolly Children

Sam and Branden opeing Sam's present

This is the only good picture Sam would let me get.

This was his favorite toy.

Big sister helping her little brother.

Daddy's little boy

Such a sweet little girl

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-23T08:46:00.003-05:00

BATH TIME

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Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-16T13:34:00.003-05:00

Good old photo with Santa. My children know that Santa is not real but still enjoy some old traditions.

A hoiday giveaway

2009-11-30T16:29:00.000-05:00

Head on over to Wild Olive and check out there new giveaway. And if you

don't win the giveaway check out the shirts anyway. They are adorable

and very affordable and would make a great Christmas gift. Your money also

goes to help orphans in China.

2009-11-30T16:18:00.002-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-25T08:43:00.002-05:00

Momma's boy all the way!

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Holloween and Batgirl

2009-11-05T08:02:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday for Halloween we took Megan just around our development for trick or treating. Picking out a costume with her is always an adventure. You just never know what she is going to pick out. Of course I kept showing her all the pretty princess costumes. But, my little girl saw the Bat girl costume and it was decided. Bat girl for Halloween. Megan went around the neighborhood with her best friend Isabel. It was raining for most of it but we still had a good time

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-04T07:51:00.003-05:00

Big sister taking care of her sick brother.

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My Little Fans!!!!!!!

2009-10-31T08:30:00.004-04:00

So the Phillies made it to the World Series. It has been exciting watching them play. I hope they win the title again. As many of you know, my mother - inlaw is a big Phillies fan. She buys season Sunday tickets and is going to game 5 of the World Series. So I thought I would share with you some of my favorite Philly fans.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-28T09:50:00.003-04:00

Frick and Frack watching some TV.

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My baby boy is turning one.

2009-10-23T17:10:00.001-04:00

Sam turns one tomorrow and thought I would share with you a little bit of his year. Enjoy.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-14T10:16:00.002-04:00

Don't you wish sometimes your children could stay like this all the time?

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Sillyness for $1,000 please

2009-10-09T09:27:00.003-04:00

5 Minutes for Mom is having a Silly Kids Photo Contest. The contest is sponsored by Hasbro and the person with the winning photo will receive $1,000 to use towards classes and/or educational material for the child or children. Hasbro will also give $300 to use toward classes and/or educational material for the child or children to the second place winner.

My brother -in-law bought this pacifier for my daughter when she was born. I didn't like it then but when my son was born it reappeared. He has never been a pacifier type baby, but when he was teething he loved to chew on things, so my daughter decided to give him this. Of course I had to take a picture. Every time I look at it I laugh. I hope this makes you smile or even laugh today.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-10-07T12:58:00.003-04:00

She is potty trained and has beened for 2 years. Would you call this regressing? HA HA HA. She does have a little brother.

Vacation and then some

2009-09-29T08:59:00.003-04:00

Last week I had the oppurtunity to go to the shore for the week with my children and my mother-inlaw. We left last Sunday and stayed till Friday morning. I will say that it was an interesting week. Sunday night we were on the boardwalk and got a phone call saying that my husbands best friend was murdered. From that point on I didn't know what to do, do I stay for the week or do I pack up right now and head home to be with my husband? After a long and I mean long talk with my husband, we decided it would be best if I stayed and enjoyed my time with my family.

The weather was perfect, the crowds were few and the children were very well behaved. Going to the shore this time of year is great for the weather and for not dealing with the crowds but the downfall is that there is not a lot of things opened. But over all with everything else going on at home we had a nice time. Megan had a blast and Sam enjoyed the sand and riding in his stroller.

I will say that if our circumstances were different I think I would have enjoyed myself a lot more, but to be honest all I could think about was my husband and the hurt he was going through. I talked to him about twice a day and we left early so I could spend some time with him. It has been a long week and weekend but I am amazed at how God get's us through even on the tough days. He is are Comforter and our strength. All I know is that time heals all things. Over all we had a great time at the shore and here are some pictures to show for it.

Megan Dancing

2009-09-15T11:06:00.001-04:00

Mohawks

2009-09-11T08:36:00.002-04:00

Sam's hair was getting pretty long and so after his bath one night I decided to try and mohawk on his hair. I think it was a little bit too long. So a couple of weeks later, Patrick decided to cut it. Now it spikes pretty well.

7 Years and Counting

2009-09-04T16:44:00.004-04:00

On Monday, Patrick and I will celebrate 7 years of marriage. It has been a good 7 years. We of course have had our moments but I wouldn't trade them for anything because it has made us the people we are and has made our marriage stronger. I am more in love now with the man I married 7 years ago. I put together this slide show at a look back into our lives. I hope you enjoy this and Patrick, this is for you. I love you so much and I am so happy for our lives together.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Birthday Girl!

2009-08-28T10:19:00.005-04:00

I still can't believe that my little girl is now 4 years old. Last Saturday we had a little party for her at my sister's house. It was nice to have it there because everyone could go swimming. We had a great time and the cake was good to. Then on her acutal birthday we had dinner for her at my in-laws house with Patrick's side of the family. I actually made her a cake with some help from my neighbor. I will post a picture of the cake. Let me know what you think of the cake. I must say I am so proud of myself. Here are some pictures from her parties. Patrick and I told her that she could take her best friend and go to the pottery store and make something for her birthday gift. She had a blast.

Pottery Time

Birthday Party # 1 with my side of the family

Birthday Party #2 with Patrick's side of the family

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-08-26T08:30:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday My Little PRINCESS. I can't beleive she is 4 today.

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Phillies

2009-08-21T19:27:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday night Megan and I were able to join my mother-in law to a Phillies game. I will be the first to admit it, I don't really like to watch them on TV but to go to a game is so exciting. It was a hot night but we were in it for the long haul. Usually when I go to a game they lose, but not this night. They closed the night with 4 home runs and won the game 8-1. The new pitcher Cliff Lee was amazing. They better not get rid of him anytime soon. I must say for a late night out and for how hot it was, Megan was a trooper. She enjoyed herself a lot and want to go to more games.

It was one hot night but she hung in there.

She loves this guy. She calls him the Philly Natic.

Girls night out.

My little princess.

When they win a game they play Harry Kalas singing " High Hopes". Megan sang along with him. She knows all the words.

Shore time

2009-08-18T11:31:00.004-04:00

About a week and a half ago we went down to the shore from Wed. to Sat. We got down there late afternoon on Wed. do to traffic jams and then it rained all day Thursday so we were stuck in the house but I didn't mind. I will be honest, I stayed in my pj's till 5 pm. What a great day for me. And then on Friday our friends come down and we did the beach while the guys fished and the boardwalk at night and then packed everything up on Sat. morning and headed home. It was a very nice time and can't wait to go back in Sept. My mother in law got a place for only $700 for the whole week, it will be in the middle of Sept. so weather wise it will be hit or miss, but just the idea of going away sounds fun and relaxing. Nothing like the shore.

Sam and Megan loved the water
I don't know what that look it for
I know purple shovel, he has a big sister.
He ate so much sand.
Getting ready for the beach
So tired, she fell asleep sitting up.
Sam's first ride. He loved it
They loved this pool I think more then the ocean.
Too cute for words
Do you remember dribble castles?

Pool Side

2009-08-03T10:07:00.004-04:00

On Saturday I spent the day with my sister Sarah and her family. She has an above ground pool and with the weather we have been having, I thought it would be fun to let Megan test out her swimming lessons and have Sam test out the waters for the first time. My parents came over then for dinner. Megan did really well, she put on her swimmies and noodle and off she went. Sam loved it to, did not cry once. It was a great day of relaxation and family fun.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-07-29T13:17:00.001-04:00

Summer Days!!!!

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Men and their Toys

2009-07-28T13:33:00.003-04:00

So my husband has many hobbies but the latest hobby is this remote control truck. It is electric and goes as fast as 70 mph. He enjoys taking it out with his friends and their trucks and they race and drive them for hours. I don't quite understand it but, have come to realize that men will be men or should I say boys will be boys. Here is a picture of what he spends a lot of time on.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-07-22T07:52:00.003-04:00

Swim lessons for Megan.Swing rides for Sam.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-07-15T08:12:00.003-04:00

I just love these two little ones so much.

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Discovering

2009-07-10T16:21:00.002-04:00

My little boy is growing up way to fast. He will be 9 months on the 24th of this month. He is doing so many things. He sits up all by himself, he rolls all over the place. And he babbles like you would not beleive. He is very close to crawling. He rolls every where. I was on the computer the other day and he was playing the the floor behind me and all of a sudden I hear Megan say "look at Sam". I turned around and to my surprise he was half way under my bed. This little boy stops at nothing.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-07-08T07:47:00.004-04:00

My daughter Megan and her best friend bringing in the 4th of July!

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Wordless Wednesdays

2009-07-01T09:08:00.003-04:00

They don't get any cuter then this

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Bothered

2009-06-25T09:51:00.002-04:00

Many of you know how much I enjoy watching Jon and Kate plus 8. I was really looking forward to the new series this past May. But as many of you know Jon and Kate have been having a lot of problems and on June 22ND they announced on national television that they will be getting a divorce. You are probably thinking why do I care and why am I blogging about this.

Well...........

For some strange reason this has bothered me probably more then it should. The more I think about it all the more it frustrates me. I think there are a couple of things that bother me the most.

1. What about the children. They keep saying this is what is best for the children. I would think working on their marriage and staying together is what would be best for their children.

2. What about their faith in Christ. They profess to be Christians and I have not seen or heard Christ at all in this whole thing. The Bible makes it very clear how he feels about divorce.

“I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery" (Matt. 19:9).
“Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate" (Mk. 10:9).
“To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife” (1 Cor. 7:10-12).
“Are you married? Do not seek a divorce” (1 Cor. 7:27).

I feel like they haven't even really tried marriage counseling or tried putting Christ into the center of this problem. It seems like they have given up without a fight. It bothers me because they have given Christians a bad name in my mind. I also feel like they are both being very selfish. You don't think about what is best for you in a time like this, you think about what is best for your spouse and your children. Maybe is Jon would love Kate like Christ loved the church and Kate would submit to her husband, and put Christ in the center of there marriage, maybe the announcement on Monday would of been this......."Jon and I are getting help and we are going to make this marriage work".

These are just my thoughts on the issue. I just thought I would get it all out there and off my chest. Here is a link to an article I found very interesting and very true.

http://www.crosswalk.com/blogs/abanes/11605156/

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-06-24T12:58:00.002-04:00

Monday night we went to the Phillies fundraiser for ALS. Pat's 2nd cousin(pictured with Megan) husban dies of ALS. So it was exciting for her and I just go every year with my mother-in-law. This year Megan was not afraid of the Phillynatic(that is how Megan says it).

Knoebels

2009-06-22T08:42:00.006-04:00

Last Sunday we took Megan to Knoebels We took friends of ours with us too so that Megan would have someone to ride the rides with. It is a great amusement park. It is so clean, friendly, family oriented and very reasonalbe in price. It has a lot of older rides and you pay with tickets. Megan was able to go on most of the rides either by herself or with an adult. I think it is the best amusement park I have been to yet. If you haven't gone yet, what are you waiting for?

They also have a huge pavillions so you can even pack your lunch and eat there. You also don't pay for parking or admission. You pay per ride. Here are some pictures from the day. Just so you all know there are none of Sam because we left him with close friends for the day. Thanks Reinford's for watching our little Sam.

This was the only ride she didn't like. I don't think she realized how wet she was going to get.
I sometime wonder if this was her favorite part of the day.

Megan on the faris wheel.

Megan and Pat on the log floom. She didn't mind this one.
First ride of the day and already she is posing for the pictures.

She really thought she was driving the car.

Megan inher new sun hat she had to buy with her money.

Family picture without Sam.

Alexa and Megan on the airplane ride. The guns just seem wrong.

Loved this ride, the man made them say ribbit all the way down.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-06-17T11:39:00.001-04:00

A day at Knobles. We had a blast!

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-06-10T09:50:00.003-04:00

A brother and sister moment. Can you tell their related?

Get Your Verse On!

2009-06-03T16:52:00.005-04:00

It is a clothing charity to help help fund their various ventures to provide aid and resources to orphans around the world. They are having a giveaway on there shirts and let me tell you I was over at there site and the shirts are adorable and cute. The best thing is that they make a statement in an adorable way. It also supports a great cause.

So head on over to Wild Olive "Get your Verse on" now and check out the shirts for yourself.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-06-03T09:05:00.002-04:00

We went to Lancaster for the day and we took the kids on an Amish horse and buggy ride. This is my mom's friend Joanne with Megan and the horse George.

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Load of Laundry

2009-06-01T16:06:00.002-04:00

As I was sitting here at the computer checking my e-mail, blogging, and checking my status on Facebook, Sam was getting restless. So beside me was an empty laundry basket. I just had to stick him in it to see what he would do. Then of course Megan had to hop in it to. So here are the pictures. To cute to pass this one.

A day at the Zoo!

2009-05-28T13:08:00.004-04:00

My sister invited us to the zoo last Thursday and so I went. She has a membership to the Philadelphia Zoo so it didn't cost us anything, except for the gas to get there. We loaded up all four kids in the minivan and took off for the day. It was a little crazy when we got there because there were a lot of schools there but in the afternoon it was great. The kids loved it and it was a great day to get out of the house and give the little ones something different to do. Here are some snapshots of the day.

There were some highlights to our day. They saw a monkey pooping and they talked about seeing that monkey again all day. And they loved the petting zoo. Believe it or not they also enjoyed watching the duck pond. You would think that they see ducks everyday what is the big deal but they did not want to leave the ducks. They also really enjoyed the Polar Bear. Over all it was great day.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-05-27T11:02:00.002-04:00

This is just wrong. What a redneck!!!!!

Girls day out

2009-05-25T13:50:00.004-04:00

On Saturday I took Megan to get a pedicure and a manicure. We went with our neighbors. They have a little girl Megan's age. So the four of us went and got our hands and toes done. Megan absolutely loved it. She even asked if we can do this every week. She is becoming quite the girly girl.

I enjoy doing things like this with her. I love being with her one on one. She is my little princess and I hope that our closeness continues to grow over the years. Here is the finished project below.

Happy Birthday DAD!

2009-05-21T22:03:00.018-04:00

My dad's birthday is on Sunday and I know that I won't get to post then so I thought I would wish my dad an early happy birthday.

For all of you who don't know my dad, I thought I would just share a little bit about him. He is someone who is loving, kind and caring. He is funny (or thinks he is often funny) and is a very outgoing person. I guess that is where I get it from.

You can always find my dad on the phone. Usually talking about golf to someone.

He is usually reading the Word or something about golf. He is very intelligent.

He even sometimes takes things very seriously. This is his serious look.

I just loved the mustache in this picture.

My dad has always been a great dad. I remember him always teaching us right from wrong and raising us to be Godly women. All of my memories with my dad are good ones. From him giving us baths and brushing our long hair when my mom was working to taking us out into the ocean and building sand castles with us. My dad would always have a story for us whether is was true or not, is still something we are figuring out. He raised his three girls to love deeply and to care for others. He taught us how to be Godly women and raised us with great morals and values. He always put his family first. One other thing about my dad is that he loves tradition and Christmas is one tradition he holds dear to his heart. I will be forever greatful for the dad is was and still is.

My dad came to know the Lord about 3 years after we did and I remember the huge change I saw in Him. My dad is someone who when he finds something he loves to do he loves it passionately. I remember him singing praise songs at the top of his lungs around the house and reading the Bible like it was going out of style. My dad is someone who knows the Word inside and out and that encourages me to know the Word better and deeper.

My dad is also a great pop pop to his 5 grandchildren. He loves them so unconditionally. He enjoys spending quality time with each one of them. He knows each of the grand kids likes and dislikes. I hear my daughter on her play phone talking to her pop pop saying "Let's go golfing" and "how did you do at golf today Pop Pop? What was your score?" She is also always telling me, "Mommy, my Pop pop is such a funny guy, he always says funny things" I love that my children have a Pop pop that they can relax with and have fun with.

My dad is also someone who loves my mom so much. I love that they have a long and lasting marriage. Thanks dad for being a wonderful role model of what a husband and dad should be.

So thanks dad for being a wonderful, devoted and encouraging dad. I hope you have a wonderful birthday. Love you tons!!!!

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-05-20T11:48:00.002-04:00

A wonderful father and a devoted husband

A feel for Grass????

2009-05-19T07:11:00.002-04:00

The other day it was so nice out that I took the kids out in the front of our house to get some energy out. Patrick decided to let Sam have his first feel of the fresh grass he grew in the fall. So he layed him in it. At first he didn't know what to make of it and then I think he liked it. It is sometime hard for more to remember some of the first with Megan, but I do know she did not like the grass between her toes. Sam didn't seem to mind.

Weight Loss!

2009-05-18T09:54:00.004-04:00

So for the past three weeks my sister and I have been doing WeightWatchers Online. I was a little hesitant only because I am the type of person that needs good accountability and was thinking that I really needed to be going to the meetings. But doing this with my sister has been working. We ask each other through out the week how we are doing and hold each other accountable. We also weigh in together every Monday and then usually have lunch together.

I am not one to usually post about my weight and all, but I must say how pround I am of myself. I have really stuck to it and as of today I have lost 13 pounds and I am down a pant size. WHOOOOOOOOO. So for those of you who are also trying keep it up and don't give up. If I can do it anyone can. And also WeightWatchers Online is really a great tool to help you.

Time for Tea!

2009-05-15T08:08:00.007-04:00

On Good Friday my mom took Megan, her best friend Isabel and myself to a tea room in Emmaus called The Lavender Lace Tea Room. My mom has been wanting to take Megan for awhile now and so we dressed her all up and took her to her first tea party.

She absolutely loved it. She is asking frequently when she is going back. Sometimes she can be such a girly girl and then other times she is a tomboy.

I would recommend this tea room to any little girl and her mom or any women of any age. It is so frilly and girly. They have great food for you money and the staff are super nice. Here are some pictures of our time there.
They even have hats for you to wear.

My mom with Megan

The food was great! These are the girls plates.

Best Friends!

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-05-13T09:30:00.004-04:00

Love how he is just relaxing in his carseat. What a life!

For more Wordless Wednesdays head on over to 5 minutes for moms.

Wordless Wednesdays

2009-05-06T08:09:00.003-04:00

Megan in the bathroom at the tea room my mom took her too.

Grandmothers

2009-05-01T15:25:00.005-04:00

What would life be like without grandmothers? I personally think that it would be an very unhappy life. I am so blessed that my two children have two wonderful grandmothers.

My mom (aka:grand mom) is a wonderful grandmother. She is so loving and caring. She takes time to spend one on one time with each of her grandchildren. Megan adores her and I find my daughter repeating a lot of the things my mother has taught her, examples: See you later alligator, I love you a bushel a peck and a hug around the neck. Megan is the only grand daughter on my side so far and she is my mom's little princess. My mom is great with both of my children. She reminds me a lot of how my grandmother (her mother)was to me and I think that is the best compliment of all, because my grandmother was so special to me. Mom your doing a great job being a grandmother.

Linda(Pat's mom, aka: mom-mom) is also a wonderful grandmother. She is also loving and caring. She is always willing to do anything for her grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with both of my children and taught Megan everything she needs to know about the Phillies. Megan and Sam are her only grandchildren right now and let me tell you her grandchildren are spoiled rotten, in a good way of course. She makes my children laugh and they have a lot of fun with her. I am so blessed to have a mother-in-law that I get along with so well and who is also a blessing to my children. Thank you Linda for being a great mom-mom.

There is something special about a grandmother. They can give you candy before dinner, they can let you stay up late, they can spoil you rotten and I think they do all this because they know they can send them back to there parents. (HA HA). But a grandmother also loves at all times. They are there for there grandchildren in good and bad times. Grandmothers are a blessing from above and I am blessed that my two children have two incredible grandmothers. Thank you both for your unconditional love to my children.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-29T10:11:00.004-04:00

I think my daughter sometimes forget's that Samuel is a boy. My husband would not be happy about this picture. But you have to capture every moment right?

For more Wordless Wednesday, visit 5 minute for moms.

Mother's Day Giveaways

2009-04-23T08:19:00.002-04:00

5 minutes for moms is having a Mother's Day giveaway and they are giving away some extrodinary gifts. Please stop on over and check out the prizes. Nothing like getting something free for mother's day.

Easter Day

2009-04-17T15:34:00.006-04:00

This Easter was a lot of fun. We had a full and busy day. We started by going to church and remembering the real meaning of Easter and explained to Megan what Easter is all about. Then we headed over to my parents for an Easter lunch. Mom, it was delicious. Then we had an Easter egg hunt with all the children.

Then we headed over to my in-laws house were they had an Easter egg hunt for Megan and an Easter basket for her and some outfits for Sam (he's a little bit to small for a basket).

We had a very full day but a very memorable Easter. He is Risen Indeed.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-08T08:44:00.003-04:00

He looks so proud of him self.

For more Wordless Wednesday, head over to
5 Minutes for Moms.

Braid

2009-04-07T16:24:00.003-04:00

So, I have been wanting to learn how to French braid. My mom always french braided my hair for my cheerleading games. So yesterday after Megan got out of the bath. I blew dryed her hair a little and attempted to french braid her hair. I took a picture of it because I thought I did a pretty good job. What do you think?

Egg Hunting

2009-04-07T15:34:00.004-04:00

This past Saturday I took Megan to an Easter Egg hunt with her cousins and best friend. I will admit that last year's was a lot better but they all had a great time. It was a little windy and cold but we survived. I sometimes think we take our children to these events only for the pictures.

Loved this picture so much that I stole it from my sister.

Megan with her cousin Aaron.

Megan with her best friend Isabel(our neighbor)

That is one pink bunny and a little scary to me.

Three Peas in a Pod!

2009-04-06T16:24:00.004-04:00

My sister over at Out of the Blue found this blog called I Heart Faces and I think it is so neat to look at people pictures and blogs. So I though I would give it a try. I am not the best picture taken. My sister Lisa is much better at it then me. But this weeks theme at I Heart Faces is best friends and I came across this photo and thought it fit perfectly.

My sister has two twin boys and they live in the same development as I do and our children are 6 weeks apart so they do a lot of playing together. I just thought this picture was so cute.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-01T08:11:00.002-04:00

Wide eyed and happy. He loves his bath just like mommy.

Mother and Daughter Day!

2009-03-31T09:09:00.003-04:00

About a couple of weeks ago I took Megan out for the day just to do something special with her as mommy and daughter. We went to Color me Mine. It is a place where you can paint pottery. She has been wanting to do a coffee cup for awhile now. Her and Pat drink hot tea just about every night together and she wanted to make her own cup. I of course forgot to take my camera but I did get pictures of the finished project.

We had a great day. We went to Color me Mine and then to Toy's R Us and to Old Navy. Megan had a great time and she behaved all day long. It was a joy to spend quality time with her. So here are our finished projects.

Ultimate Blog Party!

2009-03-27T09:19:00.002-04:00

Five minute for Moms is have the Ultimate Blog Party. It is a time for bloggers to party. It is a good way to also get your blog out there for many to see. Today is the last day so go ahead and take a look.

Did I also mention there over 100 prizes you can sign up for. Here are my top three:

#7 Ergo Baby Carrier
#45 Ultra Chic Diaper Bag
#58 Kitchen Aid Artisan Stand Mixer

I also like the following #25close to my heart, #89 Home Goods gift Card and #109 Stampin Up.

So go ahead and head on over. There are tons of prizes.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-25T08:05:00.002-04:00

Do you think Sam knows his head is on a Dora pillow?

What's a Hickey?

2009-03-24T16:11:00.003-04:00

Two weeks ago Megan asked if she could buy a lemonade from the soda machine. So I gave in and bought one for her. She started to drink it and when she was done with the first sip I noticed that the top of her lip was a little red and she had two small dots. I then realized that she had sucked to hard while drinking and gave herself a hickey. I asked Megan why she gave her self a hickey and she said what's a hickey. I then realized that I should of used a different word.

Then last week she was over at my sister's and she was drinking a yogurt smoothie and she did it again only this time it was brighter and bigger. I told that she doesn't have to suck that hard to get it out and she said did I give myself a hickey again? I must admit it was funny and cute, but to hear the word hickey come out of my 3 year olds mouth is something I don't think I want to hear again. Well, needless to say I took pictures so that I could remember this moment and also to show her the pictures when she is older.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-18T07:51:00.002-04:00

Like Father Like Son.

Is spring here?

2009-03-17T13:38:00.004-04:00

I am so ready for warm weather. It was nice today to go out without a big heavy coat. Megan got to burn off some energy playing outside first with her cousins and then with her best friend(neighbor girl) Isabel.

Last Saturday, my sister Sarah come over and watched Sam while I took Megan to a birthday party. Megan and Kyle played outside before I took her to the party. She took some pictures so I stole them from her blog to share them with you.

I love this picture. Even Sam can enjoy the outside.

I think they look so much alike sometimes.

Megan what color is this?

Wordless Wednesday - 100th Post

2009-03-11T10:05:00.003-04:00

What a cute little bunch of kiddies!!!!! I am amazed that you can get a picture when they are watching TV.

Did He Really?????

2009-03-09T09:59:00.003-04:00

Do you know how little babies get this little strip of hair on the top of there head? It looks funny and maybe a little out of place but I feel that it gives a baby character and personality. Well, my husband on the other hand found it awkward and as he put it "stupid looking".

So my husband being who he is took matter into his own hands. He got out his clippers and before I could say stop my little son's hair was gone. I thought since it was done and could do nothing about it, I would take some pictures.

So, below I will show you pictures before, during and after. Why do husbands have to do some of the things they do, I will never understand.

before and during

after

Fresh Idea Friday

2009-03-06T08:44:00.004-05:00

My sister over at Out of the Blue has this Fresh Idea Friday were she post and idea and she wants people to respond back with there idea's. Well this Friday is all about reading books to your children.

My daughter Megan loves books, she has since she was a little girl. She asks me often through out the day to read her many books. Her favorite books are the following:

Megan loves Cat in the Hat and anything really written by Dr. Seuss. I enjoy reading them to her too, it I can. Sometimes I get a little tongue twisted.
The Bible is a book we read just about every night with a prayer to follow. This book is really good. It is simple and explains story's so that they can understand them at her level.

My daughter loves just about any book. We read often. I enjoy having her up on my lap and snuggling with me as we read them. We read every night before bed and that is something that is a routine so I know at least we read a book once a day. So there you have it. I have a bookworm for a kid and reading leaves a lot of room for the imagination.

FireProof

2009-02-28T14:32:00.001-05:00

I went and rented the movie FireProof last night and watched it by myself while Patrick took Megan out. I had heard that it was a good movie. The acting is a little bad but the storyline is amazing. I think I cired about 3 times.

I don't normally post about movies but this movie touched my heart in a way I can't even start to explain. It make me want to be a better wife and a better christian. I realized that I need to be a better wife in so many areas and I need to not be so selfish in my marriage and in my walk with Chist. This movie hit home in so many ways all I can do is share it with you all.

Please if you have a night when your not doing anything go rent this movie and watch it by yourself or even better with your spouse. I am telling you it will change your life.

What to do

2009-02-28T10:20:00.003-05:00

I was not going to post about this but it has been on my mind a lot and I am really sleep deprived. I have a four month old son who was sleeping through the night and then about 3 weeks ago he started getting teeth so he was getting up about every 2 -2 1/2 hours. Both bottom teeth are in and he is still getting up more then I like.

I know that is part of having a newborn but shouldn't he be sleeping through the night? So for all you experienced mom's out there. What do I do? Do I keep getting up with him and feeding him or do I let him cry it out and teach him how to sleep through the night. You would think I would know what to do since I have a 3 year old, but she slept through the night at 3 months old and never really had any problems with her.

So, please help. I could use any suggestions that you think might help.

Fun Friday!

2009-02-27T09:34:00.004-05:00

My mother -inlaw sent me this e-mail and I just thought it was so cute. My daughter loved it and I just wanted to share it with you all. Have a Fun Friday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cGpAa9tZMs

4 months old

2009-02-25T19:34:00.005-05:00

Sam is 4 months old and he is doing great. He has turned a corner. He does not cry as much and he plays with his floor mat alot. He even has two teeth already. He went to the doctors today and here are his stats.

Weight - 14 lbs,50%
Height - 26 1/2 inches,75%
Head - 16 3/4 inches,30%

He is growing up so fast. The picture below my sister took and I love it. So I longer see this all the time:

I see this more now:

Fun Friday!

2009-02-20T09:29:00.000-05:00

So for this Fun Friday I thought I would share a little something about my daughter. She has been into jokes lately and she loves making them up. So here you go, a joke from a 3 year old.

"Mommy, why did the cow kiss the pig"?

"I don't know Megan, why did the cow kiss the pig"?

"Mommy, because they were married."

I thought it was cute and she is right married people kiss. I tried to make it a teaching time to and told her that only married people kiss. We will see if she remembers that part.

Have a great weekend!

Looking Back

2009-02-19T16:34:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Is there a difference?

2009-02-19T15:32:00.000-05:00

So I hear a lot from people how much Samuel looks like Megan and to be honest I just don't see it. I see some resemblance but I don't think they look to much like each other. So I thought I would pull out some of Megan's old pictures and compare. Again, I saw some resemblance. I found a picture of Megan, I think she is a little but older then Sam but it is the only one I could find. So you tell me, do they look a like?

Keeping up!

2009-02-16T09:45:00.000-05:00

So, on Saturday I finally got high speed internet. For about a year we have been using dial up to cut back on cost. Well, Comcast had a deal that if you sign up for internet or phone you get basic cable for free for 12 months. We thought that was a pretty good deal.

We also got a new phone system. It is called the MagicJack. You hook it up to your computer and it runs off of your internet. It is pretty much cable phone. The deal is that it is only $19.95 a year. That is right a phone bill of $19.95 a year. That is a huge savings. We are trying it out right now, so if we like it I will let you all know. The only thing so far that I don't like is that you have to keep your phone next to the computer. So don't throw out our old number just yet this is a trial thing. but I will keep you all posted. If you need our new phone number e-mail me and I will get it to you. pjmasbury@hotmail.com

Funny Friday's

2009-02-06T12:10:00.001-05:00

I thought that I would start something new for Friday's. I thought it would be fun to post something that was said or a picture that is funny. I will start with this picture. It is amazing what we do to our kids to make us laugh.

Let Winter Be By Gone's

2009-01-31T09:42:00.000-05:00

So how much longer do we have of this cold, windy, snowy, icy weather? I think I am done with it, along with the sickness. In the last month we have had more sickness then I can deal with. It started with Megan and the stomach bug, wich included vomiting. Then it moved onto Pat wich was 10 times worse. He was out of commission for two whole days, if anyone knows Pat that is a lot. And then I got a small case of it and know Megan has a cold. She has been up the four night coughing away.

I feel the great need to disinfect everything in my house and do some major cleaning. But of course who wants to clean on the weekend when you clean all week long.

So in ending this short blog of venting about winter and sickness. Who is ready for some spring weather were we can get outside, have our kids run around and lose the heavy winter coat? I don't know about you but I am so ready.

I guess it could be worse, this picture is from Iceland. I wouldn't want to deal with that.

Mommy's little helper!

2009-01-19T09:08:00.000-05:00

First of all I must say that Megan is a big help with Sam and with things around the house. I will admit that things have been a little rough between the two of us since Sam has come into our lives. But things have been going much better. She always wants to help with Sam, either try and calm him down or talk to him and make him smile. The other day she acutally asked to feed him. So of course I had to take pictures of that. It was just too cute. It is nice having a little helper around the house. I am so proud of her and how she has handled the big adjustment with sharing time with mommy and daddy. GO MEGAN!!!!!!!

Life is Crazy!

2009-01-13T11:21:00.000-05:00

I don't even know where to begin. For many of you, you all know that my son Sam is a very colicy and unhappy baby. I spend most of my days in my pj's till about 1 o'clock in the afternoon and most of my day holding him and rocking him. That does not leave a lot of time for cleaning, blogging or even time with my other child. The doctor's tell me he will grow out of it around 3 or 4 months old. Well we are approaching 3 months and it doesn't seem better. When Sam is not crying he is smiling and cooing so that makes me happy and enjoy him a lot more. So when the other day he was smiling I was able to get come good pictures. So I thought I would share some pictures of my little boy actually smiling. And does anybody have any suggestions as to what to do with my son?

I've been tagged

2008-12-28T18:56:00.000-05:00

So my friend over at Counting our Blessings tagged me and I did not know it till today. So here is five things about me and a survey that I answered.

1. I love being a stay at home mom.
2. I love hanging out with friends and other moms during the week to keep me sane.
3. I enjoy scrapbooking and I am learning how to knit.
4. I have a loving husband who has helped me out a lot since having another child.
5. I enjoy blogging so that people can catch up on my life.

More blogging fun, a get to know me survey...
Who's Who?
What is your husbands name? Patrick
How long have you been married? 6 years
How long did you date? 6 months before we got engaged. All together, a little over a year.
How old is he? 31
Who is taller? He is
Who can sing best? Neither one of us can sing, but I can carry a tune and Pat doesn't sing at all.
Who is smarter? He is, hands down!
Who does the laundry? I do, but he does his work clothes
Who pays bills? I do.
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? If your looking at the bed I do, it is closest to the door.
Who mows the lawn? Neither, we have an association that does it.
Who cooks the meals? I do, Pat can't cook to save his life.
Who is first to admit when they are wrong? I usually do.
Who kissed who first? He kissed me first
Who wears the pants? He does, but I am the belt!

Okay, so I tag Lisa, Sarah, and Tracy.
Go ahead try it out, it's fun to learn about each other!!

Christmas with the Conolly's

2008-12-23T08:31:00.000-05:00

So, this past Sunday we had Christmas with my family and let me tell you it can get a little crazy. There are five grandchildren now and so it is a little loud but we had a lot of fun. We exchanged presents, ate pizza and wings and my mom made a gingerbread house with the kids, although Megan and Aaron seemed to be the only two interested enough to stick with it till it was done. Here are some pictures of the night.

My mom with Samuel

My dad with Megan, Samuel spit up on his sleeve.

It's my 1st Christmas I will cry if I want to.

This is all the grand kids opening their presents

The Eagles were on and they all wanted front row seats

I guess they don't care that they are sitting on a love seat.

Be like Mom!

2008-12-09T10:08:00.000-05:00

So my Nana is a QVC watcher and shopper. I must say I watch it sometimes and think to myself, I should really buy that and then I never do. But my Nana buys and she bought myself and my sisters this towel that is for your head when you get out of the shower. I don't know about you but I hate that big bulky towel on the top of you head. This one is light weight and fits perfect.

Well, the other night Patrick was up for bath duty and Megan insisted that he put this towel on top of her head. So he did and when she came down to show me I couldn't stop laughing. I don't know if it was how cute she looked or how much she looked like me. So of course I had to take some pictures. The name of the towel is called Turbie Twist. I love it!

Something to Win

2008-12-02T12:45:00.000-05:00

I found out about this over at my friends blog The Gang's All Here. It is a contest to win a $500 walmart gift card. I don't know about you but I could sure use that right about now. So go on over to To think is to create and enter for your self. Good Luck!

I have been tagged!

2008-11-29T14:32:00.000-05:00

I have been tagged by both of my sisters so I had to do this.

Here are the rules:* Go to your sixth picture folder then pick your sixth picture.* Pray that you remember the details.* Post it on your blog.* Tag 5 others, leave a comment to let them know they’ve been tagged.

I don't really save a lot of pictures on my computer but this is what I have. This is of course of Megan, and she had some catipillar up her arm that our neighbors gave her.

Big Sister

2008-11-20T16:17:00.000-05:00

So many of you have been asking how things are going with a newborn and a toddler and I have told all of you that it has it's moments and some of the struggles that I have with Megan. Well I want all of you to know that Megan has also been a wonderful Big Sister. She holds him, kisses him and she even put him to sleep for me today. I have figured out something today though. I thought that I had a fussy, colicky baby. But what I really had was a hungry baby. We went to the doctor's today and found out that he is not gaining enough weight and have to supplement with formula. Well, let me tell you, what a difference. When his belly is full he is a delight. I am happy for doctor's.

With his belly full I am able to spend a little bit more time with Megan and I can already see the light at the end of the tunnel. I am sure we will still have our moments but as everything else in life with kids, CONSISTENCY. Here are some cute pictures of a great BIG SISTER!

It was a PJ kind of day!

She already had him watching cartoons

This is too cute for words

Couldn't ask for a better family!

Boy or Girl!

2008-11-12T11:06:00.000-05:00

So, trying to post things on my blog has become harder with a little one in the house again. So I have a minute or two and thought I would share Megan's Holloween pictures with you. The reason I titled this blog boy or girl is because of her costume.

We took her to Wal-Mart and showed her 5 different costumes and most of them were relatiable to a girl and Pat thru in there a Spiderman outfit and of course that is what she picked. I told him I gave him a son for this kind of stuff but she insisted on being Spiderman.

Welcome to Our World...

2008-10-25T16:06:00.001-04:00

Samuel Russel Asbury

born on October 24, 2008
9 pounds 15 ounces
21 1/2 inches long
Beautiful Baby Boy!

Congratulations To Patrick and Jessica on the birth of their son.
Mommy and Baby are doing well, and are enjoying eachother. Please continue to pray for a speedy recovery for Jessica, and continued health for Samuel.

Baby Day Arriving!

2008-10-23T09:20:00.000-04:00

So, I know most of you know that tomorrow is the big day. I am finally going to get to meet this little man that has been growing inside of me for 9 months. I know that as soon as I meet him my heart will melt. But to refresh some of you, I was really nervous about having a boy at first and really had to pray it through, I know that sounds so mean.

I did not sleep well last night because of my thoughts. I kept going though my head, do I have this ready and do I have that ready and did I remember to do that and this. You know when you try to sleep and your thoughts just take over. Then my thoughts went to Megan, how is she going to handle this and is she going to be okay away from us this weekend?

I then realized that I need not to worry. I said a prayer and fell fast asleep and then woke this morning realizing how messy my house was. So 7:30 this morning I was up and cleaning. I don't think that I have ever done this before.

So as I clean in preparation for little Samuel, I think again how blessed I am to have this little man. I am thankful for family who have supported me through this whole pregnancy, wich I know has not been easy sometimes. This has not been the best pregnancy. But I just wanted to say thank you to all who have prayed and supported us through this time of our lives.

So, tomorrow morning around 7:30 am send up a prayer that my surgery goes well and that Patrick and I have a healthy little boy. I will post pictures as soon as I can.

Love you all!!!!!!

Fresh Idea Friday

2008-10-21T18:56:00.000-04:00

My sister over at Out of the Blue started this Fresh Idea Friday. She comes up with things and all of her friends and family share there idea's too. So here is my fall recipe. It is beef stew that you can cook in your crock pot. I love crock pot meal. Hope you enjoy!

Beefy Vegetable Soup
SERVINGS: 8-10
METHOD: Slow Cooker

TIME: Prep: 20 min. Cook: 8 hours

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce
2 cans (16 ounces each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained, optional
1 package (10 ounces) frozen corn
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup chopped green pepper
1 cup chopped sweet red pepper
1 cup chopped fresh tomato
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and tortilla chips, optional
Directions:
In a skillet, cook beef, onion and the garlic over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink; drain. Transfer to a 5-qt. slow cooker. Add the tomato sauce, beans if desired, vegetables and seasonings; mix well. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until thick and bubbly, stirring occasionally. Serve with cheese, sour cream and chips if desired. Yield: 8-10 servings (about 2-1/2 quarts). Freeze Beefy Vegetable Soup in serving-size containers for quick, no fuss lunches.