What is your first name?
Hope
What are your kids' names?
Sara Marie & Lisa Lee
Were you ready for motherhood?
Yes, totally! I have older sisters with children and loved babysitting as a teenager. I waited till I was 30 and was ready for it.
Have you ever met someone who has completely inspired you to be a better person? Can you tell us about that relationship and how it has affected you?
Yes, Linda B. She is fabulous. She raised her family on a limited budget, provided guidance and love, yet was stern and fair. Her joy for life and her happiness is contagious. I love being around people like that. She loves the Lord and isn't afraid to tell ya. She's even sat down with a Monk at the coffee shop to discuss religion. She is a very good role model for a mom with young children.
Do you have any nervous habits? What are they?
I was a habitual nail biter as a teen and finally stopped.
Did you ever date a guy your parents did not like? Were they right about him?
Oh yes! I found all of the ones they didn't like. And they were right about them. But as a teen or young adult you don't want to see that, or let your parents know they were right. I like the Garth Brooks song "unanswered prayers" If God would have answered my prayers as a young adult I don't know where I would be today.
What do you want your kids to remember the most about you?
First that I love them unconditionally. I am always here and available for them. The second thing is that volunteering and helping others is important. Through example they have learned so much already. Caring for elderly, helping your neighbors and those in need, sharing what you have. Basically stepping up to help others. Wouldn't this world be a better place if more people stepped up.
What did you learn the most from your mother?
Frugalness.. She raised 3 children on her own, working low paying jobs and not receiving child support. We learned to accept what we had, stretch a dollar, use coupons, cook with what you had and create wonderful meals. We gardened, canned and froze. There was no wasting food, leftovers were made over into something else.
How many coupons do you use on a regular basis? What is your best money saving tip?
I use a lot of coupons. My money saving tip is to shop for the basics when they are on sale. Most stores run the same sales in cycles. If you know the cycle it's easy to by 3 of something to get you till the next sale.
What is your best money saving tip?
If you can't pay cash, ask yourself if you really need it.
How did you find Mommysavers? Have you referred anyone here? Were you referred here?
I found it by goggling stay at home moms.. But I have told everyone I know about it. My friends laugh and me when I tell them "I heard this or that on mommysavers" I admit I am addicted!
Out of all the things the members here have offered in terms of advice, support, counsel and criticism, what have you personally benefited from? And do you remember specifically who the member was that offered that advice?
I love mom2mercedes. She is so nice and her kitchen chatter post are the best. Skimommy has lifted me up on days when I have been tired and stressed. I think there are forums that we go in looking for someone with similar situations on that particular day. When we have sick kids or need a recipe. I still find some forums hard to approach. I avoid the confrontational threads. I read a lot more than I write.
Have you ever met a mommysaver?
Not yet! But there are several in Michigan.
What is the most romantic thing your dh ever did for you?
We were on a road trip when I was pregnant. I wasn't feeling well. He stopped the car and picked wild flowers to give me. He's not the romantic type and that really meant a lot.
Tell us five things you like about yourself.
1. I can talk to anyone.. check out lines, parks, airports. It doesn't matter to me..
2. Compassion for people
3. My faith
4. My sense of humor, I can laugh at myself.
5. My size, I like me just the way I am.
What hobby do you enjoy the most? What got you started on it? How would you rate yourself?
Scrapbooking! My sil sold Creative Memories and she got me started. I love it! It's so rewarding to complete pages, then show my girls. Their eyes light up and they are so proud to be in the album. I'm not a professional, but it's rewarding to give that to my children.
How many frogs did you kiss before you found Mr. Right? Was he worth the wait?
I kissed a few frogs along the way and my dh was well worth the wait.
What is your favorite genre of music? Country, I'm a farm wife!
Who is your favorite group? Kenny Chesney is my ultimate favorite
Have you ever seen him in concert? I have seen him 6 times in 7 years. Last year we were 4th row, ohh it was awesome. The sad thing is we wear the same size jeans. And to be honest.. right now in my car is Hannah Montana. What can I say the girls love it!
List three things you have on your Life List; things you would like to accomplish before you leave this world.
1. I have a goal to visit all 50 states by time I'm 50. I've been to 38 of them so far. I'm sure when my girls are old enough road trips will be easier. The Grand Canyon, Mt Rushmore. I really want to be in Alaska on my 50th birthday.
2. To watch my children grow up.
3. To leave my mark and be remembered for helping others.
Which room in your house best reflects your personality?
My kitchen. I love to cook and entertain. I garden so a lot of prep work and canning is done there, as well as, homework, crafts and dinner at the kitchen table every night as a family.
What do you see your children growing up to be like? What career path would they choose?
My oldest is stubborn, obstinate and bossy, perfect for management. My youngest is patient, kind and loves children. She says she wants to teach preschool. I hope they follow their hearts and find something that they enjoy.
Is there something we would never guess about you? (C'mon tell us!!!!)
I played the baritone in the school band.. I am 5'5" and didn't weigh much more than the baritone..
Are there words you live by? Live ~ Laugh ~ Love
**Disclaimer**
MS Mom of the Week is a fun way for us to get to know the Mommysavers members. Newbies to the board as well as regulars are welcome to participate. The Mom of the Week is randomly selected a week in advance of her being featured. I do this so I can contact you, let you know your feature date, and arrange to receive a picture from you to include with the survey. Having a picture included is so we can make it a little more personal and put a name to a face. This is optional of course, as are all the questions being asked. If I don’t hear back from you before your “feature” date, I will randomly select the next person and then get back to you the following week. If you would like to participate please
PM doozer and we will get you signed up