Everyday happenings...

I love these!

2012-02-01T11:57:00.003-05:00

Sleeping in the big bed, not sure when this is....but she was out!

Posing in her new shirt (at the time) and her own hairstyle.

Again, model pose here. I have no idea where she gets these!

She picked her Halloween Costume out herself, you're shocked I know.

Love my kids!

Every time I see this I think of my dear small group ladies leader, love her!

Waiting to receive her character club award!

You might not see it, but is says for showing respect. So proud!

Her homeroom "Froggie"- she got to take for the weekend this past fall.

At the Dog Olympics!

He/she is all dressed up.

Her "what or oh my goodness" face!

Old photos

2012-02-01T11:45:00.001-05:00

I was going through old photos on the computer the other day and don't know why I don't do this more. I love the feeling of seeing the kids grow and whatever fun, quirky thing they may have been doing that day. Here is an assortment of some of the photos I saw.

The Puppies we were fostering for a couple weeks! Bert is still here though--we love him!

Lorelei and I after church one day!

The Polar Express in 3D...love this photo!!

You know you are jealous of my amazing hair by Lorelei. She works by appointment. :)

Foster dog Tia getting her rope chew on.

Lorelei at a school friends bday party!

Book I want-this is my life now, gluten/dairy free cooking.

This one I have-woohoo!

Dressed herself, with these stylish shades.

Hello Kitty play nails, only kept them on for a couple of hours. Thankfully they were on clearance.

Do you like my tail?

I was impressed, she is amazingly artistic.

Angry cow...I mean kitty!

There are so many more and I will keep going, enjoy catching up.

So behind, new posts are coming

2012-02-01T11:28:00.001-05:00

I admit, thinking about blogging has not been on my radar at all. I didn't even look at my last post, but I will be better about posting. The next one will even have pictures.

Awakening by Stovall Weems book review

2011-10-16T15:11:00.000-04:00

I have to say this book is amazing, such a joy to receive. It is an easy read, but so convicting at the same time. Stovall Weems' "Awakening: A New Approach to Faith, Fasting and Spiritual Freedom 21 Days to Revolutionize you Relationship with God" has been a fantastic addition to my book collection. Sometimes when you get a book about fasting it can leave you feeling a little wary of their approach to fasting. Will it be Biblically sound? Will they tie it back into scripture and Christ? He does all that and makes it easy to begin to open yourself up to forming a deeper, intense relationship with God. The very first chapter he hits the ground running, "Are you Awake?". His talk about how when we were first saved, we were pumped, excited and just ready to give it our all for the Lord. We couldn't wait to spend time with him in prayer and scriptures, we wanted to tell everyone about God. Slowly though we have accepted a "normal" existence with God, kind ho hum so to speak. Through fasting and getting into less of you and more of God, that can change and you can experience those "first feelings" anew. There are so many quotes I love in this book I could go on and on, but the first one I underlined was "As passionate followers of God, a church service should reflect some of the same excitement." Also, "The four foundational steps to an awakening:1. experiencing surrender2. experiencing passion for God3. experiencing God's goodness4. creating space for God to fill"This book goes in depth about fasting and offers a wonderful 21 day fasting guide. It is easy to understand and says to "1. Start where you are, 2. Find your fast zone, 3. Choose your type of fast, 4. Begin and break the fast well". There are sample menus and different fast types, to include a multitude of groups and age ranges. His calendar is a great tool, one I haven't thought of before and personally appreciated. There is also a small group study guide, so you can fast with others and really grow as an individual, small group and church. I have to say, this book has been a blessing and I recommend it to anyone looking to awaken their relationship with God.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

New stuff

2011-08-08T11:24:00.000-04:00

Busy has been the name of the game here lately.

Lorelei's is loving school, she is learning so much and excited to keep working on things when she gets home. She's also STARVING when she gets picked up! I know she's getting more exercise and outside play time, so that is a factor. Also, she doesn't always finish all her lunch, due to lack of time or other reasons (I think she gets distracted by her friends a little). Either way, when we get home...the first thing she wants is a snack and when I say snack, I mean small meal.
She's enjoying meeting new friends and tells me about someone new each day, I love watching her grow and learn. I knew with as outgoing as she is, she'd do great in school. I'm glad the Lord is protecting her and helping her to be such a well behaved girl. We pray each day as we wait in carpool and prepare for the day. Watching her faith grow is such an amazing thing. She prays at dinner and for her friends, she prays for Texas to get rain and the Lord to be with people, really just anything on her heart at that moment. It melts my heart, so I can only imagine how it makes the Lord feel.
So transitioning to her school and me working some has been just that, a transition. I'm trying to plan my days and get everything done. It's been great to do new things, but getting up an hour earlier is taking some getting use to.Hopefully here soon I won't be so tired each morning when the alarm goes off. I've appreciated everyone's prayers as we get use to this new aspect of our lives and asking how Lorelei likes school, etc. We feel blessed to be a part of such a great church family.

Some pictures from the last few days, below is a dog I found on the side of the road. She was a sweet husky and thankfully was micro-chipped and returned to her owner that day. I don't know what her actual name was, but I called her Honey and she and I had a nice little car ride and she got lots of pets from me. She was out of the heat and seemed glad to not be on the road anymore. Below, I'm getting shunned....b/c she doesn't know why I've taken her to this scary place. Little did she know, her mommy was on the way.

This one is blurry, as she kept moving around...but she was a good girl.

He is so tired and we are just in the carpool line.

Sleeping, waiting for Lorelei!

This one is Lorelei getting some loving from a cat we volunteer with, her name is Chessie and she loves to snuggle.

Our big boy, taking a look at some salad.

First Day of School!

2011-07-19T20:03:00.000-04:00

It's the baby girl's first day of school today, I can't believe it. It is surreal that she is in school and starting that aspect of her life. I know that she will do fine and trust that the Lord will guide and protect her as she's around more people. Here are a few pictures from the day....they go in order from being dressed for the day, to waiting in carpool and being so pooped after our first day that we feel asleep while mommy made dinner at 4:15, until around 5:30. Hopefully she'll sleep tonight...tomorrow she has the day off and then it's back to school from then on out.

Prayer Walk book review

2011-07-14T11:38:00.003-04:00

Prayer Walk: Becoming a Woman of Prayer, Strength & Discipline by Janet Holm McHenry was really a wonderful read. I have never prayer walked with any regularity and enjoyed her detailed information about how to go about starting such a rewarding journey. She gave great scripture references and I enjoyed her writing style. There is as much information about the physical aspect of walking as there is why we're called to pray. It was a wonderful reminder of all the different areas and people in our life we should be praying for.

I personally can't prayer walk in our neighborhood, there are no sidewalks and that makes it dangerous. Every now and again we walked our neighborhood during good weather and normally the afternoon, so I will be sure to pray for my neighborhood during those times. I could really see her town as I read this book,as she described each turn and business she prayed for specifically. It made me realize all those I have not been including in my prayer list.

The most helpful thing I found about this book was the Thirty-Day Prayer Walk Challenge. It breaks up how you can address each area of prayer, to make sure you don't get overwhelmed and also don't leave any area out. That right there is worth the book in and of itself. I also enjoyed how open she is to receiving feedback and praying for you as you experience this rewarding change. I think I will Prayer Bike, I use an exercise bike (almost) everyday and will use that time to pray and spend that time with the Lord as I work on improving my own physical health.

There is also a Bible study and discussion guide and I thought the questions were wonderful. The very first question inspires deep thought, "1. What do you think of when you hear the words discipline or self-control?" I loved Chapter 4s questions, "1. How do you view yourself- the way you look, the way you are? 2. How do you think God views you?" I didn't realize this book was 10 years old and am so glad I have the updated version. It has the study guide, the thirty-day challenge and how to organize a community prayer walk. I don't think I would have enjoyed the book near as much without those areas.

I'd recommend this book to anyone who is looking to deepen and strengthen their prayer life, either through walking or another form of exercise. I do understand why she doesn't recommend prayer swimming, thanks to her handy incite. Even if you don't want to incorporate the exercise into your prayer time, it will help guide you to a deeper, more meaningful prayer life.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

A couple of busy weeks ahead...

2011-06-28T14:25:00.000-04:00

We're getting ready for our annual trip to the beach. I'm blessed that my mom lives at the beach, I do wish she were closer...but love having a place to stay for our time down there that is free and like home. We try and go every year and can't think of a time since Lorelei's been born that we haven't gone. Spencer won't be with us this year, but he's visiting his other mimi & poppy and I know he'll love it. After our trip Travis' cousin is getting married, so we'll have some rest and relaxation. Then get home and 2 days later turn around and drive for a wedding. I love weddings, I'm a mush and watching family get married and pledge themselves to someone eternally just brings joy to my heart. We'll get to see family, hopefully meet a new addition to the family and celebrate a wedding all in 1 weekend. After that we'll probably need another vacation...but it'll be fun.

We were going through our external hard-drive the other day and found a hidden folder I was unaware of that contained a lot of old photos and music. I loved looking at all the photos and will include some old ones here for all to see.
Here are some of the kids during one beach trip years ago! They've changed so much...

My dad playing with Spencer- (I'm glad they both got to spend time with him while he was alive.)

Who's that baby-faced boy?

Helping my mom water plants on her back deck!

He loves to help!

Eyes are closed, but look at the chunkster!

Sweet girl!

AH! Love it...

I may just go on a little spree of "walking down memory lane" pictures.

Happy Birthday/surgery day

2011-06-17T10:58:00.000-04:00

Wednesday was the hubby's birthday and he is now officially 31. We celebrated on Sunday with the family and he had thankfully used 1 of his required vacations days for his birthday. He spent the morning with Lorelei and they slept it, had breakfast and just had an overall good day together. Spencer had an outpatient procedure scheduled for the same day, in Goldsboro,so it worked out them being together. I got up around 4:15 and after back tracking for some balloons for him from the grandparents I made it in time to see him before he went back. He did great and is healing well. He was sore and had an upset stomach due to the anesthesia. He was really worked up and we appreciated everyone's prayers for peace of mind for him. Thankfully now that it's over, he can focus on enjoying his summer. This was a short update and I forgot to take pics, sorry for that!

New phones

2011-06-13T15:06:00.000-04:00

It was upgrade time for our phones and since I was using Travis' old phone, I figured a newer phone would be better than a 3 yr old one. Of the free options;b/c the only way I'd upgrade is if it was free,I selected the Kin. I had never heard of or seen this phone, but it has a slideout keyboard which was a major feature for me. I'm not text proficient enough to type on a touchscreen. This one also had a 5.0 megapixels camera, which wasn't bad for a phone at all. Here is a photo of it opened...

and here is one of it closed

The only thing I don't like is, the size makes it pocket awkward. I accidentally turned it off yesterday and didn't realize. The screen lock is on a 1 minute delay at the shortest, so you have to wait before you can put it in a bag/pocket. For a free phone though, it works pretty well.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-03T13:13:00.000-04:00

The baby (big) girl went to Disney this past weekend with her Mimi/Poppy. It was a surprise 1 day visit there on there way to Aunt Terri's house. She loved it, obviously...but all she really wanted to see was Mickey Mouse and the princess castle. She rode a few rides and had a wonderful time, she's already asking when she can go back again lol. I will have to upload the photos and then can post some here soon.

Spencer and I went to visit my mom and I forgot my camera, so no pics from the short beach trip. It was wonderful and a great time to spend with him. We went to the beach each day and my mom's club so he could visit there. He kicked my butt in Foosball, twice and I was actually trying to win. I figured I'd see how he did when we started and he was pretty good, so I actually tried to play and he won that round. We did one more game and it was all tied up in the end and BOOM, he sneaks one in and beats me again. I loved it though and really enjoyed the one on one time with him. The hubs stayed at home, he had to work on Saturday and really had a lot of schoolwork to take care of. He's taking a hard English class that is made worse by having it shortened into a 5 week summer course. Technical writing never sounded fun, but after watching him deal with this class it has been confirmed.

*pictures to come soon

Lillies in Moonlight review

2011-05-25T11:02:00.001-04:00

Lillies in Moonlight by Allison Pittman was a surprising read. I hadn't heard of this author before and really didn't know what to expect with her writing style. It was a little slow in the beginning, but there was back story that needed to be covered. Lilly was an easy character to like, you wanted so badly for her to get a happy ending. Cullen was also a troubled man who had been dealt a rough hand. Neither was a saint, but through opening their hearts to each other and Cullen's dear mother Betty Ruth tying them together they grew in many ways. I felt for Lilly, a mother who saw her as a consequence of her sin and Lilly realizes she was never wanted. Poor Cullen a spoiled boy who grew into a man who didn't like himself, but felt his penance was to take care of his mother as she battled dementia. I loved Betty Ruth and it broke my heart as the disease stole her bit by bit. I personally would have loved a little more focus on their faith and not just a passing mention as it felt. You got the Fire and Brimstone from Lilly's mother, and the love and grace through Betty Ruth. I could have used more on that side of the story, but understand the book would have been twice as long. I loved the road trip and as the layers were peeled away from each character they grew on me more and more. I loved the ending, but felt it was that. There was so much build-up to this moment and it happened and then a few pages later the book is over. Overall, I would recommend the book and will research her books to see what else she has out there.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Heaven is for Real review

2011-05-20T13:10:00.000-04:00

I heard about this book on ABC World News tonight and had to get it and read for myself this little boys account on his experience in Heaven. The little boy is challenging Stephen Hawking's recent statement that heaven is a fairy story and that when we die our brain; the operating system of our body, dies and that's that. I am proud this boy for standing up for what he believes in and also for sharing his story for others. It was a wonderful book, I would recommend it to anyone. I feel believers and non-believers can enjoy the story, but am realistic and know non-believers will find skepticism in the story. I loved how his parents were hesitant at first to share with others until the were able to ask more questions. Colton answered everything he was asked, except one question and it made sense to me. The answers he gave were scripture based and were childlike and delivered with that childlike assurance. Anyone who is a parent knows that when your child is sure of something they saw, they don't back down. Colton's father is a pastor and they wanted to make sure that he wasn't influenced by Sunday school, family conversations or any other outside force. I feel they reacted as most believers would, asked the same questions and then came to realize that this type of blessing was worth sharing. I was comforted by some of the answers that Colton gave, his knowledge of his unborn sister whom was miscarried before he was born and seeing her in heaven was heartwarming. If you are a believer you know these things, but you find comfort in the reminding of the truth. I know I related to his mother's joy of thinking about seeing there child again. I could have read more and more, but understand why they didn't pester him with endless questions. Faith is waiting until we get to Heaven to see and just having a few glimpses was exciting enough. Anyone who wants to borrow the book is welcome and I hope more people look into this families story.

Review my review :)

2011-05-09T15:59:00.000-04:00

I am reviewing books for Blogging for Books and the more review, and higher the review, the more books I can read. I enjoyed my first selection and look forward to others. Here is a link to my review http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggingforbooks/reviews/view/8193 I thank you and welcome any reviewing critiques.

A Surprise One-Day Way

2011-05-09T15:33:00.001-04:00

I really didn’t know what I’d be getting into with Chantel Hobbs The One-Day Way, but I was pleasantly surprised. Her approach to weight loss is one I had taken myself, taking each day for what it is and not worrying about yesterdays’ mistakes or what tomorrow could bring. Looking at each day as a fresh start helps breakdown your focus to what you can control right now. Chantel Hobbs is funny, informative and realistic with her tips and advice.

“I reconstructed more than my body. I rebuilt my entire life, one day at a time, one bite-size goal at a time”.

Changing your focus from the big to the small, by focusing on mini-successes helps develop good habits. I loved her points about how to really achieve your goal you need to quit comparing yourself to others and remember you were made unique. I enjoyed this book, the meal plan and exercises were simple and easy to follow. I do wish she had gotten in the “meat” of the book a little quicker, but giving her story and making sure you are really ready for change makes her credible and plugs you in as well. A couple of times she seemed a bit repetitive, but when you are trying to make lifestyle changes you sometimes need that.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is tired of living an unhealthy life, has tried other avenues but failed in the past. It’s about changing your life, not jumping on the next fad diet. The positive outlook is refreshing and all about today!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Volunteering

2011-05-04T11:41:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I went to shadow someone while they cleaned/played with the cats available for adoption at the Petsmart on Capital and also the Knightdale one is on the list. The cats are fostered by http://www.alleycatsandangels.org/ and I had seen on their FB page they needed some volunteer help, so I thought why not? I love animals and rescue groups work so hard to advocate for them, most for no pay. I had been thinking about volunteering at an animal rescue group, but wanted it to be No Kill and not have a minimum requirement for hrs a year. I had thought about the SPCA since the converted to No Kill last year, but the times they might need aren't always the easiest to manage. Thankfully the Petsmart is open until 9, so as long as you get there at least and 1-1.5 hrs before so you are good. It doesn't take that long to clean the cages,check food and water levels...but you need to give ample time for play and attention to each cat. Lorelei came along last night and really enjoyed herself and I think she'll make a great little shadow if she wants to come with me while I help out. Helping the cats satisfies my animal love, but doesn't include us getting another pet. Whew! I will keep you posted on my adventures there and am sure I'll end up with a few scratches from time to time. Thankfully everyone last night was a real love bug and just wanted pets and love, I hope the get a great home here soon. Here are few of the ones from last night! The last one Rambo is HUGE, taller than our cat Sydney I think and really sweet...but a bit of a bully. Lorelei liked petting them all and was a little bummed she couldn't hold one. I explained that not all cats like to be held and that seemed to satisfy her for now.

My Nook

2011-05-03T14:53:00.000-04:00

Did I ever mention that I got a Nook at few months ago? The wi-fi one, and not color...I'm down with black and white. :) Probably not, when it first arrived it was broken! I was bummed, b/c I had been looking forward to using it for awhile. Thankfully they shipped another one, I mailed the defective one back and voila ereader happiness. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE and good "old fashioned" book, the smell and the feel...mmm! I also enjoy the ereader for it's portability and I can checkout books from the library on it as well, so it's pretty awesome. The only downside with the library thing is, there are so many requests for copies that you wait awhile for an ecopy to be available. I love having a copy of the ESV Bible on it though, it can go with me anywhere and you can write notes and comments as well. It also has a cool lookup word option. I'm one of those that when I come across a word I don't know, I go look it up and with the Nook it tells me what the word is right away. A lot of the books I have on their are FREE and classics as well. Barnes and Noble has a promotion every Friday where you can download 1 Free Nookbook, so that's a plus. Buying the books can be pricey at times for a coupon girl like me, but I have found so many authors I don't think I would have ever stumbled across without them. I've really kinda fallen in love with Christian pioneer day stories. They are exciting and historical, they pull on your heartstrings and give great messages as well. I love my Nook, it feeds my love for books on a new level. The pictures below aren't of my Nook and cover, but what they look like. I did get the Kate Spade cover, but before you get any ideas...it was 75% off and the Nook was at employee refurbished price! Love it...

Kids Birthday Parties

2011-04-22T14:55:00.000-04:00

We had the kids birthday party last Saturday at my in-laws house and I think it went well. Despite the fact that North Carolina was hit with the most tornados in a single day, all invited made it and we had a great time. The kids wanted pinatas, Lorelei has a unicorn and Spencer had a baseball. His only request was round and red, so a white and red one he got. Lorelei had always asked for a unicorn, but we couldn't find one and she settled for a butterfly. Well unbeknownst to us, my in-laws found the unicorn pinata! We waited a little bit for our friend Whitney to arrive, b/c the weather was awful and we were glad she was even able to come. Our worship/youth leader and his wife came as well. We had the family around and the kids were really blessed and received wonderful gifts, more than we ever expected and it was definitely appreciated. Lorelei wants to write thank you cards, so they may end up being a little delayed if she tries to write it herself. I may see if it can be a joint effort and she can sign her name. I will try and upload some birthday photos, little by little...but there are quite a few.

Baby girl's 5th birthday!

2011-04-15T13:55:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was my baby girls 5th birthday and she loved it! I love how when you're little you look forward to each birthday and it really is such a celebration. That gets lost as you get older and that joy you felt approaching that day. We played outside and did bubbles with Bandit the dog, went to Target (her fav store) and picked a couple things out for her, before the birthday celebration tomorrow. She picked out a small toy horse and Tangled make-up bag, which has a lip gloss and nail polish. We said she could have whatever she wanted for dinner that night and she picked Burger King (what?). It really had to do with the HOP movie toy they were including with it, but it's her birthday. I am glad she had such a good time and I really can't believe she is 5. She'll be starting school in July and I can't believe it, time is going so quick. Below are some random pictures of her from the past couple of years!

This very last one was taken on her actual birthday!

Day 2=ouch/ Spencer's birthday

2011-04-07T13:51:00.000-04:00

Today I am super sore, reminds me how much more I can improve from where I am. Walking around the house is a reminder of my sore thighs. Soreness shows my hard work, so I don't really dislike it...but I do enjoy when it's gone. I hope each day gets a little easier on my body, but I'm committed nonetheless. This morning I got on the scale and I had been stubbornly stuck at one place for a few days and thankfully it had moved a bit. I can only hope the same for tomorrow. I know most people would say you can't expect results each day, but I have drastically changed my diet in the last 3 weeks and do expect results each week. I definitely expect the 1-2 lbs of weightloss each week. So given that, it should take me roughly 29 to get to my goal weight. That puts me at the end of October, man when I look at it like that it seems far off...but hopefully I'll have some better weeks than that and can cut down on my fall deadline. I at least feel better and am glad that is reflected in other areas as well.

On a completely different topic, today is Spencer's 8th birthday. That's right, 8 years ago on this day I was in the hospital a little less than 5 hours away from his arrival. My sister has just had her son a little over a month before, my sister in law was having her son the next day and my other sister had her son a couple days after Spencer. To say my dads side of the family was inundated with boys that year was an understatment. Spencer is a great son and God has truly blessed me with him. He is a great son, kind hearted, super smart and a genuine delight to be around. I love him and am super proud of him for overcoming adversity and always trying new things. His memory is amazing, so don't ever tell that boy something you want him to forget lol. I hope he's having a great day at school, getting to celebrate your birthday at school was something I never experienced but always thought was cool. I'm glad he gets that and hope his friends make him feel special. We'll be celebrating the kids birthdays together this year, just a little party with friends and family.

Here is a picture of them being lifted up, just like they had asked! Love you guys!

Ripped in 30

2011-04-06T11:16:00.000-04:00

Travis and I are doing the Ripped in 30 by Jillian Michael's, I really enjoyed her 30 Day Shred. Well, I wouldn't call it enjoy...but it was tolerable and effective. It's less than 30 minutes, which fits into my schedule perfectly. Today was my first day doing it and man, it's a killer that's for sure. Travis does it right after work and I do it during the day, there just isn't enough room for us to workout side by side in here with all she wants you to do. I will try and give updates on our progress and we'll see what happens 30 days from now. I like the circuit training that she does, 3 min strength, 2 min of cardio, 1 min abs. The 2 minute cardio and I aren't friends, in fact I think it wants to torture me. My stamina is low, so I know it can only improve. The strength training is good, I enjoy working the muscles and notice results really quickly. If anyone has seen me they know the abs is a killer haha, but it also works. The scale is still moving in the right direction, so this can only help. So glad for spring and being able to get out and do more stuff too!

It's been a while...

2011-04-05T12:56:00.000-04:00

I didn't even look to see when the last time I posted was, but it was months. The internet usage here was sporadic at best, so blogging just wasn't high on my priority at the time. Well, it's fixed and ready to go. So are we!

This past weekend the family participated in a ALS charity walk and the kids did great. It was only a 3K, but Spencer walked 99% of it and Lorelei walked about 5%. I had the jogging stroller and she enjoyed that, she didn't really wear the right shoes for a walk and the wind was awful...so glad we brought it. Also, dogs were allowed so we suited up
Bandit and he did the whole thing. He is a crazy dog and definately showed that to others. He wanted to meet everyone, every dog and peed on anything still until he was dry. Thankfully Travis timed everything just right and we didn't have to pick up any little piles from him. Instead he literally pooped on a tree trunk in the woods. I mention it, b/c I was amazed and slightly impressed.

The kids are great, Spencer turns 8 this Thursday and Lorelei turns 5 next Thursday. We'll have a little get together for both at my in-laws house and hopefully they will enjoy themselves. Who wouldn't with cupcakes and 2 pinatas? That's right 1 for each,they ask for this themselves!

My weightloss journey is going well, it is still a journey and some days I get down about it and others I am energized and ready to go. To date I have lost 9 lbs, which to mean doesn't seem like a lot...but I'm happy. I've noticed more inches lost than anything, about 7 inches total so far. So things are fitting better and I do have a pair of jeans that no longer fit, which is slightly sad because they are not that old. I had to buy them over New Year's, b/c when we went to Ohio I only took 1 pr of pants and I was wearing them. So I paid full price for pants and anyone who knows how frugal I am with clothes, knows that hurts. I've even contemplated getting these jeans taken in, but figure after the cost it might be a wash.

I will hopefully upload some pictures from the walk and here is one of Lorelei a few months ago. I really need to get better about pictures, but we really need a new camera.

Exercise

2010-07-08T10:00:00.002-04:00

I haven't forgotten to post, just been busy and lazy. I did the workouts right up until our beach trip, but ended up pulling a muscle in the top of my foot and stepping on a piece of glass on the bottom of the other. So, it's been a week since my last workout and I feel like I'll have to start all over again. I am going to try and get back at it today, but we'll see. I don't want to hurt my foot again, but it's been a couple of days since it's swelled up at the end of the day, so here's hoping. The cut on the other foot will just need to deal.

Day 4

2010-06-24T17:01:00.003-04:00

Well I forgot to post day 3, but it was a little easier than day 2. I am glad my body is adapting. I didn't do the workout in the AM, like the previous days since I hit HT for the deals. So, today and yesterday is was afternoons for the torture test, but I am sticking with it. I am proud for still doing it, though it's only for 4 days so far, but as tough as it is I'd quit if I didn't want it so bad.

It is so hot outside, I am glad this workout is indoors and the fan in the living room feels great. I seriously dislike sweating and doing so like 10-15 min after the workout stinks, literally! HAHA! So if I notice any changes in weight or how my clothes feel I'll let ya know.

Super Doubles at HT

2010-06-23T13:18:00.004-04:00

I have tried to get more serious about couponing and there is a wonderful blog by Faye Prosser that I read on WRAL.com that offers savings lists and does a lot of the work for me. So, that being said I ventured into the land of super doubles today and for my first time out I did pretty well. I have done triple coupons before and that is also great, but the super doubles are doubled coupons up to $1.98 in value. I used a lot of $1.00 and $.75 coupons today. I bought $15.80 worth of stuff, originally priced at $54.85, so a grand total of $39.05 in savings or 71% off. Since the only double 20 coupons a day, I ended up with 20 things. 3 items were non-coupon items, but I like kool-aid and black cherry is my favorite flavor. So thankfully it was a successful trip and I hope to save more next time if possible, but either way I'm proud of my effort thus far.

Day 2

2010-06-22T13:32:00.002-04:00

So today I felt yesterday's exercises getting out of bed, just reinforcing how out of shape I am. I did the workout again, didn't feel like I was going to die today, but still extremely out of breath. So here it is 4 hrs later and I am so sore, going down the stairs to check the mail was a bit of a challenge. I think Advil is going to be my friend and a bath might not be such a bad idea. The DVD is nice, if were any longer I'd want to quit, but just knowing that after this one circuit or next cardio that it's almost over makes it bearable. At least I know it is working muscles, will tone them eventually and is burning fat. I didn't realize my hair could sweat from exercise, but now know that is a fact. I hope tomorrow is a little easier and the muscles start to rebound here soon.

Day 1

2010-06-21T13:07:00.002-04:00

Ok, so day 1 of Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred and it kicked my butt! I mean hello, I am overweight and that is why I am subjecting myself to such torture. It is only 20 mintues long, but the circuit training is great and it really got my heart going. I was sweating, barely breathing and feeling the burn as she says. I am already a little sore, but will add this to my routine. It was tough and quick, so easy to do while distracting the kids for a bit. Also, it's so hot outside that walking is not fun at all. The other workout dvds I have just don't push me hard enough and after talking with others who have done this one and reading a ton of reviews, I decided to give it a try. I hope to see results soon and hope to remember to update as I workout as well. So, with weights in hand I set off on the other 29 days and see what July 21 has to show me.

Dislike

2010-06-17T13:38:00.002-04:00

I dislike when people one thing just brings down the whole day, changes your mood and as much as you try to ignore it....you keep thinking about it. Here is to hoping the rest of the day is great!

Garden update

2010-06-11T12:53:00.002-04:00

Our little garden is doing fairly well, I had my first salad from our leaf lettuce. I am new at trying to grow lettuce and didn't really know when to harvest it at first. After a little google research I realized I could cut it at the desired length I wanted and as long as it wasn't too short, the leaves would grow back. I hope that is true since I cut them, cleaned them and ate them already. The first flower on a tomato plant was spotted a week ago, so here's hoping for that. A cucumber has resurfaced after they all died a sad sad death, so I thought. The peppers also seem to be chugging along, I hope this spot works out...if so we will be sure to use it again next year. We used a organic plant food spray a little over a week ago and I can't tell if it is helping them grow quicker or if they are just growing on schedule, either way it's great.
The lettuce tasted like lettuce, shocking I know and it was a little bitter for my taste, but it is leaf lettuce. Again, with this being our first time growing lettuce it may be the type of lettuce, the size of the leaves or any other factors that are making it a little bit bitter right now. I should had taken a picture, but didn't think of it until I was half way through the salad and thought that would have been gross. So at some point and time I will be sure to take pictures of the next veggies!

Mortality

2010-05-18T11:31:00.002-04:00

Recently a member of our church passed away very unexpectedly and dealing with those feelings is tough. I feel sad for his new wife, they'd celebrated their 1 yr wedding anniversary less than a month ago and she is expecting their first child. He was 2 days younger than me and his wife found him when she woke up last Saturday morning. I keep thinking about her and know she won't forget that memory, but keep praying God takes any guilt/pain she might have in her heart away. I can't get her out of my mind and every time I think of her I just send up prayers. I didn't know her and her husband that well, so I feel at a loss on what to say. I just hope God gives me the right words or actions around her.
Thinking about being 27, approaching 28 and having that taken away is sad, but knowing he was a believer and is worshiping our Heavenly Father now is awe inspiring as well. I look forward to that myself, but want it to be many decades from now. I hope I can take his sudden death and use it to motivate myself to get healthier. Being here one day and gone the next, I need to remember to make sure I'm right with God each day, my family and myself as I end each day I've been given.

Busy

2010-05-11T16:19:00.003-04:00

I've been busy...watching kids during the day leaves me exhausted at night and I'm slacking SERIOUSLY on blogging. So, I watch a 9 mth old part time now and that is a relearning for sure. He is adorable and sweet tempered, but I've gotten spoiled by the self sufficiency of Lorelei and the other kids I watch. The 4 yr old boy has gone to part time, thus why I supplemented with another part timer. Also, the 2 yr old is potty trained and plays well with the two of them and on her own if need be. So, it's a readjustment of sorts with scheduled feedings, naps and diaper changes. Well, this is a shorter entry than originally thought, but I hear the baby stirring.

Workout

2010-03-16T11:26:00.004-04:00

I didn't jump on board as much as I would have liked, but am back in the game. The balance ball workout is hard, almost a little too much and I think that's why I wasn't committing to it like I wanted to. Then by not sticking to the plan I would get frustrated with myself and just replay that internal dialogue that I think all women have within themselves and give up. I just can't give in though, I want to be healthier and take pride in me. So, adding walking/stepping into my daily schedule has become a must and it's easier. When the weather is nice I walk around the neighborhood with Lorelei and even though we don't have sidewalks, I find navigating that and keeping her safe is an challenge in itself. When the weather stinks a bit or when I don't feel like leaving the house on our WiiFit there is the personal step option and it lets you basically step on and off the board for however long a time period. You can watch tv, but I just listen to HIS radio while I do it and find the time goes quick. So after 20 minutes I had done just short of 2000 steps, not too bad. I know I still need to do the ball for my ab workout, it really works and I can do that every few days; since afterwards I can barely move, and it will help slim that area. So as of yet I haven't lost any weight, but haven't gained any as well...so I'll take what little things I can get and not expect results right away. I am not so patient and maybe this weightloss battle is a lesson in that.

Dedication

2010-02-15T10:05:00.002-05:00

Lorelei's dedication went well yesterday, it was such a blessing to have it done at Harvest. The timing was right and having our church family there with us was wonderful. I couldn't have been happier and am just glad we could have such a special day for her on Valentine's Day too. Watching other people we care about dedicated their children too was special. Having seen these kids grow and develop or meeting them after they were born, it's a blessing. Lorelei also got to be dedicated with her favorite girl Maddie. Lilly Jo is in second place as the next favorite girl, she talks about her too...but hasn't named any toys after her yet.

On another note, the snow we got Friday was awesome. It was a few inches when we woke up on Saturday, but it didn't coat the roads...so we were able to go out and run some errands. It melted pretty well and didn't delay church at all the next day. We made a little snowman for Lorelei and he is still there, but has melted some and is leaning to the right pretty heavily. It was fun and good snowman making snow too.

Snow day fun inside...

2010-02-01T10:39:00.003-05:00

Bandit was using Lorelei's little dollhouse as a hideout and it looked so cute I wanted to share. Sydney didn't care at all...

More photos

2010-02-01T10:24:00.002-05:00

The crooked picture is one Lorelei took...

Snow fun....

2010-02-01T09:45:00.003-05:00

I love snow and want about one good snow a year and then I'm good. I love the snow so much, but can't live up north where all the snow joy is gone. Lorelei wanted to make a snowman, but the sleet on top of the snow made it hard to pack and then hard to stack...so that was a no go. We did take Bandit out and we all walked around the cul-de-sac and ran in the yard. After cleaning off the heat/air unit of snow we headed in for soup and some Super Mario Wii play, Travis and I like playing together and Lorelei enjoys watching us play. It was a fun day and brought so much joy.

Winter and 60s...

2010-01-19T10:20:00.002-05:00

It's nice that it's been warmer, I was really starting to get tired of the bitterly cold weather. My skin was getting all dry and who knows what January's electricity bill is going to be. Also, having the kids all cooped up inside all the time stinks for them and me as well. So being able to go out and play a little in the yard has been nice.

Also, the hubby has a new job he will be starting in February, so that's a real blessing. We have been praying about something new for quite sometime and thankfully he has been blessed with a new opportunity. I hope it's exciting and stimulating and provides advancement as well. Meeting new people is great as well, so I think this will be a great fit for him.

Yesterday our small group leaders had their first baby, a cute little girl named Lilly Jo. I am so happy for them and excited that they have been blessed with a beautiful healthy little girl. She has a nice head of hair and such cute little cheeks; so I've seen from the pictures, I can't wait to meet her. The miracle of new life is just that, such a miracle and I am always reminded of the the wonderful attributes of the Lord.

So far I've been exercising more, this weekend wasn't so good, but back at it today. Going to Spencer's game and letting them open their presents after was a lot of fun. Having a busy Sunday and all the kids on Monday didn't really give anytime to workout, but I am sure physically exhausted. So tonight will be ab workout, with possible lower body as well. Wish me luck keeping it up!

What were they thinking?

2010-01-15T10:48:00.002-05:00

I wonder sometimes where people's brains go when they speak before they think. I don't say this as a non-participant, I am guilty of this frequently. Pat Robertson and Rush Limbaugh both have taken it upon themselves to share their opinions after the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Pat Robertson shared on his show that years ago Haiti made a pact with the devil to get out from under slavery held by the French. He states the devil agreed and the Haitians have since been cursed by one thing after another. First off, what an inappropriate comment. Secondly, God is sovereign over all things. Evil spirits were cast out in scripture and even had to beg to take hold of the pigs (Matthew 8:31). In the book of Job, God allows Satan to tempt Job, but sets limitations on what is allowed and Satan obeys. The New Testament shows through the death of Jesus, the Old Testament laws were fulfilled (Matthew 5:17)...thus being punished for generations due to a peoples sin is no more. If you are a believer, you know these comments are false and come from no place of love. This is not to say that God doesn't disciple us when we sin, but disciple and punishment are different. Romans 8:1 says "There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus". When we continue to sin, God through his wisdom does discipline us. Hebrews 12:7-13 is a wonderful passage that educates about disciple and why it can be good, it's lengthy so I won't include it. Cursed for generations is not true and shameful to present to others as such.

Rush Limbaugh has a big mouth, we all know...but regardless of your political background what he said the other day was wrong and surprising. He stated "This will play right into Obama's hands -- humanitarian, compassionate," Limbaugh said. "They'll use this to burnish their, shall we say, credibility with the black community, in both the light-skinned and dark-skinned black community in this country. It's made to order for him." He then questioned donating to Haiti and said we already do donate "the US income tax". On that note, of the income tax we pay the amount the Haitians receive is minimal. Certainly not enough to survive a natural disaster of epic conditions. I am surprised more media outlets have not jumped on these stories, but maybe they are really focusing on the humanitarian needs as it should be. I just couldn't not comment on this, especially when it comes to someone who preaches the Word of God. No one is perfect, by any means....but as believers we have to take a stand against those who further bring tension between believers and those who are lost.

Haiti

2010-01-13T09:08:00.003-05:00

The earthquake that hit Haiti yesterday is devastating. The country is the poorest country on the western hemisphere and doesn't have any resources to help its people. In high school there was a friend from GA who went on missions there and I'm sure he's heartbroken over the loss of life. I lost contact with that person, but I'm sure he and his wife would want to offer some help. I will be praying about what I/we can do to help those who really have nothing. The Lord has really touched my heart about this and I will be listening to see what he leads us to do.

On a side note, Lorelei has been helping me stick with my exercises. She does them with me, which sometimes can be a challenge as she ends up in the space I need to use, but it's nice she encourages me and loves to do them.

Wonderful blog posting...

2010-01-08T19:33:00.002-05:00

So I saw this wonderful post on Debbie's blog and loved it so much that I stole it. She also quoted it from http://noahsteven.blogspot.com/, so I wanted to give credit where it is due. If you are ever having a bad day, a cranky day...just an off day of sorts, this is a wonderful reminder of being who God intended you to be and acting as he intends.

"So, I want to encourage you...if you are having a crusty day, just know God did not intend for it, but the thief who hates your guts! He likes it when we're crusty and gets a kick out of it when we're impatient with our kids/spouses/friends/strangers because our agendas aren't being met. Tell him to BACK OFF and then, READ THE BIBLE OUT LOUD!... I call it, "Story Time for satan." Let me tell you, he stops bugging you immediately because he HATES God's Word with a passion, but not only that, he HATES it most when you not only read it but you BELIEVE it! Read on... "

What a powerful statement and whenever I feel like being short with someone I'm going to do this. The Lord is a loving God and if I can be more like him by practicing how he calls us to be, I know my short attitudes will change.

Another new dinner try...

2010-01-07T09:16:00.003-05:00

So last night I tried something new as well and felt quite chef like as I was cooking, it was an alright dish but it was still fun making it. The apple topped/sauce pork chops were pretty easy to make too. I sliced, I diced...sauteed a little and then baked. It needed a little more flavor and then it'd have the BAM moment as Emeril would say. Oh well, it was still fun to give it a try.

New Dish for January

2010-01-05T10:31:00.002-05:00

This month's new dish will be... French Onion Soup! I've never made it before, but really love it. I've really been craving it for about 3 months now. We had some at Panera on Sunday and that was really yummy but I would love to make it here at home and have lots. So I'll try and take pictures while I'm making it or after it's finished so that the finished product can be seen. Hopefully this weekend I can start getting some of the ingredients I need to make it. I have some stock, but need more and need a few more items as well.

2010

2010-01-01T19:21:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's 2010, it seems weird...but oh well, a decade in and here is hoping for wonderful memories for the next decade. We went to the Walter's for New Years and it was fun. Great lasagna and awesome fun, we played games and watched the ball drop. We then carefully drove home to avoid all the crazy people and got to sleep in today thanks to the baby girl. Had a nice traditional New Years lunch/dinner today and tonight Lorelei is spending the night with her Mimi and Poppy, so get to go to bed early and sleep in tomorrow.

I love new years, resolutions are always great. Whether you keep them or not, it's nice to set goals about what you might "like" to accomplish. I have a few I think,so 2011 we'll see how I did.
1. I would like to have significant quiet times with the Lord and read my bible daily for material and then really dissect those texts.
2. I created a cleaning schedule a few weeks ago and would love to adopt that and work at being a better homemaker. It keeps everyone less stressed to have a nice orderly home.
3. With upcoming weddings as a motivator and not wanting to get put on cholestorol lowering medication I want to get healthy. I have this excess weight that I have to get rid of, just for energy and health purposes. I weight about 183 right now; that's right I put the total on here...what better way to get accountability than just putting it out there for all to see. I've been most healthy around 130, but 135 is my goal. Anything more than that is just great, so 48 pounds in 2010 is my goal. I want to work out at least 21 days out of the month and will try and use my blog as an accountability outlet. We have different exercise videos/balls/etc...and our disposal and just moving more will help.
4. I'd also like to cook new menu items each month. I got this awesome cookbook and am just going to pick something at random and go from there. I'll post updates and pictures as they are created. (hopefully)

That's it for now, but if anything else comes up I'll add it to the list. So here's hoping 2010 is awesome and everyone has a better year than 2009.

Mini snow

2009-12-19T19:12:00.003-05:00

Pictures from Dayton Christmas last year I believe, if not it's the year before...

Our first mini-snow came through yesterday, it lasted about 1 1/2 hrs. here. It was around mid-day, so nap time was a little delayed so Lorelei could see. She thought it was cool coming down, but since there wasn't any on the ground she was interested for about 1 minute. I am really glad we at least got a little bit, but about 1-2 hours west they ended up with close to 7 inches. I wanted that, but I'll wait and hope the El Nino this year delivers. A colder, wetter winter is what I'm all about...as long as it's so cold it brings snow. This 33 degree rain really stinks, talk about a big let down.

So Lorelei got a mini 12 hour stomach bug and we felt so bad for her. She was sick and couldn't keep anything down for about 4 hours. She was so tired, we let her sleep in our bed and I kept an eye on her. Once she was asleep she slept like usual and only got up once during the night to use the bathroom. I am glad it didn't last too long, by the next morning she was her usual self and ate some plain cereal and had juice that day. She finally got to get her milk back today and seemed glad. But the bug didn't stop with her, we went to eat at the in laws yesterday night and I started feeling a little off. I chalked it up to being hungry and ate dinner, I was wrong...on the way home we had to make a little pit stop for all our sakes and then I felt about 95% better. She and I again went to bed and I got up once during the night not feeling well again, but as of this evening I'm feeling better. I'm just super exhausted, I think it's from not sleeping well 2 nights in a row and also being sick played into that. Hopefully going to bed early tonight will help some and we can get back to normal. My kitchen is a disaster and well the rest of the house isn't so hot either. Need to get that taken care of before this week...

I am super excited about Christmas this week, it's just a nice day and a fun time for the kids. I hope they both have wonderful days and great memories. My mom is coming in and having Christmas here is really exciting. I am still not sure what we'll be eating, but I'm excited to make something. We'll have to shop tomorrow or Monday, hopefully tomorrow since Monday is small group and we're having our Tacky Taco Christmas Party. It was delayed from Friday...which worked out actually! Having a stomach bug during your party really seems to end all the fun. So here's so a wonderful holiday and I really hope that people can focus on the real reason of Christmas. Celebrating the birth of Christ who came to save us all from ourselves and our sinful ways.

Busy weekend....

2009-12-14T10:57:00.002-05:00

It was a pretty busy weekend, well the last few have seemed to be like that...but that's good. Saturday was like most Saturdays, trying to cram things in before Travis goes to work and we had nice hot dogs for lunch. The baby girl wanted them and I ran out and got a few things to make it happen. Yesterday was church, then to the bookstore to get something real quick. Off to Maddie's birthday party, which was wonderful. Our pastor and his wife have a wonderful daughter and it was great to get together with our friends and celebrate her birthday. Then one more errand before hurrying to the in-laws to have dinner with the grandparents who were down from Ohio for just 1 day. It was great seeing them and we all seemed to really enjoy hanging out.

So we are trying to get more serious about working out and Travis is going to be doing the Krispy Kreme Challenge this year. I think it's wonderful, I personally couldn't do it...run 2 miles, eat a dozen doughnuts and then run 2 miles back. PLEASE! I would love to be able to run 4 miles, I'll shoot for that goal...but not the eating part. I think it's wonderful he is, I support it and think it will be lots of fun. I hope he can get some people to run with him, the more the merrier right? I'll cheer from the sidelines...

Holidays

2009-12-04T09:16:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving was wonderful, we ate...a ton it seemed, but it was great. The kids had a great time it seemed and then after that we went to the Walter's house for dessert and coffee. It was so much fun to go over and fellowship with them, we sat around talking and laughing for a while. The kids were asleep within like 5 minutes of leaving and actually slept in until 8 the next day, which was awesome.

I have brought out all the Christmas decorations and have decorated the house about 75%, we just need to get the tree and then finish that and then ta da all done. I still love the decorations inside and out and seeing houses at night with all the pretty lights. It just makes the days great, plus 24/7 Christmas songs is always a plus for me.

Tonight is the opening of Winterfest downtown, which I think is awesome. It's downtowns first ice rink and the Raleigh Christmas tree will get the switch flipped officially tonight, it's going to be on tv...so I'm excited about that too. I am a horrible skater and only have done it 1 maybe 2 times, but came away with bruises and a sore bum. I think the kids might like it, but if your mom is the one making you fall...how much fun can it be?

2009-11-24T19:12:00.003-05:00

There isn't a whole lot going on this week, which is fine by me. We get Spencer until Sunday, which is wonderful...I am really looking forward to having that time together as a family. One of the kids I watch is home with his dad who took this week off and the other little girl has been sick, so it's just been me and Lorelei. I made some bread today and always enjoy the smell in the house, I think I will make another loaf tomorrow and maybe put that one in the freezer that way when we get low I can just keep the train rolling. I am super excited for Thanksgiving, it's just a wonderful time to get together and enjoy being a family. There is a ton to be thankful for and that is what I am focusing on this year. We are far better off than some and I am grateful for that. Well the kids are here now so more later...

Random...

2009-11-17T08:53:00.002-05:00

So I read an article in the paper Sunday about how Clay Aiken and the Wake County School Board are having a verbal tiff. I was so dumbfounded that this actually made the local paper as a story worth spending time on. There are tons of people who don't like board members for one reason or another...but it's not normally such a big deal. He called the new members idiots for wanting to get rid of busing rules that are in place now and they pointed out that he actually went to a neighborhood school by attending Leesville and living so close. Another member actually poked fun of his music saying "his words are invisible just like his last song." Wow, nice to know as supposed adults we are really adressing the issues here, in actuality we're responding to comments from someone who lives in another county and whose child, if he attends public school won't even be a part of this debate. Could we discuss the fact that grades are down, teachers don't have enough supplies and have to buy their own with their salary or the fact that getting children up to catch a bus at 6am to ride 45 minutes away doesn't help the child, save on gas and increases fatigue in drivers. How about addressing real issues instead of a nonvoters opinion...anyone ever heard of taking the high road?

Love fall....sports!

2009-11-13T18:32:00.002-05:00

Tonight there is a hockey game and a Duke basketball game on...what a lovely Friday in my book. If there was football on tv, I'd get carpel tunnel in my thumb from switching back and forth so much. I don't get the hockey game on tv, it's too expensive to subscribe to all that, but 99.9 The Fan is really an awesome station. I never thought I'd be so into sports radio, but it's great. The afternoon show with Mark and Mike is my favorite, those two are just funny and seem to mesh well personality wise. So for tonight I'll be saying "Let's Go Canes!" and "Go Duke!"...wooo!

2009-11-07T20:44:00.001-05:00

You Are An ISFJ

The Nurturer

You have a strong need to belong, and you very loyal.

A good listener, you excel at helping others in practical ways.

In your spare time, you enjoy engaging your senses through art, cooking, and music.

You find it easy to be devoted to one person... a partner who you do special things for.

In love, you express your emotions through actions.

Taking care of someone is how you love them. And you do it well!

At work, you do well in a structured environment. You complete tasks well and on time.

You would make a good interior designer, chef, or child psychologist.

How you see yourself: Competent, dependable, and detail oriented

When other people don't get you, they see you as: Boring, dominant, and stuck in a rut

What's Your Personality Type?

Blogthings: Waste Time at Work!

Celtic horoscope...interesting

2009-11-07T20:11:00.001-05:00

You Are A Fir Tree

You love anything beautiful, and you have extraordinary taste.

And while it's hard for you to trust, you care deeply for those close to you.

You are a social butterfly, and you have many friends.

You handle stress well - and you are a master at relaxing after a hard day.

Overall, you are modest, talented, unselfish, and very reliable.

What's Your Celtic Horoscope?

Blogthings: Our Quizzes Weren't Written By Bored 12 Year Olds

November...

2009-11-02T10:08:00.002-05:00

Can you believe it's November? The month of Thanksgiving, the prep for Christmas...it's so exciting. I went to pick up my prescription at the pharmacy and they had a Christmas tree up. I did think it was too soon, but it gets me so ready for the season. Barnes & Noble carries Starbucks coffee and I did enjoy about 3-4 pumpkin lattes last month, here soon is peppermint and my absolute favorite eggnog latte. Something about that mix is the best and just gets me ready for the season. I am kinda glad that so many retailers are doing layaway this year, like Toys R Us, Sears, Kmart, etc...it gives you the chance to have nice Christmas ideas, but not hurt yourself when you buy. There is a new Toys R Us in the Babys R Us off Capitol, so I'm ready to see what they have in that store.

We went to an awesome baby shower this weekend, the food was so good it hurt. Literally, about 1 hour after my stomach looked liked the shower could have been for me. So yummy though, the relationships we have at church are so wonderful. Everytime we get together it's a wonderful time and I always look forward to more.

If I could just get over this headcold I'd be all set...

Planning whoops....

2009-10-26T18:01:00.002-04:00

So small groups start tonight and with going down to one car we have to make some plans about how we're going to make it. Right away The Apples volunteered to drive Lorelei and I to the group tonight and I was grateful. Thinking nothing of it...took Spencer home last night, get up today, watch the kids and at 5:30 tonight, 1 hour before they arrive, I realize I have no car seat!!!! Great, so I call my in laws and they have agreed to bring over one for us to borrow for tonight. Normally we have at least 1 car seat in the house, because we have 3...one from when the kids where just small toddlers. Having nothing stinks, also...I don't even know someone close to here who I could borrow one from. I don't know my neighbors beside us that well and everyone else has smaller kids. So that stinks...

On a positive note, Travis was able to talk with his boss tonight and secure Mondays off...so he is able to be a part of small groups as well. I am really excited, because the small group experience is a very important part of our faith. The accountability is crucial and needed as well. So I am glad that was something that worked out, the Lord's hand was guiding it all along. I am glad the church small groups are starting and hope everyone has joined one and finds the experience as fulfilling as we did during Core Group meetings. That was a smaller condensed time as well, so the full 2 hours should be a wonderous thing.

Warm weather

2009-10-22T10:48:00.002-04:00

I am enjoying these few warm days of nice weather and the kids seem to be as well. It's been great to be able to take them out after they get up from nap and play. My daughter loves to play red light,green light and the other little girl I watch just thinks it's great to run. After they are done running then it's hopping time, onto improvised jumping jacks. Sometimes we just walk around the cul-de-sac until they get tired, I am just glad we are getting to enjoy the time outside. I hope it lasts, but know fall and winter need to come as well. How else will my favorite holidays get here? I am getting so excited thinking about Christmas and decorating, it's going to be wonderful...but I digress, before we can get to all that eggnog latte fun I am going to enjoy each warm day that lasts.

Downsize

2009-10-15T11:07:00.003-04:00

It looks as though we are downsizing from 2 cars to 1. Thankfully the Lord blessed us with the ability to get a new(er) car last month, we didn't think we'd have been able to for a while...but thankfully God had a plan. So Travis' car needs a new clutch probably and instead of putting more money into a car we said we are going to sell next summer anyway, we decided to sell it now. We also need to alleviate some debt before we can take on anything else. We have really been evaluating what causes stress, on us individually and as a couple. Our marriage suffers when we are financially stressed and at least we both realize that. I think my husband has made a great informed decision about the car he drives and I agree. I think yesterday and this mornings discussion exemplifies Mike's message this past Sunday. The Lord is always working in all areas and sometimes what at first seems like a trial, really is the Lord refining you into what you are meant to be.

October book...

2009-10-14T09:53:00.003-04:00

So this month the book club I am a part of is reading The Scarlett Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. I haven't read this book since high school and I can't even remember what year it was, so it was either 9-12 years ago...I think it's time to revisit the book with an adult perspective. I have found that as I get older and I reread something I was "forced" to read as a teen, I either enjoy it more or find it wasn't as exciting as I thought. I have always loved Wuthering Heights and reread that last year. It is a wonderful book about love, but it also visits obsession, depression and deep longing on the parts of the main characters. What a wonderful story a true literary blessing. So on that note, I am looking forward to leading this months discussion and will be sure to post the link as well.

Daily vitamins

2009-10-08T19:54:00.002-04:00

Why's it so hard for me to remember to take a daily multi-vitamin? I have them where I can see them and I know it's important to take them...but each day I forget.

I probably remember 1 out of 7 days, and on a good week 4 out of 7 days. I remember to take my BC pill each night and my allergy medication as well...but this not so much. Along with the multivitamin I take a fish oil supplement to lower my cholestorol and promote heart health. Occasionally I'll take a potassium supplement if I work out a lot and need to keep my muscles from cramping up.

I use to take them every evening all together, but then my pharmacist said not to take them all together because the BC pill prevents parts of the vitamin from being absorbed fully. So then I was like, "ok, I'll just take them in the morning with breakfast". That was a no go...

If I have a protein shake in the morning I usually remember, but that's not always a given either. I've thought of setting a timer, but I'm not always at home at the same times. Any ideas?

Angel Food Ministries

2009-10-07T09:01:00.003-04:00

A few months ago my mother in law told me about Angel Food Ministries, it's a non-profit, non-denominational organization that offers cheaper food alternitives to help families on a tight budget. We are always looking for ways to tighten our belts and save in every possible area, our food budget is one of the easiest ones to adjust. Now I am a coupon clipper and some people aren't, but for those who aren't...this is a great way to save money. They have locations at area churches in most cities, I've checked where some of my friends and family live in other states and they have locations in their cities as well. You can place your order online or in person and then pick up at the appointed date. They say the food last an average family of 4 a week, but we either don't eat as much or make it last longer, because it lasts us longer. They also have fresh fruit and vegatable boxes and we order those as well. It's such a great deal and the food is good. What I like about it is, you don't have to qualify for anything. No matter how much money you make you can order and just help cut down on your food budget. You get a lot of food for $30 and the fruit/veggies is like $24. You can order as many as you want, I haven't ordered more than one main box, but next month I want to. I put the link on my blog, so check it out if you are interested. Feel free to ask me questions of my experiences, but they have a question section on the website. Also, tell your friends if they are looking for budget help as well.

Baby boom

2009-10-06T12:41:00.004-04:00

We have had a baby boom in our church here lately and it leaves me longing for that feeling of pregnancy. Of having a little life growing inside you, getting bigger... even though at the time I complained about the back pain and lack of sleep. It's just a wonderful experience, I have always said I'd love to be a surrogate because I like being pregnant, the experience is wonderful and to bless someone life with a little baby is such a great gift. Alas, we can't afford another child right now...my insurance doesn't even have maternity on it, which I don't know if that is such a smart thing, but unless the pill just fails we'll be ok. Anyways, we don't even have a car that can hold 3 car seats, we have a newer one...just not that big.

We have a girl who is due in January, another who is 9 weeks along and one who is 6 weeks. Plus the 2 month, 4 and almost 10 month old in our nursery. So I guess prepare for baby showers and birthdays huh? It is a great blessing though, to have these families with such great news. I just get that longing every now and again...oh well maybe in the future that will be for us, if not we are blessed with wonderful kids and I don't take that for granted at all.

2009-10-02T19:55:00.002-04:00

It's the first game of the Carolina Hurricanes hockey season and I am so excited. Hockey season is great for me, it starts in September; pre-season that is, and can go as far as June if you make it deep in the playoffs. My daughter told me the other day it was time for hockey, so we could go "let's go 'canes". I thought it was cute and do hope we get to take the kids to a few of the games this year.

Also, this time of year the state fair comes around. Of course when I was a teen I use to love the fair and now I don't like the crowds and can finally see why my parents could only stand to go once. My son loves the fair, so we'll be making a trip with him sometime this month. I love the italian sausage and peppers and the vegatable tempura. Mmm...I'm getting hungry for the food, but dreading the crowds.

Well, it's Ghost Whisperer time..

Weather

2009-10-01T15:21:00.002-04:00

I find something to like about all the seasons, because they are all important and for some reason it irks me when people say they "hate winter,spring...etc". Every season has it's good points, but anyways...I really enjoy the weather during fall. The kids and I have been going outside everyday to enjoy this lovely weather. We went and collected a few items for an indoor Harvest earlier this week. So on the table in no particular order are a few drying leaves, a pine cone, a walnut and its shell pieces and pine straw. Yesterday we tried to learn red light,green light and that didn't seem to go over so well. My daughter got the concept, but no one else...everyone is under the age of 4 though. I did pick up a nice book about 2000 ideas for crafts and games for kids up to the age of 8. So I will have to update some of those once we attempt them. There is another book I have on hold at my husband's part time job that has craft ideas only, but I really liked the book. I can't remember the name or I'd put it up here. Ok, well it's outside time for us...

Long time no internet...

2009-09-30T13:23:00.004-04:00

Let's see, the last post was in April...I was going to get the AC in the car fixed. To wrap that story up, it never was fixed and now we are the proud owners of a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport, it's black and I love it. If it had one more row of seats it'd be great...it'd probably also be an Expedition by then, but oh well. Since April I have started staying home with my daughter, helped launch a new church here in Raleigh, started watching 2 adorable kids in my home and really tried to work on being a better wife and mom. They are constant works in progress, but so is life. The kids I'm watching are a 21 month old little girl and a 3 1/2 year old boy. My baby girl really enjoys playing with them and I think it has been a wonderful fit for her. She was really missing her friends from daycare and she loves the kids at church, but they only see each other once a week. I think she enjoys being the "leader" of the house, trying to tell the others what to do or what they all should play. I have been working with her on letting them decide and even though they are here at our house, it's still everyone's time.

My reading has really slacked here lately, because during the day I'm busy and in the evening I read my Bible. I am proud of how dedicated I have been to reading the Bible, it has been more structured than ever before and I have really benefited from it as well. Getting into God's word daily has added an enriching aspect of each day. I have also really tried to study passages instead of just reading through until I get tired. So disecting and trying to fully understand has been a process, but a good one as well.

I hope that this fall continues to improve things for our family and friends. I love this time of year and the weather is wonderful. Just opening the windows and breathing in fresh, crisp air is great. Hopefully I can take a walk with the kids later on. Well, nap is drawing to a close rapidly, so I'll enjoy my last few minutes of quit time while I can.

AC

2009-04-28T12:24:00.001-04:00

I am leaving work early today to go and get the AC in my car worked on, hopefully they can fix it quickly and cheaply. I have come to find out I am a big baby and need AC in my car, also the kids want it as well. They have grown use to it and were upset when this one didn't work. So cross your fingers it is fixable...

Nice weather

2009-04-24T16:36:00.002-04:00

It is suppose to be really warm this weekend, I am excited. I finally had to give in and turn on the AC, I try and wait as long as I can and stretch out the savings as much as we can. It really helps with the budget to have a lower heating/air bill. Last month, not hardly using the heat and not turning on the air saved us $100 on our bill. That is a ton to us and most people I'm sure. So this weekend it will be 90 for the best little bit and I figured I can't make everyone suffer, so on it went this morning. Tomorrow we are going to a kids birthday party at The Little Gym and I think that the baby girl will really enjoy it. It moved to over where we use to live, so thankfully I know where it is. Then the rest of the weekend is wide open, not a single plan on the agenda. I need to get really caught up with my laundry though, the pile has become a large pile. Plus dusting and sweeping, etc...you get the picture. Hopefully it is a really nice weekend for all...

New starts...

2009-03-20T16:17:00.003-04:00

So it's the start of a new season and hopefully a new chapter in our family. I start a new job on Monday and am really excited about that. It was a really nice place and a very friendly group who welcomed me when I interviewed. I appreciated the chance to talk with them and I guess my good side showed through...ha ha. I am kidding, I do think it will be nice though. A family medicine practice will be a change, but a welcome one...something new to stretch the brain and add additional skills as well. I love the chance to show off what a good, hard worker I am and also meet new people. I know that everything happens for a reason and really am grateful for a new start. I hope I am this positive and optimistic come Monday after 5, but I think I will be.

Happy 1st Day of Spring!

2009-03-20T16:05:00.000-04:00

You Are Chirping Birds

You are a very caring person. You especially feel for innocent beings, like animals and children.

You are keyed in to the world and very peaceful. You believe that everyone is connected.

You remain focused and in the moment. You are not easily distracted.

You have a good memory, especially for things that you hear. You listen carefully.

What Part of Spring Are You?

These are my favorites

2009-03-11T18:35:00.000-04:00

You Are Peanut Butter Sandwiches / Do-si-dos

You are easy going and naturally happy. You don't need a lot to make you smile.

You genuinely care about people and are a great friend. You're always doing your best to make the world a better place.

Even though there isn't an immature bone in your body, you still are like a big kid sometimes.

Why make life complicated when the best parts are actually quite simple? You enjoy the small joys of life.

What Girl Scout Cookie Are You?

Working out

2009-03-11T11:40:00.002-04:00

I have been workingo out more and more since we bought our Wii Fit, I have of course used the Wii Fit game that comes with it when you purchase. Well this week I splurged and bought Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009. I love the Biggest Loser, I think the show is wonderful. It inspires people to change their lives for the better and live for themselves. I know she is tough and thought the video would be as well, it's not so much tough and getting you motivated. It's a lot of running, in place by the way, so I didn't know how that would work, if it would even make me feel anything. So I did the 30 minutes yesterday and even though I had a few remote issues that hindered me, it was fun. The remote issues were more annoying than anything, when you are throwing and the screen doesn't reflect that it stinks. Anyway, so last night I was watching the Biggest Loser and was a little stiff after 19 minutes of running, 11 of the other. They are split up into 1:30-2:45 minutes of each set. I felt the workout, but didn't think anything of it...until this morning. I got up to use the bathroom this morning and thought someone had taken my legs and tightened everything twofold. I need to do some stretches today so I don't a cramp or anything, but really need to get back on there so I can loosen up more. I hope this works for me, any of the workouts that is. I have finally gotten more active in my goal to lose the 40 pounds I have wanted to lose for like 2 years. We eat healthy most of the time, which kept my weight stable...but being active is what is going to change my actual body shape into who I want to be and feel I am. So more updates to come...

Blah

2009-02-15T16:44:00.002-05:00

There hasn't been a whole lot going on here lately. Work is about the same, we are focusing more on collections since the economy is rough, people don't pay there bills like they should. So that is in the forefront of work.

We did get a WiiFit last weekend I believe and I would recommend it to anyone, it is a lot of fun. It doesn't feel like exercise, sometimes that is, you do feel it though. They have hula hooping and man that kicks my butt, and the yoga is tough too...but fun.

The kids have been good, things are going well with them. I am in a bit of a reading slump, I don't have anything I really want to read and nothing is really grabbing me and getting my attention like it has. I'm also in a movie slump, I've had the same movie from Netflix for like 2-3 weeks now, it's on my agenda to watch this week and then return so we can get something different. It seems like the weeks are just the same and then it's the weekend and I'm tired and then the cycle starts over. I think it's winter blah, I am ready for spring and ready for the days to be longer and warmer. I want to get outside some with the kids and all that fun stuff.

We decided on the next dog we want, it's expensive so it's going to be a while. They are Bernese Mountain Dogs, they are bigger than Bandit now, but a more laid back. The only problem is, they are $1200 for companion dogs, basically a family pet. The show ones are $2000. So that's something to save for...

Another random quiz

2009-01-30T15:02:00.000-05:00

You Are Grape

You are bold and a true individual. You are very different and very okay with that.

People know you as a straight shooter. You're very honest, even when the truth hurts.

You are also very grounded and practical. No one is going to sneak anything by you.

People enjoy your fresh approach to life. And it's this honesty that makes you a very innovative person.

What Color Purple Are You?

Facebook

2009-01-30T11:16:00.002-05:00

Well,

I joined the Facebook world last night, Catherine is on there and she has told me it's so much better than Myspace and my husband has joined the Myspace/Facebook world...so last night I signed up. They were right! That site is so awesome, it links you with people who you use to know, it's kinda awesome to get caught up with people I haven't heard from and seen in years. It's like a mini reunion without having to go to one. I am so glad that my computer is fixed, I love being able to get online when I want, not at strategic times.

This afternoon I am taking the car to get the back brake lights looked at, again...I had this looked at last year and fixed. I hope it falls under their 12 month/12,000 miles. That car is on it's last leg, but I need it to work until we can buy something else. We are hoping our tax return is large enough we can at least buy a little car to get us by until we get the one we want. We need two cars with all we do and the different schedules that we have. I need a car to appear that is dependable and reliable. Good luck with that right?

How appropriate

2009-01-29T09:42:00.001-05:00

Your Blog Should Be Blue

Your blog is a peaceful, calming force in the blogosphere.

You tend to avoid conflict - you're more likely to share than rant.

From your social causes to cute pet photos, your life is a (mostly) open book.

What Color Should Your Blog or Journal Be?

Yes...yes it is

2009-01-27T11:04:00.001-05:00

Your Ideal Island Vacation is Fiji

On an island vacation, you prefer to get the full beach experience.

And for you, that means staying somewhere with few people and lots of beach.

With over 300 islands, you can find your own private spot in Fiji.

Relax by the crystal clear water, or venture off to find a waterfall.

What's Your Ideal Island Vacation?

My computer is back...

2009-01-27T10:30:00.004-05:00

Yay, the computer is back. It is working and it didn't cost and arm a leg to get it fixed as well. Maybe a foot, but that's reasonable right?

All the snow is gone, much to my children's dismay. My daughter said "where's the snows?" yesterday when we got home. Even though the snow has been mostly melted for days now, but yesterday was the day to ask. Tonight she is spending the night with my in-laws, because tomorrow is our 7am benefits meeting. Woohoo...nothing like getting up and leaving by 6:30 to make me feel sleepy right now.

My husband is having lasik surgery on February 9th, as long as his consult goes well. I really hope it does, he seems to be getting a little excited about it now. I can tell he also has some nerves, but who wouldn't. I was nervous and I work for the company...my nerves were more about being happy with the results, not of anything going wrong.

I can't believe it's almost February, times moves quickly...wasn't it just Thanksgiving? Oh, by the way...my son lost his first tooth the other day. I was a bad mommy and didn't take a picture, but my ex did...so when he sends it to me I will post it so that you can see. He got $2 for his first tooth...are you kidding me? I use to get $.25 and $1.00 for molars. I hope he doesn't think that all his teeth will warrant $2. Anyways...once I get home and can post more pictures I will.

99 Things

2009-01-22T10:39:00.003-05:00

I saw this on Catherine's blog a while ago, since I am a blog slacker I felt enough time had passed and I should get to work on this. The things I have done have stars beside them...

1. Started your own blog *

2. Slept under the stars *

3. Played in a band *-i played the viola as a child, that has to count

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower *

6.Given more than you can afford to charity *

7.Been to Disneyland and DisneyWorld

8.Climbed a mountain *and got lost for a bit

9.Held a praying mantis *

10. Sang a solo *

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris * with Catherine it was so much fun

13. Watched a lightning storm *

14.Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning *

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables *though the tomatoes were a bit odd shaped

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France *

20.Slept on an overnight train

21.Had a pillow fight *

22.Hitch hiked

23.Taken a sick day when you’re not ill *

24.Built a snow fort

25.Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a Marathon

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

29. Seen a total eclipse *looked right at it as a kid, what a dummy i was

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset *

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person *

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen an Amish community *

36. Taught yourself a new language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied *

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock (wall) climbing

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David

41. Sung Karaoke in a contest and won

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight *

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris *

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

52. Kissed in the rain *

53. Played in the mud *

54. Gone to a drive-in theater *

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business *i had a babysitting business is that enough?

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason *

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

65. Gone sky diving

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp

67. Bounced a check *

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy *

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial *

71. Eaten Caviar *

72. Pieced a quilt *

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job *

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London *

77. Broken a bone *

78. Been on a speeding motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car *

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper *

85. Read the entire Bible *

86. Visited the White House *

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating * does catfish work?

88. Had chickenpox *

89. Saved someone’s life

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous * different coaches both college and nfl

92. Joined a book club *

93. Lost a loved one *

94. Had a baby *

95. Seen the Alamo in person

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a law suit *

98. Owned a cell phone *

99. Been stung by a bee * a wasp really, but close enough

48 out of 99 is pretty good for me

Oh please....

2009-01-19T09:25:00.002-05:00

Raleigh, N.C. — Dense fog and a few snow flurries are possible Monday morning, and much of central and eastern North Carolina could see significant snowfall overnight and through Tuesday morning.

A threat of black ice dissipated as temperatures rose above freezing Monday morning, but dense fog hung around, cutting visibility for morning commuters. Visibility was down to a quarter-mile or less in spots, but the fog should burn off by around 9 a.m.

A few snow flurries could also fall through the early afternoon, mostly in northern counties along the Virginia border.

But a good chance of significant snowfall will come Monday evening with the arrival of an upper-level disturbance from the Midwest and an area of low-pressure from South Carolina. A winter storm advisory starts at 9 p.m. Monday and expires at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

"This little bundle of energy that is beginning to develop ... across the Mississippi Valley is going to cruise across South Carolina, grab a lot of moisture out of the Atlantic and pull it back into North Carolina on top of some cold temperatures," WRAL Meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner said.

"The key is, we should have enough cold air in place and enough moisture coming into bring some snow to the area."

Rain will start to fall Monday evening and, at some point overnight, change completely to snow. The snow will continue to fall through Tuesday morning.

Snowfall of between 1 to 3 inches is predicted, with 4 to 6 inches possible in some spots.

However, Gardner said, that does not answer the question of where the snow will fall. The answer is still up in the air.

What the deal...

2009-01-15T11:03:00.002-05:00

Is last week's full moon causing crankiness or the down economy to you think? This has been the week of the cranky patient. People don't want to accept personal responsibility for their actions. I have had 3 different people complaining about random bills, some as small as $10 dollars and others a little higher. One didn't want to pay 2 copays even though they didn't tell us they had other ins (sounds like a personal problem) and the other doesn't want to pay CL Eval charges because they haven't in the past...tough huh? Wrong... I have bent over backwards so much I am now a pretzel. I am not the only one who has been run over though, a new girl Sarah got fussed out today by a cranky old ex-sub teacher and she cried; mainly angry tears...but still. Others as well have been taken down by cranky people this week. I think the bad economy is getting people to be tighter with their wallets. I respect that, I am a coupon clipper, but you need to tell us what you have in order for us to help you.

On another note, my family is in Ohio this week. My husband's grandfather had a surgery yesterday that went wonderfully, but the family went up to see him before. My daughter called and told me it was snowing there, they got 4 inches in 1 day. Of course they did, because why would the person who wants snow get any? Since Monday night I have had the house to myself, minus the pets. I will get to sleep in Saturday, it should be wonderful. I hope I can get caught up on some sleep and hopefully some things around the house, unless I turn into a totally lazy bum.

January 09

2009-01-05T09:53:00.002-05:00

Who doesn't get excited about a new year, it is a fresh start and clean slate of sorts. 2008 was a different year, some good some sad...but I think that makes life more full, without some ups and downs we'd experience nothing. The holidays were weird without calling my dad, that was my usual thing. My mom and I would get together and we'd call him and wish all the good wishes of Christmas and a New Year. I am coming to grips with it more, but it still seems unreal. Things have just been moving at a steady pace here lately, working and trying to spend time with the family. I took a lot of half days last week so I could spend time with my husband and kids, we had them both from Christmas Eve until Saturday. That way everyone could get back into their routine before we got back into the groove today. My daughter did not want to go to daycare today, but after 2 weeks off I am sure I'd be the same way. I think she'll be glad to get back with her friends though. Well that's all I've got for now...more to come later.

What a month...

2008-12-16T11:49:00.002-05:00

This has been a difficult month, I love Christmas but getting everything ready can be stressful, but I enjoy thinking of things people would like and know that my children love this time of year. They are so excited for Santa to come it makes me get all excited too. The past week has been especially rough, last Wednesday around 8:23 my uncle called to tell me my dad had just died from a massive heart attack. Technically he was not my biological father but he raised me since I was 3 and I call him my dad. I have been fortunate to have a dad and a daddy in my life. It's been really tough coming to terms that he's not around anymore, that I can't just pick up the phone and call him. He was always there for me when I was growing up and up until like 6 months ago we were going through a rough spot. When he and my mom split up he took it very hard and took a lot of that pain out on me. Despite it all I still loved him and hold no ill feelings, there at the end we had gotten back to the place we use to be and I am so glad that our last conversation on Thanksgiving was a really nice one. We talked about the families and getting together in October or November. I will cherish the call and am glad I took it even though we were out to a family dinner, I usually never take calls at dinner and we were at a restraunt no less. I know I was meant to take the call and am glad for the memory. This has been a difficult transition and hopefully one I can come to terms with in the proper way. Just keep me in your prayers and hope the holidays aren't dampened in the future by the news.

I'm a quiz addict I know...

2008-12-03T17:39:00.000-05:00

Your Birth Month is July

Introspective and intense, you tend to be a deep thinker.

You are quiet and spiritual - and you have a unique perspective on life.

Your soul reflects: Lightness, luck and an open heart

Your gemstone: Ruby

Your flower: Larkspur

Your colors: Green and red

What Does Your Birth Month Mean?

Really??

2008-12-03T17:37:00.001-05:00

5 if my favorite number, but I live for rules and structure and schedules...hmmm

Your Spiritual Number is Five

You bring adventure and change to people's lives.

You are willing to challenge your friends and push them to grow.

Right now, your life is about figuring out where to direct your energy.

If you're not careful, you can become too unreliable or flighty. You need the perfect project.

You live a free form life - which allows you to be very innovative and a great problem solver.

Rules, schedules, and structure practically destroy you. You have to do things your own way.

What's Your Spiritual Number?

So true...especially with the upcoming trip

2008-11-19T14:34:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Horoscope for Cancer

You're the sign most likely to both dread and look forward to Thanksgiving.

Your signature dish: Mashed potatoes

Your signature dessert: Pecan pie

This holiday: Don't let crazy family members get you down. Maintain your tough outer shell!

What's Your Thanksgiving Horoscope?

Yoga pose...

2008-11-14T12:36:00.001-05:00

I liked this one, who knew?

You Are the Bow Pose

You are an open hearted person. You seek connections and make them easily.

You are naturally generous - especially with your love and your time.

You have a knack for thinking up interesting ideas. You are an inventor and a creator.

You approach everything in life with a relaxed attitude. You accept what you can't change.

What Yoga Pose Are You?

Why not...

2008-11-13T10:43:00.000-05:00

What Your Height Says About You

You are cheerful, expressive, and creative.

You have the heart of an artist, and the whole world is your art project.

You are the type of person who says “yes” a lot. You are optimistic and giving.

You also love a challenge. You enjoy accomplishing the impossible.

You are about as tall as the average Japanese man or the average Dutch woman.

What Does Your Height Say About You?

Hmm...not too far off

2008-11-13T10:33:00.001-05:00

Catherine's blog had a bit about what board game are you? I thought it was cute so I went and took the test and came up with Boggle? Hmmm, that's not what I would have thought and the description leaves me wondering if I'm like that or not. Either way here's the info:

You Are Boggle

You are an incredibly creative and resourceful person.

You're able to dig deep and think outside the box to get things done.

You are a non linear thinker. You don't like following directions

You draw your inspiration from the strangest places sometimes. You're constantly inspired.

What Board Game Are You?

Is that me?

Random

2008-11-11T14:20:00.003-05:00

Things have been busy and settling down at the same time here lately. Work is finally going well, we filled the 3 positions we were needing and things are going well with all of the new employees. I love my helper and think she is a great asset to the place. We let go one of our doctors who hadn't been her that long, she was our newest addition and a pediatric od. I knew things weren't going well, but didn't think she'd be let go so quickly. I have never been at a practice that "fired" a doctor before, but I guess it happens. The sad thing was I did like her after I got to know her and could see she was trying to get better...but that's why I am not in that position.

We're getting ready for our trip to Washington DC for Thanksgiving and I'm kinda excited and dreading it at the same time. It's a lot of driving for a little bit of time, but thankfully we will be back on Friday and can rest then. We have already bought 1 of the kids Christmas presents and tonight my husband is buying another portion as well. I am glad we are getting a head start this year and not waiting until the last minute. We will have to invest in a tree so we can wrap these and put them under there and not just hide them like we're planning. Both of the kids are so excited for Christmas, they thought Halloween decorations were Christmas. Thankfully, they jumped on board for Halloween and didn't just speed through it like retailers do. Speaking of retailers, my husband's old company filed for Bankruptcy yesterday. I am so glad he was let go last year, it was the best thing for us. It's one of those times when you have to just trust that things are going to work out and know the Lord has a plan.

Still no computer, I just need to go and see how much it will cost to get it fixed and bite the bullet there. I miss my laptop.

2008-10-27T17:30:00.002-04:00

I miss my computer, it's broken and I can't even begin to tell when it will be fixed. It won't let us access the internet and it also won't let us do a backup and system restore, it says there is no restore point....ah! So we need to pay someone to get it done, we got the thing at Circuit City, but after Catherine's horror story with her laptop there is no way I'm taking it there.

So I have found my must have item and I want everyone to know about it, so spread the word. It was featured on Oprah and it's called the Kindel and it is a digital book reader. It comes ready to hold 400 books and with a memory upgrade it can hold thousands. The only place you can get it is Amazon.com and it's pricey at $359, but it has a built in wireless adapter to download your books. Also, every book is around $10 or less, because it's paperless so you aren't having to pay for those costs. With people trying to go green it seems like a nice thing. The part of me that resists technology wonders "what happens if it crashes?", but the creator said it's saved like memory, so it has a saved point. I do enjoy sitting with a book and reading, but Oprah's point was for her vacation she packed 19 books to read and that was a ton with travel costs for some people. I see myself having a Kindel, it may be 2010...but it's in the future. ;)
So here's a little more about it...
Revolutionary electronic-paper display provides a sharp, high-resolution screen that looks and reads like real paper.
Simple to use: no computer, no cables, no syncing.
Wireless connectivity enables you to shop the Kindle Store directly from your Kindle—whether you’re in the back of a taxi, at the airport, or in bed.
Buy a book and it is auto-delivered wirelessly in less than one minute.
More than 190,000 books available, including more than 109 of 112 current New York Times® Best Sellers.
New York Times® Best Sellers and New Releases $9.99, unless marked otherwise.
Free book samples. Download and read first chapters for free before you decide to buy.
Top U.S. newspapers including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post; top magazines including TIME, Atlantic Monthly, and Forbes—all auto-delivered wirelessly.
Top international newspapers from France, Germany, and Ireland; Le Monde, Frankfurter Allgemeine, and The Irish Times—all auto-delivered wirelessly.
More than 900 top blogs from the worlds of business, technology, sports, entertainment, and politics, including BoingBoing, Slashdot, TechCrunch, ESPN's Bill Simmons, The Onion, Michelle Malkin, and The Huffington Post—all updated wirelessly throughout the day.
Lighter and thinner than a typical paperback; weighs only 10.3 ounces.
Holds over 200 titles.
Long battery life. Leave wireless on and recharge approximately every other day. Turn wireless off and read for a week or more before recharging. Fully recharges in 2 hours.
Unlike WiFi, Kindle utilizes the same high-speed data network (EVDO) as advanced cell phones—so you never have to locate a hotspot.
No monthly wireless bills, service plans, or commitments—we take care of the wireless delivery so you can simply click, buy, and read.
Includes free wireless access to the planet's most exhaustive and up-to-date encyclopedia—Wikipedia.org.
Email your Word documents and pictures (.JPG, .GIF, .BMP, .PNG) to Kindle for easy on-the-go viewing.
Included in the box: Kindle wireless reader, Book cover, Power adapter, USB 2.0 cable

Mini- celebration

2008-10-13T11:56:00.002-04:00

So yesterday we celebrated the baby girl's 2 1/2 birthday, all by her doing. I was making a cake that she picked out on Saturday at the store, a yellow cake with strawberry icing. If you know my daughter, she loves strawberries. I made it and as it was cooling she tells me it's her birthday cake and can we have candles to blow out? I am thinking...what? We were eating at my in laws and I was going to take this cake, since we can't eat a whole cake at our house. Anyway...to top it all off, I left the cake at home and my husband ran home really quickly to get it and my daughter had us sing happy birthday to her and she blew out her candle. Technically she will be 2 1/2 tomorrow, so at least it wasn't all for nothing. I thought it was cute and wonder what she'll think when I make the brownies she picked out as well.

Autumn is around...

2008-09-20T08:48:00.004-04:00

It's a nice, crisp weekend here and I think it should be a nice one. It's my time of year, football starts up, hockey comes back and the type of heat where you wake up sweating starts to fade away. The family is going to pick pumpkins here in the next few weeks and asked my friend Amanda to come with us and I think it will be a lot of fun.
My son has been having a harder week at school this week, he got a red star on Wednesday and a yellow one on Thursday. That means he isn't following directions and just goes off and does his own thing...so not so bad, but not so good either. My ex and I have talked with him and told him he needs to get all green stars of he's going to have things he really likes taken away. Such as playing the wii, which he loves...and it's good hand eye coordination. Also the big one is not seeing his Mimi and poppy, which are my in laws and my ex's as well. He calls them both Mimi and poppy and not seeing them is a big deal and would be really harsh, but hopefully he won't have that happen.
The baby girl is doing well, she is so great with the poppy training. At school she stays dry all day and only have a few accidents here and there at home. So that is helping us save on pull ups, she's not quite readying for no pull ups yet, but she's close. I am proud of them both and am always amazed at the kids. Here are some updated pictures...

This was the kids at the wiggles..one of many

Funk

2008-09-15T19:06:00.002-04:00

I am in a minifunk and I know it. I'm stressed with work and a little with home too. Our fiscal year end is next week at work and it seems like things are just getting crazier and then ridiculous as the days go on. At home, we are trying to plan for a thanksgiving trip up to Washington DC and I am excited and not at all at the same time. Excited because I want to go and also want to go see my grandfather's grave at Arlington Cemetery for the first time. I'm stressed because of money, we have a super tight budget and fitting this trip in will break us right before Christmas. We have a hotel room, car rental, gas and hopefully nothing else. The family is trying to arrange to where we can eat at a specific place on Thanksgiving and not eat out, which was the orginal plan. That plan stunk, every buffet to eat is bare minimum $50 a person, well with 3 of us...do the math. Plus a hotel over $100, a car rental around there and crazy expensive gas too a from for 1 night. It's worth it because it is family and it's always good to get together and let the kids play and catch up. It's stressful because I stress about money and just need to not think about it anymore, since we are splitting what we have to pay for up into two months...which does help a lot.
Oh well, so today my friend Amanda came back from her trip to Australia and I am so glad. She is just great to be around and such a sweet caring girl. She gave me a calendar and a I love Australia koala that hangs onto my computer, plus all the candy she brought back and shared with half the office. It irks me a little that some people take advantage of her and her kindness just for her candy, but there are a few people who aren't as truthful in the office. Also Aleta came back today and it was great to see her, she picked up and was a real trooper. I am glad she's back and think she made the right decision to come back home haha!

Hopefully tomorrow won't be so stressful, but with the way work has been and as crazy as it is...I don't know. I can't complain though, I have a job, I love it and am grateful...even during the stress. I'm a lucky girl, I just need to remind myself more often.

Pictures

2008-09-06T09:56:00.002-04:00

Here are some pictures taken in the last 3 months...

Our crazy cat...

Everyone loves cheese puffs right??

The little daredevil...earned from her daddy

Having ourselves a silly moment

Tropical weather

2008-09-06T09:44:00.002-04:00

We have so far survived the latest tropical storm to role through this week. We have had two left over tropical systems or actual storms in 2 1/2 weeks to come through the area and at least we are getting caught up on rain. Our rain gauge is overflowing and our area received around 5 inches of rain since yesterday evening. So the usual places here are flooding, like Crabtree creek in Raleigh and parts of Apex, Cary and also down east. Nothing too bad, but I am sure each person affected by a power outage or tree down feels differently. I am thankful we were looked after this time and will be on the look out for Ike. He's quite a large impressive storm and wish he wouldn't visit anyone in the US.

Well yesterday was Donna R.'s baby shower at the REC and it went well. I don't think we have ever had more people, more presents or more food in one place in our baby shower history. I am glad for her, since her family shower didn't go very well. I think everyone enjoys buying for babies and really that's what it's all about. I also was able to stay for a while since my in-laws picked up the baby girl and I traded with my ex to get my son next weekend. Then I won't be making 6 trips from here to Princeton in 3 days. I have decided to go and take ST to school on Monday, regardless of gas...he only has 1 first day of kindergarten and if I don't go I'll probably always wish I had. If I do, then I get the memory to file away and no one can take that from me. I was having a really hard time with it and feeling like a real mommy failure as of Thursday night and just wanted to sit and cry, but just don't let myself get there as much anymore. I just picked myself up and said what would that help and made my decision and felt better after. I think my mini-funk is over and now I can move on and focus.

Here's hoping this weekend is a nice, relaxing one...

Rainy days

2008-08-28T11:21:00.001-04:00

***I wrote this Wednesday but forgot to post it so here it is***

I am preparing for my Friday shopping at the end of the week. Since I get off early, I make my list and then head to either the grocery or our wholesale discount warehouse. I love both...we shop at Lowe's Foods and BJ's Wholesale, I recommend them to anyone. BJ's is great, b/c they will take any manufacturer's coupon. I love being able to save there and true, when you go you don't leave without spending at least $100, but whatever you bought lasts a while. I don't know what I would have done without that place when it came to buying formula and diapers. I still love saving when I buy my daughter's pull ups or her 4-pack of detangling kids shampoo. I am a dork about saving money and have been called cheap before, but that doesn't bother me.

The reminenents of Fay have come through in the last two days, we have received 2 inches of rain in the last 24 hours, so says our rain gauge. I am glad and know my plants outside need it desperately. So hopefully this will be a nice rain for our area.

Mid-week updates

2008-08-20T11:22:00.001-04:00

My husband starts his next round of classes tonight, he's in Calc 1 and hopefully it will be a better class than the last. The book was $180.00, I can't believe that colleges charge so much for a book and then only give you like $20 when you sell it back, then turn around and sell it for $150...shouldn't that be illegal?

Anyways, the baby girl is doing great at school and really working on her potty training. Yesterday I was talking with Catherine and telling her how she only likes to potty at school...well wouldn't you know she tried 2 times at home. I was really proud of her for trying more, I will just need to stick with it more and hope she decides to let me know as well.

This morning she had the mini-tantrum about what pull up to wear, she's definitely opinionated. She wanted to wear the lightening McQueen pull-up, which is made for boys and we only had one left...the one she was wearing. So she refused to wear the Dora or Disney princess pull-up and threw herself a little fit. I obviously won and made her wear one and then she chose the Dora pull up and insisted on putting it on herself, plus her own big girl panties and then the pants. I finally left the house 10 minutes later than I like, but we both got to our places on time, so no big deal.

This Friday is Wiggles day and both the kids are getting a little excited, but I don't even know if they really get what we are talking about. They both say they are ready to go and excited, but we'll see. I think it will be a fun night and make some nice memories. Here's hoping for some good behavior during the event, we are going to get together with Jeanine at work and take some pictures since we are all going to this show.

Early day

2008-08-13T19:43:00.002-04:00

What an early day today...to be at work for a meeting to start at 7:00 means getting up a full hour earlier than usual. It was a nice meeting though and my new title is official. I am now the Billing Coordinator for the REC and I sit at a new desk where Donna used to sit. I like it and enjoy all of the new work and also the responsibility that comes with it. I also like having being the float for check-in and check-out on my back, because it was too much stuff and really was causing me to drown in work. I hope to get to bed early tonight...I was not made to get up in the dark each morning. ;)

Breaking Dawn review

2008-08-12T19:23:00.000-04:00

Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a wonderful book, and I have a hard time understanding peoples negative reviews...but to each there own. Of the four books, this ties as my favorite along with Twilight.

Having this book be the first of the series split up into 3 books was nice and odd. I didn't like the Jacob naration part, but saw it as necessary and understood how boring Bella's point of view would have been at the time. I loved the wedding and even got butterflies during their honeymoon. I didn't forsee the twist before they left or that Bella and Rosalie would form a bond over it, but enjoyed the family coming together. Who knew Edward, Jacob and Bella would find a way to coexist as a family. It helped to bring Jacob back to a good place I was in agreement with Bella that he was the one in the end to flee if needed. All in all this book wrapped up the story for me and sealed it with a beautiful ending. Stephanie Meyer should take pride in the series.

View all my reviews.

Done

2008-08-07T11:36:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I stayed up reading until 2:15 last night and finished the book. I probably look like I have freaky vampire circles under my eyes from so little sleep this week. I will have to say, it's my favorite book of all. The first holds a special place in my heart, the early falling in love and all, but this beats them by a mile. True all the things I wanted and didn't even know I wanted came through and fulfilled and truly ended the series for me. I won't give more information, but I am going to start rereading the book tonight. I read that book so quickly I am sure I missed subtle things and I normally reread her books so I can fully grasp everything. Luckily this time I know the outcome and won't be all worked up waiting for the next bit of information. Happy reading!

Sleepy...

2008-08-06T11:27:00.001-04:00

I have been so immersed with reading Breaking Dawn since I got it Sunday. I am proud of myself for not staying up all night at reading it on Sunday night, true for me I have been staying up late to read...going to bed about 12 or 1 or 1:30 like last night. I am 3/4 of the way through and LOVE this book, things happened I never expected, but think are wonderful. Once I read and a little time has passed, I'll put up an official review of the book. I have been so into reading this, it makes me want to reread the series in order once I am finished to get the full effect and closure this book brings. I really enjoy Stephanie Meyer's writing style, she just draws you in. Ok that's all I'm going to say about that for now.

My hubby has moved on to his next math class, Calc 1, the last class was a total bear. We are still waiting to get his final grade result back, but he is glad to have this class behind him. His next class doesn't start until the 20th, so we have a little time to work in the yard and around the house before he gets back into the school thing again.

It's almost Wiggle time...we are so excited to take the kids to the Wiggles on the 22nd. I think we'll have a ton of fun and I hope they both enjoy it. Last night, was National Night Out and we took the baby girl for ice cream at Marble Slab...which to me is a little overrated. Let me clarify, we didn't take us out, my in-laws did, so free ice cream is still nice...but there sweet cream was not as good as Goodberry's. Then we drove to the super target parking lot in Wake Forest to see the helicopter display they had there and just as we were arriving it was taking off and that was exactly what we wanted to see. She was so excited and watched it as it flew around and did a pass around the parking lot and then flew away. She stretched her neck and was really happy, she kept telling it bye bye and then we went home. It was hot and we did get in a little later than I like her to go to bed, but hopefully we can get to bed at an earlier time tonight. I am almost finished with my book and hope to get it finished tonight, it's hard to put down.

That's the most recent out of work news...

Same ol same ol

2008-07-29T14:52:00.002-04:00

I feel like I'm on repeat here lately, super busy at work, tired at home. I feel like I'm behind in all kinds of things and really want to get a grip of things. I'm behind at work, but see that coming to a better place here soon as we get more people trained and ready to move into different positions. It will mean more help for me and me being more help for work...all in all and good thing.

At home we have come up with a cleaning list, which we checked off when things were done...which always make me feel more accomplished, I mean I am a big dork. I have it split up into daily, weekly, monthly things. I just need my hubby to laminate it at work, so I can use a dry erase marker on it and will be able to reuse it and not have to keep making copies. Also, we have both been trying to do more things around the house and it seems to be helping us both. The honey is about to have a little break from this class to the next and we'll work outside a little more, working on the brick in front and just other odds and ends. Today I came out to let the dog out and knew I needed to water around my gardenias...well there was a wet spot there already and I swear a cat peed there. That's probably what's been kinda killing them...any ideas for a natural deterrent for strays? That won't kill them, hurt them or my plants? Why don't people take care of pets?

Memories

2008-07-17T12:36:00.002-04:00

So Catherine had this on her blog and I think it's a great idea, I love walking down memory lane...

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. I think it will be pretty fun to see the responses.