2011 It's a Wrap!

1. What did you do in 2011 that you’d never done before?
Took a roadtrip with a 2.5 year old and an almost 1 year old. Oh and a narcoleptic 32 year old.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I think my resolution was to lose weight and get healthier and I did! Next year I hope to train for more 5k's, 10k's and a half marathon in 2013.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Nobody really close but next year there will be babies EVERYWHERE!

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Nope.

5. What countries did you visit?

Nada.

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?

Please a bigger house!

7. What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

11.24.11 because it was N's first birthday and it was on Thanksgiving and I had so much to be thankful for. Also, Memorial Day because I completed my first ever 5k.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Learning to run and losing the baby weight plus some =)

9. What was your biggest failure?

Not keeping up with the running but I have a little excuse of hip pain that I'm seeing a doctor and physical therapist for.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Bad hip pain because I am apparently an old lady now.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

A new car!

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

My mom's and myself. We got along so well during the holidays at multiple locations.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

D's but he's 2 so I forgive him.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Daycare.

15. What did you get really excited about?

Taking time for myself and running. Being able to complete half a dozen races.

16. What song will always remind you of 2011?

Adele - Someone like You. I sang it EVERY time it came on the radio.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:

– happier or sadder? Happier

– thinner or fatter? Thinner!
– richer or poorer? Richer

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Hugging D.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Eating during the holidays. Just because it's there does NOT mean you have to eat it.

20. How did you spend Christmas?
Our house and my parent-in-laws.

21. Did you fall in love in 2011?
Yes, with my little family =)

22. What was your favorite TV program?
Parenthood, Revenge, Glee, Make it or Break it, American Horror Story, Fringe, Up All Night. Thank goodness for Hulu!

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

Nope.

24. What was the best book you read?
Well, I listened to it but The Hunger Games was great!

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
D and N conversing.

26. What did you want and get?
A new car, a smaller and healthier body.

27. What did you want and not get?
A new mattress and a new house =(

28. What was your favorite film of this year?
Harry Potter!

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 29 and we went out.. somewhere? Can't remember right this second. Maybe dinner and a movie? See above: I'm an old lady now.

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? Selling this house and getting a bigger and brighter house.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?
I wish I had more money for new clothes that fit but this will have to do.

32. What kept you sane?

WW Plan Manager and racing.

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Hmmm.. Ryan Gosling is really yummy.

34. What political issue stirred you the most?
Didn't really pay attention.

35. Who did you miss?
My PapPap.

36. Who was the best new person you met?
D's teacher at daycare. She was a life saver.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.
Never doubt yourself. I was told I wasn't a runner and it just wasn't my thing. I proved them wrong and even got 2nd place in my age group for one of the 5k races I did.

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

Tonight

We are young
So let’s set the world on fire
We can burn brighter than the sun.
-Glee cover of Fun.

Plans for 2012

Yes, there was a countdown.

Yes, I suck.

Perhaps, we'll touch back on the 30 day countdown at a later date.

Moving on.

My plans for 2012 include:

*Following a budget.

*Continue purging the junk from my house.

*Losing the holiday weight (8lbs as of today) Gah! Damn pie and cheese and pasta and bread and cookies and STUFFED CHEESEY BREAD from dominos! It is soooooo yummy! Specifically the feta and spinach.. Mmmmmm.

*Losing the additional 10lbs I feel will make the difference between good and fabulous. Hopefully by my birthday. Did someone say 30? I'm hard of hearing and my hip pain is affecting my train of thought.

*Paying off a hefty amount of debt.

*A monthly lunch with my friends.

*Plan and follow through with an awesome birthday for my little man. THREE! His demands already include a bouncy house and icecream =)

Oh and Merry Christmas =)

Day 26

What you think about your friends

They like me, they really like me!..? =)

I'm glad I've been able to keep some close friends, keep in touch with other friends and let the less desirable "friends" go. I'm sad that there are a few that I wish I had done a better job of staying in touch with but that's what happens after middle school, high school, college, jobs, etc. Some friends are hard to keep up with and I think both parties seem to forget it's a two way street but I guess the ones that stick around or the ones you can just pick back up with are the ones worth keeping.

**Did I mention my Mom was visiting? Delay due to late night chatting =)

Day 25

What I would find in your bag

My possible favorite wallet of all time.

Me, 2011.

Coupon folder.
Loose coupons.
Pens.
Keychain. Always on a carabiner, preferably red. Roll Tide.

Google Images.

Tons of receipts.
Phone charger cord.
Floss.
Compact mirror.

Chapstick.

Cheerios.

Day 24

A letter to your parents

Dear Mama and Dad,

Remember how I gave you grief over practically everything when I was a teenager? Curfew, calling when I got somewhere, working, paying certain bills aka SKY-HIGH insurance (high by my own lead foot), helping clean up and eating together? Why am I learning that I'm probably going to be enforcing the SAME things? Did you know this was going to happen? Did you read a book or something? I feel like I'm surrounded by people (older and younger) that didn't get the same lessons I did and are seriously lacking in personal respect and discipline. I'm not saying I don't still have lessons to learn or that I was raised 100% perfectly (there are a couple things I would change =)) but overall I really feel you did a good job. *Pat on the back parentals!*

I know I argued, talked back, made faces and in general fought back about practically everything so I hope you know that hindsight IS 20/20 and I am forever thankful for the many things you did for me, taught me and shared with me. I really hope I can raise my children with the same self worth and respect that you raised me with and that I can help them realize their dreams and goals are always within their reach with determination and hard work.

Love you both,

Theresa

Day 23

Something you crave for a lot

See Day 21. That is all.

Day 22

What makes you different from everyone else

I'm adopted.

From another country.. and a girl (obviously.)

You might think that doesn't make me any different from the hundreds (?) of other little girls that are adopted everyday but what you don't know is I'm really a member of the royal family from an undisclosed country. A princess even. Yep. Royalty, people. You see, my mother couldn't keep me because of some long ago family strife or some such and decided I would be safer with an American family. She secretly arranged for me to go with a couple, she hand chose, to raise me and love me as their own. She's kept up with me though with super secret spies and keeps pictures of me from over the years close to her heart. She wishes she could see me and be a part of my family but that would completely undo the family ties that keep the undisclosed country from falling apart. I'm the key that must stay hidden forever least her home and country be destroyed.

So, that pretty much makes me different from all the other girls that are adopted and are growing up never knowing who or where they're from, right?

I'm a princess from a far away land..

Conversations of Today

At Kroger

Me: We need to get 10 Participating Items so we can save money.

S: Is this a participating item?

Looking at the shelf.

Me: No, it has to have the little sign.

S: Oh.. Hey, here's one! It's like a game!

Me: OooOoo! Look, Poptart containers!

S: That's not a participating item.

Pushes cart down the aisle.

At home looking at random blogs, vlogs and such

S: I think she's cuter than the other girl.

Me: Well yeah, *insert sarcasm* that one is Japanese and that one's not.

S: Whatever, all Asians look the same.

Slap, punch, smack.

Pause..

Me: What did you say?

S: (Whispering) You're the fairest of them all..?

Me: That's what I thought.

Day 21

A picture of something that makes you happy

Paradise Smoothie, 2008-Present.

My favorite drink of all time. Milk Tea Bubble/Boba Smoothie. Mmmmmm.. I think I want one now!

Day 20

Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future

I'm already married so imagining someone I see myself being with in the future makes me think of my kids. What they're going to be like, how we'll interact, trips and special occasions we'll share.

I imagine D being a Momma's boy but strong in his own opinions. He's already stubborn as an ox and smart as a whip (changed his own diaper a couple of weeks ago!! Took off his wet nighttime diaper and put on a pullup and a fresh pair of pj pants. Even put the wet one in the diaper genie! And took all the praise from his Dad and me for staying dry through the night. I'm going to have to watch this boy when he's a teenager!)

I hope that N and I will be best "Mom/Daughter" friends. I don't want her thinking she can walk all over me but I want her to be confident in coming to me when she has questions or needs comfort. I'm already so smitten with her I don't know how well I will hold up against her cuteness. I'll have to be strong! Gah, and I know the teenage years might kill me. I was awesomely-awesome to my mom.. I was such an ass.. She tells me today that even with my ass-itude her love for me never waivered. I hope to be as strong as her.

I can imagine all of these great scenarios with my kids and I can't wait for them to come true. I want to visit Disney World, make trips to NM to visit the grandparents, Florida trips during the summer, graduations, dances, birthday celebrations and so much more. I love that my family feels so complete and we have each other to share it with.

**Who knew "defraging" would take all night and impend on posting to your blog? Dang it, I want a new computer! Or at least more memory.

Day 19

Nicknames you have; why do you have them

T-Bird
My late Uncle Jackie, that I didn't get the chance to really know, gave me this nickname with I was a little kid. My dad and grandfather are/were the most common users of this one. It is probably my favorite because it has strong family ties.

Resa
I believe this one came from April or at least we were close friends in high school when it started. It came from The Resa as in I am the one and only =) Sometime I really felt like I was. Most other Theresa's are spelled minus the "h". I'm sure they wish they had the "h" now, knowing it's what separates the only's from the everyone else's =P

Miss Mommy
Gah! As much as I hate it, I also love it. D calls me this since all the teachers/adults at his daycare are called Miss So-and-so. I tried to ignore him in the beginning but it's not his fault and it's kinda cute. Especially when he says Miss Daddy. Ha!

Day 18

Plans/dreams/goals you have

Plans: To raise to well balanced children that listen to their parents and still know how to let loose and have fun.

Dreams: Of moving into a bigger home with a better neighborhood and a better school district.

Goals: For me to reach my ideal weight and to be a better mother, wife and just in general a better person.

**Migraine from hell that included light sensitivity, nausea and head-splitting pain kept me from participating with the world as a whole today and the better part of yesterday. Excedrin Migraine is a God send. Bless the chemist(s) that created it!

Day 17

Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why

stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com

Hmm.. I'm thinking one of the Kardashian sisters. That show is definitely my guilty pleasure. The clothes, the makeup, the hair, the events. I'm sure it's aggravating if you have to do it all the time but for one day to be pampered, dressed in the latest and have practically an all-access pass to any red carpet event seems like an awesome day (and to be PAID for it!). Or jump in a plane for an impromtu vacation. Vegas? Mexico? New York? Man, that would be great. I know they don't roll out of bed looking like they do on the show but to be perceived as that would make me feel pretty good too.

Day 16

Another picture of yourself

Florida, 2008.

I'm about 3 months pregnant, surprise visiting my Mom during her Thanksgiving trip to Florida. I'm fishing off of what was my PapPap's summer home and is now my parents. I used to love fishing with him (and my Dad), off the dock, on the boat, rivers, oceans, wherever. This was the first fish I caught and I loved every minute of it. Don't worry I let him go since there wasn't much meat. Someday I'll get to teach my kids about fishing and they can catch him when he gets bigger =)

Day 15

Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play

iPod is dead so iTunes will have to suffice.

1. Big Boi - Bowtie

2. Destiny's Child - Jumpin', Jumpin'

3. Ashlee Simpson - Autobiography

4. Aaliyah - Choosey Lover

5. Weezer - Say It Ain't So

6. Kanye West - My Way Home

7. Zero 7 - Salt Water Sound

8. Weezer - Burndt Jamb

9. CAKE - Never There

10. Glee Cast - Dog Days Are Over

Day 14

A picture of you and your family

Halloween, 2011.

Someday.. someday we'll have a good picture with everyone looking at the camera and maybe even be smiling, all at the same time. Someday.

Day 13

A letter to someone who has hurt you recently

Dear Theresa,

How's it going? It can't be going well because you're not treating yourself well. Not drinking your water, not staying within anybody's points. Yes, I know it's hard to go from 49 points to 35 but you need to get over it. Follow the plan, do some exercise (run!), drink your water. These areas that you're slacking in are what's directly affecting your attitude and body image. Eat crap, feel like crap. Remember your goal of looking fabulous by N's first birthday? Yes, you are smaller than you were last year (OBVIOUSLY) but you know you would feel 50 times better if you didn't feel/look so bloated. You would be more comfortable in your clothes. You would have more energy to get the house straight. Yes, I saw the house.. yes, you have two kids.. but damn girl, pick up some of that crap! Finish the laundry. Stop sorting it and then forgetting it! You would have more clothes if you would just wash more than one load every few days. You've gotten lazy since you stopped pumping. Didn't you say you would have more time to get other things done? I don't remember "watching the first few episodes of Revenge" as part of the to-do list. What happened to cleaning out the pantry, the closet, sorting the crap for KidsMarket? Thanksgiving is coming up and the Family Roadtrip of 2011 is just 2 weeks away!

Follow the plan.

Drink your water.

Have fresh fruits and veggies readily available.

Stop buying crap.

Plan your meals. (Dinner and then work your way back.)

Set a goal and ACHIEVE!

And remember if you look great and are swimming in your clothes there's a better chance your relatives will offer/chip in for a new wardrobe! Come on girl! Get it!

Sincerely,

Theresa (sub 130)

Day 12

How you found out about Blogger and why you made one

Back when S and I started trying to get pregnant/being pregnant I came across Emily's blog (http://captainhambone.typepad.com/) and was hooked on her writing. She's hilarious, writes beautifully and has adorable kids. From there I found Jennie (http://www.shelikespurple.com/) and A'Dell (http://jakethedog.typepad.com/). All of them are talented writers and bring something different in their stories. Jennie has heartfelt posts that can bring you to tears within sentences (!) and A'Dell's honesty (and guts to voice her opinions) is something to be admired.

I loved how their posts chronicle their lives and wanted to be able to do the same with my life, pregnancies, babies, marriage, etc. Obviously, I don't do as well but I still like looking back at my old posts and reliving those special moments.

Day 11

Another picture of you and your friends

Me and my friends from college, 2011.

Fell behind =( but I did teach myself how to crochet last night and made D a Harry Potter scarf so that's a win.

Day 10

Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad

Happy: Maroon 5 - Moves Like Jagger/Selena Gomez - Love You Like a Love Song
Sad: Mariah Carey ft Boys II Men - One Sweet Day
Bored: Weezer/Radiohead (My husband's favorites and I actually became a fan because of him.)
Hyped: Usher ft Ludacris & Lil' Jon - Yeah (Takes me back to my college days!)
Mad: Limp Bizkit - Break Stuff

Day 09

Something you’re proud of in the past few days

Tonight when we were all sitting around the coffee table "playing" blocks I was talking with S about when N would start standing on her own and less than 2 seconds later, there she stood. I grabbed her up so quick with lots of hugs and kisses! She decided her new game would be to stand for 1.3 seconds and then fall down with a huge grin. Then while trying to call my Mom to tell her about N's newest feat, I tell N to say hello and the cutest little "ello" came out of her mouth. GASP! S and I stared at each other in disbelief. Did she?? Really? Wow! I also got her to say Gigi =) I do believe my Mom is over the moon on that one =) She did the same thing when she started crawling, pulling up and getting two teeth all at the same time. She apparently likes to multitask.

So right now I'm feeling especially proud of my little girl and all of her amazing new tricks.

Day 08

Short term goals for this month and why

I'm taking short term as by the end of the year, yes? Well, I would love to finally go through my closet and get rid of anything that doesn't fit, don't like, don't wear and actually GET RID OF IT! OUT OF MY HOUSE. I am forever having boxes upon boxes of goodwill donations that just sit around my house, moved from one space to another. I don't know about you but boxes are depressing. They clutter, they get tripped over, cause toddler ADD and I'm sure attract bugs of some sort. I know I don't want to live in this house forever and would love to be out in the next year or so but money-wise that's just not going to be a possibility. Therefore, I want the space I have to be the best space for myself and my family to live in. Out with the junk, in with OUR style. I feel like some of the stuff I have is hand-me-down stuff that I almost feel obligated to display. I need to stop decorating my house with other peoples' cast offs. Or at least update them and make them my own (if I really like them).

In short (haha), my short term goals would be to get rid of clutter, decorate with things I love and live (happily!) in my home.

Day 07

A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you

Cotton Row 5k, 2011.

By no means do I think the above picture is attractive. I'm a sweaty, hot mess with post-pregnancy hair issues and a red face Mr. Kool would be jealous of. I do know that at that moment I was so proud of myself and so thrilled my husband and son came out to see me finish my very first 5k. I trained, bought actual running gear and completed the race. This had the biggest impact on me because it made me realize I was an actual, legit, real, true runner.

Yes, I might have fallen off the wagon recently* but I know I have it in me to do it again. Whether it's a 5k, 10k or eventually a half, I know that I can do the work and get that "glow" once more.

*My longer runs + pumping (breast milk) = less sleep = stress, crazed Momma. Also, my neighborhood was having some problems that made me feel less than safe running at night. I plan on starting a morning run schedule.. soon.. eventually.. Wanna donate a couple thousand for an awesome treadmill so I can watch my shows and run in the safety of my own home?? No? Maybe we can talk about that later?

Day 06

Favorite super hero and why

Calling S.
S: Hey.
Me: Do I have a favorite super hero?
S: Not that I know of. You've never mentioned anyone.
Me: Uhhh.. Sailor Moon?
S: No. You don't even watch her.
Me: I did in college.
S: No. Next question.

Pause.
Me: Do the people in X-Men count?
S: Sure.
Me: What about that one chick..?
S: Rogue, perhaps?
Me: Yeah, the chick with the gloves.
S: Yeah, Rogue.
Me: But I think I only liked her because of her hair.
S: Probably.
Me: Alrighty then.. that's sad.
S: Yep.
Me: Ok, thanks. That is all!

Day 05

A picture of somewhere you’ve been to

Sandia Park, NM, 2008.

Sandia is watermelon in espagnol and the beautiful skies of New Mexico actual take on that hue.

Day 04

A habit that you wish you didn’t have

Being a member of the Clean Plate Club which is a blessing and a disaster. Blessing because I rarely have to scrape my plate into the trash (I hate doing this!) but a disaster to my waistline. I've gotten better at only put so much on my plate but if we go out I literally feel bad about not finishing my food. The waste of the food itself (starving children!), the waste of the cost and the logistics of what to do with the leftovers. I can't count the number of times when we would have plans after the meal and it just would not be safe for the leftovers to sit in the car i.e. sushi and 90+ degree weather.

S has even joked about being able to put my plate back in the cabinet it would be so clean. Ha ha. I could definitely fault my love of food for cleaning my plate so well. Somethings I could (do?) lick the plate I love them so much. It could also be my "I want ALL of my points worth" mentality. If half a cup of ice cream is 4 points then by damn I want ALL of the ice cream in my bowl!

I know I don't want my children to have this same issue but if it would make D clean his tray I might not be too opposed. I'll just make sure he's eating only healthier foods =)

Day 03

A picture of you and your friends


At my friend's re-proposal, 2010.

Tate Farms, 2011.

It's your lucky day! You get two pictures. One from a year and a half ago and one from today =)

Don't mind the Auburn shirt. We're Alabama all the way over here. Roll Tide!

Day 02

The meaning behind your Blog name

Ingredients:
I heart bubble tea.
My name is Theresa.
My (written) nickname is Resa

Directions:
Combine all three until well mixed.

Serves 4.

Enjoy =)

Morning of Fails

Well, this morning started off brilliantly -

Woke up late
Hair looked atrocious
N's clothes didn't match
Tried 2 pairs of pants on her before picking skirt and capri leggings (still not matching)
Her hair looked like a vagabond's
Got to work late-ish (15 mins)
Remembered I forgot blush/bronzer = looked like death
Told daycare they could give N table food in little tiny bites as she is a gagger
Forgot to say no desserts or overly sweet foods (see JELLO!)
Called daycare to tell them and lucky for me her teacher actually questioned herself about not asking about snacks therefore did NOT give any to her <--- the reason why we love our daycare!

Last one not so much a fail, I guess =)

Also, tried to wear one of the bras from when I was done breastfeeding D and yeah, completely forgot I was, oh 2 months preggers at the time so therefore benefiting from the pregnancy symptom of bigger boobs. Being 10 lbs lighter now might also have something to do with it. Suffice to say, I looked like a preteen in their mom's bra (if their mom was blessed with D's).

Other than that, it's Friday so I guess it's still a good day?

Day 01

A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself





Interesting Facts
1. I grew up in France.
2. I went to the British School of Paris.
3. My first job was at the Commissary as Bagger 005.
4. My favorite jelly bean flavor is Juicy Pear but I only eat actual pears occasionally as in once a year.
5. I was a vegetarian from Spring 2007 to Spring 2010.
6. I started craving meat again when I was pregnant with my daughter. Mmmmm.. bacon.
7. 70's music takes me back to my childhood.
8. I'm a military brat.
9. Languages I've studied: Japanese, French and Spanish.
10. I pierced my second holes (ears) when I was 10. By myself. While my parents were napping. In Ireland. Weird the things you remember. I was also eating Corn Pops.
11. I love horses. Ridding horses, grooming horses, whatever but I still get a touch of anxiety when I first get up close to them. Their presence is just so magnificent.
12. Growing up I always wanted someone in my family to look like me. My son does more so than my daughter. Go figure.
13. I don't care for cooked/baked/fried apples but I will eat a TB Carmel Apple Empanada.
14. I would love to someday own a Toyota Celica 2000-2006. Black. Manual.
15. If I had grown up in the States I think I would have been a fantasy geek =P Shhhh.. we should probably keep that under wraps!

Blogging Challenge

Different 30 day challenges have been popping up everywhere. Clothing challenges, Pinterest, other blogs, my bff (April (hair AND dressing up!)), Jillian (Ripped anyone?) and it seems to be in the stars that today I would come across the Blogging 30 Day Challenge. It's a list of topics that you will cover in 30 days of blogging. I like it because sometimes I don't know what to write about, forgot what I wanted to write about or just can't think past do I have enough diapers to last one more day before getting to Target(!). Also, doesn't cost a cent! Very budget friendly. Not sure when I'm going to start exactly.. Do I wait for the beginning of the month? But next month is November and there's our roadtrip to Florida, Thanksgiving and N's birthday. Hmmm.. watch me not start this for ANOTHER 30 days. Hey! That's a challenge I can do! 30 days of procrastiation! Right up my alley. I kid. No wait, I might not be but you know what? This is my blog and I can do what I want to do, say what I want to say, be who I want to be.. I think you get what I'm sayin' =)

Anyway..
Preview of future topics:

Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
Day 02- The meaning behind your Blog name
Day 03- A picture of you and your friends
Day 04- A habit that you wish you didn’t have
Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to
Day 06- Favorite super hero and why
Day 07- A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
Day 08- Short term goals for this month and why
Day 09- Something you’re proud of in the past few days
Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad
Day 11- Another picture of you and your friends
Day 12- How you found out about Blogger and why you made one
Day 13- A letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 14- A picture of you and your family
Day 15- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play
Day 16- Another picture of yourself
Day 17- Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have
Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them
Day 20- Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future
Day 21- A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 22- What makes you different from everyone else
Day 23- Something you crave for a lot
Day 24- A letter to your parents
Day 25- What I would find in your bag
Day 26- What you think about your friends
Day 27- Why are you doing this 30 day challenge
Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?
Day 29- In this past month, what have you learned
Day 30- Your favorite song.

I've invited April to do this with me which will make this even more fun as long as we both can stay ontop of it. (That's what she said!)

So cross your fingers >.< and wish us luck.

Things you can say (Deacon Edition 9/2011)

Fruit (brute), animal crackers, truck, school bus (scu bus), Natalie (Nanalee), Mommy, Da-de, Gigi, doggy, PapPap (PopPop), apple, milk (mil-ku), juice, banana, grapes (drapes), airplane, book, Amai (Ami), teeth aka brush teeth, hammer (am-er), I don't know, I see (dee).. umm.., screwdriver, elephant, giraffe, monkey, cat, cow, horse, noodles (nu-nus), nose, ear, eye, hair, head, Julia (Juju), Kira (De-da), Abby, Aubrey (Au-be), Roll Tide (Roooooll Tide!), mouse, read, kiss (diss), hug, lights off/on, Sprout (Sprooooout!), I love you, nuggets (num-nuts), Miss L, Miss H, thank you, please (peace), Happy Birthday (Happy Happy), phone, red, blue, brown, black, pink, green, yellow (ye-whoa), Caillou, Elmo (used to be Melmo =(), cookie, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, shirt, diaper, ewwwwww!, all done, I want down, sticker, I want.., new car, motorcycle (mo-ta-dada), road, work as in daddy's at work, walk, oranges (o-anges), sleeping (seeping), help (elp Mommy, I need elp!), I need.., dinosaur, buzz, woody, car, uhh no, water (lala), peepee/poopoo, potty, wash hands, stuck, jacket, shoes, socks, yes, no, more, pop tart (op tart), cereal, hot, cold, clock, beep beep, rabbit, frog, bee, bug, uh oh, oh nooooo, it broke (also see: it BROOOOKE, Mommy!), sheep (but for some reason pronounced as bee-itch??), I'm stuck!, booboo, ouchie, Roary aka Lightning McQueen, bath.

That's all I can come up with so far but I'm sure there's more* since you seem to tell me something new everyday. Keep it up Bub!

*Found out today you know snake too =)

Just go to bed..?!

First of all, I'm not angry. Really. I just need to explain WHY I can't JUST go to bed.

Toys need to be picked up. Laundry needs to be moved from the washer to the dryer. Dishes need to be put away. Dinner needs to be divided up for future lunches. Dishwasher needs to be loaded. Pots and pans washed. Bottles need to be cleaned and made for the next day. Lunches/breakfasts need to be prepared. Laundry needs to be folded (from 3 days ago!). Cat needs to be fed. Speaking of the cat, the box needs to be rolled (best litter box ever!). Is tomorrow trash day? Oh trash needs to be collected and taken out. Crap! D doesn't have any shorts for tomorrow. Another load of laundry. Still need to pump. Another set of flanges need to be washed.

Oh and a possible run would be nice.

So, do you really need to know why I can't JUST go to bed?

Salut to my Vue

I first spotted your cousin at the mall. He was sporting an orange attire that was slightly hideous and yet I still found myself drawn to him. Every time I was window shopping on the weekend I would see him and dream that one day he would be mine. I even found a picture in a magazine that closely resembled him and I tore it out for wishful daydreaming.

Amazingly, a few months later I was actually given the opportunity to meet with you. I was in the market and my Dad (believe it or not!) gave me the go head to imagine having you. Of course you were a little hard to get used to given your "manual" technicalities =) But I stayed true and was allowed to take you home.

You've seen me through college, moving from dorm to apartment to apartment back home to another apartment and then lastly my first house. You were with me through a long distance relationship that resulted in marriage and the birth of my two children. You've tackled the longs hours with me to Pennsylvania and back, twice! Multiple trips to Florida. You were always there for my many, many interview and everyday for the jobs I was fortunate to have. When I was upset or angry you let me ride it out with you (clover or not). In the past 9 years you have been the most dependable rock in my life.

A year and a half ago it was mentioned I might need to make a trade but I was stubborn and not ready to let you go. But this year an impending trip has made me concerned for your ability to make the miles and ultimately I made the decision to let someone else be the driver of you. When saying goodbye I was asked if I was actually taking pictures and you know what? I was because it's a sentimental time for me. I remember the day my Dad and I came to pick you up, on my late grandfather's birthday, at the now closed dealership and how they had me take a picture with you =) Dorky I thought then but now I'm glad they did.

You were my constant companion during my college years, my cheerleader during my interview/career trials, my traveler for thousands of miles, got me to the church on time(r), my always welcome home sign, the stability I needed for my children. You were there for my graduation, my first time (not that one!) living with my now husband, my first real job, my first house, my first child, my first 5k.. and now it's time to say our farewells. I'm going to miss you and all of your "manual" trickery and our many uphill challenges =) (Where are we going? Are there any hills? Oh hell no!) I have no doubt someone else will fall in love with you and make you a part of their life.

Goodbye to my 2003 Saturn Vue, October 14, 2002 - August 31, 2011 <3

Welcome to my 2011 Dodge Journey.

My Saturn showed me the view and now my Dodge is ready for the journey!
(Yes, I'm a dork and corny and cheesy.. your point?)

Awesome start to a new year (very long.. you've been warned!)

On Saturday morning I had a 5k race 30 minutes away that about 15 minutes into my drive I realized I forgot my shoes. Showing signs of old age already?? During the race I came to the conclusion that I don't necessary love running but I sure do love seeing my time. New PR of 30:45! Great first present =) Chick-fil-A was a sponsor so we each got a chicken biscuit. Now, I had already planned my day with my points so I was having a slight dilemma about whether or not I should eat it. I mean it was my birthday weekend, I did just run 3.1 miles with a new PR but did I really want to forgo any really good eats for the points I was about to lose? Luckily, April's daughter didn't ask when were by the biscuits for one but about 20ft later she did. I was able to give it to her and feel good about it!

Once I got home I showered and made my favorite breakfast sandwich (English muffin, egg, laughing cow cheese and bacon crumbles) YUM! Then I played with the kids and relaxed a little. N is now robot crawling, sitting up from laying down, rolling both directions, pulling up, attempting to cruise and waving bye-bye. She's started this all in the last week or so! She's so amazing =)

Around 4:30 S and I got the kids ready and headed over to my MIL's house so we could drop them off and have a kid-free evening. N went happily into her arms and seemed perfectly content. I was worried she would freak out since we hadn't been over there in a couple of weeks but she was wonderful. D was immediately hooked by something on the tv. Gah, such bad parenting.

Dinner was yummy yummy tacos al carbon. I skipped the cheese since I had a smoothie earlier in the day with D. (Dang it! I just realized I didn't get a bubble tea on my birthday weekend. Will fix that tonight!) It was great being able to just feed myself and not me, N and keeping my eye on D. So relaxing!

Next came, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2! It was awesome! I was so happy it was still in theatres. Amazingly, there was a decent amount of people in there so I guess we weren't the only ones slacking unless of course they were seeing it for the second or third time =) I can't wait to get the last two movies on DVD. I hope D and N love them as much as I do. I guess I should read them the books first though.

After the movie we headed back to MIL's house and picked up my still going two year old and my knocked out 9 month old. She's such a good night time sleeper. Barely a peep out of her when I was changing her for bed. D went down well too with a book and kisses goodnight. S and I stayed up and watched Killers and drank some Coke Cherry Zero and Vanilla Vodka. Mmmmm!

Sunday (Birthday-day!)N woke up around her usual time (6:00am) and then slept in the bed with us for a little bit. S and D woke me up with cards and a present =) I got a Baby G watch in a smokey grey color. The cards were cute and S's said something about me being a trophy wife. LOL! I even got breakfast delivered.. from down the street =) It was a nice and lazy birthday for me. S did some yard work and I hung out with the kids and watched Make it or Break it (Thanks April!). Then we got ready and headed over to MIL's house again. Good thing she loves us! She bought me some colorful cupcakes and feed us a yummy dinner. Hamburgers and homemade fries (love!).

Once we got home and had N settled into bed. We put candles into my Italian Wedding Cake and D and I blew out the candles together. Then off to bed with him and half the cake for me! Well, almost half the cake.. I told you I was saving my points for yummy eats! It's my favorite store bought cake. Mmmm I even love the icing! More Make it or Break it and then I started getting stuff ready for the week.

Right before climbing into bed I decided to check to see if they had posted the race times for the 5k. I looked at the overall and saw the fireman I let pass me, beat me by 1.3 seconds =) I felt bad for him and knew his buddies would give him a hard time if I beat him. Then I noticed the 2/10 next to my name. Quickly, checked the age results and I CAME IN SECOND FOR MY AGE GROUP! OUT OF TEN! NOT JUST TWO! Best present ever! (*Edit: I emailed the POC for the race and found out I get a medal and a gift certificate! First medal!)

So overall, I had a pretty great birthday weekend. Relaxing with fun stuff sprinkled through out. Continuing the celebration with a bubble tea later today ;) I think it's going to be a pretty darn good last year of my 20's, don't ya think?

Lifetime!

Yay! I made Lifetime last night and it feels awesome. I was given my key charm and another star charm since I lost the other one. I passed around some pictures one from before I was pregnant, one right after having D and another of me prego with N. Yes, I know, duh, you're pregnant of course you're bigger. BUT, you can see it in my face and arms (3x bigger than my friend's arm!) too. I was not all belly so I think they are legitimate pictures of my "big-ness".

Anywho, I didn't really do anything to celebrate at least not last night. My 29th birthday is this weekend and I figure we can roll it all into one. Dinner and.. Harry Potter! Hopefully. It might already be out of the theatres by this weekend. I was told the times will be out tomorrow (Wed) so I'm crossing my fingers. I mean it's a big movie, right? So it should be in the theatre for more than a month, right?? Please!

I went ahead and changed my ww plan to only include the etools and not the meetings. Yay, money in my pocket! We are looking for the light at the end of the tunnel with this money situation and hoping for the best. Luckily, we have rain check movie tickets from last year and dinner I think will be Mexican so that shouldn't be too much unless I sneak a drink (or two?) =) I was told, "You can have whateva you like!" My reply, "With what money?".. "Don't worry about that!" SMH..

Anyway, mom did give me some money to get my hair done and I scheduled an appointment for tomorrow! It's a new person since my long time (10 years!)hairstylist retired last fall =( I did get a trim from by bff's sister in the Spring who's in cosmetology school and she did a good job but since I don't know exactly what I want I'm going to pay the money to have someone cut a style that compliments my face.

So in closing, Lifetime! New haircut! Tacos al Carbon! Harry Potter? *crosses fingers*

Best birthday week ever!

Things I'm Loving and Not So Much Loving

Love
*Coffee with milk, splenda and chia seeds over ice
*N totally charmed the nurse at her 9 month appointment. The nurse started off grumpy and having a "monday" kind of day (it was Monday so I completely understand) and left smiling and laughing to herself =)
*Lunch salads with lettuce (romaine/iceberg), hard boiled eggs, bacon crumbles, cheese, grapes and normally some type of protein (chicken, black beans, tuna, etc.)
*Only one more week to hopefully making Lifetime!

Not So Much
*Saggy booty pants
*D's meltdowns over NOTHING! Dude it was YOUR booger that was freaking you out..
*Underwears (JK+8 reference) is for covering your ass not for riding up your crack. Trying out different styles as we speak. I'm going to find the perfect style soon!
*Lack of motivation to get my weekly runs in
*Living check to check, MUST GET OUT OF DEBT!

BYO.. Lunch?

Last night I made my salad. Romaine, hard boiled eggs, bacon crumbles, grapes, mexican cheese and there should have been red onion but I forgot. Get to work in the morning and decide to text my friend and ask when am I ever going to see you again. She replies with: TODAY! I was just thinking about you. I want to do weight watchers. Want to meet at the mall? Of course, I said sure and figured I could eat my salad tomorrow. I've been craving spicy chicken sandwiches this past week and thought I could get Chick-fil-a's spicy chicken sandwich. After looking over my points I was having a little dilemma. Would a sandwich really be enough? It's already 13 pts by itself. I don't really have money to eat out. It'll cost about $5 that I don't have. Eghh. I really want my salad. Crap! I will look like a crazy person bringing my lunch into the mall, right? I could always get a chicken salad from Chick-fil-a.. but I ALREADY have a salad. Dammit.

Call bff.

Crisis avoided. She tells me something amazing. BUY CHICKEN NUGGETS and PUT ON SALAD. A-mazing, she is. Also, should be around $3 and I have $3 cash (cash is like invisible money to me, if it's not withdrawn from my account it never existed. MUST LEARN TO BUDGET BETTER!).

Grab my salad and hope my friend isn't too embarrassed by me. Arrive at the mall and do the obligatory squeal and hug, she tells me I look great (never gets old =)thank you ww)and then I notice her bag. A plastic bag.

Me: What's that?

Her: Please don't be embarrassed. I brought my lunch.

Me: Dude! Look at what I brought!

Why do I even worry? I obviously pick my friends because they understand me and apparently think like me too =)

Also, my salad.. was AWESOME!

I ran with my Dad

Circa 1994
My Dad somehow convinces me to run with him around the "domain" aka neighborhood. We were living in France and I was 12. Running was not my thing. That is of course putting it mildly. Sleeping was my activity of choice back then oh and being boy crazy =) Anywho, running with my Dad was miserable.. for both of us. See, my Dad is a runner. During the week he goes for a run at lunch time and on the weekend he runs in the morning. I believe he runs between 3 and 5 miles.. a day. And he's been doing this forever probably before I was born even. I'm sure I slowed him WAY down and complained non-stop. Poor guy didn't stand a chance. I punked out on him about 1/4-1/2 a mile in. Yeah, a measly 1/2 mile was my longest run.

July 2011
Dad is traveling for work and wants to squeeze in a weekend visit with me and my family. I let him know I'm running a 5k that Saturday and I can sign him up if he wants. He accepts and as I'm filling out the online form it asks for a finish time. When asked what his time would be he says, "Put down whatever time you would finish. I'm going to run with you."

July 23rd, 2011
Numbers pinned, shoes tied and beverage of choice in hand (caffeine-him and water-me) we're ready to go. We arrive at the start site and wander a bit. We meet my friend and her family and wait for the race to begin.

7:05ish
We're off! He keeps stride with me and doesn't push me to do more just lets me set the pace. If you've met my Dad you know this is unusual for him. He's a pusher, a motivator, a go out there and get it done kinda guy. Believe me we've locked horns a number of times but this morning.. we're just keeping pace together. We chat about this and that, he gives me pointers on my running. I nod my head and wheeze out a response =) It's (dare I say it?) nice. He tells me I'm doing good and of course that makes me feel great! The first two miles are a "breeze" but that last mile always starts to wear on me. He's telling me about my breathing and what I need to do. I nod. *wheeze* Finally, get to the last stretch and I'm anticipating him speeding up and blasting past me. I even tell him, "You can.. go.. *wheeze*.. ahead." He says, "No, I want you to beat me."

Dagumit.. I push. I push myself to go harder. I know he's not going his fastest but I know he's got my back. We finish ONE second apart. I earned a new PR and at the same time a lasting moment with my Dad.

My head is soooo not in the game

Let's just start out with me eating 19 pts worth of chips. My new "crack chips" are the Zapp's Voodoo Gumbo and I knew when I picked them up at Target yesterday I had every intention of eating them. EATING THEM ALL. I should be remorseful but looking back today, I'm not. AND I didn't run last night.. I'm such a slacker, right? Well, I've been fighting a monster headache since Saturday and I'm pre-menstrual. Also, super tired since I only got 4 hours of sleep Sunday night and 5 hours on Monday night. Yesterday, I was also in a funk. I'm guessing the overload of sodium, lack of sleep and questionable food choices (see spicy chicken sandwich (oh yeah more sodium!)) probably had something to do with it. I was just grumpy and felt like I was hungry but didn't know what I wanted. I hate that! I'm all I want something NOW but what to eat? Egg sandwich? Cereal? Fruit? Oh right, didn't buy any.. CRAP! Chips?? Why yes please, don't mind if I do. The whole bag you say? Why not? 5 servings? Phssst.. More like 4 and 2/3 servings. Ha! That's how I beat the system! 19 pts instead of 25! (Yes, I'm aware I'm only cheating myself but seriously when I measure out the servings the last serving is always short.)

So today I woke up (somewhat) refreshed and even just sitting here I feel better and ready to tackle the many projects I want to get done. Projects equal meal planning, grocery lists, how to organize closets, where to store the millions of blankets I have that are stored in about 4 plastic containers (wishing I had opted for the linen closet.. stupid house), etc. Figure out how to prepare a better breakfast for D other than a poptart. I think he's less then impressed with them now and would rather have fruit and probably yogurt but it's so messy and we only have a small window of time in the morning. I need a full body bib for that boy! I need non-messy breakfast options. Ideas?

By the way, have you tried SnackWell's Fudge Drizzled Caramel Popcorn?? They are soooo good! Nom nom! 3 pts and a decent portion =) Another yummy find, Quaker Oats Sweet Chili Rice Crackers.. Mmmmmmmm! Love them! Spicy and a little sweet I could definitely eat the whole bag but I portioned it last night and have no choice but to only eat a serving. Of course there is this evening..

I know why but I'm still not happy

I'm up 2.8 lbs per the ww scale. At home it was more like 1.something but whatever. I was expecting the gain so I'm not completely devastated.

Here are the reasons why:

- High sodium content over the weekend (see German restaurant, evil McDonald's and having one (ONE!) wine cooler)
- Lack of water (!!)
- And possibly the amount of breastmilk I'm producing (less than before but I'm eating the same amount of pts)

Now I know the combination of the first two is my main downfall of the weekend but I'm not really sure what to do with the last one. N is eating baby food twice a day now but still takes about 3 bottles at daycare and nurses twice at home. I think I'm ready to drop a pumping session at work and see how that goes but I'm a little paranoid of what I could be doing to my supply. Granted I have a decent stash in the freezer but I don't want to only rely on that. ALSO, if I drop a session I lose 7 pts! Argh! I love all my points! I get 49 (forty-NINE!) and if I lose 7 I'll have to drop one of my 3-4 snacks! Of course I could eat some fruit or something else that's 0 pts but I'll miss the freedom of semi-eating whatever I want (pop-tarts, chips, 100 calorie snacks, cheese, goldfish, dry cereal, etc.). I'm going to have to think this over and probably do some test runs.

So game plan this week is to get all my water in which is about 64-100+ oz depending on if I run that day. Eat more fruits and veggies. LESS sodium. Trial run of 42 pts per day instead of my beloved 49 =( I think I'm also going to alternate pumping once/twice per day at work.

Wish me luck!

My To Do List for my August To Do List

Yes, this is a pre-to do list To Do List..

- Create full fledged family budget
- Prepare items for eviction (unworn/unwanted clothes, toys, middle school and high school notes (I'm a recovering pack rat), prom dresses/bridesmaid dresses, etc.)
- Open a joint account. Yes, we've been married for almost 4 years without a joint account. I KNOW!
- Make "What's for Dinner" note cards to help with meal planning and grocery store lists
- Organize closet for easily accessible work clothes/weekend clothes


August
- Follow budget(!!)
- Purge house of all things Goodwill/Salvation Army related
- Meal plan per week
- Contemplate a month long attempt at only wearing skirts or dresses.. maybe.. we'll see. Maybe just for work and still wear jeans for weekends.


All I have for now. I'm sure I'm missing some key things but my brain is hurting and I think I need some caffeine. Later!

Good morning 4am!

Yeah, you heard that right. Woke up this morning at 4am.. to run.. WTH! Well, last week my running schedule got all screwed up with the holiday, ww meeting delayed at day, S going out Friday and Sunday being stormy/thundery. Lots of excuses, huh? I guess I should admit, I really didn't WANT to run. It sucks to admit that since it seems like a failure to my newfound hobby. I should ALWAYS want to run, right? I was feeling pretty guilty about it but finally got over myself. There will be days that I can't/don't want/maybe even shouldn't run and it WILL NOT be the end of the world! Today was my first day running since last Wednesday and it was a little harder (humidity was killer) but I'm glad to be back on track. I've read a few tips, tricks and advice posts on morning running and one tidbit that stuck was "You won't regret it, unless of course you get run over by a car!" =) So today was my first am run and I don't regret it. It feels great to know I can get my evening stuff (dinner, bottles, laundry, preparing lunches, bath time, etc.) done and not worry about fitting my 45 min run in because I ALREADY did it =) Also, hoping to feel the after glow/energy boost from working out for the rest of the morning/day. I've heard it can really keep you going and since I'm normally passing out by 10am that would be a plus.

My mid-morning crash backup plan is green tea. Just bought a box of Super Green Tea yesterday and hope that can also give me a boost. I've found a lot of reports of green tea helping with weight loss, energy, etc. All good stuff! Speaking of weigh loss, I'm down .6 lbs! So maintenance is going well. Even after my evening out with the girls on Saturday I apparently allotted my points correctly. I ended up having a spinach, tomato, onion, cheese and bacon omelet (YUM!) and a half portion of the nutella crepes minus the strawberry topping. It was really a 2/3 portion but I made sure to do my points right =) Everything was delicious! I'm so glad I'm able to enjoy eating out and spend time with my friends and still maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Goooooal!

Last night I made my Weight Watchers weight loss goal! Right on the dot 130, baby! It wasn't my regular meeting so I told the receptionist to not tell the leader since I want to save that for my regular Monday leader and group. It was cute how excited the receptionist was when she realized I had hit my goal =)

So now I have six weeks to figure out how to maintain this weight and then hopefully make it to lifetime status. I was told that I can't go over by two pounds but it was "okay" if I went below. I guess because you're still trying to figure out your weight and maintenance and they don't want to make you GAIN weight if you go under. I am still looking at losing some more poundage since the babies definitely made some changes to my body. I feel like I look a couple months pregnant sometimes! I guess that body dismorphic disorder for ya. I also need some new clothes to fit this body especially since some of my stuff is large and just makes me look frumpy. Thankfully, my birthday is coming up so I'll have a little b-day cash to spend on some new tops and dress pants.

I've slacked a little on my goals/rewards so I need to get those checked off. Money has been a little bit of an issue so that's why there's a delay. Money really takes the fun out sometimes. I hope to put in my order for the SPIbelt this week and get it by next weekend for my third 5k =) My boobs have gotten smaller so they don't really support my phone that I keep between the two sports bras I wear anymore! (I guess new sports bras should be on the list too?)

Running has been going great. I did my 3 mile run this past weekend and did it in 32 minutes! That's a new PR! It might be because I was so pissed off at the neighborhood kids shooting fireworks at 11:50pm on July THIRD! And it made me run my laps faster so I could go tell them off but I would like to contribute it to the interval runs I've been doing. This week they change from 10/1x4 to 15/1x3 but that's not until Friday ;) I missed my 2.5 mile run last night with my meeting, grocery shopping and general getting ready for work/daycare/life routine. I was exhausted by midnight! I did make zucchini bread/muffins and they came out awesome. My FIL gave me two HUGE zucchinis (zucchin(i)?) from his garden and that was the first thing that popped into my mind. I sub'd some apple sauce for the oil and brought the points down to 4 pts a piece. Even S liked them =) Told me they reminded him of Christmas. Not sure why but alrighty then. Probably the cinnamon? We'll see if D likes them tonight for his dessert.

Down 2.6lbs! And a new PR <-- turning into a running geek!

Yay! Last night's weigh in was great. I'm down 2.6 for a total of 28.8lbs. I'm almost at 30lbs =) I love how well weight watchers is working and how running has improved my overall health (and adds ativity points!). I am typically running every other day sometimes I have a two day break but that's after a race or a long run. I've slacked a little on Jillian but she was making my knees hurt during my runs and I didn't want that to affect my last race.
Wait, didn't I tell you? I did another race on Saturday. I had to get up earlier for this race then I do on a work day.. Yeah, let that sink in. I am NOT a early morning person. And yet, I was up and ready to go. I had an english muffin with peanut butter and half a sliced banana for breakfast and then I was out the door. Wondering about my time? 35:04, baby! I can't even believe it. I was able to pace myself with a cute couple a few yards ahead of me. They ended up pulling away during the last half mile but I was proud I kept up as well as I did. I ended up in 2nd place for my age group. Amazing, huh? Well, there were only two IN my age group so not THAT impressive ;) The girl I was pacing with I think was the first place winner.
My next race isn't for a few weeks so I'm just working on increasing my distance and endurance. I'm using a loose version of H.Higdon's 10k program. I figure next step is a 10k so I might as well start training. This week I'm doing a 2.5 mile run, 2 mile run and then a 3 miler on the weekend. I keep this up for a couple of weeks and then add half a mile on my 3. I'll let you know how it goes.

First 5k Complete!

I did my first 5k! My time was 37.50 which I think is pretty darn good for a girl that never ran a race before in her life. I've already signed up for my next race =) This is quickly becoming my new hobby. I love that it's something I can spend money on and it directly benefit me. My plan is to do at least one 5k per month for the rest of the year and then start doing 10k's next year and finally complete a half marathon the following year. I'm looking into doing the Dis.ney Prin.cess Marathon 2013. It will possibly be a girl's weekend/half marathon extravaganza. (Spelled that right first time round!)

I am now about 5lbs from my goal weight! How crazy is that?! My stomach is still pouchy but I'm dealing with it. I mean I had two kids and my body has to have some sign of their 10(!) month lease, right? I'm hoping it shrinks down with my new addition of the 30 day shred. Yep, I've added some strength training/cardio/abs to my routine. S and I are doing it every other day and the other days I'm continuing my c25k training. Once the c25k is complete (I think I have one more day) I will be working on one hour runner. I figure I'll work on my endurance first and then work on speed after I create a base for my running. For the first week or three I only have to continue running for 30 mins straight. After that I add a few mins here and there.

I had a great night out with my bff and running partner. We ate out at Red Robin where I had an awesome salad minus bleu cheese (yuck) and no dressing and it was so YUMMY! I added a little seasoning salt and it was perfect! I want to go back and eat it again right now! We were supposed to go to a movie after but the only seats left were front row and I hate sitting that close to the screen. We ended up wandering a couple of different stores and picking up random items here and there. We each got a treat and I'm happy to say I found a nice pick me up in an iced coffee with sugar free caramel syrup. I'm very proud of myself with that choice =P I hope it's reflected on the scale come Monday.

We ended up talking about how running has become a part of our lives. Corny, I know but it's true. We were the girls in high school that would never willingly run a mile. Hell, a quarter mile was a stretch to expect from us. Now, we're talking about signing up for multiple races (3.1 miles!) and eventually doing the half together. I love what it's doing for each of us and how it's bringing us together more too. We even went to the bookstore and perused the running section <-- dorks! =)

I'm so happy we're doing this together and I hope we keep up with this commitment to ourselves and to each other. The benefits definitely out weigh (haha) the pain!

May I Update?

I'm an under 140! Who would have thought?? I'm in my 6th week of c25k and still going strong. I had a short stand-still due to the tornado outbreak/power outage. I didn't like the idea of not being able to shower after running for any amount of time. Our family is safe and even though my sis-in-law lost her house she is doing well.

The tornadoes happened right before D's birthday weekend but we still had a mini celebration and we were together. So all in all it was good. (He blew out a flashlight that evening. Lol.)

I can't believe I have a 2 year old.. where did he come from? Some days I'm amazed by him and other days I wonder if I can give him back. I guess that comes with the territory of having the attempting to be independent/persistent two year old tornado of a little boy.

N is doing fantastically! She is such a bright light to my day. She smiles and her whole face lights up. She's sitting up now and grabbing at everything. She loves my hair.. =P

I had my ww leader sign my goal weight of 130. I still want to be less and I'm not sure about doing maintenance while nursing. I think it would mess me up later when I lose all of my extra points. I guess I'll just see how I feel when I get there. I almost feel like I've lost too fast.. like I can't believe that it's really working. I still eat some crap and yet I still lose about a pound a week. Sometimes I gain it back but then lose 2 the next week. I'm sure it's going to stall as I get even closer to goal. Another thing to note, even though I'm my pre-weight for N, my body is not like it was before. My stomach is way soft and flabby.. ewww. I try and remind myself that I was 11 months out from D's birth so I still have 5 more months until I'm at the same stage. There's still hope!

I'm so ready to be out of this house. We're too much family for this space. D is everywhere and I can only imagine what it will be like when N is older. I'm working on getting rid of all my crap =) I'm thinking about rewarding myself with each set of junk I get rid off. Kind of like my weight loss goals. Example, I have my prom dress, all my bridesmaid's dresses from every wedding I was in and homecoming dresses. If I get rid of them I can get a nice garment bag for my quality pieces such as suit jackets, dresses for special occasions, etc. If I get rid of my 2-3 year collection of seventeen magazine from the 90's then I can get a new bookshelf in a style that will go with my dream living room. What do ya'll think?

Well, that's my update for now. Thanks for checking back =)

Down 2.6!

I'm down 2.6lbs this week! Hell yeah!

I really tried to stay on point with my daily/weekly points and did my 3 days of walk/jogging and it paid off. I am officially back down to my pre-pregnancy weight. Well, my pre weight for N not for D but still, it's an accomplishment. I only have 5lbs left to get down to pre D weight and 10lbs to my wedding weight. I can't believe it! It makes me even more excited about doing what I'm doing =)Weight Watchers is really working (fruits and veggies = ZERO!) and adding the little bit of exercise is making the difference.

The C25K program is really easy to follow, especially with the free app =) I'm able to just start the app and then listen to my music and wait for the prompts (walk for 90 seconds, run for 3 minutes, etc). My bff is also doing this program and is having good results too.

I've changed up my rewards to include some running accessories because I really hope to make this a life long hobby. I figure why get a hobby that requires me to buy stuff and then it just sits around, cluttering up my house. I can spend that money on cute running clothes, gadgets to help improve my running or food that will make me stronger and healthier.

So part of my goals was to get down to 140 for D's birthday. His birthday is next week.. I'm ahead of the game! I can't wait to see what another month brings =)

Down 6.2!

So far, so good on my 25/25 plan. I'm ahead by 2 pounds and that means the plan is working great!

I've decided to add some exercise into the mix. May I please present "Couch to 5K"..

What? Oh, you already knew about this awesome program? I'm behind the curve?? Did I mention I had my second kid not too long ago?

Well, I'm in my first week of C25K and I'm feeling pretty darn good about myself. I'm hoping this will help burn some of the above mentioned "baby" fat. I've already picked my first 5K and I have to say I'm very excited. The run is actually scheduled for the week I'm supposedly ready for a 30min run. I can't wait to see how I do.

Don't really have time to update my rewards right now but I do need to make some changes. I'm thinking heart rate monitor, gps watch of some kind, new running gear (sports bras, shorts, etc.).

25/25 and C25K! Come on.. bring it on!

25 Weeks 25 Pounds!

Setting goals, people! That's the key. I've come up with the challenge of 25lbs in 25 weeks. In 25 weeks I turn 29 which I think is going to be an awesome year =) More awesomely awesome because I'll be 25lbs lighter.

Looking back at my other large weight loss (~30lbs) I remembered that I had a specific date at the end of the tunnel. Wedding Day! I think that was what helped me keep on track. And after the wedding I kept within 5lbs of that weight. At least until I got pregnant with #1.

I went to my meeting tonight with a 1.2lb gain but I'm actually fine with this because I know I'm back on my game and ready to play by the rules! I'm ready to plan my meals, count my points and get my "free" fruits and veggies.

25 Weeks 25 Pounds!!! Let's get it!

Major accomplishment: My 66+ oz of water I drank today =)

One last week as a SAHM

Tomorrow should be my last Monday as a SAHM. I'm excited and a little sad since I do enjoy the sweet moments with my kiddies. Sometimes D is so freaking cute I don't know how to contain myself =) Also, I'm sad to leave my little girl in the care of someone else. She has the sweetest smiles and the funniest expressions. I know that going back to work is the best for everyone involved but it is a little bittersweet.

I'm very excited and anxious to start this new career and I can't believe I'm getting this opportunity to basically start fresh. I was getting a little depressed that I was going to be in the same, dead end, boring job by the time I was 30 but the way it's looking now I should be semi-established in my new career and hopefully kicking ass and taking names.

My mom left yesterday but not before making Greek spinach pie and asparagus and swiss quiche.. I'm thinking my weigh in will not be at the 10% I was hoping for and yet I'm not too upset about it. How can I when I have delicious quiche and yummy spinach pie? Also, I probably won't get any again for at least 6 months to a year.

I should hear something this week about my actual start date. The HR guy said the 28th is probably going to be my start date if that was okay with me. Dude, I could start NOW! Oh and I found out there is a gym in the main building! Free gym people! Treadmill here I come!

Who said Mondays have to suck?

Had my interview yesterday and received my offer letter today! I am so freaking happy it's ridiculous!

Also, at my ww meeting I was down 2.6lbs =)

I think this might constitute as the BEST WEEK EVER and it's only Tuesday!

Thanks for crossing your fingers and toes and wishing me luck!

2011 is going to be truly awesome <3

Onto bigger and better things!

Tomorrow is the last day of my two week notice! Yay!

I was supposed to have an interview today for a new job but with the stupid snow/ice it was postponed for next week. I was pretty put out about it but at least I will be fresh and rested for the interview.

I have mixed feelings about leaving my job. I really do like some of the people I work with but it's a dead end job and I'm not making nearly enough to provide the lifestyle I want for myself or my family. The job I'm interviewing for is a better career decision and will definitely be enough to enjoy life (at least with regular annual raises/reviews something my current position lacked).

I think I'm also the type of person who enjoys starting new jobs. I like the chance to meet new people and get the feel for a new environment. I've been going over my answers for the interview questions and I think I've learned a little more about myself. Corny, I know! But seriously, I was trying to figure out what my weaknesses/strengths are and I've figured out that I really like to streamline whatever I do. I try a couple of different approaches and then evaluate which one is the quickest with the best results and continue that path. It's really just illustrates my OCDness but I figure that can be read as a strength.

Well, I got to hit the sack so I'm rested for tomorrow! Wish me luck on my interview ;p

Gooooal(s)!

Went to my third ww meeting tonight and I'm down 10lbs! Yay! I received another 5lb sticker and a 5% sticker. Who knew stickers work for grown folks too =)

Since I'm making good progress I figure I need to start deciding on some goal/rewards. A manicure/pedicure, haircut, new clothes? Not sure what I want just yet. All of those things cost money and being a sahm right now kinda kills that idea.. Blah..

Well, here is my outline of goal/rewards and if there's money in the bank then I'll actually get it ;)

5% = Buy fresh fruit for yummy smoothies (✔)

10% = Pedicure

140lbs = Haircut

135lbs = Facial

133lbs = Jeans

130lbs = Shoes

128lbs = Two new tops

126lbs = Fall/Winter coat

125lbs = Spa Day/New clothes!

18 Pound Difference??

Yay, I started Weight Watchers last Monday! Fortunately, I found an old friend that was interested in re-joining. I'm super excited about getting back on WW since I did it before on my own and I lost 30lbs. This time I still need to lose about 30lbs but I would like to lose an additional 10.. hopefully. Weird thing happened though. I weighed that morning at home and it was 159.8 but at the meeting the chick wrote down 177.4 as my weight?? I know as the day goes you weigh more but ~18lbs?? I didn't pay attention when I was there but when I got home and told S how much I weighed he couldn't believe I didn't notice. I was 179lbs when my son was born at 40 weeks! It must be the mom brain for me not to notice.

Anyway, when I got home I got on the etools and just put my weight from that morning as my starting weight. I figure I will follow my weight off my scale and just be surprised when I hit goal at the meetings. So far so good with the new points system. I do need to get to the store for fruits and veggies but haven't had time or the courage to attempt that yet.

Another positive thing happened this week. I received an email from the Fairy Job Mother (edited due to the Magical Beings Protection Law)and she said she wanted to "call next week concerning employment"! Yes! Everyone I asked said this sounded very good =) I hope so! Of course, she could be calling to let me know she doesn't have anything but then she could have just told me that in the email, right? Please, please be a job! A career building job. A job that covers both daycare expenses. A job that could make the payments on a new car. A job that will be enough to purchase a bigger house in a better neighborhood. A job that will create stability and be enough to enjoy our lifestyle (we like french cheese, and?).

Cross your fingers for me, okay?