So this morning I brought Hannah her breakfast in bed, scrambled eggs and sausage, because her and her Dad were playing a game of "Guess Who" before they began getting ready for church. I handed it to her and then began analyzing Greg's side of the board to see who he had chosen for his "secret person".
After a couple of seconds, Hannah asked me if I had said a prayer for breakfast or if she needed to pray. I stopped and almost started to laugh as I replied... "No honey, I didn't pray for my Good & Plenties, the BBQ Corn Nuts or my handfull of Oreos."
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Sunday, December 12, 2010
A Reminder of My Roots
Roots? What are they? They are where we began, where we stem from and what keeps us firmly planted.
Sometimes I have moments that remind me of my roots. They remind me of where I came from and allow me to see just how far I've come. They are my link to a reality that I never want to forget. My roots stem from a place where there was a "need" for more money but never a "wanting" for more love.
We had a very humble home & neighborhood and we found happiness in beat-up shopping carts that we turned into our "Herbies". Thrift Stores and lay-away were the "normal" way to shop. We played outdoors in the summer because it was too hot in the house (no AC) and we layered many blankets on at night to keep the heating costs down. Happiness was aplenty when "stuff" was scarce. We had little that the world would have considered "of worth" but to me the memory of those things are priceless. And the few so-called "worthless" items from my childhood that I still have, mean more than words can say and are worth more than anything money can buy. It's a "perspective" thing...it's all about how you look at it.
So, you may ask...What brought this on? What has caused me to want to share about my "roots"? It's simple...a pair of boots. Allow me to explain...
Greg and I were sitting on our couch after eating Thanksgiving dinner. Greg was looking through the newspaper trying to check out all of the "amazing deals" that Black Friday was sure to deliver. At one point he stopped to ask me the first place I planned on going the next morning.
I remember waiting just a second before I answered him. I knew where I wanted to go. I had saw the flier about their "amazing deals" the last time I had been shopping there. I knew it was 1st on my list but I wondered if I should tell him the truth. I almost opted to change my plans just so I didn't have to deal with me having to explain my choice. But something inside me knew that's where I needed to go.
So, I just looked at him with a slight smirk on my face and said..."Goodwill". Greg waited a second before replying to my answer...he wondered why I would want to go to Goodwill when there were so many other places having "amazing deals" (Greg can't stand thrift stores...not his cup of tea, though he's not opposed to me shopping at them). I simply replied something like..."EVERYTHING'S 50% off!!! I can't pass up that good of a deal. Plus the girls need sleepers and onesies if they have them". I thought he'd be more surprised by my choice but he has been married to me for almost 15yrs so I guess he's used to my frugal-ness.
The next morning when I got to Goodwill, I was in some sort of "frugal-lady heaven". I was snatching up the good deals left and right. I ended up getting 55 items for $65 including tax (yeah they tax at thrift stores out here in the land of liberals). So that's like...ummmmmm...let me get my calculator...an average of $1.18 per item!! Amazing...I LOVE IT!!! I got tons of nice stuff...many name brands...all good condition, it was a perfect morning for someone like me. I love that my mother taught me the value of being frugal. I know for her it was more out of necessity than anything else but I value that lesson and I wouldn't change that part of me for the world.
Anyway, at one point I was standing near the shoe area, trying to decide exactly which items in my overflowing cart I wanted to purchase and which, if any, of them needed to go back. I could hear a very loud family in the shoe area analyzing all of the shoes. The parents were handing shoes to each of their children and having them try them on. I glanced over to check the "loud family" out to see if they looked anything like the family I had imagined in my mind. I was close. They looked poor, simply stated. I think there were probably about 5 or 6 kids, all under the ages of 8 or 9yrs. The parents had their hands full.
I went back to what I was doing as my mind began thinking about how they probably didn't have an "option" on where to spend their Black Friday. They didn't have a "map" of the route they would follow to make the best of all the "amazing deals" at all of the other stores. They more-than-likely didn't sift through all of the newspaper ads circling all of the bargains they just "had to have". They had come to the store to get the items they needed at a big discount of 50% off. I know my mom would have appreciated such a deal when we were children.
Then my mind began wandering to what I mentioned before... that I was thankful I knew the value of thrift stores and that even though I didn't "need" to be shopping there, I was thankful that I "wanted" to be shopping there.
Then I heard these words (well not these exact words but they had the same meaning)....
Dad: "Here son, try these on"
Son: "Are they my size?"
Dad: "Pretty close"
(silence as the boy tried on the shoes)
Son: "They fit!! Can I get them Dad?!? Please?!?"
Dad: "Do they fit him?" (asking the wife)
Wife: "They're a little big but he can grow into them"
Son: "Really?!? YES!!! I FINALLY get a pair of new shoes!!!!"
At that point, as I heard the young boys excited words, I glanced up with a grin on my face, remembering how excited I'd be, as a kid, when we found something that "fit" and I could get it. But it only took a half-a-second before my grin faded and I found myself in a zone of contemplation. The picture of the "happy moment" in my head didn't match that actual "happy moment".
You see, in my mind's eye, I'd envisioned a nice pair of sneakers or something...but in all actuality, they were a pair of girl's purple snow boots. I had to quickly turn away because I could feel the stinging of the tears forming in my eyes.
I'm sure there were several times in my childhood when the "wanting" of something to fit came from the "need" of whatever the item was. That kid didn't care if he would be wearing girl's snow boots. What he cared about was that he'd have some sort of warm shoes on his feet. He didn't have the luxury of being picky about a more masculine color or even a shoe made for a boy, he got what he could get and was overly thrilled by them. And if I could have made an audio of the boy's words, covered with sincere happiness and thankfulness, you all would only then be able to fully capture the moment. That little 9'ish year old boy was actually jumping up and down while hugging the boots...while hugging purple, girl's snow boots that were too big for him!!!!
It's moments like these that hit home for me. They take me back to my roots. I've been there. I've probably done something very similar to that boy. I've been teased relentlessly by my peers due to my clothing or home or car or whatever. I've felt the pain that comes from other people's heartless comments or looks, BUT I've also felt the overwhelming joy of gaining an item that I was in need of. I've felt that thankfulness that can only come when a basic necessity of life has been gained.
Some may think they are blessed to have never been through such an experience...I know, without a doubt, that I've been blessed because I have.
Sometimes I have moments that remind me of my roots. They remind me of where I came from and allow me to see just how far I've come. They are my link to a reality that I never want to forget. My roots stem from a place where there was a "need" for more money but never a "wanting" for more love.
We had a very humble home & neighborhood and we found happiness in beat-up shopping carts that we turned into our "Herbies". Thrift Stores and lay-away were the "normal" way to shop. We played outdoors in the summer because it was too hot in the house (no AC) and we layered many blankets on at night to keep the heating costs down. Happiness was aplenty when "stuff" was scarce. We had little that the world would have considered "of worth" but to me the memory of those things are priceless. And the few so-called "worthless" items from my childhood that I still have, mean more than words can say and are worth more than anything money can buy. It's a "perspective" thing...it's all about how you look at it.
So, you may ask...What brought this on? What has caused me to want to share about my "roots"? It's simple...a pair of boots. Allow me to explain...
Greg and I were sitting on our couch after eating Thanksgiving dinner. Greg was looking through the newspaper trying to check out all of the "amazing deals" that Black Friday was sure to deliver. At one point he stopped to ask me the first place I planned on going the next morning.
I remember waiting just a second before I answered him. I knew where I wanted to go. I had saw the flier about their "amazing deals" the last time I had been shopping there. I knew it was 1st on my list but I wondered if I should tell him the truth. I almost opted to change my plans just so I didn't have to deal with me having to explain my choice. But something inside me knew that's where I needed to go.
So, I just looked at him with a slight smirk on my face and said..."Goodwill". Greg waited a second before replying to my answer...he wondered why I would want to go to Goodwill when there were so many other places having "amazing deals" (Greg can't stand thrift stores...not his cup of tea, though he's not opposed to me shopping at them). I simply replied something like..."EVERYTHING'S 50% off!!! I can't pass up that good of a deal. Plus the girls need sleepers and onesies if they have them". I thought he'd be more surprised by my choice but he has been married to me for almost 15yrs so I guess he's used to my frugal-ness.
The next morning when I got to Goodwill, I was in some sort of "frugal-lady heaven". I was snatching up the good deals left and right. I ended up getting 55 items for $65 including tax (yeah they tax at thrift stores out here in the land of liberals). So that's like...ummmmmm...let me get my calculator...an average of $1.18 per item!! Amazing...I LOVE IT!!! I got tons of nice stuff...many name brands...all good condition, it was a perfect morning for someone like me. I love that my mother taught me the value of being frugal. I know for her it was more out of necessity than anything else but I value that lesson and I wouldn't change that part of me for the world.
Anyway, at one point I was standing near the shoe area, trying to decide exactly which items in my overflowing cart I wanted to purchase and which, if any, of them needed to go back. I could hear a very loud family in the shoe area analyzing all of the shoes. The parents were handing shoes to each of their children and having them try them on. I glanced over to check the "loud family" out to see if they looked anything like the family I had imagined in my mind. I was close. They looked poor, simply stated. I think there were probably about 5 or 6 kids, all under the ages of 8 or 9yrs. The parents had their hands full.
I went back to what I was doing as my mind began thinking about how they probably didn't have an "option" on where to spend their Black Friday. They didn't have a "map" of the route they would follow to make the best of all the "amazing deals" at all of the other stores. They more-than-likely didn't sift through all of the newspaper ads circling all of the bargains they just "had to have". They had come to the store to get the items they needed at a big discount of 50% off. I know my mom would have appreciated such a deal when we were children.
Then my mind began wandering to what I mentioned before... that I was thankful I knew the value of thrift stores and that even though I didn't "need" to be shopping there, I was thankful that I "wanted" to be shopping there.
Then I heard these words (well not these exact words but they had the same meaning)....
Dad: "Here son, try these on"
Son: "Are they my size?"
Dad: "Pretty close"
(silence as the boy tried on the shoes)
Son: "They fit!! Can I get them Dad?!? Please?!?"
Dad: "Do they fit him?" (asking the wife)
Wife: "They're a little big but he can grow into them"
Son: "Really?!? YES!!! I FINALLY get a pair of new shoes!!!!"
At that point, as I heard the young boys excited words, I glanced up with a grin on my face, remembering how excited I'd be, as a kid, when we found something that "fit" and I could get it. But it only took a half-a-second before my grin faded and I found myself in a zone of contemplation. The picture of the "happy moment" in my head didn't match that actual "happy moment".
You see, in my mind's eye, I'd envisioned a nice pair of sneakers or something...but in all actuality, they were a pair of girl's purple snow boots. I had to quickly turn away because I could feel the stinging of the tears forming in my eyes.
I'm sure there were several times in my childhood when the "wanting" of something to fit came from the "need" of whatever the item was. That kid didn't care if he would be wearing girl's snow boots. What he cared about was that he'd have some sort of warm shoes on his feet. He didn't have the luxury of being picky about a more masculine color or even a shoe made for a boy, he got what he could get and was overly thrilled by them. And if I could have made an audio of the boy's words, covered with sincere happiness and thankfulness, you all would only then be able to fully capture the moment. That little 9'ish year old boy was actually jumping up and down while hugging the boots...while hugging purple, girl's snow boots that were too big for him!!!!
It's moments like these that hit home for me. They take me back to my roots. I've been there. I've probably done something very similar to that boy. I've been teased relentlessly by my peers due to my clothing or home or car or whatever. I've felt the pain that comes from other people's heartless comments or looks, BUT I've also felt the overwhelming joy of gaining an item that I was in need of. I've felt that thankfulness that can only come when a basic necessity of life has been gained.
Some may think they are blessed to have never been through such an experience...I know, without a doubt, that I've been blessed because I have.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Wii Fit Plus
As I stated before, I have decided to do the "Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge". I've been having a hard time coming up with "spare time" (does it really exist when you have newborn twins?!?) to get all the working-out done that I'd like. It's just so hard to get out of this house to run!!
Anyway, tonight I made a big step in the right direction! You may ask..."Celeste, did you actually get on your elliptical that is presently being used for a clothing rack?!?" And to that I would say...Nope! But I'm thinking about it!! Maybe if Greg gets a TV for our room I'll take that one on :)
Now, what I did do was set myself up to use the Wii Fit Plus system that Greg bought me when I found out I was pregnant. Sadly, I never got to use it because I was so darn sick and miserable!!!
I was somewhat fearful of what it might say my "Wii age" is because everyone else that's set it up, that I know, had some random old age or something. But to my surprise....it said my Wii age was 37, which I will be next month (HOLY COW...I'M GETTING OLD!!!)....very cool!! Then it went on to tell me what my BMI is, which I won't be posting here :) But it did say that it was a very healthy BMI and that I actually should weight 2lbs more to be at my "optimal" weight....Yeah right!!! No thank you!!
So I set it up and spent about 45 mins on it, checking out all of the games. It was very cool! I realized that I'm a great hula-hooper but I need MASSIVE help on smacking soccer balls with my head!!
I'm really excited about this cuz I can have a fun workout of some sort without leaving my home, seeings how that's my biggest obstacle right now!!
Oh and did I mention that the Wii told me I had lost 2 lbs from the dreaded "digital scale" weigh-in last week. I think it's trying to get on my good side! :)
Here's to a Healthier Holiday Season!!
Anyway, tonight I made a big step in the right direction! You may ask..."Celeste, did you actually get on your elliptical that is presently being used for a clothing rack?!?" And to that I would say...Nope! But I'm thinking about it!! Maybe if Greg gets a TV for our room I'll take that one on :)
Now, what I did do was set myself up to use the Wii Fit Plus system that Greg bought me when I found out I was pregnant. Sadly, I never got to use it because I was so darn sick and miserable!!!
I was somewhat fearful of what it might say my "Wii age" is because everyone else that's set it up, that I know, had some random old age or something. But to my surprise....it said my Wii age was 37, which I will be next month (HOLY COW...I'M GETTING OLD!!!)....very cool!! Then it went on to tell me what my BMI is, which I won't be posting here :) But it did say that it was a very healthy BMI and that I actually should weight 2lbs more to be at my "optimal" weight....Yeah right!!! No thank you!!
So I set it up and spent about 45 mins on it, checking out all of the games. It was very cool! I realized that I'm a great hula-hooper but I need MASSIVE help on smacking soccer balls with my head!!
I'm really excited about this cuz I can have a fun workout of some sort without leaving my home, seeings how that's my biggest obstacle right now!!
Oh and did I mention that the Wii told me I had lost 2 lbs from the dreaded "digital scale" weigh-in last week. I think it's trying to get on my good side! :)
Here's to a Healthier Holiday Season!!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
How Can That Be?
Today I decided to be brave. To do something that I've been dreading to do for over 2 1/2 months. I've been putting it off because to tell you the truth I, in no way, wanted to know how it would turn out. I just knew it would be bad.....really reeeealllllly bad!!
But this morning I felt like I could handle the outcome. I could stand there face-to-face with it and not run. I could be strong and realize that there's only one way to go from here. Besides, I needed a good wake up call to help me head in the right direction. Something had to get through this hard head of mine!!! And I knew, this would do the trick....BUT I feared it may push me a little too far...somewhere a person like me finds hard to return from. But again, it had to be done.
So, I headed into the craft/play room (this house is the same square footage as our last house but has one less room...so my craft room got combined with the kid's playroom...let me just tell you, I'm thrilled about that! jk) where the dreadful item is kept. I stopped to look at it, wondering if I could really do what I needed to do. I almost chickened out but I managed to stay focused on the goal. I MUST MOVE ON!! I MUST GET A GRIP ON THIS!! I MUST TAKE THE FIRST STEP!! Off to the bathroom I went...enemy in hand!
I sat the dreadful thing on the floor and just looked at it. I slowly raised the cord to the wall and plugged in it...almost there...almost the moment of truth!! Could I really do it?!? I took a step back to look at the seemingly innocent item but I knew just how heartless the small gray square could be. I knew it could rip my heart out in a matter of seconds...take the breath right out of my lungs...throw millions of daggers at my heart. I knew it was ruthless and unforgiving. I also knew what I had to do. After taking a nice LONG breath in, I gently stepped onto it's center. I waited for what seemed like an eternity....watching the little digital numbers rising and rising!! WOULD THEY EVER STOP!?!?!? At last they did. I just sat there staring at the numbers and then stepped off. My mind was reeling, trying to decipher the information it had just gained. My brows furrowed...then I did what I never thought I'd do in such a situation...I stepped back on. Again the digital numbers, again the eternity waiting for them to stop...and again, my mind trying to make sense of the situation. Could that be right?!? Then something happened I didn't expect AT ALL....a slight grin formed across my face but was quickly swallowed up by a look of confusion. How can that be?
I'm sure by now you have figured out that I was dealing with my Nemesis, the digital scale!!! Always my enemy...always!!! Having dealt with eating disorders for many years of my life, I've come to truly, truly HATE scales!!! In fact, it wasn't til I was about to have my babies when I finally looked on the computer at the doctors office to see how much I weighed. I always turn around when they weighed me, so I couldn't see the results, just so I didn't get some mental reaction to the more-than-likely unfriendly number. But by the time I was as big as a house, the curiosity got the best of me!! I just HAD to peek. When I did, I was surprised...very surprised!! I almost had some sort of "I'm gonna stop eating" reaction but I was able to talk myself out of it very easily because I had to keep eating for my little miracles that were inside of me. So, for the rest of the pregnancy, I was fine.
At my 2 week appointment, after the babies were born (as I stated in an earlier post), I had only 1 "baby pound" to lose, when compared to the weight I was at my first visit. Still not sure how I did that one!! Anyway, I was thrilled and thankful I didn't have to deal with "weight" issues.
Then comes the month of my babies in the hospital, the fact that we were moving 2 weeks after they were out of the hospital, the other fact that I would have no friend or family where I was moving to help with my little ones, then the ALWAYS DREADED unpacking!! It really freaks me out!! Stuff everywhere completely shuts me down mentally!!! Add all that to... sleepless nights, missing my friends/family, lots of babies crying, the two older kids crying because they miss their friends/family, Greg being gone on multiple business trips that seemed to last forever....and what do you get??
EATING!!! LOTS AND LOTS OF EATING... and not just regular food. We're talking yummy, yummy non-figure friendly foods that taste SO GOOD going in and have some unknown way of making the uncontrollable world around me seem not so bad!! I found happiness in eating....like so many other Americans!
Well, I've been just freaked out about the amount of weight I was sure I had gained. I mean, my middle area is completely out-of-hand and I just knew it was from all of those "oh-so-yummy" Oreos!! I began making small changes like...no soda, cutting back on the Oreos (only a half of box per sitting ;) and only allowing myself 2 glasses of super-yummy chocolate milk per day...(remind me to buy stock in Nestles Nesquick the next time you see me...and who says you only need 2 Tablespoons of the powder? I think it should be more like 4!!!) But, I noticed several weeks in, that nothing seemed to be changing...well, changing, yes, but not in the direction I thought it would. I seemed to be getting bigger, despite the changes I had made. What's the deal?!? I was so bummed.
Then the Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge came along. I knew I needed motivation and I was hopeful this would do it. I also knew I needed to know where my "beginning" point was so that I could track my progress.....hence the dreaded scale!!!
Now this is where the confusion comes in...all you mothers out there who have gone through a pregnancy, advice or explanations would be greatly appreciated! So, my very expensive, very accurate shipping scale (got it when I was on a major "lets sell everything on eBay" kick), told me that I haven't gained a pound!! NOT ONE TINY ITSY BITSY POUND!!! (Of course, it also told me I haven't lost any either...the pessimist in me)
Again, I say...How can that be?!? If I haven't gained a bunch of pounds then why is my stomach so big? I vividly remember early on thinking that I didn't have a huge stomach for just having twins. Yes, it was a bit saggy and squishy, but wasn't that to be expected? Now I look like I'm pregnant again...seriously...and I am not overreacting!! Leave it up to Gabe to keep asking me if I have another baby in my belly!! Love that kid!
So I'm thrilled with the results of the dreaded weigh-in but...VERY VERY confused!! Not sure what to think? Any suggestions?!? Anyone else dealt with this? Anyone?
But this morning I felt like I could handle the outcome. I could stand there face-to-face with it and not run. I could be strong and realize that there's only one way to go from here. Besides, I needed a good wake up call to help me head in the right direction. Something had to get through this hard head of mine!!! And I knew, this would do the trick....BUT I feared it may push me a little too far...somewhere a person like me finds hard to return from. But again, it had to be done.
So, I headed into the craft/play room (this house is the same square footage as our last house but has one less room...so my craft room got combined with the kid's playroom...let me just tell you, I'm thrilled about that! jk) where the dreadful item is kept. I stopped to look at it, wondering if I could really do what I needed to do. I almost chickened out but I managed to stay focused on the goal. I MUST MOVE ON!! I MUST GET A GRIP ON THIS!! I MUST TAKE THE FIRST STEP!! Off to the bathroom I went...enemy in hand!
I sat the dreadful thing on the floor and just looked at it. I slowly raised the cord to the wall and plugged in it...almost there...almost the moment of truth!! Could I really do it?!? I took a step back to look at the seemingly innocent item but I knew just how heartless the small gray square could be. I knew it could rip my heart out in a matter of seconds...take the breath right out of my lungs...throw millions of daggers at my heart. I knew it was ruthless and unforgiving. I also knew what I had to do. After taking a nice LONG breath in, I gently stepped onto it's center. I waited for what seemed like an eternity....watching the little digital numbers rising and rising!! WOULD THEY EVER STOP!?!?!? At last they did. I just sat there staring at the numbers and then stepped off. My mind was reeling, trying to decipher the information it had just gained. My brows furrowed...then I did what I never thought I'd do in such a situation...I stepped back on. Again the digital numbers, again the eternity waiting for them to stop...and again, my mind trying to make sense of the situation. Could that be right?!? Then something happened I didn't expect AT ALL....a slight grin formed across my face but was quickly swallowed up by a look of confusion. How can that be?
I'm sure by now you have figured out that I was dealing with my Nemesis, the digital scale!!! Always my enemy...always!!! Having dealt with eating disorders for many years of my life, I've come to truly, truly HATE scales!!! In fact, it wasn't til I was about to have my babies when I finally looked on the computer at the doctors office to see how much I weighed. I always turn around when they weighed me, so I couldn't see the results, just so I didn't get some mental reaction to the more-than-likely unfriendly number. But by the time I was as big as a house, the curiosity got the best of me!! I just HAD to peek. When I did, I was surprised...very surprised!! I almost had some sort of "I'm gonna stop eating" reaction but I was able to talk myself out of it very easily because I had to keep eating for my little miracles that were inside of me. So, for the rest of the pregnancy, I was fine.
At my 2 week appointment, after the babies were born (as I stated in an earlier post), I had only 1 "baby pound" to lose, when compared to the weight I was at my first visit. Still not sure how I did that one!! Anyway, I was thrilled and thankful I didn't have to deal with "weight" issues.
Then comes the month of my babies in the hospital, the fact that we were moving 2 weeks after they were out of the hospital, the other fact that I would have no friend or family where I was moving to help with my little ones, then the ALWAYS DREADED unpacking!! It really freaks me out!! Stuff everywhere completely shuts me down mentally!!! Add all that to... sleepless nights, missing my friends/family, lots of babies crying, the two older kids crying because they miss their friends/family, Greg being gone on multiple business trips that seemed to last forever....and what do you get??
EATING!!! LOTS AND LOTS OF EATING... and not just regular food. We're talking yummy, yummy non-figure friendly foods that taste SO GOOD going in and have some unknown way of making the uncontrollable world around me seem not so bad!! I found happiness in eating....like so many other Americans!
Well, I've been just freaked out about the amount of weight I was sure I had gained. I mean, my middle area is completely out-of-hand and I just knew it was from all of those "oh-so-yummy" Oreos!! I began making small changes like...no soda, cutting back on the Oreos (only a half of box per sitting ;) and only allowing myself 2 glasses of super-yummy chocolate milk per day...(remind me to buy stock in Nestles Nesquick the next time you see me...and who says you only need 2 Tablespoons of the powder? I think it should be more like 4!!!) But, I noticed several weeks in, that nothing seemed to be changing...well, changing, yes, but not in the direction I thought it would. I seemed to be getting bigger, despite the changes I had made. What's the deal?!? I was so bummed.
Then the Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge came along. I knew I needed motivation and I was hopeful this would do it. I also knew I needed to know where my "beginning" point was so that I could track my progress.....hence the dreaded scale!!!
Now this is where the confusion comes in...all you mothers out there who have gone through a pregnancy, advice or explanations would be greatly appreciated! So, my very expensive, very accurate shipping scale (got it when I was on a major "lets sell everything on eBay" kick), told me that I haven't gained a pound!! NOT ONE TINY ITSY BITSY POUND!!! (Of course, it also told me I haven't lost any either...the pessimist in me)
Again, I say...How can that be?!? If I haven't gained a bunch of pounds then why is my stomach so big? I vividly remember early on thinking that I didn't have a huge stomach for just having twins. Yes, it was a bit saggy and squishy, but wasn't that to be expected? Now I look like I'm pregnant again...seriously...and I am not overreacting!! Leave it up to Gabe to keep asking me if I have another baby in my belly!! Love that kid!
So I'm thrilled with the results of the dreaded weigh-in but...VERY VERY confused!! Not sure what to think? Any suggestions?!? Anyone else dealt with this? Anyone?
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge
I know, call me crazy BUT I'm gonna try doing the "Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge" (with all my spare time!). I have been feeling like poop lately because I'm blowing up like the Stay-puff Marshmallow guy (or whatever his name is). Yes it's true that I should be happy that I can fit into my normal jeans after having twins 3 months ago but is it asking too much to not have my saggy jello-like belly hanging over them?!?
So this is my attempt to work off some of the added belly inches and I'm hoping that by being a "part of a group" (#267 to be exact), I can feel like I'm not alone in my quest for a healthy, non-weight gaining holiday season. I'm not sure how well I'll do but I'm absolutely sure I won't win! Good thing I'm not doing this to win :)
If there's anyone out there who would like to join me...please do!!! Hop on the "Holiday Bootie Challenge" train with me!! I'll save you a seat :0)
So this is my attempt to work off some of the added belly inches and I'm hoping that by being a "part of a group" (#267 to be exact), I can feel like I'm not alone in my quest for a healthy, non-weight gaining holiday season. I'm not sure how well I'll do but I'm absolutely sure I won't win! Good thing I'm not doing this to win :)
If there's anyone out there who would like to join me...please do!!! Hop on the "Holiday Bootie Challenge" train with me!! I'll save you a seat :0)
Monday, November 15, 2010
If I could go back...
It's as simple as this... I DON'T have one of these for Hannah and Gabe and I'd give ANYTHING to go back and make time to do them!! How precious these molds are and how extremely priceless!! They grow so fast, oh so fast. This way, I can keep their tiny little fingers & toes preserved in an amazingly detailed and accurate state!! Again...PRICELESS!!!
Eliana's perfect little toes and fingers
Monday, November 8, 2010
Fun Family Pics
What do you do when you've been planning family pictures, everyone's ready to go and then it starts to rain? Well, you take the pictures on your porch, of course! Nothing like a last minute substitute!! I think they turned out cute anyway. I love my adorable little family!! :)
Me and my wonderful husband
I've decided it's next to impossible to get all four kids looking at the camera at the same time. After trying to get the magic moment over and over again, I had to give up. The family was about to fizzle out and it was getting cold.
Gabe and little Emmalie
Hannah and little Eliana
All four miracles...
and they're all looking toward the camera...ish!!! Why not for the family pic?!?
Probably cuz dad was behind me acting like a monkey!
Emmalie Janet
Hannah Elizabeth
Gabriel Wilton
Eliana JoAnn
Friday, October 29, 2010
3 Month Pics
Ok so you might be thinking...what's the difference between "12 weeks" and "3 months", well in this case...8 days. The "12 weeks" pics were taken on Oct 14th and these "3 month" pics were taken on Oct 22nd. Eliana seemed to be in a better mood this time but she still didn't give us any smiles :( I know I'm gonna catch one with the camera soon...hopefully! It seems that everytime Ellie sees the camera, she puts her "don't even think about it" face on. That's the way Gabe was until he was about 3yrs old. I sure hope Ellie grows out of it sooner than that because she has an adorable mezmerizing smile...when she's willing to share it! Emmalie decided during this photoshoot to keep her smiles to herself, as well...poor mommy!! BUT I still think they turned totally adorable!!! I can't believe how tiny Ellie and Emma still are :)
*Disclaimer-BEWARE!!! I'm not wearing make up...I wasn't planning on being in the pics! And, as usual, Greg is just a little too tall!! :) And yes, the tinting/coloring has been altered on the pics just a bit...just to add some variety.
*Disclaimer-BEWARE!!! I'm not wearing make up...I wasn't planning on being in the pics! And, as usual, Greg is just a little too tall!! :) And yes, the tinting/coloring has been altered on the pics just a bit...just to add some variety.
Eliana JoAnn
Eliana JoAnn
Emmalie Janet
Emmalie Janet
The little "Twinkies"
Emmalie Janet
Eliana JoAnn
Me and my Miracles
Daddy with his arms full
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
12 Week Pics
Here are some pics of the girls at 12 weeks old.
They are just so stinkin' cute!!!
Emmalie was in a wonderful mood and full of adorable smiles.
Eliana, on the other hand, was more on the grouchy side.
Hopefully next time she'll be in a better mood!!
Eliana
Emmalie
Emmalie
Emmalie
Emmalie
Eliana
Eliana
Eliana
Thursday, October 21, 2010
I Will Go and Do...
Warning!!
The subject matter of this post may be upsetting to those of you
who think I'm saying bad things about your choices when, in all actuality,
I'm only saying good things about my choices.
Those of you who have a negative opinion on Homeschooling:
who think I'm saying bad things about your choices when, in all actuality,
I'm only saying good things about my choices.
Those of you who have a negative opinion on Homeschooling:
Read at your own Risk!!
Ok, now that my disclaimer is out of the way...I've got A LOT to say!! :)
Since Hannah was Pre-schooled age, I've had a feeling that I needed to homeschool her. I've always felt like it was what I was suppose to be doing and that it was actually my "job" to do so. The Lord had left a wonderful little daughter of God in my stewardship and it was up to me to educate her for her life here on the earth.
Before the beginning of each school year, the same feelings and impressions would enter into my mind..."you need to be homeschooling Hannah"..."she needs to be home with you". Each year I would find some way to justify why I "couldn't" homeschool Hannah....I had a new baby (Gabe), Hannah needs socializing (which I've never bought into but peer pressure made me question myself), I don't have time with everything I have to do, why? when most of the kids will be LDS, etc., etc. I always found a reason not to instead of looking for the reasons I should.
Well, again, this school year was rapidly approaching and again, the feelings and impressions came back but this time much stronger. I was pregnant with my little twin miracles and I kept telling myself that I was insane for even considering such a thing. Again, I pushed it aside...over and over. Then after having little Eliana and Emmalie, you guessed it, the feelings and impressions came back. Then I KNEW I was insane!! I mean, how can I homeschool when I just had twins!!! I told Greg about the feelings that I was, once again, having and he, too,thought it would be too much for me and that Hannah should just go to public school when we got to the Seattle area. I agreed with him but deep down knew I was making the wrong choice....BUT REALLY, HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO DO THAT?!? HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO HOMESCHOOL WHEN I HAD A 4YR OLD, NEWBORN TWINS, AND A NEW HOUSE TO UNPACK?!? I just assumed I was misreading the Spirit and enrolled her in public school.
At first I was ok with my choice because I was really impressed with the school. Everyone seemed really nice and professional and they seemed like they were there because they WANTED to be, not just for additional income for the family. And Hannah really seemed to like her teacher and the kids that were in her class. Again, I had "justified" why I shouldn't home school...
Then the final straw...
Hannah came home scared to death about "global warming" and all the animals on the earth dying off. This subject coming up AFTER the hint towards "big bang" from a few weeks ago. I am NOT pleased with the teachers teaching theories as facts!!! What's up with that!?!?
Anyway, the conversation with Hannah brought me back to my knees asking for guidance. I had never really spent much time praying about the homeschooling subject because "how would I ever do it" if the Lord said I was suppose to. BUT this time I came before my Heavenly Father with a sincere heart to do HIS will, not mine. I kept my mind free of what I "won't" get to do and how difficult it may be on "me" and just focused on Hannah (and the rest of my children, for that matter). And the answer came LOUD AND CLEAR...as I knew it would.
I got online and began researching the subject, the groups, the curriculum, the methods, etc. Words cannot explain the strong feeling I had, from the Spirit, as I read over the information. It was like the Lord was saying..."FINALLY!!! FINALLY YOU LISTENED TO ME!! Finally you're doing "MY" will!!!" It brought tears to my eyes as I wondered if Hannah had any bad side effects due to my unwillingness to follow the Spirits promptings....I truly and surly hope not!!!
Greg wasn't exactly thrilled about my choice but he supported me anyway. He's never been a big fan of the homeschooling idea. But one day as he was driving home from work, he had an impression telling him that the reason Hannah needs to be home right now may not be "education" related. It could be for reasons we may never understand or know. And the interesting thing is, about that same time, I was up in my bedroom, rocking on my rocking chair and staring out the window. I was contemplating my newest choice and of course, doubting myself (not the choice)...what if I'm not qualified, etc (Satan was working hard on me!). Then that same impression that Greg had, came into my mind. We have no idea "why" she needs to be homeschooled, only that she does...."I know not, save the Lord commanded me." Moses 5:6
So, the big day is November 8th. We had to wait for the end of the current grading cycle. I am so thrilled to say that "I CANT WAIT!!!" I've figured out which curriculum and method I plan on using, which I'm thrilled about, as well. I've decided to go with "SimplyCharlotteMason.com" for my curriculum..they've got it all figured out for me!! YIPPEE!! I will adjust it to fit our family and lifestyle and also specifically for each child. My method is going to be based mostly on the Charlotte Mason method but it will also be fashioned after the Thomas Jefferson method. I find both styles to be amazing, and so much better than the public school system.
Here are some things from each method that I'd like to share. They are the things that confirmed to me I was making the right choice...
Charlotte Mason Method
www.simplycharlottemason.com
"The mother who takes pains to endow her children with good habits, secures for herself smooth and easy days; while she who lets their habits take care of themselves has a weary life of endless friction with the children." Charlotte Mason
"Many homeschoolers have adopted her (Charlotte Mason) philosophy and methods as they seek to educate the whole child, not just his or her mind."
Thomas Jefferson Method: Three systems of Education by Oliver Van DeMille
(www.hsunlimited.com/resources/homeschool-methods/thomas-jefferson-education.php)
"The first is the public school system, which was originally implemented to educate students who could not afford any other schooling. The entire system was directed toward preparing these students to fill the American job market. Today , the overwhelming majority of American students receive this type of education. Thomas Jefferson educators refer to this as "conveyor-belt education", which runs much like a factory. All students are given the same material at the same age, and are tested identically. No attention is given to individual talents or interests. The finished products of this system are indeed good employees, as they are taught what to think.'
'The second system is professional education, which is very similar to public education. These schools offer training in specialized professions such as law, medicine, business, and other trades. On this level, entry is more difficult and only the best students are able to compete. The finished product is highly trained specialists who know when to think.'
'The third alternative is called leadership education. This is the foundation of a Thomas Jefferson education. These are the students, according to Van DeMille, who become the true leaders in government, the entrepreneurs in business, and the inspiring voices of great ideas, high morals, and noble values.'
'According to Van DeMille, such leaders have historically been homeschooled, then moved on to quality schools where they studied the classics, guided and taught by mentors. These are the two pillars on which Van DeMille's system rests. Mentors are the teachers who inspire their students to a great desire to learn. Classics are works (books, art, music, etc) which were created by great minds; therefore, reading them puts the student in direct contact with the greatest minds of the centuries. In this way they learn how to think."
So, anyway, I have come up with a schedule and a teaching style by combining information from both of these websites. I like the thought of "being the example" and actually reading a book while Hannah reads a book, during reading time. I also like the thought of "always learning". That it isn't just when you have your "school books out" you're learning, but at all times.
We are going to be "learners", that's what Gabe calls it, and yes, I said "we". The whole family is going to "learn" each and everyday. And it's going to become a way of life NOT just a few hours a day spent in the books.
I'm so grateful for this opportunity I have to teach my children and not just subjects like math and science. I can teach them how to deal with life and how to become the best "them" they can be. I can teach them about how the Gospel relates to everything we learn and how it needs to be the center of our lives. I can teach them by example. I can teach them to love themselves and to love each other. I can teach them how I've always wanted to, the only difference is, now I'm not listening to Satan telling me I can't...because I can and I will!!
"...I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." 1 Nephi 3:7
Hannah and I are so excited and we can't wait to get started!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
My "Spoiled" Cat?
Yesterday I woke up next to a kitty with a swollen nose. After closer examination, I realized that she had an impacted tooth and, more than likely, needed it pulled.
My kitty is 15 1/2 yrs old, so about 93 yrs in "cat years"...she's an old kitty!! I've had her longer than I've had Greg! Anyway, I knew right away that I'd be taking her to the vet (today) to get the situation taken care of. I texted Greg this...
"Kitty Meow has an abscessed tooth (I think) and the side of her nose (under her eye) is all swollen. I'm gonna have 2 take her 2 the vet 2morrow. I'll also ask him abt her joints while I'm there. Poor little 93 yr old kitty!! She needs dentures cuz I'm sure they'll pull the tooth! :( "
I didn't think much of the text, other than I wondered if Greg would be bugged about a vet bill, and then went back to what I was doing. Then, I got this text from Gregor...
"Uh r u serious about the dentures?"
I broke out laughing because I knew Greg thought I was serious about the dentures. SO, being the NICE wife that I am, I replied with this...
"Ummmm....how's she gonna eat?"
I hoped that Greg would think I was serious and couldn't wait for his reply. I kept waiting and waiting but no reply. I had figured that he was either busy at work or that he was so annoyed that my cat "needed" dentures that he wasn't going to respond! At some point I forgot about the conversation.
Fast forward to this morning... I see Greg in the bathroom brushing his teeth. I go in because I notice that he isn't using the new automatic toothbrush I'd bought him. I begin telling him not only that he needs to use the new toothbrush that I got him but also that he needs to brush his teeth in a "circular motion" so that he doesn't ruin his gums...I've been reminding him about that since we were first married. You can see the wonderful progress I've made in the past 14 1/2 years on the subject BUT that doesn't discourage me! I will continue reminding him (Greg calls it nagging) until all of his teeth fall out and there is no longer a need to, which is exactlyy what I told him! Then the conversation from yesterday came back to me. I put a smirk on my face and continued on by saying, "...if you don't, you'll end up wearing dentures like Kitty-Meow!" I expected him to start laughing or something but he didn't. He looked at me with eyes like..."yeah, we need to talk about that. I'm NOT about to buy a cat dentures!"
I decided to put him out of his misery by telling him I was just joking. His face was a bit confused at first but then a smiled appeared (along with a look of relief). He said to me..." I totally believed you up until now!" Greg went on to say that he was so trilled that he wouldn't be having to put out "like $2000" for a pair of cat dentures!
I was so surprised that he REALLY thought I'd buy, my 93yr old cat, dentures!! I mean, do they really even make dentures for cats?!? And if they do, is there really someone out there who would buy them?!? Especially if their cat was about to go the way of the earth, anyway??
Too funny!!! Greg makes me laugh and I love that about him!! He's my best friend! :)
My kitty is 15 1/2 yrs old, so about 93 yrs in "cat years"...she's an old kitty!! I've had her longer than I've had Greg! Anyway, I knew right away that I'd be taking her to the vet (today) to get the situation taken care of. I texted Greg this...
"Kitty Meow has an abscessed tooth (I think) and the side of her nose (under her eye) is all swollen. I'm gonna have 2 take her 2 the vet 2morrow. I'll also ask him abt her joints while I'm there. Poor little 93 yr old kitty!! She needs dentures cuz I'm sure they'll pull the tooth! :( "
I didn't think much of the text, other than I wondered if Greg would be bugged about a vet bill, and then went back to what I was doing. Then, I got this text from Gregor...
"Uh r u serious about the dentures?"
I broke out laughing because I knew Greg thought I was serious about the dentures. SO, being the NICE wife that I am, I replied with this...
"Ummmm....how's she gonna eat?"
I hoped that Greg would think I was serious and couldn't wait for his reply. I kept waiting and waiting but no reply. I had figured that he was either busy at work or that he was so annoyed that my cat "needed" dentures that he wasn't going to respond! At some point I forgot about the conversation.
Fast forward to this morning... I see Greg in the bathroom brushing his teeth. I go in because I notice that he isn't using the new automatic toothbrush I'd bought him. I begin telling him not only that he needs to use the new toothbrush that I got him but also that he needs to brush his teeth in a "circular motion" so that he doesn't ruin his gums...I've been reminding him about that since we were first married. You can see the wonderful progress I've made in the past 14 1/2 years on the subject BUT that doesn't discourage me! I will continue reminding him (Greg calls it nagging) until all of his teeth fall out and there is no longer a need to, which is exactlyy what I told him! Then the conversation from yesterday came back to me. I put a smirk on my face and continued on by saying, "...if you don't, you'll end up wearing dentures like Kitty-Meow!" I expected him to start laughing or something but he didn't. He looked at me with eyes like..."yeah, we need to talk about that. I'm NOT about to buy a cat dentures!"
I decided to put him out of his misery by telling him I was just joking. His face was a bit confused at first but then a smiled appeared (along with a look of relief). He said to me..." I totally believed you up until now!" Greg went on to say that he was so trilled that he wouldn't be having to put out "like $2000" for a pair of cat dentures!
I was so surprised that he REALLY thought I'd buy, my 93yr old cat, dentures!! I mean, do they really even make dentures for cats?!? And if they do, is there really someone out there who would buy them?!? Especially if their cat was about to go the way of the earth, anyway??
Too funny!!! Greg makes me laugh and I love that about him!! He's my best friend! :)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Up and Running...Again
I absolutely LOVE the weather here in the Seattle area.
LOVE the rain! LOVE the drizzle! LOVE the overcast skies! LOVE IT ALL!!
And since I love it so much, I've decided I need to get out and enjoy it!
What better way than to go for a run!
It's been a long time since I've "gone for a run". I tried to become a "running junkie" along with my friends in the "Land of Eagles" but I didn't find it very fun. Infact, it was more of a chore than anything else. It almost took the same amount of energy to convince myself to go for a run as it did to actually do the running. I have now decided it was due to the lack of "I love this" scenery that the Land of Eagles offered.
Now there are some who find beauty in dry looking mountains, sage brush-as far as the eye can see, road kill-lots and lots of road kill, and nothing much else...but I didn't. So, there really wasn't much there to motivate me to go running and enjoy what nature had to offer. BUT NOW...I'm in the type of surroundings I ABSOLUTELY LOVE so why not give it another try? Right?
Well, that's what I did tonight. I tied on the old running shoes and gave it a whirl. Since Greg was not home, I decided just to run around our "loop", as they call them here, so I could stay really close to home. I only ran a mile, so I could go and get the kids into bed, but it was the best mile I've ever ran! It felt so good! The air was so nice and crisp and the scenery was beautiful (I REALLY REALLY like our community...it's so pretty!) and now I can finally say, I understand why people like to run...or even LOVE to run!
It's so funny how one short little mile can change a girl's perspective. It went from "this is tiring exercise that I really can't stand" to... "bummer!! I have to go get the kids in bed. Cant wait to do this again tomorrow and for MUCH MUCH longer!!" I only got to run a few minutes but it was so wonderful :)
So, to all you runners out there that I could never fully understand, I getcha now!! I understand!! You know, I'm almost ready to commit to my first 5k or 10k!!
So, to all you runners out there that I could never fully understand, I getcha now!! I understand!! You know, I'm almost ready to commit to my first 5k or 10k!!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Ode To My Beloveds...
Ok, so I know this may sound a bit unbelievable seeing how I was pregnant with twins BUT when I went to my 2 week appointment (after having the babies) my total "baby weight" was only ONE POUND!! That's it!! I had gone in expecting 20lbs and told myself if it was less, I had reason to celebrate so when it turned out being only 1 single little pound, I was completely ecstatic!! How did I ever manage that?!?
Well, I wasn't sure how I did it but I was thrilled that I didn't have to "work off" tons of baby weight, though I had decided to add 10lbs that I gained from the invitro drugs onto the 1lb...giving me a grand total of 11 lbs I wanted to lose. Then I got sick with mastitis, which brought my grand total down to an amazing 5 lbs!! I was like...this is easier than I thought!!! Woo-whoo!!! But I do have to admit, my body was carrying the weight differently, which I wasn't thrilled about. My belly was much bigger than it used to be!!
Fast forward to the here-and-now....I'm not sure how much I weigh because I don't have a scale and I haven't been back to the doctor since the whole mastitis mess BUT I have a feeling that my "gotta-lose" weight is much higher than it used to be. Why, you may ask?...Oreos and Red Vines!!! I'm not sure what changed in my body after having my beautiful miracles but it now CRAVES sugar CONSTANTLY!!! If I'm up in the middle of the night feeding the babies, I'm also feeding myself...sugar! It's really getting out of hand!! I'm not sure if this stems from the stress of moving and dealing with new born twins or if my body has somehow been altered to require Oreos and Red Vines!! I tell myself that today's gonna be the day... the day I stop the addiction... the day I go into detox... the day to turn over a new leaf... but then I walk into my pantry (which I love...it's HUGE) and there they are waiting for me!! And so of course, I dive right in.
The other night I was watching The Biggest Loser and there I sat Oreos and Red Vines piled on my lap. I glanced down at one point and thought..."Isn't that ironic? If I don't stop this obsession, then I may have to become a contestant on this show!!" BUT that didn't stop me. Not sure what will...hoping to figure that out soon!!
As for now, I've decided to start exercising to help counteract all the calories I'm shoving into my always-open mouth. I do like the weather here, so I've decided to tie on the old running shoes and give that a try. If not, I always have my trusty eliptical that just sits there collecting dust. AND I also have Wii Fit that I purchased to use during my pregnancy but never did because I was either sick or miserable. So, I have options... I just need to utilize them. And as for now, I'm SO SO SO grateful I'm breastfeeding because if not, I'd weigh even more I'm sure!
Hmmmm....I wonder if I'm causing Eliana and Emmalie to gain an addiction to my beloved Oreos and Red Vines? If so, we can all enjoy them together until I get up enough strength to let them go.....
Ode To My Beloveds...Oreos & Red Vines...
(allow me to quote from a song that went through my head last night...literally)
Here I am at six o'clock in the morning, still thinking about you...my yummy Oreos...
It's still hard at six o'clock in the morning, to sleep without you...my scrumptious Red Vines...
And I know that it might seem to late for love...dear sweet ones...
All I know...
I need you now...little round crunchy cookie...
More than words can say
I need you now...long slender Red Vine...
I've gotta find a way
I need you now...long slender Red Vine wrapped around little round crunchy cookie...
Before I lose my mind...I think I already have...
I need you now! ...heading toward my pantry...
(Alias 1990)
Need I say more?!?
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
..."it really doesn't rain a lot here"
Yes, you heard me right..."it really doesn't rain a lot here." Now why would I say that when I live in the Seattle area? Well, I DON'T!!! All the natives/locals do. I was warned by Greg that the people who have lived here for most of their lives, have convinced themselves that it doesn't rain here...a lot. I couldn't see someone actually saying that because IT'S TOTALLY NOT TRUE!!! But then at church, I heard the famous words and I just stood there staring at the girl, thinking...REALLY? ARE YOU FOR REAL? I politelytried to disagree with her but I found myself, once again, trying to be convinced that it doesn't rain here...a lot.
Let's analyze this statement for a second. We've lived here...what...2 1/2 weeks. And out of that 17 days, it's rained probably 15...well, let's say 14 just to give the natives the benefit of the doubt. So, if my math skills are correct, which they may not be since I've been out of highschool FOREVER (2o yr reunion coming up in 2 yrs...YIKES!!!), that means it's rained almost 83% of the days we've been here. THAT'S A LOT IN MY BOOK!!....not that I'm complaining because I totally LOVE the rain!! :) :)
Now, you must be wondering, as I was, why someone, who has been living through the same rainstorms as I have, would say that "it doesn't really rain a lot here". The key words in the sentence is..."a lot." I noticed that each time it was spoken, the word was accented more than the rest of the sentence. Why? Why, I say? Why would they not consider 83% "a lot"? No need to stress your brain out any longer...I'm about to enlighten you as to "why".
But first, let's have a little fun :)
IF...I were a politician and I said..."it reeeaaally doesn't rain aaaa-lot here.." (dragging out the words) what would you be thinking? Ok, just imagine Palosi or Obama saying it...maybe that'll be the what you need to invision...got it?!? Do you get why they think it doesn't "rain a lot here"?
For those of you who trust politians, this exercise might have been a bit difficult for you so allow me to now "enlighten" you. The way they phrase the sentence is somewhat truthful, if compared to places like Houston, but it's VERY deceiving. I call it "misleading". When they say "a lot" they don't mean frequency, they mean amount, though anyone who's not following in the steps of the current leadership of this country, would assume frequency. Once the light went on in my head, I went on to clarify..."So you mean it doesn't rain a lot in terms of the amount of rain not in terms of frequecy, right?" When I said those words, I noticed a somewhat confused/startled look on the lady's face....how did I ever see past the clever design of her sentence? Now I'm going to have to force her into admitting that it actually DOES rain A LOT here. She managed to mumble out an agreement to my clarification, to which I also didn't totally agree. I went on to tell here that coming from Utah it rains "a lot" in both frequency AND amount here...I mean there's moss growing on EVERYTHING, for heaven's sake, and slugs the size of baby kittens!! It's very wet here!! They may not receive major downpours but it's constantly dizzling!! She couldn't disagree with that so the conversation ended with a bit of annoyance on her part.
I think the next time a local tries to convince me that the Seattle area doesn't rain "a lot", I think I will respond as follows...."Really? Then why do the Cullens live here?" That'll get them thinkin' :)
P.S. I'm keeping my eye out for Edward...and for Jacob, if he looks like the one in the movie! ;)
Let's analyze this statement for a second. We've lived here...what...2 1/2 weeks. And out of that 17 days, it's rained probably 15...well, let's say 14 just to give the natives the benefit of the doubt. So, if my math skills are correct, which they may not be since I've been out of highschool FOREVER (2o yr reunion coming up in 2 yrs...YIKES!!!), that means it's rained almost 83% of the days we've been here. THAT'S A LOT IN MY BOOK!!....not that I'm complaining because I totally LOVE the rain!! :) :)
Now, you must be wondering, as I was, why someone, who has been living through the same rainstorms as I have, would say that "it doesn't really rain a lot here". The key words in the sentence is..."a lot." I noticed that each time it was spoken, the word was accented more than the rest of the sentence. Why? Why, I say? Why would they not consider 83% "a lot"? No need to stress your brain out any longer...I'm about to enlighten you as to "why".
But first, let's have a little fun :)
IF...I were a politician and I said..."it reeeaaally doesn't rain aaaa-lot here.." (dragging out the words) what would you be thinking? Ok, just imagine Palosi or Obama saying it...maybe that'll be the what you need to invision...got it?!? Do you get why they think it doesn't "rain a lot here"?
For those of you who trust politians, this exercise might have been a bit difficult for you so allow me to now "enlighten" you. The way they phrase the sentence is somewhat truthful, if compared to places like Houston, but it's VERY deceiving. I call it "misleading". When they say "a lot" they don't mean frequency, they mean amount, though anyone who's not following in the steps of the current leadership of this country, would assume frequency. Once the light went on in my head, I went on to clarify..."So you mean it doesn't rain a lot in terms of the amount of rain not in terms of frequecy, right?" When I said those words, I noticed a somewhat confused/startled look on the lady's face....how did I ever see past the clever design of her sentence? Now I'm going to have to force her into admitting that it actually DOES rain A LOT here. She managed to mumble out an agreement to my clarification, to which I also didn't totally agree. I went on to tell here that coming from Utah it rains "a lot" in both frequency AND amount here...I mean there's moss growing on EVERYTHING, for heaven's sake, and slugs the size of baby kittens!! It's very wet here!! They may not receive major downpours but it's constantly dizzling!! She couldn't disagree with that so the conversation ended with a bit of annoyance on her part.
I think the next time a local tries to convince me that the Seattle area doesn't rain "a lot", I think I will respond as follows...."Really? Then why do the Cullens live here?" That'll get them thinkin' :)
P.S. I'm keeping my eye out for Edward...and for Jacob, if he looks like the one in the movie! ;)
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
My Stages of "Mother"
So, I've realized a lot these past couple of months...since I've become a "mother of four". Allow me to share...
When I was NOT a mother...I was the BEST mother. I knew how to do everything. I knew how to deal with ALL situations that would occur with a child. I knew the things "to do" and all the things "not to do". I would share my wisdom with all who asked...and those who didn't. I was a fountain of motherhood knowledge...and I wondered why real mothers didn't have the knowledge and know-how that I had. I mean, they didn't seem to be doing much of anything right! I was flabbergasted by it all!!!
Then I was a mother of one...I had been given the opportunity to show off what amazing skills I had. To show off the amazing knowledge that I had been given, when so many others lacked. To show others just how if should be done. And to tell you the truth, I did a pretty good job. Hannah was slathered in the "what to do's" "what not to do's" "what to eat" "what not to eat" "what to wear" "what not to wear" and the list went on and on. I had my house and schedule on an amazing cruise control that just coasted along. "See how easy this is?" I'd think to myself, as I watched other mothers who still lacked the knowledge I had, plug along in their chaotic mess...maybe I could just teach them by example...what an amazing idea!! Of course, I'd share my knowledge by using examples of my current amazing life...I mean, Hannah was a product of my knowledge, right?...yet they still didn't seem to get it. They still plugged along in their "un-amazing" unorganized life (poor innocent kids)...maybe I didn't tell them enough times...I'll tell them again tomorrow! I'll consider it my act of service for the day!
Then I was a mother of two...I had been given another opportunity to show off my skills...this time, I could show mothers of multiple children, how it's done...piece of cake!! Well, to my surprise, my "amazing cruise control schedule" seemed to be a bit bumpy. My house seemed to be a bit on the bumpy side as well. What was going on? I still managed to keep some of my platforms in place but others seemed to be slipping a bit..."a little more TV won't kill you, I suppose"..."Another brownie wouldn't either"..."Ok, stay up a little later, hopefully you'll just sleep in later"..."I guess walking on the furniture isn't that big of a deal" and the list goes on and on. Maybe I was being a bit controlling (go figure) and I just need to loosen up a bit. This isn't a reflection of my failure, or my lack of "accurate" knowledge, it's me growing and becoming a better person by letting go of certain things...I still have the knowledge and I will still share it BUT it may have a couple of disclaimers stuck here and there within it! But don't let my bumpy cruise control fool you...I'm still amazing...well, still KINDA amazing!!
Then I was a mother of four...that's right, you heard me...FOUR!!!...I had been given another wonderful opportunity to show off and share my skill...I can be an amazing example for mother's of twins! I can show them that their lives are hectic and out-of-whack because they need the knowledge that I can share...it has NOTHING to do with the fact that two more have been added to the equation. This time my cruise control actually malfunctioned. Not sure what happened to it!! I need to get it fixed ASAP though, or else those who I have enlightened with my amazing knowledge might think I'm lacking...I CANNOT LET THAT HAPPEN!!! Because the truth is, I'm not lacking, right? Ok, so the TV has become an amazing friend of mine. It'll babysit for me whenever I am in need, just like a best friend should. And those cookies in the pantry, they aren't to be rationed, they are good bargaining tools. They make the screaming & crying stop!! How can something that makes peace in my house be bad?!? And does it really matter if I'm in the grocery store with kids that are still wearing their PJ's and haven't combed their hair?!? No, it doesn't...it just shows that my children and I have amazing confidence. We don't care what others think of us. We have found true self-worth and aren't bothered by all of the scuzzy looks we're getting from the "before I was a mother" Mothers, the "Mothers of One" and the "Mothers of Two"...did one of them just say, "poor innocent kids"? Naw, that can't be. I'm amazing!!!! I have the knowledge that ALL mother's need even if they aren't aware they need it!! How dare they say that to "the amazing knowledge giver"!!! Then reality sets in...
I am a mother of four and it shows. My babies smell like nasty milk because I haven't had time to bathe them. My 4 yr old is camped out in front of the TV ruining his brain, snacking on something with tons of High Fructose in it. My 9yr old hasn't brushed completely through her hair in a few days but it's nothing that a ponytail can't fix...besides, if her hair was fixed her look wouldn't match the PJ's she's wearing and has been wearing for 3 days now. Last night's dishes are sitting on my kitchen counter...along with the night before's. Two loads of clean laundry sit piled on my couch...waiting to be folded...they will just have to keep on waiting because the babies are hungry again...of course. Plus they need their diapers changed...WOW, a couple of blow-outs!! Now they need their outfits changed. I might be driving a "life without cruise control" but my kids WONT wear pooped-on clothes. Ahhh...that's better...babies are fed, changed, and are now wearing nice clean clothes!! YES...a few moments for those dishes....OH WAIT...they just barfed all over their clothes...Darn that reflux!!!...and so the cycle continues....OVER AND OVER!!!
I wish I knew now, what I knew back then...My endless knowledge of how to be the perfect mom has somehow slipped from my mind...Any "amazing moms" out there willing to share their "amazing knowledge"? I'm ALL ears!!!
When I was NOT a mother...I was the BEST mother. I knew how to do everything. I knew how to deal with ALL situations that would occur with a child. I knew the things "to do" and all the things "not to do". I would share my wisdom with all who asked...and those who didn't. I was a fountain of motherhood knowledge...and I wondered why real mothers didn't have the knowledge and know-how that I had. I mean, they didn't seem to be doing much of anything right! I was flabbergasted by it all!!!
Then I was a mother of one...I had been given the opportunity to show off what amazing skills I had. To show off the amazing knowledge that I had been given, when so many others lacked. To show others just how if should be done. And to tell you the truth, I did a pretty good job. Hannah was slathered in the "what to do's" "what not to do's" "what to eat" "what not to eat" "what to wear" "what not to wear" and the list went on and on. I had my house and schedule on an amazing cruise control that just coasted along. "See how easy this is?" I'd think to myself, as I watched other mothers who still lacked the knowledge I had, plug along in their chaotic mess...maybe I could just teach them by example...what an amazing idea!! Of course, I'd share my knowledge by using examples of my current amazing life...I mean, Hannah was a product of my knowledge, right?...yet they still didn't seem to get it. They still plugged along in their "un-amazing" unorganized life (poor innocent kids)...maybe I didn't tell them enough times...I'll tell them again tomorrow! I'll consider it my act of service for the day!
Then I was a mother of two...I had been given another opportunity to show off my skills...this time, I could show mothers of multiple children, how it's done...piece of cake!! Well, to my surprise, my "amazing cruise control schedule" seemed to be a bit bumpy. My house seemed to be a bit on the bumpy side as well. What was going on? I still managed to keep some of my platforms in place but others seemed to be slipping a bit..."a little more TV won't kill you, I suppose"..."Another brownie wouldn't either"..."Ok, stay up a little later, hopefully you'll just sleep in later"..."I guess walking on the furniture isn't that big of a deal" and the list goes on and on. Maybe I was being a bit controlling (go figure) and I just need to loosen up a bit. This isn't a reflection of my failure, or my lack of "accurate" knowledge, it's me growing and becoming a better person by letting go of certain things...I still have the knowledge and I will still share it BUT it may have a couple of disclaimers stuck here and there within it! But don't let my bumpy cruise control fool you...I'm still amazing...well, still KINDA amazing!!
Then I was a mother of four...that's right, you heard me...FOUR!!!...I had been given another wonderful opportunity to show off and share my skill...I can be an amazing example for mother's of twins! I can show them that their lives are hectic and out-of-whack because they need the knowledge that I can share...it has NOTHING to do with the fact that two more have been added to the equation. This time my cruise control actually malfunctioned. Not sure what happened to it!! I need to get it fixed ASAP though, or else those who I have enlightened with my amazing knowledge might think I'm lacking...I CANNOT LET THAT HAPPEN!!! Because the truth is, I'm not lacking, right? Ok, so the TV has become an amazing friend of mine. It'll babysit for me whenever I am in need, just like a best friend should. And those cookies in the pantry, they aren't to be rationed, they are good bargaining tools. They make the screaming & crying stop!! How can something that makes peace in my house be bad?!? And does it really matter if I'm in the grocery store with kids that are still wearing their PJ's and haven't combed their hair?!? No, it doesn't...it just shows that my children and I have amazing confidence. We don't care what others think of us. We have found true self-worth and aren't bothered by all of the scuzzy looks we're getting from the "before I was a mother" Mothers, the "Mothers of One" and the "Mothers of Two"...did one of them just say, "poor innocent kids"? Naw, that can't be. I'm amazing!!!! I have the knowledge that ALL mother's need even if they aren't aware they need it!! How dare they say that to "the amazing knowledge giver"!!! Then reality sets in...
I am a mother of four and it shows. My babies smell like nasty milk because I haven't had time to bathe them. My 4 yr old is camped out in front of the TV ruining his brain, snacking on something with tons of High Fructose in it. My 9yr old hasn't brushed completely through her hair in a few days but it's nothing that a ponytail can't fix...besides, if her hair was fixed her look wouldn't match the PJ's she's wearing and has been wearing for 3 days now. Last night's dishes are sitting on my kitchen counter...along with the night before's. Two loads of clean laundry sit piled on my couch...waiting to be folded...they will just have to keep on waiting because the babies are hungry again...of course. Plus they need their diapers changed...WOW, a couple of blow-outs!! Now they need their outfits changed. I might be driving a "life without cruise control" but my kids WONT wear pooped-on clothes. Ahhh...that's better...babies are fed, changed, and are now wearing nice clean clothes!! YES...a few moments for those dishes....OH WAIT...they just barfed all over their clothes...Darn that reflux!!!...and so the cycle continues....OVER AND OVER!!!
I wish I knew now, what I knew back then...My endless knowledge of how to be the perfect mom has somehow slipped from my mind...Any "amazing moms" out there willing to share their "amazing knowledge"? I'm ALL ears!!!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Farwell in 24
We're out of Eagle Mountain in just under 24hrs. We've been waiting for this moment for so long (Eagle mtn is not our favorite) but now that it's here, I feel really sad. Not about the city or the fact that it takes FOREVER to go anywhere, but I'm sad about the people. We loved our ward & stake and are going to miss everyone.
This moment is truly bitter-sweet!
This moment is truly bitter-sweet!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Offended? I don't know...
So, the last little while I've been dealing with a situation that I have been trying desperately to not be offended by and yet, I think I am.
I realize that each of us are different and that we all have different ways to view life and our choices within this life but sometimes a situation comes along and I just cant, for the life of me, figure out why someone has made the choice they have made. Is it my business? not really, even if it did involve me but I can't seem to let it go.
I'm wondering if it's more "hurt" than "offended" or even a mixture of both, which really frustrates me because aren't we suppose to NOT be easily offended?
And then there's the "I know that person well enough to know why they made that choice" running through that head. And is that fair? Do I really KNOW why they made the choice they did. Maybe...but maybe not!
I think my issue with the whole thing is that I would never make the choice that the other person made. I obviously have a completely different view than the other individual. And if I DID make that choice, my intentions would not be a good sign to the other individual, which is where I'm struggling. What if they feel the way I would have to feel to make that decision? I don't think that's the case but what if?
I feel it's a case of "I don't have to do that. That would be very inconvenient for me so why do it?" And my response would be...."No, you don't have to do that BUT you also don't have to NOT do that because you feel imaginary pressure that you have to" (if that makes any sense).
Example: You don't have to invite your child's friend's little brother to your child's birthday party but the imaginary pressure (or our society) would say that that would be polite and you should. So instead you'd say, "Well, really I don't have to invite him. He's not my child's friend, really. He's more of a tag-along. I feel it's fair to just invite my child's friend without feeling bad for not inviting their sibling no matter how I know it'll make the little brother feel. It doesn't matter that they usually all three play together. So, I'm NOT going to do it just because I feel I have to do it..." to which I would say...."No you don't have to do it but you also don't have to NOT do it just to make a point". Kinda like the girls that choose not to wear a bra because everyone says they should. Does that make any sense?
So, anyway, I'm struggling because now I feel the walls forming around me to protect myself from what might be coming next from this person. I feel myself doing the separation thing, which really bugs me. I feel the annoyance setting in and I don't want to feel annoyed by this person. I feel sad because I think it was more of a selfish decision and that my feelings were not even considered. I feel very hurt because, again, I'd never make the choice they made. Nope not me...I just don't get it.
Poor me, I know, just wallowing in my own Pity Party. I just needed to vent. I needed to get it off my chest even if it was in very general terms. Maybe I'm hoping someone else has experienced something similar and has wonderful advice for me...because I really do want to move past this...but I can't seem to!
I realize that each of us are different and that we all have different ways to view life and our choices within this life but sometimes a situation comes along and I just cant, for the life of me, figure out why someone has made the choice they have made. Is it my business? not really, even if it did involve me but I can't seem to let it go.
I'm wondering if it's more "hurt" than "offended" or even a mixture of both, which really frustrates me because aren't we suppose to NOT be easily offended?
And then there's the "I know that person well enough to know why they made that choice" running through that head. And is that fair? Do I really KNOW why they made the choice they did. Maybe...but maybe not!
I think my issue with the whole thing is that I would never make the choice that the other person made. I obviously have a completely different view than the other individual. And if I DID make that choice, my intentions would not be a good sign to the other individual, which is where I'm struggling. What if they feel the way I would have to feel to make that decision? I don't think that's the case but what if?
I feel it's a case of "I don't have to do that. That would be very inconvenient for me so why do it?" And my response would be...."No, you don't have to do that BUT you also don't have to NOT do that because you feel imaginary pressure that you have to" (if that makes any sense).
Example: You don't have to invite your child's friend's little brother to your child's birthday party but the imaginary pressure (or our society) would say that that would be polite and you should. So instead you'd say, "Well, really I don't have to invite him. He's not my child's friend, really. He's more of a tag-along. I feel it's fair to just invite my child's friend without feeling bad for not inviting their sibling no matter how I know it'll make the little brother feel. It doesn't matter that they usually all three play together. So, I'm NOT going to do it just because I feel I have to do it..." to which I would say...."No you don't have to do it but you also don't have to NOT do it just to make a point". Kinda like the girls that choose not to wear a bra because everyone says they should. Does that make any sense?
So, anyway, I'm struggling because now I feel the walls forming around me to protect myself from what might be coming next from this person. I feel myself doing the separation thing, which really bugs me. I feel the annoyance setting in and I don't want to feel annoyed by this person. I feel sad because I think it was more of a selfish decision and that my feelings were not even considered. I feel very hurt because, again, I'd never make the choice they made. Nope not me...I just don't get it.
Poor me, I know, just wallowing in my own Pity Party. I just needed to vent. I needed to get it off my chest even if it was in very general terms. Maybe I'm hoping someone else has experienced something similar and has wonderful advice for me...because I really do want to move past this...but I can't seem to!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Gymnastics
Today after my weekly Sunday nap, I laid in bed and watched my little girls just tumbling around in my belly. It was sooo amazing!!! I can't believe how blessed I am to be able to experience a miracle like pregnancy. I'm trying hard to enjoy this experience and since I've been past the 1st trimester I have. Yes, my feet are swollen, my knees ache, my head aches constantly, my ribs feel like I've been punched in them a few thousand times and my face is as round as a pumpkin but I'm still loving this experience.
It's just so funny how the Lord's timing is perfect. Maybe if I would have gotten prego when Greg and I had wanted to, I wouldn't value & cherish this experience as much. There's no way to know for sure but I'm grateful it's now and not then. Through the Lord's timing I've learned the value of just being called "mommy" when we were blessed with Hannah in our lives. I've tried hard not to take being a mother for granted. I learned that all men don't leave you when we were blessed with Gabe. I was so afraid of raising a boy. I was so afraid he'd leave me. But he taught me that there's nothing to be afraid of...he'll be mine forever...for eternity!
You might wonder why that's a fear of mine...I think it stems from two father's leaving me, my grandfather, who was pretty much my father-figure, dying when I was 12yrs old, my brother never being in the home...always in trouble, and a close male friend dying at a young age...not sure why I never feared Greg leaving me but that's always felt 100% solid....Funny how our minds work...anyway...
I'm just grateful that I know the Lord's directing my path and that all things that come my way are for my betterment. Though at times it can be hard to understand the whole picture, I have to just keep having faith that the Lord will guide me and that his understanding is far superior to mine. I've asked Him to lead my life, I've submitted my will to His and I have to believe all is for the best.
Can't wait for the next gymnastic performance from my little princesses!!
It's just so funny how the Lord's timing is perfect. Maybe if I would have gotten prego when Greg and I had wanted to, I wouldn't value & cherish this experience as much. There's no way to know for sure but I'm grateful it's now and not then. Through the Lord's timing I've learned the value of just being called "mommy" when we were blessed with Hannah in our lives. I've tried hard not to take being a mother for granted. I learned that all men don't leave you when we were blessed with Gabe. I was so afraid of raising a boy. I was so afraid he'd leave me. But he taught me that there's nothing to be afraid of...he'll be mine forever...for eternity!
You might wonder why that's a fear of mine...I think it stems from two father's leaving me, my grandfather, who was pretty much my father-figure, dying when I was 12yrs old, my brother never being in the home...always in trouble, and a close male friend dying at a young age...not sure why I never feared Greg leaving me but that's always felt 100% solid....Funny how our minds work...anyway...
I'm just grateful that I know the Lord's directing my path and that all things that come my way are for my betterment. Though at times it can be hard to understand the whole picture, I have to just keep having faith that the Lord will guide me and that his understanding is far superior to mine. I've asked Him to lead my life, I've submitted my will to His and I have to believe all is for the best.
Can't wait for the next gymnastic performance from my little princesses!!
Friday, May 21, 2010
FREE 1st Year Baby Pics!!!
Another contest for free pictures! This time for newborns. So if you're pregnant and want free photos....better go enter!!! All the information is on the site. Here's the link...
http://blog.lambournephotography.com/2010/04/want-to-win-free-sessions-for-year.html
I'd say "good luck" BUT I'm hoping I win :)
http://blog.lambournephotography.com/2010/04/want-to-win-free-sessions-for-year.html
I'd say "good luck" BUT I'm hoping I win :)
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Poop vs. Shots....and the Winner is....
Yesterday, I realized that Gabe hasn't pooped since last weeks fun adventure at the hospital, when he literally crapped all over the floor and was standing in his own puddle of liquid poop. Quite a fun an exciting story that I might share later, if I have the time (because sitting on this couch with my feet up is so time consuming and such hard work!!).
So to help him out, yesterday I added a package of FiberAll to his morning juice and hoped that would do the trick.
....for those of you who don't know, Gabe HATES going poop!! Seriously HATES it!! He usually does it when he's asleep at night and his body probably can't hold it in any longer! Not sure what I'm gonna do about that.....
Well, this morning he woke up and he hadn't pooped during the night. I was so bummed because today marks day 7 of not going poop! That just can't be healthy!! So, I decided to use a trick that a friend used with her little girl...."you either poop or I'm taking you to the doctor and he's gonna give you a shot to make you poop!" At first, Gabe just sat there not sure what to do, like he couldn't believe I'd do something so horrible to him! He is not a fan of shots...but what kid is? I waited for his response and as I knew he would, he started crying. Crying because he doesn't want to poop "because it's hard". Crying because he doesn't want "bleed" to come out of his arms. Crying because he had to chose one or the other and wanted a third option..."neither". The poor little guy was an emotional wreck BUT I knew it was for the best! I have to get through to him that it's not healthy to not poop!!
After about 5 minutes of crying and crying some more, trying to plead his case, he calmed down enough for me to get an answer from him. He promised he'd try and poop today!! YEAH!! VICTORY....well in a way....it still wouldn't be in the toilet, which would have been an ULTIMATE VICTORY!! So, I left his room grateful for the "doctors gonna give you a shot" advice and was feeling good about the situation. BUT about 2 minutes later, Gabe came into my room, with his head held high and confident in whatever he was about to tell me. He informed me that he'd changed his mind. He wanted to go to the doctors for the shot. That was his choice because he DID NOT want to go poop.
I stood there dumb-founded and then began raising the number of shots from 1 to many! I started pointing to all the places they'd give him shots and he just sat there, straight faced, and accepted all I had to say. He'd made his choice....multiple shots that would cause his "bleed" to come out, over just taking a poop in his diaper!!!!!
What do I do with this?!?!? I just sat there stunned!! What child would chose multiple shots over going to the bathroom?!? He's just so different from Hannah. She's so logical and he's just so stubborn. If he doesn't want to do something...he'd rather deal with the awful consequences than do it!! And he just turned 4yrs old a few days ago!! Imagine what he's gonna be like at 14yrs!!!
Anyway, I added more FiberAll to his juice this morning. Hopefully his body will get rid of the poop before I have to figure out how to get his doctor to give him tons of shots in various locations on his body!
I wonder if Dr. Wise takes bribes?!? Hmmmmmm...I'll have to check into that :)
So to help him out, yesterday I added a package of FiberAll to his morning juice and hoped that would do the trick.
....for those of you who don't know, Gabe HATES going poop!! Seriously HATES it!! He usually does it when he's asleep at night and his body probably can't hold it in any longer! Not sure what I'm gonna do about that.....
Well, this morning he woke up and he hadn't pooped during the night. I was so bummed because today marks day 7 of not going poop! That just can't be healthy!! So, I decided to use a trick that a friend used with her little girl...."you either poop or I'm taking you to the doctor and he's gonna give you a shot to make you poop!" At first, Gabe just sat there not sure what to do, like he couldn't believe I'd do something so horrible to him! He is not a fan of shots...but what kid is? I waited for his response and as I knew he would, he started crying. Crying because he doesn't want to poop "because it's hard". Crying because he doesn't want "bleed" to come out of his arms. Crying because he had to chose one or the other and wanted a third option..."neither". The poor little guy was an emotional wreck BUT I knew it was for the best! I have to get through to him that it's not healthy to not poop!!
After about 5 minutes of crying and crying some more, trying to plead his case, he calmed down enough for me to get an answer from him. He promised he'd try and poop today!! YEAH!! VICTORY....well in a way....it still wouldn't be in the toilet, which would have been an ULTIMATE VICTORY!! So, I left his room grateful for the "doctors gonna give you a shot" advice and was feeling good about the situation. BUT about 2 minutes later, Gabe came into my room, with his head held high and confident in whatever he was about to tell me. He informed me that he'd changed his mind. He wanted to go to the doctors for the shot. That was his choice because he DID NOT want to go poop.
I stood there dumb-founded and then began raising the number of shots from 1 to many! I started pointing to all the places they'd give him shots and he just sat there, straight faced, and accepted all I had to say. He'd made his choice....multiple shots that would cause his "bleed" to come out, over just taking a poop in his diaper!!!!!
What do I do with this?!?!? I just sat there stunned!! What child would chose multiple shots over going to the bathroom?!? He's just so different from Hannah. She's so logical and he's just so stubborn. If he doesn't want to do something...he'd rather deal with the awful consequences than do it!! And he just turned 4yrs old a few days ago!! Imagine what he's gonna be like at 14yrs!!!
Anyway, I added more FiberAll to his juice this morning. Hopefully his body will get rid of the poop before I have to figure out how to get his doctor to give him tons of shots in various locations on his body!
I wonder if Dr. Wise takes bribes?!? Hmmmmmm...I'll have to check into that :)
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Gotta Love a Bad Romance!
I put this link on Facebook but for those of you who don't go on there, I just had to post it here as well!
YOU HAVE GOT TO WATCH THIS!!! ITS TOO FUNNY!!! THIS IS FOR ALL OF MY LADY GAGA FANS OUT THERE....
www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8PAuvxCZuM
YOU HAVE GOT TO WATCH THIS!!! ITS TOO FUNNY!!! THIS IS FOR ALL OF MY LADY GAGA FANS OUT THERE....
www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8PAuvxCZuM
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Take A Look @ Mine & You'll Feel Better In No Time!!
This morning I read my friend Catey's newest blog post and started laughing because she compared her tiny little cute belly to that of someone carrying twins. I have a HUGE belly and it's growing bigger by the day...because I literally am carrying twins but I thought I'd post a few belly pics of my own to help her feel better about her so-called big belly...take a look at mine Catey & you'll feel better in no time!
(Warning: Bare belly area!)
22 weeks & 3 days
(Warning: Bare belly area!)
22 weeks & 3 days
Nothing to worry about Catey...you look completely adorable with your little belly, as always. And just think, I'm only in my 23rd week!! Lots & lots of growing coming my way!! YIKES!
I hope this made you feel a tiny bit better :)
My Escapades @ WinCo
On Monday I went to the new WinCo in Orem. I was very excited because their grand opening specials were GREAT! I thought I'd just quickly run there, check the place out, get the things they had on special and then be on with the rest of my day....well, let's just say, as soon as I entered into the parking lot, I knew I was going to be there a while. I had to search for a parking spot for about 15 mins (the whole time having to pee like a racehorse) but finally found one...YIPPEE!!! Off to the restroom I go!! After walking from the back section of the parking lot and finally making it to the entrance, I realized that there were no carts and that there was a bunch of people hanging around waiting for one to "just appear", I guess. I wasn't one of those who believed in magic so I headed back out to the parking lot to stock some innocent shopper and follow them to their car...so that I could then take their cart. I ended up even farther away than I had originally parked but found a nice lady willing to let me hover over her while she put her groceries in the car then gladly gave me her cart. YIPPEE!!! Off to the restrooms I go!! Now I'm back inside the store trying to maneuver in between all the many many shoppers stopping to check out all of the GREAT deals. I couldn't help but stop a couple of times to add a few things to my cart while on my path to the restroom. I finally made it to the main part of the store, with my cart now filled with several smokin' hot deals, still looking for the ever-elusive Restrooms!! I mean, how hard can it be to find them?!? I assumed there would be some in the back, like Walmart, and was about to head there when across the sea of people I saw the heavenly sign...RESTROOMS...great, right? Not so great...they were in the front of the store to use AFTER you checked out! I was beside myself now, absolutely knowing I couldn't wait until I was done shopping. The checkout lines alone were about a 20-30 minute wait!!! Just then a friendly worker walked by and I asked if there were restrooms in the back and to my dismay, there were not. BUT this amazing, friendly, wonderful worker said she'd watch my cart (wasn't about to lose it after searching the parking lot for 15 mins for it) while I went to the restroom. I swear I could've kissed her...but I didn't. FINALLY, shopping without the "emergency alarms" going off in my head! WooHoo!!
So, to make this very long story shorter, I was there for 3 hrs!! Due to the crowds & the lines. But I have to say that it was all worth it! I got a HUGE amount of groceries for a very reasonable price. When I left the checkout line, I had to go pee again, of course, so I headed to the restrooms. I wasn't about to leave my over-flowing cart out where people could easily just walk off with it. Not to be mean, but there were many of those types that would say "I like the dollar store because I don't have to get all dressed up to go there, like I do Walmart" (true story!) at WinCo getting all the good deals like I was. So, I wasn't going to chance it. What do I do then? Well, I take the cart in the restroom with all the workers scuzzing me because there's a sign that says I can't do that. But none of them said anything to me or tried to stop me so I just wandered my way into the huge handicap stall.
So, to make this very long story shorter, I was there for 3 hrs!! Due to the crowds & the lines. But I have to say that it was all worth it! I got a HUGE amount of groceries for a very reasonable price. When I left the checkout line, I had to go pee again, of course, so I headed to the restrooms. I wasn't about to leave my over-flowing cart out where people could easily just walk off with it. Not to be mean, but there were many of those types that would say "I like the dollar store because I don't have to get all dressed up to go there, like I do Walmart" (true story!) at WinCo getting all the good deals like I was. So, I wasn't going to chance it. What do I do then? Well, I take the cart in the restroom with all the workers scuzzing me because there's a sign that says I can't do that. But none of them said anything to me or tried to stop me so I just wandered my way into the huge handicap stall.
Mission accomplished!! I had wasted my entire day but I had done what I had set out to do. I got amazing deals (and the rest of my shopping list cuz I knew I wouldn't have time to stop at Walmart afterwards) and Gabe got a nice new ball...he was thrilled about that. And I was thrilled that it entertained him and that he used it as a pillow...so if he got tired he just laid his head on his new ball!!
So, here's a pic of the carefully stacked cart, yes in the stall, that cost me $168 w/tax. Can't complain about that!! :) And no, I'm not sitting on the tiolet while taking the pic, I was standing in front of it...I know how some of you guys think ;)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
A Complete & Utter Mess!!
It's been a rough couple of days for me...really rough. I'm such an emotional person as is, but add a pregnancy into the mix and I'm a complete mess. Having to send Shailee back to her home was such a difficult decision and to tell you the truth, I'm still not 100% sure it was the right one. My heart tells me it was but my head is telling me otherwise. I really wish Greg and I would have been able to get through to her. She is such a special young woman and I want only the best for her but I fear she doesn't see herself the same way. From this point on, all we can do is pray and fast for her and her family. They tend to not get along well when Shailee's around because she's so difficult sometimes. I suppose if she got anything...any little, microscopic thing...out of living with us, then it was definitely all worth it but I'm not sure that she did. I love her so much and it just breaks my heart that I couldn't reach her. I feel like I failed...miserably. Then I start 2nd guessing how I'm parenting my kids and if I'm failing them as well. I'm just a mess right now!
During these past few days I've realized that I CANNOT breath when I'm crying...I feel like I'm having a huge asthma attack or something. It's somewhat scary. I think it's to do with being pregnant...maybe my lungs are getting squished or something. Yesterday, Greg came home...after I had texted him many times telling him I needed him home because I was gonna lose it...and found me curled up on the couch, covered by Hannah's special blanket & her "teddy bear pumpkin" laying next to me. My eyes were swollen and I was still whimpering. I had had an AWFUL day with Gabe. He was in rare form and with me being pregnant, I was limited on how I could deal with him. It made for a very bad combination. Anyway, at one point I just lost it. Hannah was in the other room and came in to help her mommy. I couldn't talk to her because I couldn't breath...I couldn't breath because I couldn't stop crying and couldn't stop crying because I had finally had a breakdown...it was coming out whether I wanted it to or not! Between the stress of Shailee's departure and the stress of Gabe, I just couldn't hold it together anymore...I began to weep uncontrollably. Hannah sat by me and rubbed my back, stroked my hair, brought me Kleenex, and repeatedly asked what she could do for me. The poor little thing was beside herself because she had no clue what to do. I was, as I've said before, a COMPLETE & UTTER mess!!! After what seemed like an hour, I was finally able to slow my wailing to a whimper, catch my breath and lie down. That's when Hannah went and got her favorite things and used them to comfort me..her blanket & teddy bear. What a special act of kindness on her part! I love her so much!! She's such an amazing little girl...such a great example to me! She sat on the couch with me until Greg got home. She was like my little guardian angel, making sure I was ok. It was so precious! How blessed am I that my little girl still loves me even though I fail repeatedly when it comes to parenting her. I've vowed from the beginning to do my best...I can only hope it's good enough. Because my kids deserve the best!!!
During these past few days I've realized that I CANNOT breath when I'm crying...I feel like I'm having a huge asthma attack or something. It's somewhat scary. I think it's to do with being pregnant...maybe my lungs are getting squished or something. Yesterday, Greg came home...after I had texted him many times telling him I needed him home because I was gonna lose it...and found me curled up on the couch, covered by Hannah's special blanket & her "teddy bear pumpkin" laying next to me. My eyes were swollen and I was still whimpering. I had had an AWFUL day with Gabe. He was in rare form and with me being pregnant, I was limited on how I could deal with him. It made for a very bad combination. Anyway, at one point I just lost it. Hannah was in the other room and came in to help her mommy. I couldn't talk to her because I couldn't breath...I couldn't breath because I couldn't stop crying and couldn't stop crying because I had finally had a breakdown...it was coming out whether I wanted it to or not! Between the stress of Shailee's departure and the stress of Gabe, I just couldn't hold it together anymore...I began to weep uncontrollably. Hannah sat by me and rubbed my back, stroked my hair, brought me Kleenex, and repeatedly asked what she could do for me. The poor little thing was beside herself because she had no clue what to do. I was, as I've said before, a COMPLETE & UTTER mess!!! After what seemed like an hour, I was finally able to slow my wailing to a whimper, catch my breath and lie down. That's when Hannah went and got her favorite things and used them to comfort me..her blanket & teddy bear. What a special act of kindness on her part! I love her so much!! She's such an amazing little girl...such a great example to me! She sat on the couch with me until Greg got home. She was like my little guardian angel, making sure I was ok. It was so precious! How blessed am I that my little girl still loves me even though I fail repeatedly when it comes to parenting her. I've vowed from the beginning to do my best...I can only hope it's good enough. Because my kids deserve the best!!!
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