Nikstergirl Knits and Stuff

Patience, My Dear.....

2011-10-25T21:49:00.001-04:00

I keep telling myself that every day because in three weeks.... I'M GOING TO VEGAS!!!!! I'm so excited I can't even explain it. I had a best friend growing up and she is turning 40. She now lives in Vegas and invited me and a bunch of other people out there to visit and party with her. I really didn't think I was going to be able to go, and truly the financial part of it's probably more than I need to spend this year, but I'm going. It may take too long to pay off my credit card, but I'm going. I'll spend as little as possible when I'm there, but I'm going!!!!

The best part, even though seeing my friend and celebrating her birthday will be amazing... I have a cousin who lives there. The last time I saw this cousin was at her wedding 11 years ago. I've never met her gorgeous kids. I can't wait to see her and meet those beautiful kids!!! I have another cousin who lives in southern California.... she and her husband and her baby are coming to visit that weekend too!!!!!! I've never met her husband or son. I can't wait to get my hands on that kid!!!!

So basically, I'm more excited about this upcoming trip than I've ever been about a vacation in my life! I'm trying not to let it interrupt my life, but it's definitely at the forefront of my mind. I can't believe it. I'm going to VEGAS!!!!!! In the meantime... patience, my dear... patience....

Yes, I'm That Kind Of Crazy....

2011-10-20T21:26:00.000-04:00

I know this blog isn't about knitting anymore, and I'm ok with that, I just need an outlet to unleash some thoughts and maybe even put down some goals to hold myself accountable. Ok? Ok.

So as the new me becomes an athlete, I'm learning something... I need goals. I just don't function without a race to train for!!! I did SOOO great training for my half marathon and it turned out perfect. Then I said for the next two months or so I was still going to run but I was going to focus more on strength, right? Right. Well, let's see how that's going.... it's just a little unfocused. Not that I haven't been working out, I truly have, but I just feel like I'm floundering! This week I didn't get to workout on Tuesday which is a unusual, but it was a work meeting thing, so from Sunday to Thursday I hadn't exercised... and it was killing me! Today was rainy, 45 degrees, and windy and I ended up running 6 miles! I needed that SOOOO bad! I don't want to skip another workout for a while, that was brutal!!! Also, the week after my half, I was at my goal weight... now I'm 2.5 pounds heavier again!! I know it's not all about the scale, but I swear I do feel the difference and I don't want some of my old bad habits to start creeping back in, so I'm sticking with my eating and workout plan until I get back and under my goal!

So I'm making another plan. I don't have the date of the first race I'm planning next spring, but it will be another half marathon in April (again with my awesome college roomie). Then after that I'm planning the 25k (15.5 miles) in Grand Rapids (the Fifth Third Riverbank Run) which is May 12. After THAT.... I'm going to find a marathon to train for! Yup, I said it. Next fall, probably September or October, I will find and train and run a full marathon. 26.2 miles. I won't set a time goal, I will just train to finish as strong as I can. I'm that kind of crazy.

Ok, now that I've actually said it in "writing" I feel like the goal is set. I will achieve this just like I have in the last year! I started by just wanting to run a 5k.... two years later I'll be running a marathon. At age 40. Because I'm an athlete now. And I'm crazy!

Wow, I Really Need A Break....

2011-10-11T21:07:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I keep forgetting to blog! Guess it's a good thing I don't get paid for it.... of course if I did I might remember to DO it!!! LOL!

Anyway, since my last post I did something I'm pretty freaking proud of... I ran a half marathon! And I finished in 2 hours 16 minutes, which is WAY faster than I thought I could run. Yup, I'm pretty proud of myself! So since then I've been cutting back on running and working on some cross training just to keep myself as fit as possible. I will pick back up the training for another race around the first of the year. I've got two races I want to do, another half marathon in April and a 25k in May. In case you don't get the conversion, a 25k is 15.5 miles and since the half marathon is 13.1, I know I can do it! Will it be hard? Absolutely, but that's what makes me want to do it. I need a challenge and this will work! I'm going to need to gear up for winter so I can run all season long, but that's just part of the training. I really can't run on a treadmill anymore, so getting in those winter/snowy/rainy/dark runs will just be part of the experience! I'm sure I'll have some stories for you soon!!!!

Last weekend I went down to WMU for Homecoming and it was so much fun! Met a few friends and some new people too and tailgated and played drinking games and enjoyed a Bronco win all while getting sunburned (yes, in October)(yes, I had sunscreen in the car) and totally loving every minute! Part of my new life is just being comfortable in my own skin and seeing people I hadn't seen in nearly 20 years was kind of surreal and made me feel just amazing. Seriously makes me wish my class reunion had been this year instead of last summer!! LOL!

Anyway, I'm 2 pounds away from what I'm calling my "goal" weight. I think I'm stopping here because I feel amazing, I'm technically a "healthy" weight, I'm wearing a size 4 and what else can an almost-40-year-old Mom ask for????? I really hope everyone I know and love can get to this place at somepoint in their life, because it feels terrific!!!! I might even be inspiring my Mom which would be amazing to me!!!! So get out there and start moving... you WON'T regret it!!!!!

Now I need a vacation...

I'm Busy, So Sue Me....

2011-09-08T21:55:00.000-04:00

Yup, so there's been a lot going on in my life and I haven't updated this since before I went to the most amazing concert ever!!!! That weekend was AWESOME! I spent some much needed girl time with my awesome friend, saw not one but TWO cool concerts (total of 6 bands) and drank too much beer. I relaxed, I screamed, I ate, I enjoyed. That's what the good things in life are all about, in my opinion. Life is good.

So, the summer wrapped up like usual, running around trying to get everything together at the last possible second and panicking that the weather decided that my plan to not buy jeans for a few more weeks was not acceptable so I sent my son to school in shorts when it was 45 degrees out in the morning. Yup, I'm supermom. NOT!!!! Anyway, we got him a pair tonight so he can wear them to the big football game tomorrow night.

Speaking of football, I love this time of year. I only have one kid playing this year so it's much easier to keep track of, but that doesn't slow us down. We'll still see many of the varsity games because, let's face it, there's not much else to do as a family in a small town, and we all love football!!!! Tomorrow evening is the big East/West game here in our town where the two high schools play each other. We root for West, and both teams are really good. We get to be the home team this time. This is good so we don't have to face the sunset. I love football.

In two weeks I will be running my first half marathon. This both excites me and freaks me out! I know I can finish, I just hope I make a good time. I have a goal, and I think I can do it, but it still freaks me out a little. My college roomie is coming to run with me. She's not a newbie like me. I miss her! We haven't seen each other in just over two years. The before and after pics will be coming!!!! We've both lost weight and shaped up in the past two years!!!

Speaking of weight loss, I'm still losing. I want to lose a little more, but people are telling me I don't need to lose more. I'm having a hard time comprehending how they know what my ideal weight should be just based on looking at me fully clothed. I know it shouldn't bother me, but I'm still not quite satisfied at my current weight and would like to lose another 5-10 but don't want to look like a skeleton either. I still have quite a belly (thanks genetics!) which I know doesn't really show when I'm dressed, but I still see it. I hope this isn't just a body image thing, and I don't seriously think it is, but I just think a few more pounds would be perfect. Of course, if my body rebelled and said this is where I should stay, I would be fine with that. I think. I'm just confused, but I'm hoping I'll know when I should stop once I get there. There's no science to my choosing a goal weight, I just can't find an answer on this anywhere, but I'm finally into my "healthy" BMI range (which isn't exactly rocket science) and I'd like to be well into that range, I guess. See, no science, just a feeling.

My knee hurts from my run today. Crazy how that just popped into my head. I'm so random. If you've kept up with this post, I commend you. I scored two pair of nice jeans for myself at the new Goodwill store in my town this week. Today I put on one pair and found a dollar in the pocket. God is good!!!!

It's Finally Almost Time!!!

2011-08-18T20:43:00.000-04:00

A million and a half weeks ago, my best friend emailed and asked if I wanted to accompany her to the Kenny Chesney concert on August 20 and of course I said "HELL YES!!!!". I think that's a direct quote. Anyway, after weeks and months of waiting... the time is almost here!!!! I'm giddy with anticipation. Seriously, I have a major relationship with Kenny... in my mind, of course. We've never met, but I love him. Truly, madly, deeply. If I would have met him before I met my wonderful husband... let's just say I wouldn't be living in little old Michigan!!!! Anyway... the show is Saturday and tomorrow morning (after I get my long run in and out of the way) I'm driving over to spend the weekend with my bestie and we are going to have so much fun together!

Yes, this is the third time I'll have seen him in concert. Yes, all three will be with said friend. Yes, she is my hero for getting us tickets. And yes, I will be screaming at the top of my lungs for several hours on Saturday. I will probably not be able to talk much on Sunday. If you know me, you know how rare this is. Yes, I've been obsessing for two weeks about what I'm going to wear to this event. Yes, I'm aware that it really makes no difference as he won't actually see me. No, it doesn't matter... I'm still fretting as I pack!!!!

I'm a little nuts, but I just may be the lunatic he's looking for!!! Wait, that's another artist... drat! Kenny... I'm coming baby... hold on to your hat!!!!

Lazy Crazy Hazy Days of Summer...

2011-08-14T22:10:00.000-04:00

Well, it's been a long hot summer, and that's alright with me!!! There's been nothing earth shattering to write about except a tragically bad decision my younger son made a couple days after I wrote my last post which has basically left me shocked and completely numb to be honest. I won't get into it here, but suffice it to say, he's in trouble. Big trouble. He's already been grounded for a month. He can't wait for school to start. He better have learned his lesson!!!!

Anyway, the rest of my life has been really boring since I work all day and run when I need to train and that's about it. I have managed a few walks along the boardwalk, a girls night out with my neighborhood girls and a couple of dinner dates with my husband. We even saw the last Harry Potter movie at the theater for our anniversary date! We celebrated our 17th anniversary a couple weeks ago which I'm pretty proud of. Other than that, it's been business as usual.

So this will be short and sweet, I just didn't realize it had been this long since I posted!!! This coming weekend is one I've been looking forward to for months. Going to my dear friend's house for the weekend and we have tickets for TWO different concerts!!! Friday night we'll see the J. Geiles band and Saturday is KENNY CHESNEY!!!! If you know me... you know how much I love that man... it's slightly bordering on obsessive, but it's all good. I even found out that Zac Brown Band is opening, which I also love, so it should be an amazing weekend for sure! I'll see if I can take some pics....

Not Much....

2011-07-12T21:07:00.000-04:00

Not much new going on in la-la land. Oh, I'm still running.. haven't missed a training run, but really that's about it! I had a week of vacation in which I accomplished squat-nothing... I went back to work and it was the same old stuff-different day... just nothing new in my life! I guess that's ok, but I'm totally bored right now! I'm ready for some adventure... but it will have to wait. Reality can really suck sometimes.

But... on the other hand... in the past year, I've lost 40 pounds. I've become a runner. I've transformed by body from a chubby size 14/16 to a size 6. I've learned how to take care of this temple and gift from God called the human body. I've inspired others to take better care of themselves. I've used every opportunity available to raise my voice in song. I've maintained friendships with some of the best people on this earth. I've cheered for my children, cried for them, and enjoyed them often. I've danced in the rain. I've read a lot of books. I've watched some really bad tv. I've watched the first three Twilight movies about a million times each. Not much, but it's my life.

All in all... it's just fine. Someday I hope to be able to say I live the life of adventure I long for... and today is nowhere near that day. I'm ok with that for the most part. But sometimes, it feels like life is just passing by. Somedays it feels like there's just not much to say. Today is one of those days... Today not much happened.

Maybe tomorrow.....

Another One Bites The Dust....

2011-06-29T23:00:00.000-04:00

That's how I felt after I ran the Zeeland Zoom 5k last night! Since I hadn't really been training for speed (that 1/2 marathon is my main focus right now) and I only ran my last 5k three and a half weeks ago, my goal was just to finish around 30 minutes. So I ran a couple of easy miles (training plan called for 5 total for the day) and walked around for a good hour before the race. The weather was perfect. It's was in my town so I was familiar with the streets. It's a super flat course, so I knew I could finish strong. I was feeling good! I'd gotten a free entry from my chiropractor's office so I didn't even have to pay!!! Woohoo!

So I found a couple friends from church at the starting line and we talked about how fast we were hoping to finish. I figured we'd be all pretty close together, so I wasn't worried even though we were pretty close to the front. Closer than I usually am. Then the gun went off. My friend Lori was off like a shot (this didn't surprise me, she's a speedy one!) and I just focused on my music and my breathing. My pace was good, quick, but good. I felt really good on that first mile and knew I was heading to beat my last best time. Just before mile 2 I realized I had to use the bathroom. Not a little bit... I had to PEE!!!! Oh my goodness... what the heck to do????

Yup, I kept going. And going... and by the time I was finished with the race, I still had to pee soooo bad.... it was not pretty!!! I finished a little quicker than my last race, but I seriously think if I'd have been running on an empty bladder I could have run even faster. Who knows, I finished and that's all that really matters! So now off to finish the rest of my training. I'm thinking about another 5k in a few more weeks.. if I do this one it will be on hills, so I'm not exactly sure if I'll do it, but the challenge might be worth it!!!

But next time... bathroom just before the starting gun... no matter what!!!!

Oh, and I got myself a new handy-dandy heart rate monitor. It's a cool little watch/chest strap combo that monitors your heart rate and tells you exactly how your training is going and how many calories you're burning. I've been wanting one for a while, but finally splurged. I'm hoping it gets me training in the right zones so I don't overdo it but continue to increase my fitness levels as time goes on. The last thing I need is to become another statistic of someone who looks like they are fit and has a heart attack on the sidewalk! No kidding, that happens a lot. I'm hoping this will stop that from happening. Although, I must admit, I was pushing really hard last night!!! Felt good... still feel good, so I'm ok.

I have a little date night planned with my sister tomorrow... I'm hoping we have a blast seeing a band that a friend of mine from college has that's playing a bunch of old 80's alternative music! We used to listen to just that type of music back in high school, so this should be insteresting! Plus, I don't get out much... we should have fun!

TTFN....

Heaven Help Us....

2011-06-24T21:53:00.000-04:00

My son got his learner's permit yesterday. That means he can drive. With a parent (or designated adult over 21) and closely supervised, but he is on the road. With other cars. In traffic sometimes. On the highways. Yup, I'm nervous. Who wouldn't be??? But you know what? He's pretty good. For a beginner. And he's still just that, a beginner. So say a prayer and watch out for my little white minivan... he's probably behind the wheel!!! Heaven help us!!!!

On another note, heaven got another angel this week. A dear lady I have known for many, many years passed away. She was the nicest lady in our little neighborhood and ALWAYS had a smile for all of us. Her three kids are dear friends and we grew up doing all sorts of crazy things together... I won't get into all that here, but suffice to say I still love these three so much! Two of them stood up in my wedding!!!! Anyway, their Mom is now an angel watching us from heaven instead of the front door.. or the window... or the kitchen counter. I can honestly say she is the kind of Mom I hope to be. She was one of a kind, and we will all truly miss her. The only shining light on losing her now, is that she was really sick. She had dimentia and ALS. The last 2 years were hard for the entire family, and she is now at rest. This is good, but it doesn't mean the loss is less difficult. So we will celebrate her life, grieve with her family and friends, and thank God for the time we had with Sandy. Take care of her, Father... and use this new angel wisely!!!!

I hit a new weight loss goal today, I'm not sharing my actual numbers here just yet, but know that I'm smaller than my wedding weight. Actually, I'm smaller than I've been in so long I can't remember the last time I was this weight! Kind of amazing, but also a little sad. I'm shooting to continue at this point and see where my body settles in. I think I have another 10 pounds to lose, but we'll see. When I'm done, I'll try to post a before and after. I don't have a good before, but there's one that I think might work... I'll need to do some cropping, but it might give you an idea of where I've come from!!!!

I'm on vacation for the next nine days, so if something comes to me that I want to share, I'll have more freedom to write. Hoping to pick up my guitar again this week.. and get a pedicure... and clean my house... and hit the pool or waterpark... yes, I have big goals! God bless you, and Sandy... say hi to my Dad if you see him up there!!!!

Lessons Learned????

2011-06-15T22:31:00.000-04:00

This post is about something I'm not good at.... saying no. It's a lesson that I've tried to learn in the past couple of years and while I'm getting better at it, I still haven't mastered it. I think it's a girl thing. Or a mom thing. Maybe just a me thing. I like to be needed! I love to do things for other people. But sometimes I have to say no. I just can't do everything for everyone!!! Especially if I need to take care of myself and my family. They really should come first, after all!!!!

But this spring I got roped into something of which I'm pretty proud. I have a friend from my church who is an awesome single dad. He has two teenagers that he is raising alone. He's doing a great job! His kids are polite, smart, eager to help others, friendly, and involved in church. This fall, my friend (who is a youth group leader himself) was hurt, at youth group! His foot was toast. He's since been off work, had two surgeries and has now lost his job due to having to take so much time off. He's broke. His daughter graduated. There was no way he could do a graduation party. My Bible study group wanted to help. I was volunteered to lead the effort. I didn't say no. She really deserved a party!

So, I planned the party. I shopped for the party (thanks to the financial donations of the ladies of my Bible study group.) I rented the room for the party. I basically put on the party. Did I mention everyone was mysteriously out of town or busy with other engagements??? Yup. I had two ladies come and help decorate. One brought veggies. The rest was me. Well, the Dad did make food and his Mom did too (yum) but the rest was me. I'm not saying this to brag, I'm really not that great of a party planner, but rather to show that I'm a slow learner. I needed to say no. This was stress I didn't need!!! But I really like this family. They don't deserve all the things that are happening to them. It really wasn't hard to do. I didn't spend much of my own money, just some time. What's time and a little effort to help someone in need???? I'm glad I did it. So sometimes it's ok to say yes. Sometimes it's good to feel needed. Sometimes, you just need to do the right thing.

I don't know if I learned my lesson. Mainly because I don't know which lesson I was supposed to learn! Am I taking on too much? Sometimes. Is it good to help people in their time of need? Yes! Even if that means you don't get your laundry or grocery shopping done for the week? Sometimes, that's ok too.... I'll make up for the groceries tomorrow, and as for the laundry... good thing we all have extra clothes!!!!

So I'm looking forward to a weekend with nothing planned. Then I send one kid away for a youth group trip for a week and the other finishes driver's ed and starts a temporary part time job!!!! After that... I'm taking a week off. I need a break!!!!

TTFN...

Summer's HERE!!!

2011-06-07T21:14:00.000-04:00

Yup, it's finally summer in West Michigan! It's been a rainy and chilly spring, so this warm up is just what I needed to get in the mood to really get outside! For me, summer is about long walks, bike rides, ice cream and the water. We were hoping to get our boat out last weekend, but both of our cars broke down. Yup, both of them. At the same time. It was not fun at all. Got hubby's car fixed on Friday and mine will be picked up in the morning, but it's been a stressful couple of days. Oh well, it's only money.. right???

So today officially started the training for my first half marathon. The race will be September 24. I'm pumped about it, but nervous too. I really think I can do it and make a respectable time, but I have a ton of training to do. I have a plan, and I think I can stick to it, but it's more running than I've ever done, so let the adventure begin!!!! Tonight was a "2 miles easy" night, which meant my pace was around 12 minute miles. That's not as hard as it was a few months ago, so I'm happy about that, but with the heat and humidity I was literally dripping when I got home!!! Tomorrow is a "non-running" day, which I still hope to get in a workout at the gym with the weights. I found a great standing ab/core workout the other day in a magazine that I'm eager to use. I've done it twice, but with some regular sessions I am hoping to see some inches off my tummy and waist! Besides, a strong core really helps runners... and that's another great reason to do the workout!

I'm sure I'll post more about my training runs as they get harder, and longer, and faster... so if it bores you, I apologize. Truly I just want to be the best me I can be... and running is making me stronger inside and out. What more can I ask for???? Besides... there's nothing wrong with wanting to be a hot mama, right?

Gotta go get the hubby soon since I have his car and mine's still at the shop. Hope you have a great night!!! TTFN.

Well, I Did It!!!!

2011-06-05T18:27:00.000-04:00

I ran a 5k yesterday to benefit Wings of Mercy. It was a really nice, flat course and a beautiful summer morning!!! My goal was to beat my last 5k time, which was 36:37 back in October. I knew I could do it, but wasn't exactly sure if I could be under 30 minutes. Well, I pushed really hard and I did it!!! I came in at 29:35 and I was so proud of myself! Came in 12th of 23 in my age group and realized that if I can knock off another 5 minutes I may just be at the top of my group at my next race!!!! Not sure if that will happen this summer, but what an incentive!!!!

Because I'd only ran the 5k yesterday, instead of a long run like I usually do, I kind of felt like I needed to run today. Usually on Sunday's I go to the gym and lift weights for a while, so today I ran up there (1.5 miles) and lifted and ran home. It was great! Just enough running to feel like I did it but not so much that I was over tired or stressed, and plenty of time to lift as well!!! I'm turning into a fitness person, and I wouldn't have guessed that was ever possible.

Time for laundry and dinner! I love weekends... but they are NEVER long enough!!!!

Oh, side note, my baby starts driver's ed tomorrow. I think I may feel older than ever before. He's totally excited, and I'm just his old lady now!!!!! Life is moving too fast....

What The?????

2011-06-02T18:57:00.000-04:00

How have I not blogged in so long? I don't know, it's been a little crazy. Anyway... so what's new? Tom finished up his freshman year at Summit and has decided to go to Zeeland West next year. He has my blessing on this, but it still scares me. I know being at Summit was good for him this year and as much as I think another year wouldn't have hurt, this is his decision and he has valid reasons for going back to be at the "normal" school. Such big changes, but his maturity is starting to show and I'm so proud of the young man he's becoming. He also started driver's ed next week, and while I'm nervous, he's so excited and proud of himself for earning it. He needed to pass his classes before I'd pay for it... he did, so now I pay!

We had a nice Memorial Day weekend. Jim was home for most of it and David played with the band in his first parade! He looked so cute out there. They got really hot during, but it was good. Our town's parade isn't super long, so that's good, and we were able to park near enough that the walk back to the car wasn't horrible. After the parade I took my first of what I hope are many walks on the Grand Haven pier. It was busy but it was still a great walk. The weather is finally looking and feeling more like summer and I am so thankful for that!!! Being cold is just not fun for me at all!!!

So today we had a bit of a problem. On Monday Jim's muffler fell off. Not completely, but it's hanging on by a thread and needs desparately to be fixed. We took it in when he got back in town today, only to have my heater core go out. So instead of getting his muffler done tomorrow, my car is in the shop! Hopefully that won't cost a fortune and we can still get the muffler fixed. I don't think God wants me to have money. That's ok, I'd just like to have enough in the bank that when this stuff happens I don't panic. Like now. I'm panicking!!!! Well, not really, but we really just can't afford this right now... I'm trusting God will provide, but it's not easy.

Doing another 5k on Saturday, and this one is with my awesome sister!!! It will be her first, and I am so excited to be able to be there at the finish line cheering her on!!! I think we'll probably start together, but I'm sure my pace will be faster, and that's ok. My hope is to have somebody take our pic together when we're done (I know she doesn't like this idea, but maybe she'll change her mind then?) so I can brag her up!!!! Just finishing is such an accomplishment, and I know she will do great. I'm hoping to shave off a little time from my last one (back in October which was 36:37) so we'll see what kind of pace I can keep up! I don't know if I can yet, but I'm hoping to break 30!!!! We'll see, and I won't be upset if I don't.... at least not that upset!

Oh, and on another note... the new Chaco sandals I got with my birthday money are AMAZING!!!!!!! Highly recommend!!!!

Shoe Update...

2011-05-18T21:19:00.000-04:00

Ok, this is going to be a boring post, but I just wanted to say that I'm officially in LOVE with my new shoes!!!! Seriously, it's sad, but that's how I roll!!!!

Thursday last week I was able to get my self some new walking sandals at Gazelle Sports. There were two styles I tried and while they were both nice, I ended up with Chacos. They are so cute and super comfy! I just know I'll be walking tons of miles in them for many many years!!! And with purply straps... what more could I ask for???? Awesome!

Then I also found some new work shoes... and I found a pair of Clark's at Shoe Carnival!!! Even on sale! They are just so comfy and look nice with my new pants, so I'm all set!

Ok, that's really it. My life is so boring right now... just working a lot and dealing with teenagers which is more stressful than I ever imagined, but I still love them. Might be taking in a movie tomorrow if I can fit it in. Then we need to go to graduation at my son's school. It's a whole honor's dinner and stuff, so it should be quite an experience! I'll let you know.

TTFN!

Better Week...

2011-05-11T20:34:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's been a better week. Hubby was gone all weekend, so no big Mother's Day spoiling for me, but the boys and I spent the afternoon with my sis and her family and our Mom. That was really nice! The weather has been beautiful and my new clothes are making me feel skinny and I love it!

Tomorrow is going to be shoe shopping day. I need new summer sandals that I can really walk in this year. Last year I spent a lot of time in my flip-flops and my feet and legs did NOT like me. I plan on walking a ton again this summer, so it's off to the really good shoe store and spend some cash on a great pair of sandals that I can walk hundreds of miles in! One of my favorite things to do in the summer is walk, especially because I live so close to a couple of nice beaches and boardwalks. I also like wearing shorts or capri pants, so sandals are much cuter than socks and tennies (in my opinion) so I want to feel good about what's on my feet! So my plan is to find those tomorrow along with a new pair of work shoes in brown because I got a new pair of pants that look really bad with black shoes. Just sayin!!!!

Also tomorrow I think I'm going to take the boys to Holland to watch the Tulip Time parade. We'll probably also get some junk food while we're down there.. at least they will, we'll see if I can resist the temptations!!!! I wonder how long I'll have to run to work off an elephant ear???? Maybe I should look that up!

So I signed up for my next race. Another 5k in Muskegon on June 4! The best part about this one... my sister is going to do it with me!!!! Oh yes! I'm so excited, this will be her first!!!! What an honor and inspiration she is! So happy she decided to start running, I really know how hard it is, but I think it will be a great thing for her health, and that's super important to me!!!!

So overall... a much better week!

I Freaking DID IT!!!!

2011-05-07T21:29:00.000-04:00

I ran my first 10k this morning!!! I've been training for this since the beginning of February so I knew I could do it, but until you actually get there, it's nerve-wracking!!!

So this morning... I got up and had my breakfast, got dressed, did my thing... got downtown early to find a parking place. It's the first day of Tulip Time, so I knew I'd have to walk a bit, but it was good. I walked over to the start/finish line, and the 5k had already started. About 5 minutes later the first 5k finishers were crossing the line and the crowd was cheering, even me! I stood there and watched all kinds of people cross that line and I was so happy for all of them!

About 20 minutes before the 10k was supposed to start I dashed over to the potty for a final pit-stop. Then back to the line. We waited a few extra minutes for the last 5k racers to finish and then I lined up at the back of the pack and we were off!!! The whole group took off at a good pace and I stayed right with a bunch for a little bit. After the first mile I was still passing a few people, but my pace seemed to even out a bit. I was checking my gps for my pace every mile or two and it was what I wanted, so I kept going. I need to work on gulping water while running, I did really bad and only got about one swallow at each of the water stations, but I think it helped! Had to tie one of my shoes again at mile 2, but it didn't seem to slow me down much.

There were people that passed me and people I passed. I just kind of kept my head in the game and pushed really hard! There were some hills, but not too bad, and about a mile into a headwind which made me very thankful for all that windy training!!! I ended up 17th in my age category, which doesn't sound great, but I was happy with that because my official chip time was 1:04:27!!!! I was training to come in under 1:15, but I blew that out of the water!!!! I was so happy... I still am! Floating is about how I feel and I think I'll let that stick around a while longer.

So now what. I can say that this will not be my last race, not by a long shot. It really gives me something to work toward and I need that to keep going. To be honest, I really don't always like running, but I know I need to do it. I am going to keep running. As it's helped me lose weight and get in the best shape of my life... I really don't have a choice!

Besides... the feeling of crossing that line was amazing.. and I FREAKING DID IT!!! Woohoo!!!!!

Butterflies Or Wrestling Armadillos????

2011-05-06T20:33:00.000-04:00

One of those are in my tummy right now.... which one I'm not sure, but it's one of them!!!! I've picked up my race packet and gotten my clothes all ready for the race, but I'm nervous! Why, I'm not really sure. I know I can run this 10k. I've been training since February 1st... well, really I've been training for a year, but seriously on a training plan for 14 weeks. I can DO this! I'm just really nervous!!!!

This weekend is the first anniversary of my becoming a runner. Seriously! One year ago today I could barely run for 60 seconds without feeling like I was going to DIE!!!! Nine weeks later I ran my first 5k. It was a slow and painful race, and I finished in just over 41 minutes, but I didn't die. That was my goal! Three months after that I ran in my second 5k. I finished that one in 36:37. Shaved off five minutes, and I was thrilled! That was about five months into my new life as a runner, but I still didn't FEEL like a runner. Not that I knew what that was supposed to feel like, I just still didn't consider myself a runner.

So maybe it's the weight loss that has accompanied this journey, maybe it's the new shoes, or maybe something else... but today I honestly can say I feel like a runner!!!! Tonight after work I went to the place where we picked up our race packets so that you don't have to fight the crowd in the morning. There were a TON of runners there. You know what? I wasn't the oldest, I wasn't the fattest, I probably wasn't even the newest! I was just "one of the runners!"!!!! And that feels AMAZING!!!! Nobody looked at me like "what's SHE doing here???" Everyone was encouraging (which runner's are, by the way, we love everyone!), and I got so many smiles and words of "good luck tomorrow!" I was nearly in tears walking back to my car. I know I'm an emotional wreck... but it was really nice and completely unexpected, because I'm still somewhat "new" to this thing of thinking of myself as an athlete! And it's AWESOME!!!!

So, tomorrow morning I will wake up, eat my breakfast, put on my running clothes and drive to the parking place to walk to the starting line (after at least one last potty stop). I will line up toward the back of the pack (because I don't want to be trampled on, I'm not THAT fast!) and I will run. I will run as fast as I feel comfortable, or just a little faster than that. I will focus on my breathing and my pace. I will finish the race. And I will smile at all the volunteers along the way. Because I am a RUNNER! And we are happy people!!!!! My only wish is that someone would be there for me to take my picture when it's all over, but hubby is stuck on the road for the weekend and my kids just can't be counted on not to wander off at this point, let alone be awake and coherent at 8am on a Saturday!!!! So when I get home I'll post something on Facebook, because that's how I roll... and I'll feel even more like a runner.

But for tonight, it's either butterflies or wrestling armadillos in my tummy. Not sure which, but I hope they calm down soon so I can get my rest!!!!!

What A Week!!!!

2011-05-04T21:29:00.000-04:00

It's been a pretty crazy week around la casa!!!! Saturday my youngest son did a really dumb thing and got himself grounded for life. Yup, that's what I said. For life. Well, at least until summer. Seriously, at least, a minimum, of five weeks. Wanna know what he did? Of course you do!!!!

Friday night he spent the night at a friend's house. No biggie, he spends the night there often. Told him to be home by noon on Saturday because the house needed some teamwork cleaning time. Well, I got up later than I planned to take my 9 mile run, but I left the house a little before noon and told hubby that kiddo should be home soon, but he may want to call and check to see he's on his way. Nearly 4 miles into my run I get a phone call from a number I didn't know but I answered it. It was the security officer at Walmart saying he had my son there with some friends and they were shoplifting. WHAT!!! He wasn't supposed to be out of the neighborhood??? I'm shocked, confused and horrified! And I'm running. I'm not even halfway done running. Crap!

So I ask the guy to call my husband and he would come because I really didn't know what to do. So I keep running. A little bit later I call my husband to make sure he got the call from the store. He did. He's ticked! He's on his way and will call me back. I keep running. I am off my route because I'm frazzled, but I keep running.

Hubby calls me again to ask how soon I'll be home because he's about to lose it. I tell him I already planned to cut it short, but I was still over two miles from the house. I'm shot, emotionally I'm a wreck, but I try to keep running. Then about one mile from home I totally lose it. I break down sobbing. I can't run anymore. My head is NOT in the game. Long runs are so much about the head over the legs. My head is home but my legs can't run anymore. I turn off the GPS which said I had done 7 miles somehow, and walk the mile home. Sobbing. I'm a mess.

So I get home and the only question I have is "what the HELL were you thinking???" He went, with three other little boys, on the BUS to the NEXT TOWN to the Walmart. Then they shopped a little bit. Then one (or more, I really don't get the whole story) decided to steal. He says he didn't steal. I don't know what to believe. He was supposed to be walking the couple blocks home. Instead he hops a freaking bus to the next town. Did I mention he's 12 years old? Yup, 12. Might not make 13 at this rate! What the heck??? I didn't even know he knew the bus routes? Shocked. Horrified. And now he's grounded.

So he gets to walk the few blocks from school to my office everyday after school and sit in my staff room doing his homework until I get out of work and take him home. It's the only way I know what he's really up to. I don't trust him right now. Don't think you can blame me for that. I've hated them being "latchkey" kids, but I thought that they got how important it was to be truthful and not do dumb things like this!

Anyway. Beyond that, I got spoiled last night. My SAI Big Sis was awesome to me last night and treated me to a pedicure and dinner in celebration of my losing 32 pounds! Yup, that was my total lost as of my last weigh in (I do weigh in again tomorrow... ) and I couldn't be happier! I still want to lose at least 10 more, but I'll see how my body handles it and see what happens. Sometimes I get to a point and can't lose any more, but because of all the exercise I am doing now I have no idea what will happen... and I like that!!!!

Hope you all have a great week and I hope for another loss on the scale in the morning!!!! What a week!!!!

A Good Day....

2011-04-28T21:07:00.000-04:00

Today was a good day. My husband was home. He let me sleep in and took over kid duty this morning. I ran 6 miles. Had lunch with my husband. Had dinner with all three of my men. But the best part of today???? My weigh in day... and I lost 3.2 pounds! Holy moly!!!!

I also have another NSV (non-scale victory) to share... I haven't had a single Cadbury Creme Egg this year. Nope! Not a single one purchased or consumed by this self-confessed egg addict!!! I think that has to be one reason I've been pretty steadily losing instead of stalling or gaining since the beginning of the year. Whatever it is, it's working... so I'm going to keep on keeping on...

And my race is in 9 days!!!! I'm so ready.. and praying it doesn't rain that morning!!!!!

Happy Easter!!!

2011-04-24T15:31:00.000-04:00

He is risen!!!! Alleluia!!!!! I already got my praise on during the two services this morning at church. I love singing and was able to take part in the choir this year again which is amazing! We even did a couple of hand clapping fun songs along with a couple of more "serious" choral pieces... just awesome!

Anyway, I wanted to say Happy Easter as well as brag a little bit... Yesterday I ran NINE miles!!! Yes, that's right, I said NINE!!!!! It wasn't easy, not all of it was even enjoyable (especially the first 2.5 into the wind and the last 2..) but I did it and I could not be prouder of myself. I am not a bragger most of the time, but I will brag about this because I FREAKING DID IT!!!! Yahoo!!!! My race is in two weeks and I'm so ready to rock that thing it's not even funny... I'm going to kill it!

So today I'm a little sore (not surprised there) but still need to get some exercise in, probably a little walk or bike ride and some weight lifting.. mainly because I want to eat some of this chocolate Easter bunny that's staring at me!!!! But also because I'm on a roll that I don't want to break.

On Valentine's Day I joined a fitness/weight loss challenge on My Fitness Pal with a group of ladies that are motivating and inspiring and just overall fun! Our challenges varied, but mainly they were walking/running 100 miles in 70 days which ends today. I am very proud to say that I not only went 100 miles, I ended up with 124.5!!!! I didn't count anything but running, so I could have been many more if I'd have counted all the elliptical and walking miles I did in the past 10 weeks. One of the challenges was to take a "before" and "after" pic. We didn't have to share, and I had no intention of sharing, but then I took the "after" one today... and I'm pretty shocked!!! I only lost 13 pounds (which is awesome) but on my short little self, it really shows!!! Let's see if this works...

Before (Feb 15, 2011)

and After (April 24, 2011)

Please excuse the mess in the back.. took these in my closet by my vanity which nobody ever sees... but whatever, the light was good and I had a mirror!!!! Anyway, I think you can tell I'm a little proud of myself, which isn't a bad thing when I've worked so hard!!! I'm not nearly done with this journey, I will be counting calories until I can't count anymore and exercising until they put me in home or something... it's just who I will need to be if I want to stay healthy and happy, and I'm ok with that!!! I have about 15 more pounds I'd like to lose, and I will get there, but by no means am I in a big hurry. This is life we're talking about, not a race! But I will race, because it's fun, and the training is so good for my body and my soul.

So goodbye chubby mama... look out world,.... Nikki's here to stay!!!!!

Happy Birthday To Me!!!!

2011-04-18T21:18:00.000-04:00

Yes, that's right.. I had a birthday! It was a great weekend celebrating, and here's a little recap...

Thursday I had an hour massage which was wonderful and relaxing until a few hours later when I was so sore and stiff I could barely stand up and walk!!! Note to self.. next time ask for her not to dig so deep into my muscles that I can still feel like I'm bruised two days later... just sayin...

Friday was my actual birthday. I brought in a treat for work (yes we do that and no I don't have to pay for it) which was angel food cake with strawberries and whipped cream... one of my favorite things!!! After work we went to Wendy's for a quick supper and over to the in-laws to see them for the first time since Christmas since they just got back from Florida and we missed them and Great-Grandma! Very nice day.

Saturday after a short shift at work, two of my best friends came up to see me and took me out for the evening. We went to Grand Haven where there was a city-wide blues festival going on! The weather was yucky, cold and rainy, but we had an absolute blast!!! Started at happy hour at the Kirby Grille, headed over to the new brewery for a pint, then to Portobello's for dinner (YUM). After that we walked over to The Grand and listened to some really good blues and had a few more cocktails... I lost count, but I'm thinking it was around 8-9 for myself... everyone else was controlling themselves, but hey, it's my birthday!!!! I had a blast, even got a lei from some other dude who was having a birthday!!!! I laughed so hard I felt like I had done a hundred sit-ups!! The best part was just hanging out and letting loose... I need to do that more often! Well, not the drinking, but the fun!

Sunday was kind of a waste, I think you can guess why!! Except Mom came to visit and since we don't see each other much that was super nice! Went back to work today in the snow... not something I enjoy any time of year, but especially the week after my birthday! It's alright, it's all gone now, but the thought of snow in April is truly depressing... not to mention turning 39!!!!!

So now I have another busy week ahead... the kids are behind on homework and I'm behind on housework... nothing new there!!!! Hopefully we'll all have clean underwear for the week and I'll get some workouts in... I totally spaced on the running this weekend which might come back to get me in the end, but there was no way I could do that with how I felt yesterday!!! Ouch!

Hope you all have a great week... and if you have a chance to celebrate with friends, always say yes!!!!! Always!!!! TTFN!

Who Am I And Where's the Chubby Chick????

2011-04-12T22:20:00.000-04:00

Ok, just had to share this crazy thing from tonight.

First, I had a crazy busy day again... work all day, two mile run, home and showered, choir practice... yup, I think that was about it. So I had a couple hundred calories left to eat when I saw the stash of Girl Scout cookies that are still in the same place I left them (I stashed them so we didn't all eat them right away.. still have 2.5 boxes left out of 4, so pretty good so far). I thought to myself "well, you could eat a couple cookies tonight. The boys would like that." See, our deal is, I can hide them, but only if we all eat them when I eat them so I don't eat them all. Again.. so far, so good!

But then I thought to myself, "no, that's not really what I want... I think I'll make popcorn." And then laughed at myself! See, a few months ago, I would have grabbed the box of cookies and eaten the whole thing by myself. No sharing, no counting, just devouring the delicious cookies! But now that I am counting, and keeping track, and measuring... it actually matters what I put in my mouth! Crazy, I know! So even though I ran two miles tonight, and went to choir rehearsal, and ate a Lean Cuisine dinner and still had 250 calories to eat... I didn't eat cookies.

It's the little victories... seriously, I laughed at myself! Who am I??? And since when am I NOT the chubby chick??? I like this new person... she's pretty cool!

Spring Break Week....

2011-04-09T18:35:00.000-04:00

Well, for me it was a pretty normal week, but the kids had spring break! With hubby being on the road and me working, it was no vacation for me at all, but that's ok. Little man went with Daddy in the big truck on Saturday until Monday. He's been wanting to do that for a while and the company was nice enough to give him just a quick two day run so he could have a guest. It was long enough to give the kid an idea of what Daddy does all the time, but short enough so they didn't drive each other crazy! Plus, then he got to spend the week playing with his friends and didn't miss all the fun parts of vacation!

This week for me was basically a boring, normal week. I didn't do anything special, worked out when I was supposed to, watched some movies when I had the time, worked my normal hours, called the kids a couple times a day to make sure they weren't getting into trouble! No biggie!

Thursday night we had band practice at church and I was excited to find out that my friend who is freshly back from a six month mission trip was going to join us!!! I haven't seen her or sang with her in six months so we had a BLAST! Can't wait to do it for real tomorrow morning... she's such a fun person and very talented and I really missed her smiling face! This was a highlight of my week!

Last night I was bored so I drove over to my sister's to check out her new hardwood floors... and they are gorgeous! Kinda jealous, but I know how long she saved for those, and she did a great job! Since I'm saving for braces for my kid, there will be no hardwood for me in any near future!!!!

This morning I hit another milestone in my training... I did an eight mile run! Yup, eight whole miles! Finished it strong, but still had to stop for the bathroom around mile six.... wonder if I'll ever stop having to do that????? It's annoying.. and this time I was actually in pain before I stopped. If I would have been racing I honestly don't know what I would have done, so I hope I can figure out a strategy to make it through the distance before the big day!

Tomorrow I have to sing in band, like I said. Then I'll probably work out and after that I have been asked to sing at an evening service for another church. I hope I make them happy!!! They want traditional hymns, so nothing too difficult, but should be pretty! They also have an accompanist for me, so I hope that goes well since we'll be kind of winging it on the fly!

I have a couple friends who have Dad's who are really sick right now and it's kind of got me down. I know they can pull through, and we're really hopeful for them both, but I don't want my friends to join the club I'm in with losing their fathers. It's not a club you'd want to join... I sure didn't. So if I sound a little down, that might be why... plus, I'm tired after such a long run today! Only a few more weeks until my big race!!!! I know I'll be ready....

100th Post!

2011-04-03T20:58:00.000-04:00

I didn't realize it was my 100th post until I logged in! But hey, good title I suppose.

I didn't blog yesterday because I was a little depressed. It was my Dad's birthday. He would have been 66 years old. He's been gone a long time and I still miss him so much! It's so not fair that he's missing out on so much great stuff! Being a Grandpa for one thing... he's got four grandchildren that never got to meet him, and two son-in-law's that would love to have known him as well. Every year when his birthday and anniversary of his death roll around I get a little down and wallow in a little self pity because I wish I still had my Dad. So yesterday my sister said "Let's go to Ikea, and of course we'll stop at Twelve Oaks so we can pick up some stuff at Lush on the way back"... and I was like YES!!! Let's go... so we went! We literally left my house at 2pm and got back at 11!!!! Talk about a whirlwind day trip, it's a two and a half hour drive for sure. Anyway, we brought my niece and basically had a great day of girlie retail therapy! Even though I still thought about him a lot, it wasn't as hard having them with me. I love my sister. And my niece. I still miss my Dad.

Ok, moving on... my younger son has been asking my husband to go driving with him in his big truck (he drives truck for a living) and hasn't been able to until now. So hubby got permission and a short two-day run and took him with! He's having fun, but I think he's a little bored and ready to come home. I know it's important to spend a little time with his Daddy and get an idea how hard he works when he's away from us all week. I'm really glad he went! He'll be back tomorrow... hubby will be going back out for the rest of the week... life goes back to normal!

I liked my shorter training week this week.. it was almost relaxing only running three or four miles!!!! Next week kicks it back in high gear as it's only a month before my race!!! AAAHHHH!!!! I know I'll finish, but I'm really hoping I can do well and not embarrass myself. Today was not a running day so I went to the gym to lift and spent 30 minutes on the elliptical.. that thing about kills me! I needed to work out though, because I went out for lunch with the teenager and pretty much ate all my calories for the day! If I wanted dinner, I needed to earn it!!! So I did.. and I ate!

Hope this week of Spring Break goes well.. hubs will be on the road, I'll be at work and the kids will be pretty much on their own!!! Scary, but they are good kids.. and I think I can trust them.. for the most part! I'm sure I'll be checking in with them several times a day. Thanks to cell phones we can stay in touch pretty well!

100 posts... crazy!

Happy April Fool's Day!!!

2011-04-01T21:25:00.000-04:00

I'm really not good at the whole practical joke thing... I am super gullable and not at all good at planning stuff on other people. Super sad situation, but it's who I am! So if you got pranked, I'm sorry, but it wasn't me! If you pranked someone else... good for you!

I had a pretty good, but crazy busy, week. I really just feel like I could sleep the whole weekend away, but I know that won't happen. Tomorrow is just a four mile run for me, this is what the call a "taper" week in my training plan. Three smaller runs. Next week kicks it in big time again and gets me all the way to my race five weeks! I know I'll be ready, I'm feeling really good.

On that note, I hit another milestone again yesterday at my weigh in. I made it to within 10 pounds of my first real goal. This was a goal I set for myself two years ago. It's the weight I was when I got married, and haven't managed to get back to since. Looking at all the resources and charts and tables that show what someone my height and build "should" weigh, I really should be five pounds less than what I was going for. I was going to wait and see once I got closer if it was possible for me to lose those extra five pounds, but after how I've been feeling and how my training is going, I figured... why not! So yesterday I changed my goal to that lower weight. I don't know if I'll really get there, or manage to stay there, but if it's possible I really want to try! The last time I was even close, I was 19. In two weeks, I'll be 39!!!! Wouldn't it be something to look better than I did 20 years ago???? Crazy.. but I wasn't the athlete back then than I am now, so I really say anything is possible!

For all of you out there struggling with your weight and fitness goals, I can honestly tell you that there is no magic pill or formula for looking and feeling great. It's all about hard work, tough decisions, and goal setting! Believing in yourself is something you have to learn and once you do you'll know that there is NOTHING you can't do! I'm starting to love myself more than I ever have before, and that's a side effect of my journey that I hadn't expected. Not to sound stuck up or anything.. but I freaking ROCK!!! I'm fun, I'm active, I'm outgoing and friendly, I'm competitive but not obnoxious, and I'm starting to actually think I'm cute!!! I've never really looked at myself that way before, but you know what? I like myself! Are there still things about myself I'd like to change, sure! The roadmap of silver highways on my stomach and upper thighs are not a thing of beauty, but I have a great smile and I'm starting to have one chin instead of two!!!! My upper arms are starting to giggle less and my legs are smokin! All this is to tell you that you are beautiful too!!! You are beautiful because you were created by a loving God who made you for a reason.. and loves you! Goodness, I wish I had known how this feels as a kid. Things could have been so much better back then. But then, those experiences made me who I am, so I'll take it all in stride and move on from here knowing that I'm awesome. God loves me. I love me. And I love SO many people!!! I love you for reading this, because it's got to be just about the most boring thing ever to read, but I love you for sticking with me.

On a lighter note, it's my birthday in two weeks. I'm hopeful I can have a couple friends to go out with for a girls night. Or at least a couple drinks with friends! Whatever, I need a night out!!!! If you're really my friend, and you're ready to celebrate with me, meet me on the 16th for a fun night out! Maybe even Karaoke if we can find it somewhere... who knows? I'd love to rock some socks off!!!!!

God bless!!!!

Crazy Busy Day!!!

2011-03-29T23:05:00.000-04:00

That's about the only way to describe it! Crazy. Busy. And now, it's done. Work was crazy, we had a new piece of equipment arrive, so there was installation and training. We had two sales reps come in (at the same time as the training) so we had to give them some attention. We had plenty of patients to keep us busy and other work that we do everyday. Crazy.

But what was crazier for me personally was the evening! I sing in the choir that we have for Easter (and Thanksgiving, but of course that's in November!) and generally we practice the three weeks before the big day and then the service. Usually those practices are on Thursday which works out so great for me with that being my day off. Tuesday's I usually don't get out until 5:30, then I generally come home and check in with the kids and have supper, then hit the gym and get home in time for Biggest Loser! This routine has been working and I was in no mind to change it, but this week the choir practice got moved to Tuesday. Mix it up! So, after work I ran. I had 4 miles planned and managed the whole thing!!! I live in a great city that is very friendly to runners. I was able to run in town since I had to be up at church and didn't have time to go home. I finished my four miles, stopped in to the gas station for a protein bar and bottle of water (forgot mine!) and walked the few blocks back to church.

Yes, I stunk up the place, but it was all good! The music we're doing is fun and meaningful and I'm sure will be a hit! Nothing quite caps off a busy day like an hour of singing for me. Oh, and I'm singing this week in band, and next week for special music, and the week after that at a different church. Not to mention last weekend when I sang and played guitar for my friend's church.. I guess I'm in demand!! LOL! Seriously, I'm so happy to be able to do this, it makes my heart happy!!!! Plus I feel like I'm finally using my talents and that's awesome!!!

Tomorrow is our final evening of Bible study for the year. Always bittersweet for me. I love those ladies, love studying with them and learning from them, but it's a lot of work and I like the break as well. At least I still have all my music stuff going on!!!!!

TTFN.....

Back In The Saddle....

2011-03-26T19:15:00.000-04:00

Yup, my back is better!! YEAH!!!! This is such a relief. I was able to run my full seven miles this morning, then proceeded to go shopping for a couple hours where I was able to not only fit in some size mediums, but I LOVED them!!!! Can't believe I used to be an XL, and I plan to get rid of those as soon as I can. I really need to clean out the closet again and donate several bags of clothes, but I may have to wait for summer so I can have a couple days to do it.

On another note... I have a friend who had her first baby this week and I was finally able to go meet Mara today! She's the perfect little angel baby! Perfect face, perfect skin, perfect lips... just the sweetest little thing!!! I was so happy to hold her and get my baby fix.. I needed that! I have another friend due the day before my birthday, so I should be able to get another fix in about three weeks!!!! YEAH!

Catching up on some tv tonight, enjoyed some time with my husband as well. I love that he gets a lot of weekends off with this job, makes it worth it for him to be gone during the week. Plus he does like what he's doing, so that also makes it worth it!

My older son is supposed to take driver's training soon but we have a deal about his grades. He's finally getting where he should be. This means I am going to have to pay for the lessons. Great. Braces and driver's ed all in one year!!! This kid is expensive!!!! And I love him so much...

The Ups and Downs....

2011-03-24T20:52:00.000-04:00

So the back is better... not completely better, but it's better. It was better enough this morning to go for a run. It was extremely bitter cold this morning and had been damp so there was ice on some of the sidewalks and so because of that and a couple other reasons I went to the gym. I jumped on the treadmill and started jogging. It wasn't bad, so after a mile I went up to a quicker pace. My plan for today was six miles. I made it three. I consider that a small victory, considering how I felt the past three days! Still, I am disappointed that I am just not going to get the miles in this week that I was supposed to for my training. I don't know what this means in the end, I mean I know I'll finish the race, I was just hoping to make a decent time. I suppose if this means I don't hit my goal time I will survive, but I may just surprise myself!

My boys both have birthdays this week. One was yesterday, the other today. I love that they are so close together, I never have to worry if I forget what I did for the other.. very easy to keep things even! Tonight my hubby was even home from his run and didn't have to leave until tomorrow morning so we went to Applebee's for supper! Yum! Of course, that means my sodium is way over for the day and that's alright. The boys were adamant that we not tell the server that it was they're birthday. I really wanted them to be sung to, but they wouldn't have any part of it!! Even after I told them they could have the free ice cream! Crazy boys...

This afternoon I had a quick hour between some things and stopped quick at Old Navy and Gap Outlet... tried on some pants and actually found that a size 10 fits nicely on my new shape!!! That was a great big surprise and yet it shouldn't be... I'm still getting used to the new me!!! The other surprise was when I tried on some tops, I can now wear a medium!!! That's just amazing!!! I'm loving all this hard work.. it's truly paying off!

This was a hodgepodge post, but it's all good... now if I can get in my seven miles on Saturday I'll be super happy!!! Oh, and I also need to get a baby fix this weekend since my co-worker had her baby on Tuesday night!!! Welcome to the world little Mara!!!!

So Yup, That Stinks...

2011-03-22T20:16:00.000-04:00

This back/hip pain is NOT fun. I didn't run tonight. Totally had to pass on my 5k. I've been icing and resting and I think it's going to be fine, but I hate having to be sidelined like this! Really hope that this doesn't mess up my 10k training, but I think if I can get back on track later in the week I'll be ok. I sure hope so!!!!

Besides that, nothing is going on... oh yeah... except I have two birthday boys in my house this week!!!!

Happy 15th Birthday Tom (tomorrow)
and Happy 12th Birthday David (Thursday)!!!

Yes, they actually had the same due date... I'm nothing if not consistent!!!!

Ouch....

2011-03-21T22:03:00.000-04:00

Yup. I hurt my lower back. It really hurts. I'm not sure if I'll be able to run tomorrow. That really makes me mad. Damn exercise. Crappy weather. I'm not happy today at ALL!!!!

That's it.. I'm sorry there just isn't any more. Ouch.

The Holy Alphabet

2011-03-19T14:33:00.002-04:00

I did not write this, but stole it off of someone and thought it was beautiful. Whoever came up with this one must have had some Divine guidance!

Although things are not perfect

Because of trial or pain

Continue in thanksgiving

Do not begin to blame

Even when the times are hard

Fierce winds are bound to blow

God is forever able

Hold on to what you know

Imagine life without His love

Joy would cease to be

Keep thanking Him for all the things

Love imparts to thee

Move out of "Camp Complaining"

No weapon that is known

On earth can yield the power

Praise can do alone

Quit looking at the future

Redeem the time at hand

Start every day with worship

To "thank" is a command

Until we see Him coming

Victorious in the sky

We'll run the race with gratitude

Xalting God most high

Yes, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...

Zion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!

"I AM Too blessed to be stressed!" The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor.

The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything. Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.

~Author Unknown~

Just a Quickie...

2011-03-18T18:19:00.002-04:00

No, not that kind... get your mind out of the gutter!!!!

I'm home from work, we've already had dinner, dropping off the little man at a middle school dance and then hitting the gym tonight! Not bad for a Friday? The best part, hubby's home for the weekend so we all ate dinner at the table together which we rarely get to do, and we did it in our own house instead of a restaurant like we do too often!

Realized something yesterday... I weigh in on Thursday's, mostly because since I have the day off I tend to work out in the morning so I hit the gym and weigh in right away. Their scale works, mine is not accurate at all. Yesterday was a gorgeous spring day and I was going to run 5 miles, so instead of going to the gym I decided to head out and hit the sidewalks! Well, I still wanted to weigh in, so I jogged up to the gym, weighed in, and continued on my way! The hard part was, I weighed exactly the same as last week. Not even a .1 difference! Now, at certain times in my life this would have left me feeling defeated or like a complete and total failure, I'd have packed it up and drowned my sorrows in a bag of Hershey miniatures or something... seriously. But then I remembered that two weeks ago I did the same thing. Then last week I'd lost three pounds! So maybe my body is just like that... lose nothing one week, and a couple pounds the next? It's certainly possible.. and I'm going to do everything I need to do to make sure that's what happens! So instead of swallowing my sorrows... I finished the fastest 5 mile run I've done yet!!! I felt great! I ate within my calories for the day, even skipping the Shamrock Shake I desparately wanted and had lime flavored Greek yogurt with granola instead! I made good decisions, I made healthy decisions... and you know what? I'm doing it again today! I will not let this get me down, I will continue to eat right, watch every bite, workout and wait until next Thursday. Hopefully then I'll see at least one pound lost. If not... I'll do it again another week! Because I am not a number on the scale. I am a healthy and fun woman who is now fitter than she's ever been and loves it! I'm running my first seven miler this weekend. I'm confident that not only will I finish, I'll finish strong!

Then tomorrow night I'm playing laser tag with my family... I will kick some BUTT!!!!!!

Inspiration or Insanity????

2011-03-15T22:44:00.002-04:00

You be the judge!!! So everyone knows I'm training for my first 10k, right? Well, it's going great, I'm following my training plan to a T and feeling really good. Love my new shoes and my new supportive garments and the girls and the feet are happy. So tonight I'm at the gym, I was on schedule to do an "easy" two miles which I rocked out on the treadmill and then lifted weights for a half hour since I'd been sick and hadn't lifted since last week. On my way out I notices a stack of fliers for several different races and one I hadn't noticed before was for a 5k for next week Tuesday here in my town. So I got home and looked it up online and said what the heck! Signed up for it!!! It's after work, and I'm scheduled to do another 2 miles that night anyway, so why not go for a 5k (which is 3.2 miles just in case you didn't know that)!!!! Hope it doesn't throw me off, I don't think it will, but I just needed to feel that rush of a bunch of runners racing together! It's labeled as a run/walk, so it's probably not all that competitive, which is fine with me. I just hope I run as fast or close to as fast as I ran the one last fall. We shall see!!!

Anyway, the weather's looking up! Supposed to be sunny and 60 on Thursday (my day off) and if at all possible I'm doing my 5 miles OUTSIDE!!!! I did my Sunday runs outside the past two weeks and it was great, so I'm really looking forward to that feeling of fresh air and wind in my face again!

So call me inspired, or call me crazy... I'm racing next Tuesday! It's all for a good cause anyway.. it's raising money for an organization called SoleAid which sends shoes to people in need, and that's a great thing!

Utterly Craptastic...

2011-03-13T20:41:00.002-04:00

Yup, that's how I'm going to put the last three days. Last Tuesday my throat started feeling scratchy and my voice was a little raw, but like the trooper I am I powered through. Wednesday, more of the same if not a little worse... same for Thursday, a little worse. By Friday morning, I had no voice, felt like I'd been run over by a truck and just wanted to curl into a ball and sleep for three days. I went to work, because that's how I am, and ended up coming home after two hours. Just felt awful. Spent the day in bed, forced myself to get up in the evening and actually eat something even though nothing sounded good and drank as much water as I could.

So Saturday, more of the same. A teeny tiny voice and scratch throat and feeling pooey. Again, forced myself to eat and drink enough to not be completely zonked out and watched movies and slept all day. By the evening I was starting to turn the corner, though, and was hopeful for today.

So Sunday morning.. I actually feel pretty good! I can tell I spent the past two days in bed, I'm tired and stiff, but overall the voice is stronger and the scratchiness is gone. So I get up and head to church where the little man realizes he has a fever and we end up leaving early. Get him home on the couch with some meds and he's doing fine now, but what a craptastic weekend! Since I was feeling better today I did end up doing my workout. Wasn't sure I would make the whole run, since my training plan called for six miles today, but I did it! I was pretty wiped out when I got home, but I was really glad that I had made myself eat so I wasn't completely without fuel. Made a huge difference I think!

Looking forward to a week with no sickness.. from me or my kids! I truly hope that happens because I hate it when I'm sick and of course as a Mom I hate when my kids are sick too!!! My 10k training has me running a total of 14 miles this week... let's hope I can complete that! I'm feeling really good about finishing the race at this point (I've completed the distance or very close twice now) but I'd like to see a certain time and if I hit that I'm going to be incredibly happy and proud!!! Of course, just finishing is the true goal, but now that I know I can, I really want to be under a certain time!!! It's a runner thing... I still can't believe I'm a runner!

On the good note, Thursday when I weighed in before my workout I was down another 1.8 pounds! This keeping track of my calories in and out is really working! Anyone who needs help with their weight or just wants to get more fit should really check out myfitnesspal.com... highly recommend it!

TTFN!

The Mark Of The Cross.

2011-03-09T21:32:00.002-05:00

So today is Ash Wednesday. Growing up I didn't get to church a lot, even though we started out that way, but that's another story for another day, but needless to say, I never really "got" what Ash Wednesday was really about. The church I go to now is wonderful and very Scripture based, which is important, and even though I don't know where "Ash Wednesday" is in scripture (I don't think it's in there at all) I learned some important reasons we remember that day.

Of course, it marks the beginning of Lent, which is the 40 days leading up to the Crucifixion, but what exactly does Lent mean? I always thought it meant just that we should give up something to symbolize Jesus' 40 days in the desert, or that since He sacrificed Himself for us that we should sacrifice something for His sake. Well, not that those things are wrong, but my pastor tonight pointed something out that I hadn't ever thought of. When we give up chocolate (or dessert, or french fries) our focus is put on NOT having those things, therefore we focus on the thing, and not on Jesus. The point of this sacrifice is NOT supposed to take our focus off of Jesus, but it does! Clueless... we simple humans are just clueless, I tell ya!

So tonight instead of giving up something (which of course I'm doing because I'm now tracking every bite of food that goes in my mouth anyway) my focus is going to be daily time with God. Reading, journaling (some of that might be here), songwriting (if the Spirit moves me), and prayer will be something I deliberately put on my schedule every day. Bringing me closer to God instead of focusing on what I might be denying myself. That never goes well for me, if it works for you that's great, but I'm not good at it!

So anyway, I just wanted to share my little revelation tonight. It felt really good to spend tonight with my church family and learn a little more about this day. What a great God we have!!!

On a completely different note... I had SO many people today tell me how skinny I'm getting... and that felt amazing! I think I've learned to take a compliment! It's ok to say "thanks" when someone tells you that you look good, instead of saying how much you still have to lose!!! It's hard, but I'm learning!!!! My pants were practically falling off me all day... more shopping is in my near future. I love that!!!!

TTFN!

Wow, Crazy Weekend!!!

2011-03-06T20:18:00.003-05:00

Well, my husband had a crazy end to his week with his brand new truck breaking down... twice! And got home much later than expected, then had to turn around and leave again today. Just crazy! At least we got to have a nice meal together before he had to leave... until next weekend!

So Saturday my sister and I went to Novi to the Twelve Oaks mall, which we love for many reasons, to shop for new clothes and of course some makeup! Ok, clothes first... we are both on a journey to new healthy lives and as we've both lost a significant amount of weight since last summer, nothing fits!! This is a good problem, but it gets expensive! So little by little we are replacing our wardrobes and had a great time spending lots of time in dressing rooms all over the mall on Saturday! The best part about shopping with my sister is that we are very similar in size, but slightly different in builds. So if she picked up something cute, but it didn't quite work on her, it might fit me.. and vice versa! How fun! We both scored some cute stuff... and spent too much I'm sure!

The second thing we love about this mall is the store called Lush. Now, I think I've talked about Lush before, but I have an obsession with their products that borderlines on the insane!!! My skin looks and feels amazing and I needed a few things that I was either out of or wanted to try.. and a few for good measure!!! Wish it wasn't so far away, but at least then I don't go as often as I would if it were closer!!!!

We also met up with a friend of mine from my days at WMU!!! It was so good to see her again.. we haven't spent any time together in 16+ years, and I just love her to death!! Next time we go I'll have to get even more people together, what a great time!!!!

Today was my running day, since I didn't run yesterday with all the mall walking we did. My plan was for an "easy" 6 miles.. and I ROCKED it out!! Even went a little faster than planned, but it felt amazing so I'm not worried!!! I'm a little stiff now a couple hours later, but nothing a good night's sleep won't cure! Now if I could just figure out how to go more than 4 miles without a potty break! I'm serious! It sucks!!!!

Anyway, before I get into TMI, I'll sign off. It was a crazy beautiful weekend with some crazy beautiful people... and I loved it!!

TTFN!

Awesome Amazing Outstanding Day!!!

2011-03-03T21:27:00.002-05:00

Yup, that's exactly what this was!!!!

Ok, so here's the story.... First, I got to sleep in (after walking up the kid for school) which I ALWAYS love. Amazing to be able to sleep until my body says it's had enough and it's time to get up. Nothing quite like it!

Second, I went to the gym and actually lost three pounds since two weeks ago (last week I stayed the same) so that was awesome! Even did a little dance when I got off the scale, which is wierd in public, but I really didn't care!!!!

Third, I ran five miles! Today's training run (I'm using an app called Runner's World Smartcoach that gives detailed training guides for you based on your current level and what race you want to run and how long you have to train) was one warm up mile (piece of cake) then three miles at a quicker pace (was a little worried, but no problem) then a cool down mile. You know what??? I ROCKED it!!!! The only thing I haven't figured out is why after about 3-4 miles I have to use the bathroom!!! I hope I can figure that out before my race!!! I'd hate to have to drop out to use the potty or find a tree or something, very embarrassin!!!!!

Fourth, lunch on my own at Panera. I heart Panera. Seriously, I crave the Greek salad like there's no tomorrow! It's an obsession, and one I give in to regularly. Love. The. Panera.

Ok, so then I went to Aldi for a few quick things which was fine, but then the FIFTH thing was maybe the best thing all day... TOM MADE THE HONOR ROLL!!!! My son, who is in the ninth grade, has always struggled in school. He's very smart, but has very little self-motivation and I think his self-esteem must be low too because he rarely speaks up for himself or whatever. Well, he started this year in a special alternative school and it was totally the right place for him. He's still been struggling, but I've seen some maturity coming to him that I'm just so impressed with. He's growing up and I'm super proud of him. The kid has never had good grades, EVER, so today when I saw that I got all teary!!! I'm hoping he keeps it going, and I already told him he gets whatever treat he wants this weekend!!! Yeah Tom!!!

The last thing was band practice. This is something I look forward to so much, not only because I LOVE to sing and play, but because the people are awesome! So I got to get my praise on tonight and it just sits so well in my soul! God is good. He's been super good to me today and I just thank him for everything that happened today!!!

I'm one blessed and happy mama...

Ok, Can I Just Say....

2011-03-01T21:16:00.002-05:00

I had a sort of mini-revelation today. I know, not a big build up, but that's what it feels like. I've been saying that my new health centered lifestyle is because I want to live long (and proper? LOL!) but my mini-revelation today was... I'm worth it! Yes, I'm doing this for my husband and kids and future grandkids... but I'm worth it, RIGHT NOW!!!! I'm doing this so I can be a spunky 80 year old who straps on the running shoes and hits the beach in the morning and evening and runs 5k's all over the freaking world.. and so I can play catch with my grandkids.. and so I can dance at my granddaughter's wedding!!!! Yes, that's all important and are good reasons in themselves, but you know what???? I'm WORTH it NOW!! I want to be healthy and fit and fun and full of energy and damn it.. I want to be HOT!!!! Why the heck not! I'm freaking WORTH it!!!!

Ok.. enough of that for the night. I just had to get it out there... thanks for playing!

Had a great "easy 2 miles" tonight on the treadmill. Amazing that I could do an easy anything a year ago! There's a harder run planned for Thursday and again for Saturday, but I'm ready! Bring it on! I love that I have more energy now, that I've been told I have a sparkle that I never had before. What a compliment that is!!! Who knew I could wake up in the morning and sparkle??? For someone who's not a morning person, that's amazing. Truly amazing!

Got to get another quick bite to eat before my day is done... TTFN!

Wow... A Long Weekend...

2011-02-26T21:03:00.002-05:00

This has been a great long weekend for me. I usually have Thursday's off, and this week I took Friday as a vacation day to use up some time I was afraid I would lose if I didn't take it before two of my co-workers have their babies! Hubs was home Friday and today (he leaves early tomorrow morning) and it was nice to spend some time with him.

I made a decision the other day, actually it's been a long time coming, but after almost 1 1/2 years, I quit my guitar lessons. No, this doesn't mean I'll stop playing, I love to play, but I am not going to worry and stress about getting all my Thursday activities done and whether or not I've practiced enough on the homework he gave me. Don't get me wrong, my teacher was amazing and I will always be grateful for everything I've learned, but it was starting to stress me out! I was doing it for myself and for relaxation, and since it's become stressful I just knew it was time to take a break. I'm hoping to find some people to jam with occasionally, or play at church and stuff, but for now it's going to be just me and my guitar! Who knows, maybe I'll be inspired to write another song!

Yesterday I was able to treat myself to a new pair of running shoes and a couple of new sport bras. This was long overdue, and very important if I'm going to become a serious runner and finish the training for my 10k as well as the 1/2 marathon I'm considering. I was able to go to a great store here called Gazelle Sports and Vicki fit me with a pair of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11... and they ROCK! I did 5 miles today (!!!!) and it felt really good! Also, the girls were really happy in the new Nike DriFit bra I snuggled them into!!! Overall.. a very nice run indeed!

Hubby got some news at work as well.. he gets a new truck tomorrow! At the company he works for the drivers are each assigned there own truck so they can pretty much set it up how they want and live in it like a little rolling hotel room. This was his home for six months. But he had the oldest truck in the fleet and they've started slowly updating them. The new truck he will roll out in tomorrow is set up very much like the one he had, so that will be nice, but it's BRAND NEW and an automatic! If you know anything about semi-trucks, they are mostly 10 speeds, so this is completely new but apparently that is where the industry is heading. They had some work to do on it today, so we didn't get to move him in yet, but he'll get there early tomorrow and load in all his stuff. Pretty awesome!

Tomorrow I have to get up early and sing for church, which I love, but I really hope the roads don't get worse. It's snowing again and I hate driving on slick roads! Then I'll come home and get the boys ready to go back as a family for the second service. After that it's lunch and probably hair cuts for the boys.. and then workout and laundry! Oh, and it's Oscar night... yes, I lead an amazingly boring life!

Anyway.. I'm hoping to have some new lyrics written soon... just looking for inspiration! Have a great weekend!!!!

Ready For Spring!!!

2011-02-22T22:15:00.002-05:00

We had a warm up in the weather last week which was AMAZING and got me all ready for spring. This weekend, winter reared it's ugly freezing head again. I CAN NOT get warm... seriously! The only time's I've been warm in the past three days have been under my electric blanket at night or while exercising!!! It stinks. I'm SO ready for spring!!!

Had a great time at the play Saturday night with my littlest man. The Creekside Players did a great job with Willy Wonka Junior (that's really what they called it) and I was glad to hear he really enjoyed it too! Sunday was a lunch date after church with my other little-ish man and then home before the weather really got bad. Seriously, the roads were already pretty bad when we headed home. I was supposed to sing at a church that evening, but of course all the churches in the area cancelled services since the roads were so bad. The storm is over now, but the snow is still here, and it's REALLY cold! Yes, I'm complaining.. and no it doesn't make a difference!!!

Geesh... I really need to get a life. Anyway... maybe after my feet warm up I will!!!! BRrrrrrr.....

Hey, Look What I Can Do!!!!

2011-02-19T17:57:00.002-05:00

One year ago I was a sedentary, obese, crabby woman. Nine months ago I started running. Today, I ran FOUR miles without stopping!!!! Holy crap!!!! Look at that... hard work paid off!!! This training for a 10k is going great and next weekend I need to do five miles and you know what? I know I can!!! I wouldn't have thought that before this journey started, but now I know I can do anything I want with a lot of hard work and determination!!!!!

Speaking of which, I signed up for my 10k this week so I have no excuse and can't back out!!!! Kind of scary, but totally excited. After today I have no doubt I'll finish... hopefully with a respectable time, but my main goal is always to finish!!!

The sky's the limit... seriously!!!!

Taking my kid on a date to the theater tonight.. to see the middle school production of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory!!!! Awesome weekend!!! TTFN>.....

Another Milestone...

2011-02-17T19:20:00.003-05:00

So I don't want to brag... oh, heck yes I want to brag!!! I usually weigh in on Thursdays since I get to go to the gym in the morning and I haven't eaten a day's worth of food. So today I weighed in and lost another 2.5 pounds! That puts me under a certain weight that a girl my height should never be over! So that will be the last time I go over that number again!!!! I'm so determined that this will be the last time I lose these pounds. I hate this part! Can't wait to get to the hot mama part of life!!!

My run this morning went really well. Three miles used to seem like such a huge amount, now I just knock it out and hit the weight machines! I love how my brain is craving excersize. I used to sit around so much and be so tired all the time. Now when I excersize I just have so much energy all day and feel like I'm toned and tighter in my jeans!!! The girl that works at my gym noticed today that I have been losing and tightening up and I told her about my weight loss. She was happy for me (skinny thing that she is) and I told her "who knew eating well and excersizing actually worked!" We laughed for a minute. I know, I'm so funny, right? Well, not really, but I just felt really good about myself right then, and even now several hours later!

So I'm 5 miles into my 100 mile challenge. Going strong!!!! Later dudes....

2 down... 98 to go!!!

2011-02-16T22:24:00.002-05:00

Yes, I'm talking about miles in my 100 mile challenge! Monday's and Wednesday's are non-running days for me right now due to work and other obligations. That's ok, because bodies need rest after good workouts and it just works out for me that those two days are too busy to get moving. So, I ran 2 miles yesterday as scheduled in my training program, and tomorrow I'm supposed to do 3 miles! Shouldn't be a problem... I'm pretty excited actually! I actually like this now that I'm started. Running, that is. I know I've said that before, but it still really amazes me!

Another part of the challenge is strength training at least two times a week. This hasn't been a problem for me as I've been doing it three times a week pretty consistently since joining Snap Fitness in early December. Tomorrow I'm planning on another session after my run, so that would be 2 done for the week already! I'm rocking this challenge!

My next hurdle is really more financial... I need new running shoes! Mine have just about come to the end of their life expectancy and since I just picked them off a shelf nearly a year ago and they've been pretty good I can't complain. The problem is, now that I'm more serious and really training hard, I need the best shoes possible. This means no more clearance racks or 2 for 1 sales... I need to get fitted by a professional. This means cash. I hate complaining about it, because now that my husband has a nice job we're not nearly as broke as we were a year ago... but I hate spending $100 on a pair of shoes! Strange, huh? I spend way more than that on stupid stuff all the time, and this is something I'll use all the time and will really help me run farther and faster and thus lose weight and.. ok, I'm being completely random here... but I need to get myself to a shoe fitter.. pronto! Hoping to do that either tomorrow or next week... we'll see what the schedule does!

After the new shoes, I truly believe that the sky is the limit for me. I think that this may be the first time I truly believe that. Amazing what just a little success will do for you. Hope you can still live with me when I complete all these races this year! I may start getting a bigger head to go with my smaller body!!!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2011-02-14T20:33:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I don't get to spend the day with my Valentine since he's out trucking, but I did wear my pink sweater to work... so that's something! Another thing I didn't do today was eat chocolate or candy! For that, I'm super proud of myself! Usually I buy myself a whole bag of candy and eat it myself, but this time I decided I'm worth more than that and I haven't even looked at the candy in the store! Wow, what a change!

So I've been using this calorie counting website for a few weeks called myfitnesspal.com and it's such a great site! Not only easy to use, but a great supportive community with people just like me trying to get fit and lose weight and deal with life in general! Yesterday I started on a challenge that I stumbled across on the message boards. I'm really excited to get into this! The biggest challenge will be going 100 miles (walking/running) by Easter! I know this is possible, and I'm hoping to get close to 150, but the main thing this will do is help keep me focused and on track. There are other pieces to the challenge as well, like getting enough water, staying under our calorie goals, making healthy choices both with food and excersize and in life in general... that sort of thing. Sounds like the girls running it are putting a lot of thought into what things we should concentrate on each week and I'm excited to get into it! Of course, being my Monday's are horribly crazy, I won't start my mileage until tomorrow after work. But I did get plenty of water in today at work and have so far stayed under my calorie and sodium goals for the day!!! Wahoo!

I've become really obsessed with running lately. Spending lots of time online looking up races and figuring out how many I should do this year... I think it's going to be a great year! More and more I'm thinking that I'll be running a half marathon by September... I really WANT to, which is so super strange for me. One year ago I told people the only time I run is if someone is chasing me with a big knife!!!! Now I do it all the time! Still wouldn't say I particularly love it, but I know how good it is for me and I'm loving the challenge of it! Can't believe I'm now one of those crazy people who will line up for a race in the rain and smile the whole freaking time!!!! Oh My Goodness!!! Who knew this change was coming for me... I certainly wouldn't have believed it myself even a year ago!

Keeping myself accountable with my food intake and my excersizing is really paying off... maybe I'll be bathing suit shopping before long!!! And I really need a new pair of running shoes... that will be coming first I think!

Sunny Saturday!

2011-02-12T15:16:00.002-05:00

Wow, the sun is shining so brightly today, it's just wonderful! Now if the temperatures would warm up accordingly... what can I say, it's Michigan winter! Freezing is part of living here. I just can't seem to get warm this week. As I'm typing this I'm bundled under my electric blanket set on high, and I'm STILL cold! I'm sure it will go away... at least I hope so.

Last night I had the most amazing time with my co-worker friends. I work in an office with about 20 women and 4 men. Right now we have 2 girls who are pregnant, one with number three and the other with her first. With all first babies, we MUST have a shower. It's a requirement. Seriously!!! So last night we had a baby shower for the new baby girl our friend is going to have within the next five weeks! She's already named the baby, which was really fun because we were able to play a game using the letters of her name (which I won because I'm good with that game) and she even got some stuff with her name embroidered on it! Super cute stuff and we all had a great time eating and laughing and telling funny stories about each other and our bosses... just a lot of fun with women I care about! We range in age from 19 to 81 in my office (I'm not exaggerating) but MAN can we have a good time together!!!! Can't wait to meet the newest little ones... I love holding babies... and giving them back to their mamas!!!!

Today I had to work, which I never like having to do on Saturday's, but we are only there until a little after noon, so no biggie. Best part was coming home and having my husband already here! He's home today and tomorrow until the evening when he has to be back out on the road once again. The life of a trucker can be hard, but he's doing so well and I'm so proud of him! So nice to know he's doing something he enjoys and is making the kind of money he deserves and is able to provide for us and make a nice life for our family. Certainly never thought my life would look like this, but I always knew we'd be together, and that's all that really matters to me.

So last week I got asked to sing at a different church. I accepted (for Feb 20) and now I'm racking my brain trying to think of which hymns to sing! They like traditional ones which I'm not entirely used to but I love, but since I'm not as familiar with some of them I'm just having trouble choosing two! I think I picked one, but the second is driving me nuts! I'm sure it will come to me, but I really need to pick it so I can call the lady so she can tell the person who will be playing piano for me! I'm kind of excited though, I've been wanting to get my name out there for weddings and such in the area but really didn't know how to get started.. maybe this will be the push I needed???? We shall see.

Ok, I think that might be about it for today, I might take a short nap and then hit the gym this afternoon. I didn't do any cardio yesterday, although I did do my 30 minute ab workout again after the party last night. Didn't have time to do the arc trainer since I had to get up early today! Still tracking my calories on myfitnesspal.com and you know what? I've lost 2 pounds since last week!!! Very happy, sunny Saturday!!!!! TTFN!

Busy Busy... or notsomuch...

2011-02-08T20:03:00.002-05:00

What a nice weekend I had! I was able to sleep and relax and hang with my guys.. even had a dinner date with my husband which hardly ever happens!!! We had a gift certificate... even better! Gotta love saving money.. I always do!

Back to a typical week for me, extremely busy and hectic and yuck. Today, though, we were pretty slow at work (one of our Dr.'s is on a mission trip to Honduras) so I snuck out early and hit the gym!! I had a meeting for my son's school tonight so hitting the gym early was so helpful to me! That way I was done with that and showered before the meeting and then could come home and have supper and not worry about getting in my run! Wish I could leave early every day.. .sure would make my life easier! Well, so would winning the lottery so I could stay home, but that's not likely to happen, now is it???? You never know...

My training for the 10k is going well. So far I've done one week, which has consisted of three 2 mile "easy" runs. These are a much slower pace than I would normally run, especially on race day. They are designed to increase endurance and strength (I'm hoping they will burn some fat too!!). I'm following the program as close as I can, so tonight I did my run and since I won't have time to hit the gym tomorrow I also did my weight lifting. Tomorrow will be a rest day, and I'll hit it again on Thursday! By the weekend I'll have my first 3 mile "easy" run, and by the following weekend.... 4 miles! I haven't yet run a full 4 miles without stopping. I'm a little nervous about this, but I'm hopeful and going to just put something on tv so I don't pay attention to it at all... yeah right, I'll be watching the odometer the whole time, who am I kidding!!! But like I said... following the program!!!

Watching Biggest Loser tonight while the kids finish homework and talk to their friends on video chat! Lots of laughing going on in the other room. Hope that homework's really getting done!!! Better go crack the whip.... Later!

Fabulous Friday...

2011-02-04T22:39:00.002-05:00

I love having my husband home. Really I do! But that usually doesn't stop me from doing what I need to do, he's the best! Today was sort of fun actually, even though I didn't do anything spectacular at all!

I got to go baby shopping. NO, not for me... for my co-worker who we are having a shower for next week!!! She's having her first little girl and I can't wait to meet her! I kind of feel like an Auntie, but I know she's going to have lots of Aunties and be about the most spoiled little girl ever... but it was so fun to shop for her! Two of my other co-workers and I went in together, mostly because I was already heading over to the store where she was registered and it's quite a hike to get there and they weren't going to have time. Which made it more fun!! I love shopping with other people's money!!! So I pretty much stuck to what she registered for, but I threw in one more thing.. can't wait to see the baby holding the little giraffe rattle!!! It's SO cute...

So then I had some lunch.. I love Panera! It makes things so easy to stop there and it's delicious and there are tons of healthy choices which is great. Then I came home and we cleaned up a bit. Not the best part of the day... And then we all, the four of us, went for dinner! I love having the four of us together, even if the boys have their iPods on they still participate in the conversation, and to this mom it feels wonderful to talk to my teenagers!!! We headed over to the Meijer across the street for a couple of cleaning supplies and I ended up getting one of those Libman mops with washable pads that squirts whatever cleaner you like onto the floor for you. I don't like a lot of cleaners, but I do like me some Pine Sol.. so that's what I got. The kitchen floor hasn't looked or smelled this good in a long time! And it's easy and fun and I think my younger son might actually like using it!!! We'll see how long that lasts, but I'm going to try and keep the floor cleaner. Something about it makes the whole house look and smell better!!!

Ok, so then I went to the gym. I ran yesterday and will do my long training run tomorrow, so tonight had to be something different and involved cross-training instead of running. The plan says something like weight lifting (which I also did yesterday) or elliptical or bike.. something like that. So I found an app for my phone that has all kinds of different workouts and I've been wanting to try this 31 minute ab workout (I know, it's wierd for me to want to work out at all!) so tonight I did that plus 30 minutes on the Arc trainer at the gym. I think I'm gonna feel that tomorrow!!!

So that's it. Sad that I think this was a good day, but to me it was. I didn't have any stress, got a little cleaning done, exercised and stayed under my calorie goal again for the second day in a row!!! AWESOME!!! It's a long journey to change your life from a couch potato to a healthy hot mama... but I'm in it for the long haul this time. No quick fixes, no shortcuts, just hard work! I really like the website I found for tracking my calories.. myfitnesspal.com. If you go on it and decide to sign up (it's free) you can add me as a friend and we can take the journey together!!!!

TTFN!!!

Does it Get Any Better???

2011-02-03T13:18:00.002-05:00

That's my question for today. Does it get any better than this??? I have my usual Thursday off (and not a ton to do, thank you very much) and my kids are on snow day #2 due to yesterday's Snowmageddon, and this morning my husband came home for a couple of days!!!! Wahoo!!! Life is good...

Although.. my morning could have started better. I was sleeping (I didn't set the alarm since nobody had to get up) and my phone rang at 7:53 am. It was my husband. He needed me to drive down to his truck yard, which is about 20 minutes away, because he had... wait for it... locked his keys inside his running vehicle. Yes. My husband, professional truck driver extrordinair... locked his keys in his running, I said it, running vehicle. I was barely awake, with frosty frozen car windows, and I drove down to rescue him. Wife 1= Hubby 0.

But then we went for breakfast. Which was really nice. We hit McDonald's because I was ready to try their new Fruit and Maple Oatmeal. Let me just say.. it was really really good!!! I will be getting that again, and am very happy to be able to take my kids out for a quick breakfast again someday where I will actually eat something that won't ruin my whole day! 290 calories, 5g of protein, and it was yummy!!! Hooray for yummy, healthy, fast food!!!

Anyway, we're about to find some lunch for the four of us. Later!

Snowmageddon 2011!!!!

2011-02-02T20:06:00.004-05:00

Holy moly.. it REALLY snowed last night! The roads have been horrible and the wind and snow was just too much for the plows to handle all at once! Here's the pic from my front door as I headed out this morning....

My son came out to help me shovel so I could get to my car, which was great! Then he tried to get to the snowblower which is in the shed behind the house... and this is what he saw....

Yeah.. that didn't happen!!!

But I went to work and had the most boring day EVER in the history of my office. Seriously, we had about 15 patients TOTAL in the entire day... we're used to about that many every half an hour!!!! So I'm off the rest of the week, Thursday's are my day off anyway and I'm taking a vacation day on Friday so I don't end up losing it. Looking forward to shopping and relaxing and cleaning and whatever else I can find! I'm sure more shoveling will be in my future as well. Hopefully I can get the snowblower started tomorrow... my son couldn't get it started today!!! But the best news is... I survived Snowmageddon 2011!!!!!

Snow Day!!!

2011-02-01T21:53:00.002-05:00

My kids have a snow day tomorrow due to the blizzard that's a-brewing!!! I have to work, of course, so I might be waking them up at 7am to help shovel me out... but we'll see!!!

I had a great post all ready to go here, but then it didn't... and I don't have the time to retype it (even if I could remember it all!!!) So if I can think of it I will try again... or not!

BTW, Biggest Loser = Awesome TV!!!!

Thanks!

Awesome Weekend!!!

2011-01-30T20:47:00.004-05:00

Yes, I had an awesome weekend!!! I went to college with some of the greatest people I know and joined a professional music fraternity called Sigma Alpha Iota (SAI). We are sisters through and through and have been there for each other through some awesome times and some sad ones too. One year ago, we lost one of our dear sisters to breast cancer. Her name was Laura and we all miss her dearly. One of the saddest things about her passing was that many of us didn't even realize she was sick until it was too late. We had lost touch, as many busy moms would understand. Laura understood. She too was a busy mom, wife, teacher, friend... life just runs away from you sometimes. Well, after her funeral those of us who had gathered to pay tribute to her decided that we could not let that happen. The losing touch thing. So many of us hadn't seen each other in over 10 or 15 years!!! That's too long for sisters and friends who care about each other. So we made a plan to get together more often. January and July at least. We can do this!!! July was a great family picnic where many of us brought our spouses and kids and even some other awesome WMU friends were there.. it was great!!!

So, fast forward to this past weekend. Since it's officially the anniversary of Laura's passing, we as sisters got together to just be sisters. It was great. We met at a lake house owned by a sister's parents (awesome!) and just sat around and visited, ate, drank wine, and thoroughly enjoyed each other's company!!! So wonderful to get hugs and talk and catch up! Then in the evening our lovely and talented hostess had planned for those of us who could to go out for an evening of Drag Queen Bingo!!! Yes, Bingo, hosted by a funny fabulous drag queen named September Murphy!!!! Hilarious!!! Now, if you know me, you know I very rarely win at anything. I'm just not lucky that way. So imagine my surprise when, at the end of like three rounds of bingo I actually won!!!! So fun!!! I received my prizes, a Glee calendar and a $25 gift card for the store that hosted the bingo (which of course is a 2 1/2 drive from my house). Since I wasn't likely to get back there any time soon, I went ahead and used my card right then on a cute glass pitcher/mug type thing that has great big hot pink polka dots on it!!! So me!!!! I'll have to see if I can post a pic. I haven't done this in a while!!!

Anyway, it was amazing to see my sisters, to spend a day without my kiddos and just being a girl! I can't wait to see them again, and plan to make plans to do that this summer (if not before)!!!! Now I need a fun twisty straw so I can drink something awesome out of my sweet new "mug"!!!!

Ch Ch Ch Ch Changes....

2011-01-27T20:30:00.002-05:00

Sorry, couldn't help myself.... but things are changing. Changing in my attitude. Changing in my body. Changing in my faith. And it's exciting, and exhilarating, and downright frightening!!!!

I have been talking a lot lately about changing my body through fitness and exercise, and that's not going to stop, but for tonight that is not my focus.

I sing and play on the worship team at my church. I truly feel that my voice and musical ability are gifts from God that should be given back to Him whenever and wherever possible. We have quite a vibrant group and I'm honored and priveledged to lead worship with these wonderful people!!! We, of course, have a leader. Our fearless leader Jon. Tonight he called a meeting for us basically to challenge us to live out our faith in more ways than just playing a guitar and singing on Sunday mornings. Here's a quick synopsis of the "plan".

1. We are going to challenge ourselves to pray for the entire world.
It's easy to pray for ourselves and our families and even our churches, but when was the last time I prayed for the orphans in Rwanda??? Honestly??? Probably never.
2. Read the entire Bible.
This is something I've tried to do in the past by myself, but my enthusiasm usually wanes around Deutoronomy!!! I've read the entire New Testament, but the Old??? Nope. Never. But I'm gonna give it a try, and we are going to try to keep each other accountable for it even if we're not on the same exact page. No time limit, just read it through! Planning to start on Feb 1... if anyone else wants to join in, go right ahead!!!
3. Sacrifice your money to another purpose.
I am really struggling with this one, and will for a while. My husband and I don't make a ton of money as it is, and while I know that sacrificial giving is Biblical and important, it's hard to know how to give up things that seem so important... but they really aren't... this one is going to be difficult for me for sure.
4. Spend time in another context.
This one is something I've been trying to figure out how to do for a while. My time is precious, working full time, raising my boys, but there's something else out there that I'm supposed to be doing. I've felt that way for a long time. For a while I thought I was supposed to be in a band. That didn't work. But I still think it might have something to do with my music. That's partly why I started taking guitar lessons last year. My teacher has inspired me to start writing music. I've written a couple of songs so far, and of course, they happen to be worship songs. I know that's what I'm supposed to write, it just feels right!!! I love secular music too and listen to lots of different genres, but I truly think God has something for me up His sleeve and somehow I'm supposed to keep doing music... when/where/how/whatever I'm not sure, but I'll wait for God's nudging on that one. I'm ready for whatever He has for me!!!
5. Commit to multiplying...
I don't think I got the words right, but the jist of it is discipleship. Making disciples and spreading the Gospel. I have a hard time thinking of myself as a disciple, but my pastors are really focusin on that right now, so I've been thinking a lot about it anyway and am just convicted that I'm already one.. now I just need to act like it!!!

Ok, sorry if you're not into all that "church" stuff... I'm really not a preachy type person either, but I'm very spiritual. I always have been. It's something I'm passionate about especially when it comes to music and worship leading. So now comes my attitude change. It's coming, and I have to work some of the kinks out yet, but I feel it. Watch out world... there's changes coming from this little mama!!!!!

Oh. My. Gosh.....

2011-01-26T21:31:00.002-05:00

A crazy thing happened at work today. I just had to share!!!

So a week or two ago we were tipped off that there have been several optical offices that have been shoplifted by a group of people, mainly a man and a woman, in several cities across West Michigan. One of the tipster offices sent along an email with several surveillance photos attached so we would be aware of the individuals if in fact they came into our office. We all took a good look at the photos and went about our daily lives... until today!

While I was at lunch, the other girls in the office noticed the man from the photo, along with a girl who looked like the one in the photo, and they were asking about some random eyewear line that we didn't carry. While one girl helped them and kept them talking, the other called the police. First the Zeeland Police came, and he took the story and called the Grand Rapids Detective who is running the case, who came out and arrested them. The man had three warrants in the state, at least one for home invasion, but the girl didn't have any warrants. Oh, and their driver took off when the cops came!

It was about the most exciting thing that has ever happened to me in our little town!!! I didn't have to talk to the police, they took them outside pretty soon after I got back from lunch, but we are so proud to have been the ones who helped bring these thieves to justice! I don't want them stealing from anyone!!!! Just wrong. And sad.

I went to Bible study tonight and realized just how much I need to pray for these individuals. There's got to be a reason for the thefts. I don't know if they are desperate due to a job loss, have grown up as criminals, have a drug habit, whatever. I'm sure there's a story there, and while I may never know about it, I can still pray for them. I can pray that they see what they've done is wrong. I can pray that someday they will repent and change their ways and will come to lean on Jesus instead of crime and deception. It's not much, but it is.

Like I said... Oh. My. Gosh....

State of the Mind...

2011-01-25T21:10:00.002-05:00

Ok, I was playing on the state of the union address that is on tv like right now, and of course I'm not really paying attention. But I am writing my thoughts down in my usual rambling way just so I can keep track of my mind while I watch a couple of shows on Hulu.. that is the best new website I've found in a long time!!! Anyway, I digress... again. My kiddos are still doing their homework too, so it's not like I'm going to sleep any time soon.

Had a good day at work. Less stressful today which is amazing! We're coming to terms with the new computer system and working out the kinks, even if it means we have to change our way of thinking sometimes. We are nothing if not flexible, right??? As long as our patients are taken care of, we're happy. Or we're working on being happy... either way. It's all good, and less stress is a happy day any day! Plus, it was payday, which always makes for a great day!!!!

Worked out at the gym again tonight. I love that I'm getting stronger, and I really feel like what I'm doing now I can keep doing forever. It's really a change in my thinking, this complete lifestyle makeover I'm putting myself through. Completely necessary and worth every ounce of sweat! People are starting to notice, which is kinda nice, but feeling good like I am is the best reward!!! Like I said, it's a change of mind, a change of philosophy, and a change in life. I can't believe I am doing this, but I really want to be around someday for my future grandchildren!!! Yes, I have at least 20 years before that happens, but I'll wait. And I'll be there. That's what matters!! Plus, I want to be the kind of grandma that can take her kiddos to the beach, and for bike rides, and all that sort of stuff!!! Wow, won't that be neat!

So, it's a great day! Hope everyone out there in cyberland had a great day too!! And if you put your mind into it you can make anything happen... it's all in your State of Mind....

Life is Nuts...

2011-01-24T21:17:00.002-05:00

My life is crazy. Seriously, I need to clone myself like three times to be able to keep up with all the stuff I'm supposed to do!! Of course, that won't happen, so some things are falling through the cracks. Like the bathrooms, and the kitchen floors, and my bedroom dustbunnies that are about to come alive and smother me while I sleep... but I'm mostly ok with that. Mostly, because I'm not a neat freak, I'm mostly a little sloppy anyway, but it's starting to get to me. Mostly, because my kids seem happy even if the kitchen's a mess and there's enough cobwebs on the walls to play 3on3 in the living room. Mostly. But it would be SO nice to have the time to clean. Instead, I work a full time office job and take care of my boys and myself the best I can. Did I mention that I wish I could quit my day job??? Oh yeah, big time. But I can't. So I'll deal with dirty floors and dust bunnies the size of my minivan.... ugh.

So I was at said office job today and I remembered that I thought I had a haircut appointment coming up, and when was that again??? So I checked the calendar in my phone and guess what... it's tonight! After work!!! And I didn't plan ahead and bring a change of clothes or my checkbook!!!! Ugh! I'm so overwhelmed half the time I can't remember what I have to do in two hours, for crying out loud. Anyway, I swung home, checked in on the boys, changed into my jeans, grabbed my checkbook and headed back out to the haircut appointment. Ah, the life of a woman never stops, huh? Good news, love the haircut!!! It's all about the end result after all!!!

Oh, and all the blue highlights we did in my son's hair yesterday??? We both forgot he had swimming for gym this week... they're pretty much washed out already!!! Oh well, it's not a big deal... we'll just do it again soon! Gotta love boys, well... I do!

What a Weekend!!!

2011-01-23T20:44:00.002-05:00

Yes, it was quite a weekend. My husband was home for most of it which is always nice. We stayed in a kept warm on Friday night, so Saturday afternoon we took a little time for a "date". It was nice to be out with just my man! We hit Applebee's for lunch (yummy) and then a quick trip into Walmart (it's never that quick) and then we went to a movie. We saw the new Ashton Kutcher flick called "No Strings Attached" and it was really good! Ashton's such a hottie, and Natalie Portman is amazingly beautiful!!! So we laughed and held hands and it was really nice. The roads got pretty bad so we went home after that and watched tv and snuggled a little and basically had a relaxing afternoon at home!!! Thankfully he also snowblowed out the driveway after the snow stopped!!! It was pretty thick out there!

So this morning he left before the sun came up and it was just a nice Sunday with me and the kids. We went to church, lunch like always at BWW's, quick trip to the grocery store for a couple things and then football! I put my workout clothes on while I did laundry so I wouldn't have an excuse not to hit the gym later and that really helped me stay focused. Three loads of laundry are (almost) done and we're ready for another week! Worked out for almost two hours (that might hurt tomorrow!) and feel awesome! I lifted weights, pushed out 30 minutes on the Arc trainer and then ran a mile after that! Not to mention the 10 minutes of ab work I did... that might hurt a little tomorrow! I'm feeling good about it though, and I think I'll be ready to start training for my race in a few weeks!!! Still can't believe I'm doing this... I must be nuts!

My younger son (he's 11) has very very blonde hair which he likes to dye different colors sometimes. His friends were saying to him that he should dye it blue again.. and of course we have plenty of hair dye left... so we dyed it! Just little blue streaks like highlights this time. Usually we do his whole head, so this is different... and I like it! He's such a little rock star, very different fashion sense than most of the sixth graders I know and a big risk taker also. So now, he's a blond, with blue streaks! Very cool!!! (He won't let me take a pic! But if I get one, I'll try to post it soon.) Wish I could pull off some hot pink highlights.. not sure I'm there yet, but maybe I'll have to give it a try sometime!

Today is also kind of a strange day. One year ago today, I lost a friend to breast cancer. A whole year. Doesn't seem possible! She has missed a year in the life of her children, a year of sunrises and sunsets, a year of sunshine and thunderstorms and snowfalls... so much happens in a year. She was a college friend and sister in our music fraternity. At her funeral last year those of us who had gathered to celebrate her life promised in her honor to get together more often so that we would not just be meeting at funerals for the rest of our lives! We are holding to that promise. Next Saturday a bunch of us (whoever can make it) are meeting for the day at a friend's parent's cottage to play and eat and do silly things together.. just for a day.. a day to remember and celebrate that we are friends and sisters. A day Laura would have loved. Because we loved her. And we miss her. She never saw her 40th birthday. Part of my turning into a runner is to honor her. I want to live for her and run for her and let people know that there was this awesome friend and sister and Mom that died of this terrible disease.. but also that she lived. She lived life to the fullest and I know that running is my way of living. She would be proud of me. When I run I often think of her, and I smile. Because she would have smiled. She would have encouraged me to keep going, no matter what.. just keep going. So I'll run. I'll run for myself, and my kids, and my dear friend. She's singing with the angels now. Praises have never sounded sweeter. We miss you, sweet Laura.

I'm going to finish the laundry, finish watching the football game, and read a book. Right now I'm reading "The Friday Night Knitting Club" and am enjoying it! I'll tell you what I think when I'm finished... I should practice my guitar, but I probably won't... still slacking there, but it's the weekend after all, and I need to chill out before another long week begins!

Happy weekend!!!!

Happy Friday!!!

2011-01-21T20:20:00.003-05:00

Yeah!! I made it through a pretty stressful week at work and still have most of my hair!!! Seriously, it's getting more normal, but the new computer system still stinks and I think it always will. Such is life! But I have a job, a job I enjoy, and I'm thankful. Hopefully as time goes on we'll forget about this whole fiasco and just go on with our new normal. Meanwhile I'll just be happy when the end of another week comes and I actually get to sleep in tomorrow! Yahoo!

Since it had been stressful at work I felt the need to work off some of the tension and decided to do that at the gym. I know, who is this new person in this chubby girl's body??? Well, I'm starting to realize how good it feels to exercise and if I'm going to run some races this year I really need to just keep moving! So I ran. I only ran about half an hour, and only a little under two miles, and I walked a bit too and stretched of course, but I ran. That is the new me! I'm liking this determined woman I'm becoming. She's pretty awesome and she's gonna kick some major butt this year!

Speaking of running, I think my first 10k will be at our local Tulip Time festival this May. The 7th of May to be exact. I have done lots of research online about training for this race and have come up with what I believe is a good training plan that will work really well for me and my schedule. Last night before I shut off my computer I picked up my calendar (I use the one in my phone since I always have it on me) and worked my way backwards entering the training runs I'll need to do. If I start just as it's planned out, my first official training run will be on March 15th, which is 1.5 miles. Until then I am going to continue with my workouts like I have been and add some running in until running 2 miles seems "easy". It's never easy, and I don't really enjoy it, but I'm so determined to do this now it's like a switch has been turned to "runner" and it's going full blast! I don't want to stop!!! And for the first time with one of my obsessions... this is actually a good thing! I can do this, and when I do it will be a good thing for my health, a good thing for my body and a good thing for my soul. After this, I'll decide for sure if I'm up for a 1/2 marathon. No decisions until the 10k is done!

I don't really see any changes in my body yet, but this week I've had several people notice that I'm trimmer... and I'm so happy!!! I know the scale hasn't shown it yet, and that's ok, I think it will come if I keep at it. Who knows, maybe by this summer I'll actually WANT to go bathing suit shopping... probably not, but I'll probably need to!!!!

Fantastic Thursday!!!

2011-01-20T15:55:00.002-05:00

I have Thursday's off from work. This is a good thing. Usually I have a million things to do anyway, so it's not like I'm not busy working, I just don't have to go to the office and do that particular job! Today was different. I only had one appointment and that was for my guitar lesson which is something I do for myself and I love and enjoy (when I'm playing good, which I didn't today, but that's ok too.)

So this morning I hit the gym with my new gym partner who is a friend of mine from work. She's been going to the Snap Fitness near her for over a year, so when I joined the one that just opened nearby we decided that we should try to meet there and workout together. It's been a week and we've met there four times and we both agree that it is more fun and we push each other harder when we go together, so we're going to try and make it a habit! This morning's workout consisted of a 5 minute warm up jog on the treadmill, stretches and abs for about 15 minutes (ouch!), then running a 12 minute mile, all the weight machines I can manage (which is almost all of them , but who's counting!), then 30 minutes on the Arc trainer. That is a machine that is very similar to an elliptical but it's very intense and burns tons of calories. I've been doing a program on it for weight loss at level 5 which pushes the resistance and incline up on it and burns really bad, but also really good, if you know what I mean!!!

After that and a good shower, I paid a bill I almost forgot about, and then went to lunch. I love going to Panera when I have time to linger over my Greek salad and iced tea and read a book. Then I went to my guitar lesson and hit the store to pick up some salad and a pair of workout pants (I told you I'm random!!!). Anyway, that's been my day, and it's been heavenly! Plus, my hubby will be home later and I'm actually going to COOK dinner! I know, don't go into shock, I so rarely cook!!! But it's going to happen, since I have nothing else going on and we're a little tight this week... cooking it is!

So I said last time that I finished the Harry Potter series and I have to admit, it was better than I thought it would be! Like, I really liked it! I know, that actually surprises me, which I suppose it shouldn't since it's been recommended to me like a bazillion times, but I was surprised to like it so much! There were a few spots that I thought were boring, especially during The Order of the Phoenix, but they were important to the storyline, so all in all, I was very glad I finally read it! So now I'm on to another book, and the next one I picked up was The Friday Night Knitting Club. Of course, you know I'm a knitter, so of course I'm interested in anything that has to do with knitting. But it's also about women and that's also a topic of interest to me. Anyway, I'm a reader. I love getting involved in a story and getting lost in someone else's pain or happiness. Just makes me happy. I'd love to be a writer, and maybe someday that would happen, but for now, I'm a reader. So that also makes it a fantastic Thursday!!!

I'm catching up on some tv tonight. I've got some stuff on DVR and also on Hulu and of course Grey's is on tonight... happy tv night for me!!! I think I'm going to get dinner started soon, so I'm going to sign off. Hope everyone else is having a fantastic Thursday!!! I sure am!!!

Random Tuesday...

2011-01-18T21:05:00.003-05:00

It's Biggest Loser night!!! I love Tuesdays when this is on.. it's one of my all time favorite shows!! Tonight, I was able to meet my friend up at the gym again after work for a great workout. Working with a partner has definitely upped my game. I think I push harder because she's pushing harder and we both just grin and bear it! We both complained at work today that the ab workout we did on Sunday finally caught up with us today!!! But we did it again anyway.. and it's gonna hurt worse tomorrow, but that's what we need! Just a couple of old ladies who want to be hot mama's for the hubbies again, and we WILL be!!!!

Last time I mentioned my obsession with a certain show called Days of Our Lives... it's been a show that I've literally watched since I was in the 5th grade. I've pretty much grown up in Salem. A few years ago, one of the stars of Days became the host of Biggest Loser... and my obsession with both shows has been affirmed! Ali Sweeney is the cutest, and most lovable person on TV today! I love her on both shows and I even love her on Twitter... but not in an obsessive stalker kind of way, I don't live in LA, so I never see her or anything, only on tv and in cyberspace. But I would say she's one of my favorite stars out there. She recently wrote a book that I haven't gotten my hands on yet, but I think I might look for. It's called The Mommy Diet and it's written for everyone whether you're pregnant, recently had a baby or your baby is 35!!! She says there are things in there for everyone, so I may have to look at it soon. That may put my obsession over the edge, but I'm sure I'm not alone, she's just so darn likeable!!!

I'm eating better all the time, which I need to do if I want to lose the last 25 pounds I need to lose and keep them off forever! So, I've started eating yogurt again.. might I just say that Yoplait Light has the most wonderful flavors out there!!! Holy cow, who knew you could have yogurt that was good for you and tasted like cake and pie??? I love each of them that I have tried.. they are genius!!!! Makes eating right so much easier.. but I'm still not perfect! I eat at Subway pretty much every day for lunch (turkey, turkey/ham, chicken teryaki, love them all!!!) because I can make good decisions easily, a low-fat sub on whole wheat bread, apple slices and iced tea... delicious, filling and super nutritious!!! Now if I can just get over my sweet tooth... yeah right, that's not going to happen!!! On the upside.. I haven't had a Cadbury cream egg yet this year... yet.

So I haven't been knitting. At all. I'm a super slacker. I have a baby blanket that's almost complete (since June), a sweater that's about 1/3 done (since February), a sock that's less than 1/2 done (since??), another sock that was supposed to be a Christmas present about 1/4 done (sorry!), and have two co-workers that are pregnant and due this spring. Slacker. Total slacker! I am going to have to look for a quick and easy knit for each of them.. thinking blankets or hats and booties... or bibs... Typical, I have ideas, but no time to finish them! Maybe I'll just buy something... we'll see.

Wow... I didn't really realize how random my thoughts were until I put them down here, but it's ok. I ran 1.5 miles tonight... which is more than I've done in a couple months, so I think I'll be ready to start training for the 10k in a couple weeks. The training plans I've been reading online are usually 8 weeks, so that would have me start at the beginning of February.. as long as I can run 2 miles by then!!! What am I thinking.. this is going to be hard!!! But I'm motivated, both by my own goals and by watching this amazing Biggest Loser show.. I want to be an inspiration and I hope that I'm starting on that journey. I don't have 150 pounds to lose, but my journey is no less important or difficult. I'll get there.. or die trying!!!

I need a snack. And I need to put some stuff away in the kitche before it gets late. And I need to pick out a new book to read.. I finally finished Harry Potter!!! Maybe I'll talk about that next time! I'm so random.

Multi-Tasking Sunday!

2011-01-16T16:01:00.003-05:00

Yup, today's been all about multi-tasking for me. If you know me, you know I'm a musician by trade, even though not professionally. I sing and play a few instruments at church and take guitar lessons and such.. and need more piano lessons, but that's a whole 'nother post! This week I was asked to sing a duet with my worship leader at our early service of a Casting Crowns song that has become a favorite of mine, and I was honored so of course I had to do it! Then, he said since I was going to be there anyway, why don't I just play keyboards at the contemporary service too! Why not.. I'm a multi-tasker!!!! It was awesome, and even though I had to get up early it was completely worth it!!

So after the second service (we had a guest preacher today which was also awesome and the boys and I talked about it all the way home!) we had our usual lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings.. yes, I'm lazy that way. Now I'm home watching football, catching up on Days' (I'm obsessed with that show) and playing on the computer. I was also reading a few chapters of that last Harry Potter book.. really want to get that finished. In about an hour and a half I'm meeting my friend up at the gym again. It's fun to work out with a friend who can push you a little harder than you normally would. I'm going to try a couple more ab exercises and some running added to my normal workout, which of course means I'll be there longer, but today I don't mind. The kids don't have any homework to do and the laundry is done, so why not!!!

Oh, and my husband finally got home today for his day off! Not that I'll get to spend much time with him, but that's ok. He knows I love him and that working out is important too.

Hope everyone has had a great weekend. I'm looking forward to having a better week at work now that the new computer is up and running. Still not loving this program, I don't think any of us do, but we'll manage. That's the important thing. Just making sure our work is getting done and our patients are being cared for to the best of our abilities. If we can't do that then we are in trouble, but I don't think this will hinder that for now. And that's a great thing!

Off to upload some software to my computer... like I said, it's all about multi-tasking!!!! TTFN!!

Well, That Was Fun.. Can We Not Repeat, Please???

2011-01-14T22:14:00.002-05:00

Ok, witty title, probably not a witty post. So the boy taught me a lesson today that I had completely not understood until now, and to be honest I'm still not sure I'm all there... boys don't hold grudges. I'm a girl (obviously) so I really don't understand this. Yesterday there was a fight, today all is well. My son and the boy who started yesterday's fight are now "cool". They walked to the bus stop together, they are fine. Girls don't do this. Girls let things fester and bubble for a long time and never ever get over things. Ever. Did I mention that I just don't understand boys??? Ugh, but I'm glad all is well, and I'm hoping that he never again has to use his fists to solve a problem. And to be honest, if that's all it takes, I'm not unhappy that it happened at all. Sort of. I'm a mom, I'm overprotective!

So at my office I have to work one Saturday morning a month (we rotate, it's not so bad) and tomorrow it's my turn. I'm not looking forward to it since it's been a really rough week and I'm still not totally up to speed on the new computer system yet. But thankfully I won't be alone and I am sure we will do just fine... right? My point to telling you this is that I usually go to the gym on Saturday mornings, and I'm not about to get up at 5am to workout on a Saturday... seriously, that is just insane!!! So tonight, since my husband is still on the road, I met my friend from work at the gym and we worked out together! We don't get a chance to do this very often, but we both just have jam packed schedules tomorrow, so tonight was a great chance for both of us to get out and burn off some stress and calories that have been killing us this week.

Since I'm usually not talking to anyone or concerned what other people think about me at the gym, I usually just do the routine that the Snap employee set up for me and go on my way. This week I was reading in Women's Health about a series of core exercises that are good for runners because even runners need a strong core to be able to run faster and longer. Since I'm still thinking about training for some races this year, I figured I should probably add these in.. and ouch! I'm so weak in this area!!! So I did what I could and will keep adding them until I get the strong core I so desparately need! My friend is much thinner than I am, but she's working on getting stronger and more toned, and she's very encouraging. She was running like a madwoman on the treadmill while I was doing my weights and I was inspired!

Now, I was running three days a week up until about mid to late October when the weather got too cold for me, but as it's now January, it's been a while! Tonight, between my strength and cardio sets, I ran ONE MILE!!! It wasn't very fast, but I did it! Holy cow, I needed to do that to remind me how far I have to go if I'm going to be ready for a 10k in a few months!!! But I did it and still did 30 minutes on the Arc trainer.. better known as the "Ass kicker!!!!" It's like and elliptical but burns more calories and basically kicks your butt and all other sorts of muscles... zoinks!!

Anyway, long tough week almost over, and a great workout to top it all off! Now if my son can get better (spent the day home in bed with a low fever and sore throat) and my other son can help me clean the house (it's a pit in here) my week will be complete!!! Of course, hubby coming home on Sunday will be a great giant bonus too!!!

Life Lessons can be Really Tough...

2011-01-13T22:32:00.003-05:00

I learned a tough lesson today... you can't protect your kids from everything. And it sucks! We live in a very condensed neighborhood, in which there are hundreds of homes in a sqare mile.. I call it the trailerhood... but if you know about putting tons of teens in a close radius, you can understand what happens on rare occasions.

There's a family a few doors down that have a couple of boys similar in ages to mine. Those boys aren't the nicest or the most common-sense-using kids around. I won't tell you why I say that, but suffice to say that they've been in trouble and aren't all that well liked among my boys' friends. Anyway, one of them has taken it upon himself to start talking trash to my sons about my younger son. This has been going on for a week or more.. of course I didn't know until last night, but you know how teenage boys are, I never know anything! So on the bus today something was said by this particular boy and of course my son stands up for his little brother (way to go kiddo!). The kids all get off the bus and the bus drives away. That was the moment that the other boy chose to apparently try to beat up my kid. Now, I didn't witness this, all I have to go on is hearsay, and I don't know whether to be appalled or proud.

My son is not big, but he's pretty tough. He plays football and can take a hit like the bigger boys. This other boy isn't any bigger than my kid. The other kid decided to punch my son in the face and grab hold and punch him repeatedly in the back. My son fought back and punched him. In the face. More than once. The other kid gave up. Like I said... appalled or proud... maybe a little bit of both.

But seriously, I hate violence. I hate that my son had to defend himself with his fists. I hate that my boys have been bullied for days or possibly weeks by a kid who doesn't have the sense to know that it's not nice or wise to be bullying other kids. Kids like mine who are well-liked and have champions in others and in each other. This world is crazy and I can't protect them forever. This is a hard lesson for any mom to learn. This mom really learned it today, and I hate it.

But I love my kid. He's my champion. He stuck up for his little brother. He defended himself against a bully. And he shoveled the driveway. What more could a mom ask for????

Slacker....

2011-01-12T21:08:00.002-05:00

Yup... today, I feel like a slacker. Yes, I went to work and worked very hard all day trying to learn and navigate through a brand spanking new computer system, which isn't easy. But then when I got out (even got out early) and came home, I took the younger DS to church with his friend so they could attend youth group, and instead of staying to hear a missionary speak (we had decided to cancel Bible study in lieu of the speaker) I took the other son to dinner and came home to veg for an hour. No working out, no cleaning, no laundry... just chilled. And it felt great.

I have tomorrow off, which is to say I'm not at my office job tomorrow, but I have a bazillion things to do like always. First off, I'm going to workout at the gym in the morning, then to the chiro for a massage and adjustment (mama likey!) and then the rest of my errands including my first guitar lesson in a month! And no, I haven't been practicing.. again... slacker. I suck. I just can't get everything done lately and it's killing me. Not exactly sure how I'm supposed to do more, but still makes me feel like a slacker. Which is fine. I can live with it, I have for a long time and even though sometimes it bugs me, I'll get through.

So hopefully I can get some important stuff done tomorrow, but even if I don't get all the groceries and all the errands and all the cleaning done that I should, it will be just fine. My kids will have a warm bed to sleep in, and food in their tummies and a roof over their heads.. and they'll be happy. After all, what more could a Mom need???? Did I mention that massage I'm getting... oh yeah.. mama likey!!!

Holy Long Day.. Batman!!!

2011-01-11T21:27:00.002-05:00

Yes, I make up stupid sayings all the time, and most of them will end up as the titles of these little postings at one time or another.. tee hee hee! So, happy 1/11/11!!! Very cool date, and also the date of my cousin's son's birthday.. he's 5 today and the coolest little dude around! No, I've actually never met him, we don't live in the same time zone, but he's cool.. trust me! Anyway, it's a cool date.. but for me, it was a long and very tough day. The dreaded "go live" date of the new computer system at work.

In one word... it was "awful"!!!! Nothing seemed to go right. There were "glitches" and "hardware problems" and "network problems"... and we were all stressed to the freaking max most of the day!!! Until late this afternoon when we realized that some of the limitations are just the software.. and there's nothing we can do about them. Yes, there are still some bugs to work out with the network and the glitches and such, but some of what we were hoping for just doesn't happen with this software. That's just all there is. We are going backwards is how it feels to us, but we will manage. We will get by. And we will continue to do our best to give our patients the very best service we can. We will survive!!!!

So, I'm hopeful that this week is going to get better. And I'm going to do all I can to make that happen! Tonight was a crazy night. I didn't have a lot of time to workout at the gym, but I did make it up and get my strength training done. Came back to make sure the kiddo's got the homework done and stuff. I'm going to bed very soon here because I'm flat out exhausted!!! Best part about this week... on Thursday, my day off which I'm actually NOT working, I'm getting a MASSAGE!!!! I'll be in heaven mode for at least a 1/2 hour, which isn't much, but it makes me feel so good for days afterward. After the month I've had... it's going to be amazing.... And I'm worth it!

Am I Crazy????

2011-01-09T22:12:00.003-05:00

Well, when I set my mind on something, I seem to obsess more than necessary.. at least at first!!! There's this 1/2 marathon idea rolling around in my head, and it thrills me and scares the living crap out of me at the same time!!! The thing is, there's no reason I can't! I'm fairly healthy, I'm more and more active all the time, I've got the motivation and have researched some great training plans.. so why not? Here's my own crazy brain thinking of excuses... I don't have a training partner. I know, right? Crazy??? It doesn't matter, and I have plenty of online accountabilities with friends and strangers alike encouraging and helping me along... I don't need a partner, right? Right. I'd love to have one, seriously, but the thing is, with my crazy schedule, the chances I'd actually get to RUN with someone are slim at best. There will be times I'm running at 9pm and times at 6am, just depending on the day. So there it is... my excuses don't hold water.. again.

Now, the next step (according to said research) is to choose and sign up for a race. I want one close to home (for financial as well as sanity reasons) that is either in late summer/early fall. My friend I talked about before is from the Western Upper Peninsula, so her races are up near her, and while I'd LOVE to run one with her, I am not sure I can manage to travel an entire weekend just to race and come home. My husband isn't home much and being that her first race is in May, the kids will still be in school and I can't leave. Plus we'll have two people on maternity leave at work, so taking extra days off then would just be difficult at best!!! My first thought is the Park2Park Half Marathon in Holland. It's in September and the route takes you right by the shores of Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan!!! Talk about the perfect setting for a race!!! I'm wondering if I should do a shorter race beforehand.. some experts say to do this as part of your training, others say to focus on one goal... either way, maybe a 10k a few weeks ahead would be a good idea? I'll keep checking, most races aren't even published yet, at least not on the sites I've been checking. Plus, my chiropractor's office puts together running teams for different races and you get one of their cool wicking shirts and deals on massages and stuff during and after race day... I think. Never paid that much attention last year, but I'll be looking for the flyers this year for sure!

So I guess my point today is.. I'm going to start training... soon. I'm still going to talk to the staff at the gym about it and talk to my friend who's training... I'm sure I'll talk about this a lot, but it's a big crazy decision for me!!! Crazy... but it's feeling pretty right just about now...

To run or not to run... what was the question again???

2011-01-08T22:18:00.003-05:00

So, I said before that I've started running and working out this year, and I've made great strides in my fitness which I'm happy with. Not near where I want to be yet, but I'm moving in the right direction.. moving being the key word here!!! Well, I have a friend who was a roommate in college who ran her first 1/2 marathon last year. I was so proud of her! She's truly inspiring me to consider it since she's planning on doing 2 of them this year! Never thought I'd run, not even a 5 or 10k, but a 1/2 marathon? Me??? Little, non-athletic, chubby, couch potato me??? Never. Never thought it could happen in a million years. Funny thing about that word.. never.. whenever I say I'll never, I usually end up doing it eventually.

Seriously! Told my sister I'd never knit... I knit.
Told people I'd never read Harry Potter.. almost done and enjoying it.
Said I'd never run a mile without dying... ran 2 5k's last year and still kicking!
Never dreamed in a million years I'd live past the age of 30.. well.. I did!! (I'll tell you about that some other time..)

So, in a nutshell, I've learned never to say never. Not about anything. When someone else I know tries something, either I tell them how awesome I think they are, or I don't say anything. Because deep down I know.. crap, next I'll have to do whatever fantastic feat of bravery they just did!!! A friend at work is going to teach me how to downhill ski this winter.. never thought that would happen. I'm using a shampoo and some other products that are all organic and vegan and again.. never woulda thunk it! I know, nothing earth shattering about any of that, but to me, just a lesson that you're never too old or set in your ways or whatever. Never say never!!!

The long story (somewhat) short... I'm thinking about doing a 1/2 marathon. Still considering it. Wondering what kind of training is involved and if I'm at a fitness level that is ready to start or should I work up to it? Looking online, most of the resources I've found say if you can run three miles (which I can) then you are ready to start an 8-12 week training course depending on which program you want to follow. Here's my deal: the race I'm considering is in September, so I wouldn't start a program until late spring/early summer which is perfect weather for outdoor running. Between now and then, I want to continue the strength training I've been doing at the gym (loving Snap fitness so much) and work on adding in at least one running session, even if it's on the treadmill, every week. But I feel like maybe that's not enough??? I'm a little lost, and I think I need to talk tot he Snap trainers about it. There was a girl there when I started that gave me a workout plan and she was awesome. I hope I can catch her there in the next week or two and talk to her about my new goals. I hope also that she doesn't laugh at me, but something tells me she won't!!! I doubt I'll set a time goal for finishing, just make it a goal to finish and not walk unless absolutely necessary!!!

So, am I insane??? Think this goal is attainable for a late 30's chubby mom??? I hope so! Also, I'm hoping it will help me stick to my weight loss plan and give me the extra push I need to lose those 25 pounds I want to lose this year. Just think, if I were 25 pounds lighter, my feet would thank me and I'd look much cuter in those running clothes!!! LOL!!

Holy Moly.. it's Taco Friday!

2011-01-07T19:25:00.002-05:00

Hello again!

My husband is a truck driver, who is out of town six to seven days at a stretch. It's only been a year since he started this profession after he lost a manufacturing job that he'd had for twelve years. Needless to say, this has been a transition. Before the change, he worked third shift and we had dinners together and all that family stuff. It wasn't pefect, but most nights he cooked (he's good at it, me.. notsomuch) and we basically had a routine.

Enter the change in careers. Suddenly I'm home with two teenage boys, a full time job and all the responsiblity of the entire house. Shopping, cooking, cleaning, fixing, mowing, shoveling.. everything fell on my shoulders. I am not saying this to feel sorry for myself, instead to celebrate the fact that I'm stronger than I ever thought possible!!! Plus, I have the coolest kids who help out and are so super understanding when Mom just can't handle something.

Ok, so this week (obviously) hasn't been a great week. No time to workout, no home-cooked meals, basically just a frantic mom trying to be everywhere at once and failing miserably!!! Yesterday we had a pretty decent snowfall (typical here along the shores of Lake Michigan) and after school I had to take the younger son to the dentist for a filling. When we got home, the older son had ALREADY shoveled the entire driveway and sidewalk!!! It's not that big, but still, I was soooo happy!!! Then, before bed, because it hadn't stopped snowing yet.. the younger one offered to shovel AGAIN!!! Man, do I have amazing kids or WHAT!!!!

So tonight, hubby got home for the weekend early and decided to stay in tonight and make TACOS!!! I love tacos. I could eat tacos every single day and not tire of them, my most favorite meal ever!!! So after a long, busy, hard day at work, not only had he shoveled (or snowblowed, who cares) the driveway (again) but he made TACOS!!!! Life is certainly looking up for me! So beer and tacos makes my Friday night of playing on the computer while trying to catch up on two weeks of Days of Our Lives on my DVR (I'm still a week behind, but who cares!!) a complete and total success in my eyes. Yes, I am that pathetic! Sweatpants, beer, tacos and a laptop are all I need sometimes. Don't judge!!!

Tomorrow I have to do the first of many inventories on my new computer system at work. This should be interesting. I hope it's not a complete waste of time!!!! I'll have help, so hopefully we can get it done in a couple of hours, and I am planning on working out beforehand since I literally haven't been to the gym since last Sunday! Maybe a good sweat will help the overwhelming feeling of dread that I've had going most of the week!!!

Anyway, that's my life today. It's quiet around the house now as one son is at a sleepover and the other is sledding with friends. Hubby's about to get on the Xbox with his gamer friends, so I think I'll hit the sack early and pick up my book. I'm finishing the Harry Potter series at the moment. Never planned to read it, but it's pretty good! I'll let you know what I think when I'm finished. Ta ta!!

What's Good Wednesday???

2011-01-05T21:59:00.002-05:00

So the radio station I listen to has a pretty funny morning show, and on Wednesday mornings they have callers call in and tell them what's good for the day, thus... What's Good Wednesday's!!! I'll be honest.. there wasn't much good for me this Wednesday. But that's ok. I'm going to be optimistic and look on the bright side... oh, who am I kidding... there's no bright side for today. I'm smack dab in the middle of the week that just won't end.

On Monday, my office is changing computer systems. Yes, two weeks after the holidays, and we are going to completely overhaul our entire office. Now if you've done this before, you understand that in the weeks and months leading up to a change such as this requires hours of planning, training and setting up. Ok, realistically, this takes hundreds of hours... hundreds. Needless to say, that doing all this at the busiest time of the year both business-wise as well as home-wise is not my idea of a good time. That would be a man's decision. Yes, we all would like to torture him while he sleeps... but alas, I will be a trooper and a team player and continue marching onward like the good soldier I am. But I don't have to be happy about it. If you think I'm all smiley and cheery and full of good things to say today, you'd be wrong. But that's ok. This too shall pass. But just because of this, I have to work on my day off AND go in on Saturday to do inventory. Thrilled... I'm thrilled I tell ya! Forget the fact that I have no groceries in the house and won't be able to shop for them now... thrilled.

Ok, so this is going to be short, because I'm exhausted and have to get up again in the morning to get to work (ugh). I just wanted to vent a little in hopes that it will help me sleep. If it doesn't, I'll let the boss know. He owes me BIG!!!!! I may just send him to the store with my list and see what he says... especially if he jokes around with me tomorrow... I'm on a rampage people... watch out!!!!!

Wow... welcome back!!!

2011-01-02T16:35:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I haven't updated this in a year and a half!! Almost forgot I even started a blog. I know when I originally started it I was planning on sharing my knitting and stuff, but that really isn't how I'm using it, and that's ok. I think I'm going to shift my focus to just everyday stuff. Struggles and successes, trials and triumphs.. that sort of thing. If that's for you, then go ahead and read away, if it's not.. sorry, move on!!! Mainly I'm thinking that I need to start like a journal of my thoughts and feelings more for me to read and keep track of myself than for any other reason. Sorry if I'm boring, but I'm bound to have some funny stuff happen.. I'm just creative like that sometimes. I may add some pics when I can, but my focus in life is changing right now, so bear with me while I figure this whole thing out.

So we are beginning a new year.. and a new decade. This is great, and stressful all at the same time. Yesterday was the 22nd anniversary of the first date I had with my husband. Yes, I was an infant when we met.. right? Wrong! I was in high school, mature for my fragile age of 16, but still.. it's been forever since we've been together, and I'm pretty proud of that. We're not perfect by any means, but longevity counts for something, and we're still in love, which counts for a lot.

Work is going well, I'm still with the office I've been at for eight years, but we're changing computer systems next week which is totally stressing us all out!!! I know it will be fine once we're used to it, but like in anything, change is hard. Necessary, but hard. So if I just need to vent here in the next couple of weeks, bear with me. This too shall pass...

I had my 20 year class reunion last summer, boy was that a trip!!! Not travel-wise, we live like 30 minutes from our home town, just in general.. seeing everyone and learning all over again who they all are! I went to a smallish school, graduated with 125 or so people, so having about half of them show up was amazing. Would have been great to have us all, but that never happens, right! Anyway, I was glad I went and am looking forward to the next one, whenever that might be.

For the new year, I'm making some resolutions, and that's one reason why I wanted to re-start this blog. Just to hold myself accountable. I'm going to make my resolutions "public" so that I can track that accountability and check on myself as this year goes on. I started last spring to work on my health and fitness and have lost a little weight and gotten in better shape (even ran 2 5k's this year!) but in December 2010 I joined Snap Fitness which just opened a mile or so up the road from my house. I've been pretty good about getting up there three days a week or so, but my commitment I want to make to myself is to workout three to four days a week, at least. I also want to lose the last 25 pounds I need to get to a really good goal weight for me. If I go less than that I'm not sure it's maintainable.. and I want to find a weight that's not only comfortable, but very healthy. My mother is having lots of health problems and most of that has to do with her weight.. and her smoking, which I don't do (thank God) so I want to live a longer and healthier life than she is. Starting already, I'd say I'm doing pretty well.. but I could still do better. That's my goal, to be healthy, look good, and live a long and active life. Not too much to ask, but it's a change in lifestyle for me, so I'm working on it and will continue to work on it until I get where I need to be. Keep checking.. it's gonna take a while!!!!

One other goal I have is to make time each day to keep in touch with God. I'm a Christian (if you know me, you know that) and I want it to show to people who don't know me. I want to be Jesus to people who need a loving touch, and just have His peace and love apparent in my actions, thoughts, and deeds. Ok, enough on that for today, this is going to be a tough process as well... personal growth isn't easy!!!

Ok, enough for today. I need to get up to the gym for my Sunday workout. The Lions just finished their season with their fourth straight win and for a lifelong fan.. I couldn't be happier!!! I'll be talking about sports whenever the moment hits, I'm a Detroit fan through and through!!!! Something about growing up in Michigan and living near my Grandpa for 23 years!!!! Anyway.. hope you're having a great start to 2011.. I'm excited about all the promise this new year holds... and may all our dreams come true!!!!

VACATION!!!

2009-06-12T19:18:00.002-04:00

So we've been on vacation this week. Sunday we travelled to Detroit to take in a Tiger's game.. which they WON!! Even got to see a grand slame!!! It was great, the weather was perfect and the Tiger's won.. perfect start to a summer vacation!

We ended up spending Sunday evening at a hotel in Dearborn, went and saw "Up" at the movie theater, and Monday morning headed off to the Henry Ford Museum! That was fun, Jim has pictures on his camera, but I haven't uploaded them yet. We spent the morning and part of the afternoon wandering around the museum (which was awesome) and then in the afternoon took the Ford Rouge Factory tour! That was so neat!! There were two movie shows about the history of Ford and of the factory (very much cooler than it sounds) and we actually got to see them putting together F-150's! I think we must look at them when we shop for cars next time.. very nice trucks!

Anyway, we came home and vegged out most of Tuesday and Wednesday which was awesome. I finished up a sweater I'd been knitting and Thursday was able to wear it to Knit Nite! Thursday I spent most of the day cleaning out my closet, which was WAY overdue! Who knew how much crap you could accumulate in ten years of living in the same house! I finished up today (Friday) and we had dinner out since hubs didn't feel like cooking and neither did I!! So we're home in time for the hockey game... the FINAL game of the year, and I'm on pins and needles!!! Wings HAVE to win tonight.. just HAVE TO!!!!

So I'm in my comfy clothes, going to sit in my comfy chair and try to knit while watching hockey in just a little bit!!! Sounds like vacation to me!!! And tomorrow afternoon I'll be at WWKIP day.. which is a bunch of knitter's hanging out in public (see ya tomorrow Spring Lake!) and knitting!!! FUN!!!!

Quick update...

2009-06-03T20:17:00.002-04:00

So it's been a week of living my new life, eating better and moving more! I'm keeping it simple here folks!!! After only seven days... I'm down four pounds!! Now, I realize that this is probably not going to be the typical week for me, I was really only hoping for one or two pounds, but I'll take it!! It feels good, it's motivating me to continue, and that's the important thing. I already know that I'll blow it when we're at the baseball game on Sunday (go Tigers) but if I do it's ok, I just need to make consistantly good choices the rest of the week and make sure I excersize.

Next week we are taking vacation, so a trip to Detroit (again, go Tigers, and Wings) for a day or two is in order! Plus we have yard work to do and I've needed to clean out my closet for like two years and have putting it off. I WILL get that sucker cleaned and organized!!!! At least I'll count it as excersize, right!!! I'm also hoping that the weather warms up so we can take the boat out for a float... wouldn't that be nice!!!!

Ok, off to knit.. I'm working on some stuff to sell at the craft fair this fall... more details some other time...

Allergy-mania!!!

2009-06-01T22:00:00.002-04:00

Holy cow!!! Will allergy season ever end this year???? I swear I've been more miserable this spring than I have since I started getting shots almost seven years ago!!! Seriously, between the congestion and the itchy eyes which turned into an eye infection, and having strep a while back, I'm just miserable!!!!

Gotta love Michigan in the spring time!!!!

Speaking of which... where the heck is summer???? I'm SO ready for boat weather.... SO ready!!!!!

And to prepare, I've started yet another diet. This time, however, I'm not thinking of it as a diet, but as a way of life. I WILL get these pounds off and KEEP them off this time... SERIOUSLY!!!!! I mean, what do I have to lose, except feeling like a fatty and looking like one too. I'm ready to be a hot mama again!!!!! Look out, here I come!!!!

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T17:47:00.003-04:00

So Happy Memorial Day!!! I know that most of us get a long weekend and we fully enjoy a good barbeque to celebrate the beginning of summer, especially here in the Midwest where it's been a long hard winter until very recently. This day should signify these changes with a holiday and different celebrations with friends and family. My family started the day at the parade in our town with my son in the middle school band proudly playing the Battle Hymn of the Republic. But this day is about so much more than that.

Of course, it's about those who have fought for our freedom. It celebrates and honors those who have put their lives on the line in the best and worst of this nation's history. I had the pleasure of being raised by some veterans and very patriotic people which has made me very very proud to be an American. I always stand for the flag, hold my hand over my heart and sing the National Anthem with pride at every appropriate moment and have had the pleasure of sharing these values with my sons and other children as a Scout leader for several years. There is no way to measure the respect that I have for our military and for the men and women who have served in every capacity to protect our freedom.

This day in our family was often a sad one growing up. My mother's brother was killed in a car accident forty-one years ago on Memorial Day. I never met him, but I know that he was a very special person. His passing has always impacted our mother and grandmother on this day and I never really understood that pain until I became an adult, and then as a mother it took on another level of understanding. It's wierd to miss someone you've never met, but I miss him.

I also miss my Dad and Grandpa on this day. Both of them served this country with honor and taught me to love America the way they did. They taught me that even if you don't serve in the military that you should do your civic duty like excersize your voting rights whenever possible, do the right thing for your neighbor, that sort of thing. They were my heroes and I'll always remember them on this day as such.

Anyway, it's a special day. So hug your family, honor the veterans you know, and remember those who have sacrificed it all for our freedom. Thank you to all our heroes.

Catching up...

2009-05-08T12:19:00.003-04:00

So I uploaded some new pics from my camera today, mainly because I haven't done that in over a month and thought it was time to save them on the hard drive!!! So here's a little catch up....

The boys' birthday celebration at our house....

And with a present....

And just because my kid is crazy and loves to be different, here he is with his blue mohawk and his guitar... he's a rock star!!!!

And yes, he always walks around shirtless... it's just his style I guess. I've got more pics from the parades from the last couple days, but I want to condense those or we'd be looking at them forever trying to see who looks familiar... but the bands were awesome, the kids did a great job!!!!

Enjoy this weekend, we're hitting yet another parade tomorrow!!!!

Happy Tulip Time!

2009-05-06T10:56:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I'm not usually a "let's go to the Tulip Time parades!!!" kind of person, but since my older son Tom is in the band (7th grade) he gets to be in two of the three parades this week. So since it's his first time and I'm all proud of him, I took the rest of the week off work to watch him! I'm actually kind of excited by this. Three days off work BEFORE a weekend, and the weather is supposed to be nice, so I've packed my smaller purse with a knitting project (can't forget that!) and some cash (for an elephant ear) and with chair in hand I'll be heading that way soon!!!!

If I can get any reasonable pics, I'll post them later!!!! Yes, the camera is in there with the knitting!!!!!

Oh, and just to treat myself, I got a pedicure this morning so I can wear flip-flops with pride!!! Of course, on the way into the car I nicked the big toenail on my left foot, so the polish is all screwy, but it wouldn't be me without some drama... so I'm leaving it!!!!

Spring time!!!

2009-05-02T14:50:00.002-04:00

So the sun is out today, which is a switch from most of this week. Seriously thought I was going to have to build an ark the way it kept raining!!! So even though it's not warm enough to get out the boat and swim in the lake, I'll take the sunshine!!!!

I've been thinking about this economy situation we're in lately, and wondering how I should be handling it and if I'm doing things correctly. I've never been good at handling money or at understanding financial things. I'm smart, but apparently I wasn't meant to be in charge of finances or whatever. We're doing ok, we're both working full time and for the most part our finances look like they have all along (don't look at the 401K and all is ok) so is it bad to want to spend money??? I mean, not all of it of course... just the usual stuff like dinner out occasionally and maybe a summer vacation??? Part of me feels guilty, but the other part just feels like if I can afford it, without going totally broke, is it my responsibility to stimulate what little I can in this economy??? I guess I feel like I can't take it with me, so let's enjoy life with the kids while they're still kids!!!!

Rant over, I just felt like saying that. Suppose it's time to get off the chair and do something productive today, like enjoy the sunshine, or take a walk with hubby. I'm going to make lemonade out of this lemon economy one way or the other!!!!

What the...????

2009-04-24T22:14:00.003-04:00

Ok, what the heck... how did three months go by without a blog??? Well, the quick answer to that is... life.

Life is busy! Work is busy, which I'm thankful for every day. Kids are busy, also thankful but slightly overwhelmed. Family is healthy (except for that two week battle with strep last month, but I'm back up and running now). I have so much to be greatful for!!!

We finally hired someone at work!!! We've been working short staffed for quite awhile which has been a big reason why I've been working so much and have been overwhelmed much of the time, not to mention exhausted. So after months and months of searching, we made a decision and our new co-worker starts May 4!!!! I couldn't be happier, but as the last two hires did not work out so well (I won't get into it) we are cautiously optomistic that she will be around for the long haul. She's young and bright and hard-working, and that's what is most important at this point!!!

I have been knitting, but not much at all. Still working on Shalom which I started I think in Feb, had to frog back and reknit some and it's just boring at this point and since it's warming up I've just not gotten in the mood to knit a warm snuggly sweater, although I'd love to see it done by fall!!! Quickly knit up a sleeveless vest for work, but as I'm almost finished (I could be done in just an afternoon now) I realized it looks really bad on me. I mean, hideous!!! Not sure if it's the gauge, the pattern, the extra 40 pounds I'm carrying in my midsection right now... could be a combination... it's just wrong. So now I'm debating; finish and keep for later, finish and give away, or frog it. Feeling a little defeated here.

On the up side... my wonderful Mother-in-law whom I made some socks for for Christmas told me proudly that she LOVES her socks, wears them as much as possible and wouldn't mind one day if I had enough time another pair or ten???? She's so sweet, definitely thinking of a great Mother's Day prez, huh!!!!

Ok, I'm going to hit the sack, and since I have no new pics, and the Wings won last night, I'll leave you with this......

from a few years ago in Grand Rapids after the Wings won the cup. An awesome sight indeed....

No new pics, but a new prez!

2009-01-20T19:53:00.002-05:00

So I have been knitting, but this post is just to say how impressed I am with our country. Being a proud American all my life I cannot imagine living anywhere else, although I've travelled in limited amounts, so that's not to say that there are other places in the world I wouldn't like to visit, but I can't actually imagine being a citizen in any other country.

We have a new President. He's the first African-American President, which is historic of course, but above that I think that this new President will make life better for the citizens of this country. I am encouraged and hopeful for the future, which I haven't been lately with all my friends losing jobs, losing homes, losing everything. With healthcare costs skyrocketing and no money to pay for medications I've seen people go sick and hungry and yet today there was hope that tomorrow will be better.

It may take a little time, but there's hope. And hope springs eternal they say. My hope is that my kids will never go hungry. They will never sleep cold and they will never know what it's like to be in fear of losing everything they have. I am blessed to have made it this far in life also never knowing hunger or serious poverty, but we are closer than ever and it breaks my heart. Until today. Today, there is hope. Today millions of people gathered and cheered in Washington and all over the country around their televisions and radios and were united in that spirit of hope. Young and old, demorcrat and republican, that hope is there. Hope for a better brighter tomorrow. I feel it everywhere!!!!

Thank you Mr. President. God bless you and God bless America.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-18T20:08:00.002-05:00

Holy moly. There's nothing new going on here except the major amounts of snow we've already gotten. Even us hardy Michiganders are sick of winter already and it's only just begun!!! Egads!!!

So to keep myself warm and snuggly, I've been knitting. What's new???? Only a couple things.....

I finished a hat yesterday which I really need since I can't seem to find any good head coverings...

And I'm still working on a sweater. I actually started this on New Year's Day, as part of a sweater knitalong/new years cast on project thingie for my friends on Rav. Basically I was just waiting until the holidays were over, but I've been wanting to knit this particular sweater for a few months already and had purchased the yarn back in November!!!!

Here's what I have done so far...

It's not done, but it's pretty close!!! Just needed to take a break, my hands are starting to scream at me and then I'm getting hungry too. Thought I'd work a little on the computer first. I love my new camera... can you tell?????

Family Fun

2008-12-29T20:37:00.002-05:00

Get your own Family Sticker Maker & MySpace Layouts.

I just couldn't resist this little piece of "artwork". I wish I could put it on the wall at home!!! Make one, it's easy!!!!

Oh, and happy Monday. Work is crazy, it's year end and I'm exhausted already.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T17:34:00.002-05:00

So it's finally Christmas! The best day of the year for so many reasons. The first we celebrated last night at church with the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. I was so blessed to be a part of a wonderful time of worshiping the newborn King once again and I just pray that those who attended felt the same way.

This morning we opened our few presents here at home before driving to the fam. My hubby totally surprised me with a NEW CAMERA!!! I've been eyeing this one for a while and he's so good at surprising me (he does this every year) but this was a biggie and I'm so happy. The problem is, I think I have the picture setting too big because I can't seem to upload them very well!!! Ugh!! Should have checked that closer before I snapped 45 pics today, huh??? I wanted to show you a couple of the things I knitted with their new owners, but I didn't catch everyone. Here's what I have...

This is Grandma (she's 94) and her new shawl. She never wants us to spend money on her and I didn't go hog wild (wish I would have done one more ball, but hey, it's big enough for her) and after she opened it I told her that I just had to knit her something and she was very happy with that. We love her so much!!!

This is Addam, my nephew, and the hat I made for him. He is such a great kid and I was so happy that not only did the hat fit perfectly (he has a rather large brain) but he loved it and didn't want to take it off!!! Perfect compliment for any knitter~!!!!

The socks I made for MIL are shown here...

She can't wait to wear them since it's freezing outside and she's always chilled. So overall, it was a very happy Christmas. I'd share more pics but I'm afraid I'll have to try that another day. I love my family!!!

Holy Snow Batman!!!!

2008-12-23T18:56:00.002-05:00

So, ok, since the last time I've posted, we've had about three feet of snow fall in West Michigan. No, that's not a typo, three FEET!!! Maybe more, I can't really tell. All I know is the snowbanks on the side of the road are so huge I can't see around them when I'm driving and it's making people very crazy. I've luckily been safe on the roads so far, but in the past five days we've had school closings, work closings, church closings, and mall closings. Just to name a few. This is serious winter stuff folks. And the funny thing is, the first day of winter was two days ago. I'm already sick of it. It's not even Christmas yet!!!

I wanted to share kind of a funny story as related by my hubby tonight. I got home from work and he wasn't home, the kids had said he was at the store. No biggie, I thought. So when he gets home, he's crazy mad. I don't know what he's mad about, but he's in the crankiest mood he's been in for like ever. I've known this man for 20 years, this was at the top of his rage. Yikes. Poor kids, they didn't even realize it was coming.

So, Dad is mad and he is throwing things around and I'm wondering what the heck this is all about. Then he says, "some idiot hit the Jeep." Ahhh, little light bulbs going off in my head since we've had to put so much money into that thing in the past month and I just can't fathom another stupid repair bill. So he calms down. I ask him how bad the damage is and he starts giggling. Ok, so he's raging one minute, now he's almost laughing and I'm praying for his sanity and mine. "My Jeep is fine, but she isn't going anywhere... except maybe to jail!" Ok, so now I need to hear this story, right!!!!

He was leaving Meijer (which is a nightmare on a good day but the day before Christmas Eve was like every freak of nature and their brother was there getting crap they probably don't need at the last possible second) and was already crabby about the shopping experience from hell (there's more to tell there too it turns out) when the traffic in front of him slowed to a stop. So he stopped. So the lady in a newer VW behind him decided to become intimately acquainted with his trailer hitch. It wasn't a good meeting. She pulled off the road. He followed suit. Several people were pulling off that had witnessed and were already calling 911. The lady gets out of her car yelling all sort of obscenities and demanding that hubby show his insurance information and that the accident was HIS fault! Yea, right.

So the cops show up and listen to several stories from hubby, the crazy lady, and witnesses. He then proceeds to right her a ticket (with her continuing to hurl naughty words left and right and is now screaming AT the cops which is why she's likely going to jail) and send hubby home while the tow truck comes and hauls off her pretty and now useless vehicle. The day before Christmas Eve. Now if that's not holiday spirit for ya!!!! Holy cow. Get a life lady, if the person in front of you stops, especially in weather like this.... STOP!!! Don't ram into them and then scream that it wasn't your fault because guess what??? It is YOUR fault!!!! I almost wish I was with him for this so I could have witnessed it myself. Almost.

Oh, and Merry Christmas early everyone. I only have to work half a day tomorrow and then I'm off til Monday. I'm so happy I could cry. Or sleep. Sleep is good. But I'm knitting now. Need to finish knitting..... Can't wait to show off all the things I knitted!!!!

One week til Christmas!!!

2008-12-18T21:43:00.002-05:00

Are you ready??? I am!!! Finally I'm feeling really relaxed. My shopping is done, only need to wrap up a couple things too. Also in the past two nights I finished two knitting projects that I was hoping to get done before the big day. I started another one that would be nice to get done in time, but it's not totally necessary. So I should have some good gift-giving vibes this year like usual. I totally love giving the perfect gift! I know this year I wasn't able to spend lots of cash, but I got something special for the people on my list, and that's what matters. Even if my silly neice only wanted a gift card. Seriously, she's such a shopper she just wanted gift cards. Or money. I chose the gift card. Maybe she'll let me tag along this year for the annual mall day after Christmas? Maybe?

So this new computer is divine, but I haven't loaded in the camera software, and I'm not entirely sure I'll be able to since the camera we have is also from 2001. I haven't tried that hard yet either, so we'll see. I'm truly hoping to share lots of pics next week after the big day so I can have all my handknits properly shown off on the proper peoples!!!!

So my friend at work became a Grandma on Sunday. How perfect!!! But they need some prayers tonight because baby Dakota is in the hospital and we're not entirely sure what's going on. He's lost a lot of weight. In fact a whole 12% of his weight. This is not good. And he's puking up bright yellow stuff. So let's just pray they figure it out and he can be a good eater and gain lots of pudgyness in the coming weeks, ok!!!! He's sure a cutie patootey!!!

One week. I love Christmas!!!!

Why does this always happen....

2008-12-13T15:01:00.002-05:00

We had to get a new computer this week. We had talked about it for at least six months. Our Gateway was from 2001 and was dying a slow and painful death, but somehow we were managing to keep it going. At least we were trying. You see, since we just had to pay about $2200 for hubby's car to get fixed (no car payment, it's a good thing) we just didn't see the finances holding out for a new computer and were hoping against hope that we could at least wait until February so the tax return would give us a little extra and then we would get a new computer.

So last Thursday I came home to find the computer off, which is unusual, and it would NOT reboot. Total system failure. It puked. It totally and utterly died. Hubby brought it to the computer fix it place on Friday and was told that it would be at least $600 to fix our seven year old computer. The guy actually told him it wasn't worth it, just replace it. I'm not surprised. I'm not happy, but not surprised. So he called me (I was at work) at told me the news and ran around to several different stores before he settled on a new system for us. It's really nice, I'm still learning how the heck to use Vista, but it's not bad. It's actually really really nice. We ended up with a new HP, we really didn't want another Gateway. So hopefully nothing major will come up in the next couple months, because if it does we can't fix it until our taxes come back. Let's just pray we'll be ok!!!!

Now I need to wrap all my Christmas presents, cuz I'm not buying anything else!!!!

What the heck???

2008-12-09T23:17:00.002-05:00

I'd like to know where the heck the last two weeks went??? Did somebody steal them?? Did they even happen???? Seriously, I feel like I'm moving in super high speed and I've just missed what's really important this past couple weeks. I went back to work and hit the ground running so to speak. We finished our Christmas shopping (I think) but sometimes it feels like I'm missing something. I seriously hope it isn't something big, like one of my kids (they are in bed sleeping, I just checked) but if it is I guess I'll figure it out.

So what's been keeping me so busy? Well, work of course, which is fine, but also the kids running around (youth group, band concerts, etc) and mostly my singing. Tonight we wrapped up this season's Messiah performances. It was so nice to sing something so intense and beautiful and HARD again. It makes me want to go back and train and get a degree in performance and stuff. I know, fat chance of that happening, but I really really really want to. So I'll look into it at least. If I get the nerve up. Ok, whatever.

Oh, and I've been knitting like a madwoman!!! Of course I don't have new pics, I keep finishing late at night and the light is so bad and I'm just being lazy about pics. I've finished a hat, a shawl, several dishcloths (for a charity thing) and I'm working on a couple more Christmas presents that I'm not finished with but will be soon (I hope). Then after Christmas I want to make another sweater. I have several in my Rav queue that I'm dying to try, but I'm so not sure which to do first!!! We'll have to wait and see what mood I'm in next January!!!

The other thing that's kept me occupied is facebook. I know, what a waste of time, but I've caught up with tons of people on there from college and from high school! They're even talking about a reunion in 2010. Maybe this one will actually happen!!! We'll see. I really don't want to think about how many years it's been since high school, but since I feel like a different person than I was back then, I guess it's ok. It's kinda fun catching up and realizing that most of those people are different now too! That can be really good!!! So love ya old buddies, can't wait to see ya in person!!! Holy cow, it's been a long time. How did we get this old?????

What the heck????

Happy Almost Turkey Day!

2008-11-26T11:40:00.002-05:00

I've talked before about how blessed I feel at this stage in my life and that is even more true this Thanksgiving holiday. I know it's tomorrow, but my hope is that I'll have such a turkey coma going on that I won't even feel like touching the computer!!! I love holidays. Especially those that bring family together. My only wish this year would be getting my ENTIRE family together, but I know that's not likely as they are spread out all over. But our immediate family is nearby and that's enough. Really, it's awesome!!!

So I took younger son to a movie yesterday... Bolt in 3d!! IT WAS AWESOME!!! I laughed so hard that I was crying literal tears! I couldn't catch my breath. Hilarious!!! Ok, go see it, seriously!!! My vacation has been very relaxing yet slightly productive. Didn't even realize you could do both!!! Duh!!! Finished knitting one present, realized I have lots more to do and I'm a little frazzled, but trying not to let it get to me. Most of our shopping is done thanks to a "quick" trip to Kmart the other day!!! Holy cow, great deals!!! Suddenly I'm realizing that I'm almost ready for Christmas and ds is asking to put the ornaments on the tree today!! Yippee!!! At least I have one kid in the house that likes to help, the other one would rather sulk or play video games. But then, he's 12, what else can I say???

Ok, so I was just on facebook (big shocker) and took this quiz, let's see if it will post here....

Your Result: The Lively Center of Attention - Bad result? Click here to take the quiz again!

Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not one to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.

Can you believe it??? I like to be the center of attention. Never would have guessed it. Never. And I never use sarcasm either. Ever.

Happy Thanksgiving.

It's been awhile...

2008-11-21T23:00:00.002-05:00

Wow! Where have the past couple of weeks gone??? They've been crazy, but that is nothing new, is it? Not much is new, but I'll do a quick update....

We had to replace the engine in hubby's Jeep. Yes, the engine. At $1600 I'm just praying it lasts us another 10 years, because the Jeep is paid for and we can't afford another car payment anytime soon. So as painful as that check was to write, I think it was the wise choice.

We went to Lansing last weekend for a night out that won't soon be topped. Met up with a dozen friends for a great night of fun and music and dancing and laughter and reminiscing and .. you get the idea... I have pics up on my Facebook, but they are a little embarrasing so I'm not going to cross-post them here. It was great to feel free and young again, even for a night.

While in Lansing I picked up yarn for a shawl for hubby's Grandma for Christmas which I was 2/3 done with yesterday and just wasn't happy so off to the frog pond it went! I started over last night and so far so good. The shape was just off and I like this second version much better. Hope she likes it and manages to stay warm again. Also picked up a sweater's worth (I hope) of yarn for me!! It's a pretty heather blue/grey color that I think is just perfect for a Mr. Greenjeans cardi that I've been thinking about. Probably will start after Christmas!

I've been working alot, but this week... I'm ON VACATION!!! Yes, I'm not working and no, we're not going anywhere. Our kids are off from school and while we have conferences and choir practices and son #1 is at a retreat weekend until Sunday and all that, we decided to keep it simple and hang around and maybe get a couple things done around the house. Sounds great to me!!!

My friend who is sick still doesn't have any answers. They are still waiting for some test results, but one possible thing they are looking for is Myasthenia Gravis. It's scary, but can be treated. We're hoping that's it. MS is still a possibility, but probably not likely at this point. I'm still asking for prayers if you're willing to join me.

Other than that, we are just plugging away! The snow has been falling all week and I'm not ready for it. I know I've lived in Michigan my whole life and I should be ready whenever for whatever, but I'm not. It is pretty though. The view at work this morning was spectacular. Let's go play!!!

I am so blessed...

2008-11-07T21:26:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to say today that although I feel super stressed, overworked, underloved and definately underpaid and underappreciated, I am so blessed. Explain? Ok, I will.

I have friends right now suffering from cancer, friends that might possibly have MS, friends whose spouses are suffering from dementia, friends that are dealing with deaths of loved ones (we've all been there) basically all sorts of bad and unfun things. I'm alright. That in itself is a major blessing. My family is healthy, I'm healthy (mostly) and although I'm exhausted, I'm not dying. Noone can promise how long you'll live, I know that better than most, but I can live with the hope of a long and productive life and right now I see that as a great thing.

I have a job. My husband has a job. Neither are the best paying most ultimately satisfying jobs ever made, but we are working and are (for the most part) able to afford our current lifestyle and the occasional fun item and we'll have presents under the tree again this Christmas. I think that in the state of the current economy especially in Michigan, this is a thing to be very thankful for, and I am thankful.

I have so much else to be thankful for. The gift of music, the gift of laughter (my kids are banging around together giggling in the next room and that makes me smile) the gift of friendship, and yes, even the gift of knitting. Knitting is an art and I believe that art is a gift, so I'm thankful for knitting. It makes me happy and that's a blessing.

On that note, I've been knitting a couple pairs of socks these past few weeks that I don't have pics of yet (camera batteries are dead and I keep forgetting to buy new ones) but since they're not done, I'll keep the suspense going. I'm heading to Lansing on the 15th with hubby to see some old friends and I'm going to hogtie him if I have to so I can stop at Threadbear and pick up a sweater's worth of something!!! I NEED to make myself another sweater. My first one was a huge success and I love to wear it so much I'm afraid it's the only thing I'm going to wear on my days off until I make another.. so I need to buy yarn NOW!!! Hopefully I'll find the right yarn next weekend to cast on, the sooner the better!!!!

Today I hope that you find the things that are blessings in your life. Even the littlest things count. List them, even a few, and I'll guarantee that when the snow starts to fly you'll feel better. At least on the inside, where it's warm, and there's fuzzy handknits to keep you even warmer.

Happy Election Day!

2008-11-04T19:44:00.002-05:00

Ok, is that even a real name for today? I don't know.. but I voted! Did you???? I hope so, even if you didn't vote for who I voted for, it's your vote so make it count!!!!

I got some new makeup today to go along with the new hair (which I still don't have a great pic of, sorry) and I'm so excited to try it out!!!! Somedays it's the little things, you know????

My lovely friend Coggie tagged me on her blog post that I'm supposed to play along this little game called: list 6 quirky yet boring/unspectacular things about myself. Or something like that. This will probably not be easy.. let's see... in absolutely no particular order...

1. I often randomly break into song. This happens without me even consciously being aware of it. Sometimes I am singing what I hear on the radio, occasionally in harmony. Sometimes it's what's in my head. Sometimes I harmonize with the song in my head. That's when I freak people out.

2. I hate mushrooms. Actually, they sort of freak me out. Why anyone would eat fungus that grows in the shady part of the undergrowth in the forest is beyond my comprehension. I don't like them on or around any of the food I eat, never have and never will. Even the thought of having to put a mushroom in my mouth literally makes me vomit a little. Gross.

3. I can go months without shaving my legs. I know, it's gross. But most of the winter I just don't really see the point. My legs are always covered and no one ever sees them and I really don't care so I just don't take the time or the energy which can be better spent on other things. I have no idea what I mean, but I just don't shave until spring usually. I know what you might think, but since my husband and I work such off hours, even he never sees my legs. It's truly sad.

4. I cut my grilled cheese sandwiches into triangles, diagonally across the middle. Not any of my other sandwiches, just grilled cheese. I'm not sure why, but part of my brain seems to think they taste better that way. When it's not cut like that I just don't enjoy it nearly as much.

5. I eat things in twos. Candy, cookies, pretzels, peanuts, etc. If you see me nibbling on something, most of the time, you'll see me grab two of whatever that is at a time. I can't help it, it's a sickness. There are just no reasons for most of these things, I swear.

6. I hate to call people on the phone. This didn't used to be a problem for me, but it is seriously a thing I avoid like the plague now. I think it's because of all the emailing I do. Maybe because I just hate feeling like I'm interrupting people and don't want to be a bother. I will call certain people (family mostly) and will make the necessary calls for my job, but when I'm thinking of someone and would like to know how they are doing, I just drop them an email really quickly and that's how I start most of my conversations these days. I used to be the girl on the phone for hours a night while I was a teenager, but I just can't seem to do that anymore. I love it when people call me, and will still talk forever, but I don't call people. What the heck is wrong with my brain???? I have no idea. If you have a cure for my sickness, please share!!!!

Ok, so if I'm going to tag five people who might actually read this and play along, (I have no idea if anyone reads this, so if you do, please let me know) let's try... Lori, Trish, Amy, Margo, Angie... and Coggie, this all your fault but I already read yours!!!

Why do I always do this...

2008-11-02T21:46:00.002-05:00

I overscheduled my weekend.. AGAIN! It seems like the minute I get a free afternoon, or whatever, that I'm scheduling something else I can "fit" in .. as IF I need one more thing to do!!!

Well, that was my week. And weekend. Now it's almost over and I'm wiped out! I got my hair done on Wednesday, which was lovely (it's darker and a little shorter but no pictures yet, sorry). Then Thursday I had praise team practice, again, no biggie. Then Friday was Halloween and I was so tired after work that I ended up napping during Trick or Treat time (which was lovely for me) and hubby handed out candy while the kids went around with friends. Then of course I couldn't sleep Friday night! Worked Saturday morning, then went to nephew's birthday party (which was fun!). Gotta love 7-year-old's that are smarter than you... seriously!!! Then shopped for a new tv cuz ours was dying (that happens to tv's after 20 years as it turns out!).

Ok, so that's not so bad, until today. Sunday is usually pretty stress-free for me. Even when I sing in church like today, it's usually very rewarding and uplifting and all that. And it was all that today as well! The stress started with me forgetting to set my clocks back last night (because I was too tired to think) and getting up an hour early. I was all ready to leave when hubby reminded me of the "real" time. A little annoyed at myself I ended up just getting a bite of breakfast and getting to church early. I sat in our green room and knit for half an hour before rehearsal started which was just fine and dandy. After church I grabbed a bite of lunch by myself before choir rehearsal. Then had to run back to church for another rehearsal and service for a special prayer evening we had for members of our church who are hurting, sick, in desparate need of uplifting before the Lord. It was a lovely service and all in all a lovely day. But now I have a headache that won't go away and I'm so wiped out I barely remembered that I should at least check my email before bed!!! And now that I have.. I'm off to bed.

Hopefully writing this out will remind me that I need to stop doing this to myself... hopefully!!!

Day of the Errand...

2008-10-28T16:09:00.003-04:00

Yes, it's Tuesday, which in my world is the Day of the Errands!!! Although, it really wasn't too bad.. of course, it's not over yet!!! So for several weeks the kids have told me that they knew what they wanted to be for Halloween and that they were going to use stuff we already had here in the house and all would be well... until this weekend. No all of a sudden younger son decided that he wants to be "something scary!" What's that supposed to mean??? Well, in nine-year-old land, I think it means gross. At the very least, disturbing. And that, means buying at least a mask to wear over that darling little face of his. Oh the agony!!! So tonight after homework we are heading out to shop for a mask or whatever... ugh!

Today I did get to go to my usual Tuesday morning women's Bible study class that I have been doing for several years. The past two weeks I've had to go to the partner class on Wednesday evenings that is truly lovely, but it's not MY class, you know what I mean? It was so nice to see all my "girls" again!!! And you know what? The best part was, they said they missed me too!!!! What an awesome group of ladies they are, truly. And all this time that I've been working extra and stressed out... they've been praying for me and for my friend. They are such a blessing to me and I am happy to get to know each of them better all the time.

Ok, enough sappyness. I love sappyness, but that's enough even for me. Helping ys with math homework while watching the clock until it's time to pick up os from basketball tryouts... we'll see how that goes and I'll let ya'll know when I know if he makes the team or not. Is it bad of me to almost hope he doesn't make it so I don't have to attend all those games??? Oh, I'm definitely the world's best mother today, aren't I??? Oh well, I love them anyway. They're just stuck with me!!!!

The Frogpond is pretty this time of year...

2008-10-26T19:50:00.002-04:00

And so go my socks. Into the frogpond. For you non-knitters out there, that's when you need to "rip" out a section or in this case the whole thing for whatever reason. When you say "rip it" over and over, it's like a frog saying "ribbit"... you get the idea. My 9 to 5 socks were looking pretty, pretty small that is. I think I have a pic somewhere.... let's see....

Pretty pattern...

Here's a closer up on my hand so you can see the detail which is lovely...

A little fuzzy I guess, I'm not a great photographer.

So anyway.. I'm starting them over. Not sure exactly which needle size I'll use, but it won't be in the size 1's for sure!!! What the heck was I thinking???? Guess I wasn't thinking, and therein lies the problem.

It was a fun weekend for singing! I sang in the Celebration Singers this morning (we sing for the more traditional service, although not necessarily traditional music) and then the praise team was fantastic at the contemporary service... then choir was great! All in all, a musicians dream!

And on that note (get it, I made a joke) I'm going to watch some great Sunday night TV and eat a few cookies and veg out until I have to work again tomorrow morning. Such an exciting life I lead...

The weekend's here!!!

2008-10-25T16:31:00.002-04:00

And I'm exhausted. It was a busy crazy week but I made it through. Never got a chance to meet the new baby yet, but I will. Today is a mixture of sleeping in (thanks family) and pizza and cookies (thanks hubby) and football (yea fall!). Of course, I should try to get some knitting done of one of the three projects that I've got on the needles instead of sitting here searching Rav trying to figure out what other projects I'd like to try!!! But alas, that's what I found myself doing just now. Crazy isn't it!!!

Ok, so I found out that the booties I made for that adorable little girl my friend just birthed are WAY to small. I'm thinking of giving them another try only much bigger, that way she can put the first pair on her dolly and match! Wouldn't that be cute? Now for the time... whenever that might be!

Seriously though, hubby decided to make cookies yesterday. Now, when I make cookies, I make one batch of cookies, which I don't do very often since hubby's are always better than mine. Seriously, he's like Mr. Field's for crying out loud!!! But when hubby makes cookies, he makes COOKIES!!! Last night he made several dozen chocolate chip, then today he's making more!!! Like I need this temptation around!!!! Not only are there more chocolate chip cookies than should be allowed by law in my kitchen right now, there are also peanut butter chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin and I think he's making regular peanut butter cookies as well!!! HELP!!! I'm surrounded by yummy treats and I can't find my way out!!! Seriously, I'm going to need to hit the mall for some shopping therapy if this keeps up!!! But I don't feel like going anywhere, nor do I feel like even getting dressed. So cookies and I are going to be best friends today. Oh happy weekend....

Just a note.

2008-10-21T20:54:00.002-04:00

I was so happy for my other co-worker friend today.. she had another baby boy!!! Ryan Jon joined the world this morning and I have yet to meet him in person (maybe tomorrow) but I did see a quick pic and he's super duper cute! Just like his big brothers!!! Congrats to his family and when I get a chance I'll see if I can post a pic of me and little Ryan! I know a few other people who are having babies soon and I am happy for them all, and more happy for myself that it's not me having them!! Seriously, that ship has sailed for me, but I will always love babies and will love to hold and spoil any who come my way!!!

So I have been working a lot again this week. Last week was long and tiring and this week isn't going to be much better I'm afraid. My friend is still sick and she is having more testing to see if they can finally get to the bottom of it. I'm hopeful but not holding my breath. I really think she needs to go to another hospital, and she's working on that also. We'll see....

Rehearsal for the Messiah went better for me this week, even though my personal practice time was minimal due to my schedule. I'm getting really excited about it and can't wait to perform in all our black-robed glory in December. If you're near Zeeland, come on by!!! I'm sure I'll blab more about this in the future. Suffice it to say that I'm so glad to be back in "choir geek" mode again, I've missed it!!! Didn't even realize how much until this week.

Wow, so I'm home tonight watching "Biggest Loser" and getting a little tired of the tears. Geesh people, haven't you seen the show before? They always make you face your fears and try things out of your comfort zone.. even I know that!!! Criminy!!!! The whining has GOT to stop!!! Ok, end of rant.. for now!

So hopefully I'll meet a new little baby this week.. I guess time will tell. In the meantime, I'm working, knitting (a litte at least) and trying not to go crazy. It's a stretch for me, I'm always a little nuts!!! Enjoy this crazy fall weather, it sure was nice to see some sunshine today!

Nothing like diving in...

2008-10-16T20:20:00.003-04:00

So, I know I said it was going to be a crazy week, and it has been so far! But I said a few days ago that I was thinking of changing directions and moving on, for now, from the rock star dream and going back to my roots as a choir geek (no lie, that's what hubby calls me). So, nothing like diving in without really thinking about it. I joined the Zeeland Civic Chorus!!! This group has been performing Handel's Messiah for forever, maybe 60+ years in a row and it's been at least 15 years since I've done it personally. We had the first rehearsal on Sunday and I'm STILL a little sore! Wow, am I out of shape vocally or what!!! I mean, I sing ALL the time, even on stage several times a month, but only easy radio stuff mainly and only 5-6 songs per time and that vocal marathon that is the Messiah is SO not the same thing AT ALL!!!! So I'm just praying that it will come back especially since I don't have a lot of time to practice between now and next rehearsal which is Sunday. I'm kind of freaking out!!! Seriously!

On top of that, I have the longest week of work going on, which is going fine but I'm getting really tired! Along with all the usual Mom stuff, homework, running errands, etc... my laundry needs to be done in the WORST way and I'm not in the mood (are you ever in the mood for laundry? I'm not!). Ok, I'll stop complaining!

On a fun note, I've found SO many people on Facebook lately! It's been kind of an obsession that I must check it as often as I can and I have been invited through it to see a great friend of mine (who happens to be an awesome musician as many of my friends are) play/sing at a dueling piano bar next month! I can't wait, just need to find a sitter so hubby can come too!!! Wouldn't want to leave kiddo's home to fend for themselves for THAT many hours (it's in Lansing, little more than an hour away). Plus, I may crash at another friends, depending on how the night goes!!! Other friends are coming from other parts of the state and I'm so excited to see them all!!!! Nothing like a good reunion with awesome people to get you revved up, and I'm ready to dive in again!!!!

Ok, gotta go, it's getting be bed time again, I'm whipped!!!

No more babies yet, but projects are done!

2008-10-14T18:37:00.002-04:00

I'm anxiously awaiting a few more babies, from my friends that is, this woman is NOT having any more! Thank you very much!!!! But until I have cuteness galore to show off, I thought I'd share what I've been knitting.

Here's a pair of socks I finished this weekend....

My sister actually GAVE me this awesome yarn called Blue Bunny Superwash Merino that was awesome to knit with and feels so warm and suggly on the feet... I must get more! Thanks, Sis, for feeding my evergrowing addiction!!!! I wasn't sure at first if I liked the way the colors were pooling, but I think it's kind of neat. I couldn't for the life of me figure a way to make them match, but I think that's the charm of handknits anyway.. don't you? I'm starting another pair now. I have four different sock yarns waiting for me to make them into socks and I would love to start another sweater soon... or by the first part of next year!! So I'm a knitting fool!!!!!

I also finished that purse for my friend. She's happy with it! I gave it to her just this morning. Ended up with a great magnetic clasp that I hid inside the lining for a neat clean look. I loved not having to make a buttohole in this fabric!!!! Hard to see the cables, isn't it?

Anyway... I learned a little something from this project. One, I actually like doing cables, although all-over cables can be a little grueling. And two, I'm NEVER knitting a black sweater. Ever. Never ever. A little black knitting goes a loooonnggg way lemme tell ya!!! But I am glad I made my friend happy. She's a great person and a wonderful friend to everyone. And she's going to look lovely at the wedding next month!!!!

Well, I'm working a lot this week, so if I don't blog again for a couple days, it's cuz I'm trying to pry my eyes open or my ass off the couch... whatever! One way or the other I will make it through and try to smile on the outside even if I want to cry on the inside!!! Seriously, it's going to be a looong week. See ya on the flip side!

My Baby Fix Begins...

2008-10-11T18:21:00.002-04:00

I have several friends who are having babies this fall. The first one had her's on Monday!!! She was a little early, but I'm thrilled as I had already knit her a hat and booties this August (I posted them a long time ago) and now I was able to give them to her.

This is Carly. I work with her Mom and have been friends with her for a long time.

And here's us with her big brother Blake!

He's such a lucky big brother! He just turned four on Tuesday, which makes their birthday's one day apart.. just like my kids!!! Such a lovely family.

Here's Carly in her new hat that I made, it's a little big...

I'm so happy for them. She is an answer to many, many prayers and will be cherised by Mom and Dad forever.

Other than that, I've been working on a clutch purse for a friend and took a pic of my progress. I don't think you can see the cables real well, but here's what I have....

So now I need to shop for a closure, I'm thinking of a neat snap thing. Then I need about one more cable repeat, block and add gussets to the sides and seam them up. I'd say I'm about 75% done and the wedding she needs it for isn't until November... so I'm good!!!

Thinking seriously about joining the Zeeland Civic Chorus this winter for the 68th (I think) performance of Handel's Messiah. I've done it before but it's been years and I'm missing that sort of thing right now. Rehearsals start tomorrow, so I really need to make up my mind. I'll let you know what I decide!!!!

2008-10-09T22:43:00.004-04:00

It's Thursday.

2008-10-09T22:31:00.003-04:00

Nothing special about Thursday. Except that today the sun came out again. Yesterday it was rainy and grey and sad all day, and today the sun came out. Sunshine makes me happy. I know that's a really goofy thing to say, but it's so true. I've always been very affected by the weather, seasonal affect disorder or somethingorother it's called... who knows. I'm just happier when the sun shines. It was a lovely Thursday.

So tomorrow, provided the weather cooperates, we will once again take the kids to the high school football game. We've gone the past five weeks and I think we'll try to make as many as we can before the weather really gets bad. Last week it was VERY chilly, but that was alright. I'm hoping for a warmer evening tomorrow, and no rain, if it rains I'm not going.

I guess I'm totally avoiding the whole mess in Washington and on Wall Street. I mean, it's killing me to think that all that greed and mishandling of everything could really ruin my future and that of my kids and my parents and stuff. But I try to avoid thinking about it as much as I can. I think if I think about it too much I'll get all depressed and I just can't let that happen. It may start other things that I really don't want to happen like drinking binges, eating binges, and just generally unhealthy behavior from this thirty something wife and mother. That is just not a pretty sight!!! In the meantime I'm going to pretend that everything is fine and we are going to have new wonderful leadership very soon and the whole thing will just go away and everyone can just come and join me in the loony bin.. there's room for more at this crazy party!!!!

In the meantime I'm spending lots of time on Facebook and Ravelry talking to people who get the kinds of things that I get... yarn is good. You can never have too many handknits to wear, and friends come in ALL shapes/sizes/ages/colors/degrees of fuzzyness... you get the idea. Oh, and I'm dying to make another sweater... just as soon as I can afford the yarn again....

----------------------------
I almost forgot... my horoscope (I never read these things anymore, but it totally caught my eye.) said that I should change the plan that's not working, or something like that. I was just thinking about the fact that the music thing isn't coming out like I thought (I haven't heard more, but I'm not getting a good feeling) and I've been getting the itch to audition for a play at the Civic theatre. Is that totally crazy? I mean it would mean more time for myself, less for the family, but I really want to try! Does that make me selfish? Or just creative? I'm so confused.... But I agree, if it's not working, shouldn't the plans get changed instead of just trying to make the broken plan go the way you think it should go? Ok, I'm babbling again....

Well..

2008-10-07T18:37:00.002-04:00

It's been a week! Where the heck did the time go????

So, yes it was a busy week. Mainly I was getting ready to do my very first craft show! My sister, Mom and I got a table at my church's annual craft show for our handknits and jewelry (Mom's the jewelry maker and she's awesome!). My son also got in the action and made up several bracelets that were really cute. Sis made Christmas ornaments that were adorable, and I made several (dozen) washcloth/dishcloths along with scarves and a few other odds and ends.

Here's a few pics of our table...

the ornaments are on the tree....

This was so cute!! I think everyone should have one this year, don't you???

And here's my stash...

Ok, the two things at the front were NOT mine... just sayin'.

So, we had lots of people come and look and not very many sales. Unfortunately. I really would like to do it again, but next time I'll have to knit up different things because there were several other sellers with the cloths and lots of other jewelers (although Mom did ok). Sis sold a couple ornaments, but nothing close to what we were hoping. So we'll think about it. That's all I can say for our first experience. But it was fun.

Now I'm just thinking of a few gift ideas, so I won't say them here, and my friend just asked me to make her a clutch for a wedding she has next month. I've started that today, but I'm not sure if the yarn is right, although I think it's going to be fine. We'll see!

Oh, and I had another friend (these are both co-workers whom I adore!!) who had a baby yesterday!!! Remember the baby hat and booties I made awhile ago? Yes, their new owner was born yesterday. I will go meet Carly Ann (not sure how she spelled it..)this weekend, let Mama get back on her feet as I'm working all week and stuff anyway!!!! Hopefully I'll get a pic of her wearing them and be able to post it next week. Won't that be awesome!!!!

Off to make sure that my kids are getting in the shower, it's that day of the week!!!! (yes, we have to schedule things like this...)